SATURDAY 16TH OCTOBER 2021

#ENDSARS: Osinbajo, Govs Beg Youths to Halt Commemorative Protests Promise compensation for victims, prosecution of indicted persons Deji Elumoye in Abuja The federal government and the 36 states have resolved to compensate victims of the #ENDSARS protests that rocked several states in October

last year, as well as prosecute all persons indicted by the panels set up to investigate the protests.

They also urged youths planning to commemorate the one year anniversary

of the protests with another round of protests, to shelve the idea and seek other lawful alternative to drive home their point.

These were some of the resolutions of the National

Economic Council (NEC) yesterday at its monthly virtual meeting, attended by the state governors with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo presiding.

A communiqué issued at

the end of the NEC meeting, signed by the Media Assistant to the Vice President, Laolu Akande, stated that upon the receipt of reports from judicial panels, regarding EndSARS protests, set up in 28 States

across the country and in the FCT, the NEC resolved that payment of compensation to victims should proceed in each state, in collaboration with the Continued on page 5

Obaseki, Oshiomhole Extol Uwaifo as 'Joromi' Crooner is Buried… Page 6 Saturday 16 October, 2021 Vol 26. No 9686

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APC Holds State Congresses Amid Internal Crisis Parallel assemblies likely in 13 states Fence-mending maneuvers crumble

Our Corrrespondents

With the dusts raised by the local government congresses of

the All Progressives Congress (APC) yet to settle, the party is today going ahead with its state congresses, to elect

officials for these levels of its structures.

The scenario of the local government congresses,

characterised by protests, boycotts, and the election of parallel executives by the different factions in many

states, looks set to repeat itself across the country.

Parallel congresses are likely in at least 13 states in spite

of the various fence-mending sorties carried out by the Continued on page 5

In Landmark Move, Cambridge Returns Benin Bronze Cockerel Legendary Okukor to arrive Nigeria October 27 Charles Ajunwa Jesus College, University of Cambridge, England yesterday announced that it would hand over a Benin bronze cockerel, Okukor, to a Nigerian delegation on October 27, in a gesture Nigerian officials said “offered hope for amicable resolutions” of the ongoing disputes over the ownership of its cultural properties.

The Okukor, described by the college as a “royal ancestral heirloom,” was taken from the Benin Kingdom during a punitive expedition in 1897, when thousands of bronzes were looted by British forces.

It will be the first stolen artefact to be returned and this is expected to spark a wave of repatriation ceremonies, as the cultural world continues to reckon with concerns over the ethics of plundered historical artefacts.

Jesus College, the first British institution to return one of the stolen bronzes, in what it described as “a historic moment”, said officials of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments will formally collect the Bronze in its College on October 27.

“Delegates from the Commission and Benin will visit the College for a ceremony to complete the handover process and celebrate the rightful return of the Bronze,” said the college.

Ms Sonita Alleyne, OBE, Master of Jesus College, said: “This is an historic moment.

We look forward to welcoming representatives from Nigeria and Benin to the handover ceremony and to celebrating the return of this Bronze.

“This is the right thing to do out of respect for the unique Continued on page 5

Bakare: I May Consider Running for President in 2023... Page 5

GOOD TO SEE YOU… President Muhammadu Buhari (L) welcomes the Serving Overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church (CGCC), Pastor GODWIN OMOIGUI Tunde Bakare, to his office at the Presidential Villa, Abuja...yesterday

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SATURDAY OCTOBER 16, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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Bakare: I May Consider Running for President in 2023 Canvasses electronic voting for future polls Says debate on power rotation fuelled by political immaturity Deji Elumoye ÓØ ÌßÔË The Serving Overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church (CGCC), Pastor Tunde Bakare yesterday canvassed for electronic voting in future polls in the country, while also not ruling out the possibility of running for President come 2023, “if it is the desire of God with the support of Nigerians.”

He also declared that the controversy over rotational presidency was being fueled by political immaturity, saying the debate ought to have centred on the capacity and character of whoever would be allowed to lead the country.

Bakare, who spoke after a closed-door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at the State House, Abuja, was asked if he would be running for the office of the President in 2023, and he said: “Every

Nigerian, who is of age and who is not disqualified by any means, is free.

“I’m a nation builder, if God wants me to do that, and the people of Nigeria will appreciate that, why not? I’m as free as anybody to do anything with my time. I've pastored a church for 33 years, now we raise new leaders. I want to focus on nation building.

“The Office of the President is only one office, there're so many other things we can do as people to support whoever is there to make sure that we do not go into retrogression, but begin to make steady progress as a people. I've already communicated clearly, my future plans to Mr. President, and it stays between us.”

On rotational presidency, Bakare said: "It’s our immaturity, politically and otherwise, that makes us say power must either be in the North or be in the

South, instead of looking for the best, the fittest, the most competent, and people of character, who love this nation.

“Listen to me, if where the president comes from will make the place he comes from to be better, the Northern part of Nigeria should be richest and should be the most progressive and the most developed because out of 61 years, the north has produced either the president or heads of state for 40 to 41 years and yet, see the retrogression in the North.

“If it’s from the South, why should a person like President Obasanjo freeze and seize the account of Lagos State in his own tenure? If it's from South-South or South-east, why couldn't President Jonathan use all his powers to develop South-South/ South-east?

“Not where they come from, it’s what they carry and what

they have to offer. May the best of the best of Nigerians rise, regardless of whether they're from the east, or from the west, or from the north, or from the south.

“If there are agreements among politicians on rotation, a bargain is a bargain. That's between them. But as far as this country is concerned, what we need at this stage is a man who can drive us to the Eldorado.”

Bakare also advised the National Assembly to better its record of quality legislation by working to achieve electronic voting in future polls nationwide.

He commended the National Assembly for approving electronic transmission of election results by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing it as one of the best things the federal legislature had so far done.

On the recent approval for

IN LANDMARK MOVE, CAMBRIDGE RETURNS BENIN BRONZE COCKEREL heritage and history of this artefact.

“Since we took the decision to return the Bronze, following the College’s Legacy of Slavery Working Party’s (LSWP) extensive research, many organisations have followed in our footsteps. I would like to thank the LSWP for its diligent and careful investigation into the provenance of the Bronze, to the Fellows for their keen support for its restitution, and to our students who pioneered calls for this.”

In a message to the college, His Royal Majesty, Oba of Benin, Ewuare II expressed his delight at the return of the artefact which he described as important to the religious beliefs of the Benin people.

He said, “We are indeed very pleased and commend Jesus College for taking this lead in making restitution for the plunder that occurred in Benin in 1897.

“We truly hope that others will expedite the return of our artworks which in many cases are of religious importance to us.

We wish to thank our President Buhari and our National Commission for Museums and

Monuments for their renewed efforts in securing the release of our artefacts on our behalf.

“Finally, we wish to thank the student body of Cambridge University for bringing to light the historical significance of this revered piece of the Royal Court of Benin. It is worthy of note that our father attended Cambridge University but was then Prince Solomon Akenzua.

He later ascended the throne of our forefathers as Omo N’Oba Erediauwa, Oba of Benin.”

Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed and the Director-General, NCMM, Professor Abba Isa Tijani, expressed gratitude to Jesus College for setting the pace in the return of the artefacts.

The minister said: “We thank Jesus College for being a trailblazer and we look forward to a similar return of our artefacts by other institutions that are in possession of them.”

Tijani added: “This return offers new hope for amicable resolution in cultural property ownership disputes. We hope that it will set a precedent for others around the world that

are still doubtful of this new evolving approach whereby nations and institutions agree with source nations on return without rancor.

“On our part, the National Commission for Museums and Monuments is receiving this antiquity for the benefit of the Benin people and the people of Nigeria.”

The Okukor was removed from public display at the college following calls from students for it to be sent back in 2016.

In May 2019, Jesus College set up its Legacy of Slavery Working Party - comprising Fellows, staff and student representatives - to explore the historical, legal and moral status of the College’s ownership of the Bronze. They examined evidence showing that the statue was looted directly from the Court of Benin, as part of the punitive British expedition of 1897, and was given to the College in 1905 by the father of a student.

After Jesus College announced its decision to return the bronze in November 2019, a host of regional museums

committed to or said they were also considering returning artefacts.

The UK retains hundreds of Benin bronzes – plaques and sculptures - dating to the 13th century, made by artisans from the Edo culture.

They were distributed from private collections and in some cases donated by soldiers who took part in the 1897 looting.

Historically, much of the focus has been on the British Museum, which holds 900 objects – the largest collection in the world.

The campaign to repatriate Benin bronzes gained momentum when Bernie Grant, one of Britain’s first black MPs, made vigorous appeals in the 1990s for their return. But it has been a contentious debate that has recently become embroiled in culture war clashes.

Earlier this year, the then culture secretary, Oliver Dowden, objected to “the removal of statues or other similar objects” and urged museums to “defend our culture and history from the noisy minority of activists constantly trying to do Britain down.”

electronic transmission of election results by the National Assembly, he said: “Perhaps, that is one of the best things the present National Assembly has done, especially the Senate, because with that, Nigerians can vote and

then results can be transmitted so easily. Not only that, part of the state of the nation address that I did on October 10, I emphasised how Nigerian youth, especially undergraduates, are disenfranchised in our country.

#ENDSARS: OSINBAJO, GOVS BEG YOUTHS TO HALT COMMEMORATIVE PROTESTS federal government, establishing the modalities for the settlement of all monetary compensations awarded by the panels.

The NEC also unanimously resolved to ensure the prosecution of persons indicted by the panels.

“The Council specifically directed states "to immediately forward copies of final reports of the panels to their AttorneysGeneral for prompt arraignment and prosecution of all indicted persons.

"Where incidents in the reports relate to matters of discipline, in addition to prosecution, NEC urged the Nigeria Police Force to take disciplinary action on the affected officers in line with the provisions of the Police Act 2020," states the communiqué.

NEC members also strongly advised those planning protests to mark the anniversary of the ENDSARS riots to reconsider the option in view of "current security situation across the country and the possibility of such protests being hijacked by armed hoodlums and other opportunistic criminals to cause mayhem at such protest events and venues.”

It adds: "Organisers of the planned protests should explore the various channels of communication with government at various levels to advance their positions and avert the breakdown of law and order that may result from such public protests."

Other issues discussed at the NEC meeting included the presentation of the draft National Development Plan (2021-2025) memo from the federal Ministry of Finance, Budget, and National Planning, which is a successor plan to

the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan 2017-2020.

Among other highlights, the presentation and memo were to acquaint Council with the need for linkage between Annual Budget and Plans.

The plan also targets an average of 5% GDP growth, the creation of 21 million jobs, and lifting 35 million people out of poverty within the duration of the Plan.

NEC also received a presentation from the Governor of Kebbi State on behalf of the Grazing Reserve Audit Committee: “The summary of the presentation was to brief NEC on the essence of the audit which is to document available land in order to aid the implementation of the 10-year National Livestock Transformation Plan approved by NEC in 2019.

The presentation clarified that the audit committee is not mandated to recover grazing reserves.”

On COVID-19, NEC received a progress report from the Chairman of the Committee and Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, who informed the Council that the Federal Ministry of Health was establishing oxygen plants across the 36 States in the country, but currently, six states had been provided with oxygen cylinders so far.

Governor Okowa further said the federal government had paid for 40 million doses of COVID -19 vaccines coming in batches and that a considerable amount of the vaccines would come into the country between now and January 2022 while Nigeria is now classified among the 50 countries in the green zones.

ground today, especially between Osun State Governor, Gboyega Oyetola and the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola with each of them pulling the strings.

During the local government congresses, members of the APC who belong to The Osun Progressives (TOP), a political movement loyal to Aregbesola held their congress at Comrade Ola-Oni Centre in Osogbo, while those who belong to the Ileri Oluwa group - the political movement of the governor held theirs at the Osogbo Federal Constituency office.

Rivers In Rivers State, there are two factions of the party. One is led by the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi while the order is led by Senator Magnus Abe. During the local government congresses, Amaechi's faction participated, while Abe's faction boycotted the exercise. The story is not expected to be different today. It is either going to be a boycotted congress or a parallel one

APC HOLDS STATE CONGRESSES AMID INTERNAL CRISIS various committees vested with that duty.

The parallel assemblies would flow from what transpired during the local government congresses where sharp divisions existed, with various factions foughting for the control of the party and structures.

Though Zamfara and Anambra states will not be participating in today’s exercise, Abia, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Ogun, Osun, Kwara, Adamawa, Lagos, Imo, Enugu, Sokoto, Kano and Katsina are expected to hold parallel congresses.

Abia State

During the Ward and Local Government congresses in Abia State, parallel congresses between the factions loyal to the state Chairman of the party, Chief Donatus Nwankpa and Chief Ikechi Emenike were held. The same drama is expected to play out today. Barely 24 hours to commencement of the congress, elders of the party declared that no state congress would hold in Abia today.

APC caucus leader in Abia State, Senator Nkechi Nwogu, Chief Sam Nkire, Ume Kanu, Mr. KC Ugboajah and Hon. Elton Onwu and Mr. Chijioke Ikpo called the Caretaker/ Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee to recall

the state congress committee sent to Abia State.

Addressing journalists yesterday in Abuja on behalf of the elders, Chris Adighije said any attempt to hold the congress in the state would create problem, confusion and plunge Abia into further crisis.

Delta State

Despite the High Court order restraining the conduct of the last local government congresses in Delta State, a faction of the party led by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie OmoAgege, organised the exercise which he described as peaceful.

Thereafter, Delta State APC Leaders’ Council called on the National Caretaker Committee to annul the Ward and Local government congresses and organise fresh, all-inclusive congresses.

The council stated in a communiqué, jointly signed by 19 party members including the Chairman of the Council and Minister of State, Labour and Employment, Mr. Festus Keyamo, Dr. Alex Ideh, the Co-Chairman, the Council Secretary and former Executive Director of NDDC, Cairo Ojougboh and APC’s Governorship Candidate in 2019 in Delta State, Chief Great Ogboru, among others, that they were not satisfied with

the manner of the exercise.

With the spat unresolved till date, it is doubtful if it will be a one house today devoid of boycotts.

Akwa Ibom

The National Secretary of the APC Caretaker Committee, Senator John Akpanudoedehe and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio will also renew their rivalry in the state today.

While Akpanudoedehe controls the state chapter of the party, being an older member of the party, Akpabio is fighting to get hold of the party’s structure in the state.

The supremacy battle between the two led to the holding of parallel congresses in the 31 LGAs of the state during the local government congresses. The same is expected to be repeated today, as both factions are still in the contest of who blinks first, as issues in contention between the two gladiators are still fresh and potent.

Enugu

The situation is not different in Enugu State where former Senate President, Ken Nnamani and the state Caretaker Committee Chairman, Ben Nwoye are locked in opposing sides and striding for control of the soul if the party

and none of them has agreed to loosen their grip.

The local government congresses produced different leadership structures in all 17 council areas of the state due to failure to resolve contending issues. It is also expected that a parallel state congresses will hold today.

Ogun The Supremacy battle between the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun and his predecessor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun will be renewed today. There has been no love lost between the two political leaders.

The Chairman of the Congress Committee for Ogun State, Wale Ohu fears there would be parallel congresses and voiced that much when he said he was inundated with inquiries on how things would go today.

The indication that another congress by a faction was in the offing was when he said, “I have the mandate of the National Secretariat of the party to vet, screen and conduct the Ogun State congress of the APC. No other election is valid, except the one by my committee of seven sent by the National headquarters of the party.”

Osun Osun is going to be another battle

Lagos Despite Lagos being the home state of the National Leader of the party, Bola Tinubu, the party has been factionalised as far back as 2018.

The two APC factions in Lagos State are the Tunde Balogun-led group and the Lagos4Lagos group. Like it happened during the local government congresses where parallel congress were held across the state, similar scenario is expected to take place today.

In fact, the situation was so tense that unconfirmed reports said State Executives expected to be elected today were announced yesterday evening even ahead of the exercise.

Kwara In Kwara, the faction loyal to the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed has been having a running battle with the faction loyal to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

The faction loyal to Mohammed recently opened a parallel party secretariat in the state. During the local government congresses, the two factions held separate congresses.

Sokoto Sokoto State chapter of the APC is set to hold parallel congresses.

Speaking with THISDAY, the factional leader in the state, Dr. Balarabe Salame said like the wards and local governments congresses, his group had arranged for a state congress today.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

NEWS

News Editor Charles Ajunwa 09157401421 (sms only) Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

Obaseki, Oshiomhole Eulogise Uwaifo as ‘Joromi’ Crooner is Buried Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, immediate past governor of Edo State and

former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole; Chairman, Board of Trustees, Copyrights Society of Nigeria (COSON),

Don’t Rejoice Over Defections from PDP, Gbagi Warns APC Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba Former Minister of Education and Delta State gubernatorial aspirant, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, said it would be premature for the All Progressives Congress (APC) to rejoice over the number of chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) because the same defectors would cause the party the presidency in 2023.

Gbagi, who made the assertion while fielding questions from newsmen at his Oginibo country home in Ughelli South Local Government Area, shortly after returning from Ondo State where he was conferred with Aare Atunluse of Akure Kingdom by the Deji of Akure, said that he was confident that the PDP would bounce back and be victorious in the 2023 presidential election.

Deji of Akure Kingdom, HRM Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Oladelusi, Odundun ll, recently conferred the industrialist and entrepreneur with the traditional title of ‘Aare Atunluse of Akure Kingdom’, saying that it was in acknowledgement of Gbagi’s detribalised disposition and

contribution to the development of Nigeria especially through employment generation.

According to Ggagi, the series of defections involving members of the PDP to the ruling APC remained “full-blooded members” of the PDP. “All the people running from PDP to APC I tell you, they are not APC members in reality. They are PDP members in blood, soul and body and they are all going to work for PDP. “PDP is going to produce the next president in Nigeria, If you don’t marry two wives, they say, you do not know which one is better. Is for you to marry two wives and see the difference.”

He also posited that the country would not disintegrate as feared in certain quarters just as he accused the federal government of being the main problem of the country.

“If there is any problem in Nigeria, it is the government.

What ought to be beautiful, what ought to be the happiest thing of our life is our population. Population anywhere in the world is a money spinner; it is an economic driver but all of that we are toying with in this country hence we are where we are today,” Gbagi said.

Drug Dealer, Manager, 3 Workers Bag 75 Years Jail Michael Olugbode in Abuja A major drug dealer, Mike Omoarukhe, his manager and three other workers in his cannabis farms have been sentenced to 75 years imprisonment by a Federal High Court in Benin, the Edo State capital.

The convicts were charged in July by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in a five count charge number FHC/B/107c/2021 bordering on possession of 183.5 kilogrammes of cannabis sativa, conspiracy to possess, cultivate and cultivation of 22 hectares of cannabis farms.

Delivering his judgement in the case on Thursday 14th October, Justice A.C. Obiozor sitting in Court 2 of the Federal High Court, Benin Judicial Division, sentenced the accused to 15 years on each of the five counts, bringing the total years of imprisonment to 75 years, which will run concurrently. The judge however gave the convicts an option of seven hundred thousand Naira (N 700,000) fine on all the counts.

Meanwhile, Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Brig.

Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) has directed that immediate appeal be filed at the appellate court against the option of N700, 000 fine granted the convicts by the trial judge.

NDLEA operatives had on July

1, 2021 stormed the Ughieudu forest, Uhunwonde LGA of Edo State, where six persons: Elijah John; Friday Emma; Itoro Emmanuel; Daniel Emmanuel; Udom Etok and Abraham Monday Thompson were arrested with 50kg cannabis. A follow up operation in the Ughieudu forest on July 3, 2021, led to the arrest of Emmanuel Ekpeyoung and the total destruction of three cannabis farms with a combined size of 22. 210421 hectares and seizure of 133. 5 kilogrammes of cannabis.

After weeks of manhunt for the owner of the farms, the 36-year-old Omoarukhe was later arrested at a drinking joint in Irrua, after which they were all charged to court, except two of them; Udom Etok and Abraham Monday Thompson who were discovered to be minors.

In a related development, the anti-narcotic agency has filed a notice of appeal against the judgement of a Federal High Court in Lagos under Justice D.E. Osiagor who sentenced two accused; Clement Ajayi and Bolaji Fajebe, to three years imprisonment or a fine of N3,000 and two years imprisonment or a fine of N2,000 on the two counts charge of conspiracy and dealing in illicit drugs filed against them in charge number FHC/L/199C/2021.

Tony Okoroji; flutist, Tee Mac Omashola Iseli were among personalities that attended the funeral service of the late musical icon, Sir Victor Uwaifo in Benin City, yesterday.

Obaseki while giving his remarks at the Ogbe High Court of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, said the death of the musical icon marked the end of an era and the beginning of another in the music industry

in the state.

He said as a mark of honour to the “Joromi” crooner, he was going to name the Edo Creative Hub, when completed, after him.

Obaseki said the hub was well equipped with the state-of-the-art musical equipment that would promote the entertainment industry in the state.

On his part, the immediate past governor of the state, Oshiomhole, described late

Uwaifo as a man with the typical Edo spirit, noting that he did not only entertain the people of the state but placed Edo State and Nigeria on the world map.

Oshiomhole said the music legend was a self-made man believing that every young Edo was inspired by his work.

According to Okoroji, every event in Lagos had been put on hold in honour of Sir Victor

Uwaifo.

He said Uwaifo was a great musician who had made a name for himself and would be greatly missed by all.

Commenting also, Tee-Mac, said he knew the late Uwaifo far back 1970 and that he was a detribalised Nigerian who had a way of relating with everyone both great and small.

To demonstrate that, he played his flute in honour of Uwaifo.

ANOTHER GATEWAY.. .

L-R: Speaker, Yobe State House of Assembly, Ahmed Ibrahim; Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni; Senate President, Ahmad Lawan and Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Wachakal Airstrip in Karasuwa Local Government Area of Yobe State...recently.

Food, Commodity Price Moderation Slows Inflation to 16.63% James Emejo in Abuja The Consumer Price Index (CPI) which measures inflation dropped to 16.63 per cent (year-on-year) in September compared to 17.01 per cent in the preceding month.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the 0.38 per cent reduction in inflation was caused by price moderation in all the parameters that determine the headline index.

According to the CPI figures for September, released yesterday by the statistical agency, the composite food Index rose to 19.57 per cent in September compared to 20.30 per cent in August.

The food index was reflected in the prices of oils and fats, bread and cereals, food product

N.E.C., fish, coee, tea and cocoa, potatoes, yam and other tuber and milk, cheese and egg.

The “All items less farm produce’’ or core inflation, which excludes the prices of volatile agricultural produce stood at 13.74 per cent in September up by 0.33 per cent compared with 13.41 per cent recorded in August.

The highest increases were recorded in prices of gas, household textile, garments, motor car, game of chance, and major household appliances whether electric or not.

Others are passenger transport by air, hospital services, other services in respect of personal transport equipment, wine, clothing materials, other articles of clothing and clothing accessories, non-durable household goods.

However, month-on-month,

the headline index increased by 1.15 per cent in September, representing a 0.13 per cent rise compared to 1.02 per cent in August.

Urban inflation rate dropped to 17.19 per cent (year-on-year) from 17.59 per cent recorded in August while the rural index increased by 16.08 per cent in the review period from 16.45 per cent in August.

The NBS stated that monthon-month, the urban index rose by 1.21 per cent in September, up by 0.15 per cent compared to 1.06 per cent August while the rural inflation also rose by 1.10 per cent in September, up by 0.11 per cent when compared to the 0.99 per cent in the preceding month.

The NBS further pointed out that inflation on year-on-year

basis was highest in Kogi 20.82 per cent, Gombe 19.09 per cent and Oyo 19.07 per cent while Yobe 14.96 per cent, Edo 14.85 per cent and Kwara 13.70 per cent recorded the slowest rise in the headline inflation.

On month-on-month, however, Ebonyi 3.42per cent, Kano 2.41 per cent and Rivers 1.88 per cent recorded the slowest rise with Zamfara, Benue and Cross River recording price deflation or negative inflation -general decrease in the prices of goods and services or a negative inflation rate.

On the other hand, food inflation year-on-year was highest in Kogi 26.63 per cent, Oyo 22.40 per cent and Gombe 22.16 per cent, while Bauchi 16.35 per cent, Yobe 16.33 per cent and River 15.97 per cent recorded the slowest rise in year-on-year food inflation.

Edo Women Leaders Laud Obaseki’s Commissioner Appointments The Association of Women Leaders of Edo State has pledged their unyielding support to Governor Godwin Obaseki for his upliftment of women in his recently inaugurated cabinet.

The women disclosed this position during the conclusion of their annual three-day conference in Benin City with the theme ‘The Politics of Progress and Gender Inclusion’. They noted, with extreme delight, that even appointments made thereafter, such as the recently announced appointment of Solicitor-General to the state and State University Basic Education Board (SUBEB) chairman have been gender-balanced.

The keynote speaker at the conference, Pastor Edna Omame, in her presentation, decried the situation where women were

used as assets for votes during electioneering and campaign season, but never integrated or included into the affairs of governance.

“Sometimes, it is almost as if they are telling us that we are unqualified, that we don’t have capacity. Look at the Federal Government. How many women are there? Meanwhile during campaign, you will see them running after our association, or our sister associations at market level. This is not sustainable.”

The Publicity Secretary of the group, Madam Dorothy NosaUyigwe, echoed her sentiments and suggested that Edo women have become more enlightened and more empowered and there will be no going back on full participation of women in the

governance of the state. She described the governor as Godsent at a time when Nigerian women are seeking liberation and advocated for more political leaders across Nigeria to emulate Obaseki.

She said: “Determined in his drive to create a state which gives the girl-child a voice, Governor Godwin Obaseki has continued to constitute his cabinet to reflect gender balance and equality.

“In a world where women have been subjects of several oppressive and discriminatory policies, governments especially in the developed crimes are changing the narratives and enacting laws that foster egalitarian coexistence among all genders. We thank our Governor and assure him of our unalloyed support now and in

the future. He is our leader, and we appreciate him so much,” she concluded.

Of the Commissioners and Special Advisers so far appointed by the Obaseki administration, women make up about 48 per cent of the cabinet.

Also, Women in Medicine and Sciences Foundation, Edo State chapter, described as unprecedented, the gesture of immense goodwill extended to the womenfolk by Obaseki.

In a statement signed by the President of the Foundation, Mrs. Agnes Orobosa Igiebor, the group roundly applauded the governor’s appointment, highlighting the difference that seeing women in leadership positions would make in the lives of young girls and women across the state.

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NEWS

US Government Charges 11 Nigerians for $9m Fraud Bennett Oghifo The United States Department of Justice has arraigned 11 Nige-

rians on charges of conspiracy to commit money laundering, conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft put

UK, Nigeria Reiterate Commitment to Partner on Mutual Economic Benefits Ugo Aliogo The United Kingdom Prime Minister’s Envoy to Nigeria, Helen Grant and Nigeria’s Minister of Industry Trade and Investment, Mr. Adeniyi Adebayo, held the sixth bi-annual sitting of the UKNigeria Economic Development Forum (EDF), reiterating commitment to a partnership based on mutual economic benefit that will increase Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in non-oil sector in Nigeria.

A statement from the British Deputy High Commission through the Press and Public Affairs Officer, Ndidiamaka Eze, stated that the agenda outlined opportunities for a wider UK-Nigeria partnership as discussions centred on the state of bilateral trade; challenges and priorities ahead; opportunities to ‘build back better’ from COVID-19; the Nigeria Government’s preparations to attend the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), and plans to implement the revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

“They welcomed the continued efforts to encourage UK trade and investment into Nigeria resulting in a number of commercial wins for UK companies, including a £10.56m deal in the healthcare sector as part of a new build hospital project, and others in the pipeline (including more than £60m of potential FDI in the renewable energy sector,” the statement said.

Speaking at the meeting, Grant said that the EDF remained crucial to the UK’s efforts to address barriers to bilateral trade and investment between the two countries.

“I am delighted to have had the opportunity to speak with Nigerian representatives as we deepen our trade relationship with a key partner for us in Africa. The Economic Development Forum remains crucial to our efforts to address barriers to bilateral trade and investment between our two countries. It is good to have made progress on financial services and the legal sector, which are both great strengths of the UK,” Grant said.

Akeredolu Seeks Constitutional Roles for Traditional Rulers Fidelis David in Akure Governor of Ondo State, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has called on the National Assembly to grant constitutional functions to traditional institutions in the country.

Governor Akeredolu who spoke at the 4th Birthday Symposium of the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, said granting constitutional roles for traditional rulers would strengthen the present informal roles of the royal fathers to continue to mobilise their subjects for the maintenance of security Akeredolu who was Chairman at the Symposium titled ‘Addressing Security Challenges As They

Affect Grassroots Development in Nigeria: Need for Constitutional Empowerment of Traditional Institutions’, and represented by his Chief of Staff, Chief Olugbenga Ale, acknowledged the various informal roles being played by traditional institutions in the country.

“Let me say that despite the fact that 1999 Constitution did not accord our traditional institutions any constitutional function, they have been very effective in the informal sector of our various societies. Their effectiveness in this sector could not be eroded as they are highly respected and revered as their words are like laws to their people,” he said.

NFF Calls for Change in Policies to Enable Women Own Land As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to commemorate the International Day of Rural Women, the Nigerian Feminist Forum has called for the introduction of policies that will allow women own and manage land for agricultural purposes.

The movement also called for the provision of grants to enable rural women to expand their agricultural produce threshold.

NFF Communications Officer, Angela Nkwo made the call in a statement to commemorate the 2021 edition of the Rural Women’s Day. According to the group, the day was set aside by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, to recognise the critical role and contributions of rural women, including indigenous women in enhancing agricultural and rural development, improv-

ing food security and eradicating rural poverty.

NFF lamented that rural women and girls in Nigeria had suffered what she described as “varying degrees of genderbased violence as a result of insurgency, violent herdsmen attacks, biased customs and tradition, inconsiderate in-laws, lack of good policies and legal framework to own land, poverty, low level of education, poor health status and poor yield.”

Others include discrimination, poor farming instruments, lack of access to mechanised farming equipment, oppressive widowhood practice that stripped women of lands and properties, bad roads, exorbitant transportation costs that snatches profits, poor storage systems, and stable power supply.

at over $9 million.

According to a statement issued by the US DOJ on the indictment, the Nigerians, allegedly, were involved in laundering millions of Dollars in proceeds derived from business email compromises and romance fraud schemes.

The suspects are: Adedayo John, Oluwadamilola Akinpelu, Kazeem Raheem, Morakinyo Gbeyide and Warris Adenuga a.k.a Blue, Smart Agunbiade, Lateef Goloba, Samsondeen Goloba, Olawale Olaniyan, Olawoyin Peter Olanrewaju and Emmanuel Oronsaye-Ajayi.

The US Department of Justice’s statement said, “ Damian Wil-

liams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Patrick J. Freaney, the Special Agent-in-Charge of the New York Field Office of the United States Secret Service (“Secret Service”), announced today the unsealing of an indictment charging 11 defendants with conspiracy to commit money laundering, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft, in connection with their involvement in laundering millions of dollars in proceeds derived from business email compromises and romance fraud schemes.

“Nine defendants were arrested

today in the District of New Jersey and the Eastern District of New York, and will be presented this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn in the Southern District of New York. One defendant was arrested in the Southern District of Texas, and will be presented today in that district’s federal court. One defendant remains at large.”

“As alleged, the defendants were part of a criminal enterprise that not only defrauded businesses by assuming the online identities of legitimate counterparties, but also preyed on vulnerable elderly people, deceiving victims into sending money in phony

romance scams. Thanks to the Secret Service, the defendants are now facing federal felony charges,” Williams said.

Secret Service Special Agentin-Charge Patrick J. Freaney said: “As the continued threat posed by cyber enabled fraud remains ever present, the U.S. Secret Service remains steadfast in its pursuit of those who threaten our collective financial security.

This case is no exception, as the defendants allegedly utilised a myriad of fraud schemes, to include romance scams and business email compromises, to defraud over 50 victims in excess of $9 million.

YOU’RE WELCOME… Olorogun David Edevbie (former Delta State Chief of Staff) being welcomed to the palace of His Majesty Okorefe I, Ovie of Agbarho-Otor, Delta State... recently

Buhari, Ikpeazu, Umahi, Uzodinma, Others Pay Tributes as Rear Admiral Kanu is Buried Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday led the way in paying tributes to the late first military Governor of Old Imo State and Lagos State, late Rear Admiral Godwin Ndubuisi Kanu whose remains were committed to mother earth at his country home in Ohoroho Ovim Isukwuato Local Government of Abia State.

The funeral service held by

the Methodist Church Nigeria, Ohoroho Ovim Circuit Isuikwuato Diocese, was graced by an array of dignitaries from all spheres of life across the nation.

Speaking at the event President Buhari described late Kanu as a courageous gentleman who always stood for truth and justice and was loved and respected by all, adding that he impacted much on his Isukwuato clan.

Represented by the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Develop-

ment, Mr. Uche Ogah, the President condoled the bereaved family and urged them to live in peace, and harmony, imbibing the brotherhood their patriarch represented across the country.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu represented by his deputy, Ude Oko Chukwu, stated that the government and people of Abia were proud of their late illustrious son who had contributed immensely to the economic and socio political

development of the state and Nigeria in general.

He lauded the governments of Lagos and Imo States for the series of honours done to late Rear Admiral Kanu to immortalise his name by naming state facilities after him.

Ikpeazu urged the immediate family and entire Isukwuato community to bear the loss of their highly valued son as death is something beyond the control of man.

6 Years Old Twins, 3 Other Personal Staff of Traditional Ruler Kidnapped in Kwara Hammed Shittu in Ilorin Six years old twins and three other personal staff of the traditional ruler of Owalobo of Olobo, Oba Samuel Adelodun in Ekiti Local Government Council Area of Kwara State have been kidnapped by unknown gunmen.

Those kidnapped include, the monarch’s driver by name Kunle, his police security detail, Lawrence Abiodun, his maid Bukunmi Akanbi’ and his twin baby girls Taiwo and Kehinde aged six years.

Already, the members of the ancient town, traditionalists and

vigilantes among others have swung into action in order to recover the victims from the grip of their abductors. The incident according to THISDAY checks happened on Thursday night while they were in transit through Osi and Ayegunle communities and they were waylaid inside

the palace Sienna Bus. Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Tuesday Assayomo, was said to have dispatched the Anti Kidnapping and other Tactical Units of the Command alongside local hunters and vigilantes to rescue the victims unhurt and arrest the kidnappers.

FG Declares Next Tuesday Public Holiday for Eid-ul-Mawlid Celebration Michael Olugbode in Abuja The federal government has declared Tuesday October 19th, 2021 as public holiday to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Mawlid Celebration in commemoration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who made this declaration on behalf

of the federal government, congratulated all Muslim faithful both at home and in the Diaspora for witnessing this year’s occasion.

He admonished all Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of love, patience and perseverance which are the virtues of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), adding that doing so would guarantee

peace and security in the country.

Aregbesola enjoined Nigerians, particularly Muslims, to refrain from violence, lawlessness and other acts of criminality. As the indisputable leader of our race, we must show responsible leadership in Africa.

While calling for a stop to all divisive tendencies across the country, the Minister urged

all Nigerians and the youth in particular, to embrace the virtues of hard work and peaceful disposition to fellow humans, irrespective of faith, ideology, social class and ethnicity and cooperate with President Muhammadu Buhari’s led-Administration in its effort to build a progressive and enviable nation that all citizens would be proud of.

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NEWS Guber Poll Won’t Stall Devt FG to Pay Varsity Staff N22. 72bn 2022 Pace in Ekiti, Says Fayemi Earned Allowances Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The federal government has said it would pay the sum of N22.

172 billion Earned Allowances to all workers in the universities on or before October 30, 2021.

It assured that the amount had been provided for in the 2021 Supplementary Budget.

Government also said that it

would commence disbursement of the N30 billion revitalisation funds to public universities very soon.

Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, disclosed this Thursday in his o΀ce after a marathon conciliation meeting between the federal government and the Academic StaͿ 8nion of

8niversities AS88 .

The meeting was convened by the minister to evaluate the level of implementation of the Memorandum of 8nderstanding MO8 signed by both parties in December last year and the resolutions of the follow up meeting held on August 2 this year.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Ngige said they held

fruitful deliberations, stressing that the six issues on the agenda were satisfactorily addressed.

He assured that the government was not dragging its feet on anything that would make the university system to be good, adding that they were desirous that public universities should be Àt and proper places for learning and research.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, yesterday, said that the gubernatorial election slated for June 18, 2022 won’t stall execution of projects and rendering of other services to the populace by his administration.

Fayemi also admonished all political parties and their followers to eschew violence by playing the game according to the rules, saying no political post was worth the blood of any individual.

The governor who spoke in Ado-Ekiti in a State-of-The-State Address delivered on the floor of the state House of Assembly, as part of activities lined up to mark the third year of his second term in office, said it was only God that

enthrones leaders.

Fayemi said: “This administration has about only one year left, but I can assure you we shall work till the very last day. We have spent 1,095 days, which translates to three years.

“The next final year will be used to build on our existing performance, and no project will be left uncompleted.

“All abandoned projects by the previous had been completed by us, with only few others still at various stages of completion, but I am giving my words that by the time I leave office, there will not be any project left unattended.

“As we move gradually into the electioneering period, I enjoin all Ekiti persons to avoid politics of bitterness. “

Runsewe Lauds Gov Abiodun’s Cultural Tourism Driven Economy

JOROMI CROONER GOES HOME… L-R: Widow of Sir Victor Uwaifo, Osaretin; Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu; Governor Godwin Obaseki; and his wife, Betsy; during the lying-in state of celebrated musician, Uwaifo, in Benin City, Edo State…yesterday.

BASL Most Qualified Airport Concessionaire in Nigeria, Says Babalakin ChineduEze The Chairman, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited BASL , Dr. Wale Babalakin, has said that the company was qualified to handle any of the airports slated for concession, having successfully operated the best airport terminal in Nigeria for 14 years.

Babalakin whose company is the terminal operator of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Two MMA2 , Lagos and the first private terminal operator in Nigeria, said that BASL should be considered as a preferred

bidder for the concession of the airports based on its wealth of experience in airport management.

Babalakin explained that as a company with experience in terminal management and capacity, Bi-Courtney should have been given the right of first refusal, stressing that if given the right to participate, the company would change the face of terminals in the country.

He frowned at the plan to engage foreign companies for the concession, noting that BASL has invaluable wealth of experience to handle any airport concession and expressed

scepticism and handing over the airport facilities as concessionaires.

Speaking with aviation correspondents at the terminal yesterday, Babalakin regretted the crisis that had engulfed the MMA2 concession, saying that he was not against out-of-court settlement, but insisted it must be fair to all parties.

On the construction of MMA2, he explained that the company was invited to construct the new terminal after the former General Aviation Terminal One GAT 1 was engulfed in fire and the preferred bidder, Sanderton Limited failed to meet

the deadline for commencement of work.

According to him, what the government wanted the company to construct was “a shed,” but in one of his visits to South Africa, he discovered that the South African Government was equally constructing a new domestic terminal for the country and he decided to replicate the same facility in Nigeria.

He explained that his patriotism for Nigeria made him enhance the capacity of the terminal to what it is right now and with a plan to improve it in the future.

FG Inaugurates Committee to Harmonise Work Plans in N’Delta

MultiChoice Nigeria Shines at MIPAD Top Global 100 under 40 List

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The Most Influential People of African Descent MIPAD has recognised two Executive Heads of MultiChoice Nigeria on their 2021 MIPAD Global Top 100 under 40 List. They are the Executive Head of Customer Value Management, Mrs. Omoyeme Effiong and Executive Head Channels and Content West Africa, Dr. Busola Tejumola. The recognition is a celebration of their achievements, for Mrs. Effiong in the Business and Entrepreneurship space and for Dr. Tejumola in the Media and Culture space.

MIPAD is a global civil society initiative in support of the 8nited Nations International Decade for People of African Descent, focusing on the first pillar of the decade: RECOGNITION. MIPAD publishes

The federal government has constituted a committee to coordinate the harmonisation of the extant operational development plans in the Niger Delta into a single, coherent and eͿective regional development strategy.

This is part of overall eͿorts to intensify and improve on development in the region.

The Minister of Niger Delta AͿairs, Senator Godswil Akpabio who inaugurated the committee, explained that it became imperative considering President Muhammadu Buhari’s concern and interest to bridge the huge gap between

the Ànancial resources available in the region and the actual infrastructural and economic development recorded over the years.

Akpabio, who was represented at the inauguration by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Dr. Babayo Ardo, said the president had charged the ministry on the harmonisation of the development plans.

The minister stated: “The two major plans developed with the assistance of 8nited Nations Development Programme 8NDP to support the ministry in coordinating development and implementation some years ago.”

unique global 100 lists that identifies high achievers of African descent worldwide, pairing those based across the Diaspora with their counterparts inside Africa, across various verticals.

The MIPAD Recognition and Awards Ceremony, following the opening of the 7 th 8nited Nations General Assembly, on Sunday, October 3, 2021 recognised outstanding personalities and high achievers of African descent from around the world for their positive contributions.

MIPAD unveiled two global 100 lists of Most Influential People of African Descent. One in the Creative 100 Edition and the other, the 100 8nder 40 Edition, both for the year 2021 on Sunday, 3 October, 2021.

The Director General of National Council for Arts and Culture NCAC , Olusegun Runsewe, has commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for his determination and passion to create a cultural tourism economy for Ogun State.

Runsewe, who gave the commendation at this year’s International Arts and Crafts Expo INAC in Abuja, said Governor Abiodun had created jobs through the local Adire fabric including promoting the culinary of the state through Ofada Rice which he said was healthy and good for export.

“What we saw at the Ogun State night is a clear reflection of a governor, a leader who is determined to leave the state better than he met it. And through the local Adire

fabric economy, jobs are created, and an industry sustained. Governor Abiodun has even brought in the culinary offerings, a perfect hold for the Ogun people, noted for its unique Ofada Rice variant, very healthy and good for export,” Runsewe explained.

The NCAC boss who doubles as President, Africa Region, World Craft Council WCC , reiterated the urgent need for all state governors to wake up to the reality of the power of culture in transforming dormant economies, adding that oil business was no longer in vogue but the networking and marketing of culture and to which the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, have in abundant diversity, not excluding gastronomic offerings.

NGOs Kick against Commercial Release of Tela Maize Blessing Ibunge inPortHarcourt A coalition of Non Governmental Organisations NGO have called on the National Biosafety Management Agency NBMA to revoke permits recently granted for the commercial release of the Tela Maize.

The coalition of 79 groups led by Health of Mother Earth Foundation HOMEF expressed the displeasure in a statement yesterday made available to THISDAY. In their resolution, the organisations believe that the maize variety which has been genetically modified for drought tolerance and insect resistance is a failed and an unwanted venture and that is only being pushed to Nigeria

for commercial interest.

It would be recalled that the federal government had approved the environmental release and open cultivation of Tela maize, a new maize variety developed by researchers at the Institute for Agricultural Research IAR , Ahmadu Bello 8niversity, =aria.

The coalition is demanding an urgent reversal of the permits for the commercial release of the Tela Maize.

They also clamoured support for small holder farmers and agroecological practices that play a crucial role in conserving crop diversity and developing varieties of plants that are adapted to a range of weather conditions including drought.

Group Commends Osun for Passing VAPP into Law UgoAliogo,ShalomUzochukwu and FavourEdgar A Non-Governmental Organisation, HACEY Health Initiative, has commended Osun State Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola, for passing into law the Osun Violence Against Persons Prohibition VAPP Law. A statement made available to THISDAY by organisation lauded Governor Oyetola for the historic milestone, stating that the move is great news for women and girls as it would promote women’s health while reducing incidents

of gender-based violence in the state.

The statement also noted that HACEY and its team had earlier in the year paid an advocacy visit to the Osun State Speaker, Hon. Timothy Owoeye, which had in attendance the Executive Director of HACEY Health Initiative, Rhoda Robinson; the State Female Genital Mutilation FGM Coordinator, Toyin Adelowokan; the StopCut Project Lead, Oluwatomi Olunuga; HACEY Osun state coordinator, Ayobami Alabi; and the HACEY’s communication officer, Titilayo Fakeye.

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COMMENTARY

FAREWELL, GODWIN NDUBUISI KANU Tony Nnachetta pays tribute to Ndubuisi Kanu, principled officer and former military governor of Lagos State

I

t is with a deep sense of personal and institutional loss that Aka Ikenga recoils to present a summarised tribute to the times of Ugwumba Godwin Ndubuisi Kanu, a pristine manifestation of what the Ndigbo Ikenga portrays.

The passage of Rear Admiral Godwin Ndubuisi Kanu is the uprooting of an Iroko in Igboland, the reduction in Nigeria of the very few good men left who would speak truth to power without batting an eye lid. Ugwumba a titan of man, multiple times his physical size as a man of indomitable spirit, a stalwart of hard convictions, a man not given to cant, and loose talk, a man who will never be said to suffer fools gladly, has ascended, rather early, to join the Igbo pantheons. What a loss! What a gain to the Ancestors Aka Ikenga, in our 35-year history, has no strategic collaborator more formidable and committed than Ugwumba Ndubuisi Kanu. He would counsel and cajole and caution and attend to all issues we throw up. It is to his eternal glory that he sacrificed so much time and resource as Aka Ikenga’s ally’ to give birth to Ndigbo Lagos.

The concept was shared and refined in his living room.

The contacts and hostings were in his home for years and ultimately, he provided the office for Ndigbo Lagos. Several initiatives and forays for the benefit of Ndigbo Worldwide, not just Lagos and Nigeria, sprung from the wellsprings of his time, talent and treasures.

Ugwumba Godwin Ndubuisi Kanu, consummate sailor,

UGWUMBA NDUBUISI KANU, CONSUMMATE SAILOR, WITH ALL THE ACCOLADES OF THE SEA AND THE STATE, AND WITH THE COMFORT AVAILABLE TO A MAN OF HIS ACHIEVEMENTS, MADE HIMSELF A SERVANT FOR THE PEOPLE

with all the accolades of the sea and the state, and with the comfort available to a man of his achievements, made himself a servant for the people. A man who after risking his life as a combatant military officer went ahead to provide a rallying point, a bedrock, a refuge and spokesman for democratic Nigeria.

Ndigbo welcomes Nigeria to mourn the passage of one its greatest unsung heroes. a bastion of the democratic struggle, suffering tea gas and 24-hour surveillance.

A man of gigantic sacrifices, who refused to be cowed by the military junta, who looked death in the eye several times, who was arrested in his home in Lagos, ransacked, ruffled and searched, bundled into a vehicle and driven 500 miles to his country home at Ovim, Abia State, where it was all ransacked and then routed back to Lagos, a non- stop 48-hour ordeal and he said nothing. And called no public attention to intimidation.

Aka Ikenga mourns the passage of a lion of a man. A man to go to war with.

May the Good Lord grant him eternal rest. May the Good Lord welcome him and may He also console and counsel the family and all of us he has left behind.

Farewell, Ugwumba, you lived true to your name; Ugwumba, our pride, our totem, our Ikenga, Dike na agha, Dike na Udo, Rear Admiral of the Fleet. May your kind increase.

Ogbuefi Nnachetta is President, Aka Ikenga

A YEN FOR CERTAINTY We are in an era of anything goes, contends Yusuph Olaniyonu

F

rom the beginning of this piece, let me make it clear that the Presidency has on two occasions in the past stated unambiguously that “there are no circumstances, nor set of circumstances, under which President Muhammadu Buhari may seek to amend the constitution regarding the two-term limit on holding office as President”. The declaration was part of a press statement issued on October 2nd, 2019 by Mallam Garba Shehu, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media. Shehu also reiterated the statement two days to Christmas the same year.

Except for this assurance, there is nothing on the ground to indicate that if the incumbent President wants a tenure elongation, he would not get it with ease. This feeling which I have been having for some time seems to be prevalent among many conscious people who analyse socio-political and economic developments in the country and connect the dots.

Apart from Mr. Femi Falana SAN, whose view on this issue warranted the second rebuttal by Shehu, Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, former Deputy Majority Leader of the Senate and member of the Board of Trustees of the opposition PDP also noted recently in an interview on Channels TV that all the indices for the elongation of the tenure of the incumbent President or what is popularly called ‘the Third Term Agenda’ are present and if President Buhari seeks a third term he will get it without any hassle.

Though Ningi was not allowed to elaborate on why he believes the third term agenda is easily achievable by Buhari if he seeks it, it is obvious that he was talking about the situation in the National Assembly where he had served for 16 years. If there would be any move to give Buhari a third term in office, while the agitation and groundwork would be done outside the legislature, the constitutional amendment process must commence from the National Assembly.

In the present Ninth Assembly, the leadership of both the Senate and the House of Representatives have made it clear that President Buhari will get their approval on anything he brings before the parliament.

The Senate President has said that “any request from President Buhari to the National Assembly is good for the nation”. What this means is that if by any chance, a proposal for amendment of the constitution to extend the tenure of the President comes to the National Assembly and has a veiled endorsement of Buhari, it will scale through.

It should be noted that with the APC legislators believing that whatever the executive wants must scale through its wall, the ruling party has 72 senators and about 190 House of

Representative members. For a Constitution amendment to pass, it must have the support of at least 73 senators and 240 representatives.

That means the APC is just one member short of the necessary two-thirds requirement in the Senate while it is about 50 members short of the required number in the House.

These shortfalls can be easily obtained with the necessary groundwork. At least the earlier voting on the Electoral Act (amendment) Bill which provides for electronic transmission of results has demonstrated how easy it is to manipulate the proceedings of the National Assembly to a pre-determined end.

At the state level where a proposed Constitution amendment process must also travel through before it can be said to have succeeded, the requirement is for 24 out of the 36 state Houses of Assembly to approve the proposal from the National Assembly.

Incidentally, APC already controls 22 states and can influence decisions in two other states. What this means is that from the legislative point of view, such a proposal is doable.

Another area where the opposition to the third term proposal may be expected is in the judiciary where cases may be filed and judgment that can scuttle the plan is possible. As if by design, since the night raid on Friday, October 7 and dawn of October 8, 2016, on the homes of judges and arrest of some of them in Abuja, Port Harcourt, Gombe, Kano, Enugu, and Sokoto, the judiciary seems to have capitulated and become castrated. Since that unprecedented event, the judiciary has not recovered and most of the controversial judgments that come from the election petition tribunals and other courts on key cases are traceable to that event.

Today, the judiciary has been so enervated that even when its head, Chief Justice Walter Nkanu Onnoghen was arbitrarily, unceremoniously, and ingloriously removed from office in 2018, no whimper came from the courts. Now, the courts declared as the winner a candidate that came fourth in an election and allocated as valid votes which the electoral commission had nullified and deemed non-existent. Many judgements that came from the courts could hardly be justified. With such confusion in the ill-motivated, poorly remunerated, and ill-equipped judiciary, any attempt to extend the tenure of this incumbent President has the likelihood of scaling through the judiciary without much problem.

Another institution that is known to always oppose any attempt to subvert the constitution is the media. The media has

over the years since the creation of Nigeria in 1914 played the role of bulwark against any attempt by any government - colonial, military, or civilian - to impose unpopular policies on the populace. The media has confronted the worst of military dictatorship and its members have paid huge prices to fight for the enthronement of democracy which we now enjoy.

However, it appears the media is battle weary. Its members have become very tolerant of repressive and anti-people policies, particularly in recent times. The government has succeeded in cowing the media and muffling the editorial voices.

With the use of criminal libel charges which are reminiscent of the use of the law of sedition in the colonial period, arbitrary arrests, and the economic crisis which has rendered prostrate the various media houses, the present government seems to have found the formula to keep the media silent. That is why many harsh policies introduced by the government have gone either uncriticised or treated with a mere shrug by the media.

Today, the government through proposed laws like the Protection from Falsehood and Manipulation Bill, otherwise known as the ‘Social Media Bill’ said to be copied from a recently enacted law in Singapore and many actions of regulatory bodies like the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) have seized control of media content and owners of media houses now look elsewhere when government rides roughshod on the rights of citizens. Thus, if Nigerians expect the media to lead or mount a robust fight against any attempt to elongate the tenure of the incumbent president, it will be a hopeless expectation.

If the experience is anything to go by, another area of resistance to unpopular government policies is the civil society organisations and their leading advocates, the human rights activists. However, it is unfortunate that the most vocal and consistent human rights activists that stood against the worst dictatorship in Nigeria in the last 40 years have either died or some are too old or tired to be effective again. The people in government have devised means of creating distractions that make the few activists who still speak out like Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, ineffective. Many other activists have become compromised or tamed such that it is easy to get them ignored.

And since these activists provide the content with which the critical press makes government uncomfortable and forces it to back down on any dictatorial, anti-people, and anti-democratic policies, the combina-

tion of the two democratic forces has been successfully rendered impotent. Now, we are in the era of anything goes.

The worst affected of the social forces which one would expect to vociferously lead a fight against any move towards tenure elongation in the current dispensation is the opposition parties, particularly the PDP. That perhaps is where the smallest and most ineffective resistance will come from. The leading opposition party, the PDP has continued to lose its members to the ruling APC despite the many failures of the government in power to deliver on most of its promises to the people.

The government in power has found the formula to intimidate and overwhelm the opposition such that even members of the opposition will either jump ship or scamper away when critical issues that warrant their confronting the government in power are being discussed. A perfect example of how opposition elements will either run away instead of opposing any tenure elongation plan is the way some PDP legislators absented themselves from the chambers during the vote on electronic transmission of election results contained in the Electoral Act (amendment) Bill.

In all, Nigerians should be grateful to President Buhari who has made a patriotic choice by saying it clear that he “will not be seeking, accepting nor standing for a third term”. This unambiguous ‘Shermanesque’ declaration is similar to that of another General in the US, General William Tecumseh Sherman who in 1884 turned down an invitation to become the Republican presidential candidate by saying: “ I will not accept, if nominated and will not serve if elected”. It is the only hope the country today has that tenure elongation or what is known as the third term will not happen.

If President Buhari did not make the public declaration as clear as he has, it is possible that the funny, fawning ‘cabal’ moving around the country to recruit ‘disturbed’ politicians into the APC by using the name of the president would have started some campaigns whose motive is their self-relevance. Meanwhile, the campaign would have been masked as emanating from the love for Buhari and country.

Thank God President Buhari does not want a third term and he has said “any activity aimed at altering the two-term limit will not succeed and shall not have his time nor support”. Buhari has spoken and we have heard.

Olaniyonu, a public affairs analyst, wrote from Abuja

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OCTOBER 16, 2021 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Where are the allowances?

Is Secession Really the Solution?

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they stand to lose a great deal if the so-called secession happens. We he cry for secession is as old as human existence. All through the recall the abandoned properties saga which was prevalent in Lagos ages, man has always cried for liberty anchored on a secessionist and Port Harcourt after the bloody civil war. agenda.

Oloye Sunday Igboho came to national consciousness when he Historians will never forget the bloody civil war fought in expelled the murderous Fulani herdsmen from Igangan. He became the United States between 1860 and 1864 immediately after Abraham an instant hero and important non-state actor who filled in the lacuna Lincoln was sworn in as the 16th President of the United States. The by the defective state. Other states expectedly enlisted his services and Union led by the north voted in favour of the abolition of slavery he metamorphosed into a folk hero. Then he decided to expand his as they needed a market for their goods and services since they had coast and stretch his luck a bit when he became the most visible foot numerous industries. The Confederates led by the south where all the soldier of the Yoruba secessionist agenda being powered by Professor farmers wanted slavery to continue so that their cost of labour will be Banji Akintoye. Many questioned his antecedents as an alleged former cheaper. This led to a bloody war which the Union eventually won political thug to which he denied that he was a successful car dealer. after four grueling years.

The state expectedly crushed his spirit when they invaded his Soka There have been loud cries for secession most notably by the residence, killed two of his comrades and intercepted his plan to flee to Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Oduduwa Nation for Germany on exile where one of his wives resides. He has seen been in the Igbos and Yorubas to break away from Nigeria on grounds of Benin Republic where he has been battling an extradition attempt back marginalization. to Nigeria to face a treason trial.

One factor which makes a secessionist attempt successful is the The critical question to ask is: Are most Yorubas in support of the homogeneity of the people. The Confederates all spoke English and proposed Oduduwa Nation? Will the Oduduwa Nation solve the were bound by a common ancestry of their being immigrants from challenges of Yoruba people when as seen above they aren’t even Europe into the New World. The Irish all spoke Irish and English. homogenous?

The Igbos and Yorubas are not really homogenous. The languages Critical issues like restructuring and devolution of powers as well have several dialects which make easy communication a drag. Some of as fiscal federalism are issues that should be on the front burner for my Igbo friends for instance tell me that those from Ebonyi aren’t true true peace and progress to return to the beleaguered nation rather than Igbos because they share a boundary with Benue State. The Yorubas stoking the fire of ethnic hatred and fanning the embers of genocide. do not have a common ancestry or heritage. The Abeokuta man sees We can correct the ‘mistake’ of 1914 by coming together on a round himself differently from the Ijebu man. There is even an agitation table and discussing our differences as matured minds rather than for the creation of an Ijebu State in Ogun State. The Ile Ife man sees another needless and futile round of bloodletting. himself differently from the Oyo man. We recall the rivalry between Tony Ademiluyi, anthonyademiluyi@yahoo.com the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade and the current Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi over the Crown supremacy. There is even discrimination among some Yorubas and Igbos with some marital plans squashed simply because some parents feel the spouse isn’t from a particular part of T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R Igbo or Yoruba land.

EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE The methods being employed by IPOB is even DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU antithetical to their cause. Their shutting down of the MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO economy in the name of a liberation struggle and DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI identifying with their leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN akin to cutting off one’s nose to spite one’s face. The MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI headquarters of all companies in Nigeria are not in THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE Igboland. They are mostly in Lagos with a few being in Abuja. Renowned Economist and APGA Gubernatorial Candidate, Professor Charles Soludo has opined that billions of naira is being lost by the South East T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D economy during the shut downs. These companies EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA especially the banks can simply relocate out of the GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI south east on security grounds and life goes on.

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE Who really loses at the end of the day? It will be DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI the hoi polloi and even the elite based there as their SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH economic bargaining power will take a nosedive.

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI The reality is that most Igbos based in the east CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI obey the IPOB directive out of fear, not because they DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO really believe in the cause of the sincerity of Mazi TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com Nnamdi Kanu. Many are pragmatic as most of their investments are based outside the south east and

Reconstruct Jabbi Lamba-Belel Road

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abbi Lamba – Belel Road links Girei, Fufore and Maiha local government areas in Adamawa State as well as the route to Cameroun border. It was first constructed 39 years ago by the administration of former President Shehu Shagari.

Since then, no major rehabilitation has been done on the road. Times without numbers, recent administrations had released funds for the reconstruction of the road but contractors only worked for some few kilometres and abandoned it.

Surprisingly, the present administration had in June last year, approved the reconstruction of the road. But one and half years later, there is no sign the project will take off. Jabbi Lamba -Belel Road links Jibiro to Malabu, the village the wife of Mr. President, Hajiya Aishatu Buhari and the incumbent senator representing Adamawa central, Hajiya Aishatu Dahiru Ahmad Binani, hailed from. The road also connects Farang, Konkol to Boloko, the home of the renowned mathematics professor, the third Vice Chancellor of ABU, former Director, CBN and former Minister of Defence and Internal Affairs as well as two-term senator, Professor Iya Abubakar.

The road joined my village, Konkol, centre of commerce in Maiha LGA with Belel, homestead of Brigadier-General Muhammad Mana (retired), a former military administrator of Plateau State and two-time representative of the Adamawa North senatorial district. Belel is also a home to Senator Muhammad Umar Jibrilla Bindow, a one-time senator and governor.

From Belel, the road links Sorau and Mayo Nguli, headquarters of Maiha Local Government area.

Despite having these prominent personalities in the affected areas, Jabbi Lamba-Belel road is in a horrendous condition.

On this road, seven out of the eight major bridges have broken which necessitated travellers to use seven canoes and seven different cars to reach their destinations during rainy season. In this process, many people got drowned. Apart from risking lives, the less than 100-kilometer journey consumes three to five hours instead of an hour.

We, therefore, call for urgent intervention in order to ameliorate the sufferings of the people residing along Jabbi Lamba to Belel Sorau road.

Bilyaminu Gambo Kong-kol, Mass Communication Department, Bayero University, Kano

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

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NEWS Anambra Deputy Governor’s Aides Reject APC, Pledge Loyalty to APGA David-Chyddy ElekeinAwka Senior aides of the Anambra Deputy Governor, Dr. Nkem Okeke who recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) have refused to join him.

The aides restated their loyalty to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and to the state governor, Chief Willie Obiano.

Dr. Okeke had on Wednesday defected to the APC after meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja.

The senior aides who spoke to journalists at the o΀ce of the Chief of StaͿ to the governor, Mr. Primus Odili, expressed shock over the defection of their boss, saying they only heard of it on social media.

Ekiti Guber: Adaramodu, Aribisala, Ajibola, 12 Others Submit Guber Forms Chuks Okocha in Abuja

ACTION AGAINST CANCER… L-R Wife of Commissioner for Urban Planning, Mrs.Comfort Odunlami; wife of the SSG, Mrs. Derin Talabi; First Lady, Ogun State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun; wife of the CoS, Dr. Rasheedat Salis; wife of Rep. Member, Ijebu Central Constituency, Mrs. Bukola Osunsanya; wife of Member, OGHA, Mrs. Oluseun Kadiri at the Free Breast Cancer Screening Flag Off to mark the 2021 Cancer Awareness Month held at the General Hospital, Ijebu Ode.

Fully Vaccinated Travellers to Nigeria Must Present Negative COVID Test Results Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The federal government has directed that fully vaccinated persons entering the country must present negative results of COVID tests taken before arrival in Nigeria.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee (PSC) on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, disclosed this

in a statement yesterday.

The SGF had earlier said the government would revise the travel protocol for international passengers.

According to revised protocol, fully vaccinated travellers entering Nigeria must show negative COVID test results obtained not more than 72 hours before boarding.

“Travellers arriving in Nigeria must present a negative CO-

VID-19 PCR test result conducted not more than 72 hours before boarding,” the statement reads.

“Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated in-bound passengers will be required to observe a mandatory 7-day self-isolation in addition to a COVID-19 PCR test on days 2 and 7 after arrival.

“Fully vaccinated in-bound passengers will not be required to observe the mandatory 7-days self-isolation but will be required

EFCC Unfreezes Kogi’s Account Bennett Oghifo and Wale Igbintade The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday sought the permission of a Lagos High Court to discontinue its suit against the Kogi State Government and to unfreeze the state’s account in Sterling Bank to enable it return the N20 billion bailout fund to the Central Bank of Nigeria.

The EFCC had on August 31, 2021 brought an ex parte

application before the Lagos High Court, presided by Justice Tijani Ringim seeking to freeze the state’s interest-yielding account domiciled in Sterling Bank with the name ‘Kogi State Salary Bailout Account’, adding that the money was bailout fund meant for payment of salary.

Counsel to the EFCC, at the resumption of proceedings yesterday, Kemi Pinheiro SAN, presented an application titled, ‘Notice of Discontinuance’, and dated October 13, seeking

Nigerian Student Makes Final List for $100,000 Global Student Prize Nigerian student Oluwadamilola Akintewe has been named a top 10 finalist for the Chegg.org Global Student Prize 2021, a new $100,000 award to be given to one exceptional student that has made a real impact on learning, the lives of their peers and on society beyond.

Akintewe, a 22-year-old student at Adekunle Ajasin University, Ondo, Nigeria, was selected from over 3,500 nominations and applications from 94 countries around the world.

The Varkey Foundation launched the Chegg.org Global Student Prize earlier this year, a sister award to its $1 million Global Teacher Prize, to create a powerful new platform that shines a light on the efforts of extraordinary students everywhere who, together, are reshaping our world for the better.

Chegg.org has partnered with the Varkey Foundation to create

the new Global Student Prize. Dan Rosensweig, CEO & President of Chegg, said:“While many stakeholders are busy debating, these students are busy doing. Congratulations to all the finalists of the Global Student Prize. They truly are the changemakers our world needs.”

According to Akintewe, she was inspired by her humble background to always be committed to improving the lives and empowerment chances of girls and women in Nigeria.

She launched LetGirlsLead to provide mentorship and support for secondary school girls in her Ondo home state. Working with youth organisations, they teach girls entrepreneurial, financial and digital skills, so that they may become self-sufficient, and she set up a scholarship list to help them apply for places at universities and gain further qualifications.

discontinuance of the matter.

to do a COVID-19 PCR test on day 2 of arrival.

“Persons arriving on ‘Business’ trip or on o΀cial duty staying less than 7 days in Nigeria must; be fully vaccinated; produce negative COVID-19 PCR result 72hours before boarding; and conduct a PCR test on day 2 of their arrival.

Former Deputy Managing Director of the Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB), Kayode Adaramodu Lateef Ajijola, outgoing National Treasurer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Adewale Aribisala and the former deputy governor of Ekiti State, Prof. Kolapo Eleka yesterday submitted their completed nomination forms to enable them contest election on

the platform of PDP. Adaramodu who submitted his form yesterday morning at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja, said that his mission was to bring back the value system in Etiki State that had been fast eroded.

He also that he would ensure that education received its pride of place in the state, saying he would turn the state to construction site and repairing the bad roads.

FCE Akoka Graduates 83 Students Oluwabunmi Fache The Federal College of Education (Technical) Akoka, Lagos, has graduated 83 students.

The school’s Principal Mrs. Abdul Salami, at the graduation ceremony held at the Chief Paul Alabi Multipurpose Hall, said ”it is by the amazing grace of

Almighty God, the StaͿ and students of the F.C.T (T) Secondary School that we have come to the successful completion of the 2021/2022 academic session. In view of this remarkable achievement, I want to implore our dear parents to be more committed to the academic excellence of their wards.”

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

08054699539

Naira’s False Exchange Rate and Osinbajo’s Acumen

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ice President Yemi Osinbajo’s call was for a market-reflective exchange rate for the Naira. It was a simple and forthright position on Day One of the two-day Mid-term Ministerial Performance Review retreat, presided over

by President Muhammadu Buhari, in Abuja, early this week. In other words, he wants an exchange rate, determined by the forces of demand and supply, which will invariably boost inflow of forex. Our country’s economy will be the biggest beneficiary. Those benefitting from the prevailing hopeless skewed forex policy lashed on Osinbajo’s position, to start a campaign of calumny that he was canvassing for Naira’s devaluation. Even after clarifications were issued by his office, these beneficiaries of the flawed Naira rate continued their songs of blackmail.

Osinbajo’s argument is straightforward, and ordinarily, should not attract manipulations and denigrations.

Market-reflective exchange rate is not the same thing as devaluation. In fact, the Naira will gain from market-reflective steps. The Vice President remarked: “We cannot get new dollars into the system, where the exchange rate is artificially low... I’m convinced that the demand management strategy currently being adopted by the CBN needs a rethink, and that is my view.”

In further clarifications the following day, the Vice President’s media aide adds: “For context, the Vice President’s point was that currently, the Naira exchange rate benefits only those who are able to obtain the dollar at N410, some of who simply turn round and sell to the parallel market at N570. It is stopping this huge arbitrage of over N160 per dollar that the Vice President was talking about.

Such a massive difference discourages doing proper business, when selling the dollar can bring in 40% profit!

“This was why the Vice President

Osinbajo

called for measures that would increase the supply of foreign exchange in the market rather than simply managing demand, which opens up irresistible opportunities for arbitrage and corruption. It is a wellknown fact that foreign investors and exporters have been complaining that they could not bring foreign exchange in at N410 and then have to purchase foreign exchange in the parallel market at N570 to meet their various needs on account of unavailability of foreign exchange.

“Only a more market-reflective exchange rate would ameliorate this. With

an increase in the supply of dollars, the rates will drop and the value of the Naira will improve. The real issue confronting the economy on this matter is how to improve the supply of foreign exchange, but this will not happen if we do not allow mechanisms like the Importers and Exporters (I&E) Window to work.”

One deceptive argument beneficiaries of the manipulated Naira exchange rate always put forward is that the Naira will crash further if market forces are allowed to determine its rate in the official market; that Nigerians who buy forex for school fees, medical bills, Business Travel Allowance, Personal Travel Allowance, among others, will have to pay more. All these are falsehood. Rather, the Naira will benefit from market-driven official forex market, because inflow will improve considerably. Many will be happy to sell forex in the official market. There will be no reason for round-tripping and speculative trading will die naturally.

The Naira will thus appreciate. Pressure in the parallel market will also reduce.

For those who say inflation will rise by allowing market forces to determine rates at the official market, it is balderdash.

The argument is anchored on the deceptive believe that the Naira will crash further if exposed to market forces in the official market. Of course, as shown above, round-tripping and speculative trading will die with market-reflective steps. The Naira will gain from these.

I always find it nauseating when the CBN governor, Godwin Emefiele, underrate the role of the parallel market in the importation of raw materials. You often hear him saying this market “serves many corrupt and illegal activities that should never be used to determine the exchange rate of the Naira.” This is not true. Emefiele should go and engage key private sector players to understand what I am talking about.

Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccination: A Joke Taken Too Far

Godwin Obaseki

The last time I checked, COVID-19 vaccination is only capable of reducing a person’s risk of contracting the virus. It cannot totally bar the virus. In practical terms, so many fully vaccinated people still contract the virus daily. Also, the vaccination can only reduce the risk of hospitalisation and death from the virus. It’s incapable of fully preventing hospitalisation and death. Sadly, every day, fully vaccinated people die all over the world from COVID-19. The latest fully vaccinated Nigerian to contract COVID-19 and die is lawyer Ladi Williams.

The long and the short of my Epistle

is that there is still no vaccine capable of fully tackling COVID-19. It is still work in progress. All the existing ones are performing below expectations; so, why the moves to make vaccination mandatory in Nigeria? I was startled when the federal government announced last Wednesday that all its workers would be required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination with effect from December 1, 2021. Of course, they also said, alternatively, public servants will have to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result done within 72 hours, to gain access to their offices.

The first part talking about compulsory COVID-19 vaccination is an aberration.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation/Chairman Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, who unveiled the policy at the PSC briefing, and his team, need to go back for more consultation. Has the FG done an impact analysis of making COVID-19 vaccination mandatory? Nothing has been done in this direction. Will the government be responsible for any adverse effect on citizens? Boss did not say anything about this. Even in the United Kingdom, a COVID-19 epicentre, vaccination is mandatory for only those working in care homes.

What the Nigerian government wants to do is similar to what the Biden government is doing in the United States, where it is mandatory for federal employees, contractors that work with the government and health-care workers at facilities that receive federal funding, to take the jab. A lot of court cases have cropped against it. Of course, millions of other American workers still have the option of proving they are not carrying the virus by submitting to weekly COVID-19 tests.

I say no to vaccine mandates for Nigerian federal workers. Regular COVID tests for workers who cite religious or health reasons for not getting vaccinated should be the focus for all governments.

Those unconvinced about the usefulness of the vaccine must also be respected.

Concerns about the safety of the vaccine are still very much there. We don’t even know the future implications for those that have taken the jabs. Those against being used as human guinea pigs should be left alone.

We must all rise against coercion in the drive to get more people to take the suspicious COVID-19 vaccine. I expect our human rights lawyers to drag the federal government to court immediately.

If we don’t move very fast against them, the option of test results might also be removed.

Few weeks back, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State tried something similar to what the federal government is trying to do, but was immediately resisted by the people. Obaseki ordered that unvaccinated persons be prevented from accessing government offices, mass gathering and public places. “Anyone who has not been vaccinated will not be allowed into public places such as banks and worship centres. From the second week of September, people may not be allowed to worship in churches and mosques without showing proof of their vaccination cards at the gates,” said the governor. What nonsense! Some people went to court and got a restraining order from the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt. I expect same for this latest COVID-19 policy of the Nigerian government.

Manufacturers and other businesses are sweating to access official forex at the I & E window. An official of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry told me: “We hardly get up to 20 per cent of our forex demand from the CBN.” The inability of the official market to meet demand is putting pressure on the parallel market.

Sadly, the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEX) is not being properly managed, resulting in the pressure it is facing. Here, only government agencies supply forex. Others are discouraged from doing so, because of price fixing by the CBN. There is unsuitable pricing, with a huge gap between the parallel market and NAFEX rates. Virtually everybody in this market wants to buy. The policy also deters export and Foreign Direct Investment.

The CBN must end exchange rate fixing at NAFEX and allow the market determine the value of the Naira. This is exactly what Osinbajo is saying. No doubt, the current leadership of the CBN has messed up the Naira, with the manipulated rate in the official market.

The former Director-General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Private Sector Advocate, Muda Yusuf, recently said the distortion in the forex market, created by the CBN, was responsible for the free fall of the Naira.

Yusuf adds: “By fixing the rate, CBN is blocking free supply to the economy because those who are willing to supply to the market will not do so when the rate is pegged. People are doing business under the table because CBN fixed a rate that is not sustainable. There is premium of 30 per cent between the official and parallel market. This regime is creating the problem.

“The critical factors of demand and supply, if well managed, will create incentive for people who want to bring in forex. CBN should allow a system that works. You can never win when you are confronting the market. One of the major problems in the market is the insistence that people should sell at a fixed rate. That policy has created a problem of compliance.”

For me, the CBN has simply been squandering Nigeria’s forex with existing policy. Few weeks back, it instructed banks to publish the names and Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) of customers abusing the crooked policy. The CBN said some of the unwholesome practices included the use of fake visas and cancellation of air tickets after the purchase of PTA/BTA. Travellers must return unused PTA/ BTA within two weeks as stipulated in the customer declaration form signed by them, so says the CBN. If not utilised for the intended purpose, or if for any reason, the scheduled trip is cancelled, the PTA/BTA must be returned. So, Godwin Emefiele and his men expect Nigerians to return unutilised PTA/BTA? The CBN is being unrealistic.

Why won’t there be unwholesome practices in the purchase of PTA/BTA, when there is a huge gap between the official rate and that of the parallel market? As at yesterday, those who got PTA/BTA from the banks and decides to join the “dubious travellers club” will make a profit of N160 on every USD purchased. The CBN is evidently encouraging corruption with this policy of selling PTA/BTA at the cockeyed official rate.

Government forex must be sold at market rates. This will naturally eliminate sharp practices in the purchase of official forex, the PTA/BTA inclusive. A country struggling with forex can’t be selling the limited amount it has at dubious rates.

I concur that Emefiele’s CBN should review its strategy on forex and ensure that Naira’s value reflects market reality, rather than the “artificially low” rate deterring investors from bringing forex into the country.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

FAIRGROUND with

AZUKA OGUJIUBA

azuka.ogujiuba@thisdaylive.com

BellaNaija's Style Digital Summit

A

frica’s biggest fashion and lifestyle destination, BellaNaija Style hosted the second edition of its virtual conference BellaNaija Style Digital Summit some weeks back. The event was a convening of leading experts and global thought leaders in the fashion and creative industry who unpacked the theme “Harnessing Africa’s True Potential”.

Over a 4-hour live broadcast, the 400+ plus attendees listened earnestly as speakers outlined the steps that need to be taken over the coming decade to align the blossoming African industry with global goals and trends.

The event leveraged the strength of the BellaNaija platform. Through its super brands including BellaNaija Style, BellaNaija focuses on utilising the power of media and technology to drive positive change and celebrate progress with content that serves a generation of African voices and change agents, dynamic in their interests, living transnational multifaceted lives with the desire to stay connected to home and the expectation that media should be relevant and connected to their lives, and bridge the gap between the imagined conceptions and the actual realities of Africa.

BellaNaija Style’s Head of Content, Mary Edoro kicked oͿ the activities for the day with an opening remark, emphasizing the importance of this annual event which has been provided for Africans in Africa and in the diaspora to discuss the opportunities and challenges present in today’s fashion industry; from the manufacturing sector, design and investment in fashion, to analyzing the true nature of sustainable fashion on the continent.

The Àrst session was with Omoyemi Akerele, Founder of Style House Files and convener of Lagos Fashion Week. Mary

Edoro led the conversation around creating more commercial value internationally for our locally produced fabrics as well as the pros and cons of advancing the process of industrialization of Africa’s fashion manufacturing sector.

The next session was a deliberate thought-provoking conversation that aligns with BellaNaija Style’s latest eͿorts to encourage people to think more about the life cycle of Omoyemi Akerele their fashion choices in order to foster long-term changes in consumer behavior through its Declutter & Donate Campaign.

From responding to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, new advances in recycled fabric technology to the promotion of African textiles heritage, designers Nkwo Onwuka (NKWO), Ekwerike Chukuma (WUMAN Brand), Sydney Nwakanma (Emeka Suits Kenya) took the stage hosted by one of BellaNaija Style’s lead team Morin Oluwole members, Sandra Omoregie, to explain how their brands are paving the way for a more environmentally responsible fashion future.

In order to address unemployment, low investment, and lack of structure in the creative industries, BellaNaija Style tapped industry leaders with years of experience like Morin Oluwole, Director, Global Head of Luxury, Facebook & Instagram; Roberta Annan, UN Ambassador and Founder, African Fashion Foundation and Elizabeth Elohor, Founder Beth Nkwo Onwuka Models Africa; to deliberate on the topic “Empowering Fashion Creatives & Establishing Long Term Careers in Africa.”

Closing the session, Roberta said: “Creativity on the continent is not an issue. We have creativity in abundance but a lot of creatives don't have an education about the business aspect of their creativity. So, they are creative but they don't have the acumen. They don't have a solid business plan; they don't have an exit strategy.

They don't even know how much funds they need at a Chukwuma Ekwerike given time.”

Elizabeth Elohor

Mary Edoro

Roberta Annan

Sydney Nwakama

Laycon Headlines Tigernut and Ginger Origin Launch Party In an Orijinal spectacle of graffiti extravaganza, Orijin, the flagbearer of African heritage, has launched Tigernut and Ginger, a new addition to the Orijinal family to the excitement of “Orijinals” in Abuja, Ibadan, Enugu, Benin and Lagos.

Featuring a two-day live painting by graffiti artists dressed in afrocentric street costumes, the extraordinary creation stunned onlookers with its reveal of a gigantic mural of the Orijin Tigernut and Ginger bottle.

The unveiling party in Lagos attracted A-list celebrities, influencers and socialites; all excited to witness and celebrate the grand unveiling

of the bold new flavour that has captured attention.

Guests were treated to a themed fusion of African contemporary street culture featuring drum therapy, street entertainers, local hieroglyphics walls laced with street slangs, street food curated by culinary maestros and bold music amped to match the delicious taste of cocktails from the Orijin Tigernut and Ginger bars.

Speaking about Orijin Tigernut and Ginger launching in Nigeria for the first time anywhere, Marketing Manager, Mainstream Spirits & RTD, Uche Onwudiwe, said, “As a brand,

we are driven by a community of Nigerians who take pride in who they are and where they come from, but also share a modern outlook on life.

We’re very excited to be bringing the much-loved taste combination of Tigernut and Ginger to Orijin, a contemporary drink that is proudly Nigerian.”

Orijin Tigernut & Ginger is lightly carbonated and bursting with flavour and a refreshing kick thanks to the taste of Tigernut and Ginger. Added to the signature Orijin blend of over 50 fruit and herb extracts blended with alcohol, this is a truly refreshing drink that is low in sugar.

L-R: Commercial Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Adebayo Alli; Brand Ambassador, Emuobonuvie Neo Akpofur; Marketing and Innovation Director, Guinness Nigeria, Adenike Adebola; Brand Ambassador Olamilekan Massound Laycon and Managing Director, Guinness Nigeria, Baker Magunda at the launch of the new Orijin TigerNut and Ginger variant... recently

SATURDAY OCTOBER 16, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

18 Ferdinand Ekechukwu 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Grammy Winner, Babalola to Perform in Lagos Ferdinand Ekechukwu

A

s a prelude to his homecoming gig in Lagos today, two-time Grammy awardwinning musician Lekan Babalola, had earlier in the year released a new body of work, titled ‘Mr. Lakaye’, on local and international digital stores. The 11-track album embraces a mix of jazz, funk and world music with the signature touch of Afrobeat. This would be the repertoire upon which the master percussionist will sate the appetite of his African fans and music connoisseurs with his self-produced album.

Guests at the breezy evening of cool music for his album listening party, which promises to be an eclectic blend of musical inÁuences, would get a chance to see the 61-year-old hold sway at Ogidi Studios located in Lekki Phase I, Lagos. A statement credited to Winifred Okpapi, Head, Strategy, Arts and Talent AͿairs, said, “We are privileged to have one of the greats amongst us and this is only the beginning as we tell his story. Being a master percussionist and brilliant curator, we can’t wait to have you with us at the prestigious Ogidi studios to know more and see him at work.”

Babalola is well known for his innovative musical style, using his native Yoruba tongue infused with traditional music, Afrobeat and funky dance overtones. His voice is noted to boom in Yoruba over a bouncing tune enriched with infectious electronic elements and complemented with his signature percussion sound. The album title track “Mr Lakaye” seethes with overwhelming pop inÁuence, re-evoking ‘80s pop and soul train fever.

‘Time Come’, the Àrst track oͿ the album is a tribute track to the percussionist’s father, Olayiwola Babalola for his contribution to gospel music composition.

Babalola’s father was a leader of the church choir and an accordionist. As a composer, his father would have him sit down at age six to play the drums or

Babalola

the cowbell while he was composing and arranging songs. This childhood experience became very inÁuential in his music career. He later formed a patchwork band with his peers. Another profound inÁuence on Babalola’s sound is the King of Afrobeat himself, Fela Kuti. One of the songs on the album, ‘Your Highness’, which has a video shot in Lagos, precisely Lagos Island, is an Afrobeat track that eulogises Fela.

Babalola is famed to be the Àrst person Fela Kuti rented out his famous New Afrika Shrine in 1987. Furthermore, he introduced the Fela Kuti fan club to the world, running it from his residence in Kalakuta, Gbemisola Street, Ikeja. The oldie had Àrst-hand experience in the evolution of Afrobeat and Fela’s promotion of African ideology. The Yoruba world-view forms a powerful crust in Babalola’s sound. He satisÀes the curiosity

of his western audience with the bulk of mythology and history that he breaks down beat after beat.

One of Nigeria’s most accomplished musicians, Babalola has jointly won the Grammy Awards twice. He won it for the Àrst time in 2006 for his work on Ali Farka Toure’s In the Heart of the Moon, receiving credit on three songs. He won a second Grammy in 2009 for his work on Cassandra Wilson’s album, Loverly.

Still on his professional career, his percussive skills were honed after he joined a band called Samba Samba Band and later New York City-based Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers band, playing the Bongo drums and performing jazz music. Upon his arrival in the U.K, Babalola later went on to work with notable acts including Prince, Ernest Ranglin, Branford Marsalis, African Jazz All Stars, Roy Ayers, David Byrne, Damon Albarn, and Tony Allen

‘Badboys and Bridesmaids’ Now in Cinemas Ferdinand Ekechukwu

After a month drive and buzz on social media, pushing his new production, Seyi Babatope’s romantic drama “Badboys and Bridesmaids” opened in cinemas on October 8. This was heralded by an exclusive premiere at the Ebonylife Place in Victoria Island. The cast of the movie had their best designs on for the night and dazzled on the red carpet which had media girl Idia Aisien on the “best-dressed” list. As the female lead cast, Idia Aisien seems to have taken her chances further in the movie. “Convincing me she needed this to be hers. Well it’s yours now young queen ride with it”, Babatope acknowledged in a post.

Produced by Yomi Black for House of Dion, the feature Àlm is set on the destination wedding of two high school lovers Jola and Jaiye. After two years in a perfect relationship without sex, Jola secured the ring! Now with just three days to their dream wedding, Jaiye has decided that he needs to consummate their marriage. “He wants to have sex. He’s in the room right now taking a shower”, Jola’s line in one of the scenes. What should she do" Directed by Seyi Babatope, the Àlm’s cast is littered with emerging Nigerian acting talents, including Big Brother Naija stars Elozonam Ogbolu and Nengi Hampson.

It also stars Demola Adedoyin, Jidekene Achufusi, Idia Aisien, Jimi Akinsola, and Mercy Isoyip.Prior to the movie’s Àrst night,

amongst others. His long-standing romance with English-European culture and music in particular brought about another fruit: a wife, Kate Luxmoore with whom he has Àve children.

Luxmoore has been his music collaborator and composed a few of the tracks in the album. His previous albums include Songs of Icon (2006), Kabioye (2005), and 12 Package (2005). Babalola has lived in UK since 1980 when he left Nigeria for the United Kingdom to study automobile engineering at the Chelsea College of Aeronautical and Automobile Engineering after he won a Lagos State Scholarship. He however dropped the engineering programme for music and later enrolled at the Central Saint Martin’s College of Art and Design where he studied Àlmmaking. He proceeded to the Northern Film School where he completed his master’s degree.

Cast of ‘Badboys and Bridesmaids’

Babatope successfully got expectations high with the o΀cial trailer for ‘Badboys and Bridesmaids’. In the movie, Jola (Idia Assien) Àghts through temptation and tries to resist her soon to be husband Jaiye (Jimi Akinsola) from doing the bedroom rodeo before their

marriage. Jola’s bridesmaids fancy Jaiye to stay patient until after their wedding but, Jaiye’s groomsmen will not lay their ugly intentions to rest as they canvas for him to land the jackpot.

The story’s plot also reveal that both the

groomsmen and the bridesmaids have history from their high school days, culminating in several rekindled love Áames and scandals, as they prepare for Jola and Jaiye’s wedding.

‘Badboys and Bridesmaids’ is just a feel good movie with a classy cast, costume and setting.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Flavour ‘Levels’ with New Style, Video Ferdinand Ekechukwu

C

hinedu Okoli, better known by his stage name Flavour N’abania or simply Flavour owns his style of music and this has overtime seen him on top of his game.

The highlife singer early this week released a video for his new song ‘Levels’. The song sees Flavour drop names and sing praises of notable socialites like E-money, Obi Cubana, and their ilk in Flavour’s usual delivery.

The visual, which followed barely hours after the audio version, shows some of Nollywood actors, like Kanayo O. Kanayo, Yul Edochie, Jerry Amilo, and Zubby Michael among other recognizable faces in a lavish display of culture, a΁uence tinged with much of style. An Odumeje character in the video would have completed the stars as those featured move in same circle with him as allies.

The video also sees a few other demonstrations like dance steps from the main and featured acts in their all-white costume. ‘Levels’ was sang by Flavour in his indigenous dialect, Igbo with a little bit of Pidgin English. Flavour via an Instagram post, has shared a video of the song being streamed on the billboard at Time Square with the caption: “NA WE DEY HERE Times Square, New York«” Released on his 2Nite Music Group, the new upbeat jam, like a good number of his songs, has some trace of the ‘ogele’ rhythm which makes the song danceable and would readily get you on your feet just as it would get you smiling with the faces and gestures by these celebrities, mostly from the Eastern part of the country acting in the video. ‘Levels’ appears timely and has potential to trend following the yuletide

Visual from the video...

season which is weeks away.

The video was shot and directed by Patrick Ellis in Los Angeles, California and Enugu. ‘Levels’ is Ijele of Africa’s latest release since releasing ‘Berna Reloaded’ which featured Congolese music veteran Fally Ipupa and Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platinumz. The singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Flavour started his musical career as a drummer for his local church today; he is popularly known across Africa and the world for

his hit song “Nwa Baby”.

For Flavour, his music videos are often characterized by Nollywood themes as ‘Golibe’, which he featured former most beautiful girl in Nigeria, now his second baby mama, Anna Ebiere Banner. Also the video for his song ‘Nnekata’, shot by Àlmmaker Tchidi Chikere has a Nollywood setting that tells a tale of youthful love in a serene Kingdom somewhere in the south east. Same as his “40years Lovestacle” a 14 minutes 42 seconds

video production, directed by Clarence Peters. The short music Àlm stars Rita Edochie, George Ezenwora and Ogechi Obilonu among other Nollywood actors alongside Flavour and songstress, Chidinma Ekile.

Well known for his ability to sing Áuently in the Igbo language, Flavour, other than being a proliÀc Àgure in the music industry, also has starred in Nollywood movies in simple or supporting roles. Recall he o΀cially made his debut in a Nollywood commercial titled, “Professor Johnbull”.

FAJ to Mark 60th Birthday with Colloquium, Book Launch The 60th birthday anniversary celebration of veteran journalist, teacher, and author Femi Akintunde-Johnson, will be marked on the 30th of this month with a book launch and a colloquium.

According to statement issued by his close associates, the colloquium, conceptualised as a storytelling format, is themed, “Did Anything Good Come Out of The ‘60s? – Lessons and memories of Nigeria’s formative decade.”

In addition to this, will be the launch of four books written by FAJ, the moniker, many

fondly call the birthday host. These books are: An anthology of poems: the Àrst of such literary work FAJ will write; it is composed of 108 pages and covers the Àrst 40 years of his life, otherwise named the “Gestation Period”.

There is also a 110-page compilation of six stories and a play, themed diͿerently and cutting across diͿerent epochs; two memoirs, one of which is a 170-page book capturing the circumstances that led to FAJ’s detention at Kirikiri Maximum Prison. It also captures in graphic illustrations his struggles, resilience, and elastic spirit.

The other memoir is a recount of the vicissitudes faced during his odyssey during the defunct, but iconic, FAME magazine years.

This encompasses the birthing, challenges, and the loss of the FAME project between 1991 and 1997 – with the story sewn in lucid prose and digestible form to give a compelling, hard-to-put down expository read. The 300-plus-page book details several events, actions, and reactions.

All these books are to be available in digital and paperback versions.

Femi Akintunde-Johnson started as an

entertainment journalist with The PUNCH newspapers and, later, Climax magazine between 1988 and 1991. He would rise to become Editor of Climax. He held the same position, and as Editor-in-Chief, in four magazines he co-founded. They are FAME, National Encomium, New Treasure, and Treasure People & Life. Moreover, FAJ masterminded the establishment of four of Nigeria’s most celebrated awards: FAME Music Awards (FMA), The Movie Awards (THEMA), The Reel Awards, and Awards For Musical Excellence in Nigeria, (AMEN).

Kayode Kasum Uncovers ExcitingTeaser for ‘Soòlé’ Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Filmmaker Kayode Kasum has released the Àrst teaser for his forthcoming feature Àlm titled ‘Sozlp’. Kasum released the exciting teaser done in black and white on his social media, revealing some of the Àlm’s key cast. The movie, produced by Lou-Ellen Clara Film and Adunni Ade as the executive producer, stars Nollywood bigwigs such as Sola Sobowale, Saidi Balogun, Femi Jacobs, Adedimeji Lateef, Soibifaa Dokubo, Tope Tedela, Meg Otanwa, and Bukunmi Oluwasina.

The cast also include Kelechi Udegbe, Shawn Faqua, Gold Ikponwonsa, Teniola Aladese, Eso Dike, JBlaze, and Odera Olivia Orji. The teaser also hints on the Àlm’s plot which follows the story of strangers who become entangled in a catand-mouse game on their journey to the eastern part of Nigeria. ‘Soole’ is a story about diͿerent people with diͿerent lives

on a road trip to Enugu for Christmas.

Their paths change when they discover a bag on the bus. In a chat with this reporter, Kasum, a movie-cum-video director, reveals why the teaser dropped in black and white, which one had thought it depicts the time it was set.

He explains: “The Àrst teaser is in black and white because what a black and white picture does to your images is it changes the tone, changes the atmosphere, it changes the whole Àlm thematically. And what we wanted to do was make the Àlm look dreamlike.

“When I say dreamlike we wanted to make the teaser look dreamlike so that people who have been in Soole’s before can kind of feel a bit of«.so the pictures could resonate with them for it to feel like we are taking you back in time to when you took soole; for you to remember one time in your life when you enter soole and that’s why it seem black and white. Also because of the title

Kayode Kasum with Adunni Ade on set of ‘Soole’

of the Àlm and most of our people are from the west it also made a lot of sense the person that will be saying the voice over for the teaser had to be an Igbo character because Soole is a Àlm with diͿerent languages that everybody can understand.”

He also spoke on the inspiration behind the movie: “We were kind of having a session at Filmtrybe, which is my production company in terms of stories that we wanted to create for the year, and we had thought about it. I had also had a personal experience one day when I was working and I took a night bus from Abuja to Lagos, so the bus had to park on the road because they were robbing in front and a lot of diͿerent people in the bus started talking about their life stories and places they were going and why they took the night bus. And I just knew one day I was going to do something like that and thank God for the writer of the Àlm, Steve Okonkwo. He was so good merging our ideas and his ideas together to make this fantastic Àlm. Also kudos should go to Adunni Ade for listening to our story and thinking it was worthy to put on the big screen.” ‘Sozlp’ will start screening in cinemas nationwide on November 26, 2021.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

POLITY

New Tax Tribunal Rules: Own Goal by Finance Minister Usman Tureta

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erhaps more than any other time in her history, Nigeria needs non-oil revenues.

With the prices of oil, her major resource and revenue earner, flagging since around 2014, the country’s need to look in other directions has assumed greater significance.

It is widely agreed by economic experts that tax revenue, not resource revenue, is the most reliable source from which the country can fund her development aspirations as happens in the world’s most progressive societies. Currently, tax compliance in Nigeria is still meagre. Speaking earlier this month at ‘Public Presentation and Breakdown of the Highlights of the 2022 Appropriation Bill,’ Mohammed Nami, Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), disclosed that Nigeria has 41 million taxpayers among its 200 million population.

Despite having that number on its tax roll, said Nami, Nigeria still earns lower than what its counterparts across Africa generate from Personal Income Tax (PIT).

“If you also compare that with South Africa where they have a total population of about 60 million people, with just four million taxpayers, the total personal income tax paid in South Africa last year was about N13 trillion. You can now see that these things are not adding up.

“So, if we don’t pay these taxes, there is no way the government will be able to provide the social amenities required, the critical infrastructure required for the wellbeing of the country,” Nami said.

This realization can be seen in the efforts of the government to raise tax collection via the improvement of processes and procedures, tax education, compliance enforcement, legislation and what have you.

All of these, however, look set to be undermined by the government itself. How so? Poor management of tax disputes. Nothing exemplifies this more than the recently issued Tax Appeal Tribunal (Procedure) Rules 2021 by the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed.

The new rules were issued in compliance with Paragraph 21 of the Fifth Schedule to the FIRS Act to guide the practice and procedure of the tax tribunal’s proceedings. The rules, which took effect from 10 June 2021 but with taxpayers not becoming aware of it until late September, effectively replaced the Tax Appeal Tribunal (Procedure) Rules 2010.

There is no doubt that they contain a few innovations. The new rules notably allow for electronic filing, which eases the administrative burden for taxpayers, revenue authorities and the tribunal as well as reflect the shift towards modern technology trend. They also allow for virtual proceedings,

Zainab Ahmed particularly for delivering rulings and applications using technology or platforms recommended by TAT. This, without doubt, saves time and cost for litigants.

The most fundamental of the rule change, however, sits in Order 3 Rule 6, which prescribes the payment of 50 per cent of the disputed tax as a condition precedent to filing an appeal. In addition, the taxpayer must file a deposition along with the appeal to that effect.

First, the provision of Order 3 Rule 6 shows glaring inconsistency with the provisions of Paragraph 15 (7) of the FIRS Act, which give the tax tribunal the discretion to order payment as security where a taxpayer failed to file returns, or the appeal is frivolous

or an abuse, or it is expedient for a taxpayer to pay a sum as security. While the recent Federal High Court (FIRS) Practice Directions, 2021 also contain similar provisions, they are only applicable in a situation in which a taxpayer is challenging the FIRS’ applications to enforce established tax debts, for freezing orders or requests for information.

To my mind, there is no argument that Order 3 Rule 6 has injustice written all over it, as it is no substantive statute even if it was made pursuant to an extant law. The minister, without a doubt, lacks the power to amend an act.

Second, the provision also carries the potential of barring access to justice. With an impediment represented by the requirement to pay 50 per cent of a yet to be established tax liability, a sum that is probably four times the appellant’s turnover, this represents a middle finger to the constitutional rights to fair hearing and fair trial.

In addition, it is not unreasonable to ask if Order 3 Rule 6 is not susceptible to gross abuse by tax authorities, which may be seduced into making unreasonable assessments in the expectation that a taxpayer would pay 50% deposit. For instance, if a business with an annual turnover of N100 million gets slapped with a tax bill of N400 million, it will stand no chance of filing an appeal unless it makes a deposit of N200 million (50 per cent).

Additionally, the blanket requirement for a security deposit as a condition for appeal also makes the tax tribunal less of a dispute resolution platform it was conceived as, but more of a litigation forum. This comes with an increase in the risk of tax dispute resolution occurring on technicalities instead of substantive justice.

More worryingly, Order 3 Rule 6 will be a source of concern for foreign investors who, despite the potential for munificent returns in Nigeria, are likely to fret that they could be victims of presumptuous tax assessments on which they will be required to make statutory deposit of 50 per cent before they could file an appeal against a tax liability considered unjust.

This worry will play on their minds and could nudge them into taking their investments jurisdictions with more clement tax climates, which will result in losses of opportunities for Nigeria in terms of jobs and revenue to the government. Relatedly, the provision of Order 3 Rule 6 is unlikely to help Nigeria’s unimpressive ease of doing business ratings.

Taken together, the Order 3 Rule 6 is akin to sticking a loaded assault rifle in one’s trouser leg and jogging along, but expecting it not to go off. r Tureta writes from Abuja

Restoring the Dignity, Rights of Humans Elochukwu Emeasoba Recently the Institute of Humanities, Pan-Atlantic University, Lekki, Lagos, organised a one-day Conference on human dignity and human rights. Speakers at the conference included Femi Falana (SAN); Sharon Slater; Dr. Henrietta Williams; Prof. Carter Snead - De Director, Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture, University of Notre; Dr Anthony Okeregbe - Faculty of Arts, University of Lagos; and Prof. Michael Asuzu, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.

In her Key-Note Address, Slater regretted the gradual loss of sense of human dignity in the world today especially among teenagers. She deemed it fit to counter the pseudo- colonization of Africans through the subtle influence of CSE (Comprehensive Sexuality Education) by the UN body. Possessing a global view, Slater explained how destructive it is for people to be so sexually educated at the expense of losing their worth as humans.

She gave an example of how an app, “Tuneme,” was created as a means of activating or stimulating the sexual urges of teenage girls and boys; encouraging them that it is normal to feel inclined towards the opposite sex, or, same sex, at their teenage year. Meanwhile, she pointed out the fact that the UN member states are NOT in support of such education introduced at any level of learning. That is, these UN states do realize how undignified such education proves to be.

Furthermore, Slater stated that one of the UN’s policy phrases: “We are committed to ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health care services, including for family planning, information and education,” is indeed a euphemism for promoting and legalizing abortion across the globe which to Slater is in sharp contrast to the promotion of the dignity of the human, including the dignity of the unborn child. This resonates in the words of Chimamanda Adichie, “think of people as people, and not as abstractions that have

to conform to bloodless logic...,” And so, just as a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Slater concluded by empowering her audience with ideas such as signing petitions against actions that are in violation of the dignity and rights of the dignity human person.

In his paper, Falana brilliantly submitted that the dignity of the human person is guaranteed under section 34 of the Nigeria Constitution. The section reads in part: “Every person should be treated with dignity.” Dignity here, signifying that, everyone is worthy of esteem and respect. He stated that economic empowerment of the citizenry is a proper step to enjoying the right to human dignity guaranteed under section 34 of the constitution.

According to him, a poor man should have the same level of human dignity and rights as that of a rich man. However, in reality, the poor man is usually less dignified because of his poor condition. Consequently Falana urged that that every citizen should possess a dignified form of livelihood in a bid to uphold his self-worth.

The SAN narrated how in one of his outings with the music legend Fela, who was at time his client, he (Fela) had hit the car of another motorist. This motorist jumped out from his car and was about to physically assault Fela. But upon being told by another motorist that the person he was to assault was Fela, the motorist retreated and drove off. In conclusion, the SAN strongly advised that all hands should be on deck in the promotion of the dignity and rights of the human person.

When Williams took the floor to present her paper, she won the hearts of the audience with her humanistic approach to the dignity and rights of every human being. You may be aware that Dr. Williams was the first medical doctor in Nigeria who performed the first Intro-Fertilization (IVF) in Nigeria.

That was in 1979. And since that year, he vowed never to perform any IVF again because the process of IVF entails destruction of many fertilized eggs which are potential human beings.

Since Williams stopped performing IVF, she has dis-

covered a successful-scientific method called NaPro Technology, which to her is a better alternative to IVF, because it is safer, surer and cheaper. It brings about conception in the lives of “seemingly’ infertile couples.”

NaPro Technology is all about promoting the culture of life; preserving the right of family; and the dignity of the human person, she said.

Williams adds: “It’s no magic, it is a practical science.

NaPro Technology is aimed at consolidating the relationship between a husband and wife through child bearing while at the same time, keeping in mind the conjugal relationship necessary for their marital sustainability.” Williams went on to encourage the pro- life movement, which heralds the full dose of homage due to a human being. She appealed to advocates of Pro Choice to respect the inviolability of human of human life.

According to Maya Angelou, “nothing can dim the light that shines within,”. This can be attributed to the paper of Prof. Snead, and of course, to all Conference speakers and participants. They were lights shining within the conference.

Professor Snead illustrated the core details about human dignity and human rights. These details consist specifically in the practice of virtues, such as: generosity, gratitude, humility, truthfulness, friendship, solidarity. Amongst other things, his speech focused on the truth that, “human beings are made for love and friendship.”

To Professor Asuzu, a clinical Epidemiologist at University Teaching Hospital, (UCH) Ibadan, human dignity and human rights are proper ethics which should never be neglected.

The Conference ended on a good note. All the speakers unanimously agreed that it is worthwhile investing in the promotion of human dignity and human rights. r Miss Elochukwu Emeasoba is a student of the University of Benin

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

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POLITY

Abiodun: Meeting Housing Needs of Ogun Residents Femi Ogbonnikan

T

he three basic necessities of life include food, shelter and security. Shelter is one of the most expensive assets individuals aspire to own. But government, all over the globe, sees to the provision of basic needs of its citizens. It is common knowledge that the current administration in Ogun State with its purposeful governance and robust developmental blueprint, summarised as “Building Our Future Together” mantra, has opened many parts of the state through capital investments in infrastructure, including housing, as one of the pillars and enablers, for the accelerated economic growth and development of the state.

In the provision of affordable housing for all and sundry, government alone can’t bear the burden. Thus, the government creates programmes to provide safe and affordable housing, a number of which still exists in some form to make rent affordable or present opportunities for lower income earners to secure loans to buy homes. Notwithstanding, it is the resolve and commitment of any responsive and responsible government to harness all resources and manpower at its disposal to reduce poverty and provide affordable shelter for the people of the state.

In reality, access to affordable housing has become a huge challenge in a fast-growing economy like Ogun State where potential investors have expressed willingness to open shops, almost on a daily basis, courtesy of the provision of an enabling business environment and the government’s friendly policies.

This new housing scheme, especially in a state like Ogun, as envisaged by the current administration, will help to meet up the housing gap, if and when it arises.

In response to the influx of people into the state, one striking feature that is commendable on the part of the current administration is the ongoing revolution in the provision of housing projects at adequate, affordable and sustainable rates in all the three senatorial districts, in order to cater for a potential deficit in the nearest future.

The housing projects that are jointly being constructed by the Ogun State Housing Corporation, Ministry of Housing and the Ogun State Property and Investment Corporation (OPIC), speaks volumes about the giant strides the administration is taking to resolve the deficit.

The inauguration, on Thursday, July 1, 2021, of 130 housing units in ‘Prince Court Estate” located at Kemta, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, was the first phase of the 300 detached and semi-detached of two and three-bedroom structures. This was the first in the series of housing projects being undertaken by the present administration across the state as part of the 2,500 houses to be provided in four years.

This ‘Prince Court Estate’ has been provided with amenities, such as tarred roads, water supply, good drainage system, fence, security and power supply, a model that has become incumbent

four-year term. This is an unbeatable figure which surpasses all the housing units all preceding administrations have provided since the creation of the state on February 3, 1976.

Meanwhile, it is good news that the recently completed second phase project, Kobape Housing Estate, located on AbeokutaSagamu expressway, which was constructed less than a year, is set for delivery to successful subscribers before the yuletide and New Year festivities.

Ogun State Commissioner for Housing, Jagunmolu Akande Omoniyi, who stood in, for Governor Dapo Abiodun, at an interactive session with the subscribers, noted that the housing scheme, which is a reference point in the efforts of the government in reducing housing deficit in the state, is provided with state-of-the-art infrastructure, such as electricity, water, shopping mall, health centre, Automated Teller Machine (ATM) gallery and security post. The 300-unit Kobape Housing Estate is made up of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom flats, respectively.

The standard of the structure and infrastructure provided in the first phase of the project at ‘King’s Court, Kemta, Abeokuta, nonetheless, aptly speaks volume of the interest shown by the subscribers for the ‘mad rush’ for the second phase located at Kobape, Abeokuta (Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area).

Dapo Abiodun Subsequently, the moving train is expected to berth soon at Sagamu (Ogun East) for 200 units, 100 units each for Ota and on the current administration’s wholesome design for Ilaro (Ogun West), respectively for the third phase of the project, “Greater Abeokuta” as a befitting capital city. in a bid to cover the three senatorial districts as promised by the There is no gainsaying the fact that this is part of the governor. deliberate efforts of the government to ensure Abeokuta, Some other housing projects already completed and allocated the capital of Ogun State, has befitting infrastructure and to the successful subscribers in this class include the 400-unit amenity that will make it stand out amongst its peers, workers’ housing in Kemta, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta delivered at a not only in Nigeria, but throughout Africa. And that is discounted rate, while there is a downward review of the 160-unit what the administration is doing in collaboration with the AAK Degun Estate situated at Laderin Estate Abeokuta from the “United Kingdom’s Future Cities Project.” initial selling price of N7 million to N5 million. And for the 92 By and large, both the completed and ongoing housing units of three-bedroom semi-detached flats and also, the 68 units projects serve as attestation of the current administration’s of two-bedroom apartments which was slashed from the initial N5 commitment towards infrastructural development, in million to N4 million. In the magnanimity of the administration, the general and the provision of decent shelter, in particular. government has also refunded payments to allottees of the AAK DeGateway Mortgage Bank Limited, which remains a gun Estate Laderin, Abeokuta, who had earlier made full payments. dominant player, has provided the much-needed mortgage And this translates to the refund of N1.5 million each to some of the for subscribers of the housing units. allottees of the three-bedroom apartments, just as the government has Besides, with the state government’s interest in partner- also relaxed its terms and conditions in the sale of the units, including ing with the Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company the reduction of interest rate from 18 per cent to 6 per cent.

(NMRC), the future is bright for the subscribers to access a However, the government is not only making provisions for long-term loan at low interest rates. affordable housing to the residents to bridge the deficit, but it is also During a recent courtesy call on the Ogun State Comcommitted to providing affordable and crisis-free land schemes missioner for Housing, Omoniyi, Managing Director/Chief to the people of the state who are willing to build on their own Executive Officer, NMRC, Mr Kehinde Ogundimu, pointed under the “Site and Service Land Scheme” at different locations on out that affordable housing would continue to remain a a flexible payment plan. mirage until the housing sector gets massive support from t 0HCPOOJLBO JT NFEJB BJEF UP (PWFSOPS %BQP "CJPEVO all the relevant stakeholders and join forces to make it possible.

Without equivocation, the government is poised to Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com provide 2,500 housing units across the state in the first

PHOTO NEWS

L-R: Winner, 2020 Maltina Teacher of the Year, Oluwabunmi Anani; Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; and Head of Public, External and Government Affairs, Nigeria Breweries Plc, Uzodinma Odenigbo, during the hosting of the 2020 MTOTY winner and the Nigerian Breweries Plc team by the Vice President at the Presidential Villa, Abuja in celebration of the World Teachers’ Day... recently.

L-R: Vice President, Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria, Mr. Femi Ogala; Director Regulations, Monitoring and Enforcement, Advertising Practitioner Council of Nigeria (APCON), Mrs. Ijedi Iyoha; President, Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria, Mr. Steve Babaeko; President, Media Independent Practitioners Association of Nigeria, Mr. Femi Adelusi; CEO/Registrar, APCON, Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo; Chairman, Advertising Industry Standard of Nigeria, Mr. Funmi Onabolu; President, Experiential Marketers Association of Nigeria, Mr. Tunji Adeyinka; and Director, Registration Career Matters and Corporate License, APCON, Mr. Joe-Eugene Onuorah, during the unveiling of Advertising Industry Standard of Practice document in Lagos… recently

L-R: President Rotary Club of Ekpoma, Igor Aregbokhai, past Assistant Governor, Nosa Edo-Osagie; L-R: Group Executive Vice Chairman, SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi; presenting a souvenir to the Assistant Governor, Ahmed Oshubogie; and past President, Yekini Sadoh, during the installation Chairman, Apapa Local Government, Hon. Idowu Sebanjo, during a courtesy visit by the Apapa Loceremony of Aregbokhai as President of Rotary Club of Ekpoma, held at Ekpoma, Edo State... recal Government chairman to SIFAX Group Head Office, Apapa, Lagos… recently cently.

26

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

FEATURE

Giving Soccour to Orphans, Underprivileged SundayEhigiator reportsthatthenewlyopened“SisterintheDeen(SID)FoundationOrphanage”,whoseinauguration in Lagos coincided with Nigeria’s Independence Day, wouldn’t only serve as hope, but a new lease of life to orphans

O

rphans are described as children who are left with no protection because their parents have passed away. It is the right of every child to be protected, taken care of physically, psychologically and emotionally.

And these rights ought not to change when they become orphans, which are by no fault of theirs; however, this is mostly the case of orphans in Nigeria.

The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development estimated that there are 17.5 million Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) in Nigeria.

The World Bank in a July 2021, report estimated that 4,000 Nigerian children lost one or both parents between March 2020 and July 2021 due to COVID-19-associated death.

According to the report, nearly two million children have been orphaned since the global pandemic started in 2020, and “by the end of June 2021, because of COVID-19, our estimates show that nearly two million children under 18 years, would have lost a mother, father, and/or grandparent caregiver who lived in their household.”

Orphans face enormous challenges relating to their health and development and it is estimated that 95 per cent of OVC do not receive any type of medical, emotional, social, material, or schoolrelated assistance.

Also, they are mostly at risk of malnutrition, and some societal ills such as armed robbery, cultism, prostitution, and vagabondism. This is because orphans have no source of income or a guardian to take care of them.

This informed the decision of the “Sisters in the Deen Foundation”, which first set out as “Truth Bearer”, a platform consisting of Muslims, aiming to nurture their faith and make themselves better representative of true Islam’s virtues, to set up the orphanage.

Speaking more on the inspiration behind the orphanage, Chairperson, Sisters in Deen Foundation, and Custodian of the Orphanage, Dr. Murat Babalola, described the home as a story of gratitude.

According to her, “This home is a story of gratitude, in the sense that Allah says in the holy Quran that when you are grateful, I’ll bless you and multiply you.

“There is also great responsibility that comes with taking care of orphans. There are very strict guidelines when it comes to Islam and taking care of orphans. And we as a helping hand for relief and development understand and take them seriously.

“There is great importance set in the Quran and Sunnah (the teachings of the Prophet (PBUH)) in the treatment of the orphans.

“Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) said, ‘Whoever caresses the head of an orphan in affection, solely for the sake of Allah, a good deed will be written to his account for every hair over which he passed his hand’.

“He said, ‘I and the person, who looks after an orphan and provides for him, will be in paradise

L-R: Vice- Chairperson, Sisters in the Deen Foundation Orphanage (Baytu Sakeena) Hajia Binta Adisa; Chairman, lbeji Foundation, Alhaji Rafiu Adisa Ebiti; Chairperson, Dr. Nurat Akinlabi Babalola; Mr. Kola Abiola and National President, Association of Orphanages and Homes Operators in Nigeria, Dr. Gabriel Oyediji; during official opening ceremony of the Orphanage home in Lagos.

PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT like this’, putting his index and middle fingers together. So the whole idea is to fulfill the will of Allah.”

Speaking on the capacity of the home, she said, it was built to accommodate 18 orphans, comprising six boys and 12 girls.

“That’s the capacity for now. We pray that in the shortest possible time, we would be able to get a bigger place with the support of Allah and the general public. This is an NGO founded for the sake of God and benefit to humanity.

“We don’t discriminate; we take children from any lineage, tribe, and religion. Because they are all humans like us and their situation isn’t their making. Being vulnerable doesn’t mean we should now be trivializing their situation.”

On mode of admission, she said, “we receive the children only by recommendation from the government agency in charge.

“We can’t do anything without the government.

So we admit only children sent to us by the government. Even if you find a child, you must go to them. It’s in their discretion to decide where they want the child to go.

“And children admitted here are assured to get the best care they can ever imagine getting, should their parents be alive. It’s going to be a home for them indeed.”

In his own remarks, the Chief Imam of of Ansar-ud-deen Muslim Society of Nigeria, Imam Abdulrahaman Ahmad, said it was a religious duty to care for the orphans because of their special vulnerability.

According to him, “Caring for the orphans is a

very important part of the religion of Islam. So much so that the Prophet said, ‘I and whoever cares for the orphans are bound as one’.

“There are so many verses of the Quran talking about caring for the orphans, providing a home for them, allowing them to grow in an environment of love and acceptance for them to have quality education, and not become a burden on the society.

“Hence, this is in fulfillment of the religious obligation of those who are behind the project.

This is commendable, something that should be emulated and something we need because if Orphans and other vulnerable children are properly taken care of, society will be better for it.”

Also speaking, the MD/CEO, Lotus Bank, Mrs. Kafilat Araoye, said the initiative was one to be encouraged.

“We should have more of this happening because what this is doing is that, it’s taking our children off the street. Children that are hopeless and could become miscreants. It’s helping our society to become a better place.

“A few women have come together to do this. It has to be supported, it has to continue and others have to come in and support by ensuring that it’s not just a place for children to live in but they have a feeling of home filled with love, care and attention. This is a message of hope to everybody,” she noted.

Also speaking with journalist, Chairman, Modesty Capital Ltd. Mr. Sheriff Yussuf said the establishment of the orphanage was a voluntary intention to serve and give back to the society, by

helping the homeless children, nurture them, and give them a chance to live.

“I think it’s a beautiful coincidence that its Independence day when we are marking the 61 anniversary of Nigeria with all the challenges the country is groping with right now, and this orphanage is also being launched to help the society.

“Wide spread poverty is one of the major challenges Nigeria is fighting right now and jobless in the society. If every unit that God has blessed to have wealth is able to offer an initiative such as this, it will take away a huge proportion of the poverty that we are talking about. Those orphans that could have become hopeless and helpless now have a chance to be able to stand on their own sometimes in future.

“Once you are able to equip them educationally, give them a sense of belonging and a feeling of love and care, they will not rebel against society. The bandits and criminals of today are rebelling against the society,” he noted.

Also speaking, CEO. Capital Assets Ltd. Ariyo Olushekun, called for multiplicity of such gestures, while also lamenting the current economic situation in the country which has indirectly created more orphans, some who lost their parents to insecurity or armed robbery attacks.

“Nigeria is 61 but we are not even acting like we are 16 yet. So this should be encouraged and I will like to call on those who have been blessed by Allah to support this and even set up more orphanages, especially the Muslim communities,” he stated.

Senator Basiru Buries Mother-in-law in Grand Style Hammed Shittu

The remains of mama Gladys Sussana Aso, mother-in-law of Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Suraju Ajibola Basiru, were committed to mother earth at Igbide, in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, recently.

The colourful ceremony brought together her children, sons and daughters in-law, relatives, friends and well-wishers who came from near and wide to bid her farewell and pay their last respects.

The burial activities commenced with her children, family members and friends converging at the Grace and Mercy Mortuary, Ughelli for a long motorcade procession to Igbide.

Mrs. Aso lived a life of purpose. She was a teacher, mother, grandmother and a friend to many. Though her demise came to many as a shock, but mama was indeed a virtuous woman.

She was loved by the people of Igbide town

and her sterling straightforward, honest, trustworthiness and kindness distinguished her among her peers in the town.

The solemn funeral service was conducted by the Grail Movement with Dr. Nosa Ogbeide as Celebrant.

The Celebrant emphasised that Mrs. Aso’s transition was to be with her maker –the Almighty.

At the conclusion of the service, the body of mama Aso was interred at the Amata Aso family compound, Uruwhre Quarters, Igbide.

After the interment, there was a reception for guests at Eru Primary School, Igbide. The reception began with the traditional presentation of wedged kolanut and drinks by the children and family members who ignored the heavy rain to ensure that the guests were well attended to.

This was followed by the singing of one of mama’s favorite songs, the hymn – All Things Bright and Beautiful. Amidst music that was supplied by ace-Isoko artiste – Arebe. The climax of

the ceremony was in-law’s greeting in accordance with native laws and customs.

Mama Aso was survived by Ufuoma, Oghale, Ewomazino, Othuke, Ajiri and Martins; sons/ daughters in-law, sixteen grand-children and sisters, as well as other relatives and friends who enjoyed unalloyed love and support from her throughout her sojourn on earth.

In a tribute to his mother in- law, Basiru described his late mother in law as a good mother that cared for all.

He said she was a mother of all mothers in view of her love and kindness to all her children, all her in-laws and the members of her community Basiru prayed to God to give the soul of his late mother- in- law eternal rest.

Mama Aso passed away on August 20, 2021 after a brief illness at the age of 71.

Other members of the Senate that accompanied their chairman to the event were Senator Ibrahim Oloriegbe (Kwara Central); Senator Sadiq

Mama Aso Umar (Kwara North); Senator Kola Balogun (Oyo Central) and Senator Adelere Oriolowo (Osun West).

3

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

16. 10.2021

NEWS

REVIVING AMBITION PAGE. 29

Chidera Ejuke Super Eagles’ Rising Star

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

28

GLOBAL SOCCER

Chidera Ejuke waltzes past two opponents in a Ligue 1 game

Chidera Ejuke Super Eagles’ Rising Star His profile continues to rise both at club and national levels. Chidera Ejuke was simply superb for the Super Eagles in their 2-0 victory over Central African Republic culminating in his comparison with former national team great, Austin Okocha. A day after hisYaoundé heroics, he was voted CSKA Moscow Player of the Month for the second consecutive time

S

uper Eagles winger, Chidera Ejuke on Monday was voted CSKA Moscow’s Player of the Month for September after achieving the feat in August.

The 23-year-old received 55 per cent of the fans votes on the club’s website to pick up the award to make it the second consecutive Player of the Month award for him.

“It was Chidera Ejuke, who was recognised by the fans as the best in the matches against Arsenal Tula and Nizhny Novgorod. For the striker, this is the second award in a row – he was also recognised as the best in July-August,” the club wrote.

The former Valerenga winger has started the season brilliantly for CKSA, scoring two times and providing two assists in the 10 league games in the Russian top-flight.

It’s not only at club level Ejuke has impressed.

The ex-Heerenveen star won new fans in the last international break for his impressive performance for the Super Eagles.

Ejuke started the first leg of the shock home loss to the CentralAfrican Republic, but it was his impressive cameo that caught many fans eyes.

The winger, known for his dribbling skills, moved past the Wild Beasts defenders like a hot knife through butter.

His brilliant solo run in the latter stages of the game earned him comparison with former Super Eagles captain, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha.

And at the age of 23, his best years are still ahead of him. Ejuke will return to club action this weekend when CSKA take on Ural on Sunday afternoon. Former international forward, Peter Ijeh has stated that Ejuke has the potentials to become an asset to the senior national team, with the help of the trainers.

Ijeh speaking in a chat withbrila.net stated that Ejuke’s dribbling skills should be encouraged and also the trainers should help him to the advantage of the team. Once that is done, the ex-player believes Ejuke will be an asset to the Eagles team..

The Nigerian striker has been a revelation at the CSKAArena since he joined from Heerenveen in August 2020. The 23-year-old scored five goals in 27 league appearances last season, and with just seven appearances this season.

Ejuke put up outstanding performances in August, scoring twice to help CSKA Moscow secure two wins in four games, albeit one of the goals was a consolation in a 2-1 defeat against Dynamo Moscow.

Dutch club Heerenveen snapped up the former Nigerian U-17 star for two million Euros from Norwegian club Valerenga last year.

In just his first season in the Netherlands, Ejuke emerged Heerenveen’s best player, following several incredible displays which saw him smash the back of the net 10 times while making another four assists in the 25 games he played. But more than the goals, though, were the youngster’s dribbles.

The season before his move to Moscow, Ejuke attempted and completed the most dribbles in the Eredivisie, cementing his rating as the best dribbler in the Netherlands.

Turkish giants Galatasaray and Dutch champions Ajax were earlier linked with an interest in the Nigerian winger, but he wants to focus on becoming a more productive player.

“I scored 10 goals last season, and I intend to score more next season,” Ejuke had told an online publication. “My desire is to improve further for the good of my team. Maybe getting into goalscoring position more will mean dribbling less.

“I want to dribble less and score more. It’s what I intend to do next season. As a player, constant improvement can’t be overruled.”

Ejuke joined Heerenveen from Valerenga last summer for €2 million and has a contract tying him to the Dutch side until 2023.

In spite of his recent rise, Ejuke still rued not able to impress when he went on trials at Liverpool five years ago. The former Nigerian U-20 starlet

spoke of his frustration after failing to seize an opportunity to play for the Anfield outfit.

The forward revealed he was scouted at the age of 18 and went on to have a trial with the Reds but failed to impress at Anfield and had to return to Nigeria disappointed.

The 23-year-old, who shone for Heerenveen during the 2019-20 campaign revealed the incident has always inspired him to perform better. “When I was just 18-years-old and still livinginNigeria,therewasascoutingprogramme ontheothersideofthecountry,”EjuketoldVoetbal.

“I was picked out together with three peers by a scout from England. We were allowed to have a trial at Liverpool. It was the first time that I left my country and then also for an internship in my dream competition.

“We were warmly welcomed at Liverpool. We did an internship there for a few weeks, it went pretty well, but I probably wasn’t good enough.

“Liverpool was not interested and so we had to return to Nigeria. That was just as tough. This was the opportunity I had been dreaming about all these years and if it doesn’t work out, it’s bitter.

It felt like I had let down my agent and my family.

“If I had taken that chance, it would have been a different story, but it was a good experience.

That missed opportunity became a source of motivation for me and it helped me grow as a player. I had tasted Europe and now I wanted more.” The forward left Nigeria in 2017 after playing for Gombe United in the NPFFL to start his European career in Norway with Valerenga.

Ejuke made a key impact during his twoyear stay with the Intility Arena outfit which saw a number of European clubs jostle for his signature.

The winger, however, signed for Dutch club Heerenveen in the summer of 2019 after snubbing interests from Besiktas, Lazio and Roma.

Ejuke is already on course to surpass the tally of five goals in 25 matches he registered in his debut Russian top flight campaign.

The forward has represented Nigeria at the U-17 and U-20 levels. The left winger made his debut appearance for the three-time African champions in an international friendly match against Tunisia last October. He replaced Samuel Chukwueze in the encounter that ended in a 1-1 draw in Austria.

29

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

GLOBAL SOCCER

Leicester Hope to Revive Ambition with Man Utd Visit With two draws and three defeats already, Leicester City would be hoping to revive their Premier League season with Manchester United’s visit to the King Power Stadium. The Red Devils have dropped five points in the last two league matches and will be hoping to get back to winning ways against a Brendan Rodgers side with an ambition to end the season with a top-four finish Premiership Table Chelsea Liverpool Man City Man Utd Everton Brighton Brentford Tottenham West Ham Aston Villa Arsena Wolves Leicester Crystal Palace Watford Leeds Southampton Burnley Newcastle Norwich

7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 l7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7

12 11 11 8 5 3 4 -4 4 1 -5 -1 -3 -3 -3 -7 -5 -6 -8 -14

16 15 14 14 14 14 12 12 11 10 10 9 8 7 7 6 4 3 3 1

PREMIER LEAGUE TODAY

Watford v Aston Villa v Leicester v Man City v Norwich City v Southampton v Brentford v

Liverpool Wolves Man Utd Burnley Brighton Leeds Utd Chelsea

12:30 15:00 15:00 15:00 15:00 15:00 17:30

SUNDAY

Everton Newcastle

Leicester City striker, Iheanacho glides past Manchester United goalkeeper

M

anchester United will be looking to return to winning ways in the Premier Leaguewhentheyheadto the King Power Stadium this afternoon to take on an inconsistent Leicester City.

The Red Devils are currently fourth in the table with 14 points to show from their opening seven matches of the season, while Leicester sit down in 13th, picking up just eight points from seven games this term.

There is no getting away from the fact that it has been a disappointing start to the season for Leicester, who would have once again had ambitions of challenging for a top-four finish this term; that could still be the case, but the Foxes currently look well short of a side capable of claiming a Champions League spot.

A record of two wins, two draws and three defeats from seven matches has seen Brendan Rodgers’s side collect eight points, which has left them down in 13th position in the table.

Leicester lost back-to-back league fixtures against Manchester City and Brighton & Hove Albion in the middle of September, while they have shared the points with Burnley and Crystal Palace in their last two league fixtures, both of which have finished 2-2.

The Foxes also have work to do in the Europa League this season, as a total of one point from two matches has left them bottom of Group C. The FA Cup holders will view this match as the perfect chance to kickstart their season, and they are unbeaten in their last three games against Man United in all competitions, including a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford in the Premier League back in May. Man United, meanwhile, will enter the contest off the back of a 1-1 draw with Everton before the international break; Anthony Martial sent the Red Devils ahead at Old Trafford, but Andros Townsend levelled for the visitors, who also had a late winner disallowed by VAR for offside.

The 20-time English champions have only picked up one point from their last two in the league, having also lost at home to

Aston Villa on September 25, but a record of four wins, two draws and one defeat from seven games has seen them collect 14 points, leaving them in fourth spot in the table.

There is pressure building on head coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, but the club are only two points off the top of the Premier League entering the next set of fixtures.

Man United have work to do in the Champions League despite beating Villarreal at Old Trafford at the end of September, and they are now staring at a daunting run of fixtures which includes two European games against Atalanta BC, in addition to league games with Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Man City.

The Red Devils have lost just one of their last 15 Premier League away games against Leicester, recording nine wins in the process, while their incredible unbeaten run on the road in the league now stands at 29 matches, since a 2-0 loss at Liverpool in January 2020.

Meanwhile, Claudio Ranieri prepares for a baptism of fire in his first game back in the Premier League, with his Watford side welcoming a rampant Liverpool to Vicarage Road today .

The Hornets lost 1-0 to Leeds United during Xisco Munoz’s last game in charge, while Jurgen Klopp’s men played out a thrilling 2-2 draw with Manchester City.

After Watford’s trigger-happy board relieved Xisco of his duties - a decision that received mixed responses given their respectable start to life back in the big time the Hornets wasted no time in bringing back revered title-winner Ranieri following the end of his Sampdoria spell.

The former Leicester City, Chelsea and Fulham coach has immediately brought a charismatic energy back to the Premier League - vowing to take his side out for dinner should they keep a clean sheet this weekend - but the Hornets’ most recent battle on the pitch did not go according to plan.

Having taken four points from fixtures with Norwich City and Newcastle United, Watford’s last game under Xisco ended in a 1-0 defeat to Leeds, with Diego Llorente scoring the game’s only goal 18 minutes into the game to swiftly halt the Hornets’

momentum.

Ranieri takes the reins with Watford lying 15th in the table with seven points taken from a possible 21, and there is a comfortable four-point gap separating them from the relegation zone at this early stage.

While the arrival of Ranieri could be an added incentive for Watford, but the Hornets have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last 17 Premier League games, and that streak is unlikely to end against one of the most potent attackers in world football.

Refusing to let the constant speculation surrounding his contract situation affect him, Mohamed Salah continues to stake his claim as one of the best in the world with the pick of the bunch in a pulsating draw with Man City just before the international break.

After laying the ball on a plate for Sadio Mane to draw first blood, Salah weaved his way through a sea of blue shirts before smashing home past Ederson in front of the Anfield faithful, but strikes from Phil Foden and Kevin De Bruyne ensured that Liverpool would have to settle for a point.

The Reds could not hold their position atop the rankings following that terrific watch for the neutrals and have now dropped to second place - one point adrift of leaders Chelsea, but they remain the only team in the division yet to suffer defeat this term.

Klopp must also factor in next week’s Champions League battle with Atletico Madrid as he prepares to navigate another unrelenting fixture schedule, but his side are now unbeaten in 19 competitive fixtures across all tournaments and have scored three goals in each of their last four Premier League games away from home.

However, the Reds will need no reminding how an Ismaila Sarr-inspired Watford stormed to a 3-0 success in February 2020 to end their 18-game winning run, and with Ranieri boasting four wins from five home league games against Liverpool, the Vicarage Road faithful have every right to dream of a memorable start to the Italian’s reign.

Meanwhile, Manchester City will aim to make an immediate return to winning ways in the Premier League when they take on Burnley at the Etihad this afternoon.

A 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in their most recent European battle and a 2-2

v v

West Ham 14:00 Tottenham 16:30

MONDAY

Arsenal v Crystal Palace 20:00

La Liga TODAY

Sociedad

v

Mallorca 20:00

v v v v v

Elche 13:00 Sevilla 15:15 Getafe 17:30 Osasuna 17:30 Valencia 20:00

SUNDAY

Vallecano Celta Vigo Levante Villarreal Barcelona MONDAY

Alavés v Betis 18:00 Espanyol v Cádiz 20:00

Head to Head 11/05/21 Man Utd 1-2 Leicester 26/12/20 Leicester 2 -2 Man Utd 26/07/20 Leicester 0 -2 Man Utd 14/09/19 Man Utd 1–0 Leicester 03/02/19 Leicester 0 -1 Man Utd 10/08/18 Man Utd 2–1 Leicester 23/12/17 Leicester 2 -2 Man Utd 26/08/17 Man Utd 2-0 Leicester 05/02/17 Leicester 0 -3 Man Utd 24/09/16 Man Utd 4-1 Leicester 01/05/16 Man Utd 1-1 Leicester 28/11/15 Leicester 1-1 Man Utd 31/01/15 Man Utd 3-1 Leicester 21/09/14 Leicester 5-3 Man Utd

draw with Liverpool means that City head into today’s game aiming to avoid a third game without a win in all competitions, but they remain unbeaten at home this season and have kept four Premier League clean sheets in succession at the Etihad, the most recent of which came in a goalless draw with Southampton.

Only leaders Chelsea have also conceded a league-low three goals so far this season, and not since 2010 have City failed to score in successive home matches in the Premier League - a streak which is highly unlikely to end anytime soon.

30

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

GLOBAL SOCCER

Team Lagos contestants competing favourably in the Chess event of the ongoing National Youth Games in Ilorin, Kwara State

Josh Maja... injury has hampered his game since returning to Bordeaux

Gerrard Charges Bassey on How to Become Super Eagles Star England legend Steven Gerrard has urged Calvin Bassey to seek advice from Steven Davis if he wants to become an established player for the Super Eagles and Glasgow Rangers.

Manager Gernot Rohr handed a maiden call-up to the Anglo-ItalianNigerian defender for the 2022 World Cup qualifiers against Central African Republic this month, naming him on a 23-man roster, but the left-back didn’t taste action in any of the matches.

Davies is still going strong at 36 and is officially the most capped British player of all time, earning his 130th cap against Bulgaria three days ago.

Prior to his first invitation to the Super

Eagles, there was so much excitement about Bassey back in Nigeria due to his impressive displays for Gerrard’s side, making eight appearances this season, seven of which he started and went the distance.

A centurion for the Three Lions, Gerrard claimed that he wasn’t the right person to advise Bassey and teenage Scotland fullback Nathan Patterson because he stopped playing international football seven years ago.

Speaking at yesterday’s pre-match press conference, Gerrard said : “Thankfully we’ve got some top individual professionals like Steven Davis who’s a role model for the rest of the young lads who’ve become

professionals, the likes of Nathan Patterson and Calvin Bassey, just to watch how Steven Davies goes about his daily work.

“Also the numbers he’s hit from a Northern Ireland point of view and to have the career he’s had. I mean you won’t find a better role model for Nathan and Calvin to become international and top Rangers players for a long time and they should be picking his brain and chatting to him at any given moment for advice moving forward because Steven can give them better advice than me.”

Bassey, 21, has come back from international duty with the Super Eagles and is at Gerrard’s disposal for Saturday’s Scottish Premiership clash against Hearts.

Maja Ruled Out of Bordeaux’s Clash against Awaziem, Simon Bordeaux coach Vladimir Petkovic has revealed that struggling Super Eagles star Josh Maja will not play a part in the team’s encounter against Nantes at the Matmut Atlantique on Sunday.

Maja has not played for Bordeaux this season due to a back injury, and even though he is back in training, Petkovic revealed the match against Nantes is too soon for him.

“As for Josh Maja,

who is done with his back problem, he comes out of three weeks of reathleticism,” Petkovic said as per sudouest.

Maja’s time at Bordeaux has been underwhelming since he signed from Sunderland in January 2019.

The 22-year-old has made just 45 league appearances for the club, with most of the appearances coming as a substitute.

He spent the second half of last season on loan at

Fulham, scoring three goals in 15 Premier League appearances.

However, the Cottagers failed to pick up the option to sign him permanently following their relegation from the English top-flight.

The one-cap Super Eagles star was close to joining Nottingham Forest on deadline day, but the deal could not be concluded in time before the close of the summer transfer window.

Barcelona vs Valencia, Juventus vs Roma, Live on DStv, GOtv Customers on DStv and GOtv can look forward to extended action from the La Liga and Serie A seasons,with matches scheduled to run from today till Monday.

The top clash from Spain sees Barcelona welcome Valencia to the Camp Nou on Sunday, at 8pm on SuperSport La Liga (DStv channel and GOtv channel), with both teams looking to find some consistency and build momentum afterup-and-downstartstothe2021-22 campaign. Elsewhere, Sevilla will face a tricky test away to Celta Vigo at Estadio de Balaidos on Sunday, onSuperSport La Liga.

Another dark horse for glory, Real Sociedad, will open the

round with a clash at home to Mallorca this evening on SuperSport La Liga.

Top title contenders and capital city rivals Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid have had their matches against Granada and Athletic Bilbao respectively postponed due to the late arrival of South American players back from international duty.

The pick of matches from Italy’s Serie Afor this round is the meeting of Juventus and Roma at theAllianz Stadium in Turin on Sunday, at 7:45pm on SuperSport Football and SuperSport GOtv Select 1 (DStv channel and GOtv channel).

Another key clash sees Lazio take on Internazionale at the Stadio

Olimpico in Rome today.

Elsewhere, AC Milan will back themselves to claim all three points when they welcome Verona to the San Siro today, while Napoli will take on Torino at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Sunday at 5pm onSuperSport Football and SuperSport GOtv Select 1.

The round also features a relegation six-pointer between Spezia and Salernitana today, at 2pm, Atalantavisiting Empoli at 2pm and a Monday-night closer between Venezia and Fiorentina at Stadio Pierluigi Penzo in Venice on Monday, at 7:45pm. All on SuperSport Football and SuperSport GOtv Select 1.

6th NYG: Team Lagos Athletes Confidence of Winning The 6th National Youth Games’ competitions proper commenced in Ilorin, Kwara State yesterday with athletes jostling for medals.

Lagos with 260 well motivated athletes will be competing in 33 sports at the games with majority of the events holding at the Permanent Site of University of Ilorin.

While speaking with cross section of Team LagosAthletes in Ilorin majority of them disclosed that their ambition was to win gold medal at the U-15 National Youth Games.

Team Lagos table tennis player, Matthew Kuti, who is National Cadet Champion hinted that he was very well motivated to win three gold medals in table tennis singles, doubles and mixed doubles.

“I am here in Ilorin not to play but to win three gold medals in single double and mixed double”.

“With rigorous training before and during the Close Camp and with God on my side, I am motivated to win gold medals in the table tennis event,” he said.

Okajare Sunmisola, Team

Lagos tennis player also said that she has prepared for the National Youth Games to win three gold medals, in singles, doubles and mixed doubles.

“I am very ambitious and my target here in Ilorin is to win three gold medals”.

“I have been training so hard for this game and I believe I can win gold medals and I want to say it loud that I am proud to be representing Lagos State.”

Two Team Lagos track and field athletes, Iyere Iwiriebor and Ire Oluwabunmi disclosed that their ambition was to break the record in their events.

For Iyere Iwiriebor, “I want to break records in 400m, 4x400 and mixed Relay”. “Honestly, I have been training so hard before and during the camping for this games”.

“Although the training is stressful, but I have to cope with that because my ambition is to win gold medals and as well break records”.

Also Oluwabunmi Israel who is running 100m, 400m,

4x100m and mixed relay said that she is in Ilorin for a purpose to win gold medals for Lagos State.

“We came for a purpose and I am here in Ilorin to win not one but two or three gold medals for Lagos State”.

“I have trained so hard before coming to Ilorin and I am very optimistic that God would crown my efforts with winning gold medals”, She concluded.

Dominion Utukpe , Team Lagos squash player who won gold medal at the 5th edition of the Games stated that he had trained very hard with the sole aim of winning the Squash single event back to back.

“I won the singles gold medal at the last National Youth Games and I am here again to win it back-to-back.

“I started playing squash three years ago and aspirations is to become a national, Africa and world champion in the game of squash”.

“Thanks to Lagos State Government for given me the platform to exhibit my talent,” he said.

Odegbami, Owolabi, Rufai for ODEP Inter LG Tourney Final The stage is set for the final of ODEP Inter Local Government Soccer Tournament, scheduled for October 22, at OluyemiKayodeStadiumAdo Ekiti betweenAgbana Football Academy from Ikole Ekiti has qualified to tackle Salem City FC from Oye Ekiti local government.

The sponsor of the grassroots soccer tournament designed for the 16 local governments in the state, Otunba Demola Popoola has also revealed his plans to celebrate the soccer legend that had done Nigeria proud especially from the South-west geo-political zone of the country during a dinner after the final ceremony.

Players that are expected to grace the closing ceremony include Chief Segun Odegbami, Dr. Felix Owolabi, Idowu Otubusen who was popularly known as Slow Poison during his playing days, Chief Zion Ogunfeyimin, Dimeji Lawal, Peter Rufai, Ike Shorumun, Mutiu Adepoju, Duke Udi others.

Speaking ahead of the cup final, Popoola said he is using football is as veritable tools to invest in the lives of the Ekiti youths, while not forgetting our heroes that had done the nation proud in the round leather game because it is of importance to celebrate soccer legend while alive than spend-

ing millions posthumously.

Meanwhile the coordinator of ODEP football tournament, Olanrewaju Agiri has called on all football lovers in Ekiti metropolis to come out in large numbers to watch the final as there will be opportunities to win lofty gift items and cash prizes.

“As part of effort to further empowers our youths and football lovers, lofty prizes such as mobile phones, clippers, hand-dryers and cash prizes can won by visiting the social media handle of ODEP Unity Cup and submit prediction of the match and winners will be picked and the end of the final match,” said Agiri.

Police Arrest Husband of Murdered Kenyan Athlete Police in Kenya have arrested the husband of record-breaking long-distance runner, Agnes Tirop who was stabbed to death at her home.

Emmanuel Rotich, who was detained in the coastal city of Mombasa, will face charges once investigations are completed, an official said.

Ms Tirop, 25, was found dead on Wednesday in the western town of Iten, a training centre

for top athletes.

Last month, she broke the women-only 10km road race world record.

Rotich, described as the prime suspect in her killing, was caught on Thursday as he was trying to go “to a neighbouring country to evade justice”, the police said.

Earlier in the day, he “rammed his getaway vehicle into a lorry... as he desperately escaped our dragnet”, a statement on Twitter

added. On Thursday, Athletics Kenya - the sport’s governing body in the country suspended all athletics competitions for two weeks as a mark of respect for Ms Tirop.

“We just lost a great talent.

She was such a strong woman and committed to what she was doing,” Julius Yego, Kenya’s former athletics captain, told the BBC World Service’s Newsday programme.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

GLOBAL SOCCER

Battle to Ward off Predators Maduka Okoye

Maduka Okoye

After a scintillating performance last season Sparta Rotterdam talked Maduka Okoye into signing a contract extension which keeps him at the club till 2025. With the rate at which top European clubs are monitoring the progress of the Nigerian safe hand, Sparta would need more than a contract extension to keep him at the Het Kasteel

R

umour was rife earlier this week that French Ligue 1 side, OGC Nice have a opened a line of communication with Super Eagles first choice goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye over a transfer in the near future but it was later debunked.

The Sparta Rotterdam goalkeeper has been linked with many European teams but there have not been any negotiations with OGC Nice or any other club, amid speculation in the local and foreign press that the player’s agent is in southern France to thrash out a deal with his suitors.

Okoye is now looked after by former Feyenoord midfielder Wessel Weezenberg, who also handles the affairs of Super Eagles fullback Tyronne Ebuehi and Sparta Rotterdam striker of Nigerian descent Emanuel Emegha.

On the back of his excellent performances in 2020-2021, Sparta Rotterdam extended Okoye’s contract in August and they are hoping to make a tidy profit if he is sold before June 2025.

The German-born goalie played for the youth teams of Bayer Leverkusen and Fortuna Düsseldorf prior to his transfer to Sparta Rotterdam in July 2020.

Okoye kept his sixth clean sheet in a Nigeria jersey as the Super Eagles defeated Central African Republic 2-0 in a 2022 World Cup qualifier on Sunday.

The promising goalkeeper has been rewarded for his consistently excellent performances as he continues to be linked with a move away from the Netherlands.

According to Transfermarkt, Okoye now has a market value of €1 million,

the highest mark the Sparta Rotterdam shot-stopper has ever hit.

Okoye’s profile has been on the rise since the youngster became a Nigerian international. The German-born goalie made his debut for the Super Eagles against Brazil in October 2019 when he was valued at €150,000 and still struggling at Fortuna Dusseldorf.

Okoye switched to Sparta Rotterdam in 2020 and has since become the number one goalkeeper for the Super Eagles.

The 22-year-old was in goal, keeping a clean sheet as the three-time AFCON kings defeated the Central African Republic in Douala on Sunday.

With Okoye now bearing a valuation of €1 million, only 19 goalkeepers born in 1999 and after have a higher market value than the native Rhinelander.

The rise in estimation for Okoye would be good news to Sparta, as the Eredivisie side has never sold a goalkeeper for a million Euros.

The shot-stopper was previously linked with a move to Ajax, but he inked a long-term extension to his contract that will see him stay in Rotterdam until 2025.

Still, his representatives are believed to be in contact with Ligue 1 side Nice, negotiating for a potential transfer in January.

Okoye has featured eight times for Sparta this term, conceding 16 goals.

Just days before Nigerian senior football team Coach Gernot Rohr named his squad for the Super Eagles’ final two games of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign, he declared Okoye as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper.

“No. 1 is Maduka,” Rohr told ESPN. “These decisions, I take them with

goalkeeper coach Alloy Agu because he is a specialist for goalkeeper training.

“Myself and Alloy, we agreed that it’s actually Maduka. We have the experienced Daniel Akpeyi doing well with this club in South Africa.

“We have the young Francis Uzoho coming back after injury, but he has to play also now not only on the bench. We have also Matthew Yakubu. There’s a good potential now because this position was a big problem for us so we have more now.”

Rohr’s comments then provided official confirmation of Okoye’s current status but it is by no means the end of the journey, as Nigeria have been on a goalkeeping merry-go-round since Vincent Enyeama’s abrupt retirement in 2016.

Uzoho was promoted to first choice

by Rohr and was between the posts for Nigeria’s 2018 FIFA World Cup run, but a bad error against Seychelles during the 2019 AFCON qualifiers, which resulted in the Pirates scoring, led to him losing his place and temporarily demoted to the U-23 side with Akpeyi recycled back up.

Uzoho returned to good form, in time to feature in the 2019 AFCON third-place match, and he retained his place on the team until he suffered a serious injury during a friendly with Brazil in October 2019. He landed awkwardly and tore ankle ligaments, ruling him out for up to six months.

Okoye, barely 20 at the time, and who was on his first trip with the Nigerian team, was called in as a replacement and did a steady job in a 1-1 draw against the Selecao.

Rohr turned to Akpeyi for the start of the AFCON qualifiers but the keeper was

injured playing for Kaizer Chiefs, and Okoye again stepped into the breach.

Okoye was in goal as Nigeria surrendered a 4-0 lead to draw 4-4 against Sierra Leone, but he did not take as much flak as would have been expected and redeemed himself in the return leg as Nigeria drew 0-0.

“You cannot drop a player because you say he plays one bad game,” Rohr told ESPN of the pressure he had faced to drop the youngster for the second leg.

“It is bad for his confidence.”

Reacting to the news that he is Nigeria’s number one goalkeeper, Okoye said: “I was very delighted and honoured because representing this beautiful country as the number one goalkeeper is something special.

“I am happy that Gernot Rohr chose me and I am going to pay back with good performance.”

Okoye was not in the good books of Super Eagles fans after a schoolboy performance that saw him concede four goals on matchday three of the AFCON qualifiers against Sierra Leone.

“The performance has to be good, the best has to be a clean sheet of course. I am going to work hard and prepare good for the matches.”

G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR KUNLE ADEWALE THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMIFULA OGBU THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

MEDIAGAFFES

EXPRESSION

BY

NCS: ‘Aircraft’ Uncountable

M

UST we pad expressions with ‘ceremony’ and ‘exercise’?: “Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters: Verification exercise for importation documents of privately owned aircrafts (sic)” A rewrite: Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters: Verification of import documents of privately-owned aircraft—apart from ‘aircraft’ correction, please take note of other critical interventions hence the lexical restructuring. What do you make of phrasal blunders like ‘wedding ceremony’, ‘convocation’, matriculation’ ‘graduation ceremonies’, ‘burial/ funeral ceremony’, ‘registration exercise’, among copious others? These events inextricably involve one form of ceremony/exercise or another—the scope notwithstanding.

Leadership of September 28 leads the rebellious group today: “SIM registration: Subscribers in last minute rush….” Conscience, nurtured by truth: last-minute rush “Battle over control of vigilante group hots up in Nsukka” South-East Report: vigilance group Serial abuse of phrasal verbs: “Conoil to set-up cooking gas plants in Abuja, other states” Business News: ‘set up’ in the extracted context.

“For us in the African continent…” (Daily Independent, September 28) All the facts, all the sides: on the African continent or simply ‘For us in Africa’ “Customs hand (hands) over seized drugs to NAFDAC” (Source: as above) Nigeria Customs Service is an entity and cannot, therefore, be pluralized.

“What does insurance contributes (contribute) to California’s economy?”

“Lacazete refuse (refuses) new Arsenal deal” “Union commends Senate over (on/for) investigation of public enterprises” “We are commited to growing Nigeria’s

economy” Spell-check always, I beg of you (as my obstreperous late boss, Ayo Asagba, used to say at our PR unit’s meetings in Equitorial Trust Bank a long time ago: committed, but commitment. By the way, may his soul rest in peace despite his frailties!

“I advocate follow up on Boko Haram peace initiative—Izuogu” Banner advocacy: follow-up.

Lastly from Champion House On-line: “2011-2021: A decade of death (deaths) on the Plateau” “Physiotherapists advocate for optimal level of exercise for wellness” (DAILY INDEPENDENT, September 27) Yank away ‘for’ to foreclose obesity!

“The small group…literarily (literally) lives off the society….” (BUSINESSDAY, September 27) You don’t have to be a member of the literati to know this!

Financial Vanguard of September 26 goofed: “Post-independent leaders have mismanaged Nigeria—NIM President” This way: Postindependence leaders “…failure of which will result into (in) the banks being nationalized.” (National News, September 26) “They all presented general complain of poor vision….” (THE NATION, September 26) Eye treatment: a general complaint….

The next two blunders are from THISDAY of September 26: “WHO statistics also reveals (reveal) that tobacco….” As a discipline/subject, yes “…research has demonstrated that majority of smokers pick up the habit at a young age.”

The President and the Tobacco Control Bill: a/ the majority of smokers.

“No microwave solution for Boko Haram” (THE NATION ON SUNDAY, September 26) My comment: solution to (not for) Boko Haram “Nigeria may break-up soon—NBA President” (Leadership, September 24) Still on the abuse of phrasal verbs: break up “It is political witch-hunting” (Source: as

above) Persecution of Tinubu: political witchhunt “Lagos Speaker reacts to fallouts (fallout) of arrest over (for) alleged N7bn fraud” (SATURDAY TRIBUNE, September 24) “…the Plateau State capital and it’s environs.” (DAILY INDEPENDENT, September 23) Government and the Jos killings: its (possessive) environs.

“The allegations of a hike in the tuition fees payable by the students was (were) false.” (THE NATION, September 23) BUSINESSDAY of September 22 circulated two blunders in the lead sentence: “…one of the biggest private sector development support initiative (initiatives) in (on) the continent.”

“There is the erroneous tendency to blame all the shortcomings in the electoral process at the doorstep of the Independent National Electoral Commission.” Get it right: blame on (not at).

“Though recent amendments to the Electoral Act have changed some deadlines with regards to the submission of the lists of candidates….”

Either as regards or with regard to “President Muhammadu Buhari addresses a world press conference to flag-off….” Still on phrasal verbs: flag off.

“Four years ago, when the former governor proclaimed his presidential aspirations with palpable bravado and fanfare under (on) the platform of the PDP….”

“Nnamdi Kanu’s so-called grouse with President Buhari is not.…” This way: grouse about (not with) Buhari “As Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu observed during his tour of the troubled spots....” Get it right: trouble spots.

“Guaranty Trust Bank restructures, to boast staff welfare.” Inside Business: to boost (not boast) staff welfare.

“Arab leaders appeared not to have put their acts together to join….” Libya: get their act (not acts) together.

Still A Fraction of a Youth...

M

y sincerest gratitude to the avalanche of goodwill and kind messages that trailed my last article here; even as the big day is still two Saturdays away.

Thank you all, and God bless your good thoughts. Meanwhile, the story of the ‘Fraction of a Youth Revisited” continues.

The story of my blundering walk through the shaggy shadows of adulthood, and my entrance into the riotous world of the Nigerian media.

Join me in the concluding part: “Fast forward to 1987 when I landed at the NYSC camp of Ode-Aye, Ondo State. It was in Akure, Ondo’s capital city that I met Akin Ibisagba, a double degree holder in Drama and English Literature from University of Ilorin (who became a branch manager at Fidelity Bank, Lagos - he died a few years ago). Akin and I formed a successful creative and artistic “collabo” that produced ‘The Clarion Call’, a staged musical drama that won the Zonal and National drama competitions for all NYSC state drama troupes, in the 1987/88 season. Akin was the director and co-writer; I was the main actor, chief dancer, and co-writer (how - and why - I wangled myself into those roles will take a full chapter or two). We presented the final show at Hall 2 (my second home five years earlier) of the National Arts Theatre with federal ministers, permanent secretaries, and other dignitaries in attendance.

I remember the then Group Captain Bayo Lawal (a military officer who was in charge of the Sports and Youth Development ministry), Prof. Olikoye Ransome Kuti (Health), and his lovely wife; super permanent secretary (and thespian), Mrs. Francesca Emmanuel; then NYSC director-general, Brig. Edet Akpan, among others. Our ebullient state chief inspector, Chief Banjo Akinnigbagbe (he reportedly passed on recently) was visibly swollen with obvious pride at the superlative command performance we put up that day in 1987. I sang and danced so hard that I lost my voice, and the use of most

EBERE WABARA

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

“Okonjo-Iweala, at Belgium, canvasses global war against money laundering” The world’s 87th most popular woman and former head of Nigeria’s economic team was in (not at) Belgium.

“I remember once when he came to Port Harcourt we worked on a case till 5 a.m. in the morning” No! A ‘ .m.’ indicates morning, while ‘p.m.,’ of course, refers to the evening belt. So, ‘5 a.m. in the morning’ fondly reminds me of Abraham Lincoln’s advice: ‘Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak (or, if I may add, write) and remove all doubt.’

“In the meantime, there has been series (a series) of systems collapse....” Also note that ‘collapse’ is both a countable and an uncountable word (usually).

“Disagreement ensued resulting into shooting to death of one of the okada members by the police.” This Life: resulting in the shooting….

“It was sometimes (sometime) in 1993 while I was still in Abuja….”

“For a NAFDAC that has in almost two years been performing creditably towards ensuring that food and drugs need of Nigerians are (is) given standard manufacturing preparation….”

Yet another S-VD challenge. “…his predecessors who were on (in) seat for years without actually doing the work for which they were paid.”

“It is also on record that the same government shot itself in the foot by dismissing the recommendations of the audit committee as junks.” The last word in the extract is non-count.

“Police warns against protests in states” No news: Police warn (plural verb).

FEEDBACK FROM this medium of July 17, 2021, comes this lapse: “I said these are (those were) beggars….” (Contributed by Hon. Nat Ijachi/08052612721)

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

AKINTUNDE-JOHNSON

fajalive1@gmail.com 08182223348 - (SMS Only)

NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Ondo State of my limbs for three days! That performance fetched us (Akin and I) the State Governor’s Award...it confirmed my long-suffering belief that I could make it as an actor...in another life!

We also organized the first Miss NYSC Ondo State beauty pageant, in a great climax, and with great support from an ebullient NYSC staff member, Gbayode Somuyiwa (fondly called Show, later a director of corporate services at ThisDay newspapers). My experiences in Ondo State can fill another book...that service year (not the heinous maelstrom it has now been turned to) was pivotal in my single-minded attraction to the entertainment entrails of Nigeria.

Then, in September 1988, barely a month after our NYSC adventure ended, by the grace of God, I took a note from Mr. Ben Tomoloju (former Deputy Editor of The Guardian) to Punch’s long-standing and dashing daily editor, Mr. Demola Osinubi (later MD - PS: currently

GMD). That was after missing a chance to get into The Guardian, my favourite destination...

I started work in The Punch that same week...

And there, I simply flew... And thus began my ponderous and sometimes meddlesome interventions in Nigerian entertainment.

Before you go deep into my recollections, I wish to salute those that have gone ahead of me, whom I have grunting regard for...I used to enjoy the write-ups of Chinaka Fynecountry... and I was delirious when I met him in the early ‘90s while doing business with the then-fastfading Daily Times...he was like a demi-god at Lagos Weekend...for my generation then.

I have always admired the quiet dignity and dogged professionalism of Ladi Ayodeji, many years ahead of me as the anchor of Punch’s flagship entertainment pages (Saturday Highlife, SH), now I suspect it’s referred to as Life & Beats...how times fly). Even after Punch, Ayodeji refused to lie low... he flagged off his

own publication, Beats, running on the streets for many years.

Perhaps the most influential in my prominence in entertainment reporting was Azuka Jebose-Molokwu, who is merely six months older than me, but carried himself around me like a very ‘senior’ brother. Azuka’s ebullience, his swanky, peripatetic lifestyle struck a chord with some moorings in me, and we hit it off spectacularly. I had always been an Arts person... And that was what I was at home with at the Features department of Punch - where I shared office space with good writers like Dele Adeosun, Joe Dudun, Tunde Kolawole, Jude Arijaje, Azu Ishiekwene, Peju Odelola, Patience Akpan, Mercy Ette (last two are now UK/US-based lecturers). Three smashing babes ruled the ‘hood at that point in time: Toyin Olafunmiloye, Iretunde Willoughby, and Joy Ofulie. I also remember the enigmatic “horoscopist”, Joshua A ‘ stro’ Adeyemo. Our boss was the radical Bola Bolawole. There were other great colleagues scattered across different departments in The Punch - Uncle Ben, late Jide Kutelu, Pa Ajumobi, the lithe Linda, Funke Aboderin (Madam Library), Moses Ebong, Oga Chris Mammah, Victor Ifijie, Fidel Otuya, Lawal Ighienagbon, Bankole Falade, Saka (Paso Alhaji) Jimoh, Joshua Ogunsemi, Remi Ibitola, Uncle T (Tunde Aboderin) and so many more.

But Azuka was a different breed; he sapped the notorious adulation and fretful attention his presence and writings engendered, especially his column’s gossip strip, Whispers. 1988 was giddy...and then by the second month in 1989, Azuka simply vanished...to the United States of America... And no prize for guessing right who was asked to take over the great SH pages less than four months as a bonafide Puncher... and as they say in movies...the rest is history.”

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

AUTO WORLD

Bennett Oghifo 07052343083 Email:bennett.oghifo@thisdaylive.com

TIPS OF THE WEEK

Diagnosing and Fixing a Seized Brake Caliper When cars are running smoothly, everything is well. But from time to time they can throw up all sorts of problems leaving motorists stranded at the worst possible time. Would you know how to carry out a vehicle inspection in Perth if your car pulled to one side or you smelt burning? It could be that one or more of your brakes could be binding or seized. If the sheer thought of being left scratching your head with a broken car leaves you in a panic because Spot on Vehicle Inspections can help you diagnose and fix the problem with these expert tips for when carrying out either a pre-purchase car inspection or a used car inspection.

All-electric performance SUV Jaguar I-PACE

JLR to Provide Fleet of All-Electric Vehicles for World Leaders at COP26 Jaguar Land Rover is partnering with COP26 ahead of the vital climate change summit in Glasgow in November.

Jaguar Land Rover will be providing a Áeet of electriÀed vehicles to world leaders and delegates attending the summit, including the multi award-winning all-electric performance SUV Jaguar I-PACE, as leaders and their teams travel to and from the venue, the automaker said in a statement.

As part of its new global strategy Reimagine, Jaguar Land Rover aims to achieve zero tailpipe emissions by 2036, and net zero carbon emissions across its supply chain, products and operations by 2039.

The company has committed to a 1.5 degree aligned science-based target to reduce emissions in line with the Paris Agreement and supporting the UNFCCC Race to Zero.

Jaguar Land Rover has a successful history in similar events including the recent G7 summit in the UK. The vehicles have all been sourced from existing Áeets in the UK, helping ensure the carbon footprint remains low.

Jaguar Land Rover is an iconic British brand with a proven track record.

They are showing climate leadership in their Àeld with award winning electric vehicles, and I am delighted these will be used by

world leaders in Glasgow.

“I look forward to working with Jaguar Land Rover and all our Partners ahead of the summit as we ensure a successful and inclusive COP26.

“We are delighted to partner with COP26 and provide a Áeet of all-electric vehicles, including Jaguar I-PACE performance SUVs, to deliver zero-emission transport at the summit.

“Sustainability is at the core of our business strategy, Reimagine, which enables us to focus on becoming net carbon zero by 2039, as the creator of the world’s most desirable modern luxury vehicles,” said Thierry Bolloré, Chief Executive O΀cer.

All-new Hyundai CRETA out with Enticing Driving Experience

I

f you value style and class. You love to stand out from the pack, then the new Hyundai CRETA will be love at Àrst sight for you. Poised with great conÀdence, crafted in strength, power, and unmatched performance, this car will make you enjoy driving. It is the most powerful SUV in the Nigerian market.

The car won the global CarandBike 2021 Award as the Compact SUV of the year. The car has been developed from the ground up with new striking features and design language, new chassis, interiors such as the ventilated seats, power-adjustable driver seat, panoramic sunroof, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen.

The new CRETA SUV comes with a new range-topping SX and SX (0) infotainment systems that support wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, new voice command such as power windows, point-of-interest search, new smart key with remote engine start. New voice greetings when the car owner starts the car, depending on the time of the day. The voice greetings work as reminder for the occupants to wear their seat belts. This car is good. The performance is awesome. It is the best SUV for a long-distance drive. A phenomenal performance with low fuel consumption and very low cost of maintenance. It is the best in 5 seater segment driving experience for both city and high-way trips. At 80-100 km/hr, there is no engine sound while driving. It is your best buy for a family ride.

Powerful and responsive, CRETA’s highly evolved powertrains make driving a pure joy. Gasoline engines feature weight-saving all-aluminium construction for better fuel

Hyundai Creta

economy and they come with Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) plus Dual Variable Valve Timing for improved performance. Gearbox options have been expanded to include a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission which delivers lightning-fast shifting and the all-new Intelligent Variable Transmission. 7-Speed DCT 6-Speed MT 115 14.7 11 5 Smartstream G1.5 gasoline 6-Speed MT / IVT Maximum Power PS/6,300 rpm Maximum Torque kgf.m/4,500 rpm

7-Speed DCT 140 24.7 7-Speed DCT 140 Kappa 1.4T-GDi gasoline Maximum Power PS/6,000 rpm Maximum Torque kgf.m/1,500~3,200 rpm 6-Speed MT / AT 115.

The All-New Hyundai CRETA is all of these and much more. Whether you’re single, married with kids, or empty nesters, the highly versatile CRETA is designed to be a perfect Àt. It’s the e΀ciency multiplier that helps you do more each day and to get it all done in style.

How to spot symptoms of a seized brake caliper There can be any number of reasons why brakes drag or bind. It’s commonly because something in the system has become stuck. It could be that the piston sticks within the calliper or the brake pads may have skewed or seized. In other situations the slide pins seize on single-piston calipers. And if a vehicle has been left to sit in a damp environment for a long time, the pads can become stuck to the disc.

The symptoms are obvious to spot if a brake seizes when the vehicle is not in use. The brakes will feel like they are still on when you try to drive it. In some occasions it’s so bad, the car doesn’t move at all. But if it’s the caliper slide pins, which are the culprit, the car may appear to drive normally but the pads will only be pushed onto the disc from the piston side.

This results in reduced braking ability on one wheel while wearing the pad on the piston side quicker.

In such circumstances, the vehicle may pull to the opposite side when hitting on the brakes. In other cases, if the pad is stuck, the car can feel low on power as if the parking brake is on. In this situation the car may also pull to the side when cruising despite not even applying the brake.

Other symptoms to look out for when carrying out your own used car inspection is when seized brakes get extremely hot, the smell of brakes overheating gives off a distinctive acrid smell and in some cases possible smoke. If this happens during either your pre-purchase car inspection or indeed used car inspection, stop. Driving with a badly binding brake can start a small fire. But even in the absence of a fire, discs can be severely damaged at the very least. Having said that, in many cases brakes binding on one wheel will happen gradually over time making it harder to notice especially when carrying out a pre-purchase inspection. The fault may not be diagnosed until the annual inspection when brakes are tested for proper function.

Why do brakes seize?

Put simply, inactivity alongside corrosion are the main reasons why brakes seize. It’s not uncommon for a car’s brakes to seize if it has been left sitting idle for months – especially if it is parked outside. Brake discs can rust resulting in pads to become stuck to them or a caliper piston. Slider pins can get stuck in the same way. Brakes are subject to easy corrosion because they are subjected to a huge range of temperatures, are constantly exposed to the elements and are hardly ever serviced or inspected between pad changes.

When checking the rear brakes during a used car inspection, the calliper or cylinder may not always be the cause. Sometimes the handbrake cable or mechanism can just pack up resulting in the brakes to remain on. To prevent this from happening, both should be regularly lubricated. It is also a good idea to flush the fluid in your entire brake system every two years. Moisture from the water absorbed by the brake fluids can cause corrosion from within the caliper itself.

How to unstick a seized brake calliper The solution to your brake issue is straightforward if the cause is either the parking brake cable, a skewed pad or pads are stuck to the disc. When doing your own used car inspection, the problem can be fixed by lubricating the parking brake system. Removing the pads and rubbing some grease to the edge should fix skewed pads. Resurfacing the disc and replacing the pads should be done once stuck pads have been freed from a disc.

However, a special tool is needed to retract the pad when it comes to seized calliper pistons or slide pins.

This tool is often a C-clamp. Seized caliper pistons can be removed with the hydraulic pressure off the brake system itself.

(Source: Spot on Vehicle Inspections)

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

AUTO WORLD

Gas-Powered Eco Bus Maker Assures of CNG Stations for End-Users

E

co Bus maker and Power Gas have opened discussions on the plan to provide su΀cient auto gas Àlling stations in Nigerian cities where compressed natural gas-powered vehicles can be re-fueled, and will be put to

good use.

This is sequel to a recent introduction of the eco-friendly vehicles into the Nigerian market

by Austrian Technologies Nigeria, an initiative expected to signiÀcantly reduce carbon emissions from vehicles with its attendant hazards to human health.

Director, Sales and Strategy at Powergas Nigeria, Sumeet Singh, said the Àrm was already talking with Austrian Technologies Nigeria on the auto-gas issue and how to ensure easy access of the CNG by the operators of the Natural Gas-powered Vehicles (NGVs).

According to him, there is the option of entering into an arrangement with managements and operators of the existing Àlling stations in the country currently dispensing petrol and other petroleum products to provide standard spaces for installation of the CNG facility.

He said, “Getting the auto-gas stations in a ready state could be achieved within six-nine months (or earlier, if not for the Global Supply-Chain challenges), which is about the same period

it will take to deliver the Eco-Green Buses by automaker after getting Àrm orders from the stakeholders.”

Singh, who said his Àrm had about 50 gaspowered trucks currently operating in Nigeria, added that they would be willing to build and partner for provision of the CNG stations.

According to him, the CNG as an auto fuel is 50 per cent cheaper than alternate fuels (such as diesel), and with the current global price volatility of the liquid fuels, domestic Nigerian natural gas is one of the best tools for Nigeria to combat inÁation and rising prices.”

Chief Executive O΀cer of Austrian Technologies Nigeria Limited, Mr. Johann Rieger, had while announcing the introduction of the eco-friendly vehicles said the buses were built with European Standards for critical climate and infrastructure, while being considerate towards price sensitivity of developing nations like Nigeria.

Last week, Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council, Jelani Aliyu, also said Nigeria would leverage natural gas resources to drive the nation’s automotive wheels.

Aliyu, who spoke at a national awareness campaign/workshop on safety and beneÀts of gas-powered vehicles in Nigeria, stressed the need to embrace the eco-friendly automotive initiative, noting that Nigeria could not aͿord to

Power-Gas Eco bus be left out in the viable global auto gas initiative.

He described the global automotive industry as “a horse race that is technically advanced

that only countries with adequate utilization of natural and human resources can fully participate and have a head start in the race.”

Policy Makers, OEM Reps to Visit 21st Abuja International Motor Fair Policy makers and representatives of original equipment manufacturers are among those expected at the 21st Abuja International Motor Fair which will hold at the International Conference Centre Annex, Garki, Abuja from November 15-20, 2021.

According to the Chairman of the organising committee for the event Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Agwu, this year’s edition is targeted towards boosting investments in the sector, which is seriously assuming its rightful place in the Nigerian economy.

He assured that the platform of this edition has been packaged to increase the attention of the policy makers in the various tiers of government in Nigeria to the importance of developing the sector so as to enhance the nation’s socio-economic development.

Disclosing this recently in a chat with journalists, Mr. Agwu, who is also the Managing Director of BKG Exhibitions Limited, organisers of the event, said that every eͿort have been deployed to ensure that through the event, the sector receives the needed support from the government and the private sector to enhance its’ rapid development.

He said, “In other to ensure that event receives the much needed attention, we have embarked on a “meet the Stakeholders Parley” which have seen visiting the automotive companies as well as key

Ministries, Departments and Agencies which roles impact on the industry. these were aimed at having physical interactive meetings where we discussed on to collaboratively tackle the enormous challenges facing the sector as well as seeing how the events which bring together the major players together annually could be used to enhance attracting the much needed attention from the government and other relevant players in the industry.

It is an opportunity we are using to hear directly from the companies about the challenges they are facing, which we took to the Federal government Ministries, Departments, Agencies and Legislatures which roles impact on the industry, to ensure that their attention is attracted to the challenges as to addressing them.

Most importantly, we have invited and ensuring that the leadership of these Ministries, Departments and Agencies active participate in this edition in the events which will enhance the realisation of the objectives of having successful and beneÀcial event that will add more value to all the stakeholders.

“Responses to our invites from both the automotive companies and the policy makers have been quite encouraging and with that this edition promises to be a bumper harvest for every participant.

View of previous Abuja International Motor Fair

Driving Habits That Kill I do not know whether to be excited that we have crossed over to the second month in this year’s EMBER months. Please do not get me wrong as I am excited and grateful to God for crossing over. But while we regale over this wonder which can only be through the mercies of God Almighty, there are a handful who perished last month while some couldn’t even make it through the first week of October, 2021.

As we navigate through with prayers, fasting and guidance from God, there is need for us to remember that no matter how powerful God is, he may own the universe but he is not licensed to drive cars on earth because he is bound by His own laws which allows that pastime for us humans. This week, I am compelled to remind us of some of the habits that claim lives and cause severe injuries, as a guide to staying alive. Before I dwell on these habits, I don’t know whether you believe in God because there are those who don’t. A good friend of mine recently told me that irrespective of our belief, everyone has his appointed time on earth, but must we be irresponsible and drive dangerously because we feel so? I don’t know what you think about my questions but I must confess that it worries me each time I monitor traffic, especially on Fridays and Sundays when the faithful of the two major religions worship God. The case is not different during periods such as Christmas and other festivities such as Sallah when we throw decency to the wind all in the name of celebration without a thought for our safety and the safety of our loved ones. What kind of impatience would cause a parent to drive a vehicle, that has practically every member

SAFE DRIVING with Jonas Agwu amnipr, mcipr,mprsa,arpa Assistant Corps Marshal Zonal Commanding Officer Federal Road Safety Corps. of his family, against traffic, creating multiple lanes whether in the city centres or on major highways? What values do such parents think they inculcate in their children? With few days to the end of 2021, and as we all prepare for a return leg, I believe that we need to help commuter drivers stay safe on the road and maintain safe driving practice by avoiding hazardous behavior, adopting defensive driving techniques to ensure that they keep their eyes and minds on the road and their hands on the wheel. “Many drivers on our nation’s roads and highways pose safety threat to themselves and others and so you must be extra careful. The list of the seven most hazardous driving offenders and their bad driving habits was surfed on the net and I wish to share it with you while wishing you the best of the season The Beauty Queen: Some drivers have been known to apply makeup (e.g, lipstick, mascara) while driving. But, it is very easy to lose control of a vehicle if both hands are on the steering wheel and eyes are not on the road. Drivers should put away all makeup products and keep them out of reach while

driving. The Hungry Commuter: eating while driving is another habit that results in driving without both hands on the wheel. Drivers who are eating cannot react as quickly to sharp curves or properly handle lane changes because their hands are full. Drivers should take extra time to eat before they leave or plan a roadside stop to eat. The Tech-Obsessed: Even with state laws that prohibit sending text message or talking on cell phones while driving, people still use their technology gadgets while driving, Cintas says, “CDC reports that 25 of drivers in the U.S admitted to regularly or fairly often talking on cell phones while behind the wheel”.

Drivers should refrain from this, as it slows down reflexes and takes attention off the road. The Sleepy Travelers: Commuters sometimes refuse to pull over when they feel tired. An AAA foundation poll found nearly a third of people admitted to driving when they had trouble keeping their eyes open. Sleepy drivers should find a rest stop and poll over if they feel unable to keep their eyes open and concentrate. The Daydreamer: These drivers get lost in their thoughts and do not think about what they are doing. Drivers should focus on the road, rather than personal problems or to do lists.

The Road Rager: These drivers tailgate, cut off other drivers and anger easily while driving. Those prone to such behaviors should plan for sufficient time to reach a destination and work on having patience. If driving is too stressful, consider alternative modes of transportation. The Rule Breaker: Speeding, not wearing a seat belt, and disregarding traffic signs and signals are habits of rule breakers. Drivers must take proper precaution and obey the rules of the road to ensure

safety and to avoid costly tickets. Speed is another commandment. The Traffic regulations specify different speeds for different vehicles. This is because speed is one of the critical factors identified by the World Health Organization and World Bank as responsible for increased fatalities. What this simply means is that your chances of survival while driving should you be involved in a crash are dependent on your speed. So if you are a speed freak, watch that speed.

Don’t forget that as you speed, anything can happen such as tyre burst, brake failure or even a pedestrian crossing the road. Whenever you speed, remember that at 100km/ph a vehicle moves at 28 meters per second on a road. The speed limit for private cars on an expressway is 100km/ph. Taxis and buses are allowed to maintain speed limit of 90km/ph on an expressway while articulated vehicles like tankers and trailers are to maintain speed limits of 60km/ph on the expressway and 50km/ph on the highway. Within built-up areas, taxis and buses are to maintain speed limits of 50km/ph. However, you must note that common sense often dictates lower speed limits. Common sense speed should therefore be lower in bad weather, or bad roads.

The same should apply when the roads are busier.

Globally, defensive driving is the ‘voodoo’ to safety on the road. It is therefore an all-round medication. A defensive driver assumes he is the only sane person on the road. Since crashes are caused by individual errors, he is always cautious, obeys all rules, and develops the right attitude such as patience, care, skill and consideration for other road users.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

PEOPLE Temi Ajibewa

Mentoring Has to Happen Because Most of Us Learn By Observation Temi Ajibewa, an award-winning business coach, bestselling author, founder of Ignites Africa, and CEO of Win or Win Consultancy Limited, in this interview with Ferdinand Ekechukwu, discusses organisational mentorship, and other issues relating to Nigeria’s work culture

R

ecently, we’ve seen a lot of the female gender assume positions in Nigeria’s financial services sector. How much organizational mentorship would you say had to have happened to see these women shatter glass ceilings?

A lot of mentoring has to happen because most of us learn by observation, not just what we read. Once you see one person do it, achieve a seemingly impossible feat, it gives you psychological permission that you too can do it. For example before Hussein Bolt (currently rated the world’s fastest man), made his debut in 100 meters in the 2008 Olympics, when he ran 100m in 9:58 seconds which had never been attained by any other athlete, it was erroneously believed that it was not possible for any athlete to do so but because he did and subsequently beat that record, he has set a standard and becomes a motivation for other athletes to become faster. However, after Hussein broke that record by not only achieving that feat but exceeding it, other athletes got inspired to do the same in a short time. This only corroborates the fact that once an individual is able to break through a certain limiting belief, it stretches the capacities of other people to reproduce the same results, or even more.

If a newly employed staff of an organization is failing, how much training and retraining would you propose before wielding the sack hammer?

There’s no fast and hard rule on the amount of training. Some organizations, due to the nature of their output and dealings cannot afford to give room for too many trials and errors. They need to train as much as is necessary, train and retrain as much as required. KPI (Key Performance Indicator) needs to be well defined that each person knows their responsibility and what is expected from them that when you eventually sack them, they are aware of their shortcomings. You can’t say how much training; just keep training for as much as necessary.

Since the remote work culture is now a way of life when employing new talents, what skill sets would you say is the most paramount for an organization to look out for?

The first skills you should look out for is digital skills or technical skills like being able to use Google suite, Microsoft office suite, basic web design, being able to use organizational tools such as Slack and Airtable. Basic communication skills such as writing, editing and proofreading are life skills that everyone who is working remotely should have. Presentation skill that is being able to present your thoughts and ideas on virtual calls is important.

What would you say is the reason why companies find it difficult retaining employees and what measures do you think can be put in place to not lose their best brains?

Organizations need to stop hiring only based on skillset and start hiring based on

Temi Ajibewa attitude and goals. There has to be an alignment between the goal of your intending employee and your organization because when there’s no alignment between the organizational and the employee’s goals, in a matter of time, the employee will leave. Given the fact that goals change, you’ll want to carry out quarterly goal alignment with the staff so that every 3 months, you can touch down and recast the vision and make it plain and let those who can see themselves in it, run with it. When you carry out these quarterly checks, you will know if someone is leaving you or not. Then you will know what you should do and how you should do it on a month-to-month and quarterly basis and that can help. Regular training and giving room for growth, showing the member of staff what growth would look like for them on a yearly basis and show them what is possible if they stay loyal and what is the promotional advantages for them and what are the rewards for them will also help. Let the employees know how many years they need to work in an organization to become a shareholder, and so on.

Recently, there’s been a high rate of thought-leadership development in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. As a coach and mentor, what will be

your advice for would-be coaches on how to maximise their expertise for impact and income?

Indeed there’s been a rise in thought leadership in Nigeria and this is a good thing because leadership has been a major bane for us here. Seeing as more individuals are standing up to use their voice is a beautiful thing. So, here are some things I’d like to say to would-be thought leaders to help them maximize their expertise, impact and income.

First, you have to be in alignment with your purpose because thought leadership is not something that you do for the sake of popularity or money.

It is what you do because you want to impact people, you want to influence their decision and if it is important for you to do this you’ll have to be in alignment with your own purpose.

Secondly, you must be transformationdriven. Like I said earlier, it is not about popularity, making your name known or being an influencer. No, it’s beyond that. It has to be life driven and for you to say you’re doing it well, you want to be transformation driven.

Thirdly, you must identify your core message. What is the exact message you want to push out there because there are tons of things you can talk about? A common mistake I see new thought leaders and new coaches in

particular make is trying to be everything to everyone. So, they are trying to talk about everything, they do leadership, relationships, marriage, life coaching, mindset, business, I mean everything.

No, this is not a good way to go about it.

Choose a particular message. Look for your core message, the center of your thought leadership. Share on that first and then later on you can spread your message across the other areas of life. But first you want to identify your core message and drive that.

The fourth thing is to identify your target audience. Who are the people you’ve been sent to? You can’t possibly serve everyone. I always say who can you serve based on your level of expertise, character, and knowledge? Who can you serve the most? And also think about who can do the most with what you’re serving.

Identify who you want to work with. That way you are more focused, you get better results and you will be more powerful as a brand.

The fifth thing is for you to create transformational products. Your products should be transformation driven as you can only deliver this transformation categorically and clearly when you create a product that offers this transformation. This product could be coaching programmes, consultation programmes, consulting solutions, books, online courses and so on. You must have products as this is a way for people to actually pay you for your thought leadership. If not, you will just be speaking and you will be getting all the whole ‘thank you’, ‘you inspired me’, ‘God Bless you’ with no tangible transformation at the core of what you do. By creating transformational products, you create income.

Then again you want to pay attention to your brand and positioning. It is not enough to have good intention; you must look like you have good intentions. This is where your branding comes in place. You have to look like your future and not just look like where you’ve been or what you’ve been through. Look like where you want to be, put yourself together, put your brand element together and before you know it, you will have things up and running for you.

Next thing for you is to learn marketing and sales.

You may create the product or have the branding, but if your sales and marketing are not right, you will end up in frustration. Even if your offers are free for people, they still need to know about it. People still need to know about what you’re selling. If it is so good and you’re not promoting it, there’s no way people will know of it. It is not the best product that gets bought, it is the best-selling product. The ninth step will be for you to create systems and structures around your business. Consciously build systems around what you want to do as a business so that you won’t be tired and be the only one running the business. Lastly, invest in hiring a coach for your business. You can’t be a coach without a coach, you can’t be a leader without having a leader yourself.

Invest your resources, time, your energy, money into getting other experts to help you achieve your goals.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

MARKET PLACE with Omolabake Fasogbon... 08155131874

Brands Pledge to Support Youth Engagement, Growth Nigerian brands have pledged continuous support for the growth and development of youths in the country.

The brands renewed their commitment at a dinner and award presentation ceremony to culminate the 2021 Higher Institutions Football League (HiFL).

At the event, outstanding players were rewarded for their performance amid encomiums, in the presence of dignitaries across all sectors including ace footballer, Kanu Nwankwo.

Reaffirming their commitment to the youth segment, the sponsors of HiFL including Minimie, Bold Drink, Stanbic IBTC and Nivea Men expressed confidence in the youth , hence their continued investment in the segment.

Earlier at a Press conference, Managing Director of The LaCasera Company, Chinedum Okereke, expressed delight in the brand’s partnership with HIFl, adding that the project aligned with the company’s commitment for a more developed youth population.

“The vision of Bold is to unleash the talent

in Nigerian youths. As a brand, we relate with Nigerian because they are daring, adventurous and they love fun. It is a great joy to be part of the HiFL initiative. We understand that when we talk about the youth in Nigeria, we should identify them with positive things such as this project”.

On his part, GTM & Promotions of Beiersdorf Nigeria, makers of Nivea Men, Nathaniel Adewusi stated that the brand remained committed to engaging the youth positively.

He said, “If Nigerian youths are positively engaged, the country stands a better chance regarding crime prevention. The goal of Nivea Men regarding the development of the Nigerian youth is aligned with that of the HIFL. “All we want to achieve is to ensure that Nigerian youth positively channel their energy, thus, this competition is affording us that opportunity. Based on what we have seen and our experiences and feedback from the various centres, we hope to sustain this partnership with HiFL. We align with the fact that the competition is for the youth, who are the future of the country.”

Coderina, FG Empower Youths with Digital Skills Digital Literacy Organisation, Coderina Educational and Technology Foundation has joined force with the Federal Government to promote digital learning and innovation among Nigerian young learners via the First Lego League (FLL) Robotics Championship and First Tech Challenge.

According to Coderina, the operator of FLL in Africa, the challenge aimed to transform education in Africa while shaping the youths to become a problem solver using technology tools.

Announcing the theme for this year’s challenge in Queens College, Lagos, Chairman, Board of Trustee of Coderina Educational and technology Foundation, Femi Niyi stated that FLL “is a projectbased robotics coding programme that teaches kids how to use technology to solve current day challenges.”

He informed that for the project, a season theme is launched every year based on topic that has to do with everyday living of humanity.

He stated further that this year’s theme, ”Cargo Connect, Fast Forward” will be looking at how products, goods and services are being conveyed from one point to another.

“What we are doing with the theme is to drive young learners to begin to seek solutions. First, to get understanding on the current role or ways of cargo shipments, and then seek ways of solving different problems identified within the space.

“They will thereafter begin to look at the future

of transportation and cargo movements. Later, they will together in a fun way display their learning outcomes, build innovative projects about the topic and interact with others on what they can learn and share.

“This will include the over 104 federal government colleges on the programme in partnership with us through the Federal Ministry of Education as well as over 50 other private schools that are on the programme in Nigeria”.

Speaking further, an Assistant Director at Federal Ministry of Education, Technology and Science Education Department, Kolawole Osundeyi lauded the impact of the initiative since inception.

“The initiative has brought significant changes to the students, most of who can now assemble robot, carry out coding and programming. Moreover, they have been able to attend international competition and come out excellently and so we are confident that our students can compete and stand side by side with their counterparts at the global stage”.

Niyi informed further that the FLL programme “is a championship that starts with eight to 10 weeks of project research, building, practice, and programming by the students with their mentors.

“At the end, they come into a competition, which is actually not a competition, between different schools or teams but a competition about how you can display your skills within a specific period of time.”

FoodCo Expands, Opens New Store in Abeokuta Foremost multi-channel retailer, Foodco Nigeria Limited has extended its footprints in South- West Nigeria with the launch of its first brand shop in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State.

The new store makes it FoodCo 14th brand outlets in the SouthWest region, thus consolidates on the brand’s growing profile as operators of the largest supermarket chain brand in south-west Nigeria, outside Lagos.

Speaking at the launch, Chief Executive Officer of FoodCo Nigeria, Ade Sun-Basorun stated that the new addition was in fulfillment of the company’s commitment to making modern retail more accessible to underserved communities.

He said, “The choice of Abeokuta was really easy for us given the rich history of the city as a place of gallantry, culture and great craftsmanship. The warmth and kindness we have also received during interactions with the local population make us feel welcome and we are especially humbled at the trust they have vested in us to

add value to their lives by providing a top-quality retail experience that matches the needs of the increasingly cosmopolitan city.

“From an industry standpoint, we are very optimistic about the opportunities in the Nigerian retail sector. Modern retail penetration in the country is currently estimated at about 5 per cent which is significantly sub-scale when you benchmark against peers in other African countries. For instance, top retailers in Nigeria have about 14 stores in their portfolio on the average. In Kenya that has only about a fraction of our population, the market leader has well over 60 hypermarkets.

“Major retailers in South Africa have a store count of one to two thousand. Whichever way you consider it, there is a humongous opportunity for retail in Nigeria and as you can see on the shop floor today, consumers want this.”

Sun-Basorun further extolled the rich and worthy to be emulated qualities of Nigerian consumers, adding that they deserve quality

shopping experience.

He said, “Nigerian consumers are good and hard-working people that want a good quality of life like people all over the world. One of those things that contribute to having a good quality of life is having a quality experience when you go out to purchase consumer goods and services.

L-R: Business Owner, Ubah James Okwuchukwu; Nnewi Market Task Force Chairman, Amaechi Ajana; Hero Lager Brand Manager,Dubem Orji; Business Owner,Okoro Joseph ; and Regional Event Manager, International Brewery Plc, Olise Rufus at the Hero Igba Boi Market Launch in Nkwo Nnewi, Akwa, Anambra State... recently

L-R: Asst Director, Federal Ministry of Education, Jamgbadi Ayokunde; Asst Director (Tech) Federal Ministry of Education,Osundeyi Kolawole; Director/Principal, Queens College, Mrs F.T.O Yakubu Oyinloye; Director, Technology and Science Education Dept, Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs Elizabeth Adedigba; Chairman, Board of Trustee, Coderina, Mr Femi Niyi and Rtd Deputy Director, Federal Ministry of Education,Mrs Ayo Omolola during the announcement of ‘First Lego League’ Challenge theme for 2021 edition in Queens College, Lagos ....recently

Indomie Rewards Creativity in Nigerian Children DuÀl Prima Foods, makers of Indomie has rewarded exceptional brains and talents at the wrap-up of its season six edition of its ‘Team Yourself Up’ Competition.

The competition is one of the several ways the brand engages and nurtures creativity in Nigerian children by providing them a platform to express their talents and abilities.

At the prize presentation ceremony which held at National Museum in Lagos, the participants between ages 5 and 12 displayed special works from which the best were singled out for prizes.

The participants, who are also members of the Indomie Fan Club, and from various schools across the country, had their unique creatives made from wrappers, cartons or both of Indomie noodles.

Some of the works on display included: mo-

tors, aero planes, helicopters, houses of diͿerent designs, stadia, dining tables with families, train stations, airports, cooking utensils, rockets, climate change castles and trucks, amongst others.

Speaking at the prize presentation, Group Corporate Communications and Event Manager of DuÀl Prima Foods Plc, Mr. Tope Ashiwaju stated that the brand was leveraging the initiative to establish a bonding and engaging experience between children and their loved ones.

He said, “It is part of our responsibility and core values to engage children in activities that will aid their mental and physical development. But beyond this, the competition also provided a platform for the kids to express their creative abilities and have loads of fun while doing so with their families.”

Customer ServiceWeek: Remita Fetes, Rewards ‘SupportTeam’ Electronic Payment Platform, Remita has expressed appreciation to its support executives for their role in sustaining and expanding the organisation’s client base.

While marking this year’s Customer Service Week, the organisation stated that it is dedicating the week to its ‘Support Team’ for their impact on the growing profile of the organisation.

As part of activities to mark the week, the company organised a week-long programme featuring thrilling challenges, dancing competition, amazing prizes and fun-filled interaction with customers.

The Customer Service Week is an international

celebration of people who serves and supports customers on a daily basis. It holds every first week in October.

Also to mark the week, Remita gave its customers access to some behind-the-scene moments of its customer support team, also known as the Remita Dream Team.

Commenting, Head of the Remita Dream Team, Kemi Ogunleye stressed that the week served as an avenue to appreciate the relentless effort of its customer experience staff towards satisfying both individual and corporate customers.

“It is true that when your staff are happy and feel appreciated, they will perform better

and become even more dedicated to adding value. It is on this premise that we ensure that we maintain an open-based family relationship at work and provide a system that provides our employees the right work environment in which they can thrive and be inspired to provide world-class service.

“While this year’s theme, ‘The Power of Service’ reiterates the importance of every member of staff, particularly the Customer Service Team that interfaces directly with our customers, we must restate our commitment to ensuring the consistent satisfaction of all members of the Dream Team.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

TRAVEL

Thousands of Ethiopians at the annual Meskel Festival in Addis Ababa

Ethiopia, the Hidden Treasure of Africa Selected Nigerian aviation journalists Recently visited exotic tourist destinations in Ethiopia. Chinedu Eze who was part of the trip, writes that Ethiopia remains invaluable treasure to Africa and mankind.

I

t is true that COVID-19 devastated the global economy. It also eroded air transport, which it left writhing and sprawling hopelessly during the lockdown, but the grim and strict travel protocol that followed the lockdown opened a vista of opportunities for Africa. The pandemic made many holiday markers in Africa realise that Africa has great tourist destinations and without the grim and sometimes prejudiced travel protocol introduced by some countries, especially in the West and Middle East.

Some of such great destinations on the continent are in the region’s oldest country, Ethiopia.

There are some well-known off the cuff knowledge about Ethiopia, which includes the fact that the country has its unique calendar; it has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the African continent; over 80 languages are spoken in Ethiopia; over half of Africa’s mountains are in Ethiopia; the first African to win an Olympic gold medal was Ethiopian and that Ethiopia is Africa’s oldest country.

But these facts are a mere prologue to the great story about Ethiopia, which, has not been maximally explored as tourist destination of history, culture, unique geography and pleasure.

Every region in Ethiopia has a irresistible history and natural gifts like smoking mountain, which is said to be the hottest regions on the planet, home to two lava lakes; historical sites such as the Chapel of Tablet, obelisk of Axum, the Afar Rift, the Rock Hewn Churches of Lalibela. There are also the Siemen Mountains, the Holy City of Harar and the Blue Nile Falls.

The city of Gondar has the castle, described as the medieval home to Ethiopian Emperors and Princesses who led the country for nearly 1000 years. Addis Ababa, of course, has is the fourth largest city in Africa and is the diplomatic home to the African Union. This vibrant city sits atop the Entoto Mountains and has both an African and international feel. Addis Ababa has a long history and mystical aura like Jerusalem.

It is a place where you can explore the beautiful

orthodox churches and museums and recently it is metamorphosing into a modern city with state-of-the-art hospitality facilities. The National Museum in Addis Ababa hosts the 2.3 million-year-old fossilized hominid “Lucy”. At the Museum you will surely be welcomed by great tortoise that may have celebrated over 70 years.

Travelling through Addis Ababa reveals something discerning, its growing urbanity and ensconced in most streets are growing high rise structures, which awakens the reality of a country that its economy is rapidly improving.

Life looks better and the ever friendly and welcoming Ethiopians smile at you at every turn.

It is a country where visitors feel at home, no anxieties; no worries.

Ethiopia is just opening up its treasures to the world. It has so much but has exposed so little. It is one of the countries in Africa that should earn so much GDP from tourism.

Ethiopian Holidays Realising the great potential tourism has, the country established Ethiopian Holiday to facilitate travel packages and provide seamless movement for travellers to different parts of the country from any part of the world.

Buoyed by Africa’s most profitable and finest carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, Ethiopian Holidays can connect you from the 131 East African carrier’s destinations to the region’s oldest nation.

Head of Ethiopian Holidays, Mrs. Mahlet Kebede, explained to THISDAY that Ethiopian Holidays is the tour operator wing of Ethiopian Airlines. It is a department, which handles inbound as well as outbound packages, as well as conference market. “We call it the new face of Addis, which include some of the sites that you have seen like Entoto. So there are new places, some are still under construction, which will be finalised within few months,” Kebede said.

She disclosed that there are different packages. There is a package for Ethiopian passengers from all over Africa. This can be arranged while on transit; you can spend a day or two to visit some tourist destinations and connect your flight

again to your final destinations.

There is also another package where a traveller can visit the country throughout the year, as the rains are never heavy to obstruct movement and the country has no adverse weather that can hinder such visits “So we have the culture in the north and in the south we have history and the wild life. So you can visit either as a full package destination passenger and also we have stopover packages.

Stopover package is in response to the fact that Ethiopian Airlines has mostly transit passengers going through Addis Ababa Airport. So the plan is to have these transit passengers to come for a day, two, three and up to seven days. We have already made different package combinations, depending on the interest of the customer.

“Once the passenger has decided to travel on Ethiopian Airlines, the only thing we have to convince the passenger is to ask him to come for few days into Addis while going or coming.

So the motto that we have is ‘One Trip, Two Destinations’, going to other destinations. So we would like to make it a pleasant one, and we would not be charging any additional fare for the passenger to come and stop here in Addis. This is our incentive to encourage travellers to visit and people will be comfortable seeing Addis and next time they will request for full package visit,” she said.

Kebede said that at the beginning, Covid-19 was a disincentive to travel, which adversely affected tourism, but now the world is learning to live with the pandemic.

Meskel Festival During the Ethiopian trip, we were lucky to witness a very major religious festival, the Meskel Festival. It is a Christian holiday event in the Ethiopian Orthodox and Eritrean Orthodox churches that commemorates the discovery of the True Cross by the Roman Empress Helena in the fourth century. Meskel occurs on the 17 Meskerem in the Ethiopian calendar.

It was breathtaking event to witness.

Thousands of men and women turn out at the

Meskel Square at the centre of Addis Ababa, sartorially resplendent in diverse pious apparel, with largely white robes, decorated with golden embroidery, yellow and green stripes, depicting the Ethiopian flag. What was overwhelming was the ability of the church leaders to control the thousands of people that thronged the event as active participants who rose in unison, guided by the rhythm of the musical, the messages and the gestures of the leading team. The choreography was sublime, very inspirational and evocative.

The tour guide who took the Nigerian journalists to the festival, Thomas Yilma, told THISDAY that the Meskel festival marks the founding of the true cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified.

“The true cross was buried for over 300 years and it was piled up with different trash. Around the 4th century, Saint Helena who was very curious and courageous about connecting different religious artifacts collated many religious works and wanted to find out where the true cross was buried, so she had to communicate with different religious fathers and finally it is believed that she dreamt that she lit up fire and put an incense on it, the smoke went up to the sky and down to the ground, pointing where the cross was buried.

“She did exactly what she saw in her dream and she found the true cross. So, she distributed it to different Christian countries. Most of the people you see here are Orthodox Christians but sometimes friends who are not Orthodox come but majority of the people here today are Orthodox because this is a Christian festival. So, every year, the 26th and 27th of September is bonfire festival,” he narrated.

Kuriftu Resort The tour took the journalists to Kuriftu Resort and Kuriftu Tented Camp at the Entoto Mountain with its unique heated beds. The resort offers high-end luxury in exceptionally cultural settings located at the edge of a lake, where guests can boat and immerse in the beauty of nature. The rooms are enveloped in flowery vegetation in a milieu that is inimitable, calm with chirping birds and intervening hooting of the owl, especially in the mornings. The resort is beyond imitation because it is nature itself and can only be captured in the imagination with a physical experience.

Operations Director, Kuriftu Resorts, Ethiopia, Yonaiel Belete gave a historical perspective of the resort.

“I have been here from the very beginning when we had 18 rooms, but you can see there is a lot of growth. In fact, we just inaugurated an additional 61 rooms and another 131 beds to this property so that we can accommodate more people because we are gearing up to become a powerhouse especially in inter-African tourism. Obviously, we have not always been a very stronger contender, but we have always showed a very strong promise.

“Now, we are trying to raise the bar, invest our ideas and finances to areas within our country so that we can develop because there are a lot of incentives to grow within this country.

“Destination is regarded as natural here, but you have to bring infrastructure and investments. Presently, we have about 12 business units and a few of them, we have to bring in expertise from abroad, but most of them, we do it ourselves. When you look at this location, it is more of organic and not mechanical. This location is actually one of the seven created lakes. The lake is not actually meant for swimming, it is meant for car hiking and when you go hiking; you can see a lot of birds. It’s more like a natural scene and it’s quieter here. We also have our spa facilities for massaging. People can come here to relax, especially couples that can use the spa facilities.

“In addition to that we have the water park, which is a big attraction to families especially for those who never had exposure for such water park. We are also planning to expand the park so that we can stay more competitive and add more to the needs of the customers.

So, we have clients from the African Unions (AU), United Nations (UN) and a lot of the non-governmental organisations and others,” Belete explained.

The beautiful sceneries are irresistible. At the Entoto Mountain tented camp, a monkey sitting comfortably on a tree in front of the restaurant watched human beings pass and came down, maybe be for greetings. But when it glared at many human eyes, it became frightened and quickly skimmed up the tree to watch curiously, as we longed for a handshake from the animal, which otherwise was comfortable in its habitat.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 16, 2021

SPORTS XTRA

Drogba Inspired Me from Cleaning Gutters to Playing Football, Says Osimhen

N

apoli star Victor Osimhen recalls his journey to becoming a professional footballer, says: ‘I was cleaning gutters in Nigeria, I am grateful for where I am today.’

The Nigerian forward com-

pleted a €70m move from Lille to Napoli in 2020 becoming the most expensive African player of all time.

“It all started like a dream, a boyhood dream from the slum,” the 22-year-old said in an interview with his compatriot Paul Troost-Ekong on Youtube.

“I wanted to become a professional player, inspired by a lot of

big legends like Didier Drogba, Odion Ighalo, Mikel Obi and many others.

“I feel like I have achieved this feat, it’s one of my biggest achievements in life,” the former striker added.

“When I was growing up I was cleaning the gutters for 20 Naira, for my landlord and did some cleaning jobs for my

neighbours close to my house, fetch the water for 80 Naria I think.

“I found pleasure in doing these things because I believe when I worked so hard to get this money it was important for me, I had consciousness on how to spend this money and help my family.

“My brother was selling

newspapers, my sister oranges. I was in the traffic with water and I’d had to chase cars, give them the water to get the money. I feel like these struggles helped me in life. “I am grateful for where I am today because of what I’ve been through, it shaped me into the man I am. I am really grateful to God for that.”

Osimhen moved to Europe in 2017 when Wolfsburg signed him from Ultimate Strikers Academy in Nigeria.

He then moved to Belgium andFranceplayingforCharleroi and Lille. He scored 18 goals in 38 appearances across all competitions with the Ligue 1 side before moving to Napoli on a permanent deal.

The Nigeria international scored 10 goals in 24 Serie A appearances during his first season at the Stadio Maradona.

Osimhen has had a great start to the 2021-22 campaign with seven goals in eight games

across all competitions.

His contract with the Partenopei expires in June 2025.

Meanwhile, Osimhen is now Nigeria’s joint most valuable player, an honour he shares with Leicester City holding midfielder Wilfred Ndidi.

Transfermarkt updated the market value of Osimhen on Thursday and the Napoli striker isnowvaluedat60millioneuros.

Osimhenisalsothemostvaluable Napoli player, ranks sixth in the Serie Aand the 49th most valuable player in the world at the moment.

The former Lille star has had a finestarttothe2021-2022season, scoring nine goals combined in twelve appearances for club and country.

“After problems due to injuries last season, Osimhen is now showing that his transfer fee was well justified.,” Jatin Dietl, TM Area Manager Italy said on Osimhen.

Ndidi Ruled out of Super Eagles’ Next World Cup Qualifiers

Victor Osimhen was too hot for Udinese to handle

Lookman Warns Leicester Teammates of Tough Man Utd Super Eagles hopeful Ademola Lookman has admitted that a tough test awaits Leicester City in their Premier League meeting against Manchester United this afternoon.

The Foxes are under pressure to perform after winning only one of their last six Premier League games and Brendan Rodgers’ work has been made harder with Wilfred Ndidi unavailable for selection due to a hamstring injury.

A deadline day signing

from RB Leipzig, Lookman has forced his way into the starting lineup, having started the last three domestic matches prior to the international break.

Lookman and his teammates will be playing against a world class team who have in their ranks Cristiano Ronaldo, Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes, and the Red Devils are definitely the better side on paper.

However, in an interview with Leicester City’s official website, the 2017 U20 World

Cup winner highlighted that Leicester City have to bury their chances if they are to win and has called on the fans to get behind the team.

Lookman said : “It’s going to be a tough test, most definitely. Manchester United is a top team with a lot of great players, but it’s about us implementing our game and stopping them.

“It’s about us enforcing ourselves on the game also.

We want to show our quality and our confidence with the ball.

“Making the most of our attacks is important. Us, as a team, going after them, setting the atmosphere, and getting the fans behind us is also important.

“I’ll tell what you the favourite bit for me is. At the beginning, when the fox comes onto to screen, you just hear that roar, that’s goosebumps right there.”

Last season, Lookman was on target against Manchester United but the goal was in vain as Fulham were beaten 2-1.

Salah Sets to Erase Drogba’s Record as African Leading Premier League Top Scorer

Aiyegbeni still fifth best African finisher Egypt striker, Mohamed Salah could become the topscoring African in Premier League history, as one goal against Watford today will be enough to equal the existing record, while two or more means the Egyptian will own it outright.

That record is currently held by Chelsea and Ivory Coast legend Didier Drogba, who accumulated 104 goals over two spells with the London club before his eventual departure, for a second time, in 2015.

Salah, who also has a

previous affiliation with the European champions, has become one of the Premier League’s most prolific forwards since joining Liverpool from Italians Roma in 2017.

Drogba tops the rankings with 104 goals, followed by Salah with 103 goals, Senegal’s Sadio Mane is placed third with 99 goals.

Former Nigeria striker, Yakubu Aiyegbeni sits fifth on the list of all-time African goalscorers in the Premier League, just behind Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor’s 97 for Arsenal,

Manchester City, Tottenham and Crystal Palace.

The Nigerian featured for Portsmouth, Middlesbrough, Everton and Blackburn Rovers over a nine-year period, and believes his record stacks up favourably considering his club’s comparatively lower standings.

“I’ll still remain one of the top strikers from Africa, no matter if those guys score more than 100 goals,” he said. “Don’t forget they played for some of the biggest clubs in England.

“To score 15, 17 goals in Portsmouth, Middlesbrough, Everton and Blackburn is big as well. If you can get 15 goals in a season as a striker in England, it’s a great season for you.

25 of Yakubu’s 95 goals in the Premier League came for Everton “For me, it’s an honour to score that many goals. I got injured and didn’t play for one year. If I had, I would’ve scored more than 100. I had chances to do it, but the time was right for me to leave, so I went to China.”

Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers has revealed that Wilfred Ndidi will not return to action until after next month’s international break, ruling him out of Nigeria’s 2022 World Cup qualifiers against Cape Verde and Liberia.

The 24-year-old midfielder will not feature against Manchester United today, and he is also expected to miss the rest of the games this month.

Ndidi missed Leicester’s 2-2 draw at Crystal Palace and Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers against the Central African Republic after picking up a hamstring injury.

It was initially revealed that the injury would keep him out for at least five weeks, but Rodgers has hinted Ndidi might be out for a longer period.

Speaking ahead of the Foxes clash against Manchester United today, Rodgers revealed Ndidi is not expected to return to training until next month’s

international break.

“He’ll probably join the group, I would say, in the next international break,” Rodgers told the media as per LCFC website.

“Over the course of this section of games, he probably won’t be available.We’re hoping that by then he’ll be back,” he added.

ThecommentsmeanSuper Eagles manager Gernot Rohr will be without his star midfielderforthe2022WorldCup qualifier against Cape Verde and Liberia, respectively.

Nigeriacouldsealtheirplace intheplayoffroundwithawin against the Blue Sharks, but theyhavebeenhandedahuge blow with Ndidi’s potential absence.

Meanwhile, Rodgers confirmedthatKelechiIheanacho is available to play against the Red Devils after the 25-year-old attacker suffered an injury scare in Nigeria’s clash against CAR at the Teslim Balogun Stadium.

Crystal Palace Linked with Aribo’s Move Versatile Glasgow Rangers midfielder Joe Aribo is being linked with a move to the English Premier League.

Football Insider is reporting that Crystal Palace are keeping tabs on the 10-cap Nigeria international with a view to a move as from the January transfer window.

Crystal Palace keep tabs on Rangers star Aribo - Sources Football Insider understands Crystal Palace are keeping tabs on versatile Rangers midfielder Joe Aribo ahead of ...

Palace’s recent transfer strategy is to sign young, talented players and they have poached Anglo-Nigerian duo Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise from Queens Park Rangers and

Reading respectively in the last 14 months.

And Aribo fits the bill for the Eagles considering that he turned 25 in July and his quality is not in doubt.

The former CharltonAthletic man has been a key player for manager Steven Gerrard since him move to the Ibrox Stadium, scoring nineteen goals and assisting a further seventeen in 106 appearances across all competitions.

Aribo’s most familiar position is central midfield but he can also play out on the wing and as an attacking midfielder.

He has less than two years to run on his contract with the Scottish Premiership champions.

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Falana to Buhari

“It is public knowledge that Buhari and other leaders of the ruling APC took part in rallies against fuel hike in January 2012 and protests against insecurity in November 2014. To that extent, the Buhari administration ought to restrain the Police from banning peaceful rallies” –Lagos lawyer Femi Falana urging President Buhari to stop the police from hindering rallies planned to mark #EndSARS anniversary.

PENDULUM DELE MOMODU

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26 years

dele.momodu@thisdaylive.com

The Atiku Challenge We Must Accept

F

ellow Nigerians, let me say categorically that anyone who has followed me closely would have noticed my admiration for the Wazirin Adamawa, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. Of all the political leaders in their mid-seventies, he is my favourite, for very cogent reasons, as I shall explain briefly. From being a former high-ranking officer of the much maligned and impugned Nigerian Customs and Excise, I’m so impressed that he has since upgraded himself to an acclaimed international businessman, accomplished politician, respected educationist and benevolent philanthropist.

The second reason I admire him is the fact that despite the plethora of allegations and accusations of corruption against him, he’s never been proven to have been guilty or culpable with regard to those allegations and has never been prosecuted, much more convicted by any court of Law in respect of any of those allegations The third reason for which I admire Atiku Abubakar is his steadfast belief in Democracy coupled with the uncommon tenacity to pursue his dreams of leading Nigeria, since 28 years ago, beginning in 1993, when he contested the SDP Primaries against Chief Moshood Abiola, Alhaji Babagana Kingibe and others. He has crisscrossed several political parties in the process and was a founding member of both the PDP and the APC, and a major supporter of Major General Muhammadu Buhari in 2015 after he lost the APC primaries to General Buhari. He returned to PDP after the 2015 elections to contest in 2019 against the same Buhari he supported heavily just four years earlier.

I also supported him on that occasion because of the drift, rudderlessness and graft of the Buhari government between 2015 and 2019, but unfortunately Abubakar lost in a very controversial and highly militarized election.

I really hoped he would win as age was already counting against him even if, obviously, he looks healthier than many of the much younger ones parading themselves about today. But he didn’t and his age is becoming an albatross round his neck which he cannot ignore or do anything about.

While some might readily dismiss the age factor in politics, I have since become almost paranoid after witnessing what happened to our dear beloved late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua of blessed memory, who although was much younger, died at 58 years old, had major health challenges which of course older people like Abubakar will be susceptible to as a matter of natural wear and tear in all humans.

This unease for me became compounded when I considered the significant health scare of Buhari in 2017 and how once again government almost became paralysed until Vice President Yemi Osinbajo took over the mantle and came into his own. Health is wealth they say and in the life of a nation there cannot be any greater truism as our experiences over the past 13 to 14 years have shown. The problems of Nigeria are so gigantic that even an elephant can collapse under its sheer weight. It is for this major factor that many younger Nigerians, and indeed patriotic older ones too, are likely to resist an Atiku Presidency in 2023. We simply do not want a geriatric in power, displaying all known bad vices of geriatrics including being stubborn, obstinate and unyielding, added to others which I need not go into here. The fact that Atiku wishes to contest the next elections despite the cacophony of deafening noises advising otherwise demonstrates that he too suffers from this malaise.

There is also another major challenge. How would it sound that another Fulani man, of nearer 80 years than 70, replaces the around 80-year-old Buhari in 2023, in a country littered with countless vibrant, brilliant, intelligent, detribalised, accomplished and cosmopolitan young citizens from other ethnic groups, particularly in the southern part of the country and the Middle Belt? This becomes more acute, stark and

Dele Momodu with Atiku Abubakar in 2018 critical when we consider the terrorist Boko Haram menace and the dastardly Fulani terrorists and bandits that have riven our country and threatened to split us into unwholesome fragments. Clearly the time has come for someone who can be seen to be a unifier to emerge from across the Niger and heal the raw open wounds of the country. I still believe 100% in this entity and nation state called Nigeria. It has amazing prospects which we cannot let a small group of ill-informed, ignorant and malevolent persons endanger and damage. If all the constituent parts can arguably succeed on their own, then there is good reason for keeping us together. This is because the success of many, as part of a whole, can only be geometrically and exponentially greater than the success of a small individual fraction.

Personally, as a Democrat, I recognize and respect the rights of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to contest elective positions, including the Presidency for as long as his will and health can stretch, but I believe Nigeria has been extremely kind to members of his generation. They have hugged and monopolised the political landscape of the country for many decades and deprived at least one highly potent and resourceful generation of a crack at running this country. What could have been if this were the case can only be a matter of conjecture. The sad thing is that in acting selfishly in their own interests the generation of Atiku Abubakar and President Buhari have foisted upon the younger generation, the dregs, flotsam and jetsam, of that younger generation in order to perpetuate themselves in power. That was the only way they could cling to power, or at least so they thought.

On a personal note, Atiku Abubakar has achieved what many members of his generation would not be able to accomplish in several generations. While it is his right to contest, I believe there comes a time when patriotism becomes far more important than personal interests and ambition. I know that my appeal will not be considered or heeded, but I want to thank Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for his magnanimity in challenging the youths to challenge him for the ticket of PDP. This sounds very reasonable to me.

While to some of my friends and contemporaries, it may smack of over-confidence on Atiku’s part, I believe it could actually provide a David versus Goliath kind of fiasco for the great man. Considering that the Atiku behemoth in Nigerian politics may actually scare the daylight out of any would-be aspirant, I seriously believe it is doable and achievable for a resolute contender.

The truth is that those in the ilk of Atiku, who consider themselves larger than life and indispensable, are in for a Humpty Dumpty kind of collapse.

They are spoiling for a demystification which

will not augur well for the legacy that they had previously struggled to build and preserve. Why is it so difficult for them to exit while the ovation is loudest!

The Obama magic and miracle in American politics remain my veritable inspiration. The mood of the nation currently favours a paradigm shift.

What is required mainly is the courage to take on the establishment and tear down the status quo which is now premised and founded on ageism.

I’m reasonably convinced that after the 30-year penalties, suffering and injuries we’ve endured since the annulment of the June 12, 1993, Presidential election, the principal actors of that era now have almost the last chance to foreclose that tragedy.

This can only be done by bringing on board an Abiola-like personage with a powerful template and recipe for a new productive and progressive Nigeria. This is a task that must be achieved.

However, what I find most worrisome is the almost incurable affliction of self-doubt and inferiority complex in many of our youths who still believe that only their aged or ageing oppressors have the chance of winning elections ad infinitum. I believe Nigeria no longer has the luxury of time for a game of musical chairs by septuagenarians and octogenarians. Nigeria has bled for far too long and is almost haemorrhaging to death because we no longer have selfless, inspired youths ready, able and willing to lead the way. This was the tradition our political fathers of yore were brought up in. I still remember vividly and with pride Papa Obafemi’s declaration after the 1983 elections that he would never contest elections in Nigeria again partly on account of the corruption of the electoral process, but mainly because of his age at the time of that declaration. Our aged political leaders will do well to learn from the great sage and muse himself.

The time has come for a complete turn-around unless we’ve signed a pact with the devil and sentenced ourselves to perpetual servitude and stress. Our youths must wake up from their self-immolating slumber and chart a new course and direction for our long-suffering country and its people. We can no longer continue to fold our arms like victims of mass hypnotism. Nigeria must be rescued by all means necessary. Whosoever is happy with the state of things in Nigeria today must truly hate our country. I believe and know that we can do much better.

Going back memory lane, unknown to many Nigerians, Chief MKO Abiola of blessed memory was quite young when he used his humongous popularity and generosity to capture the imagination of all Nigerians at home and abroad. He was born in the Gbagura quarters of Abeokuta on August 24, 1937, so he was just 56 when he contested and

won the June 12, 1993, elections. Umaru Musa Yar’Adua was born on August 16, 1951, in Katsina and was just shy of 56 years when he contested and won the April 2007 Presidential elections. President Goodluck Jonathan was born on November 20, 1957, in Ogbia in what is now Bayelsa State, and was, a bit younger at, 53 years when he contested and won the Presidential elections in 2011. How can anyone now tell me that I’m too small or too young to lead Nigeria at 61 after all my hard work and global experience and exposure. I reject this type of curse on behalf of my generation. We’ve been too docile and over mesmerized for far too long and we’ve never been able to wriggle out of this fear-induced stupor from those who do not wish our country well but merely wish to continue to feather their own nest.

We should therefore at least be grateful for the Democratic propensity of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for encouraging the youths to join the race instead of lamenting like the Biblical Jeremiah. We should stop wallowing in self-pity and, instead work assiduously to take power from members of the old brigade who have held Nigeria by the jugular for ever and ever. Those who want power must simply work and fight for it. It is not going to be handed to us on a platter.

In 1993, Chief Abiola was able to convince his Party that he had what it takes to win the Presidential election despite facing the Herculean task of wresting power from Alhaji Babagana Kingibe, who was Chairman of the Party and the favourite choice of the SDP Governors, and also Alhaji Atiku Abubakar who was the political godson of the highly influential Major General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua. Abiola won the ticket because he did not allow himself to be bullied or intimidated by the almost impossible Mount Everest ahead of him which he knew he had to climb. He simply girded his loins and set about his daunting but achievable task. That is what our young men and women of today simply have to do.

I have read elsewhere that some of our modern day Abiolas are complaining about the vast resources and financial obligations needed to execute the primaries in mainstream political party, but I wish to call this nothing but self-defeatism. While it is true that huge sums of money would be needed, your personal charms and charisma may carry you far. Your ability to show off your contacts and connections in every part of Nigeria as well as your international relevance will certainly attract massive attention and support. This was the template that catapulted Chief Moshood Abiola beyond and above his competitors. Most of the potential candidates in Nigeria are usually local champions who force themselves on the respective political parties. Very few have any real political base or structure. It is merely a matter of perception. The Godfathers should by now understand and regret the incalculable damage the incompetent candidates have caused and how they have destroyed our great country.

They can salvage this now by yielding ground and supporting the right candidates.

The other myth that Chief Abiola shattered was the one that says only hardcore career politicians - Governors, Senators, Honourable Ministers, and others - can aspire to the Presidential office. Chief Abiola was ahead of Donald Trump in this regard.

The time has come for non-career politicians to run Nigeria like a successful conglomerate and not like a national cake to be shared among party loyalists and lackeys. The country should be calculated by profit and loss and never written off as a bad loan.

The next leader of Nigeria must be adequately prepared for the onerous tasks of nation-building by embracing a government of national unity and a broad-based coalition across party lines in other to powerfully uplift our nation out of perfidy and poverty. Step forward our intelligent, diligent and proficient youths. Your time has come!

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