BOKO HARAM NEGOTIATOR EXPLODES AGAIN: "How Shekau went wild, started beheading victims"

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‘How Abubakar Shekau hijacked Islamist group’ Continued from page 1

“The Boko Haram we see today is not the Jama’atu Ahlul Sunnah Lih Da’awa wal Jihad (JAS) that was operational under Yusuf – former JAS leader killed by the police in 2009", Davis told Sunday Vanguard in an interview.

In the interview conducted online, the negotiator said: “Shekau formed Ansaru which he used for kidnapping and beheading victims. This behaviour was a major departure from the original mandate of the JAS which was to purify Islam and return it to the exemplary life of the Prophet. Many among the JAS leadership are no longer active and others have been killed. This has allowed Shekau to take the JAS to a more extreme action and expand the frontiers of kidnapping, bombing and slaughtering. The Boko Haram we have today is a much expanded Ansaru. What we see now is not the Yusufiya which wanted very much to settle a score with former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff. It is Boko Haram as a partner to ISIS and Al Shabaab”.

Davis admitted that he came to Nigeria in April to facilitate the release of the Chibok girls abducted by

Boko Haram, but denied that he was engaged by any party and therefore had no obligation to report to anyone.

He claimed to have interacted with former commanders of JAS and others close to Boko Haram during his visit to Nigeria.

Davis didn’t speak with real Boko Haram leaders - Nigerian negotiator

Meanwhile, a Nigerian negotiator claimed, yesterday, that Sheriff and Ihejirika could not have been Boko Haram sponsors as the two men were actually sworn enemies of the Islamist group.

The negotiator, who didn’t want to be named for security reasons, told Sunday Vanguard that neither Sherrif nor Ihejirika was a sponsor of the sect.

The source, who has been assisting the government to find a lasting solution to the insurgency in the North-east, pointed out that Sheriff was even one of the three most wanted enemies of the sect. He did not say who the other two were.

“The statement credited to advise that Sherriff and Ihejirika are sponsors of Boko Haram is far from the

THOUGHT FOR TODAY THE THREE ENEMIES OF MAN —3

By Richard Eromonsele

The other enemy in our life that destroy a lot of people is – Ingratitude for today’s blessing. If there is any sin that could be held against man, it is ingratitude to God by man and ingratitude to fellow human for the good turn done to us. There seems to be a vast industry of ingratitude on earth today.

Generally, we are more interested in what we could get forgetting that we first have to show appreciation for the present blessing we are enjoying. But pause and think: Do you realize that what you are currently enjoying (which you do not value) some people are willing and ready to pay millions to have it. Take for instance, children: do you know some millionaires and other rich individuals have spent a fortune to have their own child without success? Yet, you see poor folks and illiterate churning out children every year like no man’s business.

Be grateful for today’s blessing no matter how little it seems.

Vice President Namadi Sambo, receiving an a ward from Community And Youth Development (CYD) Patron , Mohmoud Yayale Ahmed, during the 4th Conference of the group held at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja. With them is the Chairman Community And Youth Development National Network , Youth For Peace And Good Leadership Initiative , Dr. Siraj Abdulkarim . truth because, as at today, the former Borno governor remains one of the three worst enemies of Boko Haram”, he stated.

“I can tell you that the group has not forgiven Sheriff over the killing of its leader, Mohammed Yusuf, who was arrested and killed during his tenure as governor ”.

Confirming the claim by Davis that he was not hired by the Nigerian government to broker peace with the sect, the source said that the Australian came on his own to secure the release of the Chibok girls.

He said that while in Nigeria, Davis never met the real commanders of Boko Haram but depended on information from a member of the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Amnesty for information on the activities of the sect.

The source blamed what is now playing out on the issue of Boko Haram sponsorship on the information given to Davis by the member of the presidential committee.

He said,”We can say with all amount of seriousness that Davis did not meet the leadership and main commanders of Boko Haram during his visit to the North-east.

“If Davis insists that he met with any senior commander or leader of the sect, we challenge him to mention their names and ranks”.

Excerpts of Davis interview:

My Boko Haram saga, by negotiator Stephen Davis

By Soni Daniel, Regional Editor, North I first met Dr. Stephen Davis at the American Centre for Strategic and

International Studies, Washington, in June 2009.

At that time, the Australian was assisting the Federal Government of Nigeria to broker peace with the irate Niger Delta militants, who had taken up arms against the administration and almost rendered its oil-dependent economy comatose through oil theft, destruction of facilities and kidnapping of oil workers.

We lost contact until I got to know that he had been involved in the effort to free the Chibok girls. Some other reports claimed he was hired by government to negotiate with Boko Haram.

However, in this interview, Davies makes it clear he was never engaged by the Nigerian government to dialogue with the sect.

What do you have to show that you were engaged by the Nigerian government to negotiate with Boko Haram?

I was not engaged by the Federal Government of Nigeria, any state government or any other party. I went to Nigeria in late April in an effort to facilitate a handover of the Chibok captives after discussing such a possibility with former commanders of JAS (Jama’atu Ahlul Sunnah Lih Da’awa wal Jihad otherwise known as JAS) and others close to Boko Haram.

Why did you release the report of your assignment to the media instead of sending it to government?

I did not construct a report of my efforts in Nigeria. As I said earlier, I was not engaged by any party and therefore had no obligation to report to anyone.

Some Nigerians find it curious that you decided to give your report only to Arise TV, owned by a Nigerian, Nduka Obiagbena, who also owns Thisday Newspapers and may be sympathetic to some politicians in Nigeria.

I gave a radio interview

to the ABC in Australia which subsequently told me that after the transcript was posted to their online site, it had been picked up in the UK and Sky News requested an interview. In the hope of bringing attention to the many other girls and boys kidnapped by Boko Haram, I agreed to a television interview. That interview took place in Channel 7 studios in Australia and it was at that point that I was told it was an interview with Arise TV. I had not heard of Arise TV and did not know it was owned by a Nigerian or indeed that it had any association with Nigeria. At the time of giving the TV interview, I was of the understanding that it would be broadcast by Sky News in the UK.

On Mr Obiagbena, I have not met him or ever been contacted by him.

Many Nigerians find it extremely difficult to understand how the former Chief of the Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ihejirika, who actually fought Boko Haram elements and was accused of genocide could be linked with sponsoring the violent group.

It is much easier to understand Mr Sheriff ’s alleged association with Boko Haram than any association of Mr Ihejirika. Mr Sheriff was said to have a long history of promoting groups to assist in his past efforts to win the governorship of Borno State. On 29 July 2009, there was a confrontation with security officers at Mamudo Village, along Potiskum/Damaturu Road, Yobe. 33 JAS members were killed. Later that night, there was a long battle with combined security operatives at Railway Terminus, Maiduguri, Borno State. Scores were killed and the JAS operational base was destroyed. Yusuf was subsequently captured by the military and handed over to the police. The JAS alleged that it was on Sher-

iff ’s orders that Yusuf was executed in Maiduguri on 30 July 2009. Shekau was presumed killed in the same battle and a corpse was identified as that of Shekau. Thus the remaining JAS leaders made it clear their intention was to kill Sheriff and so it is right that Sheriff claims he is a victim of JAS. The Boko Haram we see today is not the JAS that was operational under Yusuf. Shekau emerged in mid-2010 and publicly claimed the leadership of a reinvigorated JAS. Shekau formed Ansaru which he used for kidnapping and beheading victims. This behaviour was a major departure from the original mandate of the JAS which was to purify Islam and return it to the behaviour example in the life of the Prophet.

Many among the JAS leadership are no longer active and others have been killed. This has allowed Shekau to take the JAS to more extreme action and expanded the kidnapping, bombing and slaughtering. The Boko Haram we have today is a much expanded Ansaru. What we see now is not the Yusufiya which wanted very much to settle scores with Sheriff.

It is Boko Haram as a partner to ISIS and Al Shabaab. Now I will offer an opinion as to the motives of the sponsors of Boko Haram.The political sponsors of Boko Haram seem to think that they can use Boko Haram to terrorise Nigeria to demonstrate that the current government cannot ensure the security of Nigerian citizens both Muslim and Christian. Therein the sponsors assume they can undermine any efforts of the current government to be reelected in 2015. Herein lies the flaw for the conflict and instability currently being fanned suits the aims of Al Qa’eda and the architects of terrorism. Should the sponsors of Boko Haram win government in 2015, they will likely find that they cannot turn Boko Haram off or that Boko Haram will demand control of at least Borno State in return for reducing their attacks. Borno State may be just the beginning of an expanding caliphate.

Several Boko Haram commanders and other persons close to and respected by Boko Haram have told me the names of some of the sponsors of Boko Haram. They have also described how some funds are transferred and arms made available. I have made public some of that information. I have also been told by some commanders that if one of the sponsors is arrested, they will surrender, release the girls and give information on the sponsors.

Not all Boko Haram commanders will follow this lead but it may be a firm step towards dismantling or at least isolating Boko Haram.

PAGE 6 —SUNDAY VANGUARD,SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

Two tenants jump to death, as 4storey building catches fire in Onitsha

BY NWABUEZE OKONKWO

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RAGEDY struck yesterday at the Awada area of the commercial city of Onitsha, Anambra State when two tenants of No. 15 Ntueke Street allegedly jumped from their four-storey building and died, while four others sustained serious injuries while trying to escape.

The incident, according to an eye witness, was caused by electrical spark at the staircase of the building. In the process, abandoned cushion chairs parked in the staircase were said to have caught fire leading to the inferno.

The source stated that out of panic, the deceased and injured tenants of the building tried to escape by jumping even as sympathizers were busy battling to stop the fire.

It was gathered that the two tenants who jumped from the third floor of the building died on their way to hospital, while four others sustained various degrees of injuries.

When newsmen visited the building, yesterday, blood stains were seen on the frontage while the

remains of the burnt furniture were being evacuated.

Fire fighters from Okpoko fire service station, who arrived the scene after the fire had been extinguished,

said they responded immediately they received distress call. They said the deplorable condition of roads in Awada area made it difficult for them to arrive the scene on time.

The Divisional Police Officer in-charge of Awada Police Station, Dimale Joseph, when contacted, said there was no formal report of the incident to the police.

Public Relations and Events Manager, Dufil Prima Foods, Tope Asiwaju(l); Chief Marketing Officer, Pawan Sharma;[m] and Head of Marketing, Manpreet Singh.during the Indomie Noodles Comic Promo Lucky Draw in Lagos.

Terrorism: Sultan, Oba of Lagos say Nigeria won’t break

BY SONI DANIEL, Regional Editor, North

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OPE rose for Nigeria, yesterday, as two first class traditional rulers

predicted that it will not disintegrate despite the war being waged against it by Boko Haram in the North-east.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar, and the Oba of Lagos, Rilwanu Akiolu, expressed their optimism at the flag off of the 2014 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia at the Dutse International Airport, Jigawa State.

Akiolu, who is the leader of the Federal Government delegation to the holy land this year, said God would soon bring the war being waged by the terrorists against the country to an end.

He however urged Nigerians to spend more time during their stay in Saudi Arabia to pray for peace than pursuing pecuniary interests.

On his part, the Sultan, Abubakar, said that the ongoing violence in the North-east would come to an end and pleaded

with Nigerians to pray fervently for that to happen before long.

The Sultan said that Nigeria needed peace in order to ensure successful elections in 2015.

The Jigawa state Governor, Dr. Sule Lamido, said he would continue to work and provide a conducive atmosphere for the people of the state to achieve their socioeconomic aspirations.

The governor said the airport, where the pilgrimage was inaugurated and completed within 13 months at the cost of N13 billion.

Vice President Namadi Sambo, who flagged off the spiritual excercise, urged Nigerian pilgrims to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors and comply with all the rules governing the programme in the foreign land.

Cross River, World Bank disburse N497.2m for erosion control

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HE Cross State Government yesterday presented cheques worth N 497,288,129.84 through the state Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project [CRS NEWMAP] to four contractors for erosion intervention within Calabar Municipality as a partnership between it and World Bank.

Speaking before the presentation of cheques at the official launch of CRS NEWMAP at Transcorp Hotel, Calabar, the state governor, Senator Liyel Imoke, said the project is important because the state understands its challenges and the opportunities it presents to the affected communities.

The governor said the relationship with the bank has brought significant transformation to the state‘s economy and its people by addressing poverty alleviation, wealth creation and jobs, adding that Cross River is

one of the states in partnership with the bank which aims to be a leading state in the country.

According to him, “This is a partnership that will help the state to understand the challenges of erosion, be it man-made and not natural. There is need for land management so that we are not bogged down by recurring problems as this takes the community so much to sustain the solution.”

Continuing, the Governor charged: “NEWMAP has to be dynamic to do its work before the next rainy season and they have to work with the affected communities to understand how the menace can be addressed through tested technology which is the best and more sustainable and less expensive. It should be supported with the planting of grasses and trees on erosion sites.”

2015: Why we want Senator Nenadi back — Group

BY LUKA BINNIYAT

A

S the battle for who gets what in the 2015 elections hots up, a group under the aegis of Southern Kaduna Women Volunteers, SKWV, yesterday endorsed Senator representing the area, Esther Nenadi Usman for another term.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna yesterday, Leader of the Women Volunteers, Mrs Grace Auta, described those criticizing Senator Nenadi Usman for endorsing President Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Ramalan Yero fort second terms, as mischief makers who did not want the progress of the area.

They therefore called on any aspirant ready to for the

polls to come out and contest instead of casting aspersions on the incumbent Senator.

According to the leader of the group, “She (Senator Usman) has done well in uplifting her people, especially women and the youths. For example, she constructed boreholes in each of the 87 wards of the zone. She also attracted the MDG office which sank another six boreholes at the cost of 10million Naira each.

“Senator Nenadi arranged the surgical Operation of 688 patients in her zone for free. She also donated scanning machines to Zangon Kataf General Hospital and not less than 1000 students benefited from her scholarship scheme,” she enumerated.

17,000 without electricity metres in Makurdi

BY PETER DURU, MAKURDI

T

HE Jos Electricity Distribution, JED, Company, has disclosed that over 17,000 electricity consumers in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, are without electricity meters.

The company lamented that the situation which was inherited from the defunct Power holding company of Nigeria, PHCN, had inhibited the control and documentation of power consumption in the town.

The Benue State Director of the JED, Mr.

Abraham Ochelle, who made this known yesterday at the company ’s maiden consumers consultative forum in Makurdi, said the the company had taken steps to address the appalling situation by acquiring metres for distribution to its customers in the state

Ochelle said it is a known fact that our company inherited over 17,000 customers who are un-metred, which makes it difficult to control and monitor power consumption in our homes and the town in general.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 7

•L-R: The immediate past president, Rotary Club of Maryland, Lagos, presenting his successor, Roda Ogunlola Ademola Oladapo, to the audience at Oladapo's inauguration, at the weekend.

•L-R: Ogba Dennis, Chigozie Onwumere, Mrs. Lucy Noatire, Ifeanyi Udemeze and Mrs. Clara Onuoha at the 2014 Harvest Planning Committee of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ipaja Fundraising for Medical Equipment for its clinic, held in Ikeja, Lagos.

I fought Boko Haram, didn’t sponsor it — Ihejirika •Alleges plot against Nigeria

BY KINGSLEY OMONOBI

C

HIEF of the Army Staff, Lt. General Azubuike Ihejirika, said, weekend, that the nation was yet to come to terms with the fact that Boko Haram and its sponsors are out to bring down Nigeria, pointing out that this is why citizens were buying into what he called the fourth dimensional media warfare being waged in support of the insurgency.

Speaking at the quarterly re-union of the 18th Regular Course Alumni in Abuja, Ihejirika, apparently reacting to the allegation of an Australian, Stephen Davies, said, “I want say it here that there is no reason whatsoever for me to be angry. I will however say that from the happenings in the country, it is obvious that we are yet to come to terms with the magnitude of the terrorists plot to bring down our nation and utterances like that only serve to assist them in their bid to bring down this democracy”.

He went on: “While I am not saying that sanctions or

actions should not be taken against those who want to bring this nation down by engaging in acts inimical to its unity and existence, I am saying that the media should not allow itself to be deceived by those who see the fourth dimensional front of using the media as the way to achieve their objectives.

“When this issue came up, I was wondering, but, today, I find myself having to give myself the same

advice I have always given Nigeria over and over again, and that is that I will not join others in overheating the polity because they don’t know the implications of that on the peace and security of the country.

“What I know and want to assure the country is that the current Boko Haram challenge is one problem we will overcome and hopefully the country will grow stronger after it”.

Asaba Ebola suspect tests negative

BY EMMA AJIBULU

A

woman suspected of being infected with the Ebola virus in Delta State has tested negative, according to a statement by the state Commissioner of Information, Chike C. Ogeah.

A statement by Ogeah, yesterday, said: ‘’On Thursday, September 4, 2014, a woman who arrived from Lagos checked into the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba seeking medical attention. While waiting to be attended to

by the medical personnel, the subject showed the level of discomfiture that elicited suspicions of a probable Ebola disease. ‘’The subject was isolated while samples of her blood were taken to test for Ebola. Today, Friday, September 05, 2014, the result turned out negative to Ebola Virus Disease. The patient has since been admitted into FMC Asaba and is receiving treatment for the other ailments that were diagnosed. ‘’Earlier today, a similar rumour over the death of

2015 Delta Guber: Youths drum support for Andrew Warri

BY EPHRAIM OSEJI

D

ELTA State youths under the aegis of Youths for Good Governance (Y4GG), are drumming support for Delta State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial aspirant, Dr Andrew Foubiri Warri, for the seat of Delta State Governor in 2015.

The group, in a statement signed by its Coordinator, Mr. Benson Osekavwebor, enjoined the people of Delta State to support Andrew Warri who hails from Ogbobagbene, Burutu LGA in his quest to become governor of Delta State, adding that

“When in 2011, at the annual Chief of the Army Conference, I spoke about the Boko Haram terrorism and said that the nation was at war, my comments were not easily appreciated. Many people in government including some of my colleagues said these were just some people fighting for recognition and the issue will not take time to resolve.

“But I must thank President Goodluck

evidence abound that Andrew Warri had been the centre of attraction for many years because of his special interest and passion as a change agent in Delta State and across Nigeria.

The statement which described him as a strong motivator, exceptional growth driver and selfless leader worthy of emulation, pointed out that they are aligning with him because he had over time declared publicly that he is joining the governorship race in Delta State for the sake of humanity.

“This statement is considered to be true as he

has over the years shown true kindness to local communities in providing adequate medical care and attention to those who needed it the most. In all honesty, Andrew War ri is presenting a ‘New Order’ in the politics of Delta State as he is the youngest among the governorship aspirants and he is the most adored by the youths of Delta State.

The statement maintained that “he is indeed a people-centric person that the people of Delta State must do well to embrace and work with in the future.

another lady at Eku Specialist Hospital, Eku had also proved negative. The woman, a diabetic patient, had checked into the hospital on returning from a visit to Port Harcourt but died on Thursday, September 4, 2014, a development that aroused suspicions of Ebola disease. It eventually emerged that the woman’s health was exacerbated by her high intake of salt when people were falsely led to believe that drinking salt solutions would stave off Ebola Virus Disease. ‘’Deltans and all residents of Delta State are hereby assured that the state remains Ebola-free while the Inter-Ministerial Ebola Virus Outbreak Preparedness and Response Committee is working round the clock to monitor and evaluate every suspected case. ‘’While we encourage every resident to remain vigilant, care must be taken not to engage in wild speculations that trigger panic among the people. Rather engage in uninformed speculations, anybody concerned about his or her observations should contact the committee on the dedicated lines. ‘’The lines are: 0 8 0 3 7 8 5 7 4 7 9 , 0 8 0 6 3 9 2 7 2 0 2 , 07037120510 and 08037438829 while the SMS Centre is 32581.’’

Jonathan who understood the message and approved several steps that we took which, if they had not been taken, would have caused us greater danger today.

The anti-terrorism dog

centre is one, the establishment of the Counter Terrorism Centre in Kotangora is one, and the establishment of the Civil /Military Affairs Department at Army headquarters is another ”.

NDDC boss praised for completing projects

A

NONGOVERNMENTAL organization, Niger Delta Project Monitoring Group, has commended Engr.

Omatsuli Tuoyo, Director of Projects on the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, over his drive to complete all abandoned projects in the area, particularly in Delta State.

In a meeting of the group held in Calabar, Cross Rivers State, the group also passed a vote of confidence on Tuoyo, saying that his articulate style of tackling the Niger Delta

problems with his new office was wonderful.

The co-ordinator of the group, Chief Lucky Ayomanor, described Omatsuli as a focused, articulate, pragmatic, dynamic, God-fearing and a detribalized Nigerian that is committed to quality service delivery.

Ayomanor said apart from Tuoyo’s unassuming disposition which has endeared him to many people in the Niger Delta, his commitment to quality service delivery is overwhelming.

DRC revokes StarTimes’ operating licence

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HE government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has revoked the licence of the digital terrestrial television operator, StarTimes.

The revocation, according to Media Congo, took effect from 1 September and was on the orders of the Prime Minister, who directed the Post and Telecommunication, New Information Technologies and Communication (PT-NTIC) Minister, Tryphon Kin-Kiey Mulumba, to enforce it.

The saga around StarTimes began in July, when the PTNTIC alleged that the company illegally carried on television and television distribution practices in the country. Mulumba insists that StarTimes never received an agreement to operate from the School of Authority for the regulation of Posts and Telecommunications of the Congo (ARPTC), according to article 17, paragraph 3 of the framework law cadre n° 013/

2002 dated 16 October 2002 c o n c e r n i n g telecommunications.

The PT-NTIC minister added that Startimes also operated illegally by using the public enterprise RTNC2’s frequency and that of the private organisation Télé7, alleged to have been transferred to them. However article 42, paragraph 1 of the framework law states that telecommunication public services dealerships and authorisations delivered according to this law are issued in a private capacity and therefore not transferrable.

Once the operation licence is revoked, StarTimes will have to remove all its advertisements, failing which it will “exacerbate it’s criminal liability”, insisted Mulumba who, thus, wins the contest against his colleague Lambert Mende, Media Minister, who strongly intervened in favour of SarTimes.

PAGE 8—SUNDAY VANGUARD,SEPTEMBER 7, 2014,

TRIBUTES

Late Igwe

Dimgba Igwe killed Tributes pour in for super journalist

BY OUR REPORTERS

Dimgba Igwe, veteran journalist of repute and Vice Chairman of The Sun Publishing Limited,

was yesterday killed by an unknown driver while jogging in his Okota, Lagos neighbourhood.

He was 58years old.

Tributes have been pouring in since the tragic news of his death hit the airwaves.

A statement signed by Femi Adesina, Managing Director/ Editor-in-Chief issued on behalf of The Sun Publishing Limited reads: “With heavy hearts, we announce the sad passage of Mr Dimgba Igwe, Vice Chairman of The Sun Publishing Limited. He was aged 58.

“Mr Igwe passed on today around 10 a.m at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) of injuries suffered from a hit-and-run driver, as he jogged in his Okota, Lagos, neighborhood.

“First aid was administered to him at St. Raphael Hospital, Ago Palace Way, before he was moved to LASUTH for surgical emergency. He did not survive.

“Chairman and Publisher of The Sun Newspapers, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu, described the development as ‘’tragic, shocking, and a dark day in the annals of journalism in Nigeria.’’ ‘’Dimgba Igwe was too much of a gentleman, fine brain and mind to die tragically like this,’’ he added.

“Igwe and Mike Awoyinfa added verve to Nigerian journalism

when they set up Weekend Concord in 1989. The duo pioneered The Sun Newspapers in 2003, with Awoyinfa as Managing Director Editor-in-Chief, and Igwe as Deputy Managing Director/ Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Igwe was appointed Vice Chairman of the company last year.

“A committed Christian, Igwe was Deputy General Overseer of Evangel Pentecostal Church, Okota, Lagos.

“A prolific author and columnist, Igwe was a Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors. He is survived by a wife and four children.

“Burial plans will be announced later.”

FASHOLA – A loss to literary world

In his tribute to the late journalist, Lagos State Gover nor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, said the “death is a sad loss to the journalism profession in particular and the literary world in general.

Describing the late Dimgba Igwe as a trail blaizer, who along with his age long friend and partner Mike Awoyinfa, pioneered a refreshing brand of newspapering with the Weekend Concord, the Governor recalled the vibrancy which late Dimgba Igwe brought into journalism with his inimitable writing style and comments on contemporary issues as well as the stimulating biographies which he has authored.

According to the Gover nor, he had the opportunity to further

Dimgba, Just Like That!

By Ikeddy Isiguzo FRIDAY, August 29, in Katsina, I spoke with Dimgba Igwe for about two minutes. There was a simple reason for the brevity – Dimgba is usually a man of few words. Shola Oshunkeye, The Sun’s Managing Director in its new undertaking in Ghana, joined us.

We bantered about how unavailable we were. The annual Guild of Editors’ Conference in Katsina was the rare opportunity editors had to interact. Even those working in the same city hardly see each other except in the course of work.

The discussions over, Dimgba sat on another row of seats to my right. He always appeared to enjoy his own company. I left him alone.

There was the slight urge to discuss the politics of our State or the state of journalism practice.

I ignored it.

Yesterday, I read of Dimgba’s passing: just like that, as Fela would have said.

Was there something I should have asked him in Katsina? I don’t know.

I share in the grief of the family. Their consolation should be that he lived with such efficiency, simplicity, and quietness. He has done his bit without the rambunctiousness many of us substitute for journalism practice.

May he find rest in the Almighty. observe the departed Igwe as a perceptive professional on the occasions he met with him and his colleague, in the course of an ongoing book project.

While condoling with the entire Sun Newspapers family, he beseeched God to grant the widow and the relatives left behind the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss while praying for the repose of the soul of the departed journalist who died at the age of 58.

AREGBESOLA — tragic loss

Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola,

yesterday expressed shock on the news of the tragic death of Igwe.

In a statement by the Director, Bureau of Communications and Strategy, Office of the Governor, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, Aregbesola said Igwe’s death once again robbed the nation’s media family of a top-onshelf journalist.

He described Igwe’s death as a devastating blow to not only to the media world but also to the nation.

Aregbesola, however averred that Dimgba Igwe’s death has again brought to the front burner the level of insecurity to lives and property in the country.

He noted that it is

unimaginable to think that merely engaging in a harmless venture like regular morning exercise could lead to a tragic death like that of Igwe.

“It is indeed a tragedy of huge proportion not only to have lost this fine journalist and manager of men, but also to have lost him in such needlessly tragic circumstance.

This once again calls to question the level of insecurity of lives and property in this country.

“Dimgba Igwe, until his death, and with his closest friend, Mike Awoyinfa, established one of Nigeria’s highest selling newspapers, the Sun. “His death brought back to mind in a flurry our last encounter. Last year I met him and his professional twin brother, Awoyinfa. And after launch, we had a prolonged and robust discussion about a new Nigeria of their dream.

“It is rather unfortunate that Igwe would be lost this soon. We pray for the repose of his soul.

“On behalf of myself, government and people of Osun, we send our heart-felt condolences to Igwe’s immediate and extended families, management and staff of the Sun Newspaper, Nigerian Union of Journalist (NUJ) the proprietor of the newspaper, former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu,” Aregbesola said.

MIMIKO - A Colossal loss To Pen Profession

The Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko described the death of Mr Igwe as shocking, tragic and a colossal loss to the Pen Profession, the literary world and the Nigeria nation.

Reacting to the news of the death Governor Mimiko, in a statement issued by the Ondo State Commissioner for Information, Kayode Akinmade, said the columnist of repute bestrode the journalism profession as a colossus winning many professional awards and distinguishing himself as a worthy practitioner of the Fourth Estate.

According to him, the late Journalist took his job as his passion and his passion as his job.

The Governor expressed the condolence and sympathy of the people and government of Ondo State to the bereaved family, Publisher of the Sun Newspapers, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu, the Management and the entire staff of The Sun Newspapers and Entertainment Express.

SENATOR EKWEREMADU –He was a quintessential journalist

THE Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, also expressed shock and deep sorrow over the death of Pastor Dimgba Igwe Senator Ekweremadu, who described the late Pastor Igwe as a “quintessential journalist”, said the death was a “typical thunderbolt from the blue, serene, sky”.

In a statement by his Special Adviser, Media, Uche Anichukwu, Ekweremadu said :”I am short of words to describe this sad event. Sometimes, life could be cruel beyond measure, and this is one of such instances. It is a grievous loss to not only the Sun Publishing family, but our media industry and the nation as a whole.”

“Pastor Dimgba was one of the finest hands in the nation’s media industry.

Besides leaving footprints of excellence on many of the nation’s leading media houses, including the Sun Publishing Limited, his regular column, “Sideview ” was a prototype of excellence and professionalism.

“He was a flawless writer, a compelling analyst, and God-fearing media guru. He told the truth, as he knew it, in a sermon-like manner that held his readers addicted and spellbound. He will be highly missed,” he added.

OSUN NUJ – A great loss

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun state council, has described the sudden death of veteran Journalist and Vice Chairman, The Sun Publishing Limited, Pastor Dimgba Igwe as a great loss to the Journalism profession.

The union in a condolence message by

its Secretary, Bamigbola Gbolagunte, said the vacuum left by Igwe would be difficult to fill in the Journalism profession.

Osun NUJ also described the sudden death of Igwe as shocking and unexpected, but takes solace in the landmark achievements recorded by the deceased in the Journalism profession.

The union said “the death of Igwe has again thrown Journalists into serious mourning as we have no doubt lost another icon in the profession.”

Also, the statement said the death of Igwe would deny upcoming Journalists the necessary experience needed to do exploits in the profession.

The union sysmphatized with members of the Igwe family, the chairman, management and staff of The Sun Newspapers on the death of Igwe, praying God to console them.

SUNDAY VANGUARD,SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 9

TRIBUTES APC - shining star of Nigerian journalism The All Progressives Congress (APC) condoled with the management and staff of The Sun over the death, in very tragic circumstances, of Pastor Dimgba Igwe, on Saturday, saying with his death, Nigerian journalism has lost a shining star.

In a statement issued in Lagos on Saturday by its National Publicity Secretar y, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party also condoled with the family and friends of the late Pastor Igwe, and prayed that God will give them the strength to bear their loss. It expressed shock and sadness at the sudden death of such a vibrant, cerebral and wonderful person, who has been a constant star in the constellation of Nigerian journalism for decades, without compromising his personal and professional integrity.

APC called on the police to find and bring to justice the driver of the vehicle that knocked down Pastor Igwe while he was jogging around his residence. ‘’Words are not enough to describe the huge loss, to his family, friends, profession and indeed our entire nation, that Igwe’s death represents.

But we are sure the achievements he recorded in his lifetime will forever be a source of pride - and indeed a soothing balm - to all. ‘’May the good Lord grant repose to his soul and comfort those he left behind,’’ the party prayed.

Late Igwe

shocking development and hearth wrenching.

Atiku recalled that he last saw Dimba Igwe in January this year, “while his demeanour was as lively as ever and full of bluster.”

The s tatement said

Dimgba Igwe killed Tributes pour in for super journalist A j i m o b i commiserates with Sun family

The governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, also sent his commiseration.

In a statement signed

by Dr. Festus Adedayo. the governor said the death of the veteran journalist was shocking and heart-rending.

“Igwe was one of the beacons of the journalism profession.

He was one of the leading lights of the profession.

That a man of peace like him could be visited by the violence of the road is one of the

contradictions of life,” the governor said.

He recalled Igwe’s “deep, incisive and fluid” commentaries on the back page of the Sun and said that he had made remarkable contributions to the cause of journalism in Nigeria, stating that the country would miss him greatly.

The governor also recollected Igwe’s days at the National Concord and his contributions to the founding of the Sun which he and his friend, Mike Awoyinfa, pioneered, stating that the country would not forget him in a hurry.

While commiserating with the Publisher of the

Sun, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu and the Sun family, Ajimobi urged them to take solace in what he called the uncommon intellectual strides of the late Igwe and take his death as an act of God. “He came to the world for the purpose of enriching journalism, discourses at the public sphere and he did this very remarkably. He left when the ovation was loudest. We should all bother less about him as he has fulfilled his destiny but bother more about what marks we are making in our various endeavours,” he said.

Governor Ajimobi also urged the late Igwe’s family not to mourn the

late journalist, stating that death is a necessary end that all would face at some point in the journey of life.

Atiku Journalism lost a gem

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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has mourned the demise of the deputy chairman, Board of Directors of the Sun Newspapers of Nigeria, Mr. Dimba Igwe.

A press statement personally signed by the former Vice President on Saturday described the death of Igwe as a

further: “The demise of Dimba Igwe, who was a personal friend of mine will leave a huge hole in the spectrum of journalism profession in Nigeria.

“The sudden nature of his death came as a rude shock and journalism in Nigeria has lost a gem and will surely miss one of its finest minds.

“My condolences go to the Nigeria Press Organisation (NPO), the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Nigerian Guild of Editors and the Sun News papers of

Nigeria, where he was deputy chairman of the board of directors and his family. It is my prayer that God almighty gives them the fortitude to bear the loss.”

75TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION OF DR. JOHN OYEGUN

Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (2nd left); National Chairman All Progressive Congress (APC), Chief Dr. John Odigie-Oyegun (right), Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole (2nd right) and former Governor Anambra State, Senator Chris Ngige during the 75th Birthday Celebration of Chief Odigie- Oyegun in Benin, Edo State at the weekend.

Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and Former Governor Anambra State, Senator Chris Ngige, during the 75th Birthday Celebration of Chief Odigie-Oyegun in Benin, Edo State at the weekend

PAGE 10 —SUNDAY VANGUARD,SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

LAST WEEK

BY OSENI ADEYEMISI & EMEM AKPAN

Reputation of Nigeria’s military at stake — US

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HE United States of America has warned that the reputation of Nigeria’s military was at stake while the future of her children was in jeopardy following the capture of some towns in the North-eastern part of the country by Boko Haram terrorists. This came as Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Alex Badeh, revealed that for the country to win the war against terrorism, there was the need for diplomatic lobbing for foreign assistance in areas of equipment. Also the Federal Government assured that no Nigerian soldier would die in vain, even as a retired general, now a

Senator, Ahmed Saleh said the battle against insurgency was far from over.

US Assistant Secretary of African Affairs, Amb. Linda Thomas Greenfield, who expressed deep concern of her country on the International Conference on Security in Abuja, declared that failure was not an option.

The US envoy, however warned that Boko Haram constituted a serious threat to Nigeria and her neighbours and must be viewed in that light. According to her, the claimed towns

by Boko Haram indicated a “steadily worsening”security situation.

Federal Government reviews schools resumption •Comrade Dakpos Damijo(l)- coordinator of Victor Ochei Revolution 2015 presenting a copy of his speech to Rt Hon(Engr) Victor Ochei during the maiden visit of the group in Asaba recently.

Shema hits APC as PDP wins Katsina council polls

BY OLAYINKA AJAYI

K

ATSINA State Governor Ibrahim Shehu Shama, yesterday, boasted that the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) was no match for his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the PDP coasted home to victory in the state’s local government elections by landslide. The PDP was the only strong contender in the race as the APC shunned the election.

All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA; Progressive Party Alliance, PPA and three other parties, however, participated in the elections.

In almost all the local government areas of the state, there was large turn out of voters, especially women.

There was the usual restriction of movement as all entry points to the state were shut. As early as 9am,electoral officials were already seated expecting voters to start casting their votes. Exactly. 10.10 a.m., Shema was at T.V Centre, Dutsin-ma where he voted.

Speaking with journalists thereafter, Shema said the PDP remained the party to beat in Katsina, explaining that he would have loved his party (the PDP) to contest the

election with all the parties, particularly the APC, in the state, but it was obvious that the parties were not on ground. ‘’The state electoral body fixed the price of forms at N250,000 for the office of chairman,N100,000 for that of councillor.

The opposition parties complained that the money was too high. The body slashed it by 50%,yet they could not pay. The electoral body gave 30 days notice for submission of forms. They complained that it was too early. It gave them another 30 days grace, yet they complained before they were given another 35 days grace. It was after this that they sought refuge in the judiciary by asking to stop the election. They went to

Bride, groom shot dead on wedding eve •3 others killed in

BY TONY EDIKE

A

man and woman set to be joined in holy matrimony in Enugu were, yesterday, shot dead by gunmen suspected to be cult members.

Three other persons including the manager of a filling station were shot dead dur-

Hajj 2014: Ogun commences airlifting of pilgrims today

BY ISHOLA BALOGUN

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HE Ogun State Government has concluded arrangements for the commencement of airlifting of the first batch of pilgrims for the 2014 Hajj exercise today, Sunday, 7 September, 2014.

The Executive Secretary, Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alh. Sefiu Rasheed, disclosed this in a statement issued yesterday, affirming that all eligible pilgrims whose names fall in the category (A) of the first batch list are expected to converge on the Board’s headquarters at Governor’s office Complex, Oke-mosan, Abeokuta by 7.30am, for onward movement to the

the Federal High Court in Abuja before returning to Katsina High Court, both of which turned down their request. The only sensible thing to do next is to conduct the election which we have all seen to be transparent,fair and credible. Once the electoral body announces the results, the winners would be swornin the first working day of the week. I won’t delay the implementation of the peoples will. We are sure of winning this election,not because the party is in power but because we have met and still meeting the aspirations of our people.

This state is the only state in the country that has been in the hands of the PDP almost 100 percent. ‘’

International Hajj camp, Lagos, in anticipation of their flight to Saudi Arabia.

Sefiu added that all concerned pilgrims are expected to be punctual for the collection of travel documents and other necessary travel materials with evidence of all payment receipts, noting that adequate transport provisions fortified with police escorts have been provided for a hitch free movement of pilgrims to the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.

The first tranche of first batch (A) set consisting of 250 pilgrims are expected move to Saudi Arabia today (Sunday) while the other batches are expected to follow intermittently, he said.

Enugu

ing the sporadic shooting by the unknown assailants who had laid siege on Abakpa and Trans-Ekulu area of Enugu.

The incident occurred Friday night at a filling station close to Dhamija Bridge opposite Our Lord’s Chosen Church, Trans-Ekulu on the Enugu - Onitsha Expressway.

Sources said the gunmen trailed the couple, who were finalizing arrangements for their wedding yesterday, to the filling station where they were said to be buying fuel.

The gunmen were said to have, on arrival at the station, shot sporadically at the bride and groom who were in their car buying fuel and they reportedly died on the spot.

The manager of the filling station, a pump attendant and another person buying fuel at the time were also shot dead by the gunmen who immediately thereafter fled in their waiting vehicle.

Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ebere Amaraizu, confirmed the incident when contacted yesterday.

“There was an incident that led to the death of some people following sporadic shooting by suspected hoodlums before the arrival of security operatives and we have put measures on ground to unmask them,” he said.

S

CHOOLS may reopen from the middle of this month with the anti-Ebola battle going well. Health Minister, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, broke the news to State House correspondents at the end of Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja.

The Federal Government announced October 13 as resumption date for all schools. Chuk-

wu said expert opinion, now with the strong containment efforts of the government, is that schools can re-open earlier than October 13.

He said the new resumption date will be announced by the Minister of Education, after meeting with the Commissioners for Education and other stakeholders, who were involved in fixing the October 13 date.

2015: CBN, INEC discuss printing of electoral materials

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HE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) have agreed to work together towards the 2015 elections. The collaboration is expected to come in the area of printing electoral materials for the poll..

The CBN governor, Godwin Emefiele, visited INEC chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, to actualise the President’s directive. The visit was the first since the commission was established 15 years ago. Jega said the CBN was a strategic partner of INEC in ensuring free, fair and credible elections.

He assured the CBN boss that “INEC is willing to discuss the proposal and will continue to explore more ways to collaborate with CBN and

look at the global picture in terms of what is best for the country”. Jaga said the CBN played a vital role in the general elections, especially in the area of securing sensitive election materials, adding that INEC and CBN would continue to partner. He stated that the interest of the larger society was important.

The CBN governor described the visit as “basically a business visit”, adding, “I will crave your indulgence that we don’t stretch it just beyond this business visit. We have come to collaborate with INEC to ensure that the printing of materials as well as transportation of materials from the printing press to the voting centres are discussed to seek harmonious ways of handling it”.

Suspected Ebola case in Kaduna

A

law student of Ahmadu Bello Univer sity, Zaria, was quarantined after showing traces of Ebola Virus Disease symptoms.

The Kaduna State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Thot Dogo Joseph, who confirmed the incident, however, said that the blood samples of the student, who was on admission at the ABU Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), had been taken to Lagos for testing.

According to the commissioner, “the hospital (ABUTH) authorities alerted the ministry when it suspected that a student, who is a law undergraduate of ABU, Zaria, started showing some signs of Ebola symptoms like high fever, rashes on his body after a week, he was admitted at the hospital. Joseph, how-

ever, gave the assurance that the state government had provided the hospital management with protective equipment for its team of medical personnel attending to the patient.

The rumour of the Ebola Virus Disease in Zaria sent many residents of the state into panic, however, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Ambassador Nuhu Bajoga, who is the chairman, of Kaduna State Ebola Prevention and Control Committee, reassured that the situation was under control and that there was no need for panic. Kaduna State Governor, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, has designated three Ebola quarantine and prevention zones in the state, for the emergencies.

Ikimi was PDP mole in APC – Tinubu

A

former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, last week, responded to the allegations leveled against him by a former leader of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Chief Tom Ikimi, describing Ikimi as a liar. He said Ikimi who recently left APC was a mole for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Ikimi had in a statement, accused Tinubu of being a dictator in the APC. He further alleged that on the eve of the party’s national convention in June, Tinubu had a meeting with the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison

Madueke, over an oil deal. He also accused Tinubu of conniving with the PDP leadership to double cross a former presidential candidate of the Action Congress of Nigeria, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, in 2011, by urging party leaders to work for President Goodluck Jonathan.

Tinubu, however said, he ordinarily would not have responded to Ikimi’s blackmail as he knews Ikimi’s style. He said Ikimi was never sincerely committed to the party, he was always playing out on PDP script.

Voters without permanent card won’t vote in 2015 — INEC

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HE Independent National Electoral Commission on Monday in Abuja said that voters who did not collect their permanent voters card by December 2014 “would be disenfranchised in the 2015 general election.

The commission called on Nigerians not to lose hope in its ability to deliver free, fair and credible election in 2015.

The Director of Voter Registry in INEC, Mr. Emmanuel Akem said voters that just registered in the FCT would have their PVCs in 30 days, adding that the observation and complaints by prospective voters were being addressed. He said all potential voters for 2014 must have collected their PVCs before December 2014.

Boko Haram slaughtering males in Bama — Borno Senator

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HE Senator representing Borno Central in the National Assembly, Ahmed Zannah, last Wednesday, Wednesday, indicated that Boko Haram insurgents had started killing both adult and teenage males in its desire to expand its caliphate in the North-east. The group has also seized Bara and Gulani, two communities in Yobe State. He challenged the military authorities and the Borno State government to take the media to Bama to cross check his claims.

Zannah accused the military and Borno State government of lying to Nigerians.

The battle for Bama made Governor Kashim Shettima to cut short his official visit to Sudan and the United Kingdom, and the Shehu of

Borno, Alhaji Abubakar El-Kanemi to call on the Muslim faithful in the troubled state to immediately commence three days of fasting and prayers for the return of peace to the state.

He also urged the Christians to do the same.

Earlier, last Wednesday, foreign ministers of Nigeria, Benin Republic, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger Republic, as well as representatives of the United States, Britain, France, Canada and China met in Abuja over strategies to curtail Boko Haram. They resolved that Nigeria, its neighbors and other partners should ensure that arms supplies and funding to Boko Haram were cut off.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 11

2015: Is PDP rejoicing at the wrong time? in which she failed to fly when it mattered most. Chike had confidently opined that Nigeria would win because her No. 4- Oshoala was unstoppable. Alas, Chike could not recover from the shock of Nigeria’s defeat in the final match against Germany.

Regrettably, Chike is again getting over confident about another contestthe

Assuming INEC means well, can it guarantee what its often compromised staff will do with this new device? After all, the nation is yet to get the details of the manipulation by 2 of its suspended electoral officers in Osogbo and Obokun local government areas in the just concluded Osun governorship election

worse for it for ignoring a similar caution about being over confident concerning the recently concluded Female World Cup contest where Nigeria humiliated every opponent until the final match

,

Presidential election in Nigeria in 2015. Is his party, the PDP similarly over confident? If unfortunately she is, I just hope President Jonathan is not because there are what can be called election

PhD, Department of Philosophy, University of Lagos,

Truth, reason and nation building (5)

C

OLLECTIVELY, Igbo politicians, especially since the return to civilian rule in 1999 have failed in this regard.

Nothing emblematises the decadent political leadership in Igboland today, and therewith the decline of South East as a liveable human space, more than the horrifying decay of Aba, once a flourishing centre of commerce. Presently, Aba is one of the most neglected urban centres in Nigeria, a paradigm example of arrested development, a glorified refuse dump.

Former governor Orji Uzor Kalu and incumbent governor Theodore Orji deserve sanctions for the deplorable state of Enyimba city. I grew up in Aba, when it was one of the most hospitable places in Igboland. Now, after fifteen years of mediocre governance, the city is a grotesque shadow of its former self. In my home state, Imo, the quality of work done

by Rochas Okorocha's agbata ekee administration is decidedly sub-standard; it is as if good governance has gone on holiday. Hence, Igbo youths should rise up now and demand responsible leadership from politicians, instead of accepting crumbs from them euphemistically misnamed "empowerment."

The national conference, which just ended, has again demonstrated that Nigeria is far from being a united country. Available reports indicate that, because of serious conflict of interest

between Northern and Southern delegates, there was no consensus on interconnected fundamental issues such as resource control, restructuring of our unitarist federal system, and derivation. Largely, whereas Southern delegates argued that the current skewed system is detrimental to the South, especially oil-bearing communities, and should be replaced with a more equitable system, Northern delegates wanted the status quo to remain relatively unchanged. According to Anthony Sani, spokesperson of Northern Delegates' Forum (NDF), "Northern delegates believe in the concept of nationhood, where the people who were brought together to be one nation should be enabled to synergise and unleash their potential to promote balanced development." Therefore, "any recommendation which hypes the gap of incomes among constituent parts of the country is not good politics or economics. This is because the nation is strong only with balanced development. Wide disparity in incomes among groups and individuals is counterproductive."

Now, A.B.C. Nwosu, Yinka Odumakin, Annkio Briggs and others have persuasively debunked the submission of Northern delegates by arguing that a move towards genuine federalism and greater control of funds generated from resources by communities where they are derived is just and conducive

to national development. The main thrust of Northern delegates' position at the conference - subordination of the South to Northern interests in the name of "national unity" - should not surprise anyone knowledgeable in Nigerian history. After all, the amalgamation of Northern and Southern Nigeria was motivated by the selfish interest of Britain to promote economic development in Northern Nigeria and defray administrative costs with funds derived from the relatively more prosperous South. As one perceptive historian put it, "the protectorate of Northern Nigeria was so impoverished that it had to be run with a subsidy by the government of the Colony and Protectorate of Southern Nigeria."

Moreover, core Northern leaders driven by Islamic feudalist ideology, such as Ahmadu Bello, Inua Wada and Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, believed strongly that the North was destined to conquer and dominate the South. For instance, in 1947 when the Richards Constitution came into effect, Balewa, who later became Prime Minister, threatened that "if the British quitted Nigeria now at this stage, the Northern people would continue their interrupted conquest to the sea."

Evidently, Sani and his cohorts forgot that any nation built on injustice, irrationality and obdurate parochialism cannot stand: sustainable national unity depends on truth, fairness, and commitment to patriotism.

Given the stagnation in economic and educational development in the North, educated Northern youths

the speakers at the rallies are mostly ministers and top government officials as well as PDP stalwarts reduces the level of credibility of the events. Indeed, the rallies look like those television documentaries which depict how great a man is by featuring his children describing him as the best dad ever- whose father?

But none of the issues raised so far raised is as crucial as the fear of the referee- the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Recently, the commission announced thousands of additional polling stations in the country.

How INEC has shared them should tell the PDP that they are probably rejoicing at the wrong time. Is the PDP familiar with “gerrymandering”- a term which refers to the manipulation of electoral constituencies/polling units in such a way as to influence the outcome of elections in favour of a political party? INEC says it has introduced more voting units to reduce large numbers of voters in some centres. That sounds good; but by which mathematical formula did it arrive at giving one zone in the country more additional units than six other zones put together? Is the favoured zone the place where several people are migrating to at this point in time, if not how can it deserve the chunk of additional units?

Assuming INEC means well, can it guarantee what its

often compromised staff will do with this new device? After all, the nation is yet to get the details of the manipulation by 2 of its suspended electoral officers in Osogbo and Obokun local government areas in the just concluded Osun governorship election.

In any case, while it is wise to ensure that no voting centre has more than 500 voters, why is INEC fantasizing to be doing something new? Was the pegging of voters population at a maximum of 500 per booth not achieved as far back as 1991 by the Humphrey Nwosu led electoral body? Perhaps we need to warn that attempting to change old familiar voting centre less than 6 months before a major election is risky. It was tried during the 1999 general elections and the result gathered by this writer as an election monitor in Gombe State, was heavy fighting between 2 villagesGalumari and Rilawa. The fight was in connection with the re-location of the voting centre. Three persons who were seriously wounded during the fight were hospitalized at the Kumo General hospital.

The current contentious creation of new voting units and the resultant inequitable distribution of the units should tell our political parties that while rallies to mobilize voters are expedient it is futile not to pay attention to moves that could make the election a lost battle before it begins

should begin to see themselves as change-agents ready to abolish an oppressive system that has marginalised them for so long. They can start the process by asking searching questions such as, what is responsible for the continued backwardness of Northern Nigeria despite its domination of the highest political office in the country for almost thirty years? To what extent have Northern governors utilised available resources to develop the area?

Has deliberate manipulation of the political structure in favour of Northern Nigeria really improved the condition of the masses there or widened further the existential gap between the rich and the poor?

To underscore the futility of discriminatory policies favourable to Northern Nigeria, consider the education sector. The quota system for admission in our educational institutions at all levels has failed to bridge the

and members of the Northern establishment should stop chasing shadows and face squarely the difficult challenge of inaugurating positive attitudinal change from parasitic dependence on the South to creative utilisation of human and natural resources in the North for rapid development anchored on modern education.

irrational demands in the pretext of "national unity."

Having said that, it is time our Northern compatriots realised that national unity based on deliberate refusal to give any part of the country its rightful due cannot stand the test of time. The belief that "One Nigeria" must be sustained by exploitation of Southern Nigeria is tantamount to internal colonisation. It is an outdated attitude to nation building which, supported by a rustic feudal system, has left Northern Nigeria chronically underdeveloped and simultaneously produced few oases of extreme wealth in the midst of crushing poverty.

Lack of reasonable consensus on resource control and recalibration of our grotesque federation, I submit, implies that Nigerians have not learnt any lessons from the conflicts which led to the civil war. It is amazing that most members of the Northern establishment still consider Southern Nigeria a junior partner in the colonial amalgam, Nigeria, the very mindset and attitude of Biafrans, led by Ojukwu, resisted, and for which the Eastern region paid a heavy

,

in order that PDP members are already rejoicing over what they are seeing as the inevitable victory of President Jonathan at the coming polls.

One of such optimistic members is my old classmate, Chike who tells me every other day that their party is set for victory. Every effort to draw his attention to the need for caution has been rebuffed.

Interestingly, he came out the

,

T

HE Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN) who are clamouring for a second term for President Goodluck Jonathan may have excelled in their mobilization of many Nigerians to applaud their goal. Their South-South rally in Port Harcourt the other Saturday reportedly received the blessing of over four million citizens of the zone who demand that Jonathan should contest the 2015 Presidential elections. Their earlier shows in the SouthEast and South-West rallies were similarly impressive.

They therefore appear to have put the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a joyous mood ahead of 2015. In fairness to the party, no one can afford to despair considering the kind of figures that are being reeled out from the TAN rallies.

There is also the latest revelation that different groups supporting the President have soared from 3000 to 8000 according to Rufai Alkali Political Adviser to the President. It is probably

craters on the way to 2015 and they are many.

First, to count Jonathan’s support groups in thousands without a fraction is suspect.

How come the groups are exactly 7000 while the number of groups awaiting recognition is also reported to be exactly 1000 or were the groups counted by the same people who always counted our people during our controversial census exercises? If so, who says the groups are not replicated and that some of the members are not also members of even opposition groups?

Second, the members of the groups as well as some of the people in the crowds put together by TAN may have been rented- a common feature in Nigeria. At the same time, some of the crowds could just be adventurers who are ever present at every rally to see what is in there for them making it dangerous for anyone to rely on the crowds.

In earnest, several segments in the crowds including the transformation ambassadors themselves might not be registered voters or may not have succeeded in passing through the needles’ eye to secure the permanent voters card.

Again, the typical TAN rally does not in essence add to knowledge as what we hear there is neither new nor different from the daily television slogans and jingles.

The rallies would probably be better if they are less predictable. What is more, that

Sani and members of the Northern establishment should stop chasing shadows and face squarely the difficult challenge of inaugurating positive attitudinal change from parasitic dependence on the South, to creative utilisation of human and natural resources in the North for rapid development anchored on modern education

,

gap between the North and South. Indeed, the distance has grown wider because, whereas the quest for modern education is an integral part of the culture in the South, Northerners are still largely tied to the rigid apron strings of antiquated cultural and religious practices that consider Western education a taboo, based on hyperbolic strict interpretation of Islamic scripture that provides fertile soil for bloodthirsty organisations like Boko Haram to emerge. Thus, Sani

price during the war. In my humble opinion, communities in Southern Nigeria that helped Gowon crush Biafra should blame their erstwhile leaders for not appreciating the dangers of hegemonic jihadist ideology espoused by key Northern leaders at the time.

Of course, persistent failure of political leaders in the South to bracket their petty rivalries and speak with one voice has allowed the North to be more brazen in its

Constructing a great nation out of a conglomeration of different peoples with diverse cultures and historical antecedents is an incredibly daunting and never-ending task that requires extraordinary leadership founded on honesty and reasonableness.

The fundamental obstacle to the emergence of Nigeria as a true giant of Africa is mediocre leadership. One of the defining features of our leadership (and followership, I hasten to add) is the toxic combination of dishonesty and unreasonableness. It is sad that, despite the impressive human and natural resources in Nigeria, an overwhelming majority of the people are poor, destitute, unemployed, and dehumanised. Therefore, Nigerians, particularly those in leadership positions, must learn from our chequered history that truth and rationality, as guides to action, are indispensable in nation building and in the quest for a meaningful life. Until we set aside the culture of deceit, irrationality and bulimic egoism and replace it with honesty, reasonableness and patriotism, our desire for a strong, united, just and prosperous nation will remain an illusion. CONCLUDED.

PAGE 12—SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

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N Australian h o s t a g e negotiator, Dr. Stephen Davies made some startling statements last week, and it was widely reported by the on-line news magazine, Sahara Reporters. There was a certain inordinate glee in its reports, being as some of its critics now aver, that the folks at Sahara Reporters like to throw sand in the eyes of the Jonathan administration. To be fair, it is the professional duty of Sahara Reporters to throw sand in the eyes of the administration whenever it could, particularly where the administration is belligerent and hard of hearing on matters of grave national concern.

There are many who will certainly say that in certain matters of urgent national concern, the Jonathan administration seems hard of hearing. On the matter of Boko Haram, certainly, the administration seems hard of hearing because it is trying the same failed tactics over and over with the same result; or properly speaking, lack of results.

Those who try the same things and have the same results and yet continue to do the same things to invariant results are either too dumb for words or are candidates for the loony

bin. Let me be the first here to accept that governing is not an easy task; it requires a certain level of scrotal foundation and fortitude of the kind that can coldly lop off a head in the interest of a nation. Sometimes also, what the governed see is not always what is; there are dimensions of truth that may be too haunting to tell, and too sublime to even communicate to the public.

Yet, even with these facts, it requires a willing and steady hand to steer nations through murky waters.

Such a steady hand is what Nigerians are looking to see in President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, on this matter of national security.

Nigerians are not seeing a steady hand.

They see a totally overwhelmed president weakened both by his inexperience on national security matters, and his unwillingness to deploy the awesome power of the presidency upon which has been placed further emergency powers granted to him by the National Assembly to root out Boko Haram; its sponsors, and its insurgents. The president has been unwilling to reorganize, rebuild, and reposition his National Security Advisory team, infuse new ideas, and deploy alternative tactical

These trying times, it’s good to talk “Everyone’s worried about stopping terrorism.

Well, there’s really an easy way: Stop participating in it.” -- Noam Chomsky

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AST week, I said that that there are no permanent enemies or friends, just permanent interests. I believe that to be true. So I pose a question: what is one's enemies’ enemy called? A friend? Does that then make one's friend’s enemy, now an enemy?

So, it was a surprise that Iran considered joining forces with the US to fight the insurgents in parts of Iran and Syria The Sunni radical of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) is making sworn enemies strange bedfellows.

The current development is becoming a collusion of shared interests in the region.

Funny how the world and his cousins will fight tooth and nail, if they have some vested interest. I am still not sure if it is a compliment that the powers that be are taking

an interest. I do feel that the middle East will benefit from a long lasting and sustained peace, this will be the better for everyone in the world.

Will any country fight over Nigeria should it be the case? I very much doubt it.

I digress. The history of the conflict in the Middle East goes way back. The Middle East has always had a very precarious coexistence between the Sunnis and Shiites. The long standing discrimination of one over the other has denied many social and economic inequalities and thus created a very unsettling resentment brimming for a long time. This, I hope that Nigeria is watching with interest as this could happen when religious bias, economic inequality plays a role in power, nationhood and affiliations. In the Middle East, these discriminations and prejudices were bound to rear its ugly head and the fragile peace has broken

approaches to this question.

He seems unwilling to initiate tactical contact with the National Security Committee of the Nation to launch a groundsweeping investigation into the funding sources and powerful individual forces behind Boko Haram’s clearly successful tactical, operational, and financial successes.

A lackadaisical air hangs around the president on this Boko Haram issue, and this has generated a very partisan mood, in which the two contending parties for federal offices – the

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the well until we smash all our calabashes. Boko Haram is clearly not only winning the ground war but as the columnist Nnanna Ocherome has very aptly noted, it is also winning the propaganda war. One such issue which has raised the proverbial hackles of many a Nigerian is the “revelation” last week by the Aussie that Nigeria’s former Chief of Army staff, General Azubike Ihejirika is one of the sponsors of Boko Haram. Dr. Davies left his home, Perth, Australia

to come to Nigeria to negotiate the release of the Chibok girls. In his various contacts with Boko Haram commanders, he said, they told him that aside from Governor Modu Sheriff, the other sponsor of the insurgency is General Ihejirika. Stranger things of course have been known to happen, but the question is who the hell is Davies and what really does he know?

When did Ihejirika begin to fund or sponsor Boko Haram? The story does not seem to add up but only points to the dangers of toxic dependency on “foreign experts,” spies, and mercenaries, who presume, but hardly know where the proverbial bodies are buried in Nigeria.Boko Haram’s insurgency had started long before Ihejirika was appointed Nigeria’s Army Chief.

Did Ihejirika begin to sponsor the insurgency before then? When he was appointed Army Chief, he established a tactical command, the 7th Division Maiduguri with a special anti-terrorism task force on a brigade level which was fully deployed and which checked the Boko Haram onslaught. Indeed, Boko Haram itself accused Ihejirika of being “highhanded.” There is also the far more crucial question, having left office and command, by what means does the General sponsor the insurgency? Where is the money trail? What would be the direct personal benefit to him? I raise these questions, not to clear Ihejirika, but to register my skepticism, because it is a clear war propaganda tactic that the Boko Haram is unfolding:

sow distrust, keep your adversaries confused and guessing, divert attention, and execute a blinding operation. They have certainly used a clueless Australian to deliver their message. But it is all an indication of the inability of this administration to determine this process.On the pretext of Boko Haram, Jonathan has opened Nigeria wider to all kinds of foreign espionage activities and control; Nigeria is now the staging post for all kinds of dangerous mercenary and foreign espionage activity that has left its national security backbone weakened and vulnerable.

The last news on this is that a major foreign power is now poised to “help” Nigeria run its borders to check Boko Haram.

Well, then, we should all pack up our bags and go, because it is officially nuncdimitis for Nigeria; otherwise the National Assembly, the last resort of the Republic, must compel the President, give him a timeline to clean up this mess, or submit his resignation to the National assembly, failing which be impeached for inability to protect Nigeria’s sovereign interest.

If our legislators are unwilling to hold the president responsible, then the Nigerian people must begin recall movements for any representative unwilling to do their jobs. I agree with Ndigbo Lagos, Jonathan must establish a high powered panel to investigate the claims against Ihejirika on the strength of evidence and either clear his good name or try him for subversion.

Some Arabs even see Isis as a platform to legitimise Sunni ambitions in the region and there lies the conundrum.

The last couple of weeks, the world have witnessed the depths of wanton cruelty. Hundreds of thousands of refugees have been fleeing, trying to escape the path of the militants who have been systematically taking over cities in the volatile regions. What is sickening is that the militants have been posting shocking pictures of people they have killed and assassinated.

Recently they posted the decapitation of Sotloff, the second American journalist to be killed by ISIS, and his death comes two weeks after that of James Foley who was executed in a similar fashion. Their brand of cruelty makes one wonder if they really are human at all. The UN human rights Chief Navi Pillay said of, ISIS militants that they have "almost certainly committed war crimes" with "cold-blooded executions" of hundreds of civilians.

That is an understatement if ever there was one.

Regardless, on whatever side of the religious spectrum that one is on, every decent human being should feel repulsed by their gratuitous and wicked activities. These people have lost all the vestiges of humanity and they cannot for any reason be normal. The

public beheading of two US journalists was as gruesome as it was filmed and aired around the world. They have now threatened to kill a British hostage next if the alliance does not stop the air strike over Syria and Baghdad. In the UK, There is evidence that some British Muslims have gone to join the militants and are fighting alongside. The fear is that they may return to the country. Mr Cameron has since outlined a fresh crack down on extremists returning from the Middle East who may plan to wage war on Britain.

He announced that police will be given the power to seize the passports of terror suspects trying to join jihadists fighting in Iraq and Syria. We have been informed that such treat is now possible in the UK. We cannot become desensitise to these atrocities and we have to remind ourselves and our young that, this is not how normal human beings behave or else we will strip ourselves off our humanity.

Conversations with Femi I received the email below from one of my many readers who take time to write and tell me their views on what I write in my column.

Believe me, when I say this, I do read every single one of my mails and I do reply to them all. I appreciate them all even if they sometimes do not

agree with my views. In fact I value them more so. The emails below is from Femi and my response to him I want to share them this week.

Subject: Article in Sun. Vanguard Aug.31 In the said article you said '. . While everyone has packed up and gone on with life he is determined to get the results reviewed. . .' Pray isn't the APC pursuing the same goals in Ekiti State? Or has the world stood still in Ekiti State? Denrele, your bias stinks.

If our legislators are unwilling to hold the president responsible, then the Nigerian people must begin recall movements for any representative unwilling to do their jobs

opposition All Peoples Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) – now trade barbs at each other about who is sponsoring the insurgency.

At a time when serious bipartisan action is needed on the single most dangerous national security challenge before Nigeria since 1967, the leaders of these parties have resorted to recondite language rather than the protection of Nigeria’s sovereignty. But the president is the man in again and it is costing so many people their lives, their identity and homes.

As Iran is predominately Shia and it does not want to see a Sunni caliphate established on its borders

by ISIS fighters. All the major players have every right to be concerned as none of them saw this coming. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has suggested he would be willing to co-operate with Iran's traditional enemy to keep the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) from taking control of its Middle East neighbour.

The region has a long standing fear, that there is a Sunni/Shia imbalance in the region and the Sunni-led Arab states sees Iraq through the lens of

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Ihejirika, sponsor Boko Haram?

charge – and right on his watch, Boko Haram is capturing Nigerian towns and planting their sovereign flags on captured territory while Nigerian soldiers flee to neighbouring countries, from a supposedly rag-tag army. The president continues to seem confused and overwhelmed by this movement. But it ought to be clear that Nigeria by all indications is now officially at war, and Jonathan’s head on the spike is one of the prizes sought by Boko Haram. But Goodluck Ebele Jonathan seems struck by the “Ironsidisease” – inertia, inaction, indecisiveness, and pointless political correctness.

We seem primed once more to continue to go to

Economic inequality plays a role in power, nationhood and affiliations

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Iranian power and sectarian balance. They are reluctant to fight the brutal Sunni militants of Isis if doing so strengthens a Shia-led, pro-Iranian government in Baghdad at the expense of Iraqi Sunnis.

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Dear Femi, Thank you for your email. My views are my own and yours are your own. You may not agree with my views but I will defend your rights to yours. I would love to explain mine to you but, it seems you have already made up your mind.

Incredulous as it may seem, I do not belong to any political party in Nigeria nor would I want to court any. We are sleep walking into the abyss and taking generations unborn with us. Nigeria belongs to all of us and it is the only place we can, by birthright, call home. The do-or-die politics is galling and does not speak well of any Nigerian home and abroad.

In years to come when we are asked what we did, I hope I can stand up and say I questioned mine and my fellow Nigerians’ conscience. What would you do?

Kind Regards,

SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 13

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T was remarkable that All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential aspirant, Atiku Abubakar, on Friday, anchored his decision to again contest the country ’s presidential election on the premise of securing a better future for younger Nigerians.

“This is not about me, it is about our young people. It is about Nigerians. It is their future, not the past,” the former vice-president said in a seeming signal of an altruistic venture. Indeed, that inclination may have influenced the decision to position education above six major campaign policies to be marshaled in his forthcoming campaign to win the presidential ticket of the APC, and subsequently, fight President Goodluck Jonathan, the presumptive nominee of the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in the main election.

At the core of the education reform proposals to be put forward by Atiku is the plan to institutionalise a league system for the country ’s universities and higher institutions which will be part of an overall goal of reversing falling education standards.

The proposals on education reform are the boldest in policy proposals packaged by the former vice-president that also touch on security, infrastructure, health, Diaspora, governance system and economy/job creation. The plans are to be fully unfolded on September 24 when the former vice-president makes a formal declaration for the presidency.

It would be Atiku’s fourth contest and the third successive pursuit of the presidency following his engagements in 1993, 2007 and 2011.

The overarching inclination towards education was being thought in some quarters to be a reflection of Atiku’s own successful intervention in the education sector through his privately run American University of Nigeria, AUN. The introduction of a league system for the country ’s universities, it was learnt, aims to institutionalise a rank and reward system for educational institutions with the aim of boosting competitiveness among the schools which have over time fallen from their ranking among the best in the world.

Nigerian universities were in the sixties ranked among the best in the commonwealth and the world, but over time through lack of funding lost ranking and resources to compete among their peers.

Under the policy framework to reverse the decline in education, Atiku is also proposing to encourage private sector organizations such as banks to adopt schools who in return get exemption or mitigation in taxes and other levies. It is a proposal

2015 Presidency: Again, Atiku launches out!

•Atiku Abubakar... former vice president proposes a reshaping of the security infrastructure. that may draw mixed reactions given subsisting commitments by companies to education through education tax which is besides the statutory income taxes paid by companies.

Atiku, however, promises to counter such concerns with what he advocates as more transparency in governance as

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BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN, POLITICAL EDITOR

evolving demands of current educational/teaching requirements.

• Free education for children from deprived homes.

•Promoting and incentivizing the development of more technical educational achievements and development of vocational

The Atiku campaign is to be marshaled by Prof. Babalola Borisade, a long time associate of the former vice-president who has been involved in most of the successful presidential campaigns between 1993 and 2007

a way of boosting the commitment of corporate and individual citizens to the country.

Other key elements of the proposal on revamping the education sector as capsulated in the Atiku plan include: •Reintroducing School Inspection and Monitoring Agencies independent of the Ministry of Education.

•Tackling the disparities in academic and educational performances/achievement levels of different regions and geographic/geopolitical zones of the country.

•Reforming the national curriculum to reflect the

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skills and apprenticeship schemes.

•Advancing the work and standing of premiere economy research institutions in the development process; •Reintroduction of comprehensive scholarship schemes and grants in tertiary institutions.

In his plans towards addressing the security challenges in the country, the former vice-president has proposed a reshaping of the security infrastructure with the creation of a national counterterrorism body specially empowered to pursue government’s counter-

terrorism agenda.

The body according to the blueprint would be funded outside the normal framework for defence bodies.

Even more revolutionary, is the proposal by Atiku for the commercialization of personal security by government officials.

There were indications that this policy could be aimed towards freeing thousands of security men presently deployed at free cost as guards to public officials and their spouses and sometimes to their friends and political associates.

Other elements in the security blueprint by Atiku are •Establishing and implementing a ‘National Security Strategy’ tasked with countering and containing the security threats posed by Boko Haram and other forms of insurgency and terrorism.

•Creation of a dedicated ‘Counter Terrorism and Intelligence Division’ (i.e.

Office of Counter Terrorism and Intelligence) independent of the armed forces, DSS and Police. This specialist division will be backed by law in the NASS and given a dedicated budget and powers to pursue the government’s counter terrorism agenda.

•Promoting Regional Cooperation on anti-terrorism, counter insurgency and containment.

•Conducting continuous and ongoing National Security

Risk Assessments: This will enable security agencies to assess and prioritize the risk of terrorism facing different parts of the country.

•Establish concrete counterterrorism partnerships with foreign allies in order to take advantage of information gathering and sharing technologies, training programmes on counter terrorism, insurgency and Terrorism Finance Tracking Programs.

•Overhaul of the entire security apparatus into a more professional outfit able to deal with modern challenges of counter terrorism and insurgency.

•Commercialization of personal security by public officials The Atiku campaign is to be marshaled by Prof. Babalola Borisade, a long time associate of the former vice-president who has been involved in most of the successful presidential campaigns between 1993 and 2007.

Atiku is also building on legacy with his decision to use the Shehu Musa Yar ‘Adua Centre as the venue for the September 24 declaration. The late Shehu Musa Yar‘Adua was a man who unified many political aspirations and largely contributed to the successful presidential bids of Chief Moshood Abiola, President Olusegun Obasanjo and the late President Umaru Musa Yar‘Adua.

PAGE 14—SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

AKWA IBOM 2015: Why Akpabio is backing Eket for governorship — Aide

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BY JOSEPHINE IGBINOVIAAGBONKHESE

Aniete Ukpe is the Chief Press Secretary/Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Chief Godswill Akpabio. In this interview, he opens up on the 2015 senatorial ambition of the governor, the amendment of the Pension Law in the state and various developmental projects.

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ECENTLY Governor Akpabio did a volte-face on the Pension Law and had it amended because of the outcry that attended it. If he was convinced that the law was right, why did he bow to public pressure?

Actually this was a 16-year-old law just amended by the House after due deliberation on an executive bill. The state government noticed a lacuna in the open-ended provision for the medical treatment of former governors and deputy governors and their spouses. It, therefore, sought to put a ceiling to it to safeguard it against abuse and protect public funds. In clear terms, the amendment was right and was made with all good and patriotic intentions. Sadly though, in Akwa Ibom State, politicians try to reap selfish political capital out of everything. Where the law simply put a ceiling on how much, in terms of health insurance, former governors and deputy governors and their spouses who were sick were entitled to annually, the politicians mischievously cast it as

•Aniete Ukpe if it were a yearly pay out to former governors and deputy governors.

This was preposterous falsehood!

Unfortunately, a section of the press, apparently acting the script of these mischievous politicians, did editorials along this jaundiced line, without reading the law or confirming the situation from the relevant officers in government like the Attorney General or Speaker of the House of Assembly.

They obviously did not want the facts to interfere with their biased conclusions. This was why Governor Akpabio rightly described the situation as a siege on truth in his media chat. As to why Governor Akpabio decided to have the law amended, you should remember that he ended his speech to the press by quoting Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe that “history will vindicate the just.” History will definitely vindicate him.

Some people have argued that the Pension Law ran into a storm because the media was not carried along?

Such thinking is not only patronizing, it also gives the impression that a section of the press cannot analyse events on

When Governor Akpabio says that it is the turn of Eket Senatorial District to produce the next governor, he is speaking the minds of Akwa Ibom people. His position is based on justice, equity and fairplay

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their face value. You do not need to carry the press along when you are sending your child to school. You do not have to carry the press along when you are undertaking a righteous cause of action.

Remember to the pure all things are pure. This is more like noticing that your house is on fire and you try to fix it up, only for your neighbour to block the fire truck and claim that you did not carry him along before calling the fire truck.

What Governor Akpabio did was a righteous act and he could not have anticipated that men who do not wish the state well would seek to destroy it for their selfish advantages using the press.

Governor Akpabio is not just any governor; he is a governor, whose uncommon transformation of Akwa Ibom State speaks for him, and testifies to his statesmanship, candor, forthrightness, integrity and good conscience. Asking for

the law to be amended has been applauded by many Nigerians and has strengthened his credentials as uncommon leader with a good heart and conscience.

More so it would have been unfair and unjust for these ill-intentioned politicians to seek to define his sterling performance as a governor by referencing this law.

The burning issue in Akwa Ibom State is zoning. The governor wants power to be zoned to Eket Senatorial District.

Some want an open contest with candidates from all over the state.

Why is the governor insistent on Eket Senatorial District?

When Governor Akpabio says that it is the turn of Eket Senatorial District to produce the next governor, he is speaking the minds of Akwa Ibom people. His position is based on justice, equity and fairplay – attributes that endear him to the people and mark him out as a statesman. He had town hall meetings in all the Federal Constituencies in the state and the people were unanimous that power should be zoned to Eket Senatorial District. Eket is the only senatorial district that has never produced a governor in the 26 years of Akwa Ibom State. In line with the principle of zoning and extant agreements, it is, therefore, fit and proper for Eket to have a sense of belonging by producing the next governor. That has been the governor’s and Akwa Ibom people’s just position. Those who fault this are a vocal minority who are not driven by altruistic interests. Added to this is that zoning is in the PDP Constitution and should be observed.

What is the relationship between the governor and the

SSG, Mr Udom Emmanuel? Is he the governor’s candidate?

Considering his antecedents and contributions to the banking industry, the SSG, Mr Emmanuel Udom, is eminently qualified to be the next governor of Akwa Ibom State. He is from Eket Senatorial District. He shone like a thousand stars in the banking industry and rose to the top echelon of the industry by deploying the Akwa Ibom attributes of integrity, honesty and diligence. He is doing an excellent job as the Secretary to the State Government. He commands great respect throughout the length and breadth of the state. Having said that, the fact remains that Governor Akpabio is imbued with a democratic spirit and would not impose someone on Akwa Ibom State that the people do not want.

He is too much of a democrat. He wants all Akwa Ibom people to be involved in the exercise of choosing their next governor and ensuring that the legacies he is leaving behind are in safe hands.

Governor Akpabio has been talking about metropolitan politicians. Who are the metropolitan politicians?

It was a general statement. What the governor is saying is that if you want to contest in Akwa Ibom, you should connect with the people in Akwa Ibom - not Abuja. Politics is about selling yourself to the electorate - not selling yourself at the capital, Abuja. I am using Abuja here as a generic term.

Home is where you should prove your mettle, not Abuja. The political battleground is in Akwa Ibom, and you cannot win in Akwa Ibom by telling stories and making propaganda in Abuja. You cannot plant a farm in Abuja and harvest in Akwa Ibom. So if you want to reap in Akwa Ibom, come and plant here in Akwa Ibom. It is as straight cut as that.

How to position Anambra PDP ahead of 2015, by Ikefuna

BY LEKAN BILESANMI

Chief Samuel Ikefuna (SAMZEK) is a foundation member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State, from Awkuzu in Oyi LGA. He had all along chosen to play and remain behind the scene. He has now accepted to come out to the national stage for his people. He speaks, in this interview, on his political move.

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HEAD of the 2015 general elections in the country, what’s your assessment of state of the nation?

I am proud of what our dear President Goodluck Jonathan is doing. It’s such that Nigeria has become the largest growing economy in Africa today. The President is also doing his best in the area of security and at same time taking care of other African countries. I only wish to suggest that the government has to re-strategize seriously in its counter-terrorism techniques. Terrorism is a worldwide challenge, but it must be contained in Nigeria. This will make foreign investors to start coming in large numbers to Nigeria. In the area of infrastructure, the government has done very well. You will recall that Jonathan started the development of the country when he was the Vice President. The design for the renovation of the nation’s airports was initiated when he was the Vice President, and Dr Ifediora Amobi headed the team and was in charge then. However, I will like him to do more on infrastructure development especially the roads in the South-

East.

What then is your motivation for he Senate; why not another position?

I am coming on rescue mission because people of my senatorial zone have been suffering for a long time now. Since the dawn of the present democratic dispensation in 1999, our people have not had a vibrant or responsive representation in the National Assembly. I am therefore going to the Senate to get life-enhancing infrastructures for my people especially looking at the much talked-about sea port at Onitsha. We need to ask ourselves why that sea port has not commenced activities because it is a project that has the capacity to turn the economy of the state, the entire geopolitical zone and nation around. A look at Anambra North, one discovers that it is the economic hub of the state. It is the food basin of the state. Most of the agricultural products available in the state are produced in the zone. But the people wallow in poverty. And no employment opportunities for or any positive plans for our youths. The past senators evidently were not interested in taking care of my people. I thank God that the state governor, Chief Willie Obiano has at last tackled the hitherto prevalent insecurity situation in the state. So there is need to complement his efforts with the federal might. He cannot concentrate all the state’s resources to handle only the youths.

There is high need to use the carrot of employment to tackle criminality. That’s the area we need people of vision, people that are articulate, people who can deliver.

•Chief Samuel Ikefuna These are the qualities I personify. I am better placed, going by the massive experience I have gathered from the organized private sector, especially the oil sector. I will deliver and pull my people out of the shackles of poverty and degradation But do you really need to be at the Senate to do all that?

I have been taking care of the people in various ways, as an individual and a citizen, through awarding of scholarships to indigent bright students, from Primary to university levels. Many students have benefitted from it annually. I realized early that the most important thing in life was investment in human resource. We have to invest in individuals and how do we do this, we must bring education to the reach of all and sundry. There are many intelligent and smart students that are indigent; so we use our scholarship scheme and initiative to get them properly educated. We also have an NGO that provides for the need of those living with HIV/AIDS

and other such individuals in one need or the other. We assist them with food, drugs and money so as to give them some sense of belonging and not feel abandoned by the society. Some of the people that were so helped have started contributing their own quota to the development of their communities today. The scholarship scheme started in 2006 and with the help of God, we have been very consistent in putting smiles on the face of the less privileged. But there is a limit to the efforts of an individual, so I know that through the senate and using that leverage to get the Federal Government involved, it would then be easy for the people.

What do you think is the greatest need and challenge of your constituency?

The basic necessities of life. Many still cannot be able to provide good housing units for themselves. They lack healthcare, the poverty level is still very high. The people oftentimes cannot afford two good meals a day. Some of them cannot even afford any anti-malaria drugs and they are being wasted on daily basis. Our representatives always seem to turn a blind eye to the plight of the people and that is one of the biggest errors I am coming to stop and correct. I want to give them a new lease of life through quality, active and representation in the upper chamber of the National Assembly as well as attracting democratic dividends to the so much neglected zone. I want to give them a sense of belonging so that they can bring out their best. One can only bring out his or her best by being motivated and made

moderately comfortable comfortable. They should have good shelter upon their heads, feed well and live well. It is a disaster that many lives have been wasted because of their in-ability to buy N150 anti-malaria drugs. These are going to be my priority areas.

The PDP leadership crisis in the state remains unresolved. Are you not worried it may affect your chances in any way?

I am neutral and will be the new face of PDP. I don’t belong to any faction. I don’t have problem with any group. I will surely be the rallying point to all the factions so the party can take its lost glory back in Anambra State. APGA is winning because the PDP is always divided.

The various camps don’t agree, they all have their different interests that they pursue. I must state and categorically so that the PDP can only lay hold back to the leadership/ control of the state only when the factions allow common interest to override selfish motives and then form a common front. And I tell you again that this can only be achieved by having a virgin face, a neutral personality who will be acceptable to all the warring factions. Anambra is predominantly PDP and allowing APGA’s dominance is just not acceptable because APGA can never win any election in the state without the PDP delivering those votes to them. The PDP machinery and structure has always worked against PDP because of internal wrangling.

I therefore want to use this opportunity to plead with all the warring factions to sheath their swords and allow peace reign in the interest of the party and the people.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 15

Why we declared President Jonathan wanted — Bara Honourable Ogidi Ben Bara is the Director-General, House2House for Democracy, a group clamouring for the reelection of President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015. In this interview, he explains the mission of the organisation and the structure they have put in place to achieve this goal. Excerpts:

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OUSE2HOUSE for Democracy is calling on President Goodluck Jonathan to declare for the 2015 presidential race. As its director-feneral, don’t you think it is better to wait until he declares officially to run?

Let me assure you that we have enough steam and energy to last till the end of the 2015 elections.

And we shall not relent in asking President Jonathan to declare his readiness to run. For us in House2House campaign organisation, it is no retreat, no surrender. We will take the campaign to all nooks and crannies of this country, propagating the virtues of President Jonathan, mobilizing support for him and convincing Nigerians that they should return him to office through their vote in 2015.

Seems a herculean task, following the hardship most Nigerians find themselves. How do you intend to convince people who are hungry and even angry to vote for Jonathan in 2015?

Nigeria is a country of good

•Ogidi Ben Bara people who appreciate a good leader when they see one. This is not the first time that the nation will be facing some difficulties. We have gone through bitter experiences as a nation. We have fought a civil war, experienced bloody religious riots and other national calamities.

The nation has survived all these.

The Nigerian spirit is strong and unassailable. Our socio-economic condition as a nation is not the worst. In fact, this economy is growing impressively that it is now the biggest in Africa. That indicates that the future is bright with the continuation of the programmes and policies of this President. When we get to their homes, we will ask Nigerians to evaluate the benefits of YouWin, the provision of loans and capital for small and medium enterprises, the transformation in agriculture with

availability of fertilizer and pesticides at affordable rates, the establishment of more universities and building of primary health centres across the country. With all these and many more, we should be able to persuade them to join the campaign to return President Jonathan in 2015.

You will require enormous financial resources for this campaign. Who is funding the project?

We have taxed our members who run into hundreds of thousands across this country. And we are also reaching out to well-meaning Nigerians who believe in the mission and vision of Mr. President. We certainly have very good people listening to us.

In one of your declarations, you said: ‘President Goodluck Jonathan Wanted’. Why are you declaring the nation’s President, wanted?

The President is wanted by millions of Nigerians who appreciate his good works. He is wanted by the vast majority of men, women and youths who appreciate the tremendous achievements of the transformation agenda of this government.

We are impatient. We can no longer wait. We want President Jonathan to continue in office for another four years, hence our resolve to declare him ‘wanted’. If we have our way, we will go to the Presidential Villa to camp until he declares his intention to run for second term.

Your organisation says it would

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BY TONY NWANKWO & GABRIEL EWEPU

We appreciate the enormous challenges confronting our country at this time, but we believe in God that wind of positive change will soon blow over this land

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purchase the N19.5 million PDP nomination form for the President, what is the motivation?

We have over 100,000 women who have resolved to contribute N19.5 million to buy a nomination form for Mr. President. Each contributed her widow’s mite, to put on record their admiration and support for the President to buy a nomination form for re-election.

To some of them, this is the least they could do for the President of their dreams in 2015. We will follow through this passionate commitment of these women and deposit that money at Wadata Plaza in Abuja to assist the President make up his mind quickly to join the race for reelection.

You don’t seem worried by the political and terrorist challenges this President has had to confront recently. Today, there are about seven thousand groups urging the

President to throw his hat into the ring for 2015 presidential election, don’t you think it is a distraction to him?

These are positive distractions, and we have the right to ventilate our views and convictions in a free society. We appreciate the enormous challenges confronting our country at this time, but we believe in God that the wind of positive change that will soon blow over this land. The problems we are facing, that of security, power supply etc. were not the making of this President. We however, know that in the last three years, he had demonstrated a strong commitment to tackle the problems.

In concrete terms, we have seen great improvement in the management of the oil and gas sector. The power sector has attracted foreign investors owing to the transparent manner of deregulation, and our airports have been upgraded to international standards.

We have also seen massive construction of roads, bridges and new railway lines. The mortgage system is now fully reformed and liberalised to enable more people gain access to decent housing.

The education and health sectors have received more funding than any other government in our history. With all these impressive records, you will agree that Nigeria will be better if the President continues in office in 2015.

2015: Delta North won’t accept dep gov slot — Ogboli

BY ANTHONY AFOLABI

Charles Ogboli, a rights activist, is a gubernatorial aspirant in Delta State ahead of 2015. In this interview, he speaks on his quest to govern Delta and his desire for President Goodluck Jonathan to run for presidency in 2015.

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015 is around the corner.

Do you see the Independent National Electoral Commission capable of conducting free and fair elections?

Taking a cue from the recent Ekiti State governorship election, and for the fact that all the candidates that contested the governorship race in the state have commended the INEC for a job well done, I must say that I have confidence in the electoral body. The body has learnt its lessons considering the shortcomings during the Anambra governorship election.

The one that was recently held in Osun state has also shown a tremendous improvement from previous elections. I think the INEC can do well if the stakeholders are willing to cooperate with the electoral body. The electoral matter should not be left entirely in the hands of INEC. The electorate and politicians must also play to the rule. The new biometrics voters’ cards introduced by the INEC will checkmate electoral malpractices that used to characterise elections in Nigeria.

There have been calls that you contest the governorship in Delta. Have you got what it

takes to run for the post?

In politics, capability is always there, but acceptance is the major issue. My people accept me and they have asked me to run. I have no option but to accept their request. I don’t have to be a politician to know what is happening. I am a lawyer and I feel that there is a lot to do in my state considering the unemployment and crime rates.

I need to be there to empower the youths to realise their potential and contribute to the development of the state.

What is the zoning arrangement for governorship in Delta?

It is now very clear that the next governor of my state will come from my zone. I am from Aniocha north local government area. It is an Igbo speaking area.

It is now necessary to say that it is our turn. There was a meeting by the stakeholders and they submitted that my zone is being marginalised in the political equation of the state. So far we have had Felix Ibru, James Ibori and incumbent Emmanuel Uduaghan as governors. We can’t continue deputising them.

We are brothers and sisters and I feel that nobody should feel marginalised in the state. The terrain is too hot but I have to come out to tell the people of Delta state that I have what it takes to move the state forward.

Considering the godfatherism factor, describe your relationship with the incumbent governor of Delta state.

I don’t have a godfather. My relationship with the governor is cordial. But I want to give you

an example of Chief Willy Obiano of Anambra state.

Nobody heard about him before his emergence as governor. He is a banker. In the case of my state, I remember that during the travails of Uduaghan at the election tribunal, I wrote him and encouraged him not to lose hope. All things being equal, he has done exceedingly well in Delta state. We voted him in and we have been supporting him. I commend him specifically for citing the airport in Asaba with international standards. He has also constructed good road networks. If I am his successor, I will surely continue from where he stopped. Criticisms are in politics – whether you are doing well or not, be rest assured that critics must criticise. This is because people ask for more in governance. I have gone round Delta state and I give kudos to the governor. He has not let us down.

Under which political party do you hope to actualise your dream?

It is the Peoples Democratic Party. I have toured some of the states under the PDP and the governors have done extremely well. So it is the best platform for me to actualise my ambition and also deliver democratic dividends to my people.

Do you think the All Progressives Congress is a formidable opposition to the PDP? I don’t think so. The APC is not on ground from my own perspectives. It is not a strong opposition to the PDP. I advise PDP members who defected to the APC to retrace their steps

•Barr. Charles Ogboli before it is too late. There is nothing in the APC except crises.

Buhari is coming out; Atiku is coming out. This makes it crisesprone. The APC is just on air and propaganda.

Come 2015, do you clamour for President Goodluck Jonathan to contest for the presidency?

I have not seen anything wrong in Jonathan running again. I have also not seen in the Nigerian history where a president runs for one term, and it cannot start from Jonathan.

He became president by the divine will of God. Looking at his scorecard and some criticisms against him, I laugh because one can’t expect the president to do what governors and local government chairmen should do. That is the essence of delegation of powers. It is true that the head is blamed when

things go wrong, but I can assure you that Jonathan has not done anything wrong. Days of fuel scarcity are over; the rail line has started working; look at the electricity sector. But come to think of it, there is no reasonable government that can perform in the atmosphere of what is happening in some parts of the north. It is enough distraction for government not to carry out meaningful development programmes. So much money is being wasted on security. I advise Jonathan to remain focused. The aspect I am not happy is the education sector. I don’t like the arrangement of JAMB and post UME. In my days, when you scale through JAMB, you go to university. Jonathan should address this. If JAMB has the statutory power to conduct exams, why then is the duplication? During my days, we were begged to go to school, but today young ones get frustrated trying to go to school. Either JAMB or the post UME should be scrapped. Frustration in the education sector encourages crimes. Coming back to your question, Jonathan should run and I urge northerners to support him considering that he represents the minority groups that have contributed immensely to the development of the country. We are not complaining about that. When Shagari, Buhari, Babangida, Abacha and Yar ’adua were there, the NigerDeltans did not complain. We supported them. Northerners should encourage Jonathan. I am happy that some of them have identified with him.

PAGE 16—SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

Who will be APC’s consensus candidate?

BY HAMZA DANJUMA

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•Muhammadu Buhari

•Atiku Abubakar

•Sam Nda-Isaiah

•Aminu Tambuwal

with such massive following among their people are held in suspicion in other parts of the country. Consequently, such people usually cannot garner the national appeal to become president.

Very popular politicians of old who fall into that category and never became president include Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Mallam Aminu Kano and Dr. Joseph Tarka. That is the real reason Buhari lost in 2003, 2007 and 2011 and will lose again in 2015 if fielded by APC as its presidential candidate. Buhari’s case has also been worsened by the fact that his opponents have successfully branded him as a fundamentalist. Even though there is no evidence to support this, the perception has stuck. It does not matter who Buhari’s running mate is, that perception will stick. That is why in spite of Pastor Tunde Bakare, a wellknown Christian clergy, being his running mate in 2011, he lost almost all of the Christian votes in Nigeria. Buhari’s supporters always brandish his over 12 million votes in the 2011 presidential election as the strongest reason he should be APC’s candidate, but they forget

especially for a man that was head of state 30 years ago, and there are still many others who think that Buhari, having publicly declared that he would not be contesting in 2015, has fallen short of his own standard of integrity to go back on his word.

In spite of Buhari’s intimidating CV and anti-corruption credentials, he is far from being the ideal consensus candidate for the APC. Buhari’s APC candidacy will immediately polarize the APC and the party would have lost even before the race begins. But even though Buhari may not be able to win the presidency, he remains the biggest asset to the APC. • Atiku Abubakar: Atiku’s strongest point is the tons of money at his disposal to buy up the APC presidential primary, but if that happens, then the election would have been concluded for Jonathan. The President will defeat Atiku without even having to rig the election. Not many people both within the APC and outside think Atiku should be the APC presidential candidate.

Buhari and Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu are unlikely to find it in their hearts to campaign for Atiku

to the ground in order to replace him as the governor of Kano State.

Buhari and his followers in Kano will be reminded that in the 2003 governorship election, Kwankwaso, together with Obasanjo, tried to use the military to alter the peoples’ will.

Kwankwaso will most certainly be a good president but giving him the ticket can break the party. He is also far from being the ideal consensus candidate.

• Aminu Tambuwal: There haves been rumours of Speaker Aminu Tambuwal decamping from the PDP to the APC and contesting for the APC presidential ticket almost immediately. As The Cable said, his candidacy could satisfy the yearnings of a large section of the country for a generational shift, but it will simply be laughable for the Speaker, or anyone for that matter to officially decamp from the PDP to the APC tomorrow and the day after, he becomes the party ’s presidential candidate.

The Speaker cannot be a consensus candidate by any stretch of the imagination.

• Sam Nda-Isaiah: As The Cable said, Sam Nda-Isaiah, the publisher of Leadership newspapers, is not a political heavyweight. He has never contested any election and has never occupied any public office, so no one knows how he might behave in public office. But his campaigners say that also makes him the only real face of change among all the aspirants since “change” is the APC’s slogan. It is probably true that no other APC aspirant can really claim to represent change as Sam. At 52, he is also one of the youngest aspirants and therefore a representative of the school of generational shift. As The Cable itself analyzed, being a Christian minority from the North could eliminate Jonathan’s key and pivotal support in the Christian North. Because of the activities of Boko Haram and President Jonathan’s divisive politics, no Muslim candidate would be able to receive northern Christian support. But Sam also has another critical advantage. Northern Muslims feel very comfortable with him in a way that they do not with some other Christian northerners such as Professor Jerry Gana, for instance. So Sam’s candidacy, in spite of his scanty political CV (according to The Cable), has the potential of uniting the entire North. His fresh face in politics with little political baggage and a popular Southwest Muslim running mate can also deprive Jonathan of the entire

south-west votes, since his candidacy can also neutralize Jonathan’s South-west Christian vote advantage. And the Muslims of the South-west will definitely not vote for Jonathan in 2015.

Unfortunately the South-west which used to be insensitive to religion has changed. That is why for the first time there is a clamour for a Christian governor in Lagos State. The almost entirely Christian South-east zone will be turned into battleground states by both Sam and Jonathan with each picking up what they can. Ditto for the South-south even though Jonathan should be expected to win in his South-south zone in spite of Governors Amaechi and Oshiomhole. Sam’s major problem is that he does not appear to posses the campaign war-chest like the other aspirants.( Sam also has another vital edge over all the rest. It will be almost impossible for Buhari to support Atiku and other PDP entrants into the APC if they emerge candidates, but as Buhari’s “boy” and a member of the same tendency, it will not be difficult for Buhari to support Sam. It is public knowledge that the Leadership publisher has been one of the boldest and most consistent supporters of the former head of state since he joined partisan politics in 2002. In fact, he once joked during a media interview recently that he is the “original Buhari person, not all the current PDP people that now surround him and who had rigged elections against us in the past”.

Atiku, Kwankwaso, Tambuwal and the APC governors would also have no problem backing Sam. • Bukola Saraki: The former governor of Kwara State also has age on his side and will also represent those with the thought of generational shift. He also did well as a governor so can be counted to be a good president.

But he is hampered by a couple of issues. First, like Atiku, Kwankwaso and Tambuwal, he is of the PDP stock. In fact, in 2011, Atiku and Saraki were presidential aspirants on the platform of the PDP. The second is that he is currently under investigation by the EFCC. Even though the EFCC issue is clearly a tool of victimization of the Jonathan government against him, the APC cannot field a candidate with this unresolved problem.

• Rochas Okorocha: The main issue against Rochas at this time is that the APC has technically zoned the presidency to the North in 2015. * Danjuma is resident in Hotoro Quarters, Kano.

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HE above question was asked by The Cable, the new but increasingly popular online newspaper in its analysis of the different aspirants on September 1, 2014, and I expected that the analysis will go all the way to answer the question.

Perhaps the first question should be: Does the APC really want to win the presidential election next year? If they want to win, then, they must do their homework. As it appears today, there is nothing to suggest that they want to win.

Any party that wants to choose a consensus candidate among several aspirants must use certain objective criteria devoid of selfish interests. To do so, the APC must ponder what the key issues are right now that are likely going to influence the direction of voting next year. In my opinion, there are four key issues today: 1.Nigeria has become dangerously polarized on the issue of religion caused directly by the Boko Haram phenomenon and President Jonathan’s divisive actions along those lines. This appears to be PDP’s main strategy for 2015 as the party’s big wigs continue to associate the APC with Boko Haram without bordering to back up their assertion with any evidence. It would also appear that the PDP has enlisted the SSS in this dangerous strategy considering the fact that Marilyn Ogar, the spokesperson of the SSS has started echoing that line too recently.

The PDP has continuously referred to the APC as an Islamic party from the first day it was established.

2. Beating a sitting president has so far not been possible in Nigeria no matter how unpopular he is.

To defeat particularly this one will require the mobilization of the entire country, in order to neutralize the rigging machine.

3. Jonathan has currently been roundly branded, and rightly so, as incompetent and unfit to govern, and therefore extremely unpopular but because of (1) above, that does not necessarily mean any APC candidate can defeat him.

4. The unity of the north shall also be key as this will determine whether a northern candidate can win in 2015. To defeat Jonathan in 2015, APC must field a candidate who has the capacity to unite the whole north and who can be supported by all the contending and power centres within the party. The credential of that candidate must also be such as to be able to neutralize Jonathan and PDP’s strategy of balkanizing the nation along petty religious lines in the 2015 election.

So in determining which of the APC presidential aspirants comes closest to qualifying as a consensus candidate using these criteria, let us re-examine the names mentioned by TheCable viz Muhammadu Buhari, Atiku Abubakar, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Aminu Tambuwal and Sam NdaIsaiah.

I will also examine the prospects of Rochas Okorocha and Bukola Saraki • Muhammadu Buhari: Buhari is a very well-respected former head of state. He is straight as an arrow. His greatest strength is that he is very popular among the masses of the far North. But history has shown that politicians

The almost entirely Christian South-east zone will be turned into battleground states by both Sam and Jonathan with each picking up what they can

that of this more than 12 million votes, less than 250,000 votes came from the entire 17 states of the South and probably even less from the Christian North. This is what has led several to conclude that no structure can deliver Buhari to the presidency. With Buhari flying the APC flag, the APC would be playing directly into the hands of Jonathan and PDP. Buhari will get his traditional votes but will lose the Christian North and the Christian South.

Jonathan will coast to victory easily with Buhari as APC’s presidential candidate. (There are other reasons Buhari may not even get the 12 million votes again.

There is the Buhari fatigue. After contesting in 2003, 2007 and 2011, many people think he should not be contesting in 2015 again. Many also believe that a 70-year old should not be contesting to be president

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as the APC presidential candidate considering their past relationship.

• Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso: Kwankwaso has done well as the governor of Kano State. He is one of the PDP governors who crossed over to the APC because Jonathan will not be keeping his promise of not seeking a second term and therefore would be denied the party’s ticket. But it will show the APC as an extremely unserious party to give its ticket to a politician, no matter how good, who simply crossed over into the party to get the ticket. If Kwankwaso gets the ticket, then the 2015 presidential election will be between PDP and New PDP. Even the PDP will laugh at the APC. And many original opposition politicians will remind themselves that in 2003, they had to virtually wrestle Kwankwaso

SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 17

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Help, a blogger is threatening me —Shirley Igwe

Day I got turnedon after kissing a guy on set Ginika Maureen Ginika Maureen hasn’t really achieved the superstar status in Nollywood, but she is coming along just fine. The Imo State University graduate of philosophy, who isn’t afraid to take on any role provided she doesn’t have to go in her birthday suit, has done a couple of films, which have at least put her on the map.

Maureen says the issue of sex for role isn’t trendy any more in Nollywood. What is trendy now, according to her, is actors paying directors to have their faces in a movie. The slim Isiala Mbano girl says the situation is so bad that the real talented ones are now being conpromised “It has been so hard for me. The challenges are so much. Now you have to have money, bleach your skin and own a car before some producers or directors can give you a role”, she told Potpourri.

But she believes it is her talent that is seeing her through. “I interpret my roles to the best of my own ability, most times my directors are impressed. I can even take on sex scenes if I am well paid”, she said.

She even revealed to Potpourri that there was a day she was sexually turned on kissing a guy on set. “Yes, I have been sexually stimulated on set before. It was funny but I controlled myself well. We were actually kissing and I felt a sort of stirring for the guy.

Of course, I love clean guys and this guy was clean, handsome and a good actor too” she revealed. However she added that she has never dated any actor or any of her fans.

Actress made me sexually aroused on set - Benson Okonkwo

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ormer Delta soap model and Governor Rochas Okorocha’s Principal Prococol Officer, Shirley Igwe has been able to keep her name off the gossip columns, not only by living a low profile life or staying off controversial waters but also making sure she keeps her private life secret.

But it seems all that may soon end as a blogger, according to the actress, is on her trail and ready to do some damage to her good image.

Igwe who spoke to Potpourri said the purported blogger claims to work with Nigeriafilms.com and goes by the name Austin. He has been bugging me to grant him an interview but I haven’t had time to give him any audience. Just days ago he reached me on Twitter and threatened to do a negative story on me. His exact words were: “Now, you won’t answer me but when I do a negative story on you, you will know how far”, said Shirley who was utterly disgusted by the development.

“He didn’t do it just once, he repeated it many times and has been repeating it consistently now. I don’t know what negative story he can do on me but I am well aware how far these kind of bloggers can go to fabricate stories. I have been hearing about it and now somebody is trying to make me a victim”, she said.

Shirley Igwe was appointed by Governor Rochas Okorocha, last year, as his Principal Protocol Officer, after the sacking of another actress, Sylvanus Nkiru, who held the position of Special Assistant on Lagos Affairs.

C M Y K

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irst runner-up Vanguard’s Sexiest in Nollywood Actor 2013, Benson Okonkwo, is an actor who goes all out to make his movie roles as real as it could get. He once confessed to Potpourri that he was in support of the injection of soft-porn into our movies. According to him, they “make the movies more real” But in a recent chat. Benson wasn’t talking about pornography or gay issues for which he was severally linked in the past. He told us what he considered his most embarassing moment on set as an actor. His words: “Having an erection while acting a romance scene on set was my most embarrassing experience . When the go-ahead signal was given, I and the actress got into the character of two lovers and we were in a parlour and started kissing and smooching. In fact my trousers were half way down but I was still wearing my shirt while she had removed her top, but believe me, she was so busty that what I saw turned me on, and I presume, that made me have an erection.

“She felt my dick when it came up but we had to be professional and ignored it. I guess the girl’s big breast did that to me. I knew it was mere acting but I am human and I still have blood flowing in my veins.She noticed my erection and she just kept laughing. I guess she was surprised; the cast and crew members also laughed and made fun of me and I was a bit embarrassed. To me, that is the most embarrassing moment of my acting career.”

PAGE 18 — SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

Hottest bikinibeach bodies O

Genevieve Nnaji

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enevieve doesn’t have to push or make any fuss to get noticed. All the recognition she has, she has earned them simply by putting her talent on the line.

But she hasn’t got only the talent going for her, she has looks too and it can be fabulously ravishing. Little wonder the Half of a Yellow Sun star won the maiden editor of Sexiest in Nollywood organised by Vanguard in 2008.

Here, she flaunts her bikini curves in a photo shoot session with Hi magazine.

ur Entertainment celebrities don’t only play with our sensibilities on screen, they also do it beyond the screens. We have often wondered what they look like beneath those various facades they enshroud their personalities. Here are some, flaunting their bikini-beach bodies. See if they are hot or not.

Ini Edo

here has bee T beauty, Ini En talks that Nollywood do has been with her slip

ping figu to her heart-t re since she got married h But the Akwa rob, Philip Ehiagwina. her critics up Ibom State-born star sh bikini picture by posting a luscious ut to mark her 32of herself on Instagram sure though nd birthday. What isn’t is. Some havis how recent the picture down old colle said she had reached Some point! ections to prove a point.

Yvonne Nelson

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hanaian actress, Yvonne Nelson, no doubts, has found fame in Nigeria with all ups and downs that go with it. The actress nearly cried her eyes out when pop star Iyanya called it quits with her, telling whoever cares to listen how her heart was broken. But Yvonne has since got on with life and only recently premiered her latest movie Single, Married and Complicated. She has posted so many bikini body pictures that it was a task trying to pick one to use here.

Yvonne Nelson

Karen Igho

Karen Igho

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011 winner of Big Brother Africa, Karen Igho has made the news for all the right and wrong reasons. It is a common knowledge that her boobs aren’t real but what is real is that the damsel isn’t afraid to flaunt her body. She got engaged recently and took to twitter to announce it. Here, she was captured at a pool side in Lagos.

Ufuoma Ejenobor

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ollywood actress an mother of one, Ufuod ma Ejenobor, has kept he r head down from sc and controversies andals people are beginn so long ing to think the actress do even puke. But thenesn’t Ufuoma got bitten bug of bikini-body-by the fever which is catc showing fast with most of hing up Nollywood actress es days. This picture these the closet emergedof her in internet sometime on ago.

Beverly Naya

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Ufuoma Ejenobor

ritish-bred Beverly Naya broke her duck in Nollywood after starring in Home in Exile, Alan Poza, Make a Move among other movies. She once told Potpourri she was bullied for the most part of her adolescent years. But it would appear it is Beverly that is doing all the bullying now with her sexy curves. She flaunted her bikini body in a recent photo shoot with Exquisite magazine.

Tonto Dikeh

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Tonto Dikeh

C M Y K

ove her, hate her, the chances are Tonto Dikeh wouldn’t give a hoot either way you feel. She has probably had more dirt hauled at her more than Judas Iscariot had stones thrown at him. But Tonto hasn’t been caught pants down at any pool side or beach. The only peek of her bikini body we ever had is from a photo shoot session with Glitz Africa magazine.

Beverly Naya

SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 19

Hottest bikini-beach bodies Tracy Obonna

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oronto, Canadabased Nigerian actress and model, Tracy Obonna is known as the ‘Nigerian Bombshell’ on account of her voluptuous curves. She has done four Nollywood movies, namely; The Lost, X Class, Temperamental, and recently, Dance in the Storm with Mama G. Tracy has probably done more bikini shoots than any other actress.

Daniella Okereke

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agos Cougar star, Daniella Okeke sometime ago took to instagram to express what has been running riot in the minds of many of her admirers. “I have a bad ass” she said but then we all can see and Daniella has never spared us a moment of peace. After the shoot of her latest movie, the curvaceo beauty flew off to Greece on vacation where this hot bikini picture was shot.

Ella Mensah

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he is a Ghanaian but becoming more Nigerian each day. Ella Mensah is unputdownable and always a live prospect full of tricks. But she has been tamed by Oritsefemi, and the actress confirmed it’s true to Potpourri sometime ago. The couple are crazy about each other now. Here, she was caught holidaying in South Africa. Hasn’t that Oritsefemi of a guy got some taste?

Chika Agatha Oguine

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ast-rising Nollywood actress, Chika Agatha Oguine has become a popular figure on account of her talent and her sensuous body. Her most popular films are Temple Serpent, Ajekpako Billionaire and Sex in the Bar Beach.

This her beach body picture went viral sometime ago on the internet but Chika has since explained to Potpourri that it was a location picture from her Sex in the Bar Beach film and that she knew nothing about how it went viral online.

Chinenye Ruth 4 years old 2 fast-rising singer, Chinenye

Dominica Odili

Dominica Odili

Chika Agatha Oguine

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any actresses are making their way into the showbiz limelight by hook or by crook. While some have gone totally topless others have toed the line of modesty by letting off some flesh here and there. Dominica Odili may not have a solid claim to fame but this bikini body photo shoot she posted online last year more than give her a share of publicity she desires.

Ruth Okorie, popularly known as Ruthless Diva, recently bedazzle her fans and admirers with hot bikini photos from her recent photo shoot.

Ruth is a graduate of International Relations from NOUN and just recently dropped her new video.

Sylvia Oluchy

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ylvia Oluchy might not have made the Nollywood’s hall of fame but the captivating ebony beauty is very much on her way. The winner of Best Rising Star 2014 at Nollywood Awards is bold and recently drove it home by posting some bikini photos online. Though Sylvia has told Potpourri awhile ago she could never go nude in any role but it seems the actress doesn’t mind showing off herself in only pants and bra.

Sylvia Oluchy C M Y K

PAGE 20 — SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEM,BER 7, 2014

So if there is anything you are not comfortable with, you have an ample time to correct it before actually going into the lifetime contract of marriage. Doing it before marriage also reduces adultery and fornication. It is also a good way of studying your partner before you get committed to him or her.

Why I prefer sex before marriage — Oluwaseyi Edun

By Kehinde Ajose

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ensuously beauti ful Seyi Edun is a budding actress who has not only found her place in the world of acting but also taking giant strides as a movie producer. As new as she is on the scene, Seyi is already being regarded as one of the fast rising stars to watch out for in the Yoruba sector of Nollywood.

In this chat with Potpourri, Seyi talks about her life as an actress, a producer and the concept behind her first produced movie ‘Eja Nla’.

She also talks about her fondness for the pop star, D’Banj, her love life and several sundry issues: Have you always wanted to be an actress?

I didn’t set out to be an actress. I joined the industry in 2009 through my younger sister who happens to be a scriptwriter. I joined the House of Wisdom caucus .

I graduated in 2011 and also produced my first movie in 2011 Why are you called Eja Nla? I got the name Eja Nla from D Banj. I love D banj so much. I love his music and personality so I just decided to come up with something unique and produced a movie around that name.

The name stuck ever since.

What is your most challenging movie role?

My most challenging movie role is in Ogo Olorun. It’s a movie where I had to speak Yoruba all through. Not just conventional Yoruba, but Yoruba rooted in proverbs and folklore. It was really challenging because I wasn’t permitted to fuse English with myYoruba. I didn’t find it easy, especially with the Yoruba proverbs.

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What will you consider the sexiest part of your body?

I will choose my leg as the sexiest part of my body. People often tell me I have got sexy legs, so I will choose my legs.

Can you date any of your colleagues?

Yes and no. Yes, because you never can tell where you will find love, but presently I will say no , I can’t date any of my colleagues.

What would you consider the good side and bad side of being an actress?

The good side of being an actress is that you are a known face and doors open for you as a result of your fame. While the bad side involves having to deal with scandals and nosy journalists. As an actress there is no way you can prevent some bad things being writen about you. It is a sweet and sour experience.

What are the challenges of being a movie producer?

Movie production is not easy at all. We face challenges from monetary to logistics. At times, the timeline of production doesn’t just agree with your time-table. A film of couple of weeks may end up running into months and this may stretch the budget and make you incur more expenses. But the biggest challenge is money, getting money to bankroll your production.

What will you consider as your favourite qualities in a man?

I love a responsible man, God-fearing, not extremely handsome and not too ugly.

I also don’t want someone who is extremely rich. I love a man with a good heart, someone who will love me for who I am.

Have you ever been heartbroken?

Yes I have, and I don’t want to be heartbroken anymore. Heartbreak is not

a good thing.

When one is heartbroken it hurts and weighs you down.

You feel like your life has been thrown into a puddle and the truth is that it’s the person that one loves that breaks one’s heart.

Can you quit acting for your relationship?

That is why I said earlier that I love a man who understands me for who I am and my man cannot tell me to quit acting because of our relationship.

What does sex means to you?

Sex is a good thing, we are all sexual beings. Our sexuality is linked with the rest of our lives. It’s a sort of bond between two people, a form of expression that goes behond the ordinary intimacy shared.

It’s a good thing.

What is your take on sex before marriage?

I think it’s an individual thing. Once you are an adult and you think you are ready, go for it. Personally, I

The Potpourri team think sex before marriage is good. Because it will make you know your partner well before going into marriage.

Ayo Onikoyi, Entertainment Editor Florence Amagiya Damilola Sholola Anozie Egole Kehinde Ajose

SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 21

Email: vanguardwoman@gmail.com

Jonathan’s administration has favoured women —Afoma Adigwe

BY JOSEPHINE IGBINOVIA-AGBONKHESE

W

hile many condemn President Goodluck Jonathan’s transformation agenda and ambition to be re-elected in 2015, some Nigerians have imposed on themselves the task of returning Jonathan to Aso Rock. One of such is Afoma Adigwe, the initiator of Goodluck Initiative(Gi) ’07, who has again launched a Gi ’15 campaign ahead of 2015.

Adigwe who is also the founder of Uplifting Women Through Farming, UWTF, recently unveiled her plans and spelt out, in an encounter with Feminista, reasons behind her campaign.

You have been in the forefront campaigning for President Goodluck Jonathan to re-contest come 2015; is it that you have left your women in their farms for politicking?

I can never leave my women because I have great passion for them, especially at the grassroots level. I have always had belief in President Goodluck Jonathan.

In 2007, I founded GI’07 because I so much believe in the person of Jonathan and his ability to do things right.

People felt that I went too far then by setting up the initiative in the name of Goodluck but I had and I still have that conviction within me that he is a man who loves, genuinely, Nigeria. I single-handedly bankrolled the campaign without any financial support from anyone or from any group.

I thank specially Muazu Omolori who consulted for

us free-of-charge and gave us an office where we operated from then in Abuja. Jasmine Ekpo also helped tremendously then to orgnise the campaign in Cross River and Ondo States. Before the 2007 elections, I came across former governor of Bayelsa State, Chief DSP Alaeimesghea, who spoke eloquently of Jonathan and said Jonathan he was a calm person who will work well with Yar’Adua.

It is unfortunate that President Yar’Adua passed on but thank God we have President Jonathan who himself is a very calm and genuine man. When we started, we contacted late Dora Akunyili, Mrs Herberta Okonofua, the then PDP women leader, and they were impressed with our activities. We have a structure but then I didn’t come out to the public because I wasn’t interested in politics but in the person of Goodluck.

UWTF is still working fine.

There is a program we have continued to package since 2008; an agricultural exhibition for rural women.

This year’s edition was slated for November but we had to postpone it so we can give President Jonathan all the support he needs at this time.

Looking at his activities in the agricultural sector, you cannot but applaud him for his great strides.

We won’t also fail to commend the Minister of Agriculture for identifying with farmers and not neglecting the youths and women. We are still working underground to come up with a Microfinance Bank for UWTF which will commence in 2015 when we will be celebrating our 15th

anniversary.

Everything has its own time. If we were there for him when he started, we should be there for him till he finishes. We gave him the boost to start with and I felt he needs us more now than ever. We believe so much in him

You’ve always done these behind the scene; why come out now?

Everything has its own time.

If we were there for him when he started, we should be there for him till he finishes. We gave him the boost to start with and I felt he needs us more now than ever. We believe so much in him.

I am sure people who really know me will tell that my coming out to identify with a politician is borne out of passion because since I came to limelight, I have never for once associated myself with politics. I sponsored and mobilized for Goodluck in 13 states of the federation yet I was not seen but my structure was on ground. This time around, I believe it requires more from us and this we will do well.

Are you carrying your women along in this project?

Don’t forget that it is not about the political party but about sincerity of purpose

and the individual. I have come a long way and I can never sacrifice the welfare of my women on the altar of politics.

Some of my women are members of different political parties but they all know and believe in the person of Goodluck Jonathan who has done so well for women.

I can never be fully involved in politics because if I am in government, I won’t be able to speak out when they are going wrong. We all cannot be at the helm of affairs but we can be part of government by promoting what is right just as I am promoting President Jonathan’s administration. I have met with a lot of people that would have motivated me to go into politics. late Maryam Babangida was my mentor, my husband Prince Adigwe is one of the stalwart of PDP in Delta State and I have others around me but I am not interested in politics.

If I wanted political appointments, I would have lobbied for it. My women are so happy with Jonathan because he has brought smiles on their faces through his transformation agenda. A lot of women are now into farming because of the benefits in the sector. Most processed foods in shops now are being done by female entrepreneurs and our women are smiling to banks because Goodluck Jonathan is transforming the agricultural sector. Our women are also enjoying loan facilities unlike before when there were lots of bottlenecks for women to access loans. Jonathan has really uplifted women.

We want him to continue so life can be better for women. For example, take a look at the amnesty programme which our youths are enjoying. This programme was initiated by late President Yar’Adua and that is why we intend to give him a post-humous award at our Uplifting Youths Through Active Agro Project event coming up later in the year.

PAGE 22—SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

Bridging the gap be tw een cust omer ser vice betw tween customer service and customer satisfaction

S

UCCESSFULLY managing cus tomers has become increasingly complex. Dealing with customers on a daily basis will inevitably result in a mistake from time to time.In many markets, aggressive price,wars and marketing strategies slated to attract new customers are more and more the norm. Such strategies are not always effective, however, as they can impact reference prices and generate high consumer expectations that cannot always be met. Companies need to avoid focusing solely on maximizing transactions (transactional approach) and focus, rather, on building successful relationships with proûtable customers (relationshipbased approach).Such relationships should be long-term, as lasting relationships are more effective thanshort-range, aggressive actionsand tend to produce more satisfactory results for both customers and companies alike.

Word-of-mouth, an informal mode of communication consisting of spreading favourable views of a company and its products, and promoting purchase among family, friends or coworkersdeserves special consideration. Customers typically tell twice as many people about a bad experience with customer service than they do with a good one. Word-ofmouth, then, has the potential to impact intent to purchase, customer expectations, brand opinion, and ûnal decision to purchase. Customers perceive information received via word-of-mouth as being disinterested and trustworthy-in stark contrast to the opinion consumers tend to have of company-driven marketing campaign.

Employees who will be handling any customer interaction are ultimately THE VOICE of the company and should be chosen carefully. I remember my sister callingTMobile in the United Kingdom to complain about the contract she recently signed with them, she didn’t quite like some of the conditions. While she had to spell her name out to them using British phonetics i started to make fun of her accent from the background. When she said “A for Alpha” I said ‘no A for apple’. I kept going on and on, I was really becoming a pest. It got to a point she couldn’t hold in the laughter. We both started laughing, I can imagine how annoying it must have been for the call service operator.

But to my greatest surprise he kept his cool. His patience was amazing.

Even with all the jokes, he carried on taking her through the step by step

Bank customers on queue.

Osadebamwen Osawe procedure. He was extremely polite and calm even when we had been pushing him. When she hung up I said to her:‘was that man trained in heaven or what, now that’s what I call good customer service’. That certainly secured her loyalty with T-Mobile. Customers who are satisûed with the way their complaint is managed are more likely to compromise.

The knownadage: ‘the customer is always right’, when looked at critically one is led to ask: Is the customer indeed always right? Certainly not. However good customer service requires treating him/her as though they are, and making them feel appreciated. Customers need to know that the ûrm is committed to ûnding a fair solution to their problem.Companies need to realize that ignoring customer behaviours of this sort can lead to lost business opportunities.

Unhappy customers are often labelled as trouble makers. But analysing from a different perspective would help view the situation as an opportunity for growth, customer satisfaction and valuable feedback, to provide a better understanding of customers and help ûrms learn from their mistakes.

I personally have experienced very bad customer service in Nigeria.

Ranging from the airlines, restaurants, banks, telecoms companies etc. I can go on and on, in fact the list is endless. One may begin to ask questions like: how did these people get the job in the first place? Where the staffs even trained at all?

Are these businesses even aware of the long term damage poor customer service can have on them? Delivering effective customer service is indeed an important marketing strategy. The role employees play in resolving the conûict is critical as well, as they are the ones who will be in direct contact with the customer throughout the entire process until the issue has been fully dealt with. More involved employees can have a posi-

tive impact on customer satisfaction and tend to motivate trust in the company and drive customer acceptance of the premise that the company is genuinely interested in seeking a solution to the service failure in question.

Customer service plays a very important role in every business and hence it is important to emphasize on training of employees rather than on material resources. As front end employees meet external customers and are responsible for customer service delivery, their skills impact on how store image is perceived by the customer. Behavioural skills such as communication, promptness in service, politeness, being available on request, willingness to help and convincing abilities are fundamental. As employees deliver service to customers, satisfied employees can better deliver customer satisfaction.

In a competitive marketplace where businesses are focusing on retaining customers, customer satisfaction is one of the differentiating factors.

In Nigeria, providing poor customer service can and has caused a chain of events that has had crippling effects on businesses. Poor customer service experiences are plentiful and are not hard to find.

The key to success is to identify and correct the poor service before it is too late. While many businesses are keenly aware of the value of excellent customer service, few can accurately quantify its direct impact on their bottom line. Most businesses understand that turning the customer experience into an emotional engagement, strengthens their brand and results in more loyal and satisfied customers. However, most businesses do not measure their effectiveness in converting each opportunity into revenue, nor do they measure the overall cost of poor customer service.

Osadebamwen Osawe.

Human Resource Manager United Kingdom

More reactions trail re-introduction of N65 charge for ATM withdrawals

BY EMEKA AGINAM

B

ARELY a week after the take-off date of the guided policy on ATM withdrawal charges, more reactions have continued to greet the new directive by the apex bank, the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN. With the new directive, commercial banks in the country have re-introduce a charge of N65 per transaction on remote-onus Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) cash withdrawals.

The remote-on-us ATM transactions as directed by the CBN on other banks ATMs withdrawal, was canceled in December 2012 by the CBN . By that time, the charge was N100 per withdrawal.

How the charge applies: However, the new policy which took effect from 1st September, 20014, applies when a cardholder uses his/ her Card on another Bank’s ATM, after the third transaction within every month.

According to the policy, the new charge shall apply as from the fourth remoteon-us withdrawal (in a month) by a card holder, thereby making the first three remote-on-us transactions free for card holders, but to be paid for by the issuing bank.

CBN gives reasons: While the new development continues to attract criticism among bank customers, the apex bank and the Bankers Committee said the decision would benefit the economic interest of the country.

“The wear and tear as well as the frequency of servicing the ATMs have increased significantly.

Indeed, some customers were beginning to abuse the use of ATMs through countless withdrawals. This development has led to increase in cash transactions, which negates the bank’s cashless policy”, the CBN had said in a

statement. Even though maintaining and running ATMs is expensive, CBN argued that if part of this cost goes unabated, the banks may be forced to reject transactions coming from their customers at other banks’ ATMs, and as such may affect the interoperability of payment systems.

B

efore now, withdrawing money from ATMs by bank customers has been a nightmare as a result of limited machines and network failures among banks.

But with the new policy, card holders may be compelled to stick to their banks for cash withdrawals other than another Bank’s ATM to avoid the charges and network issues associated with ATMs. Banks customers react: Although all ATM cash withdrawals on the ATM of issuing banks will attract zero amount, the new policy according Vanguard Tech news findings may not have gone down well with many bank customers who have called for the reversal of the policy.

Condemning the policy , the National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS), described the new policy as excessive profit-driven move.

“By this action, the new Central Bank Governor, to say the least is not consumer-centric. This singular action does not portray him as a CBN Governor that will care for Consumers of banking services in Nigeria.

Not in line with IBP “This ATM charge regimen is not in line with international best practices (IBP) and is definitely not in the interest of Consumers of banking services in Nigeria.

“The N65 ATM withdrawal charge is punitive, excessive profitdriven, exploitative and

totally unacceptable” Deolu Ogunbanjo, the President of National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS), said in a statement.

Speaking to a cross section of Nigerian, the new policy is not in the interest of consumers of banking services in Nigeria.

Return of long queues For most bank customers, the immediate effect of the policy is the return of long queues at ATM centers as many bank customers would prefer to avoid the use of other banks ATM because of network failures and other issues associated with payment system.

“CBN should reverse the policy. Most bank customers prefer to use ATMs than being physically in the banking hall to withdraw money. It will increase the number of customers waiting to withdraw money. N65 is a lot of money in the economy. Reversal of the policy will help bank customers to save money in the current economic realities” Chikelue Obiora, Computer dealer in the Computer Village Ikeja said.

A

ccording to him, the new policy does encourage poor income earners and should be reversed for the interest of an average Nigerian.

Also speaking, a final year Mass Communication student of University of Lagos, (UNILAG) who pleaded anonymity said the new policy has already resulted to more queues at ATMs centres.

“Most times I tried to withdraw from other ATMs, network has always been the problem .If the CBN is insisting on this new policy, there is need to increase the number of ATMs across the country to avoid long queues at the ATM sites” she said.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 23

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Who would you rather have – A Nympho or a Cold Fish

T

ERRI Hunter is a 29year old Briton who once claimed to have slept with over 1,000 men yet insisted : “I’m not a slut”.

She said her insatiable lust is an illness that’s driving her round the bed. According to reports, the customer service manager needs sex up to a dozen times a day and admits her addiction is out of control. She even trawls the internet for partners, agreeing to sleep with them no matter how ugly they turn out to be. “That’s another sad part of this problem – my desire for sex overrides any quality control issues”, she said. “It doesn’t matter to me how it happens or what they look like, and it’s a bonus if they’re well-endowed.”

Terri, who struggles to maintain a relationship because of her addiction, became a slave to love at the age of 17 when she lost her virginity. She recalled: “It was like someone had flipped a switch. From then, I just developed an insatiable desire for sex. I’ve done it with hundreds and hundreds of men. I don’t keep a tally because I’m not a slut – I am just satisfying a need.

“Most people who know me think I’m really sweet and charming. I don’t smoke, I barely drink. I’ve never taken drugs, yet I’ve slept with over one thousand men.” And if there’s no man around, says the report,

Terri slips off to satisfy herself, even if she’s at work. She added: “Other people have fag breaks, so I don’t feel too guilty. On a bad day, I can have up to a dozen comfort breaks”.

Terri said she’s tried hypotherapy, SAA (Sex Addiction Anonymous) and has been prescribed anti-depressants – but still can’t control her urges. Her lustful thoughts would often happen during sessions with her psychotherapist. “I was lying on the couch, telling my shrink that I was turned on at the thought of sleeping with him. I was hoping he’d jump on top of me and we’d have sex!

“I’ve been on nights out where I’ve ended up in a bedroom with married couples. Often I’ll bring some sex toys with me, or I’ll ask them to bring some along. I am looking for complete satisfaction”.

And despite her bedhopping, Terri once managed to stay faithful to her current boyfriend for two months. But she admits: “I knew that my appetite would probably wreck the relationship like it had done to all the rest.

And it did. Men can’t cope with my sex drive, I have ended up having sex with their mates before – I was just desperate for it. It’s like having dry skin: You know you shouldn’t scratch it, but when you do, it jut feels good .”

To all you men out there salivating over the prospect of landing a catch like Terri, just think what it would be like making love to a woman round the clock!

Pleasure soon turns to pain until you become incommunicado! On the other side of the coin is Zoe. Her sex life was fine until she had her first child at 34.

“When I went into labour”, she said, “All my pushing couldn’t get my baby out. I ended up being badly cut inside by forceps, then needing emergency caesarean too. I was very sore afterwards.

“For weeks, I was in a lot

of pain down below and was tired. My husband felt left out because all my attention was given to the baby. Normally, we’d have argued it out, then had fun making up in bed. But I was convinced love making would hurt. Four months after the birth, we tried to have sex after being assured by my doctor I was properly healed and we’d be fine.

There was no pain, but no enjoyment either. I didn’t feel aroused at all. As our child’s first birthday approached I still couldn’t enjoy sex so my doctor referred me to a menopausal clinic – not

because menopausal was my problem, but because the clinic specialized in women’s suffering with loss of libido. `We’ve only attempted sex a few times all these years’ I confided to the specialist. `I don’t like myself much since giving birth. I feel frumpy and tired’.

“My husband and I had always been soul mates, but now I could feel a gulf widening between us. I could see us separating if things didn’t start to improve. The specialist gave me an arousal oil called Zestra. `You apply it to your privates’, she

explained. `Once you feel sexier everything else may feel a lot better too’. So I went home, brandishing the oil – hoping it would work, terrified it wouldn’t.

That night, my husband gently rubbed the oil on for me – and our lovemaking finished with my first orgasm since our son’s birth.

“It may have been a fluke. But lying in my husband’s arms, I knew everything would be ok. I was night. We stopped bickering and started getting on well. Being close meant we could talk about our problems too. It was that simple. We’re happier now – and I think my husband is too. After all, it’s better for babies if their parents get on ...”

So are you a Terri or a Zoe? Over-active libido is always hard to treat – it’s worse than being a nymphomaniac! If, like Zoe, you suddenly discover your comph has gone, then maybe Zestra could work for you. And before you burn up my phone with texts, there is no evidence it’s available here. But if you travel to Britain or know anyone who could help, it is widely available in Superdrug outlets. You can also get it online at zestra for women.co.uk. It costs around 17 pounds, roughly N3,500. Worth every kobo if you need to use it!

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Just how helpless are the police in curbing under-aged sex?

J

OKE, a secondary school teacher married to James for close to 19 years tried not to raise her three children the way she’d been raised. “My father was very authoritarian and we were all in awe of him. He was such a bully that mum dared not cross him.

Prospective girlfriends and boyfriends were met furtively behind their parents back, because whenever dad cautioned on to any of the children being `tossed’ there would be hell to pay.

“After I graduated from the university, I worked briefly in a private secondary school before I founded my own nursery and primary school. All my four children went to private schools and when Tolu, my eldest daughter was 15, I discovered she had a boyfriend. I encouraged her to bring him home, but what I didn’t know then was that he was 22 not 17 as I’d been told and an undergraduate. I was a bit concerned that he was older, but Tolu was besotted. I had taught her right from wrong and hoped she would be sensible enough not to let things go too far.

“The change in her was gradual at first. She started wearing provocative clothes and lots of make up. She became secretive and at times, was downright rude, but I wrote it off as just normal teenage behaviour. Then one Saturday night she didn’t come home. She told me she was going out with friends, but when she wasn’t home by 1 am, I was beside myself with worry.

`Where have you been?’

I screamed when she eventually rolled home in the early hours and we had a blazing row, followed by lots of tears when I slapped her out of anger and frustration.

“Sadly, that was only the beginning. A few months later, her principal called me to ask why Tolu had been missing classes, I’d had no idea and when I challenged Tolu about it later, she looked terrified – then she broke down in tears and I learned the awful truth, she told me she had been sleeping with her boyfriend and that he’d also encouraged her to have sex with his much older friends and an uncle. The heartwrenching fact was that she was also encouraged to do drugs. `I didn’t know what was going on’, she told me sadly, most of the time I was out of it on drugs’. I couldn’t believe it. Why didn’t she tell me? One minute she had been my little girl, the next she was drugged up, having sex with strange men ...”

If you’re wondering why the police are not cracking down on these predators turning young girls into sex objects, here is what a top police spokesman has to say: “under-aged girls selling sex on the streets is a real concern, but what worries me most is the number of girls being sexually exploited in private homes. This is one the rise and although we know who some of the perpetrators are, we can’t bring charges without the girls’ consent. The girls are willing partners to begin with, but they soon find they’re being sexually exploited. The men who

Y

OUR column to express your loving thoughts in words to your sweetheart. Don’t be shy. Let it flow and let him or her know how dearly you feel.

Write now in not more than 75 words to: The Editor, Sunday Vanguard, P.M.B. 1007, Apapa, Lagos. E.mail: sunlovenotes@yahoo.com Please mark your envelope: “LOVE NOTES"

ABC OF INSPIRATION A—Although things are not perfect B—Because of trial or pain

two-parent homes.

Another study found that kids were more likely to find true love if they had a warm, supportive relationship with their mum.

control them have a lot to lose and are highly manipulative to protect themselves.

“We view the prostitution of under aged girls as child abuse, which is also how it is regarded by the law. We work to protect children and ensure abuses are caught and protected.

We also welcome the changes now being considered by the law which will strengthen cases against sex offenders and reform the law on sexual offences by imposing longer sentences.

In honour of single mums!

Single mums can sometimes feel that every problem in society – from increased violence to emotionally stunted, underachieving offspring – is laid at their door. But it’s not all doom and gloom.

Here are five reasons experts give for single mums to be cheerful ...

A child happy with one loving parent. Living with both parents isn’t as important to a child’s

happiness as having one person who loves him unconditionally. So, if your ex is no longer in control, you can make up for his absence. And if you relationship was difficult, your child could be better off with just you. Research shows it’s the children of parents who stay together despite constant conflict who suffer the most damage.

Your going to work doesn’t ruin his life.

Despite research claiming that a child’s performance at school is affected if mum works, recent report has found nothing of the kind. A study by Bristol University tracked the development of 14,000 children over 10 years and found that, in terms of psychological well being and behaviour, the children of working single mums did just as well as those whose mums stayed at home.

You have more time for your child. If there’s a man in the house, a woman’s workload is increased by at least

C—Continue in thanksgiving D —Do not begin to blame E—Even when the times are hard F—Fierce winds are bound to blow G—God is forever able H—Hold on to what you know I—Imagine life without His love J —oy would cease to be K—eep thanking Him for all the things L—ove imparts to thee M—ove out of “Camp Complaining” N—o weapon that is known O—n earth can yield the power P—raise can do alone Q—uit worrying about the future R—edeem the time at hand S—tart every day with worship T—o “thank” is a command

eight hours a week, and that means less time to spend with the ids. A man also consumes a significant chunk of mum’s attention. Single mums, however, aren’t tied to their partner’s demands and so can spend more time with their children.

A suitable male role model doesn’t have to be Dad. One criticism of single mums is that their kids grow up without a male role mode. - but male family members and friend will do just as well as the real father.

Besides, if your ex was a heavy drinker or violent, he wouldn’t be a good influence anyway.

Your kids can still find the perfect partner.

Some research claims that kids raised in single-mother homes are more likely to have problems with adult relationships than those raised in two parent homes. But a study found that 43 percent of adult children of divorced parents were happily married – about the same percentage as those who grew up in

A Reporter’s job is never easy!

(Humour) “Go and get a good story”, demanded the news editor. “Go sniff our some local culture and don’t come back until you’ve got something”. The young journalist drove into the ancient part of the city and spotted an old man sitting in a rocking chair on his porch. “Evening Sir”, he said. “I’m writing some stories on the way things used to be. I wonder if you’ve got any good experiences from the past?”

“Oh yes, lad, park yourself down here”, replied the old man, “now let me think”. There was a few moments of silence and then the old man began. “Well, there was this one time when me and the boys had drunk a lot of whiskey and we lost our old donkey. It took ages to find the daft bugger but when we did, we all shagged it unmercifully”.

The journalist shifted uncomfortably and said he didn’t think that was quite what the newspaper was looking for. “Well, there was another time when we’d all had a couple of bottles of rum and I lost my wife. But it was alright, an hour later we found her and screwed her rigid”. “Oh no, no”, said the journalist, squirming at the thought, “no, I couldn’t use that”. Suddenly, the old man looked very sad.

“You know there was another time when I got lost ...”

U—ntil we see Him coming V—ictorious in the sky W—e’ll run the race with gratitude X-alting God most high Y—es, there’ll be good times and yes some will be bad, but…

Z—ion waits in glory…where none are ever sad!

Meditation: But on Mount Zion there shall be deliverance, And there shall be holiness; the house of Jacob shall possess their possessions. - Obadiah 1:17 We will succeed in Jesus Name!

Chris Onunaku 08032988826/08184844015.

SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 25

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C

ultism is one of the major problems confronting Edo State and, of course, any Commissioner of Police posted to the state. The rate at which youths in the state, particularly in Benin-City, “blend” into different cult groups is so worrisome to law enforcement agents who try to stop them, some times during initiations, at the late hours of the night. But the situation is more worrisome in Benin-City, after the police command in the state discovered that teenagers are being initiated into two cult groups. Eiye Confrarnity and Hallah of the Night.

Last week in Benin-City, Edo State Police Commissioner, Funso Adebanjo, paraded 15 youths, between ages 13 and 15, suspected of being cultists, with different arms and ammunition. The suspects were said to have been arrested at Unewa village near Uromi and Ologbo town respectively, and confessed to being members of Eiye Confraternity and Hallah of the Night.

Some of the items recovered from them include two battle axes, one Eiye Confraternity flag and a calabash. The Edo police boss, Adebanjo, explained that eight suspected members of the Hallah of the Night were arrested in Uromi while seven members of the Eiye Confraternity C M Y K

The weird world of teenage cultists! *We wanted to be strong, feared – Suspect

,

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM, BENIN CITY

What happened was that some of my friends became so strong in school that people feared them.

So they told me if I wanted to be strong, I should come and be their member

,

were arrested at Ologbo.

“They confessed that they were initiated by other members of the group. We are surprised that little boys are going into cultism and they did not deny,’’ Adebanjo said. ‘’Some of them said they just felt that belonging to a cult group will give them the confidence that they are now big boys. Majority of them are secondary school students, but some are out of school, especially those who are in Eiye, those ones who are members of the Hallah of the Night are secondary school students. We discovered that this issue of peer group where children mix with friends is very dangerous because that is how these people are initiated into cultism. It is unfortunate that it happens, parents have a role to play to protect their

children. ‘’The law will not spare them if they commit any offence, no matter their age. What they are doing is unlawful and that is how they enter into crimes like armed robbery and kidnapping. We have discovered that these cultists are fearless and they are the ones who can do anything, they can be ruthless. These are people who will storm people’s houses and slaughter their targets like the ISIS group in Iraq or even Boko Haram. We watch the ones they do in Iraq and think it is impossible, but it happens here in Nigeria. ‘’These cultists behead themselves when they are fighting. And that is why people like us are bothered because it has gone down to secondary and primary schools and that is worri-

some and unfortunate. Their sponsors deceive them that they will be protected and these teenagers will join. It is very unfortunate; that is why parents must watch their children seriously, particularly the friends they keep. ‘’We will take them to juvenile court while those above 18 will be taken to a regular court”. The police boss further warned that the police in Edo would not tolerate any form of cultism, describing it as barbaric “and anyone caught will be dealt with accordingly.’’

One of the suspects, who identified himself as John Osagie, 13, spoke about how he joined the Hallah of the Night. “What happened was that some of my friends became so strong in school that people feared them. So they told me if I wanted to be strong, I should come and be their member. That is how they took me to the bush and I became a member.’’

PAGE 26 — SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

08116759757 completed, leaving that road, but I am appealing to the Federal Government to find lasting solution to the issue. Also, Gowon Estate road is pathetic. Unfortunately, the FG has done nothing to alleviate the problem of the people living in the area.

You are the longest serving local government chairman in Lagos State. Could you enumerate some of your achievements when you were the Chairman of Ayobo/Ipaja LCDA for nine years as some roads at Ayobo/Ipaja LCDA are still bad?

This is a serious matter. When the road was created in 2003, it was a death trap. When I became chairman, three months after, I forced the state government to rehabilitate the road from Pako to Ayobo. The problem was that of erosion. The past governments both civilian and military did not do anything about the place. It is always good to criticize constructively.

How would you react to the 70 percent increase in the tariff of imported vehicles by the Federal Government?

That is the Federal Government for you, when you make policies without consulting the stakeholders, you would continue to have problems.

FG is behaving like a military government, they wake up today, make a policy and implement it, they don’t think of the effect it would have on the people. The total debt we are incurring is greater than what we had under the military government.

What is the alternative to stopping

‘Why no end in sight to Lagos unnerving traffic’

importation of vehicles, you would just compound the problem of the people, the rich would continue to be rich and the poor would continue to be poor.

*Lawmaker blames FG for hindering Ayobo-Ipaja road construction

P

rince Bisi Yusuf is a member, Lagos State House of Assembly and also Chairman, Committee on Transport, Commerce and Industry of the House. In this interview, he explains why Lagos State may not overcome traffic jam.

What are some of the challenges of being the Chairman, House Committee on Transportation?

The population of Lagos State is large but we are tackling the problem one by one. We have been able to resolve the issue of motorcycle (Okada), but it cannot be totally resolved. It is difficult stop Okada from operating in some areas.

Many of our people don’t obey traffic light but we will keep on educating them on the need to obey the law. The same people travel abroad and obey the law there, but when they come to Nigeria, they disobey the law, may be there is a spirit

behind that. Those are some of the challenges.

What are you doing to educate commercial drivers about the anti-smoking law?

I have consulted the state Commissioner for Transport, Comrade Kayode Opeifa, and I know he will do something about it. It is a law that everybody has to obey, ignorance of the law is no excuse.

Traffic jam is the order of the day in the state. Is there anything that can be done to curb it?

The driving culture of our people is very bad. People drive against one way and cause chaos. For instance, in Apapa, the Federal Government is collecting billions of naira at the Apapa port, yet no construction work has been done. FG has not constructed any road in the state for many years, we maintain the roads that belong to them.

Most tankers parked along the road belong to rich people and they are untouchable in the country. Yet, if LASTMA arrests any of them, nothing would be

done to them.

You have been a local government chairman and now you are a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Which of the two arms do you think affects the lives of the people more?

I would say the two are very important. At the local government level, one would serve the people, I live among my people and they love me.

Presently, I am in the Lagos House of Assembly and, if you need to get things done, it is important to satisfy the needs of the people, interact with your constituents every time and that is what I do. Being a local government chairman, it is

,

By EBUN SESSOU AND ADERONKE ADEYERI

important that I protect the interests of my people.

Ayobo-Ipaja road is terrible.

As a lawmaker representing that constituency, how have you been able to influence the government controlled by your party to rehabilitate the road?

It is very unfortunate that Ayobo/Ipaja road is like that. The Federal Government is using the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to obstruct on-going construction of the road.

The NNPC insists that the contractor should pay N290 million before allowing work to continue. The truth is that the FG just want to make APC unpopular in the state. All other roads around there have been

Many of our people don’t obey traffic light but we will keep on educating them on the need to obey the law. The same people travel abroad and obey the law there, but when they come to Nigeria, they disobey the law

,

If you are asked to advice President Goodluck Jonathan, what will you tell him?

I would ask him to resign; he is the captain or the pilot of our plane. When you want to embark on a journey and you know that the captain or the pilot is not okay, the best thing is to disembark or change the pilot.

Mr. President has lost the bearing, see what happened recently, they invaded where people were campaigning that Boko Haram members should bring back the over 200 girls kidnapped at the Federal Government Girls College, Chibok, Borno State, the only thing the President could do was to ride a campaign train to the place. It is callous, they took about 15,000 army personnel to Ekiti, they want to capture the South West whereas our girls are in the bush. The lives of the people are not safe unless we rescue these children. We all saw what happened in Egypt or Syria, we don’t pray for military incursion, it is not the best alternative. Our education, health are bad, and the only thing we have now is propaganda, they say our economy would be the giant of Africa, I don’t see how that would happen.

SUNDAY Vanguard, SETEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 27

‘How C-River became the home of national teams’

H

ow did Cross River State, precisely Calabar Calabar,, become the home of the national teams and 1Mecca of sports?

It has to do with the environment and ambience that we offer to all the teams in order to excel. Of course, that comes from a lot of reasons. The people of Cross River State are hospitable; the environment is peaceful and the state as a matter of deliberate policy is doing everything to develop the state’s tourism potentiality which invariably has attracted a lot of people to Cross River State. Apart from that, our national teams, be it in football, swimming, athletics and a whole lot of others that wanted to come find here very conducive to prepare and succeed in their engagements.

You just mentioned tourism. What is the synergy between sports and tourism. Why has government made it a deliberate policy to use the twin-approach in developing Cross River State?

We’ve always had tourism vision in Cross River State because we have the potential for it; and we have built on that. Again, one aspect that was missing was sporttourism and what the administration did by giving me the mandate to come to the ministry of sports and youth development was to vigorously pursue sporttourism as an added value to the overall sport vision of the state. One thing you must also understand is that tourism and sport go hand-in-hand.

Sport is the biggest driver of tourism in the whole world

and there is no major sporting event that would happen without it impacting on the tourism potential of that host country or city. This is why countries and cities struggle to host major sporting events be it the Olympic Games: World Cup at different levels ; Commonwealth Games.

How much have the people of the state as well as government benefited from this vision?

You can’t really quantify the benefits to the people and that is why they have been encouraging us to go all the way. There were times that we felt that it was becoming a huge burden and for me, the encouraging words I get from people who are not in government is really a good motivation. They used to tell us that we should not stop developing the sport andtourism sector because we don t know what we are doing to their economic wellbeing. That says a lot about how far we have gone because this encouragement is not coming alone from government people but the ordinary man on the street, the business people as well as corporate icons in the society.They see the benefits more than the people in government because when these teams come, they lodge in hotels; eat food during the period they are here ; use local transportation and buy things here . As such, they are spending money in our economy. Of course, the money goes directly to the people and indirectly to government because these are tax payers. So it’s a win-win situation for the people and government.

We know that ther theree a rree other sectors of the economy competing for attention. What has been the overall contribution of sports to the development of the state?

Sports have greatly improved the image of Cross River and have taken the state to a highpedestal in the country. You can mention sports in Nigeria of today without mentioning Cross River State. Apart from that, sports have impacted on the lives of the youths of the

state; that is why His Excellency, Senator Liyel Imoke (CON) has invested heavily in sports development.

And we have begun to see the results in terms of the performance of our athletes.

Cross River was not where we are today when he came into office in 2007; we are number one at the school sports level in this country today. For three consecutive times, Cross River has won the National School Sports Festival.

At the elite level, we are equally making giant strides.

For instance, at the last National Sports Festival (NSF), we finished in the seventh position which was unheard of in the past.

Cross River would be hosting the NSF in November November.. What would differentiate this event from the previous ones;

,

A

head of this weekend’s 2015 African Cup of Nations qualifier between Nigeria and Congo at the U.J Esuene Stadium, Calabar, Honourable Patrick Ugbe, Cross River State Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, spoke on how the foremost tourism capital of the country has transformed to the nation’s sport-particularly footballcapital.

Ugbe...We have tourism vision

We have always said that this year’s National Sports Festival was going to be different and we are keeping faith with that promise for obvious reasons

what are the new things we are going to see in Cross River 2014?

We have always said that this year’s National Sports Festival was going to be different and we are keeping faith with that promise for obvious reasons.

One, it is the centenary edition and it is going to be held in a centenary state because Calabar was the country’s first capital city 100 years ago. It is coming to the entertainment and tourism capital of Nigeria where we take delight in celebrating lives and we really excited about this opportunity;surely we are going to express our delight with the opening and closing ceremony of the NSF in November like it has never been done in the history of the games. In the organisation of the NSF itself, we are going to

,

do things differently while working hand-in-hand with the Main Organising Committee and the National Sports Commission (NSC) that owns the games. We have said it was our desire to win as the host of the games but we are not going to win at all costs which means that we are going to allow for fair play. We must not win if we cannot win and that is the message we are sending to all the participants. We believe in the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship, you must not win if you can’t win. This is one major thing that we hope would make the game different.

There is no way we are going to talk about sports in Cross River State without mentioning your name too; you came from

the private sector and was at one time or the other the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Imoke and also a Commissioner for Information. How have all of these helped you to achieve so much in the Sports and Y outh Youth Development Ministry?

As CPS and Commissioner for Information, I was doing a professional job but as Commissioner for Youth and Sports, I’m doing a work I’m passionate about. Somewhere, along my career in the profession(broadcast journalism), I decided to specialize in sports and that has to do with my love and passion for sports having been an athlete too in my school days even though I didn’t take it further than that. I was quite good in athletics and I remember I won a lot of laurels for my primary school in those days.

If we’d have the kind of developmental programmes we have now, maybe I would have progressed to become a national star athlete. But be that as it may, I’m in sport now and actually doing what I’m passionate about and driving it with all the strength I can muster so that the fortune of Cross River State in sport is changed for the better. So that we achieve one major aim of making Cross River State, the most preferred destination for sport in the country.

PAGE 28 —SUNDAY, Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

Redeemed family celebrat es P ast or Oni @ 60 celebrates Past astor

P

rovincial Pastor, Province 14 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Babajide Akiyode, led the RCCG family to celebrate Zonal Pastor of the Kingdom Zone, Pastor E.O. Oni, who turned 60 on August 17. The celebration, held at Kingdom Parish auditorium, Ijegun-Ikotun, Lagos, in pictures: .

Pastor Oni with Kingdom Parish Oluwatoyin Kusoro and other pastors in Kingdom Zone.

Vanguard’s ne ws news edit or’s br other w eds editor’s bro weds

S

unday Matthew, brother of Vanguard’s news editor, Kayode Matthew, has said farewell to bachelorhood as he took former Miss Rachael Mazoje as wife. The traditional wedding which held at the Lagos residence of the bride’s parents on Saturday, August 23rd was as funfilled as it was entertaining. Photos by Bamidele Lamidi

Pastor Oni, flanked by his wife, Beatrice, and Pastor Akiyode, cutting his birthday cake.

Cadbur Cadburyy bags excellence award

*The couple.

S

nacks group, Cadbury Nigeria, Wednesday, received an excellence award recognizing its valuable contribution to the Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN), a professional non-governmental organization (NGO) of experts from across nutritional disciplines.Cadbury Bournvita, rich in energy and essential micronutrients, is the only food drink in Nigeria endorsed by the NSN. In a recent meeting, the NSN Council reviewed the contributions made by supporting individuals, NGOs and businesses, as well as the Government of Nigeria, its agencies, towards the nutritional wellbeing of the people of Nigeria. The Council found Cadbury Nigeria’s contributions to be highly commendable and deserving of recognition.

Pastor Oni and wife

Ex CP’s son weds in grand style A prominent community leader in Onicha-Ugbo, Delta State, and a retired Commissioner of Police, Chief, (Barr) Linus Nwaozomudoh and wife, lady Bridget Nwaozomudoh with family members, recently accompanied one of their sons, Mr. Mark, to seek the hand in marriage of former Miss Preye Edonyabor of Tuomor Town in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

Elder Palmer Mazoje and Mr Emmanuel Kpokpogrih.

Elder and Mrs Joseph Mazoje, bride's parents.

L-R: NSN President, Prof Ngozi Nnam presenting the award to Mr Bala Yesufu, Cadbury’s Head of Corporate and Government Affairs, West Africa.

The couple, in a group photograph with Amb. ANC Nwaozomudoh (l), the groom's brother; the father, mother and sisters .

L- R; Mr. Bala Yesufu, Cadbury’s Head, Corporate and Government Affairs, West Africa, Chairman of the lunch symposium sponsored by Cadbury during the NSN Conference, Prof Ada Uwaegbute and NSN President Prof Ngozi Nnam.

C M Y K

The couple, with the Nwaozomudoh and Edonyabor families

L-R: Mr Kayode Matthew, News Editor, Vanguard, representing father of the groom and Mrs Esther Matthew, mother of the groom

SUNDAY, Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014 —PAGE 29

Ade akwu dettoun Sobande hooks Collins Ok Okakwu

T

he romantic relationship between Adetoun Sobande, daughter of Chief and Mrs Taye Sobande and Collins Okakwu, son of Pastor Emmanuel Okakwu was formalised in a matrinonial bliss on August 30, 2014. Both parents of bride and groom and their friends put up a superlative show to usher the new couple into matrimony.

The bride, Adetoun and sister, Adebisi Sobande

A good man goes home

Both parents: R-L: Mrs Kehinde Oludipe, Mrs Okakwu, Chief and Mrs Taiye Sobande and Pastor Emmanuel Okakwu

T

he remains of the owner of Radiance Schools Group, Bishop Fred Louis Menkiti, were interred in his Onitsha, Anambra country home.

Married to Mrs Ify Menkiti for 51 years before he died on May 29 at 85 years.

He is survived by 5 sons and 4 daughters-in-law The life and times of the late Bishop was illustrated before a large audience of sympathizers who came from far and wide to pay their last respects.

He founded Radiance Schools, in FESTAC, Lagos, and was also the Chief Returning Officer of the 1979 National Elections in Nigeria.

R-L: Pastor and Mrs Matthew Ayorinde, the couple, Mr and Mrs Collins Okakwu, Mrs Bola Lawal and Mrs Tunrayo Shittu

The couple, Mr and Mrs Collins Okakwu.

Business mogul, Omojolowo’s son weds in style

H

oly matrimony between Matthew Olakunle Omojolowo, son of Chief Oladipo Omojolowo, Chairman, Road Links Ventures and Angela Chioma Gregory held at Ijebu-Ode local government Registry, on Saturday, October 30,2014. It was a high class affair as important dignitaries from far and wide graced the occasion.

From left; the widow Mrs Ify Menkiti and two of her sons Chris and Max Menkiti.

The couple; Matthew Olakunle Omojolowo and his bride, Angela Chioma Gregory Ekechi.

The couple with bride'’s friends.

The groom's mother, Chief (Mrs) Oladipo Omojolowo, chairman of the occassion, Alhaji Koleosho,groom's father, Chief (Dr) Oladipo Omojolowo ,Chairman, Road Links Ventures Ltd and the bride's mother, Mrs Gregory Ekechi. .

Rotary member from Igando, with couple, Mr and Mrs Matthew Olakunle Omojolowo

Sons of the deceased: From left; Oge; Chris; Chuba; Max and Okechukwu.

Daughters-in-law of the deceased; Dr Ify, Ijeoma and Mrs Ngozi Menkiti

PAGE 30—SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

MATRIMONIAL HURDLES (1 )

*The fanfare of `a hole in the pocket’

Marriage in Igbo land separates ‘the boys from the men’

BY TONY EDIKE, Enugu, VINCENT UJUMADU, Awka; ANAYO OKOLI, Umuahia and PETER OKUTU, Abakaliki There have been worries in many families in Igbo land when male children fail to get married when they are due. Often times, men as old as 40 remain unmarried, not because they do not want to be married, but because they lack the resources to do so.

Findings show that one of the reasons is high bride price. In many Igbo communities, it is believed that marriage is meant for mature men, not boys. Therefore, only real men who are ready and well equipped financially can pay the exorbitant bride price and provide all the items in the list brought by the family of the bride, which includes goat, bags of rice, tubers of yam, clothes and cash for various categories of people. Sometimes it is even made a condition that the bride must train one of her siblings up to

the university level.

Again, Igbo men keep postponing marriage because, apart from the high bride price, which could be as high as N20,000, the cost of traditional marriage is also high as it requires the throwing of flamboyant ceremonies as may be required by the family of the bride. For such traditional ceremonies, the groom provides money for dresses to be worn by the bride and the bridal train, the bride’s mother and her friends and provides money for the elaborate cooking that would be done.

Late marriage inevitably became more pronounced when unemployment hit the rooftop. For one to meet marriage requirements, he has to have a steady income. With graduates staying at home without jobs several years after graduation and with those who did not attain university education being apprentices for about eight years before they are settled by their masters to begin their own business, marriage

Failure to get such husbands often attracts scorn from female colleagues and so, they would rather wait until rich men come to ask for their hands in marriage. becomes the least priority for men.

Besides, many Igbo girls prefer husbands who are already rich.

Failure to get such husbands often attracts scorn from female colleagues and so, they would rather wait until

rich men come to ask for their hands in marriage.

Anambra : Marriage for the ‘highest bidder’ There was this young man, Chike, who met a girl from Anambra State during their National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, and decided to get married soon after their service year.

The man, in his late 20s, was lucky to have a ready- made job in the same Anambra because he was granted study leave and, therefore, had the opportunity of returning to his ministry after NYSC. Chike’s thinking was that if he got married, he would start early to raise a family of his own. But when he met the family of his would –be wife, he

Continues on page

31

SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 31

Marriage in Igbo land separates ‘the boys from the men’ Continued from page 30 was shocked at the list of items he was asked to bring.

Because he did not have that kind of money, Chike went home dejected and, for the next 10 years, was unmarried.

By the time he eventually got married, Nneka, his NYSC friend who he would have got married to, already had four children as she got married to a trader whose educational qualification was primary six, but was rich. Though Nneka initially objected to her getting married to the trader, she had to succumb when rich, educated men were not forthcoming. That is the plight of young Igbo men and their women.

Worried by the situation in which men and women of marriageable age remain unmarried, some communities in Anambra State have stepped in to save the situation by reducing the cost. For instance, Uhuobo community in Okija in Ihiala local government area has reduced the number of cartons of beer demanded during traditional marriage from about 20 to four, while the pride price is no longer fixed.

Any family that flouts the directive is usually fined.

Also, Nibo, another community in Awka South local government area, has brought down the cost of marriage to enable men and women in the area to get married. Chief Pat Orjiako, a cabinet member of Igwe Ezeike Nibo –in –Council, told Sunday Vanguard that his people took the decision when it was becoming embarrassing to see men and women unmarried for years.

According to him, the community slashed the cost of marriage considerably such that only few bottles of drinks are required for the traditional ceremony, while the bride price is N1,000.

He said that since the policy was introduced, men and women in the area have been getting married as required.

However, some of the communities in the state have different conditions for outsiders, which is slightly higher than what men from the same community pay. The reason, it was gathered, was to encourage people from the

*Spending the money

same community to get married to each other.

Abia: Collapsed courtships

I

n Abia State, marriage rites vary from one community to the other. While they are very expensive in some communities, they are affordable in some areas.

By and large, expensive marriage is affecting many eligible suitors who want to marry. It has led to the collapse of many courtships after the man is presented with a list of things to provide which in some cases runs into hundreds of thousands of Naira.

For instance, Ngwa and Ikwuano are areas where marriage rites are very expensive. In some parts of Isiala Ngwa South area, potential suitors are asked to pay as much as between N350, 000 and N500,000 for the purchase and settlement of the lists presented by the kindred of the girl. This is apart from now in vogue traditional marriage which the new husband will sponsor according to his purse which conservatively costs between

In some parts of Isiala Ngwa South area, potential suitors are asked to pay as much as between N350, 000 and N500,000 for the purchase and settlement of the lists presented by the kindred of the girl N500,000 and N600,000.

In Ikwuano area, Sunday Vanguard learnt that about N350,000 to N400,000 is spent on the family of the bride.

Lists usually presented include tubers of yam, stock fish, goats, several wrappers for the mother-in-law, attire

for the father in-law which also includes cap and walking stick. And in the course of inspecting these items, some of them are some times rejected for not being up to the size the family and kindred want.

This is hindering girls from

these areas from getting married. Some of them suffer disappointments as potential suitors often withdraw when confronted with the expensive lists of items to purchase and cash to pay before talking of traditional marriage and then the church wedding.

Meanwhile, there are reports of ladies moving in with potential husbands and bearing babies as they see the expensive traditional marriage rites as a hindrance to marriage.

A young graduate, who did not want his full name published, but simply gave his name as John, narrated how he was “milked dry” by his in-laws in a community in Ikwuano. According to him, he spent more than N380,000 on marriage rites. He said the demand from his in-laws was so outrageous that he almost cancelled the marriage. The annoying thing, he said, was that some items he brought were rudely rejected by the in-laws.

However, in Abam and Isiukwuato areas of the state, marriage rites cost less compared to the Ikwuano and Ngwa areas. In Abam, Sunday Vanguard learnt that with N150,000 all the traditional marriage rites could be completed.

And in Isuikwuato, particularly in Ovim area, a suitor could spend N100,000 and complete all traditional marriage rites and take home his wife.

According to a traditional in an Ovim community, Eze Peter Ginikanwa, “ with N100, 000 a suitor would complete all traditional marriage rites in the area and take his wife home”. He said what concerns them most is taking proper care of the girl not the money being paid.

Ginikanwa disclosed that there was an outstanding policy made by Igbo traditional rulers pegging bride price at N60 and less expenses for other rites. He however blamed the rising trend in marriage in Igbo land on some greedy parents.

The Ebonyi hurdles: Financially demanding, strenous, Continues on page 32

PAGE 32—SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

Marriage in Igbo land separates ‘the boys from the men’ Continued from page 31

discouraging rites

M

ARRIAGE in Ebonyi State is a serious business depending on the family, religious inclination and clan.

Just as some clans in the state make marriage easy and straightforward, others make it cumbersome and strenuous especially for the man who is seeking a bride from a particular area or LGA in the state.

It is generally believed that marriage is easy in Izzi land as the interest of the family giving out their daughter’s hand in marriage is the betterment and welfare of their daughter rather than burdening their would-be son in-law with ill affordable marital obligations.

The man seeking the hand of an Izzi girl in marriage, depending on the status of the family, can even give their son in-law a portion of land for free and also collect little or nothing as bride price as their utmost concern is the welfare of their daughter and not for their daughter to be used as a tool for financial empowerment.

In Afikpo North LGA, the story is different as their would-be in-law is meant to fulfil all the necessary traditional requirements which are, often times, strenuous, discouraging and financially-demanding.

These demands are to be met by the suitor or prospective son in-law are in three stages and can discourage the parties involved from continuing with the marriage procedure.

It is believed that such obligations are meant to instil in the son-in law a strong value for his wife considering the enormous challenges or hurdles he went through to get his bride at last.

In Afikpo North LGA, depending on the decision of the would be son-in law, the whole process of the tradition marriage can be merged and performed in one day.

However, the fun of it comes when the suitor goes through the stages one by one. This was the situation in the olden days compared to the modern age where young men prefer to go home with their heartthrob without much ado.

*Brides-in-waiting

In Afikpo North LGA, the story is different as their would-be in-law is meant to fulfil all the necessary traditional requirements which are, often times, strenuous, discouraging and financially-demanding The period we are in now has brought lots of adjustment in the way marital procedure is followed. For example, the man seeking a lady’s hand in marriage is usually meant to either go to the farmland of his father in-law or mother inlaw with some men, usually his friends, as a way of fulfilling part of the traditional requirement for the marriage.

But, most recently, this part, among others, has been replaced with the payment of

cash to the family involved.

The next stage, which is ‘Amarulo’ wine carrying, is usually done with different types of drinks depending on the choice of the family involved; it can either be done with alcoholic or nonalcoholic drinks which will be presented to the family of the lady as a way of kick-starting the entire process.

At each stage, the prospective son in-law is

expected to embark on presentations of items to the family of the lady. The items drinks, meat and fish.

Before now, the bride price was N10. It has since been upped to N80; most times also, these variations could depend on the family involved.

The major aspect of the marriage, called the ‘Nvunvu’ where different items bought for the lady by her prospective husband, which include plates, bed, foam, mat, soap, pillows, trays, stock fish, 20 big tubers of yams, red oil, bunch of Oha leaves and a set of furniture seats, are carried by women who will line up going to the lady ’s house where the marriage is meant to take place.

These items will be inspected by representatives of both families involved to ascertain whether they are complete or not. At the end of the exercise, a she-goat will be given to the man signifying fruitfulness or reproduction

throughout their (man and the woman) marital period.

In Afikpo South LGA, similar martial arrangements are shared apart from few differences.

In the first stage, which is like knocking at the door, the groom is expected to buy groundnut for his proposed wife. If she eats it, it signifies acceptance of the man, but if it is on the contrary, it means lack of acceptance for the man involved and that brings to an end the entire marital process.

This stage, considering the period we are in now, has gone beyond presentation of groundnut to presentation of other items in order to add colour and glamour to the exercise.

This stage gives way to other stages which can also be merged depending on the decision of the man or his family.

The bride price is usually N30 till date as N20 goes to the father while N10 goes to the mother of the bride during the sharing of the bride price.

Speaking to Sunday Vanguard, Mr. Ude, a civil servant who married from Afikpo North LGA, said the marital process became expensive following the choice of the partners involved and or the family giving out their daughter ’s hand in marriage.

“Nowadays, couples like merging the entire marital process but it is good for them to go through the whole exercise so that these requirements will not end with the older generation as it is needful for it to also be transferred also to the younger generation”, Ude said.

Also, a journalist (name wit held) from Ohoazara LGA, who went to Afikpo North to search for his bride, recounts his experiences: “My brother, it wasn’t easy for me as I was meant to pass through several processes. The Nvunvu was what took a lot of time and money from me. You need to do your best to impress your in-laws.

“Do you know that after buying everything required of me, the girl I wanted to get married to changed her mind and that was how my cash just went like that and nothing was refunded?”

Continues next week

SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 33

Bank customers fault new ATM regime .Queues

return to notable banks machines

BY UDEME CLEMENT

T

HE re-introduction of service charge for withdrawals from other banks Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), now pegged at N65 as against the previous N100, and which took effect on September 1, is unsettling for many Nigerians. Few days after the take off of the new policy, queues have returned to some ATM points, as customers dump the use of other banks’ ATM in a bid to escape the charge. Many customers who spoke with our correspondent frowned at the new directive from Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), in collaboration with the Bankers Committee, on the return of ATM fee, saying the new policy must be abolished in the interest of low income earners. About 85 percent of customers on queue at First Bank branch, Isolo, along Oshodi-Apapa Express Way called on the authorities to reverse the policy, while some others said that the charge should be paid to enable the banks maintain the machines well.

When Sunday Vanguard visited notable commercial banks across Lagos metropolis, it was observed that some banks had long queues of customers waiting to use the ATMs, while ATM points of other banks were scanty or completely empty.

At the First Bank branch, Ojodu Berger, the queues of customers waiting to use ATM were up to three, building right from the bank premises almost to the major road. Also, banks like Guaranty Trust, Zenith, Diamond, Fidelity, Access, UBA and Ecobank had so many customers on queues, while Wema, Keystone, Mainstreet and First City Monument Bank (FCMB) had few customers.

In a chat with Sunday Vanguard, the Chairman, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Lagos State branch, Mr. Bolade Agbola, said, “The CBN is right in taking this decision”. “For me, the reintroduction of the ATN service charge by the current governor of CBN, is a good initiative and a welcome development. Nigeria is not the only country where customers pay ATM fee, it is done in advanced countries.

The reason being that, the deposit banks need money to stead afloat in business and to improve their margin”, he said.

He went on, “Also, the amount CBN is telling the customers to pay is very small. The banking public should be able to pay N65 for using other banks ATM for transactions. The charge

Long queues....Outcome of the return of ATM charges only applies after three withdrawals in a month. So, it is quite affordable for every customer, irrespective of his financial level in the society.

Also, if you look at the situation critically, you will fine out that paying N65 for ATM service charge is not a big financial burden, as some people are saying, compared to going to the banking hall always for little transactions.

“What about when people were going to banks to sign documents to collect their salaries. So, it is not a difficult situation and I believe the apex bank is right in taking this decision. Aside from that, it is also a way of helping

For example, if you slot your ATM card for a withdrawal of N20,000, by the time you withdraw N60, 000, it means you have exhausted everything in one transaction.

“Before the re-introduction of this charge, we have been facing challenges doing transactions with ATMs even when the cashless economy is still on course. I also noticed that whenever I tried to withdraw from the Ecobank ATM, they just refused to pay. At a point, it became clear to me that Ecobank hardly pays with another bank ATM card. So, I think there are other

The re-introduction of ATM charge constitutes policy inconsistency in the banking industry, because the former CBN governor openly abolished the same policy, his successor is bringing back now people to be discipline about the way they spend their money”.

CBN should state the exact amount of money a customer can withdraw to pay the charge –Madu Mrs. S. A. Madu, a young woman, who spoke with Sunday Vanguard, at Access Bank premises University of Lagos, said: “The apex bank should stake a specific amount of money that a customer can withdraw at a particular transaction to pay the N65 charge. This is because CBN is saying after three withdrawals in a month, but the reality is that you can even exhaust the three times transactions at one instance.

challenges that the regulatory authority should address, rather then bringing back ATM charge, which was suspended over a year ago.”

CBN is playing politics with the re-introduction of ATM fee – Peter Mr. Chuks Peter, a business man in Lagos, had this to say: “It is quite clear that the current CBN boss is introducing the policies of Zenith Bank where he came from in the whole country. To me, the re-introduction of the ATM fee is against the nation-wide cashless monetary policy already ongoing. He is playing politics with Nigerians. The same politics those in authority

often play the moment they get to any position of authority.

They are not always sensitive to the needs of the people.

They will say one thing, and do another.

“I could recall vividly that when the current CBN governor took over from Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the first thing he said was a promise to tackle the alarming increase in interest rate, and people, especially operators of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), were very happy. But suddenly, he came up with this arbitrary charge in the name of ATM fee. Those in authority, especially in a place like the CBN should study the environment carefully to fully understand what the people want before formulating any economic policy. This monetary policy on the return of ATM fee, jettisoned by the former CBN governor, is anti-people.

Zenith is a bank for rich people, the current CBN management should not bring the policy of Zenith to the apex bank.”

CBN is losing focus on what the people want – Daye Obong Madam Obong Daye-Obong, a customer on queue at Guaranty Trust Bank ATM point, similarly faulted the CBN on the return of the ATM fee. She said: ‘’In the first instance, why should I pay ATM service charge when I can simply withdraw from my own bank without charge? I think the CBN governor is losing focus on what the banking public and entrepreneurs really want, which is reduction in interest rate for industries to thrive and create jobs for the masses. The re-introduction of ATM charge constitutes policy inconsistency in the banking industry, because the former CBN governor openly abolished the same policy, his

successor is bringing back now.

“There are other bank charges that people are paying continually and I do not think the ATM fee is necessary at this point. The commercial banks charge money for issuance of Cards as well as renewal of those Cards. Sometimes they even charge customers for renewal of the Cards before informing them.

For instance, you would just receive alert telling you that your account has been debited with N1.000 for renewal of your transaction Cards. Infact, customers are paying so many hidden charges, so this ATM fee should be removed. CBN should think carefully about this policy because it is capable of discouraging people from using other banks’ ATM”.

The position of CBN: However, the monetary authority explained that the re-introduction of ATM charge became necessary to relieve the deposit banks of the financial burden of maintaining the ATMs. In that capacity, the CBN, in collaboration with the Bankers’ Committee, had on August 13, 2014, announced the return of the ATM fee for withdrawals from other banks ATMs. The circular signed by the Director of Banking and Payment Systems Department, CBN, Mr. Dipo Fatokun, stated, “The CBN agreed to re-introduce ATM charge because the cost of transaction was becoming too burden some for the banks to bear. The circular from September 1, 2014 shall be effective date for the implementation of the new banks are charge. The expected to conduct adequate sensitisation to the customers on the introduction of the new fee.

All ATM cash withdrawals on the ATM of issuing banks shall be at no cost to the card holder.

“However, as a result of the un-intended consequences of the decision, which has resulted in substantial cost burden incurred by banks in defraying the cost of the service, the payment structure for card carrying bank customers is hereby reviewed in line with the present realities”.

It could be recalled that in December, 2012, the apex bank in collaboration with the Bankers’ Committee, transferred the payment of N100 fee to the issuing banks.

The fee was split between the acquiring bank, issuing bank and switch companies. But now, the new management of the CBN has reversed the policy by re-introducing the ATM charge to be paid by customers.

PAGE 34—SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

BY FRANCIS AWOWOLEBROWN

S

INCE the issues of cement standardization came to the public consciousness following series of structure failures across the country, the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) has embarked on efforts aimed at stemming the tide of building collapse. To the consternation of the regulatory body and quite interesting too, investigations have revealed that most structures giving way are those recently put up while old buildings erected over decades ago are solidly standing.

The authorities and stakeholders alike also discovered that the construction industry has become an allcomers affair to the extent that quacks dominate the business space, low quality building materials are commonplace while right application of vital materials is disregarded.

One of the most common misapplied material is cement, which is regarded as a binding agent in building and construction. The SON has come out to clearly differentiate the various grades of cement and their application as opposed to the claim by some builders that cement is cement, no matter the grade.

It was generally believed that if cement is misapplied, then the structure is in danger. Therefore, cement must be classified so that users would be sure the uses into which each grade could be deployed. The three grades of cement commonly produced in Nigeria are 32.5; 42.5 and 52.5.

The 52.5, grade is reserved for specialized structures like bridges, flyovers, high rise buildings etc, the 42.5 grade is for general construction purpose while 32.5, the least grade, has been consigned to plastering use only. SON has also gone ahead to give each grade colour code for easy identification by consumers.

Dangote Cement, a leading player in the cement sub-sector, only produces the higher grades of 42.5 and 52.5 from all its three plants in Obajana, Kogi State; Gboko, Benue State; and Ibese, Ogun State. The company has also embarked on enlightenment of the public and training of block makers on the application of the two different grades.

Meanwhile, while Dangote has 42.5 as its lower grade, many other competitors only produce the 32.5 grade and sold at almost the same price as Dangote’s higher grade. This development prompted the company ’s distributors and customers who, having been enjoying the top range cement products, were asking why the company is not producing the 32.5 grades as well. In the market, where consumers have developed a trust in the manufacturers, they always clamor for more range of products.

They often prefer getting most of their needs and materials from a single source. Consumers are attracted to manufacturing supermarkets where same product but with different strengths and qualities are on

Standardization: Dangote Cement completes grade roll out …set to launch 1X Premium 32.5 Grade display. The major attraction here is that a reputable manufacturer such as Dangote Cement with several range of same products will always produce them to the stipulated standard.

A forward thinking manufacturer places the interest of its customers first. It thinks of them as it innovates, develops and deploys more products. A creative manufacturer thinks ahead of competition, takes advantage of policies and opportunities to create more values for stakeholders.

It was in full compliance with the directive of SON on the various grades of cement and their prescribed uses and the need to offer consumers alternatives for various construction needs that Dangote Cement announced plans to launch its brand of the premium 32.5 cement grade.

Group Managing Director (GMD), Dangote Cement, Devakumar Edwin, said specifically that the 32.5 grade, which has the lowest strength among the various cement products, will be priced lower than the others and will be selling at N200 lower than the price of the higher strength 42.5 grade. ‘’This, in addition, offers our numerous customers and end users the prerogative of choice and its appropriate application, ‘’Edwin said.

The new product, branded “Dangote Cement 1X”, Edwin stated, was in response to popular demand from customers as well as in full compliance with the SON directive encouraging production of all grades of cement but with clear labelling on the use.

The GMD noted that the entrance of the 32.5 cement grade from Dangote would ensure that the consumer pays the appropriate price for the right value rather than paying more for lower grade as is presently the case in the market.

According to him, the 32.5 cement grade would be clearly marked in the colour prescribed

by SON with the uses for which it should be applied, which is purely plastering.

Dangote, with this move, now produces 42.5 for column and beam casting, block making, decking and other general purpose construction work that require high strength, while also producing the premium 32.5 grade for plastering and flooring only.

The company is also pushing out the 52.5 grade for specialized construction of high strength structures such as bridges, flyovers among others.

Edwin said, in compliance with the SON standard for cement quality and packaging, the lower grade 32.5 type on the Dangote

• Devakumar Edwin

A forward thinking manufacturer places the interest of its customers first. It thinks of them as it innovates, develops and deploys more products

shelf will be clearly labelled as such, in order to prevent the problem of misapplication and misuse of the product.

Said he; “We have significantly increased the supply of cement to the market and as it is expected the enhancement in supply of the product to the market has also resulted to a reasonable reduction in the price of the product.”

The GMD also informed that it will continue with its nationwide campaign and capacity building which it initiated and has sustained for the past three years, to ensure that the different grades of cement are easily identified by users and used only for their prescribed purposes.

Dangote Cement recently embarked on enlightenment programme on several radio stations across the country to educate and inform the public on the benefits of using Dangote 42.5 3X Cement in their construction works especially block making, casting of pillars, beams and slabs. Director, Sales & Marketing, Chux Mogbolu, explaining the reasons for the enlightenment campaign, said the public awareness became necessary as research has shown that most cement users in Nigeria cannot differentiate between the various grades of cement and their uses hence

leading to application of lower cement grade where higher grade cement should have been used.

The campaign is to educate the public on the appropriate use of the different grades of cement.Mogbolu said that because of the abysmal level of knowledge among artisans, block makers, masons and other craftsmen in the building industry, the use of 32.5 grade cement in blocking making and house building has resulted in several cases of building collapse. He insisted that 32.5 be restricted to plastering and finishing. The Director enjoined the public to always buy Dangote Cement, as they will be buying peace of mind and will build with peace of mind, adding that the quality of products from the cement company ensures that customers always come back why the goods do not come back.

Meanwhile, SON DG, Joseph Odumodu, told the audience at a stakeholders forum in Abuja that one of the functions of his agency is continuous maintenance of standard by operators. He said at the forum attended by the Minister of Trade, Dr Olusegun Aganga, “We are determined to ensure standards because the several incidences of building

collapse in the country has gotten to an embarrassing level. Tthe recent test conducted on cement blocks in Nigeria, especially the load bearing ones, made a revelation that only five percent of the blocks met the specifications of the standards NIS 587 of 2007. That necessitated what we are doing here today”.”We believe that any factor that contributed in any way to building collapse should be addressed. Load bearing blocks happen to be one of them and that is what we are addressing.”What we are doing here today is to start a certification process. In this we are collaborating with block moulders’ associations, concrete moulders, building collapse prevention guild and stakeholders.

We are collaborating with them as a selfregulatory organisation as a way to clean up the system”.Aganga also unveiled Dangote Cement’s new cement bags certified by regulatory agencies. ‘’The bags must have batch numbers for traceability, have expiry dates because they are chemicals and they do expire. There are other issues like storage that we are working on and they must all comply”, he stated.

Bisi Afolabi appointed as new CEO of LTC JWT

T

HE Board and Management of LTC JWT Advertising has approved the appointment of Mrs. Bisi Afolabi as the new Managing Director Chief Executive of the company.

Mrs. Afolabi who joined the company as a youth Corper about two decades rose through the ranks to become Executive Directive Business Development and Chief Operating Officer until her appointment as Chief Executive Officer in July 2014.

According to a statement made available by the Chairman of the company recently, Mr. Billy Lawson declared that, the company is experiencing leadership change as all the founding members have reached retirement age.

He said, ”Over the years, the founding members and owners of LTC JWT have been heading the company. But there is a complete shift as we strongly believe that we have done our best and we should leave the stage for people we

•Mrs. Bisi Afolabi have trained and can progress with the vision of LTC JWT”.

He noted that “The new Chief Executive Officer is a seasoned Advertising and Marketing Communication practitioner who over the years, has acquired experience in brands development and advertising”.

He stressed that she is one of the people the system has nurtured and we are so convinced that she will surpass expectation.

SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, ,PAGE 35

H

is name does not ring a bell and he is not the type that seeks public attention. But Yusuf Umar, 38, and Chief Receptionist with Jigawa Hotels, is now a celebrity and cynosure of all eyes because of what he did in June this year, lifting the name of the hotel and his family from obscurity to limelight.

On June 27, 2014, Umar, while working in the Jigawa three-star hotel, saw something he had never seen in his life. He was working round the hotel garden around 1am when he came across an Ipad pouch that a guest, who lodged in the hotel and left earlier that day, had forgotten as he was leaving the lodge. Out of curiosity, the Dutse-born hotelier picked the small bag and opened it. What he saw shocked him and he quickly went away with the bag to his duty post. He did not tell anyone but his manager. Inside the small bag were crisp $100,000 notes neatly packed in rows that would have made the man an instant millionaire in Nigeria. At the current exchange rate of N170 to a dollar, the money translates to N17 million and would have been enough to change the social and economic status of Umar, an orphan, who was brought up by his uncle, Kadi Umar, who resides with him at Garu Quarters, Emir s palace in Dutse.

Although Umar saw the money in the jacket, he never counted it, he presented it as it was to the manager of the hotel to keep. But it was not long before the man, who forgot the money discovered that he had misplaced the money and the Ipad bag. He rang the hotel, fearing that his worst moment had come. What would he do if the money was not found and who was he going to report to given the fact that there was no evidence that he even came to the hotel with such amount of money? Many troubling thoughts continued to ravage his mind and he could not sum up courage to come back to the hotel or call the staff to inquire about the missing money.

However, the woman, who booked the lodge for him, rang the hotel and reported the loss of the money to the Head Receptionist, who happened to be Umar, whom she had known at the point of booking the place for the man. ’’Hajia, the bag is with me’’, Umar answered when the lady called. I don’t know exactly how much is in the small bag but it is neatly packed inside the bag, In a jiffy, the woman landed at the threestar hotel and was handed the bag containing the money by Umar.

She could not believe it was real.

$100,000 couldn’t tempt me — Orphan who found money left in hotel

his God that it would be an offence to take what does not belong to him; second, he remembered his father’s injunction not to take what does not belong to him if he wanted to prosper in life and; finally, the fact that it is a policy of the hotel management not to tamper with any item left behind by any guest. There is a tradition in the hotel that even if a guest forgets an item or money it should be kept for him in a strong room that now accommodates undisclosed large amount of cash and valuables as a demonstration of its commitment to honesty and integrity.

Umar said a man, who had forgotten N200,000 came back and was given it in the same currency that he left in the hotel. The money was picked up by a cleaner while sweeping the room and returned to the management for upkeep until the owner showed up two years later with evidence of lodging there and proof that the money was in certain denominations.

Umar...I value integrity She almost fainted after counting the money and realizing it was complete. Not a single note was missing from each of the ten packs of $10,000.

She disappeared in ecstasy and returned in a short while clutching two envelopes, one containing some money for Umar in appreciation for his honesty and the other for the hotel management for being exceptionally transparent in dealing with its clients.

The singular act by Umar has continued to reverberate two months after the money had been found and returned to the owner.

But Umar himself, an Ordinary National Diploma Student at the Jigawa State Polytechnic, who lost both parents at a tender age and joined the JHL at inception in 1999, is enjoying the fame and positive publicity he is getting daily. Like a good product, he is being sought after by visitors to the hotel and top government officials, who have heard about him. Some regularly come around to shake hands with him while others drop by to give him some gratis all in a bid to identify with one-of-a kind Nigerian, who

,

BY SONI DANIEL AND DAMILOLA FANIYI

adding that he was taught by his parents not take what does not belong to him so as to prosper in life.

He said he was not also tempted to disappear with the huge sum because as far as he was concerned, his conscience had already told him that the money did not belong to him, and that he should quickly present it to the owner in line with his religious values of speaking the truth no matter how difficult the situation may be. According to Umar, three factors influence his decision not to keep the money.

First, as soon as he took it, he remembered

What he saw shocked him and he quickly went away with the bag to his duty post. He did not tell anyone but his manager.

Inside the small bag were crisp $100,000 notes neatly packed in rows that would have instantly made the man an instant millionaire in Nigeria

,

has lifted the name of Jigawa State to the international limelight. ’’I could not have taken the money because it was not mine’’, Umar told Sunday Vanguard at Dutse,

Umar’s act of honesty has already attracted the attention of Governor Sule Lamido, who, at a public ceremony, last week, showered praises on him and urged him to continue to exhibit the virtue of integrity.

As a reward, the governor presented Umar with a motorcycle and a plaque and a certificate personally signed by him during the 23rd anniversary of the state. It was an honour that excited Umar the most in his life. He never expected to have a handshake with the governor but the single act of honesty provided the platform and lifted his family name beyond Dutse.

Before the governor honoured him publicly at the Mallam Aminu Kano Triangle on Wednesday, Umar was blessed on Monday with a bouncing baby boy by his wife, increasing his family members to two. He already had a boy.

I really value the certificate and plaque given to me by the governor more than the motorcycle because the gesture means that I am known within and outside Nigeria. I am really really excited about that, Umar said.

For that reason, Umar has decided to change his course of study so as to give the opportunity to become a diplomat one day. I want to go into the Foreign Affairs Service so that one day I can work as a diplomat and make my country proud, the father of two said.

PAGE 36—SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014 sameyoboka@yahoo.com

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THE OYAKHILOMES DIVORCE CRISIS The problem with the Church of God, by Okogie

BY SAM EYOBOKA I CORINTHIANS 7:10-11: To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord): the wife should not separate from her husband (but if she does, she should remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband), and the husband should not divorce his wife.

T

HE recent matrimonial debacle involving Nigeria’s charismatic preacher and founder of Believers Love World, a.k.a.

Christ Embassy, Rev. Chris Oyakhilome, and his wife, Rev. Anita Odegwa Oyakhilome, did not come to close watchers as a surprise.

Followers of developments at the Believers World Ministry claimed, last week, that the wife’s suit for divorce on the grounds of “unreasonable behaviour” and “adultery” is just a necessary end to months of loud speculations about the collapse of the flamboyant first family of Christ Embassy.

Speculations were rife earlier in the year, when members of the church in London launched a Facebook account demanding for the whereabouts of their pastor and mother of Sharon and Charlyn following the deleting of her profile from the church’s website.

While millions of members, believing that the development is a spiritual attack designed to extinguish the fire of evangelism among Nigeria’s young people, have resorted to intercessory prayers for God to resolve the matrimonial crisis, the report came on Tuesday via Anita’s attorneys that there was no chance the estranged couple would ever live as husband and wife again. Stephen Goddard, Business Development Manager of Attwaters Jameson Hill Solicitors, the law firm handling the divorce suit, said: “It is with great sadness that our client, Pastor Anita Oyakhilome, has come to the conclusion that her marriage to Pastor Christian Oyakhilome has irretrievably broken down and regrettably there is no hope of any reconciliation.”

Sunday Vanguard decided to hit town to find out the implications of this development for the Christ Embassy, Christendom in general and the teeming young members of the church.

The church leaders, who spoke with our reporter, blamed the growing trend of divorce among clergymen in the country on faulty foundation.

Catholic Archbishop

•Chris and Anita... marriage put assunder.

Emeritus of Lagos, Anthony Cardinal Okogie, described the development as very disturbing, arguing that when ministers of God begin to wash their dirty linen in the public, it smacks of indiscipline. According to the ecclesiastical prince of the Catholic Church, when pastors refuse to honour the vows they took at the altar of God, what do they expect from the ordinary members of their congregation?

“When the going was good, they took vows on the altar of God to stay together in sickness and in health, until death do them part. They promise to make one another faithful partner in the presence of God, their family and friends and vow to be each other ’s faithful partner in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, and in joy as well as in sorrow.

They promise to love one another unconditionally, to support each other, honor and respect and cherish themselves for as long as they both shall live,” Okogie said.

The cardinal argued that as soon as little challenges arise, the so-called pastors forget the vow and the spirit of forgiveness they preach to their congregations on daily basis and opt for divorce. “It shows that they cannot live by what they preach. The Bible says: ‘What God has joined together, let no man put asunder.’ So why are they

putting asunder what the good Lord has joined together if they are men of God as they claim?”

Asked what the development portrays for the Church of God, the cardinal replied with a question “What Church are you talking about?” He went on: “It is not good. Are they true pastors?

Good shepherds of the Lord are expected to do everything to shepherd their flock including their spouses even when they err. If God forgave us in spite of our filth, why can any man who is truly called pastor not forgive any malfeasance?”

Okogie blamed the Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC, which registers every organization which goes about deceiving people in the name of church, noting that there are several “useless” institutions that have been registered churches which are currently painting the Church of God in bad light.

In the same vein, Publicity Secretary of God’s Kingdom Society, GKS, Brother Benedict Hart says the nation is yet to see anything, noting that the number of such divorce is small relative to the number of church pastors in Nigeria. He, however, stated that divorces are getting too frequent for comfort, saying the reason for rising number of divorce cases is better answered by church leaders

themselves.

“Be that as it may, the same issues that bedevil other marriages also affect church pastors: failure of either or two of the parties to the marriage to adhere to Biblical principles - that they are to support or help one another in the race of salvation with the man at the head. (Genesis 2:18, 21-24; Ephesians 5:2224, 25, 28,29; Colossians 3:18,19) Incompatibility of couples, marrying not on grounds of economic prospects rather than on the qualities of each person.

“It must be said that divorce is contrary to the will of God. The Bible makes no room for divorce; the couple ought to find way of settling their problems (Matthew 19:4-9; Malachi 2:15-16)”, the GKS publicist explained, adding that, in several cases, the man increasingly ignores the woman, fails to provide for her, becomes promiscuous.

He outlined another source of friction in marriages to include childlessness, adding that after several years of marriage without having an issue, the man or the woman, or even two of them may agree to opt out of the union with the hope of getting children elsewhere.

“In several new breed churches, the man and woman started the church from humble beginnings, but when the economy improves, one party feels the other no

longer meets his or her social status. Again a number of these pastors know what they had been doing to win converts: resort to stagemanaged miracles, making of imaginary prophecies, late night sessions with witch doctors, selling of “holy water ”, candles, oil, with supposed healing powers, etc.

By the time the church becomes large, the woman would naturally want a larger share of the pie. When the man becomes cagey, would not be forthcoming on the finances of the church, she may want to leave and use the same methods they used to establish their church to open her own”, Hart said.

“A big problem with the Pentecostal is that the churches are made to look like social clubs with only a Christian veneer or covering.

The leaders tell the people what they want to hear, preaching mostly about prosperity, donations, miracles, marriages, etc. They do not know what the gospel of the kingdom is. Moreover the leaders flaunt their wealth and allow the women to dress licentiously and use make up excessively, on the ground that it is the heart God sees not the dress.

“Many times the young women wear skimpy clothes, transparent, and skin-tight wears that expose their bodies. And they do not cover their heads. Then where lies moderation, shamefacedness, orderliness and decency? (1 Timothy 2:9,10; 1 Peter 3:1-6), A number of the pastors are thus tempted and this results in crisis in their home fronts.”

The divorce Suit No FD14D01650 was filed on April 9, 2014 at Divorce Section A, Central Family Court, First Avenue House, High Holborn, London, UK, on Anita’s behalf by Attwaters Jameson Hill Solicitors, a fullservice law firm with expertise in commercial law and a strong consumer focus in family, wills and estate, personal injury law and medical negligence is the latest of such cases involving Nigerian pastors. Efforts to reconcile the popular couple, whose church is one of the biggest denominations in Nigeria and has branches all over world, have failed.

Several other ministers of the gospel including the son of the founder of TBN, the largest Christian network in the world, Pastor Paul Crouch Jr., Rev. Benny Hinn, Pastor John Hagee, Bishop David Benenoch of the Communion Church, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo of Trinity House, Pastor Chris Okotie, have at one time or the other been enmeshed in divorce issues.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 37 sameyoboka@yahoo.com

Jonathan must deal with Boko Haram now ---Wale Oke

P

RESIDING Bishop, The Sword of the Spirit Ministries, Bishop Francis Wale Oke has said President Goodluck Jonathan should prove to Nigerians that he is on top of the security challenges by dealing decisively with the Islamic sect, Boko Haram for declaring a caliphate in Gwoza, reports OLA AJAYI. Oke said since the insurgents hoisted their illegal flag in Gwoza, the Federal Government had not taken any swift reaction in dealing with the situation and to make matters worse, the whereabout of about 480 Nigerian soldiers are still unknown.

While urging the Federal Government to go with all its might to stop the insurgents, he said Boko Haram was following the scripts of Islamic state in Iraq and allowing such a treasonable declaration would be antithetical to the unity of the country.

“That some Islamic insurgents are beheading Christians, taking over 300 girls hostage, invading churches and desecrating the sanctuary of God is totally unacceptable. You begin to ask the question, do we have a government in place? The government should show to us that it is capable of handling the situation”, he said.

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Thousands salute smiling Mama Adeyemi at 100

By SAM EYOBOKA

F

RIENDS, colleagues, co-workers, distant relations, former students, well wishers, prominent Nigerians including former Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, Dr. Harold Olusegun Demuren and one of the four founders of Newswatch Magazine, Mr. Soji Akinrinade, Monday gathered at the auditorium of Christ Apostolic Church Olorunsogo, CAC Road, Papa Ajao, Mushin to celebrate the centenary anniversary of Madam Lydia Babafunso Adeyemi.

The occasion which featured inspiring speeches, rendition of hymns, choir ministrations and reminiscences by the woman described as a Distinguished Apostolic Mother, pulled a large crowd from all walks of life who gathered

Monday morning for one purpose: to join biological and spiritual children in celebrating the life and achievements of a notable worthy woman.

Walking unaided It was amazing to see the centenarian who was born in Ere Ijesha, near Ilesha on September 1, 1914 still full of life, walking unaided, able to read, still in a sound state of mind and able to vividly recollect the story of her life.

Chairman, C.A.C Mushin District and coordinator of council, Pastor S.F. Obisesan who spoke on; "Teach us to number our days", with inspiration from Psalm 90, Proverbs 23:23, Revelations 2:17 and many more scriptures, said the purpose of the service

was to praise God for the grace for Mama to attain the age of 100. According to him, long life and prosperity are the benefits of obedience to thw Word of God, stressing "no doubt Mama encountered several difficulties in life but she waited and realised her gain.: an overcomer."

The pastor also commended the biological children for covering Mama's nakedness, noting that the future of Nigeria is very bleak, "we need to pray without ceasing because we are in danger."

Speaking further, he said that the essence of the celebration is to honour Mama Adeyemi on the attainment of 100 years and learn from her testimony of faithfulness to the call of God. According to him, “she obey-ed prophetic instructions by counting her days, putting her life to wisdom and

Hunger for prayer house

CCC prophet predicts quick end to Ebola, insurgency

G

ENERAL Overseer of Genesis Model parish of Celest-ial Church of Christ (CCC), Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe has predicted that terrorism and other insurgent activities in the country would fizzle out soon.

Ogundipe said this recently during the church's convention called Bethel 2014 at Alagbado, Lagos, disclosing that religious leaders were on their knees, praying to God for intervention.

He assured that while government is putting in place strategies to end insurgency, clergymen are praying for divine intervention, adding "the problem of terrorism and other insurgents will soon be over in Nigeria. God will give our leaders wisdom to lead and bring about the needed change."

changing her behavior to this counting; hence, she secured 100 years of age. She bought the fruit and did not sell it out but rather, held onto it very well.

“Long life and prosperity are the profits of the earth and this has happened to Mama. We are not saying she did not pass through difficulties, but she waited and composed herself to realize her gains. She stood firm and that is why she is enjoying life comfortably.

"At the age of 100, she still looks hale and hearty with smiles all the time. She had a fulfilled life because her capital is righteousness. She was rewarded fully and God added 30 years and is still living.”

Giving her testimony of the hard times she passed through, Mama Adeyemi narrated how she became a Christian, how she met her husband, how she lost her first children and how the apostle sent for her and praying with her not loose hope in God; right until God showed up again like the biblical story of Job.

THE CELEBRANT: Mama Lydia Babafunso Adeyemi (c) cutting her birthday cake assisted

by Mrs. Susan Oremule (l) daughter; Pastor Isaac Olubunmi Adeyemi, son, Pastor Seyi Adeyemi (1st r) and Mrs. Adebola Adedeji (r) at CAC Olorunsogo, CAC Street, Off Palm Avenue, Mushin, Lagos. PHOTO: AKEEM SALAU

BSN scribe's solution to security challenges

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ENERAL Secretary of the Bible Society of Nigeria, BSN, Rev. Dare Ajiboye has enjoined Nigerian Christians to return to God by reading and obeying His word, saying in this only shall the nation find solution to current multi-dimensional facing the nation, reports WILLIAM JIMOH. The cleric made the appeal at a take-off service of BSN 2014 Marathon Bible Reading, held at the Christ Apostolic Church, Mountain of Blessing in

Mushin, Lagos, adding that, without developing the habit of reading the Word of God daily; there can be no true success story both as a people and as individuals. Ajiboye noted that the society organises the annual programme in a bid to help Christians irrespective of their denominations to interact with the Bible, an exercise, he said, will afford participants the opportunity to know the mind of God. This year’s edition, held in 50 different reading centres across

Lagos State, a non-competitive exercise which afford participants the opportunity to read the Bible in different languages including; Arabic, Edo, Efik, English, French, Igala, Igbo, Isoko, Nupe, Hausa, Urhobo, Yoruba among others.

“It is by reading the bible that we understand the mind of God by which we can live in accordance with His expectations and demands from us.

Imagine what will happen if Nigerians read their Bibles daily,"he noted.

Narrating her ordeal, Mama Adeyemi said she took in in 1939 and a close family friend came urging them to patronise their traditional nurse for antinatal care. "I then told them that herbs dont work 'for me but they counselled otherwise, arguing that it was when I was single, but now that I am married, it would work for me."

Eventually, she lost the baby because there was no church in the North where her husband was transfered to. Her second pregnancy was still birth and that heightened the hunger for a prayer house and after two months of constant prayers, God showed up and her husband was transfered to Ibadan where things began to happen positively for them.

According to her, the orgy of spiritual attacks didn't end but they held on to the unfailing love of God and soon, they started having babies like the Hebrew women.

She therefore urged Christians to always put their trust in God, saying: “there is nothing prayers cannot do. Always turn to God in every situation because He has solution to all our problems.”

PAGE 38 — SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

T

Under the Sea No matter how many chapters of the bible I read, the Holy Spirit asks me to read one more. One night, I read Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, and finally Jonah. Then I told the Lord I was going to bed. But not before engaging him on the issue of Jonah. I said: “Father, you are too much. How did you keep a man alive in the belly of a fish? Your ways are truly unsearchable.”

I went upstairs into my bedroom. As soon as my body touched the bed, the heavens were opened and I found myself lying on the sea-shore. In front of me was what looked like a giant aquarium with roll-

SEEING GOD-GIVEN VISIONS (1) ing waves of the sea. Then this sea-aquarium moved gradually towards me until I was completely submerged in it. To my astonishment, there I was, under the sea, enclosed in an air bubble. In this manner, God showed me how he kept Jonah alive in the belly of a great fish.

The first thing I saw looked like an eel; causing me to cringe with fear. But I quickly reasoned that my fears would jeopardise the vision. Therefore, I said to the Lord: “I won’t be afraid. Please show me whatever you want to show me.”

That seemed to be the cue for the emergence of an incredible array of fishes of different designs and architecture. They were all in very supernaturally deep colours, and the water was brightly lit by an invisible light. I watched this procession in awe and wonder until I was finally washed ashore in what seemed to be a European coastland.

However, on the shore was the building the Lord gave me in Lagos. In front of it were a large number of children from different countries and of different races; all playing and running around. I concluded that the Lord was giving me a ministry with international branches. Then the vision rolled away and I was back there on my bed.

Business venture

I used to own the largest and most successful video-rental

,

HERE is a fundamental difference between Godgiven dreams and God-given visions. Dreams are revelations we re-ceive from God while we sleep. Visions, on the other hand, are revelations we receive while awake.

Visions are communicated through a variety of ways.

Sometimes they come through divine or angelic appearances.

Or they come through our falling into a trance. But sometimes they are "open;" we perceive them through the natural eye. In open visions, we are privileged to see into the realms of the spirit; even while still aware of our physical surroundings.

Jesus says: “No one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” (John 3:3). To see the kingdom is to see what God is doing or going to do.

This is reassuring. It confirms we are really walking with the living God. Accordingly, Jesus says: “I tell you this now before it happens, so that when it happens you will believe I am the Messiah.” (John 13:19).

Everything here on earth is a very poor imitation of what exists in the kingdom of God.

,

chain in Nigeria. However, my meeting with God was so dramatic; I feared he would ask me to close down the business. I was reluctant to entertain this because I was making a lot of money from it.

Soon, the Lord reassured me he would never ask me to close down my business. It took me forever to realise exactly what he meant by this. Since I knew he wanted me to close it down, he wanted me to do so myself; without his having to tell me.

By not obeying, I became like Jonah who went down to Tarshish when the Lord wanted him to go to Nineveh.

Finally, after ten years, I closed down all the branches of Videonet in one fell swoop in one day; then I became a pauper. However, Jesus says: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.” (Luke 6:20).

After seven years of poverty, during which God even barred me from using the building he gave me commercially; he finally told me to establish a crèche there. There is nothing like getting a business suggestion from God. You approach it

in the confidence that it will succeed above and beyond your wildest imagination. So I poured a lot of borrowed money into the venture.

But after having done so, the crèche flopped. In two years, it had less than 20 children.

The expenditure far exceeded the income. Nevertheless, the counsel of God is not mediated through results.

Divine redemption One day, two foreign ladies came to see me. They claimed to be teachers at the oldest multinational crèche in Lagos which, strategically, was only ten minutes’ drive from mine.

Their crèche was closing down.

The proprietor was retiring and going back to England. Having looked around for alternative location, they proposed that all the children and staff of their crèche should be transferred into mine free of charge; lock, stock and barrel.

That is how God gave me the inheritance of the oldest multinational crèche in Lagos. On the arrival of the new children and staff, I came to my crèche that fateful morning and could not believe my eyes. In front of me was the vision the Lord had given me over ten years earlier.

There were all these children from all over the world (over 70 of them), running and playing around in our playground.

The only difference was that it was not in a European city, as I had presumed. It was here in

Lagos.

Some months later, I got a visit from representatives of one of the most prestigious international firms of auditors in the world. Their head-office is just a stone-throw from my crèche. They told me they had decided to make my Nouveau Crèche their official crèche.

They would send me 20 babies of their staff-members to start with. Another reputable firm, an outsourcing organisation, also offered to send me another 20 babies. Overnight, the Lord transformed my struggling outfit into one of the more successful multinational crèches in Lagos.

Dubai aquarium The revelation did not end there. In 2012, my wife had to undergo surgery for a detached retina. After the operation, a friend of ours treated us to an all-expenses paid trip to Dubai.

He flew us there first class and lodged us at the Kempinski Hotel, which adjoins the second biggest mall in the city. At the mall is a big giant aquarium, full of all manner of fishes. It is one of the major attractions in Dubai, visited by many cameratoting tourists every day.

But when I saw the aquarium, I could not be flabbergasted like everybody else. Instead, I burst into tears. There in front of me was a very poor copy of the vision God had given me years earlier. The fishes in Dubai seemed all bleached in colour by comparison. The supernatural light that suffused my Jonah revelation was not there.

The evidence was incontestable. Everything here on earth is a very poor imitation of what exists in the kingdom of God. Jesus says: “Blessed are your eyes for they see, and your ears for they hear.” (Matthew 13:16).

NCGF tasks Christians on national development

By SAM EYOBOKA

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RESIDENT of the National Christian Graduate Fellowship (NCGF), Dr. Samuel Itina, has challenged Christians to initiate the process that would herald the changes they desire to see in the nation.

Addressing members of the fellowship mostly from the academic community, recently at the 39th conference of the NCGF in Onitsha, Anambra State with the theme “Let us rise and build”, Itina opined that Nigeria will change when Christians mirror the changes they believe to take place in every sector.

Lamenting the precarious state of the nation, he charged members to build the nation and the individual Christians.

Turning the rising spate of insecurity in the nation, Itina regreted that the Islamic insurgents, Boko Haram are gett-

L-R: Elder John Udo, past president of NCGF and wife, Mrs. Agnes Udo, Dr. Chudi Onwuegbuna, past vice president, Prof. Vincent Anigbogu, guest speaker and the national president, Dr. Samuel Itina. ing more emboldened by each different parts of the country also call for concern. day that passes.

The NCGF boss also picked “They pick at will any target where they destroy lives and holes in the nation's antiproperties. And they have corruption drive, warning that advanced to the nation’s capital endemic corruption as well as and are threatening to spread increasing cases of kidnapping, to other parts of the country,” politically motivated assassinations and armed robbery, he stated.

He also observed the fre- easily threaten the corporate quent attacks by Fulani herds- existence of the nation.

United States-based Nigerian men on innocent Nigerians in

Professor of Analytical Chemistry, Prof. Vincent Anigbogu, was of the opinion that Nigeria cannot afford to have leaders that work so hard to build and not preserve it.

Speaking on "The church and nation building," Anigbogu said Nigeria needs leaders with foresight, stressing the need for Christians to get involved in nation-building.

“If you leave God to do what you are supposed to do, you are irresponsible”, he stated, add-ing that prayers won’t change principles or bring about constitutional review necessary to foster development or change.

He therefore advocated for adoption of biblical principles for national transformation.

Anigbogu said conscious efforts must be made to develop human capacity to produce the kind of leaders desirable for the kind of change the nation desires.

According to him; “Christian leaders and followers alike must desist from running after government officials and politicians for the purpose of self gratification.

"Desist from making money your God. Christians must ensure that they discourage corruption instead of fanning the embers of corruption.”

The immediate past president of NGCF and member of the Governing Council University of Benin, Prof. Vincent Iyawe, said Christians need courage, boldness, commitment and seriousness to rebuild the nation.

Aso Rock Chaplain, Rev. William Okoye urged Christians to begin the process of producing policy makers and implementers to change the nation for good.

“The Church must raise men and women of character that will carry out this duty,’’ he stated.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 39

VOUR NNABUG WU

By FA FAV NNABUGWU

W

hen houses are built on the waterway, they tend to replace the natural surfaces that store rainwater with hard, impervious surfaces thereby diverting water and pollution away from the creeks or sewers. As a result, community growth can lead to higher levels of contaminated runoff, impaired water channels, degraded wildlife habitat thus causing uncontrolled sewage overflows.

Disaster knocks on the door of over 100 houses with more than 300 people in Anguwar Yelwa community in Chikun local government area of Kaduna State presently sitting on life-threatening flooding and landslides as floodwaters rush through communities and homes.

Hundreds of Anguwar Yelwa residents are living in settlements that can wipe off generations if the Federal Governments do not act promptly to divert the water or have the residents relocated.

The Kaduna community recently experienced life-threatening floods when a 15-hour rain started at about 11pm after many of the residents had gone to bed. The rain started on a Wednesday with intermittent breaks, became heavier on Thursday and started wreaking havoc when the water forced its way through, on Friday, by collapsing a three-cell culvert, in the process, blocking the channel that allows for easy flow of water between Anguwar Barde and Yelwa communities.

The ensuring flood resulted in the death of a seven -year -old girl, Theresa James, in Yelwa helping themselves by finding a place to dump their refuse instead who drowned.

A resident, who is also a of doing so in the drainage member of the Vigilante Group system: “If the drainage was clear of Nigeria in the community, from refuse, the flood would not Joshua Gonoh, said, while have reached that magnitude.”

One Mr Solomon Daye, a narrating the incident, they resident of the area, recalled that witnessed same flooding last year they had retired for the night due to the poor drainage in the when the rain started only to area.

“In this part of the state, there wake up to find their homes are no proper drainages where flooded.

He explained that one of his water can flow freely. The water neighbours had left her four that caused the flood flows in a particular drainage which comes children and gone for a night vigil. from an area called Halima. All Three of them were sleeping on the water from the area flows into the bed while one was sleeping the same drainage and comes out from the opening created under the bridge that collapsed due to erosion. So, when the hole blocked, there was no place for the water to pass and it had to go into the community, causing massive flooding,” Gonoh explained.

“Even the main Television Road connects to that same drainage that collapsed. The water level was up to the waist of grown men on the floor. When the flood who tried to salvage the property came, the three who slept on the of residents in the area.A church bed were overwhelmed while the had to be pulled down in order to one on the floor could not escape. pave way for water to pass so that All drowned in the flood.

“We were asleep at about it does not flood the community because, last year, the same area 12.30am when we discovered was flooded due to inadequate water was coming into our drainages and this has become a house,”Daye said.

“Before I could jump up, the common occurrence. Most of the houses located near the collapsed whole house was flooded. In a bridge are flooded during rainy twinkle of an eye, it got to my shoulder; we just struggled and season.”

Gonoh blamed residents for not had to find our way into the

‘Our killer-flood story’ *Sleeping 7-yr-old dead; 3 siblings miraculously escape

*FG to the rescue ceiling crying for help.

In the morning when the rain subsided, my neighbour who went to a night vigil and left her four children at home, three of the children slept on the bed while the other one slept on the floor and since they are little children, they could not escape the flood.

“So, when the flood came the three children on the bed were raised up but, Theresa James, seven, died as she could not escape.

“When concerned residents arrived to rescue the children, they didn’t even know there were

When concerned residents arrived to rescue the children, they didn’t even know there were four of them in the house; it was when the water subsided and they went in to arrange the room that the body of Theresa was found four of them in the house; it was when the water has subsided and they went in to arrange the room that the body of Theresa was found.

“When concerned residents arrived to rescue the children, they didn’t even know there were four of them in the house, it was after the rain subsided and they went to arrange the room that they found the body of Theresa.”

Many of the residents wanted compensation. A few wanted

solution. Everybody wanted answers. How had a system, designed to counter exactly the type of heavy weather conditions that hit the east-north of the state, failed so utterly?

And beyond that lies the core question of whether the land the communities stand on is a known flood plain that shouldn’t have been developed at all.

Another resident, Apostle George Omeha, claimed the flood arose from persistence rainfall that caused the small channel to expand so badly.

“It was a very small water passing through here. If you look at the tunnel there, it is a very small one. As the rain kept on falling, it kept on eroding it and it got to the current stage”, Omeha said.

“When they built this bridge (referring to the three-cell culvert), it would have been a very big bridge but it was a very small bridge; that is why they put that very tunnel. And when this thing happened and there was an overflow, they came and created another way. They created this waterway of recent.”

The residents fail to admit that they are in low land, hence the Federal Government road, high above their houses, is like any other road rather than a bridge.

The Managing Director of FERMA, Gabriel Amuchi, who led engineers to inspect the situation, said the agency was taking the project seriously and will act

promptly.

Amuchi explained that the effect of downpour and flood caused the extension of the culvert to cave in. He, therefore, assured that FERMA will reconstruct the culvert and channel the water properly to avoid a recurrence.

He said that a low land is not a safe place to build on, and to avert loss of lives, the road agency boss is of the opinion that it is better to relocate residents of that area.

“FERMA will, in collaboration with the state government, find enduring solution to the flooding and render the low land location free of occupation”, the MD said.

The community claimed that the flood was as a result of the collapse of a bridge but Amuchi said there has never been a bridge there but a three-cell culvert. “There was no bridge collapse here, it was a culvert, a three cell culvert. And the collapse of the three cell culvert was not evident until it totally caved in.

“And now that it has reflected on the shoulder, the carriage way is still functional; we are intervening at the appropriate time. And we are assuring that in no distant time, the repair will be done”.

He said the agency had discussed with Kaduna State government to find a durable design and how best the state can free the area of occupants.

PAGE 40 — SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

DAM OF DEA TH DEATH

By LUKA BINNIYAT

A

bout 20 Kaduna communities are set for a showdown with the Federal Government for failing to fulfil its promise after being removed from their ancestral land on which the N60 billion Gurara Water Intake Dam was built.

The communities, who issued a three-week ultimatum to the Federal Government, said they would block the dam supplying water to Abuja, about 75 kilometers away, and stop the ongoing construction of ancillary works connecting the 30MW power plant on the dam to supply power to Kaduna.

Leaders of the communities spoke under the banner of Kuturmi Unity Development Association, KUDA, saying they had lost about 34 people through boat mishaps on the dam, blaming the tragedy on non-filfilment of the promise to build alternative roads to link relocated communities to each other and to major roads.

The National President of KUDA, Mr. Dikko Danlami, and the Secretary General, Mr. Kure Ishaya, said they were not bluffing about the threat, as their youths would carry out the intended actions if government failed to return to the negotiating table for a concrete agreement.

“The Gurara Dam Water Transfer Project located at

We have lost not less than 34 people during this rainy season through boat mishaps Asawai/Doka, Awon District of Adara Chiefdom in Kachia Local Government Area started construction work in 2001 with about 95% of the project sited located in Kachia Local Government and the remaining 5% in Kagarko Local Government,”they said.

Danlami and Ishaya continued: “The 95% aspect of the dam is on Kuturmi soil.

“During one of the initial consultative meetings organized by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources (FMWR) the host community (Kuturmi) demanded to know our fate in view of the environmental impact assessment of the project on our people and land. Rather than tell us the negative impact of constructing the dam, we were regaled with

Kaduna threatens Abuja water supply how we will benefit from electricity, roads, social amenities, improved fishing and irrigation farming scheme.

However, not satisfied, we presented our agitations which were accepted during the consultative meetings.

“At subsequent consultative meetings, the host community was told that the project will provide about 2000 hectares of land to replace our land that will be submerged by water reservoir of the dam; that the fishing ground to us that would be the best around and 10 megawatts will be stepped down for our people from the electricity to be generated from the dam; “that our youths would be gainfully employed by the project construction firms and the Gurara Dam Management Agency;”that the project will provide roads network, potable drinking water, health facilities, schools and other d e v e l o p m e n t a l opportunities.”

“Based on these promises, the KUDA chieftains said, the host communities embraced the project without knowing that later development would put a lie to most of the things

promised.

According to the, after the dam was completed and commissioned, most of the promises were ignored.

“Out of the 2,000 hectares of land contained in the contract agreement, only 84 hectares have so far been developed.

The 3,000 hectares of land earmarked for Jere in Kagarko Local Government fall outside our community and are almost completed. Why not ours?

“On the hydro electricity generation of 30mega watts, only 10 megawatts was promised to be stepped down for the host communities. But government is now saying it will not do so anymore because of its high cost.

“The FMWR promised that fingerlings would be raised and put into the dam, but up to date nothing has been done.

“Pipe born water is transferred from Gurara Dam to Lower Usuman Dam in Bwari for onward treatment and distribution to residents of Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) and environs but not even a drop of pipe borne water has been made available for our domestic use.

Most of our people have now

been afflicted with water borne diseases as a result of drinking contaminated water from the dam reservoir. Efforts to have the authorities provide us with a mini-water treatment plant at both the lower and upper dam reservoirs proved abortive. It is immoral and unjustifiable to take water, treat it and sell to Abuja residents while the host communities are left to drink contaminated and deadly/poisonous water.”

The Kuturmi people also accused government of refusing to build roads to link the displaced persons, thus forcing them to use boats and canoes to access neighbouring towns.

“We have lost not less than 34 people as at this rainy season through boat mishaps”, Danladi and Ishaya said.

“In view of all these and the fact that operation of those handling the construction of the dam is about winding up, we the Kuturmi communities staying around the dam are constrained to issue a three weeks ultimatum effective August, 31 2014 particularly to the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to revive the Gurara Dam stakeholders consultative meeting so that all grey areas would be resolved for the smooth completion of all components of the projects. This we believe will help avoid any demonstration by the youths as contained in their several correspondences”.

SUND AY SUNDA

Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PPA AGE 41

REVELATIONS ON BOKO HARAM

A web of deceit

zThe conspiracy of ineptitude at the top zAnd the graves are getting fuller

H

ow do you win the war against terror?

Before you muster an answer, here is what the Nigerian government has put in

place: *N30,000 per month allowance for its military men who are facing death in battle – this comes to N1,000 per day. *A supposed N1,500 feeding allowance but which has since been converted to the provision of food for the soldiers. *Sleeping kits, weapons, battle kits? There were conflicting reports at press time on whether or not these materials are in adequate supply or not.

But wait a minute: How much does N1,000 a day amount to for a soldier expected to confront death?

Of what value is the money?

A retired American military personnel of Nigerian decent, Major Chris Moghalu, had disclosed to Sunday Vanguard in a telephone conversation that soldiers on tour of duty in Iraq confronted the vicissitudes of war in the consoling belief that their allowances were being paid and, after that tour, they would return to meet their earnings. That is how soldiers are motivated, wars are fought and won.

Beyond that, and still on the pitiable condition of the Nigerian soldier, what does N1,000 per day amount to at the end of 365 days? A meager N365,000. That is what this oil-rich nation expects men and women to go and die for?

Sunday Vanguard had exclusively reported on September 23, 2012, that one of the money couriers of Boko Haram was arrested with N4.5million.

‘The accountant’ was said to be in transit between Kano and Zaria, with the said cash belonging to the Islamist group when men of the JTF intercepted and arrested him. Sunday Vanguard sources said he was travelling in a commuter bus as a cover. The arrest came barely two days after security agents tracked and killed Boko Haram spokesman, Abu Qaqa, in an operation in Kano.

,

BY JIDE AJANI

Beyond that, and still on the pitiable condition of the Nigerian soldier, what does N1,000 per day amount to at the end of 365 days? A meager N365,000.

That is what this oil-rich nation expects men and women to go and die for

,

The Islamist group’s ‘accountant’, it was learnt, embarked on the journey which originated from Maiduguri, Borno State, to make cash transfers.

The sources said his cover blew after he and another associate made some money transfers in Kano, an action that aroused the curiosity of bank officials who alerted security agents. The associate was arrested but, by then, the ‘accountant’ was already on his way to Zaria.

Subsequent manhunt yielded fruit as the ‘Boko Haram accountant’ was arrested in transit.

In fact, Sunday Vanguard was made to understand that “the arrest was responsible for the seeming lull in the activities of the sect in the Kaduna/Kano axis for a few months. That was just one ‘accountant’ Again, according to Major Moghalu, the sect made about $70million between 2006 and 2011.

Sunday Vanguard has also discovered that most of the bank raids and armed robbery occurrences which became rampant in some parts of the North were orchestrated by members of the sect.

A security source disclosed, while corroborating some of the revelations by Major Moghalu, that the funds did not just come from one mono-source of one trans-national criminal activity. With a clever web of a series of trans-national organized criminal activities, Boko Haram, has been able to rake in so much money from the sponsors.

And among the trans-national crimes used to secure funds for the group include but are not limited to the following: drug trafficking, smuggling, weapons trafficking, money laundering, kidnap for ransom, outright armed robbery. That is aside from money transfers and cash lodgments by financial backers.

Are these the people Nigeria’s government is paying soldiers an allowance of N1,000 per day to go and fight? In any case, to demonstrate the ineptitude that has become so pervasive in this war, how much does a presidential campaign cost?

How must does it cost to become a state governor in Nigeria? How much does it cost to become a

senator, House of Representatives’ member, council chairman or councillor?

When members of Jama’atu Ahliss-Sunnah Lidda’awati Wal Jihad, storm villages and towns, they do so in their tens and, according to eye-witness accounts, may be 100 or 150 insurgents.

Now, adopting a simplistic approach, the following questions become pertinent: How many soldiers are operating in Borno State, the main theatre of war, today?

At the ratio of 10 to 1, Nigeria can deploy some 10,000 soldiers to fight the insurgents. But at what cost? Rather than give the paltry N1,000 per day allowance to the soldiers, would the spirit of motivation not be far heightened if soldiers were to earn N10,000 per day? For 10,000 soldiers, that would run to N100,000,000:00 (One hundred million naira) per day. Is it that Nigeria cannot afford N100,000,000 per day as allowance for soldiers who are putting their lives on the line to restore dignity and maintain the nation’s territorial integrity from a band of marauders, and, thereby, avoid the embarrassment we are facing?

At the height of militancy in the Niger Delta in 2008, Nigeria was unable to produce over 1,000,000 barrels of crude oil per day. At just $75, that meant Nigeria was losing $75m per day.

At today’s exchange rate, the sum would be mindboggling. But at the convenient exchange rate of N150 to $1, the cost to the economy would have been over N10b per day.

Motivation is key.

Then there is the talk about Steven Davies and his allegations. Has anybody attempted to investigate the allegations?

Had the All Progressive Congress, APC, not alerted the nation about the alleged complicity of some powerful Nigerians close to the Federal Government, what would have happened?

And whereas APC may have become so adept at jumping into issues, why did it take such a lampoon on the FG for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, spokesman, Olisa Metuh, to respond in his usually lame manner? It is indeed a shame that a country like Nigeria would allow a Yoweri Museveni to pillory it on account of the exploits of the insurgents.

But more worrying is the fact that many more lives are being needlessly wasted by what is becoming a clueless engagement by government – read Obi Nwakanma.

In his book, THE STATE OF AFRICA, Martin Meredith, in Chapter 27, entitled THE GRAVES ARE NOT YET FULL, talks about the Rwandan massacre. In today’s Nigeria, the graves are getting much fuller by the week.

Even the primus matter at hand, the rescue of the over 200 Chibok girls, is not being engaged properly because more than 1,000% of the same girls in captivity have since been killed. Yet, our government’s standard response is to verbally masturbate and expect that it passes for the real deal. If the deceit is conscious or sub-conscious, there is a need for re-engagement C M Y K

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Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

The military and Boko Haram‘s weapons of mass destruction •...The fear for Maiduguri

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NDICATIONS have emerged that the military was no longer ready to condone the embarrassment it was receiving in the hands of Boko Haram terrorists especially concerning the outcome of the battles in Gwoza, Gamboru-Ngala, Bama and Banki.

In the battles, the trend has been that when attack is launched by the insurgents and repelled, ammunition expended, with the terrorists suffering casualties, a new set of insurgents and the survivors of the initial gunfight will emerge, with a

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BY KINGSLEY OMONOBI

Aside the AA weapons, mounted either on vehicles or carried on the shoulders, in which case it will require more than one person to operate, the insurgents are also said to have recruited specialist snipers who are suspected to be foreign mercenaries

more attacking force and strength, thereby making the armed forces, apparently outnumbered by the Boko Haram elements, to embark on tactical manoeuvres.

Asked what ‘the hell’, as they say in military parlance, was responsible for the troops of the Nigerian armed forces, who have been tested in

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several battle fronts to the admiration of their foreign counterparts, taking cover, and manoeuvring from rag tag insurgents, a military source said it is because the terrorists breach the rules of engagement in battle.

For instance, anti-aircraft (AA) and anti-tank guns, banned from use against

human targets in war situations, especially during insurgency viewed as low battle confrontation, are the everyday guns used by the terrorists.

This shows that what we have in the Boko Haram version of insurgency is that the anti-aircraft technical weapon and anti-tank guns, both of which are designated weapons of mass destruction, are used against human targets particularly troops conducting the war on terror, contrary to insurgency fights.

The AA weapons, most of which were said to have been got from the armoury of the late Libyan leader, Colonel Muamar Gadaffi, have the

capacity to wreak collateral damage on targets within a radius of two kilometres while the anti-tank weapons have a radius of between 700 metres and one kilometer to impact heavy destruction.

Aside the AA weapons, mounted either on vehicles or carried on shoulder, in which case it will require more than one person to operate, the insurgents are also said to have recruited specialist snipers who are suspected to be foreign mercenaries.

The snipers, military sources told Sunday Vanguard, have weapons fitted with telescopic sight

Continues on page 43

SUND AY SUNDA

Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PPA AGE 43

•Boko Haram insurgents... using unconventional weapons

The fear for Maiduguri, after the Bama, Banki battles which enables them to hit targets from distances with precision. The sources pointed out that when troops of the military are going after the Boko Haram insurgents, the snipers take out the drivers of the vehicles or demobilize the tyres.

It is against this background that soldiers in the battle front and commanders have continued to ask question about the sincerity of the authorities in bringing this mayhem to a stop.

“The truth of the matter is that the authorities should give the military the go-ahead to launch heavy weaponry on these terrorists. Time is running out. This idea of thinking that the Federal Government will be accused of genocide or that launching of artillery and heavy weaponry will lead to collateral damage, should be done away with”, one of the commanders said.

“Must we wait until these miscreants completely disgrace our military? What they are doing, killing innocent people in their hundreds, abducting women

and young children, especially girls, which they use as sex slaves, are those not genocide and contrary to the human rights of these innocent persons? They are also conscripting youths who

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Continued from page 42

barracks in the town, leading to another tactical manoeuvre, Sunday Vanguard learnt that military authorities could no longer stomach the embarrassment.

Before then, the attacks on

Another set of aircraft, also fitted with modern equipment such as the Shilka guns for the army, which were also ordered, is being expected in the country to fast-track efforts at checkmating Boko Haram.

turn around to attack and kill our men and we are saying bombing them will amount to killing the innocent.

“But these are the same youths they convert and give dangerous arms to attack communities and kill security operatives. When they attack, they are in some kind of spell, they don’t look back, they are like kids but they kill without remorse. Is it the military’s making? So why are the directives not coming?’’

So when, last Monday, the insurgents attacked Bama losing about 70 terrorists, regrouping again and coming back for the troops at the

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Damboa, which was successfully contained, that of Gwoza, Banki and Madagali, which is ongoing, and that of Gamboru, which resulted in Nigerian soldiers crossing the border to Cameroon, had been viewed by many as a sort of moral victory for the insurgents.

Consequently, the military high command was said to have directed that the new set of fighter jets, ordered by the Federal Government and have started arriving the country, should be mobilized to help the armed forces launch a final onslaught against Boko Haram.

The fighter jets, military sources disclosed, are capable of carrying out night operations and it is believed they will enhance the operations of troops after softening the ground by bombing the insurgents camps and hideouts.

Another set of aircraft, also fitted with modern equipment such as the Shilka guns for the army, which were also ordered, is being expected in the country to fast-track efforts at checkmating Boko Haram.

Aside this, it was gathered that the Armoured Corps headquarters, Bauchi has been directed to mobilize heavy capacity armoured personnel carriers while officers and soldiers of the 1 Infantry Division, Kaduna and the 3rd Armoured Division Jos, have been put on red alert with both Divisions, ready to deploy troops to the epicentre of the battle at the shortest possible time.

Sunday Vanguard gathered that the decision to put the Divisions on alert followed intelligence reports pointing to the fact that Boko Haram insurgents were planning to carry out attacks on communities in and around

Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.

The 7 Division, Maiduguri, last Tuesday, imposed a dusk to dawn curfew in the capital giving vent to the intelligence reports that security forces were getting ready for a major offensive.

Military sources said recent attacks on Gwoza, Damboa and lately Bama and Banki, were part of a grand plot by the insurgents to attack the capital from several angles which will make it difficult for the armed forces to contain because it is the sect’s belief that the troops, whose morale is allegedly ‘low’, could find it difficult to cope.

Earlier reports said that scores of insurgents were seen leaving their Sambisa forest den and relocating to areas in the border between Borno and Bauchi states but sources later claimed the Balmo axis was another possible area where another band of the Boko Haram terrorists could launch attack on Maiduguri.

Confirming that enemies within the security forces were helping the terrorists in the insurgency battle, a source said some disloyal troops pass on strategic information on operations to the insurgents.

For instance, when an operation to bomb insurgents camps is being planned, some insiders allegedly pass on the information to the terrorists that their area will soon be bombed and that it will be safer for them to leave the area.

That is why the bombing by the air force in certain cases, according to sources, is not having much impact on the insurgents except on occasions when the operation is planned secretly.

Continuing, the source said the analysis so far made on the weapons recovered from the insurgents does not show that they are superior to those of the armed forces as claimed; rather the insurgents are being helped with the use of guns that the Nigerian army which is a conventionally trained force cannot use. Giving an account of how the Bama attack came about, the source said the insurgents arrived the outskirts as early as 5:30a.m.but were surprised to see soldiers ready for them.

This led to stiff confrontation that lasted till the evening of Monday. *At dusk more insurgents regrouped and entered the city leading to soldiers embarking on a tactical manoeuvre.

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Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

BY NDAHI MARAMA, MAIDUGURI

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BOKO HARAM

The Islamists’ move to redraw Nigeria’s borders

Zannah said he lost two nephews to the insurgents.

He said: “They entered my brother’s house in Bama and shot his two sons they met at the residence.”

Zannah, an indigene of Bama, 78 kilometres from Maiduguri, said: “Both the military and Borno State government are lying to Nigerians, and to prove that I am the one misinforming the public, they should take journalists to the town to crosscheck the fact.”

It would be recalled that after the senator, on Tuesday morning, granted an interview that Bama had been captured by the terrorist group, Borno State government and a youth vigilante group swiftly came out to call his claim a lie and politically motivated.

Following the development, about 10,000 youths, on Thursday, trooped to the streets of Maiduguri to protest the siege of Boko Haram on Borno State and indicate their willingness to go after the terrorist group.

The youths, who initially assembled at the popular Ramat Square Ground at the centre of the town, later went through the streets in their large number to the palace Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Umar Ibn- Garbai Elkanemi.

At the palace, the youths coveted the monarch’s blessings which they claimed would ensure success in their confrontation with the terrorists.

According to them, they had resolved to enter Sambisa and

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n the last two months, the activities of the Islamist Boko Haram group in Borno State is a source of serious concern and apprehension to the people of the state. The group, after capturing Damboa, Gwoza (which Boko Haram leaders Abubakar Shehu later described as a Muslim caliphate in an attempt to redraw Nigeria’s borders) and Gamboru Ngala council areas of Borno State, went ahead to Bama and Banki towns last Monday and Tuesday when Governor Kashim Shettima was out of the country. But the gallant effort of the military repelled the attack on Bama, while Banki, a town bordering Cameroun, according to sources, was overrun by the sect.

With the developments, many people living in Maiduguri, the state capital, including the hundreds of displaced persons taking refuge there, were apprehensive the militant group could attack the city.

But the deputy governor of the state, Zannah Umar Mustapha, on Tuesday, denied that Bama had fallen into the hands of Boko Haram, saying the military was in full control of the security situation over the Monday insurgent attacks.

He noted that with the attack on Bama, over 2, 000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the town and environs fled to Maiduguri, and had been resettled at National Youths Service (NYSC) Orientation Camp and Government Girls Secondary School (GGSS), Maiduguri.

“The attack on Bama town was very unfortunate, but I want reassure our people that government is on top of the situation. Already, those in the camps are being taken care of and our security forces are engaging the insurgents in a fierce battle which is worthy of commendation,” Mustapha said.

The deputy governor appealed to the people to desist from spreading false information or creating unnecessary tension in the state.

However, the senator representing Borno Central at the National Assembly, Ahmed Zannah, challenged Borno State government and the military authorities to take the media to Bama to cross- check their claim that the town had not be captured by Boko Haram.

The senator, in a telephone chat on Wednesday afternoon with our correspondent, said: “As I am speaking to you, Bama has been captured and the insurgents on the prowl for any male, killing at will.

“Everyone is a target as long as you are male but for now women and children are being spared.”

Recounting a personal loss,

But the gallant effort of the military repelled the attack on Bama, while Banki, a town bordering Cameroun, according to sources, was overrun by the sect

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other hideouts of the terrorists to hunt them down and bring an end to the insecurity in Borno. The Shehu tasked the protesting youths to always abide by the rule of law in the course of discharging their duty.

He commended the efforts of the Civilian JTF in tackling the Boko Haram insurgency, and appealed to them to always follow the directives of the military and other security

agencies.

He said the emergence of the Civilian JTF had assisted in dislodging Boko Haram from Maiduguri and environs, and therefore called on other towns in Borno to set up their own Civilian JTF/youth volunteers to fight terrorism.

“I want to to thank you for this visit and the effort you are collectively and voluntarily doing in order to fight Boko Haram who are bent in not only destroying our social and economic structures, but also killing innocent lives of our citizenry. I want to also appeal to you to desist from politics, religious or ethnic considerations while discharging your duties to your fatherland. In anything you are doing, you must make sure that you consult with the security agencies so that you work hand-in hand to end terrorism that is destroying us as a nation’’, the monarch said.

The state Coordinator of the Civilian JTF, Mallam Abba Aji Kalli, in an interview with our correspondent, said they were at the Shehu’s palace to seek his blessings and fatherly advice, as the group had vowed to go after the insurgents even if they are not well armed, saying that with their sticks (Gora in Hausa) and other local arms, they will raid the terrorists hideouts and kill them if given permission by the Federal Government.

Kalli said the Civilian JTF was more motivated with support and assurance from retired military men, local hunters and other patriotic citizens who had

expressed their willingness join the group to end the madness perpetrated by Boko Haram in the North-east.

While expressing dismay over President Goodluck Jonathan’s lack of support for the Civilian JTF in the fight against insurgency, Kalli noted that the group will not be deterred as it was determined to work with the military to end insurgency in the region.

Governor Shettima was forced to cut short his trip abroad and returned to Maiduguri on Thursday following the attacks on Bama and Banki.

Shettima, who arrived Maiduguri in a chartered flight, went straight to the Goverment Girls Secondary School, Yerwa and the NYSC Orientation Camp where the IDPs were taking refuge.

He sympathized with the people who were forced to flee their homes following the Monday morning attack in Bama by the terrorists.

Although the situation in Bama has been brought under control by the military and 24-

hour surveillance by the joint military and Civilian JTF put in place, the standing committee on Boko Haram insurgency relief materials and assistance set up by the state government has since swung into action to cushion the sufferings of the IDPs.

Shettima, at the camps, informed the displaced persons that he had met with President Goodluck Jonathan on the security situation in Bama and other areas of the state as well as other service chiefs, and there were assurances that the Federal Government will continu e to intervene and provide adequate military personnel and weapons to overcome the insurgents.

He urged them to continue to pray for peace and end to the insurgency while appealing to the Boko Haram terrorists to desist from their barbaric and ungodly acts and have the fear of God, noting that God will surely punish them for their misdeeds.

SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 45

some of its members.

As much as I do not want to politicize such a various serious issue like security, I am compelled to correct Oyegun’s faulty generalizations, and judgemental attitude in acting out this well rehearsed script, conceived, written and directed by the APC. It has never been a secret that one of the most disturbing developments to the APC of late, is the massive departure of very prominent members, including my humble self. But this is not enough to warrant the callous campaigns against me or any person for that matter.

GENESIS

Modu Sheriff, flanked by his associates

BOKO HARAM SPONSORS The story of killings, treachery, betrayal... from the beginning, by ex-Borno Governor Modu Sheriff

BY HENRY UMORU Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, who ruled Borno State on the platform of the defunct All Nigeria’s Peoples Party, ANPP, between 2003 and 2011, played a major role in the merger that led to the formation of All Progressives Congress, APC, the party he dumped recently for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. He has been embattled and received bashing following the activities of Boko Haram which engaged in killings and wanton destruction of property.

He has been accused severally of entering into an agreement with the sect to implement Sharia Law in Borno State. He was also alleged to have link with the sect while his administration was accused of not acting on security reports related to Boko Haram activities. Of late, a purported Australian helping the Federal Government to negotiate the release of the abducted Chibok girls, Stephen Davis, was quoted as saying he is one of the sponsors of Boko Haram.

In this interview, Sheriff bares his mind on the Boko Haram insurgency, detailing how the Islamist group came into being in Borno State before his government was inaugurated.

‘WHY I AM OPENING UP’ I am constrained to correct the erroneous and mischievous impressions being created about my person. I have restrained

myself from joining issues with those making uncomplimentary comments about me regarding the Boko Haram crisis because I know that all right thinking Nigerians can see through the plot being employed to divert attention from the real issues at stake and to denigrate me in the eyes of the public.

As you are aware, my name is being mentioned for obvious political reasons as a culprit over the unfortunate happenings in Borno State and some parts of the country, especially from the 2009 Boko Haram episode to date. I must say that I have been utterly embarrassed by some of the negative comments, insinuations and unfounded accusations, which were clearly misdirected, narrow and mischievous. From the time I left office in 2011, I had been unfairly accused of so many things in connection with the Boko Haram sect. Firstly, I was accused of entering into an agreement with the sect to implement Sharia Law in the state so as to support my candidacy during the gubernatorial election in 2003 and that I broke that promise, which was why they resorted to armed struggle as a strategy to implement it.

Secondly, I was accused of having links with the sect and thirdly, my administration was also accused of not acting on security reports related to their activities, which was believed to have given the group the space to operate and cause the mayhem

experienced. I wish to correct the misconception tenaciously held by some people that linked me to the sect even when evidence points to the contrary.

Ordinarily, I would have continued in my silence, but the smear campaign seems to be assuming a life of its own with the recent purported interview granted by a’ supposed

said Davis in the politics of Nigeria that he rose in defence of prominent APC leaders? Is the Australian a negotiator, an investigator, an anti-graft agent, a reporter, a judge or a mere gadfly?

I also take particular exception to remarks credited to the National Chairman of the APC, John Odegie Oyegun, in his press

I was accused of having links with the sect and thirdly, my administration was also accused of not acting on security reports related to their activities, which was believed to have given the group the space to operate and cause the mayhem experienced Australian, Stephen Davis, whose identity remains suspect.

Davis claimed to be working for the Federal Government but could not even avail the same Government which hired him the report of his findings, or speak to the Nigerian media, but rather sneaked out to purportedly speak to a third rate television station, ARISE. The posers here are; why was the face of the said Davis not shown in all three interviews he granted? Why couldn’t other viewers in London have access to the controversial interview?

Of what particular interest is the

conference of Tuesday, September 2, 2014. As much as I do not consider changing ones’ political party as an anathema, I am particularly concerned that my defection from the APC into the PDP seems to further galvanize my detractors who have converted the matter into a political weapon .. Even as the brain behind the whole charade, the All Progressive Party, APC, in its seeming desperation to retain my membership, went rather too far in its political mudslinging. I consider it most uncharitable for the party, to use me as an alibi for the obvious culpability of

It may not be necessary to bother you with the long history of the metamorphosis of Boko Haram as a sect, as several reports have published its genesis, spanning over 25 years.

The incident preceding the 2009 was in Kanama of Yobe State in 2002, long before I became the governor of Borno State. It is on record that my administration in 2009 took exceptional bold steps in handling the Boko Haram insurgency.

Given the seriousness of the issue, I feel it is highly uncharitable to try and trivialize the issue of terrorism on the altar of political rivalry.

I believe very strongly that some of those linking me with the sect are doing so either because of absolute ignorance of the group, its history and development or are clearly being mischievous.

Hence my decision to speak on the issue and make certain clarifications for the benefit of the unsuspecting general public becomes necessary.

‘HOW MY PREDECESSOR INTRODUCED SHARIA’ It was my predecessor, the late Alhaji Mala Kachallah, who introduced Sharia Law in the state in 2000 through the ‘Borno State Sharia Administration of Justice Law 2000’. As a matter of fact, Kachallah signed the bill into law at an elaborate ceremony at the Ramat Square in Maiduguri and appointed the Borno State Sharia Law Implementation Committee in February, 2001 under the chairmanship of Professor Abubakar Mustapha, the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri.

THE MOHAMMED YUSUF CONNECTION Interestingly, the late Mohammed Yusuf, leader of the Boko Haram sect, was a member of the committee among other Islamic scholars..

If indeed there was an agreement between the sect and my predecessor on the issue of Sharia implementation, I am not aware of it, as I was neither in government then. nor was I a party to it. And since the law precedes my administration, I may not be in a position to speak on how it was conceived, promulgated and implemented.

Let me state categorically that I do not share the ideology of Boko Haram which is against

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PAGE 46—SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

My Boko Haram story, Modu Sheriff Continued from page 45 western education, western culture and modern science or any other sect with similar ideology. From my background, it could be easily seen that we are completely opposed to one another in terms of our viewpoints and convictions. By my nature and upbringing, I have neither associated myself with nor shared the beliefs of religious fundamentalists such as the Boko Haram sect or any other sect for that matter.

‘I AM A VICTIM’ I have been one of the biggest victims of the atrocities of Boko Haram. As governor of the state at that time, I had not abdicated my responsibilities of protecting lives and property and did not give them any breathing space to operate outside the law of the land. Because of this, they were driven by a desire for vengeance against me, my family and my political associates. From the number of casualties amongst my relations and political associates, it is evident that I suffered considerable personal loss from the crisis. Amongst those killed in cold blood were my younger brother, Alhaji Goni Mustapha Sheriff; the defunct ANPP State Chairman and my brother in-law, Alhaji Awana Ngala; the gubernatorial candidate of our party in the 2011 elections, Engr, Modu Fannami Gubio; my bossom friends: Alhaji Mustapha Fulawama and Bukar Goni Kols, and a host of other close political associates.

Records show that Boko Haram predates my government. As for the events of June 2009, there was collaboration between the federal and state governments in trying to contain the situation.

On June 11, 2009, there was a report of shooting of 17 members of the sect by members of the “Operation Flush”( a combined security outfit against crime). They were reported to have attempted to forcefully seize the weapon of a soldier at a check point in Maiduguri metropolis, while on a procession to bury some of their members that died in a motor accident. The injured persons were taken to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for treatment and the authorities of the hospital requested for protection because of the influx of unwanted visitors to the victims, which did not go down well with members of the sect.

The following day,the ate Mohammed Yusuf held an open sermon, which he tagged an “open letter ”. In that sermon, Yusuf called the names of the late President Umaru Musa Yar ’ Adua, a former Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Marshal Paul Dike; a former Chief of the Army Staff, Lt. General A. Dambazzau; a former Inspector General of Police, Mr. Onovo; a former DirectorGeneral of the State Security

Modu Sheriff, flanked by his associates Services (SSS), Mr. Afakriya Gadzama; and my humble self and threatened to deal with us and those that refused to share the Boko Haram doctrine. He called these leaders unprintable names and vowed to revenge what happened to his members.

The tapes of the sermon were widely circulated in Borno State and some parts of the country.

There were also reports that the group were stockpiling arms and ammunition, which was discussed at the Security Council and appropriate decisions taken on the issue.

Former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Umaru Musa Yar ’ Adua were accordingly briefed on the activities of the Boko Haram sect at various times and the threat posed by the group to national security.

On July 29, 2009, there was a report of the arrest of nine members of the sect with bomb making devices and chemicals in Biu town. There was also a report of bomb explosion in the house of one of the members of the sect who later died from the explosion. Unbelievably, on the same 23rd July, 2009, the group planned and attacked the residence of a Deputy Commandant of the Mobile Police (Mopol) in the GRA, killed his guards and burnt his house.

The group also went to the police headquarters in Maiduguri and gruesomely killed police officers and members of their families.

There is no doubt that the almost one week period (Sunday July 26 - Friday July 31, 2009) during which Boko Haram unleashed terror on Maiduguri and environs would forever remain the traumatic and darkest part of the history’ of the state. In the five days during which the Boko Haram war climaxed, no fewer than a thousand innocent people, including policemen, were brutally killed. An even higher

There is no doubt that the almost one week period (Sunday July 26 - Friday July 31, 2009) during which Boko Haram unleashed terror on Maiduguri and environs would forever remain the traumatic and darkest part of the history’ of the state number of their relatives were brutally killed by the sect when they attacked the Police College in Maiduguri, Bauchi, Yobe and Taraba States. Five police stations in Maiduguri were set ablaze and several vehicles used by the force were burnt; arms and ammunition carted away; and so on.

ESCALATION Within one week, the atrocities of the sect escalated beyond proportion.

The state government immediately drew the attention of the then President when the situation was getting out of hand and clearly beyond the capacity of the police.

Following that, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua gave the military directives for action to be taken against the sect. It was at this point that the General Officer Commanding the 3rd Armoured Division of the Nigerian Army, Jos, Major General Saleh Maina, now retired, led the operation and successfully dislodged the sect after about five days of fierce battle.

‘MY ROLE’ As the chief security officer, the governor only provided logistics in terms of funds for the operation, since it was purely a military affair; the military drew and managed its operational orders. This also

applied to the Nigeria Police, which was led by a Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police, John Hamza Ahmodu, now deceased. Eventually, some of the sect members were killed in the gun battle and their leader, Mohammed Yusuf, captured by the military and handed over to the police for prosecution.

Understandably, the circumstances of the death of some of the sect leaders and their sponsors attracted publicity and condemnation worldwide, which prompted the Federal Government to appoint a “HighPowered Post-Mortem Committee on the Sectarian Crisis in Kano, Bauchi, Yobe, and Borno States”, charged with the responsibility of investigating the matter generally. The Committee, headed by a former Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Marshal Paul Dike, with membership that cut across various security agencies, visited the affected areas and met with stakeholders.

The committee submitted its report.

In fact, the issue regarding the death of the sect leader and others is currently in the court of law in Abuja where some police officers are facing trial.

On its part, the Borno government appointed a HighPowered Administrative Committee of Inquiry into the Boko Haram insurgency headed

by Ambassador Gaji Galtimari and the committee made far reaching recommendations,

most of which were considered and implemented. Government later converted the committee into an Implementation Committee, which implemented the Government White-Paper on the matter.

Sequel to the recommendation of the committee, the sect commonly known as Boko Haram and alternatively as Yusufiyya, was declared as a society dangerous to the good government of Borno State and therefore banned. This Order was cited as the Boko Haram or Yusufiyya Sect (Society Dangerous to Government of Borno State) (Declaration) Order, 2010.

The movement, in reaction to the order, changed its nomenclature to Jama’atul Ahlis-Sunnah Lidda’awati Wal Jihad.

Unfortunately, in spite all of the above, the sect continued to wreak havoc in Bauchi, Yobe, Taraba, Borno, Kano states, including the Federal Capital Abuja. The group resurfaced with a renewed strategy and in a more dangerous and determined manner since the jail break in Bauchi sometime ago. The wave of assassinations

by Boko Haram in Borno clearly suggested that the group went back to the drawing board after their encounter with the military in 2009, assessed its methods and developed new ones.

In the last three years, an alarming number of members of the rank and file of the Nigeria Police and other security agencies have been killed by sect, in addition to other innocent Nigerians.

ON WHETHER HE WOULD DRAG THE AUSTRALIAN, STEPHEN DAVIS, TO COURT I have already instructed my lawyers to sue the faceless Australian, he must be tracked any where he may be.

ON OYEGUN I am very disappointed in Oyegun. After I left APC, he came to my house, begging me not to leave the party. So many people are leaving the APC, there must be a problem.

ON THE ACCUSATION BY GEN. JERRY USENI Gen. Jerry Useni should come up with evidence to prove to Nigerians what he said. Iam prepared to face any panel. I stand to be corrected, Yusuf was never brought to my office, he was captured by the military under General Saleh Maina.

ON HOW TO PUT AN END TO THE KILLINGS BY BOKO HARAM If I know, my family members will not be killed; if I know, my brothers will not be killed; if I know, my people will not be killed.

SUND AY SUNDA

Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PPA AGE 47

The three options to bring back Chibok girls, by Oby Ezekwesili •‘Our struggle in the face of intimidation’

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ormer Education Minister and leader of the Bring Back Our Girls Campaign, Mrs Oby Ezekwesili, visited the Lagos Head office of the Vanguard Newspapers, last week, with some members of her group in what can be described as a sustained move to rescue the over 219 Chibok school girls, who were abducted on April 14 by the Boko Haram insurgents.

Ezekwesili, who cried for over five minutes during a chat with Vanguard senior editors, said she and her group would not stop the campaign until the girls were rescued. She dismissed as balderdash insinuations that joblessness is responsible for her campaign, and the campaign is politically-motivated and being funded by opponents of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Federal Government. With her during the visit were Mrs Wonu Folami (former Lagos State Attorney General), Mrs Sekinat Yusuf (former Lagos education commissioner), Maureen Iyasele, Dr M. Adefeso and Debola Williams among others.

How bring back our girls campaign started To get our young people under policy issues I have to interact with them in a language they understand, so I am much into social media. In April, I tweeted on Monday thmorning, Monday was the 14 , on what could be done to contain the Boko Haram insurgency and by the evening over 500 suggestions had been tweeted. And so the next morning, people continued to tweet. It wasn’t until about 1 O’clock that I saw something on BBC saying over 100 girls were abducted from a school in Borno. And I thought this had to be a joke. So I then tweeted on that news and I said, ‘is anyone out there in Borno able to confirm whether this report I am picking up from BBC is accurate?’ And then people began to respond and said yes, they heard that some abduction happened.

So I started tweeting and saying can the Federal Government, can the military, can our security confirm whether the girls have indeed been abducted in Borno state?

There was no word.thThat was all of the 15th. The 16 I continued tweeting, it wasn’t until the 17th that we got a press release from the military. The press release said some number of girls were abducted, we have rescued some number of them and only about

eight are missing. And I was like over the moon, I praised our military, I rejoiced and congratulated them. And then some of these young ones on twitter said ‘Aunty, what are you congratulating them for? It is not true.’

I said, ‘what do you mean it is not true? Have we become so down as a nation that you don’t even believe our institutions like the military?’ They said, ‘Aunty, which military? We don’t believe it is true. Aunty stop celebrating, they haven’t rescued anybody.’ I was so angry at the young ones.

Part of why I am on twitter is this whole engagement on the matter of engaging in public policy, you must do it on the basis of verifiable evidence. I teach public policy through my twitter account and most of them follow it. I couldn’t commit to doing this in the classroom setting as I was asked. But my son said, ‘Mum, you can use your twitter account and you will teach more people than can come into the classroom.’

So when these children were very cynical and unbelieving, very distressful of what they’ve heard, I picked on them and I said, ‘our social capital cannot be allowed to derogate so badly that you cannot believe one of the most important institutions.

Don’t let your distrust get to this point.’

They said, ‘okay we hope you don’t get to regret this.’

It was like they were right. For the next two days, there was no word. By the19th there was word from the Defence headquarters and the word was basically we are wrong, we are sorry, this was a wrong information. It was so embarrassing.

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BY CLIFFORD NDUJIHE, DAPO AKINREFON & CHARLES KUMOLU

Ezekwesili we must just go after this people and get the girls back. Then after that, the embarrassment was a bit too much. No word

Option one was to say that we have spoken with the leadership of the National Assembly, they have promised that they will go and talk to the president, we can all go home and see what will happen

But guess what, to show you the spirit of the engagement on this matter, I immediately picked up on that and said, ‘all right, maybe we can come back to this later but I think everybody ought to support our military to go in full force to find our girls. They need to trace these girls and to bring them back, that is the most important thing right now.’

And I began to tweet encouragement to inspire to say

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again, everything was quiet. I continued to tweet on the matter.

In fact, I established a new # tag and I called it ‘Where are our 85 daughters?’

I said we must stand in solidarity with these Chibok girls that have been missing for almost 10 days and there is no word on their rescue and that we must all stand. And they stood. I said to the whole world, ‘please join us in declaring bring back

our girls and that is how bring back our girls went virile on social media.

So, we agreed to do the march on April 30 and on that day, we were out at Unity Fountain, Abuja and people came. People just read about it and walked up to become part of it. That was the genesis of the bring back our girls. On that April 30, we had more women but a number of men also came and we marched to the National Assembly.

By then, we had written the leadership of the National Assembly to say to them, ‘have you not heard that some girls are missing?’ Nobody was speaking from government and nobody had a clear cut of what we were up against.

The National Assembly leadership was open to receiving us but when we marched and the crowd was much, they decided to come out and meet us. It was a day in Abuja that it rained cats and dogs and both ourselves and

the leadership of the National Assembly led by Senator David Mark that came to meet us were soaked beyond measure. But people were motivated and said we will not let this pass again and so, they engaged and promised us that they were going to meet with the president that evening and that they were going to raise all the concerns that we brought to them.

Afterwards, we all marched to the Unity Fountain and I said to the crowd that there were two options we had.

Option one was to say that we have spoken with the leadership of the National Assembly, they have promised that they will go and talk to the president, we can all go home and see what will happen. Then, once we have information, we can send to all of you.

The second option was we could come back tomorrow and basically identify other important points in our security apparatus and find out what exactly was going on. The people said, ‘we are coming back tomorrow until the girls come back.’

Basically, that was how those who came on April 30 came back and we began to identify key agencies that we could engage in. We wrote the Chief of Defence Staff, we had meetings with them. We wrote to the presidency in order to have a meeting with them but the presidency delegated it. That was the process and frankly speaking, the engagement of the citizens, for me, was amazing.

One thing became our common bond, the Chibok girls and that was how we became a movement.

Part of what I believe made everyone stick with the issue was that even though April 30 was nearly three weeks after the abduction, there was no ownership of that problem by our government. There was a complete lack of interest. There was no expression of concern.

There was indifference, The next thing that was appalling was that the blame game was going on and that made the Citizens Group to say we are going to stay on this matter until action is taken.

My summary is that that period of engagement, we considered to be our phase one engagement because that phase was to create awareness that these girls are missing. If people are not realising it, those girls are missing, parents were coming forward to say their children that they sent to school, were missing. So surely, the girls

Continues on page 48

PAGE 48—SUND AY 48—SUNDA

Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

Continued from page 47

Why we are visiting Vanguard Our visit is to engage the Fourth Estate of the realm other than the three arms of government that are known in any democracy. We are here on a media advocacy. The key issue is that these girls are out there in the wild with people that endanger their existence every second that we waste and we think that there is a sense of urgency that these girls are the primary focus of our government. In the course of our engagement, we were able to collate a 10- point action on the citizens’ solution to end terrorism.

We came out of compassion and that is one of the reasons we are here. If the media performs its role in enlightenment and getting people involved, it will not be difficult because we do not have the capacity to get as many people involved as the media. We are hoping that what propelled us to come out will propel others to come out.

I’m not jobless One of the strangest things that I said to myself was, am I ready to pay the cost of advocating for these girls? I know that I am prepared to pay the price for this project. I have heard some people say that I am jobless. I am not jobless. Oby Ezekwesili is not jobless because I work as an economic adviser to a number of African governments.

I go to their countries and I live in their countries on a quarterly basis. I had to put it on hold for it not to be said that over 200 girls went to school and disappeared and I just carried on as if nothing happened.

I just put myself in the position that if my daughter had been abducted; I do not have daughters, I have three sons; if my child was part of the girls missing, would I just move on?

Not everybody can enter into

Mrs Oby Ezekwesili, Mrs Wonu Folami (former Lagos State Attorney General), Mrs Sekinat Yusuf (former Lagos education commissioner), and others below during their visit to Vanguard

this conversation the way we have entered. Rather than the people who don’t care about this issue saying “thank God there are some who care”, they spend their time attacking those who are showing empathy. Why is that so?

What I say to people is ‘should it ever happen to you, based on this decision we have taken, we would come and stand for you and your child. We will do it over and over again. It is simply a statement that no longer should be a Nigerian society that will say the other person’s pain is their pain, let them deal with it.

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were missing.

Secondly, if people have got that consciousness that these girls are missing, it was important that the entity that has the power and authority to do something about it, should be compelled to act in order to rescue the girls. That first phase enabled us achieve that awareness creation, both within and without our nation because the rest of the world bought into it.

The second thing was the pressure for our government to engage, awaken our government to engage. Now the second phase is where precise action is being taken to ensure our ultimate objective, which is that 219 girls, as validated by the Presidential fact finding committee, to be missing from a secondary school in Chibok, to be rescued. What specific action has our government taken?

Personal sacrifice As we are doing this, nobody is paid to do anything. We are simply expressing this sense that we cannot be a society that would move on when 219 human beings that could be saved are out there in the den of terrorists. The rest of the world wondered about us, many people could not believe that as Nigerians, we were just carrying on with 219 children held up in the den of terrorists.

•‘Our struggle in the face of intimidation’ did not come to take over the problem. I think the only important group that needs to keep pressing this point is the media. You cannot abdicate your responsibility to another country.

In international relationship, other countries come to support, especially on matters that have humanitarian implications.

Part of what I believe made everyone stick with the issue was that even though April 30 was nearly three weeks after the abduction, there was no ownership of that problem by our government

How can we be a nation like that? It is the absence of empathy that creates the basis for the kind of policy choices that end up impoverishing the people.

So you can widen that conversation as much as you like but the loss of empathy as a people is essentially what we are challenging. These girls cannot be another event that occurred in Nigeria.

On weak foreign assistance We have been told often by the countries that have offered to assist (US, UK, China, France, Canada, Australia and Israel) that this is a Nigerian problem.

It is your government that must give the status report of the rescue operation.

They only came to assist, they

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Terrorism is a global scourge, there is no border that closes against the terrorist any more, people feel that you must share in the problem. That does not mean that these countries will now take over a Nigerian problem. So, when we ask them for updates that is the response they give.

Then, the group (anti-bring back our girls protest) that was asked to come and move us out of Unity Fountain; that was one of my saddest days in Nigeria. It was an incredible mix of people.

For me, the pain was that the parents of these Chibok girls were of the same social class.

They began to dance around and called us Boko Haram. And then, I saw young men who came to beat up our group. When they got close to me, there was

something that restrained them.

So, they could only push, took handbags and broke chairs that we used.

But afterwards they started fighting because those that were supposed to come and give them money had taken off with most of it.

Is your group politically motivated, if not how have you tried to insulate politics from what the movement has been doing?

There is absolutely no political motivation in the Bring Back Our Girls campaign. That is why I took time to explain to you how it emerged. There was absolutely no conversation concerning politics. As many of you would know, I am not a politician. I am so politically neutral. My focus has been that the political class alone, has a major role to play in how it has engaged in matters of governance in this country. That has always been my premise.

Some of you engaged with me when I served as a minister in the government of today’s ruling party. I was the same person.

Even within the government of this same party, I was considered a renegade because of my views.

Coming up with due process was sort of an irritation to the political class. They called me names in the past. So there is nothing different with the same names they are calling me now.

It was simply because I dealt with a challenge that was the prevalent orientation and attitude then.

So, there is no conversation

and nothing political about this movement. It is an orchestrated attempt or perhaps an orchestrated strategy to malign a compassion-driven advocacy by citizens.

We have tried to insulate it from politics by being the open movement that we are. It is as open as you can imagine.

Anybody that walks into the Unity Fountain, is automatically a member of the Bring Back Our Girls campaign. So how can that be a politically manipulated group? Maybe it is such a strange thing for people to connect with the fact that there are Nigerians among us, who are ready to challenge what is happening. I am very analytical so, I don’t get into spacious conversations.

What is needed to say, is what is the cost that Bring Back Our Girls needs to incure to necessitate funding? We have not received any funding and we are not planning of receiving any funding. It is purely citizensdriven. There is no need for fund.

And even if there were need for fund, it will be contradicting to the ideals of the movement to solicit for funds. It is not something that has happened and not something that can ever happen. It is just a campaign of calumny purely targeted at a citizens’campaign for the release of the girls.

The way out In asking us the question of what to be done since the girls are reported to have been scattered, you are encouraging the government to abdicate its responsibilities. It is our government that has the absolute monopoly of coercive apparatus. It is our government that has the command and control of the security infrastructure in this country.

The citizens are not the ones to provide intricate details of how to rescue the girls.

What we know is that there three options in an abduction situation. You either militarily rescue the girls or you engage in a negotiation and dialogue that could be on the basis of multiple objectives shared between you and the party that abducted the girls until you come to a place of agreement about bringing your targets out of activity. The third one could be a mix of the two, which is military and dialogue.

The Federal Government is constitutionally responsible to bring back the girls. The constitution gives it the mandate and the resources to be able to do that. And schedule 2 of our constitution spelt out the primary duty of government. We have no business talking with the governor of Borno State or the kidnappers.

We are acting on what the constitution said because the command and control of security apparatus does not belong to anybody other than the federal government. When you do an advocacy, you advocate to the person who has the power to do something about the cause you are advocating for.

That is the reason. It is not borne out of any malice. Empirical evidence and the constitution deposit the powers to rescue the girls in them (federal government).

SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014,

Page 49

Fatal Ebola: The need for standing advert in high risk states

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HERE is no doubt as to the reality of the task presently on the shoulders of the government, the Federal Ministry of Health and the people of Nigeria: The urgent need to break Ebola’s vector chain of transmission and put a stop to its spread while waiting patiently for a break through on the search for an effective drug as well as a vaccine on Ebola.

Substantially, the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Health, the medics and the mass media are all making an impressive impact.

VIEWPOINT

BY IJEOMA UBA

VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF

The governor an oil rich state needs!

A

MID the jostle by the three senatorial districts in Delta State to succeed Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan whose tenure expires in 2015, we need a bridge-builder and a unity symbol.

Delta South where Uduaghan hails from craves to retain the governorship. Delta Central is a strong contender in the 2015 race. Delta North desperately wants to steer the affairs of the state.

The Uduaghan successor we need is somebody who can, to a large extent, understand and seamlessly carry Deltans along with minimal hues and cries from the block of agitators. Amongst the contenders, and about at the top, is Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege,

VIEWPOINT

BY MICHAEL TIDI

VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF

Endorsement of a gubernatorial aspiration 2015, Delta and the Obuh agenda

T

HE 2015 gubernatorial election in Delta State is gathering momentum as political gladiators reach out to stakeholders to make their intentions known.

One aspirant not leaving any stone unturned to take over the mantle of governorship is ANTHONY CHUCKS OBUH, who hail from Ika South L.G.A. The battle for the Asaba Government House promises to be interesting and laced with intrigues given that the bulk of the aspirants are in the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and had at different times worked closely with one another.

The implication is that members of the PDP are no strangers to themselves.

One of the distinguishing factors in the contest is the vigor which OBUH has brought to bear on his campaign. He embarked on door-to-door canvassing,

Permanently pitched advert bill board has the advantage of sustaining long period of public awareness and, most importantly, is less expensive

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dead for burial as well as quarantine infected suspects. Infact, if this level of effort wit-

dling budget.

Messages conveyed through the print and electronic Media eventually are short lived and consequently not be the best media of choice for long term sustenance of public awareness campaign. Print and electronic media usually are best used for short term effective and immediate dissemination of information to the public.

Permanently pitched advert bill board has the advantage of sustaining long period of public awareness and, most importantly, is less expensive.

Permanently pitched standing advert on Ebola placed in strategic areas such as sports stadia, on free way or express way, etc, in states deemed as high risk state, will continually and effectively keep the

public awareness going to any length.

More so, a permanently pitched standing advert speaks for itself, a constant reminder and a resounding warning to the public on the Ebola virus.

East African countries, Uganda and Kenya that have had more than five experiences over ten years period with Ebola out break, points to the fact that Ebola’s progression and occurrences overtime requires long period of sustenance of public awareness campaign. Simple message on a standing Bill board that is clear to all and sundry on Ebola will crown all the effort.

•Ikechi is National co-ordinator, Centre for National Progress.

Delta 2015: Omo-Agege as bridge builder a former Secretary to the State Government.

This Orogun son who was also an Executive Assistant to the Governor and Commissioner for Special Duties, Government House appears to know the problems of Delta State and the intrigues involved in solving the problems. “What Delta State needs is good governance not zoning. When there is good governance, the agitation for a particular zone or ethnic group to lead will not be there because the dividends of democracy will be evenly spread and felt by the masses”, Omo-Agege explained, adding that when there’s no victor nor vanquish, there will be unity. Omo-Agege promises to run an inclusive government when elected Governor in 2015 through participatory governance. Omo-Agege is what Delta State needs in this fragile period of Nigeria’s democracy. It is per-

The Uduaghan successor we need is somebody who can, to a large extent, understand and seamlessly carry Deltans along with minimal hues and cries from the block of agitators

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tinent to point out that he also has respect for others especially his elders and seniors which is very rewarding even according to the Holy Books. This is evident in the minute of silence he has been observing at every gathering since the passing on of Gen. Patrick Aziza (rtd), the revered Urhobo leader.

Unlike many new entrants into the race who are being imposed

by godfathers or prodded to run, Omo-Agege is an old hand in the game who has entered on his volition with a strong belief that he can add value to governance.

He has passed through the rudiments and compulsory life political servant hood for effective leadership. Omo-Agege has paid his dues and he is ready to serve.

The sacrifices and loyalty he demonstrated to the PDP at the Delta Central senatorial bye election last year is an indication of his willingness to allow the collective interest supersede his personal ambition.

Omo-Agege did not spring from the moon to come and govern Delta. Apart from his earlier services as SSG, Commissioner and Executive Assistant to the Governor, his father, Justice Omo-Agege, already laid a service foundation as the second Chief Judge of Delta State.

From humble beginnings come great things. Omo-Agege, who

2015, Delta and the Obuh agenda thus covering all the nooks and crannies of the state.

OBUH has positioned himself for the election with the emergence of support groups cutting across Delta’s 25 LGAs while involving himself in political and non-political ventures to win the electorate.

A statement by Chief Ayiri Emami, convener of one of his support groups - DELTA UNITED FOR TONY OBUH – said “their endorsement was informed by the belief that OBUH would push forward Governor Uduaghan’s transformation agenda.’’

While several stakeholders point to his academic background, others are projecting him on account of his grassroots reach and popular appeal amongst the aged and the youths in the three senatorial districts of the state.

OBUH, an alumnus of the University of Ibadan, started his civil service career in 1982. He rose from the position of Administrative Officer through being Assistant Secretary I and II to Senior

,

VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF How to execute effective anti-Ebola sensitization

nessed so far is maintained by the Federal Government, there will be no second guessing our capacity to deal with Ebola and stop its spread in Nigeria.

In complementing this effort, I am calling on the Federal Government and the Federal Ministry of Health to adopt and implement the use of permanently pitched standing advert; albeit bill board in this on going awareness campaign. It will provide long lasting and enduring effect than the use of print and electronic media.

Print and electronic media usually become monotonous and get sucked into serious nation issues. Again, the cost of sustaining it for long period is monumental and a huge drain on government’s dwin-

,

BY STEVE IKECHI

They are not given up in their effort to sensitize the public, create the awareness needed , treat cases, safely remove the

,

VIEWPOINT

OBUH has positioned himself for the election with the emergence of support groups cutting across Delta’s 25 LGAs while involving himself in political and non-political ventures to win the electorate

,

Assistant Secretary from 1982 to 1991. He honed his administrative sagacity when he was elevated from the position of Principal Assistant Personnel Officer to Director of Personnel Management in the Governor ’s Office (Directorate of Administration) from 1992 to 1995. The upscale of his professional development in the civil service came when he was severally elevated in the

Ministry of Finance through the position of Director of Investment and Loans; Director, Planning, Research and Statistics; Acting Chairman, Bendel Insurance Company Limited; Acting Chairman, UIDC and Alternate Director, PAMOL Industry Limited from 1995 to 1998. He also served briefly as Assistant Director in the Office of the Secretary to the State Government in 1999, and then moved to Delta Transport Service as Acting General Manager from 1999 to 2000.

Thereafter, he was re-posted to the Governor’s Office as Director from 2000 to 2006.

Among the credentials OBUH is bringing to the Delta 2015 race is that since 2006, he has functioned at the top level of the Delta bureacracy. He has been Director, Office of the Secretary to the State Government; Permanent Secretary Office of the Secretary to the State Government, and Permanent Secretary, Directorate of Government house and Protocol. Obuh has several awards both from national and international organizations.

grew up in Oromurhu Orogun and attended L. A. Primary School, Ugono Orogun and St George’s College Obinomba in Ukwuani Local Government Area has today become the leading contender for the governorship of Delta.

Rather than stay with his parents in the GRA, Omo-Agege chose village life with his aged grand mother, farming and fishing. In essence, from childhood, he started to exude humility, care and love for people which has become the hallmark of his political life. It is these innate and rare qualities that made it easy for him to identify with the yearning of Deltans even now that he has grown to become a political heavyweight. The cap fits him, let’s make him wear it to our glory and pleasure.

•Uba is an Asaba based public affairs analyst

Those impressed by his grassroots credentials point to the fact that he is one of the noble officers that have rendered immeasurable contributions to the political stability of the state. He is one of those who worked behind the scene to make the Delta that we all crave to have. Since 1999, the aspirant has been part of the mainstream political family in the state.

Many of those promoting him as Uduaghan’s successor equally point to the fact that his humble disposition, academic background, intellectual orientation, political philosophy and youth and women empowerment agenda, place him in a perfect position for the translation of government aspiration into doable actions.

OBUH, on his part, is full of praises for President Goodluck Jonathan’s transformational agenda. He also believes Governor Uduaghan is providing the right leadership and his economic team is doing an excellent job in making Delta an economic hub in the country.

•TIDI, a Principal Investigator in Political Fact-Finding Forum, lives in Warri.

PAGE 50—SUNDAY

Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

A handy helpmate

By Yetunde Arebi

S

ex toys are still largely shrouded in certain social taboos in many cultures, especially in this part of the world.

This however, does not come as a surprise since many people still find it difficult to discuss sex and sexuality issues even privately, not to think of expressing their sexuality, preferences and pleasures in the open. However, this has not stopped the growing market and demand for sex toys from fast gaining ground in Nigeria. This is because more people, especially the young are now more educated, thus enlightened and are more open minded and free to embrace their sexuality.

Simply put, sex toys are manmade instruments designed to enhance human sexual experiences. There are various arguments against the use of sex toys, many of them sexist, self centred, myopic and perhaps parochial. Of the most ridiculous, being that once a woman gets used to using a vibrator, she will have no need for the real thing.

I compare this with our God given legs and their natural ability of movement, taking us from one point to another and the manufacture of cars or various types of transportation also designed to take us from one place to another by man. Now, you have the option of walking to your destination, anytime, anywhere and under any circumstance or simply making things easy, comfortable and pleasurable by taking an appropriate and affordable mode of transportation to your destination. While the choice to either walk or go by transportation remains yours, opting for this instrument for movement does not render your

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legs useless but assisting your body to perform better and reach your desired destination faster. Nor acquiring a more of transportation mean that you will have no need for your legs again or that they will lose the ability to walk. Please, feel free to air your own views if you don’t agree with me.

While everything has its merits and demerits, the truth is that sex toys make our sexual efforts easier, faster, more pleasurable and colourful, no matter how uncreative an individual can be.

There are several ways sex toys can enhance people’s sexual lives as individuals and couples, just as

I have read all three books twice over. If you are still in doubt, let’s go through a few of the good and fun things a sex toy can do for you and your partner.

DIY Perhaps, one of the most criticised functions of sex toys is the liberation and freedom they are capable of giving to the user.

With sex toys, you do not need a partner, especially for women.

You can give yourself countless orgasm, anytime and anywhere based on your preference. If you are single or in-between partners, you can still spice up your “alone time” with a sex toy. Also, for the individual who is not familiar with their body and/or does not know what their preferences are, sex toys can help them discover themselves and what will tickle

It is a fact that men are easily aroused than women. It is also a fact that men find it easier and quicker to reach their sexual pleasure peak than women there are many sex toys designed for various parts of the body. As a couple, using sex toys together or alone can help you attain a high level of communication, openness, trust and love for your partner.

If you have read the book, Fifty shades of grey, written by E.L. James, it might help you gain better perspective of the use of sex toys and its possible effects on your sexual life. Indeed, Washington Post quoted the book has improved women’s sexual health and wellness, supercharging their sexual drive, while the Sun newspaper said it has changed our sex life forever. A survey carried out by popular women’s magazine, Cosmopolitan also described that the book has caused a dramatic increase in the sales of sex toys which appeared in the book. I found it so delicious

their fancy. Vibrators can be a great way to explore your body, especially for those of us women, who have never been given the opportunity or permission to explore being sexual. The sex toy will help you tap into yourself without feeling overly pressured, uncomfortable or embarrassed about yourself. Remember, you cannot give what you don’t have.

Therefore, you cannot tell your partner what and how you want him to pleasure you if you don’t know what will make you feel good in the first instance. The guy is no magician you know. Your knowledge will sure make you a more confident lover and you can call the shots too.

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Longer sessions It is a fact that men are easily aroused than women. It is also a fact that men find it easier and

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SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 51 japhdave@yahoo.com 08066625505

Project fame: A night of reggae and dance hits nomination show

S

AT U R D AY s show can be tagged one of a kind as all the contestants brought on their game like never before to impress the audience and Judges, especially Paul Play who graced the studio as a guest judge.

The contestants started off with their spectacular group performance a medley of the legendary Michael Jackson’s popular hits.

After going through over 50 hours of tutelage over the week, the fabulous contestants were all set to treat everyone to their top 10 selection of reggae and dancehall tunes from round the world.

Emeka opened up the stage with an impressive rendition of the Mandators Rat Race and was followed by Flourish who worked the crowd with her performance of Patra s Worker Man. Ugo did a wonderful remix of UB40’s upbeat track Cherry Oh Baby while Ruky entertained her audience with

Tiwa Savage’s Wanted.

The night got more exciting when Christian brought an air of mysticism with Bob Marley s Natural Mystic which garnered him a roaring applause from the crowd.

Geoffrey also got the crowd off their feet with his breath taking and engaging performance of Majek Fashek s preacher-like song Genesis.

Back on his feet again, Clement entertained us with his own style of Try Jah Love by Third World while Daniella thrilled the crowd with Sean Paul s I m still in love with you.

Then came Debbie s turn and she proved she still has what it takes to be in the competition with Rihanna s Man Down.

Shola rounded off the show with a beautiful cover of Alubarika by Patoranking.

By and large, the contestants brought the real essence of Reggae and Dancehall into their performances and left the audience asking for more.

With just 10 contestants left in the Academy, the competition is indeed getting tougher and your votes are the surest way to

One of the performances

,

By PRISCA SAM-DURU MUSIC

The contestants brought the real essence of Reggae and Dancehall into their performances and left the audience asking for more

ensure that your favourite contestant remains in the competition and wins.

The contestants had put up a fantastic show the previous

,

week, performing songs from the International Billboard. It was then time to know the ones who had im-

pressed viewers enough to earn their votes and who had not. It was that moment the contestants had been dreading all week long, when the names of the contestants with the least number of viewers votes will be announced.

Shola, Taiwo, Daniella, and Christian again fell in this particular category.

A Poet’s Eternal Song

By SUNNY AYEWANU POETRY

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CPHILIPS Nwachukwu was a good friend of mine, a friendship that started sometime in 1998 and blossomed till his death in 2013. I still recall the first encounter I had gone to the Vanguard Newspaper head office in Kirikiri, Apapa, Lagos to submit an article for publication. After I had finished discussing with Obi Nwakanma who was the Arts editor then, Nwachukwu was introduced to me. As I wanted to speak he said curtly: “I know you” he then went on to narrate how he had followed my literary activities then as the President of the Association of West African Writers, while he was at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He also recalled how he had sent a couple of poems to the association for an anthology we wanted to publish some years back, but his poems were not selected then, he told me with a tinge of nostalgia and regret, but he quickly added that I sent a “nice” letter to him (like I did to others) ex-

plaining why we couldn’t include his poems I had laughed holding his hand. That encounter actually started our friendship, and as fate would have it, I was going to be the first publisher to publish his works in book form.

Publishing Nwachukwu happened in a rare circumstance and it came with an emotional spin. He had taken very ill in 2005. After he returned from the hospital, he asked me to see him at home. He pulled out a couple of loose sheets and handed them over to me. They were poems. His poems. He wanted me to study, select and collect them under a title.

“Sunny, please make sure you publish them for me”, Nwachukwu said soberly, his eyes misty.

Nwachukwu was preparing to travel to South Africa for treatment and surger y, and he wanted his works to be with me. I knew he was preparing for immortality and it struck a chord in me. I quickly read through the poems, nodding through some of them. Some of the poems were raw, unfinished, so we did some revisions later. Some were dropped and he had to write new ones He continued to do

this even in South-Africa and he made sure I got all the poems back before he was rolled to the theatre.

From my initial reading, I knew some of the poems were pure gemstones and they quickly hugged the title under which I wanted the collection to appear.

Permit the dictatorship of “I wanted “, as I put it. It is a ‘crime’ that editors often willingly commit. Before I finally settled for the title “So Long a Night” Nwachukwu had suggested two titles, but I had explained to him why I wouldn’t use them. He un-

derstood. He agreed.

As I studied Nwachukwu’s poems, I saw a theme clearly emerge; it is an expose on the incongruous and vain life, and a man’s stoic engagement with its vicissitudes. I could not think of a better title or collection to reflect Nwachukwu’s profound, passionate and evocative rendition on this subject.

Nwachukwu thought he would lose his life as he went through the harrowing experience of illhealth in 2005, but he went through treatment in Nigeria and South Africa and survived, writing triumphantly in the introduction of the limited edition of his book I published in 2006: ”So from South Africa, I completed this collection as a symbolic gesture to mark my survival against all odds, and to the people of the world In celebration of the resilience of the human spirit. It has been such a long night for me. But I am glad that dawn has finally come and I am breaking into a new song”

Nwachukwu has finally suffered the ultimate fate reserved for every mortal, as he succumbs to death. But he will continue to sing his song eternally to the delight of his heavenly host. He will continue to live in our memories, as he leaves behind his little daughter Adaeze, his devoted and loving wife Tina, and immortally, this book which will be read from generation to generation.

Nwachukwu was a fine gentleman. He loved the Arts and was devoted to the Journalism profession. While many of his colleagues criss-crossed different media houses, sometimes within a short period of time, Nwachukwu stayed with his beloved Vanguard Newspaper for fifteen years, in good and bad times, and saw to the expansion of Arts reportage in the Newspaper.

With this collection; So Long a Night, Nwachukwu boosts his pedigree as not just a brilliant Journalist but a fine Poet whose work will be cherished for as long as it appears in print or in any storage form.

Let me also point out to the reader that ‘typos’ and other errors which appeared in the 2006 limited edition, have been eliminated here. The author, before he died, also made a few alterations to the poems: “Letter to Florence” and “New Song of Life”

PAGE 52—SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014 japhdave@yahoo.com 08066625505

Ayo Adeyemi marks 80 with 11 books

By CHRIS ONUOHA BOOK LAUNCH

O

Alhaji Ayodele Adeyemi

,

RANMIYAN Hall, Air port Hotel, Ikeja was the venue that brought prominent Muslim Clerics and Scholars from all parts of the country to a scintillating fanfare amidst encomium, to celebrate one of their own and founder of Islamic Mission Organization (IMO), Alhaji Ayodele Adeyemi.

The double celebration kicked off by 10 O’clock in the morning with dignitaries comprising Muslim and Christian friends, Royal fathers, professionals in various academic fields and well wishers of the celebrant at the presentation of his 11 book series on Islamic tenets and to mark his 8oth Birthday Anniversary, chaired

by Prince Ajibola Afonja, Chairman First Bank and Oba Ajibade Mudashiru BakareAgoro, the Ranota of Imota as event planning Chairman.

Some of the 11 concise books on Islamic wisdom nuggets are: Why I’m Proud to be a Muslim, The Sources of Muslim Law, Is Jihad a Doctrine of Islam? Articles of Faith in Islam, All Roads to Arafat, Abridged History of Prophet Mohammed, amongst others.

Other guests that witnessed the celebration were Senators Ganiyu Solomon, Leke Salami, former Deputy Governor Ogun State, Senator Gbenga Kaka, Chairman Island Club, Chief Ademola Dada, Mr. Taiwo Alimi, Ishola Abudu, Niji Raji, Alhaji Idris Sulaimon and top government functionaries.

Members of Islamic Mission Organisation based in Isolo, Lagos which Adeyemi is the founding father trilled the audience with an inspiring musical performance made up of lyrics composed by Alhaji Adeyemi himself. Other Islamic groups from IMO Isolo who added colour with their musical parade in carnival style was Al-Fajir Junior and Senior comprising Children; The Al-Salam Ladies, Amantullah Ladies and AlQudus Sisters made up of youths, Nasurulahi Mothers, Al-Asri Mothers while The Dawn of New Era and The Fountain are group of fathers.

Prince Afonja, who started the show in a humorous style said that he was very happy to be present to share the spiritual expansion of Islam regardless of immaterial pressures from some quotas.

According to him, “The very first thing I noticed is the beauty of Islam.”

Describing Adeyemi as a father figure to him, he said, “Looking at his picture on the brochure, Adeyemi surprised me with beauty, radiant and confident he exuberates at his age. And having migrated from another religion to Islam, he has worked tirelessly to propagate the precepts of Islam, expounding knowledge by this great deed which is important to life.“

Adeyemi has worked tirelessly to propagate the precepts of Islam, expounding knowledge by this great deed which is important to life

He further said, “Any one who attains that age and height as a Muslim is worthy of celebrating. God used prophets as life mirror to the society. What I see today is the triumph of Islam, the second largest religion, still growing which I am proud to belong. I was moved to tears seeing Is-

,

lam in a high esteemed reverence, the ambience of today, the people, the dance and the presentations, all encompassed in what I call the beauty of Islam.”

The Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos, Professor Abdurahman Bello who was the guest speaker presented a

Monograph on Ojeikere’s photos on the way Stories by Prisca Sam-Duru

T

he Centre for Contemporary Art, Lagos through its new publishing instrument; Art-iculate has concluded plans to produce a monograph on the late iconic photographer, JD Okhai Ojeikere.

“The book will feature a selection of more than 200 photographs from the artist’s extensive archives” .

Exploring themes ranging from architectural studies, portraiture and fashion related works to musical, theatrical and dance performances as well as his acclaimed hairstyles project. This new publication will feature a stunning collection of highquality black-and-white photographs that bear witness to the critical role that photography has played in the history of the country. And throughout Africa” The Centre revealed that after nearly five years of research and planning, the book is currently in its final

stages of editing, on which it thus calls for support from relevant channels.

lecture through the School’s Director of Distance Learning Professor Ganiu Oke. In his lecture titled, “The Role of Religion in Nigeria Quest for Security and Social Justice”, delivered by Prof. Oke, he noted that virtually all world religion propagates universal values such as peace, love, justice tolerance, development, respect for human life etc.

He said, “Religion of peace has a major role to play in creating an enduring culture of secured livelihood, and this peace can only be achieved if accepting the responsibility of serving as God’s vicegerent on earth and discharging such responsibility with diligence and strong faith should be applied as an antidote to the problems of all forms and shades of insecurity and social injustice in Nigeria.”

He further stressed that, “The ultimate antidotes to antisocial behaviours reside squarely on the deliberate training of the minds of adherents, using the resources of spiritual education. Adherents have role to play, and the foremost is to act according to God’s divine guidance through the adherence of injunctions of the Holy Quran, ensuring that our actions do

not contradict divine guidance and always strive to be a shining example to others.”

During the book review by former Dean, Faculty of Arts, Lagos State University, Ojo, Prof. Ishak Akintola, he first commended Ayo Adeyemi for his giant stride in repositioning Islam and Islamic education especially his approach in endearing the youths to appreciate the beauty and tenets of Islam.

He noted, “Before now, Muslims’ style of music were despised, but Adeyemi reformed and brought a remarkable change to it, thereby introducing English lyrics to Islamic songs. He is a hero of our time.”

The Chairman of the Organising Committee, Oba Ajibade Bakare-Agoro, the Ranota of Imota could not conceal his love for Ayo Adeyemi who he met 42 years ago. “ Ayo inspired me when he pioneered the publication and distribution of Islamic Tracts which I was involved.” I am very proud to celebrate a man I call an Islamic Icon.

In his closing remarks, Adeyemi, a happy man, showered gratitude to all and thanked them for their unconditional love and prayers bestowed on him.

M.I holds art exhibition for King James

By ANOZIE EGOLE

Respected African rapper and business man Jude Abaga aka, M.I recently held a ground-breaking leadership symposium and art exhibition for the historic 50 station nationwide release of his brand new single King James.

The event which was well attended by celebrities and young studnts alike took place at the Terrakulture, Victoria Island Lagos state. According to the rapper on the reasons why he choose an art exhibition as a way of unveiling his single, he said, “It is time we started having conversations around leadership especially amongst our youths. “2015 is here with us in a bit, we need to start talking about the things that affect our future, the things that matters,” he explained.

The event had thecompere, Ebuka Obi Uchendu handled the question and answer section.

Speakers at the event included CEO Chocolate City Audu Maikori, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, Toyosi Akerele, Adebola Williams, Ojoma Ochai, Mr. Gbenga Shobo, Japheth Omojuwa among others. The host MI also spoke to his guests and informed them that the just released track King James would not be part of his highly anticipated 3rd album, Chairman. The story of what happened at the event will not be complete if a mention was not made to Chocolate City artist Nosa and Ruby of Loopy Music who thrilled the guests with their musical renditions.

Because of 1914 hits Muson Centre

O

DIA Ofeimun’s latest dance drama, Because of 1914 will hit the stage at MUSON Centre Lagos on September 13th before showing to Abuja theatre-goers on September 30.

Recall that the first preview of the dance drama took place in July at Muson before it was taken to Edo State University auditorium, Ekpoma, Edo State for the celebration of Odia’s mother, Onomonresoa Ofeimun who passed on last May. After that successful outing in his home state, Ofeimun is set to expose his latest showpiece to a wider, critical Lagos audience. Already, rehearsal is at advance stage, with director, Felix Okolo working hard to put up a fine show.

• Jude Abaga aka, M.I

SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014, PAGE 53

Di Maria wanted ‘Ronaldo wages’ — Real boss

F

LORENTINO Perez has pointed the finger at Angel Di Maria for the reason the midfielder left Real Madrid, saying it was down to money.

Di Maria moved to Manchester United before the close of the transfer window and Perez has said it was because he was asking for a new contract worth more than Madrid were able to pay.

Perez added that the kind of figure Di Maria was looking for is reserved for Cristiano Ronaldo.

“Di Maria has our love, appreciation and respect. I have never spoken ill of a player who has been with me and left,” AS reports Perez as saying.

“He had a legitimate financial claim that Madrid didn’t satisfy. We did the best we could but the player would not accept it.

“No one has that income except Cristiano. It’s a personal decision and I can’t do anything else.

“Had we accepted his conditions it would have caused a grievance and affected the financial stability of the club. So we incorporated James.

“We’re satisfied Di Maria has found a place at another club, who also gave us an amount that we believe is fair.” Perez, who has splashed hundreds of millions of euros of the European champions’ cash on top players in recent years, said the loyalty of Ronaldo, the current World Player of the Year, had been “unquestionable”.

The Portugal captain made headlines last Monday when he said the club’s transfer dealings in the latest window would probably have been different if he had been in charge.

After winning a recordextending 10th European crown last season, when dressingroom heavyweight Ronaldo was the team’s top scorer, Real sold midfielders Xabi Alonso and Angel Di Maria and brought in Toni Kroos and James Rodriguez.

Making Money... Angel Di Maria.

“I have no doubt that he (Ronaldo) did not want to question the club’s policies,” Perez told a news conference announcing 2013-14 income of 603.9 million, a 10.9 percent jump compared with the previous season. “He has just presented me with a replica of his ‘Ballon d’Or ’ award, an exemplary player,” the

construction magnate added.

“There are no disagreements, zero.”

Real stuttered in their second La Liga outing at the weekend when they let slip a 2-0 lead and crashed to a 4-2 reverse at Real Sociedad. Ronaldo, 29, missed the game through injury and he followed up his comments on Monday by giving an interview

Scholes scolds United’s sale of Welbeck AUL Scholes insists Colombia superstar Radamel regarded Danny is that a club P Manchester United have Falcao, also on deadline day, as big as Arsenal signed him. made a mistake by allowing but Scholes believes Welbeck He will be a good signing for Danny Welbeck to join Arsenal.

The England international completed his move to the FA Cup holders in the final moments of the transfer window with the Gunners paying •20 million for the 23year-old, who will provide cover for Oliver Giroud who suffered an ankle injury last month that will keep him out for four months.

Welbeck’s position at Old Trafford was further undermined by the signing of

could still have played a significant role in United’s long-term future and that the Old Trafford giant’s loss will be the Gunners’ gain.

“Naturally, I was sad, as a United fan, to see Welbeck leave this week,” Scholes told the Independent. “My feeling was that if he could have got through this transfer window and stayed at the club he could have been a part of United’s future over the next few years.

“It shows how highly

Klopp to replace van Gaal at Man United

M

ANCHESTER United are reportedly targeting Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp as a long-term successor to Louis van Gaal.

The Old Trafford outfit believe that Klopp will naturally part ways with the Bundesliga outfit once his contract at the club expires in 2018, according to The Evening Standard.

The Red Devils see the 47year-old as the perfect man to

to a British newspaper in which he appeared to suggest he wanted to return to former club Manchester United at some point in his career. Perez, who pushed through a lucrative contract extension for Ronaldo in September last year that ties him to the club until 2018, defended Real’s decision to sell Alonso and Di Maria.

take the club forward longterm and, after being swayed

by Klopp’s entertaining brand of football, United will try and recruit the German as manager in four years.

It is believed that Klopp would also welcome a move to England – with the 47year-old thought to be ready to turn down the chance to take over at the helm of Bayern Munich and Barcelona in favour of a

switch to the Premier League.

United had previously considered Klopp to replace David Moyes at Old Trafford, after the former Everton manager was sacked in April after just 10 months in charge of the Red Devils, but the club appointed Van Gaal instead.

The Dutchman has, however, endured a tricky start to his new role at United with his side yet to secure their first win of the new campaign.

Inzaghi expects Torres to shine at Milan ILIPPO Inzaghi has F reflected on what he wants to see from his Milan

team, as he expresses admiration and hope for Fernando Torres.

Joining on loan from Chelsea, Torres has taken the No 9 shirt recently worn by the Rossoneri’s new coach, and has received his backing.

“Torres had a difficult year, but he has great desire to do well,” Inzaghi has told the Gazzetta dello Sport, from the Elite Club Coaches Forum in Nyon this week.

“I like to see a player who stops to sign autographs for two-and-a-half hours, it’s a sign of respect towards the fans.

“The indications are positive whilst I hope that with him Milan will change greatly.

“I have seven strikers and I’m spoilt for choices, my task is to get the most out of them and to understand how to interchange between them.

“It has been a good market and I thank the club and the President. The goal is to win back the fans, whilst I am happy with the purchases made.”

Arsene Wenger. Danny will never be a 20-25 goals-aseason man but he could get Arsenal 10 to 15.”

Welbeck has revealed that he wants to leave an indelible mark at the Emirates by emulating his “idol” Thierry •Inzagh Henry.

And the 23-year-old has now Welbeck also promised to aired his determination to prove that Arsene Wenger give the fans “100 per cent was right to lure him to in every single game” as the Gunners look to mount a title London.

“I loved watching Thierry challenge this season.”

Henry since I was a little kid,” he told Arsenal Player. “My two idols are Ryan Giggs and Thierry Henry so to come to the club where he was and had so much success at is something you can look up to and try to stamp your own print on the club.

“There’s definitely competition and I think once you come to a big club, there is always going to be competition.

“Unfortunately there are a couple of injuries at the moment but I think once everyone is fighting fit, everybody will want to be on the pitch scoring goals and that’s healthy competition for the squad.”

•Danny Welbeck

PAGE 54—SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

Our athletics problems are endemic — Akpom Omozelle

•Calling Athletics... Akpom Omozelle

BY BEN EFE

F

ORMER national athlete, Mbanefo Akpom-Omozelle is eager to help Nigerian athletics grow. But he is pained that officials and coaches of the sport in the country are a clog in the wheel of progress, he added that problems facing athletics on these shores are like persistent hiccups.

Akpom-Omozelle was a multievent athlete back in the 1980s.

He was a member of the Nigerian team to the Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, Australia in 1982, but now he lives in high brow Beverly Hills, California.

However, he has not forgotten his roots and according to him, he feels frustrated that the sport that opened doors and gave him a life opportunity is languishing back at home.

Much as he tried to give back to athletics in Nigeria all he sees, are officials and individuals who are driven by selfish agenda and not the promotion of the sport.

“Our athletics problems are not today. They have been there like forever and it is rather frustrating to see youngsters who are supposed to be groomed to stardom been exploited.

“It is not today athletes who qualify to represent Nigeria are been dropped. I remember during my time, I was dropped at the airport for another athlete who did not even made the standard. I had to pay my way to Brisbane,” Akpom Omozelle lamented.

He spoke of how he donated equipment, including spikes, javelin, clothing and funds to various athletics courses, but these items ended up being sold even to the athletes to whom they were meant for.

“One particular coach told me that the gym equipment including an ultrasound device I brought home for athletes use will be better off sold so that money can be made. Some of the clothing meant for the athletes was sold by the

coaches. These fittings were from my production line in Onitsha.” And so AkpomOmozelle decided to do away with middlemen coaches. He comes home three times in a year to meet the athletes one on one. He was at the CAA/Warri Relays and the All Nigeria/ Cross River Championships to interact with the athletes under

his MB Athletics club tutelage.

“I have decided to go it alone.

I have my own athletics club here in Nigeria and also in the USA. And we are working with Sadiat Sowunmi a former 400meters runner. She was at the Los Angles 1984 Olympics.

“I learned not to complain and to be part of a positive solution. That is one of the many reasons, why, I started my Track Club in Onitsha. I tried many years to sponsor athletes, but the money did not get to them. I want to take charge now and work with them directly. I know that, the result will be positive.”

He argued that a country as populous as Nigeria should be challenging for all the athletics medals at world meets. But the seeming neglect of the sport by government in terms of funding and the lack of forthrightness exhibited by officials and coaches have left athletes in the lurch.

“We have Nigerian-born athletes everywhere. In the USA, most Nigerian ex-internationals have kids in athletics. Some of them are in my club. Even my own two kids are there, they were with me in Warri and Calabar. But these kids don’t want to come home because of the uncertain nature of how we do things.

“I remember at the World Championships 2011 in South Korea how desperate Nigerian athletes were. I had to donate some clothing and a token to them. I am not sounding just to be noticed, but I only desire that our track and field is up to world standard.

He said that the present board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria led by Solomon Ogba is doing its best. But more needs to be done.

“Ogba is very passionate about the sport. He is just the second Nigerian after Pa Isaac Akioye whom I have noticed with that kind of passion.

“But it is unfortunate that the ex-internationals who are working with him are not doing well. These guys who barely have a coaching certificate, they are not giving the AFN and Ogba quality advice and they don’t want others with better ideas to come near,” Akpom- Omozelle remarked. That notwithstanding, he disclosed that he was working at having a grassroots academy in his home State, Anambra.

“I have been talking to some coaches from Cuba and Kenya. I want them to come to Anambra and work with our grassroots athletes there.”

African women need more games — Hilton-Smith T

HE recent FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup was in one respect a major success story for Africa. Nigeria, after all, reached the final - scoring 15 times en route - and only narrowly missed out on the trophy after outplaying Germany in the decider.

But while Fran Hilton-Smith a member of the FIFA task force on women soccer viewed with approval the Super Falconets’ campaign, her admiration was tinged with frustration. As a long-time champion of women’s football in Africa, she knows the continent’s potential better than anyone and viewed Canada 2014 not as a heroic overachievement, but as a tale of what might have been.

“The fact Nigeria achieved what they did showed again that African players have tremendous skill and ability,” said Hilton-Smith, technical director at the South African Football Association (SAFA) and a member of the organising committee at Canada 2014. “But if they were able to compete as often as their European counterparts do, you’d see even more.

“There’s no doubt in my mind that if African teams had consistency in playing matches and consistency in coaches, you’d have African world champions. Look at Nigeria in Canada. They were very unlucky not to beat Germany, and that’s with all the many advantages the Germans have

in organisation, training and playing regularly as a team and the professional league they have there. If we could start to bridge those gaps, the potential for Africa is just amazing.

“At the moment though, African teams just don’t play enough. It’s our major drawback and, for me, it’s the thing that’s preventing us from taking that final step towards winning these kind of tournaments. With South Africa, we try to arrange friendlies within Africa and it’s impossible because the bulk of the countries don’t put their

teams together until a competition is on the horizon.

That’s when they quickly assemble the team, hire a coach, play one or two friendlies, hold a camp somewhere and that’s it. For the majority of year there’s nothing.”

Yet this is not a problem without a solution. Indeed, Hilton-Smith has been working tirelessly, both in her role at SAFA and with the African Football Confederation (CAF) to look at practical ways in which the continent’s teams can be developed and improved by more frequent, high-level competition.

Minimah brings to bear Ayonote’s boxing dream

BY EDDIE AKALONU

B

ARRING any unforeseen circumstances, the Hostel Block of the Brai Ayonote Gym, National Stadium Lagos will be commissioned today Sunday by the Nigeria Boxing Federation president, General Kenneth Minimah.

Minimah, earlier in the year had promised to complete the project after suffering 23 years in Limbo. The project for the boxing village was started by late Brai Ayonote.

During years of abandonment, only the office block and gym were operational, The hostel block, which was abandoned after Group Captain Ayonote’s death in 1991, is now ready for commission after it had passed through various boards headed by civilians namely Dr. Francis Falemara, Frank Okonta, David Johnson, former Edo governor Lucky Igbenedion and Rotimi George Taylor(impeached by board-members ).

Investigations revealed that final fittings, like window, doors and conveniences have been put in place by Nigeria Army engineers from the Abatti Barracks Surulere.

Besides being the final resting place of one of Nigeria’s boxing great, Hogan “Kid” Bassey, an addition to the complex has been a privately run restaurant.

Speaking yet again about this development, Coach George Anyawu said: “Let me once again commend the board led by General Minimah. Completing the project is one sure way of giving boxing its due as Nigeria’s once known number one sport. I hope our boxers and coaches will work hard now they have a home.

They should make good use of the facility to train, camp and begin afresh. They have every opportunity to get the sport back up the ladder.”

•Flying Free... Falconnets players Asisat Oshoala and Ugo Njoku

SUNDAY VANGUARD, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014 —PAGE 55

NFF stalemate: Onazi sues for peace Midfielder, Ogenyi Onazi has urged the warring factions of the Nigeria Football Federation to close ranks and salvage the nation’s football image that has been battered following the long standing fight for control.

World soccer governing body, FIFA has given the Chris Giwa faction till Monday to make way for the Aminu Maigari board which it recognises, otherwise Nigeria would be banned from international football.

Onazi was speaking in Calabar before the Eagles clashed with their Congolese counterparts in the 2015 Nations Cup qualifiers. He said that it was important football stakeholders put aside their differences for the overall interest of Nigeria football development.

“We really want everything to be settled, so that we can move ahead. We wouldn’t want any [ban], I just want to

C

urge people in charge of football to settle things amicably,” he said.

“It’s the whole country we are talking about and not an individual that is involved in things like this. If Fifa should ban Nigeria, it will be a national disgrace. We’re just urging them to put their heads together to ensure the right people are there [NFF],” he noted.

On his quick recovery and return to national team, the Lazio midfielder said he is delighted with his Super Eagles’ return and admitted he was prone to having his injuries heal fast.

“I thank God for making me to recover as fast as possible.

I’m really happy to be back to represent my country. It’s just simply the grace of God and I’m a player that doesn’t stay in injury. If they say six months, I could be back in two months - it’s just the grace of God in my life.”

OACH of the Ugandan na tional team, Milutin Sredojevic escaped arrest on arrival at the Kotoka International Airport, Accra, on Thursday night following a verbal assault on a flight attendant.

The Serbian who is leading the Cranes for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Black Stars’ in Kumasi on Saturday almost landed in trouble after allegedly hauling insult at an Air Cote D’ivoire flight attendant who insisted on carrying out her duties.

A senior supervisor at Air D’ivoire told GNA Sports that “The Ugandan team joined our flight from Abidjan to Accra. As our flight regulations demand, disembarking passengers are supposed to show their boarding pass to the crew before leaving the aircraft.

“As one of our staff tried to carry out the process, some of the members of the team resisted and in an attempt to explain it was procedural, the coach became agitated and began attacking the crew member verbally with unprintable words.

“Such was his rage that the disturbances attracted the pilot who also joined in explaining matters to the coach and his team. Things escalated as the coach appeared more infuriated by the pilot’s effort.

Gabros boss backs Giwa

...says “the lies” and ‘half-truths’ killing football

BY EDDIE AKALONU

F

ORMER Nigeria Football Association vice chairman, Gabriel Chukwuma has advised factional Nigeria Football Federation president, Chris Giwa, to enforce his right to football’s highest office in Nigeria. “As the man running the only private club in the Premier League, Giwa indeed is a true stake-holder.

“He has all the right to be president of NFF because he is a dedicated club- football investor and a patriotic Nigerian truly engaged in the business of developing football,” Chukwuma argued.

He said those opposed to Giwa are only interested in getting into the board to grab money, not to make meaningful contribution towards up-lifting football to higher levels. “Giwa is right to demand to be NFF boss.

Others engaged in the fight right now are mercenaries using state associations or other bodies. But I know they do nothing for football in states they come from or where they reside. Football does not need these people. They are opportunists out to create confusion. They will not succeed,” he stated adding “ Giwa should be given a chance to enforce his right to govern and I believe he has come for the right cause.”

Speaking generally to Vanguard Sports, the Gabros FC of Nnewi proprietor decried the crises in the Football body, saying that just before resigning his position, he had warned his colleagues to make amends or maladministration of football then, would grow into an ugly monster.

“At a point that all manner

of merchants and agents strayed into highest level of administration of the game in Nigeria, the game drifted and I had warned them about this before resigning from the board of NFA. And I did so because I would not subscribe to what was happening.

•Looking Ahead... Onazi wants ‘fair play’ at the NFF

World Cup bid-rigging: Investigator indicts ‘certain individuals’

A

NUMBER of people could face disciplinary action after FIFA’s ethics investigator Michael Garcia delivered a 350-page report following his year-long investigation into the bidding for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

The report “ reaches conclusions concerning further action with respect to certain individuals” said a statement from the independent ethics committee, but it will be up to the adjudicatory chamber led by a German judge to decide on what action that will be.

That decision by HansJoachim Eckert is unlikely to be made before the end of October, and Eckert will also decide if the report will be made public.

The statement made no reference to any possible action against the winners of the bids, Russia for the 2018 tournament and Qatar for 2022.

Garcia’s report does however recommend changes to the bidding process for future World Cups.

The statement said: “Over the course of this year-long investigation, the investigatory chamber interviewed more than 75 witnesses and compiled a record that, in addition to audio recordings from interviews,

Ugandan coach attacks air hostess

includes more than 200,000 pages of relevant material.

“The report sets forth detailed factual findings; reaches conclusions concerning further action with respect to certain individuals; identifies issues to be referred to other FIFA committees; and makes recommendations for future bidding processes.

“Pursuant to the FIFA code of ethics, the adjudicatory chamber will now make a final decision on the report and supplemental reports, including publication.”

Officials from England’s unsuccessful bid for the 2018

World Cup were among those who gave evidence to Garcia and his deputy chairman Cornel Borbely.

The investigation looked into a number of allegations of corruption as well as incentives offered to FIFA executive members such as friendly internationals, development money, commercial opportunities and sponsorships.

The bidding nations were: Russia, England, Holland/ Belgium and Spain/Portugal for 2018, and Qatar, the United States, Australia, Japan and Korea for 2022.

Be Happy... Super Eagles players enjoying the moments at the Brazil 2014 World Cup.

CAF sacks Benin from African U-17 Championship

B

ENIN Republic have been disqualified from the African Under-17 Championship qualifiers for fielding four overage players in a tie against Mali.

The ruling from the Confederation of Africa Football (Caf) means Mali will now go through to face Tunisia in the final round of qualifying.

As well as the disqualification Benin are suspended from competing in under-17, under-20 and under-23 competitions for the next two years.

Caf said in a statement that it “recognizes the fact that the Benin Football Federation was guilty of an administrative error in registering or indicating the date of births without deliberate intent to deceive or cheat.”

It is the second time this year that Caf has punished nations for using overaged players after The Gambia were disqualified from African Under-20 qualifying in April.

The Gambia’s punishment was extended to all Caf competitions after they were found to have ‘deliberately’ falsified the ages of the players.

It meant that The Gambia were thrown out of 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying.

SUNDAY Vanguard, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014

Victory in Sudan’ll spur us on against Nigeria — SA coach

S TUSSLING TOUGH... John Obi Mikel battles for ball possession with Iran's Andranik Timotian at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Mikel failed to shine yesterday.

Nations Cup Qualifier: Eagles exhibit horror in Calabar •Bow to sleek Congo 3-2

BY BEN EFE

A

FRICAN champions, the Super Eagles of Nigeria are in danger of not being able to defend the trophy they won 2013 in South Africa as they succumb 2-3 to Congo Brazzaville yesterday at the U.J Esuene Stadium in Calabar in their opening game of the 2015 Nations Cup group qualifier.

What could have gone wrong with a team that showed a lot of promise under coach Stephen Keshi? Could it be a fall-out of the crisis at the Nigeria Federation or plain over confidence by the Super Eagles? Now the Eagles will have to answer their names when they play against South Africa on Wednesday in Cape Town. It is a must win game for the Eagles; otherwise they will join the Pharaohs of Egypt in list of champions who failed to qualify for a successive Nations Cup. Efe Ambrose opened the goal vault in the 13th minute and that goal off a header must have given the Eagles a false hope that the Congolese were in for a thumping. But it was a wrong assumption, the Eagles paid dearly for their sloppy play

against an aggressive Congolese team. The visitors handed Nigeria a defeat for the first time in 40 years. It was also the first the Eagles will be losing a match in Calabar.

Prince Oniangue set the tone for the Congolese victory in the 18th minute when he drew level after the Eagles defense failed to cope with a fast counter attack.

That strike rattled the Eagles;They apperently became jittery and could not make good their chances. Ahmed Musa had the opportunity to make it two for Nigeria, but he was lethargic in his finishing after he was put through by Godfrey Oboabona.

Congo took one of their chances just before the break as Thierry Bifouna played on Litingu Francy, who fired home clinically past Austin Ejide in goal.

Coach Keshi brought on Emmanuel Emenike, but it was Congo who did more scoring in the 54th minute when Bifouma fired a shot from the penalty spot, after he was brought down in the area.

Ogenyi Onazi and Nosa Igiebor came close to tidying up the game for the Eagles, but it wasn’t going to be their day. However, in the dying minutes Gbolahan

Salami rescued some pride for the Eagles when he fired home inside the six yard box.

“We were very slow on the ball and they were very aggressive,” Ejide said after the game.

“You could see it in their eyes that they came here for a fight.

They were well prepared and we were a little bit over confident.

“But all is not lost. On Wednesday we must go to South Africa and rescue the three points.”

South Africa tops the group.

Congo is second spot,they will play against Sudan on Wednesday.

OUTH Africa coach Shakes Mashaba said the emphatic performance against Sudan at the weekend will do the team’s confidence a world of good ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Nigeria at the Cape Town Stadium on Wednesday.

Mashaba, who admitted this week that he wasn’t as comfortable when playing at home, was a little worried about the ability of his players to cope with the pressure of performing in front of an expectant home crowd, especially against the old foe Nigeria. However, he is a little more at ease now. “The players are under pressure and there are a lot of things happening. If you look at the crowd in Sudan. Even when the score was 3-0, they’re still cheering for their team and you look at the stands, they were fully packed, which is what we need to start doing at home,” added Mashaba, who knows just how demanding South African football fans can be.

“I’ve been saying that we need to win this game in order to put wheels under our feet, this is a good thing for us to have happened,” said Mashaba in the aftermath of the win against Sudan. “Going into the Nigeria game, the boys will be confident because some of them never thought they would win here,” added Mashaba.

RESULTS DR Congo Ethiopia Zambia Nigeria Gabon B/Faso Ghana Niger

0 1 0 2 1 2 1 1

Cameroun Algeria Mozambique Congo Brazzaville Angola Lesotho Uganda Cape Verde

2 2 0 3 0 0 1 3

CROSS WORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1.Nobel-winning Archbishop (7-4) 5.Sailor (3) 7.Consumed (5) 8.Domesticates (5) 9.Ovum (3) 10.Electricity counting gadgets (6) 13.Highlander (4) 15.Poem (3) 17.One that contests (9) 20.Nigerian tribe (5) 22.Cereal (5) 24.Demoted (9) 27.Pig’s pen (3) 29.No one (4) 30.Sulks (6) 33.Away (3) 35.Presses (5) 36.Till (5) 37. Swine (3) 38. “The Man Who Saw Tomorrow” (11)

DOWN 1.Sleeping vision (5) 2.Possessor (5) 3.Tax (4) 4.Depressing (9) 5.Argentinian dance (5) 6.Wash lightly (5) 11.Greek letter (3) 12.Distress call (1-1-1) 14.English boy’s name (5) 16.Obstacle (3) 17.Bovine animal (3) 18.Mindfulness (9) 19.Alarm (5) 21.Help (3) 23.Village house (3) 25.Gnome (3) 26.Vast age (3) 27.Condescend (5) 28.Youthful (5) 31.Circular (5) 32.Trades (5) 34.Old Russian King (4)

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27

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See solution on page 5

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