Reps, AGF Clash by Vanguard Media Limited

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PHOTO NEWS

1st International Founders’ Day Dinner and Award Ceremony and Launching of Alumni Lodge Fund held in Abuja. Photo by Gbemiga Olamikan

•President , Nigeria Guild of Editors, Mr Gbenga Adefaye (left) receiving a Distinguished Lion Award from Past National President UNAA, Nze Ananyp.

•From Left, President Abuja Branch University of Nigeria Alumi, Dr Ejike Oji, Chairman, Rojitel Nig. Ltd ; Barr. ( Chief) Andrew Oru, President , Nigeria Guild of Editors , Mr Gbenga Adefaye; Direcor Corporate Communication Department, Ugochukwu Okoroafor; Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Chinwe Ngonadi and Mrs Okoroafor

•Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Chinwe Ngonadi, receiving a Distinguished Lion Award from National President UNAA, Dr Nwanne Chioke

•From Left, President, Abuja Branch University of Nigeria Alumi, Dr Ejike Oji; Deputy Executive secretary, National University Commission, Mr Akinbode Agbaoye; Chairman, Rojitel Nig. Ltd , Barr. ( Chief) Andrew Oru; President , Nigeria Guild of Editors, Mr Gbenga Adefaye

•Chief Richard Oma Ahonariuogho receiving Distinguished Lion Award from past National President, UNAA, Nze Ananyp

•Prof. Charles Ilegbune, discussing with Chief Richard Oma Ahonariuogho and Dr Chioke

•Corporate Communication Department, Mr

•Dr Nwanne Chioke chatting with Senator Joy Ugochukwu Okoroafor receiving award of Distinguished Lion Award from National President, Emodi,right. UNAA, Dr Nwanne Chioke

•Mazi Nnamdi Owuadigbo, General Overseer, UNAA, receiving a Distinguished Lion Award from National President UNAA, Dr Nwanne Chioke

•Mr Ano Anyanwu, receiving Distinguished Lion Award from National President UNAA Dr Nwanne Chioke

•Deputy Governor of CBN, Kinsley Mogalu receiving Distinguished Lion Award from National President, UNAA, Dr Nwanne Chioke

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012 —5

Mixed reactions trail de-registration of parties *Proliferation of parties not good for democracy *It’s violation of right to assembly *Country sliding to one party state

HE People’s Democratic Party, PDP, and the Democratic People’s Party, DPP, on Friday in Abuja commended INEC for the de-registration of 28 political parties. The National Chairman of DPP, retired Gen. Bashir Magashi, advised the chieftains of the affected political parties to come together and form a strong opposition. Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, yesterday, the spokespersons of the parties asserted that the exercise was a step in the right direction. However, the Benue State Chapter of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties, CNPP, on Friday condemned the de-registration of 28 political parties by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. The Chairman of the chapter, Mr Baba Agan, who spoke in Makurdi yesterday, described the electoral body’s action as undemocratic. “There are so many strong politicians that are affected in the exercise, they should challenge the situation and come together, consolidate on their experience to form a formidable opposition. “This will make political terrain in Nigeria to be more competitive,” Magashi said. He said that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was so clear, and that even though the constitution allowed for a multi-party system, INEC still had the power to deregister parties. He said it had become so obvious with the amendment of Electoral Act in 2010 that INEC

would de-register parties that did not meet its guidelines. “Electoral Act 2010 as amended, states that “any political party which contests elections and does not win any electoral seat shall be deregistered”, this must be the law, which INEC applied to the affected parties. Magashi urged Nigerians to embrace the exercise as sound moral values to ensure the sustenance of democracy and be more committed to the tenets of democracy. In a separate interview, National Auditor of the PDP, Mr Bode Mustapha, said that the exercise would sanitise the polity and create a better footing for democracy in Nigeria. He said that the proliferation of political parties in Nigeria was not too healthy for democracy. Mustapha said the deregistration exercise should serve as a pointer that the success of any thriving democracy was not in the number of existing political parties, but the coordination and ability to do it right. He said this exercise would give the political dispensation the ethical and noble instruments needed to give the next generation a proper foundation. Meanwhile, Agan, whose Peoples Redemption Party, PRP, was among the deregistered parties, described the commission’s action as a violation of the right to peaceful assembly. He said that INEC was “dressed in borrowed robes”, when it carried out the act, noting that it acted above its powers to do what it did. The CNPP chief advised

the Federal Government to channel its energy and resources toward combating corruption and insecurity, instead of dealing with political parties. Agan called on government to prevail on INEC to rescind its decision by maintaining the staus quo. He said the commission’s action indicated that the country was fast sliding into a one party state.

16 political parties kick against govt take over of Capital Oil & Gas assets S

IXTEEN political parties have petitioned against the taking over of the assets of Capital Oil and Gas Industries Limited by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON, saying it was an attempt by government to cause artificial scarcity of petroleum products and remove fuel subsidy through the back door. The 16 parties which wrote the petition to the House of Representatives under the aegis of the National Leaders of Political Parties, NLPP, include the National Conscience Party, NCP, the Justice Party, People Progressive Party, PPP, the African Renaissance Party, ARP, All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, the Nigerian Advance Party, NAP, the Democratic Peoples Alliance and the National Movement of Progressive Party, NMPP. Others were the People for Democratic Change, PDC, CPP, the Better Nigeria Progressive Party, People Salvation Party, New Democratic Party,

Okafor, abducted ex-UNIZIK VC released By TONY EDIKE, Enugu

ORMER Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, UNIZIK, Awka, Professor Ilochi Okafor, SAN, who was abducted by unknown gunmen from his Enugu residence on November 25, this year, has regained his freedom. The Enugu state police command confirmed in Enugu yesterday that Professor Okafor was released without paying any ransom to his captors.

The state Police Public Relations Officers, PPRO, Mr. Ebere Amaraizu, said in a statement that the Senior Advocate of Nigeria was released at Emene axis of the Coal City on November 28, 2012 at about 3 pm. He said that his release followed a two-day intensive manhunt for the alleged kidnappers by security operatives, adding that the professor, who was hale and hearty, had since united with members of his family. The command, however, thanked members of the

From left, Head, Legal and Regulatory Affairs Starcomms, Bosun Hambolu, Interim CEO of Starcomms, Olusola Oladokun and CEO Designate of New Starcomms, Demola Eleso, at the press conference to announce Starcomms Capcom Corporate Transactions. held in Lagos. PHOTO; LAMIDI BAMIDELE.

public for providing necessary information which assisted them in the operation as well as the effort of the sister security agencies in the state. Prof. Ilochi was kidnapped in front of his residence at Independence Layout, Enugu while on his way to Sunday church service. The kidnappers had taken him away in his Honda Sedan Car with registration number AQ 347 ABC to an unknown destination where he was held for days.

MPP and the APSF. In the petition which was addressed to the House Committee on Public Petitions, the parties expressed concern over the cloure of Capital Oil and Gas Limited, a company which supplies about 35 percent of daily consumption of petroleum products in the country and at a time when Nigerians were suffering from acute and perennial fuel scarcity. According to them, ‘’during the last Presidential media chat, Mr. President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan assured Nigerians, amongst other things, that there will be regular and adequate supply of petroleum products at the filling stations and the fuel queue will be a thing of the past. ’’Contrary to his Presidential assurances, the fuel situation is worsened by the continuing closure of Capital Oil and Gas Industries Limited. You will recall that on January 1, 2012, Nigerians were shocked with an astronomical increase in the prices of petroleum products by the Federal Government which led to unprecedented mass protests nation-wide. It seems to us that this closure of a local major supplier of petroleum products is an attempt by the same government to implement the same increase in the price of fuel through the back door. If this closure is not reversed, the fuel scarcity in the country will exacerbate and cause enormous hardship, suffering, inflation, economic stagnation and aggravation of other debilitating social and economic indicators in the country.

’’More importantly, the closure of Capital Oil will lead to the dismissal of over 5000 workers of the company and their dependants, in an economy that is already volatile with over 50 million youths unemployed. Whereas the youths of Nigeria are expecting a marshal plan of aggressive job creation, the government that promised a transformative agenda, is implementing policies that are aggravating the unemployment situation in the country by sacking workers even in the private sector. The House of Representatives have just declared that no place is safe in Nigeria anymore due to activities of terrorists; security formations such as the Military Cantonment at Jaji, Police Headquarters in Abuja, Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, and numerous Police and Military formations across the country have come under terrorists attacks. In addition, civilian targets such as United Nations Headquarters, places of worship, market places, schools and residential homes have all come under terrorist attacks. ’’We, the national leaders of political parties, having visited the shut down facilities of Capital Oil and Gas Industries Limited in Apapa, Lagos wish to draw the attention of the National Assembly that the facilities are totally unsecured and unprotected. We observed the closed down facilities and were amazed that they were completely unsecured. We noticed that the gates and fence at the water front were vandalized leaving the entire facilities

open to pirates and other oil thieves. We also observed quite a number of oil drums scattered around clearly being used to pilfer petroleum products from the facilities. ‘’We are amazed that one person, Aigboje AigImoukhuede, the Managing Director of Access Bank Plc, a major player in the oil subsidy imbroglio, also an interested party in the debts related to Capital Oil and Gas Industries Limited, happens to be the person appointed by the President to head the Presidential Committee on Fuel Subsidy. This is a glaring case of conflict of interest that an ordinary person would have expected the government to know and avoid. ‘’May we respectfully remind this House of Representatives that it has a responsibility to prevail on Mr. President to make available to the public the full and original report of the Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede led Presidential Committee on subsidy. In the same vein, we demand, on behalf of the long-suffering Masses of this country, that the House should also ensure that the Federal Ministry of Finance make full disclosure of all waivers granted to the oil marketers and the beneficiaries. We also demand to know who are directly responsible for the disbursement of the subsidy payments to the oil marketers. The Masses of this country have the right to know. It is public knowledge that Access Bank granted an unsecured loan amounting to $164 million... who is also the Chairman of the Credit Committee of Access Bank Plc.

6 — Vanguard, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2012

Lagos to Kano mass transit train begins operation — Sijuwade T

HE Managing Direc tor of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, NRC, Mr Adeseyi Sijuwade, yesterday said that the Lagos to Kano mass transit train service would commence operations December 20. Sijuwade made the announcement at the first management retreat of the corporation, held in Lekki, Lagos. According to him, the rehabilitation of the tracks from Lagos to

Kano, including bridges and culverts has been completed for the commencement of the train service. He assured commuters from either Lagos to Kano or Kano to Lagos safe and cheap rail transport services during the yuletide. “This formal launch would be announced soon to ensure the resumption of full interstate mass transit services along the rail tracks

on weekdays,” he said. The managing director said further that adequate security would be put in place with the collaboration of the police and Man-O-War before the commencement of the service. He also said that the rehabilitation of eastern railway lines terminating at Maiduguri was in progress, adding that trains would begin to move on the corridor in 2013.

Ghana: Hitches mar peaceful polls •We should’ve learnt from Nigeria – Kufuor BY CLIFFORD NDUJIHE, Accra, with agency report

OTING in Ghana’s presidential and parliamentary polls were yesterday extended till today due to delays linked to problems with a new biometric identification system, an electoral official said. The elections got underway yesterday with hitches trailing the exercise in many polling centres across the country. As at press time last night, many voters, who came out as early as 2.a.m were still casting their votes while some left in frustration. The problems ranged

from late arrival of electoral officers and voting materials to malfunctioning of biometric data capturing machine and late commencement of voting. The drawback dampened the morale of some voters, who trooped out in their numbers to exercise their franchise. In spite of the hitches, the polls proceeded smoothly and orderly throughout the country apart from a few instances where some voters were arrested for double registration. Similar incidents were observed last Tuesday when the security operatives voted so that they would have undivided attention in

policing yesterday ’s election. The special voting exercise in all the regional capitals of the country was characterised by missing names, long delays and outright disappoint-ments. In some cases, the biometric details of potential voters were missing, in spite of their names being accurately recorded in the register. A number of the security personnel left the various centres disappointed. And to make up, the Chairman of the Electoral Commission of Ghana, Dr Kwadwo Afari-Gyan made provisions for disenfranchised security personnel to do so between Thursday and yesterday. The EC was expected to address the observed anomalies before the polls yesterday but obviously it has not succeeded in doing so.

Gov Obi at the flag-off of the reconstruction of the Akunne Njote St., Onitsha, . . . yesterday

Lawmaker hails INEC for de-registering 28 parties plained that some of the not live up to their con-

member of the House of Representatives, representing Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency, Kingsley Chinda, has commended INEC for de-registering 28 political parties. Chinda, who made the commendation yesterday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State described the deregistration as a welcome development. He said the best system for the country was the two-party system, adding that the nation needed to raise its democracy to a respectful standard. ‘’Very sincerely, some of the parties are not worth remaining in existence, two-party system is the best for effective and meaningful contest,” Chinda said. The lawmaker ex-

existing political parties were “mere conduits for extortion of money from the Federal Government.” He said that they could

stitutional roles as political parties, saying that some of them had no membership at the grassroots.

Governor Obi threatens to shut down markets

OVERNOR Obi has reinterated his administration’s preparedness to sustain massive construction work going on in all the parts of the State as well as other projects, including the distribution of parts of N6 billion Naira and N1 billion respectively for the rehabilitation of primary and secondary schools returned to their missionary owners. He said this yestyerday during the inspection of on-going

work at Head Bridge, Umunya strech of the dual carriage way, the old Onitsha-Awka road, on-going work at Okpuno and the flag-off of the construction of Akunne Njote Street road and inspection of erosion work at Omagba Phase one of OnitshaEnugu dual carriage way. The Governor also inspected the on-going Onitsha Hotel and Convention centre and the site for the Planned shopping Mall.

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012 — 7

Reps, AGF clash over Malabu oil deal BY OKEY NDIRIBE AND EMMAN OVUAKPORIE

TTORNEY-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke yesterday said that the Federal Government acted in good faith by facilitating the amicable settlement of a rift between Malabu Oil and Gas Company, Shell and the Federal Government for which Shell paid $1,092, 040,000 (about N172.53billion) to Malabu. Adoke had appeared before the Adhoc Committee set up by the House of Representatives to investigate circumstances surrounding the sale of Operating Petroleum Licence, OPL, 245 Oil block. Adoke had taken exception to the line of questioning by the members of the committee which according to him suggested that his actions in the oil licence deal were questionable. He said, “I was not that irresponsible and I did not authorise the payment of money from the Federation Account to Malabu. The perception was that the AttorneyGeneral and Minister of State for Finance connived to pay some money to Malabu. “It is therefore quite evident from the foregoing that the role played by the Federal Government, its agencies and officials in relation to Block 245 was essentially that of facilitator of the resolution of a long standing dispute between

Editor, Saturday Vanguard ,Chioma Gabriel (right) and National President, Nigeria Institute of Town Planning, Mr. Steve Onu during a courtesy visit to Vanguard Media yesterday. Photo: LAMIDI BAMIDELE. Malabu and SNUD over the ownership and right to operate Block 245. At all times, material to the resolution of the dispute, the Federal Government was not aware of any subsisting third party’s interest in Malabu’s claim to OPL 245 and neither did any person.” He said it was unfortunate that the petitioners had created the impression that he paid monies to Malabu illegally from the Federation Account. When the committee probed further about the alleged questionable payment of monies to Malabu, Adoke replied, “I know where this question is coming from. Ask me and I will give you the answer. I am not a crook and I don’t support crooks.” A member of the committee John Dyeign, ACN Benue, responded in a charged voice

saying:”You are calling yourself names, Nobody is calling you such a name.” Chairman of the committee and the Deputy Majority Leader of the House, Leo Ogor intervened and said said:”AGF, we are in the green Chamber. We do not presume. We are here on a fact finding mission. Members can ask any question, no matter how foolish you presume it is.’’ Narrating the sequence of events that led to the settlement, the AGF added, “The petition came well after the issue had been resolved and I told the petitioners to take the matter to the appropriate agencies of government . The office of the Attorney-General is not an investigative office. “The Malabu matter has been on for 12 years and this latter day claimant did not come forward to

lay claims to the oil bloc. This latter day claimant waited till after the transaction had been resolved and the issue had become irreversible before writing a petition to the AGF. The AGF advised them to approach the relevant agencies as the matter was an internal affair of Malabu.” The AGF who explained the reason for his anger said: “I cannot be unduly maligned by people who have been the architects of the ruins of this country.” In his presentation to the Committee he stated that “It is opposite to note that the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum found no rational basis for the revocation and reprimanded Shell for its complicity.’’ He further explained that Malabu Oil and Gas had instituted Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/420/2003,

Cour action’s rally Courtt ssttops Anambra PDP ffaction’s BY VIINCENT UJUMADU, Awka

HE Federal High Court sitting in Awka, yesterday, granted an order of interim injunction restraining a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Anambra State from holding a rally it had planned for today in Awka, pending the determination of motion on notice for an order of mandamus brought by the Anambra State chairman of the party, Prince

Kenneth Emeakayi. Emeakayi had filed the suit No:FHC/Awk/CS/ 300/2012 yesterday against the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Anambra State Commissioner of Police, as well as Pastor Emma Obiora, Mr. Maurice Anolue and Mr. Chris Uche Okoye, who claimed to be the chairman, secretary and chairman of the planning committee respectively of Anambra State Fresh Congress Group of PDP, urging the court to stop the rally

scheduled to take place at Emmaus House in Awka. Emeakayi also urged the court to ensure compliance with the judgment of the court in suit No:A/171/2011 which defined the leadership of PDP in the state to avoid any breakdown of law and order in Anambra State. In granting the order, Justice M.T Salihu who presided over the matter said: “After reading the statement setting out the names and description of the applicant, the relief sought and the grounds

as well as nine paragraph affidavit verifying the facts deposed to by the applicant on record and filled at this court’s registry, Awka. “And after hearing I.C. Nsofor Esq of counsel for the applicant, urging court to grant the relief sought; “And the court having listened to counsel and perused the processes, it is hereby ordered that applicant’s application is granted as prayed on the motion paper”

before the Federal High Court, Abuja to enforce its claim to OPL 245 adding that although the suit was struck out by the court, Malabu lodged an appeal before the Appeal Court, Abuja, Division. He stated that during the duration of the appeal, an amicable settlement was reached between Malabu and the Federal Government adding that the Terms of Settlement was executed by the parties on November 30, 2006, when the said OPL 245 was fully and completely restored to Malabu in consideration for its withdrawal of the Appeal. Adoke further said that Shell which was apparently dissatisfied with the Terms of Settlement between the Federal Government and Malabu commenced proceedings against the decision of the government to restore/reallocate OPL 245 to Malabu at the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes in Washington DC, and made representations to government on the pending arbitration. The AGF however stated that in 2010, when the present administration came to office, Malabu again petitioned the Federal Government to implement the terms of the outof-court settlement of November 30, 2006 on the basis of which they had discontinued their Appeal. According to him:”Government also took cognisance of the pending cases instituted by SNUD against Federal Government of Nigeria and/or Malabu, including Bilateral Investment Treaty, BIT, Arbitration No. ARB/07/18 pending at the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes, ICSID, to enforce SNUD’s rights to exclusively operate Block

245 as a contractor on the basis of the 2003 P5C agreement between NNPC and SNUD and the financial implications of defending these actions from the public purse and opted for amicable resolution of the dispute. “To resolve all the contending claims in a satisfactory and holistic manner, due regard was given to the Terms of Settlement of November 30, 2006 which had been reduced to Orders of the Court; the underlying policy of encouraging the participation of indigenous oil and gas companies in the upstream sector of the oil industry and the fact that Shell had substantially de-risked Block 245. ”To accommodate all these interests, a Resolution Agreement dated April 29, 2011 was executed wherein the Federal Government agreed to resolve all the issues amicably with Malabu in respect of Block 245 and Malabu also agreed that it would waive any and all claims to any interest in OPL 245. “In furtherance of the Resolution Agreement, SNUD and ENI agreed to pay Malabu with the Federal Government acting as an intermediary, US$ 1,092,040,000 billion in full and final settlement of any and all claims, interests or rights relating to or in connection’with the oil block and Malabu agreed to waive any and all claims, interests or rights relating to or in connection with Block 245 and also consented to the re-allocation of Block 245 to Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited, NAE, and Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited, SNEPCO. The Committee concluded its public hearing yesterday.

8— Vanguard, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2012

Dubai based businessman convicted for driving against traffic BY ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH

AGISTRATE E. Johnson has convicted a Dubai based businessman, Joseph Nwudu apprehended by the security team of the Lagos state Governor for driving against traffic. Delivering her judgment, Magistrate Johnson who presided over the case at the Lagos state Special Offences Court sitting in Alausa, Ikeja sentenced the defendant to eight hours of community service for violating traffic rules. Nwudu was arrested on November 2, 2012 by the Policemen in the convoy of the Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, while he was driving to his hotel from the hospital where

his father had passed on. Immediately he was arraigned, he pleaded guilty to the one count charge. He was charged for wrongful driving and violation of road traffic offence 2012. During the trial personally led by the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye, it was alleged that the defendant was accosted while driving his Honda Accord IV- TEC model marked XW 646 AGL against on-coming traffic at about 1.05 am on the day of the incident. He was said to be driving from Campbell Street inward to J.K. Randle road at Tafawa Balewa Square, an offence contrary to Section 7(b) and punishable under

Section 7(b) (1) of the Lagos Traffic Law No 4, 2012. The Attorney-General told the court tha the defendant’s vehicle was impounded and brought to the office of the Task Force at Alausa while he was subsequently charged to court and was granted bail. While presenting his allocutus, before the court passed its sentence, his lawyer, Mr. Segun Ayodele pleaded for leniency of the court, arguing he is a first offender and has no record of breach of traffic law of the state. Ayodele said that the defendant does not reside in Nigeria but in Dubai and that he was in Nigeria to attend to his ailing father who died five minutes before his arrest.

Court sentences five men to 2 weeks in prison for disturbing public peace

BUJA Magistrates’ Court on Friday sentenced five unemployed men of no fixed addresses to two weeks in prison each for constituting public nuisance. The convicts are Joel Joseph 27, Salisu Mohammed 25, Umar Haruna 30, Lawal Sani 26 and Ibrahim Hamisu 32. The Magistrate, Mrs Jacinta Okeke, passed the sentence after they pleaded guilty to the offence, but gave them an option of N200 fine each. Earlier, police prosecutor Simon Emmanuel told the court that the convicts were arrested by some policemen attached to

the Life Camp Police Division, Abuja on Nov. 13. Emmanuel said the convicts were found at a criminal hideout at Kado and Lento villages within the Life Camp area. He added that the con-

victs could not give a satisfactory account of themselves when they were arrested. The prosecutor said the offence contravened Section 198 of the Penal Code Law.

HE court-reinstated Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers in Oyo State, Alhaji Lateef Akinsola aka Tokyo who was arrested and detained by the Oyo State Police command has been released. Tokyo, who was released on Thursday n i g h t said the way he was treated by the police had

Police arraign pastor for allegedly raping 13-year-old girl in Ekiti

HE Police in Ekiti yesterday arraigned Solomon Olasehinde, 25,

Wale Oke storms Vanguard for end of year service BY SAM EYOBOKA THE 12th edition of Vanguard Media Christian Fellowship end-of-year thanksgiving and prayer conference is scheduled for Wednesday, December 12

at the corporate headquarters of the company in Apapa, Lagos. The National Vice President of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, in charge of South West Region, Bishop Francis Wale Oke has graciously accepted to be the guest

Police release Oyo NURTW boss BY OLA AJAYI Ibadan

L-R: Mrs. Debisi Lasaki, Commissioner for Industry & Commerce, Lagos State, Miss Olanike Oshuntokun and Olusola Oworu

shown that the Inspector General of Po l i c e , Muhammed Abubakar has carried out great transformation on the force. While speaking with newsmen in his Akobo residence yesterday after his release, he denied the knowledge of a story credited to his aides while he was with the police. Tokyo who had earlier been declared wanted by the police authority for alleged involvement in the mayhem at Iwo road interchange, Ibadan said

he was interrogated by four senior police officers at the state Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB), Iyaganku, Ibadan.

speaker at this year ’s event. A statement by the co-coordinator of Vanguard Media Christian Fellowship, Elder Emmanuel Obuh says the theme of this year ’s thanksgiving/prayer service is: ‘The Change: From Glory to Glory’ with inspiration from II Corinthians 3:18. According to him, the programme scheduled for 12 noon at the company’s premises is expected to feature choir ministration, special prayer sessions for the management and staff of the company.

before an Ado-Ekiti Magistrate’s court for allegedly raping a 13year-old girl. The prosecutor, Mr. Akinwale Oriyomi, alleged that the accused had unlawful carnal knowledge of his victim on Nov.17, 2012 at about 5:30pm at C62 OkeIbukun Street, Otun-Ekiti. The prosecutor said the offence was contrary to 222 of the Criminal Code Cap 16 Laws of Ekiti and Section 357 and punishable under Section 358 of the Criminal Code Cap 16 Laws of Ekiti State of Nigeria, 2012.’ He appealed to the court for an adjournment to enable him duplicate

the case file and send same to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice. The accused pleaded not guilty and his counsel, Mr. Ebenezer Adedeji, urged the court to grant bail to his client in liberal terms and assured the court that a reliable surety would be provided. The Magistrate, Ms. Adejoke Anoma, granted bail to the accused in the sum of N100,000 and two sureties; one of whom should reside within the jurisdiction of the court and the other should be an elder in the Church where the accused was a pastor. She adjourned the case till Jan. 9, 2013 for the DPP’s advice.

Osuntokun, Lasako, Abebe round off Lagos Expo

HE Lagos Premium Expo has come and gone. The three days event was organised by Expo Biz Ltd, directors are Nike Osuntokun, Debisi lasaki and Bolajoko Abebe. The Expo was declared open at 2pm on the 30th by HC

Mrs shola Oworu. Being the first of a kind in lagos it was a success. The Expo had major sponsors like Multichoice, Skyebank, Stanbic Bank Plc. Jumia and the Toleram Group. Amongst the exhibitors were Mocality, Probe

Energy, Goldlink insurance, La Feminic, House of Grace, Laterna Books, Oakmount homes and travels, Lasmin Nig ltd, askthelawyeronline etc. We had well over 80booths. Next year the exhibition will be around october

and will be moved to Lagos Island. We are exploiting the idea of holding this premium Expo in Abuja during Easter holiday next year. We look forward to more exhibitors next year. And thanks to all who took part.

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012 — 9

FG not ttalking alking with Bok o Haram — Presidential aide Boko BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA, Yenagoa

RESIDENTIAL Adviser on Research, Documentation and Strategy, Oronto Douglas, yesterday dismissed claim of ongoing dialogue between the federal government and the Islamic sect, Boko Haram saying the government cannot dialogue with a faceless group. Douglas said the sect was yet to come out from its shield to enable government know its demands and other issues. He spoke in Yenagoa as a guest speaker at the third annual public lecture of the Federated Correspondents Chapel (FCC) entitled ‘’National Unity:Imperative for Growth and Development in Nigeria.” The presidential aide who said the government may consider negotiating with the sect if it finally identifies itself for dialogue however noted

with regret the spate of bombings in parts of the north by the Boko Haram which he described as threat to national unity. ”We have to put in place a building wall of collective responsibility. We must do things together. Our unity is imperative,” he said and identified insecurity, ethnic differences, sectionalism and corruption as the major problems plaguing the development of the nation. The Federal Government he noted was tackling corruption frontally, adding that President Jonathan do not interfere in the affairs of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). ”How do we solve corruption?We have to fight corruption collectively.The only way to fight corruption is to build a strong institution. President Jonathan will not interfere in the affairs of the EFCC. He said the commission should go ahead and do its job. People want Jonathan to

be like a Headmaster,” Douglas said he called for nation building, arguing that the people should agree that there is a nation to be built.Nigeria he said was in a building process, and appealed for support from the public to enable the present administration to succeed. Earlier, Keynote Speaker at the public lecture and lecturer at the Niger Delta University (NDU), Amassoma, Dr. Ibaba Ibaba, lamented that in spite of the nation’s enormous resources, poverty was still prevalent among Nigerians. Ibaba said the nation had sold over $600 bn worth of crude oil, and is still one of the poorest in the world.

Kidnappers of ex-Delta SSG’s father jailed 180 years BY AUSTIN OGWUDA, Asaba

OUR persons standing trial over the kidnap of the father of a

Bayelsa council poll: PDP screening committee clear 36 aspirants BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA, Yenagoa

HE Screening committee of the Peoples Democratic Party in Bayelsa State has announced the provisional clearance of thirty-six aspirants out of the 94 that indicated interest in the party ticket in the eight local government councils for the forthcoming local council polls. Among those not cleared by the Chief Claudius Iniegeson Committee was the incumbent Chairman of the Ogbia

local government council. The report of the screening committee was yesterday handed over to the state party chairman, Col. Sam Inokoba (rtd) at the party secretariat. While handing over the report to the state chairman of the party, Chief Claudius Inegeson said the provisions of the party rules, electoral law and the constitution were adhered to during the screening process. ”We ensure that these persons cleared are eligible and would not give the party problem,” he said. Responding, the party

Award: Prof. Charles Ilegbune, discussing with Chief Richard Oma Ahonariuogho and National President UNAA Dr Nwanne Chioke during 1st International Founders’ Day Dinner and Award Ceremony and Launching of Alumni Lodge Fund held in Abuja. Photo by Gbemiga Olamikan

chairman, Col. Sam Inokoba (rtd) lauded the committee members over the report adding that in line with the restoration agenda of the state government, “the party is not surprised that out of the multitude, only 36 were cleared.” Meanwhile, the Bayelsa Governor, Seriake Dickson has denied claims that some leaders of the party including himself, have hijacked the process of selecting qualified candidates for the party to contest in the state local government election.

former Secretary to the Delta State Government, SSG, Chief Arthur Okowa, were yesterday sentenced to 45 years each, bringing the total number of the jail term to 180 years. In addition, they are to serve their jail with hard labour. However, the second accused person, one Ferdinand Iwerebor was reported to have jumped bail during trial and still at large while the court had since issued him a bench warrant. Fresher Aiworo, Victor Ajulor, Bright Onyemare and George Ogala were sentenced to 35 years

IGERIAN Owei Lakemfa, was yesterday in Algiers, Algeria, elected Secretary General of Organisation of African Trade Union Unity, OATUU, the continent, apex workers’ body.

Comrade Lakemfa, a trade unionist, journalist, Labour historian, human rights activist and immediate past scribe of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, succeeds the founding president of the NLC, Alhaji Hassan Sunmonu. He was elected Secretary General by for-

ty three African countries at the 10thCongress of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) 12 other officers were elected into different positions for a four-year term including Professor Ibrahim Ghandur of Sudan, who was elected President.

I hereby found you guilty and convict you accordingly”. Prosecution called three witnesses including the victim Pa Arthur Okowa and tendered several documents to prove its case while defence pleaded not guilty and called no witnesses. Prosecution in a fivecount charge filed before the court stated that “one Fresher Aiworo (m) and five others, on or about the 20th day of July, 2008 at Boji-Boji Owa within Owa-Oyibu judicial division unlawfully kidnapped Chief Arthur Okowa”.

Purported de-registration of 27 political parties by INEC, illegal, unacceptable and a witch hunt — PRP BY PETER DURU, Makurdi

HE People’s Redemption Party PRP, has

Lakemfa elected Secretary General of OATUU BY VICTOR AHIUMA-YOUNG

each for count 1 and 2 (conspiracy to commit armed robbery and armed robbery) and 10 years each for count 3 and 4 (conspiracy to commit kidnapping and kidnapping). The jail terms, according to the court are to run concurrently counting from the date of sentence. Presiding Judge, Justice Celestina Ogisi in her judgment stated that “the court is satisfied that prosecution was able to establish ingredients of all the information count against the 1st, 3rd, 4th and 5 th accused persons beyond reasonable doubt.

•Owei Lakemfa

maintained that the purported de-registration of 27 political parties including the PRP by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, as unacceptable, illegal and a deliberate witch hunt targeted against selected parties. The party maintained that the decision of INEC was not binding on it adding that the decision was arrived at in bad faith without recourse to the picture on ground as it affects the party. National Publicity Secretary of the PRP, Mr. Baba Agan stated this yesterday in Makurdi while reacting to the de-

cision of INEC to scrap his party. Agan noted that de-registration of political parties was not the problem of the country stressing that the focus of everyone in the country should be how to tackle the menace of corruption and terrorism ravaging the very fabric of the country rather than INEC deliberately triggering off another round of “political confusion”. The acting National President of the Northern States Progressive Union, NSPU noted that the PRP rejects the action of INEC in its totality adding, “that decision is not binding on my party”

10—SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012

The women in Jonathan’s ‘life’

EFORE the Beijing Confer ence of 1995, women had been active in governance in developed nations. From America to Europe and Britain to Asia. Confident in their turf, women have left indelible footprint in the sand of times. Most popular women politicians in history are iron lady and former Prime Minister of Britain, Margaret Thatcher, former Prince Minister of India, Mrs. Indira Gandhi, former US Secretary of State, Dr. Madeline Albright, former US Senator and later US Secretary of State, Mrs. Hillary Clinton, former French Finance Minister and later Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Ms. Christine Lugarde, current President of Germany, Angela Merkel and President of Philippines, Gloria Aroyo among others too numerous to mention. But within the African continent, women’s participation and inclusion in governance has been hampered by religious and antiquated traditional believes. These practices, however, define the place of the woman to be in the kitchen. Within the Muslim faithful, women are not to be seen but heard. The purdah in which women are subjected to, has it made difficult for them to extricate themselves from the cleavages of a male dominated world. Conversely, the African traditional believe that women must always play the second fiddle at all gathering remains a bigger burden they must put up with. All these informed the agenda of the 1995 Beijing women’s conference in

Women’s participation both in politics and governance, predates the Beijing’s Conference. In the developed nations, women President and Ministers have emerged. But in Africa, traditional and religious barriers still stand as bulwark in the realisation of the 35% affirmative action in both elective and appointive positions in Nigeria and by extension Africa. CHARLES ADINGUPU attempts a review of women ministers in President Jonathan’s cabinet. China. Since the end of the conference, the continent has witnessed an unprecedented upsurge of women in politics and participation in governance, as issues articulated keeps radicalising their minds. Though, the emergence of women politicians in some African countries predates the Beijing Conference as the radical Nigerian women politicians and activists as, Mrs Olu Fumilayo Ransome-Kuti, Gambo Swenbe, Margret Ekpo and the role played by the glorious Aba women’s riot towards the attainment of Nigeria’s independence cannot be described as infinitesimal or a mere storm in a tea cup. Available evidence has established that women make better leaders than their male counterparts. There is no gainsaying that women and children are often at receiving end of bad governance. This, perhaps, may inform their agitations for more inclusion in governance. The first ever female pres-

ident in Africa Dr. Ellen Johnson-Serleaf of Liberia itched her name in history through the rebuilding of the war ravaged country. Also, President of Malawi, Joyce Banda who upon assumption of office sold off the country’s only Presidential Jet and a fleet of 60 Mercedes Limousine. She prefers instead to use private Airlines for official engagements. Mrs Banda also announces a 30% cut of her annual salary from 37,000 thousand pounds to 26 thousand pounds. In Nigeria just as elsewhere in the world, women inclusion in government has gone beyond a campaign issue to implementation. Since the enthronement of democracy, political aspirants had pledged to appoint more women in their cabinet. Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo stoked the fire when upon assumption of office as well as in his second term, appointed nine women in his cabinet. Though, the number

There is no gainsaying that women and children are often at receiving end of bad governance

was below the 35% benchmark stipulated by the Beijing women’s conference but it was indeed, a good beginning as the likes of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Professor Joy Ogwu, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili and Dr. Kema Chikwe showed that they were indeed made of steeler stuff. They distinguished themselves in their chosen profession, made great impact in their respective portfolios

nfortunately, however, his imme diate successor, late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua had only seven female ministers including Prof. Dora Akunyili, Mrs Diezani AlisonMadueke, Prof. Adenike Grange in his cabinet. Again, this number of women so appointed violates the Beijing’s 35% agreement. Ironically, some of them had a brief stay as the then President in 2008 reshuffles his cabinet. However, the battle for women in government predates the administration of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. But his liberal dispositions toward involving women in government in both elective and appointive positions have become quite evident. At the moment, it is more easier to campaign and win elections under the present dispensation because of the enormous support women enjoy from the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan. Through her pet project, Women for Change Initiative, the first lady at the last presidential electoral campaign urges support for her husband. Dame Jonathan held rallies in almost all the Continues on page 58

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The travails of Women Ministers No doubt, some of the women ministers flaunt impeccable credentials and have distinguished themselves in their chosen career. They had brought their long years of professional competence to bear on governance, though, not without some brushes with their male counterparts and”authority that be.” In their own ways, they had managed to sail through the tiny eye of a niddle in a male dominated world, particularly in our clime where the trappings of traditions and religion served as an impendiments to in the realisation of their aspirations, writes CHARLES ADINGUPU

Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala’s second coming

Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, is indeed a chip of the old block. Born about 57 years ago to Professor Chukwuka Okonjo, renowned economics lecturer at the University of Ibadan, now retired, hails from Ogwashi-Uku in Delta State but married to a medical doctor from Abia State, Dr. Iweala. The union is blessed with children. The Harvard trained economist, has distinguished herself in various field of human endevours. Her first experience in the World Bank came through her internship programme where she got the first experience of the institution. However, upon graduation, Ngozi applied for the young professionals programme of the World Bank and was subsequently absorbed into the team, the World Bank elites. She continued there with a 21 year career as a development economist at the World Bank with different portfolios signed to her. Ngozi was first appointed Nigeria’s Finance Minister by the President Olusegun Obasanjo who cajoled her to come and assist in bailing the nation’s economy from the woods she was plunged into by the then immediate military junta of late General Sani Abacha and others before. The quintessential economist, demonstrated an uncommon courage in putting the nation’s economy back on track as Finance Minister under the President Obasanjo’s administration. But at the twilight of her struggle, she was jinxed as President Obasanjo redeployed her to the Foreign Affairs Ministry without explanation, but was asked to remain head of the nation’s economic team. While on an official assignment in Britain, Ngozi was relieved as head of the economic team. Left with no option, she resigned as Foreign Affairs Minister to resume her work at the World Bank. Upon assumption of office, President Jonathan sees her as an indispensable tool that would help to overhaul the ailing economy. She was again appointed Finance Minister with an additional responsibility of overseeing the activities of other ministers in Jonathan’s cabinet. Ngozi’s secret to success At all times, the Finance Minister stands her grounds with truth buckled round her waist and carries integrity for a breastplate exactly the same way a Catholic Bishop carries his cross on his chest. The Finance Minister who dazzles in her usual characteristic signature of Akaran and a combination of headgear has demonstrated prudence in planning, courageous in taking risk

Petroleum Resources Minister – Diezani Allison—Madueke

and unassuming in prosperity. In the line of duty, she has sown love in place of hatred and hope where there is despair. A combination of all these, only help to reaffirm her unshaken belief that Nigeria will be a better place if policies implemented were allowed to thrive.

Achievements and challenges

First, as a key player in President Olusegun Obasanjo’s government, between 2003-2006, she helped in the cancellation of $18 billion country’s debt. This singular feat opened the door to large investments and eventually created room for growth in the nation’s economy. Today, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala is back on the trenches. So far, she has helped in curtailing the pilfering of the nation’s oil money, create prudence in the management of government’s funds. No doubt, she has been at war with lawmakers particularly with regards to budget allocations. Through her due process stance, she was nicknamed, Ngozi ‘Wahala.’ But this has helped in curbing corruption in virtually all sectors of the economy. She has also demonstrated an uncommon knack in overseeing the affairs of other ministers under her jurisdiction. In many instances, she has rose to their defence in public wherever the need arises. But above all these, the finance Minister still has many rivers to cross. Her most trying moments remains her confrontations with Lawmakers who at one time or the other summoned her to defend budget proposals.

Born December 6, 1960 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State to Chief Frederick Abiye Agama. She studied Architecture in England and later proceeded to the prestigious Howard University in the United States. The delectable Diezani also bagged MBA degree from the Cambridge University. She joined Shell Petroleum Development Corporation (SPDC) in 1992 and rose to become the first female Executive Director in Nigeria in April 2006. She got married to Admiral Allison Madueke (retired) one time Chief of Naval Staff in 1999. Diezani Allison Madueke became first Transport Minister in July 2007. She inspected many uncompleted road projects and promised to effect repairs of those roads. The Benin-Ore road was one project too many that made the Minister to weep. But ironically, it ended there. In April 2010, the Jonathan’s government appointed Diezani as Minister of Petroleum Resources, a portfolio, many thought too critical for a woman to handle. Since she mounted the saddle of the enviable oil sector, Diezani has demonstrated an uncommon guts. In her own way, she has put oil thieves to check, reduced leakages of oil money to the barest minimum and ensured regular supply of fuel even though not so regular in filling stations across the nation. Travails and challenges From her first appointment as Transport Minister, Diezani was exposed to series of regours. Sometime in June 2008, she was subjected to Senate probe over an alleged payment of N30.9 billion to contractors between December 26 and 31, 2007. There was an attempt to kidnap her at her Abuja’s residence in September 2008. Also while serving as Minister of Mines and Steel Development, in October 2009, the Senate accused her for allegedly transferring a whooping sum of N1.2

billion into private account of a toll company without due process. But in spite of these trials, Diezani still stands tall amongst her contemporaries. As Petroleum Resources Minister, the ever vivacious Bayelsa Princess, can still be credited for checking the menace of oil thieves, unending petrol scarcity, and militants’ activities in oil communities.

Stella Oduah Ogiemwonyi – Aviation Minister

She was born in January 5, 1962 into the Royal Home of Igwe D. O. Oduah of Akili-Ozizor, Ogbaru Local government Area, Anambra State. She holds a Bachelor and Master degrees in Accounting and Business Administration in the United States of America. Stella worked with the NNPC and retired to her private business, the Sea Petroleum & Gas Company Limited (SPG) an independent marketer in petroleum product. Stella’s travails Since her appointment as Minister of Aviation, the Anambra born technocrat has introduced some radical reforms in the nation’s turbulent aviation sector. Most of the nation’s international airports are currently wearing new looks. Despite these enormous challenges ahead of her, Stella has stood her ground to defend most of her reformation policies. Trying moment The Dana Air crash exposed some lapses in the Aviation sector. It was one crisis too many for the minister to handle. Also, the lawmakers’ stand against adoption of Arik Air as the nation’s airline still remains a tidious task for the minister to address.

Minister of Water Resources, Mrs Sarah Reng Ochekpe

She was born in October 4, 1961 and hails from Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State. She holds a Master degree in Public Administration, Certificate in Journalism from the Nigeria Institute of Journalism (NIJ) Lagos and has attended many courses in different areas of human interest and development. Continues on page 58

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18 — SATURDAY VANGUARD,DECEMBER 8, 2012 Dear Aunty Julie, ’m a 25 year-old guy, av erage looking, and I think I have a normal personality. I met this very nice and pretty girl a little more than a month ago. Almost since the beginning, all she wants to do is go to bed and make love. This was great in the beginning, but, you and some guys out there may think I am crazy, I am starting to get worn out. I like her very much and we get along great in bed, but I want to date her just like my friends date their girlfriends, although my friends tell me they wish they had my problem. Anyway, when I suggest going out, she shrugs her shoulders and says that she likes to be in bed with me. I’m sure that you get a lot of inquiries about how to move a friendship over to bed. Can you give me some advice about how to move the bed over to a friendship? Tingles, Benin

Hello Tingles, Balancing the needs and expectations of your partner with those of your own may be challenging, but open communication may go a long way in resolving relationship concerns. It sounds like you would like to nurture the relationship and give it time to grow and develop outside the bedroom.

I want to be more than just friends with her Aunty Julie, I am a 30-year old man. There is this lady I know and I take her out a lot. I like her a lot, but I don’t know how to tell her, because she thinks we are going out as friends. I would like to go as a little more than just friends. Also, last time we went to the beach, she kept rubbing my elbow with hers. Should I put my arm around her or what? Kemi, Lagos

We ha ve ttoo oo much have sex but relate too little Have you spoken with her about what you want in a relationship?Consider telling your partner that you’d like to develop a friendship, both in and out of bed. Try using “I” statements, such as “I have noticed we have been spending a lot of time inside, and I think it would be nice to get to know you better over dinner.” You may mention things you like to do: go to the movies, take long walks, play chess, etc. Additionally, try to find out what your partner’s expectations are for the relationship, and what your partner likes to do. Perhaps you may plan a date involving one of these favorite activities. Asking questions about your partner ’s needs and interests may help you to determine if you will be compatible as friends, a roman-

Dear Kemi, Ofcourse, you can wrap your arm around her. Or, you can put your hand next to hers and then gradually and gently begin to hold or intertwine her fingers with yours. Remember to be aware of her response: Is she open to your move? Or does she back away from you? Is she particularly resistant to your action? Or does she smile or seem to welcome your move? Does she seem uncomfortable in any way? A lot depends on reading the signals she gives you . You can try to gauge her feelings by the looks she gives you, how she responds to what you say, etc. So, let her response to you ; her body language, her facial expression, and her verbal comments help guide you on ; whether it’s to stay where you are, to proceed further, or to stop and take away your arm or hand. If you decide to test the waters, whatever her reaction, after the outing is over, it would be good to talk with her to help clear up any possible confusion over a potentially awkward situation. If she seemed to enjoy the closeness, you can bring up the conversation by saying something like, “I had a really good time with you tonight, and I hope you did, too.” If she agrees, then say: “I’d really like to get together with you again soon. What do you want to do next time? I’ll give you a call so that we can make plans.”

tic relationship, or purely physical. If your partner isn’t interested in developing a relationship outside of the bedroom, you may want to evaluate if the relationship you have now is worth staying in. Are you comfortable staying with your partner for the sex? Would continuing to have sex with this partner keep you from finding someone else with whom you might be more compatible? Can you stay in this relationship for what it’s worth without getting emotionally involved? Although you perceive your concern to be different from many others, it’s not unusual. It’s good that you’re thinking about what qualities would fulfill your needs in a relationship.

People mistake me for gay

Dear Dede, For one who is entrenched in a culture whose institutions perpetuate these rigid dichot-

Dear Julie, am what you may call a nice guy. I’d say I’m rather sensitive and easy going. I don’t really like sports, racecars, or other manly things. I’ve never had a girlfriend. Finally I enjoy theater arts and my favorite cable station is a decorating network. You can see where I’m going. BUT I ENJOY WOMEN. I’m very attracted, I think about them all the time. I check out female butts when I walk to class. Yet everyone, especially women, seem to think I am gay. It bothers me because it makes me feel like less of a man. Additionally, how am I supposed to get this woman that I’ve been waiting for all these years, if she thinks I am gay? Please help me!!!!! Dede, Warri

To be entrenched in a culture whose institutions perpetuate these rigid dichotomies and strict gender ideals

omies and strict gender ideals, it may be extremely difficult to break the norms and be accepted for doing so. However, the fact that you are comfortable in your personal tastes, regardless of their alignment with these ideals, shows confidence which many women find extremely sexy. Though some women may find a man’s penchant for cars and sports to be the seeds of at-

• A young lady visited the government matchmaker for marriage and requested - “I’m looking for a spouse. Can you please help me to find a suitable one?”The marriage officer said, “You’re requirements please.” ”Well, let me see. Needs to be good looking, polite, humorous, sporty, knowledgeable, good at singing and dancing. Willing to accompany me the whole day at home during my leisure hour, if I don’t go out. Telling me interesting stories when I need companion for conversation and be silent when I want to rest.”The officer listened carefully and replied,” I understand. You need a television.”

traction, it’s oftentimes more the content of someone’s character that truly tips the scales when it comes to love. As you’ve experienced, if you don’t conform to a traditional male gender role, some people may label you as homosexual, “metrosexual,” “girly,” or simply just less of a man. Gay men may like sports and cars, too, and it has nothing to do with who they’re sexually attracted to. “Feminine” characteristics such as caring for others, expressing emotion, and getting enjoyment out of the arts, theatre, and fashion have nothing to do with anatomy but are still widely seen to be emasculate and unacceptable in males. To be fully accepted by others, men and women may feel pressure to adhere to their respective gender role rather than finding their own unique placement on the spectrum of gender identity. But why is that?

For some men, this feeling of being different, wrong, or “weird” may lead to denial of self. For example, this is often noted as one of the forces that keep homosexual or bisexual men in the closet. One of the unfortunate side effects of this is that boys who are raised to strictly adhere to these gender roles instead of developing their own sense of selfidentity often exhibit more violence, drug and alcohol abuse, and unsafe sex practices. This brings up the question of whether these roles are benefitting or hindering young men. Though for many, it may not be an issue, in your case, it seems the latter. The fact that you are able to step outside the proverbial box in spite of this is great. But being outside the norm may be difficult and garner criticism. So the trick is learning how to manage that while maintaining your self-confidence. One way to do this is to sur-

C O C K - T A L E S •A businessman was being interviewed about his life and career when the subject of his wife of thirty years came up. ”To what do you attribute the success of your marriage?” asked the interviewer. ”Well,” replied the businessman, “You know that saying ‘Behind every successful man there’s a woman’?” ”Yes.” ”Well, behind every successful man’s woman is a prenuptial agreement.” •A husband visited a marriage counselor and said,

round yourself with people who don’t make snap judgments on your sexuality based on surface traits like your affinity for the arts. It may take time and a little extra effort but first ask yourself a few questions: Do you find this judgment to be more prevalent within certain groups of people? Could you try to shift your social circle to include people who may be less likely to assume your sexuality before getting to know you? Perhaps you could explore clubs, organizations, or common interest groups that would allow you to not only pursue your hobbies like theatre and decorating but also give you the chance to meet women in a more personal setting. This may help them get to know you and either avoid or get beyond any initial assumptions they may have about your sexual orientation.

“When we were first married, I would come home from the office, my wife would bring my slippers and our cute little dog would run around barking. Now after ten years, it’s all-different. I come home, the dog brings the slippers and my wife runs around barking.” ”Why complain?” said the counselor, “You’re still getting the same service.” •A woman told a marriage counselor that her husband’s complaint that he leads a dog’s life is probably well founded. ” He comes in the house with muddy feet,” she said, “tracks across my clean floors, barks at nothing, growls at his food and makes himself comfortable on my best furniture.”

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Vanguard DECEMBER 8, 2012—19

HAT are the things a woman does that keep her lover under her spell? For every woman out there who wants to uncover the secrets of seducing a man without much efforts, here are some hot tips from smitten men! Timothy, a 29-year old legal practitioner has been with his girlfriend, Janet, for close to three years. “I get turned on just when Janet is turned on herself,” he confessed. “We’ve been together almost four years now, so I know exactly what to do to turn her on, and I love watching her lose control. When we’re having sex in the missionary position and she gets carried away, she wraps her legs around me really tight and digs her heels into my bottom to pull me closer to her. It really turns me on to think she wants me that much. She tends to grip things too; sometimes it is the pillow, and other times it’s me. She doesn’t mean to do it, she just gets lost in the moment, and seeing her like that sends me over the edge all the time!”

Men reveal what really turns them on!

the movement is accidental, rather than deliberate, makes it all the more pleasurable. She also goes through this ritual, which is routine to her, but very sensual for me — rubbing her body lotion into her skin and looking at herself in the mirror from different angles. The fact that she doesn’t notice I’m watching means she’s more natural and sexy. Whenever she notices me though, I always

dunni is a night club dancer and her dancing is what turns Sammie on. “1 first spotted Adunni two years ago when she replaced a former dancer in our club’s band. I was completely aroused by her dancing. I don’t think she was trying to be erotic, but she looked so graceful and comfortable, it drove me wild. I took her home that night, and her rhythm in bed was wilder than when she was on stage. To this day, her dancing still turns me on especially when I see all those men leering at her and knowing it is me who get to take her home and seduce her all over again! As an added bonus, she loves sleeping in the nude. On the nights she stays over, getting a good night’s sleep is a problem. The reward is waking up to see this sleeping beauty on my bed and she’s starkers!” WOULD you believe the long hair extensions most women favour these days could be a turn on?’’ Asked Tex, a fashion designer, recently divorced. “1 love feeling my new girl friend’s long hair as it strokes my body while she’s giving me oral sex. The tickling sensation makes my skin extremely sensitive, and the fact that

each other ’s houses a couple of nights a week,” Says Aremu a graphic designer. “There’s something about mid-week sleepovers that brings a sense of urgency to sex. You have to get up early to go to work, so there’s not much pillow talk and everything is a bit rushed. Because of what I do, I could take my time getting to work but she has to go before I do, I love lying in

I know exactly what to do to turn her on, and I love watching her lose control

tell her she’s missed out some parts of her body, so the performance lasts much longer. By the time I get her into bed I’m like a wild animal!” “I’ve been with my girlfriend, Phina for six months, and we stay over at

bed and watching her get ready, when she’s fresh out of the shower, she looks really fresh. She then gets busy looking for something to wear she’s oblivious to me. I just sit back and admire how sexy she

is—knowing I might not see her for a few more days makes me miss her before she even leaves the house,so I always try to get her back into bed.Mostof the time, it’s too late to tempt her and she resists. But occasionally, I get to have my way and when I do, I spend the entire day on a high ...”

ade relies on a mirror for his fun! He said: “The mirror in my bathroom IS a little too high for my girlfriend.) Theo, who I’ve been with for nine months, and I keep promising her I’ll move it. I haven’t got round to it thought. She thinks it’s because I’m lazy but the real reason is she looks gorgeous from behind when she’s trying to look into the mirror to clean her teeth. She has to stand on tip toe and push forward so she can see in the mirror. It makes the curve of her bum look so amazing in her skimpy nightdress that I’m turned on every time. A few weeks ago, I pounced on her and we had the most fantastic oral sex right there on

the bathroom floor! [Her mouth was really fresh and minty and the sex was unbelievable. It’s now my favourite sex moment and there’s no way I’ll adjust that mirror now!”

he thing that gets me most about my girlfriend of two years is the sound she makes when we make love,” confesses IJoel, an accountant. “She isn’t loud or aggressive. Half the time, she’s trying to keep the volume down as we live in a block of fiats with paper thin walls. So she lets out these little highpitched sighs. And then she whispers in my ear. Feeling her breath so close to me and hearing her husky sex voice does it for me every time. I always try to get her talking” I work away a lot, and when I’m away, I call her late at night, knowing I’ll wake her p. Her sleepy voice reminds me of her sex voice, which is great to hear before I go to sleep...” “

The gift you give reveals the person you are iving gift is an art. Some people give them with such care, such sincerity, that even the cheapest gifts are made to look like crown jewels whilst some people are so care-free with gifts they make expensive gifts look like dirt. The gifts you give and the way you give them reveal your personality. A foreign top psychotherapist, Dr. Prancelli explained this by saying that “a person who always gives articles of clothing is fastidious, tends to want to control others (by choosing what they wear) and is apt to be concerned with the surface of things rather than their inner nature. He went on further that: “The art of giving an item of apparel implies a desire to improve the recipients appearance, and that in C M Y K

turn shows the giver to be critical of the way that person dresses. This obsession with appearance is a dead give-away to the giver ’s pre-occupation with how things look rather than what they really are.” The doctor described some of the other more common type of gift givers; the adult toy giver this sort of giver has a keen sense of humour combined

creating the gift instead of buying it betrays an unselfish and serious nature. They want the person to whom they give the gift to realize how much they are valued. “You see this in

with a practical mind. He .takes delight in giving friends whimsical useful gifts and prefers gifts that are both humorous and useful. The do-it-yourself gift givers: “The person who insists on

children who draw pictures or write poems to their parents to show mom and dad how much they love them by giving them something uniquely persona~ something made with their own

They want the person to whom they give the gift to realize how much they are valued

little hands. The adult who does the equivalent is expecting love in the same way.” The ultra-practical gift giver: “The person who gives only the most practical sort of gift is unconsciously trying to communicate a sense of deep friendship by giving items that will be in constant use and thus be constant reminders of the giver ’s love and concern. “The person has a very practical mind but it is at the same time just a little bit of a sche1ner - he hopes to use the gift to make sure he remains uppermost in the mind of the other person.” ,

20—SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012 RE you dying for a guy in your neigbhourhood to talk to you? Men share the sur-

You look pissed Hey, perma-scowl: Swap the pouty lips for a genuine, friendly smile and your eye candy for the night will be more likely to approach you. The majority of men agreed that an unfriendly facial expression will keep them from approaching you, so flash those pearly whites at the guy you’ve been eyeing!

on the dance floor could be attractive .”Sure, he’ll notice you if you’re the loudest, most aggressive girl in the room but not in a good way.

Four things that make women unapproachable

You’re not locking eyes What’s harder than approaching a stranger, approaching a stranger who hasn’t acknowledged your existence with even a brief look? I need to see, by her looking and smiling at me, that she wants me to approach her. If I don’t see it, I don’t approach. So next time you think he catches you looking at him, don’t look away , hold your stare for a few seconds so he knows you’re looking and that you like what you see. You’re too flirtatious A chip on your shoulder is a turnoff to any guy waiting to make his approach but so is the other extreme.A man is put off when

You’re surrounded by friends

Admit it , your awesome group of friends can be a little intimidating, especially when a strange guy

prising reasons they stay away. Sometimes it seems like no amount of silent prayer or aggressive cleavage will get that cute stranger to take a hint and chat you up. Could you be scaring away men before they even approach you? There could be reasons.

would put him off . Grinding out

Nothing like a woman who is basically telling everyone in the place that she’s open for business with anyone

women cross the line from friendly to flirty...with everyone they see. There's nothing like a woman

who is basically telling everyone in the place that she’s open for business with anyone. Flirting with everyone

approaches to hit on just one of you. Being surrounded by more than one friend makes her less approachable because of the embarrassment of being rejected in front of more people. So, make sure you’re giving him the opportunity to approach you alone — check out the jukebox and linger for a bit, or offer to grab the next round of drinks for your friends.

I have a big problem with commitment

am a 31 year old lady and I have confidence in myself and other peop l e see me as an outgoing, strong character and pleasing person. I have one problem though and that is commitment to my relationships. I have been in 5 ‘commited’ relationships. The length of relationships are- 1 year, 3 years, 2 years, 4 years but after the first couple of months, I get bored, become unfaithful and then find a way to get out of the relationship. I have always made certain that my partners get the blame and make them feel guilty, although I know the problem is me. After I leave them I miss them and feel bad about what I have done. I then contact them but in the meantime have a new ‘lover’. I end up in a situation of having a ‘commited’ relationship with a man, and, also still phoning, visiting and having sex with my previous partner. I can not carry on like

this anymore. Recently, I ‘dumped’ my partner only to be with someone ‘new’ I met two weeks ago at a friend's place, and I am still uncertain about going back to my previous, previous partner. Please help! Alicia, Abuja Ans: It sounds like you see the predictability of your pattern. Each person has some deep set of patterns which come out in relationships and love which can be limits to the depth of healthy, lasting intimacy that they can experience , despite their higher intentions. Each person ultimately must learn a way to evolve beyond their own self-limiting patterns. The patterns I am talking about are originally developed in childhood, between the ages of 2-6 mostly. They are the result of choices made by a 6-yearold mind, doing the best it could to figure out how to connect to others while protecting the self. These choices were made in the context of the family of ori-

gin and genetic predispositions, and the way in which that 2-6 year-old mind perceived those around him/ her. These choices were made long before we became verbally adept or cognitively proficient at thinking, which was mostly after the age of 10. Therefore, we all have a set of emotional patterns that operate in the attempt to self-defend us and deal with the core problems of vulnerability and connection. These patterns come up in relationships. They come up the strongest in our strongest relationships, i.e. with a romantic partner. And these patterns are, for the most part, way beyond our conscious understanding, because they were developed at an earlier stage in our cognitive development. Thus the field of psychology and counseling came to be, as a study of such patterns and a study of how to assist people to navigate beyond the limits and pains that such patterns

cause us in love. This is especially true now — today and for the last few decades — because society has lost most of its ability to influence couples to have stable, longterm marriages. To change a deep-seated pattern like this, you need to go deeper within yourself to the root of the pattern. I can label the pattern for you and yet, this intellectual label will not assist you to change anything. You need to make inner emotional contact with the part of you that is running your life and operating at a deeply unconscious level. You need to connect with that part of yourself and start an authentic dialogue within yourself. You need to commit to personal growth, and make it your highest priority if you want to grow beyond your pattern. You can describe the symptoms of the pattern — the feelings of boredom, the actions you take to avoid commitment, etc. And you have re-

two female children, hotel manager, resident *Wale, 44, single, Yoruba, Christian, lives and works in in Lagos, is looking for a serious -minded lady Lagos, needs a Yoruba lady, a Christian believer of RCCG of from Benue, Osun, or Kwara States for a 28-33 , who is employed and based in Lagos for marriage relationship that can lead to marriage on on 08122196089 •Tunde, employed, based in Lagos, needs a tall lady 0 8 0 6 6 3 3 3 0 9 7 *Joe, 30, wants a wealthy lady for a marriage-bound who is also based in Lagos on 08168379901 •Charles, from Rivers state, resident at Eleme, relationship on 08057557562 •Obotu, male, Christian, 42, graduate,divorcee with needs a Godfearing lady for •Vincent, 24, from Delta State, needs a lady a serious relationship on of 22-30 for a relationship on 08088317218 Do you have reactions to our stories or have you any experience you want 07039319965 •Eniola, 29, living at Karu, Abuja, wants a •Tasha, 23, fat, robust, good looking woman of 35-40 for beautiful, busty, from relationship on 07037684112 Do you want to be linked? •Alex, 36, from Delta, needs a Godfearing , Neither Chioma Gabriel nor Saturday Vanguard has any relationship with anybody wanting Delta State, needs a to be linked. We have no agents anywhere and charge no fees. We have no personal informa- relationship that can lead neat, humble and attractive lady of 28-35 for tion of people who have been linked or want to be linked and therefore, are not answerable for to marriage on a relationship that will lead to marriage on 0 7 0 5 8 6 4 1 4 5 4 08053332498

C M Y K

SATURDAY Vanguard DECEMBER 8, 2012—21

Obese men with deep belly fat risk bone-thinning A

lthough bone loss, or osteoporosis, is widely believed to be a health issue affecting women, researchers found that “visceral fat,” which is located deep under the muscles in the abdomen, is linked to bone loss and decreased bone strength in men. “Most studies on osteoporosis have focused on women. Men were thought to be relatively protected against bone loss, especially obese men,” Dr. Miriam Bredella, a radiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital and associate professor of radiology at Harvard Medical School in Boston, said in a news release from the Radiological Society of North America. “It is important for men to be aware that excess belly fat is not only a risk factor for heart disease and diabetes, it is also a risk factor for bone loss,” Bredella added.

n conducting the study, the researchers examined 35 men with an average age of 34 years and an average bodymass index (BMI, a measure of height and weight) of 36.5, which is considered obese. The men had a CT scan of their abdomen and thigh to measure their fat and muscle mass. They also underwent a highresolution CT scan, known as finite element analysis (FEA), of their forearm to determine their bone strength and risk for fractures. “FEA is a technique that is frequently used in mechanical engineering to determine the

bone strength. “We were not surprised by our results that abdominal and visceral fat are detrimental to bone strength in obese men,” noted Bredella. “We were, however, surprised that obese men with a lot of visceral fat had significantly decreased bone strength compared to obese men with low visceral fat but similar BMI.” The study, which was scheduled for presentation Wednesday at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America in Chicago, noted that greater muscle mass is associated with increased bone strength.

•Obese man eating.

strength of materials for the design of bridges or airplanes, among other things,” explained Bredella. “FEA can determine where a structure will bend or break and the amount of force necessary to make the material break. We can now use FEA to determine the strength or force necessary to make a bone break.” The study revealed that the men with more visceral and total fat in their abdomen had less bone strength than those with less abdominal fat. The researchers noted that the men’s age and total BMI did not have an impact on their

•Excess belly fat is a risk factor...

he researchers pointed out that genetics, diet and exercise all play a role in the amount of visceral fat stored in the body. This type of deep belly fat is also linked to an increased risk for heart disease. More than 37 million American men aged 20 years and older are obese, according to the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics. Obesity is linked to a number of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, asthma, joint diseases and sleep apnea. The data and conclusions of research presented at medical meetings should be viewed as preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal. Although the researchers found an association between higher levels of belly fat and decreased bone strength, they did not prove a cause-and-effect relationship.

The secret to a longer life? Children

any parents might good-naturedly scoff at the notion, but a new study shows that being a parent may help you live longer. Danish researchers compared men and women who had children with those who did not to see if the childless were more likely to die early. They were. “Childless couples are at increased risk of dying early of all causes,” says researcher Esben Agerbo, PhD, associate professor at Aarhus University in Aarhus, Denmark. The benefit of parenthood on longevity was stronger for women than for men, says Agerbo. Agerbo focused on more than 21,000 childless couples who registered for IVF treatment between 1994 and 2005. He followed them from the time they began IVF treatment until the end of 2008, their death, their emigration, or a diagnosis of mental illness, another

link he was exploring. During the time period, more than 15,000 babies were born. Another 1,564 were adopted. Death was rare. During the study period, 96 women and 220 men died. Parenthood apparently decreased the risk of early death. Mothers with a biological child were four times less likely to die an early death than childless women. Fathers with a biological child were two times less likely to die an early death than childless men. Men who adopted were nearly half as likely to die early as men who had no children. For women, the effect of adoption on longevity was not significant. Agerbo says he found a link, not a proven cause and effect.

He can only speculate as to why parenthood may increase longevity. ‘’My best guess is health behaviours,” he says. “When people have kids, they tend to live healthier.” They pay more attention, he says, to lifestyle habits. For instance, they may get to bed earlier and get more sleep, knowing they have to get up early to feed children and do other tasks. In a study published in 2011, he found that childless married men had a higher risk of dying from heart disease acquired after age 50 than did men with two or more children. The new study findings, he says, are ‘’certainly consistent with the identified link between childlessness and cardiovascular mortality.” He says that fertility problems, common among the childless, may share some of the same origins as other health problems.

22 — SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER8, 2012

IRST comes love, then comes marriage, then come a few years of satisfying sexuality. Then the sex slows—and sometimes even stops. Your husband turns away from you in bed. You lie next to him, wanting him still, wondering if this is normal. Time passes. Other men tempt you. You consider leaving, but you choose to stay. He is still your best friend, and in most ways the relationship works. But are you happy? There are more sexless marriages than we think, and many of them are happy. You may be in one of them. And it may be okay. “But wait!” you might be thinking. “Isn’t intimacy a barometer of a healthy relationship?” Well, it may be somewhat heretical for a sex and relationships expert to say this, but…no, not necessarily. Psychologists and sex therapists talk to people about their sex lives. The message has always been that when couples don’t see eye to eye about their sex life, it can lead to problems. It’s important to talk about any disconnect, and whether you both want to make creating sexual passion a priority. However, the only thing people find more shameful than talking about their sex life is admitting they don’t have one at all and that they’re fine with it. But here’s a new message: For some couples, sex is not important and they should stop worrying about it.

ter a long time without it but it can be done. You can start by committing to your sexual life the same way that you would a hobby, and make time to make love. Sometimes, the answer can be an easy one and sometimes it can take a year of explorations for you to get the passion back.

Is a sexless marriage okay?

What’s “normal?

Sexless marriage has no single definition. Some experts define “sexless” as falling “anywhere between having no sex at all, to fewer than 10 sexual encounters per year. Researchers estimate that 10 to 20 percent of marriages are completely sexless. In truth, it’s difficult to estimate exactly how many happy low- or no-sex relationships are out there because as sex therapists point out, experts hear only from dissatisfied people. There have been couples of all ages who haven’t had sex in a year, several years or even decades. Let’s face it. We are in a culture where we want it all and we want it now : love, sex, great kids, meaningful work and a body that stays firm forever. Society nags us with sexualized imagery, subconsciously convincing us that everyone else is doing it like rabbits and we are failures if we are not. But wait a minute. Historically, sex was a game for the young: The purpose was procreation and recreation, and it was eventually replaced by other activities as we got older. It is actually normal for sex to be-

come less important to a relationship over time. The couples who seek help for a sexless marriage believe they want sexual passion together. But some of them seek passion only because they believe they are “supposed to” want it. So, if you have little or no sex in your marriage, do you even want to do something about it? Maybe not. There are patients who are relieved to be told that their low level of sexual activity together may not indicate any problem. Married or single, some people just have a low sex drive and they may wish to change it, or they may be at ease with it. But is low sex drive a psychological disorder that needs to be fixed? The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders lists hypoactive (low) sexual desire as a disorder. However, according to experts in the field, this should be seen as a disorder only if it is causing distress or dysfunction. In other words, if your low desire doesn’t trouble you, and you are single or partnered

ASK THE SEXPERT Will unprotected sex lead to pregnancy?

Ques: My wife and I are both 55 years old. She is currently going through menopause, and no longer enjoys sex with a condom. Will unprotected sex at this stage lead to pregnancy? She hasn’t undergone any operation. Ans: No, there is no way of her getting pregnant without a condom, as she no longer menstruates. But please remember that you need to do indulge in foreplay for a longer period of time, so as to get her excited and lubricated. Also, use a lubricant like hair oil.

I’m losing my sex drive

Ques: I am 49 years old. I feel I am losing my sex drive. My penis isn’t stiff enough during intercourse. Please suggest some tablet or anything that could help me get the desired

with someone who is okay with it, you don’t have a problem. Most people who forgo sex still have typical and healthy human needs for touch, cuddling and intimate emotional connection. They just don’t equate sex with happiness. If your marriage lacks sex, you fall into one of three categories.

* Both of you want sex back in the relationship

If you both want sex to be part of your relationship again, you can reawaken passion with the help of a therapist. It’s important for both of you to realize that it will be difficult to rekindle passion af-

* Only one of you misses having sex Even if you are content with your sexless marriage, it’s important that you clarify that your spouse feels the same way. Broach the topic gently. Once you have acknowledged the elephant in the room and if you are both willing to keep things as they are, the elephant can stay, and even be befriended. While one of you might miss sex sometimes, you also realize that you gain many things from your marriage. In other words, having sex and having a great relationship do not need to go together, and you may choose little or no sex as a trade-off for an otherwise deeply fulfilling partnership. If, however, one of you admits that you would like more intimate contact, you need to figure out whether you can meet that need in ways other than sexual. For example, do you seek connection and physical pleasure? There are sexless couples who gave each other massages as a way to physically connect.

* Both of you are fine with being sexless

If the sexless state of your marriage is not a big deal for either of you, you fall into the third category. Your previous level of sex drive may have waned naturally, or perhaps you never were sexually motivated by your spouse. After all, people marry for multiple and complex reasons, not just for sex. In the end, love is a very personal thing. All that really matters is that you are both happy, whether you are passionately hot, gently warm, or snuggly and sexless. It is simply about the two of you finding different ways to love each other.

Things every guy is afraid to do in front of his woman

t had been listed that things such as farting or taking a dump is quite amusing and definitely rang a bunch of true points from experience. That experience had been the

lot of many marriages though some wives don’t care about farting or burping which many happen to enjoy. There are some things that men are afraid to do in front of women such as:

Troll around on Facebook

stiffness and retain it. Ans: After 40, erections are never as strong as two years before. Indulge in foreplay. Get yourself a medical check up. Try Vigomax Forte, one tablet, twice a day, for a month. Take it on an empty stomach with milk or water. If you do not get the desired result after the medication, see a sexologist .

I ‘ve grown wider

Ques: I am 47 years old and I have two daughters. My husband is amazing but the problem is that he wants to have sex twice or thrice a week. I don’t like having it as often. Also, I have noticed that my vagina has grown wider due to many years of sex . Is that the reason why I don’t enjoy sex ? What can I do to tighten it to make sex pleasurable? Ans: Visit a gynaecologist to confirm your doubts. You may be suggested a vagina-tightening operation. Meanwhile, learn kegel exercises by looking them up on the internet, as they will exercise the muscles around your vagina.

This one is equal for both sexes. While many couples freely go on Facebook in front of each other, there’s always that one profile you see that makes you think “ why are they talking to this person?” Facebook is one of the largest causes for divorce these days, so there’s definitely reason for concern.

Show that they are in real pain

Lifting boxes. Lifting groceries. Any kind of lifting. Any kind of sport. Any kind of anything. If a man smashes an arm against a table and is writhing in pain, a 100% of the time, they don’t let on how much it really hurts. It’s just their nature.

Cry

It’s sad but it’s true. While some men don’t have any reservations about crying in front of their wives, others would rather avoid it. The plain and simple reason is that they want to be her protector and that involves being strong. Crying generally means weakness for most men. Although that’s not true, men would rather not shed tears in front of a lady.

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012—23

Stories by IYABO AINA

Who are the year’s newest movie stars? Lily Collins

he 23-year-old daughter of Phil Collins carved out her own path in Hollywood with roles in “The Blind Side” and “Abduction,” but it was her turn as Snow White in Tarsem Singh’s kaleidoscopic “Mirror Mirror” that left a real impression. Collins will star as a Brooklyn teen who uncovers her family’s mysterious history destroying demons in the big-screen adaptation of “The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones,” hitting theaters August 23, 2013.

Rebel Wilson

he Aussie’s outsized sense of humor was only hinted at in “Bridesmaids” it took the role of Fat Amy in the aca-awesome musical comedy “Pitch Perfect” to get everyone singing along. Wilson has several encore performances arranged, including “Pain & Gain,” starring Mark Wahlberg and Dwayne Johnson, and “Super Fun Night” which she wrote, costarring “Pitch Perfect” castmate Anna Camp.

Berenice Marlohe

Thomas Mann

Dane DeHaan

omething of a TV veteran with roles in HBO’s “In Treatment” and “True Blood,” Dane DeHaan blew up the big screen this year in “Jack and Diane,” “Lawless” and “Lincoln,” but it was his turn as telekinetic teen Andrew in the sci-fi film “Chronicle” that caught the industry ’s eye. DeHaan has a number of highprofile projects lined up, including “The Amazing Spider-Man 2,” in which he’ll play Peter Parker’s frenemy Harry Osborn.

Suraj Sharma

T T

he 21 year old em bodied the quintessential high-schooler with a house party gone awry in “Project X.” Seriously. Things will get magical for

Mann in 2013 with roles in the fairytale redux “Hansel and Gretel Witch Hunters” and the big-screen adaptation of “Beautiful Creatures.”

Gina Carano

eautiful Berenice Marlohe joined a rarified group of women including Halle Berry, Jane Seymour and Famke Janssen who can call themselves Bond girls, having romanced Daniel Craig in the latest 007 actioner “Skyfall.” And flaunting what will likely be one of the most iconic black dresses of all time. The French actress joins half of Hollywood Christian Bale, Ryan Gosling, Michael Fassbender, Natalie Portman and Rooney Mara, just to name a few in Terrence Malick’s untitled

s undercover opera tive Mallory Kane in Steven Soderbergh’s action thriller “Haywire,” Carano, a mixed martial artist and former “American Gladiator,” was all grit and glam in a role that

threw her in the faces of Michael Fassbender and Channing Tatum. The 30year-old will get “Fast and Furious” in the franchise’s sixth installment, before beating up a bunch more guys for “In the Blood.”

he Indian teen had no acting experience when he landed the title role in Ang Lee’s picturesque epic ‘’Life of Pi’’ following a boy marooned in the

Pacific Ocean with a Bengal tiger. The 19 year old is currently studying philosophy at St. Stephen’s College in New Delhi, though he hopes to make more movies in the future.

24 —SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012

EBUN SESSOU

father is role model for his children. He is their first hero and their first inspiration. His children would do everything to be exactly like him. This explains why the offsprings of popular Nigerian musicians, past and present today have stepped into their father ’s shoes gracefully. But beyond perfecting their fathers’ art and creating their own brands , one thing is certain that these artistes been able to keep the music thread running in their families.

Art Alade/ Dare

Fela Anikulapo-Kuti/ Femi/Seun

lufela Olufemi Aniku lapo-Kuti, popularly known as Femi Kuti, is the eldest son of late Afro beat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. The Anikulpo-Kutis are a classic case of music families’ afflicted with the successor-syn-

Seun Kuti

Musicians who were made in the image of their fathers drome. It is almost unimaginable that a male member of the family would shun music and abort the thread that runs rigidly in the family line. As a youth, Femi joined his father ’s band. And like Fela, he has shown a strong commitment to social and political causes throughout his career. As Femi followed in Fela’s step, so has his son, Orinmade. Bubbling with passion for Afrobeat, Orinmade is currently studying classical music in London and is gearing to step in his father ’s sho Also, Seun’s uncanny resemblance to his father probably played a role in being his father’s favourite child. At the age of 9, Seun expressed the wish to sing to his father. A short while, Seun started acting as a sort of mascot and would sing a few songs backed by Egypt 80 before his father took to the stage. After Fela’s death of AIDS in 1997 Seun, then only 14 years old, became the lead singer of Egypt 80. While in school, Seun had to choose between a career in music and one in American Football for which he has an outstanding talent. Performing for crowds sometimes consisting of only 3 or 4 people, he crafted his musical skills for several years. Those skills were showcased to the world with the 2008’s self-titled debut album.

Dare’s passion for music which he developed while rummaging through his father’s extensive jazz collection and tag along with him to his concerts formed the early . experiences that made him what he is today.

The album was hailed as one of the most exciting releases in world music in years. This was piping hot Afrobeat, straight from the source, with Seun staying very close to his father’s original formula but with a definite personal touch.

King Sunny Ade/ SAJ

Femi Kuti

Fela Anikulapo Kuti

orn to legendary Nige rian highlife / jazz artiste in the sixties and seventies, Art Alade and Olapeju Alade, Dare is a chip off the old block. He has not only distinguished himself as a talented artiste, he has expanded the frontier of his late father’s art, ensuring that his name did not die with him. Today, his work speaks volume of how much he has been able to etch his name in the sand of time. Whether he has succeeded in sustaining the legacy his late father left behind or not, is immaterial here, but what is important is the fact that Dare has become a big brand in the Nigerian music scene, just as his father was, during his own time. His passion for music which he developed while rummaging through his father’s extensive jazz collection and tag along with him to his concerts formed the early . experiences that made him what he is today. Since he broke into the music scene with the release of his debut album, ‘From Me 2 U’, Dare has not looked back, as he has continued to enlarge his profile. The album, laced with several hit singles, including ‘Fuji’ and ‘Escalade’ enjoyed massive airplay in the Nigerian and international media. It won several awards including the Awards for Musical excellence in Nigeria, A.M.E.N and the 2006 Channel O Music Video Awards for best R&B Video in Africa. That is not all, Dare’s follow up album entitled ‘unDAREYted’ sold over 150,000 copies across the country and beyond in just two months of its release into the market.

ce juju musician, Sun day Adeniyi Adegeye, a.k.a King Sunny Ade, is reputed to be one of the most influential entertainers in Nigeria and among those that have successfully exported the rich content of contemporary Nigerian music to the rest of the world. At the peak of his career, KSA was considered to be one of Nigeria’s best choreographers. Like some of his peers, his passion for music was inherited from his father,

who was an organist. Interestingly and not unexpectedly, Sunny Adegeye Junior, the son of the juju legend has taken after his father, having released his maiden CD, a single album titled, Samba last year. Also known as SAJ, the singer is an undergraduate of sociology at the University of Lagos. Like his father, the love of music runs deep and hot in his veins. The only snag is that he has chosen to be identified with hip hop rather than juju. In spite of this, all eyes seem fixed on Junior ’s fledgling music career. The young man himself appears to have decided to follow in his father ’s footsteps by seeking a niche in the Nigerian entertainment industry. He is currently the chief executive officer of Take Over Records, a subsidiary of S.A.J. Entertainment Agency.

Ebenezer Obey/Tolu/ Orejaiyeola

hen Chief Ebenezer Fabiyi, a.k.a Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey dropped his trumpet to win souls for God, not many thought that his successors would spring up so soon. Today, Obey’s son, Tolu and daughter, Orejaiyeola, look quite poised to keep the music thread running in the family for awhile. While Tolu has decided to

walk the exact path chosen by his father many years ago, his sister prefers Christian gospel music.Orejaiyeola is on the verge of releasing an album.

King Wasiu Ayinde: Musty,Sultan and Zainab

ike father, like son…and daughter; legendary Fuji singer K1 the Ultimate’s music career has not just affected one or two, but three of his children, who are all following in their father ’s footsteps. Musty, Sultan and Zainab have been living outside Nigeria; Musty lives in Canada, Sultan in Chicago and Zainab aka Honey B in the UK. They all released their debut singles this year. In June 2012, Musty dropped his pop-themed single ‘Dance.’ A student at York University, Toronto, he plans on releasing his second album ‘The King’s Legacy’ after his first release ‘Fine Works of Spring.’ Sultan dropped his own debut single ‘Talazo reloaded’ with his father K1. The fast track club sound is a remix of his father ’s song ‘Talazo’ and was released in August 2012. Sultan plans on returning to Nigeria to fully pursue a career in music.

Oliver De Coque/Oliver Jnr/Darlington

efore he bowed out of the stage, highlife maestro, Oliver Akanite, aka Oliver De Coque, left a legacy to his children. Although his sonsOliver Junior and Darlington, may not have inherited the gift of the guitar from him, they appear determined to build successful careers like their father

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012

— 25

band, Blue Spots, and also won a competition televised in Western Nigeria to showcase the various talents in juju music. During the period, he was able to form his own record label in collaboration with Haruna Ishola and achieved critical and popular acclaim and fame. Dairo’s son, Paul, aka Paul Play, has since carried on with his family legacy. A multiple award winner, Paul Play does a cocktail of genres mixing Western world R&B and rap to traditional highlife music and juju music. He started as a producer, songwriter and back up vocalist before hitting the limelight.

Christy Essien-Igbokwe/Kaka

Ebenezer Obey

Christy Essien- gbokwe did. Oliver Junior aims at continuing in his father ’s footsteps by aspiring to bridge the gap between contemporary highlife and traditional Igbo music. But it is not known if the young man, whose debut album was released eight years ago, will retain the identity of his father’s kind of music. On the other hand, Darlington, the younger of the two, hopes to make his mark as a hip hop artiste. Oliver De Coque named his music after the Ogene, a dou-

ble-headed bell used in traditional Igbo music.

Sikiru Ayinde Barrister/Bar rymade/Bar ry Showkey

ondly called Alhaji Agba, Sikiru Ayinde Barrister is a pioneer of modern fuji music. He was said to have taken the music to Europe and other parts of the world through extensive tours made in the 1970s. However, two of his children have begun the elaborate and difficult task of filling the vacuum created by their late fa-

Paul Play Dairo ther’s exit. One of them even cut a CD long before their father’s death. Modinat Ayeloja, aka Barrymade, already has four albums to her credit. In her own little way, she tried to stop the feud between her father and some other juju musicians.

IK Dairo/Paul Play

.K. Dairo (now late) was the only musician in Africa to receive an honour from the British monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, in the 1960s. I.K. Dairo’s music career entered the fast lane when he

founded a ten piece band called the Morning Star Orchestra in 1957. In 1960, during the celebration of Nigeria’s independence, the band was called on to play at a party hosted by a popular Ibadan based magistrate. With a lot of prominent Yoruba patrons at the venue, I.K. Dairo showcased his style of juju music and earned attention and admiration from other Yoruba patrons present, many of whom later invited him to gigs during cultural celebrations or parties. Later, he renamed the

ady of Songs, Christy Es sien-Igbokwe was the first female president of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria. She put Nigeria on the world music map with her hit song, Seun Rere. Although she was not Yoruba, most of her hit songs were delivered in the language. Igbokwe’s fluency in Yoruba, English, Igbo and her native Ibibio earned her an appeal, which cut across tribal and ethnic boundaries. Igbokwe died last year, but her son has already stepped into her shoes. Chinwuba , fondly called Kaka, is currently having a good run of the Nigerian music scene as an upand-coming hip hop artiste and producer. Dr. Roberts disclosed, “We tested their ability to cook and identify the ingredients that they use as well as their understanding of what the competition is about. And most importantly, we also look at their ability to withstand pressure. I must say that I am impressed. We have seen a set of fantastic cooks.”

Funfare at The Club with Remy Martin T

he premium brand, Remy Martin last weekend hosted its monthly party at the posh The Place Lounge,Lekki , Lagos, and it was a a fun filled affair. The monthly signature event rocked the exclusive lounge from dusk till dawn with the incredible, DJ Spinall

on the wheels of steel and the ever energetic Shody on the hype. The line up of artistes and celebrities in the house at teh event was equally awesome, even as everyone in attendance had a refreshing moment. Mavin superstar, Dr.Sid, Reminisce, and one of E.M.E’s

finest, Skales among others were in attendance. . Kako bi Chicken exponent and Reminisce collectively gave a good acount of themselves with their sublime dexterity and smooth vocal prowess. Equally, the presence of former Big Brother Africa

winner, Karen Igho, the eccentric Denrele Edun added glamour to the event which also had in attendance the official media partners of the brand - TRACE Urban TV and Beat 99.9 FM. According to Thibault Robert, Remy Martin, Senior Brand Manager, “We want to

assure our loyal consumers and fans that the last party this year coming up in December would be something quite memorable.” The next At The Club With Remy Martin party is scheduled for 20th December, 2012 at Road Runner Bar, Yaba, Lagos.

Knorr Taste Quest begins search for Best Chef

he stage is now set for the successful take off of Unilever Nigeria Plc’s reality cooking TV show tagged Knorr Taste Quest as 20 contestants head into the reality show. According to Nsima OgediAlakwe, Category Manager Savoury, Unilever Nig. Plc, the show which is the first-ofits-kind will provide a platform and opportunity for food lovers in Nigeria to showcase their various cooking skills. Organizers revealed that the winner will go home with a

top prize of a brand new car and N1m cash prize and kitchen equipment worth N300,000. Similarly, the 1st runner-up will get N1m cash prize and kitchen equipment worth N300, 000 while the 2nd runner up will win N500, 000 and kitchen equipment worth N300, 000. Meanwhile, all 20 contestants would go home different kitchen equipment and could also win cash vouchers if they win any of the special tasks. Nsima revealed that over

6,000 entries were received, adding the scope of the show which is limited to Lagos will be expanded to other regions of the country in the following edition. She explained, “At Unilever makers of Knorr, we have been evolving with beautiful ideas that promote decent culinary such as Rice Festival in time past before we got to this point. This is the first season of Knorr Taste Quest and viewers can expect more of this. Already, we have been getting

feedbacks about the content of the show such as its informative and entertainment value from a varied audience.” Speaking in Lagos after the auditioning exercise, widelyrespected master chef, Dr. Roberts who is Head of Jury disclosed that Knorr Taste Quest tests contestant’s versatility in local and international dishes. Aside Dr. Roberts, other members of the jury for the audition include Gbubemi Fregene also known as Chef Fregz and Nsima Ogedi-Alakwe.

Skale

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012 — 27

Enebeli Elebuwa: Nollywood, •AGN president calls on stakeholders mourn the industry to look inward V

ETERAN Actor, Enebeli Elebuwa 66, died last Wednesday after losing his over one-year battle with stroke at the Asian Institute of Medical Sciences, Faridabad Haryana, New Delhi, India. His death indeed has elicited sorrow, grief and pain, which the industry has been plagued into in the last couple of months after it lost other veteran actors, Akin Ogungbe and Peter Eneh to the cold hands of death. He gave up the ghost after failed efforts to restore his health in Nigeria had failed. He had battled the partial stroke for more than one year. The Ukpane, Delta State born actor was one of the most experienced actors in the country, having been prominent in the industry for almost four decades. Many movie buffs still relish the role he played in soaps like Mirror In The Sun, where he featured in the first three editions after which he worked as Assistant Producer and Director. The first movie he featured in was Dinner With The Devil produced in 1974 by Sanya Dosunmu. He thereafter featured in another rested TV series, Village Headmaster . He played prominent roles in countless number of home videos. However, after battling the protracted illness, Pa Enebeli was at the Perfect Christian Ministry, Surulere, Lagos apparently to seek spiritual solution. It was followed by claims by Pastor Fireman that he had healed the famous actor. The claim was followed by a video posted on youtube which showed the Pastor holding Enebeli who walked dragging his feet to keep up with him as they walked across the church during a service. The actor however disclosed after his encounter with the clergyman that he was not healed by the pastor as being reported then. It was even obvious that his condition deteriorated after the purported healing. “If he claims that he has healed me, I leave everything to God. I was in his church and he prayed for me, but my condition did not improve,” Enebeli said in May. He was later moved to another hospital in Abuja where he received treatment until he was transferred to

your part for your guild and nation...and you have been called by our Lord God who we mortals cannot question. Rest in perfect peace in the bosom of our Lord.

•The late Elebuwa at the hospital bed in India

India on the bill of the Delta State Government. Reports had earlier indicated that he was improving until he succumbed to the pangs of death last Wednesday, marking the end of an era for a man who worked tireless to bring happiness to many homes in Africa and the world at large.

aying tributes to the departed Actor

Ibinabo Fiberesima, AGN National President, It's another sad moment in Actors' Guild of Nigeria, nay Nollywood.Like AGN, Nollywood griefs, for the cold hands of death has brought tears, sorrow and pain. Given that all living things are subject to die, as humans we find it unfathomable; a bitter pill so hard to swallow. “His role in the popular 'Andrew no check out" television commercial brought him to

all the fame. Applauded anywhere we go. So much encomiums showered on us. Then what? There isn't much to show for that fame. From Ashley Nwosu, Sam Loco Efe,Geraldine Nwokocha, Pete Eneh, now Enebeli Elebuwa...the list is endless. “Nollywood cannot continue to go cap in hand to government at every point in time when ying such sad tale occurs. a r p man r i Nollywood must look F tor •Pas im. inwards. Nollywood should for h be capable of taking care of limelight its own. If governments at all in his hay level and the citizens believe we days with the are truly what they say we are, Nigerian Television Authority. then they should offer, Today, uncle Enebeli Elebuwa genuinely, to support the is no more. A man who industry and the players. They selflessly served his beloved should do the needful. I am bent on carrying out a country, Nigeria for years, and entertained the people and holistic health insurance/ fans alike has passed on, pension scheme in AGN. I am unsung.“I have always of the view that all guilds/ appreciated him from afar over associations in Nollywood the years but I encountered should do same. It's part of the him from close range when we welfare package we owe our operated a social media group, members. We must give our 'XploreNollywoodAssembly'.“The members Hope. We must give group was humanitarian in them a reason to live. We must nature because from one Baby keep them Alive for as long as Daniel who was infected with we can. We must live well, not cancer of the eye, to the old in poverty, not in regret.“Uncle people's home in Yaba, uncle Enebeli may have died unsung, Enebeli, etcetera, we made like our unsung heroes, but we donations.“Uncle Enebeli I shall continue to sing his dare say bestrode Nollywood praise. We shall give him a like the colossus he was. He reason to be happy, even in impacted positively on those death and wherever he is. “My dear uncle Enebeli, AGN, who were privileged to have encountered him one way or of which you were a strong another. He was of awesome vociferous voice, and heartily mien; he was fatherly; he was supportive shall miss you. Be interesting; he was assured that you will not be professional; and most of all, forgotten. The change you he was caring.“Sadly, it has fought for shall be achieved. You become rife that artists beg to shall be celebrated by the guild survive. We live well. We have you so loved. You have played

igerian Film Corporation

The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) described Elebuwa's death as “shocking, unfortunate and a great loss to the Nigerian motion picture industry and the Nation” Mr. Afolabi Adesanya, NFC’s Managing Director/ Chief Executive said the passing on of Elebuwa, an actor he was privileged to have worked with was equally a personal loss. The Film Industry, Adesanya further noted was indeed stricken by the death of Elebuwa who he averred, like others, was a toast to many film enthusiasts. Adesanya, in the statement, commiserated with the deceased's family over the loss and prayed that Almighty God will give the family the fortitude to bear his irreparable loss. He equally paid tribute to the veteran actor Pete Eneh who also died recently, saying that their contributions to the development of the Nigerian motion industry are immeasurable. “They have written their names in gold”. The NFC, the statement added, had assisted, and followed the great struggle by Enebeli Elebuwa to regain his health, until his untimely death. He will be remembered for the enviable and impactful roles he played in the several movie titles (celluloid and Video) dating back to the seventies.

egun Arinze, AGN immediate past president

Enebeli was “a fatherfigure, an uncle. He inspired a generation of Nigerian artistes. He fought gallantly and he was a great actor. We all called him Andrew but unfortunately, he has checked out.

Ejike Asiegbu, past president of AGN, “Enebeli battled death for several years when his ailment started . Gradually, he conquered his prime enemy only for another challenge to take place. He bestroded the stage and screen like a colossus”

26 — SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012

Emeka Ike flags off desert football tournament N

OLLYWOOD star, Eme ka Ike, at the weekend, flagged off a desert football tournament involving sixteen teams which were carefully selected from various parts of Lagos and its environs. The football tournament is expected to last for two weeks, while the winner will walk away with the sum of N500, 000,00 The tournament was organised by the Unity Football Association (UFA), while Emeka Ike and his school, St Nicholas College are the sponsors. Speaking at the flagging off ceremony, which took place at Booben’s Club, Ogudu, the actor said, the main reason why he decided to support the tournament was to help young football stars discover their talents, and thereby reduce crime. ”The only way I can affect young people is by coming close to them this way. This is to see how we can support

young people and see how we can develop the little talents they have to achieve greater heights. ”When I go out everyday, I see young people with great talents in football, and they only need someone to help them acheive maximum greatness. That is the whole idea. ”Basically, the motive is to see how I can positively touch the lives of young people and help them facilitate their journey to success,” Ike explained. He explained that the first runner up will get N100, 000, while the second winner up will get N75, 000. Ike also revealed that Tottenham and Togo striker, Emmanuel Adebayor had given his word to assist some stars to be identified at the football tournament, adding that some major clubs in Europe are also sending scouts to the tourna-

Wale Adenuga bags NBMA award •Emeka Ike

UNDAY, 2nd December was a day of joy for Wale Adenuga MFR as he was honoured with a Life Time Achievement Award at the 2012 edition of the Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards (NBMA). He was given the award for his immeasurable contributions to the growth of the Nigerian Electronic Media. Wale Adenuga MFR is widely treasured by Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora for providing quality edutainment for over three decades as well as being the Creator and Producer of Superstory, This Life, Papa Ajasco & Company, Nnena & Friends TV Show and the periodic Nnena & Friends Live Show through his company Wale Adenuga Productions Limited. He is also the Chairman of Binta International Schools

•Wale Adenuga and PEFTI Film Institute. In October, 2012, Wale Adenuga MFR turned it up a notch as his TV station, wapTV, commenced broadcast on StarTimes Channel 222 across Nigeria and has since been receiving positive reviews and praise for its unique programming.

Desmond Eliot live on St Lauren Nollywood Buzz

ment. The sixteen teams participating in the tournament are Sparrow FC, Ogudu; Omega FC, Ojota; Boston FC, Ogudu; Kosofe United, Kosofe; Golden Stars, Ogudu; Mowe Bombers, Mowe; Hob FC, Obanikoro; Intelligent Stars, Alapere; CCC FC, Ogudu and Gazar FC, Ikorodu.

Mary Uranta steps up her game

FTER her birthday party which held few months back, Mary Uranta has not stopped radiating with beauty in recent times. The delectable actress who stormed the movie industry several years ago has maintained a steady rise to stardom with her unique acting skills and very delectable looks. Uranta who ranks among the most pretty, and scandal-free actresses in the industry, is presently having the best of times as she is enjoying a very affluent lifestyle and successful career at the moment. Apart the fact that she has featured in several movies in recent tims, tongues are beginning to wag that the talented actress is also enjoying a sizzling romance with her Igbo born lover. Her life no doubt is said to have taken a leap for the better after the said lover came into her life and started spoiling her with love and gift. The romance which kicked off early this year, according to squealers, has transformed her life in many ways. This is because her ever glowing new looks has become the reason most movie producers are clamouring to have her on their sets as she has been moving from one location to the other , starring in so many movies. The actress recently stepped up her game when she was given a car gift from her lover; a silver colored wrangler jeep. She is said to be so crazy about this affair that she readily makes it known to anyone who cares to know, the source of her new affluent life style. No wonder, she was quoted as saying that most actresses hardly survive with what they earn from acting, hence they engage in other things to make ends meet. •Mary Uranta

OLLYWOOD actor, Desmond Elliot,was recently featured in an exclusive interview on St. Lauren Nollywood Buzz, a radio programme which showcases the best of Nollywood. The programme, which debuted a few months ago, is sponsored by Grand Oak Limited, Lagos. Desmond’s interview was aired as a Veteran’s Edition of the programme for having spent almost two decades in Nollywood and featuring in over 200 movies. The Veteran’s Edition is aired every last week of the month, and Desmond’s interview came up between last week on several radio stations across the country

including Metro FM, Lagos;Cool FM, Port Harcourt and Kano; Adaba FM, Akure;Peace FM among others. St. Lauren Nollywood Buzz is anchored by Bukky Babalola, a versatile on-air personality. According to Babalola, Desmond x-rayed his life and his numerous contributions to the growth of Nollywood in the 30-minute programme. Desmond, in the course of his career, has risen to be one of the best brands in Nollywood, and his acting prowess has earned him laurels in Nigeria and beyond. Babalola disclosed that the thespian was also chosen for this edition because of his impressive record, over time, as an award-winning director of block buster movies.

28—VANGUARD, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2012

07088551416

Lekan in Love with Rita Dominic F

or those people who think that Rita Dominic is too old to receive any love gesture, they would listen to this open confession. The fuji pop star, Lekan, who came to limelight with his excellent delivery in Olu Maintain’s Yahoozee album has professed his undying love for the Nollywood super star. The suave musician who is known for his antireckless unlike most of his colleagues who readily take advantage of their status to frolic with their teeming female admires,seems to

have fallen in love with sexy Nollywood actress. “I’ve been dating Rita in my dreams and I’ve always loved to see her movies. When I read her interview, something in me told me to voice out my admiration and affections for her. If truly her heart desires is to have a set of twins, I can give her that. I have got twins in my genes. It might sounds awkward or like a joke, but, it is not. I would have approached her a long time ago, but I thought she was already taken by another man. Even if it turns out that she is older than me, I don’t mind. Age is nothing but a number,” he says.

Princess, embarr assed in embarrassed Chur or being single Churcch ffor I

f this buzz is anything to believe, then, the plussized Nigerian comedienne, Adekoya Damilola popularly known as Princess must be seriously searching for her missing rib as she got what she never imagined in her life time recently when she took a bold step to reconcile with her maker in Lagos. According to what Princess tweeted, she was embarrassed by one of the church’s ushers who reportedly refused to allow her sit in the front seat while the pastor was preaching because she (Princess) was single. “I can’t believe this church and their sitting arrangement. Is this not supposed to be the house of God? One of the ushers told me I couldn’t sit in front because I am single. I nearly died of embarrassment, in the presence of God.” the busty comedienne tweeted. Though the pastor later apologised to Princess, she said the apology came late, adding “it is not a sin to be single.” The comedian was surprised when she found out that the pastor himself is also single. She then demanded for a bigger apology from the church.”@pastorpoju OMG! So u r single too? that usher owes a BIG time apology. He spoilt my day, made me regret coming to your church and hurt my feelings.” she tweeted

Ovie Brume Foundation holds annual Xmas bazaar By ANOZIE EGOLE

he Ovie Brume foundation is at it again as they thrilled the people with lots of fun during its annual Christmas bazaar. The bazaar is an annual fundraiser held at the foundation’s youth Centre in Victoria Island Lagos State which intends to bring together corporate donors, friend of the foundation, trustees, directors, staff, parents and students for a fun full day. The bazaar ran as usual, from noon till 6pm and the highlight was to see the faces of the winners. This year ’s prices includes, a trip to London, a Blackberry Porch, an ipad and a stay at Lagos hotel. The annual bazaar is a sustainable project of Ovie

Brume foundation, founded in the year 2003, in honour of Mr. Ovie Brume who died at 29years old. Brume was a big thinker with a keen enterprenual spirit. He firmly believe that the future of Nigeria lay in its youth and was concerned that business and political leaders were not doing enough to nurture and support the country’s youth. The foundation was therefore founded to create an environment where Nigerian youths have easy access to the information and resources required for personal development and success. The foundation runs after school programs for homework assistance and examination prep. Computer classes, courses in dance and the arts along with skills acquisition, career development, leadership workshops an mentoring programs at a no cost to underprivileged students in Lagos.

Halima Abubakar set to fight against cancer with her shaved hair.

ne actress that is taking a bold step in battling the menace of cancer, is Halima Abubakar. The sexy Kogi-State born actress has shaved her hair to that effect. Before now, not much awareness has been carried out on the silent killer disease which has taken over that accolade from the once dreaded HIV/AIDS disease. The disease according to research, is killing more people than HIV/AIDS. Cancer has various types like the breast, skin, cervical, lungs, e.t.c., which eat deep into people due to inability to go for check ups or much awareness on it. According to source close to Halima, she shaved her hair with the aim of raising awareness for cancer.

SATURDAY

Talent is not enough

YOUNG NIGERIANS MAKING THE DIFFERENCE

PATRICK HERBERT aka Finnest LAGOS STATE

atrick is a rapper, singer and songwriter based in Lagos. He is currently signed with Soundz & Meknitz records and has four singles under his belt, namely: Despicable me, why like this , Baby come back and Omo ge. Patrick has pushed the limitations shrouding upcoming artists to stamp himself as a formidable new entrant. The •Finnest tracks have had their fair share of airplay on airwaves with Why like this already flaunting a video. His first album is expected to be released before the second quarter of 2013 with All about the Finnest as the working title.No doubt, Patrick has done well for himself as he has managed to find a good footing in the music market in amidst the socio-economic challenges. In his own words, my music is aimed at inspiring young people to channel their energies into something positive. Patrick hopes to work with big time artistes in his coming album.

Work hard at it—

NOSAOSAYAMWEN a.k.a. Djinee

usic is undoubtedly pleasant to the soul especially if it is good. That’s to say there is bad music and there is good music. You can even tell the difference when you hear a good music or a bad music. Nowadays, many young people are daily keying into the music career industry whether they have a voice to sing or not so long as the industry remains lucrative. Nosa (Djinee), co-owner of Kreazivity music is endowed with a unique and captivating voice. In this interview, the ‘proudly Bini’ Djinee shares his inspiration for music and tells us about his prealbum of 5 collections which is long expected by his numerous fans.

What would you say inspire your music career? I started music at home by partaking in the early morning ritual of listening to some songs like Fleetwood Mac, Smoke Robinson, Abba, Bruce Springsteen, Kenny Rogers , Don Williams etc. Listening to music my father played from turntable, reel to reel got me interested. I was introduced to music quite early. You had to

What was the most memorable childhood experience that comes to your mind? I’ve had many memorable moments from traveling with my family to Benin for Christmas to being the centre of attention in primary school whenever I sang to my school mates. Growing up, there was so much promise to live; I played, I laughed, I lived and I made mistakes. It was all part of the joy of growing up and it was great.

Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012—29

•Djinee

Comrade Ayodele making the difference in Doha

omrade Ayodele Adewale, Executive Chairman, Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Lagos State, Nigeria (r) delivering a paper at a Side-Event organized by the United Nations Of Youth (UNOY) at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Doha. with him, Comrade Goodluck Obi, President, United Nations of Youth (m) and Pastor Omoragbon, President, Nurses Across the Borders.

I’ve had many memorable moments from traveling with my family to Benin for Christmas to being the centre of attention in primary school

love music growing up in my home- it was like the support system that made it all beautiful. How would you say your music is impacting society? I hope it is, because I see many youths turning to music/entertainment rather than crime. In a society with high unemployment rate, the success of some of us have impacted on the youth by

giving them the belief that it can be done. And really, it can! There’s hope- music gives the young hope. Your pre-album is out, what motivated that move? I had my loyal fans in mind when I made the decision. They’ve been yearning for my sound for so long, so why starve them with only a hit single when I can give them 5 songs at once. Ultimately, the album will come out sometime next year and there’ll be songs that will keep them dancing and others that will inspire them, hopefully. I am working towards making it a thorough job. What advice do you have for young people in their calling? Pray. Have a passion for what you want to be in life.Read, it adds depth.

Champion’s conference, Asaba, Delta State

outhful Vibes was recently at the Champion’s Conference in Asaba, Delta State organized by Teo-Inspiro under the dynamic leadership of Oghenefego Isikwenu. Victor Gotevbe gave the key note address.

30—SATURDAY VANGUARD,DECEMBER 8, 2012

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C M Y K

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C M Y K

SATURDAY, Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012—37

GCUOBA holds annual lunc heon par ty luncheon party

L-R: Mr Alfred Okoigun,Mr Gamaliel Onosode [OFR] and Engr. Joseph Akipiey

t was another reunion for the Government College Ughelli Old Boys Association , GCUOBA, at the Banquet Hall of Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Ikeja. Lagos on Sunday, December 2, 2012 when they got together for the Association’s annual luncheon party. The highlights of the day include awards and recognition sessions, fund-raising and of course, lunch and refreshment which was rounded off with dancing and merriment.

L-R:Prof. J.P. Clark and Dr Newton Jibunoh

L-R: Mrs Teme Abdurahman Okene and Mr Micheal Madagwa

L-R:Prof. Patrick Muoboghare, Commissioner for Education, Delta State and Engr. Joseph Akpieyi

L-R: Mrs Julie Okoigun, Mr Alfred Okoigun, President Lagos Chapter and Dr. Oluwafemi Ayewoh

UCOS A’s annual dinner and lecture UCOSA THE Urhobo College Old Students Association, UCOSA, Lagos Branch, held its annual dinner and lecture at Oceanview Restaurant, Eko Hotels, Victoria Island on last Saturday, December 1, 2012. Many notable personalities graced the occasion which was chaired by Professor Johnson Ekpere. Photos by Joe Akintola, Photo Editor

L-R: Mrs Marie Ekpere, Chairman of the event, Prof. Johnson Ekpere and Mr Alaowe Broderick Bozimo,Guest Speaker

L-R: Mr. Gladys Obayiuwana, Elder F.O.S. Obayiuwana and Mr. L awrence Gbenedio

L-R: Engr. and Mrs Chris O. Enase

Ogwashi-Uku people mark Ine festival

his year’s Ogwashi-Uku’s Ine festival has come and gone but the echoes of the colourful celebration remain evergreen in the hearts of the people and the whole world, not only in the colourful display of the day but also in the what it brought to the good of the people. One of such is the Meline Gate Foundation, which has released 19 million dollars to assist in the production of yam staple in industrial quantity. Also the Delta State Polytechnic,Ogwashi-Uku has taken delivery of 2000 palm seedlings donated by the Ogwashi-Uku citizens in diaspora for agricultural purposes. This year’s festival was a huge success.

L-R: Chief E.F. Esisi, Mrs B.O. Esisi and Prof. Chief O.C. Majoroh

L-R: Alaowe Brodrerickn Bozimo and Justice (Mrs) Rosaline Bozimo [OFR]

HRM Obi Prof Chukwuka Okonji, Obi of OgwashiUku

38— Vanguard, SATURAY, DECEMBER 8, 2012

My journey into music is paved by songs by Dolly Parton, Aretha Franklin and Luther Vandross, among others that my mum used to play back in time when I was only 6 year-old

tistes and label owners hardly get to them because of the fact that there are no structures so to speak. It’s painful but that’s the truth. I feel there are a lot of growth to be made, a lot of money to be generated from online digital distribution from events and endorsements What has changed about you?

BY BENJAMIN NJOKU Kolawole Ogunwunmi a.k.a Kola Soul was born to a Nigerian father and Ghanaian mother. A Marine Engineer and Agronomist-turnedsinger, he has been in the Nigerian music industry for over a decade. He carved a niche for himself as R &B singer. Recently, he co- jointly floated a record label called Alchemist Music. He recounts the story of his journey into the world of music. I have been in the industry for over 10 years now. It’s been a tough journey so far. But I thank God. I ‘m now known as Kola Soul, co-owner of the Alchemist Music. I released my first single titled ‘Ajei while working with producer, Gray Jonz. We did the rendition of Nigerian National Anthem as well as Chris Brown’s “Don’t Judge me.”. Just to let people have a feeling of what RnB is all about. We are trying hard to promote the genre as RnB singer. In the past 10 years, I have learnt the craft, perfectedy art and tried as much as possible to become who I am today. I

Interestingly, I have worked with only one record label called DBX Entertainment. It is owned by a friend of mine who had an enviable interest in my kind of music. However, one thing led to another before we finally parted ways after the expiration of our contract. In fact, it was after we parted ways that I decided to set up my own record label. However, while I was with DBX Entertainment, I released my first album titled, From KSoul with Love. The album was released on the 14th of January, 2010. It was strictly R n B. Naturally, I’m a solo artiste,

but most times, I prefer to perform with my live band called, Master Craft. I enjoy live performances. It gives me room to express myself in ways that I can only imagine. I can’t explain the

have moved from one record label to another. Somehow, I didn’t get the right formula when I started until recently as I set up my own record label and started working with the right team.

•Kola Soul welcome constructive criticisms. Though, a lot of people would want to help you, the way they go about it might sometimes not be acceptable to you. But it doesn’t matter, because the most important thing here is for you to look, learn and achieve greatness at some point. r a p p e r. We are also looking forward to signing on talented artistes as we hope to diversify to other areas of entertainment. Right now, we are focusing on music, but we are

In the past 10 years, I have learnt the craft, perfected in my art and tried as much as possible to become who I am today. I have moved from one record label to another.

feeling, the pure euphoria. For now, my record label has signed on two artistes, myself and MS-two who is currently being groomed as a female

planning to go into fashion, music video and movies. What the industry has taught you? I have learnt how to work hard, carry out research and

My ambition I intend to be one of the top rated R&B artistes in Nigeria and Africa at large. I want to leave a lot of legacies for young Nigerian artistes to follow, a kind of music that will be timeless, heart-warming and at the same time, entertaining. That’s my dream. Releasing my debut album I will be releasing some of my singles this month. However, between then and now, I will be releasing at least four new singles and the videos to go with them. Music trend in Nigeria The Nigerian music industry is yet to be tapped. It might seems really big now but the truth is that artistes like D’ banj and Wizkid have discovered that there are still more for us to tap into. Sometimes, I feel that what is due for ar-

has E verything changed about me. I’m not a party goer before now. But I have developed the habit of attending parties just to keep my face on the television. My vocal ability has changed just as I have undergone voice training. Journey into music My journey into music is paved by songs by Dolly Parton, Aretha Franklin and Luther Vandross, among others that my mum used to play back in time when I was only 6 year-old. I used to hum to those songs. But I said that one thing that struck me about music was when I took part in a Karaoke competition and won money. I was struggling really hard and somebody just dropped N50,000 on my laps. The competition was at Murphy’s on the Lagos Island. That was the first time I met Howie T. and Faze (Plantashun Boyz) came first in that competition while I came second. This was between 1999 and 2000. Are Nigerian audience ready for R‘n’B? They have been able to enjoy both sides of the world and the world is a lot smaller. If Chris Brown or Usher were to come to Nigeria now, everybody would want to go for the event. I’ve seen the response to Banky W and to other R‘n’B singers; it’s amazing that Nigerians have actually opened up to R‘n’B and soul music. We’ve got Asa, Bez and a couple of other fantastic singers and Nigerians have accepted them as ‘our own’,” My expectations I have a very high expectation considering the fact that people are very receptive to my kind of music. R&B used to be a tough sell music at some point but today, the situation has changed as Nigerians are beginning to open up to R&B.

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012—39

•Bassey Ikpi

Bipolar II patients can live normal… that I hope translates and reaches others. I call it writing for “me too”. That’s all I want someone to hear. I want someone to read my work and say, “wow that’s for me too! I thought I was alone.” One of the best compliments I’ve ever received was from a woman who wrote to me and said, “I didn’t know how to say it but you said it to me.” That meant the world to me.

What Russell Simmon’s Def Poetry is all about

assey Ikpi is a Nigerian born Poet/writer and mental health advocate, who left the shore of her country when she was four years old for the United state of America. She was introduced to the poetry of Langston Hughes and Nikki Giovanni at the tender age of 8. Today, she had began penning her own work; her poetry has opened shows for such acclaimed artistes as the international recording group, Les Nubians, the Grammy award winning artistes such as India Arie, Alicia Keys and late Luther Vandross. Bassey appeared on the NAACP Image Awards as part of a tribute to Venus and Serena Williams. She has also been a featured cast member of the National Touring Company of Tony Award winning Broadway show, Russell Simmon’s Def Poetry Jam. In this interview, she talks about the high and low side of her travels with Russell Simmon’s Def Poetry team, her poetry slam in Nigeria and the low side of her diagnosis with bipolar II disorder years ago. Enjoy!

How poetry discovered me

I fell in love with poetry at the age of 8. I read a poem by Nikki Giovanni called Ego Tripping that I loved. I learned to speak English language at age 5 and learned to read soon after. I fell in love with language and words and how they were manipulated and poetry does that.

So I have been writing since I was 8, but I’ve been a professional, paid, working writer since 2001.

Challenges, my fears

My greatest fear is being a failure. My greatest challenge is learning not to be so self critical. I also have a tendency to be so afraid of failure that I’d rather do nothing than fail. Some of the things I have written I currently write personal essays and creative non-fiction for various online publi-

FLORENCEAMAGIYA

Def Poetry is a show that gave poetry in the States its lift. It was a platform to showcase our work on a national level. It really took things to the next level. The show had 5 seasons. The first season was split and I was on the second half and then appeared on every season thereafter. A friend of mine wanted to audition for the show and wanted me to go with her for moral support. When we arrived, we realized that it was a closed audition. So, for me to go in and support him, I had to audition as well. I ended up winning the entire contest and from there, I got Def Jam’s attention. That led to Def Poetry and the producers and directors liked me so I was asked to join the touring cast.

Bipolar II disorder is a bipolar spectrum disorder characterized by at least one hypomanic episode and at least one major depressive episode; with this disorder, depressive episodes can be more frequent

cations. My poetry however hasn’t been published. I’m notoriously self critical and I don’t think I’m ready yet. I have a lot of growing to do. I want perfection. I didn’t know that being “a poet” was an option. I stumbled into it. I had thoughts of Law school but was always drawn to entertainment. I wanted to be a presenter or a talk show host but that didn’t feel realistic either.

My inspiration

I get inspired by life, people, living and humanity. I write a lot about personal things

The low and the high side of the poetry show

It was amazing and a once in a life time experience,but it was also physically and emotionally taxing. The highs are the live audience. We preformed our poetry in front of thousands of people every night and having them hang on to every word. It was amazing. There’s nothing like it. The energy, the rush and the connection you make with strangers is so beautiful. I also got to travel a lot and see places I wouldn’t have otherwise seen. The low points was that all that mov-

ing around wasn’t good for me. I love stability and having touchstones to remind me of where the ground is. It’s easy to get caught up in this “rock star” lifestyle. You lose touch with friends because you’re never home. It really takes a lot out of you.

My family, my roots

I was born in Ikom, Cross rivers state, but my people are from Ugep. It’s not difficult. My parents instilled the pride of being a Nigerian in me. I never forgot where I come from.I relocated at the age of 4 because my mother and I went to join my father who was schooling there. Also, I come from very humble beginnings. My family wasn’t wealthy. They worked for everything they have. In the States presently, we are doing well and my career is good but I’m from the village. That’s where I am from. Thatched and tin roof beginnings. You can’t get more grounded than that. I will never forget who I am. There is no way. Which of your shows/ recitals stands out the most and why? The 3 Rivers Arts Festival in Pittsburgh. Something bad had happened moments before I took the stage and despite the bad news, I still had to perform. I channeled all the emotion into the performance. It was freeing and cathartic but most of all, there was a connection between me and the audience that I had forgotten was there. I perform so much, it’s easy to go into auto pilot mode, but I was really present and it was amazing. The NAACP Awards for Venus and Serena Williams and a recent conference I did with Chinua Achebe also stand me out.

perienced a full manic episode, although they can experience periods of high energy and impulsiveness similar to, but not as extreme as mania. The hypomanic episodes associated with bipolar II disorder must last all day for a period of at least four days. I realized that not a lot of black people are talking about it. And as I saw myself in a unique position where I listen when I talk and pay attention to what I write, I felt it was my responsibility to keep the conversation going and maybe that would help someone else feel less alone. I want to show people that you can go through something like that and live with something like that and still do well as long as you take care of yourself. We have the wrong picture of what mental health awareness looks like in Africa and I want to be part of the movement that changes that image for the better.

My fond childhood memories

Before I travelled to the States, my mother was getting her nursing degree in Ibadan and my father was in the US studying. I remember the entire village raising me. I used to just walk from house to house and feel welcomed and at home everywhere. I think that’s why I am the way I am now. I always know that there is home to return to. I’ve been lucky to have people care for me and take care of me. I return the favour by remaining humble and open hearted as well.

My mental health advocacy project

I was diagnosed with bipolar II disorder years ago while on tour with Def Poetry. Bipolar II disorder is a bipolar spectrum disorder characterized by at least one hypomanic episode and at least one major depressive episode. With this disorder, depressive episodes can be more frequent and are more intense than hypomanic episodes. People with bipolar disorder type II have never ex-

•Bassey Ikpi

Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012

o matter how bad your case may be, it can still be changed for good. Everything that has a beginning surely has an end. The only thing that has no beginning and an end is God Himself. This is why He is called the unchangeable changer. I see Him intervening in your situation in the name of Jesus. You will laugh again. God is not through with you just yet. He is working things out for your good. I declare to you that by the mighty power of God, all your enemies will be put to shame. With your eyes will you behold the reward of the wicked? Pharoah said who is the Lord that I should let the children of Israel go, so that they can worship Him (Exo. 5:2)? Pharaoh thought he had all power and that he was the all and all. He had no respect for God who created him. He forgot that the creature can never be greater than the Creator. He was so full of confidence that no one can free the isrealites from his domain. This year, your mockers and enemies will congratulate you in Jesus name. Beloved, refuse to fret about that situation. The devil cannot defeat you forever. Something in you that they do not know that exist in you will spring forth this year. The God of heaven and earth will intervene on your behalf. The God who makes all things beautiful in His time will beautify your life. He is working in your favour and all the pharaohs working against your glorious destiny shall be disgraced. Sometimes God will wait until when the devil says there is no way of escape and then He (God) shows up to deliver you because He is the way. This God that said He will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the deserts will make a way for you. Fear not, God knows how to turn things around. Imagine pharaoh saying who is God? Thank God that God revealed Himself to pharaoh. Everything in your life that is asking who is God shall experience the awesomeness of Jehovah God Almighty. Just as God disgraced

Divine int er inter ervvention pharaoh openly, so shall God deal with your enemies? Know that all power belongs to Him. Psalms 66:3, says, “Say unto God, How terrible art thou in thy works! Through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee”. There is no power that can contend with the power of the one who created the

40 — SATURDAY

God will wait until when the devil says there is no way of escape and then He (God) shows up to deliver you because He is the way

heavens and the earth. Pharaoh thought there was no power greater than his power. Today we know better. This is why I say to you that anyone that has tied up your destiny will be destroyed by the power of the Almighty. You will have the last

laugh those who told blind Bartimeaus to shut up were the same people that came to tell him be of good cheer. God will surprise you this year. God will supernaturally intervene for you. In your office, marriage, family, career etc where things are contrary to the will of God for you, the mercies of God will bring about a glorious change for you. Know for a surety that God will never forget nor forsake you. You are still in His plans and your end shall be glorious. I want you to rejoice and again I say rejoice. In Luke chapter 5, Peter went to catch fish and caught nothing. At the close of business he met with Jesus who requested to use Peter’s boat. Peter obliged Him. When Jesus was through with the boat He intervened in Peter’s business and Peter experienced the kind of miracles that he has never experienced before. You see, when God intervenes in your life, the past shame, sorrow, pain, humiliation, etc will be nothing. Whatever you may have

For more details, contact us at Christ Reality Church, beside Gossard Hotel, opposite First Bank Sports Ground, Community Road, Satellite Town or P.O.Box, 3196, Yaba Lagos. Tel: 07029235279, 07029235280. E-mail: Johnson_crm@yahoo.com. Website: www.christrealityministries.org. Our account details are Pastor Johnson Omomadia, Guaranty Trust Bank, A/C Nos. 0005171407. Worship with us on Sundays, 1st Service: 745am-9:15am; 2nd Service 9:1511:30am. Wednesdays Word Revelation 6pm. Counseling days Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. 11am-5pm daily or by appointment. Showers of blessing every 2nd - 4th Sat. of each month, 6 a.m - 7.15 am.

oga is derived from the Sanskrit “Yuj.” meaning union or harmony. Hatha comprises of ‘Ha’ meaning the sun and that meaning the moon. So hatha yoga stands for union of the sun and moon—the harmony of positive and negative qualities of nature. The definition of yoga is also stretched to include union or harmony of body and mind, union of the individual mind with the divine mind or consciousness as exemplified in Jesus’ statement: I and my Father are one. Now, hatha which is what concerns us here, is the most ancient of all physical cultures or systems and dates back to beyond five thousand years. Fashioned out and practised in India, it has been known to change the individual, health-wise almost beyond belief with guarantee of long life. It comprises of postures and breathing exercises best practised in the early mornings when the stomach is empty and/or the evening before supper. Some people turn the other way when they hear yoga mentioned, associating it with chanting, mediation and some of the things that it is not. True, there are aspects of yoga dealing with the above mentioned, but hatha yoga which we are discussing here can be practised solely for the physical well-being of any and everyone irrespective of creed. (What has health and fitness got go do with one’s belief?) Prejudice is

experienced last year is nothing compared to what God have in store for you this year. Yhere will be exceeding great joy in your life never experienced before. It will amaze mankind. Get ready, this God that turns around hopeless situations around is saying to you today that He will divinely intervene and your years of tears of pain will turn to tears of joy. Please know that this is but nothing to God. Before we end today’s message, I would like to draw your attention to two (2) things. One (1), the children of Isreal cried (prayed)out to God for divine intervention. Stop being dignified and humble yourself before God and He will raise you up. Secondly, Peter gave Jesus his boat to use to minister to the people. What are you willing to give to God? Give Him ur house for house fellowship, sponsor a programme in the church, sow into the life of your pastor. Apply these principles and you will encounter God’s divine intervention. Know that God is not a respecter of persons. What He did yesterday, He can do today and much more. Have you given your life to Jesus? If not, please pray this prayer. Father, I come to you as I am. I invite Jesus into my life to be my personal Lord and Saviour. Wash me cleanse with the blood of Jesus and empower me with the power of your Holy Spirit. Thank you Father for saving my soul and making me your child. Your prayer request and praise reports will be welcomed.

posture. Of breathing and its place in the individual’s well-being, if we consider that no tissue of any kind can be manufactured without blood and also that not a single drop of blood can be formed without oxygen then it becomes obvious that without breathing — the intake of oxygen — we are not alive. Yoga-breathing exercises have been known to have been of immense help to sufferers of asthma and other complaints of the air passages. Someone has called them “the airways”!

What is hatha yoga? hard to kill but I try my level best to explain to friends of all ages and both genders that one can practise yoga for just the benefits it bestows on “one in terms of unsurpassed health and well-being. It is even inspiring to note that the mega successful like, Quincy Jones the musician and Raquel Welch, the actress practise yoga?

he exercises seek to restore the suppleness and flexibility we all enjoyed as youngsters before a lack of exercise causes us pot-bellies and thighs made unsightly with cellulite

(concerning the women folk here!) and almost immovable limbs and a stiff spinal column. What a welcome relief, if we could only turn back the hand of time and regain our lost suppleness and flexibility. Talking about the spinal column, if we consider that it accommodates the chord which is connected to every organ of the organism including the skeletal system we get a clearer picture of its importance and the need to keep it in the best shape. With muscles, in yoga, the emphasis is not on bulk but on tensile strength which helps to hold the body in good

hese breathing exercises and (he yogic art of relaxation are about the best means of stress management. At this juncture, the top executives business and political—should not only sit up and take notice but also learn the practice of the art which will reduce the damaging effect of stress while life goes on. We can all help ourselves! To achieve results quickly in Yoga, there must be daily regular practice. Although there are tens of postures,but the very essential ones can be abridged to, say, 20. Now, when one is hard pressed for time as few as three can be done before that is Yoga Classes @ 32 Adetokumbo Ademola, Victoria Island Lagos. 9.00am — 10.00am on Saturdays

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012—41

BY VINCENT UJUMADU

S he was great in life, so he was in death. The late Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, the defunct Biafran Warlord, has continued to make news even after over one year of his demise. Ojukwu got a befitting state burial witnessed by who is who in Nigeria, including President Goodluck Jonathan and after the weeklong burial ceremonies; the traditional one year mourning began. That mourning ended a forth night ago. Barely five days after the mourning period which was concluded with a memorial service, a major controversy erupted in the Ojukwu family over Ikemba’s Will. Since the reading of the Will at the Enugu High Court, missiles had continued to fly, with Ojukwu’s widow, Bianca and Barrister Emeka Onyemelukwe, who prepared Ojukwu’s Will, on one side and other members of Ojukwu’s family on the other side. Indications that controversy would trail the Will emerged at the Enugu High Court when most of the children of the late Ikemba Nnewi were conspicuously absent during the historical event as only Bianca and Ojukwu’s lawyer, as well as few other relations, were present. Expectedly, it was Emeka Ojukwu Jnr, the first son of Ikemba that first dismissed the Will, saying it was not his father’s Will and vowed not to obey it. However, Barrister Onyemelukwe went down memory lane to give graphic details of how he sat with Ikemba to painstakingly prepare the Will and how he made efforts to persuade the Biafran leader to ensure that all members of his family benefitted. Backing his long standing relationship with the late Ojukwu family with documents, Onyemelukwe said he prepared Ojukwu’s Will in July, 2005 and the CODICIL which gave details of the contents and corrections of what was missing on the original Will, with Ojukwu on 24th July, 2009. What perhaps angered him more was the statement credited to Ojukwu Jnr that he did not know him (Onyemelukwe). He said: “It was a blatant lie for Emeka Ojukwu Jr to say that he did not know me and that I was not his father’s lawyer, when I was the person that prepared the legal documents for Ojukwu’s commercial property at No 26 Sokoto road, Onitsha yielding millions of naira, which Emeka Jr is managing and collecting rents and was the lawyer that handled Ojukwu’s case against the federal government from the High Court to the Supreme Court. “I was also the master of ceremony, MC, when Emeka Jr. wedded at the Holy Ghost Cathedral, Enugu to the daughter of the late Chief Cyprian Ekwensi, the novelist, and the reception was held at Nike Lake Hotel, with Justice Iguh formerly of the Supreme Court as the chairVal Nwosu, Ojukwu’s nephman of that wedding. “Before Ojukwu’s Will was ew. The text read: The Will of read last week, I was the one your late father will be read that sent text messages to all on Friday, 20th November, the parties concerned, includ- 2012 at the Probate Registry ing Emeka Jr. I got his two at the Enugu High Court. telephone numbers from Mr. Kindly inform Okigbo and Mi

Missiles trail Ojukwu’s will ,

What I knew was that Ojukwu asked Bianca to bring all the documents when I was going to prepare the Will and anytime we were writing the Will, I was doing it with Ojukwu in his library at the Forest Crescent in Enugu

•Ojukwu at home with his wife, Bianca Mi (Ojukwu’s other children). “I also sent the text to Ebele who is Ojukwu’s daughter from Stella Onyeador, Mark Ezemba who was Ojukwu’s best man during his wedding with Bianca. So the pretence by Emeka that he was not informed about the reading of the Will did not hold water. “His claim that I was not his father’s lawyer is also not true. On 24th July, 2009, I was the person that registered the power of attorney for Ojukwu

for the property at No 7 Forest Crescent, Enugu. I am also in possession of the Certificate of Occupancy, C of O, of Ojukwu’s landed property contained in the Will. “There were even other documents which Ojukwu gave me. In the Will, which I prepared with Ojukwu, the following persons were named as Ojukwu’s children. - Tenni Hamman from North Eastern Nigeria (daughter), Chukwuemeka Odumegwu

Ojukwu (son), Mmegha Odumegwu Ojukwu (daughter), Okigbo Odumegwu Ojukwu (son), Ebele Odumegwu Ojukwu (daughter) Chineme Odumegwu Ojukwu (son), Afam Odumegwu Ojukwu (son) and Nwachukwu Odumegwu Ojukwu (son).” Onyemelukwe also debunked the insinuation that Bianca had a preknowledge of the contents of the Will before it was read, adding “ what I knew was that Ojukwu asked Bianca to bring all the documents when I was going to prepare the Will and anytime we were writing the Will, I was doing it with Ojukwu in his library at the Forest Crescent in Enugu and we ensured that Bianca did not know what we were doing.” The lawyer also said that he was even taken aback by the decision of Ikemba to Will the mansion at Nnewi to Emeka Jr because that property was built due to much pressure mounted on Ojukwu by Binaca to build a house in Nnewi. That period, he said, was when Ojukwu was managing toll gates during the regime of the late General Abacha and the person managing it for Ojukwu was asked to design and build the house at Nnewi. Before then, Ojukwu’s bungalow had burnt down and Ezeigbo had no place to stay whenever he came to Nnewi. Onyemelukwe also spoke on the incident that happened at Nnewi a day before the one- year memorial service for Ojukwu. Bianca, according to the information, had sent some people to clean the house, only for them to meet a resistance from a group allegedly ordered by Emeka to chase them out of the compound. He said that Emeka even benefitted so much from his father, adding that the Sokoto street lock up shops which had more than 30 lock up shops and was not contained in the Will is being managed by Emeka Jr and it yields millions of naira. According to him, by appointing Bianca to represent his interest in the Ojukwu Transport Limited, OTL, which is a commercial outfit, shows how intelligent the Ikemba was, adding that his argument was Continues on page42

42—SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012

Continued from page 41

Ojukwu’s children

that Bianca’s children needed to be educated like his other children who were all trained abroad. Besides, he knew the capability of all his children and what each of them was capable of doing when he (Ojukwu) was no more. But Emeka Ojukwu Jr. argued that with or without Will, his father’s house naturally belongs to him according to Igbo tradition. Ikemba must have sensed the likely feud the ownership of the house might generate and so he gave it to Emeka Jr in the controversial Will. Though Ojukwu’s multi –million naira commercial property located at Sokoto road, Onitsha, which was given to him to manage while the Ikemba was still alive was not reflected in the Will, Emeka Jnr, however, insisted that the contents of the Will were subject to challenge at the law court as he was prepared to contact his own lawyer for any possible litigation on the issue. He argued that his late father ’s wife, Bianca and Barrister Emeka Onyemelukwe, Ikemba’s lawyer who prepared the controversial Will, were playing games with the wishes of his father. He also picked holes with the statement by Onyemelukwe that all Ojukwu family members were invited before Ikemba’s Will was read, saying the lawyer was only trying to find an excuse for the absence of Ojukwu’s children at the court when the Will was read. He said: “The issue is not about struggling for my father ’s property. We, his children are all doing well. But there is need to point out attempt to subvert the wishes of my father. It is a matter of principle. I don’t want to join issues with Onyemelukwe, but there is need to correct certain impressions. “I did not say that I don’t know him (Onyemelukwe) as a human being. I said he is not the lawyer that wrote Ezeigbo’s Will. I know many people who are not all lawyers. I know many lawyers and all of them are not Ezeigbo’s lawyer. I know several of Ezeigbo lawyers and all of them did not write Ezeigbo’s Will. The lawyer that wrote Ezeigbo’s Will is not Onyemelukwe. “He claims to be the family lawyer, yet he is attacking a member of that family. When he claimed that I was laying about Ezeigbo’s condition

The issue is not about struggling for my father’s property. We, his children are all doing well. But there is need to point out attempt to subvert the wishes of my father. It is a matter of principle

when my father was sick, the events of last year proved that I was right and that indeed Ezeigbo was not recovering and exercising and did not return in March last year as Onyemelukwe promised. “He claims to be the family lawyer, yet he does not have our telephone numbers based on his own statements. It seems that the only number he didn’t have to get from somebody- else is Bianca’s number. Is it normal to invite people to the reading of a Will by a text message?

Bianca with children

“If I did not receive the text message, what of other family members who were also absent during the reading of the Will? Did they also not receive their text messages or are they lying also? When he allegedly sent the text message, did he receive any acknowledgment that they were received by anybody? “If he did not receive acknowledgment, what efforts did he make as the so called family lawyer to reach other family members? Did he send them registered letters? Did

he visit them? “When in court that morning, he did not see any of Ezeigbo’s children or any of his direct family members, did he not have the option of adjourning and set another date to make sure that all who needed to be there have the opportunity to be there? They are obviously playing games.”

ther members of the larger Ojukwu family have also joined in firing the missiles. For instance, a director of OTL, Mr. Ifeukwu Ojukwu who is based in the United States of America, USA, said that the company owned by their late father and grandfather, Sir Louis Odumegwu Ojukwu is a different property from the private property of late Ikemba Nnewi, arguing that Bianca cannot claim the trustee of the company as conferred on her in the Will. Describing the appointment of Bianca as a trustee member of OTL as improper, Ifeukwu Ojukwu said: “Bianca was neither a trustee member, nor a director of OTL and it is good to note that OTL is a different property from the things late Ikemba Nnewi had because the directorship cannot be transferred through a Will. “I attended a meeting of OTL directors and Bianca was not there and she is not even a member of the board of directors and she cannot lay claim to that.” He explained that all the directors of OTL were in full

support of Emeka Ojukwu (Jr.) as the head of the Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu’s family, recalling that the late Ikemba told him that Emeka is his first son and the head of the family in the event of his death and added that members of the family would support him in whatever he decides to do over the matter. Another member of the family, Chief Sunday Soto Ojukwu said it amounted to an injustice for Ojukwu’s Will to be read without recourse to the interest of the larger members of the family, regretting that he only read about the reading of the Will on the pages of newspapers. His words: “How can one explain that the Will was read barely 24 hours after Ezeigbo’s mourning clothe was removed? Is it not proper for the lawyers to call the family members to sit down and deliberate on reading of the Will? Did you see any of his sons there in the court? “His children who came down to Nigeria for the removal of his mourning clothe had gone back overseas and you say you are reading his Will without informing anybody. Dr Ojukwu was not aware, Ikemba Jnr was not aware. What do you want me to say?” As the missiles continue to fly, the question is, how would this issue of Ojukwu’s Will be resolved? It was gathered that some concerned persons, especially from Nnewi, have started deliberating on the best way to resolve the matter. The outcome is being awaited.

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012 — 43

44 — SATURDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 8, 2012

Hyundai Nigeria unveils biggest Ultra-modern 3s facility in West Africa

Chrysler 300 becomes America’s 1st luxury sedan with 8-speed A/T

YUNDAI Motors Nigeria has inaugurated another ultramodern 3s facility in Ijesha, alongApapa/Ohodi Expressway Lagos. This facility has been described as the biggest in West Africa The facility which is akin to the service support centre in Gbagada Lagos will provide full-scale support to the growing Hyundai clientele in Nigeria and help enhance customer-dealership relations. Mr. Parvir Singh, Managing Director, Hyundai Nigeria who made this remark when he conducted automobile journalists round the facility said the 3s centre will allow existing and future customers to appreciate the convenience of complete one-stop shopping, covering all aspects of vehicle ownership and seamless access to quality service. He said: “As a global brand with reputation for excellent performance, Hyundai takes pride in positioning the brand to meet global corporate identity for quality service and customer satisfaction. And that is why we are expanding our network to cater for all our customers irrespective of their location.” Hyundai Nigeria is committed to upholding the reputation of the brand and to make Hyundai Nigeria’s most sought after passenger car. Hyundai is currently one of the fastest selling passenger car and No 2 most valued brand in the Nigerian. According to Mr. Jatin Nadkarni, General Manager, Hyundai Nigeria, the dealership’s obligation is to make owning a Hyundai vehicle an enjoyable experience, remarking that “We at Hyundai Motors Nigeria recognize the importance of excellence both in the quality of our cars and in after sales service.” He describe the new Hyundai showroom as the best and biggest in the entire West Africa. Similarly, Mr. Gurtej Singh Chhina, General Manager-Aftersales, said the company has retrained all the service technicians in multiple auto repair disciplines and acquaints them extensively in Hyundai’s always-changing technology.

Santa Fe grabs top honours

HRYSLER’S flagship sedan, Chrysler 300 has been refreshed with new features including a new eight-speed automatic transmission and Beat sound system. The award winning Chryslers luxury sedan, by this new automatic transmission becomes America’s first eightspeed automatic luxury sedan. Chrysler 300 boasts best-in class highway fuel economy, best-in class combined fuel economy and unsurpassed city fuel economy according to Chrysler corporation. Saad Chechab, Head Chrysler brand — Chrysler Group LLC explained that integrating the first eight-speed automatic transmission in a domestic luxury sedan, the new Chrysler 300 series sedans offer w o r l d - c l a s s technological innovation and quality – while delivering stylistic distinction and premium sedan features at a legendary value. “The Chrysler 300 is built on the idea that luxury feels better earned – that those who worked hard to achieve their place in the world should demand as much as is demanded of

them.” Mirko Plath, CEO, Weststar Associates Limited - Authorised Sole Distributor of Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge in Nigeria described the luxury sedan as thus “the Chrysler 300 is built without compromising the comfort, size or bravado you would expect from the Motor City ’s luxury sedan, thanks to its all-new state-of-the-art eightspeed automatic transmission, it is bestin-class in terms of fuel economy”.

“Once limited to premium import vehicles costing twice as much, the new segmentexclusive ZF 8HP45 eight-speed automatic transmission expands the world-class power and fuel-efficiency of the Chrysler 300 and offers class leading fuel efficiency.” The addition of three more gear ratios in the proven ZF eight-speed automatic transmission design help to reduce the gaps normally associated with upshifting and

downshifting. Combined with the award-winning 292 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, passengers will experience world-class levels of refinement due to small, evenly spaced ratios that provide quicker acceleration and smoother shifts”. The new Chrysler 300 sedan’s Uconnect Touch system has been upgraded for, adding hands free texting, voice commands and more iPod® control features to expand on the system’s w o r l d - c l a s s

infotainment, connectivity and c o n v e n i e n c e technologies. For the Chrysler brand, safety is a priority and the upgraded Uconnect Touch 8.4 and 8.4N models with hands free texting, keep passengers even more connected through voice commands. With a compatible Bluetooth phone, Uconnect Touch enables text-to-speech for incoming text messages, and provides the driver with ‘canned’ speech-to-text responses for outgoing messages.

YUNDAI's Santa Fe has won two different awards in the U.S., a testament to the CUV's versatility. The awards come as critical praise rolls in for the new Santa Fe and sales heat up. Carspondent.com the only car-of-the-year program in the U.S. that combines the input of automotive journalists with elite athletes to determine which cars and trucks best meet the needs of buyers with active lifestyles gave Santa Fe the group's ninth annual Active Lifestyle Vehicle (ALV) award. Vehicles are evaluated on their ability to enhance the active lifestyle of customers. Performance handling, cargo capabilities and safety scenarios are key factors in voting. Santa Fe won in the "Best Value OnRoad" category." Santa Fe is an IIHS top safety pick. "Authenticity is a very important aspect of this program," said ALV cofounder, Nina Russin.

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012—45

No good food, no good health health—Bovi BY KATHERINE USEH

Bovi Ugboma popularly known Bovi on stage needs no introduction as one of the Comedians of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He is an actor, writer, poet and producer of a sitcom “Extended Family”. The Delta State born young man is our guest in this edition of Celebrity Tummy Talk. He speaks on his childhood days and those things he craved for as a child. Enjoy What is your attitude towards food as a child? Food was like heaven on earth. I am among those who grew in the middle class families. There was enough food to eat. But, whenever there was rice with two pieces of meat on it, things were always like paradise. Fried rice was also a special meal at that time. Eating chicken looked like a Christmas to us. ...And as an adult? Most things I craved for as a kid were things I couldn’t afford. But now, my

appetite has changed. I enjoy local dishes including egusi, banga soup. What is your perception about food? People should eat and enjoy. Good food is everything everyone should always have on their table. Without good and balanced food, the body is not complete. Your kind of exercises? I skip once in a while but play football thrice in a week and that is how I keep fit. ...Your fruits and drinks? I indulge in a lot of fruits but I take orange and water regularly. What is your idea about healthy living? Eat right, take lots of water as well as vegetables.

Yelutide Season

•Bovi

Healthy tips for the season

ATING out is usually on the agenda for most people at this time, particularly at work parties and when out socialising with friends and family. However, it can be all too easy to forget your good intentions about healthy living and end up over-indulging on the wrong foods and drinks. To this extent, Celebrity Tummy Talk provides you tips to help you make healthy choices when eating out. Vegetables: Vegetable soups are a great option to prevent constipation and may help to protect against bowel cancer.

Wines to look out for

he festive season is here again and everywhere in the world, fun lovers brighten up the season with lots of quality wines. Fizz: This is a great wine any time particularly when celebrating. With a glass for a toast, the season is guaranteed. Virginia Fizz is a fun and festive sparkling wine, great for all life’s celebrations. It is packed with apples and peach flavors, the wine has a very creamy and smooth texture.

Fruits: Choose a fruit-based dessert to boost your system. Drink water : Make sure you drink water, not sugar drinks, tea or coffee, several times a day. Many non-water beverages (like tea and alcohol) can actually make you dehydrated. Change your position : Most of us spend a great deal of the day doing the same thing over and over again. We sit at desks, we stand in one spot or we walk around, depending on what our job is. Whatever it is, take the time every hour to change your position or your pace. Sit down, stand up, bend over, jog, run in place, reach up high.

Wines from the Southwest of France: Dudes, the

southwest of France is making some of the most interesting, character-filled reds you could possibly hope for, at prices that make it seem like Christmas.

•Portuguese

Wines from the Loire:

The Loire valley of France makes some fantastic wines. They are pretty well priced. This wine is hard to get hold of, but worth the effort. Australian wines: Wines including St Halletts Gamekeepers Red (Oddbins, Waitrose, Thresher, Sainsbury among others) will also thrill you at this season. Sweet fruit wines: Sweet wines are also very good at this season. This is really very sweet and more of it should be pop at this time. Portuguese wines. These wines taste so spoofy. It rocks to those that are richer with a lovely peppery freshness. It is dry and spicy.

Plan your diet: Stop eating so much, stop eating this or that thing that is bad for you. Start that change in your diet immediately. It may be difficult at first and will feel strange for a while, but stick with it. In a short while it will be a normal part of your routine. By building a diet plan around gradual changes, you create a lifestyle change that can be permanent.

Tummy Palavar My Portable Meal

•Australlia wine

•Southwest

•Sweet Fruit wine

ITH a pot f soup and garri (eba), Eniola Badmus, popularly known as “Gbogbo Bigs Girls” has been able to sign up a new identity, “My Portable Meal”. She was spotted recently in one of the resturants and when she was asked, she said “this is how I do my breakfast.” o

46 — Vanguard, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2012

Off The Pitch

Messi

Lionel Messi injury: Updates on Barcelona star’s knee W

ORLD football fans everywhere, it’s time to hold your breath: All-planet star Lionel Messi left Wednesday’s Champions League match against Benfica with a knee injury and was unable to return. While you obviously never want to see anyone get hurt, most fans would probably agree that Messi is the one player they don’t want to have a break from watching. Not only is this a potentially crippling injury for Barcelona (although they are certainly the team that has the stars to pick up the slack in Messi’s stead), but it’s also potentially crippling for football itself. The severity of the injury, which the Argentine suffered after coming on as a sub in the 58th minute, is still unknown. Still, it’s important to note that is all speculation and we won’t jump to any conclusions until an official word is given on how grim if at all the injury actually is. Nevertheless, this is a hard one to swallow. Many will jump to criticize Tito Vilanova for playing the star in what was a meaningless match for Barca, but when it comes down to it, these types of things can happen on any given day the men take the pitch. There’s simply no avoiding it. With just 22 days left in December, Messi has currently scored 84 goals in the calender year, which puts him just one behind Gerd Muller, who set the record in 1972. We’ll be sure to keep you updated as more becomes known regarding this unfortunate injury.

Badstuber injured, Boateng suspended: Here are Bayern’s possible replacements F OUR days ago, Bayern Munich had no plans to improve their squad during the January transfer window. The starting XI was strong, and each position had at least one or two replacements available from the bench. That has changed dramatically in recent days. It began on Saturday, when Holger Badstuber sustained a cruciate ligament tear that will keep him sidelined until the season’s end. Just how badly the Germany international will be missed is unknown. But at least Bayern had another solid pairing possible in Dante and Jerome Boateng. With the Bavarians leading BATE in their Champions League Group F finale, Boateng dived into a foolish challenge that was awarded with a red card. While he will be available in Bayern’s upcoming Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal matches, he faces a three-match suspension that will see him miss out on the Champions League Round of 16 and the first half of the quarterfinals, should the German giants progress. Make no mistake: This is serious trouble for Bayern. While it’s true that Daniel Van Buyten experienced a renaissance of form when called upon last season, the Belgian’s weak knees have limited his availability, even as a substitute, in 2012-13. He will be 35 by the time the knockout rounds begin, and whether he will be up to the task of playing at the highest level is in serious doubt. Luiz Gustavo, Anatoliy Tymoshchuk and Javi Martinez have all played in defense in the past, but none have the class to take on a team like Real Madrid, whom Bayern could face in February. Gustavo and

Boateng

Tymoshchuk have not been used in such a role since the managing days of Louis van Gaal, and Bayern’s defense was a joke when they were. Martinez would seem a more credible option, but Atletico Madrid’s Radamel Falcao ruthlessly exposed him as a midfielder,not a defender, in the 2012 Europa League final. Bayern may well need a new face for their back four. To Bayern’s good fortune, the January transfer window opens and closes between now and the Round of 16, and they can find a short-term solution in the meantime.

Juan

urrently in the twilight of his career and back in his home land of Brazil since earlier this year, Juan will be 34 before the Champions League knockout rounds begin in February. But it was only a few months ago that Juan was last playing regularly in Europe, and he is familiar with life in Germany, having spent five seasons at Leverkusen. With 79 caps for Brazil, Juan is experienced and could be an inspired signing. He never won the Champions League, so joining Bayern could be the perfect swan song for his career.

Diego Lugano

victim of PSG’s wild transfer spending, Diego Lugano has not made a single competitive appearance for the French side this season. At 32, he is not exactly young, but he certainly has yet to pass his expiration date. The Uruguay international with 72 caps to his name has never played for a great club team, but he did captain his nation in their improbable run to the FIFA World Cup semifinal in 2010. And, unlike many of the other options Bayern can consider, he is not cup-tied.

Arne Friedrich Juan

Diego Lugano

Arne Friedrich

T has been over a year since Arne Friedrich disap peared into the vortex that was Felix Magath’s Wolfsburg squad. He was released from his contract in September of 2011 and was expected to be done with European football when he signed with the Chicago Fire in March. If Bayern come knocking, however, Friedrich could answer the call. He never played in the Champions League, although his experience for Germany, 82 caps, including some huge performances in major tournaments is more than enough proof of his class. Depending on when the 2013 MLS season begins and how Bayern are scheduled in the Round of 16, Friedrich may be able to play in both legs of the Champions League stage without missing a game for the fire.

Vanguard, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2012 — 47

nglish Premier League fans are be ing treated to their fourth slate of matches in 16 days, and the marquee event for this flurry of action is set for this weekend. While there have been a few exciting showdowns over the past two weeks, no EPL matchup can equal the drama of the Manchester Derby. United and City are set to take the pitch this Sunday, and the

EPL Week 16 Predictions: Gibbs sure to land in EPL team

clash between these two giants will dwarf all other storylines. The result of this contest will have major implications at the top of the table, while the other clubs are desperately trying to keep both Manchester teams from running away with

the top two spots for the second consecutive year.

Left-Back: Kieran Gibbs, Arsenal Death, taxes and Arsenal finishing in the top four are all guarantees in the life of an EPL fan. But with the Gunners sitting in 10th place, para-

digms may be shifting this season. However, the club is not in as dire a situation as many tabloids are suggesting, and it is not time for Arsene Wenger to be fired or for the Gunners to go into panic mode. Despite being mid-table, Arsenal is only five points back of third-place Chelsea.

Gibbs

GOLF

Is the glass half full or half empty for Adam Scott?

t 32, Adam Scott is at the crossroads of his career. A very good golfer, Scott has yet to cross over into the realm of great golfer and if he seriously wants to be known as a great golfer, is starting to run out of time to really make a push to claim the number one spot on the Official World Golf Rankings list. Therein lies the rub with Scott. He has all the talent in the world to be one of the game’s elite without the resume to show for it. Scott plays a smooth game. He is long off the tee and is very decent reaching the green. Scott was sixth on tour in 2012 in scoring average at 69.53, a very good number. He, however, did not with this past year on the PGA Tour. For all his talent, he is best known for blowing a four-shot lead on the final four holes at this year’s Open Championship and not his eight career wins. For most golfers, that is a great career. But for Scott, it seems like a disappointment. The one thing missing from his game is self-confidence. When he is aware of how well he is doing, he seems to doubt his abilities and think about it too much.

Adam Scott i

It happened to him at the first round of the Open Championship this year as he came within a whisker of shooting a record-low 62 in the first round.

The BBC quoted him after that first round: I also probably then realized that I wasn’t going to be the guy to shoot 62. It’s one of those things that you don’t want to go through your mind, thinking about your final score and stuff like that. So I got rid of that quickly and got on to playing the 17th, but unfortunately dropped one up the last. That right there is the big difference between the Adam Scotts and Luke Donalds of the golf world compared to Phil Mickelson and Rory McIlroy. Along with Tiger Woods, you have to have the ability to believe in your own head that you can execute any shot at any time no matter the situation.

TENNIS

2012 BTB AWARDS: MEMORABLE FEUDS Victoria Azarenka vs Agnieszka Radwanska

•Victoria Azarenka vs Agnieszka Radwanska

F this feud had a soundtrack, it would be the Dandy Warhols’ We Used to be Friends. Azarenka spent the first two months of the season wreaking havoc on Radwanska on the court, beating her with relative ease at their first four tournaments of the year, in Sydney, the Australian Open, Doha and Indian Wells. By March, Radwanska, arguably the second hottest player behind Azarenka to start the year, admitted she was in no mood for a rematch. “I hope maybe not next week,” Radwanska said after losing to Azarenka in Indian •Andy Murray Wells

The case for inaction

HIS article mentioned no world-beaters for good reason—superstars are either cup-tied or not allowed to transfer midseason. And if they do move, they are often horrifically overpriced. If Bayern were to make a move for a new centerback, they would need to sign one with experience who would leave shortly after the season’s end or wouldn’t mind taking a seat behind Badstuber and either Dante or Boateng.Lucio and Ricardo Carvalho might have been perfect options, but both are cup-tied.And so, the list of candidates is sparse and far from impressive.Can Bayern negotiate three Champions League knockout games with Dante and a few holding midfielders? Yes, of course. Real Madrid reached the semifinals last year while playing a Europa League schedule. With all due respect, however, CSKA Moscow and APOEL were not typical knockout round opponents. If Bayern are drawn with Milan, Celtic or Galatasaray, they may be willing to stick with their current options and hope they avoid a tough quarterfinal draw, should they advance. If they are to face Real Madrid, however, Van Buyten isn’t enough. A lot is riding on the draw. For the Munich side, the 15 days until then will be very nervy.

48 — SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 8, 2012—49

Nigeria, the 35th most corrupt countr y and Bala Mohammed’s wasteful venture VEN though she is called “the Giant of Africa”, a sobriquet that presupposes greatness in all facets of life, not a few Nigerians still wonder where the impact of her greatness lies. In any case, her greatness has drastically waned or better still, consigned to the fiefdom of a few elites who seemed to have enthroned selfish interests above greater public interest even as they constantly appear myopic about the harsh economic realities of the present time. Saturday Vanguard’s JOHN BULUS chronicles reactions of Nigerians over the FCT’s Minister ’s decision to build “Party Halls” for President Goodluck Jonathan, his Vice and other government officials. Indeed, it may sound quite incredible, but it is absolutely true. It’s either most Nigerians leaders or politicians have lost a sense of direction or they are simply not telling the rest of Nigerians the whole truth about the economy or the financial state of the nation. In a world of stark unemployment and ubiquitous poverty, some people who are privileged to superintend over the affairs of the nation have chosen to play a fast one on Nigerians with the impression that their love for the nation surpasses all. This scenario aptly captures the present mood of the country on the wake of the Federal Government decision to expend N2.2 billion for the construction of a new banquet hall at

BY JOHN BULUS

Development is coming at a time Nigeria’s debt profile is expected to hit all time $25 billion by 2015 according to Nigeria’s Debt Management Office, DMO. It is also happening at a time Transparency International 2012 report has placed Nigeria at 35th position amongst the list of most corrupt countries of the world

the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja for President Goodluck Jonathan. Minister of Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Senator Bala Mohammed stirred up this controversy on Tuesday during the defense of his Ministry’s budget before the Senate Committee on FCT. Justifying what keen observers have already termed a wasteful venture, Bala said “We noticed that it (existing hall) is inconveniencing; it is not in tandem with what is outside the country. Even smaller countries have better Banquet Halls near their Presidential residences.” That is not all. Senator Bala has also said that the FCT administration is going to construct befitting official residences for Vice President Namadi Sambo, the Senate President/Deputy Senate president, the Speaker of the House of Representatives and his Deputy. Again, he said: “The projects that will be funded under ongoing projects

including the designing and construction of the residence of the Vice President; the residence of the President of the Senate and the Deputy Senate President; the Speaker and that of the Deputy Speaker”. The projects are estimated to cost about N2.3 billion. While that of Vice President is placed at N2bn, the cost of designing and construction of the residences of the President of the Senate, David Mark; his deputy, Ike Ekweremadu; the Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal; and his Deputy, Emeka Ihedioha is also put at N300m.In fact, the Minister literally told the Committee that the N50bn allocated to FCT in the 2013 budget is rather too small for it as it needed more money to set up more infrastructures within the FCT. The Federal Executive Council had in 2009 approved N7.1bn contract for the design and construction of a new official residence for the Vice-president of Nigeria. However, Moham-

med did not tell the Senate Committee how much has been expended on the building so far. It could be recalled that the then Minister of Information and Communications, Prof. Dora Akunyili, had announced the FEC approval of the project to journalists, saying, “Council gave approval for the award of a contract for the design and construction of the residence of the Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the Three Arms Zone, Abuja, in favour of Messrs Julius Berger Plc. with 20 months as completion period. “The Vice-President currently resides at the Akinola Aguda House, within the precincts of the Presidential Villa, which is designed as a guest house for the President.” Similarly, Nigerians have not forgotten that the Speaker and Deputy Speakers’ official residences were said to have gulped 628 million Naira (about US$5 million) on renovations during the regime of Honourable Patricia Etteh and her deputy, Babangida Nguruje. Explaining why the building of a residence for the VP was considered a priority at this time despite the magnitude of problems facing the citizens of the country, the Minister said, “The Vice-President is staying in a guest house meant for visiting Heads of state. It is not right, it is not befitting for the Vice-President. The former administration decided to give the house of the VicePresident to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, which was in line with what was contained in the Abuja master plan. It became imperative for us to provide accommodation for the Vice-President. The Vice-President has no accommodation; certainly you will agree with me that it is unbecoming for any government not to provide accommodation for its Vice-President. We will now embark on the construction of a befitting residence for the vice-president.” The Minister also on Wednesday after the FEC meeting insisted that there is no going back on the project as it is to ease the burden of office of the president. Meanwhile, the development is coming at a time Nigeria’s debt profile is expected to hit all time $25 billion by 2015 according to Nigeria’s Debt Management Office, DMO. It is also happening at a time Transparency International 2012 report has placed Nigeria at 35th position amongst the list of most corrupt countries of the world. Countries such as Togo, Mali, Niger and Benin Republics in African sub-region fared better than Nigeria. Also, Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory cannot boast of either foreign or local industries that may create jobs to Nigeria’s teeming population. Elsewhere, there is hunger. Federal high ways are very terrible. The hospitals are hardly stocked with appropriate personnel and drugs, yet the country can afford to embark on white elephant projects.

50 — SATURDAY Vanguard,DECEMBER 8, 2012

*the true transformation *the flood next time

e keep pre-fixing his name with the prosaic title of “Mr.”, but I am sure that he must be an Alhaji—at he least. But then he is the prince of a great emirate, anyway. We all have to attest to the fact that he is a banker, though some people have a problem with how good he is at that. What we can all agree about, however, is that he is not a diplomat. Indeed, I think he would be severely insulted if you called Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the Governor of Central Bank, that to his face. As if his given names were not enough, he must add a second middle name—”controversy”. He draws disagreement to himself as a magnet attracts iron. If he is not in the masquerade of his regalia as a tribal (sorry, ethnic) chieftain, he is busy twanging the sensitive tail of the National Assembly. This time, however, he really went in at the deep end. How could he essay to take on the entire work force of the civil service, with all the might of over 750 local governments, and still stick to his guns?

ut that is a point in which I see a saving grace. He repeats himself! The man is unrepentant. He says the government has got its priorities wrong if it spends all of our money feeding its bloated existence, with little left to develop the country. I think he is right. In fact, the first person who pointed that out was our esteemed Ngozi OkomjoIweala, the Minister of Finance, when she was being interviewed for the job. She deplored a budgetary regime that gave so much to current expenditure to the disadvantage of a responsible commitment to capital expenditure priorities in which lies the muscle of development. That was during her interaction with the Senate. She got the job, and we are still getting the stiff end of a frightening fiscal policy. The Central Bank governor, apparently alarmed, therefore suggests that the civil service should be halved. He advises that the number of our States is more than enough already, and repudiates the very idea of new ones. He is highly critical of the proliferation of

The harmattan is here once again. The extreme dusty wind from the Sahara is our portion of the world—wide visitation of wild winds. However, the harmattan is not really often violent, though it sometimes accompanied by a sandstorm especially to the far North of the country. The oncoming storm raises a cloud of fine dust that darkens the sky and turns midday into the appearance of dusk; the sand penetrates into every crevice so that you even feel some grit on your tongue after it has swept over everywhere, it has even been accounted for several cases of blindness in the North. In Asia and the Far East,

The man is unrepentant

governmental posts governors by the dozens, ministers by the hundreds, senior assistants assisted by myriads of other assistants, legislators in the strength of legions, and a battalion of local government chieftains. God is in His heaven, and all is well with the earth? Sanusi Lamido Sanusi says NO! The entire elements of our governmental structure will C M Y K

decry his forthrightness because he appears to be set on snatching their daily bread from their mouth but, in the larger picture, he sees the mouth of the entire nation going dry. We cannot sacrifice the welfare of those who would be adversely affected for the good of the State, of course, because they too are part and parcel of the State. We would have to be able to accommodate them profitably in the scheme of things that would be devised through the reformation— the true transformation—that would be established from Sanusi’s revolutionary ideas. That would make them responsible.

typhoons are the storms that wreak seasonal damage on the land and sea among the people. Typhoon Bopha, raging across the Philippines was the latest deadly storm swiping the face of the earth with its destructive passage over areas that such a phenomenon is known to visit seasonally, It has accounted for over 280 lives already. If it had occurred

•Sanusi some thousands of miles across the Pacific, it would have been called a hurricane and given another name, like Sandy perhaps, but that would really have had no significant effect on the force of its wind, or the magnitude of its devastation. When storms manifest their fury in snowy places they are recognized as blizzards. The avalanches that they are capable of setting off increase their destructive power with awful consequences, equal to landslides and worse on muddy terrains. These stormy weather patterns are inevitably connected with precipitation, except in the case of the harmattan, and are thus predictable to a large extent. That is possible because there are experts who man advanced instruments to study the wind developments and make forecasts that are accurate almost to a precise degree. We have such knowledgeable people too in this part of the world, or else we would not be part of the world-wide system of air travel since aeroplane safety depends on such expertise. But it would appear that we pay little serious attention to the weather beyond that. One can clearly see the difference in the weather news reports of places like

Asia, Europe and the US, on the one side, and West Africa on the other. The weather is indeed only newsworthy here when it creates a calamity somewhere, and it seldom does that in this part of the world. The result is that weather talk is usually inconsequential and we have therefore become complacent, until a phenomenon lashes out with a vengeance, just as it happened allover Nigeria recently. The problem, of course, has been floods. An aspect of the problem to note here was that there was hardly any timely warning by way of reliable weather forecasts. That could have enabled the authorities to make adequate preparations against the far-flung ravages that were experienced by the hapless citizens affected. In fact, since floods are not so strange in the various parts affected, the people themselves might have shown some initiative by some measure of expectation in a situation that had so much potential danger for their welfare, But there is no evidence that they did. It was a harrowing period of existence but we can tell ourselves the truth now that the worst is over—this time. We could have been better prepared, and could therefore have managed the series of disaster better.

e indeed did not expect the severity of the impact of the flood. Though it was aImost a seasonal occurrence in various places, the rains that increased the level of the rivers, or inflow from the lagoon, had not been so much for a long time. Although we could have watched out better for the change in weather, some people go further to seek a reason for the impact to climate change. That indeed, puts a different colour on the problem. Although this subject seems to have come up for world-wide concern only recently, it has been a point of serious discussion for decades. It has been discovered in recent decades that the level of greenhouse gases that can cause a rise in the temperature of the atmosphere is rising at an alarming rate. The danger is in the effect on the polar icecaps that would thereby be melted and give rise to water levels around the world. That

would, in turn, result in floods that could almost rival the biblical phenomenon in real terms. For instance, a country like the Republic of Seychelles, would simply disappear. Some other low-lying countries would lose a substantial portion of their land mass. The effect on agriculture would be catastrophic in many places. The more frightening aspect of this scenario of untold calamity is that it could be very, very sudden and, once started, it can hardly be effectively checked. The International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has been at grips with this global problem for decades, conducting research, giving out facts and direct warnings in many instances. The ? panel is made up of hundreds of scientists from various countries, and one would expect that it should carry enough clout to make national governments sit up and take notice. International conferences do get a fair response but only end up with hollow decisions that pay scant respect to recommendations arrived at. It has been undisputed that the world’s snow cover and ice extent have decreased; that the average sea-level has increased while the heat content of the atmosphere has also increased; that global precipitation has risen; that there has been an increase in cloud cover; all to little avail.

he contribution to all this general eco-deterioration from human activity is considerable and could be controlled with a little sense of responsibility. The emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere through industrial activity and motor vehicle operation, for instance, has been tackled rather shoddily. A country like China commits very little or nothing at all to the efforts of a cleaner atmosphere, though it sends out more of the dangerous greenhouse gases than any other country. And while sincere thoughts should be directed towards the safeguard of coastal fringes that seem prone to the phenomenon of ocean surges and onslaught of precipitation— like our own Lagos group of islands—we hear about visions of Atlantic City. Lagos is seventy-two inches above sea level. How much higher than that is the new concept? It looks grand, as a matter of fact, if adequate thought is being given to where it would be twenty years from now. But then, there are other scientists in the world who believe that the “earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof?, and that He has established it so that it cannot be moved”. They boldly affirm that changes and variations in weather occur, and have occurred, from time to time. And so it was also in the days of Noah: “People were marrying and giving themselves in marriage.... Until suddenly, the flood came. We have had a taste of it. How prepared are we really for the next time? Time out.

SATURDAY Vanguard,DECEMBER 8, 2012—51 ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

ODD NEWS

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Compiled Richard Okotie

One man and his tiger ndonesian man forms unbreakable bond with 27-stone feline

Too fat for murder

Mulan....Abdullah Sholeh, 31 has formed an unbreakable bond with four-year-old feline Mulan. He regularly sleeps, plays and fights with the enormous tiger. The pair spend every day together after Mr Sholeh helped raise her from a three-month-old cub in Malang, Indonesia

LC ’s Half-Ton Killer tells shocking tale of 1,100lb woman who confessed to killing her nephew - until her weight proved testimony was a LIE... Innocent: TLC have made a documentary about Mayra Rosales, the 1,100lb woman who confessed to a crime she didn’t commit to protect her sister and was found innocent thanks to her weight.

But mum , I dont need a bath

Putting on a brave face… and body!

undreds of skinny dippers brace the freezing North Sea... but fail to break a world record....Hundreds of people ran into the sea naked as temperatures plummeted in an attempt to set a new world record for the biggest ever skinny dip. A crowd of just over 200 people stripped off and ran into the sea at sunrise for The North East Skinny Dip in Druridge Bay, Northumberland, but failed to break the record. The event was organised to raise money for mental health charity Mind and those involved are confident they have raised thousands.

dorable orphan ape Mr Bernie, two, does all he can to avoid getting his fur wet.... Two-year-old Mr Bernie (left) - one of 330 orphaned apes at the Orangutan Care Centre and Quarantine in Borneo - will do just about anything to avoid taking a plunge. With four strong hands able to firmly grasp the sides of the bath, getting him into the warm, soapy water can be a soggy struggle. In the wild, orangutans usually shy away from water, preferring to keep themselves and their babies clean through picking out bugs and dirt with their long fingers. But at the orphanage there are no ape mums to help out. However, Charlie (right) is a fan of the bath.

L-R: Sales Regional Manager Indigo & IHPS Africa, Mr.Houssine Chekkar; Managing Director MFI , Mr. Altaf Lalani; Technical Manager MFI Pro Print, Mr.Babu Sambath; and Regional Product Manager Pro Print, Mr.Jignesh Mehta at the launch of HP Indigo Digital Press in Lagos recently.

52 — SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012

Oshiomhole will enforce tax law without fear or favour —Special Adviser As Comrade Adams Oshiomhole settles down for his second term in office, he has told Edo people that he will not leave any stone unturned in his determination to take the State to the next level. In this interview with Prince Kassim Afegbua, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Public Affairs, he explained that the implementation of the tax law and the recent closure of Independent Television [ITV] for not paying redeeming its tax obligations was merely a matter of applying the laws and not a witch-hunt; exercepts.

he government of Edo State recently sealed off the premises of Independent Television over what it claims to be the refusal of the company to pay its tax as at when due. Can you please shed more light on this action? Well, I am sure you are aware of the Comrade Governor ’s effort at ensuring that there is compliance in the application and enforcement of the tax laws. I am sure also that you are aware that the tax laws were not made by this government, we are merely applying the laws and ensuring that there is compliance by all and sundry. When the government came on stream in 2008, the internally generated revenue of the State was in the region of N250 to N300 million naira. Rather than join the culture of lamentation as a result of paucity of funds, the government decided to look inwards to see zPrince Kassim Afegbua how it can improve on that poor revenue accrual. In the process of doing that, it discovered that a lot of people and companies were simply not paying taxes as required by law. It then decided to give teeth to the tax laws. Since 2009 till date, a lot of people have already bought into the Comrade Governor’s well intended drive to paying taxes. That is the only way you can rightly beat your chest and say you are a tax payer. The often repeated saying of “tax payer’s money” will be wrongly interpreted if you are not one of those tax payers. It is in pursuance of this noble objective to take Edo State out of the woods that the idea of compliance to tax laws becomes instructive. What we merely did in Independent Television was to simply request matter of simple majority votes. The their feet on Nigeria, they will try to for tax payment from the company Comrade Governor is quite aware of subvert the system. We will not be dissince 2005 till date. And failure to com- that, hence it amounts to outright tracted by those sentiments of witchply with the payment warranted the blackmail for anyone to provoke such hunt. We will enforce and apply the state government to take the compa- argument or make such insinuations. laws without fear or favour. That is the ny to court, where a Court Order was Do not forget that despite the fact that moral duty we owe Edo people. That obtained to seal up the premises until some people did not support the Com- is the responsibility of government that payment is made. We have done sim- rade Governor, he still got 100 per- was brought about through democratilar thing to PHCN, NTA, NDDC, cent endorsement from the 18 Local ic means. If we fail to apply the laws UBTH, First Bank, Union Bank and a Governments in the State. He won sim- based on our assurances to the peohost of others. It is not new to Edo ple majority votes in all the Local Gov- ple, history will never forgive us. It will people that the Comrade Governor is ernments. That is something novel interest you to know that tougher days doing the right thing. Government is and quite telling on account of his per- are ahead for tax evaders. It is surely not about personal relationship with formance. He is the number one po- not going to be business as usual. The selective few, it is about the collective litical figure in the State and there- prison rooms are not meant for the poor good. So it is not a witch hunt of any- fore father to all. He doesn’t play all criminals alone, the rich criminals will also taste it if they try to subvert the body or individual. It is not targeted those petty sentiments. system. There are no small laws or big at any individual. The ITV is a busilaws. The law is a leveler for everyBut are you applying the laws evenness concern and it shall be so treatone. If those rich few who are circumly? ed. The question to ask is; when has venting the system feel they are too There is this notion out there that payment of tax become a trite law or powerful, sooner or later, they will visit the Comrade Governor is trying to forbidden fruit? When has it become the four walls of the prison. There canwitch-hunt those who did not support an offence to ask people to pay tax? not be sacred cows. Certainly not in his re-election and that it may have That is a civic responsibility that is sac- this administration. What are we to expect from Combeen the reason for this clamp down rosanct in any sane society. It is only rade Adams Oshiomhole in this secin Nigeria that our so-called big men on Chief Gabriel Igbinedion. How do pick offence when you ask them for ond term mandate? you react to that? What to expect is what you are alThat is cheap blackmail. In any elec- taxes. When they visit overseas, they tion, it is not possible for everybody comply like chickens to every require- ready seeing; that is making sure that to support one’s aspiration. It is a ment of law, but as soon as they step the system works and institutions are

There are no small laws or big laws. The law is a leveler for everyone. If those rich few who are circumventing the system feel they are too powerful, sooner or later, they will visit the four walls of the prison

put in place to outlast his regime. Edo State is a different ball game as we speak. The ICT revolution has made it possible for the State to save some money from hitherto ghost workers that permeated the various strata of the civil service. All that has become history. That is the beauty of functional democracy and effective leadership. The Edo narrative has assumed a different dimension as we speak. The people are supporting all the initiatives of the Comrade Governor and are full of appreciation for his intervention thus far. This second term will enable him to leverage on the economic infrastructure of his first term towards attracting investors to have confidence once again in the State and invest in it.

ut the rate of insecurity and crimes rate are in creasing by the day. Does it give you concern? It will be wrong to say that the rate of insecurity is increasing. That will not be correct. The fact that there are pockets of kidnap here and there does not suggest that crime rate is increasing. If you know the level of intervention and support the Comrade Governor is giving to the security agencies, you will then appreciate that he cares for the people. There are several unreported crime busters that are carried out every day. Given Edo State’s status and particularly Benin City as a transit City, so to speak, quite a number of criminals from other neighbouring States come and perpetrate crimes and run away to where they come from.

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012—53

Chemists battle half baked, reel out score card

IFE for Johnson Adelabu, a chemistry graduate from one of the nation’s universities has become unbearable. For almost three years after graduation as a chemist, Johnson was jobless. But reprieve came his way when an uncle of his assisted him to secure a job in a lab in one of the multinational firms “Thank God,” he exclaimed. “I can now begin to plan my life all over again,” he told his friends. But his joy was cut short when, Johnson found out that most of the equipment in the lab were not the same with those in his school. However, after much training, Johnson made one mistake repeatedly, in his analysis and report thus, causing the company fortune. Eventually, he was sacked for gross incompetence and has remained jobless since then. This ugly development may have prompted the institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria (ICCON) to liaise with other stakeholders in the country ’s education sector to fashion a chemistry curricula that will be more practical-oriented besides being responsive to the needs of the day. The institute’s president, Professor Abdullahi Abdu Zuru who made this disclosure at this year ’s fellowship award and induction ceremony of members held recently in Lagos, said the ultimate aim of the project was to produce self-reliant chemistry graduates who will meet the demands of the 21st century. Against this backdrop, Prof. Zuru said that the ICCON raised a curriculum review committee in October 12, 2012, chaired by renowned Chemist and former Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HOCF), Professor Oladapo Afolabi with acclaimed natural products chemists, Professor Joseph Okogun as Adviser charged with the responsibility to review the university chemistry curricula with a view to enhancing delivery and impact. According to him, the committee will also review the duration of the Bachelors of Chemistry programme, particularly as regards professionalising chemistry graduates besides attaining minimum standards for chemistry laboratory practice in Nigerian universities. Prof. Zuru also said that the committee is saddled with the responsibility of giving advice on standards for accreditation of chemistry programmes in Nigerian universities as well as on the appropriateness and modalities on joint accreditation exercise with relevant regulatory bodies. The president, however, explained that the urgency to reposition the institute was aimed at making it a major stakeholder in President Goodluck Jonathan’s Transformation Agenda,” as chemists, he declared, are the empirical prerequisites for the attainment of the said Agenda. Prof. Zuru who observed that the job of a chemist goes beyond identifying and quantifying atoms and molecules, reiterated the institute’s commitment in the enhancement of the best practice of the chemistry profession in Nigeria. While congratulating the inductees,

Prof. Zuru

Prince Oghifo

The role of chemists in evolving a holistic development of any nation cannot be over-emphasized. Hence, the institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria in their recent fellowship Award and induction of almost 60 members, seek among others to address the challenges of half baked chemists churned out every year from the nation’s universities. CHARLES ADINGUPU looks at the task that lies ahead of the institute and it tortuous journey thus far. the President disclosed that their admission was based on two premises. The first group, he said were those who were successful in the 2012 ICCON membership qualifying examination held in August this year in three centres across the nation.

he second group, according to him, were those who, having satisfied the institute’s conditions for exemption from exams, based on number of years of relevant practice and experience were admitted as Direct Entry candidates. He, howe v e r , warned that certificate will be withdrawn from members when proven cases of professional misconduct is established against them, failure to meet up with financial obligations and refusal to participate in ICCON Mandatory Continuing Professional Development workshop (MCPD) as enshrined in Section 6 (6c) of the ICCON Act. Earlier, the institute’s Registrar, Prince Jay Oritsejolone Oghifo who gave his stewardship said that the 60 inductees were drawn from both the academia and industry. The Registrar said that the staff strength of the group has tripple from it’s initial staff of 25 to 76 workers.

Prince Oghifo announced that the institute has tackled its accommodation problem following its relocation from its six rooms which included the Registrar’s office and a library to the acquisition of the entire 3rd floor of the Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja made up of 17 large offices, a gigantic council chamber with two stores and a library with conveniences. He said the quest to have its own personal corporate office complex has remained number one in the agenda of the institute as it has perfected plans to vigorously source for funds towards this regard. As a way of making the institute more accessible to members and save cost hitherto expended on rent, Prince Oghifo disclosed that a more spacious and befitting new Liaison office was acquired at the Federal Secretariat Complex, Garki, Abuja. Also, the institute within the year under review has fashioned out a corporate policy and scheme of service guide as well as a well defined administrative structure consisting of divisions, departments, sections and units in order to enhance proficiency among workers. The Registrar who thanked corporate bodies for the sponsorship of ‘The Chartered Chemist’ the Institute’s Magazine, said the publication is now being produced at almost 50% less than

The government budgetary allocation to the institute is dwindling in every passing day

its original production cost and no lost to it. As part of the on-going projects, Prince Oghito disclosed that the institute has embarked on a full scale digitalisation of its membership database and a design of membership portal which is almost near completion. He announced that e-library services, rich reservoir of knowledge with useful literature in areas as science, health environment among others is currently available for financial up-todate members for use. As part of the institute’s efforts in creating awareness, advocacy and synergy with other organisations, Prince Oghifo said a courtesy visits were made by management to media houses, industries and academic institutions in the year under review. The Registrar disclosed that as a fall out of the last AGBM, the ICCON multi-purpose cooperative society was launched and has started giving out loans to members and has equally opened a tuck shop at its corporate headquarters.

Some challenges

Just like in other notable organisations, the Registrar noted in dismay that the government budgetary allocation to the institute is dwindling in every passing day. He warned that except urgent measure are taken by members to increase Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) through prompt payment of annual dues, attendance at Mandatory Workshops, corporate sponsorship among others, it would be difficult for ICCON to fully actualise its objectives moreso now that the Federal Government is contemplating agencies and parastatal mergers and complete hands off in their affairs. Prince Oghifo however observed that members’ attendance at the institute’s programmes was at its lowest ebb despite the huge amount of money expended in organising them. Notwithstanding those challenges, the Registrar reiterated management’s resolve to reposition the institute and the chemistry profession in Nigeria in order to shore-up confidence in its members. Prince Oghifo who disclosed that the institute is currently under the threat of being sealed by the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) over alleged arrears of unremitted staff PAYE between 2006 and 2010 which amounted to the sum of N29 million, warned against staff indiscipline. He disclosed that some recalcitrant staff attempted to frustrate the disciplinary procedure, particularly erring ones who instigated the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) against management. This development, he said, has led to constant picketing and unlawful invasion of the institute by the union’s Federal Area Council led by the executive members of ICCON branch of the union. The Registrar, however, expressed his profound appropriation to the entire Exco team led by the President, Prof. Zuru, Mr. Harry Okolo and Prof. Felix Okieimen for tolerating his idiosyncrasies.

54— Vanguard, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2012

I forgive my husband but ... says woman whose hubby killed only son, burnt her with hot pressing iron BY EVELYN USMAN

emember the 36-year-old Mercy Nnadi, whose husband killed their only son and burnt her with hot pressing iron over allegation that she was having an affair with his father, eight months ago, in Okota area of Lagos? To many residents of the area,Mercy’s issue is a forgotten one, as they assumed she did not survive the third degree burns that she sustained from the attack by her spouse. But how wrong they are because as you read this piece, Mercy, who once looked a shadow of her old self is back to life. She is presently occupying a one-room apartment in Agege area of Lagos, courtesy of three Non-Governmental Organisations; Project Alert on Violence Against Women, Centa for Development, and Zaharawomen. Aside the apartment, the NGOs also gave her the sum of N150, 000 to start life afresh. Even in the light of all this, Mercy, in this exclusive interview with Crime Guard, said nothing could fill the vacuum created by the demise of her son, Ebuka, who was barely one-year-old then. Although she stated that she had forgiven her husband for making her go through untold anguish, she vowed never to reunite with him again. Recalling the incident of that fatefulSaturday, April 7, 2012, which almost sent her to an unprepared grave, Mercy stated amidst tears: “ On that fateful Saturday evening, my husband told me to cook yam for supper before leaving the house. After a long wait for him to come back so that we could eat together, I ate mine and slept with my baby. When he came back, he ate , put on the power generating set before going to bed. Later, a neighbor knocked on the door to inform us that Power had been restored and he went to put off the power generating set. He came inside and started ironing customers clothes because he is a dry cleaner. By then, the room became hot and I left to take a shower and stayed outside waiting for when he would be through . When he was done, he told me to fetch water for him to bath and I did. While I was going to fetch the water, he started smoking before going to take his bath. We both retired inside and I slept off after breast feeding our baby, Ebuka. But a sharp pain woke me up from sleep. At first, I thought I was dreaming. But

Mercy, 2nd left , receiving a cheque of N150,000 from Mrs Josephine Effah-Chukwuma,(1st right) while Nkiru of Centa for Development (2nd right) and a representative of WAPA look on

Mercy before(On hospital bed). no! Right in front of me was my husband of two years placing the hot pressing iron on me. I screamed and begged him to stop. When I raised my hand to stop him, he placed the hot iron on the hand. I lifted my leg to prevent him from further attack, only for him to place it on my thighs, instructing me to keep quiet. As if that was not enough , as he placed the hot iron on me, he used a screw driver to pull off the skin, pressing the hot iron harder on the same spot. As he was doing it, he kept asking me how many times his father had slept with me. I begged him passionately but he would not listen. He warned me to keep quiet informing that other members of his gang were outside . I did not know what he meant by that. He concentrated more on my chest, by leaving the hot iron there for what seemed like eternity. Just then, our son Ebuka, woke up crying. I begged my husband to allow

Mercy ‘s hospital bed).

me breast feed him, so he could go back to sleep. Instead, he placed the pressing iron on my two breasts and at the same time used the screw driver to peel off the skin. I shouted for help . But it was far from me. At that point, he took my son away . Immediately he left the room , I rushed out to the kitchen where a neighbor offered me a wrapper to cover my nakedness. That was all I could remember until I found myself at New Evolution Hospital”. While Mercy succeeded in escaping from the Biblical shadow of death , same could not be said of her helpless son, Ebuka. Eye witnesses said Henry dragged the crying baby who apparently was waiting to grab the nipple of his mother’s breast for milk, by his left arm. Rather than getting the expected milk, Henry as gathered, landed a metal right on Ebuka’s head, thereby prompting him to let out a shrill cry, which forced out some excreta. As if the

pains were not excruciating enough for the fragile baby, his father whom many concluded was possessed by a demon, landed the metal again on his head. This time around, instead of crying, there was dead silence, which sent the hapless Ebuka to the land of no return, with his remains buried a few days later. News of my son’s death shattered me All through her stay in the hospital, Mercy was made to believe that her son was in good condition of health. Thus, when she was discharged, she yearned to see Ebuka . But no body could tell her the true position of things until she visited Ago Police division, where the case was earlier incidented, only to be consoled by one of the policemen who was oblivious of the development. “ Initially, I did not get what the policeman was trying to say. But after a while, I discovered it had to do with my son Ebuka. I broke down in tears,

without knowing what to do. I kept asking why Henry would kill an innocent child over nothing? I was shattered by the news of my son’s death. “Oh! My son died without being allowed to have the last suck of my breast milk. The last memory I have of him was when he woke up crying. How callous! He was the reason for my hanging on in the marriage because I never wanted to have a broken home. Had he been alive, he would have been my only consolation”, she stated amidst tears. I forgive my husband but... Asked if she would accept her husband back if he comes begging, Mercy winked and smiled at the same time, saying: “ I have forgiven him no doubt. But I will never go back to him. I learnt he is in Ikoyi prison awaiting trial. I was told he called his younger sister and asked if I was okay and even told her to give me the phone so he could speak with me. I tried the number once but it rang without response. My mind is made up. The only thing that would have made me have a re-think is my son. But since he is no more, nothing is worth my staying back. That was not the first time he would beat me. I have always complained to my father-inlaw about his batterings and he had always cautioned him. At a point, he warned his father to stop interfering in his family matter and further told him to stop coming to our house. He also stopped me from going to his father ’s house, warning that he would break my leg if I disobeyed him.” My neighbors fled on sighting me In order to make do her threat of leaving Henry , Mercy visited number 3 Lambe street, in Ago-Okota, which used to be her matrimonial home, to move her belongings. But a mild drama unfolded as those who recognized her took to their heels, apparently thinking it was her ghost. “ I was shocked at first. But I was later made to understand that news went round that I was dead. They later came around to thank God with me. As I was leaving with my belongings, I bid farewell to what used to be home ”. At this point, she wept profusely, on remembering how her son used to crawl on the veranda of the building. After satisfying her emotions, she expressed gratitude to God for at least sparing her life and giving her a second chance . ”Even though I know that the death of my son has left a vacuum that will never be replaced in my life, I am still grateful to God for granting me the privilege of being alive”. “That I am alive today is by the grace of God and help from good Nigerians. My appreciation first and foremost goes to you, Vanguard. I learnt your first publication attracted Continues on page 55

Vanguard, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2012—55

BY IFEANYI OKOLIE

o you accept sachet or bottle water offered by unknown passengers in a commercial bus? Then, you must be careful as some robbery gang have devised this method to rob unsuspecting passengers. This discovery is coming on the heels of the arrest of five members of a notorious robbery gang by operatives of the Special Anti-robbery Squad, SARS, of the Lagos State Police Command. The gang specialized in drugging unsuspecting passengers in commercial buses before dispossessing them of their valuables, Unlike their other partners who use their vehicles to perpetrate the heinous crime, the arrested suspects as gathered, would board commercial buses and position themselves strategically to actualize their devilish act. Their modus oparandi include trailing their targets either from the bank, or public places, right into a commercial bus. Information at Crime Guard disposal revealed that seven members of the gang would board same bus with their target while another would pose as a sachet water hawker. Unknown to their target the sachet water have all been sedated. One of them would then pretend to buy a sachet water from their gang(hawker), offering N20 note, only to be told there is no N10 note for his balance. Pretending to be nice, the buyer would take another sachet water and offer to their target, with the explanation that he did not want his money to be left with the hawker. And immediately their target drinks

Police arrest r obber s who sedate and r ob victims in commercial buses the water, he would fall asleep and in the process, have his valuables dispossessed of. But the gang met its waterloo after a foiled attempt to sedate one of its victims in Ikeja area of the state recently. Consequently, three members of the gang were apprehended. A Police source at SARS said “We have been on their trail for two weeks now. We got in-

formation that the same gang had robbed someone on his way from Ikeja to Yaba and the case was reported at Sabo police station. Driver of that bus and his conductor were initially accused of conniving with the robbers but after proper investigation, they were released with stern instructions to be on the look-out for members of the gang. Unfortunately for the gang,

I forgive my husband but will never re-unite with him.. him.... Continues from page 54

Expresses gratitude to Vanguard, other benefactors well meaning Nigerians to New Evolution Hospital where I spent three months. These Nigerians whom I never knew from Adam, had compassion on me and donated money for my treatment. Even the first lady of Akwa-Ibom state came to my rescue by paying over 300,000 for my treatment and feeding. Ah! Can you imagine, a nobody like me gaining such recognition, Isn’t God wonderful? I also want to appreciate other media houses which toed Vanguard’ s path. My sincere gratitude goes to the management team of New Evolution Hospital who managed the situation when I was rushed in , until I was transferred to government hospital. I really did not know when I was taken there. Even when I regained conscious-

ness, I could not bath and clean myself. The nurses were there for me. What more can I say about my father in-law , his wife and daughter, they were by my side all through. My appreciation will be incomplete if I fail to mention the three NGOs that gave voice to my cry. They went as far as involving the Lagos state government and in the process, offset my outstanding bills at New Evolution Hospital and even gave me shelter at Ipaja before I was given an accommodation in Agege. From the donations they got from members of the public, I was given the sum of N150,000 to start life afresh” Again, she paused, fiddled with her nails and by the time she looked up , it was obvious she was fighting hard to hold back the tears. But she could not as they trickled down her cheeks . And in an emotionladen voice, she said, “ I wish

my son was alive, then my joy would have been complete. I honestly wished I was given the accommodation money , I would have relocated back to my village because I do not want anything that would remind me of the death of my first experience of motherhood” . Speaking on behalf of the NGOs during the formal rehabilitation of Mercy at the conference room of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation WAPA, Alausa, Lagos, the Executive Director, Project Alert on Violence Against Women , Josephine Effah-Chukwuma, said, “ We sought to help Mercy pay her steadily mounting hospital bills, and rehabilitate her. We are proud to say we have been able to accomplish all these, along with some funds for her to start life afresh”.

they boarded the same bus last week Tuesday and the bus conductor who was vigilant noticed them and raised alarm. They were about seven but three of them were arrested while four others escaped. But during interrogation those arrested provided information that aided the arrest of two others. We are currently making effort to apprehend the gang leader who is currently at large”. He explained. I joined the gang because I was not making money from my phone business-suspect One of the suspects, 24year-old Chibuike Mbakwe, a native of Orlu, Imo state, said he joined the gang because he wasn’t making enough money from his phone business. Hear him: “I came to Lagos in 2003 after completing secondary school . I went into phone accessories trade at Alaba International market where I met Chioma, the gang’s leader. He introduced me into this crime and in the process I abandoned my trade. I don’t know how Chioma picks his targets but he always had one. On the day of our arrest, the man Chioma had targeted was carrying a paper bag with him which we concluded contained money. We were six in number including the pure water seller . So far, I have gone on operation with Chioma five times”. We dissolve 15 talin (sedative)into a sachet water Asked what was the name of the sedative drug, he said, “ it is called talin. Fifteen tablets are dissolved in one sa-

chet. This will make our target sleep for three hours. I have no idea how the drug is procured or where it is packaged into the water. But the water is usually brought to the park for the gang member to sell by Chioma. My role is simply to get into the same bus and cover up Chioma’s activities, so no one would suspect us” Asked whether any of their victims had died in the process, he shook his head: “ No, the drug is not harmful. I have mistakenly taken a drugged sachet water and had to be taken home by my colleagues. I woke up after 3 hours” For 24-year-old Ifeanyi Okeke, a native of Anambra State who plays the role of the hawker, he has this to say: “ I came to Lagos in 2007 to work as a houseboy for my brother but went back to the village shortly after his shop was demolished at Oshodi by the the Lagos state Task force. I returned to Lagos in 2011 and went into smuggling of rice and other food items between Seme border and Iyana- Iba. I met the gang about a month ago when they attempted to rob a victim in a bus I was working as a conductor. When I attempted to raise alarm, the gang leader Chioma, signaled to me to keep quiet and gave me his phone number, promising to compensate me. I did and he gave me N500. We later met at a designated place where he talked me into joining his gang and assigned me to be hawking for the gang. Before boarding any bus, Chioma would call me to meet him somewhere and would give me the bag of the already drugged sachet water to sell. All I have received since I joined them is just two visa phones and N8000. I regret joining the gang because Chioma has been cheating me since I joined. More painful, is the fact that the money I realised from the business is poor compared to what I was getting as a bus conductor.” He lamented. I operated between Cotonou and Togo - Eze However, 35 -year- old, Chidi Eze, a native of Ihiala, Anambra state and also a trader at Alaba International market, confessed to have resigned from the crime long ago. But his brother, Tochukwu who apparently took over, implecated him during investigation.”I was formerly into this bussiness but stopped after I was arrested, charged to court and served a jail term at Kirikiri prison. One Goddy who resides in Cotonou introduced me into it.. Then, we operated from Cotonou to Togo, using Indian powder. For my participation, I was paid 7000 Cepha which is equivalent to N2000. After that, we operated at Okokomaiko , CMS and Mile 2 routes. We were arrested at Abeokuta last year after Goddy and I tried to rob a passenger”

56—SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012

worked with Dr King in the civil rights days. In fact, he was the last person King told to go to Washington to prepare the poor people for the campaign in Washington. That was actually why they killed King because involving the poor people meant he was going to assemble the poor white and poor black. And the government of the day could not take it. It was a state murder. I decided to get Lafayette to partner me in doing the programme. His initial plan What I wanted to do in the first place is to train people who will be able to train other Nigerians. I got Lafayette to train me and my 19 staff. We wanted to go the United States of America but they would not give us visas. They thought we wanted to elope. I assured them that it was not about going to the United States. I decided to do it here. I invited Dr Lafayette to come to Nigeria to train us. We got trained in Non-violence Level I. We went to South Africa and did Level II programme before the American Embassy started taking us serious.

Onyema...Non-violence is the only weapon that knows no defeat because it works with soul force

How American embassy changed its stand But before then, I had started moving militants out of the creeks –from Delta to Lagos doing Level I programme. Then Shell came in to support. I was taking them to South Africa to train them. It was the training of the initial 10 militants given to us by Shell that opened the eyes of the world to what I was doing. In the second part, they sent 23; we trained, transformed and employed them. They sent 60, I trained and transformed them and the American Embassy talked to us and we started taking them to America. We trained a whole lot of them. Many parents were now coming to me to say: ‘look, I have somebody in the militancy, I would like you to help my son; I want to get my son out of it.’

How we got militants to embrace amnesty – Allen Onyema, amnesty facilitator Barrister Allen Onyema, a lawyer, chairman of the Foundation for Ethnic Harmony in Nigeria, FEHN and amnesty facilitator was recently conferred with the Pan-Nigerian Nationalist award by the Eminent Friends Group International, EFGI, in Lagos. At the colourful event attended by Mr. Kingsley Kuku, current special adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs;Dr Bernard Lafayette (jnr); General Bob Adoba, former Chief of Army Logistics; Annkio Briggs, Ezeigbo Lagos, Eze Hycinth Ohazulike, former Chairman of Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, and Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Mr. Timi Alaibe and a host of former militants such as Ateke Tom, Mujahid Asari-Dokubo, and top executives of Shell Petroleum, Onyema, told reporters the hurdles he crossed to get the militants embrace non-violence. Excerpts:

ow he got militants to lay down their arms and how he ensured peace at Obubra camp, Cross River State At the height of the militancy, I felt disturbed that if only these boys will know that there is strength in non-violence, they would have adopted it but they did not know. I met with the government of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. I told them I could arrest the incidence of violence through non-violence education and programmes. They laughed because they did not believe me. Non-violence in other lands But I know that in India, Mahatma Gandhi used non-violence to drive

By CLIFFORD NDUJIHE, DEPUTY POLITICAL EDITOR

At the height of the militancy, I felt disturbed that if only these boys will know that there is strength in non-violence, they would have adopted it but they did not know

away the British from India. In the United States of America, Dr Martin Luther King used non-violence to fight official segregation and succeeded. In Poland, late Vanessa with his solidarity group did the same thing. They were able to bring down communism without having to encourage any gunshot. I looked at history, which is replete

with so many places where non-violence showed its power. Non-violence is the only weapon that knows no defeat because it works with soul force. It is all about love, utilizing the power of love to conquer. So, I decided that I will do the same thing and started looking for credible institutions and partners and that led me to Dr Bernard Lafayette (jnr). He

His greatest fear Messages were all over the place that this was succeeding. And the government and security agencies were monitoring what was happening. The greatest fear I had was if anybody had been arrested I would have been killed. I give kudos to the Obasanjo regime, they knew what I was doing and turned the other eye. They did not use the opportunity to arrest some people and that actually emboldened me and the boys because each time they were coming to Lagos, they used to hide, thinking they were going to be arrested but they were never arrested. Obasanjo and govt’s support When I was taking them to South Africa, the same thing, they were never arrested. On some occasions they stopped us at the Airport try-

Continues on page 57

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012—57

BENUE LG ELECTION

BY PETER DURU, Makurdi

Intrigues and political maneuverings that determined the outcome

Gov Suswam

EW days ago, the 24th of No vember to be precise, the much anticipated local government elections was held in Benue state after the palpable tension that virtually enveloped the entire political landscape of the state in the days preceding the election. The reason for this was not far fetched given the deep animosity and rivalry between the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP, and the leading opposition Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, which ignonimously gained ascendancy and peaked at the heat of the 2011 general elections in the state. But one major feature of this particular election was the outright dominance of the ruling PDP leading to the party’s landslide victory in the 23 local government areas that make up state. That overwhelming victory is still in contention especially by top notchers of the opposition parties in the state who were humbled and outrightly humiliated by the outcome of the poll. Their outburst was understandable, they had hoped that the impressive showing of the party at the last gubernatorial election would be replicated at the local government polls 19 months after the gubernatorial election was held across the country. Maybe that accounted for lackadaisical approach the opposition parties adopted all through the campaigns preceding the local election in the state which turned out a huge and unfortunate misjudgment that they paid dearly for given their overall poor showing. The opposition completely lost focus, while the ruling PDP and its vociferous supporters were busy crisscrossing the entire state, trying to convince the people of the state on the impart of the people aligning themselves with the mainstream pol-

But today that alliance has crumbled and the people have formed a formidable force around Dr. Ayu

itics of the present day Nigeria. The opposition parties went to sleep hoping and believing in miracles that was never activated by any form of action. Perhaps they took the people for

granted and that undoubtedly was their greatest undoing considering the manner members of the party left in droves to the ruling party in well organized decamping ceremonies held across the state few months to the poll. That signal alone should have spurred members of the opposition to galvanize their political machines and re-strategise and embark on issues-based campaigns in order to torpedo the well oiled political arsenal of the ruling party. But their failure to embark on the political inevitable culminated in the worst political disaster and humiliation ever suffered by the opposition in the history of Benue’s political voyage. Aside the numerous leading members of the opposition parties finding new haven in the ruling PDP in the days preceding the election, the ACN painfully and delinquently lost one of its leading pillars and head cornerstone, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, to the welcome embrace of the ruling party in the state. Unarguably, the Dr. Ayu’s decision to abandon opposition politics for the PDP was the death blow that completely shattered and semblance of strength that was left in opposition especially the ACN which he helped to establish its domi-

nance in an area known as Jemgbagh political axis where he and Senator George Akume held sway politically. But today, that alliance has crumbled and the people have formed a formidable force around Dr. Ayu while the people of Tarka local government where Senator Akume hails from mobilized an insurrection against the Akume dynasty and in protest over the imposition of the candidature of the widow of his late brother as the chairmanship candidate of the ACN at that election. The protest and mass decamping of notable leaders of the party that trailed that decision of the Senate Minority leader was a clear indication that he had lost grip of his support base and that the party was in disarray and lacking the needed capacity to confront the ruling party in an election. It was therefore not in doubt that the ruling party was in firm control due to the shear negligence of the opposition and the inability of the proponent of opposition politics in the state to consolidate on the inroads they made in the state at the last general elections. So, when the Chairman of BSIEC announced the overall results of the local government election on the 26th of November which gave the PDP an unassailable victory at the polls, majority of the people of the state did not raise eyebrow given all that transpired within and without the blocks of the various political parties. Although the State Chairman of the ACN, Comrade Abba Yaro in a statement insisted that the party had rejected the result of the council poll in its entirety he was quick to describe the outcome of the election as a rape on democracy. ”The result as released by BSIEC is definitely unacceptable by our party, its a mockery of the entire process and a rape on democracy”, Yara said. But in his reaction to the outcome of the election, the Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Solomon Wombo described the out come of the process as a true reflection of the wishes of the Benue electorates.

How we got milit ants ttoo embr ace amnes ty – Allen Onyema, amnesty facilitator militants embrace amnesty Continued from page 56 ing to arrest us; calls will come from Abuja that they should allow us and the South Africans were alerted. I knew all that. It was a success story. Chevron decided to come in when they saw what was happening on the Shell side. In Afam, for several years, Shell could not operate. I went into Afam and reconciled the 17 communities with the oil companies. Today, there is no more problem in Afam. Non-violence is very powerful. When the leaders saw what was happening, some of them at the initial stage did not like it but I give them credit because if they did not cooperate with me we may not be where we are today. Yar’Adua’s yeoman’s job It was along the line that late President Umar Musa Yar’Adua decided to call on Timi Alaibe: ‘ we have a security report about an organisation, the FEHN training these boys why don’t we do it on a larger scale?’

They now decided to train 600 commanders first. He told Timi to meet with the militant leaders: ‘is there a way we can make them bring down their tools of war and take to this programme?’ At first, the commanders refused but later said, ‘okay, we will send our boys first to test the waters.’ What they did first was to send the bad ones who were disturbing them so that they could go and get killed because they though it was a set up. Timi brought 600 boys. The Federal Government financed it through the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC. We trained and transformed them. That was when President Yar’ Adua said something big should happen and the issue of amnesty came up. Before then, Dr Lafayette asked me: ‘if you want to dismantle militancy, you have to dismantle any organisation that is handling their affairs. Which is the most powerful organisation in Niger Delta?’ I said the Ijaw Youth Council, IYC,

which like the political wing. The militants are the military wing. He said, ‘how do they get to their positions of power?’ I said ‘through elections.’ He said in that case, we have to train people and sponsor them to take over IYC. So we had to train people to be non-violent and put them on the saddle to take over the exco of the IYC. Power changes hand in IYC I started sourcing for credible persons to use and that search took me to Chris Ekiyor, Jonathan Lokpobiri and a whole lot of them. We took them out, trained them in Nigeria, South Africa and United States of America and came back and supported their election. We made sure that all the chairmen were proponents of non-violence. When they won election, the IYC the following day started talking about non-violence. Their motto used to be ‘by all means necessary.’ The IYC started telling the militant wing, ‘ we have to down the tools of war, we have to pursue it intellectual-

ly.’ At first, Chris Ekiyor did not receive any support. He was shot twice but he persevered. We were giving our support from behind. All of a sudden, some of the leaders started buying into it and seeing something good in it. We proved to them that we were not against the struggle but we were against the method and proved to them that there is a more powerful method to be used and if you use that you stand to gain. If you do violence, you ostracise men of goodwill who would have participate din your cause. North can make it with non-violence approach It is like what is happening in the North today, the North can get whatever they like if they show love to others. They have a reason for whatever they are doing but the way they are doing it is wrong. Nobody is thinking about their reason now, all people are seeing is the violent acts and shedding of blood, which are pushing people who would have participated in their cause away.

58—SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012

The women in Jonathan’s ‘life’ Continued from page 10 36 states of the federation, assuring Nigerian women, that her husband will give more prominent roles to women in his administration. The affirmative action stipulates 30 per cent women representation in government but the first lady raised the bar to 35 per cent in order to give more room for women’s involvement in government. It will be recalled that President Jonathan during his campaign in Jos, Plateau State capital made a declaration to the women. “I promise we will work with the party and give women 35 per cent ministerial and ambassadorial postings, vote for us, mobilise women and we can guarantee you this.” True to his electoral promises, not only has Jonathan appointed more women into cabinet positions than his predecessors both military and

civilian in Nigeria’s 50 years of independence but has equally assigned the most pivotal ministries of the economy to women, particularly in realising his much taunted transformational agenda. As at today, the number of female appointees in the cabinet represents well over 31 per cent of the 42-member cabinet. The new cabinet led by Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Minister of Finance who thrusted with the responsibility of overseeing other ministries. Other female members of the cabinet are Mrs Diezeani Alison-Madueke – Petroleum Resources, Prof. Ruqayygatu Rufai (Education), Mrs. Stella Odua-Ogiemwonyi (Aviation), Mrs Hadiza Ibrahim Mailata (Environment), Mrs Omobola Johnson Olubusola (Communication Technology), Ms Ama Pepple (Lands and Housing), Mrs Sarah Renge Ochekpe (Water Resources), Hajiya Zainab Maina (Women Affairs and Social Develop-

ment); and Hajiya Zainab Ibrahim Kuchi (Minister of State, Niger Delta Affairs). Others include, Prof. Vila Onwaliri (Minister of State Foreign Affairs), Erelu Olusola Obada (Minister of State, Defence). For some Nigerians, it was expressed in certain quarters that for the President to concede the 35 percent slot of his appointment to women, implied they (women ministers and appointees) would come under pressure to deliver and sealed the lips of gender critics who had employed funny lexicon in the nation’s political vocabulary to describe the President’s magnanimous gestures.

owever, we shall attempt an appraisal of some of these women ministers in Jonathan’s government and evaluate their remote and immediate challenges in their various portfolios particularly with regards to their relationship with their male counterparts.

The travails of Women Minsters Continued from page 11 As an astute civil servant, Sarah Ochekpe was a p pointed by Governor Jonah Jang of Plateau State as Execut i v e Chairman of t h e State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) before her ministerial appointment. Challenges Though, the Water Resources Ministry has never been known to be functional to most Nigerians. Every preceding year, the taps run dry even when provision of water has been identified as one of the essentials of life.

Ministry of Communication Technology, Omobola Olubusola Johnson

She holds a Bachelor ’s degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Manchester and a Master ’s degree in Digital Electronic from King’s College, London. Omobola Johnson joined Accenture, then Andersen Consulting in 1985. Within the two decades she was at Accenture, she rose through the ranks from a Director to the Head of

the Financial Services operating group in Nigeria and eventually emerged as the Managing Director. Challenges As the Minister of the newly created Ministry, Information and Communication Technology, Omobola Johnson has issues to grind particularly in areas of ISPON, NCS, regulation and standardisation of ICT practice and keen watch of GSM operators. So far, many things still need to be attended to in this ministry particularly in the area of GSM operators who short-changed subscribers. Also, the issue of Mast installation among others.

Minister of Environment – Hadiza Ibrahim Mailafa

Since her assumption of office as Minister, Hadiza Mailafa has to contend with the hydra head problem of erosion in the South East, desert encroachment in the North and raging flood in the South West. Trying moments Her most trying periods was the recent ocean surge in Nigeria which left many towns and villages submerged, threatened wildlife and left many people homeless. It was obvious, that the minister was overwhelmed by the enormity of the crisis. Not much was recorded to have been done by her ministry in that regard.

Defence

Erelu Olusola Obada – Minister of State,

She was former Deputy Governor and an astute politician. Her appointment into the Defence Ministry attracted sharp criticisms. Though, Erelu Obada has demonstrated that no ministry is an exclusive preserve for male. However, she still battle to save the face of her ministry in tackling the insurgence of terrorism and other security challenges in the country.

Professor Ruquyyatu Rufai – Minister of Education

She is a Professor of History, an Academics par excellence. This, no doubt puts her in a proper stand to manage the falling standard of education. But the paucity of funds budgeted to the ministry as against the UN recommended annual budgetary allocation to education has not created a smooth ride for the minister. Professor Rufai still has to confront head on the falling standard of education at the primary, secondary and tertiary institutions. Every year, students of secondary schools performed abysmally at the West African School Certificate Examination (WASC). Available statistics, showed that no fewer than 20 per cent of them get credit pass in English language and Mathematics which are core subjects for further studies.

Also, the issues of poor funding of Nigerian universities and lack of learning tools in tertiary institutions are burden she has to carry with the little budgetary allocations. The state of the nation’s universities is nothing to write home about.

Ms. Ama Pepple – Minister, Lands and Housing She hails from the Niger Delta. Until her appointment, she was head of the Civil Service. Ms. Pepple has been battling the issue provision of House and Lands particularly in already congested area as Abuja. Though, most of her critics will argue that she has not made much impact in her ministry. But the wanton destruction of estates in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as illegal structure may be the voice of Jacob but the hand of Esau. There is need to still define a clear lands and housing policies for Nigeria and Nigerians.

Hajiyya Ibrahim Kuchi – Minister of State, Niger Delta Affairs

Her appointment elicited strong criticism. She was initially described as misfit for the office. Hajiyya Kuchi may not be familiar with the peculiarities of people in the region and their problems.Today, the Niger Delta Ministry with huge budgetary allocations is still enmeshed in an unending crisis of uncompleted and abandoned projects, huge debts owned contractors and alleged corruption.

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012—59

The dream of a female President is still a long journey —Odumakin

he large presence of women in President Jonathan’s government cannot be attribut ed to moves to meeting the Beijing’s women declaration in China which sought 35% affirmative action in both elective and appointive positions. Renowned human rights activist, Joe Odumakin in this interview with CHARLES ADINGUPU dashed the hope of an emerging women’s president in Nigeria despite the large number of women’s participation in politics. Are they enough women’s representation in Jonathan’s government? Well, in elective position, NO, but in appointive position YES. The increase in numbers of women ministers did not come by accident; it can be attributed to political will on the part of the present government to ensure women are adequately represented in governance. One of the campaign promises of President Jonathan was to implement 30% affirmative action once he is elected. While he was unable to achieve this in elective positions he ensured that women were considered in appointive positions. However, the political will was fueled by years of consistent and unrelenting advocacy and awareness created by women organizations and development partners for more women in governance. There have been various initiatives and programmes by women organizations to bring the issue of increasing the numbers of women in Political and appoint- der Policy in 2006. The Nigerian genive positions to the front burner of polit- der policy which was adopted by the ical discourse since the beginning of the government in 2006 provides that 35% present democratic dispensation. of all elective and appointive positions Women have over the years advocated in Nigerian should be reserved for womfor the inclusion of 30% affirmative en . Does the number of women minisaction in favour of women in the Nigerian constitution. While they are yet to ters already meet the Beijing’ womachieve this during the various constitu- en’s declaration? No, the present situation does not tional review processes, they were able to achieve this through the Nigerian gen- satisfy the Beijing’s position. The posi-

I am sure that with the several efforts by women groups this time around, a woman president may emerge in Nigeria sooner than expected

tion from Beijing was 35% affirmative action in both elective and appointive positions. The Nigerian Gender Policy which was adopted in 2006 also provides that 35% of all elective and appointive positions in Nigeria should be reserved for women. So we cannot say that the number of women ministers in Jonathan’s administration have met the Beijing recommendation. How will you assess their performance so far? Well, so far so good, I do not think they are doing badly but the challenges of the system are still there. So these challenges in the civil service may affect them here and there but from what we are have seen so far as regards the women in the cabinet I think there are pulling their weights. Any hope of a woman emerging as President of Nigeria in the nearest future? From the look of things that may not

I don’t keep record of female ministers – Ayo Obe

uman rights activists, Ayo Obe may not be satisfied with the num ber of women in government. Thus far, the much of them in Jonathan’s cabinet has not attracted her attention. In a telephone chat with Saturday Vanguard during the week, the renowned activist said: “I’ve not been keeping records of women in Jonathan’s government. So, I can’t say much about them or their performance in governance.” However, she promised to keep tab on Nigerian’s women in government moreso, if they feature more regularly in prominent positions.

happen in the immediate, but I am sure that with the several efforts by women groups this time around, a woman president may emerge in Nigeria sooner than expected. The move by women organizations under the National Affirmative Coalition (NAAC) and the More women group (MWG) are initiatives which has boosted the political will of the present government to increase the number of women ministers. The NAAC is currently working with the national assembly and almost all the states houses of assembly of the federation to ensure the passage into law of Gender Equality and opportunities Bill. This bill if passed into law will give legal teeth to the affirmative action provisions in the National gender policy. The More women group is on ground to continue the awareness creation, build capacity and support women to continue to aspire to political positions. The more women group maintains a continuously updated list of qualified women who can be appointed into any political positions. Do you see the women ministers as being dominated by the men? The women ministers cannot be dominated by the men, each person has been appointed into positions with portfolios so I do not see how a man will dominate a woman. The women who have been appointed are experts in their various fields. They are women who have proved themselves, they are well educated and intelligent so how will men dominate them?

“I’ve not been keeping records of women in Jonathan’s government. So, I can’t say much about them or their performance in governance.”

60 — SATURDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 8, 2012

Pacquiao could make more than $25 million against Marquez

television money, that will easily put Pacquiao over $25 million, duBoef said. DuBoef said closed circuit locations that show the bout are up from the 2011 fight between them, continuing what he said was a trend in Pacquiao fights. He said that despite the controversial result in his June 9 loss to Timothy Bradley, interest in Pacquiao doesn’t seem to have waned. “We’re getting more of

the bars and restaurants, the chains, the Hooters, the Buffalo Wild Wings, places like that, buying the fight,” duBoef said. “If [interest in Pacquiao is decreasing], I am not seeing it.”

ANNY Pacquiao will make in excess of $25 million for fighting Juan Manuel Marquez today at the MGM Grand Garden and could reach $30 million if the fight does a brisk business, Top Rank president Todd duBoef said. Pacquiao’s guarantee on the Nevada Athletic Commission contract is $8.595 million, executive director Keith Kizer said Wednesday. Marquez will earn a guarantee of $3 million. But pay-per-view boxers like Pacquiao and Marquez earn much more than their guarantees. Manny Pacquiao will make about $25 million for fighting Juan Manuel Marquez (Chris Farina/Top Rank)Pacquiao will get a large chunk from his upside on HBO Pay-Per-View sales, which are expected to exceed 1 million and could equal the 1.3 million sales he reached for his Nov. 12, 2011, bout with Marquez. Adding in foreign •Pacquiao

Wheelchair basketball federation wants festival action BY JACOB AJOM

RESIDENT of the Wheelchair Basketball Federation of Nigeria, Bukola Olapade has called on the National Sports Commission, NSC to consider the inclusion of the sport among medal scoring events in future National Sports Festivals, beginning from Calabar 2014 Games. Speaking in Lagos Wednesday, the former Ogun State Commissioner for Sports disclosed that wheelchair basketball had featured as demonstration sport in four festivals. “We want to be part of the festival as this sport cannot develop if we are not

fully integrated with the rest of the sports,”he said. He disclosed that the federation had concluded plans for the second Honourable Victor Ochei national championship which will hold in Lagos between February 23 and 25, 2013. “The board has agreed to invite teams from Ghana, Togo and the Republic of Benin to be part of the championship in order to give it the desired competitive edge,” Olapade said. He said the championship has been fixed to coincide with the birthday of their sponsor, Honourable Ochei who is the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.

Furore over handover of Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium to Enugu

NDIGENES of the old Anambra State are bemoaning the alleged hand-over of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu to Enugu State, thus denying Anambra and Ebonyi States, carved out from the old Anambra State part of their legacy. According to one of the indgenes who spoke to Saturday Vanguard Sports, “it is unfair for the Federal Government to handover the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium to Enugu State. The stadium is part of the legacy of the old Anambra State to which Enugu, Ebonyi and the present day Anambra

States belong. When Anambra and Ebonyi were carved out, the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium was not part of the assets shared by the States so it is wrong for it to be handed over to Enugu. If Ebonyi could build their own Stadium why is Enugu unable to build theirs.” The embittered official said the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium is like the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan and the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna and yet they have not been handed over to the States they are located in.

SATURDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 8, 2012 — 61

EKO 2012: Track judges engage in sharp practice T

RACK judges at the Eko 2012 National Sports Festival cast a shadow on the track events of the 18th National Sports Festival with cases of ‘results fixing’. During the course of the races there were myriads of complaints from athletes and coaches whose results were down scaled while some others who failed to measure up were uplifted. “It is a shame what we saw here. At this present time of our development this can still be happening? The judges came under the influence of States who want their athletes to progress when they had not gotten the right result,”

said former sprinter and Ondo State athletics coach, Lawrence Adejuigbe. However, vice president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, AFN, Jide Josaih blamed the development on faulty equipment. He said the track judges had to be engaged as the device that could have given accurate timing and finishing of the athlete was not in use. “We have ‘MacFinish’ but when it was being conveyed to the venue it developed a fault. There was no other alternative than to rely on the track judges and of course they can be subjected to inducement,”he said.

Ojokolo roots for grassroots coaching •Slams sports seminars, retreats

ORMER national sprinter, Endurance Ojokolo stated that she was desirous of arming herself with the requisite qualification and training that will make her one of Nigeria’s best grassroots coach. The Delta-born athlete argued that she was doing so because the country was currently lacking in the area of grassroots development of athletes, hence the seeming decay. “Grassroots coaching, that is one area we need to focus on. We need to bring up athletes if we are to return to the path of glory. During my time, there were all kinds of junior competitions. It was from those competitions that a whole lot of athletes like myself emerged and we had coaches and administrators who knew what it took to develop an athlete. This is why I’m eager to get IAAF certification to specialize in grooming of kids. There is so much talents around the country. Instead of organizing meaningless sports retreats and seminars that will end up enriching certain individuals, we should get down to the basics of developing our athletes. She added that ex-internationals should refocus their energies in grooming young athletes. “It will be very nice to see our top

athletes like Mary Onyali, Yusuf Ali, Falilat Ogunkoya going into coaching or doing something to help the process. All I can see are former athletes, just milling around when there is so much to be done. “With our names, you can just imagine what kind of impact we will have on the kids. Nigeria gave so much to us and I feel that it is our duty to give back to the kids coming behind,” said Ojokolo, who is Rivers State sprint coach.

•Ojokolo

Shortage of athletes hits Lagos

ko 2012 revealed that Lagos State is facing a shortage of quality athletes and they are looking up to new coaching recruit, Lee Evans to spark an athletics revival. Coach Lee Evans disclosed at the National Stadium Lagos that there was so much work to be done, if Lagos hopes to close the gap between it and other States like Rivers and Delta who dominated the athletics events of the National Sports Festival. “Lagos has no quality athletes and this is what we are going to be

working on before the next sports festival,” said the former 400m world record holder. He added that grassroots development programmes have been lined up to discover trainable athletes. “Apart from this, I will also be conducting classes for local coaches at the Lagos State University. This is to update the coaches on modern coaching techniques. With this we should be able to compete favourably at the next National Sports Festival,” said the coach.

62 — SATURDAY VANGUARD,DECEMBER 8, 2012

AGOS State commissioner for sports, Enitan Oshodi declared during the week that they were satisfied with the performances of the State’s contingent at the 18th National Sports Festival tagged Eko 2012.

SATURDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 8, 2012 — 63

Lagos gives up on medal chase Oshodi who was speaking at the Teslim Balogun Stadium stressed that Lagos never made any issue about hosting and winning

considering the fierce battle for medals by States which have money to spend on poaching athletes. “I’m glad that we

dominated in table tennis and boxing. These are sports we have strong dominance and for me we are quite satisfied with our performances,” said the host commissioner.

Eko 2012: Poor officiating gives boxing poor rating, says Nwamuda BY EDDIE AKALONU

S the 18th National Sports Festival draws to a close, coach Sunny Nwamuda has blamed the poor rating of boxing by stake-holders on very bad officiating by the judges. According to him the, “judges never judged fights well, there were lots of fights where an acclaimed winner was declared loser giving the impression the technical officials ran personal fulfilling agenda and I felt it was not good for the sport. We saw boxers demoralised and frustrated before getting into the ring because there was that belief that no matter how hard you tried, judges would give it to a predetermined opponent. I did not know if they did it for money but my impression is that boxing was critically damaged. Nwamuda, who fought as middleweight in the professional ranks in his

days, said “it’s not as if the coaches did not do their jobs well, we saw willing boxers in the ring , though in some cases there was poor anticipation by boxers, wrestling and slapping in some fights but the snag was very poor officiating. If we had good officiating, I think there would be good reason to be happy. I will say may be, the boxing federation and the National Sports Commission did not relay a clear-cut message to the officials about the agenda of the festival. Nwamuda however, said he identified good fighters during the event “I saw at least two potentials among the pack that fought in the festival. One is super heavyweight Osamade who represented Abia and one other from Delta whom I can’t recall his name. They will need further grooming because both are good.”

DODGE... Ntoyen Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom(right) dodges a punch from Lagos State’s Olaide Fijabi who went on to win the 64kg men’s bout 22-2 at the Rko 2012 Games which will be rounded off tomorrow.

Benue’s Rosary clinging Paul ends Bikom’s dream BY ONOCHIE ANIBEZE

IS first name is Christian and his surname is Paul. Still, he needed attachment to his rosary to prove his faith. He hung the rosary around his neck but constantly kissed the crucifix and made sign of the cross. After losing the first set, he put the crucifix in his mouth while serving and rallying. He made the rosary part of his game and uttered prayers while returning to the baseline after every point. The name of the game was drama and Albert Bikom of Delta and Christian Paul of Benue State lived it all on the centre court of the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club yesterday. In contention was the gold medal for men’s singles event of the National Sports Festival that ends tomorrow here in Lagos. It was an exciting game that was 15 minutes short of three hours and the two players were differently attended to by the medical team. Albert won his first serve in the first set and broke Christian to lead 2-0 and went on to serve out the

*Christian Paul (Photo by Henry Unini) first set at 6-2. Christian had more power and better strokes but Albert played more with his brain. But he needed more physical fitness to help his mental alertness. And when Christian changed his game to match and surpass what Albert was doing he looked more prepared for the day although it was a tight match. Albert’s placement of the ball was clinical but what earned him more points was his ability to return more balls while

Christian committed many unforced errors. Albert spun high balls and Christian apparently found this awkward and didn’t have the patience to rally on. It worked for Albert in the first set and greater part of the second set where he blew two match points. He led 5-4 and was serving for the match and gold. At deuce he hit a drop shot into the net and double faulted for Christian to level the game at 5-5. Interestingly he broke Christian im-

mediately to lead 6-5 but couldn’t hold serve again, forcing the match into a tie-break that Christian won at 7-5. The two players appeared more comfortable at breaking each other’s serve than holding theirs. Albert broke Christian three times and Christian broke him four times all in one set. It was simply dramatic. Christian was a more aggressive player and he hit some great passing shots. Albert preferred to rally on for Christian to make mistakes. And he repeatedly hit high balls which appeared sloppy but good enough to be frustrating Christian. And as the match dragged on Albert needed endurance to hang in that way but Christian showed that he was very fitter. The third set showed proved it. Albert appeared mentally tired and that boosted the confidence of Christian who hit winners and Albert dropped some points at the net. When Christian broke Albert to lead 5-4 in the final set, he made sure that he didn’t make the kind of mistakes Albert made on two match points. He served out the match at 6-4 and went flat on the court in celebra-

tion. His Benue colleagues and supporters rushed onto the court to celebrate with this boy of faith. “When I saw what he was doing with his rosary I prayed God to bend the rules,” Albert’s mixed doubles partner, Maria Lodge said. “I was once losing a match at the CBN Open but when I picked up a rosary from a ball boy and wore it the game changed and I won the match. So, this time, I was begging God to bend the rule for us but He didn’t. It’s okay, we played well gen-

erally and we thank God for we are the best tennis team here,” Maria said. She had taken the mixed doubles gold with Albert. Delta also won the men’s doubles gold, a silver and two bronze medals in girls doubles. It was their best tennis result in the history of sports festival. Imo won the ladies doubles and Rivers won the singles for ladies. “I always have faith in my rosary and God has never failed me,” Albert said. He is the festival tennis champion and will cherish this for long. He played a great game and got judos here and there.

SATURDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 8, 2012

Eko 2012 Special: Lagos, Cr oss Riv er Cross River er,, in soccer gold chase • Erico speaks BY BEN EFE

ORMER Eagles’ assistant coach, Joe Erico has been thrown into an emotional spin as Lagos State takes on Cross River State in the final of the 18th National Sports Festival football event that will be decided today at the Agege Stadium in Lagos. The veteran coach who was also a former goal keeper of the national team hails from Cross River, but he has been offering technical advise to the Lagos team. Erico said that the prospect of playing against his home State for the prestigious soccer gold has been giving him goose pimples. “My heart is with Cross River, but I want Lagos to win. I have been working with Lagos for a long time now and so naturally I want to them to get the gold. “ I have a lot of respect for the Cross River team. They are very young and enterprising, and you know that during my time as coach that is what I have always craved for.

“However, it is only after 90 minutes of football that we can really tell who the winner is,” said the coach respected for the flair the teams he coached had Cross River coached by Ntiero Effiong edged out Delta State in a thrilling semi-final. Cross River won 7-6 after a pro-longed penalty shoot-out. Lagos equally had a tempestuous semi-final against Kwara State.

Sports Festival hits sour notes BY TONY UBANI

ANY states are counting their blessings as the 18th National Sports Festival draws to a rousing end tomorrow but not without hisses and sighs and allegations of gang-ups, discrepancies, unethical conducts by officials and some states. Defending Champions, Rivers State took stock of their outing yesterday and praised the

18TH NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL (EKO 2012) MEDALS TABLE SN

STATE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37

Delta Rivers Lagos Edo Bayelsa Ondo Plateau Oyo Ogun Ebonyi Akwa Ibom Imo Jigawa Niger Cross River FCT Kano Nasarawa Bauchi Kaduna Abia Enugu Benue Kwara Ekiti Osun Kogi Kebbi Anambra Borno Zamfara Yobe Taraba Katsina Adamawa Gombe Sokoto TOTAL

FANTASTIC ... Rivers State athlete, Miss Esiekpe Young, flying over the bar during High Jump event at the 18th National Sports Festival held Thursday at National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos. Photo by: Kehinde Gbadamosi

MEDALS WON Gold Silver 79 70 54 40 34 32 19 13 16 14 11 6 6 8 6 6 5 13 5 3 4 12 4 11 4 1 4 1 3 8 3 7 3 4 3 1 2 2 2 2 1 4 1 3 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 275 274

Bronze 48 46 46 27 13 16 15 9 24 3 16 11 5 3 11 4 10 1 6 6 7 6 14 6 5 2 3 0 2 2 0 4 1 3 2 2 2 381

TOTAL 197 140 112 59 43 33 29 21 42 11 32 26 10 8 22 14 17 5 10 10 12 10 17 8 7 4 4 1 4 4 2 5 2 3 2 2 2 930

*Rivers alleges gang-up against them *Says we’re Jamaica of Nigerian sports spartan spirit of their athletes and officials but alleged that there was a gang-up to stop Rivers from defending their crown. Sports Commissioner, Fred Igwe who praised Lagos for a good organisation, however, regretted attitudes that pointed to the fact of sabotage and gang-up against Rivers State. ‘’They disqualified one of our star swimmer, Duotimi Gagbe when the Main Organising Committee differed that they should not have disqualified her”. Duotimi won nine gold medals in swimming when Rivers hosted and got N4.5 million as reward for her efforts from Governor Rotimi Amaechi. Another sour point that Igwe pointed out yesterday was in Basketball. ‘’We were leading

10 minutes to the end against Lagos State and suddenly they switched off the lights in Rowe Park. Our basketballers were harassed and intimidated. When the lights were restored, we went ahead to win but questions should be asked on why the lights were switched off”, he said. That’s not all. Four Wrestlers of Rivers, potential gold medal winners absconded without any trace with allegations that some states paid them handsomely to abandon Rivers. The four wrestlers of Bayelsa origin were registered by Rivers and got their upfront payments before the festival. “There are rumours of unwholesome acts of offering money to athletes to rock the boat. They are rumours but our Gov-

CROSS WORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1.Niger State Capital (5) 5.LGA in Kaduna State (5) 8.State in Nigeria Known as “The Big Heart?” (5) 9.Ethnic Group in Nigeria (5) 10.Indian Currency Unit (5) 11.Former Cameroun “Indomitable Lions” Striker, Patrick (5) 12.Former Nigerian Star Actress, Regina (5) 13.LGA in Anambra State (5) 1 6 . Kogi State Governor, Idris (4) 2 0 . LGA in Osun State (6) 2 3 . Former Senate President, Adolphus (6) 2 7 . Container (4) 2 9 . Indian Religion (5) 3 2 . Musical Instrument (5) 3 3 . Oman Currency Unit (5) 34.Japanese Premiership Clubside (5) 35.Christian Holy Book (5) 36.LGA in Niger State (5) 37.Attorney General and Minister of Justice Mohammed (5) 38.Minister of State for Defence, Erelu Olusola (5) DOWN

1.Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Aminu (7) 2.Super Eagles Defender, Obiorah (7) 3.State in Nigeria (7) 4.Fruit (6) 5.Country in Asia (5) 6.Cereal (5) 7.Former Super Eagles Striker, Victor (5) 1 4 . Comprehend (3) 15.Battle (3) 1 7 . Insect (3) 18.Beard of Barley (3) 2 1 . Water Sport (3) 22.Young Goat (3) 2 4 . Akwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill (7) 25.State in Nigeria Known as “Home for All”? (7) 26.Former Abia State Governor, Frank (7) 2 8 . LGA in Ebonyi State (6) 29.Major Ethnic Group in Nigeria (5) 30.Adamawa State Governor, Muritala (5) 3 1 . K a n o P i l l a r s St r i k e r, Mannir (5)

ernor will not be happy to hear that we are involved in unethical acts. By and large, we did well against all odds. We won the star events of the 100 m in athletics, winning gold and silver. We are the Jamaica of the Sports festival. We cleared the medals in Abula, female Volleyball, Handball and performed creditably well in the face of intimidation. We salute our athletes and we still remain the powerhouse of sports in Nigeria”, Igwe backed by his officials said,saluting the spirit of fair play exhibited by Rivers State, a state that shattered all the records of the festival with first class infrastructures, unparallelled welfare for officials and athletes and winning the festival without hisses and sighs.

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SOLUTION on page 63

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