Saturday Vanguard 21 June 2014

2—SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014—3

4—SA TURD AY 4—SATURD TURDA

Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

PHOTO NEWS Service of Songs for late Madam Ariteshoma Abeji Amuka-Pemu

The Service of Songs for Late Madam Ariteshoma Abeji Amuka-Pemu, mother of Mr Sam Amuka, Publisher of Vanguard Newspapers took place at the Anthony Village Sports Ground, yesterday in Lagos. Photos:Joe Akintola, Lamidi Bamidele, Bunmi Azeez and Akeem Salau

From left; Hajia Nene Lanval; Mr Sam Amuka, publisher of Vanguard Newspapers; Mrs Helen Ovbiaghele and Mr Bruce Ovbiaghele

From left; Mr Fred Dudu, Son in Law; Mr Sunny Aminaghan, Son in Law; Mrs Chuko Aminaghan, daughter; Mrs Oyindamola Amuka; Mr Sam Amuka, son and publisher of Vanguard Newspapers; Mrs Rita Amuka; Mrs Helen Israel Amuka; Mrs Helen Amuka-Pemu; Mr Godfrey Amuka-Pemu and Mrs Victoria Amuka-Pemu

From left; Venerable Emmanuel Fregene; Pastor Ayodeji Jeremiah; Pastor Ituah Ighodalo and Pastor Johnson Omomadia and his wife Pastor Ese

From left; Alhaji Saliu Ehimeakhe; Mr Sam Amuka; Dr Yemi Ogunbiyi and Mr Gbenga Adefaye

From left; Mr Frank Ogbemi; Chief (Mrs) Tessa Ikimi and Professor Wole Soyinka

From left; Chief (Mrs) Rita Lori-Ogbebor; Mr Frank Ogbemi and Chief (Mrs) Tessa Ikimi

From left; Publisher of Guardian Newspaper, Lady Maiden Alex-Ibru; Mrs Cecilia Ibru and Pastor Ituah Ighodalo.

From left; Senator Bode Olajumoke; Ojoye Oma Eyewuoma, Aboludero of Warri and Hon Dimeji Alhaji Kabiru Turaki Nupe and Alhaji Ahmed Bankole, former Speaker House of Reps Mohammed, Turaki Nupe (right)

From left; Mrs Fanny Da-Silva; Chief (Mrs) Cecilia Ibru; Mrs Tobi Odunaiya and Mrs Meg Akpokabayen

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014 — 5

Nigeria’s democracy under threat —APC •Warns against plot to arrest Governor Fayemi today •Raises alarm to international communities •Four vehicles used to block my plane from flying out at Akure Airport – Amaechi žIts a lie Federal Government

BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN, Political Editor, BEN AGANDE,

AND OLAYINKA AJAYI

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ESS than 48 hours af ter the Chief of Defense Staff, CDS, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh dismissed as untenable, rumours in some quarters of a possible coup d’etat in the country, the All Progressives Congress, APC yesterday called on the international community and Nigerians to prevail on President Goodluck Jonathan not to derail the country’s democracy.

The APC also warned of a plot to use soldiers to put Governor Kayode Fayemi, its candidate in today’s election in Ekiti State under house arrest.

Badeh affirmed the commitment of the Nigerian military to the defence of the nation’s democracy because, the military, he said, is an arm of democracy. He dismissed as untenable, rumours in some quarters of a possible coup d’etat in the country, affirming the commitment of the Nigerian military to defend democracy in its entirety. .

Also, the former Chief of Army Staff, Lt-.Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, yesterday asked the elites to avoid statements that could lead to violence if peace was to reign in the country.

Ihejirika spoke in Abuja at public presentation of The Pursuit of Providence, a Biography of Air Marshal Mohammed Umar, former Chief of Air Staff, written by Mr Madu Onuorah.

However, the APC at a news conference asked the international community and other Nigerians to intervene and save the country’s democracy following the alleged harassment of its governors by agents of the Federal Government.

The party made the declaration just as Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State gave details of how he was on Thursday threatened with gun shots by soldiers he said were ordered to specifically keep him out of the APC rally in Ekiti on that day. Amaechi said four vehicles were put on the runway of the Akure Airport to frustrate those who came for the APC rally in Ekiti from flying

L-R: Titi Ebinisi, Head, Dealers’ Incentives, Globacom, Mrs Francesca Emmanuel, Chairperson, Lumina Foundation Board of Trustees; Kamaldeen Shonibare, Head Corporate Sales, Globacom and Dr. Ogochukwu Promise Founder, Lumina Foundation at the press conference to unveil the final three authors in contention for the Wole Soyinka Prize for Literature in Africa, sponsored by Globacom in Lagos, recently. back.

Nigeria’s democracy threatened The newly elected national chairman of the party, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun who led some of the national officers of the party, including the National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Governor Amaechi, Senator Bukola Saraki among others to the world press conference in Lagos which he said was called to “alert Nigerians and our international friends of the grave threat posed to our democracy and indeed the very survival of our nation by an increasingly-tyrannical federal government.”

Noting recent developments leading to today’s gubernatorial election in Ekiti State, Odigie-Oyegun said it was doubtful a free and fair contest would prevail given what he said was the militarisation of the state.

“The final electioneering campaign of our candidate in the Ekiti election, Gov. Kayode Fayemi, provided the perfect setting for the Jonathan-led administration to bare its fangs with a series of arbitrariness and unconstitutional acts that threaten the very fabric of our d e m o c r a c y .

“First, several APC Governors were prevented from attending the rally.

The helicopter that was to ferry Gov. Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State from Benin to Akure was denied permission to take off by the aviation authorities apparently

acting on orders from above.

“Then while the plane bearing Gov. Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State, who is also the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, was allowed to land at the Akure Airport, his convoy was stopped by soldiers at the border of Ondo and Ekiti state, and ordered to return to Akure by the leader of the troops, an army captain who said he was under orders not to allow him into Ado Ekiti and threatened to shoot him if he defied his orders.

“Gov. Amaechi was detained along the road in the bush for as long as it suited the soldiers before he was forced to return to Akure. While the Governor was being detained on the road, the convoys of the Minister of Police Affairs and the Minister of State for Defence sped past and were not stopped by the troops.

“Against this background, my party, the APC, doubts very seriously whether a free, fair, credible and transparent elections can be held in Ekiti on Saturday .

“Beyond the elections, we are concerned that the PDP-led federal government has grown so desperate to capture Ekiti State at all cost that it is willing to do anything, and I mean anything, to scuttle the electoral process and even threaten the very survival of our country,” he said.

Whlie alerting Nigerians

to the alleged plans of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP led administration, Odigie-Oyegun further said: “We call on our international partners to condemn this growing impunity by the ruling party and the government it controls at the centre.

Actions have consequences, and whoever fails to condemn the acts of impunity being perpetrated by the central government will not have the moral right to condemn the reactions that such actions may elicit.

“We state clearly that our party will not accept the outcome of any election in Ekiti State that does not comply with the best practices. The people of Ekiti must be allowed to vote freely and without molestation for the candidates of their choice on Saturday, and the votes must not only be counted, but they must also count.”

Its a lie- Federal G o v e r n m e n t President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday asked the APC to do soul searching of itself instead of crying wolf where there was none.

The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr Reuben Abati made this known while reacting to the call

by APC on the international community to intervene and save the country ’s democracy, which it said was being threatened by Jonathan.

Continues on Page 6

Tears as Arisekola goes home

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HE ancient city of Ibadan literally stood still on Friday as the remains of the late Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Abdul-Azeez Arisekola Alao, were buried amidst wailing and crying.

The main bowl of the Lekan Salami Sports Complex where prayers were held for the late Islamic leader was thronged by eminent personalities from across the country, representatives of the federal government, politicians, religious leaders, community leaders and the ordinary folks.

The body of the late business mogul and philanthropist, which had arrived in Nigeria from the United Kingdom, was received at the Ibadan end of the Lagos-Ibadan toll gate by Governor Abiola Ajimobi, his wife, Florence and other dignitaries from where it

was driven to the Lekan Salami Sports Complex.

Some of the people who thronged the stadium to pay their last respect to the late Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, could not hold back their tears, as his corpse arrived the sports complex at exactly 10.05 am.

On hand to receive the corpse were his children, some of his associates and religious leaders including the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Chief Kola Daisi, Mr. Oba Otudeko, Chief Ebenezer Obey, Justice Bola Babalakin, Gen. David Jemibewon, Gen. Raji Rasaki, Chief Yekini Adeojo, Senator Teslim Folarin, Chief Rotimi Akeredolu and Mr. Musiliu Smith among others.

From left: Federal Government delegation of Mr. Musiliu Obanikoro, Mr. Ademola Adeniji, Mr. Abduljeli Adesiyan at the Janazah prayer for Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland Abdulazeez Arisekola at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex Ibadan yesterday.

From left: Governors Rauf Aregbesola, Osun, former Governor Lagos State, Bola Tinubu, Abiola Ajimobi, Oyo, Ibikunle Amosun, Ogun State at the Janazah prayer for Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland Abdulazeez Arisekola-Alao at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex Ibadan yesterday.

L-R: Widows, Mrs. Serifat Arisekola and Taibat Arisekola at the final burial ceremony of Late Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Azeez Arisekola Alao held at Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan yesterday.

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SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

Impeachment: Nyako begs in Abuja •Why we froze Adamawa accounts — EFCC •Alleges massive cash withdrawals

BY SONI DANIEL, NORTHERN REGION EDITOR, HENRY UMORU AND UMAR YUSUF

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HE Adamawa State governor, Admiral Murtala Nyako and his Deputy, Mr James Bala Ngilari were yesterday said to be in Abuja, begging to be saved from impeachment by members of the state House of Assembly.

The House, Wednesday accused the Nyako and Ngilari of gross misconduct in its notices of impeachment on the two leaders. The notices, it was gathered would now be served through substituted service.

However, this was even as the Adamawa State government yesterday said that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, had frozen its accounts in all the commercial banks in the country.

The embattled governor yesterday visited former Vice President Atiku

Abubakar, begging him to intervene in the political imbroglio.

Nyako was said to have visited Atiku along with to the former Chairman of the EFCC, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and the Chairman, Adamawa State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Hon. Binta Koji.

Sources told Saturday Vanguard that the trio went into a closed door meeting soon after the governor arrived the former Vice President’s residence.

Atiku, who travelled to South Africa for the inauguration of the country’s parliament, returned to the country at about 7 pm yesterday ostensibly to also play a fatherly role in the matter.

It was gathered that Atiku would beg the legislators to sheathe their swords by saving the jobs of both the governor and his deputy. ”Where this fails, we hope that the former vice president will ask his loyalists to withdraw their sig-

L-R: Minister for Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo (l) receiving a plaque as the Guest Lecturer from the Chairman Turkish Nile University, Mr. Hikmet Cobam while the Vice Chancellor, Prof.

Huseyin Sert (r) applauds after delivering the 2nd Convocation Lecture of the University at the University Hall, Abuja. Photo by Abayomi Adeshida.

natures. Once he does that, the impeachment process will collapse because the requisite number for it to continue will have been lost,” a source close to the meeting said.

According to the source, both Nyako, Ngilari and the legislators were in Abu-

ja for the reconciliation meeting.

Apart from Atiku’s alleged intervention, it was also gathered that the Northern Nigerian Governors’ Forum, NNGF, also met to resolve the issues at stake and save him from being impeached just as the Senator representing Taraba North, Senator Aisha Jummai Al - Hassan reportedly called a meeting of senators from the North East to intervene in the matter.

However, the Adamawa State Commissioner for Justice, Mr Ibrahim Tahir, told newsmen in Yola yesterday that the EFCC had written the state to the effect that it had frozen all the bank accounts of the state government in com-

mercial banks.

The EFCC said it ‘’froze the accounts as a precautionary measure to safeguard the state treasury

Ekiti 2014: It is D-Day *Heavy security presence *Voters relocate to bases *Offices, shops under lock and key

BY DAPO AKINREFON

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HE much-awaited governorship elections in Ekiti State will commence in earnest today.

Electioneering campaigns were halted about 24 hours ago in accor-

Democracy is endangered Continued from page 5 Abati said, “it is absolutely wrong to accuse this administration of repression. If anything, this administration has been most tolerant of opposition and most respectful of everybody’s right of association. This accusation cannot stand at all. ”Where elections are concerned, it is a matter of public record that President Jonathan is committed to free and fair elections and the integrity of elections. This is in fact one of the major areas of achievements of his administration. ”On the Ekiti State election or any other elections, the Federal Government is committed to one man, one vote; one woman, one vote; and one youth, one vote which is President

amid evidence of barefaced looting uncovered in an on- going investigation.”

According to sources at the Commission, there was massive looting of the state treasury by top officials of state government, a development that led to the arrest and questioning of the Secretary to the State Government, the Commissioner for Finance, former Commissioner for Local Government (now Commissioner for Higher Education), the Accountant General of the State and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Local Government.

“In the course of investigation, a critical analysis of local government accounts revealed massive cash withdrawals,’’ it said last night.

The government further said that apart from freezing the accounts, the Presidency had also ordered securitymen to monitor Nyako’s movements.

Members of the Adamawa State House of Assembly, Tuesday, gave impeachment notices to both Nyako and Ngilari over alleged fraudulent activities running into several billions of Naira.

Jonathan’s concept. ”At the same time, the security agencies have an obligation to ensure that people who would rather compromise the integrity of the process are not allowed to do so. ”Rather than cry wolf where there is none, it is the APC and its leaders that should embark on soul searching” he said.

He further said that the Jonathan administration remained committed to democracy and its principles.

NLC reacts The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has also described Thursday ’s denial of access to Ekiti State of Governors Adams Oshiomhole and Rotimi Amaechi of Edo and Rivers States respectively ahead of today ’s governorship election in Ekiti, as the height of tyranny.

dance with the 2010 Electoral Act. Today the electorate in the state are expected to cast their votes for candidates of the choice.

Although several parties are contesting the governorship seat, the most prominent ones are the All Progressives Congress, APC, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and the Labour Party, LP. Either of the three parties would win today’s election, dubbed a three horse race.

The APC flag bearer is the incumbent governor, Kayode Fayemi, while the standard bearer for the PDP is a former governor of the state, Ayodele Fayose just as the LP has Opeyemi Bamidele as its torch bearer.

Voters relocate By yesterday, most of the electorates, who registered in their various wards and local government areas had to travel to their bases to cast their votes ahead of today’s polls.

Saturday Vanguard investigation revealed that aside the need to cast their votes in their respective bases, some of the electorates decided to travel to their various hometowns to sensitize voters who are yet to make up their on the candidate or party to vote for.

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014 — 7

Chibok: 219 girls officially missing—FG

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•57 girls escaped Police arrest woman for •Jonathan directs minimum security in all boarding schools in selling baby N30,000 Borno, Yobe and Adamawa the suspect is currently

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he Lagos State Police command has arrested a middle-aged woman for allegedly selling a two-month-old baby for N30,000.

The suspect identified as Mrs Victor according to Police sources was arrested at her residence in Sabo Ilaje area of Lagos, following a tip off.

Police sources at the State Criminal Investigation Department where

BY BEN AGANDE, Abuja

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HE Chairman of Presidential Fact Finding Committee on the abduction of Chibok Girls, Brigadier General Ibrahim Sabo, rtd, yesterday said that 219 girls out of the total 276 who were abducted are still missing, two months after.

The missing girls were abducted from their dormitories at the Government Girls Secondary School, GGSS, Chibok in Borno State on the Wednesday, April 14.

Submitting the report of his committee to President Goodluck Jonathan at the State House, General Sabo said that altogether, 395 girls were in the school on the night of their abduction, adding that 276 girls were actually abducted out of which 57 escaped.

According to him, about 119 girls escaped abduction from the school. ”Mr President, the Committee here wishes to lay to rest any residual doubt whether or not any student was abducted at Chibok. There was mass abduction on the night of April 14, 2014. During the siege on the school, 119 students escaped from the school premises, before the insurgents took away their class-

Edo State House crisis: Okpamen sues for peace SERVICE OF SONGS: The Head of Service, Delta State (left) condoling the wife and children of Late Jacob Gbogidi, a freelance photo journalist with The Guardian newspapers during a service of songs held in his honor in Asaba, Thursday. Photo: Henry Unini mates. ”A total number of 276 students were thus, abducted. As of today, 57 of the abducted students have been reunited with their families after escaping along the zig-zag transport route taken by the insurgents, or by bolting to safety when the insurgents laid-by for a rest.

Sadly, 219 students remain unaccounted for,” he said.

Commenting further on the committee’s report, Sabo said the Presidential Fact-finding Committee received the full co-operation of all the stakeholders, except a Senator from

Borno State.

According to him, a ‘’singular exception was a Senator from Borno who, after agreeing to an appointment with the Committee, turned around to avoid the meeting, on the excuse that he had another appointment, and would thereafter be unavailable for another one month. ”But the senator’s avoidance of an interface with the Committee may well speak to a motive not too difficult to discern. ”Details of the circumstances of GGSS, Chibok, remaining open, in spite

of the ravages of Boko Haram in the state, are contained in the report of the committee. Also contained in the report is the detailed explanation of the pain-staking measures taken by the committee in arriving at the number of students still to be accounted for. ”Permit me, Mr President, to convey the burning hope, wishes, and fervent prayers of the parents and relatives of the abducted schoolgirls, who desire that their daughters and wards be rescued alive and reunited with their families.

Court adjourns Igbo deportees suit to Oct 15

BY INNOCENT ANABA

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Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, yesterday, adjourned till October 15, hearing in the suit by seven Igbo indigenes, challenging their deportation by the Lagos State Government, which they are claiming was a breach of their fundamental rights.

The applicants are also claiming the sum of N1 billion against the respondents jointly and severally, as general damages for breach of their rights.

The plaintiffs are Joseph Aniebonam, Osondu Mbuto, Osondu Agwu, Nnenna Ogbonna, Emily Okoroariri, Friday Ndukwe and Onyeka Ugwu, suing on behalf of 76 others.

Respondents in the suit

being detained, told Crime Guard that there was a complaint that the suspect was engaged in child trafficking. When she was arrested, she confessed to have sold a two month-old baby for N30,000. She is yet to state the name of the buyer nor give us her contact. She still insists she did not know the person.

Investigation is still ongoing Police sources said

are the Attorney-General of Lagos State, and the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State.

Hearing in the matter could not go on yesterday, due to a notice of preliminary objection filed by the Attorney General of Lagos State Government.

The trial judge, Justice Rita Ofili-Ajjumogoia, who noted that the application was not ripe for hearing, adjourned till October 15 to hear same.

The applicants are praying the court to declare that they, as Nigerian citizens, were entitled to their fundamental rights as enshrined in the Constitution.

They are seeking a declaration, that their arrest and detention in various camps in

Lagos in July 2013, and their subsequent deportation to Anambra, on July 24, 2013, for no offence, amounted to a serious breach of their fundamental rights.

The deportees are also seeking an order, man-

dating the respondents to tender a written apology to them by publishing same in three national newspapers continuously for 30 days, for gross violation of their constitutional rights.

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HE Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to the Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Aliu Oshiomhole, Hon Henry Okpamen has called on the members of the Edo State House of Assembly to sheath their sword and return to the business of making relevant laws and provide enabling environment that will enable the Comrade Governor to continue to provide good governance for the people of Edo State.

He made this call while briefing newsmen at a press conference in Benin on Thursday. He stressed that the crisis rocking the Edo State House of Assembly, was engineered by members of the opposition party in the house to unsettle the peace in the House and by extension the state and distract the Comrade Governor from his avowed commitment to transform the state and better the lot of the ordinary man in the streets of Edo State.

Industrial Court orders IGP to re-instate ACP Ozioko

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HE National Industrial Court sitting in Jos, Plateau State yesterday ordered the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar to reinstate an Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP, George Ozioko, who was compulsorily retired in 2009. Delivering its judgment, Justice Rabi Gwanduh held that the evidences before the court showed that Ozioko was compulsorily retired over

a matter for which he was tried in-house and set free by the Police in 2008, adding that it was wrong for the police to retire him for an offence he had earlier been cleared of.

According to the court, the police action was not only unlawful but amounted to a witchhunt. Gwanduh held that Section 169 of the Evidence Act made unlawful for a person to be punished twice for the same offence.

Delta Central endorses Jonathan for second term •As Gbinijie, Ofoye, others decamp to PDP

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HE Peoples Dem ocratic Party ( PDP ), Delta Central Zone has passed a vote of confidence on Président Goodluck Jonathan even as it endorsed the President and Vice President Namadi Sambo for the 2015 Presidential Elections.

The party in a four -day sensitization rally ahead of the planned local government council polls in the

state, also used the opportunity to receive hundreds of defectors and their supporters from other political parties.

Prominent among the defectors were Chief Napoleon Gbinije and Ejiro Ofoye.

Ghinije, a former member of House of Representatives, represented Okpe, Sapele and Uvwie Federal Constituency from 2003 to 2007 on the platform of PDP.

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SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

Rate of Cybercrimes in Nigeria is alarming — NSA

By RICHARD UDOFIA

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ATIONAL security adviser, Sambo Dasuki, yesterday in Lagos admitted that every 9seconds, a Nigerian commits crime on the internet with a sharp rise from 0.9% in the 90s to 9.8% in 2014.

He was represented by Special Services Officer, Alhaji Ibrahim Bamiye, at a forum “National cybersecurity forum”where he said that cyber threat is real as it poses a national threat and indeed obvious at the national level.

The forum was organized by the office of the National Security Adviser made up of stakeholders from the military, technocrats, banking, human right activists among others.

Ibrahim said cybercrime in Nigeria has taken advance form and calls for concerns from relevant security quarters to devise means of curbing the menace.

Ibrahim said, battle against terrorism can best be fought through joint efforts from corporate bodies, various stakeholders and security operatives in the security

department.

Ibrahim said this forum will pave way for sourcing information, sensitizing the public on cybersecurity and formulating strategic theoretical consensus that will promote robust security network for combating crimes of any form.

Director of communications, Office of National security office, Ambassador Wando H. said with the growth in the use of computers and

internet in Nigeria, cybercrimes have risen significantly as well. He complained that hackers, terrorists and other fraudulent persons most times target government establishments and institutions to get attention.

The Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA, has taken significant steps in engaging public-private partnership, incorporation of international law practices, establishment of computer unit in intelligent

gathering to building functional system, drafting and electing prominent members to fill up security council seats in the office of Presidency among others are some of the measures taken to curb crime in Nigeria, Wando said.

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Head, Lagos state command, Mr. Ilisian Quabiyi said that cyberspace is limitless and full of opportunities.

Engaging in crime is no excuse for unemployment.

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HE Economic and Fi nancial Crimes Commission, EFCC, yesterday, closed its case against Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Adeyemi Ikuforiji, who is standing trial alongside his aide, Oyebode Atoye-

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IGERIA’s lady of songs, Onyeka Onwenu, held the massive audience spell bound on a wet Tuesday with two of her scintillating evergreen musical renditions during the ground breaking ceremony of Eagle Heights University, Omadino, Warri South, performed by President Goodluck Jonathan.

It seemed like a musical carnival as “Sisan Odokun” of Omadino community, the Obodo neighbouring community , Ijaw, Urhobo and Itsekiri cultural singers/dancers drawn from the Word of Life Bible Church, took turn to entertain the distinguished

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HE founder of Daru Dawah Islamic centre, Isolo, Sheikh Mustapha Zuglool, has described the late Aare Musulumi of Yoruba land, Alhaji Abdulazeez Alao Arisekola as a star in his own time, adding that his death was a big loss to Islam in Nigeria.

The scholar and writer made this statement while delivering the weekly Friday sermon yesterday in Isolo, said late Arisekola was a rare gem who had dedicated his wealth in the service of God and humanity.

“Allah created some people like cows, chickens; their type will be many in numbers; He created some like lions, elephants; their type in creation will be very few; Allah created eras and star-like people in them.”

“Aare Musulumi was a star in his era. Few are figures who excel in social, business and political landscape with the most important one, religious life. Alhaji Arisekola’s exit is a big loss to Islam in Nigeria.”

BY DEMOLA AKINYEMI

T A container which fell off an articulated vehicle crashing on a moving car, after the truck lost control at Winners bus stop, on Ikorodu-Sagamu expressway in Lagos State yesterday no life was lost.

bi before a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos.

The two are facing money laundering charges.

The matter was initially adjourned for the third prosecution witness to testify, but the prosecutor, told the court of EFCC’s readiness to close its case.

Trial judge, Justice

Ibrahim Buba, consequently adjourned till July 7, 2014 for hearing of the no case submission of the defence.

In all, the EFCC presented two witnesses against the Speaker and his aide.

The are Adebayo Adeniyi, an official of the agency and Adewale Ola-

Why I set up a university — Ayo Oritsejafor

BY EMMANUEL EDUKUGHO, Omadino

Arisekola: A rare gem — Sheikh Zuglool

KWARTMA set to auction impounded 401 motorycles, four vehicles

EFCC closes case on Lagos Speaker’s trial

BY INNOCENT ANABA

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crowd which included Olu of Warri, HRM Ogiame Atuwatse II, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, Ovie of Uvwhie, Orodje of Okpe represented, other traditional rulers and chiefs.

Shofrtly after President Goodluck Jonathan and his entourage brought in by convoy of NAF helicopters walked into the venue, passing through a red carpet already laid down in the water logged environment as overnight rain fell.

Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, Chancellor of the university described the ceremony as a milestone in the annals of Word of Life Bible Church, an academic transformation, reflecting on the motto of the institution which is “Building and

Equipping the People who Build the Nation. He appreciated President Jonathan, Governor Uduaghan, Atuwatse II, Olu of Warri, spiritual leaders, captains of industry, the academia and Omadino community.

He said that the university was not established to join the rest of private universities in the country, but to produce graduates that are productive, God fearing who should be ready to serve the nation.

As to the vision of EHU, it is in threshold of a revolution, to do the impossible. This university of our dream to become the engine room of academic excellence, overhaul the education system, and engage in productive reforms.

tunji, former Permanent Secretary and Clerk of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Adeniyi, had during his testimony, detailed how the defendants allegedly laundered N600 million.

The witness had told the court how the accused persons allegedly collected N13.5 million for honorarium, N4.5 million for renovation of the Speaker’s residence, and N1.5 million for the Speaker ’s Guest House every month for six consecutive months.

Adeniyi informed the court of series of other transactions, which he said the Speaker and his aide carried out by receiving money from the Lagos State House of Assembly without passing through a financial institution.

On his part, Olatunji, told the court that conferences attended by members of the Assembly were based on approval.

Olatunji, who has since retired from the civil service, had that as the then Clerk of the House, he was in charge of its administrative activities, and to some extent, its finance, adding that he also employed the second accused as aide to Ikuforiji.

HE Kwara State Road Traffic Management Authority (KWARTMA) has concluded plans to auction 401 motorcycles impounded by the agency.

Similarly 4 commercial vehicles are also to be put on sale after obtaining court order and completed other necessary processes.

The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Agency,Mr Kola Mustapha Abdulraheem disclosed this in an interview with journalists yesterday shortly after a road show of new operational vehicles procured for the agency by the state government.

He explained that the affected mobiles are being auctioned because the owners refused to come and claim them long after the stipulated period.

Suspected kidnapper invades church in Delta, abducts a child

BY FESTUS AHON, Ughelli

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EN of the 222 battalion of the Joint Military Task Force, JTF, Agbarha-Otor, Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State have arrested a suspected kidnapper for allegedly abducting four years old child from a Pentecostal Church (name withheld) in Ughelli, Delta State last Sunday.

The suspected kidnapper, who according to a dependable source is a relation of the father of the abducted child, lured the child with a fruit drink after bringing the child out of the church by trick.

According to the source who pleaded anonymity said the suspect had armed himself with grinded volume 5, which he emptied into the fruit drink for the unsuspecting child to drink.

Kidnapped mother in law of Bayelsa Speaker regains freedom

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA, Yenagoa

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HE kidnapped 86-years-old mother-in-law of Speaker of Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Mrs Ogboro Orumo (nee) Agah, has been released.

Madam Orumo, was reportedly abandoned at Abua waterside in Rivers State by her captors.

She was identified by security operatives who have been on the trail of the kidnappers since the incident took place, and picked up at about 6.30am yesterday.

Mrs Orumo has since joined her family in Yenagoa.

Security sources said the 86 years old woman was brought to Yenagoa at about 9am and handed over to the Speaker.

SA TURD AY SATURD TURDA

Vanguard , JUNE 21 21, 2014—9

My husband told me horrible stories about Boko Haram before they killed him A SAD ENCOUNTER WITH A LIBERIAN WHOSE NIGERIAN SOLDIER HUSBAND WAS BURNT TO ASHES BY BOKO HARAM

By Our Reporters

her on one side and the rain on the other side.

I

t was a true love story when they met. She was just 15 and her country was in turmoil.

Mayhem was let loose and brothers killed brothers in a civil war that was snowballing into genocide. Could it be worse than Rwanda? It had the potential.

But the international community, perhaps reacted faster than they did in Rwanda and averted what had the potential to be deadlier than what happened in Rwanda.

Many peace-keeping missions invaded Liberia and mustered forces to quell the inferno. Nigeria played a prominent role in ending the Liberian crisis. John(not real name) was among the Nigerian troops in Liberia. He fought wars, stayed in the forests, starved in some cases, escaped bullets from the warring factions but the end justified the means as he was among the heroes that ended the war in Liberia and brought peace to our continent.

It was while fighting the war in Liberia that he met the love of his life. John was in his late 30s and the girl that charmed him was just 15. They became inseparable and got married in Nigeria on John’s return from the mission where he saved lives and properties.

Today, they have three children; the first is eight, the second five and last three years. But where is John?

That 15 year old girl is now 24 and a mother of three. We caught up with her at the Ojo Barracks and she was in tears. Her sorrow seemed limitless.

I did not hear the news of his death until after three weeks. My husband has left me and my children to suffer. I don't know what to do or where to run to. His family members have abandoned us “It’s very painful losing your husband this way.

If this is what life is all about then I don’t really know how to describe it other than nothing.”

At 24 she is now a widow. Her late husband was posted to the North East to fight Boko Haram. The insurgents killed him. And now, like late Koofi Awoonor wrote in Songs of Sorrow, the sun beats

Hear her story: ”It is a painful experience losing one’s husband and yet facing this excruciating situation.”

“I am an orphan. My husband was all I had and that is why I feel very bad that he died in the battle. He had been going to war. There was a time he was instructed to follow a troop to Bayelsa state. He spent three years there battling with the militants. He did not die. He fought in Liberia.

He did not die. He died in his own country in what I still can’t understand.”

Narrating how her husband died, she said, “he was on an escort with his Colonel and other eight soldiers when Boko Haram sect attacked them.

They fell in an ambush. He was said to have been burnt to ashes by the sect. We didn’t see his remains. He was burnt to ashes. How can one survive this sorrow? How can one survive this mental torture?

“In Liberia, soldiers and their families are treated very well. If a soldier dies in Liberia, his family members will be taken care of. His children will be on scholarship up till higher institution.

But, I don’t know if it is the same here in Nigeria.

“The letter I was given indicated that Nigerian government will sponsor my children to school but right now, I don’t know how realistic it is”, she lamented.

Asked if she was satisfied with the Nigerian government on how Nigerian soldiers and their

Continues on page 10

10 — SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

Continues from page 9 families are treated; she said: “I am not satisfied because they are making many women widows. I am already a widow at 24. I am not happy with the Nigerian government.”

“My husband went on the Boko Haram mission on December 23, 2013. When he narrated his mission, I wasn’t comfortable. Each time, he briefed me on the activities, they were always horrible stories. They were horrible stories of how they were killing people, how they were torturing people to death, something you can’t believe human beings will do. My children and I used to pray for him, but unfortunately, he died in the battle five weeks ago.

“I discouraged him from embarking on the Boko Haram assignment but he said, there was nothing he could do to abort the mission because it was the authority that signed him on.

“He told me that he did not want to go, that people die on a daily basis in Maiduguri,that the place is a dangerous zone, unfortunately, he died in that battle”.

“I did not hear the news of his death until after three weeks. My husband has left me and my children to suffer. I don’t know what to do or where to run to. His family members have abandoned us.

“I married him because I loved him. We have been married for eight years. I met him in Liberia when he came for peace keeping mission. It never occurred to me that he was

My children and I used to pray for him, but unfortunately, he died in the battle five weeks ago going to die prematurely. He was born in Kogi State. He was in the military for 21 years before he died.

He joined in 1993. He died and was buried in Maiduguri,” she said, sobbing and tears having a field day rolling down her face to her body.

This is only one of the numerous pathetic cases of families whose bread winners died in the fight against terror in Nigeria.

Some years back terror sounded like a fairytale on our shores. Today, it is real.

Hordes of military men are being killed in the battle against Boko Haram. What happens to such bereaved families?

How insured are our military men who risk their lives to keep Nigeria one and maintain law and order?

For Mrs. Maria Adamson (not real name), whose husband is still in active service, it’s all prayers so that

‘My husband was burnt to ashes

by Boko Haram’

the authorities do not post her husband to troubled spots. Ï’ll just die if anything happens to my husband,” she tells us.

“He receives stipend as salary and I have to sell second hand wears to support him. We always pray that they don’t post him to Maiduguri or any of those states that Boko Haram operates. God will continue to hear our prayers.”

Another widow, Iya Akilo, as she is fondly called within the barracks in Ogun State, narrated her ordeal after the demise of her husband.

“When I lost my husband, I was confused and frustrated.

I have not received a positive response from the military authority on my husband’s gratuity. Getting compensation from the authority seems impossible. I have been going from one office to the other since the incident but there is nothing forth coming.

Soldiers’ lamentation

M

any eulogise the Nigerian military for their performance in peace-keeping missions outside Nigeria. But now that there are crises at home, they appear to be found wanting. Two weeks ago, our cover was on the challenges of the military. They range from poor funding to poor

equipment and to lack of training that has made their intelligence unit fall below par in the war against Boko Haram. Many of their statements also give them away as poorly trained in the area of intelligence gathering and use.

Their challenges continue with the agonies their families face especially when they fall victims of Boko Haram as the Liberian widow captured above. Take this: A Nigerian soldier posted to the battle of Boko Haram reportedly earns additional N30,000 monthly while his counterpart on peace-keeping mission abroad gets $3,000 excluding other allowances. One hundred thousand dollars is paid to the family of any soldier who loses his life in peace-keeping mission abroad. Families of such victims in Nigeria have no clue on any form of compensation. They are not sure of anything. Take another: “In all fairness to the officers and men of the Nigerian Army and Police, they are doing their best given the circumstances they have found themselves in. But honestly, Boko Haram is better armed and is better motivated than our own troops. And believe me, I am an eternal optimist as I have always said, but I am also a realist. Given the present state of affairs, it is absolutely impossible for us to defeat Boko Haram.”

With those words, Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State entered the fiery controversy over the frequent packages of large-scale death and arson delivered to Nigerians by the fundamental Islamic terrorists called Boko Haram.

The words had hardly left Shettima’s lips when reactive fires started flying in against him from different directions. Presidential assistant on Public Affairs, Dr Doyin Okupe, addressed a news conference in Abuja the following day, saying Shettima’s view “is based purely on a civilian perception of the situation at hand,” that “it is clear Governor Shettima does not have the expertise to categorise or classify the effectiveness of any weapon,” and that “the statement on low morale and lack of motivation is equally unfair and misplaced.”

“Whereas insurgents are usually motivated by ideological fanaticism,” said Okupe, “on the contrary, welldisciplined militaries like ours are (supposed to be) spurred by patriotic sense of duty, national pride and strict adherence to professionalism.

Therefore, the morale of troops engaged in this war is high and ought not to be dampened by unsavoury and certainly untrue

Continues on page 11

SA TURD AY SATURD TURDA

‘We fight with our lives, yet our wives and children suffer’ Continues from page 10 comments of low motivation.”

A lot has happened since then to vindicate Shettima. The insurgents have increasingly killed more Nigerians. They have increasingly destroyed more properties. They kidnapped over 200 school girls who are yet to be rescued two months after the incident that has attracted

“Nigeria cannot be that bad to the level of not taking care of the families of soldiers that died in active service for the state global attention. While the government and military appear clueless as to how to rescue the girls, Boko Haram keeps on killing and maiming Nigerians. The military officers are part of the victims of the insurgents. They are fighting, killing the terrorists and also being killed. Families of the victims are wailing. They are Nigerians too.

A soldier, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said that some soldiers deployed to Borno State to fight Boko Haram insurgency never came back. What he said wasn’t new but the agony on his face spoke more than his words.

“It is a pity that the soldiers are not appreciated. Many died in the process. And when a soldier dies,

that is the end of the story. His family members are also forgotten.

We fight with our lives, yet our wives and children suffer.”

“The military authorities only allow the family members to stay in the Barracks for a while, after which they would be ejected. Salaries are stopped after a few months, thereby forcing and subjecting the widows to street trading.

“Soldiers who sustained injuries are also not well taken care of. There are countless wounded soldiers in the military hospitals who have been neglected. They become unimportant due to their health challenges. “Before, there used to be allowances paid to the soldiers but now, it is a sorry story. “I’m not married because I don’t want my family to suffer. The money given is not enough for me, let alone to have a family.

Another soldier lamented that, “there was a time, one of them who was shot in the stomach and admitted at a government hospital was abandoned. “We had to contribute money to pay his medical bills, because he was in pains and could not pay his medical bills.”

Appeal to government The 16 families of policemen killed recently by Boko Haram in Gamboru Ngala attacks have also appealed to the Federal Government and the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Abubakar, to properly equip the police and other security agencies with sophisticated weapons so as to squarely tackle terrorism.

Speaking on behalf of the families of the slain police officers during the presentation of N1 million each to the next-of-kin of the deceased donated by the Borno state Government through the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Tanko Lawal, held at the state Command’s

Vanguard , JUNE 21 21, 2014—11

be adequately cared for, just as he praised the ingenuity of the Nigerian military, describing them as the best in Africa.

Iloh continued: “Our military are doing a great job, but I also think they need to be well taken care of. A good soldier can only fight well when he is well fed. Government should do everything possible to make them happy as well as their families. Our military is the best in Africa, we have gone to several African countries including Europe for peace keeping missions and they succeeded, but the fact remains that you can’t fight what you can’t see.”

The Boko Haram is like a tsetse fly perched on a bunch of broom. And when the broom is lifted for an onslaught, the tsetse fly flies away.

That is why the fight against Boko Haram appears difficult. We have to encourage them, compensate the families of those who lost their lives.

Compensation and support should not be left for the government alone; individuals, corporate and religious organisations should also help them because they have paid the supreme sacrifices and their families have become the victims,” he said.

A

Iloh...makes case for military welfare Headquarters in Maiduguri, Mr. Abdullahi Dogara from Nasarawa state and Mrs. Kuve Maxwell Vincent now a widow, said, the continuous usage of inferior and outdated weapons and poor logistics were some of the factors affecting the effort of the police and security operatives in the ongoing counter operations.

They also appealed to Police Financial Regulatory Body to continue paying the salaries of their fallen bread winners for a certain duration to enable them cater for the immediate needs of their children.

Although the CP emphasised that no amount of money would compensate for lives lost, he agreed that it would serve as palliative measures to cushion the hardship being faced by the families.

Nigerians react

Former Provost, Federal College of Education, (Technical), Asaba, Dr Gabriel O. Iloh, maintained that the families of the slain soldiers should

former presidential aspirant under the defunct SDP and a staunch NADECO member Sen. Olubiyi Durojaiye, in his own submission said that for Nigerians to consider soldiers remuneration as very poor compared to the western world, many things should be considered.

“Comparing the level of American soldiers remuneration with their Nigerian counterpart is not possible.

The Gross Domestic Product GDP of America is incomparable to that of Nigeria. I am not against the military being adequately remunerated but with the level of productivity of the country, the purchasing power and the relative structure of salary generally for people in similar industry should be put into consideration.”

“Let us not take the remuneration of soldiers in isolation. But if you want to raise the issue of risk element, war allowances for soldiers, this should be seriously considered so as for their families to be rest assured of being taken care of by the government. But when there is no war, basic salary should be steady”.

“Nigeria cannot be that bad to the level of not taking care of the families of soldiers that died in active service for the state.

“The government should not allow it get to the level of soldiers wives going on the streets demonstrating out of fear of the government abandoning them after the demise of their husbands who died in active service for the nation. Soldiers wives should also know that it will amount to treasonable felony if anybody says soldiers should not serve the nation based on poor remuneration.

Basically, I am in agreement that all workers should be well paid.

Especially those that face serious life threatening challenges like soldiers.”

12—SA TURD AY 12—SATURD TURDA

Vanguard , JUNE 21 21, 2014

Ekiti D-Day:

How far will rice, salt, pepper continue to win votes?

BY CLIFFORD NDUJIHE, DAPO AKINREFON & CHARLES KUMOLU

A

FTER months of rancourfilled, mud-slinging and largely issue-lacking governorship election campaigns, the Ekiti electorate will storm the polling booths today to elect a governor from a motley crowd of 18.

Among the leading candidates are incumbent Governor Kayode Fayemi of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Ayodele Fayose of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon Opeyemi Bamidele of the Labour Party (LP).

Being one of the poorest states in the country in terms of revenue allocation but arguably the best in terms of number of graduates and PhD holders, the Ekiti election, ideally, should be decided by thought-provoking manifestos of the candidates like their policies on tax, education, health, agriculture and employment as witnessed in advanced democracies.

However, it will not be surprising if the ability of the candidates to outdo one another in the sharing and distribution of edibles like cooked and uncooked rice and poverty

Governor Fayemi and his wife sharing cooked jollof rice to elderly people in the state APC, served the citizenry, especially the elderly hot plates of jollof rice.

Indeed, for a while, the First Lady had been running “Ekiti Soup Kitchen” in the 16 local councils of the state.

The ‘rice sharing’ move is one of the efforts of the candidates to show that they love the citizens and would do more to improve their welfare if voted into power.

An observer said it is disheartening that in 2014, in an oil-rich country like Nigeria, politicians still entice the electorate with rice , salt, pepper, food, money. “We all know that our schools are underdeveloped. We don’t have healthcare delivery, no road, no water, no electricity etc etc. Why can’t politicians provide these?” he wondered.

To him, politicians are taking advantage of the grinding poverty in the country to woo voters with trivial things like rice, salt, wrappers, etc.

The development shows the discon-

Politicians are taking advantage of the grinding poverty in the country to woo voters with trivial things like rice, salt, wrappers alleviating packs including peanuts play a decisive role in who emerges as winner. This is a pointer to the fact that poverty is still endemic in the country and the electorate still see provision of power supply, road and potable water by governments as major achievements.

In the last couple of days ‘sharing of rice’ by two of the leading candidates –Fayose and Fayemi has been a major and albeit funny feature of the campaigns. While Fayose distributed uncooked bags of rice to ever-willing citizens, who formed long queues during his campaigns, Fayemi together with his wife, Olayinka and other chieftains of the

nect that exists between the candidates and real aspects of governance.

The commodities, some critics maintain, will not guarantee victory at the end of today’s exercise in Ekiti state owing to the fact that the state portrays an array of literate people and is christened Land of Honour.

Wondering how the state, formerly described as Fountain of Knowledge, allowed issue-based politicking to be relegated to the background some analysts said if not checked, the rend may prevent Nigerians from enjoying the dividends of democracy for a long while

amounts to bribe giving under the Electoral Act. It is because people are poor that is why you see such in our society. The fact that you distribute rice does not guarantee victory and don’t forget that Ekiti people are also literate and educated and as such cannot be bought so cheaply.”

Read more on page 13

Politicians treat us as dregs—Aturu

Reacting to the development, Human Rights crusader, Mr Bamidele Aturu, said such acts are not only shameful but also against the Electoral Act. “It is shameful that our politicians still treat our people as dregs who can only be given token gifts when elections are approaching. It

An Ekiti State University student displaying a bag of rice he got from Ayo Fayose

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014 — 13

CANDIDATES AND THEIR PROMISES Fayemi

The incumbent governor, Kayode Fayemi said the creation of more jobs will top his agenda, if re-elected.He also recognised sustained infrastructure development as one of the key priorities of his development agenda for second term in office with a pledge to recommit himself to the good and increased service delivery to the people of Ekiti State.

Other strategic areas in his manifesto; include road and farmstead development, food security through commodity-based approach to agricultural development, establishment of a framework for fiscal sustainability, strengthening the institutional capacity of the state’s civil service for improved service delivery, amongst others.

Bamidele

•Opeyemi •Fayemi •Fayose Labour Party,LP, governorship candidate Opeyemi Bamidele promised to introduce a new Mr Ayo Fayose of the PDP said he would concept into Nigerian politics if elected goverrun an all-inclusive government, if elected.

Accord Party candidate in Ekiti State, Mr Kole Ajayi, nor by not drawing a salary and donating his The PDP candidate said he would put pledged that his government would tackle unemploypay to charitable causes. He also promised to necessary measures in place to ensure rapid ment through a complete holistic policy. Ajayi said techserve for one term. social-economic development of the state. nical education would be given a boost, while the alHe promised to be fair to aggrieved ready existing technical colleges would be upgraded with members of the party in the state if elected . modern equipment.

Ajayi

Fayose

males and 804,538 females making a total of 1,628,762. while the the 2006 population census by the National Population Commission,NPC, put the population of the state at 2,384,212 people.

Ekiti in view EKITI State was created on October 1, 1996 by then Head of State, Gen Sani Abacha, in a national broadcast to mark Nigeria’s 36th independence anniversary.

It was carved out of the former Ondo State, which was part of the old Western State created in 1967.

Local govt areas The Land of Honour as the state is also known as, has 16 local councils, namely: Ado, Ekiti East, Gbonyin, Ekiti Southwest, Ekiti West, Efon

Alaaye, Emure, lse/Orun, Ido/ Osi, ljero, Ikere, Ikole, Irepodun/lfelodun, Moba, llejemeje and Oye. The apex of the administrative areas is the capital, Ado Ekiti.

Population According to the 1991 census, the state had 824,224

Location Ekiti is located between latitudes 7°25' and 80°5’N and between longitudes 4°45' and 5°46 east. The state is bound in the North by Kwara and Kogi states; Osun State to the West. In the east of Ekiti is Edo State, while it is bounded in the south by Ondo State.

PAST GOVERNORS NAME Lt. Col. Mohammed Bawa

TITLE Administrator

TENURE

PARTY

7 October, 1996 – August, 1998

Military rule

Navy Captain Atanda Yusuf

Administrator

August, 1998 – 29 May, 1999

Military rule

Otunba Niyi Adebayo

Executive Governor

29 May, 1999 – 29 May, 2003

Alliance for Democracy (AD)

Mr. Ayo Fayose

Governor

29 May, 2003 – 19 October, 2006

Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP)

General Tunji Olurin (Rtd)

Administrator

19 October, 2006 – 27 April, 2007

Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP)

Acting Governor

27 April, 2007 – 29 May 2007

Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP)

29 May, 2007-17 Feb, 2009

Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP)

Chief Tope Ademiluyi Engr Segun Oni Dr Kayode Fayemi

Governor Governor

2010 till

APC

REASONS FOR LEAVING OFFICE First administrator after state creation

First elected civilian governor Second elected governor. Fayose’s impeachment on October 16 by the State House of Assembly and brief replacement by Speaker Aderemi was declared illegal by the Federal Government.

Appointed administrator after declaration of state of emergency in the state

Oni was removed by Appeal Court and a re-run was ordered.

Candidates and their acronyms In the cause of the electioneering campaigns, some of the contenders have been addressed with acronyms. And these acronyms have become popular in Ekiti State and they have also been used as campaign slogans in the three frontline political parties.

MOB The Labour Party candidate, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, he is fondly referred to MOB, by his supporters and admirers.

These are the initials of his name Michael Opeyemi Bamidele JKF The candidate APC, Dr John Kayode Fayemi’s acronym is JKF. Most of the inscriptions on billboards, flyers, T-shirts and face caps are usually adorned with JKF. Osokomole Many people may not know who is referred to as Osokomole or what it means.

In Ekiti State, Osokomole is the name given to the governorship candidate of the PDP, Mr Ayodele Fayose when he was in government in 2003.

Though, not many understand what Oskomole means or stands for, but Mr Fayose’s admirers and supporters prefer addressing him by such name.

14 — SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

How can we reduce cost of governance and ser ve the people the more?

What with legislative impunity and the Aruma Oteh saga?

Ray Ekpu finds the answers in a Unicameral legislature Mr. Ray Epku is a familiar name to most quarters of the country especially in the media world. He is a Journalist of note and was one of the founding Editors of the defunct NewsWatch Magazine considered to be the flagship of Magazine Journalism in Nigeria. He is currently a delegate to the ongoing 2014 National Conference in Abuja where he chaired a subcommittee of his mother Committee on Politics and Governance of the conference. In this interview with Saturday Vanguard, he speaks on a wide range of issue arising from the undertakings of the conference three months on. Excepts:

H

ow would you assess the conference approximately 3 months down the line?

The conference has been reasonably successful so far considering the fact that you have a group of 492 people from different backgrounds and parts of the country with different interests and levels of education, different levels of sophistication. I think that the conference has done quite well in terms of trying to meet its ultimate mandate of contributing to a better Nigeria.

Can you highlight some of the basic decisions so far taken?

There are quite a number of decisions that have been taken. For instance, the committee on religion has recommended the abolition of government sponsorship of pilgrimages undertaken by Muslims or Christians to any part of the world.

The conference intended to emphasize the fact that religion is more of a private matter and individuals who want to go on pilgrimages should fund it and not ask the government to use public resources to fund the project. But of course, we were mindful of the fact that if a large number of Nigerians are travelling, the government should be able to provide consular services and general support. I am opposed to the establishment of Pilgrims Boards because it is a money guzzler people use as an excuse to exploit the government. And I think that that responsibility should be handled by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Consular offices in those countries where the pilgrims go to.

In the place of the Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Religious Equity Commission, RECOM came in and the

mandate says it should be replicated across the 36 states of the federation. Do you think that RECOM as it were will assuage the incessant religious tension?

No, no, no. I am opposed to the setting up of such commissions because it is discriminatory. The functions as analysed by the committee are such that can be undertaken by the national human rights commission. You can’t set up a commission for the purpose of protection of religious rights. It means that you will set up a commission for the protection of media rights. You will set up a commission for the protection of social rights and so on and so forth. I don’t think we need any more commissions. We actually should scrap some of the over 400 federal government agencies because they are a drain pipe as a whole. I do not think that they are up to five federal government agencies that can consider to be making profit if you are looking at it from a profit motive and or if you are looking at it from a service standpoint. How many of them are actually providing a worthwhile service? Very few. So, we must not keep duplicating these big bureaucracies that do not deliver.

The decision of the conference to introduce a unicameral legislature has continued to generate more and more concerns from amongst Nigerians. In your own view, do you think Nigeria is better off with that than the currently practiced Bicameral legislature?

Luckily, the committee has not taken a decision yet on whether we should have a unicameral or bicameral legislature but my personal view is that: when you look at Nigeria the way it was constituted, you have 774 local governments. All of these governments make by-laws

for their local governments. You have 36 states Legislatures. They all make laws for their states. So, we are already fully governed. At the center, I do not think we need a bicameral legislature. I think a unicameral legislature can serve us very well because when you look at the amount of money that we are spending, I know democracy is expensive but we have made it much more expensive than it ought to be and the legislators have many aides, three, four or five. One aide will be enough in my opinion because one solid individual can do a lot of research for a legislator who is serious, and a legislator who is serious minded will also do his own research because he is the one who wants something and he should

,,

BY LEVINUS NWABUGHIOGU

*Ray Ekpu...I do not think we need a bicameral legislature and then you can make do with that.

Then, you have one set of committees. If you want to have 10 or 12 committees, it means that it is 10 or 12 committees that you will deal with but if you have two arms of legislature, you have 12 committees here, 12 committees there, it is a money guzzler and I don’t think that the quality of what comes out these committees is something to seriously write home about.

Another serious issue in that direction is whether the sitting of the legislators should be on parttime or full time basis. What do you think?

It is a part-time business. I don’t think you can have a full time legislature. If you look at the num-

I know democracy is expensive but we have made it much more expensive than it ought to be and the legislators have many aides, three, four or five

know what he wants to get. But of course, that depends on the quality of the legislators but I think that one arm of legislature is good enough rather than having over 400 people in the two arms. They have different committees and then you have the problem of having to resolve the discrepancies between the House of Representatives and the Senate. It causes a lot of friction and sometimes, the House of Representatives claims that it is equal to the senate, the senate claims that it is superior to the house and they have all these frictions and so on. So, why don’t we just have one chamber? If you want to retain the senate, do it and may increase the number to four per state

ber of days that they themselves sit now, I think three or four days in a week and they have long holidays, many long holidays in a year and I do not think there is actually enough work to occupy them on full time basis. They have public servants who are working for them. They have aides who are working for them. These can make contributions.

I don’t think that you need a full time legislature. Most legislatures in the world are not full time. They run on part-time and that is because people who get there are established persons who have made accomplishments in their lives. They have made enough money for themselves.

Continues on page 15

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014 — 15

Continues from page 14 They want to contribute their ideas.

It is a contest of ideas. How to make the society better, more humane, more progressive and they are going to push that idea through the system.

They are not going there to make money in other climes. That is issue.

But here, that is not the issue. The issue is how much money can we make by different means and methods?

And I want to admit that there are people who are genuinely working for Nigeria but they emphasize on money; how to make money from committees. They have enough time to invite experts to come and speak to them so that the quality of legislation will go up. Besides, you cannot have a National Assembly that operates above the law. Right now, that is what happens. I give a few examples- we spoke to the former Head of RMAFC that is supposed to decide the salaries of public servants and he said that the National Assembly ignored the prescription of the commission and decided on paying itself what it wanted to pay and that is a shame because that is an assembly that is supposed to make laws and it cannot be above the law as prescribed by the country. That is the problem.

So if they do that, that is a disservice to Nigeria. And you know one of the media agencies as a way of tasting the vitality of the Freedom of Information Act has sent a letter to the National Assembly asking them to inform them on the salaries and allowances of the legislators. They have not complied with that. So, the agency has gone to court. If the National Assembly does that, then you begin to say to yourself, who can control the National Assembly? I give you another example - the DirectorGeneral of SEC was invited by the

Ray Ekpu on curbing legislative impunity tion from Harvard University in Massachusetts, United States, I found that she worked in the African Development Bank. These three institutions are prominent, first class institutions. But the House of Reps said she was not qualified for the job after she had been on job for many years? And then, the Board of SEC set up a commission of inquiry to investigate the allegation the House

When SEC was performing a national function and you said because you didn’t like the face of the lady; because she accused one of your members of misconduct which tends to paint you in bad light you are fighting her and withheld the budget of SEC

,,

House of Representatives to come and answer questions on the fortunes of SEC and the stock market and she went there. In the course of their question, she made an allegation against the chairman of that committee and accused him of impropriety: that the man collected money and was to go for a conference somewhere outside the country, but he did not go and did not return the ticket or the estacode. He just pocketed both and they investigated it and found out that the man was guilty as charged and they removed him and appointed another chairman.

Now, the House of Representatives said that the woman is not qualified for the job she is doing. I had to do an investigation about her credentials and I found out that she had first class in Computer Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in those days when universities were truly universities. I found that she had Masters in Business Administra-

made against the lady, they found her to be clean. They then said they wanted the President to fire her. If not they would withdraw her budget.

They did. It is not her budget. It is the budget of SEC. When SEC was performing a national function and you said because you didn’t like the face of the lady; because she accused one of your members of misconduct which tends to paint you in bad light you are fighting her and withheld the budget of SEC. That is impunity.

That is undesirable. How can an assembly like that behave that way?

B

ut they are doing their job by making those people and institutions to be account-

able?

Oh! Sure. But that job must be done with integrity and discretion because other people are doing their jobs too.

Back to the conference, it has been agreed at the conference that the

Governors’ pension and gratuity should go. Do you agree?

No, it shouldn’t. The governors are deserving of pension just the way other public civil servants, private persons who work for some establishments deserve pension too. But this must have relativity. You must relate it to the economy of the state. You must relate it to the pension of senior civil servants like permanent secretaries for instance. If a permanent secretary works for 30 years and then retires, what on the average will he get for the 30 years? If he retires at the age of 60, what will he get?

There must be comparability.

Again, how do they assess the pension of politicians in other jurisdictions? Do a comparative analysis looking at these items I have mentioned and you have a basis for arriving at a just decisions but you shouldn’t say that they are politicians, they must get something disproportionate to what people get in other countries. Right now, it is very discriminatory. It is not based on criteria.

Your committee promised that state police should be established. What really propelled you as against some other opinions that say that Nigeria is not ripe for that?

State police is a desideratum as it is now. The federal police cannot cope with the enormous responsibilities assigned to it. First, the federal police is undermanned. We have 290,000 policemen to man this huge population of 170 million people. By UN standard, we should have one policeman to 400 people. That means that by our population of 170 million, we should have at least 685,000

policemen. Now we have less than 50 percent of that figure. That is why it is not possible for the federal police to be effective. Two: The police in the states now are funded largely by state governments. They buy them equipment, guns, phones, whatever; support them materially, physically and otherwise. So, in terms of what is happening to the Police in 36 states, they are actually state police because they are funded by the governments of those states. Yes, that is the truth.

The only difference is that the commissioner of police still reports to the Inspector General of Police even though the governor is supposed to be the Chief Security Officer, he is not effectively the Chief Security Officer because except he has a very good relationship with the Commissioner of Police, he will go no where.

We saw this with Chief Joseph Mbu in Rivers state.

Once there is a problem between the Commissioner of Police and the state governor, the governor doesn’t win but he is supposed to win because he is supposed to be in charge of the security. How would you be the Chief Security of the State and you have no control over the commissioner? But governor cannot have control over them because he doesn’t appoint them, discipline them. So, the point is that you must make the governor an effective Chief Security Officer.

The police under him must report to him, not to the Commissioner of Police. That is one strong reason why you must have State Police. If you don’t have State Police you cannot increase the number of police available on duty substantially.

16—SATURDAY Vanguard Vanguard,, JUNE 21, 2014

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couple of weeks ago, we all woke up to find that our favourite newspapers were off the newsstands. This was something we had not seen for a while, and it took many of us by surprise. Many reasons flew around; many of them too preposterous to mention here. The following day brought some reprieve but not much. At least, I was able to get Vanguard. A phone call to a newspaper executive disclosed that some soldiers had disrupted the supply flow. Again, many theories were propounded as the newspapers were left to lick their wounds. Later that evening, two days after the first seizure, two good days during which bemused readers were left to wild theories and speculations, two days of huge economic losses, the Presidency and Army spokesmen ‘cleared’ the air. No, the press was not being gagged. It was a security lead that was being followed and everything would return to normalcy soon.

Anybody who knows about the newspaper business knows how financially precarious it is. Many live from day to day. Even the more financially stable ones rely on daily sales to ease their cash flow and keep production going. Still, it was a sacrifice they would gladly make for genuine security reasons. I will be the last to buck any security directive given the current state of the nation, but you still wonder if the operation could not have been handled in a more humane way that would have mitigated the heavy financial losses.

A week later, the plane of Rotimi Amaechi, the Governor of Rivers State, was grounded in Kano where he had gone to commiserate with his colleague over the death of the Emir of Kano.

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pick those who had just come in. Only one or two shuttle buses were on the ground for such a massive movement of people and luggage. Many people missed their flights in the big chaos.

Many of them would have needed to connect flights. Many of them would have come to Lagos from other parts of the country. Many would be foreigners whose first impressions would shape their perception of Nigeria forever.

Those who paid for trolleys found they were not allowed the use of those trolleys beyond a certain point. You can imagine passengers with three or four suitcases being denied the use of trolleys. I know of a passenger who had her lovely suitcase ruined on that night.

The wheels came off on the rough, uneven road making the suitcase a heavy load that had to be dragged on the floor. Of course it was torn by the time she got to the car. This was three good hours after she had retrieved her luggage from the conveyor belt. Her family at home stayed glued to the network news hoping to find the cause for the chaos. Were there terrorists at the airport? Had the Nation’s main gate-way been invaded and captured?

Again, all sorts of speculations flew around.

Some even said Dame Jonathan was in Lagos and was scheduled to use the airport. Poor lady! She was nowhere near Lagos on that fateful day. In any case, this confusion was to last for at least a week, although on a lower scale.

When the gods finally decided to speak to us lesser mortals, we were told ‘it was for security reasons’.

A week before this, I had just come from Israel, probably one of the most security conscious countries in the world. We were through with passport control, immigration and luggage collection in less than 30 minutes of our disembarking. A vehicle was at the entrance to pick us up. The same thing happened when we were about to leave.

I use this example to show that security does not have to be very disruptive. Like everything in life, planning and thinking things through matter a lot. After all, the massive disruption to livelihood and movement after the first bomb blast in Nyayan didn’t prevent the second blast. All the checkpoints and the gnarling traffic didn’t stop it from happening again.

These disruptions in the name of security can make the citizenry cynical or even un- co-operative. Many of the peasants in the North-East fear and distrust the military almost as much as the terrorists. Again, someone lost his life in Ekiti State because of this over zealous, often brutal approach to security. It need not be so.

On a final note, security and partisan politics should not mix. It happened in Rivers State; it appeared to have happened in Kano State. If they continue to mix, the former will lose as our belief in the security apparatus will be further dented. And the Nation will be the ultimate loser.

On a final note, security and partisan politics should not mix

gain, the reason given was vague, couched under security reasons.

I am personally not one for this private jet nonsense. Nigeria has not grown bigger since the days when even the most flamboyant politicians flew on commercial flights. Now every Governor, Minister and party leader think private jet when they want to move around. But that’s another story for another time. You wonder if the Ameachi incident, given that he is a governor, would not have been handled in a quieter, more discrete, more decent way. And why Ameachi again? Was his the only plane that landed in Kano? We should not unwittingly make a victim out of someone whose very company makes him part of the problem. Besides, it would be sad if we started hiding political manoeuvres and intimidation under the guise of security.

Before all these was an incident at the Murtala Mohammed Airport.

Passengers who wanted the use of the airport at the end of April, suddenly found themselves in the midst of a kingsize chaos. This particular evening, cars were not allowed to approach the airport either to drop passengers or to

,

It is your turn for God’s favour (II) T

he favor of God brings men out of adversity, out of struggles. Often people talk over what their situation says but not what God says about their situations.

When God favors a man, it brings about a turnaround. Your God has not forsaken you. He has not abandoned you in that situation. God’s favor will come into your situation, into your marriage, into your business, in the name of Jesus. Listen to me; you have gone too far from where you started from to give up.

Why are you thinking of giving up? Don’t give up because there is a power standing by you to help you. The bible says “God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early” (Ps. 46:5).

When God says to a man, woman or family that He will help, He is simply saying that He will favor the man, woman or family come out of shame and reproach. By the favour of God you will come out of the situation rejoicing and smiling. Favour is excessive kindness. You will suddenly enjoy excessive kindness from people. Favour is unfair partiality. You will enjoy unfair partiality.

I see great men rising for your cause. This year you will mightily celebrate.

Adversity is not meant to bring a man down; adversity is meant to promote a man. Are you going through adversity?

The reason you are downcast is because you are giving the adversity strength, but when you cease to respect that adversity and look at it as ‘common’; it will be valueless. Anything that is common has no value. Your adversity has no value and therefore, it is worthless.

Every day that passes brings you closer to your miracle, not away from your miracle. The bible says; “if you faint in the day of your adversity, then your strength is small”. So the bible is telling you sons and daughters in the Lord that you have strength to overcome adversity. When you speak God’s word, you are speaking His power. When you hear His word, expect result, for there is power in expectation.

That is why the bible says, “The expectation of the righteous shall not be cut off”.

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For security reasons

Are there times when you need to spend money and you don’t have it, speak out favor into your pocket and hands and you will begin to see your account abound in due season. He says ‘Silver and Gold are His’. Very soon, God will cause the forces of the gentiles to locate you and the heart of their kings will minister unto you. Your life and concerns will soon be the center of attraction. The aroma of God’s favour will be evident upon you.

Favor is a spirit; favor can go anywhere to connect you. Is there any mountain confronting you, speak out the favor of God over it, and it will become plain (Zech. 4:6 & 7). Just begin to speak out favor, and as you are crying favor the wall of Jericho is crumbling. A moment of favour is better than hard labour.

Favour will give to you victories that you least expect.

The obstacles confronting you may be too much but favour will blow it off. Favor will bring you that job, that promotion, that marriage, that child, that contract; favor will bring it to pass.

Stop speaking about your problems and start to speak favor over the problems (Ex. 14:14). “The Lord shall fight for you and you shall hold your peace”. God will fight for you, God will fight for you because He is the best strategist, He knows the strength of your enemies; He knows their weapons and He knows how to terminate it. That is why the bible says, “No weapon fashioned against you.

Favor will move you from your stagnant position. Stop worrying about those bills, debts and seemeth impossible case.

Jehovah knows what to do. He placed food in the mouth of the raven for Elijah.

He placed coin in the mouth of the fish for Peter. You are next in line. Favour is delivering the desired Miracle to you suddenly. GOD FAVOUR YOU, OUR GREAT NATION and PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN. You can only find the way to God’s solution for the situation by first accepting Jesus as your Lord and savior if you have not already done so. Pray this simple prayer. Father, you said that whosoever shall call on the name of Jesus, shall be saved. I call on the name Jesus. Please forgive my sin and cleanse me from every form of unrighteousness. Fill me with the power of the Holy Spirit. Thank you for saving me and giving me the gift of eternal life. I praise you and give you all the glory.

The obstacles confronting you may be too much but favour will blow it off

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For your praise report, prayer requests, testimonies and financial support, you can contact us through our contact details below.

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: 08023062635 08168955932; 08033378769. Email: Johnson_crm@yahoo.com. Website: www.christrealityministries.org.

Our account details are Pastor Johnson Omomadia, Guaranty Trust Bank, A/C Nos. 0005171407; Christ Reality Ministries, Zenith Bank A/C 1011711622.

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.

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014—17

BY CHIOMA OBINNA

S

HE may not be in contention for the Guinness Book of World Records’ oldest firsttime mother on earth title, or for the title of the world’s most IVF-friendly woman.

But 58-year-old Mrs. Christy Omolara (nee Oyegoke) Irurhe doesn’t care. All that matters is that at long last, she is a mother.

After being to different high class hospitals in Nigeria and abroad in search for the fruit of the womb, her perseverance and that of her husband, Desmond, finally paid off last Monday when she gave birth to a bouncing baby girl. The journey of becoming parents for Desmond and Omolara certainly was not easy. But it was worth it, 31 years after marriage.

Lying halfway on her bed in a private ward of St. Ives Fertility Clinic, Ikeja Lagos, the almost menopausal woman looked lovingly at her bundle of joy. Instinctively, the infant, a baby girl, who appeared to sense the glow of love and adoration coming from the mother, responded with a smile.

This further boosted the joy radiating from the doting new mother.

Although it was already three days since she put to bed, everyone including patients and visitors within and around the hospital, right from the gates to the wards and clinics, was talking about the good fortune that had befallen the elderly couple.

Surrounded by friends, wellwishers and hospital staff in the small private room on the first floor of the well known clinic, it was a bit of a challenge for this reporter to get close enough for a chat and a glimpse of this special baby.

Even as she spoke, Omolara wore a smile that told her story better than she could find the words. The look on her face was one of fulfillment, appreciation and gratitude to the Almighty.

She smiled so much that it betrayed the pains possibly from the Caesarean Section through which her precious baby was delivered.

As if reading this reporter’s mind, she pulled up her cloth and revealed her abdomen which had a large surgical plaster across it.

“Look, this is the proof that I truly gave birth to this baby. I carried her for 36 weeks. I’m a perfect mother,” she enthused, still smiling. What an infectious smile! This reporter and others could not but share in her joy.

“Congratulations ma.” “Thank you my children,” she responded.

Even before the first question was fired, Omolara provided the answer.

“I was married for over three decades without pregnancy talk less of a child. God has given me a gift for my retirement in two years time.”

Imagine being married for 31 years without a child to consolidate your union. Imagine having to pay so much for something you are in dire need of without having it.

Imagine travelling round the world for the same thing you have spent so much without getting it. How would you feel when all efforts to get what you have searched round the world are fruitless?

This put into perspective Omolara’s experience. But in all of these, despite finding herself in an

Mrs. Christy Omolara

My journey to motherhood after 31 years of marriage *Teacher, 58, tells the story of her first child

African setting, she was not deterred.

Narrating her experience to Saturday Vanguard the proud mother said: “In African context, when a woman is married and there is no child, the woman feels it the more. Over the past 30 years, we have been trying to get solution.

Initially, we never saw it as a problem when we just married. But as the years rolled by, we realised it was actually a problem, then anxiety has set in. We started visiting so many big hospitals. My brother-inlaw who is a doctor was also treating us. We also travelled abroad. My husband was working with Nigeria Airways then and we took advantage of that but all brought no good result. But we kept hoping, probably because we are Catholics, and my husband and I are also very close, we did not have so much problems.”

However, just like every other woman in the African culture, she kept thinking and monitoring if her husband has got any child from another woman but there was no such according to Omolara because of his family background that is deeply rooted in Catholic Faith.

She however, became more apprehensive. Rather than become agitated, her husband swore not to marry a second wife.

“On my own part, I keep praying and believing that God would answer us some day. Asked what kept the family together for such a long period of childlessness, she told Saturday Vanguard that her marriage was sustained majorly because it is a cross-cultural marriage. She is Yoruba while her husband is from Edo State.

“My husband was also my first boyfriend.”

Full of enthusiasm and gratitude to God over her new baby, Omolara who is a Director of Education and Principal of Eva Adelaja Junior Girls Secondary School, Bariga, Education District II, Lagos State said another thing that kept her going after many years of childlessness was her faith in God and a belief in herself.

“I think that instinct in me is what God used in answering us. He said since I will soon retire, and then let Him give me my own baby.

Cost:

“At times, I will just relax because this fertility treatment of a thing gulps a lot of money. I did two IVF in another clinic before I came here.

At a time, my husband advised that we should not spend anymore and to forget about the entire thing and take solace in God, that after retirement, we should go abroad and relax there. Some were suggesting adoption but my spirit kept rejecting it and assuring me that God will do it. I later said to myself that after retirement, if nothing was achieved, we will adopt to keep us busy at home, though we have other children we have trained.

“When I came here, I just believed that it would work here. What attracted me was the name St Ives.

It sounds so much like Catholic but to my greatest surprise the doctor is not even a Catholic. I told myself that if it does not work here, I won’t go any other place again because of my age.

“Each time I met the Medical Director, Dr. Tunde Okewale, he

kept telling me that age does not matter, that with God, anything is possible and that modern medicine is so advanced now that anything is possible.

“Another thing about God is that when you are looking up to him, you don’t reach menopause on time, I discovered that, all this while, I kept seeing my menstruation though not so regular. I told the doctor and he gave my husband and I some drugs to boost it. When I did it twice here and it did not work, I just relaxed and told myself not to keep spending and I travelled abroad to rest. They also told me there to adopt a child.

“There was a time I was saving money for another section but it happened that my father died and we used the money for burial.

Last IVF

“But I gave it a try again sometime last year and it worked. I was even surprised and I never knew that I was pregnant because I was still seeing blood spotting. When I came back to see my doctor, I told him how I was feeling and he checked if I had fibroid and to my surprise, he said I was pregnant. I was so happy and I started crying, it was tears of joy, considering my age. I am 58 years now. I will retire in the next two years.

“When I was attending ante-natal with the young girls that I was old enough to be their mother, I would only write note without asking any question. I never fell ill all through the pregnancy. I was happy and I’m enjoying the experience of motherhood because I never experienced it before now.

18 — SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

I express myself better at live performances — Kim Wonder

Beautiful, sexy and alluring Kim Wonder, British-Nigerian singer and songwriter, who has been making waves in the United Kingdom with her music for years is now back in the country.

She is here to make a name for herself. Armed with a unique voice and strong vocal, Kim believes she has all it takes to compete with the very best in the music industry. Meet Kim and what makes her tick:

BY IYABO AINA

W

hy going into music considering how competitive the industry has become in recent times?

Music chose me really, before I chose it. My friends insisted I use my talent and took me to a studio in Kent, England for my first recording. God gave lots of us the talent.

He knew what he was doing. In His eyes we are all obedient children pleasing him by using our singing talents.

What will make you different from other popular musicians?

I am Kim Wonder, with my different singing voice and musicality. I always try to have that uniqueness and originality so that I can stand out.

How long have you been doing music professionally and what are some achievements recorded?

I have been singing for four years. I recently did a media tour in Cape Town and Johannesburg, in South Africa where I shot a video ‘How you Dey’ sharing our Nigerian culture with the rest of Africa. It was well received and I got invited to the Good Morning Africa show on Africa Magic. It was number one video on the chart on PRTV on DSTV. Also Etv Africa and Star Gist on DSTV invited and granted me interviews. I was also the artiste of the week at Bozza in Cape Town some months ago.

Any live performance so far?

I have performed in different locations in London for youth events and It was fun because I and my friends were just doing it for the love of music. I have also performed live with a band at Oriental Hotel V.I, Lagos. I was one of the major artistes who performed at the Love FM Concert in Port Harcourt along C M Y K

side Duncan Mighty, Sunny Neji and others. Performing live is very exhilarating and refreshing for me as it enables me expresses myself better than digital performances. I always look forward to it. And as an upcoming artiste, my intension is to grow and excel beyond my dreams.

About the name ‘Kim Wonder’, are you not a Nigerian?

My name is Kimberly; I just exchanged ‘Berly’ with ‘Wonder’. Because I just acknowledged how wonderful God had created me . It was as simple as that. It only sounds foreign because I started my music career in England and the name is a blend of two English words.

So, I’m a Nigerian but brought up outside Nigeria.

What does it take for you to fall in love?

A romantic and excellent spirit can make me fall in love. And before I fall in Love, my kind of man must be fine, responsible, intelligent and a committed kind of man Any recent project?

I just release two singles.

One is titled ‘There Was a Boy’ where I featured South African rapper, Veezo, and the other titled ‘Celebrate Now’ featuring Lil Miss Miss. They are currently enjoying airplay on radio and online. I’m also working on my new video for ‘Celebrate now’.

Do you see yourself as an up & coming artiste and why?

I only see myself as a growing artiste. It just gets better. Basically,It

is an honour to be able to have the opportunity to share my music with everyone that gets to hear it.

Therein lies my utmost joy.

I have performed in different locations in London for youth events and It was fun because I and my friends were just doing it for the love of music

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014 —19

My ‘ex’ can’t be good for a friend — Empress Njamah Njamah, actress

Would you recommend an ex- to a friend for marriage?

Most people would find it hard to deal with seeing an ex-husband or wife in a new relationship, especially when the new date is a friend. While it’s honourable to want to help your friend find happiness, would you really recommend him or her to an ex-? Do you think a relationship that didn’t work out for you, would work out for your friend? Here are the thoughts of some celebrities on the issue:

T

he word “CONTROVERSY” cannot aptly describe top Nollywood actress, Empress Njamah.

From Timaya to her rumoured marraige and some other unsavoury things which have been written about her, she seems to have been trailed by one controversy or the other. Despite all this distractions, Empress is one hell of a star. And she’s been around for a while.

The dark-skinned, starry-eyed, allfeminine bomb exploded unto the scene in 1995 and since then has been able to hold her head high in the industry. Of course, whatever she lacks, she can always dig deep into her veins and bring it out from her genes, because acting runs in the family blood. For the actress,

It might cause suspicions — Ibrahim Chatta, actor

an ex- who wasn’t good for her is definitely not good for a friend. “An ex- remains an ex- and true friends remain true friends and we ride into the future. We don’t have any business with the past. Ex-! If he was not good for me, why would I recommend him to my friend?”

P

Yes, I would

opular Nollywood actor, Ibrahim Chatta is prominent in the Yoruba movies. The award-winning actor who recently got married to the daughter of a Kwara State Senator said he can’t recommend an ex- to a friend to avoid suspicions. “No, I don’t think so. My friend might not be the trusting type, so if I get close to the woman by any means, it might raise eyebrows.”

- Seyi Shay, singer

F

AST rising sultry singer, Deborah Oluwa-seyi Joshua, better known by her stage name ‘Seyi Shay’ has done hit singles including Irawo and Ragga Ragga. The Nigerian-based international recording artiste, songwriter, and performer who recently released the video of her single, Murda, said she wouldn’t hesitate to recommend an ex- to a friend. Hear her, “Yes, I would recommend an ex- to a friend. I would be in the best position to know if they are suitable for each other since I’m friends with both of them.”

It’s going to be Ochu, difficult —Ene actress, model E

NE Ochu, an actress, model and entrepreneur, started modeling a few years back and since then she’s been on the frontline, which explains why she emerged the first runner-up in the Miss Idoma 2013 Contest. On her part, Ene who has featured in some Nollywood flicks said, ‘’It’s going to be difficult, although an ex- is an ex-, but there would be some trace of jealousy no matter what, because we have dated before, but it depends on the situation. If my exand my friend met without knowing I’m a friend to both of them, then they are free to go on. If they fall in love even after knowing that we are all friends, I will let them be.”

It depends —Eno Ekpeyong, actor UPCOMING Nollywood actor, Eno Ekpeyong, recently made his debut in the movie industry with Ivie Okujaye’s blockbuster movie, Make a Move. The talented actor who is new on the scene, but acts like he’s been around for long, said he would consider some factors before recommending an ex- to a friend. “It depends. If the ex- in question is someone I can trust to a certain extent, and the situation and scenerio surrounding her becoming my ex- are not very bad, then if my friend says he loves her, sure, I’ll tell him to go ahead and pray it works for them. But if the circumstances surrounding our breaking up were really bad, like she cheated on me or has a bad character, I won’t recommend her at all.

Besides, if I still love her and hope things would work out, I definitely won’t recommend her to anyone, how much more my friends.”

20 — SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014 FLORENCE AMAGIYA, 08061644307 daise4000@yahoo.com

The world and fame of the 'Don'!

Don Jazzy

D

on Jazzy, as he is fondly called by his fans and all, needs no introduction in the Nigerian music industry. He has been the unseen hand in the music of most emerging Nigerian acts.

The Don indeed has seen it all; as a label owner, a musician, and a producer.

Michael Collins Ajereh was the name given to him by his parents.

He eventually acquired the stage name Don Jazzy in his launch into music. He hails from Delta state, but was born in Umuahia in Abia state 31 years ago on November 26th, 1982. His family after his birth relocated to Ajegunle in Lagos state. The Don was raised in Ajegunle city of Lagos state. At age 12, he developed love for the bass guitar. He graduated from Federal Government College Lagos and went further to study Business Management at the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma in Edo state.

Don Jazzy moved to London in the United Kingdom in 2000 after his Uncle invited him to play the drums for a neighborhood Church.

Today the Don is rated as the

J

ust as there are different strokes for different issues, so also do we have different tales for different people. Some people chose to be politicians; others singers, some people say its football. Whatever you have chosen, be the best as you would eventually be applauded by the right audience. In this edition, we are celebrating an icon that is living his dreams as he has paid the price. Enjoy!

richest music producer/ act in Nigeria and the second richest music personality in Africa. He is the CEO of Mavin Record label, a record producer, singer-songwriter and a musician. Don Jazzy has won so many awards to his label. He was also formally the CEO of the popular Nigerian record label, MO Hits Records with D’banj as the only artiste.

Mavins Record label

D

on Jazzy is a brand without mincing words. According to reports from some artistes, Mavin Record label is arguable the best label in Nigeria. His label has given leverage to top musical icons like Tiwa Savage, Dr Sid, Prince, Wande Coak

and many others who signed on. He was D’banj’s producer, business partner and friend until MO Hits Records dissolved and the duo officially parted ways.

Endorsements and Production credit

D

on Jazzy has made so much money from endorsements, callertunes and foreign collaborations.

He recently signed a multi-million naira deal with MTN. The endorsement from MTN was for N25m. He also signed another contract worth millions of naira with Samsung, Africa; the deal was for a N100m.

Don Jazzy was paid N50m for being the newest brand ambassador of Loya milk. His production credits for

foreign collaborations include working with Snoop Doggy, Kanye West, Beyonce and Jay Z.

Music studio

A

ccording to report, Don Jazzy is set to unveil a new recording studio estimated at over N500m. He said in a statement that his studio is going to be a world class studio which is constructed by international sound engineers who have worked with acclaimed international producers.

Houses, club and cars

T

o say that Mavin Record Boss is having a swell time living his dream is an understatement. He recently got himself a befitting mansion which cost him more than

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014 — 21

Gifts

D

He recently took a photograph of his Bentley and uploaded it with a tweet; he described it as “one of his most expensive cars”. Another report has it that he has another car which cost him about N150m to purchase.

N300m. According to the reports the mansion is only one of the many properties he had acquired in the choicest part of Lagos as he is in the business of investing on properties and loves driving cool expensive cars. He has a club known as POP which cost him a whooping sum of N50m to build, but has decided to

shut it down because of unforseen circumstance.

Although he is perceived to be a calm person, this has not stopped his love for beautiful exotic cars. He was seen cruising in a Porsche which is valued at over N22m. His other car is a Bentley which cost him about N65m to purchase amongst others.

on Jazzy has always proven that he has a heart of gold, if he is not giving people money or cars, he is busy employing people.

Sometime ago, he was at the airport on his way to South Africa for MTV Base award. And there was this airport cart operator who was doing his work when the Don arrived at the airport. It was one of those days when he felt like doing something interesting and he had asked the cart operator to let him drive.

He and the cart operator who is a staff of Delta Airlines drove through the airport on the shuttle/ golf cart.

He was asked by the management to stop the cart or the man would be fired. He eventually stopped it, unfortunately the man was fired.

Don Jazzy ended up employing the man. It would also be recalled that Don Jazzy gave Tiwa Savage a car gift of about N16m as her wedding present. The car is a brand new Prado SUV. Don Jazzy was also one of the few that stood by popular musician known as OJB financially during his trying times.

22 — SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

By AYO ONIKOYI, 08052201215

Don Jazzy M

icheal Collins Ajereh, the renowned music producer and entrepreneur has had his own fair share of life’s hard knocks .According to him, when he began, his family moved to Ajegunle in Lagos where he sold akara and pap with his younger brother D’Prince.

In pursuit of his love for music, he found himself doing odd jobs in London in order to survive. He even got a job as a security man in one of the eateries there.

The 31years old MARVIN boss is currently one of the most influential personalities in Nigeria’s entertainment sector and also a philanthropist known for doling out gifts to his fans on the social media.

Ice Prince Zamani

From nothing to heroes

“

Better cars, better clothes on me. Better parties, better houses and better girls on me. See, I can take you there Champagne everywhere”.

These are the opening lines of Ice Prince’s hit single, Superstar, where he raps about his lifestyle as a superstar, saying cameras flash wherever he goes. But His life didn’t start out this way.

“I remember the first few months we got to Lagos. I used to sleep on the carpet and didn’t have a place to stay. It was Djinee who housed us. We came with him and it worked. The power to fight the fear of the unknown is what we had,” he declares.

Some top crooners who hustled their way to stardom

By KEHINDE AJOSE

S

tep away from the glamour and attention they garner whenever they go, these crooners’ journey to stardom has been filled with bumps, detours , and tough times. Some of them had to hawk on the streets to make ends meet, while others engaged in low paying jobs in order to sustain themselves. Today, they are big, popular and living their dreams. Here are the stories of their pains, anguish, disappointments and triumphs:

M.I

J

Julius D’genius Agwu A

ce comedian, Julius Agwu, who also doubles as a musician, is an individual who isn’t afraid to share his story of grass to grace. He recalled his days of little beginnings when he used to hawk before going to school. He once revealed on a TV show that he used to wake up at 5am in the morning so as to hawk pap before going to school.

On his social media account recently, he posted a picture of himself with a tray of oranges on his head. Underneath the picture he wrote: “Never underrate anyone... Yes!!!

Yours truly used to hawk #Oranges #Akamu #Okro .It’s been an interesting journey ...

Thanks to my family, friends, fans and to God who oiled my wheel of creativity” . ‘

ude Abaga ,better known by his stage name, moniker. M.I has paid his dues when it comes to the pursuit of his passion for music and his determination to make something of his life.

Hear him: “I didn’t grow up as a rich kid and I wasn’t poor either. We weren’t middle class either. I think we were amongst the upper lower class.

There were days we didn’t have food, we did the cocoa yam and oil too. I mean, those days when we boil cocoa yam and then you put onions inside the oil and fry it with salt. So, we did that too. But my parents did their best; they worked hard and did their best to give us education and good life.”

The award-winning Jos-bred shared on a radio programme, his tales of struggle to stardom. He reveals that while he was in the US he had to resort to washing toilet in order to put food on his table, and that he once worked as a personal assistant to Jeremiah Gyang.

Solid Star J

oshua Iniyezo popularly known as Solidstar has crossed a lot of troubled waters in order to prove that he is indeed a solid star.The Achievas Entertainment artiste once revealed the price he had to pay in order to record a song.

He puts it this way: “I faced a lot of challenges. There was a time I had to hawk pure water on the street just to record a song. Some friends used to make jest of me and tell me I could not make it as a musician. There were times I would be about to perform on stage and the organisers would get me off stage. I thank God now though,” he says.

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014 — 23

By AYO ONIKOYI, 08052201215

Let Boko Haram deflower me and release Chibok girls —Adokiye S

ince pop singer and Imo State Peace Ambassador hit stardom, she has never ceased to be a surprise package. She astounded her fans recently when she confided in Showtime that she is a virgin. At 23, looking hot and rather willing with her liberated personality, her fans found it hard to believe, but Adokiye said it is true and that whoever wants her virginity should be prepared to buy her mother the private jet she long promised her.

But now it seems Adokiye is ready to give her coveted virginity for free, to members of the dreaded Boko Haram if they are ready to release the

abducted Chibok girls in exchange. “ This is 11pm in the night and do you know what I am thinking about? Those little girls, where they are and what could be happening to them. It is just unfair. They are too young. I wish I could offer myself in exchange,” she told Showtime.

When she was reminded that the girls could be making out time as sex slaves, the singer/actress retorted : “ They are between 12 and15 year old girls for Christ sake.

I am older and more experienced. Even if 10 to12 men have to take me every night, I don’t care. Just release these girls and let them go back to their parents.”

My silence has allowed certain things to prevail about me —Weird MC

By KEHINDE AJOSE

W

eird MC largely known for her hit song, Ijoya, took time out recently on her Twitter timeline to set the records straight on the reports that her high energy and enthusiasm come from performance enhancement drugs.

In her words:’ How stupid, how ignorant, so if you are a female artiste and you burn mad energy on stage, you are on drugs? Wake up people!

My silence over the years

I’ve got a good man -Ruby Gyang

By KEHINDE AJOSE

about certain things is turning out to be a disadvantage. It’s time to set the record straight.

My silence has allowed certain things to prevail and my God will fight for me. I am also ready to fight for myself. My true fans are not stupid. You can’t sell certain things to them .I’m energetic by nature. When I perform on stage, I’m highly energetic. Don’t fault my God-given gift. Stop the sabotage. Enough is enough!’ she said.

L

oopy Music songstress, Ruby Gyang, recently released an R n B song titled : Good Man and produced by famed rapper, M.I. Good Man is a rich delivery of Ruby’s soulful tone and vocal strength that calms frayed nerves.

In the song, she croons about the fact that she’s got a good man and showers praises on her love interest in the song saying: ‘Heaven sent me an angel. He is the rainbow on a rainy day.’

In her words: “I wanted to do a song that celebrates the man in my life. Those who have helped and are still helping me to become the woman I dream of, this song is for them.”

Teddy-A signed to Big-A Entertainment BENJAMIN NJOKU

“

It’s takeover season! Teddy-A is back with a new refreshing tune titled Ije Love,” says label boss, Anderson Obiagwu.

The crooner who is now signed to Americabased powerhouse label, Big A Entertainment, is set to take the Nigerian entertainment industry by storm. The talented singer cum songwriter has been evolving works that could be described as totally Nigerian, as evident in his smooth delivery of English, Igbo, Yoruba, and Pidgin English in his songs.

“There’s definitely more to come from this

talented young icon in the making,” said Obiagwu, CEO of the label, and organiser of the much talked about African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) holding next month in Texas, United States.

Teddy-A is the second artiste to be signed to the record label, the first being Ruffcoin.

According to Obiagwu, Teddy-A, who is currently based in Dallas, United States, is set to relocate to Nigeria to further his music career. The team is scheduled to be in Nigeria next week for some video shoots.

24 — SATURDAY Vanguard Vanguard,, JUNE 21, 2014

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A new PayTV, CONSAT debuts!

Judith Audu declares!

Why we are different

‘I can’t date Nollywood actor’ F

ast rising actressturned-blogger, Judith Audu who has starred in several Nollywood flicks including Seekers, Burning Spears, Huzzel, 4 Walls, Comfort Zone, and Life is Beautiful, may have had some dates before she delved into acting. But now, as an actress, she has vowed never to have anything to do with a Nollywood actor. She made this declaration while in an online interview with HVP. Audu, whose first love is acting, said, “ I have people I admire their acting skills and crave to work with. But I don’t have a crush on anyone and I am hardly attracted to fellow actors.”

The Edo State-born actress believe that her veering into acting was accidental. According to her, “I didn’t believe I could end up as an actress because I wasn’t so bold to stand and express myself if front of people. But I

— Mayokun Okunola

A

wished I could and was so happy when I was bold enough to take the step out.”

Describing her ideal man as one that “listens and motivates me, makes me laugh, brings out the best in me, a hardworking, and understanding man,” Audu said, even though she is still climbing the ladder of success in her chosen profession, she’s indeed living out her dreams.

Audu is combination of brain and beauty. Apart from acting, she’s also a model, blogger, voice-over artiste and a foodie as she likes to call herself. She has been around for quite sometime. A holder of B.A degree in French and Masters in Public and International Affairs, the actress admits that her heart is with the arts.

Another ailing Nollywood star smiles again!

L

IKE ailing Chike Byr an and Romanus Amu ta popularly known as Natty, veteran actor, Osita Okeke is now the latest beneficiary of the Actors’ Guild of Nigeria’s benevolence fund powered by the magnanimous President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.

This development is another milestone made possible by the president of the guild, Ms. Ibinabo Fiberesima. Mr.Osita who was diagnosed with pancreas and prostrate related disease was filled with gratitude and prayed for the president.

Thanking the AGN president, Osita said: “This woman is a man of honor. I only met her once when she invited all veterans to come and meet with her. She told us about the health plan she was working on, paid our transport to and fro the venue and even gave us extra money. When I became sick in January, my family did all they could but it was nothing close to what was needed. When I got to a point that I felt I had nobody and thought I would die I decided to just call madam president.

I called her not up to three

weeks ago. She has taken charge of everything, picked up all the bills even the one we paid before, she refunded us. Won’t God bless her?”

It would be recalled that numerous people have benefited from the AGN’s benevolence fund. Chike Bryan, President of the Screen Writers Guild of Nigeria who has been down with kidney failure, Mr. Romanus Amuta popularly known as Natty who had a stroke, are amongst those that have recently benefited from the fund.

Nigerian-grown and owned business, Continental Satellite Limited, is leveraging on the growing entertainment industry to launch a pay-TV satellite service to further enhance new entertainment experience for Nigeria entertainment lovers.

Speaking during the media unveil of CONSAT Pay-TV, the Chief Executive Officer, Continental Satellite Limited, Mr. Mayokun Okunola, said the company is focused on ensuring the growth of the Nigerian entertainment industry by delivering the best in Nigerian culture, music, entertainment and lifestyle to a worldwide audience.

Mayokun affirmed that the company is focused on ensuring the growth of the Nigerian entertainment industry by delivering the best in Nigerian culture, music, entertainment and lifestyle to a worldwide audience.

“We have invested in a telenovela channel through a third-party partner for the women who love novela entertainment. Our channels also include international news channels, home-grown entertainment, State TV channels, and terrestrial channels,” he said.

He said pay-TV will offer the middle-income, choice-conscious Nigeria family a new option that respect their desire for better content, quality pictures and true pay-TV experience.

To ensure that Nigeria’s Pay-TV subscribers enjoy value for their money, Okunola noted that content is key. “Content is key to this industry. Our investment cannot be fully maximised if new providers are not able to air compelling and relevant content. It would be an unfair start. There is a prevalence of exclusivity that is steering this industry in the wrong direction. These issues need to be discussed by the stakeholders, regulators and other content providers in the industry, so that we can find an amicable solution. We need a fair start.”

Mr. Mayokun Okunola, Kenny Ogungbe and Ms. Funmilola Adewon of CONSAT

AFRIFF returns to Tinapa

O

RGANISERS of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF), a platform that seeks to give expression to African cinema by recognising and rewarding excellence in the industry, have announced that the 4th edition of the festival will hold between the 9th and 16th of November 2014, at Tinapa, Calabar, Cross River State.

Films which must have been produced after January 1, 2013 are eligible to enter for the competition. However, according to the organisers, preference would be given to films which are yet to be screened globally or in Africa. Categories for entry include Feature, Short, Documentary and Animation, with monetary award prizes ranging from $3000 to $6000.

SATURDAY Vanguard Vanguard,, JUNE 21, 2014 — 25

08111813022

A scene from the movie

T

HE film has not hit the cinemas, yet it has already started achieving the targeted success it desires.

Lancelot Imasuen’s daring film project, “Invasion 1897” which has been adopted as a means to re-open agitation against the injustice meted to the Benin people during the dark era of British expedition in Africa in 1897, is surely on course to rewrite history. The film has masterminded the historic return of stolen Benin artifacts from Britain.

Two stolen Benin artifacts were yesterday ceremoniously received at the palace of Benin monarch, Oba Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolopolo from Britain.

The bronze carvings, which were voluntarily returned to the country

by Mark Walker, a great grandson

‘Invasion 1897’movie

Winning the war on stolen Benin artifacts of one of the soldiers that participated in the British invasion of Benin Kingdom in 1897, Captain Philip Walker, after over 117 years in private custody in Britain.

Half of a Yellow Sun saga:

NFVCB opens up e viie ov on the mo

ed! layyed Why it’s decoming weeks after the promot-

U

ntil the producers of the movie adaptation of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie‘s novel, Half of a Yellow Sun are ready to do the needful, fans of the best selling novel may have to wait for a long time before thronging the cinemas to see the film in Nigeria.

This is the position of the National Film and Video Censors Board,NFVCB. It is

C M Y K

ers of the film, The Film One Distribution Limited, wrote a letter to the Director-General of NFVCB,Ms Patricia Bala, expressing dismay about “the delay in receiving a formal response from the Board on the status of our application or determination of same.”

The board, in a statement signed

by Mr Caesar Kagho, Acting Head, and Corporate Affairs of NFVCB, in Abuja,maintained

This feat was, however, made possible after the hype generated while shooting Invasion 1897 in the streets of London early this year. HVP gathered that while the shooting of

that the big-budget film will not get its approval for public release until certain aspects of the film that bother on ‘national security’ are expunged.

It, however, reiterated that it did not ban the movie as w i d e l y speculated.

The Board insisted it had communicated the details of its decision to the promoters of The statement reads thus: “It has become necessary for the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to clear the air and set the records straight on the status of the movie, Half of a Yellow Sun and the attendant interest in certain quarters on the matter.

The NFVCB restates its position that the movie is not banned as speculated and that the board has dutifully exercised due diligence consonant with section 36 (1) (b) of NFVCB Enabling Law ACT 1993, CAP N40 LFN 2004 which stipulates that “ a decision on a film shall ensure that such a film is not likely to undermine national security.”

The Board has duly communicated the exhibitor of the movie in a letter dated May 27th, 2014 explaining the status of the film and requiring the distributor to

the film lasted in London, Mark Walker granted an interview to Ms Evelyn Obahor of BET TV, where he admitted being in custody of some of the looted artifacts, disclosing that his great grandfather was one of the soldiers who fought Benin in 1897, and that he has some of those things in his house. He later sought to meet with the cast and crew of the film before the Benin indigenes under the aegis of Benin Union in London stepped in to facilitate the reparation of the stolen artifacts.

The film, which has been endorsed by the Centre for Black African Arts and Culture, CBAAC, and Society of Nigerian Theatre Artistes, SONTA, focuses on the invasion of the Benin Kingdom by the British Empire in 1897, and how they carted away ancient artifacts belonging to the kingdom under the reign

of Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi who was deposed and later died while on exile in Calabar.

Parading stars such as Segun Arinze, Paul Obazele, and Mike Omoregbe, who played the lead character with special appearance by late Justus Esiri, the film which also has been endorsed by the Benin monarch, Oba Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolopolo is indeed, a bold attempt by Lancelot Imasuen to open up the hidden truths behind the invasion of the Benin Kingdom from the Nigerian Perspective to the rest of the World.

Recently, the Crown Prince of Benin, His Royal Highness, Eheneden Eradiauwa paid a royal visit to the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi, all in the bid to reconnect with the storyline of the film. The visit, which was facilitated by the Benin Royal Dynasty Trust, was part of the move to strengthen the aged-long ties between Efik Kingdom and that of Benin.

Tee-Y Mix out with Record Label, Vivace

P

enultimate Friday, frontline music producer, Tee-Y Mix, announced the official launch of his Music Label, Vivace Records online.

According to his manager, Akinbanjo Akanbi, the proper launch of the label will come later in the year.

Tee-Y Mix has produced hit songs for some of the Nigerian biggest acts for more than 10 years and now he adds a livelier dimension to the sound of urban Nigerian music.

Speaking on his new foray, Vivace Records boss explained that his passion for

good music and the pain from seeing many talented music artistes struggle to realise their full potential in the Nigerian music industry inspired to his decision to set up his own records label. As a frontline music producer, Tee-Y Mix has seen the potential of the untapped, unreleased huge pull of talents that exist within the Nigerian youth and wants to help create more music super stars. The new label will make its debut on the Nigerian music scene with two musical acts: Immaculate and Oyinkanade. Both artistes exemplify the true essence of the lively, vivid and appealing music which Vivace Records represents.

Oyinkanade and his artistes expunge/edit some clearly stated objectionable aspects of the movie.

Once the areas highlighted are resolved, the NFVCB as a regulator shall communicate a rating of the film as may be deemed appropriate.The actions of the board are a routine procedure that is not specific to any production but primarily taken within the ambit of the law, underpinned by the superior logic of safeguarding overall public interest.

It is note-worthy that since the correspondence from the Board to the Exhibitor, a re-

sponse is yet to be received that may facilitate further regulatory actions as may be deemed necessary.

It would be recalled that the NFVCB as the movie industry regulator in Nigeria, approved 35 movies in the month of May 2014 alone, applying similar procedural processes.”

Half of a Yellow Sun is a 2013 Nigerian drama film directed

by Biyi Bandele. It is a love story, involving two sisters who are caught up in the outbreak of the Nigerian civil war.

26— SARTURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

Sex you Y nice havi

E

mike Ekwe is a Nigerian music artiste popularly known by her stage name, 'Harmony'. She recently told Showtime Celebrity that she could do a music video completely nude with no pant or bra. She caught a lot of attention with that revelation. This singer is beautiful, sexy and daring, and she isn’t scared to push the envelope, entertaining the audience with her art. Her new single titled “Chocolate” came out two weeks ago. In this exclusive Interview with Showtime Celebrity, she reveals all about her person and craft…

How many songs have you done so far?

I’ve done so many songs, but right now, I have only one song out, Choke. I featured Don Coleone. It wasn’t a big hit though, but my second single produced by Popito and mixed by Brains dropped two weeks ago. I think this one is going to be a hit by the special grace of God. When did you get into the Nigerian music industry?

I got into the music industry in 2012. That was when I released my first single with Don Coleone and now, I’ve been working hard to get something that will make wave. I just don’t want to release anyhow.

– Harm

Have you done any music videos?

I did a viral video for Choke. It’s on Youtube. I had many viewers.

BY DAMILOLA SHOLOLA

How has your career been so far?

It’s been going on. We’re trying. I’m trying. My crew, my producers, we are just doing the best that we can. I don’t have any sponsors yet. I’m my own sponsor. I’m trying to get sponsors too, but with the little I have, I’m just doing the best as far as it can go.

says.

Would you say you are promiscuous in real life, or is it just for the act?

In real life, I’m a very free person. In my videos, I’m going to be free, in entertaining; I’m going to go to any length but in real life, yes. I am very promiscuous.

How would you classify your genre of music?

It’s Afro-pop, but I know myself. I know I can rap. I can sing. I can dance. I can act. I can make you laugh I can do everything entertaining.

Tell us about your new single?

I want people to listen to the song, Chocolate. I want people to love it. I know it’s going to be a club banger, but it was dropped some days ago. So people should just download and enjoy it.

What’s your general view about sex?

Harmony Sex is nice. Everybody needs it. So long as you do it with the right person and you don’t regret after doing it, sex is good for everyone. It makes your mind open. It makes your body open. You think nicely after having sex, so long as you do it with the right person and at the right time.

Who inspired you to go into music?

I love Whitney Houston. I actually started singing her songs in primary school. I loved her so much. She inspired me.

Are you planning on releasing any uncensored videos?

You know, it’s so difficult to have an uncensored video in Nigeria because of the culture and the background but like I keep saying, if Rihanna goes nude, the whole Nigerian men would be crazy like they want to see it.

Beyonce, it’s like she’s the most responsible person on earth, but she goes nude in her video, and people don’t judge her. She’s entertaining; she’s giving people what they want to see. Entertainment is all about making people see new things. I don’t mind going nude in my video but I'm don’t want people to judge me based on what I do in my video because at the end of the day, I’m just trying to make people watch something new. I just want to make people feel entertained.

That is what I’m out for, so I’ll go to any length to give people a new view.

Are you planning on doing any shows?

I’ve been doing shows. I did other songs that I did not release, but I’ve been performing those songs in Abuja. I had three major shows that I went for last year. I was performing Oshamo and Party Time, two songs that I did not release but I was performing them. I performed at the Most Beautiful Girl In Abuja. I performed at Miss Aso, I performed at spotlight Abuja and I’ve been having other shows but I’ve been busy going to South Africa to meet with people that would do my musical videos, on and on.

You said you could go nude in a music video?

I could go nude in my musical video if that is exactly what my script says.

Can you do a lesbian scene?

If that is what the script says. I can do anything the script says because I am not the scriptwriter. So, definitely anyone who writes the script for my video knows what he is doing. So if that is exactly what the script says, then as an artiste, I have to do it.

What’s the craziest thing you can do on camera?

I could kiss. I could let a guy touch my boobs. I could let a guy smack my ass. I can kiss a girl, like wet kiss in a music video, but if that is what the script

*Harmony'

When was the last time you had sex?

The last time I had sex was four days ago in south Africa.

What does a man do to attract you?

I like men with a good heart. I like men with a very big heart. I like men who tell the truth. A lot of men lie so

Vanguard, SATURDAY, JUNE 21, 2014 — 27

B

OSNIAHerzegovina’s striker Edin Dzeko has vowed to score the goals that will derail Super Eagles World Cup party in Brazil. Éaglesplayed a barren draw with Iran while Argentina defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-1 in the first group F matches. Nigeria and Bosnia trade tackles tonight at the Arena Pantanal in Cuiaba, with both teams needing victory to remain in the race to qualify for the second round.

The Manchester City forward said yesterday that he feels he is destined to score the goals that will rub salt to the injury of the Nigerian side, who are yet to win a match at the World Cup in 16 years.

Speaking to reporters in Brazil, Dzeko said that “I feel that it is my destiny to score the goals that will propel us to victory over Nigeria. And I believe that with the kind of spirit in camp now that our ambition to reach the seconr round will be assured once we defeat Nigeria”.

He however anticipates a tough duel from the African champions, who know that a loss tonight will compund their woes in the tournament, given that their last match is against table-topping Argentina on June 25.

“This is the kind of match that will be very tough because of the realities that are on ground for both teams.

But I think the winner will be the team that show the greater desire to succeed< which I think we have”, said Dzeko, whose team will fancy their chances of beating Iran in their final group match on June 25.

Džeko ended the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign as second-top scorer in the UEFA section with ten goals as BosniaHerzegovina qualified for the first major tournament in its history.

EA EAGLES GLES VS VS BOSNIA BOSNIA HERZEGO HERZEGOVINA VINA TToda odayy 111pm 1pm

Dzeko vows to sack Eagles MOSES:

It’s fight to finish V

ICTOR Moses has said that Bosnia-Herzegovina will see a different Super Eagles when boith sides meet tonight at the Arena Pantanal in Cuiaba.

Eagles started their World Cup campaign here on a poor note Monday when they were held to a scoreless draw by Iran in Curitiba.

Moses, who is on loan at

Liverpool, had an indifferent showing in the game and speaking ahead of tonight’s make-or-mar clash with the Europeans, Moses said that the Eagles have resolved to fight to the death to keep alive their fading World Cup hopes.

“We can not afford to lose this match because it would dent our hopes of reaching

the second round. We know what it as stake and we have put what happened against Iran behind us. The team will be different against Bosnia and we will fight to finish to

protect our image and pride”, said the Chelsea player.

28 — Vanguard, SATURDAY, JUNE 21, 2014

Asamoah: I want to attack Germany

Germany v Ghana:

Today 8pm

Boateng brothers br K

•Asamoah

K

WADWO Asamoah has appealed to Ghana’s coach Kwesi Appiah to put him back in a more attacking role ahead of a key FIFA World Cup clash against Germany today.

“I’m the kind of player who attacks a lot. My style is different, I’m not a typical defender,” the Juventus midfielder said.

With World Cup survival probably hinging on Saturday’s game against an ominously strong looking Germany, Asamoah feels he is being underused.

“I attack, try to dribble one-onone and make crosses and shots,” added Asamoah.

“I’m not a left back. And I’m finding it difficult because I’d like to show what I’m capable of and show that I can do more.”

Asamoah is primarily known for surging runs up and down the left flank that allow him to help out in defence while creating goalscoring opportunities for Juventus stars Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente.

He scored only two league goals last season, but one was a screamer from just inside the area that gave Juventus a precious 1-0 win over Fiorentina.

C M Y K

evin-Prince Boateng and his brother Jerome Boateng will once more come face to face on the opposite side as Germany clash with Ghana tonight in the World Cup. Kevin plays for Ghana while Jerome stars for Germany. Both brothers made history in South Africa 2010 when they became the first brothers to play against each other. The half brothers were both born in Berlin to separate mothers, but in 2009, Schalke’s Kevin-Prince, 27, opted to play for the country of his father. Jerome has a more successful spells with Bayern Munich, KevinPrince seem trapped in underachievement as stints with, Tottneham AC Milan and now Schalke 04 have yet to fetch him the desired soccer glory.

He turned to Ghana having become discouraged by a perceived lack of opportunities even after the brothers had made a single appearance for the same Germany Under-21 team.

The brothers normally have daily contact via SMS or telephone, but there has been silence as they prepare for the Fortaleza clash in Group G. “We’ve had no contact recently, each of us is just concentrating on himself,” said Jerome.

The 25-year-old will face Ghana with a splint on his right hand having torn a thumb ligament in Germany’s opening 4-0 win over Portugal.

Germany are looking to maintain their grip on the group after hammering Portugal, but Kevin-Prince has turned up the heat on the tie.

“It’s like in ancient Rome.

There will be people around the pitch who want to see how two teams fight,” the Schalke 04 star told German magazine Sport Bild.

“The team who wants it more will win and we will fight to the death against Germany.”

The brothers hail from the tough Berlin district of Wedding and neither are short of confidence, but Kevin-Prince attracts

*Samson Siasia with TAN ambassadors in Brazil to suppot Niegria

Vanguard, SATURDAY, JUNE 21, 2014 — 29

reak bond

Ozil needs special treatment —Mourinho

A

S Germany play Ghana tomorrow,

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho has said that Germany’s playmaker

Argentina v Iran

Mesut Ozil is “sensitive” and needs the trust of his team-

mates to perform at his best.

The Chelsea boss bought Ozil from Werder Bremen while the Portuguese was manager of Real Madrid and went on to work with him for the rest of his time at the club.

“I think it’s hard to criticise him, because Ozil is Ozil. If you were expecting Ozil to be super aggressive and to be running miles and miles from side to side, and to show great enthusiasm and aggressiveness, this is not Mesut.

“Every time he makes a pass, the ball goes with the right direction, the right speed, the right intensity – this is Ozil.

“I learned with him, because we were together for quite a long time, that he is a very sensitive boy,” Mourinho said. “He needs confidence. He needs trust. He needs to feel that people are with him.”

Today 5pm

We need a miracle to beat Argentina— Quiieroz ….says Messi not human

A

•Messi

S Iran confront Argentina today in Belo Horizente, Coach Carlos Queiroz has said that Lionel Messi is incredible and may not be a human.

He also said that they need a miracle to beat the two-time worlc champions.

Iran held the Super Eagles to a barren draw in their first Group F match on Monday, while Argentina defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-1, with Messi scoring the winner.

“Against Argentina, we need a miracle to defeat them. They are one the best teams in the world,” Queiroz

told Argentine state-run news agency Telam.

“Argentina has one day more to rest and is in the better condition,” the 61-year-old said.

The former Real Madrid and Portugal coach said he is concerned not only about Lionel Messi but also about the rest of the Albicelestes players.

“Messi is not a human. He is an incredible player; however all the other players also worry me. (Angel) Di Maria, (Gonzalo) Higuain and (Javier) Mascherano are the great players,” he added.

30 — Vanguard, SATURDAY, JUNE 21, 2014

F-L-I-C-K-S! F-L-I-C-K-S!! F-L-I-C-K-S!!!

Horn and be haunted!

F elipe is one of the few taxi drivers who speak passable English and has been very helpful since I arrived Brazil, a country so dear to my heart and many others because of their football culture and heroes they have produced. I’ve had bitter experiences in the hands of coy drivers that I tried their fast trains. But my first experience was not palatable. It was on the day that Brazil played Croatia.

It was an exceptional day as thousands stormed into the train. It was like boarding the only existing train in Lagos, from Iju to Lagos with people perching on top of the roof. Not exactly the Lagos experience but the crowd was much.

Together with Adekunle Salami, we ran into Felipe on our way back to our luxury hotel, Santana Gold, Felipe

maneuvered the traffic and we paid the least amount since boarding taxis. I collected his card and we became friends.

The other day I was fiddling with his steering when my hand pressed on the horn and I saw a different person I called a friend. ‘’Why? You horn, Police haunt”, he blurted out. I exchanged glances with Salami and pressed him further. He explained that they hardly use their horns except in rare cases. ‘’No noise. You drive patient and use brain”, he said in his smattering English. And truly, since I arrived here, I’ve not heard any horn despite the crowded streets. Traffic lights remain the controller of movements. Its unlike in Nigeria where motorists blare their horns on traffic lights to force the red to turn to green.

Standing trade booms W

Get ready for cheeky excuses B efore the beginning of the World Cup, there were high hopes of the Super Eagles winning the World Cup. Sports Minister, Tammy Danagogo sparked this blind patriotic dream or is it nightmare.

Before you knew it, it had gone viral like wild fire. I remember clearly meeting Stephen Keshi at Ibis hotel, off International Airport road, Lagos. Keshi asked me if those who win the World Cup have two heads. Just after one match against Iran, I asked him how far?

He looked up and started stammering. ‘’You saw what

Holland did to defending Champions Spain. Did you see Germany humiliate Portugal and Chile beat Spain and Uruguay beat England bla-bla-bla.

Laughter! The elders say that the manner a man borrows money is different when he is reminded to pay back. We should prepare for excuses.

And to excuse yourself is to accuse yourself. With all the uprising in the Eagles camp, riddled with player’s friction, the NFF watching the drama from afar, we are heading for buckpassing and more excuses. Remember, when we get frightened, we look for scapegoats.

hen it comes to money, enough is never enough.

Because if not for money, why would one risk her life standing in a very cold weather? Those of us inside dressed like Eskimos are still shaking like epileptic patients while others dare the weather to look for money outside. It’s a common sight to see beautiful girls hang out in the night for pleasure associated with nocturnal groove. Night time used to be the best in Lagos, Warri, PH, Enugu, Calabar etc. But not again. We know the reasons.

Not that it has stopped completely. Girls must change their wardrobes and buy the latest handbags, shoes and the latest phones. Others claim they use the money to cater for themselves and at times help their parents to pay school fees.

Anyway, it is a global thing. I went out on my endless

Tears for the nation, not for the dead I vory Coast midfielder Serey Die said he broke down in tears on Thursday over the emotion of representing his country at a World Cup Die was crying as the anthems was being played before they faced Colombia in Brasilia, with rumours circulating that his father had died before the match. His father actually died in 2004. Cote d’Ivoire lost the Group C match, 2-1.

The public outpouring continued after his mistake led to Colombia’s

C M Y K

second goal, Die caught in possession by James Rodriguez as Juan Quintero ran clear to put the South Americans 2-0 up in the 70th minute.

A sombre Die, who was replaced three minutes later as Gervinho pulled back what proved to be a consolation goal, said the emotion of the occasion got to him.

“I was going to play for my country,” he said when asked

about the tears. “(But) it’s true that I thought about my father, who died in 2004,” he added.

Colombia’s injured forward Radamel Falcao appeared to be one of those to make the mistake of thinking Die’s father had passed away just before kick-off.

“A big hug for Serey Die today he was a great example for all of us who love this sport,” the striker posted on his Twitter account.

adventure to see Brazilian women hustling. This standing trade booms. Old and young. It remains the only trade that is not affected by language barrier. ‘’Dollar, Reais, Euro, Pounds”, they chatter reminding one of black marketers in Nigeria. And it is expensive. It costs as high as 200 Dollars for all night while half night goes for between $100 or $120 Dollars. The prices vary with the age and beauty of the women. Like my friend will always say, ‘’there is no romance without finance”.

Fellaini vows to cut his hair if Belgium win World Cup

Marouane Fellaini has confirmed that if Belgium win the World Cup he will cut off his hair.

The Manchester United midfielder is known for his wild hair but in an interview with Belgian outlet Sporza he has confirmed that he will cut it all off if his side goes all the way this summer.

This is not the first time that the big Belgian has made such a claim.

He has previously stated that if a side he played for had claimed the Champions League title then he would have cut it all off.

Unfortunately, none of the sides he has represented - Standard Liege, Everton and Manchester United have managed that feat.

SARTURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014 — 31

is nice, nice. think think ely after ng it

I finished from LASU. I studied Public Administration.

What is your philosophy of life?

I feel being good is everything in life because I know that whatever you do will definitely come back to you.

So, you have to be good. You have to be good to the people that are good to you.

Do you believe in friendship?

It happens everywhere. I believe in everything. I believe that people are different. I don’t judge people so I don’t expect people to judge me. But as an entertainer, as a celebrity, I know that people will definitely judge me. It’s not everybody that will like me, I know that, but I just want people to take it easy when they start judging because at the end of the day, we’re all human beings and not perfect.

What’s your view on religion?

Religion is something that will just keep the rules going. That’s how I see religion. I think religion is a guide, it’s something that guides you and makes you not to do all the wrong things. I’m a Christian, I was born a Muslim actually but I’m a Christian right now but I’ve got a free mind. I don’t judge anybody. I can get married to anyone at the end of the day. I can get married to a Buddhist, a Pagan, a whatever, I don’t care, so long as you are who you are because a lot of people pretend to be what they’re not, acting up with religion.

That is so unfair to humanity. They use religion as a cover-up which is not cool at all. Nigerians do a lot of crazy stuff in the room and they get scared of doing it outside. If you’re wild, be wild, if you’re good be good.

Don’t pretend to be good outside when you can actually eat an animal inside.

mony

much because they want to get down and I keep saying to myself, you do not have to lie that much because you want to get down. If she wants to get down, she wants to, but you don’t have to tell so much lies to a girl. Just go straight to the point.

What turns you on?

Kisses. I can’t have sex with a guy that I cannot kiss. Kisses turn me on.

Do you see yourself doing anything aside music in showbiz?

Yeah, in a couple of years. I love fashion but I love music more.

What’s your selling point?

I don’t even know my selling point.

Maybe it’s my smile. I can’t say it’s my boobs because a lot of people just tell me you’ve got a very beautiful smile. I think my smile is the most amazing thing because people just say ‘oh Harmony, keep smiling.’

*Harmony' boring if everyone is the same, if everybody is doing the same thing, if everyone is covering up and nobody is getting naked, it’s going to be boring.

Are you currently in any relationship?

Nope.

How do you view Nigerian culture?

Nigerian culture don tire me jare. At the end of the day, the British colonised us and we’re looking up to them. When I see people criticising, you know what I ask them? I ask them: Why are you wearing a shirt and a trouser or a jeans trouser? Why are you not wearing traditional outfit? Because you’re trying to be like someone you’re not and you’re criticising other people. That means you should start from yourself. So before you talk about people, ask yourself one question, is this my mission in life?

People should always look at themselves first before they talk about other people.

Culture is good, fine, respect it, but do not disrespect people who do not respect it because everyone is not the same. People are different and that’s why we’re in this world. You’re in this world to be different. It’s going to be

I could kiss. I could let a guy touch my boobs. I could let a guy smack my ass. I can kiss a girl like wet kiss in a music video, if that is what the script says.

How was growing up like for you?

Growing up was so tough. My dad was so strict. A lot of people know my dad but I’m not going to say his name. He was an actor. He’s a very sweet father but strict. He never wanted me to be in the entertainment industry. I guess that’s why it took me so long to grow up and decided this is what I want to do. He never wanted me close to the industry. He knows everything that happens in the industry, so I guess he didn’t want m to pass through all that but at the e d of the day, I’m all grown up. I ha e to decide what I want do. How many are you in your f mily? We’re two. I and my young r broth .

Where did you study?

Which artistes are you planning to work with?

I’m working with Patoranking very soon. I just did a song with Adokiye produced by Gospel on the Beat. The title of the song is Koh Bad. Me, Adokiye, featuring Baby Rhymszs. It’s going to be out shortly, maybe after my single then we’ll drop that as well.

People I wish to work with are Davido, Wizkid, Olamide, then Cynthia Morgan, I like her and Tiwa Savage too.

How do you view the Nigerian music industry?

It is large. Nigerian music is crazy, it’s something else right now. People love it, it’s amazing. In Jo'burg, I used to think that people don’t listen to Nigerian music but in South Africa, any club you enter and there’s no Nigerian music, it means the club is not on point. In Malaysia, they play Nigerian music and host Nigerian artistes every day. In Guinea too Nigerian music is big. In Africa, it is number one right now. Where do they not play Nigerian music? It’s amazing and once they see you dancing to Nigerian music, they know that this is a Nigerian.

What do you do to stay this fresh?

I just stay away from the sun. I don’t like the sun. I always wear my sunscreen whenever I go under the sun. Sunscreen is very important.

People should please note: you must wear sunscreen whether you’re dark or light-skinned or chocolate. You must wear sunscreen.

32—SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

by Anozie Egole

Why I am still single — Yvonne Nelson G

hanaian sexy actress,Yvonne Nelson is really scared of settling down after her heart was shattered by Nigerian singer, Iyanya. This, she confirmed in a tweet she posted, revealing why she is still single.

In the tweet, she said, ”I’m single because I can’t take being lied to, cheated on and oops, lets just say I haven’t met the one”. Some friends close to her say Yvonne wants a man who is devoted only to her and that she is very jealous and possessive and that makes any man who is in a relationship with her to feel quite inadequate since she wants attention all the time. Who knows, may be that might be the reason Iyanya had to do a rethink.

o lands ito Rapperr,, Magnit go in T h it w l a e d 0 0 ,0 0 2 12 $1 iste in town to get

nito is the newest art Feel-good rapper Magrsement side of things. The rapper has do en e company, on the corporate th new Nigerian phon act was wi t ac ntr co ive rat luc e contr signed a brand ambassador. Th year. The Tingo Mobile, as its e on of d rio pe a for reportedly worth N20mde at the official launch of Tingo st and only announcement was ma The company is the fir hip with The s. go La in tly en rec rtners Mobile turer in Nigeria. In pa local phone manufac i, Tingo Mobile will host Magnito to an Place by Papas, Lekkly, to be followed by a series of other unveiling party in Ju ws, the rapper, a few days ago activities. In other ne,1Chibuzor featuring his BIG E dropped a new single label mate TKON.

Aki, Omo Jesu, gather for GPM pastor’s bir thda birthda thdayy

N

PProphet Mafuah and wife

ollywood star-actor,Chinedu Ikedieze a.k.a Aki and comedian Isiwele Daniel popularly known as Omo Jesu were among the celebrities that graced the 40th birthday anniversary of Prophet Paul Hilda Mafuah of the God Preparatory Ministry which held in Lagos last weekend.

According to sources, their presence at the august event signalled the respect and recognition they accord Prophet Mafuah as a man of God. Speaking at the event, Prophet Mafuah noted that the celebration was a prophetic one following a divine directive that he should halt the yearly marking of his birthdays until he turns 40, this year.

Mafuah who received a 2011 Nissan Pathfinder Exclusive Jeep from an elder of the church as a birthday present among other gifts, acknowledged the faithfulness of God in his life. He said, he never expected a quick replacement of his car which was stolen years back.

The occasion, witnessed the public presentation of his book titled,Negative Entities that Occupy Human Body, which he used to urge Nollywood practitioners to use their films to win souls for the kingdom of God.

Naija Street Champ: 6 fina emerge for the third roun lists d

he first street competition T music talents, tagged, Na which intends to discover new ija Street Champ has produ finalists which ced 6

will be goi competition. The finalists ng for the third round of the among the 24 winners fro emerged after a keen competition breathtaking event whichm the eight zones of the auditions. The recently in Ikeja, Lagos anproduced these finalists was held producers of the event lik d was attended by the judges cum e, Terry G, I.D Cabasa, an Speaking at the event, the d D’Tunes.

Falana, said that due to Project Manager, Oladehinde the huge talents that were each zone during the au ditioning, selecting the 24 found in tants that made it to the sec contes”This country is indeed ble ond round was not an easy task. waiting to be harnessed. Thssed with a lot of youth with talent third round of this contest, e six finalists that emerged for the producers to compete for will go into the studio with the recording deal,”he said. the N1m cash prize and a three-year

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014—33

BY IYABO AINA

Kim Kardashian steps out braless

Ge ed and Gett suit suited boo e bootted lik like Be Beyyoncé in Gucci

N

S

EEMS there’s no end to what extent American television and social media personality, Kim Kardashain-West would not go when it comes to showing off Kanye West’s assets.

Recently, the newly wed and mother of one, stepped out in New York, looking sexy in black trousers and a matching blazer, without a bra on.

Also,the 33-year-old OAP seemed to be occupied with pushing baby North’s cradle as she joined her sister at NYC eatery Serafina, but her hubby Kanye West was nowhere in sight.

•Kim

“If I’m wearing a top, I don’t wear a bra’

OT only is Beyoncé one of the best singers and performers in the world, she’s also one of the best dressed women too. And here, in New York, she shows us once again how it’s done.

In fact, Beyoncé has worn lots of looks from this Resort collection: a mustard yellow paisley print top and trouser combo, a rainbow stripe jumper and a blue sheer jumpsuit.

But this trouser suit personifies everything Beyoncé is: a shining star, a powerful woman and a confident dresser.

n o s ark l C y bby l l e K u h d an ounce irst ann val of f arri ld chi

T

•Rihanna roars at CFDA fashion icon award

R

IHANNA is a fashion force to be reckoned with. Her antecedents in entertainment and fashion speak for

•Rihanna C M Y K

her.

Even recently, she bagged the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Fashion Icon Award. for 2014.

But the “Diamonds” singer, shocked the world at the award when she revealed that she has no business wearing bra, especially when she is putting on a top. “If I’m wearing a top, I don’t wear a bra. If I’m wearing a bra, I just wear a bra,” said Rihanna.

But can you blame her when her dress sense rakes in awards and more awards.

The Council of Fashion Designers of America Inc.who gave the award Monday, said it was in honor of the way her style has made a tremendous impact on pop culture around the world.

•Beyoncé

•Kelly Clarkson

HE 32-yearold singer and her music manager husband, Brandon Blackstock both welcomed River Rose, their first child into the world on Thursday, as the ‘stronger’ hitmaker took to her Twitter account to announce the happy news.

‘Our baby girl River Rose Blackstock arrived on June 12th!’ she wrote on the social networking site.

The blonde beauty, who announced she was expecting a daughter earlier this year, had a difficult pregnancy early on after battling with morning sickness.

34—SATURDAY

N

Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

IGERIA is currently facing a child vulnerability crisis of potentially catastrophic proportions. The category of children referred to as vulnerable are defined as “Children who are unlikely to have the opportunity of achieving or maintaining, a reasonable standard of health or development without the provision of social services.

They include those whose health or development is likely to be significantly impaired, or further impaired; who have physical or mental impairment, who are in the care of a public authority, or, provided with accommodation by a public authority in order to secure their well-being” Addressing the challenges faced by this group of children and mitigating negative outcomes of this growing population is a high priority for national governments and international stakeholders across the globe who recognise this as an issue with social, economic, and human rights dimensions.

Although great strides have certainly been made to deal with this challenge, anecdotal evidence shows that the current scale of services is far from reaching a significant number of the over 17.5 million vulnerable children in Nigeria according to the 2008 situation assessment and analysis on orphan and vulnerable children conducted by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in collaboration with UNICEF and other partners.

Not only is the response inadequate in scale but also in scope, including programming gaps in specific service domains, geographical coverage, and age-groups. The national response to the challenges of vulnerable children in Nigeria currently coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, FMWA&SD, started with the Rapid Assessment, Analysis and Action Planning Process, RAAAPP, and the National Orphans and Vulnerable Children Conference in 2004.

Since then Nigeria has put in place policies, strategies, structures and systems to respond to the challenges including the development of a National Plan of Action for Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Nigeria (2006 -2010). A participatory review the national plan of action was conducted at its expiration with a view to deploy more effective and inclusive strategies to ensure wellbeing of children, the attainment of national development goals and objectives such as the Vision 20:2020, Subsidy Reinvestment Empowerment Programme (Sure-P) and the MDGs. The outcome of the critical review and stakeholders’ consultation culminated in the development of a new 8-year National Priority Agenda, NPA, for Vulnerable Children in Nigeria 2013 - 2020. The NPA for Vulnerable Children builds on the achievements of the previous plan, and will help guide the multi-sectoral operationalisation of the strategies and objectives of Nigeria Vision 20:2020 which aim to improve the lives of our most vulnerable children.

The overall goal of the National

Vulnerable children and national priority

•Priority Agenda for Vulnerable Children in Nigeria is to ensure improved quality of life

Priority Agenda for Vulnerable Children in Nigeria is to ensure improved quality of life and total wellbeing of the Nigerian Child through reducing child vulnerability and child poverty, and overcoming the significant inequities in the country.

The document is built around six major commitments, which focus on the critical priorities that must be addressed to promote, protect and fulfill the rights of vulnerable children in Nigeria and these include all poor and vulnerable children have equitable access to and benefit from comprehensive social protection

The NPA recognises that one of the major contributing factors to children’s vulnerability is poverty

services.

The NPA recognises that one of the major contributing factors to children’s vulnerability is poverty, and that since child poverty and vulnerability are multidimensional in nature, a multisectoral response is required. It moves beyond the notions that orphaning and vulnerability were primarily due to HIV and AIDS, that the majority of vulnerable children were orphans and that every orphan is vulnerable.

It promotes an equity-based approach towards reducing child vulnerability.

SATURDAY

Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014—35

By Sola Ogundipe, 08056180112, solazed@live.com

LIFESTYLE

Obesity: Weight of the matter W

hether you’re at risk of becoming obese, currently overweight or at a healthy weight, you can take steps to prevent unhealthy weight gain and related health problems.

Not surprisingly, the steps to prevent weight gain are the same as the steps to lose weight: daily exercise, a healthy diet, and a long-term commitment to watch what you eat and drink.

how much you eat, when you eat, how you’re feeling and how hungry you are. After a while, you should see patterns emerge. You can plan ahead and develop strategies for handling these types of situations and stay in control of your eating behaviours.

Monitor weight regularly People who weigh themselves at least once a week are more successful in keeping off excess pounds. Monitoring your weight can tell you whether your efforts are working and can help you detect small weight gains before they

become big problems.

Be consistent Sticking to a healthy-weight plan during the week, on the weekends, and amidst vacation and holidays as much as possible increases your chances of long-term success.

Exercise regularly You need to get 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week to prevent weight gain. Moderately intense physical activities include fast walking and swimming.

Eat healthy Focus on low-calorie, nutrientdense foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid saturated fat and limit sweets and alcohol. You can still enjoy small amounts of high-fat, high-calorie foods as an infrequent treat. Just be sure to choose foods that promote a healthy weight and good health most of the time.

•Monitor your weight

•Monitor your weight

Avoid food traps Identify situations that trigger outof-control eating. Try keeping a journal and write down what you eat,

TYPICALLY MALE

Your cell phone is killing your fertility!

Do you carry a cell phone in your trousers or jeans pockets? If you do, your cell phone could be killing your fertility. You could be inadvertently harming your fertility and sperm health and reducing your chances of fathering children. Results of longterm studies show that consistent exposure to radio-frequency electromagnetic radiation emitted by cell phones can harm male fertility.

A man’s sperms carry half the genetic material necessary to make a complete human being. A woman’s egg holds the other half. But every time a man puts a cell phone in his trousers or jeans pockets, the device could be messing with his sperm health. The average cell phone emits radio-frequency electromagnetic radiation, RF-EMR, not only when the device is active when making or receiving a phone call, but constantly even when the phone is idle.

The typical male wants to preserve his manliness and perpetuate his masculinity, particularly with regards to fertility and vitality.

Radiation While small doses of the radiation

are not dangerous, over a prolonged period of time, the radiation can have deleterious effects. A small but consistent drop in sperm quality of men exposed to mobile phone radiation. While researchers find no link between mobile phone radiation and an actual drop in fertility rates, it could contribute to understanding the global and still unexplained drop in sperm count.

Sperm quality Sperm quality is very variable naturally and is usually assessed using sperm motility - a measure of the percentage of sperm that are swimming normally; sperm viability - the percentage of sperm that are alive in a given sample; and sperm concentration, meaning the density of sperm in fluid.

Male infertility Male infertility can be caused by factors such as hormone disorders, illness, injury to reproductive anatomy, obstruction or sexual dysfunction. These factors can temporarily or permanently affect sperm and prevent conception.

Some disorders become more difficult to treat the longer they persist without infertility treatment.

Normal values

•A decrease in sperm quality can be linked to mobile phone exposure

Optimal levels for healthy sperm vary, but the norm is that 15 million sperm per milliliter is considered typical for fertile couples. A fertile man must have at least 58 percent vitality, 40 percent motility and at least four percent were normal-shaped sperm cells.

Low blow But just because a man has a low sperm count doesn’t necessarily mean he and his partner can’t conceive naturally. It only takes one sperm cell to fertilise the egg cell. And while a decrease in sperm quality can be linked to mobile phone exposure, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the men are any

less fertile. Given the increasing use of wireless devices, and general declines in sperm quality seen over the last 10-20 years across the world, it is certainly an area that in urgent need of research.

Don’t throw away your cell phone Certainly there is anxiety about fertility, but as a man who is concerned, you don’t have to ditch your cell phone.

Just be smart how you use it. Don’t put your cell phone in your front pants pocket. Altering where you keep your mobile phone is a fairly easy lifestyle change to make, and certainly will do no harm.

36 — SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

C M Y K

SATURDAY

Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014—37

Mouth ulcers Dental Clinic

By Dr. SAMUEL AWOSOLU

A

N ulcer can occur in any part of the human body. They are named after the part in which they occur. We have peptic, duodenum, gastric, skin, foot, oesophageal, mouth ulcers, etc. The word ulcer is a descriptive word for a discontinuation (open) in the skin or mucous membrane. Its depth, diameter varies, it could be infected, inflamed, painful, painless.

Skin ulcers develop mostly in the extremities and hidden areas of the body whereas the mucous membrane ulcers are common in the mouth and the gastro intestinal tract.

In cases of venereal disease the ulcers can affect the mucous membrane of the mouth and genitalia for those that engage in

adventurous sexual practices. Ulcers can occur in the corneal of the eye.

Ulcers can be chronic or acute.

Recurrent apthous ulcers is a form collectively used by a wide group of conditions characterised by recurrent oral ulceration.

They may be classified into sub groups and sometimes occur as part of a generalised condition involving other organs like the cornea and the genitalia.

Apthous ulcers are inflammatory in nature, these ulcers appear roundish and occur repeatedly. They are seen on the lips, cheeks, soft palate. These ulcers can be very painful and they become reddened.

The area may extend in size and the central region starved of minerals and becomes necrotic or dead.

The ulcers can heal with or without scarring or could form a single lesion to several lesions. Minor

•Apthous ulcers are inflammatory in nature

apthous ulcers affect a sizeable part of the population and could affect just about any age group. Symptoms may precede the development of ulcers. Apthous ulcers could be as a result of stress, local trauma, lack of iron, vitamin B12 or even foliate deficiency.

Whenever ulcers occur in the oral cavity, the duration, location and

number determines the approach to be taken. Is it recurrent, and preceded by a blister, immune suppression, illness, etc? The presence or absence of pain.

The dentist will ask a history of the ulcer and based on the response and investigation give the appropriate cause

and treatment mode.

The dentist may use palliative treatment to prevent infection, avoid peppery things and biopsy whereby part or all the part of the ulcers are taken for microscopy and histology in the laboratory. This will assist in the diagnosis.

Should you be having any ulcers in the mouth please contact your dentist.

Lifestyle

No one tells you this about condoms Condoms not only prevent pregnancy, but also help prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). There are many facts about condoms that can cause confusion, potentially limiting their effectiveness.

Types There are two types of condoms, the male condom and the female condom. Most condoms are made of a type of rubber called latex. Latex condoms are the most effective condom at preventing STIs. Condoms made of polyurethane (a type of plastic) have become available. These are more expensive than latex condoms and seem to break more easily. They are mainly useful for people who are allergic to latex. There are also “natural” condoms, which are made of animal membranes (lambskin). These are expensive and although they are effective at preventing pregnancy, they do not decrease the spread of many STIs. Consider this when buying condoms Both male and female condoms can be purchased in the open market.

When choosing a condom, keep in mind that one size will fit most men.

Extra-large condoms are available, as well as “snug” sizes that are a little smaller and fit tighter than the standard size. Some condoms come with a nipple in the end to hold the fluid when the man ejaculates.

Others have a rounded end.

Many condoms come pre-lubricated. This lubrication can be a substance that kills sperm (spermicide) and many diseasecausing germs.

Lubrication may give some extra protection in preventing pregnancy, especially if the condom breaks.

Habits to keep in mind

To be effective, condoms should be used everytime there is penetrative sex, particularly if there is even the slightest risk that either person has an STI. The condom •Condom should be put on before there is any contact, and should be removed and thrown Thickness away promptly after the man has ejaculated.

Extra-strength condoms are available.

Be careful when opening the wrapper These are stronger and are especially to avoid tearing the condom with your useful for men who have problems with condom breakage. Extra thin condoms also teeth, fingernails, or rings. Gently pinch the air out of the tip of the are available, but these are not condom before putting it on. recommended because they may break The condom is rolled over the erect more easily. manhood before sexual activity begins, and must be in place before there is Lubrication

any foreplay. If the condom does not have a built-in nipple, leave about 1/2-inch of the condom free at the tip so that semen has a place to collect. A new condom must be used each time for sex. If you use lubricants with a condom, be sure to only use water-based lubricants, such as K-Y Jelly. Oil-based lubricants, such as Vaseline, massage oils, and body lotions can cause condoms to leak or break. Certain vaginal medications used to treat yeast infections can also weaken condoms.

How to use female condoms The female condom is a lubricated polyurethane (plastic) tube that has a flexible ring at each end.

One end of the tube is closed.

Before sexual activity begins, the woman inserts the condom so that the closed end of the tube covers the cervix, and the other end slightly covers the outer area of the genitals.

The condom blocks sperm from entering the womb.

Female condoms should be discarded after one use.

38—SATURDAY Vanguard Vanguard,, JUNE 21, 2014

SATURDAY Vanguard Vanguard,, JUNE 21, 2014—39

yemisisuleiman670@yahoo.com

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NE show that made an impression on guests at the recently concluded Africa Fashion Week Nigeria, held at the Eko Hotel and Suites was Mademoiselle Aglaia. The fashion label which launched in Nigeria in 2012 and owned by 21year old creative designer Mariam Afolabi, featured a unisex collection that was fresh and innovative.

The collection featured very girly elegant designs in exotic silk, satin and chiffon fabrics. Some of the designs came in asymmetrical hems in mostly pastel with petal details. They were utterly wearable outfits that could go from runway to real way without so much fuss. Here are some of the collections by Mademoiselle Agalia.

Collection by Mademoiselle Agalia

shoes, you need to pay more than the plus sizes, we stock size 42 to 45 which are more expensive than the smaller sizes.

Plus size shoes in inspiring colours I choose the designs and colours to suit the taste of ladies with plus size feet, because that is where the problem is. Ladies with plus size feet are ladies of colours, and very elegant. The fashion industry in Nigeria have really grown, I see a lot of African women with brilliant dress sense. Basically we stock different variant of shoes available plus sizes, like wedges, high hill, flats, platform hills, peep toe etc.

Presently our stocks are available online and in some fashions retail stores to enable people have access to our products. Later on we would be establishing our flagship and retail stores in Nigeria.

Aramide Adebayo

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ramide Adebayo is the CEO of LFB, a UK based shoe retail boutique, that specializes in providing shoes for ladies with long feet. The event was a one stop fair for shoe lovers with plus feet sizes. Clients had the privilege of trying on exclusive premium leather shoes manufactured in Italy, Spain and France. Faced with the unpleasant challenge of finding quality, stylish, trendy and comfortable shoes for her plus size feet; this astute accountant ventured into the fashion industry a few years ago. Esther Onyegbula, caught up with Aramide at the official launch party of LFB in Lagos where she spoke on inspiration behind her brand, challenges as well as her personal style..

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Genesis As an accountant why cross carpet into fashion?

As a qualified accountant why shoes, when I don’t have a fashion background, the reason is that ever since I grew up, I have had a challenge finding my shoe size because I have plus size feet. It was really difficult getting shoes my size. And if I do find the shoes they were not in the right colours. And I think that the fashion industry has kind of marginalized people with long feet, Manufacturers don’t want to make shoes for women with plus size feet, and when they do make shoes for ladies with plus size feet, it is usually in black, brown and you hardly find bright colours. What I have done is that I have found manufacturers who are willing to

design colorful shoes for ladies with plus size feet. My drive was the fact that I needed shoes my size as well, I found out that when there is a will there is a way.

It is something that I am passionate about. In the fashion industry I felt that there is need to provide colorful and trendy shoes for ladies with plus size feet and that’s where LFB comes in.

Affordability Our shoes are affordable and reasonably priced considering the quality, which is why people are purchasing them.

I think it is a risk no pain no gain, that is why to have manufacturers make plus size

Fashion sense I think my mood determines how I dress. My fashion sense is that I always dress to make me feel good. For me there is always a feel good factor and I think that with the right shoes and accessories you can pull any dress off. But with the most expensive dress and wrong shoe your outfit is ruined. So for me it is different fashion for different moment.

Tips on buying shoes Women should invest in quality leather shoes; it is a lot better to have a few quality shoes than have several low end shoes, because in the long while they are worth the while. When you invest in quality leather shoes you get value for your money.

40—SATURDAY

Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

By Tony UBANI

H

ow I miss Yetunde Arebi here in Brazil.

Before you get me wrong, I miss Yetunde because of her power of description of the female anatomy (buttocks) which undoubtedly remains a focal point of women from men who at times stumble in admiration of a woman from behind. Yetunde did a write-up before I left Nigeria titled ‘’Ukwu, the rave of the moment’’ which in all honesty excited many souls as well as turnined many men on. Yetunde would have bowed and succumbed to the superiority of the Brazilian booty. Brazilian women have so much turned the heat on men covering the World Cup with their now famous watermelon buttocks, that are literally difficult to describe. Like somebody pointed out here, there are two things Brazil does extremely well — football and producing women who are born to torment men with their bubbling butts. Bum bum, in the early years used to be an embarrassment to women who were endowed with it. There is an Ibo adage that mocks women saying ‘’It is during emergencies that a big butt woman would know what she has done to herself as its flapping in both ways would inhibit any fast movement in case of emergency, just as big breasts slow down a woman from running. An elderly man once told me that it was because of bad behavior that the buttocks of women were moved to the back.

He said, it was formerly at the front.

That which was despised and considered an embarrassment has become the one thing trending in women. No matter how pious a man is, once a beautiful lady passes by, the man would pretentiously turn around to assess her luggage from behind. Most men believe that the buttocks are the password for a Greco-Roman wrestling in bed. The breast and the buttocks are nature’s ingenious features that excite the male, make him sexual, exploring doggy style instead of the missionary way of a centre-spread on the bed. But scientists have argued that the roundness of the female buttocks

indicates the tendency of a woman’s body to produce estrogens(female sexual hormones) and thus is an indicator of sexual maturity and fertility as well as a sexual distinctive trait. Our health Editor, Sola Ogudipe readily agrees to this, too. A woman is admired in many ways. The facial beauty could be attractive. And in the yore days, our parents would advise that a men marry a woman’s character and not her beauty.

How old! Here in Brazil, men adore ladies with outstanding

Brazilian Ukwu!

BRIEFS Boy shows his father photos of his mother in bed with another man

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curves. Even on train rides, parks, stadium, while waiting for a bus, they stare, they ogle, they pat and they pinch the watermelon. Body weight, in general, seems to hold more sway, but preferences vary between cultures. For instance, one study suggested that while British, Spanish and Portuguese men all favore slim women, the Latin lovers were more interested in curvier bodies with bigger hips and smaller waists. Another study found that among whites, British men, breast size play a large role in attraction, while butt size failed to factor in.

And the Africans? Ukwu is the real attraction. Former Super

Eagles coach Clemence Westerhof confessed his admiration of Nigerian women during his spell of coaching the Super Eagles. He said that he loves admiring the Nigerian woman when she walks as her buttocks dance to the rhythm of the Creator’s music.

I have been asking questions and making researches on why Brazilian women have such perfect, perky and round butts? One of the reasons is the right mixture of African, Indian and European genes

that gave women the roundness and plumpness factor. Not too many flat pancakes walking around :) The second reason is that Brazilian women work out, walk a lot and eat healthier than their counterparts on other continents. Therefore, even if they have bigger hips and more meat in that region of their bodies, It is often toned and hard.

The mostly warm weather makes women show their bodies more. The woman’s butt is the favorite part for every Brazilian man. The butt is admired in Brazil. It is all about the butt (just like in America it is all about big boobs). So attention is given to this important part of the body!

Now here is the third reason why almost every butt in the street seems nice: the Brazilian underwear! Brazilian women in general wear panties that “lift” the buttocks. They never wear granny pants or tights that are so common in Nigeria.

The tights imprison the roundness of the buttocks and its flexibility. Some women even wear boxers with pockets on it. Brazilian ladies are not big fans of g-string underwear.

Instead, the V-cut panty is very popular here. It leaves panty lines if worn with very tight pants, but it also lifts saggy buttocks and makes them perkier. Before you think I have been sleeping about, I got all these from researches already carried out.

The same applies to bikinis.

Contrary to what many think, Brazilian women do not go topless at the beach or swimming pools. It is considered nudity and offensive, except it is an exclusive one. If a woman tries to take her top off in a Brazilian beach, people may call the cops, especially if there

boy was furious when he discov ered that his mother was having an affair with another man.

The boy of Zimbabwe, allegedly found nude photos of his mother with another man on her cell phone.

The boy then showed the photos to his father, Dumisani Ndebele. After seeing the photos, Ndebele became furious, saying that his wife had refused him sex for almost a year.

The man attacked his wife at their home in Pumula Bulawayo. He bit her on the cheeks and ripped a piece of her cheek out after he discovered the series of nude photos of her with another man having sex.

Keziya Ndebele denied the allegations that she was cheating on her husband.

Instead, she said that her husband went crazy after he was served with divorce papers to end their 18 year marriage.

The woman, who appeared in front of judge Marylene Mtshina with bandages on her face, was granted an order of protection against her husband.

Kate Middleton’s bare backside exposed!

Weird requests made by national teams at the World Cup

are children and families around. But the bikinis are very small and revealing. Somehow, none of that seems offensive.

There are competitions on the best butts in Brazil that have become an avenue for raking in money for the economy.

People come from far and wide to choose the best butts in Brazil.

So again, the V-cut wins for bikinis as well, lifting the butt cheeks and creating the socalled Brazilian butt. So, over to Timaya, Iyanya, Flavour, the Nigerian cronies who have made so much money and fame singing about Ukwu. As for Lepa girls, they are not in vogue here.

With the World Cup ongoing, several national teams have made sure their players are as comfortable as possible.

Here are some of their demands.

Algeria: All rooms for players and team officials must have a Koran. Islam is the official religion of the African country.

Chile: Chile have asked for the purchase of new beds and flat screen TVs for every room.

Ecuador: Every room should contain a basket of bananas that are sourced from Ecuador.

Colombia: Colombia have asked Sao Paulo for 15 youth players to take part in their training sessions.

Uruguay: The Sky Blues have demanded silent air conditioning in all rooms.

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08 116759 759 081 6759759

The woman who wants to look just like

Jessica Rabbit

wo rounds of surgery has boosted her breasts to an O cup and she squeezes into a TINY corset 23 hours a day.

Most women dream of an hourglass figure—but for Penny Brown it has become an obsession. Inspired by voluptuous cartoon character Jessica Rabbit, Penny has sculpted her bust to twice the size of her waist. In the last two years, 25-year-old Penny has had two boob jobs taking her from an H to an O cup.

And the military wife has shrunk her waist from 38 to a tiny 23 inches by squeezing into rib-crushing corsets for up to 23 hours a day. Australian Penny, who now lives

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014—41 on the small island of Okinawa, Japan, embarked on her quest for the perfect hourglass figure two years ago. She wore the corset in February 2012 to pose for some saucy snaps for her husband Cooper, 28, who was deployed overseas with the US Airforce.

But Penny was so fascinated by the effect on her figure that she began corset training —a method that involves shrinking your waist by wearing the tight-laced garment for long periods of time. For four months Penny plains: ‘I’ve suffered with wore the corset non-stop, body image issues and low only taking it off to shower. self-esteem for most of my And Penny’s new shape has life. dramatically improved her ‘But when I wear a corself-confidence. She ex- set I feel like I’m in armour or wrapped in a safety blanket.’

When out of the house, Penny often finds herself surrounded by admirers who want to have their picture taken with her.

Penny ’s husband also embraces her severe curves.

Groom faces jail before wedding for slapping air hostess' bottom

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groom-to-be who smacked the bottom of an air hostess on his way home from his stag do could be jailed — just two months before his wedding. Peter Thompson, 48, was on a flight from Alicante, Spain to Bournemouth in Dorset when he drunkenly attacked the female Ryanair crew member. He told the ‘pretty’ hostess he ‘loved her’ before he mounted a friend’s lap and slapped her bottom as she walked past, the court heard. The attendant, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pushed Thompson’s hand away and told him not to do it again.

Thompson appeared at Bournemouth Magistrates Court where he pleaded guilty to being drunk on the flight and to one charge of assault. Lee Turner, prosecuting, read a statement from the air stewardess and said Thompson told her she was very pretty and that he loved her.

James Moore, defending, said that Thompson was in high spirits and looking forward to seeing his fiancee when the incident happened. He said he flailed his arms to express himself and accidentally made contact with the stewardess as she walked past. Mr Moore said: ‘He’s sat on the arm of a chair with a friend. He’s barely aware that he’s even touched her.

Unfortunately, she got this wrong. ‘What we have here is a man not intentionally making contact with the flight attendant. It wasn’t nasty, it wasn’t malicious, it didn’t cause any trouble.

‘This is not a sinister, nasty offence, it didn’t put anyone at risk.’ Thompson will be sentenced on June 16, two months before he is due to get married.

US students who found $41,000 hidden in couch track down previous owner to return the money

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oommates Reese Werkhoven, Cally Guasti and Lara Russo bought the couch for $20 from their local chariy store But not long after they got it back to their New Paltz home they discovered envelopes of cash $41,000 worth - were

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stashed in every conceivable crevice of the preloved couch. However, the students’ excitement turned to moral dilemma when they found that one of the envelopes had a woman’s name on it. Finally, Werkhoven’s mother found the owner in a phone book and they returned it. The trio said they don’t regret doing the right thing, and are even planning to have dinner with the elderly woman they returned the money .

‘I think it’s just that anyone can do good if they will themselves to it,’ Werkhoven told CBS News.

‘I think it went the way it should and to be honest I don’t think about it that much,’ Russo added.

But the good Samaritans didn’t go home empty-handed. The woman gave the three a thousand dollars to share as a reward.

Indians line up to swallow live fish for asthma cure

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ith pinched noses and watery eyes, every year thousands of Indians line up to swallow live fish as a traditional treatment for asthma. Asthma sufferers gather every June in the southern city of Hyderabad to gulp down the fish stuffed with a yellow herbal paste, in the hope it will help them breathe more easily.

Administered by the Bathini Goud family, the therapy is a secret formula of herbs, handed down by generations only to family members. But the family will not reveal the secret formula which they claim was received from a Hindu saint in 1845.

The herbs are inserted in the mouth of a live sardine, or murrel fish, and the wriggling 5cm fish are slipped into the patient’s throat, often leaving them gagging. The family maintains the fish clear the throat on their way down and permanently cure asthma and other respiratory problems — if the treatment is

administered three years running. After digesting the treatment, patients are told to go on a strict diet for 45 days.

Thousands of people travel from across India for the free medicine during a two-day period, the specific dates of which are determined by the onset of the monsoon every June.

Patients employ various methods to get the fish down. Parents are often forced to pry open the mouths of reluctant children who cry at the site of squirming fish, while others pinch their noses, tip their heads back and close their eyes. Rights groups and doctors have complained that the treatment is ‘unscientific’, a violation of human rights and unhygienic, claims rejected by the family. And the crowds also appear to disagree. The Indian government arranges special trains for the ‘fish medicine’ festival every year and extra police are on duty to control crowds, AFP reports.

42—SA TURD AY 42—SATURD TURDA

Vanguard, JUNE 21 2014

Stella Oduah bags Ogbaru land title FORMER Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah who was recently relieved of her position has found welcoming hands of her people waiting for her. Not only was she received with a red carpet treatment she was also bestowed with a traditonal title of Adaezechukwu by the monarchs of Ogbaru land, a kingdom comprising of 10 communities in Anambra North Local Government area.

Her coronation was witnessed by royal fathers and nobles from the communities as well as top government functionaries.

Princess Stella Oduah (OON), crowned as the Adaezechukwu of Ogbaru land by Igwe Nelson Esimai, the Igwe of Ohita and chairman, Ogbaru traditional council.

Celebration as Bebenimibo launches water factory

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ompolo’s media consultant, Comrade Paul Bebenimibo has joined the big league of entrepreneurs as he launches his own water factory. Many of his associates across the country put their busy schedules on hold to grace the launch. Also present were his family, including the wife. Photos by Akpokona Omafuire

L-R:Igwe Kris C. Onyeke,Ulujie Ogbaru, Igwe P.U. Afubero, the Igwe Ogbakuba and Princess Stella Oduah (OON), the Adaezechukwu of Ogbaru land

L-R:Nahum Rish, Project Manager Nairda and Comrade Paul Bebenimibo.

Princess Stella Oduah (OON), the Adaezechukwu of Ogbaru land (r) and Dr. Babayo Musa, Chiarman, Tetfund.

Princess Stella Oduah (OON), the Adaezechukwu of Ogbaru land flanked by Senator Ben Obi (l) and Chief (Mrs) Ahmadu Ali.

L-R: Mrs. Ebime Ekperare, Comrade Paul Bebenimibo and Dan Imani.

Princess Stella Oduah with Ms Ann Ene-Ita

L-R: Chief John Dafaan, ED, N2N, Hajia Aisha Lamu, Princess Stella Oduah and Jophina Guper, all members of N2N

GSBC celebrat es FFather ather s’ da celebrates athers’ dayy MEN of the Good Shepherd Baptist Church, Otughievwen, Ughelli South LGA, Delta celebrated the 2014 Fathers’ Day under the Nigerian Baptist Convention on 9th of May with the theme, “Breaking Records and Taking Territories in Missions”. The Fathers’ Day Service led by the Church Head, Pastor Ese Diajiyeren featured drama presentations and gifts to to the aged and deserving Church leaders.

L-R, Egufe Yafugborhi, Warri Reporter, Vanguard Newspaper, Okpako Hwowhia and Jeremi Central Hospital Technical Superintendent, Nath Akpoguma.

Pst Ese Diajiyeren (in suit), Spiritual Head, Good Shepherd Baptist Church, Otughievwen, Ughelli South LGA, Delta State flanked by men of the church.

L-R: Keston Pondi, Momotimi Guwor, Mrs. Paul Bebenimibo tossing with Comrade Paul Bebenimibo.

L-R: Paul Bebenimibo flanked by friends and his wife.

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014—43

44—SA TURD AY 44—SATURD TURDA

Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

YETUNDE AREBI

promising never to use it again. I could not bear to see her that way too, so, I insisted she had to tell me the truth.

My wife is cheating on me with a vibrator!

My first contact with this guy whom I will call worried guy for the purpose of this article was through another e-mail address. He’d asked if I could spare a few minutes to discuss a very personal issue with him on a given phone number which I’d obliged. We have been talking ever since and the thrust of our discussion is what I have reproduced below as he has requested. Worried guy is a 32 year old hard working and very focussed banker, while his wife whom he met at the university works as a teacher in a private Secondary school. They are both Christians and have been married for close to three years, but he would rather not take his problems to the church for personal reasons. He is counting on you and I to work things out. Please, let do this together!

the bathroom to splash water over my face to avoid vomiting. She must have been so engrossed in what she was doing that she did not even know when I entered our apartment and walked into the room to find her in that position. It was my movement that brought her back to reality.

What I found most disturbing at that moment was why she could not wait for me if she was so in need of sex, since I’d called her earlier on that I was on my way home. And though she got up immediately and started pleading with me that it was the devil, I did not bring myself to talk to her until very early in the morning of the next day. She told me

made by the Satan for his children.

Later that week, she told me she had returned it and things went back to normal between us but I was surprised to find the instrument again in her underwear drawer by accident. She was not at home, so I took it out and laid it on her side of the bed. As soon as she saw it, she went on her knees again and began to beg me. She said she did not know how to return the thing since it was a gift and would not want to upset her colleague at the office, nor embarrass herself. She insisted she was not using it and was also scouting for whom she too can give it to. Since I did not catch her using it, I had no choice but to let it go.

However, I was not comfortable and began suspecting her. I later hatched a plan to catch her and before long, it worked. What I saw that evening was worse than the previous one and still haunts me till today.

I caught my wife on our matrimonial bed having sex with a vibrator. I almost collapsed because I was shocked beyond what words can describe

Dear Yetunde, I have a very serious problem which has started affecting me psychologically and even my performance at my job. I have tried to work things out with my wife but it has not yielded any positive result as I am not convinced about the situation. I feel too ashamed to discuss the problem with my pastor and even worse with my mother because I know that will only escalate things. Trust me, I know my mother and mothers generally. As for my friends, I am afraid they might turn around to use it against us and make me the butt of their jokes My problem started last December, over the festive period to be precise. I caught my wife on our matrimonial bed having sex with a vibrator. I almost collapsed because I was shocked beyond what words can describe. I found myself shaking from head to toe, unable to even say anything. I felt so disgusted and sick that I had to rush to

a friend in her office had given it to her to try out and it was her first time of using it. And that she would have told me about it but wanted to try it out first.

She mentioned somebody’s name which she said I have never met and pleaded that she would return it and never use it again. She managed to convince me that it was an innocent one-off-thing which I did not need to bother myself about and I accepted. But it was difficult for me to forget as I kept seeing the picture of her in that position in my head and wondering if it was right for a married, Christian woman to be doing such a thing. To me, it is something

I’d never seen my wife look that way before even when we are doing it. I was transfixed that I had to hide quietly behind the door way to allow her finish before I opened the door. Immediately my wife went on her knees, begging that it was the devil again. I refused to talk to her and walked out of the apartment. I just walked round and round the neighbourhood because I felt lost and didn’t know where to go or who to talk to. I felt thoroughly betrayed. I had never looked at another woman in my life, before and even after I met her. I’d never looked at porn magazines or movie, not to talk of having a girlfriend, and worse still, owning a sex toy. I could only manage to keep my anger for two days as she kept crying and asking for forgiveness,

She then told me that since the matter was no longer a secret, it was better she confessed everything to me. She said the vibrator was hers and she had been using it even before she became a born again Christian, as she was introduced to it while in Secondary school. (A girls only school) I don’t understand the logic, but she said it was a way to show that they did not need male company?

Were they Lesbians? She insisted they were not. When she became “born again” in the university, she stopped, she said. This was where we met and started first as friends, then I got the message that she was my wife and we eventually got married two years after our service year. She said she was forced to go and buy another vibrator after a discussion with some ladies in her office about how much they enjoyed their sex life and she missed the fun she used to have. She also told me that she does not get satisfaction from what we do together but did not want to hurt my feelings by telling me and begged me to allow her to continue using the thing and that it will not affect what we have together, after all, I never would have guessed it, if I had not caught her using it.

My problem now is that, though I have not caught her again in almost two months, I am still not happy because I know she is doing it and its disgusting to me. Though she says it will not affect us, it is already affecting me because anytime I want to have sex with her, that picture comes to my mind and spoils my mood. I will have to just force myself because I have nowhere else to relieve myself. My work schedule is very tight as I work in the bank and have to leave home very early in the morning and most times, don’t return home until around 10pm or even later. I am also taking some professional courses, so, that also takes away most of my weekends. But my wife is a teacher, so she has more than enough time on her hands to do all she wants before I return.

Before you ask what I have done to make our love life better, I have tried to do everything she tells me, and though she says she is now enjoying it, I am not convinced. I do not see that look on her face. And it is making me feel inadequate as a husband. We have been married for three years and we are yet to conceive a child and I sometimes wonder if this is her priority. I know what I am facing with my mother and family on that issue alone, not to now add this one to it. Have I not bitten more than I can chew with this girl? My wife is unfaithful to me and I am powerless to do anything about it.

Please Aunty Yetunde, help me. I want Nigerians to advise me on what next to do. I don’t want anyone to know my identity please.

Worried guy in Lagos.

Well Nigerians, the ball is in your court. As is my style, I never assume I have the best answers to all relationship problems and this guy is sure not expecting me to provide him one. He is asking for your opinion to enable him take his decisions concerning his situation. So, what do you think is the way out for this couple? Is worried guy just a sex novice or his wife is being too clever by half? Is she really cheating on him with this toy or helping him? There are so many other issues I noticed in this guy’s story which I am hoping you will spot out too. Please, let’s help to save this marriage. I am looking forward to reading from you via e-mail address: yetty5050@yahoo.co.uk Do have a wonderful weekend!

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HE first time I heard the phrase “global village” was in the mid 80s. It was a vague concept then because all we had to prove it in this part of the world were air travels and restricted access to telephone which enabled a few people to reach the outside world faster. Beyond that, it was difficult to make sense of it.

Not anymore; today the world as a global village is real and everywhere around us: unrestricted access to mobile phones, Internet, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Skype and it looks like we are just beginning. This has also come with its challenges, one being unrestrained invasion of foreign cultures. One of them currently gaining ground is cohabitation (a man and woman living together without being married) and I am not surprised. In the early 80s, one of our professors at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Okwudili Nnoli, had identified “me-tooism” (coined from me too) as a national problem.

Herd mentality, as it is also called, is not necessarily bad, but when it is wholesale, without discerning what is good for us and what can cause constipation, there is a problem.

Stripped of Christian and other western influences, marriage and the family have always been the bedrock of African societies( so nobody should accuse me of colonial mentality) and it cannot easily be undone without causing dysfunction as it is already

Cohabitation doing in the western world.

Traditional African societies were organized along family lines (lineages) and marriage rites were performed before girls left their parents’ homes.

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o strictly speaking, cohabitation is alien (or at best rare) to Africa. My targets today are, however, not all people cohabiting, but those who cohabit with the intention of getting married later (putting the cart before the horse). The reason they give is that they want to find out if they are compatible before getting married. Some also say they are scared of making mistakes. But how do you succeed if you are scared of making mistakes? How many success stories are there in the world that do not partly have failure at their foundations?

Moreover, some people know how to pretend and they will never show you their real colour until you exchange marital vows. If you like to cohabit with them for 20 years before marriage; they will

hide their true selves. I concede that you get to know a lot more about a person when you live together, but you also get to know mainly those things the person wants you to know.

A grandmother in her 40s only recently found out she had older half brothers. Her mother

SA TURD AY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014 —45 SATURD TURDA spouses until death do them down in their hearts. You have part. Many people who cohabit lived with somebody for 15 are those uninterested in mari- years (some have children) tal sacrifice and commitment. and each time you bring up Why will anybody looking for- the issue of marriage he/she ward to marriage waste his/her starts a quarrel or changes the time with such individuals? topic; do you need anybody to Your life is precious; do not al- tell you that you are in the low emotional summersault, fi- wrong place before you know nancial pressure, accommoda- it? Is it not time you cut your tion problem or any other cir- losses and moved on? Do you cumstance turn you to a sex not know you are on the road slave. Deep down you know that will not lead to your maryou have chosen bronze when riage destination? gold is available; you have rom the start, you should sold yourself far cheaper than have taken the late your worth. That is why you still feel that massive void in Steven Covey’s advice that before you begin scrambling your life.

For the women, if you spend up the ladder make sure it is a chunk of your youthful years leaning against the right wall. cohabiting and it does not work Friend, it is not too late; first out, where do you go from find the inner strength to break free from this mental slavery, then get out of the emotional and sexual exploitation you call cohabitation. Then ensure that the ladder is leaning on the right building before you start climbing next time. there? That is when desperaFinally, now that your hution sets in and you begin to man wisdom has failed you, jump from the frying pan to why not try God’s. Get reconfire. If any man wants to live ciled with Him and implore with you, let him first of all go Him to send his Holy Spirit to to your family and perform the comfort and guide you. Surnecessary marriage rites. That render all to Him, He will is class. Give your father that never lead you astray. Things honour and your mother, the might not happen according joy. I know it is your life, but to your wishes, but ultimately, you belittle and disrespect God’s good, pleasing and peryour parents and family with fect will is the best. Many cohabitation. thanks to, Sir Gabriel Adoghe, I am often amazed when I our daddy and a fine gentleread letters from people co- man, for prompting today’s habiting to columnists and topic. editors asking for advice on issues they already know deep

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God created marriage and you should involve Him when trying to come into that institution had previously been married before eloping and marrying her father, a fact unknown to her or her father.

The problem many people have with marriage is that they are approaching a divine matter with purely human wisdom.

God created marriage and you should involve Him when trying to come into that institution. He only gives sensible spouses (Proverbs 19:14) and He has one waiting for you.

Every relationship involves sacrifice and commitment.

Christian marriage goes on to include a covenant that binds

2015: Why 25 Niger-Delta tribes want Jonathan to run —Manager Says we’ve raised N100m for his nomination form

BY CLIFFORD NDUJIHE

M

r. Seigha Manager is the chairman of the Niger Delta Nationalities Forum, a coalition of 25 Niger-Delta tribes and sub-tribes. In this interview, he described the activities of Boko Haram insurgents as a move to intimidate President Goodluck Jonathan out of the 2015 election contest and gave reasons his group raised N100 million for President Jonathan to purchase the PDP nomination form for the 2015 presidential election.

On why they want Jonathan to contest the 2015 polls Our group has long echoed the point that Mr. President has to declare his interest for the 2015 presidential election. If he fails to do that, he will not only disappoint the people of the Niger Delta but also the entire good people of Nigeria. After all, he has performed creditably well within the last three years.

His opponents have refused to take him on that sphere, rather, they are quick to point to insecurity in the polity and declare him clueless, whereas, they are largely behind the insecurity by way of tacit support or indirect sponsorship. Even

Manager a critical overview of the much talked about insecurity indicates that he has surpassed the credit point in the sense that he has operated as a tactful General by listening to every sensible advice.

His die- hard opponents from the North would not see anything good in what he has done and so would do anything to stop him in 2015. In his three years in office, the president has established 12 universities, out of which nine were allocated to the North and only re-

cently, he gave northern farmers N40 billion for dry season farming. Earlier, he had launched the Almajiri School Calendar. Yet, they insist he has not performed. We know that their strategy is to get more while continuously castigating him, meanwhile the Niger Delta region is suffering.

Although, many are quick at pointing to the amnesty programme for the Niger Delta ex militants, they forgot that it was an event of late Yar’ Adua even though Dr Goodluck was involved in the conceptualisation/ implementation. If that programme was to take off during President Jonathan’s administration, they would have opposed him and of course they would have had their way as usual. The point is that, the Niger Delta region seems abandoned since the start of this administration because other parts of Nigeria ought to survive. If President Jonathan refuses to contest the 2015 presidential election, we would have been shortchanged and our hope to also access that seat for eight years would have been dashed.

You can trust that those benefiting today shall ask the pertinent

question: why did Jonathan not attend to the developmental needs of Niger Delta during his four years tenure? That is why our group contributed this N100 million as a widow’s might for his PDP nomination form. However, he has 100 days within which to access the cash or we shall return the money to contributors.

On insurgency and inability to rescue the abducted Chibok school girls over two months after and calls on Jonathan to resign The call for the president’s resignation as a result of Boko Haram activities is absurd, nonsensical and uncalled for. For three years that Late Yar’ Adua was in office and the Niger Delta was in crisis, including when Gbaramatu was burnt down, he did not visit the Niger-Delta even for once and the heavens did not fall. But, Yar ’ Adua turned out to be the hero of the Niger Delta. This attitude of some Nigerians wanting President Jonathan to visit every where Boko Haram has bombed must stop.

A serving senator accused by a jailed Boko Haram member, Kabiru Sokoto, is still in our Na-

tional Assembly making laws for Nigeria. Some Northern leaders said Boko Haram is a function of poverty in the North. Did poverty in the North start with Dr Goodluck Jonathan’s administration? Is there no poverty in the Niger Delta where the nation’s oil resources come from? Is there no poverty in Yoruba or Igbo land?

Why justify Boko Haram activities with poverty in the North?

We believe Boko Haram is all an attempt to intimidate Jonathan from contesting the 2015 election. So, if he wins the election, Boko Haram will come to an end because their aim would have been defeated. In fact, it will be in the interest of the country that Jonathan has his second term in office peacefully. Niger-Delta will continue to support the North, East, South-West and wherever leadership comes from but if anything happens to Jonathan or he is intimidated out of office, we will tell them that what is happening in the North is a great show, but a greater show awaits them all in the Niger Delta and it will take place at the source of Nigeria’s economy.

46 — SATURDAY VANGUARD, JUNE 21, 2014

SMEs need quick, properly priced funding to catalyse growth —-Oyebode M

r. Akintunde Oyebode is the head of Small and Medium scale Enterprises, SMEs, Stanbic IBTC Bank.

In this interview with Saturday Vanguar d Business he highlights anguard some of the challenges stiifling SMEs growth in Nigeria and also proffered the way forward. He insists that funding SMEs through the use of intervention funds and guarantee schemes are temporary measures that cannot yield long term result.

He said Stanbic IBTC Bank was ready to use its global partnerships to boost the access of Nigerian businesses to the global trade network.

SMEs grow at almost twice the rate of GDP in most mar mar-kets across Asia, Africa, and Middle East, but not in Nigeria. What are the major issues stifling the growth of this important sector of

Nigeria’s economy?

The main driver of the growth of SMEs in Asia and the Middle East is the level of access to finance enjoyed by SMEs in those regions.

The emergence of micro-lenders like the popular Grameen Bank has helped bridge the financing gap in Asia, thereby stimulating SME growth. In sub-Saharan Africa, the funding gap within the SME segment is estimated at something between $100 billion and $200 billion, depending on who you’re listening to. This implies a need to increase the current flow of finance at least four times from current levels of $25 billion.

In addition to this, the lack of capacity and challenges with infrastructure impede SMEs in Nigeria.

Training and advisory are two areas Nigerian SMEs are particularly disadvantaged, while high

of accurate and verifiable financial statement, with which formal lenders evaluate the credit worthiness of the borrowers.

To solve this, lenders need to develop non-traditional methods to evaluate borrowers in this segment, and leverage on available clusters like cooperatives and market associations to provide comfort to the lenders. Lenders must also identify that finance must be supported with the right level of technical assistance. The most successful lending models are usually those backed by the right level of technical assistance to ensure that borrowers maximise the funding provided.

Or ganisation lik AN Organisation likee SMED SMEDAN has constantly called on banks to assist SMEs through trainings that will improve business methods.

What are the efforts being made

by Stanbic IBTC in this regard?

We are very interested in capacity development and training. As you correct-

cost of doing business also takes its toll on Nigerian businesses.

Given the aforementioned chall e n g e s , what role can lenders play to imOyebode p r o v e SMEs’ access to finance?

The challenge to lenders is sim- ly mentioned, one of our prioriple: Provide quick and properly ties is the provision of technical aspriced funding to the SME market. sistance to SMEs across Africa, and Due to the nature of the segment, Nigeria is not different.

We are corporate members of SMEs are usually poorly capitalised with little or no assets. There- SMEDAN and we are currently in fore, a big barrier to funding is usu- talks with the leading indigenous ally the lack of tangible collateral. and international SME DevelopAnother big challenge is the absence ment Associations to commence sustainable training initiatives for

SMEs. We expect that this and our innovative product suite will support the growth of the segment in the medium to long term.

What other strategic partnerships is Stanbic IBTC Bank involved in to encourage uptake of financing and business advisory by SMEs? We have identified selected indigenous and international partners to help develop the SME segment.

Some of these include a regional partnership with the Pan-African Business Coalition to offer health and business training to micro and small businesses. We are also in partnerships with leading business schools to constantly produce SME based research and provide various training modules that meet the needs of businesses in various life stages.

Apart from these organisations, we also work closely with market and trade associations, agricultural cooperatives and other clusters of SMEs to continuously understand the needs of these businesses.

Does Stanbic IBTC Bank see opportunities in the country ’s SME sector given the noticeable disappearance of international boundaries and barriers to trade ushering in an era of global competitiveness?

The SME sector is an area of significant importance to Stanbic IBTC Bank in Nigeria and Standard Bank as a group. The Standard Bank group is always seeking ways to connect businesses within Africa, and also to the major trading partners outside Africa. Nigeria’s balance of trade position clearly suggests we are a major player in international trade, with the gradual disappearance of barriers to trade. We are uniquely positioned to use our extensive regional network to connect Nigerian businesses to trade partners around Africa and also use our global partnerships to boost the access of Nigerian businesses to the global trade network.

How under -de velopment af owth under-de -development afffects economic gr growth

BY PRINCEWILL EKWUJURU & MOSES NOSIKE

T

he desire for Nigeria to catch-up with the developed world is high among Nigerians. Notably Nigeria has a long way to go in catching-up with the world in terms of infrastructure and urban development. These two elements are very crucial in attracting businesses and investors.

Urban development in Nigeria took the front burner during former President of Nigeria tenure, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, whose patriotic zeal lead to the appointment of Nair El-Rufai, then Minister of the Federal Capital Territory to take on violators of the capital territory’s master plan in combatant style.

This was a brave decision as many beautiful houses were pulled down and many toes stepped on in the bid to get housing and other urban development to conform to the original master-plan of the Abuja FCT. Interestingly, El-Rufai demonstrated enough courage in attempting to stick to the development plans laid down before the administration that appointed him came to power. This saw many houses, shanties erected in violation of the FCT’s master-plan pulled down. Even government officials were not spared, the bulldozers under El-Rufai’s command. Nigerians loved this action

Minister for enthroning the laws over men, no matter how highly placed.

It has to be said that while the ElRufai reign lasted, the pain was severe but well meaning Nigerians commended the strength, character and vision shown by him. Sadly enough, less than 10 years after the exit of Obasanjo, the FCT is gradually becoming defaced with no Minister showing strong enough resolve to follow the foot print of the then minister of FCT. Environmentalists are now taking solace in the drive by the Gov Babatunde Raji Fashola administration to position Lagos as a megacity. This drive is commendable because it has seen the visionary governor set up professional agencies like the Lagos State New Towns Development Agency to ensure the vision is achieved. ElRufai and Fashola share the common character of championing the supremacy of the law over men, irrespective of social, religious, political or economic status. This has seen Lagos State become a reference point on discipline and rule of law in Nigeria’s democracy. The strong leadership disposition of Gov Fashola has seen opinion leaders from other states call on their governments to take a cue from him leadership.

This good reputation has come under several tests that Gov Fashola had passed. There is another test, though with news filtering out that few residents of Lekki Phase 1 estate have beaten their chests that the masterplan of the estate will not stand. Nigerians are wondering, who’s responsibility it is to plan estates.

The late Moshood Abiola with all he represented and represents in Nigeria did not champion any class system that killed businesses or confined other citizens behind the walls or to a safe distance from his residence. He lived in a people’s area of Ikeja and all manners of businesses, so long as they were legal, existed close to his residence. His cherished and well respected family still lives there with common people and businesses as neighbours!

There is inherent danger in having a state government under Gov Fashola order the stoppage of certain commercial developments at Lekki Phase 1 estate upon the complaint of people who can boast of having the ears of those that matter! This could lead to impudence and decadence. Laws are made for men and when men feel they are above the law, it spells anarchy, mostly if they carry on as such. The drift of society towards anarchy is often

gradual and Lagosians must watch out for those minded towards possessing the State under any guise as this might derail the ship of state.

If claims that some powerful individuals are using every means possible to stop businesses from going on with developments provided for in the master-plan of elite estates like the Lekki Phase 1 are true, it leads to a certain kind of fear that must be guarded against if the opinion of common people like my humble self is to be addressed to avoid setting an avoidable dangerous precedence. Should this handful of people succeed in altering the master-plan laid out by the LSNDA, it makes a statement that whoever does not like the master-plan of the estate of his/her residence can follow the footsteps of these fellows and alter it to suit personal motives. This is clearly avoidable.

The issue that comes to mind on this is: ‘Should the government bow to this pressure, stop the commercial developments at the Lekki Phase 1 estate, understood to include a filling station designed to international standards altering the master-plan in the process.

SATURDAY

T

he MTN Foundation was incorporated in July 2004, to offer a sustainable and focused channel through which MTN Nigeria would drive its corporate social responsibility initiatives in all 36 states of the federation including the FederalCapital Territory.

Its mission is to improve the quality of life in the areas of economic empowerment, education and health, on a sustainable basis to alleviate the health challenges facing the country and to facilitate economic empowerment of Nigerian citizens.

A

mong the many projects undertaken by the foundation is the Disability Support Project, which is in partnership with two outstanding NonG o v e r n m e n t a l Organizations (NGO), namely the Mobility Aid and Appliances Research and Development Center (MAARDEC) and Independent Living Project (ILP).

While MAARDEC supplies and distributes the mobility aids and appliances to all the distribution centres across the country, ILP is tasked

Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014 — 47

Pace setting corporate social social responsibility with the responsibility of selecting the beneficiaries, organizing the distribution of the mobility aids and appliances to the beneficiaries and to ensure maximum impact on the lives of the beneficiaries.

The Project tagged MTN

wheel chairs, crutches, guide canes, hearing aids, Braille machines, Tricycles etc, free of charge. The first cycle of the project was divided into 3 phases to cover the 36 states of the federation and the FCT, with each phase

2nd phase covered:Abia, Bauchi, Borno, Edo, Enugu, Kano, Katsina, Kogi, Kwara, Ogun, Ondo and Rivers States. The 3rd Phase covered: Niger, Kaduna, Plateau, Sokoto, Gombe, Yobe, Ekiti, Osun, AkwaIbom, Bayelsa, Imo and Nasarawa states.

B

By the conclusion of the 3rd phase, over 15,000 mobility aids and appliances had been distributed across the federation Foundation Disability Support Project (MTNF DSP), is designed to improve the quality of life of people living with disabilities through appropriate provision of mobility aids and appliances such as

covering about 12 states and was implemented between 2009 and 2011. The 1ST phase covered: Anambra, Ebonyi, Lagos, Oyo, Benue, Taraba, Adamawa, Kebbi, Zamfara, Delta, Cross River states and the FCT, while the

y the conclusion of the 3rd phase, over 15,000 mobility aids and appliances had been distributed across the federation, to indigent Persons with disabilities who could not afford these items and yet desperately needed them.

June 2013 marked the commencement of another MTNF DSP cycle of three phases, and the target was to ensure the distribution of over 15,000 mobility aids and appliances across the federation. The MTNF Disability Support Project aims to ensure that disabled

persons are independent, economically productive, socially viable, and free to move around confidently.

Beyond the direct impact of MTN Foundation Disability Support Project on the lives of the beneficiaries, the involvement of two notable Non-profit organizations as consultants in the project has another impact in the lives of the disabled in Nigeria. The NGOs are: Independent Living Project (ILP) and Mobility Aid and Appliances Research and Development Centre (MAARDEC) were founded and run by Persons with disability whose mission is to empower their fellow Nigerian colleagues. By engaging these organizations as consultants, MTN is helping to build their capacity, while assisting them to achieve their missions. Their involvement also ensured that MTN's intervention is meticulously executed with maximum impact.

MTN Nigeria corporate social responsibility is outstanding. Nigerians with disability and indeed, millions of other Nigerians who have benefited from MTN’s corporate social responsibility projects are grateful to MTN.

(Text Only) The Plough Benefit: Stimulates the activity of the thyroid glands; of great help to those with sluggish digestion as it stimulates the peristaltic movement of the bowels. Also an effective cure for constipation.

Fingers to Toes Technique: Sit down flat on the ground; stretched your hands gently to touch the toes.

Remain still for a period of 15 to 20 second and repeat thereafter for two or three times.

Benefits: This exercise stretches your back muscles and enable you move freely at all times.

The shoulderstand Though the classic shoulder stand is executed without a prop, the variant under discussion here is done with the aid of chair.

Technique: Place a chair on the practice mat at one end.

Ex ercise ffor or sstress-relief tress-relief Exercise

Lying on your back rather close to the chair, raise both legs and rest them on the chair forming a neat slant from feet to shoulder. Place the hands a little away from the sides.

Breathe in slowly, rhythmically and deep into the abdomen. A minute or two will do at the initial stages. Follow that up with the dead man’s pose of lying completely still on your back.

Benefits: The shoulder stand affect the thyroid gland which normalizes metabolism and the production of heat and controls the heart rate.

Triangle Pose Technique: Standing with the feet rather wide apart, turn the trunk to the left and lowering it, place the palm of the left hand flat down on the outside uf the left leg while raising up the right hand and straightening it at the elbow.

Breathe normally and retain the position for about 10 10 or I5 seconds.

Benefits: The triangle stretches the leg, spine, and trunk muscles.

It promotes flexibility of the hip spine and legs. It tones the nerves of the spine and the abdominal organs. It reduces pain in the lower back and invigorates the circulation.

Yoga Classes STARTED @ 32 Adetokumbo Ademola, Victoria Island Lagos.

9.00am — 10.00am on Saturdays

48 — SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

ESUT Journal ttar ar ge ts arge gets one million online audience base

BY LAJU ARENYEKA

T

Between protesting Why Nigeria students andneeds Police more French teachers brutality

are French-literate, it would do a whole lot to settle the issue of insecurity. They would be able to gather more intelligence to man Parler-Vous Francais? the security situation.’

‘Do you speak French?’ This is what the above Beyond insecurity, experts argue that the French phrase could be translated to mean in the unemployment situation in the country English Language. It is not far-fetched that for many could be reduced if French learning is Nigerians, the response to such a question would be increased. Ariole said: ‘Anyone who wants in the negative. Despite being surrounded by to have an international career must underFrancophone countries, very few Nigerians understand the importance of French. To get stand French. Experts say that this has an adverse almost any international job, one must effect on the giant of Africa. understand English and French.’ It would ‘It is very important that Nigerians should study be recalled that in 1996, the then Military French language for international mutual underHead of state, Gen. Sanni Abacha, declared standing and cooperation. It is also essential for French Nigeria’s second official language. socio-economic and technological development of A recent report however, showed that only both Anglophone and the Franco46 percent of Nigeriphone neighbours. Re-training of an secondary schools French teachers through inteach French. Ariole It is very important that service programmes would be believes that this is necessary for the effective impledue to the dearth of Nigerians should study mentation of the curriculum.

French teachers in French language for interFrench language educationists the country. ‘Manshould be invited to prepare power is the probnational mutual undertextbooks for the students’ intelem, he said, ‘people gration of their learning experiare not there to do standing and cooperation ences and their everyday activithe teaching. We are ties,’ said Oluranti Ogunbiyi, a not developing lecturer at the Lagos State University, Faculty of enough French graduates to teach the Education. subject.’

Prof. Ariole, a French Lecturer at the University of But other experts argue that the challenge Lagos told Vanguard: ‘Apart from Sokoto and a few is not with the number of French graduates states, French is not a compulsory subject. It is produced, but with the underutilization of embedded in the primary school curriculum from French Graduates in Nigerian schools as Primary 4-6, but not all schools can afford to teach graduates made to teach other subjects French. The situation is the same in the secondary rather than French. Another report which schools, and it is a sad situation because the imporfound 35 French teachers across thirteen tance of French education cannot be overemphaselect schools, proved that only 28.6% teach sized. When you get to Borno state, Chad and French in their respective schools while the Cameroon which share the border. Sokoto shares the remaining twenty-five which make up 71.4% same border with Niger, and Lagos state is close to of the respondents are forced to teach other Benin Republic. Even if just our immigration officers subjects rather than French.

BY LAJU ARENYEKA

he world is fast growing from a global village to a global sitting room. Informa tion on the internet can move from one place to another faster than the speed of light.

Educational institutions all over the world are taking advantage of the internet to get the right kind of education to those who need it. Enugu State University of Technology, ESUT, is leading the way with its Journal of Experimental Research, a peer-reviewed journal with on-line access targeted to serve a larger audience of about one million people.

The editor of the journal, Prof. Chike Anibeze said that print version of the journal is also expected to reach about 100,000 people. Anibeze made this known to Saturday Vanguard at the launching of the journal. He said: “ER is an international forum for communication among academics and industrialists interested in current research in science, technology and applied aspects of nature. The journal offers rapid exchange of novel and significant information gained from experimental investigations on all aspects that are pertinent to the existence of man and his environment. There are no page charges to prospective authors and the journal maintains a free on-line access.”

The journal gained the sponsorship of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFunD) and has expanded its infrastructural base with a well furnished office and secretariat complex located in the ESUT Teaching Hospital, Enugu. The office complex was launched on 2ndJune 2014 by the Pro-chancellor of ESUT Chief Chilo Offiah MFR, OON with the ESUT Vice Chancellor, Prof C O Onyeji and Registrar, Barr Chris Igbokwe in attendance.In his remarks the Vice Chancellor ESUT mentioned that progression is fundamental to the scientific method as each datum, no matter how insignificant, builds upon its predecessors and likewise forms a foundation for further investigation. This process chain of scientific investigations can only be complete if a forum of scientific interaction such as the Journal of Experimental Research is in place. He thanked the TETFunD for its support to this noble objective and praised the editor-in –chief for his dogged efforts in the establishment of the journal.

(From Left) ESUT Vice Chancellor, Prof. Cyprain Onyeji, Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Experimental Research, Prof. Chike Anibeze and ESUT Pro Chancellor, Chief (Dr) Chilo Offiah

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014—49

How Eagles disappointed President Jonathan T

hat President Goodluck Jonathan is a great lover of sports is a fact that even his greatest critics cannot deny. When the Nigerian contingent to the Olympic games in London brought shame to the country through their woeful performance, an outraged president Jonathan summoned a Presidential Summit on sports where far reaching decisions were taken. But as usual, implementation of policies is always the big problem in Nigeria. The summit was good and the ideas and decisions it generated were rich. But implementation has fallen below expectation. It is something that the President may also look into although there are many other sectors deserving his attention too.

As a demonstration of his renewed commitment to ensuring that those who perform in sports are properly rewarded, President Goodluck Jonathan in February this year shocked members of the Super Eagles with a cash reward of N5m each for the 23 players, and N10m for coach Stephen Okechukwu Keshi while his assistants – Daniel Amokachi, Sylvanus Okpala and Ike Shorunmu got N5m each and other officials of the team got N2m each.

This was when the Nigerian Super Eagles won the African Cup of Nations in South Africa.

Apart from the cash reward, the President also approved the allocation of a plot of land each in the Federal Capital, Abuja and crowned it with national awards of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) for Keshi; Order of the

Federal Republic (OFR) for captain of the side Joseph Yobo; and the three assistant coaches, while the other players were awarded Member of the Order of the Niger (MON).

A very elated President Jonathan whose smile seemed more illuminating than the brightly lit Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa assured Coach Keshi of his support as the national team coach while tasking that the responsibility of taking Nigeria to the World Cup

,,

BY BEN AGANDE, ABUJA.

At the end of the match, he reportedly stood up, walked to the Vice President, shook his hand and as father of the nation told him ‘this is not good enough 2014 is one that must be achieved.

“I want to thank the Super Eagles for their efforts and winning the trophy after 19 years of waiting. In fact, the win in South Africa is the biggest gift of Nigeria’s centenary celebration. I can assure Keshi that he has my full support as coach of the Super Eagles but he should understand that the task has just begun because the next target is the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. We must

qualify for Brazil.”

For a president who has promised to ensure that no expenses would be spared to ensure that members of the nation’s sports teams are properly motivated and rewarded in order to ensure that they attain their best, the qualification of the Super Eagles for 2014 world Cup in Brazil is the perfect step towards the realisation of the dream of crowning Nigeria’s efforts at world sporting events with the ultimate glory: winning the world cup for the country.

So when the Super Eagles filed out against Iran Monday for their opening match of the Mundial, President Jonathan, full of expectations, rushed through his business of the day in office and retired home to watch his Eagles demolish the under dog Iranian side. To demonstrate how serious he took the match, President Jonathan invited vice president Namadi Sambo to leave the comfort of his Aguda House residence and join him in savouring the expected victory of the Eagles against the ‘lowly Iran’. The presence of some ministers and other highly placed government officials at the ‘Presidential Viewing Centre’ completed the gathering for the ultimate victory that many Nigerians including the president had anticipated.

But from the blast of the whistle, it was obvious that all was not well with the team that many Nigerians, including the president had invested so much hope on. The sloppy passes, the lack of determination to fight for the ball,

the poor shots at goal and the glaring inability to convert chances to goals against a team that had, before the beginning of the world cup, enjoyed the status of underdog, the general poor play of the Eagles rudely deflated the high hopes of Nigerians.

According to one of the officials who watched the match with the president, ‘the high spirit that the president brought into watching the match gradually reduced to disbelief that the Iranian team that most football pundits had dismissed as not capable of threatening any of the teams in their group could so casually demystify our Eagles like that”.

For the president, after holding his head in disbelief at some of the near misses and shaking his head at the not too impressive performance of the team, the President neither lost hope nor assured his guests on any wonderful performance. At the end of the match, he reportedly stood up, walked to the Vice President, shook his hand and as father of the nation told him ‘this is not good enough.

But it could have been worse. Thank God we got a draw and did not lose.

I hope that they would learn their lessons and do better in subsequent games”.

For the Super Eagles, today’s game is an opportunity to prove to the president and indeed Nigerians that the hope they invested in them is not and will not be in vain.

50—SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

Who is this man ?

Release our colleague or we stop Police detain him without handling your cases .Lawyers tell kidnappers charge,family protests

BY NWABUEZE OKONKWO

By EVELYN USMAN

T

T

his is certainly not the best of time for the Ihejiagwa family, following the continued detention of their breadwinner, Chiagorom Ihejiagwa, at the dreaded Special Anti-Robbery S q u a d , S A R S , Aw k u z u , Anambra State over some allegations.The 31 year-old Imo State born businessman, was picked up from his shop at Triple M plaza , Asaba ,Delta State, along side his wife, a nursing mother, on May 29, 2014 by operatives of SARS. But the nursing mother was said to have been released the next day. He was accused of being a kidnapper and also in possession of a stolen car.

But his family told Crime Guard that the police have not shown them any evidence to substantiate their claim.A relation of the detained bussinessman who gave his identity as Ihejiagwa Callistus told Crime Guard that concerted efforts made by the family to effect Chiagorom’s release have met stiff resistance from the operatives , over unknown reason, three weeks after his arrest. The family alleged that the detainee was also denied access to a lawyer and expressed fear that Chiagorom might be tortured to confess under duress. It was disclosed that after the release of Mrs Ihejiagwa, operatives followed her to their Asaba residence where a search was conducted round the apartment, at the end of which the policemen allegedly went away with electronic gadgets , Chiagorom’s Hyundai car and Murano SUV, as well as goods and cash in his shop.

NOPRIN to the rescue To this end, Network on Police Reform in Nigeria, a civil society organisation, has called on the immediate release of the detainee , stating that his detention was beyond the legally permissible duration and is a violation of his human rights.NOPRIN, in a petition to the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Mohammed Abubakar, alleged that Chiagorom’s arrest was not the first time people were illegally detained at Awkuzu SARS and therefore called for an urgent need to checkmate the Squad’s excesses.The petition signed by the national coordinator, NOPRIN, Okechukwu Nwanguma read: ” Recall Sir, that in the past one year, NOPRIN has constantly brought to your attention

Chiagorom Ihejiagwa

He was reportedly accused of being a kidnapper and being in possession of a stolen car several cases of arbitrary arrest and detention of mainly innocent citizens over false allegations of kidnapping, ritual killing and armed robbery; torture, extra judicial killing, extortion and abuse of due process by police officers at Awkuzu SARS. This is yet another instance of unprofessional and grossly abusive activities of officers at Awkuzu SARS. The time has come for you to take urgent and necessary action to curb the excesses of the officers. It is necessary that you take a firm and appropriate action to save the lives of numerous citizens who have been ill-treated and others who may still fall victims of their excesses.

“NOPRIN is informed that one Chiagorom Ihejiagwa who has a wine shop at ‘Triple M Plaza’, Asaba Delta State and his wife Mrs. Ifeyinwa Ihejiagwa, a nursing mother of a one month old baby were arrested and detained on Thursday May 29, 2014 by some operatives of SARS, Awkuzu, Anambra State. They were arrested between 4 and 6pm by the police officers, one of whom has been identified simply as ‘Pele’. We are also informed that next day, the detainee’s younger brother came all the way from Owerri, to find out what the matter was.

The police initially denied him

access but rather, abused him, saying he came to look for a kidnapper, armed rubber and car snatcher. The police asked him to go and never come back for him because he has made confessional statement and that they will kill him.

He refused to go but went to the Admin Office where one of the Officers told him to wait for the Officer-incharge or his deputy whom he said were the only ones who could talk to him on the matter.

He said when the O/C SARS came back and he was called in to see him, he explained his mission to the station. But the O/C SARS told him that he should not come again for the case because the person he was looking for was a ‘confessed Kidnapper and car snatcher’.

He vehemently refused to allow him see his brother so as to ask him questions and give him some food.

He claimed that the law in Anambra State authorised the police to ‘deal summarily’ with ‘kidnappers’.

He said that the O/C informed him that the police were still going to make more arrests and threatened to deal ruthlessly with him if any of the persons they want to arrest runs away. Family members have paid several visits to SARS accompanied by lawyers, but were denied access to him .

“NOPRIN requests the IGP to order an investigation into this apparent case of police abuse of power and infringement on the human rights of the persons involved.

To reach the State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Emeka Chukwuemeka,was unfruitful.

he crime-free situation hitherto witnessed in Anambra State for some time, now appears to have dwindled following last Sunday’s kidnap of an Onitsha-based legal practitioner, Ejike Efobi.

Barely 24 -hours after his abduction, the chairman of Isingwu, a village within Nkpor community in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Chief Azubuike Umeghalu, was also abducted.

Although the latter was freed two days later because he had N250,000 in his possession when abducted.

But that was not the case for Efobi who as at the time of writing this report, was still in the kidnappers den over inability of his family members to pay the ransom.

Efobi, according to family sources, was returning from his home town, Abatete, in the company of a relation at about 9pm, when all of a sudden, a four-man kidnap gang who drove in a Volks Wagen Wagon, blocked his Toyota Camry car at Nkpor Junction, in Idemili North Chief Umeghalu Local Government Area.

One of them was said to have dragged Efobi out of his vehicle, forced him into theirs and zoomed off, leaving haze of dust ,to the amazement of bystanders.

A member of his family, Barr. Maurice Efobi, told Crime Guard that the kidnappers had established contact with them and had demanded for ransom but did not specify the amount. He disclosed that during the conversation, the kidnappers informed the family that they had released two of their captives, remaining Ejike.

Since the incident, judicial activities in Anambra State have been grounded as members of Idemili Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA and their colleagues from other branches in the state have shunned court proceedings to embark on a prayer session in protest against the kidnap.

The lawyers who gave the kidnappers a week ultimatum to release their colleague, also threatened to stop handling cases of kidnap in court if their colleague is not released.

Ironically, while the lawyers are lamenting the fate of their abducted colleague, Umeghalu the freed man is expressing gratitude to God for spearing his life.

Narrating his ordeal to Crime Guard at Idemili North Divisional Police Headquarters, Ogidi, where he came to report the incident, Umeghalu disclosed that he, on that fateful day went to a bank at Nkpor Junction to withdraw N250,000 and was heading back to his building site in a chattered motorcycle at about 3 p.m, when some armed men in a black Infiniti Jeep, intercepted the motorcyclist and pushed him into their vehicle.

Umeghalu said his abductors brandished a police identity card and introduced themselves as policemen from the State Criminal Investigations Department, CID, Awka, saying they had been looking for him over an undisclosed crime.

But their motive became clear after he reportedly got inside the car,only for one of them to slap him.

According to him, “I was dropped off on Awka-Etiti/Osumenyi road just about two and half hours ago, after staying with them for two days. I am here to report the incident to the Police so that they may take necessary action to track my abductors”, he said, but refused to speak further.

The Divisional Police Officer, DPO in charge of Ogidi, Abubakar Isah , a Chief Superintendent of Police, assured that the Police would move into action.

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014—51

52—Vanguard, SATURDAY, JUNE 21, 2014 Continues from B/P

6-fingered family A

family is counting on the fingers of a single hand its hopes for Brazil to win a sixth World Cup championship.

All the members of the Silva family living in Aguas Claras, a town on the outskirts of the capital of Brasilia, were born with an extra digit on each hand as a result of a genetic condition known as polydactyly.

Rather than recoil in the face of stares by curious onlookers, the 14 mem-

bers of the family spanning four generations seem to embrace their physical difference with pride.

And that pride never shines more brightly than during the World Cup as they relish the attention of Brazilian media, which have trained cameras on the family as much of the South America nation crosses its fingers hoping the national team will add to its record five World Cup titles.

Eagles, Bosnia Continues from B/P World Cup goal with an inspiring shot.

But when they face the African champions at the Arena Pantanal, they will also be needing to secure an outright win to get hopes of qualifying for the Round of 16. One player the Super Eagles should be cautious of is Manchester City’s striker Edin Dzeko and Edin Visca.

But if some Super Eagles’ players happen to be at their best in the must-win match,

they may become hard nuts to crack for the World Cup debutantes. Players like Victor Moses, Emmanuel Emenike, Ahmed Musa, Osaze Odemwingie and Mikel Obi are those good enough to give the Bosnians some worrying moments.

Whatever happens, it is quite clear that Saturday’s result will be a major determinant of how far both teams can go in this 20th edition of the biggest football event.

We don't want to be blamed for, or accused of distractions , a close source said off-handedly.

Further investigations revealed that both the Technical Committee members and the NFF were staying far away in Sao Paulo, a distance of 1hr 30 minutes by road to avoid being accused of sabotaging coach Stephen Keshi. Funny!

We knew what happened when we guided him in South Africa during the African Cup of Nations which Nigeria won. Top Government officials breathed down on us in a manner that ridiculed us before our employees. This time around, nobody will accuse us of interference , another source said.

The love-hate relationship, no doubt, has had a toll in the performance of the Super Eagles in their first match that many thought the Eagles would stroll over Iran. The Stephen Keshi-led team had assumed larger than life posture before now. In South Africa, the federation called meetings to sort out problems. They agreed and sometimes disagreed.

When the cup was won all

NFF credit went to Keshi whose actions the federation claimed painted them in bad light before Nigerians and the government. The federation appears to have learnt some lessons. They are leaving Keshi alone to call all shots, take all decisions about his team selection and training. No more suggestions on players or questions on why their performances in the field. The coach takes responsibility for results, good or bad.

That is the situation here.

The resultant effects is that there is no more check and balance in the team. One NFF member put it this way: When the list of players to the World Cup were being compiled, we wanted to make an input for the betterment of the team. We were restrained by talks of interference and also falsely accused that we had interests in players we wanted to smuggle into the team.

We are keeping our distance to allow peace to reign .

The aloofness of Keshi's employers, no doubt, may spell a disastrous outing for Nigeria s campaign in the World Cup if the team does not beat Bosnia and restore its chances of progressing

into the second round. The non inclusion of Ike Uche, a Nigerian who was at the best of his game scoring goals for his club is still hunting the Eagles. The blunt attack that shied away from the Iranian defence could have been different if we had an attacker in the mold of Ike Uche to compliment with Osaze. Osaze in the eyes of many brought vim and vitality to the Eagles, but Keshi disparaged him for not playing to instructions. We began to ask what instructions to a man who fired shots at goal and disturbed the Iranian defence the way others failed to do?

If, indeed, Osaze did not play to instructions, it is possible that those other players who put up epileptic performances played to the instruction of the coach. What a pity! There are grumblings in camp that one of the assistant coaches is the brain behind some of the woes of the national team at the ongoing World Cup. The said coach was said to have bought the soul of Keshi that even when he is trading

with the team he feigns ignorance.

Before the final list of players was made public, I learnt that many counseled him to no avail. 1 We tried to impress on Keshi the dangers in some of his decisions but he believed he knows it all and the Press would always be by his side. It became the case of the employer turning to an employee .

When the players clamoured for the tapes of Iranian team s matches to prepare for the game, nobody listened to them because the coaches felt the Asians were no threats.. So, Nigeria went to the game blindly and we all saw the result.

Now, Oboabona and Gabriel Reuben are out of the games; Omeruo is just managing and we have as substitutes such players as Babatunde Michael, Michael Uchebo, Azubuike Egwuekwe and Kunle Odunlami. The expectations are better imagined than openly predicted.

Time will tell.

Costa Rica qualify, England out

C

OSTA Rica booked their place in the round of 16 with a 1-0 victory over Italy as they became the first side to qualify from Group D, eliminating England in the process.

Victory means Costa Rica are certain to reach the second stage for the first time since 1990, while Italy and Uruguay — who have three points apiece — will battle it out in the final match to join them.

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014—53

54—SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014

SATURDAY Vanguard, JUNE 21, 2014—55

SATURDAY VANGUARD, JUNE 21, 2014

Today’s matches Argentina Germany Nigeria

v v v

Iran 5 p.m.

Ghana 8 p.m.

Bosnia-Herzegovina 11 p.m.

Result Costa Rica Switzerland

NFF leaves Keshi alone T

file out as shouts of Osaze are loud. The Stoke City player stopsbriefly and signs autographs and takes pictures with the Brazilians and jumps into the bus. The traffic is tight as motorists under the supervision of security officials stop to take a glimpse of the players.

While this lasts, there is no sign of any Executive member of the Nigeria Football Federation. At their training base, too, the coaching crew and backroom staff hold sway. It becomes apparent that all is not well. Investigations reveal that all Executive members of the NFF are not staying in the same hotel with the players.

Continues on page 55

6-fingered family roots for Brazil’s 6th title — P. 55

Members of the Silva family display their six fingers on each of their hands, in Brasilia.

Italy France

0 5

Eagles battle Bosnia for survival

11 p.m

W

HE Victoria Hotel camp of the Super Eagles in Campinas, Brazil, is surrounded by Brazilians hanging to catch a glimpse of the African Champions while security men armed to the teeth but friendly keep surveillance.

Hordes of Journalists mingle outside as cam eramen struggle for vintage positions to get pictures.

Training time is at hand Chelsea baby face, Mikel Obi is first to appear and sporadic shouts of 1Mikel, Mikel rent the air. He acknowledges the cheers and moves straight into the luxury air-condition Marcopolo. Other players

1 2

HEN the Super Ea gles face the Golden Lilies of BosniaHerzegovina today in Cuiaba, they will be having more than just a FIFA World Cup match in their hands.

Even though, BosniaHerzegovina made their FIFA World Cup debut when they lost 1-2 to Argentina in the first Group F match on Monday, the Eagles are in a match they must win.

The Bosnians, going by

their showing against Argentina, seem to be ready to prove their worth even as debutantes.

Their performance in their first match was impressive as they gave the Argentines a good run for their money in spite of the loss.

Although they conceded an early goal in the third minute, Bedad Ivisevic gave the debutantes their first ever Continues on page 55

Read more stories on pages 27 —30

•Keshi

CROSS WORD PUZZLE Across 1 Plateau State Deputy Governor, Mr. Datong – (7) 5 Sporting Event – (4) 7 Minister of Education, Mr. Nyesom – (4) 8 Vegetable – (3) 9 Country in West Africa – (4) 10 Former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun – (5) 13 L.G.A in Yobe State – (4) 15 State in Nigeria Known as “The Sunshine State”? – (4) 17 Hull City Striker, Sone – (5) 19 L.G.A in Cross River State – (4) 21 Thailand Currency Unit – (6) 24 L.G.A in Katsina State – (6) 27 Hausa Word for “Ten” – (4) 29 Former Cameroun “Indomitable Lions” Defender, Stephen – (5) 31 Director General, National Agency for Food & Drugs Administration (NAFDAC) Mr. Paul – (4) 33 Solar Planet – (4) 34 State in Nigeria – (5) 37 Real Madrid Striker, Gareth – (4) 38 Vehicle – (3) 39 Board Game – (4) 40 Lesotho Currency – (4) 41 Kenya “Harambee Stars” Midfielder, Victor – (7) Down

1 Ethnic Group in Kenya – (4) 2 Nasarawa United Striker, Victor – (4) 3 Country in Asia – (5) 4 Super Eagles Striker, Uche – (6) 5 Flower Part – (5) 6 Former Minister of Aviation, Babatunde – (7) 11 Zambia National President, Michael – (4) 12 Yoruba Name – (4) 14 Flamingoes (U-19) Striker, Uchenna – (4) 16 Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) FC Technical Adviser, Kabiru – (4) 18 Former Anambra State Governor, Chief Andy – (3) 20 President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrader Abdulwaheed – (4) 21 Portuguese Premiership ClubSide – (7) 22 Small Bird – (3) 23 L.G.A in Abia State – (4) 25 Hebrew Alphabet – (4) 26 El-Kanemi Warriors Midfielder, Edward – (4) 28 Russian Capital City – (4) 30 Bayelsa United Media Officer, George – (5) 32 Large Bird – (5) 35 Niger Tornadoes Coach, Godwin – (4) 36 L.G.A in Abia State – (4)

SOLUTION TO PUZZLE ON PAGE 16

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