Buhari jets out to UK by Vanguard Media Limited

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Buhari jets out to UK •Misses pre-inauguration prayers •He’s on a private visit— Shehu By Levinus Nwabughiogu

HERE was anxiety at the National Mosque yesterday in Abuja over the absence of the President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari at the special Juma’at prayers to mark the beginning of the week long activities leading to his inauguration on May 29. The President-elect Muhammadu Buhari on Friday, 22 May left for Britain on a private visit, his first such trip outside the country since winning the March 28th presidential election. In a statement issued in Abuja yesterday by the President-elect’s Media Team,Mallam Garba Shehu said: “Buhari left for Britain on a private visit. He will use the opportunity of the visit to take a much-deserved rest ahead of his inauguration on May 29th. ‘’He is expected back in the country a few days before the inauguration, refreshed and ready to hit the ground running once he is sworn into office,’’ he said. At the monsque, when it became obvious that the president-elect was not available, the former Vice President and chieftain of All Progressives Congress, APC, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar stepped into the mosque saying he was Buhari’s representative at the special service. Speaking, he said “I am here with some of the governors that accompanied me to represent the president-elect who is unavoidable absent. The prayers have gone on very well. We are grateful for all the support and cooperation of all Nigerians. We have prayed to have a successful transfer of power on the inauguration day which is on May 29 insha Allah.” Meanwhile, in his sermon at the Juma’at prayers earlier, the Deputy Chief Imam of Abuja Central Mosque, Dr. Muhammad Kabir Adam said that public office or position was a trust given to people by God, adding that, anyone given a position of trust should lead with the fear of God even as he prayed for God’s guidance, protection and blessing upon Nigeria. He said: “When Almighty Allah gives someone position in whatever capacity, that position is a trust. So, the massage today is

that everybody should fear Allah in managing the affairs of the trust that was giving to them by Allah. “We pray to Allah to protect this country, shower his blessings on this country and also pray to Almighty Allah to guide our leaders. Let them lead with justice and let them do all they could do to make sure that the common man in this country lives a good life.” The last public functions Buhari attended were to receive the interim report of his transition technical committee and the Nigerien President, Mahamadou Issoufou who paid him a congratulatory visit in Abuja on Thursday evening.

*President Goodluck Jonathan (m), Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Alex Badeh (4th r) with other officers after the commissioning of the Nigerian Army Radio Station at the Mogadishu Barrack in Abuja, yesterday.

Grant amnesty to Boko Haram, Northern elders tell Buhari No, it would amount to rewarding criminals, Junaid Mohammed By Soni Daniel and Joseph Erunke

OME prominent northerners including the former Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Mohammed Uwais and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe and former Nigerian Ambassador to the United Nations, Ibrahim Gambari have asked the President elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, rtd, to declare amnesty for Boko Haram insurgents when he takes over power on May 29. However, Second Republic lawmaker, Dr. Junaid Mohammed, dismissed the call saying it would amount to rewarding criminals instead of punishing them for crimes against humanity. They also asked Buhari to give priority attention to the special economic programmes for the North East geopolitical zone which had been ravaged by the Boko Haram terrorists, just as they warned against the scrapping of the on-going amnesty programme for ex-militants in the Niger Delta region. These were contained in a communiqué issued after a two-day conference with the theme: “Security and Governance

Challenges in Africa’s largest Democracy,” by the Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development, SCDDD, as part of its “Nigeria Beyond 12015 Project,” in Abuja yesterday. The communiqué was signed by Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, founder of Savannah Centre, Major General Ishola Williams, Executive Secretary, Pan-African Strategic and Peace Research Group, PAN-AFSTRAG, Justice Mohammed Uwais (chairman of the occasion) and Ambassador Abdullahi Omaki, executive director of the Savannah Centre. They also called on the Federal Government ‘’to expedite action on the compensation of victims of Boko Haram terrorism and insurgency through the established and funded Victims’ Support Fund,’’ and for urgent priority attention to the special economic programme for the North East by the incoming administration, just as they condemned ‘’the carnage, devastations and displacements, which the Boko Haram group inflicted upon many innocent Nigerians in the north east region.’’ Furthermore, the communiqué called ‘’for the establishment of a special economic programme for the affected states of the

North-East, focusing on rehabilitation, resettlement and reconstruction,’’ as well as on the need for ‘’the governors of the North-East States and indeed of the entire North, on the necessity for a blueprint that addresses the issues of vocational and skills-acquisition education for the youths.’’ Among those who participated in the conference were the National Security Adviser, NSA, Col Sambo Dasuki, rtd, (represented by Ambassador C.L. Olaseinde); the Secretary, Borno State Elders’ Forum, BSEF, Dr Bulama Gubio (who represented Governor Kashim Shettima); Dr. Zakariya Ousmane Ramadene of N’djamena, Chad. Prof. Abubakar Momoh, DG, Electoral Institute, INEC, Abuja and Professor Habu Galadima, director research, NIPSS, Jos, Plateau State. The communiqué read in part, ‘’After thoughtprovoking, incisive and lively discussions, the Conference resolved as follows: SECURITY Recognizes the need for security shift from military-centred to military-civilian centred. Mindful of the military’s cherished role as security provider, calls on all security organs to play

their pivotal role in protecting citizens’ life and property as well as protecting them from fear and physical harm; ‘’Affirms the primacy of developing integrated comprehensive national security policies addressing the major military and human security concerns; ‘’Observes the need to redress the current communication deficit by improving on information sharing by the defence and security establishments on a need-to-know basis with stakeholders and the citizenry; ‘’Notes with dissatisfaction, the proliferation of institutions of state with overlapping functions and calls for urgent need for this to be addressed with a view to stream-lining their functions, and also cutting the cost of governance as well as reducing unnecessary bureaucratic misunderstandings; Acknowledges the efforts of the Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA, in pioneering, initiating and developing policy and operational framework documents to enhance effective and efficient security and defence service delivery; encourage the ONSA to properly enlist and engage other relevant agencies and stakeholders in implementing these laudable initiatives

and wide-ranging responsibilities encapsulated in these documents; ‘’Emphasizes the efficacy of adopting, nurturing, developing, consolidating and strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations with Nigeria’s neighbours by evolving strategic and tactical, military, socioeconomic and political cooperation with Nigeria’s neighbours, particularly Niger, Cameron and Chad, Benin Republic as well as Mali and Burkina Faso in combating the Boko Haram terrorists; ‘’Recommends that Nigeria must seek to enhance her security through a combination of strategies. First, is through careful and full implementation of the various provisions in the recently released National Security Strategy Document. Second, through a revitalized Bilateral arrangement with her immediate neighbours, namely Cameroun, Chad, Benin Republic, Niger as well as Mali and Burkina Faso. Third, through Multilateral arrangement by way of an expanded Multinational Joint Security Task Force (MJSTF) under the auspices of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), taking Continues on Page 8

6 — SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

Fuel crisis: Senate summons Okonjo-Iweala, Madueke, NNPC, others BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU & JOSEPH ERUNKE, Abuja

HE Senate Joint Committees on Petroleum Resources (Upstream and Downstream), yesterday, summoned the Ministers of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Petroleum Resources, Diezani Allison-Madueke to appear on Monday over the biting fuel scarcity in the country. The Committees also extended the summon to the Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Managing Director Petroleum Pricing and Regulatory Agency, PPRA as well as the Director, Department of Petroleum Resources. Also to appear before the Committee to explain the reason behind the lingering fuel scarcity that has caused untold hardship to many Nigerians are the Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria; Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria and the National Association of Road Transport Owners. A statement signed in Abuja yesterday, by the Chairmen of the two committees, Senators Emmanuel Paulker (Upstream) and Magnus Abe (Downstream), explained

that the invitation to the relevant stakeholders in the oil and gas was occasioned by the assignment given to them by the Senate. The Senate had, Thursday, directed the two committees to unravel the reason behind the linger-

ing fuel scarcity in the country and report back to it within two weeks. The Senate Deputy Leader, Abdul Ningi had drawn the attention of the Senate to the persistent fuel scarcity and the attendant consequences on the country.

Ningi had also urged the Senate to look into the matter with a view to finding the causes and lasting solution to the problems. Meanwhile, the committees stated that they would make their findings known to the Senate next Tuesday.

Power situation may get worse, FG warns BY BEN AGANDE, Abuja.

HE Federal Gov ernment yesterday warned that the power situation in the country could get worse if the

labour unions’ strike is not called off. Addressing state House Correspondents after briefing Vice President Namadi Sambo on the power situation in the country, the Perma-

50 Heads of State to grace Buhari’s inauguration BY EMMAN OVUAKPORIE, Abuja

T least, a total of 50 Heads of State from sub sahara Africa and across the globe are expected to witness the inauguration of the President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari on May 29. This revelation was made by the Chairman, Media and Publicity subcommittee of the 2015 Joint Transition Committee and Minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke while briefing newsmen of the level of preparedness of the

committee ahead of the inauguration in Abuja. He said Nigeria being on the threshold of a new democratic culture and dispensation has all eyes fixed on it to do right, which is why the committee is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the nation has a hitchfree transition exercise come May 29th. “We are here so that Nigerians can be intimated of the level of preparedness of media subcommittee in particular and the transition committee in general. “Nigeria stands on a threshold of a new democratic dispensation.”

nent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Godknows Igali said the achievements recorded in the power sector are being eroded by the combined effects of vandalism and strikes. According to him, “Prior to the current constraints we have been encountering we have generated between 4,800 megawatts at the beginning of the year with a potential to get up to 6,000 megawatts based on the available gas and hydros. Besides, pipeline vandalization which has continued to have very negative impact on the power supply situation in the country, the on-going strike by labour unions in the oil and gas sector has added additional toll. The current strike by both senior and junior staff unions of the NNPC, (NUPENG and PENGASSIN) has led to further reduction of the amount of gas available to most of our power plants especially in the western axis.

4 priests beaten to pulp as Enugu Govt battles Anglican Church BY FRANCIS IGATA, Enugu

O fewer than six persons, including four Angli can priests, were on Friday allegedly beaten to stupor by some members a task-force working with the Enugu State Housing Corporation. The victims were Reverends Collins Odoabuchi, Mbaka Peter, Eugene, and Maxwell Onyia. Others members of the church affected were Ekpecha Okechukwu and Naomi Ibekwe. The development, which is building up tension in Enugu, the state capital is coming one week to the end of Governor Sullivan Chime’s administration. Saturday Vanguard gathered that trouble started when members of the task force, accompanied by armed policemen, invaded a parcel of land belonging to the Christ Church, Uwani, Anglican Communion, sparking off anger from both clergymen and members of the church. The Clerics were said to have tried to stop the Task force from carrying out the demolition exercise but were over powered by the government agents, who allegedly unleashed terror on the church leaders.

Urhobo youths urge Buhari to dissolve FUPRE’s governing council BY OCHUKO AKUOPHA, Oleh

RHOBO youths, under the aegis of Coalition of Urhobo Youths Organization, CUYO has urged the incoming administration of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) to dissolve the governing council of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, FUPRE, Delta State over its alleged disregard for due process in the institution. CUYO, in a statement by its Chairman, Comrade Mudiaga Abiri said it has slated June 3, 2015 for a protest to the Federal Ministry of Education, against the governing council’s alleged utter disregard for due process in the recent employment of staff into the institution. Lamenting the gross insensitivity of the council to the plight of the Urhobo people, the statement alleged that “none of the eminently qualified Urhobo candidates was short-listed for interview for the position of Vice Chancellor, Registrar and Bursar, thereby robbing the people of the area of their right to be among the management staff of the institution.”

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Ekiti boils again: Market set on fire, Hausa community evacuated BY GBENGA ARIYIBI, Ado-Ekiti

HE relative peace that was witnessed in Ado Ekiti ,Ekiti State capital after a bloody clash between commercial drivers and some traders of Northern extraction on Wednesday was yesterday shattered when some unknown arsonists set ablaze the popular Oja’ba Market in the heart of the town It will be recalled that the scuffle started on Tuesday evening between some commercial drivers and some traders of northern extraction, when a wife of one of the drivers was molested and his hand bag stolen around New Garage/Irona area in the state capital. There is no clue yet as to the people suspected to have carried out the arson despite the fact that the state government had imposed dust-to-dawn curfew in the state capital. But a good number of residents are suspicious that enraged traders of Northern extraction might be responsible for the arson, to avenge their losses. A visit by our correspondent to the burnt market saw a number of traders who lost their shops to the inferno wailing and lamenting their losses amidst heavy presence of armed

Lagos state Gov-elect(middle-with red cap) Mr.Akinwunmi Ambode in group picture with members of the transition committee, when the committee submitted its report yesterday in Lagos. soldiers and mobile men. The development has led to the grounding of social and economic life, while most schools did not open for students. Banks and other financial outfits were closed for businesses, as a measure, it was learnt to prevent hoodlums from exploiting the situation No fewer than 50 shops as well as two residential buildings were consumed along with goods worth several millions of naira by the midnight fire. It was learnt that men of the state fire service who got wind of the arson made spirited efforts to put off the fire but to no avail.

Trucks load of mobile and regular policemen as well as soldiers were immediately drafted on the orders of the state government to prevent escalation of the crisis and prevent massive looting. A number of residents were also randomly arrested by men of the state police command in connection with the development. Meanwhile, Governor Ayodele Fayose has ordered the evacuation of Hausa community from Atikankan, to a safer place. Governor Fayose who personally led security team that included the newly posted Commissioner of Police, Mr. Etop James to

the scene, expressed worry at the turn of events, despite his imposition of duskto-dawn curfew only on Thursday. He told newsmen in an interview that Friday’s incident would not in any way compel him to declare a 24hour curfew as being suggested by the people. Fayose who ordered that four luxurious buses belonging to government be immediately mobilized to convey all Hausa residents (including women and children) in the city to a neutral ground called “Shasha” situated along Ado-EkitiIkere-Ekiti Road, said his action was to protect them from being attacked.

BRIEFS Obi Salutes Okonjo-Iweala

HE former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi has commended the Coordinating Minister for the Economy and the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on her conferment with the Honorary Doctorate Degree, Doctor of Humane Letters, by the prestigious Yale University in the USA. Obi who described Dr. Iweala as a consummate economist, said that going by her antecedents, that no honour to her would be surprising. “She is one of our best who can rival the best in any clime. Her humility and sense of work are amazing. Her patriotism and belief in Nigeria are inspiring”, Obi said. Obi said that Nigerians should remain grateful to people like Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for working hard to shield the Nigerian economy as much as possible from the global economic crisis that hit even major economies. Okonjo-Iweala is the second Nigerian to be conferred with the Yale’s Honorary Doctorate Degree after Prof. Wole Soyinka in 1980.

Okoh, Nebo canvass entrenchment of zoning in constitution BY CALEB AYANSINA

HE Primate, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Commun ion), the Most Revd Nicholas Okoh, Friday, called for the entrenchment of zoning in to the Nigeria constitution to douse tension associated with the conduct of election. Specifically, the Primate noted that the tension built any time election is being conducted in to the number one position (presidency) in the country is always enormous; therefore, zoning presidency would be the first step to address electoral challenges. This position was also corroborated by the Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, who described it as part of antidotes that must be looked into to improve electoral system in the country. The duo was speaking at the 2nd Session of the 9th Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Abuja tagged; ‘Give Back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s’, held at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, Life Camp, Gwarinpa, Abuja.

AGN awards Info-tech students PDP crisis deepens: Governors report Akpabio to Jonathan, scholarship

ask him to resign as Chairman, PDP Govs Forum According to sources, the BY HENRY UMORU, purported sin of Akpabio was Abuja

RISES rocking the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP may have deepened as another trouble is said to be brewing with governors elected on the platform of the party mounting pressure on its Chairman and governor of Akwa Ibom State, Godswill Akpabio to resign as a matter of urgency like the PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Muazu. Vanguard gathered yesterday that as part of moves to push their case, some of the PDP governors stormed the Presidential Villa to report Akpabio to the leader of the party, President Goddluck Jonathan over the governor’s refusal to call for a meeting of the PDP governors where salient decisions would have been taken in unison before the enlarged and general meeting of the Nigeria Governors’Forum, NGF.

his alleged refusal to call for a meeting of PDP governors prior to the Monday meeting of the NGF at Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja. The sources said further that Governor Olusegun Mimiko

was being tipped by the governors to take over from Akpabio. The National Chairman of the party, Muazu as well as the Chairman, Board of Trustees, BoT Chief Tony Anenih had both resigned from their positions Wednesday.

It was also gathered that Akpabio attended the meeting presided over by the Chairman of NGF and governor of Rivers State, RotimiAmaechi when the aggrieved governors who formed a faction since 2013 with Governor Jonah Jang as chairman failed to agree to sheathe their swords.

Chukwumerije goes home in grand style BY NWABUEZE OKONKWO

HE remains of late Sen ator Uche Chukwumerije, chairman of Senate Committee on Education was yesterday committed to mother earth at his country home, NgodoIsuochi in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia state, amidst roll call of eminent personalities. Among the distinguished dignitaries in attendance were Second republic Vice president, Dr. Alex Ekwueme; Senate President,

David Mark; his deputy, Ike Ekweremadu; Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha; National Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Chief Victor Umeh. Others were Senators Ndoma Egba and Chris Ngige, Governors Willie Obiano of Anambra State and his Imo State counterpart, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, Ojukkwu’s son, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu Jnr,former Governors Chukwuemeka Ezeife of Anambra state and

Ogbonnaya Onu of Abia state; National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Igarinwo; former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, among others. In his sermon at a funeral church service at the Wesley Cathedral, NgodoIsuochi, the Prelate of Methodist Church, Nigeria, His Eminence, Samuel Uche said he was happy that the late Chukwumerije mended fences with every body, including those who felt that he offended them, before his death.

HE Apostolic Global Network, a company of cove nant ministers set up with the mandate to provide opportunities for affiliate members to explore beyond the shores of the country recently awarded scholarship to potential info-tech gurus to run an I.T programme in CISCO as well as job opportunities to applicants.Speaking recently at the second anniversary celebrations of the network, the convener of the group, Apostle Adewale Odukogbe expressed joy over how the platform in collaboration with some agencies have been able to affect lives positively by awarding scholarships to students on infotech professional programmes, and creating job opportunities for applicants He further, called on the government to engage in youth empowerment programmes through which the Church has started under the umbrella of AGN: “ I implore all Christians to give the incoming government maximum support; the incoming government should also be people oriented. They should learn from the Church youths empowerment strategy and employment opportunities,” he said.

8— SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

B-R-I-E-F-S Youths, women shut down Shell flow stations in Bayelsa

Senate Presidency:

I’m still in the race — Akume

•Says he remains best candidate for the office •Asks APC leadership to respect earlier zoning arrangement to North Central By Johnbosco Agbakwuru & Joseph Erunke, Abuja

ENATOR George Akume, yesterday, dispelled alleged rumours that he had since jettisoned his aspiration to be the next Senate President, insisting that he was not only still in the race but also remained the best candidate among his colleagues seeking to occupy the office. Akume who spoke yesterday in an interview with newsmen in Abuja, warned against violating the zoning arrangements by the leadership of the party, adding that as the Minority Leader of APC and Leader of APC Caucus in the Senate, the party would not be wrong to project him to assume the position of the Senate President. He also said that the All Progressives Congress, APC, convened a meeting where it zoned the position of Senate presidency to North Central geopolitical zone shortly after its victory in the last general elections. “As a Minority Leader,

BDULLAHI, son of late p r o m i n e n t businessman, Alhaji Abdullazeez ArisekolaAlao, and two other oil marketers (Opeyemi Ajuyah and Olanrewaju Olalusi) were yesterday rearraigned before an Ikeja High Court over allegation of N1.1 billion fuel subsidy fraud. In an amended eight count charge, the trio were re-arraigned alongside their companies, Majope Investment Limited and Axenergy Limited, by The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The commission also accused all the defendants of forging a bill of landing, cargo manifest and other documents utilised to have facilitated the fraud. During yesterday ’s proceeding, lawyer to the anti-graft agency, Seidu Atteh, intimated the presiding judge, Justice Lateefa Okunnu, that the commission had amended the charges. He subsequently prayed the court to order the defendants to retake their pleas, just as he insisted that the trio fraudulently obtained N1bn from the Federal Government (FG)

SARS kills about 26 suspected cultists in Rivers •As police announce restriction of movement for council election From Left:Mr Sola Oke, Marketing Director, Pernod Ricard Nigeria;Ms Yemi Alade, singer; Mrs Colette Otusheso, Head Marketing and Communications, VIACOM Africa; and Naeto C , rapper, at the press briefing on forthcoming MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA) 2015 held on Thursday, 21-5-2015, at Cova Lounge, Mega Plaza, Victoria Island, Lagos. PHOTO: Kehinde Gbadamosi .

automatically I should become the presiding officer and it is important to take note of this. We are all learned people and for anybody to say I withdrew is purely in the imagination of a few. “On the issue of non-zoning, all I want to say is that

zoning was a concept that was introduced in the politics of our country as a deliberate attempt to ensure inclusion. “Do not forget that this is a country that is culturally very complex. It is structurally also complex. It is very diverse and if the diversity

is not handled very appropriately and in very careful manner, it could also be a source of weakness. Even in advanced democracies, deliberate attempts are made to ensure the inclusion of certain disadvantaged and underprivileged persons.

N1.1bn subsidy fraud: Arisekola-Alao’s son, others re-arraigned Fund for the purported Offences Act of 2006. The By By Abdulwahab Abdulah & Bartholomew Madukwe

By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa GGRIEVED youths and women from Nembe communities in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have shut down two flow stations owned by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), along the Nembe creek 1 and 2. The facilities, which produced about 600,000 barrels of crude oil per day, were yesterday invaded by the youths at about 10am. The aggrieved indigenes, who were armed with placards some of which read “sale of our wealth by Shell is theft against mankind”, “we are angry, we will no longer take it”, “Enough of neglect and inhumanity”, Nembe people reject sale of oil field”, accused the the oil giant of neglect of signed Global Memoradum of Understanding (GMoU). They lamented that in spite of the peaceful disposition of the Nembe people to peaceful exploration activities for over 50years, the company has failed to fulfil the promised electricity, water and good health facilities.

between January 2011 and April 2012. According to Atteh, the money (N1.1 billion) was for subsidy payments from the Petroleum Support

importation of 15 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). EFCC lawyer insisted that the offences contravene Sections 1(3) of the Advanced Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related

offence is also said to violate Sections 363(a) and 364 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011. However, when the charge was read to the defendants, they pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Northern elders want amnesty for Boko Nigerian political parties Haram cal party organization and must return to the original Continued from page 5 into account the strategic location of Benin Republic to Nigeria’s security interest; ‘’Acknowledges the high vulnerability of the Lake Chad region, which is currently compounded by the Boko Haram insurgency and urges member-states of the Lake Chad Basin Commission,as a matter of priority to ensure the operational effectiveness of the Multinational Joint Security Task Force. Pursuant to this, member-states are further urged to quickly conclude the ongoing negotiations on the legal status and operational modalities of the Task Force, to enable it quickly take control of the security situation in the sub-region. POLITICAL ‘’Notes the successful and peaceful conduct of the 2015 elections, and calls for the urgent need for party building and the institutionalization of management mechanisms; Recommends that politi-

management in Nigeria should be based on the rules, guidelines and constitution of the party. In this regard, parties and members should always allow internal party democracy to prevail; ‘’Reiterates the supremacy of party constitution paramount so long as it is not in conflict with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act as amended; ‘’Urges the Political Parties to move away from the current syndrome of political elitism to building the real political class whose focus is anchored on sustainable development of party politics; devoid of the current political nomadism whose sole purpose for power acquisition is to satisfy the parochial interest of its political class (not of the people). In order to attain this, it is important that parties are built on interests, issues and ideology; ‘’Recommends that interparty cooperation and understanding should be strengthened; calls on the

concept of party-building and democratic values, guided by a disciplined political class in order to stem the spate of defections that have characterized the Nigerian political system; MEDIA AND CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATION ‘’Urges the media to strictly adhere to professional ethics, standards of journalism, and any violation should attract severe sanctions Calls on the Media and Civil Society Organizations to be agents in the promotion of national interest, religious tolerance, peaceful co-existence, national integration and cohesion; ECONOMY ‘’Stresses the necessity for full implementation of the Fiscal Responsibility Act to check corruption as well as strengthen the relevant state Institutions, such as the EFCC and ICPC; Notes that while due process as a procurement policy is important and necessary, it must be conducted in transparent manner.

By Jimitota Onoyume, PH BOUT 26 suspected cultists have been reportedly gunned down by men of Rivers State Anti Robbery Squad, SARS , in a forest around Obesemini community in Egi part of Ogba Egbema Ndoni Local Government Area. A local who disclosed this to the Saturday Vanguard yesterday said the incident happened on Thursday afternoon. The source who chose to be anonymous said other communities around the forest were Akabta, Oyioga, adding that the security operatives stormed the hideout of the suspected cultists in the forest , killing those they found. Continuing, the source said the security men abandoned the corpses of the deceased in the bush, saying their relatives were free to go for them Some of those killed were allegedly behind bloodletting in the local government.

Onuesoke advises Buhari on campaign promises

ELTA State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Sunny Onuesoke has appealed to President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari to talk less and concentrate on how he would implement the various campaign promises he made to Nigerians. Giving the advise while addressing a group of journalists at Asaba, Delta State, Onuesoke recalled that during Buhari’s campaign for the elective position of Nigerian president, he promised to fight corruption, position the economy, provide jobs, reduce fuel price to N45.00 per liter, pay N5,000 per month for every unemployed youth, generate 48,000 megawatts of electricity within 4 years and stabilize oil price among others. He said it was Buhari’s lofty promises that made Nigerians to vote for him in the just concluded election, adding that as such, Nigerians are expecting a lot from him. “Why should Nigerians not expect miracles from Buhari after all that he promised? Buhari and his APC should immediately after the swearing in start serious work,” Onuesoke advised.

Sambo prays for incoming administration By Jonah Nwokpoku

HE Vice President, Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo has prayed for God’s guidance for the incoming administration to continue with the progress and development of Nigeria. Sambo who spoke at a special prayer session at the National Mosque, Abuja to mark the forthcoming Presidential Inauguration on May 29, 2015 called on all Nigerians to support the administration of Muhammadu Buhari to succeed. He said: “We have just performed the special Juma’at prayer for a successful inauguration of our incoming President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari. We prayed for peace and development of the country and for Allah’s guidance for the incoming administration to continue with the progress and development of Nigeria.” Also speaking, the representative of the Presidentelect, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, said they were grateful for the support and cooperation of Nigerians to the President-elect, while also urging Nigerians to pray for a successful inauguration come May 29, 2015.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015 — 9

GOVERNMENT MEETS BUSINESS FORUM ON “DELTA BEYOND OIL”

•Chief Philip Asiodu displays a book written on the Delta Beyond Oil policy of Governor Uduaghan of Delta State during a public lecture on Delta Beyond Oil at Institute of Directors Nigeria held in Lagos, yesterday. Photo: Henry Unini

COMMISSIONING OF DELTA STATE GOVERNOR’S LODGE, IN LAGOS

From left; Publisher of the Vanguard Newspapers, Mr. Sam Amuka, Chinese Consul General, Kan Liu, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, PDP State Chairman, Chief Edwin Uzor and the State Commissioner for Housing, Mr. Solomon Igharakpata during the official commissioning of the Delta State Governor’s Lodge, Lagos held in Lagos, Friday. Photo: Henry Unini

L-R; Mr Sam Omatseye, Chairman, Editorial Board, The Nation Newspaper; Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, Governor, Delta State/Guest Speaker; Mr Yemi Akeju,1st Vice President of Institute of Directors Nigeria and Chief Phillip Asiodu during the Institute of Directors Nigeria ‘Government Meets Business Forum’ held in Lagos yesterday. PHOTO;AKEEM SALAU

L-R;Mr Victor Banjo,Director General/CEO Institute of Directors Nigeria;Chief Olusola Dada,Chairman Anchoria Investment and securities limited;with Mr Yemi Akeju,1st Vice President of Institute of Directors Nigeria and Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan,Executive Governor of Delta State/Guest Speaker, at the Institute of Directors Nigeria Government Meets Business Forum. TOPIC;Delta Beyond oil,A legacy of Sustainable Development in Lagos yesterday. PHOTO;AKEEM SALAU

I sacrificed my senatorial ambition to avert crisis in Delta — Uduaghan ...Commissions Gov’s lodge By Jonah Nwokpoku the governor said he had and Hery Unini to undertake the project to GOVERNOR Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta state has said he sacrificed his ambition to go to the senate in order for peace to reign in the state. He said his decision averted a major inter-ethnic crisis in the state as his continuous push to go to the senate would have resulted to avoidable violence and disruption of the state’s hard earned peace and security. Meanwhile, Uduaghan also commissioned the State Governor’s Lodge, in Lagos just as he challenged political leaders in the country, especially those of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to stop the blame game and strategize for the development of the country. At a very brief ceremony, C M Y K

give the state a befitting place in Lagos in place of the old structure which existed in the space. The governor informed that the lodge is not his personal building but a state government project and would be used by successive governments. However, Uduaghan who was a guest speaker at the Institute of Directors Nigeria ‘Government Meets Business Forum’ in Lagos noted that inter-ethnic harmony remained the greatest challenge of Delta state. He said it was not difficult for him choosing between his senatorial ambition and peace of the state because peace and security were critical to the economic growth and development of the state as well as realising the state’s vision of building a non-oil econ-

omy. He said, “Some of us believe that there is nothing that is too much to sacrifice in the interest of peace in Delta. Today I would have probably become a senator elect if I had pushed further but what could have been a result of that is possibly a Warri axis living under inter-ethnic crisis and probably by now, we would imposed a curfew on Warri because of the crisis that would have arisen from my push to become a senator. As for me, nothing was too much for me to sacrifice for the peace of Delta. And I had to weigh between my becoming a senator and peace in Delta, and for me the decision was not difficult to take. I had to forgo the senate and let peace reign in Delta and I am glad that peace is reigning in Delta. If I want to be a senator one day, I will still be but it is

not likely because I want to pursue other interests.” He added: “One of the greatest challenges in Delta state is inter-ethnic harmony. Today Asaba is the Delta State capital. Almost every Deltan has accepted Asaba as the Delta State capital. It was not so several years ago. I recall that several years ago when I started, I met my brothers who are from the other parts of Delta and one of them told me that he can never sleep in Asaba and that if he sleeps in Asaba, he may not wake up the next day. He was a big time lawyer, so when he comes to Asaba, he does his business and goes back the same day no matter how late. But to the glory of God, today he sleeps in Asaba and wakes up alive and well. “Today various ethnic groups are marrying each other again which was not so at the peak of the Niger

Delta crisis. Today, a governor-elect is from Delta North which was a big issue. The important thing is not that Dr. Okowa is from Delta North but the fact that he was voted for by people of Delta South, Delta Central and Delta North. Before 2007, this would have been a very difficult task to achieve he said. Speaking further on the topic of the forum, ‘Delta beyond oil: A legacy of sustainable development,’ he said: “Peace and security is important in sustainable development. Peace and security is important in attracting investment. Peace and security is important in ensuring that we have a future of Delta state beyond oil. Peace and security in Delta state, whether political or otherwise have been secured in Delta. In the last election, after the election, some of the states, even in the Niger Delta region even today, are still embroiled in some

form of crises. But throughout the primaries and the main election in Delta, all the reports of the monitoring team adjudged Delta state one of the most peaceful state in Nigeria throughout the political period and it still remains peaceful politically. How did we do it? Deltans decided that they must remain peaceful. Even if they had issues and did not agree with some of the processes, they handled it peacefully. For those who did not agree, they are already in court and that is the way it should be. They did not encourage violence; instead, they went to court. This is important for us because we believe that the peace in Delta will attract more investments.” Uduaghan explained that the Delta beyond oil vision stands on the tripod of peace and security, infrastructure development and human capacity development and that the structure has been put in place to continue to drive the vision. He expressed confidence in the ability of the governor-elect of Delta state, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa to sustain the drive of building a non-oil economy for the state.

10—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

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SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—11

Buhari presidency and Northern Nigeria

•The burden only time will judge BY ABDULLAHI GARBA

n a matter of days, on May 29, Major-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari will once again take over the leadership of the country, this time around as a democratically elected President. He was Nigeria’s military Head of State between December 31,1983 and August 31,1985. Buhari, from C M Y K

Katsina state in the north west, is returning to power at a time in the nation’s history when the Boko Haram insurgency appears to defy Federal Government’s efforts at tackling the problem. Buhari had survived the insurgents’ onslaught in Kaduna last year when suicide bombers reported to belong to the Boko Haram group bombed his convoy at Kawo in the Kaduna

metropolis. The President-elect has since vowed to handle the insurgency issue after his inauguration.

One N or th, N tin Nor orth, Noo Des Destin tinyy

But, apart from the Boko Haram menace and other forms of insecurity situation in parts of the north, Buhari may also have to contend with a number of several other issues plaguing northern Nigeria. Again, like the Boko

Haram question, the alarming disparity in educational development between the south and north, the reported pervasive poverty and what is said to be general underdevelopment of the north when compared with some other parts of the country, have equally seemingly defied solution, some 55 years after the nation’s political independence. And, it is also 56 years since the then British government granted the defunct Northern Nigeria self-rule on March 15, 1959, a development that paved way for the area to subsequently become part of an independent Nigeria, on October 1,1960. The late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello, who was widely believed to have taken bold steps to develop the area has remained as popular in death as he was while alive. But 56 years on, northern Nigeria may not have made any significant progress beyond what Sir Ahmadu Bello did before his killing in the course of the first military putsch in 1966. Some 49 years after his assassination, successive northern leaders have continued to mouth the activities of the late Sarduana while he lived. At the slightest opportunity, they would reel out a long list of the Sarduana’s achievements and how he succeeded in weaving the divergent peoples of the north into what later came to be regarded as a homogenous northern Nigeria. However, northern Nigeria of today may be everything but homogenous. Apart from the exigencies of the times leading to the balkanisation of the area into the current 19 states, the Sarduana’s north has since acquired an inglorious reputation for reportedly being one of the most backward areas in the world, in terms of general human development. Sarduana’s northern Nigeria has since turned into a safe haven for criminals masquerading under the garb of religion. And, aside the latest Boko Haram phenomenon, various other groups had in the past virtually rendered the north inhabitable, further depleting investment and economic opportunities for the area. The Maitatsine riots in Kano, the Zangon Kataf crisis in Kaduna, the Tiv/Jukun clashes in Taraba, Birom/ Hausa Fulani fights in Plateau, the post-presidential election riots in in 2011, the

Continues on page 12

12—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

‘One North, No Destiny’

Continues from page 11 Miss World riots in Kaduna, ethno-religious and communal violence in Kaduna, Nasarawa and Benue states, the youth brigandage in Okene, Kogi state, the list is endless. And, in recent times, suspected Fulani herdsmen have continued to attack communities in Kaduna, Plateau, Benue and Taraba states, with loss of several lives and destruction of property. In the days of the Sarduana, as his admirers would often say, northerners did not take up arms against one another, in spite of socio-cultural and religious diversities of the people. Over these several years, the north has reportedly continued to lag behind other sections of the country in educational development as school-age children and adolescents from the north roam the streets of major towns in the area, begging for alms. According to a former Governor of Kaduna state, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, if the north is able to wake up from its slumber, it will take some 50 years for the area to attempt to catch up with the rest of the country in educational development alone. The deep-rooted Almajirai culture C M Y K

seems to overwhelm whatever efforts the Federal Government and individual state governments make to get these children off the streets and send them to school. Reports indicate that the Almajirai transform into foot soldiers for unscrupulous persons, during violent upheavals in parts of the north. The Sarduana had in 1959 put the entire population of the north at 18 million people describing it then as “the biggest single unit after Egypt in the continent of Africa.” Some 56 years later, the north still remains the most populated section of the country with eight of the 19 northern states alone recording well over 33 million people, according to the 2006 national population figures. But the growth in population has equally produced a large number of illiterate people, in a world where education remains the most singular factor that enhances if not determines economic and technological advancement of a people. Reports indicate that an average of about 100,000 students from Imo state alone seek admission every year to universities through the Joint

Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) while a combination of 16 states in the north excluding Benue, Kogi and Kwara, produce only a paltry 73,000 candidates. The figure translates to an average of approximately 4,500 candidates from each of the affected states in the north. Even Kano state with its very high population produces less than 10 per cent of candidates from Imo state. The Federal Government had in 1976 launched the Universal Primary Education (UPE) scheme in Sokoto and later the Universal Basic Education (UBE) programme, also in Sokoto, in 1999. Perhaps, there is no doubt that government decided to use the north as launch pad for these educational projects to enable the area exploit the benefits and catch up with the rest of the country. But, that has not been the case as there is evident progressive decline in the educational fortunes of the north in particular even as all other indices of development are equally skewed against the area. According to Prof. Mary Lar of the University of Jos, “when it comes to education, the giant north is still in comfortable

Perhaps, there is no doubt that government decided to use the north as launch pad for these educational projects to enable the area exploit the benefits and catch up with the rest of the country. But, that has not been the case as there is evident progressive decline in the educational fortunes of the north in particular even as all other indices of development are equally skewed against the area

slumber relative to the other regions of the country.” She goes further to point out that between 60 and 80 per cent of school-age children who should be in school are not in school. This development may not therefore be unconnected with the low adult literacy level in the north when compared to other parts of the country. In 2010, the Federal Bureau of Statistics (FBS) conducted a survey to determine the adult literacy level in Nigeria. The overall literacy rate was calculated based on the ability to read and write in any language, English or any other languages. According to the survey, the overall adult literacy rate for the country was 71.6 per cent with Lagos maintaining the lead among the states with 87.7 per cent. Kano recorded the highest literacy level in the north with 41.9 per cent, Sokoto has 33.1 per cent and Bauchi, 39.5 per cent. And, according to the Federal Ministry of Education, out of 6,468

Continues on page 13

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—13

‘Poverty, Disease Ravaging the North’ Continues from page 12 secondary schools with a total enrolment of 4,448,869 students nationwide, only 2,419 (37 per cent) of the schools with an enrolment of 1, 4117,645 are from the north. Equally frightening are admission figures showing the number of students admitted into universities in the country, from JAMB. In 2012, according to JAMB, a total of about 13,974 candidates from Anambra state gained admission to study various courses in the universities through the Joint Matriculation Examination (JME). Ogun state had 13,339, Abia state had 8,874. But for the same year, only 747 candidates from Borno state secured admission through the JME while Yobe state had 999 candidates, Kebbi state had 1,702 and Jigawa state had 1,305 candidates.

Pover ty verty ty,, Disease aging the N or th Ravaging Nor orth Rav

According to the FBS, the number of the poor is on the rise generally in Nigeria with about rising with about 55 per cent of the Nigerian people were living in absolute poverty as at 2005. By 2010, this had risen to 61 per cent, and, “the situation is particularly bad in northern states where over threequarters of the population live in absolute poverty,” the report says. The UNICEF believes that infant and maternal mortality rates in the north are “alarmingly” the highest in the country. According to a C M Y K

recent report by the United Nation’s organ, no fewer than one million children born in Nigeria die before their fifth birthday, with most of the deaths occurring in the northern states. The report notes further that, “the number of women who die due to pregnancy and related causes is also alarming, with a disproportionate of the maternal deaths occurring in the north. And, according to the Nigeria Democratic Health Survey of the National Population Commission, 88.6 per cent of pregnant women in the NorthWest still give birth at home with all the attendant risks. The same report gives the figure for the North-East as 82.2 per cent and the North-Central, 54.6 per cent while the South-East is 13.2 per cent and South-West, 20.8 per cent. Similarly, the report notes further that northern women are the least informed about warning signs of pregnancy complications when compared with their counterparts from the southern part of the country. For the North-Central, North-East and North-West, 47.3, 44.3 and 48.1 per cent of the women are informed respectively, contrary to the 66.0, 60.0 and 75.6 per cent of pregnant women from the South-East, South-South and South-West respectively. The reported northern issues of poverty and underdevelopment have continued to attract the attention of people even from outside the north. According to a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Prof. Charles Soludo, “it will require a, state of emergency to address the crippling poverty and

debilitating under-development in the north.” And, for the Niger state Governor who is also Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, “we must resolve to confront poverty which has bedevilled our people, with full determination to eradicating the phenomenon in the northern states. We must do everything possible to rise above the phenomenon. We must free our people from the shackles of underdevelopment. Peace and security in the northern states will be inconclusive if we do not have actionable proposals with specific time lines and expected outcomes for youth employment, poverty reduction and social security for the citizens.” And, for the Speaker of the House of Representatives who is also the Sokoto state Governorelect, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, “these are not the best of times for the north, especially when we

recall that hundreds of years ago, the people of what is today known as northern Nigeria were already trading with the large kingdoms of the western Sudan (Ghana, Mali, and Songhai) and with countries of the Mediterranean across the Sahara. In apparent reference to the prevailing Boko Haram insurgency in parts of the north, Tambuwal added that, “now it is almost impossible to take goods from Yola to Maiduguri without fatal consequencies. It is common in some quarters to discuss how the north appears to be dragging the nation down, and to reel out indices that show how the north is poorer, less educated and less enterprising than the other part of Nigeria.”

It is about spending up to 12 hours on a trip that normally is Legacy Betrayed In spite of these negative supposed developments which seem to retard to be less the progress of the north since the demise of the revered Sarduana, than 30 successive northern leaders do not minutes, seem to take appropiate measures to check some of the perceived or even lapses and chart a new course for passing the overall well-being of the They continue to flaunt the the night people. Sarduana’s name without in your commensurate efforts at building on the legacies he was said to have car, or bequeathed the north. In fact, abandoning according to a former Head of State is also Chairman of the ACF your car who Board of Patrons, Gen. Yakubu on the Gowon, “what is happening today is not the Nigeria and the north we road inherited and for us, it cannot be altogether the north we desire to bequeath to our children. We have over the

Aminu Waziri Tambuwal

years through our action or inaction, directly or indirectly

Continues on page 14

14—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

‘Legacy Betrayed’ Continues from page 13 allowed the gradual descent to the present disagreeable and unacceptable behaviours in our communities and the entire north.” From Plateau state to the southern part of Kaduna state where the issue of who is an indigene and settler continues to claim scores of lives in ethnic and religious conflicts, to Benue state where majority of the people would rather align themselves to the Middle-Belt concept thus questioning the geographical entity called northern Nigeria and to the seven states in the north-west zone where the “core north” phenomenon has consistently pitched the Hausa and Fulani against the other tribal groupings from the area, the north appears to have bitten more than it can chew. Successive northern leaders have over the years succeeded in mismanaging out of existence, legacies that the revered Sarduana bequeathed to the people of the north. According to Muazu Babangida Aliyu, in the 60s, Nigeria was a major exporter of groundnut which was produced mainly in northern Nigeria, “with the proceeds invested in the establishment of some institutions which today are the legacies of our heroes past. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, New Nigeria Development Company [NNDC], New Nigeria Newspapers and Arewa Textile are few of the examples.” However, apparently still living in the past and with an irritating tendency to always drop the Sarduana’s name, along C M Y K

with those of his compatriots at any opportune time, a cross section of current northern leaders have seemingly failed to come to terms with the realities of modern Nigeria or indeed the peculiar trend of events that tend to drive the modern world which if adopted may even present better opportunities for the people than those of the Sarduana era. From all indications, the Sarduana legacy appears to endure but the crop of today’s leaders from the north fail to emulate Sir Ahmadu Bello who, from reports, lived a Spartan lifestyle devoid of any forms of ostentetious extravagance as compared to today’s exhibition of affluence by the leaders, in the midst of corrosive poverty among the majority of the northern population. In his capacity as Premier, an obviously elated Sir Ahmadu Bello had on March 15, 1959, told the visiting Queen of England and the Duke of

Gen. Yakubu Gowon

Edinburgh that, “in agriculture, we are one of the two leading exporters of groundnut in the world and our cotton supplies a substantial part of Lancashire’s needs. In mining, we are the foremost producer of columbite and an immigrant source of the world’s tin. In industrial development, we are in our infancy but the success of the great textile mill here in Kaduna, the latest in West Africa, is a potent showing what we can achieve when the cheap hydroelectric power which we plan to provide becomes available in our main commercial centres....I have said a good deal about commerce because future prosperity of this region, like that of the United Kingdom, depends on our ability to maintain and if possible, enlarge our share of world trade.” Unfortunately, the Sarduana died before he could realise some of the programmes he had for his people. But he succeeded in setting up the textile mills, along with strings of other business empires for the north which his successors have

Babangida Aliyu

Abdul Ningi

As the Deputy Senate Leader, Abdul Ningi, observed in March, during the 56th anniversary celebration of selfgovernment for northern Nigeria, “something is terribly wrong with the north and there are many questions than answers. We are not telling ourselves the truth, the north is only worshipping money, money and money. We cannot keep sweeping things under the carpet and pretend that everything is well

since mismanaged out of existence. The popular groundnut pyramids of Kano have since disappeared while religious intolerance thrives and the north has virtually become a killing field and as one writer observes, “the foundation of one North, one people, has crumbled. The picture is real and the message is clear, the North has fallen. The power of the North has gone awry and Arewa has lost its aura.” Indeed, it has been a long period of regrets and fingerbiting. As the Deputy Senate Leader, Abdul Ningi, observed in March, during the 56th anniversary celebration of self-government for northern Nigeria, “something is terribly wrong with the north and there are many questions than answers. We are not telling ourselves the truth, the north is after money. We cannot keep sweeping things under the carpet and pretend that everything is well.”The north has produced the largest number of heads of state and presidents since 1960 , beginning with Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa as Prime Minister, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, late Gen. Murtala Mohammed, President Shehu Shagari, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, late Gen. Sani Abacha, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar and Buhari who is returning for the second time. Is the Buhari presidency

likely to change the fortunes of the north so that the area will no longer be described as a laughing stock, according to Babangida Aliyu? The burden of the north is, therefore, an irony their leaders have a responsibility to turn around. Buhari is one of them and time will tell.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—15

You will be judged by your performance and not by fighting corruption, Bola Ajibola tells Buhari hoodlums, kidnappers and all that. Crime is raging, you are doing nothing about it.?” We are now running a developing democracy that could help us. Do it well and we shall vote you back into power. Mess it up and we throw you out. The message is now clear and sound. That is what has happened.

•Prince Bola Ajibola (SAN)

BY BASHIR ADEFAKA

rince Bola Ajibola (SAN), a one time Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice , in this interview says General Mohammadu Buhari will be missing the point if he dissipates all his energy fighting corruption and failing to provide basic needs to the people. Excerps: The incoming government will be led by General Muhammadu Buhari and Yemi Osinbajo who was your senior special assistant when you were Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation for over six years. They are clear on fighting corruption. You want to say something on this? I think I agree with Buhari on the need for killing corruption before it kills us but doing so should not hinder him from doing the main things that he is expected to do to make life better for Nigerians. You want to shed more light on this? You do not invest all your time battling only that corruption. If you do not take care of other necessities, the problems there will continue to breed corruption. For corruption to stop or be reduced you need to provide sound education, health, security, good

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roads, water and everything that will make life better. Those are things he should make his priorities including agriculture. That is the purpose of governance. You cannot come and tell us after four years that all you have done is your commissions of inquiry. We will thank you for it and we will now say, “And what else did you do? You said Nigerians voted PDP out because they decided that enough was enough on corruption. Will probes not help to ascertain the level of corruption? Commission of inquiry at this material time is good but is not the best. We want to see something coming out of your government: good governance, providing the wherewithal for the benefit of everybody in the interest of the entire nation. That is exactly what he should do at the moment. Before, if you were able to come to judgment on the issue of those who had corruptly enriched themselves to the detriment of the nation, that in itself will be medicine after death. That in itself will only show us those who stole our money and when the money was stolen but the whereabout of the money will be the question. What was stolen 17 years ago had just been arranged for return. Is that all we should wait for, another 17 years before getting

back what had been stolen? We are not saying you (Buhari) should not set up commission of inquiry but don’t make that your priority. Your priority now is to give us the wherewithal to have a better life in this society because, at the end of the day, you will be judged by your performance in providing needs and not probes. Yes a lot of people corruptly enriched themselves. But they have spent the money. They have foolishly, recklessly spent the money and it is nowhere to be found. Some of this money has been siphoned away to Europe. Where do we go from here? Do you think APC will still be there in another 17 years when we will possibly be recovering stolen money? That would be determined by APC’s ability to perform....? It is only performance that can keep you there. Getting rid of corruption alone will not keep you there because the public will say, “Yes, we have heard you about that. We know you are doing your best on it. And so, what else? We are sick, you cannot take care of us. Our children are illiterates, they don’t have schools. We don’t have food to eat and water to drink. You have not improved our agriculture. We have cars but no roads and our lives are insecure as people are being killed everyday by

Your priority now is to give us the wherewithal to have a better life in this society because, at the end of the day, you will be judged by your performance in providing needs and not probes

Trust between the President and his vice matters. Here we have General Muhammadu Buhari and Professor Yemi Osinbajo. What do you say to this? Buhari and Osinbayo should work together and this is important. They should prove critics wrong. Yemi Osinbajo is someone that I see as having a unique incident of time, of working well with people regardless of their religions. He worked very well with me as Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation and we never had any disagreement on religion. Thereafter he worked very well with Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Governor of Lagos State. They never had issues on any ground. He worked very well with Adeboye at Redeem and that one was very well done too. Now, he is going to work with Buhari, who incidentally is a Muslim like me and I think he will also work harmoniously with him. Yemi is someone who believes in Almighty God regardless of the way you perceive Him. He himself is a clergy man apart from being a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and a professor. He is also a great. I am very sure that he will work harmoniously well with General Muhammadu. I am very sure. Sometimes it is not about the character of the President or the vice. It is about the politicians who stand between them and who work with them. What is your attitude to that? I think Buhari will handle that because I know he is capable. I am consciously optimistic that he will do so.

16—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

ATEKE TOM TO BUHARI: Treat anyone who goes back to the creeks as a common criminal •Speaks about his lions and Rotimi Amaechi BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME

teke Tom was a general in the defunct Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta, MEND. In this interview, the soft spoken ex militant general bares his mind on his expectations from the incoming All Progressive congress, APC led government at the centre. He dismisses fears that hostilities may resume in the region when President Goodluck Jonathan finally bows out of office on May 29. He fielded questions on why he rears lions in his Okrika residence. Excerpts: What are your expectations from the President Elect, General Muhamadu Buhari I expect him to lead the country on the right path, provide quality leadership. And I am sure the President Elect will make positive impact. I am sure he knows what to do, he knows what the country expect from him. He should give all Nigerians opportunity to contribute meaningfully to his government. Let me just add that the Niger Delta still needs serious attention. He should develop the region. Later, we will tell him some of the things we expect him to give special attention to. There are fears that some boys in the Niger Delta may resume hostilities, militancy at the end of President Goodluck Jonathan’s tenure No! No! I don’t see militancy coming back again in the region. Niger Delta will be very peaceful than what it was under President Jonathan. Well I want to say that nobody will go back to the creeks. Anybody who does that has no reason for that and should be treated as a common criminal. We don’t have any reason to resume militancy in the region. So there will be peace. Speculations are high that the President -elect will cancel the pipeline surveillance contracts awarded to individuals and groups recently. You have

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something to say on this ? We got the pipeline security job for our area. And we are doing the job very well. My advice to the President elect, General Buhari is that he should not cancel it when he formerly assumes office. Those who got the job are taking care of the pipelines and are doing the job commendably. If he cancels it I don’t see who else can do it better. We hail from these places where the pipelines run through and so are very familiar with the terrain. He should allow us continue to render this service to the country. You are a leader of so many youths in this region. Any advice to Buhari on now to tackle challenges facing youths? My message is simple. He should create jobs for people. This will reduce crime. Job will keep them busy. When the youths are engaged their minds are busy. When they are idle they think of bad things sometimes. So jobs will help. What kind of Rivers state do you

see under the incoming government of Barr Nyesom Wike? First, there will be jubilation all over the state when the Governor elect, Barr Wike assumes office as governor of the state. You know Rivers people have been clamoring for change. We need change and we want it dearly in our state. We saw how President Goodluck Jonathan is cooperating with those who say they want change at the top. But here in Rivers state they are doing as if they don’t want to vacate the seat for the man who won the election. We want the change in the state so they should cooperate. Rivers people will come out to dance that May 29 , to celebrate the change in baton. I see a new Rivers state where everybody will be happy. You know we have been in hell in the last eight years. Judiciary shut down, House of Assembly not functioning. A lot of police cells over stretched because no court to try cases. We have been in hell since. So I see a new Rivers state where everybody will be happy. There have been cases of violence all over. What are you expecting ? I see a state that will be very peaceful. People will not believe the story of peace that will be coming out of the state. Though they recorded minor violence in some parts of the state during the last election but you know the violence was below the expectations of many outside the state. People had thought that the state will burn so they were surprised that we recorded peaceful elections in most parts of the state. In Okrika nobody threw a

•Ateke Tom

*His aide with one of his lions

stone during the elections. We had very peaceful elections here in Okrika. Remember many people had listed it as a likely flash point during the elections. But finally no violence was recorded. The thing is that some people in power fail to recognize that some persons can contribute positively to their government. They ignore these persons. This is why you see some things I call, nonsense in some areas. Engage the right people, everybody has a role to play to build a healthy state and nation. As one of those in the Wike government I will make sure the youths see the beauty of peace. If you fail to embrace peace we will see that you are handed over to government for necessary action. Because we cannot compromise the peace of our dear state. Is there anything the outgoing government did that you will advise the incoming one to avoid in the state? The outgoing government was unfair in several ways to the people. People were bundled into jails, dumped in Police cells. I am sure the incoming government will not do all these. It will be a friendly government. You command a very large followership of youths. A large number of them are always around you. The old also identify with you in your community. How are you able to sustain the loyalty of this army of youths? Leadership is ordained by God almighty. And when he makes you a leader he gives you wisdom to lead the people. In Okrika I take care of most people in this community. Parents come to me for assistance to pay school fees for their children, hospital bills. The list is endless. I am often there for people when they come to me for assistance. This is why when you come to my house you see crowd of people waiting to see me. It is the same thing when I am in Lagos. I don’t mind your tribe when I render assistance. My loyalists are increasing everyday from all parts of the country. In Lagos, my house is like a big church. You see people coming and going because of the milk of human kindness in me.

What advice do you have for the rich I know there are those who are richer than me. I advise them to be there for the poor. There are so many challenges of poverty in our country so they should be there for them. I also had rough period while growing up so I know what it means to be poor. That is why I always assist needy ones who come around me. I pay fees , I run a scholarship scheme for many indigent students. I fund wedding ceremonies for many. I assist many to complete their buildings. So many things I can’t recall. I see animals of all kinds, including lions in your compound. Tell us a little about your love for animals. Particularly why you keep lions . Meanwhile, accept my condolence over the death of one of the lions today. He laughs. This lion story is good. I like animals. If you walk round my compound you see several animals except snake because I fear snake a lot. I was in Dubai for a wedding there I saw a man playing with a lion and I told myself I will keep some in my compound. I finally got two from South Africa. I built a special place for them in my compound. One just died today. Does your wife go close to them General laughter. Even me, I don’t go close to them. We have a way we feed them.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—17

Buhari should

step on toes including those who funded his campaign —Okorie distorted the real price of petroleum products in the open market. Now payment of subsidy or lack of it has been referred to as the reason for non steady supply of petroleum products. Now it has been removed, it means the product will now be subjected to market forces. And if that means first of all blocking that drain on our common treasury and the availability of the products, it is better. It doesn’t really make for sound logic to expect petroleum product to sell the same rate as it sells at the point of delivery. If it is open to the open market then market forces will determine. Competition will set in and it will, at the long run, be better for Nigeria. There has been scarcity of the products for some time now, what do you think may be responsible for that? One the anticipation of the removal of subsidy because this thing did not just occur overnight and there are people who have been monitoring the recommendations of the National Assembly with regard to the budget. Another one is that the Jonathan administration is winding down. Another is that they are owing the marketers subsidy money.

•Chekwas Okorie

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKW U R U

hief Chekwas Okorie is the founder and National Chairman of the United Progressive Party, UPP and also the founder of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA. In this interview he says that for Buhari to succeed he would have to step on toes including those who sponsored his campaign.

Excerpts: Nigerians have been subjected to untold hardship as a result of fuel scarcity and there is the clamour for the removal of fuel subsidy, what is your take? I think it is a measure that is long overdue because the fuel subsidy has been a major source of corruption. And not only that, it is drain in the treasury of the Nigerian people; it has also

You said that after the election you would present a formidable opposition against the incoming administration, how would you operate? Well, maybe the opposition will provide more of the constructive engagement. But you see, this thing about opposition, nothing is fixed. The attitude of the incoming government will determine the attitude of the opposition. If we are invited to participate in government, we will not turn it down. We will participate and continue to make our views and see how far we can canvass our own views.

I personally trust Buhari to be capable to step on any toes including those who funded his campaign

But I can tell you too that even from some of the statements credited to the president elect, we are beginning to see some meeting points in our ideological approach to government as articulated in my revolutionary agenda during the campaigns. For example, the president- elect has been credited to have said that the declaration of assets will not only be compulsory but also will be made public just as we would want it to be. Then, the president-elect has also been credited as saying that he would also look into the missing 20billion dollars NNPC funds. We agree on that. There was a recent recovery of N307 looted by Sani Abacha. So you can imagine the amount of our money in private hands.It has been so but our government didn’t seem to be interested, maybe because of those who are involved. Buhari administration shouldn’t toe the same line. So far we are beginning to see a meeting point in what we thought we would have done if we had that opportunity. And to that extent, all we can do is to offer hand of fellowship and engage his government constructively. And of course, where we think things are not going well, we shall very constructively criticize it. The opposition said rather than remove subsidy as a means of tackling corruption, there are other measures that could be adopted. The point is that, what it costs the average Nigerian now to get a litre of fuel is so high now, it is not even available and this is across the country. And where you get the so called government fixed prices, are only in government regulated filling stations and they are just few. And so people are suffering buying fuel sometimes adulterated fuel on the road just to be able to move around. And it is all because of this subsidy thing. I do believe that prices will go down over time because it will now be competitive. Would you support the incoming administration to raise supplementary budget for fuel subsidy? Do yo not support partial subsidy for now? My attitude is that we should not go back to it. It has brought a lot of distortion; it has opened the room for a lot of corruption and I even don’t see what the Buhari administration can do to check the cartel once you continue to pay subsidy on the products they have imported and they have their own way of manipulating figures with the banks and the suppliers. It will be difficult to monitor what we are paying as to what is actually supplied because it is all paper work and that is why the corruption there has gone so high.

The cartels in the oil and gas business are well plsced Nigerians who call the shots. Do you think this incoming government and administration will actually be able to step on the toes of this cabal? I personally trust Buhari to be capable to step on any toes including those who funded his campaign. He has that moral standing, strength to do that. He can do it. If he fails to do it, he would have failed the whole country because part of what gave him the presidency is respect and admiration for his high moral rectitude.

18—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

know what you mean by controversial but I have always maintained that I am not controversial. Look at me, I am not big and I am not very strong. Until 1999 when I became the DG of Bureau for Public Enterprises (BPE), no one had ever heard of me. If I was a controversial person you would have heard of me. I think my fortune or misfortune in public life is that I tend to get the most difficult assignments that every other person is scared of doing. My first real job in government was DG of the BPE and my job was to sell public assets. That is controversial. It is not El-Rufa’i that was controversial, it was the assignment because people are used to government managing

BY ABDULLAHI GARBA, KADUNA

aduna state governor-elect, Malam Nasir El-Rufa’i, a former Minister of the FCT, has always been associated with controversy and barely a week to his inauguration, sections of Kaduna residents are already basking in the euphoria of what they regard as a possible return to sanity and transparency in the business of governance. As May 29 approaches and for a state that is often described as difficult to govern, developments in Kaduna within the week may have given clear indications regarding how El-Rufa’i intends to conduct the affairs of the state. Members of the APC caucus at the House of Assembly were the first to fire the warning shot when on Friday, May 15, they raised the alarm that outgoing governor Mukhtar Ramalan Yero requested the Legislature to approve his decision to disburse the 2014 SURE-P funds for the 23 local government areas, amounting to N2.744 billion. The protesting legislators described the move as suspicious and fraudulent arguing that, “there is no how a local government council can judiciously execute any meaningful projects within two weeks considering the fact that diligent due process and financial regulations have to be followed.” The lawmakers said that the governor’s request to use 50 per cent of the money to fund a road project within the Kaduna metropolis was not acceptable. Moreover, they argued further that the funds in question had already been indicated in the handing over notes of the outgoing government. Apparently still agitated over the matter, El-Rufa’i issued a statement on Monday warning that on assumption of office, he would “deal with” all those found to have been involved in the disbursement of the funds. “Our government will certainly insist on accountability and no one should be in any doubt about our resolve, be it the instigators of any impropriety or those who facilitated and executed it,” El-Rufa’i warned. By Tuesday, the governor-elect was sure that Yero had actually disbursed the funds even before seeking approval of the House of Assembly, prompting him to petition the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, through the APC transition committee.

religious conflicts, Kaduna has also become notorious for series of unsolved killings in its communities in both the southern and northern parts. The third most populous state in Nigeria after Kano and Lagos, with a population of about eight million people, the Muslim Hausa and Fulani dominate the northern population while Christians dominate the southern part. For several years running, successive administrations in Kaduna have not been able to find solution to the intractable religious question that has continued to shake the state’s foundation. Perhaps, the bloody Shariah riots in February and May 2000 dealt Kaduna the most devastating blow in its history as residents

Through out the electioneering campaign, El-Rufa’i also adopted the APC ‘change’ slogan and for the Governor-elect, Kaduna needs the change perhaps more than any other state in the country •El-Rufa’i

KADUNA:

El Rufai sends signals as clash looms over N2.7billion SURE-P fund I am not controversial

The last may not have been heard of the SURE-P standoff even as El-Rufa’i has consistently disassociated himself from the controversy tag attached to his person. It was through his ministerial position that El-Rufa’i became a household name in Nigeria, essentially due to his controversial land and housing reforms at the FCT and the programme earned him the nickname of Mr Demolition

with the tag of “Giant.” His reforms swept through the FCT and environs, affecting the rich and the poor alike and perhaps for the first time, El-Rufa’i reportedly stepped on the toes of some people hitherto considered untouchable in society. Some media reports also describe El-Rufa’i as stubborn. “I am vertically challenged,” ElRufa’i admitted in in a recent interview because he is actually of comparatively little height. According to him, “I do not

everything. Some of these things are difficult to do and in this country if you want to do the job as written in the books, you are given all sorts of names and tags, controversial is one of them. I am not controversial, I mind my business. But once I am given a job and I agree to do it, I do it with all my heart and as Minister of the FCT which is one of the most difficult jobs, I did my job to the best of my ability. I do not think that the issue is whether I was controversial or not. The question you should ask me is whether I left Abuja better than I met it.”

The Kaduna challenge

If El-Rufa’i considers administering the FCT as one of the most difficult jobs, then managing the affairs of Kaduna may present a greater challenge. Described as a mini Nigeria, Kaduna has well over 50 different ethnic communities each with its distinct language and culture most of which are concentrated in the southern part of the state. Through out the electioneering campaign, ElRufa’i also adopted the APC ‘change’ slogan and for the Governor-elect, Kaduna needs the change perhaps more than any other state in the country. Ravaged by several years of ethno-

began to adopt segregated lifestyle in Kaduna metropolis with majority Muslims preferring to reside in the northern part of the city while the Christians consider the southern axis as haven, in terms of security. But El-Rufa’i has since pledged to return sanity to the area, assuring that, “we are ready to restore the civilised notion of political power as a platform for service, a tool for change and an enabler of order, security, harmony, peace and prosperity. We are committed to fostering a secure, peaceful environment that gives the confidence to all the residents of the state to make the most of their talents. We intend to work with all communities in Kaduna state without fear or favour. We are all equal partners and stakeholders in this state. There will be no discrimination in Kaduna state on the basis of gender, ethnicity or religion. Appointments and nominations into the incoming cabinet and government will be primarily on the basis of integrity and determined strictly by competence, capacity and capability. We are aware of your justifiably high expectations of our government. We will do our utmost to meet them but we shall need your patience, sacrifice and support.”

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—19

BY TOM MOSES

•Austin Okojie

ALLEGED N5BILLION BRIBE:

INEC boss

says his life is in danger ,

overnor Godswill Akpabio is known to be generous. He is said to be very free with money. And, consequently, money never constitutes a stumbling block whenever he sets to achieve something. This has won him accolades with regard to many of his achievements in his state. But could he have parted with N5billion just to ensure his preferred candidate won the last governorship election in Akwa-Ibom State? Check out this scene in Uyo, the state capital last week: It was an unusual and tensionssoaked meeting at the Akwa-Ibom State secretariat of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, along Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo last Thursday and the agenda of the meeting was ‘Threat To Life’. The Akwa-Ibom State Resident Electoral Commissioner-REC, Barrister Austin Okojie had summoned the staff including security operatives and Youth Corps members attached to the commission to inform them of how he had been rattled by repeated anonymous telephone calls all of which, he said, conveyed death sentences on him by a one of the security staff. The said staff was demanding his share of the Five Billion Naira (N5BN) the REC allegedly received from Governor Godswill Akpabio on behalf of the staff of the commission. The INEC boss was being told to be fair to others and let them have a piece of the cake or face horrendous consequences. As human, Okojie, the state INEC boss, said he was engulfed with fear such that he lost his composure even though he did not know the character behind the treacherous intermittent midnight calls and even when he was speechless each time the calls came; the person aggravated his fears by sending text messages. At this point, the REC told the staff at the meeting that he finally decided to call the Department of State Service (DSS) both in Akwa-Ibom and Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to complain of the danger to his life and also the lives of his family members with whom he had been subjected to trauma through those midnight calls and text messages. He said that he was advised by the DSS to forward the text messages for forensic tests. He said: “I don’t know whether this person knows exactly what N5 Billion looks like in volume! I will collapse if I see that kind of money. Besides, I don’t think I can finish that kind of money in my life time. If I should be in possession of N5BN, I wouldn’t be sitting here today, I would have travelled out of this country with my family and settled there to enjoy the money. “But it is pathetic the way people speculate and spread false information in this state. I was barely five days in this state when some sponsored local newspapers published on their front pages that Governor Akpabio received me into the state with N5 billion and 2,000 bags of rice. “I want you to know that I have not received any gratification or the so called N5billion directly or indirectly on your behalf from anybody. I am also not indebted to any of you because all your allowances, claims and entitlements have been paid up to date”. He lamented that following the threats which were often issued at nights, he was no longer feeling safe and comfortable in the state and may

“I am so worried that my life and those of members of my family could be made this miserable by someone I am not even indebted to and never discussed with or negotiated any business with officially and unofficially as all the allowances and claims due every staff had since been paid

be tempted to travel home to report his experience to his people in Edo State. “Indeed, I am worried and utterly disturbed by those threats because I have never seen or met the person threatening me even though he claims to be a staff of this commission. “I am now living in total fear of the unknown, discomfort and danger to my life and members of my family because I can no longer move about freely as any other loyal and law-abiding citizen of this country. I now live in utter fear of the unknown. “I am so worried that my life and those of members of my family could be made this miserable by someone I am not even indebted to and never discussed with or negotiated any business with officially and unofficially as all the allowances and claims due every staff had since been paid”, Okojie lamented. He therefore used the platform to solicit the cooperation of the security agencies in

the state to investigate the character behind the threats to his life for possible prosecution as according to him, if such perfidious characters were allowed to walk the streets of the state free, many innocent lives would be rendered uncomfortable and endangered. Some of the text messages read: “Oga Okojie, it is a fool like you that says in your hearts and being, there is no God, because you are corrupt and have done abominable works n in you doeth no good (Psalm 14:1). U must reward all the staff of the INEC, AKS based on the money sent to them by the state Governor. You want to embezzle it for the sake of buy’n your cocaine. I am going to open your dirty can to all the anti-graft agencies. “Bet me, soon you will go in for it. For the Holy Bible says whatever a man soweth that is what he shall reap. You sow to corruption and greed, your reward is death. Idiot, imbecile, ino, barawo, ikong ekpo. God will punish you 100 times including all ur households and the incoming and the unborn generations, except you share that money to all the staff”. When asked to react to the agenda of the meeting, none of the INEC staff numbering over 300 including security operatives and Youth Corps members attached to the commission, could immediately comment on the issue and it appeared that they were worried by the ugly development and were in sympathy with the REC for the psychological trauma he was subjected to by the threats to his life and members of his family. However, two members of the staff summoned the courage to speak. One said: “Honourable Commissioner, we are very sorry for what you have passed through due to those threats. The name of the staff mentioned is of the security department of this commission where I am the head. We have never discussed any such issue collectively as staff of the security department and we did not mandate him to do anything on our behalf. But as our father, we plead that you forgive him because we know that the purpose of this meeting is to enable us reason together. “If the punishment you intend to mete out to him is too heavy, it is the innocent members of his family or his dependants who will suffer. Please, let his punishment be light for him to be able to bear. Continue to be a father to him believing that he would turn a new leaf”, the staff pleaded. The same plea was made by the same speaker even as he berated the said staff for misconduct. Coincidentally, the alleged perfidious messages and calls threatening the life of the REC and members of his family, were tracked by the Department of State Service (DSS) in conjunction with the Mobile Phone Providers and the name of the staff was identified. He is a security staff with the commission. Even when he had allegedly destroyed the SIM card after executing his malicious project, the text messages were said to have been used to identify the source, location and the image of the person. Following this revelation, the DSS was said to have swung into action and got the suspect apprehended. Director-General (D-G), Department of State Service, Akwa-Ibom State, Mr. Toma Minti said the suspect, Asuquo David has confessed to his deeds and has been handed over to the police accordingly. But the Akwa-Ibom State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mrs. Cordelia Nwawe did not respond to phone calls for comment on the issue.

20—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

ny real encounter with Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) officials leaves you with only one impression - area boys in government uniforms. And true to type they stalk, hound and hunt in packs with the ferocity typical of wild cats. Vultures are patient , they circle and feast on carcasses . LASTMA’s preferred mode is more hyena -like. Isolate or entrap one or two confused , naïve or luckless motorists and pounce. LASTMA officials were once hapless preys for Ogunlewe’ s FERMA officials. When Ogunlewe , the then works minister, thought that the best way to whittle Tinubu’s influence was to create a rival quasi traffic law enforcement outfit , fit and adaptable for any political exigency . And FERMA officials backed by the PDPs federal might in the Police Mobile Force would swoop on LATSMA officials on federal roads and unleash on them the savagery their principals would have wished on Tinubu. And sporadic daylight flares that ended in sorrow, tears and blood regularly grated on the sensibilities of Lagos residents . Ordinarily any public that government agencies tumbled over themselves to serve should be envied. But some publics are barns full of yams and some officials are hungry greedy goats. Ogunlewe fell from power, and like all such personal projects in Nigeria, his mercenaries - “ FERMA traffic men “ - stopped existing , at least de facto. They may still be on the payroll . Ghosts of persons long dead collect salaries in Nigeria. LASTMA came to own all the roads. One nightmare ended and another began. There is something tragic about predatory policing. That perverted perception of duty as selfish opportunity and ordinary people as fare game, potential hares and ‘grass cutters’. The meek and the gentle are the most vulnerable. Some ladies have learnt self help. They scream and wail hysterically, unsettle things a bit and sometimes manage to wriggle out of sieges . Law enforcement agents, predators, set out to work , without soul, without ethical constraints. The law for them is a malleable cudgel to hound , to harass , to ‘shake down’ offenders till their pockets and sacks are filled. Life becomes further complicated and more brutish for the ordinary people. But there is a greater tragedy. That rather cannibalistic tendency of the poor to eat the poor and spare the rich. Perhaps it’s just gamesmanship. These poor LASTMA and Police officials are more civil , more courteous, more forgiving, in areas where the rich live. LASTMA officials do not have ‘ warnings’ and ‘counselling’ in their repertoire. Cynical gangs masquerading as government officials lay ambushes on innocent hardworking citizens in the name of traffic management. The more shabbily dressed they are , the more malevolent their disposition. Some LASTMA officials would use tricks of con men to lure, beguile and arrest the unsuspecting and bleed others who may have committed minor traffic infractions . Sometimes the bait is commercial buses. Officials will hide, allow buses take a route or a turn but will arrest a private car naïve enough to follow the buses. A particular strain of sadism allows many of them to remain almost eternally impervious to even the most pitiful of entreaties. And many residents would easily rate LATSMA as the most corrupt government agency in Lagos ahead of the police and the customs. You don’t have to look too deeply to understand that the stench of LASTMA is not from a few rotten apples but is the emanation of a deep seated widespread systemic rot. A rot more purulent than that of the Nigerian Police. LASTMA suffers a well known disease. LATSMA officials are evidently hired off the streets , without sufficient rigour , without due process and without background

LAS TMA is a coherent ar gument LASTMA argument agains againstt ssttat atee police

LASTMA officials checks. They receive no tangible orientation and their general conduct reveal shallow training. They are visibly poorly remunerated . Is there perhaps some understanding that they will fend for themselves in part? If it were not so why are many of them so brazen, so crude, so ill- tempered ? If that institution has any ethical codes many LASTMA officials are evidently not conversant with them. And more importantly there is no semblance of an internal control mechanism. Their processes are perhaps not audited and no one is manifestly bothered about their image or reputation. The public has no quick and effective means of seeking redress. And in many cases the testimony of a LASTMA staff is presumed unimpeachable . Abdullahi is driver of an articulated truck, he queued for fuel behind cars at a bout 6.30 am at petrol station in Apapa 2 years ago. A LASTMA official was perhaps early to work that fateful day and on sighting the seemingly stationary truck he leapt off a moving bike. He had his official trousers and boots on but he his shirt was blue , the blue from Stamford bridge, you may say. He hurriedly brought out and struggled to put on his uniform (shirt) as he hobbled towards the truck. The driver was unperturbed by the approach of menace, he thought he had a legitimate case . He was on the queue to buy diesel and he was not obstructing traffic. The LASTMA official , possessed by a selfish reading of events , declared that the truck had broken down and sought to dislodge the driver from the his seat. The driver resisted and started the truck but the LASTMA official had secured the services of two area boys and they helped pull out the driver and seize the vehicle. Before the driver recovered from grogginess, the LASTMA official and one of the area boys had driven off with the truck . A search party found the truck at mile 2 LATSMA garage. At the LASTMA office in ‘mile 2’ where chaos and disorder truly belong, they were told that the official had left for another adventure and that a ticket had been written . They were tossed from one disheveled table to another , from one aloof and dissembling staff to another.

Everything always seems makeshift in that office. They were told dismissively and casually to take their protests to Oshodi. Pay the 50,000 naira fine as the offence had been creatively changed to obstruction of govt highway or hold a mutually rewarding discussion with an official . Or go to Oshodi. No one cared to understand the complaints, no one was interested in the fact that the driver was beaten. The truck was hijacked by a LASTMA official but it was no news to them.. Someone even remarked that the act of that official saved an extra towing cost of another 50,000. And the Abdullahi incident is by no means isolated or rare. Abdullahi committed no offence. Many now even pray that in the event of a breakdown that ‘area boys’ reach them first. Because ‘area boys’ ward off LASTMA officials and charge only about a third of the ‘fees’. Same LASTMA officials look the other way when commercial buses cause havoc on our roads. The drivers pay their ‘dues’ and, therefore, are entitled to be reckless. Lagos state house of assembly fixes traffic fines without a thought about the ability of the ordinary man to pay. Minimum monthly wage is 18, 000 naira but you can be asked to pay N50,000 for driving on an eroded kerb or road set back. And N20,000 as first offender for an illegal U turn. At some of these points no sign warns you that a U turn is prohibited. Some LASTMA officials would lay ambush in commercial buses rather than warn motorists not to turn. The fine for over speeding is N100,000 , more than 5 times minimum monthly wage. And of course a failure to pay fine may lead to incarceration. And because the fines are excessive , ordinary citizens who may have transgressed the traffic codes are forced by harsh circumstances into unholy negotiations with officials. And even those who hate corruption may consider their pockets and regard such compromises as moral alternatives. Criminal sanctions that are not proportionate to offences are morally illegitimate. Corruption is immoral and criminal but some criminologists have suggested that where governance is weak and law and order structures are

Lagos state government has been at the forefront of the agitation for state police. And you would think that they would make a genuine case by running a professional LATSMA

moribund, the inefficiency of a dysfunctional rickety bureaucracy can be helped by the grease of corruption. So Nigerian customs officials would gladly come to work punctually because they leave with filled pockets. And since the more import papers they treat the more money they harvest , they take their work relatively more seriously. So it’s not impossible that some may view LASTMA as efficient because they tow away broken down vehicles even before the drivers have had the time to check what the fault might be. Such an immoral efficiency propelled more by greed than virtue undermines LASTMA’s legitimacy. Lagos state government has been at the forefront of the agitation for state police. And you would think that they would make a genuine case by running a professional LATSMA. On ethical counts, the Nigerian police are better than LASTMA. Imagine a Lagos with armed LASTMA officials. If Lagos under an efficient law and order governor like Fashola could not organize a decent traffic management agency ,which state in Nigeria can assemble a public spirited police force? And since LASTMA is only saddled with very light weight duties in comparison to what a state police would confront , all of us who are proponents of state police have more thinking to do The main argument against state police is that of political influence and manipulation and arbitrariness . The ugly potential that political opponents and perceived enemies would be victimized and tormented. The activities of state electoral commissions corroborate these fears. If LASTMA cannot cope with mere traffic control and if Lagos cannot regulate LASTMA how will any state organize a police force professional enough to serve the people responsibly? Truckers will tell you that the Ogun state’s traffic control outfit is even more belligerent. I must concede that some LATSMA officials are dutiful and well mannered but they are too few to affect the character of that institution. In a chat with one of their senior officials , I asked him what they were doing to stem the rot and what internal control measures have been instituted and if LASTMA was created to help boost the IGR of the state . He stated that LASTMA is conscious of its duties and that many bad eggs have been dismissed . And that a provost marshal unit exists to check staff excesses. He said that LASTMA has no revenue generation goals and that the corruption is not peculiar to LASTMA and is being curtailed. Good public relations officers are adept at painting their organizations in the best possible light. Mikheil Saaka shvil, the ex president of Georgia woke up one morning and dismissed the country’s entire police force . And employed fresh hands. And Georgia’s corruption perception index rankings improved dramatically. Some institutional reformations must be that radical. Some say that LATSMA has shown some efficiency but I say it’s the sort of efficiency a bunch of committed ‘youth corpers’ can effortlessly show if they are put at some chaotic spots to monitor traffic flow and have private tow vans a phone call away. Lagos must radically reform LASTMA

SATURDAY Vanguard Vanguard,, MAY 23, 2015—21

You become what yyou ou consume last week Friday and dinner the following day and even I who had shared many a meal with him over the years, was surprised by his serving. When I asked him at breakfast if that was all he was going to take – about half a thin slice of yam- he smiled and said yes. At dinner, he was half-way through his small portion when he took a call. He never went back to the meal. It seemed he had learnt as he aged, despite the sumptuousness of the table

s the weeks roll into days for the 80th birthday of Uncle Sam Amuka, Chairman of the Vanguard Newspapers, many articles as well as tributes will begin to pour in to celebrate this true icon of the Nigerian press. Many will talk about his staying power; his entrepreneurial prowess; his ability to spot and nurture talents; his vast network of friends across social strata; his humanity. Those a bit closer to him will talk about his social habits, his sense of humour and his deep respect for friendship and family. There are so many sides to the puzzle of this public but intensely private man. Last Sunday in ‘The Orbit’, a weekly column written by Obi Nwakanma, another side of him that I had been aware of but never really dwelt on was commented upon. Uncle Sam is a sprightly man. His mental and physical abilities at eighty will make many a young man green with envy. Obviously the columnist was impressed enough to try to unearth the secret behind his seeming defiance of the aging process. One of the reasons he gave was that Uncle Sam still tries to swim about ten laps a day. Swimming is good and many doctors will recommend it as the exercise of choice across all ages. But that’s about half of it. The other important half is the discipline that makes a busy, eighty year old find the time and aptitude to do ten laps regularly. The columnist referred to this when he said and I quote “He is also a man who no doubt loves the epicurean rites- the joy of the open table. Yet his eating is disciplined. There is no excess”. Over the past forty or so years, I have watched him move from football to squash to golf and finally swimmingall in the effort to keep his spare frame lithe and firm. I have watched him take the discipline of mind –he does yoga sometimes- and body to heights that have become hugely beneficial to him. As to his eating habit, I can testify to that ‘Simple, healthy fare, taken in accountable measure’ mentioned by the columnist. I had breakfast with him

resist the constant flow of vintage champagne or rich red wine. We find we can’t say no to the small chops and delicacies either. We gauge ourselves on free food and drinks as if we are in a contest. Maybe we are – to an early grave. At home, we eat late, heavy meals with assorted pieces of meat. Then we wonder when the stomach begins to bloat, the eyes begin to dull, the skin begins to lose its lustre and the organs begin to fail. A bit of discipline will take the toxins away and

A man who has learnt that the secret to a long, healthy and happy life lies in taking life’s many pleasures in small doses and that a man’s worth should not be in what you acquire or what you consume

sometimes, the importance of simple, small but regular meals. The same thing goes for social drinks. I have not seen Uncle Sam take more than a glass of any drink in a long while no matter how long he stays at the function. “Know yourself no be curse” he would tell you if you urged too much. This is a lesson many of us who envy the likes of Uncle Sam have to learn. We go to weddings and can’t

restore us to good health. After all, we become what we consume. But it is not our appetite for food alone that is injurious to our wellbeing. Our inability to take the offerings of life in ‘accountable measures’ can also become injurious to us. Many times we forget the ‘simple, healthy fare’ when we are in a position of power and influence so we take and indulge simply because it is there even when what we take is not legally ours to

e bring to you today the heart of God for now; so that you can know that all is well with you, for God can never make a mistake in your life. To know that God has a plan for my life gives me so much joy because; God is the greatest planner in the entire world. When He plans, it is always beautiful. Remember how God brought creation into existence. He carefully planned it and executed it and said it was good and then He planned man when He said, “Let us make man in our image and likeness” (Gen 1: 36). There is nothing that God does without Him first planning it. God said in Jeremiah 29: 11, “For I know the thoughts and plans I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome”. (Amp) From our text, God is saying to you that He has thoughts and plans for your life. Often in life, because of the pains, sufferings, shame, etc, which we go through in life, we wonder what kind of person God is. We say things like how can He allow these things to happen to me, forgetting that God knows the end from the beginning. What do you think might have gone on in joseph’s mind after seeing God’s wonderful plan for him, only for his own brothers to sell him into slavery at such an age? What about him been accused falsely and thrown into jail. This events do not make sense but the events took him to the palace as prime minister in Egypt which was the plan of God for him. There is nothing that will ever happen in your life that will take God by surprise. Because of our ability, we are not able to know why all that happened. But remember that God said in Isaiah 55:9, “For as the heaven are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts”. You see God’s ways are higher

God has a plan for you than ours, and if it be so, then we must connect to His ways. No man wants to stay down. So to get higher, get into the ways of God. Now God says that His thoughts are higher than our thoughts, know that the wisdom of God is greater than the wisdom of man. This therefore means that the thoughts of God must be greater, perfect and more excellent than our own thoughts. Hear me, your thoughts for your life can never be greater than God’s thought for your life. God says He has a plan for your life. He has a plan for your welfare and peace, and to give you an expected glorious end. The fact that God has a plan for your life does not mean that evil will not come, or that afflictions will not come. What this means is that even though these things happen, they are not from Him. God planned that Joseph will become a prime minister in a foreign land, which came to pass. But if

you notice, in the history of Joseph, he was afflicted so many times but that did not stop the plan. Please, know that none of God’s thoughts and plans contains evil. There is no evil in God and so He cannot plan evil. Evil comes from the devil (Satan but God will turn it around for good). God has already planned for your welfare. You may not know it or have recognized it, but most of the things you have enjoyed in life in terms of welfare were planned by God. Remember Prophet Elijah, when there was famine in the land, God made a raven to bring food to him. And when the brook had dried up, God sent him to a widow in Zarephath to feed him. Beloved, don’t be troubled, trust in God. He has a plan for your life. He has a welfare plan for you. You shall not be

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. E-mail: 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.

take. Very soon, our appetites for the luxuries of life feed our greed and the excess becomes toxic to our system. Many of our ruling elites for example, have houses in the UK, France, South Africa and the US. Many of these houses are locked up for most of the year and merely generate bills. A simple hotel accommodation when they travel, would have served the needs of most of them. It is even more injurious when we leave the position of power and easy money dries out. Meanwhile, our large appetites must be fed. We have become what we consumed. The decline in peace, health and happiness sets in almost as soon as we leave office. I went to a boat exhibition last weekend and was awed at the sheer luxury of some of those yachts. One can spend one, two weeks at sea in those boats and not miss home. It is easy to become envious of the rich who can afford to acquire these rich toys without hesitation especially if the funds have come easy for them and their appetites for ‘ rich food’ have become large. As usual, Uncle Sam brought me to earth when I told him of the exhibition. “Yes, I love boats.” He said “but how practicable is it when you don’t live on the water front. Even if you did, how useful is it, especially when you look at the associated costs of keeping it afloat?” That is the thinking of a man who lives in moderation. A man who has learnt that the secret to a long, healthy and happy life lies in taking life’s many pleasures in small doses and that a man’s worth should not be in what you acquire or what you consume. We should learn, as he has, that contentment is in making the best of what we have- little or much. Happy 80 th birthday in advance Uncle Sam. It is still about a couple of weeks to go and I hope I have not opened the flood gates. You deserve the accolades which will come; many of which, if I know you, will not meet you in Nigeria. After all you can’t queue to hold party for someone who is not around.

homeless in Jesus name. That case that looks so hopeless has hope in God’s plan. God has a plan for your husband, wife, children, ministry, finances and all that concerns you. No matter how bad things may be right now in your life, I want you to know that God has plan for you. To tell you the truth, a commentary in one of the Bible says “As long as God who knows our future provides our agenda…, we can have boundless hope. This does not mean that we will not feel pain, suffering or hardship but God will see us through to a glorious conclusion”. Don’t give up, you will surely get married, raise up your own children, own your own home, enjoy the peace of God, support the work of the ministry. There is a plan by God for your children to come out of drugs, alcohol and prostitution. Believe it; God has an excellent plan for you. Have you given your life to Jesus? If not, please pray this prayer. Father, I come to you as I am. I invite Jesus into my life to be my personal Lord and Saviour. Wash me cleanse with the blood of Jesus and empower me with the power of your Holy Spirit. Thank you Father for saving my soul and making me your child.

22—SA TURD AY Vanguard, MA Y 23, 2015 22—SATURD TURDA MAY

nd so it has all come to this at last. We are one step from breasting the tape. The elections have come at last, though not entirely gone actually. For one thing, we shall now have to endure the prolonged cases involving the rejection of the results by the losers, on the grounds of illegality or procedural malfeasance. That has now become more or less traditional in our system. They occur and recur at almost all the various levels of the polls and tend to be irksome, to say the least. But they have proved to be very necessary because of the impact of their outcome when the results have overturned earlier decisions. This has no doubt enriched the quality of our electoral and judicial systems and, with time, will solidify the basis of our democracy. No one is deluded about the magic of a new start, of course. We rode, and are still riding over a bumpy course. The elements that had wished for a different result to the elections will, even away from the law courts, attempt to cling to the weak strands of their wishes in reviving the frustrated hopes of their endeavours. You will read their comments dyed in the purple hue of undeniable disappointment, while they try to wrench some accomplishment from the clenched jaws of failure. They have seen, for instance, the man they called a traitor, crowned by the people as a governor. Now they even wish their darling had cheated, as they maintain wistfully he very well could. But a casual examination shows he very well might have, yet there are situations of reality that even the lowest •President Goodluck Jonathan class of cheating cannot supplant. Chris Olukolade. His reaction to authority, the Independent The elections first had to the BRING BACK OUR GIRLS National Electoral stumble visibly over the campaign had customarily Commission (INECJ also suggestion that they should protested, but to no avail. fallen short of be postponed. That almost But, as it turned out, INEC understanding. It might not caused a panic. It was in had not been fully have been asking too much for sympathy or compassion from the high military officer, but even common understanding seemed too much..... His evaluation of any dissatisfaction with the Boko Haram situation appeared to be wrongfully approximated to a downright condemnation of January, barely a few weeks the efforts of the military in prepared after all, and the from the proposed the campaign against the elections would have commencement date of insurgents, to the extent almost turned into a fiasco February 14, coinciding that his reactions virtually if they had not been with the day observed as threaten reprisals against postponed. their own day by lovers all any criticism. But the An abiding item of the over the world. Concurrently, the recent comments of agenda long on the ground Yoruba supporters of the All President-elect before the elections were Progressives Congress, APC, had Muhammadu Buhari, held was the fate of the also sentimentally embraced particularly about the Chibok girls. The the month of the date by hiring of South African government had promised converting it to a mercenaries, show there to recover the schoolgirls sentimental slogan, Fehas indeed been room for kidnapped a year earlier Buari- ”love Buari”. But the complaints. And surely, no before the elections were suggestion of deferment one can sensibly accuse the held. The Boko Haram was made concrete into a former General and new terrorists who had ruling postponing the President-elect, of trying to captured them were election by six weeks. undermine confidence in indeed worsted in many The political party, the encounters which gave out the military. APC, which was reckoned to A catallogue of abiding some hope that the girls be ahead by the pollsters items abounds in the might indeed be rescued. raised an alarm. The United transition which we now However, the situation did States president sent his approach. This has incited a not change, and neither international troublebewildering variety of did the stridency of the shooter, John Kerry, to advice as to which the campaign for their protest. The British incoming administration freedom. That had never Government was no less should hold as its priorities. fallen on the restful ears of emphatic. They all wanted All along, the long list of the military, especially the the St. Valentine’s Day date advice seemed to have been spokesman Brigadier-General to stay. The electoral

*the

, C M Y K

things that abide

Buhari had pledged to probe the missing 2 billion naira raised by the former Governor of the Central Bank, now Emir of Kano. He had also identified Boko Haram as pure terrorists and vowed to give priority to security, the economy and corruption

generally accepted in no particular order of importance, but the remarks about the insurgency campaigns elicited a clear order of priority with insecurity in the North-eastern part of the country included among the first to be mentioned. “My administration will concentrate on three major areas on assumption of office,” the in-coming president has promised; “that is insecurity, the economy/ unemployment and corruption.” He was far from the campaign trail when he said this in Kaduna as he hosted the National Executive Council of the Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF. But even as far back as the month of April when he was on the hustings, Buhari had pledged to probe the missing 2 billion naira raised by the former Governor of the Central Bank, now

Emir of Kano. He had also identified Boko Haram as pure terrorists and vowed to give priority to security, the economy and corruption. The declaration was therefore on all fours with the tide of the suggestions that has been pouring in since the APC won the elections. Even right there at the reception held for the ACF, the chairman of the organization, former InspectorGeneral of Police, Ibrahim Coomassie, declared that Nigerians had been waiting for Buhari to free them from the bondage of poverty, the decay of moral values, crime and some other social problems which are the abiding problems that will not follow the outgoing administration out from the seat of power. Neither will the confrontation between elements of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and the Peoples Democratic Party, the PDP. The confrontation will congeal into the official traditional roles of opposition and administration, both parties having now changed roles. But probably until midnight last night, the bickering about the opposition behaving like a “parallel government” would have deepened, and become more indefinable, by midnight in a week’s time. An abiding issue could have been the earlier refusal of the National Chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Adamu Muazu, to relinquish his office following his disastrous leadership of the party in the elections. But wiser counsel appears to have prevailed with him. It is the tradition all over the world....except in Nigeria. You lose, you quit. The tradition must start now, at least after Stephen Keshi. It goes that far. What will stay around for a while will be the internecine conflict for the succession to the position and that, unfortunately, will do little to repair the damage already done to the structure and the spirit of the party. He has been followed out by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Chief Tony Anenhi, whose resilience as a member of the top hierarchy, is truly remarkable. ‘Some of the provocative issues of their party’s tenure in government, like the issue of the Constitution amendment which President Johnson refused to sign towards the end may not really become an abiding issue. But then it may. The masterminds who could have conceived such claptrap and would yet insist on actualising it, are capable of getting stuck with it. Fortuitously, not many of them will be capable of being in a position to pursue it for any distance in the new dispensation which affects government structures across the board generally. What will abide permanently, on a personal note of course is the sense of failure which President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan will have to bear for all time. To be confronted by failure is a traumatic phenomenon which nothing, not even the towering capability of accommodation, can assuage, There goes a man. Good luck to him. Time out.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—23

Why CHUKA

UMUNNA

withdrew from Labour Party race

C M Y K

can be like, understand its demands and the attention but nothing compares to actually doing it and the impact on the rest of one’s life. ‘Consequently, after further reflection, I am withdrawing my candidacy.’ Labour sources were claiming Mr Umunna had been upset by media attempts to contact his mother and his lawyer girlfriend Alice Sullivan, whom he paraded in front of the cameras for the first time last Sunday as he prepared to launch his bid for power. But by late afternoon they had backtracked, with friends of Mr

abour leadership frontrunner Chuka Umunna dramatically quit the party’s leadership race – with aides saying he wanted the freedom to live his life and start a family away from public scrutiny. In a shock move, the shadow business secretary – who has been nicknamed the ‘British Obama’ – announced he was abandoning his leadership bid just three days after launching it. He will remain in the shadow cabinet and has not ruled out a future shot at the Labour leadership. He had been the bookmakers’ favourite, and his departure dismayed Blairites. It leaves shadow health secretary Andy Burnham, who is expected to get the backing of the militant Unite union, as the clear favourite to succeed Ed Miliband. In a statement that stunned Labour last week, Mr Umunna said he was ‘uncomfortable’ with the level of scrutiny he and his family have received since he emerged as a favourite for the leadership following Labour ’s defeat ‘Since the night of our defeat last week, I have been subject to the added level of pressure that comes with being a leadership candidate,’ he said. ‘I have not found it to be a comfortable experience. One can imagine what running for leader

One can imagine what running for leader can be like, understand its demands and the attention but nothing compares to actually doing it and the impact on the rest of one’s life. ‘Consequently, after further reflection, I am withdrawing my candidacy

Umunna saying he was ‘ not blaming media intrusion’. One said: ‘He was completely sincere in everything he said at his launch. But he’s now had time to reflect on the full intensity involved and think about the personal sacrifices. He’s 36 and he wants to start a family at some point – it is not right for him this time.’ His friends also dismissed rumours that he feared newspaper revelations about his private life. However, Labour MP Simon Danczuk said that even if politicians did have ‘skeletons in the closet’, they should not be allowed to get in the way of their ambitions. ‘Skeletons shouldn’t deter political ambition,’ he said on Twitter. ‘My skeletons aren’t so much in the closet as strewn all over the bedroom!’ Rival camps claimed Mr Umunna was struggling to get the support of 35 Labour MPs needed to make a formal bid for the leadership, although this was dismissed by supporters. Some Labour MPs feared Mr Umunna, a lawyer, was too slick and metropolitan to appeal to the party’s traditional supporters in the North and Scotland. Bill Grimsey, former head of the DIY chain Wickes, worked closely with Mr Umunna while serving as a business adviser to Ed Miliband. In a withering assessment, Mr Grimsey told the BBC: ‘The thing

I say about Chuka is: is he ambitious enough to be leader? Hell, yes. Is he tough enough, bright enough, smart enough? Hell, no.’ Another fancied candidate, the former soldier Dan Jarvis, has already pulled out of the leadership race, citing his wish to spend more time with his young family. Their departures will fuel speculation that senior Labour figures believe it will be almost impossible to win in 2020. Electoral expert John Curtice, who produced last week’s shock exit poll that correctly predicted the outcome of the general election, warned that Labour would need a 12-point lead unless it could reverse its losses in Scotland. Former culture secretary Ben Bradshaw, who is reportedly considering running for the Labour party deputy leadership, said Mr Umunna was a ‘terrible loss’ to the field because he was the candidate the Conservatives ‘feared the most’. Mr Umunna’s departure is a boost to the hopes of Blairite candidate Liz Kendall, the shadow care minister. There were also signs that the development may prompt shadow education secretary Tristram Hunt to enter the race. He is expected to announce a decision soon. Culled from Daily Mail

24 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

With FLORENCE AMAGIYA 08061644307 email: daise4000@yahoo.com

Ageless Senator Florence Ita Giwa, aka Mama Bakassi, has indeed inscribed her name on the sand of time. For it is not out of importance that she is nicknamed mother of the Bakassi by her own people. This is due to the fact that she has in one way or the other touched lives and still touching more with her charity project in her homeland. According to reports and statements from people whose lives have been affected positively by her, so many children and youths have seen the light of education because she has single-handedly sponsored them to school through her foundation. She has been very active in the Nigerian politics for over 23 years, even though she started her career as a nurse in the United Kingdom. She was elected Senator for the Cross River South Constituency in 1999 amongst other appointments she later bagged. In 2003 after she left the Senate, she joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and became President Olusegun Obasanjoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Special Adviser on National Assembly Matters. Follow me in this exploration of the exciting life of a political amazon, a woman of repute, a South-South Queen, and a loving mother. Although Senator Florence Ita Giwa is already in her sixties, it would take a lot of convincing for anyone to believe it because of her youthfulness, timeless beauty and grace. She was born about 69 years ago on February 19, 1946 in Atabong village, Bakassi LGA of Cross River State. She cut her first educational teeth in Cross River State and went on to Kilburn Polytechnic in the United Kingdom, where she studied nursing. After her education, she worked C M Y K

Senator

The making

Ita-Giwa, Daughter and Son-in-Law as a representative of Beecham Pharmaceutical Company, and then moved to Standall Pharmaceutical where she climbed the organisational ladder to become the Lagos representative. Along the line, she met and married the late Dele Giwa, the founding editor of Newswatch magazine. The

marriage was cut short. Dele Giwa died in 1986 through a parcel bomb sent to him in his office. Young Ita-Giwa was so devastated about her loss that she tried to forget by plunging herself into activities like politics which she believed would take her mind off the tragedy. Politics eventually paid off and she

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015 —25

From left: Tonto Dikeh, Ita-Giwa, Uti Nwachukwu, Funke Akindele and Ime Bishop at Calabar carnival

Giwa and Kate Henshaw

Florence Ita-Giwa

of a political Amazon One of her cars

Ita-Giwa Flanked by Ben Bruce (r) and 2Face (l) became NRC chairman. After that, she was elected as a member of the federal House of Representatives, 1992/93. She also became a member of the committee on devolution of power constituent assembly in 1994 and 95, and because of her involvement in the Bakassi affair she earned the nickname, Mama Bakassi.

Her Give back to society Despite all the unkind things written about her, Senator Ita Giwa remains a woman with a large heart. She has not stopped adopting children from Bakassi and treating them with care and affection as their real mothers would have done. She has enrolled some of the children into prestigious universities

“If you must know, in addition to God blessings and good genes, I have made it a habit of working out and eating right. I am 69 years old and have no desire to turn back the hand of time. Indeed I am proud of the fact that I am aging gracefully.”

outside Nigeria while some others travel abroad for summer holidays. At the moment, she has over 10 children in different prestigious universities in and out of the country. It’s been said since that if only 20 Nigerians would do what Senator Ita Giwa did and still does, Nigeria would be a glorious place to live in. Lifestyle Senator Giwa is a big wig in the Nigerian political scene. She is also one of the most famous women in the country, yet she finds time to take care of her health and body. It is no wonder, therefore, that she looks younger than many young women today. Ita Giwa eats right and visits the gym regularly, and this pays her off because each time, she comes out looking glorious

in her divinely cut dresses. Her outfits are designed for her and everyone else pales when she enters a function. Her daughter’s marriage Ita-Giwa daughter’s marriage was an out-of-theworld event where money was spent in millions. It was like a fairy tale when Koko, the daughter, married her heartthrob, Chimaobi Obioha, at Eko Hotel and Suites. It was the gathering of who-is-who in the society, friends, family and loved ones. Her cars and houses The Senator loves expensive cars. Her garage sits many of them amongst a white Bentley. In addition, she has properties in choice places, both in Lagos, Calabar and Abuja. In Lagos, she stays in her exclusive apartment on Banana Island. C M Y K

26—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

By KEHINDE AJOSE 08024212530 By AYO ONIKOYI, 08052201215

Dramas in Awka as Star Trek ends phase 1

Yemi Alade fools the crowd with look-alike act

Music lovers and enthusiasts in Awka, Anambra state last Saturday must have wished for the day to last more than 24 hours when the Star Music Trek rocked their city. The annual concert tour sponsored by Star, the premium lager beer from the stable of Nigerian Breweries had brought Timaya, MI, Yemi Alade, Naeto C, Raw, 2Face Idibia and many others to the bustling Eastern city and even after the last performer on the night had left the stage, the mammoth crowd at the De Geogold Hotel stayed hoping for an encore performance by 2Face. Instead, DJ Snoop Damaja took it to another level with his trademark head-bopping tunes from the wheels of steel. Awka marked the end of the first phase of the Star Music Trek, which also had eventful stopovers in Abakaliki and Calabar. The next phase of the Trek will kick off in August when Sapele, Ibadan, Lagos, Makurdi and Auchi will have the time of their life with their favourite superstars.

MI gets a fan crying inconsolably

Mr Raw’s Obodo set the mood on right track

I made a good impression on the crowd when he gave fast rap freestyle. He received a resounding cheers and screams. Known for his tradition of proposing to girls on stage, he was however beaten to his game when Do2dtun brought on stage a young lady Ngozi who couldn’t dry her tears for MI. Her profound admiration for the artiste was too deep and she just could not stop spilling tears for MI ever since he got on stage. Touched by this loving gesture, he serenaded the lady with his hit song “One Naira”. Before leaving the stage, he prayed for his fans, another tradition of the music concert. In previous editions, artistes on the music tour made it a habit to rain prayers on their artistes. Naeto C and MI continued in this fashion, so also would Timaya and 2face in their performances.

Timaya starts prayer frenzy

he Egberi Papa 1 of Bayelsa, Timaya received a resounding cheer when he came on stage. In his signature, he kicked off his shoes and walked into the crowd bare-footed. He kicked off with “Bow Down” and moved on to other songs like “Ukwu”, “My Body” among others. But the crowd yearned for him to perform his newest rave “Sanko”. For this particular performance, he sang a medley of old ghetto songs like “New Dance” by Marvellous Benji, Africa China “Crisis” among others. He also seized the opportunity to advocate for good leadership from the incoming administration. Timaya suddenly stopped the music and asked the crowd to clap. Instead of clapping, the crowd started to sing a gospel song. What followed was a torrent of prayers showered by Timaya who suddenly became the choirmaster in this gospel chorus.

By the time Raw got on stage to perform, the audience was already in the mood to have a very good time. His theatrics on stage endeared him more to the people like a tidal wave. For instance, his rendition of his popular hit ‘Obodo’ was accompanied by a traditional ensemble comprising of a chief priest and two female servants who also doubled as dancers. He also got the crowd going wild when he performed one of his hit songs “Gyration”. Apparently, this particular song is a crowd favourite in Awka as they could not contain themselves. As if on cue, they raised their hands in unison, gyrating to the rhythm of the song and when he beckoned them to clap; they didn’t hesitate to indulge him. Other songs performed by the Abia state rapper include, “I’m in love with an angel”, “Spiritual Konji” and his latest hit “Blow my trumpet” with Fanzy Papaya. Raw who is a staple on the annual Trek made his first appearance on this year’s edition at AwkaRocks!

2Face serenades female fan with Let someone l o v e you

HERE are no words to capture the ecstatic state of the crowd when 2face came on stage. They screamed, they cried, they stretched forth their hands just to touch a hem of his cloth. Cheering the crowd, he kicked off with a fast-paced rendition of “Nothing dey happen”, then moved to “For Instance”. Unable to restrain himself anymore, an overexcited fan meandered his way to the stage and hugged 2face fiercely. 2face’s performance was a seamless transition as he took the crowd back and forth with his songs, infusing reggae, ballads and high tempos when necessary. At a point, he elicited a nostalgic ambience, particularly when he serenaded a female fan, MaryJane with his love ballads like “Let somebody Love You”, “African Queen”, “If Love is a Crime” among others. His gestures during these performances excited the crowd that they kept begging for more. Still down the memory lane, he played some old tunes and asked the crowd if they could recollect songs like “Eddie Quansa’ the popular theme song of the 80s TV drama “New Masquerade”, 9ice “Konga Aso” and his featured song with P-Square “Possibility”.

eing her debut at the Star Music Trek, Yemi Alade stole the night away with her performance. First, a stunt double waltzed on stage with two dancers. Immediately, they started dancing to ‘Baby Hello’ by Wande Coal which featured her. The crowd almost believed that the lead dancer was Yemi Alade for she was stunningly, a spitting image of the feisty singer. Not until Yemi Alade regally walked into the stage to interrupt their performance, did the crowd realise that the lady in the singer’s signature African print hooded jacket was not the singer. They screamed in surprise and excitement at the singer ’s stage trick. Performing with a live band gave her opportunity to freestyle. For instance, during her performance of “Taking over you”, she did a quick remix by adding an Ibo lingo to it, which earned her more admiration from the crowd. In another performance “Kissing” from her 2014 album “King of Queens”, she did a French snippet for her fans. When at last she performed ‘Johnny ’, the crowd went agog. They happily sang along as if they have been waiting for this performance all their lives.

STOP PIRACY NOW! STOP BUYING PIRATED MOVIE AND MUSIC CDs, DVDs. IT IS KILLING THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY. STOP! C M Y K

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—27

By KEHINDE AJOSE 08024212530

Mixed blessings of movie stars turned music divas (1)

under the imprint of Westside music. “When you listen to that song, you immediately know that Genevieve isn’t a trained vocalist. Her voice betrayed her but she made up for it with the brilliant production” says a critic. However she revealed in Olisa Adibua’s The Truth that it wasn’t her idea to do music. “I didn’t decide to sing all by myself. It was decided for me because I was being managed by somebody who thought it would be a good idea. It was a business strategy. I’ve always said when you are not ready for something don’t go into it,’ I had royalties and I got paid upfront as well. It was a success although Nigeria wasn’t the target. It was an album I did for a record company and it sold everywhere they wanted to sell.’ ‘Definitely, I will do it a again but I will do my own kind of song. I’m a soul singer.”

By Kehinde Ajose

After making a name for themselves in the movie world, these divas decided to dabble into music, leveraging on their star power and fan base. For some of them, it has been a gradual rise to the top, while for others it has been a fruitless effort. In no particular order, we chronicle movie stars who have ventured into music at one point or the other. I said I would bring out an album every five years Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, For Omotola super Nollywood star, music critics are one set of people she wouldn’t want to see on her table every breakfast. Since she dabbled into music they have not got out of her hair. While some have said she is a complete flop, others are still undecided if the music talent is for real or not but all are unanimous that her acting talent is way beyond what she is churning out as music. The Last Flight to Abuja star kicked off her music career in 2005 with the release of her debut album titled Gba Naija lowa. A song in the album gave her fans a tiny ray of hope that she was going to survive in the industry. The song gave her a nomination at the 2006 edition of Hip Hop Awards now Headies. Omotola’s venture into music hasn’t really been crowned with much success, perhaps, partly because her hands are into many pies. In addition, she doesn’t “possess a killer voice texture that will give the Yemi Alades in the industry anything to worry about” observes one critic. Probably in defence of her lukewarm music career, Omotola said in an interview: “I finished my second album since 2010

•Omotola

but it is not yet out contrary to insinuations. I am not trying to be a Tiwa Savage. My career is like a Barbara Streisand kind of career. I said I would bring out an album every five years. The next step for me is to have my own entertainment place where you can listen to my music, watch my movies and experience everything about Omotola.” Singing wasn’t really my own idea -Genevieve Nnaji or years, Genny, as she is fondly called by her fans is known to be that petite, gorgeous and talented actress that graced our screens. Many were shocked when the 35 years old actress decided to dabble into music. Between 2004 and 2005,she released her debut album which had the high life tune No more produced F

•Ronke Ojo

•Genevieve

Acting is a stepping for my music career – Juliet Ibrahim Ghanaian actress T whose beauty is i n c o n t e s t a b l e has also been bitten by the music bug. Juliet’s acting prowess is undeniable but her ability to succeed as a musician has been seriously questioned in several quarters. “She isn’t yet armed with that voice quality that can make you leave every other thing to listen to her music”, a critic once said. But in a recent chat with Showtime the drop-dead-gorgeous diva insisted that her ultimate goal in entertainment isn’t acting as many thought but music. “Yes, I have gone into music and like I have said, times without number, music is my first love. It’s something I have been passionate about since I was a child. I had always wanted to be a musician; acting was like a stepping stone for it to become a reality. So, it’s just a case of me living out my dream.” Ever since, she has released songs like S h o l a l a , Celebrate, Traffic Jamz and It’s over now, confirming that she is ready to take her music to the next level.

I don’t need to rush at all – Ronke Ojo Ojo R onke whom everybody calls Ronke Oshodi Oke is one of the actresses who have decided to give music a shot. The busty actress, who occasionally sings in some of her movie, recently released a single off her album titled Ori mi featuring 9ice and produced by ID Cabasa. The multi talented entertainer shows off her singing aptitude in this prayer tune that reminds you of a Celestial church choral group rendition .When asked the reason she is yet to release her album despite having a lavish album launch, she said: “People should understand this is my first time of doing something of such. I think I need to take my time so that it could be done the right way. I don’t need to rush at all. For now, I am trying to release it online. Very soon, I will shoot the video. I am new in the business of music. So, I need to study the ropes very well so that I don’t fall into a wrong hand.” I am not in music because other people are in it – Jennifer Eliogu

he beautiful Jennifer Eliogu took many by surprise when she veered into music years ago. Amazingly, the curvy actress has proven her mettle in the music world by releasing songs from different music genres. Songs like Ifunanya, You and I and Fantasy are tunes that got massive airplays on radio. In 2013, her RnB single was nominated as the Best R‘n’B song at the Nigerian Music Video Awards 2013. She is ready to tell anyone who cares to listen that music is something that has always been part of her. “Music is something that has always been a part of me. I am not in it because other people are going into it. I have the passion for it and I have always wanted to make good music. I am not in competition with anybody, it is just another way of making use of the talents that I have. Music is a serious business, and I am in for the long run. I have a band called Silk Band and we just want to make people feel good through music” She performed at the African Women in L e a d e r s h i p Conference that took place in Atlanta, USA, September 2014. T

•Jennifer Eliogu

STOP PIRACY NOW! STOP BUYING PIRATED MOVIE AND MUSIC CDs, DVDs. IT IS KILLING THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY. STOP! C M Y K

•Juliet Ibrahim

28 —SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

Nsikan Isaac comes to bankers’ rescue

•Oma Nnadi

ISING actress, Nsikan Isaac, who debuted as a producer last weekend with the premiering of her movie, “The Banker” is definitely on the way to write her name in gold. The actress took a bold step recently after she delved into a subject many notable producers shy away from. She’s using her new film to make case for female bankers whom the society perceive as being morally bankrupt. Nsikan, who read Petroleum Engineering from River State University of Science and Technology, Port-Harcourt, said the film which she describes as partly a true life story and a fiction, is centered on a female banker whose fiance’s parents wouldn’t allow their relationship to blossom because of the negative opinion they have about women who work in the banking sector. But at the end of the day, the lady proved that despite the odds, there are still female bankers who are morally upright. The actress who just returned to the industry after being away for few years says, she ‘s using the movie not only to re-launch her career, but also to make a serious case on behalf of these ‘misjudged’ bankers. She insists that not every single lady that works in the bank, either as a marketer or a Client service officer, has immorality question hanging on her neck. The movie, starring Mbong Amata, Ifeanyi Kalu, Nsikan Isaac, Seun Akindele, Whoba Ogo, Belinda Effah among other stars, will soon be released on DVD nationwide. Directed by Ikechukwu Onyeka, Emem Isong was the consulting producer.

Golden Periwinkle set to premiere The Uduaghan Chronicles

N a bid to document for posterity, the achievements of the outgoing Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan (CON) in his eight years in office, Golden Periwinkle Entertainment, is set to premiere the documovie titled The Uduaghan Chronicles: The Movie – Diary of a Public Servant. The work, an independent effort, is an all-new docu-drama chronicling the life and times of Uduaghan, “based on his eight years of selfless service to Delta State,” Jude Banye, co-producer of the film said in a press statement last week. The film, he said, would be premiered in Asaba the Delta State capital later this month with filmmakers and members of the cast in attendance for the Red Carpet and media interviews as well as post screening panel discussions. “Deltans and Nigerians need to know the level of achievements of Dr. Uduaghan in his eight years against all odds. With all the litigation he faced in the first stanza of his eight year tenure, it was a miracle that this man could rise up and turn around Delta State after all the storm. So, it is pertinent that these facts be documented in a movie format for posterity to see that there was once a Governor of our dear state that achieved so much in spite of many hurdles placed on his way,” Banye said. The docu-movie, he said, will take Deltans round “the giant strides developments Uduaghan caused to happen across Delta. Some scenes will be re-enactment while others will feature the Governor, especially when initiating and commissioning a project in the state.” Igho Ugbegu, one of the co-producers reiterated what Banye said adding that “eight years of anyone’s life, devoted to the service of a state in its formative years, is good enough reason to be chronicled in the annals of the state.

C M Y K

Oma Nnadi

soaring higher than ever •Nsikan

•Uduaghan

CTRESS Oma Nnadi who confessed last year that she hardly finds time to attend to her personal needs following her tight schedules in recent times is getting busier than ever. Since the beginning of this year, the Nkwere, Imo Stateborn actress has been shuttling between Asaba, Enugu, and Lagos, shooting films and writing her name in gold. At the moment, she’s on a movie set in Enugu, shooting her 6th film for the year. In a chat with HVP, the actress takes stock of her accomplishments in the first half of the year, attributing her achievements to hard work and her ability to interpret her roles in movies. “I have featured in six films since the beginning of this year,” she began. “I first starred in the movie, “Good Wife” by Chinneylove Eze Productions, which was shot in Lagos and featuring other stars such as Frederick Leonard and Yvonne Jegede, I played the role of a wife who was abused by her husband on daily basis and when she couldn’t take it any more, she had to run for her dear life. The second movie, which was shot in Owerri and directed by Ifeanyi Ogbonna was a romantic comedy featuring the likes of Nkem Owoh , chinwetalu Agu, Harry B, Chinwe Isaac among others. Her other films were either shot in Lagos or Asaba and Anambra State. Describing the roles she plays in these films as challenging, Oma took a break after the last movie and travelled to Europe and the United States to cool off before returning to the trenches, doing what she knows how to do best.

Asaba comes alive as Ey engho ssttages Olu Eyengho Akengbuwa play

saba, the Delta State capital, will come alive from May 28, when the cast and crew of Alex Eyengho’s “ Olu Akengbuwa” will storm there for the command performance of the historical play. The command performance is part of the activities lined up for the hand over ceremony on May 29. Eyengho told HVP, that his artistes are looking forward to the historic performance. The play, which re-echoed the rich Itsekiri culture from the various kings since its emergence till date was first staged on May 1, to commemorate the 28th year of Ogiame Atuwatse II on the pristine throne of his forefathers as the 19th Olu of Warri. Olu Akengbuwa was the 16th Olu of Warri and the last Warri monarch before the 88

Artistes on stage years interregnum in the ancient kingdom. He was the longest occupier of the Warri throne and the wealthiest of all the Olus of Warri of his time. After the performance which took place at the main hall of the Federal Government College, Warri, Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan pledged to adopt the play to be staged in Asaba on May 28, 2015 as part of activities marking his official hand-over to the Governor-elect,Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa on May 29. Featuring in the play include Nobert Young, Ejike Asiegbu who played Olu Akengbuwa, Peter Atomilola, Matel AlexEyengho, Barney Obi-Abiezue, Efe MayfordOrhorha,Anthony Edet Offiong and Omonoba Bello among others.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015 —29

Nnamani succeeds Chikwendu as Miss United Nations, Nigeria

ISS Vivian Adaeze Nnamani at the weekend clinched the 2015 Miss United Nations (Nigeria) Pageant title. Nnamani, who represented Federal Capital Territory (FCT) at the pageant was adjudged the best out of the 36 finalists that participated in the grand finale in her category. The pageant was organised by the current Miss United Nations International, Precious Chikwendu, to serve as platform for discovering beautiful and intelligent Nigerians that will represent the country in the 2015 edition of Miss United Nations Pageant holding in Kingston, Jamaica in July. Call for entries was made early this year at a World Press Conference, where the organizers listed criteria for winning the contest. It was also announced that the pageant was opened for ladies between the ages of 19 and 29 while rooms would be created for married women between the ages of 30 and 60 years to also enter for the contest. Recall that Chikwendu who is also an actress upon winning Miss United Nations Pageant last year, had sought and secured a franchise to host Miss United Nations (Nigeria) contest in the name of her NonGovernmental Organization - Snow Heart Foundation. The Anambra State-born actress-turnedbeauty queen said, the aim of Miss United Nations Nigeria Pageants is to give young women the opportunity to come together in a pageant setting regardless of their background and build relationships with

s g a b u n e w n O a k e y E On Z I O M A , A P E F O n EC a p a J , A S U n i s d r a w a By Funmi Olasupo

•Nnamani fellow women from across the country who are working diligently to impact positively on their communities. “As Miss United Nations Nigeria, delegates come together and share their community volunteer projects, ideas and goals with one another, they become unified as pageant sisters in the United Nations Pageants Family.

STARSPOT Bookietstar set to wed?

Marriage is good, confesses Emem Isong

By ANOZIE EGOLE

HERE are indications that Bayelsa State-born singer, Ekperigha Benita Bokizibe, a.k.a Bookiestar, is getting ready to say “I do” to his long standing Nigerian-based American lover and manager, Jerome Stanford. Sources close to the singer said the lovebirds who started dating last year announced their wedding which comes up next weekend in Lagos. It was also gathered that Bookiestar ’s would-behubby is a music producer and was the brain behind the talented singer’s hit single, “Promise and Fail.” Meanwhile, it’s becoming a tradition in Nigeria for female singers to marry their managers. Mavin Records first lady and MTN brand ambassador, Tiwa Savage who’s heavily pregnant now blazes the trail. C M Y K

ongstress and Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development (NCWD), Lady Onyeka Onwenu, has been honored in the United States and Japan for her achievements in issues concerning Women in Nigeria. The DG was decorated as ECOWAS Female Parliamentarians Association (ECOFEPA) Ambassador at a ceremony in Abuja on the18 May 2015. ECOFEPA is a Network of Female Parliamentarians in the ECOWAS sub-region. In the letter conveying her nomination from the Bureau of ECOFEPA, she was said to have been nominated based on her “creativity, leadership, initiative, extraordinary service and passion for gender related issues.” In another development, Onyeka will also be honoured by Amoize Magazine, based in Dallas, Texas, USA, in August 2015. The Award, according to the letter, is in recognition of the inspiring role Lady Onwenu has played over the years through her music, acting skills and advocacy around women and children issues. “Lady Onwenu’s music has enthused unparalleled patriotism, preached love, peace and tolerance.” Amoize, is the African Lifestyle and Cultural Magazine set up with the goal of enlightening and fostering the reader’s passion towards the innumerable facets of rich African cultures.

•Bookiestar

OPULAR Nollywood producer, Emem Isong, who got married to her Cameroonian heartthrob, Akama Misodi, secretly last year has described marriage as “a beautiful experience.” The respected producer stepped out last weekend with her hubby at the premiere of Nsikan Isaac’s film, “The Banker” which held at prestigious Civic Centre on Ozumba Mbadiwe road, Victoria Island, Lagos. Looking ravishing in her cocktail dress, the Ibibio, Akwa Ibom State-born producer appears to be enjoying her new status as a married woman. In a chat with HVP, Emem confirmed that “Marriage has been blissful.” She said, even though she did not carry some of her friends along when she secretly tied the knot, she’s planning something that she will make public soon.

•Emem Ison

STOP PIRACY NOW! STOP BUYING PIRATED MOVIES AND MUSIC CDs, DVDs. IT IS KILLING THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY. STOP!

Y 23 30—SATURDAY Vanguard, MA MAY 23, 2015

BY IYABO AINA

Billboard Music Awards 2015: Cleavages the matter ...Those who spoke loudest

Celine Dion wows in Leather Minidress

encia, Jennifer Lopez and Rita Ora stood out as the most daring looks at the just concluded Billboard Music Awards which took place at Sin City in Las Vegas, as they decided to appear without their under-wears. As expected, the 2015 Billboard Music Awards witnessed a lot of statement looks as celebrities stepped out in vibrant and daring looks for the event, which got viewers and audiences talking.

cclaimed vocalist, 47, wore a skintight green leather Mugler minidress with a high slit, showing off her toned thighs. Later in the night she presented singer Sam Smith with the Best Male Artist award. She was also commented by a fan who said ‘Celine is timeless; her extraordinary talent will go on forever. ‘ Celine is timeless; her extraordinary talent will go on forever.

Mariah Carey shows cleavages on red carpet

espites Mariah Carey’s good look, the Singer has received some criticism online for her award show performance as her fans said her performance wasn’t a big hit. ‘So freaking sad that Mariah Carey just can’t bring it anymore. I used to love her voice.’

Taraji Henson garner s att ention in garners attention figure hugging dress

T J .L o looks 100 percent flawless

ennifer looked 100 percent flawless wearing a flowing sheer gown showing her toned tummoff which generate y comment from d fan saying “J Loa should take no on how to look tes gorgeous and classy yet appropriate. She ’s timeless and doesn’t need to show the world assets to prove her she’s talented an d beautiful.

C M Y K

he ‘Empire’ actress may have been one of the evening’s presenters, but she undoubtedly still garnered plenty of attention in her figure-hugging Alexandre Vauthier Spring 2015 Couture black gown that had the designer’s signature sexy cutouts firmly in place.

Zendaya in an Animal print

Rita Ora adorns daring outfit

ita Ora looks daring choosing custom Fausto Puglisi dress with cut outs crafted with tiny pieces of fabric pinned together by bold gold Greco-Roman sun embellishments She chose the daring look with white and gold detailed heels to match the dress. Ora’s body was in full glare as her naked butt was visible as the dress swayed.

he teen starlet is perfectly charming in an animal-print Fausto Puglisi suit and cropped top set with vibrant coral embellishments.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—31 By BENJAMIN NJOKU njokujamin@yahoo.com

By ANOZIE EGOLE

Majek Fashek meets 2face on COSON stage

eggae legend, Majek Fashek, who has been missing on stage for many years now due to deteriorating health resulting from drug addiction, returned on stage Wednesday, performing alongside pop star, 2face, in a bid to re-launch his dwindling musical career. Majek was one of the top stars that performed at the 5 th anniversary of Copyright Society of Nigeria, COSON, which held at Airport hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. The reggae star was not only excited returning on stage, he was indeed everything that his fans have missed in the past years. Performing his evergreen song, Send down the rain, the reggae star dragged African Queen crooner, 2face, who joined him on stage. It was a blend of old and young artistes on stage. Together the duo performed one of Majek’s hit songs, Holy Spirit, reliving memories of heydays of his musical career. His fans could not have enough of their stage performance as they kept clapping and shouting out “ the rain maker is back.” 2baba was flowing with the song as if he was doing

•2face and Majek

D Lady Ekwe returns with Ur Omalicha Uwa

C M Y K

best resort, La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort in Ikegun Village, outskirts of Lagos. The naturalness of the African themed resort with its lush and inviting greens, beach front, ocean and beautiful rural - like scenery, was a perfect location for Anu and her 125 man cast to tell a griping story of love in a very entertaining and creative manner. Anu who is enjoying a rising profile in the industry for blending her singing talent well with her adept percussionist flavour for Ekwe, a traditional musical instrument, which ought to be men’s exclusive but which she has customized as her stage signature, was at her best, serenading and charming

•Anu on her Ekwe

everyone with both her singing and performance prowess. Ur Omalicha Nwa video is in every respect a good cut, with good story line, perfect location and perfect picture, good editing with the singing and

acting blended together to produce what in years to come should be adjudged as one of the best flicks coming out of Atunda Entertainment which manages Anu. The fact that it was well received by a mixed audience consisting of some

high profile business executives and youths (most of whom were young artistes, fashionistas and elderly ones who have thronged the venue to enjoy an evening of live music, comedy, fashion show, DJ/dance, food and drinks) shows that there is a great future ahead of Anu and her brand of music.

igerian musical scene has continued to witness new vibes, all wrapped up in artistic creative ferment, enjoying sleek reviews and huge following. Anu, otherwise known as D Lady Ekwe, has upped the ante with release of a 125-man cast video of her newest singles, Ur Omalicha Uwa. Her musical video premiere, which held recently at the La Campagne Club, Ikeja, Lagos, was for many reasons an epoch making event. In terms of its creativity, it sets a new record in the Nigerian music industry with its 125-man cast, which is the first time any musical video would be employing such a huge cast. Produced by Unlimited L.A Production under Atunda Entertainment, the video is beyond its leap in creativity as well as an audacious one, clearly setting the pace. Ur Omalich Nwa is a story of love. It tells the undying and triumphant love of two lovebirds, a young maiden and a young lad, who despite the obstacles put in their way, endured the vilifications, proclaiming their love for each other. It all played out in a rural community, which was set in one of Nigeria West Africa ever

a collaboration with Majek. The night show kicked off at about 7:20 pm with breathtaking performance from Energy Band which rendered different genres of Nigerian music. When they performed 2face’s African Queen, the audience went wild with excitement. The second segment of the event was the recitation of the achievement of COSON since its approval as the nation’s sole collective management organization for musical works and sound recording in 2010. The high point of the night was the entering of the names of several distinguished Nigerians into the COSON roll of honour and the decoration of the NBC DG, Mr. Emeka Mba with the Copyright Medal of Honour. Among the distinguished Nigerians whose names were entered into the COSON roll of honour included superstar, 2face Idibia, Sunny Nneji, KSB, Patrick Doyle, Mac Emakpore, Prof Egerton Uvieghara, Chris Ajilo, among others.

It all played out in a rural community, which was set in one of Nigeria West Africa ever best resort, La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort in Ikegun Village, outskirts of Lagos

•Anu on stage with her dancers

•Anu on her Ekwe

32— SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

My worst career experience with a producer — Sandra Alhassan

•Speaks on her roles as a prostitute BY DAMILOLA SHOLOLA

andra Alhassan, born of a Nigerian Fulani and Benin mother, is a fast rising actress who is charting another course in her career. Almost done with her second production as a producer, she is moving on the fast lane to the big league. But for her, there were prices to pay. One, her Fulani background isn’t such that smiles at the profession. Two, like many actresses, she had to go through some unethical senior colleagues. This is the testimony of a Fulani girl in the make-believe world of acting:

hat was life like growing up as a Fulani girl in Lagos? It was cool and sweet. I will say I had an easy upbringing because my parents are wellto-do. My father is late now, so it was my mum that did most of the parenting. I was born in Gbagada Phase 11. I went to Crown and Coronet Nursery/Primary School. From Gbagada we later moved to Ogudu G.R.A where I went to Mictec International School. At a point we left Nigeria to

Niger and stayed away for seven years before coming back. When we returned we moved to our house in Ikeja G.R.A. So, I can never say I grew up as a Fulani girl but as a Lagos girl. Why in the trade? It has always been my dream to be an actress and I still thank God because my mum supported me so much. She was even the person that got me the connection to my first shot at real acting after my solo effort failed. In

•Sandra Alhassan

In 2008 I tried severally to be part audition for Tinsel never had the chan because the studio was always frustra my effort

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015 — 33

believe if my father were alive he would frown at some aspects of it but in his lifetime he allowed us some measure of freedom with our lives.

Who are in the series with you? For now, we have only Funky Mallam but by our next coming location, we should have two or three more stars in it What really are you, a producer or an actress? Both. I’m a producer and I’m an actress as well What has been your biggest movie production? The one I produced that actually brought me recognition is a Yoruba film. It is still being talked about in the industry. The title is Eni Okunkun, meaning ‘Person of Darkness’. Was that the first movie you produced? Yes it was, but I’ve featured in so many Yoruba films and soap operas before that. It was merely my first effort as a movie producer.

t of but I nce o ating

2008 I tried severally to be part of audition for Tinsel but I never had the chance because the studio was always frustrating my effort. Sometimes, I would go home crying in the bus and thinking if ever I would see my dream come true. All along my mum was watching and doing her own homework. One day she came and gave the phone number of Afeez Owo who incidentally became my boss and trained me in the trade. Isn’t your lifestyle a bit against the tenets of your religion? I don’t think so. I’m a proud Muslim. I believe religion is a thing of the mind. Though I

Which has been the most successful movie you’ve starred in? There’s Jaiyeola Ni Monje, it’s a big Yoruba film. I’ve also featured in Shoprite; there, I played as a village girl. Also in Olowo Aiye, I played the daughter of Iya Osun in a village. In Ere Aiye, I played more like a prostitute who politicians would come and pick us up. In ‘Semi lore’, I played as a secretary to Odunlade Adekola. In ‘Painter Ofege’ which would be out soon, I played a prostitute as well. For soap operas, I’ve featured in ‘Face to Face’ and ‘Family Ties’ but I wasn’t a major character there. In ‘Tales of Eve’, I played a prisoner. Then there was ‘Oluso’ which is a Yoruba soap opera, I also played as a prostitute. In ‘Awo Kogbon’ which is also a soap opera, I played a prostitute there as well. In Akaba, I played as a normal student. Those are the ones that I can remember You seem to get prostitute roles easily. Does that tell anything about the real you? As an actress I can deliver any role assigned to me. Don’t get it twisted. I have played many other roles and I don’t see myself as a stereotype actress, particular not a prostitute. I play any role because I interpret my roles very well

Are you working on any movie now? I’m actually working on a soap opera called ‘Neighbour Palava’. It’s a pidgin comedy TV series

No, never. I’ve only heard it happens and I believe it’s true but I’ve never done it.

I like working with Femi Adebayo on set. He’s the kind of person that corrects your mistakes without embarrassing you or even letting you know about it

But has any producer or director ever explained why they love casting you as a prostitute? It seems you are getting it twisted. As a young girl I can’t be cast as a mother, can I? Yes, mostly as a student or ‘runs girl’, it fits my structure. No one ever explained why they cast me as a prostitute. Perhaps, they cast me as such because I am sexy and fresh. Can you do something very shocking in a movie? To me when I act, I act with all my strength, all my energy and I act as if it’s real. I act as if it’s happening to me so that’s just it Whom do you have the superb chemistry working with on set? I like working with Femi Adebayo on set. He’s the kind of person that corrects your mistakes without embarrassing you or even letting you know about it. He has this unique way of carrying you along without making you feel out of place or like an amateur. If it were some other people they would make great fuss about it and may end up making you feel like a flop. Femi is different. One hears of actresses paying for roles. Have you ever done that?

What has been the highest point of your career? I’m still looking up to God and I believe once my new soap opera ‘Neighbour Palava’ comes out, it could probably be a hit by the grace of God What is the soap opera about? ‘Neighbour Palava’ is a comedy centred on life in a ‘face me I face you’ environment. It actually involves a house comprising of many tenants. In this house, we have a character called Iya Risi, a gossip. If she sees a little thing that happens, she exaggerates it and makes it very big. I played the role of Iya Risi. We also have this landlord; he’s a very mischievous landlord. Once you go to him and gossip with him, you can get one month rent off. In this house, we also have a character known as ‘Professor’ who uses big English words to relate with people. There are some other characters and in fact, it’s a very funny stuff. Funky Mallam is playing the role of Baba Iya Risi How far do you see yourself going as an actress? If you find yourself growing you should thank God. For me, I think and I believe that I’m growing because to shoot a soap opera is not easy without the support of a marketer or someone. I started as an actress; I never knew I was going to be a producer. I believe once my program gets popular, things would get a lot better Have you ever had a crush on any actor before? Yes, John Dumelo What’s your worst experience on the job? I once had a terrible experience with a producer but I won’t mention his name. He is a popular English producer. What happened was that he invited me to feature in his film but said I had to take care of myself, including the transportation to Asaba, my

lodging, feeding and everything. To shock me the more he said I would work for free and had to go to bed with one of his friends. It was just too much for me to take, so I walked away. Afterward, he tried to reach me on phone but I never picked his call, ever again. How do you maintain your pretty looks? I use good cream and I don’t go out in a hot weather. If it’s a must for me to go out in a hot weather, I’ll just shower without using any cream then go. When I come back, I’ll take my bath with shower milk What more should people expect from Sandra? I just want people to watch out for ‘Neighbour Palava’ because it’s a comedy that will bring laughter into your homes. It is meant to bring harmony in homes by giving them something to laugh about. Once it is time for ‘Neighbour Palava” you can be sure it is time for family laughter time.

34—SATURDAY

Vanguard, MAY23, 2015

Lifeline:

ETTING pregnant and giving birth is one of those things a woman often takes for granted until the day rolls around when you decide to have children and experience trouble conceiving. But while some causes of infertility are hereditary or due to health problems beyond your control, there are actually a few steps that can be taken to preserve and enhance a woman’s ability to have children. The truth is that a healthy lifestyle alone won’t necessarily protect you from infertility, but it may help especially as it is known that people who are very unhealthy have a much higher incidence of infertility. You need to know that as a woman, your fertility starts to measurably decline around age 27, due to the depletion and ageing of your eggs. If you are under 30, it’s estimated that the chance of getting pregnant in any one cycle is 20 – 30 per cent. By age 40, it falls to 5 per cent. But it’s not just you the woman who needs to pay attention to the ticking of the clock. Men over 35 are twice as likely to be infertile as those under 25. Studies also are showing that, as with older women, older men are more likely to have children with birth defects due to the decreased genetic quality of their sperm. Since every cell in the body ages, why would anyone want to think the sperm or testicles don’t age? Beyond the age at which you choose to have children, there are other lifestyle factors within your control that can affect your fertility. Lifestyle is important for everything; of course it’s important to fertility. You should quit smoking and, if you’re obese or have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more, losing weight. Why, you may ask. Obesity creates hormonal imbalances, preventing a woman from ovulating normally and affecting men’s sperm production. Research also has shown that when both partners in a couple are overweight or obese, they’re more likely to have to wait longer before successfully conceiving a child. Men trying to conceive might want to stay away from hot baths and hot tubs. Findings show that weekly exposure to wet heat for 30 minutes or more for at least three months could impair sperm production and movement. Couples trying for pregnancy also shouldn’t overlook the possibility that a prescription drug they are taking could play a role. Medications, such as one class of high blood pressure drugs, can be potentially toxic to sperm while antidepressants also may cause irregular menstrual cycles. Also pay attention to what you eat. It’s like if you’re running a marathon, you’ve got to train for it. Same thing applies if you want to C M Y K

•The joy of pregnancy...

When you are expecting in your 40’s & 50’s have a baby; you’ve got to train for that too. As more women are seeking advanced reproductive techniques, such as IVF to assist in achieving a pregnancy, the ceiling of reproduction has been lifted such that almost any healthy women in her forties and fifties can successfully mother a child. Indeed as an older woman wishing to have children, there is no longer need to delay consulting fertility experts. A recent study reviewed the pregnancies of post menopausal women with an average age of 53 years who underwent an in-vitro fertilization procedure with the assistance of egg donation. Currently, this is one of the largest series in the world’s scientific literature of reported pregnancy outcomes among women in their sixth

decade of life and the database will likely serve as a counselling tool to guide physicians and patients to know what to expect in their fifties. Although outcomes have been extremely favourable, there are medical conditions that can evolve pregnancy and it has become imperative to understand the physiological changes and be prepared and watchful of possible complications. We know that there is a proportion of women in their early forties who are successful in becoming pregnant with their own eggs spontaneously, while many others are able to conceive in cooperation with an egg donor. Although the likelihood of becoming pregnant is significantly higher when enrolled in an egg donor programme, pregnancy course and birth outcomes are extremely similar whether you are able to conceive with your own eggs or with an egg donor.

What this translates into is that whether or not the pregnancy is a result of a natural conception, a conception with your own eggs and assistance from advanced reproductive techniques like IVF or with the assistance of egg donation, you are likely to have similar risks and outcomes throughout the duration of the pregnancy. The most notable risk factor is not how the pregnancy was conceived but perhaps the age in which a woman achieves a pregnancy. One point to note is that pressing the boundaries of reproduction in women of advanced age can be complicated by undiagnosed underlying medical conditions. Such factors, like a decrease in the reserve of the cardiovascular system and the diminished ability to adapt to physical stress both may accompany advancing age and may combine to increase risks to the mother and the baby. This is an issue because it has variously been suggested that advanced maternal age, defined as greater than 35 years is often associated with an increased risk of poor pregnancy outcome and these reports may be confounded by inconsistencies in prenatal care, preexisting medical conditions and access to appropriate health care. Women of advanced maternal age are to be followed and delivered in sophisticated, high risk care medical centres, but all in all, if you are in your forties or fifties, you should expect to have some mild increase in pregnancy related issues. However, carefully selected and monitored women should anticipate a successful result. It is recommended that you seek advice of a reproductive endocrinologist for a medical history and physical examination. You would also undergo various tests as part of your pre-conceptional evaluation. When the assessment is completed, you’ll be counselled suitably

as to what your potential risks may be. As an older patient, you are approximately three times more likely to deliver by Caesarean Section, three to ten times more likely to experience pregnancy induced hypertension and two to five times more likely to encounter diabetes compared to younger women. However, appropriately screened, you as a healthy woman in your fifties, carrying a singleton pregnancy, can expect your gestation to go practically full term and deliver babies that are approximately the same weight as counterparts half your age. Although there does not appear to be any medical reason for excluding you from attempting to become pregnant on the basis of age alone, it is recommended you seek the attention of a reproductive endocrinologist who is aware of these complexities, in order that you may be thoroughly screened and deemed as an appropriate candidate to experience a favourable outcome.

Diet doctor:

SATURDAY

Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—35

Lose most weight with least effort

at smaller meals This simple food-timing trick sends messages to your brain to release fat stores. If you haven’t eaten anything for 2 to 3 hours, it’s time to eat again. Ideally, choose some protein and non-starchy vegetables to get the best results. Some great options include: soaked almonds (soak for eight hours or overnight, then drain), celery sticks with almond or hemp seed butter, and apple slices with avocado or almond butter. Switch to coconut oil It’s a great substitute for butter, margarine, and most cooking oils. It also has more health benefits and stimulates the thyroid while lowering cholesterol levels. Eliminate the Candida albicans yeast in your intestines Yeast overgrowth is linked to an average weight gain. Shocking but true! And the incidence of candidiasis—the condition of Candida overgrowth—is surprisingly common. Getting to the bottom of this infection can help you lose weight. Candidiasis is linked to weight gain in several ways. The best

helps you to get this impressive result and develop great muscle tone, which in turn burns fat.

fat-burning genes in the abdomen to speed weight loss by 77 percent. Drink at least three cups daily for weight loss.

Snack on almonds According to research, almonds to increase weight loss by 64 percent and target belly fat. Overweight participants who snacked on 70 almonds daily had a

Shrink fat cells with chromium Research at the University of Texas found that supplementing with the mineral chromium daily can double fat loss, without losing muscle.

14 percent waistline reduction. way to eliminate a candida infection is to: cut out sugars (even natural ones and fruit) at least for a few weeks to a month. Add a probiotic supplement to restore healthy bacterial balance. Use herbs like artemisia, burdock root, and garlic . Snack on fresh pumpkin seeds, cooked with coconut oil, and try to eat at least one clove of fresh garlic daily.

Resistance training Just adding 15 to 20 minutes of resistance training like lifting weights results in a 73 percent increase in fat burning for hours after you finish, according to research at the University of Nevada. Even lifting small weights or canned goods

Drink green tea Study after study proves that drinking green tea dramatically reduces weight thanks to the phytonutrient or EGCG, which has been proven in multiple studies to increase the rate at which fat is burned in the body. Research at Tufts University indicates that EGCG in green tea, like other catechins, activates

Take carnitine to burn fat fast Carnitine is a powerful nutrient that transports fat to your cells’ incinerators to be burnt as fuel. In a study of people who ate healthy, exercised moderately and supplemented with 2 grams of carnitine daily, those who supplemented with carnitine lost an average of 11 pounds, while the placebo group lost only 1 pound in 12 weeks. Best results are obtained with 2000 mg or 2 grams daily on an empty stomach, ideally before breakfast.

SEXUAL ISSUES & SOLUTIONS SEXUAL ISSUES AND SOLUTIONS PREMATURE EJACULATION TREATMENT (I) BEHAVIOURAL TECHNIQUE – is called the Seman’s Stop and start technique. It involves learning to control the sensations prior to ejaculation. This begins as a solo exercise. This techniques involves squeezing the head of the penis just before the ejaculation o lessen the urge to ejaculate. Your partner should begin by masturbating alone, bringing himself close to orgasm and stopping. After relaxing, he should continue bringing himself closer and closer to orgasm until he can’t hold it any longer. (Doing this several times by himself without distraction will help him learn where his point of no return is.) When he feels that he has mastered the technique, the two of you should engage in sexual activity that stops short of intercourse. Hello, im a 65 year old man , I do enjoy having sex but I have very weak erection and premature ejaculation due to the diabetes that im treating. One of my friend who suffers the same fate got Xzen 1200 from you, can I get Xzen 1200 or what do you suggest? Caleb Mr Caleb, Xzen 1200is a potent herbal supplement that gives very strong erection on demand; but I will advise you take Prosolution pills you want to correct both weak erection and premature ejaculation simultaneously. Prosolutionis also a herbal supplement that really helps erectile dysfunction especially for men that are diabetic or hypertensive and it gives no side effect even to men who have no health issues. I have been using Vigrx plus and plump cream for the past three months and I got an increase of 2inches to the length and about an inch to the width. Do I need to continue using or should I stop cos Im happy with the result I got – Ola Dear Ola, im glad you are happy with the increment you got on your penis. Since you are ok with the result you got with Vigrx plusand Plump creamwhich gives a fast and permanent enlargement, you don’t need to continue using. However, I’l advise that if you want to maintain the result you got, you need to get a pack of Vigrx plusonce in 6 months. I have been reading about your article , im a 38 year old woman and I always have very painful C M Y K

intercourse which I never enjoy, what can you advise I take? Bola Hello Bola, I wouldn’t know if you have given birth or not, but if you have had children, your libido and urge for sex will drop totally. i‘ll advice you take the Germany Sex drops or Libigirl pills you take some 30 minutes before sex to arouse you. The work of Germany sex drops is perfected when combined with an arousal gel like Clit sensitizer, Mood arousal gel,Cleopatra’s secretwhen you massage just a little quantity on the clitoris. I believe if you are well aroused, you will be in the mood and enjoy the sex; you can also get lubricants like Mood, Moistetc to wet your vagina in case you become dry in the process of lovemaking . Viewden, pls do you still have Rhino 5 and Sexvoltz? These two work like magic for me andi cant seem to get them anywhere- Bright Bright, Rhino 5and Sexvoltzare both readily available. Most people like Rhino 5because just one capsule work in their system for 5 days and keep them active. Sexvoltzon the other hand gives very strong erection on demand and the effect of one capsule last in the body for 3 days. Thank you so much Viewden, I used Prosolution for two months and now i don’t experience premature ejaculation again and I can even go more than one round if I want, cos I recover quickly after any ejaculation - Titus Mr Titus, you are highly welcome. We at Viewden feel fulfilled when our recommended products gives a satisfying result to the customer that uses them. Prosolutionis a very potent and effective herbal supplement that handles premature ejaculation. Hi , Im a 49 year old man, pls can you give me your top five products that can give strong erection on demand; I want to try them all and know which one works better for me- Chris We retail a lot of erection enhancers for men. However, we have some top scorers that don’t readily select the body they work in and are very effective. They include- X-again, Xzen 1200, Libigrow, Rhino 5, Sexvoltz, Plant Vigra etc. We’ll be expecting your order soon. These are all we can take for this week. Adults who needs any of these aphrodisiacs can cal 08034666358, 07059294782 or place your order at www.viewden.com . For further enquiries,send

an email to us at: vieweden@yahoo.com , viewden@ymail.com . Kemi Fawole (MD)

36—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

I want to challenge society’s perception of beauty

he’s famous for proudly flaunting her curvaceous figure, bold dress sense and collection of colourful tattoos on social media. But as Tess Holliday poses for a collection of arty black and white images, the 29-year-old is turning her attention away from being an internet phenomena to shaking up our ideas of beauty. Pin-up Tess, who lives in Los Angeles, is passionate about enforcing the notion that there is ‘no one way to be a woman or beautiful’. After years of being turned away from castings, size 26 (US size 22) Tess was snapped up by London-based MiLK modelling agency in January - making her the first fuller-

figured supermodel to land such a deal. A far cry from the waif-like frames we have come to see as the norm on runways and in glossy magazine adverts, Tess oozes confidence as showcases her famous curvy body in her debut agency shoot. She hopes the images will challenge the perceived beauty standards. ‘I think if someone doesn’t look at an image and feel something, you haven’t done your job,’ she said. ‘Whether it’s a negative or positive, it should evoke something in them. ‘That’s what I’ve always done with my work, I want to challenge society’s perception of “beauty” and what’s acceptable in our industry and the world. ‘There is no one way to be a woman, or to be beautiful. We all deserve a place.’ In her first agency shoot Tess, who is famed for wearing outlandish patterns and vibrant colours, is uncharacteristically stripped back. She dons a simple black tshirt and a pair of plain black briefs as she poses with her hands on her hip, throws her head back and stares moodily into the camera. The paired-back vibe of the shoot, however, doesn’t detract from Tess’ confidence. In another shot she can be seen giggling as her as her famous auburn hair is coiffed into gentle waves and

08 116759 759 081 6759759 swept to the side. Her intricate body art can be seen in its full glory as she turns to the side and shows off the inkings on her arm. Speaking about the shoot, Tess, who at 5ft 4in tall and 18st 5Ibs (250Ibs) doesn’t conform to industry sample sizes, said she has now stepped ‘out of my comfort zone’. ‘I feel like since signing to MiLK it’s challenged everything I thought I knew about modelling.. In the best way,’ she said. ‘I push myself so much harder and really step out of my comfort zone, and you can see that with these images. ‘My life has changed in the best way and I feel like the best is yet to

'I'll eat it, drink it, smoke it, snort it'

ollywood’s favorite narrator Morgan Freeman opened up about being an advocate for legalizing marijuana last week, claiming that ‘pot is very useful’. Freeman, 77, is a longtime user who was turned on to the drug by his first

17-year-old high school student has hit out at her school’s ‘discriminatory ’ dress code, after she was informed by her vice principal that her halter neck maxi dress was too inappropriate for her to wear at school. Lauren Wiggins, a student at Harrison Trimble High School in New Brunswick, Canada, published her furious response to the school’s outcry over her choice

wife ‘many years ago’. ‘I’ll eat it, drink it, smoke it, snort it! This movement is really a long time coming, and it’s getting legs longer legs,’ he said. The Oscar-winning film legend was in a car accident seven years ago, in which he suffered injuries that

Enough is enough

of ensemble on her Facebook page, slamming vice principal Shane Sturgeon’s suggestion that her floorlength dress was a ‘sexual distraction’ for male pupils at the school. Having already received a detention because of her outfit, she was later suspended by her teachers because of the letter. ‘Today I received a detention because the outfit I am wearing is considered inappropriate and a sexual distraction to the young men in my school,’ she commented on her Facebook page. ‘Enough is enough. I’m tired of the unjust standards that we as women are held up to. I’m tired of the discrimination against our bodies, and I’m absolutely fed up with comments that make us feel like we can’t be comfortable without being provocative. It’s time to change the worlds mindset.

Now.’ Lauren published a picture of herself wearing the ‘offending’ ensemble, along with an image of her threepage handwritten letter, which was addressed ‘Dear Sturgeon’. ‘In today ’s society, a woman’s body is constantly discriminated against and hypersexualized to the point where we can no longer wear the clothing that we feel comfortable in without the accusation and/or assumption that we are being provocative,’ she wrote in the letter, which has already been shared more than 1,200 times. ‘This unjust mindset towards women is absolutely absurd.’ She added: ‘The fact that authority figures, especially males, can tell young women they must cover up their shoulders and their backs because it’s “inappropriate” and “a distraction” is very uncomforting [sic]. ‘Schools are the social

still cause pain, according to the Daily Beast. He was driving through Mississippi when his 1997 Nissan Maxima skidded off the road and flipped several times. Emergency responders rescued Freeman from the crash using the Jaws of Life, and he was taken to the hospital with a shattered left shoulder, arm and elbow, and nerves had to be repaired with a four-hour surgery. Freeman still wears a yellow compression glove on

building blocks in an adolescent’s life meant to teach them how to communicate and develop relationships with others and also learning about themselves and who they want to be. It’s preached upon us to be individual, to be ourselves.’ Miss Wiggins’ Facebook post has thus far received dozens of comments from supporters, including her father, Paul, who wrote on her post: ‘I saw your outfit this morning, and there is nothing “provocative” about it!! ‘Perhaps your teachers should learn that 16-18 year old boys get a hard on if the wind blows!! Tell your teachers to call me-I’m sure I’ll have something to say!!! [sic]’ He later added: ‘Good letter, Honey. Stand up for yourself, like I taught you, especially if you believe you’re right. If you get grief from the letter, tell Shane Sturgeon to phone me!!! [sic]’

come.’ Tess has also posed for head shots that focus in on her glossy red hair, Sixties-style eye make-up and striking nose ring. Anna Shillinglaw, Managing Director of MiLk Management, said of the shoot: ‘In a world of fashion diversity and evolution, these images show that beauty can come in any size – Tess is a model regardless of being a size 2 or 24. ‘These pictures show the world why I took her on as a model at MiLK – because she is a beautiful girl and she is selling the product she models.’ Tess has already been snapped up by a fashion brand who adore her unique style, recently becoming the

face of Yours Clothing summer line. Ms Shillinglaw adds: ‘I fell in love with her face and thought why not give her a go, the sky is the limit! ‘And my intuition was right! We are very happy with Tess on our already successful and respectful Curve board.’

his left hand - which he hasn’t regained full use of - to prevent blood pooling. Pointing to the glove, Freeman told the Daily Beast that ‘Marijuana has many useful uses’. He added: ‘I have fibromyalgia pain in this arm, and the only thing that offers any relief is marijuana. ‘They’re talking about kids who have grand mal seizures,

and they’ve discovered that marijuana eases that down to where these children can have a life. That right there, to me, says, “Legalize it across the board!” Despite his hand injury, Freeman is still a shining star in Hollywood, having been in at least four films in 2013 and 2014. His first film appearance of 2015, Last Knights, debuted in April.

Growing old gracefully for almost twice as long

scientist says he expects to live to 150 after uncovering the secrets of how to slow down the ageing process. Dr Alex Zhavoronkov, an anti-ageing expert, believes medical advances and knowledge of lifestyles will lead to a far longer life expectancy than has been seen to date. He is following a strict regime of regular exercise combined with drugs and supplements and regular health checks, while shunning marriage, children and material assets to focus on anti-ageing research instead. A director of the UK-based Biogerontology Research Foundation think tank, which is dedicated to longer life and improving the health of the elderly, Dr Zhavoronkov remains confident that his lifestyle will allow him to reach the 150-year milestone. He also makes sure he is administered with vaccines as soon as they are available, according to The Sunday Telegraph, while monitoring his blood biochemistry and cell counts. ‘All of the supercentenarians alive today lived through tough times, when no antibiotics were available and our understanding of human biology was not that far from the Stone Age,’ he said. ‘I think that in two to three years we will have effective pharmacological solutions based on already approved drugs that will help people remain younger and healthier until other advances in regenerative medicine and gene therapy become available.’ According to the Office for National Statistics, a boy born in the UK today is expected to live to 78.8 years and a girl to 82.8 years. Many health experts think most people can exceed that by walking regularly, cutting down on fat, sugar and salt in their diets and using existing drugs such as statins. In fact, Austrian researchers said a few weeks ago that old age begins at 74, such has been the advancement in medicine and health.

SATURDAY VANGUARD, MAY 23, 2015 — 37 because it came at the end of the season. We always used to gather around the television set to watch the final of the FA Cup. “So I was just picturing this scene in my mind as I was entering the field for the match against Manchester United, knowing that my family would be watching me as I was stepping out. “It was a sweet feeling when we won the Cup and I am happy that other Nigerians like Nwankwo Kanu won it back to back and Efen Ekoku , who they used to call a BritishNigerian also won.

A mok achi: My FA cup experience Continues from May 9

In this concluding part of the interview with Daniel Amokachi, the former Everton forward reflects on his Wembley experience when he won the FA Cup and gives his view on next week’s final between Arsenal and Aston Villa, JOHN EGBOKHAN reports He said because of their success that Nigerians were always going to demand for instant success from the present team. “Nobody will give you that time because the business that goes with football is now so much as teams want instant wins. The one thing you can’t ask Nigerians for is time because Nigeria have gone through a lot of successes, and this makes it difficult for NFF to give you time. “Once you are hired, you have to start winning but people fail to realise that football is not like that again as other teams are also preparing, so it takes some time for the results to start coming in. It takes time to get to greatness. Westerhof had about five years in Nigeria and those years gave him the chance to build a very formidable team . “His success was not overnight. He had good players, had a good tactical plan and more than anything had enough time to go about experimenting with different styles until he got the perfect formular that worked magic for us. But he had time, which is a luxury today as nobody would give you any time to show them success. “If a coach doesn’t do well, journalist will attack him. Nigerians don’t understand how to be patient when the Eagles lose but they understand when Arsenal lose a match at home. It is funny because Nigerians watch the Premier League in England and support some of the clubs there and tend to understand when Chelsea or Manchester United lose their games. “Everything is fine when these foreign teams that they support lose, but if the Eagles lose, all hell would break loose. Nigerians must understand the realities when your team lose because football is about business and it is changing, C M Y K

which is something that we have to live with it” Nigerian league is growing A product of the Nigerian league, Amokachi knows the local terrain so much as he played and coached in the top flight with Ranchers Bees and Nasarawa United respectively. Amokachi believes that the Nigerian league is gradually coming up again after a long time in the doldrums. “Our league is growing. Forget what happened to Kano Pillars and Enyimba in this season’s Champions League, our league is growing and there are rooms for improvements. Both teams crashed out of the competition because during the qualification, our league wasn’t on and it was hard for them to get solid preparations for such matches. “The most important thing that we need is for the league to be stable, which is what we are getting now. The league board is doing well, teams are going away to win games, which was a difficult thing to do when I was coaching Nasarawa United. “The referees association is doing a very good work. We need to commend them for standing up to be counted because if you have fair officiating, teams will play good football without fear of bias. “I have never doubted that we have quality players in the Nigerian league and so what I am seeing now does not surprise me. They should just keep doing a good work. “Because things are improving by the seconds, our coaches should also take up the challenge by upgrading their knowledge. They should go for football courses abroad or wherever because knowledge is important The league board can organise seminars and courses for these coaches because we need need to keep upgrading. The State Football Associations should not wait for the NFF before training the coaches in their states, ditto for the NFF, who should not run to the Sports Ministry for assistance. “We have experienced and competent coaches who can be the facilitators of these coaching courses. We have

people like Duamlong, Bewarang, Onigbinde, Laloko, Chukwu and Amodu. So the expertise is certainly there and I see no reason we can’t have such courses periodically”. FA CUP TITLE WITH EVERTON By some twist of fate, Amokachi wrote his name in England football folklore when he won the FA Cup with Everton in 1995. It was the first time a Nigerian raised in Nigeria was going to win the prestigious competition at the hallowed Wembley Stadium. And by sheer coincidence or clever planning, Amokachi, whose twins, are playing football and schooling at the same time, were later to go to the Everton academy to chase their soccer and academic careers. Going back memory lane on his FA Cup title-winning feat with Everton, Amokachi said “the beauty of the competition was that it gives underdogs the chance to overpower their highly rated opponents. “During my time, Everton were battling relegation and got to the final of the FA Cup against Manchester United. We were the underdogs and against Manchester United, we knew it was going to be tough. “But in the FA Cup, anything can happen, so we looked up to that day with hope of winning. Playing at the Wembley was always going to be special for any player because in those days, it was only when your team got to the final that you could play on the Wembley turf. It was reserved for the FA Cup final and matches of the English national team. “It was an hallowed ground, not to be desecrated by any kind of footballer. It was just for the finalists and now also for the semifinalists. Most great players like Pele and

•Daniel Amokachi

Playing at the Wembley was always going to be special for any player because in those days, it was only when your team got to the final that you could play on the Wembley turf. It was reserved for the FA Cup final and matches of the English national team

Maradona regretted not playing at the Wembley stadium. I remember when growing up in Kaduna that we only watched a maximum of three matches per month on television and the FA Cup was always a special one for us

ASTON VILLA TO BEAT ARSENAL This year’s final is going to be interesting because we have an underdog versus giant final. Aston Villa are the underdogs while Arsenal are the giants. I always stay behind the underdogs and hope that Aston Villa, who have been through a lot this season will beat Arsenal. Aston Villa have been transformed by Tim Sherwood, Arsenal are in a really good form. They have changed a lot. Wenger is now flexible with his style. Before last year’s FA Cup triumph, Arsenal did not win any title for some years. Wenger knew he had to change his style, so that results would come. People may complain about your style but what counts is winning. You can say Chelsea are boring but they have won the league with three matches to go. That is why Jose Mourinho is the a great coach . He does not care what you say, what counts is getting results, not playing attractive football. Arsenal have learnt from that and are getting results but I don’t want them to get the result against Aston Villa TWINS EVERTON SOJOURN AND SOCCER ROMANCE “My twins are fine, They are in Minnesota and should be graduating this year. They have already been given scholarships to play soccer and study at the Kanes University in Pittsburg. I had to take them out of Everton when I saw that their soccer and academic scores were not tallying up “The twins want to play soccer but I insisted that they must go to school. We struck an agreement that they would combine both. I want them to go to school so that they will have something to fall back to after retiring. I don’t want them to make the mistakes some of our teammates made after retiring from football and finding nothing to do. “They are more skillful than me and I am happy for them. They emerged the top scorers in their school’s league. I thank God for giving the grace to see them this far and hope for the best for them in the future. They will be better players than the Bull by the grace of God. I am a strong believer in God, who made me to achieve all that I attained in my career:, added Amokachi.

38—SATURDAY VANGUARD, MAY 23, 2015

ormer Super Eagles winger, Tijani Babangida tells Coach Stephen Keshi to resort to wing play before his Eagles can fly again in the 2017 African Cup of Nations qualifiers, reports JOHN EGBOKHAN.

ijani Babangida is an household name to followers of Nigerian football.. Born on September 25, 1973 in Kaduna, Babangida, who operated for country and clubs as a winger, whose pace and style were often compared to those of the great Dutch legend Marc Overmas caused sleepless nights for most defenders. Though he spent the vast part of club life with Dutch giants Ajax, Babangida was privileged to play in five different countries on three different continents. At club level, Babangida spent nine years in Holland, playing for VV Venlo, Roda JC and Ajax where he won the Dutch title plus a cup double with the latter side. On the other side, he played over 30 games for the Super Eagles, including four matches at the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France. He also featured in two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and was part of the historic team that won a soccer gold at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. At a time, he lost his place in the squad right before the 2002 World Cup jointly hosted by South Korea and Japan but that was a temporary setback as he was later recalled by the country’s officials after a two-year lay-off from international football, But his return was later cut short as he finally called it quits with international football, a decision which he told Saturday Vanguard Sports raised fresh posers for him. “I must confess that my retirement was not easy because of the passion that I had for the game. Football is the only thing that I have been doing all my life and when the prospects of retirement came calling, I was adamant to call it quit because I did not know what to do outside football. “Football is the only thing that I have known all my life. I started from the streets of Kaduna and rose to the heights in Ajax and saw fame and fortune come my way. I was idolized by fans and foes and It was just too good to see this dream coming to an end”, said Babangida, who went philosophical on how he solved the issue. “I knew that my time was up and later accepted my fate. I did not know what to do at first with my life after retirement. It

C M Y K

was a new life for me and after three years of thinking about the whole issue , I came back to Nigeria with a determination to use football as my launchpad to greatness again”,the former Ajax winger said. On returning to the country in 2009, Babangida started his mission of rediscovery by venturing into the savannahs of the far north region to scout for raw football talents, which he planned to groom into the next stars of tomorrow. “After searching for what I could do, I came to the conclusion that football is the only option available to me. It was this that forced me into setting up an academy in the north because of the talents that are there but are not spotted due to the over-concentration on talents in the southern part of the country. Because of my popularity in the north, it was not difficult for me to sell my idea to the Governor of Sokoto, Wamako, who gave me the mandate to go round the states to look for talents, who he promised to support to stardom. DISCOVERY OF U-23 CAPTAIN Relying on his sixth sense of knowing a talent from afar, the pacy winger told Saturday Vanguard Sports that he took his new-found job with the Sokoto government in 2010 to a new level when he met with

After searching for what I could do, I came to the conclusion that football is the only option available to me

then unknown Usman Mohammed during a hunting exercise in the far depths of the Caliphate State. “One year after getting the mandate from Governor Wamako, I discovered Usman Mohammed during one of our camping exercises. He was not even in the camp but we spotted him after the exercise and I told myself that it would be a disservice not to have this boy in our academy. “We gave him his chance and the boy impressed us and we

took him in. He was with him six months and today, he is a prospect in the league. As a player of Taraba FC, he is the engine room of the team and on the national side of things, he is the captain of the U-23 team being coached by Samson Siasia. ‘Mohammed is one of the five best ball passers in the country. Today, all the top teams are pursuing Mohammed, forgetting that it took the efforts of people like us to spot him and turn him to what he is now. “ I am like a father to him. I told his father to allow him to join us and promised to take care of him, but his father was worried about his education and I promised that I would ensure that he Mohammed wrote his WAEC exams, which he did and passed . I am with what we achieved with him because we met him when he was a very raw material and turned him to what he is now. FIGHTING INSURGENCY WITH FOOTBALL With the scourge of insurgency ravaging the northern part of the country yet to abate and youths still falling victims of Boka Haram, Babangida has fashioned out a new warfare to combat the problem that seems intractable. In a bold and novel move, Babangida has counseled the

Eagle back

— Bab

..admits was bitt

incoming Mohammadu Buhari administration to use football to fight insurgency. He said by actively engaging impoverished youths in the north through football that insurgency will wane and die a natural death in record time. “We must come out with bold and new ideas to solve the many problems that are troubling our society. We cannot just fold our hands and allow things to continue the way they are. The north is like an abandoned region. We have

SATURDAY VANGUARD, MAY 23, 2015—39

If keshi must succeed, he must listen to people who are in the league

•Tijani Babangida

es must go to wing play

bangida

s retirement ter pill to chew many talents in there who cannot be reached by scouts and governments. I am talking from experience because I have moved around the region and have seen serious poverty. But I have also seen good talents who can become stars if properly guided. If you meet these boys and tell them that you believe in them, they will give their all to prove you right. The north is like an untapped region, waiting to blossom and the challenge for the next

government is to engage these youths in football to fight insurgency, poverty and economic hardship. “Because of the distance, the youths in the north are not as exposed as those in the south and they often fall prey to these militants but if we engage the youths before insurgents reach them, we will beat these insurgents. That is what the Governor of Sokoto State has done with football and that is why you did not hear of bombings in the state.

KESHI MUST RETURN TO THE WINGS After meritoriously serving Nigeria to wide acclaim and scoring five goals in 36 appearances, Babangida is by every standard a real stakeholder, whose view on national issues should be respected. A fine winger in his days, he operated in the days when the Eagles were known for their strong wing plays, which was the character of the team on the continental and global stages. Given the slump in the Eagles, Babanguda has advocated for the return to the wings. “The coach should not forget to return to the wings because that was what brought us glory. We have a lot of players who can play in the wings. I believe that if we can get good defenders and midfielders, we can use them in the wings. ‘Two of the midfielders can start from the centre of the midfield and change later to

the wings when things are not working from the centre. But they have to be very pacy like myself and Amuneke. Teams are choking up the midfield and it is not going to work for us if we remain with that style. We have to return to our traditional style. Teams like Ajax, Barcelona and even Manchester |United are using the wings more often these days. NO NATIONS CUP DANGER With the qualifying race for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations starting next month, Babangida says that he is not expecting a dangerous time for

Nigeria. “This time I don’t see any danger because we were not at the last tournament and are not the favourites. It is like a fresh start for us But Coach Stephen Keshi has to be helped because qualifying for the Nations Cup in Gabon would not be easy as we have Egypt in our group. And we cannot run down Chad just like that. HOW KESHI MUST OPERATE For Keshi to succeed, Babangida says “he must be open to former players, whose advise can be useful. I am in the league, I run Taraba FC and I know what goes on here and can offer something to Keshi. He must be be more around the league watching at least two games in a month “He must not rely solely on what people tell him but go round to watch these games because those advising him on selection may be selfish at times. If keshi must succeed, he must listen to people who are in the league. Most of the players in the league are not playing, so he must be mindful of whom he is inviting to camp. NIGERIAN LEAGUE “What is happening now is 20 times better than what we had years ago. Imagine three referees were suspended the other day, something that was rare in the past. Teams go away and win matches. Imagine Enyimba falling at home to Giwa and Taraba FC going to Jos to play Giwa and we scored two goals from the penalty spot. These things are novel and it shows improvement in officiating, which is key in developing the game. “Today, no team can beat their chest and say they would surely beat any team in our league again. The eyes of the world are gradually turning to our league “On the issue of funding and the problem of salaries owed players and coaches, the problem is that most of the clubs are run by governments, which have a lot of things in their hands and sometimes, take these clubs as secondary matter. “The truth is that football cannot be a second choice. A short-term way out is for government to compel the big companies in its community to contribute 70 per cent to the funds for the clubs while the government pays 30 per cent. That will make for some stability and our players can smile again, pending when we have real sponsorship for clubs by big corporates”, added Babangida C M Y K

40—SA TURD AY Vanguard, MA Y 23, 2 015 40—SATURD TURDA MAY

Late Bishop of Sapele Anglican Diocese laid to rest t was a day of

From left: Chief Kenneth Okpara,Commissioner of Finance,Delta State, Mrs Victoria Aghoghome Okpara (widow), Mrs Erifeta, wife of Bishop of Sapele, Chief Paulicap Okpara and Dr. Cyril Okpara.

mourning yet more like celebration as family, friends and worshipers came out enmass to pay their last respect to Late Venerable Ehwe Okpara, who was the Bishop of Sapele Anglican Diocese, Delta State, until his demise. A funeral service was held in his honour at St. Matthias Anglican Church, Eku Delta State. His brother, Chief Kenneth Okpara, Commissioner for Finance, Delta State and the Izomo of Agbon Kingdom, Delta State led a rich entourage of Delta State cabinet members and the crème de la crème of the State. Photos by Nath Onojake

From left: Chief Kenneth Okpara,Venerable Oyibo, Revd.Odutemu, Bishop of Ughelli, Revd. Erifeta, Bishop of Sapele, Revd. Ide, Bishop of Warri

From right: Chief Kenneth Okpara ,Mrs Enwa, Dep. Account-General,Delta State and Mr.Sunday Ilegar GM, Zenith Bank

From left: Mrs Rachael Agbroko, Mrs Felicia Ono-Sorhue, Mrs Jomo Edafeyeya, Chief Kenneth Okpara and Mrs Victoria aghoghome Okpara (widow).

From right; Mrs Agiri, Mrs Okolie, Miss Kevwe Okpara, Mrs Efe Ekpekpe and others

From right: Chief Kenneth Okpara with Chief Paulinus Akpeki, Chief of Staff to Gov Emmanuel Uduaghan and a guest.

From left: Comrade Ovuzuoire Macauly SSG,Delta State and Mr. Patrick Ferife, Commissioner for Infrastructure, Delta State

From right; Deaconess Joyce Edewor, Mr.David Anuku,Chief (Mrs) Faith Majemite, Mr.James Emadoye,Mrs Amioku and Chief Beauty Anidi From right: Hon. Yingi, Hon. Akpowowo and Chief Love Ojakovo

From right: Chief (Mrs) Faith Majemite, Chief Adiotomre, Chief Adu and Chief Kenneth Okpara C M Y K

From right: Chief Judith Enamutor, Mr.Stephen Atarigho, Mr.Moses Ogbe, Chief Tetsola, Chief Kenneth Okpara, Chief Paulicap Okpara and others

Family members at the grave side

Artur

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—41

GLO: Exclusive Sponsor of AFWN 20 15 2015 ...as fashion week begins today Cobalt Blue Clear Crystal Rhinestone Teardrop earrings

Herve L Leroux Los scoop-neck dress Cobalt blue women’s belt

Ini Dima-Okojie

here are a lot of popular colors making an appearance this season, but none are quite as bold or vibrant as Cobalt Blue. The bright cobalt compliments all skin colors, especially ladies with ebony skin. This season show your simplicity with elegant yet simple blue shade dresses, heels, blue sandals, jewelry, jeans and more. There are some more blue shades that can be incorporated such as aquamarine, sky blue and powder blue, all you need do is add a little bit of accessories to complete your look.

How To Wear Cobalt Blue Fashion

Wear your true blue with black or navy for a nice pop of color or for the more daring mix it up with other bright colors and neutrals. Accessorize with silver and gunmetal accents for an edgier feel. Go all out with cobalt blue dress and keep it minimal with a bright pump or clutch. However you choose to wear it, wear your true blue with confidence!

Cobalt Blue 2 Starnds Glass Pearls Necklace

Ebonee - Cobalt Suede C M Y K

ational Telecoms Company, Globacom, has been announced as the exclusive telecommunications partner and sponsor of the second edition of African Fashion Week Nigeria (AFWN) which kicks off today 23rd, to end with a gala night on Sunday 24th May, 2015. The two-day inspiring fashion extravaganza, which will be held at the Oceanview Marquee and the Convention Centre of Eko Hotel and Suites, are expected to provide veritable platforms for promoting made-in-Nigeria designs whilst creating visibility and awareness for indigent designers.In addition it will provide a forum for promoting the work of African and African-inspired designers and fine artists globally. In a joint press statement recently in Lagos, Globacom and AFWN noted that the sponsorship of the second edition of AFWN by the telecommunications colossus further demonstrated Globacom’s commitment to the promotion and sustenance of African arts and culture. “Globacom identifies with the objective of the organisers to promote emerging Nigerian designers, within and outside the shores of the country. We will continue to be associated with the development of Nigeria and Africa’s rich culture and its works of art,” the statement added. The company describes the African Fashion Week Nigeria as an opportunity to showcase Africa’s rich cultural heritage and Nigeria’s fast rising fashion industry. It called on Nigeria’s fashion connoisseurs and others who wish to be abreast of fashion trends in the country to troop out in large number to the venue of the event to experience the best of Nigerian designs on the runway. African Fashion Week Nigeria is a new initiative to support, showcase, and promote Nigeria’s most innovative fashion talents in a bid to move Nigerian fashion forward through the development of fashion businesses. AFWN posits that the shows will enhance the reputation of Nigeria’s rising stars in the fashion industry and will be as significant as Africa Fashion Week London. The organisers of the shows also said a series of activities and performances have been lined up to make the 2015 African Fashion Week Nigeria an exciting and memorable event with over 100 top designers from the continent and beyond expected to showcase their designs and products during the show.

Vintage 1950's Cobalt Blue Lattice Ribbon Weave Dress

Cobalt Blue Lace Hardshell Clutch Bag

Barbara' s super skinny jeans

Lines By Chaab

42—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

What Nigerians didn’t know about Dr. Adadevoh and her First Consultant colleague

•Dr. Stella Adadevoh

BY BENJAMIN NJOKU

any stories have been told about the sacrifices First Consultant Hospital made after handling Nigeria’s Ebola disease index case, Liberia’s Patrick Sawyer. Many stories have equally been written about Dr. Stella Ameyo Adadevoh who first diagnosed the disease and paid the supreme price. But Nigerians heard more from the Chief Medical Director of First Consultant Hospital, Dr. Benjamin Ohiaeri who took a trip down memory lane, recounting the pathetic story of the outbreak of Ebola virus disease in Nigeria last year, and how his C M Y K

establishment, despite the losses and stigmatization it suffered did everything to contain the further spread of the infectious disease in the country. But what touched the audience was the brief story on Adadevoh and Dr Ukoh who also paid the supreme price. Ohiaeri recounted this pathetic story, while receiving an award at this year ’s Silverbird Television Man of the Year Awards, which held recently at Eko Hotel in Lagos. Said he in an emotion-laden voice: “ It is very difficult to be talking about the Ebola crisis. A patient came into the First Consultant Hospital not because we advertised, but because there was a medical doctors strike in Nigeria. Then Doctor

Adadevoh was away to celebrate with her husband who turned 60 years. Ordinarily, they would have gone on vacation. But by Monday, the patient’s condition was deteriorating. When Adadevoh resumed work on Tuesday, she called a crisis meeting. At that meeting, she said ‘Oga this is more than malaria.’ The rest is history . I am standing here with Doctor Fademo, he was one of the doctors who attended to the index case and he was infected, but later became Ebola free. Because we’re not prepared for the Ebola crisis, out of the 18 patients that contracted the Ebola virus in Nigeria, First Consultant Hospital had 12 patients. We lost four of our

staff to Ebola, Dr Abalu Clipus, he was a physiologist who had been with us for sixteen years, Dr Ukoh who had been with us for thirty one years. He was actually there when Dr. Adadevoh delivered her son, Bankole. The first person to make diagnoses of the Ebola virus in Nigeria was a woman, and she was Dr Stella Adadevoh. The only thing I can conclude with is what the former president of America, Bill Clinton said fourteen years ago when he came to Nigeria, and I quote “I know this, of Nigeria, There is no problem Nigerians cannot fix if they come together”. In the challenge of the Ebola virus disease, it was a collective battle to rid the nation of the virus. The Lagos state commissioner of Health was away on vacation. But as soon as he heard about the crisis, he took the next available flight back home. Governor Babatunde Fashola was away for prayers, but as soon he heard about the Ebola crisis, he felt that The Lord had asked him to return home. The President declared Ebola crisis a national emergency, made funds available for the treatment of the infected persons. For us, at he First Consultant Hospital, we reached to the US government. The person assigned to assist us was a NigerianAmerican doctor, Dr Samuel Adeniyi Jones. He pulled all the strings, using all the powers of the Government of United States. Everything we wanted, we got it. The association of Nigerian Physiologist in America played a significant role in the fight against the Ebola crisis. At the end of the day, we lost four precious people, we would have lost more. That’s our consolation but this a great country.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—43

global deputy. Najma Abdi Ahmed from Somalia is the secretary general. We have other executive members from DRC, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Uganda and Morocco. Our core mandate is to popularize the African youth charter and advocate, canvass and influence the government of the day for its implementation. It has under gone ratification and endorsement, what then is holding the implementation? That is the big task ahead of us, but I am optimistic that with the wind of democratic change blowing across African countries including Nigeria, we will overtake the challenge.

THE BIG TTASK: ASK:

The implementation of the African Youth — OBINNA Charter SIXTUS NWOKE M

any leadership experts have said change begins from one’s circle of influence. Obinna began from his circle of influence, after an opportunity to study in the US which changed his life in no small measure. Today, he is the Global President of Independent African Youth Parliament. He is very passionate about changing positively the lives of several young people in Nigeria and beyond. Hence, his strong desire to see the execution of African Youth Charter. He spoke to Vanguard recently on his journey so far.

On what inspired you to go into social works. My mum is a humanitarian to a fault, she feels bad if she encounters other people’s challenges. She had such people in our home including cameroonians who were somewhat homeless in Nigeria. She housed and provided funds for little trade so that they can support their homes. You could see it’s genetically from the blood. But I modified mine after acquiring education and training from the prestigious University of Rhode Island, USA, where the approach to conflict was infused into my blood system as was used by late Martin Luther King Jnr to

fight racial segregation nonviolently. Many Nigerians around me don't know that I am professional,and my strength lies in my ability to mobilize and organize people as was confirmed by the head of the institution, Dr Bernard Lafayette . I came back to Nigeria a totally changed man, courtesy of two institutions in Nigeria, Shell Petroleum Nigeria and Foundation for Ethnic Harmony in Nigeria (FEHN). Madam Eka Okoro of shell and Barr Allen Onyema the CEO of Air peace influenced me. I started practicing what I learnt in the USA, that informed my floating an NGO known as SAFE COMMUNITY NIGERIA. Passion and commitment are my two key principles and they drive my interest in social works.

all can attest to this.

Impact on young Nigerians My works have impacted on lots of young people. To sum it up, when FEHN trained me to become a Global nonviolence Practitioner, I started transforming and changing the lives of our militant brothers from the creeks of Niger Delta then through trainings. I exposed them to the force powerfully, the non-violent approach. I have done a lot, and I'm still doing more. They

The Birth of Independent Pan African Youth Parliament (IPAYP) Concerning the IPAYP, it is an evolution. A metarmophosis of an opportunity given to young people of Africa by the leadership of Pan African Parliament under late President Iddris Ndelle of Central African Republic. I was invited to represent the West African Sub Region in that programme, therein I emerged as the

Our going projects At the moment, we are creating awareness about the organization, the mission statement. We are also planning to convoke the mother of all youth summit in Nigeria tentatively by July or September. We shall address salient concerns and openly urge stakeholders to carry out the contents in the African youth charter. We are using our personal resources to work for our continent. We want to write to authorities like AU, EU, WHO, American Embassy to see our programme plans and support us with funds. We can also call for funds donation sect, explore genuine means of raising funds to facilitate our programmes.

•Obinna Nwoke

pioneer continental president of Pan African Youth Council. We were to evolve into Youth Parliament. After my tenure, renowned youth leaders from Africa’s five regions converged and I had the mandate to become again the pioneer global founder/president of this organization. We coined the name INDEPENDENT, hence the name, Independent Pan African Youth Parliament. It was not conceived without Patson Malisa from Eastern Cape South Africa, who is my

Mentorship My mentors and role models are many, God is my number one role model; my mum, above all if not for the support from Shell through Madam Eka Okoro I wouldn’t have been discovered by the world authorities. My advice to young people Young people should stay focused on doing what is morally right, shun vices that are usually inimical to the economic growth of our society and help our leaders with our social contributions.

The CEO/f ounder of African Y outh Initiativ e on Crime Pre YICRIP ) paid CEO/founder Youth Initiative Prevvention (A (AYICRIP a cour o V anguard Head of o present an a ward tto o courttesy visit tto Vanguard offfice, Lagos recently tto aw Youthful Vibes' Vict or Go YICRIP Crime Pre er sonality A ward" Victor Gottevbe as "A "AYICRIP Prevvention P Per ersonality Aw

(L-R) AYICRIP founder,Chris Ibe making the presentation to Victor Gotevbe youthful vibes editor.

C M Y K

•The team posing with the award

•The award

44—SA TURD AY 44—SATURD TURDA

Vanguard, MA Y 23, 2015 MAY

ometime ago, the photo of a young lady who hanged herself in an uncompleted building surfaced in the media. The accompanying story alleged that the she committed suicide because her boyfriend left her for another girl. Before then, there was a story of a male youth corp member who, either in anger, anguish or disappointment, committed suicide because his female friend got engaged to another man. Please permit me to digress here. In life you tackle first things first. My firm belief in early marriage notwithstanding, a corp member’s priority, especially if he is from a poor background, should be to complete his service and get a source of livelihood. Then he should team up with his poor parents to give his siblings the rape or witnessing the brutal death or of their minds and anybody coming privilege of a higher education that he murder of loved ones, feeling of in comes as a tenant who can be inconvenienced the whole family to enjoy. rejection and loneliness. Our concern kicked out at any time. Thankfully, During this time he should also invest here is lust-induced suicides—it there are no judges and lawyers time and resources in self-develop and cannot be love—by young people. Why who can stall proceedings. Just kick grow his potentials. Marriage should not will a young person cut short his/her any useless tenant out of your mind. be the priority of a male corper, who promising life? The underlying Being jilted can be traumatizing, supposedly is 30 years or below, unless reason(s) might be low self-esteem, heart-breaking and humiliating, but he is from a rich family and everything misplacement of priorities, it is easier to manage when the has been provided and he is inexperience, wrong value orientation offending party is a tenant. People psychologically ready for the enormous and poor management of heartbreaks. are driven to depression and suicide task of matrimony and fatherhood. Heartbreaks are part and parcel of life when the heart breakers are If you are not silver-spooned, do the as long as you breathe. You just learn landlords of their minds and lives. first things first. I am very sure that by to deal with them. It is like surfing, to The truth is it is not your the time you are ready, your would-be fault that a guy/girl wife will be waiting for you. But if the Many youths mistake puberty for cannot appreciate you the one you thought is yours is snatched God created you. adulthood; we must teach them that way away, another one dey. With a population That person should just of about 170m million, there must be at a gulf exists between these two run along; the one who least one million eligible spinsters to get will treasure you is on the stages of life a wife from, and as citizens of a global way. In some measure, I village that the world has become you subscribe to the saying literally have millions of spinsters to be successful; you must learn to ride that beauty is in the eyes of the choose from. Personally, I believe God the inevitable waves. As Stephen beholder. Do not cast your pearls has created a spouse specifically for you. Covey rightly observed, it is not what before swine. They will certainly The one who jilts you cannot be that happened to you that matters but your trample them under their feet. I feel reaction to what happened. Young spouse. so pained when I see people live Back to the matter, suicide “is the act of people need to develop the right their lives based on other people’s attitude to rejection. Parents, religious intentionally causing one’s own death.” terms. Like dogs wagging their tails, There are varying reasons why people organizations and the school system they look into people’s eyes for commit suicide: depression, loss of loved should give youngsters a proper acceptance and affirmation. Low self ones, financial problems, troubled orientation about life. We must teach esteem, inferiority complex and lack relationships, job loss, shame and guilt. them to be in control of their minds. of confidence are mainly responsible Others are traumatic experiences like Whoever controls their minds controls for this. their lives. They should be landlords

Lust-induced suicide

We also need to help our children and youths find their essence. They need to nurture their innate talents and abilities so that they can live their dreams, live assured lives and also fulfill their destinies. Such youths exude life, confidence and are very comfortable with themselves. You cannot manipulate or break their hearts to the point of driving them to commit suicide. Their happiness, essence and confidence emanate mainly from within not without. These lust-induced suicides are making some people ask why youths are getting entangled in matters of the heart when they cannot handle the complications. I was comparing notes with a brother and friend recently. He told me, with disappointment; how he, with his wife, discovered that his teenage son had a girlfriend, in spite of his advice to the contrary. Since he claimed to be an adult, the parents decided to siddon look. Some months later, the girl dumped him. For days, he cried like a little baby in the house, while the parents looked the other way. They wanted him to learn some valuable lessons. My father always told us, while growing up, that you cannot prevent a child from growing protruding teeth; he should just grow enough lips to cover them. Our children need to know that these relationships come with concomitant pains and heart breaks. Many youths mistake puberty for adulthood; we must teach them that a gulf exists between these two stages of life. But we should not give up on them. Parents have to be there for their children through thick and thin. Many parents had lust-related heart breaks in the past; we must use our experience to guide our children. Heartbreak is devastating, but suicide is not an option. It is totally unnecessary in this matter.

(Text Only)

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Lie on your back and drawing up the knees, raise the trunk up and support the lower back with the hands. Retain the pose for 15to 20 seconds and repeat after a short rest. Benefits: The Bridge favourably affects the abdomen and the thigh muscles.

The Bridge C M Y K

Yoga Classes @ Physical Therapy Centre 32,Adetokumbo Ademola, Victoria Island,Lagos. 9.00am — 10.00am on

Saturdays

•The Boat

SATURDAY Vanguard Vanguard,, MAY 23, 2015—45

Percussive Sublimation

did promise that in the next couple of writings, I will further express my excitement with THE PETER PRINCIPLE. Well as I continue today, I recall that I also indicated that I will explore the same principle as it relates to our development or underdevelopment. By far the most important issue for many concerned citizens of this country is the nature or colour of the new government tagged CHANGE 2015 (alias sai baba). This is why I have chosen to relate the aspect of Peter Principle he refers to as Percussive Sublimation to the current affairs. Dr. Peter theorizes that percussive Sublimation is a pseudo promotion (extremely dangerous for a society like ours, but somehow inevitable), which involves apparent upward movement of personnel from one unproductive position to another. Although the new position is higher, yet the personnel will not actually undertake greater responsibilities than before. In fact, there are no new challenges and there will also be no input to the production line. What I do not know is whether the personnel involved are willing to face the truth and say straight away to themselves that their promotion is not genuine; it is false and deceitful. Indeed, it makes sense to only the people outside the hierarchy, according to Dr. Peter. One can actually agree with Dr. Peter because, the upward movement based on Percussive Sublimation is not hinged on “competence,” which is the only authentic condition for an upward movement. I want to talk about exceptions, also as noted by Dr. Peter, before applying the theory of Percussive Sublimation to our national

experiences. It is possible for anyone to disagree with the Peter Principle about the incessant promotions to incompetence because when it is about appointments, one wonders whether there is any need for competence. For instance, certain responsibilities require minimum human intellect, probably because of the routine nature of such responsibilities, and as such, any averagely intelligent person can undertake such responsibilities. This is perhaps the much orchestrated exception to the rule. This is also what breeds the so called “deadwood” syndrome in productivity. My simple question, before I continue is, does a person who does what any other person can do, with ease deserve a promotion? May be, especially when such a promotion is actually compensatory, that is aimed at paying for time spent in the organization or some form of motivation to others. Peter alludes to the concept of justification of previous positions of influence. Sometimes, persons are promoted to higher position to justify their previous positions. Let me start from there in relation to our own experiences in the country. Recently, some lists of persons purported to have been selected by the President elect into the proposed Federal Executive Council have been published by some media. In the lists are persons who have served, either successfully or unsuccessfully in other capacities in the country in the past. Some have served at the political party level, others at the professional and technocratic, while some have been at the legislative levels. Some

were rejected at the polls by those who elected them earlier and some have served as chief executives of establishments that became bankrupt or moribund. Now, they are all listed because they must be engaged for the sake of safety and security. Many of the appointees or would be appointees belong to what Peter has designated as percussive sublimatees. It is a potent feature of every organization that thrives on hierarchies. A careful observation shows that there is an accumulation of redundant personnel, at the executive level of organizations. This makes it, somewhat possible for work to progress, at the functional, productive levels of the organization. Those who have become overwhelmingly incompetent, by virtue of the faulty hierarchies must be adequately compensated by the hierarchies. That is why they accumulate at the top. It is easy to identify the posts, or positions that have emerged out of our experiences because of the inevitable presence of percussive sublimation, or pseudo promotions. Some of such positions are embedded in the constitution while others are continuously created as administration process endures. For example, why should there be the positions of Vice President and Deputy Governors? These positions are approved by our constitution. Apart from the fact that both positions can be likened to the spare tyre of a car, that is, they are useful only when the original hardworking tyre is disabled; in other words, either the president or the governor must be out of the scene before they can become usefully engaged, they are at best part justification of Peter ’s idea of “carroton-a-stick” inducement to others whose hopes of attaining high positions will be keep afresh when they see such. The most interesting aspect of this system is that both the Vice President and Deputy Governor will have a full complement of personnel: Special and Personal Assistants, advisers, and other aids that must be maintained by the organization called Nigeria. Whoever will be, or are, the Vice President and Deputy Governors

Emodi @ 60:

Give us joy forever BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN

he is a woman who has lived up to her baptismal name – Joy. She is a joyful delight to many who come her way, and it was no wonder that in her time in the Senate she was popularly referred to as the Joy of the Senate. But it is the native nickname Adadiorinma, “a daughter that is loved by all” that seemingly conveys the life and latitude of Senator Joy Ifeanyichukwu Emodi (CON). Indeed, loving and liking Mrs. Emodi is an infectious aptitude for men and women that come around her. Excellence in public life for many comes at the cost of the erosion of human compassion and dignity. But not so for Senator Emodi, who in her more than two decades on the public stage has earned recognition from near and far for rubbishing suggestions that only women of easy virtue progress in politcs. Few in her native Anambra State have reached her heights in public life without evoking tales of one smear or scandal. Rather, Mrs. Emodi despite her early introduction to politics by her husband, Dr. Okey Emodi, a leftist who identified with the defunct Peoples Redemption Party, PRP of the Second

Republic, has carved a name that has seemingly evaded the scandals and stories that have besmirched the reputations of many supposedly successful men and women. In fact, she has held her dignity and maintained the virtue of womanhood and in the face of denial of political opportunities including at one time, the denial of a ministerial appointment. But Mrs. Emodi is, however, nobody’s pushover on a level playing field as she has repeatedly demonstrated in

Anambra State. Mrs. Emodi was nurtured in the political field by the political gurus of Nigeria in the nineties among whom were the late Senator Abubakar Saraki, Prof. Jibril Aminu, Chief Emmanuel Iwanyanwu among a select few. Her governorship bid in 1998 was one that evoked emotions from many women who saw in her, a trailblazer who was able to upset the permutations that had until then

must be honourable persons, who perhaps have attained their levels of incompetence and must be sublimated to a comfortable position thereafter. Let me go straight to the crux of the matter: the main ingredients of percussive sublimation: members of the executive councils at the federal and state levels, as well as other chief executive officers of organizations. The head of State and the Governors must assembly a team each, which will constitute the executive councils: the regular and the expanded councils comprising Honorable Ministers and Commissioners, Special Advisers and Special Assistants. The constitutions of the teams are those who will be sublimated to the exalted positions, obviously without competence. I say this with every sense of responsibility, also knowing that I could be one of them at any time. So they are going to be victims of the new science known as hierarchiology. They would function, not as competent personnel and not exactly as deadwood, but nearer the later than the former. My concern is with productivity in view of the high expectations of the people in relation to the new government. We need to know that bureaucracy, which is the father of hierarchiology will insist on percussive sublimation and recycling syndrome. This is capable of exhuming the past since a person, who failed in the past comes back to the scene only to reenact history. In all the seeming gloom of hierarchiology, there is hope. Common sense teaches that there is a need to let these deadwoods be, but also, there must be adequate recognition to those who do the job. May be it is a radical or even Marxist tendency; whatever it comes to, the workers must be taken care of to a reasonable level of satisfaction. Therefore in choosing who to put in position at the redundant level of the “executive,” caution must be applied. Those who realize that they are partners in progress, not feudal lords are best. Their attitude will invariably dilute their incompetence and make for a smoother organization. These persons are also expected to respect the views, opinions, and actions of the competent workers and give them relative liberty to operate in a work-friendly environment. So since we are all victims of bureaucracy and hierarchiology, let’s seek ways of liberating ourselves.

subjected women to the backseat of political discourse in the state. Support for her campaign that was unfairly traced to the powers in Aso Rock was, in fact, the product of humble diligence that saw high and low in the land galvanise support for her. It was the momentum from that campaign that led General Olusegun Obasanjo in early 1999 to seek her support for the presidential election despite her membership of the then All Peoples Party, APP. When in 2003 she sought the Anambra North Senate seat about to be vacated by Senator Chuba Okadigbo, the new set of political godfathers that had surfaced in Anambra immediately saw her astuteness as averse to their agenda and it was no surprise that for nearly two years after the election she was in court until she got victory. In the Senate, Mrs. Emodi quickly made herself a woman of reckoning with her political poise, purposefulness and pace. As chairman of the Senate Committee on Education, she is remembered by several federal institutions for the forthrightness with which she discharged her obligations to them. The sour tales of scam and scandal that once tainted that very committee were quickly replaced with uprightness and transparency. Senator Emodi’s efforts were quickly recognised by the United Nations, which through UNESCO made her its focal person in the

National Assembly. Universities that got their due through her efforts like the University of Abuja and the Nnamdi Azikiwe University beckoned to her with honourary degrees. What was unarguably a testimonial to her character and conscience was her depiction as the Joy of the Senate. Even when her tenure was cut short by one of the most bizarre court rulings ever in 2010, Mrs. Emodi remained a beckon of hope to many especially in her native Anambra State who were beneficiaries of her empowerment schemes. Perhaps, it was that infectious joy that drew the attention of President Goodluck Jonathan towards her with her appointment as the Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly Matters. It was a job that she did with panache. Winning the confidence of even the most distrustful sceptics of the president in the National Assembly. It is to her credit that no one executive proposal failed while she occupied the office. An easy measurement of Senator Emodi’s success as special adviser is the fact that since she left that office in 2013 that President Jonathan has not stepped foot in the National Assembly complex. Educationist, lawyer and politician, Mrs. Emodi has to all intents in the eyes of man lived a life fitting to be loved. At 60 today, Adadirionma is a woman that all men and women of goodwill will pray that her diamond will last forever! Congratulations.

46—SATURDAY VANGUARD, MAY 23, 2015 Dear Aunty Julie, I met this guy online and we corresponded with letters and matched up perfect. We sent each other pictures and later exchanged phone numbers. We had long conversations on the phone every night and he would call just to tell me he was thinking about me. We both just knew we had found the “one.” One night, we agreed to meet and I went to meet him face to face. I can’t even describe the look of disappointment on his face when he laid eyes on me. He told me, “I didn’t look like my picture.” He told me I wasn’t glamorous enough for him, and he put too much into my picture. We’ve had conversations conversations about what we had in common, what we were looking for, and him saying, “If you’re half as pretty as your picture, I’m a lucky

Aunty Julie, I’ve been feeling really hurt because my wife left me. I showed her so much love but was shocked at what she did to me. She cheated on me with three different men. The knowledge of this has really damaged my self-esteem. We’ve been separated for about seven months now. How can I recover from such a blow? I don’t want her back, I just feel very hurt over what happened. Am I taking too

juliecoker100@yahoo.com

How do I recover from rejection? man but now this.” I’m so very hurt, I can’t see straight. After an encounter with him, I’m not even interested in trying again. I need help.

Mary Theresa, Port-Harcourt

Dear Mary Theresa, The only way you can get to

My wife left me long to get over it? How can I get over it quicker because I cant’ bring myself to trust another women or move on with my life. Please help me. Samson, Abuja

Hello Samson, The best way to repair the damage to your self esteem is to look at what you contributed to

the situation and what you knew and did not pay attention to. This is not about putting the blame on you, but taking responsibility for what happened in your life. One of the reasons it’s taking you so long to get over what happened is because you feel victimized. Taking responsibility for your part of what happened will restore your sense of power over your life, and will make you feel a whole lot better!

He’s overstepping his boundaries Dear Julie, I have heard it said that it’s important to have ample boundaries. Can you tell me why? What happens when one person in the relationship continually wants to overstep the other person’s boundaries because they don’t have the same boundaries on sexual monogamy? Is it best for the partner who does not have an issue with it to be honest about their actions or not — knowing full well if they tell their partner it will hurt them? Letty, Benin City

Dear Letty, Lets do it this way. Take a plastic cup and fill it with water. The water stays in, within the boundaries of the cup. Now punch some holes in the cup. The water leaks out, eventually leaving the cup empty. You are that cup, and the water is your energy. If you have no boundaries or let others punch holes in your boundaries, eventually you will feel empty too — not good enough, unlovable and dependent.

Sexual fidelity boundaries are critical in particular, because they deal with the safety of intimacy. What I hear you asking is how to stop your partner from being intimate with others, and whether it is best for you to know he is

intimate with others or not. My answer, unfortunately, is it is best for you to not be in a sexual relationship with a man who does not share your desire for monogamy. Continuing with the status quo will drain your self esteem.

He doesn’t like seeing me around

Dear Aunty Julie, I am a regular reader of your column. I like some of the answers you have given to questions. A few months ago, I broke up with my fiancé of two years. It was very painful for me, but I am much better now. The problem is that we live in a small community and sometimes I do see him around town. He is very rude to me and unfriendly. I get the feeling that he wished I would move somewhere else, but I love living here, and will not and cannot move for his convenience. How can I handle running into him when he is so rude? It would be so much better if he was at least civil. Funmilayo, Ogun State

The last straw After just a few years of marriage, filled with constant arguments, a young man and his wife decided the only way to save their marriage was to try counselling. When they arrived at the counsellor’s office, the counsellor jumped right in and opened the floor for discussion. “What seems to be the problem?” The wife began talking describing all the wrongs within their marriage. After 15 minutes of listening to the wife, the counsellor went over to her, picked her up by her shoulders, kissed her passionately for several minutes, and sat her back down. Afterwards, the wife sat there speechless. He looked over at the husband who was staring in disbelief at what had happened. The

Hello Funmi, You and your ex fiance need to do something about the situation to avoid violence and I perceive there are three solutions to this problem. Speak to him in private about the hostility between the two of you, and find out what it would take to resolve it. What does he think you did to him to create so much anger in him? If you can figure that out and genuinely apologize for your part, you may be able to stop the hostility. Let go of your anger towards him. That way, even if he is acting out around you, it will not bother you as much. When he stops getting the reaction from you that he is looking for, he will stop acting out.

C O C K - T A L E S counsellor spoke to the husband, “Your wife NEEDS that at least twice a week!” The husband scratched his head and replied, “I can have her here on Mondays and Thursdays.” She-Devil Once upon a time, there was a man who came home very late and very drunk every night. His wife decided to teach him a lesson, so she dressed up like Satan and hid in the dark to scare him when he got home. When he finally came stumbling across the lawn, his wife jumped out in front of him and howled like

know someone is by being in person with that person. Chatting, e-mail and phone calls will not give you some sense of a person. Therefore, to build a relationship on that glimpse into another person is a sure way to have heartbreak. This is not because people lie about who they are, but rather because there is usually a difference between who people think they are and who they really are. That’s why there are so many sayings about watching people’s actions more than listening to their words. You are just a classic case of what happens again and again using the Internet. Perhaps you should reconsider giving up dating altogether or even giving up on finding a mate on the Internet. Rather than giving up, make sure that when you do connect with someone, meet him in person and build the relationship in person.

I’m afraid of getting involved Aunty Julie, I am a 29 year old single female, with no real relationships going on so far in my life. I have always been afraid of commitments and the fact that if I trust someone, they could betray me as my father had done to my mother when I was small. At the time, my mother told me that all men are cheaters and not to be trusted. I have been carrying this burden consciously for so long, and now the need for a caring life-long partner is becoming stronger everyday. How do I come out of this cage of restrictions that I made for myself and have a meaningful relationship with a wonderful man? Lilly, Jos

Dear Lilly, I can tell you that the problem is already half-solved since you have been able to identify it. Your past if affecting your future. The next thing you need to do is consider the source of the belief with no disrespect toward your mother, what would set her up to believe that all men are cheaters? Could it be possible that her experience was limited? Could she really speak about “all” men? Perhaps she is right about some men, but some women could be categorized the same way. Does this mean all women are also cheaters, including you? Consider these questions, and see if they give you more space to begin to see the world as it is - full of all types of people, a large percentage of whom are not cheaters.

a demon. He just looked at her and slurred, “You don’t scare me; I’m married to your sister!” Would you marry again, scummy? A husband and wife were golfing when suddenly the woman asked, “Honey, if I died would you get married again?” The man said, “No dear.” The woman said, “I’m sure you would.” So the man said, “Okay, I would” Then the woman asked, “Would you let her sleep in our bed?” And the man replied, “Ya, I guess so.” Then the woman asked, “Would you let her use my golf clubs?” And the man replied, “No, she’s left handed.”

SA TURD AY SATURD TURDA

Vanguard, MA Y 23 MAY 23,, 2015—47

bunmsof@yahoo.co.uk

How to pull the wool over a cheating husband’s eyes A husband is what is left of a lover when the nerve has been extracted. —Hellen Rowland (writer)

foundation on which his marriage was built. Christy, his wife, smiled sadly as she listened to reports of her husband’s carrying-ons with this scarlet woman from her so-called friends. She said nothing.

hat madness is it that makes some men end up with wild, erratic women who would make their lives a misery instead of the stable down-to-earth ones that would provide the basic foundation on which marriage should be built? Recent discrete survey has shown that most men with all their talks and selfassurance are putty in the hands of women they swore they were having ‘flings’ with. Women who seemed, unattainable before, but whom they’re now happy to ‘net’! Take the case of Mayo for instance. A medical doctor who vowed to play the field for years before he settled down, he actually thanked his lucky stars the day he ran into Patty. She was just back from America with a new-fangled degree but with a lot of energy cruising through her veins. She was a real wild cat.’ When Mayo told her he wasn’t into the marriage

The new spring to her husband steps and his continuous cheerfulness whenever he got ready to go out had already spelt slow death to her marriage. This woman, whoever she was, was like a mad fever in her husband’s blood. She had to break the fever. She started her well-oiled plan to bring her husband to heel by first enrolling

A man in love is incomplete until he is married, then he is completely finished —Zas Zsa garbo (actress)

Mayors proposition. The parents were distressed and aghast. Abortion? What utter nonsense! They couldn’t have given life to this monster who was now suggesting that this sweet girl should commit murder. Like a friend always warned, there is no dispute or misunderstanding, no matter how nauseating, and

Marriage was never part of the package

scene, she shrieked with laughter. “Marriage! You won’t catch me falling into that trap in a hurry!”, she bragged. Mayo was relieved. Patty with her America exposure, and a network of cosmopolitan friends took him to several heights of sexual ecstasy and back. He was a love addict. She played the part of the ever elusive adventurous lover. Then she put in the squeeze! Fifteen months after they met, she became pregnant. When she told Mayo, he hit the roof. Marriage was never part of the package. What was more, he wasn’t ready to be a father yet. Their best bet, Mayo said, was for Patty to come to the clinic where he worked for an abortion. Patty who’d by now warmed her way into Mayo’s parents’ hearts went to tell them of

humiliating, that couldn’t be settled by the so called extended family sitting at its usual once-a-month family meeting. Not with their wealth of experience and case studies to cite. Patty, not only got married to Mayo, she soon resumed her flirtatious ways after she had her baby. After having the two kids she wanted, she left Mayo for a wealthier adventurer. Then there was the case of Ralph. After 18 years of slugging it out in an advertising company, he was suddenly made an executive director. Free house, an SUV and a salon car, along with all other perks. A few months after his good fortune, he’d acquired a new girlfriend that threatened to shake the

their two children in a very expensive, private school! Now that her husband’s status had changed, she told him sweetly, it wouldn’t be nice for the kids to rub shoulders with the scruffs at these ‘two-apenny’ primary schools. A few weeks later, she ordered a brand new set of furniture at a very exclusive store with facilities for payments over just three months. By the time Ralph forked out cash for the kids’ fees and the H. P. Payments on the furniture, there was precious little left for his wayward mistress. She soon left for greener pastures when the dinner and presents became practically non-existent! If you looked hard enough, you’d realize that there really might be that many more men than women, but a few number of very calculating women are laughing into their pillows at the type of murder they are able to get away with; just by playing on their men’s intelligence. Fausa, a mother of four and an accountant is married to one of the controllers of a commercial bank. Tall, handsome, and suave with

it, he quite fancied himself a ladies man. “Most nights he is not always home”. Fausa said, “I have a few fats in the fire myself. Ninety per cent of the time, I always come home before he does. No matter how much fun 1 have outside my matrimonial!: home, I always give him hell as soon as he comes through the door. After all, he was never aware that I could be as foxy as the next women! Has he forgotten that he is a married man? I would rage. A father with responsibilities running after tarts that will give him nothing but venereal diseases that I might catch? By the time I’d finish tearing into him, he would look so contrite that I almost felt sorry for him. But I don’t over do it or he’ll do the right thing by staying at home more and that will be bad news for me! The more he goes out, the more I’d free to do my own thing...” Well, since I opened the article with two choice quotes, I think it apt to end it with two more. For her: A promiscuous person is usually someone getting more sex than you axe! —Victor Lowness, Play-boy. For him: A gentleman is merely a patient wolf. Herientta Tiarks.

How to curb your sugar addiction

t’s been proved that you can be addicted to sugar. Cravings, mood swings, fits of anger, depression and weight gain—they can all result from too much of the sweet stuff. Sugar, say the experts, affect your body in the same way as alcohol and drugs. Take in too much of it and you experience a high…. Then as you struggle to regain a normal blood sugar, your body becomes confused and craves another fix. Are you a sucker for Sugar? See how many of the following apply to you: a) I crave/eat sweet foods three or more times a day. b) 1 crave bread, cereal, pastries or pasta everyday. (Your body, say the experts, respond to these like sugar). c) I often feel tired 20 minutes after waking.

d) I’m frequently sleepy during the day or after meals. e) I’ve hidden sweet foods from others before. f) I’ve lied about eating sweet foods. g) I feel jealous watching others eat sweet things. h) I’m overweight and can’t lose the extra pounds. i) I feel comforted when I eat sweet things. j) I often find myself over reaching to stress. How did you score? 03. You probably have no real addictive behaviour concerning sugar or processed foods. 4-6; you have a strong response to sugar. Cut back on processed foods and white flour. 7-10; You’re actually sensitive to sugar and probably suffer from addictive behaviour with sugar, processed foods or white flour products. The good news

is you can take action to balance your body chemistry. You can beat the sweetness if you: a) Keep a diary of your thoughts, cravings, what and when you eat. b) have three regularly spaced meals a day. c) Eat small amounts of protein (meat, eggs, fish, diary, beans nuts, seeds twice a day. d) Replace refined carbohydrates (white pasta, white bread, pastries, biscuits) with complex carbohydrates (oat meal, rice, whole wheat pasta, potatoes). e) Cut down on sweet foods, alcohol and processed foods containing sugar. Check all products for sugar contents. Nutritionists agree that these steps will balance blood sugar levels to give you more energy and help weight loss.

48—SATURDAY

Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

YETUNDE AREBI wears and clothes. Some even cook with their own money to convince the guys that they can support the union financially too. My little sister gave me a gist about one of her friends who played house help for someone she called her fiancé for almost four years, refusing to heed everyone’s warning. As suspected, her generosity and selfless acts did not succeed at the negotiation table as the guy sprung the most unexpected surprise. He married the daughter of his neighbour and co-tenant, the little girl that had been calling his fiancée “aunty” and often came to the apartment to play with her when the guy was not around! My bet is that she had even run errands between the lovers and had benefited from the older lady’s generosity too. Eventually, they both betrayed her, her goodness did not help, neither her assumed sexual prowess. Trade by barter sex: Just as the phrase imply, this is when you use what you have to get what you want. The first thing that comes to mind here is prostitution, that age old trade of using the body for financial benefits. The activities of the prostitution ring are a multimillion dollar investment worldwide with tentacles in drugs, violent crimes, human trafficking and many other vices. Interestingly, the average prostitute in many climes no longer enjoys the liberty of dealing her wares as a one man (sorry, woman) enterprise or sole trader to any interested client today. To carry on business as usual, she needs protection and this she invests in with the proceeds from her business as well as sex. Again, a drug addict or junkie will exchange sex for drugs naturally and when caught in a tight corner, many women have been known to exchange sex for their freedom.

Why we have sex S

ex, since the history of man or human evolution has gone through several changes, even in terms of definition and form and the individuals engaging in it. Once upon a time, sex was thought to be primarily for reproductive reasons, then for the relief of sexual tension and later, for the sexual pleasure. Right from the explosive documentation of the Kama Sutra, various studies and experiences have been carried out by persons and institutions to unravel the mystery of human sexology and why, besides procreation, sex is important to mortal men and women. From the researches of Alfred Kinsey who is regarded as the father of sexology in the 40s and 50s to Masters and Johnson’s famous researches on orgasms of the 60s and 70s, sex has become a subject of great interest to all. Now, a research conducted by psychologists Cindy Meston and David Buss on why women have sex which is published in the Archives of Sexual Behaviour, the duo in their new book of the same title, have listed 237 reasons why women have sex with their partners. Ranging from the mundane desires to experience physical pleasure; to the vengeful intentions of getting back at a cheating partner, the spiritual attempt to get closer to God, or the altruistic gesture of wanting a partner to feel good about themselves, Meston and Buss concluded that the motives for engaging in sexual intercourse may be larger in number than what most people think and psychologically complex in nature too. Some of the reasons listed are quite glaring and practiced across societies and persons at various times, regardless of their marital status too. In fact, marital sex as well as long term relationships tend to be more complex than those in newer or noncommitment relationships. Just as a married woman may have a legion of reasons for not wanting to have sex, she just might have another gazillion on why she must have sex. The most important and common reason being “duty sex”. Once married, it is assumed that providing sexual pleasure to her partner is a given. She must fulfill her own side of the bargain to keep the union. To some other women, it is the price for the status and benefits. In this case, it has nothing to do with her own sexual pleasures or preference and more about submission, ditto the man. Many women also believe that the more sex they have with their partners, the less chances he is likely to stray. Women assume that the more sex he gets with them, the less chances he is likely to think about sex outside the box, much less look for it. While good communication channel and a strong sexual connection may have been identified as important keys to a good relationship, hardly has having sex with a partner on demand been known to keep a person from straying into the thighs of another individual. Some women also believe that sex and

children are the perfect ways to keep their men. Women dubiously believe that the more children and responsibility they throw at their husbands, the less likely they are to walk away from them. So, where they have agreed on two children, these women, on their own volition, manipulate or “accidentally” go on to have more children. This hardly works in some cases. You can only keep a man down for as long as he wants to stay down. I intend to write more about this complex situation in subsequent editions. Let’s just go through some reasons I found quite interesting in this book which I have practical examples for: Pity sex: Women may sometimes give in to sex for this simple reason, after all, we are women with maternal instincts. Some of the women in the book confessed to have had sex with men just because they felt sorry for them. According to one, she had been dating a guy over two years and he had been pleading with her all through. One day, she said she took pity on him and agreed. However, he was out of the door as soon as he could pull his pants up. A similar scenario happened to one of the young girls I counsel. She’d been dating the guy for quite some time, and though she’d told him she was no virgin, she’d however decided to go celibate until she was married. The guy had gone on to systematically work on her emotions and soon, broke her down. She said the day she agreed to have sex with him, he had prostrated flat on his stomach, swearing heaven on earth. What kind of desperation is that? However, what happened after the act, almost robbed her of her education as she did not want to return to school. She said immediately it was over, he jumped up and punched the air with his fist, asking if that was all that she had to offer and that he’d had better lays. He went on to tell her that he had only been acting out a script and never loved her. In fact, he and a couple of guys already placed a bet on her and though she had tried, he had won eventually. To make matters worse, he had ordered her out of his room. She said she ran away from school and several days was even scared to pick her calls or check the social media as she feared that he had recorded their activities and might post it on the internet. Eventually, he had come to apologise but the damage had already been done. Sex for pity’s sake almost always turn out to leave a sour taste in the mouth as you can never be sure of the other person’s motives. Have sex because you want to and not because you feel pressured to, or are sorry for the guy. That way, should things go sour, you can hold your head up, look the a- - in the eye and say “f..k off, you fall me, I fall you, no big deal!” Marriage sex: This is very different from marital sex. This is simply sex to negotiate for marriage. Some ladies believe that having sex with a guy will provide them the opportunity to show the guys and convince them that they are good and suitable for each other. To add insult to injury, some of these ladies are prepared to play little housewife roles, they go over to the guy’s apartments for chores and even wash their dirty under

Negotiation sex: If the above seem rather on the dark side, let’s bring it down to base. Many things have been written about the power of the female anatomy. I mean, bottom power! Many men, both high and lowly have been known to succumb to the aura of this potent natural endowment. Many women have perfected the art of using their gifts from mother nature to get what they want through intense manipulation and negotiation. Sex is thus used by women to curry favour, to get jobs, promotions, or even maintain status as the case might be. A friend once told me the trick she uses to get anything she wants from her boyfriend. According to her, he is one of those shy types who can hardly express his thoughts or views on issues, let alone approach women. So, he considers himself very lucky to have found her and perhaps cannot trade the opportunity of the occasional sex for anything. (not yet, at least). So, for her, most times, She engages in sex to get him to do stuff for her. Her crude method even involves stopping in the middle of the act to get him to agree to her demand. And the poor thing just crumbles like a pack of cards. Revenge sex: This is common with women who have been hurt and who want to get their pound of flesh. Often, a wife might cheat on her cheating husband just to get back at him and probably make him feel the way she felt. It could also be to get back at a partner who has neglected them. Again, she might have sex to reassure herself that she is still pretty and desirable by men after she’d been jilted by one, or to simply walk out of an existing relationship. Revenge sex may sometimes take a bizarre twist, depending on motive and individual. While working on my book, Youth, Sex and Wellbeing, I spoke with a lady who confessed to having slept with a boyfriend she was no longer interested in and infected him with a STI. According to her, she’d gone to visit on his insistence, thinking that she would seize the opportunity to inform him of her slight indisposition. But to her annoyance, she caught him escorting another girl off. And though she’d always known she was not his only partner, seeing him that day was just too much and she made up her mind to teach him a lesson. A couple of years back, a National Newspaper published the self confession of a university undergraduate who at the brink of death, afflicted with full blown AIDS, claimed she’d purposely passed on the HIV virus to over 400 men. Her grouse was not with these men but the man who’d given her the virus and she wanted to take her revenge out on the world. If the men thought she was an easy lay at the time, they definitely would have a change of heart after reading her confession! Cindy Meston and David Buss, aptly summarised the various motives in these words. “Every person brings their own individual history to any sexual situation. The reasons why they are having sex, the way they feel about the sex and the consequences of having sex are all very different across individuals no matter what gender they happen to be”. And that includes men too.

SATURDAY VANGUARD, MAY 23, 2015—49

, 08074106346

Staying in comfortable hotels inspired my passion for hospitality business —Ojede, CEO, Pearl One Suites

r. Michael Emordi Ojede is Chairman/CEO of Pearl Hospitality Services Limited, operators of Pearl One Suites. In this interview with Saturday Business Vanguard, Mr. Ojede discusses a wide range of issues about his person, business associations, and the good and bad associated with hospitality business in Nigeria. Mr. Ojede, son of a retired estate consultant and petty trading mother, says he never forgets the advice of his parents that success is borne out of one’s self determination to succeed no matter the harsh environment or unsavoury circumstances. This he said encouraged him to be ambitious and hardworking in his humble nature. Excerpts: How did you venture into Pearl One Suites? Hospitality business for me is something I have always desired. My wish is to own a chain of five-star hotels across the country since it is one business that will always have immediate impact on the lives of people. Come to think of it, apart from good health and employment, the next or should I say the primary need of man is shelter. I have been in hospitality business for a long time. I didn’t just start over night. At a time, while growing up, I spent most of my time in hotels/suites, using their lobbies and sometimes their rooms as an office. And during these periods, I found out that staying in some of these hotels and suites actually helped in reducing my stress level and helped me to be focused. For me, it was a home away from home. That experience is what inspired me into the business. I want to be able to also take away stress from people. That is why I have always ensured that at Pearl One, we give our guests the quality of service that is home away from home. Environment and services Our location is very beautiful. The truth is this, when somebody wakes up in the

morning and decides to check into a hotel, such a person is actually looking for a home away from home. You are looking for where you will go and feel relaxed and treated like a king. Don’t forget that checking into a hotel once in a while helps to reduce stress, either from work or from the home front. The mission of Pearl One is principally to assist our guests in managing their stress. System conditions As someone who has spent close to 10 years patronizing hotels, I strongly believe that I am an authority in defining what people actually want. Other than a comfortable room to sleep in, we have one of the best restaurants you can ever think of. Our delicacies are actually out of this world. The traffic situation in Lagos is not helpful, especially within this axis. We have taken care of that by erecting a sit out bush bar, where you can relax, watch football and wait for the traffic to ease out. For those who prefer privacy, we equally have a mini sports bar to cater for their needs. Why are you unique? We are unique in terms of our services; our rooms are spacious and like I said earlier on, our dishes are first class. That in itself stands us out. First time visit to our premises simply gives you the air that we are passionate about what we do and that we truly understand the desires of our prospective guests. For us, it is the customer first. We believe in the customers and we see them as part of the family because the business is run as a family. Every staff is treated as a family. It is that same spirit of love that we extend to our

Ojede: We give our guests the quality of service that is home away from home. prospective guests. We welcome them in such a way that even after their stay, they will always yearn to come back at the slightest opportunity. How affordable are these suites? Our room rates are very affordable and within the pocket and budget of our prospective guests. Despite our unique services, we are still within a reasonable range and keep within the industry ’s standard. Honestly speaking, our patronage has been word of mouth, occasioned by our unique services. We have set a standard and we intend to surpass it. How secured is this environment? The environment is well secured. Other than our in-house security, we also have regular Police officers that patrol the vicinity on an hourly basis. Discussions are already ongoing with the Police Command to assign us two Mobile Police officers that will be sorted out soonest. Our security consciousness is very high and we intend to continue to improve on it. Security within the environment is one major reason why we have high patronage. What are your challenges? Every business in Lagos State, or should I say all over the country right now, is faced with almost the same challenges: high cost of operations occasioned mostly by

epileptic and erratic power supply, multiple taxation, traffic congestion, bad roads, etc. I strongly believe that if the people are not happy, government cannot be successful. If businesses are not thriving, both the people and the government cannot develop. We are looking forward and believing that the governor-elect, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode will review the current tax system operational in the state with a view to encouraging small business owners like us who are willing to compliment government’s efforts by creating employment for our youths. We are equally hopeful that the in-coming government at the federal level will address the issue of power supply and work towards diversifying the revenue base of the economy. It is high time we moved away from oil and revamp our agricultural and other sectors. Looking at it on a serious note, the government is not supposed to get involved in business but should rather work towards creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. It is only in Nigeria that the government is seen to be competing with corporate and not-too-corporate organizations in service delivery.

L-R: Wetlands International –Nigeria, Elizabeth Odetola;The Dean of Science, Rivers state University of Science and Technology, Prof. Ike Ekweozor; Wetlands International –Nigeria,Michael Uwagbae; Wetlands International – Netherlands, Ward Hagemeijer, Wetlands International Africa – Dakar, Barineme B. Fakae, (Vice Chancellor), Rivers State University of Science and Technology, John A Convenant University Mass Communication graduate, Miss Brenda Evbodagbe, (c) Onwuteak, Rivers state University of Science and Technology, Dr. Chovwen, Living won the maiden edition of the Miss Bold & Beautiful Paegent at the NYSC Orientation Earth Nigeria Foundation, at the Wetlands International Nigeria sponsored Sustainable Livelihoods and Biodiversity Project (SLBP) Restitution and Validation Camp, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos. of the Niger Delta workshop, held in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State recently

50—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

REVEALED:

•The positive bias of the physician governor

BY SOLA OGUNDIPE

HEN asked what legacy he was leaving in healthcare, Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan didn’t mince words. “What I’ll like to be remembered for is that, as a result of my programmes and policies, no woman must die during childbirth. This particular feat is what I would like to be remembered for assuming posterity wants to talk about me,” he asserted. Several years ago, as a young medical doctor struggling to carry out his duty of saving lives, Governor Uduaghan witnessed an unfortunate incident involving a pregnant woman who was turned back from a private hospital because she could not afford to pay for the services. The heavily unidentified pregnant woman had approached the hospital in question to seek attention for a complaint connected with her pregnancy, but she was sent away when it was discovered that she had no money. The woman went away, but a few days later, was rushed back to the same hospital in a more critical state. The unborn baby had died in her womb and an emergency Caesarean Section was necessary to remove the dead baby and rescue the distraught woman from certain death. The C M Y K

woman very nearly lost her life and was saved just in the nick of time. It was later discovered she had obstructed labour because the baby was in a position described medically as “breech presentation” meaning the head was stuck and couldn’t come out. Doctors acknowledged that in no way could she have had a normal delivery because she was in a lifethreatening situation. But, as a result of the woman’s inability to afford the cost of hospital delivery, she had been forced to exploit cheaper source of care and consulted Traditional Birth Attendants, TBAs, who were not able to determine on time that her case was an emergency that required hospital delivery. In their own ignorance, the TBAs ended up pulling and pulling the baby until the neck was so long and the baby asphyxiated (lost oxygen). The baby died and still the TBAs could not evacuate the dead foetus. It was a breech presentation and when the woman returned with a dead baby in her, the hospital had to treat her because her life was at risk. As a young medical doctor, Uduaghan witnessed this series of events and they touched him to the marrow. Although helpless to do anything significant at that point in time, that singular incident made

such an indelible impression that he vowed to do everything possible to ensure that in his lifetime, never again would a pregnant woman in Delta State be denied access to services because she is unable to pay. He resolved to ensure that women would have unhindered access to adequate antenatal, delivery and post natal services free of charge, so that they and their babies no longer die as a result of lack of money to pay for the services. This particular incident was what informed the Delta State’s policy on free access to maternal and child health services which Dr Uduaghan himself spearheaded and brought to reality when he became governor. This was in the realisation that apart from the fact a woman who gets pregnant must, inevitably, be delivered of the baby, where and how she delivers are choices that money helps the woman to make. So he realised he needed to make access to safe delivery free, including Caesarean Section. And that exactly is what he has done. Since his inauguration, the Governor has displayed a rare commitment to the health and welfare of Deltans, as enshrined in his three-point agenda. The free maternal and rural healthcare programme is a classic example of

The pathetic incident that informed Uduaghan’s Maternal Care Policy

During the first four years of the Uduaghan administration, the free maternal and child health policy contributed towards the drastic reduction of the maternal and infant mortality ratios and by the end of the first term of administration, the incidence of maternal death had reduced by half

how he has defined the true face of Delta State. His strong belief that a healthy population is the basis for a wealthy society has paid off. In the State today, mandatory maternal health care services are available free of charge in all public hospitals under the Free Maternal Healthcare Programme. This was one of the first policies he implemented as Governor. Under this scheme, all newly born and infants aged five and below, are treated free of charge by the state government. To date, free surgical treatment has been offered almost 20,000 beneficiaries in 94 communities across the state courtesy of the governments’ free rural health scheme. During the first four years of the Uduaghan administration, the free maternal and child health policy contributed towards the drastic reduction of the maternal and infant mortality ratios and by the end of the first term of administration, the incidence of maternal death had reduced by half. So successful was the programme that by 2012, Delta State had achieved the Millennium Development Goals, MDGs, set by the World Health Organisation, WHO, for maternal mortality. This is significant impact. The state reduced its Maternal Mortality Ratio, MMR, that is, the rate at which pregnant women die from over 500 per 100,000 live births to 224 per 100,000 live births. This year the state is even expecting to reduce the MMR even further down to the 100s. The Governor’s conviction is that no woman should die at all while giving birth. His words: “Our maternal mortality ratio is so low because we know how to

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SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—51

Continues from page 50

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‘The positive bias of the physician governor’ government hospitals, operations were not free. A patient may not even know he or she requires an operation. Usually operations are planned ahead but there are situations when you wouldn’t know you needed it. It requires, x-rays, scans and other preparatory tests. That cost has been removed totally by the government’s policy. A study by the World Health Organisation, WHO, a few years ago showed that any woman who attends just two classes of antenatal care would have a significant beneficial outcome for her delivery, compared to the woman that attends none. So the government in realisation of the importance of attending antenatal care, ensures that pregnant women are always encouraged to attend. More than in the past, women now realise that the antenatal care enables them to know what the danger signs are, what a healthy pregnancy is and how to watch out to know if their babies are doing fine or not, such as monitoring the number of kicks, and other signs. In the view of the Special Adviser to the Delta State Government on Health Monitoring, Dr. Rukevwe Ugwumba, “Education is one of the major reasons why we are dropping in mortality ratio and even if the women do not deliver in the hospital, we are still struggling to get them back into the hospital where it is free, and overcome the myths and make them come back. “We are telling them what is safe so that they know that if they start to bleed, it cannot be normal. Or that if the baby is not kicking, or moving for the past 24 hours the way it moved previously, then it could be that the baby is getting distressed, or any other thing that the mother could not have been aware of. “We look at things like HIV because we know that a in a pregnant woman with HIV, her child does not have to have HIV even though she is fully positive, because we know HIV is not genetic, but spread through contamination. There are so

Pfizer Nigeria, actually took the opportunity to partner with the state government to ensure that vulnerable groups like children and women and people with chronic diseases, who were prone to infectious diseases such as pneumonia, were all immunised. So the pneumonia shots exercise which is part of routine immunisation in developed countries was given free to all who should have it at the camps. It was an expensive venture but was made accessible for people at the camps. That was one of the very good stories about that episode - getting children immunised and getting them access to good quality healthcare for the period the camps lasted and making them know that there is follow up.

many things done in the hospital setting that the old mama in the village cannot do. These are the limitations. They have their role, but it is limited, we encourage and train them. For instance, we tell them to desist from using razor blade to cut the umbilical cord because it causes tetanus infection, and it is an on going training.” WHY HIV PREVALENCE RATES ARE LOW IN DELTA It is interesting to note that apart from having one of the lowest incidences of maternal and child mortality rates in the country, Delta State also has one of the lowest HIV prevalence rates. As gathered from state’s health authority, “the reason is not because the men are not being men and all that, but we are testing them for free and constantly and they are complying.” The state has a robust HIV education and stigma reduction agenda. The slogan is this: “HIV does not kill, it is only when you do not know that you die.” There are free drugs for persons living with HIV. There is free counselling, free testing and free follow up and monitoring, all for life. There are so many organisations in partnership with the state government to ensure HIV is controlled. “We are trying to bring down the rate of HIV infection. We cannot restrict how men and women meet each other, but we realise that if there is HIV and it is not controlled, we are risking the spread,” Ugwumba explained. 2012 FLOOD DISASTER What happened during the flood of 2012 was an emergency of unprecedented magnitude. It distressed a lot of people. No less than 53,000 persons were displaced and 11 communities submerged. The physician governor insisted that every camp must have a clinic and so that year turned out to be a blessing in disguise for the state in terms of rural healthcare. Delta state has an interesting terrain where we have land mass, water mass and sometimes accessing the riverine areas can be challenging even though boats are often used. The flood uprooted everyone at the very fringes thousands were forced to flee to the towns. As a result of this rural-urban displacement, some people had access to healthcare services for the very first time. Prior to that incident, these people never had basic checks done. However, at the relief camps, they were checked for HIV, malaria, High Blood Pressure, and so many other things. Despite the magnitude of displacement and destabilisation there wasn’t a single case of communicable disease outbreak in any of the crowded camps. The government was very proactive about it all and it remains one of the proudest moments in healthcare in Delta state.

deliver a woman of her baby. Pregnancy and to a larger extent, delivery, is a complete physiological process, but because of inadequate access to quality healthcare, some women and their babies still don’t make it. A close look at the health records and statistics show that the free mother and child health policy has turned the tables on maternal and child health in the State. The policy does not even discriminate, as residents of neighbouring states are welcome to benefit. No one asks for ID cards or residential addresses before offering them service. The Governor’s attitude is that the right to life is the right to life. “In Delta State, women are now going to the hospitals to deliver. Prior to this, there was the challenge of even doing the antenatal registration in the hospital, and because of poor access in the night and other difficult periods, some women still go to deliver with the TBAs even though the government is encouraging them to go to the hospital and deliver. It is still a challenge, but they are just a handful involved in this and the TBAs are being trained to know their competences.” The Governor’s point of view is that hospital delivery is the way to go today. “Every woman should be delivered in the hospital, even the future king or queen of England were delivered in the hospital. The argument is that you can bring all the doctors you have to your house, but because labour is unpredictable, anything can turn around during delivery. “Things could change within a split second and it may not be possible to get the right setting and a bad outcome could result. This illustrates just how important a hospital delivery is,” the governor says. The physician Governor has done so well in this perspective. He even extended the policy to free under-5 healthcare. Poverty actually makes a significant difference in terms of the quality of the human being. So having a good outcome delivery and support in the first five years can change how well the individual will do. So the importance of putting much in human resource which is part of the administration’s 3- point agenda is justified. Low maternal infant and child mortality rates are typical of Delta State and this is really something the state government is shouting about. Human capital has been essential towards making sure the physician Governor got the best right from the start. Uduaghan built a mother and child hospital in Warri, and another one is coming up in Ekpan, and there are 64 secondary health hospitals across the three senatorial districts of the state where free health programmes are being operated. It has really changed a lot in Delta state. Birth rates have gone up significantly. In the past, cost was a huge barrier to access. If anyone needed to have an operation, that person would be asked to make a deposit of about N100, 000 or more. Even in the

Uduaghan built a mother and child hospital in Warri, and another one is coming up in Ekpan, and there are 64 secondary health hospitals across the three senatorial districts of the state where free health programmes are being operated. It has really changed a lot in Delta state. Birth rates have gone up significantly

CATARACT, HERNIA AND FIBROID SURGERIES The rural healthcare programme has been quite robust. The Governor and his health team regularly go around all the 25 local government areas where there are mobile field hospitals for carrying out operations on the spot. At the 33-bed facility, there are cataract surgeries, hernia and fibroid removals carried out among others. The whole point is just to let the people of Delta state have a very good healthcare programme. For instance, at each local government, there are Primary Healthcare Centres, PHCs and Secondary Healthcare Centres, SHCs. Delta State actually has over 400 Primary Healthcare Centres, so even for the people in the rural rural places, some do not know there is a health centre near them because they are not used to going there. So during the rural healthcare activity, they are shown the nearest health centres, where they go to check their blood pressure free of charge. Although they pay for their drugs, the whole essence is to let them know what their health condition is and where they can go and follow up when necessary. FREE IMMUNISATION However, immunisations are always free. Information is available about what is required and the WHO standard for Primary Healthcare Centres is that there should be one PHC per square kilometre radius. Delta state more that doubles that. For 18,000 sq ft, the state has over 400 Primary Healthcare Centres all of which are government owned and government-centred. The state government is targeting Primary Healthcare Under One Roof, PHUOR, and is still working on that. The local governments have their role to play in the Primary Healthcare Centres but when a person dies, whether in Burutu or Asaba, the statistics belong to the state. A Primary Healthcare Development Agency run by the Ministry of Health controls the Primary Healthcare Centres.

52—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

•President Jonathan’s Otuoke Villa

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA & EMEM IDIO, YENAGOA

t is not clear if President Goodluck Jonathan would eventually retire to the serene university town of Otuoke, his hometown on May 29, from the Aso Rock Villa, after his official disengagement as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces or once again return to the classroom, his first calling before veering into the murky waters of politics. What is clear is that he will be returning to a paradox of mixed reactions that is Ogbia Kingdom, where those close to him are fulfilled and others nursing sense of betrayal and abandonment. It is normal in life as no one can please everybody. It is in the face of this conflicting scenario that some Otuoke indigenes are prepared to roll out their drums to give a rousing welcome to one of their own who, through divine intervention, rose from the neglected backwaters of the Delta to occupy the exalted office of the President of the most populous black country in the world.

Butsurprisingly,withfewdaysto Dr. Jonathan’s disengagement from office as President and Commander–in-chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, there is nothing fascinating about his ancestral hometown, Otuoke, where he is expected to return

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Mixed re

Otuoke grand r for Pre

Jonath Jonat

e plans reception

esident han than

While some folks are not happy that the state and by extension the Niger Delta region did not benefit from his presidency in terms of infrastructural development, some see his last minute to develop the area as tokenistic. They regret the neglect of the proposed coastal road that would link the littoral states of the South to Epe in Lagos. President Jonathan’s recent award of contracts for the Elebele-Imiringi-Otuoke road, the Igbedi-Amassoma road and Okordia-Zarama-Biseni road have only impressed a few. Others have argued that in spite of the noticeable flaws of President Goodluck Jonathan not being able to influence mega projects to the region, he deserves a heroic welcome for his courage of conceding defeat even before the conclusion of the collation of the 2015 presidential polls, a trait alien to African leaders, who are in the habit of sitting tight on power. This singular act, which according to them, prevented the country from drifting into anarchy has proven to the world that something good can come out of Ijaw nation. But surprisingly, with few days to Dr. Jonathan’s disengagement from office as President and Commander–in-chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, there is nothing fascinating about his ancestral hometown, Otuoke, where he is expected to return. Though the decision of his government to site the Federal University in his community has changed the once nondescript rural settlement into the most beautiful community in the entire Ogbia Kingdom and the state, the people are still living in darkness and lacking potable water. Be that as it may, the Bayelsa state government is planning a grand festival to welcome home their national hero. Elsewhere in Otuoke, the town is quiet and devoid of any sign of celebrations. The Ogbia Brotherhood which could have been the rallying point for the people is divided due to alleged interference of some of the President associates. Aside the construction workers trying to put some finishing touches on the fencing of the palatial residence of the Jonathans, which also has a chapel for worship, it is just normal business as usual. The Patience Jonathan Square ,venue of the proposed civic reception is yet to be given a facelift. Most people care less and are indifferent to the coming back of their kinsman. Obviously, nobody is happy with the development, yet the people are grateful for what they have been able to achieve under their son, albeit modest. Although the people never envisaged a situation where Jonathan will lose the presidential poll, however, having come to terms with the reality, they have since moved on and taken the twist in fate in good faith. According to a community leader and one time Community Development Committee chairman, Mekunumuni Digha, “the unprecedented transformation of Otuoke from the once sleepy community to an

academic environment with the establishment of the Federal University, Otuoke, has affected the standard of life of the people.” He noted that the people are relishing the transformation of their community. “The major and famous impact of what Mr President has done for this community is the establishment of the university. The establishment of the university has brought development to us and that is why the people have welcomed it and they are happy. “Bringing university to a place like this is like bringing light; it creates jobs opportunities and manpower development in every field of human endeavour. Our people can now develop the vast lands that had remained unused over the years as a result of the siting of the university,” he said. He disclosed that the people were overwhelmed with the siting of the university and therefore made sacrifices to ensure its take off. “The community was very happy with the creation of the university that they donated over 200

and Nigerians for giving their son the opportunity to serve and lead Nigeria, adding that Jonathan’s administration has added “immense value to all facets of the Nigerian state. “We the youths of Ogbia kingdom are ready to join Governor Dickson and other Nigerians of good conscience in hosting Dr. Goodluck Jonathan to a grand reception as he transforms from the Nigerian President to Nigeria’s most celebrated statesman.” He said the departing president has done a lot for the people, citing the Federal University and job opportunities for Ogbia youths, among other several empowerment opportunities. “Today, Ogbia youths can hold their heads high anywhere because of the precedent set by our elder brother and father. “Above all, his humility and uncommon courage in conceding defeat and for declaring that his ambition does not worth the blood of Nigerians have elevated him above as a statesman, peace ambassador and a hero of democracy,” he

eactions as

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hectares of land for the project. They organised a lunching and raised funds to build structures to enable the institution kick off. Most of the structures in the administrative section and permanent site were built and donated to the university by the community”. The Ogbia Brotherhood Youth Council, the umbrella body of all Ogbia youths said they are prepared to host their son, President Goodluck to a grand reception as he steps down as Nigeria’s president. To this end, the youths, he noted, are in high spirits and have fully mobilized the youths and the people to roll out their drums and give the returning president a befitting homecoming. In a chat with Saturday Vanguard, the National President of the body, Comrade Dazibia Apiri thanked the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP,

said. In his view, the Otuoke Youths President, Mr John Adueze said the people will forever remain indebted to President Jonathan for all the changes that have occurred in the community. He said, “I believe that the purpose and intention of God to give us a President is because this place was in dire need of development. That’s why he brought Jonathan to alleviate our plight. There has been a kind of rapid development since he became president, things that we ordinarily would never dream of. We are feeling his impact. He is a role model to us.” Another senior citizen of Otuoke, Mrs. Azibla, said even though the people are disappointed that their son did not secure a second term, they all have cause to thank God and celebrate their illustrious son for coming home alive in good health, and with his wife.

•Dame Patience Jonathan Square, venue of the proposed reception for the First Family at Otuoke in Ogbia council area C M Y K

54—SATURDAY VANGUARD, MAY 23, 2015

SIMON EBEGBULEM, BENIN CITY

YAMHO community in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State became the envy of the Nigeria last Friday, May 15, 2015, when the Comrade Governor of Edo state, Adams Aliyu Eric Oshiomhole exchanged marital vows with his heartthrob, former Miss Iara Fortes, a lawyer from Cape Verde. It would be recalled that Oshiomhole’s first wife, Clara lost the protracted battle with cancer on December 7, 2010, just two years after her husband became governor of Edo state. Iyamho, a small community about five minutes’ drive from Auchi, is today very large in the hearts of many due to the personalities that graced the day. The hovering of over ten helicopters in the sleepy community that Friday ignited excitement, celebration, dancing in the community. Just in front of the gate of the Comrade Governor is the Auchi-Abuja express road, but on this said day, the ever busy road was blocked for over six hours that the programmes lasted, forcing motorists to navigate their way through alternative routes. The who is who in Nigeria including the President- elect,Gen Muhammadu Buhari and his wife Aisha, Vice President Elect, Prof.Yemi Osinbajo, former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon were there. The list is long. National leader of the APC, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu, National chairman of the APC, Chief John Odigie Oyegun, Speaker of the House of Reps, Aminu Tambuwal, Governor Elect of Kaduna state, Mallam El Rufai, Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase, Dr Samuel Ogbemudia, Senator Tunde Ogbeha. Governors Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta), Liyel Imoke (Cross Rivers), Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom), Rauf Arigbesola (Osun) and Seriaki Dickson (Bayelsa). Former Governors Diepreye Alameseigha, Peter Obi, Senator Olusola Saraki, Prof.Osahriemen Osunbor, Niyi Adebayo, former National Chairman of the APC, Bisi Akande. Captains of Industry led by Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Mr Jim Ovia, Femi Otedola, Captain Noggie Meggisson,Captain Hosa Okunbor, Senator Daisy Danjuma. Royal fathers were not left out as the attended the ceremony in their numbers. The Oba of Benin was represented by high ranking palace chiefs, Chief David Edebiri, the Esogban of Benin Kingdom. The Otaru of Auchi led other traditional rulers from Edo North. Top military brass including Brigadier-General MJ C M Y K

Abel, Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, Auchi were also in attendance. The Director-General of the State Security was represented by Engr Joseph Oworuya, while Mr Bello Bakori, Director, SSS Edo State was also at the ceremony. Members of the Edo state Executive Council were led by the deputy Governor of the state, Dr Pius Odubu. Other dignitaries present included Minority whip of the House of Reps, Samson Osagie, Dr Chris Ogiemwonyi, Gen.Charles Airhiavbere, Ken Imasuagbon, Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, Chief Tom Ikimi, Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu and many others. Parents of the bride, Mr and Mrs Fortes flew in from their home in the Netherlands to attend the ceremony while the Governor’s mother, Hajia Aishetu Oshiomhole was also in attendance. The Governor’s children Steve, Adams, Jane and two of his grandchildren were also on hand to show love and support to their father and his wife. The Registry which was earlier scheduled to hold at the Auchi Registry was moved to the Iyamho country home of

His mother, Hajia Aishetu told Vanguard that “I supported him to marry a foreigner so that the relationship between my son and his children will remain cordial. Our Nigerian women will go and destroy the family just because they want property Oshiomhole so as to avoid the inconveniences of movement due to the calibre of people expected to grace the occasion. Only invited guests were allowed inside the hall where the marriage took place. There was tight security. The atmosphere changed when the Presidentelect arrived the occasion with his wife. Soldiers took over the entire area and made frantic

efforts to stop admirers from getting closer to the President Elect. However, Buhari, in a calm manner signaled the soldiers to take it easy with the people. Apparently telling them that he was at home with the masses so they should relax their security. However, only close family members and friends witnessed the Registry which was conducted in the closet of the Governors large compound. At about 1:30pm, Oshiomhole and his new bride were ushered into the hall. The elegance of the bride, dazzled. She smiled and greeted everyone as Lady Diana would do. Oshiomhole walked taller than his height. It was glitz, glamour indeed. The chairman of the occasion and former Head of State, Gen. Gowon, who noted that it was a thing of joy to see the governor re-marry after five years. According to him, “marriage is a thing of joy and that is why we commend the Comrade Governor for making a decision five years after he lost his lovely wife Clara.” The incoming first lady, Aisha Buhari described Lara as an epitome of beauty. She said:

THAT O WEDD •I advised m

foreigner— •The numb saw in ou us crazy t

“even as a woman, I am jealous of her beauty. We are happy for you and I hope you learn how to cook our Nigerian food fast because you have to cook egusi, Edikaiko, orishirishi, pounded yam for your husband. We are happy today because the Comrade Governor is happy. God Almighty will bless this marriage and we urge our daughter to marry every member of the family. Take

SATURDAY VANGUARD, MAY 23, 2015—55

The lady that God has directed to my path and heart to marry is not and was not a model

OSHIOMHOLE’S DING! my son to marry a

Oshiomhole’s mother er of helicopters we urr community made traditional ruler them as your own and most especially take good care of our Comrade Governor who has done so well for the people of Edo state and Nigeria in general”. Speaking also, APC Leader, Bola Tinubu expressed his joy on the occasion, reiterating that the Comrade Governor made the right choice at the right time. However, while Asiwaju was speaking, there was power

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outage. He however continued his speech, saying “ these are some of the problems the incoming government of APC will address. We thank Nigerians for believing in us and we will deliver. The President Elect knows what to do, he is not a neophyte, he is capable. Nigeria will rise again and there will be power, there will be jobs. We congratulate the Comrade Governor and we want to let

you know that we are proud of what you are doing in Edo state and in Nigeria. May God bless you and your family”. It was at the Thanks Giving service on Sunday held at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral Auchi That Oshiomhole expressed his gratitude for his life and that of his family, describing his new wife, Iara, as a model in his heart. He said that his new wife was no replacement for his late wife, Clara whom he said was irreplaceable. Oshiomhole debunked reports that his new wife was a ‘top model’ saying the speculation might have been generated from her poise and beauty. He said, “When I read newspaper stories and they said that Comrade has married a ‘top model’ I’m like maybe it’s another person. The lady that God has directed to my path and heart to marry is not and was not a model. Of course, she is beautiful and I understand. That is why people assume that

this kind of a lady must be a model but of course, she is a model in my heart and we hope and pray that we will be models in the heart of our God and I think that is the most important thing”. Governor Oshiomhole appealed to the congregation to keep supporting him and his new wife in prayer saying “I ask you to please continue to pray for us. It is not easy. I lost my first wife and it is not possible to replace her. Yes, I have married another but it is not a replacement. I understand that under the Catholic doctrine I am entitled to have another wife which is what I have done. Saturday Vanguard investigation showed that the governor shunned the idea of marrying Nigerian woman in order not to create crisis in his family. His mother, Hajia Aishetu told Vanguard that “I supported him to marry a foreigner so that the relationship between my son and his children will remain cordial. Our Nigerian women will go and destroy the family just because they want property. “ That was the main reason I supported him to marry a foreigner when he told me about it. So I am happy

about it. Besides, the new wife is a very good woman. She behaves like Comrades late wife. Very accommodating, understanding and hard working. And you know my son travels a lot as a governor. He needs a woman who understands his work and that is the kind of wife he married. She is just like Clara. Normally, people spend two years or less before they marry again but Comrade decided to wait for five years due to the love he had for his late wife. And Clara was a good person, very lovely and nice to all of us. So we supported Comrade for taking time to re-marry because we loved Clara. Comrade and the former wife lived very happily, there was no quarrel, nothing at all and that was why he mourned for five years. I am happy that he brought a wife that will bring him and the children together”. Also speaking, the traditional ruler of Iyamho community, HRH Bashiru Itameso, who equally is a cousin to the Comrade Governor, said “I was happy seeing him remarry. I am happy because I never wanted him to marry a Nigerian because our people are wicked. I prefer it that he married a foreigner. If he had married a Nigerian, in-laws will come and start troubling him. They will start tearing themselves apart for materials things and that will create serious problem between Comrade and his children. We all supported him to marry a foreigner”. The new first lady of Edo state kicked off her first assignment last Saturday at Okpekpe Road Race, when she handed trophy to Tanui Nkele of Kenya, winner of the 1st prize female category with 33.34 minutes in the 3rd edition of the Annual IAAF certified 10km Okpekpe race. More activities are expected for the first lady. But one thing is obvious, Edo people are happy to have this beautiful lawyer as their first lady.

Mother of the groom, Hajia Aishetu Oshiomhole and Mr Godwin Obaseki, Chairman, Edo State Economic Team at the Wedding Registry.

56—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

BL OOD Y LEKKI R OBBER YA TT ACK BLOOD OODY ROBBER OBBERY ATT TTA

“I arrived through Abule-Egba waterside at Ikorodu. When I got there, Vican picked me up and we travelled a long distance in a speedboat, on the waterways, for several hours before we got to the canal inside the creeks used as their operational base around 4pm. When I got there, I discovered that there were several houses that serve as camp inside the creeks. I met a few people when I got there, but when it was nightfall, I saw over 60 persons. At the operational base, they have a shrine where they make charms and pour liberation any time they are going for operation. They prayed at the shrine before we embarked on the operation. The prayer was that we were going for fishing and that God should help us succeed.”

How we sailed freely from the creeks to target •Suspect raises poser for Police, Navy •How he visited TB Joshua’s Synagogue •Pleads with families of victims

HIS BACKGROUND “My name is Duke Odogbo. I am 38 years old. I am married with three male children. My father is late. He was a businessman who traded in timber in my home town, Ondo. My mother is still alive and she was also dealing in timber C M Y K

*Suspect... Duke

business. We are five children in my family. We have two girls and three boys and I am the eldest son. I completed my secondary education at Zik Grammar School in Sapelle, Delta State, while my primary education was in Apata area in Ondo state. I had my secondary education in Sapelle because there was no secondary school in my home town; that was in 1989.”

wo months ago, the serenity of the highbrow Lekki area of Lagos State was shattered. That was after daredevil armed robbers stormed Lekki branch of First City Monument Bank (FCMB) on Admiralty Way, and carted away millions of naira. The operation which lasted for nearly two hours, left in its wake, the bloodied remains of three police officers, a teenager hawking fish around the bank and another yet-to-be identified man. Many others were seriously wounded while the pandemonium that ensued spread, like wildfire, to almost all parts of Lekki and its environs. The Police were dumbfounded and seemed helpless with the success of the operation, having lost three of their men in one fell swoop. Unknown to many, that bloody incident turned out to be like an acid test to the State Police boss, Kayode Aderanti. He, nevertheless, braced up to the task ahead and issued ultimatum to his men at the dreaded AntiRobbery Squad (SARS) to fish out perpetrators of the heinous crime, dead or alive, within two weeks. That ultimatum eventually paid off as it spurred his men into action and at the end of the day, they succeeded in rounding up four out of the 11 daredevils. Significantly, the kingpin of the operation who masterminded the forceful entry into the bank armed with AK47, was among those arrested. He was brought all the way from Warri, Delta State to execute the operation because of his mastery and expertise in handling guns. The suspect, popularly called Duke, spoke exhaustively with Emma Nnadozie and Esther Onyegbula. He ended up revealing many untold stories about the deadly operation. Excerpts:

All through the night, while we were coming, we didn’t see any police or security operatives on the waterways. We assigned those that will secure the area before we strike and those that will break into the bank and get the money

EARLY TRAINING “After my secondary education, I learnt marine mechanic for three years. When I completed my training, I began to work in Warri, and lived at Warri Corner. When the contract was over, I moved into oil bunkering business in 2008. I went into oil bunkering business as a means to earn a living. Where I live in Warri, oil bunkering is a very common business. When you say you are in need of money, people advice you to go into oil bunkering. We operated at Warri River. Oil bunkering operation has modalities because we work with people who pay for our services. What we do is to help them load their local boats with crude oil and the operation is done in batches. There are technicians who specialise in locating the area for oil bunkering operations. I was just a worker and I earned about N50, 000 weekly. We used local boats to specific locations to load products. We worked with different people. The amount I was paid weekly was used to sustain myself.” DWINDLING FORTUNE IN BUNKERING “When oil bunkering business became less lucrative at Warri River, after Navy and other security operatives began to checkmate our activities, the work became less attractive. I complained to a friend of mine called Vican who is into oil bunkering in Lagos, that things were difficult for me. While discussing on phone, he invited me to come to Ikorodu in Lagos State. I told Vican that if the venture would favour me, no problem. So, he said that if I had chance, I should come. I agreed because I had not been in regular employment in the previous two years. But I couldn’t meet up throughout last year. Early this year, I called him and he said I should come. I came to Lagos on Tuesday, February 10, before the operation on Thursday.” HOW HE CAME TO LAGOS

AT THEIR OPERATIONAL BASE INSIDE THE CREEKS “That was actually the first time I went there because I don’t live in Lagos. I was there till night when Vican said that they were going out and that he would be back the next morning. At about 10pm on Wednesday, he came back, discussed with me about their plans to rob a bank at Lekki. He promised that I would make enough money from the operation to enable me start afresh and invest into any business of my choice. That same night, at about 12 midnight, he called me that they were going for the operation and asked if I was ready, I should come with him. I told him I was ready. At about 12 midnight, we left base with a speedboat. The route which we took when I was coming was different from the one we took to the operation, as they followed another waterway. The Maijidun area at Ikorodu leads to Berger Bridge, if you are going towards Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. That same Majidun water leads to Lagos Lagoon at Epe. There is an island in Owutu located close to Maijidun waterside. That is where they have houses used as our operational base. Women are not allowed into the base. My surprise is that there is a Naval base there, as well as a Marine base. Still we sailed through to and fro successfully. We have leaders in the creeks who we surrendered the loot to.” DEPATURE FROM BASE “From 12 midnight, we moved from Ikorodu River and we got to boat club at about 5am. We went through a swampy area with a dilapidated bridge, so we could not move fast. When we got to Third Mainland Bridge, we stayed beside the bridge from that morning till about 4pm. We were not with drinks or smoke because our eyes were fixed on the operation. When it was 4pm, they said it was time for the operation and we moved. We were eleven who went for the operation. But before we left the creeks, some of us drank the local gin (ogogoro)

Continues on pg 57

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—57

'Suspect raises poser ffor or P olice, Na vy Police, Navy vy'' the others worked. I coordinated operation inside the bank and that kept me busy, shuttling up and down, monitoring activities of both those of us inside and outside the bank. After we collected whatever we could lay our hands on, we left the bank.” ESCAPE FROM THE BANK

*Duke

Continues from pg 56 but I did not drink anything. I didn’t also see anyone smoking India hemp.” HOW WE STRUCK “We went for the operations with AK47 riffles; about seven persons were holding AK47, including me. There is a company located close to the bank. We agreed to land there. So, we stopped there and began to disembark. All through the night, while we were coming, we didn’t see any police or security operatives on the waterways. We assigned those that will secure the area before we strike and those that will break into the bank and get the money. When we got there, those of us familiar with the terrain were ahead of us to ensure that we had a clean operation. As they came down, they began to shoot. Five of us were wearing army uniforms while others didn’t. I was wearing a black shirt. The army uniform was given to them by their masters. I don’t know how they got army uniforms because that was my first time associating with them. They delegated duties; some were appointed to go inside the bank, others to watch the boat while some others secured the entrance of the bank. I was appointed alongside two others to break into the bank and carry out the operation after they have ensured that there were no threats. Immediately they signalled that the way was safe to start the operation, I walked into the banking hall. I shot at the glass in front of the bank because I thought it was locked with keys. Immediately I shot the glass, it shattered.” INSIDE THE BANK “Three of us went inside the banking hall and I asked where the manager was in a loud voice, but we didn’t hurt anybody. They said the bank manager was not on seat, that he had stepped out not quite long ago. Luckily, a staff of FCMB opened the vault and we collected all the money which we put inside a big sack. When we got outside, we asked them to open the ATM so that we can get more money. The staff came and opened the ATM, but one of the machines refused to work while

“We escaped back to our boat through the back of the bank and we moved to our operation base at the creeks. During the operation, I didn’t shoot anyone. It was my colleagues who shot five people, including the three policemen. Truly, I did not know what actually happened that led to the deaths of three officers and two civilians. It was on our way back that I saw some new riffles and I asked how they came about the guns. They said they attacked some police officers while ensuring that the operation was successful. When they were coming, there was traffic and that was where they met the policemen and they shot them dead. The fish seller was killed by stray bullet together with another man. Since I was a new entrant in the gang, I could not

speak out. I don’t know what happened. It was inside the boat that I heard details of what happened. It was in the news the next morning and I read it in Vanguard too, while I was on my way to Delta State. When I read about the havoc members of our gang unleashed during the operation, honestly speaking, I felt bad, because of the innocent lives that were cut short in their prime. But there was nothing I could do to change the situation. All I said was that I would give my life to Christ because I felt really guilty, That was the first time I went for robbery operation. I have never killed in my life. I can’t explain the guilt I felt because of the operation even though it was successful.” TB JOSUAH CONNECTION “After the robbery, in my dreams, I usually saw TB Joshua asking me to give my life to Christ; that God had a purpose for me. I had only attended his church once and I stayed outside because there was no space. God knows that I didn’t kill anybody. Maybe that was responsible for the dreams I was having. That’s why I was making plans to come to Synagogue here in Lagos to receive my deliverance before my arrest.” MY ARREST “I invested my share of the money in oil bunkering business in Delta State. I hired a local boat which I used to load products. Members of my family didn’t know that I participated in the Lekki robbery. My wife didn’t know, if she knew, she could have killed herself. My wife lives in Warri with my three sons. I don’t know how they arrested me. I just came out from my house to buy something in the next street when police officers surrounded and arrested me. Till now, I am still surprised how they were able to arrest me. I can’t say this was how they were able to trace me, because I was arrested in Warri. I don’t know how they were able to get information about my whereabouts. My wife lives in Warri with my three sons. My wife was not around when they arrested me.” AFTER THE ARREST “Now that I have been arrested and exposed, it is only God that knows what to do with my life. I don’t know what to do with my life because I know I really sinned against Him. I plead with Nigerians to forgive me. To the families who lost their

members because of my triggerhappy gang members, I am really sorry for all the pains that we caused them. They should find a place in their hearts to forgive me. God knows my heart. I have made a mistake, but if God helps me, I will work to fight crime. If I have opportunity to join SARS and fight crime, that will be fine.” ADVISE TO YOUTHS, NIGERIANS “My advice to young men like me is to shun crime, as crime doesn’t pay because one day, you will be caught. Even if police don’t arrest you, the repercussion is always near. It is not only police that punish those that commit crime. I advise them to beware of crime whether small or big as it doesn’t pay. The bunkering that I have been doing for about 18 years now, if I get a second chance, this sort of thing will not happen again. My advice to the Marine police or security operatives is to get active and effective speedboats to monitor the waterways so that something like this won’t be easily pulled. When we went for the operation,

we didn’t see any Marine police. The gang leader was making calls to find out if the waterways were clear. If we had any Marine police, there would have been some kind of restraint as they minimise the activities of armed robbers like us.” ADVISE TO BANKS “Although I am not an expert, my advice to bank operators located close to the water banks is to keep the banks locked at all times, because the doors of the bank at the Lekki operation were open. We were not in touch with any banker.” PLEA TO FAMILY “Lastly, I plead to my wife and children, please forgive me. It is a very shameful thing. The truth is that I can’t face my children let alone to tell them that this is what I have done because it is a very shameful thing that I fell into this temptation. I want Nigerians to have mercy on me. That is my first time, and I didn’t think properly. That was why I landed into this trouble. I will work with the Police to ensure that the operational base is closed down permanently and that the suspects are in custody, if I am given a second chance.”

58—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

(the marketers) intend to pay the transportation fees they owe tanker drivers. It remains to be seen whether the normalcy on the Oshodi/Apapa Expressway will be sustained, with the tanker drivers obeying the order of the Lagos State government whenever the strike is called off. That is when motorists, commuters as well as residents, workers and business owners will know their fate on the Apapa road.

Relief as normalcy returns to Oshodi/Apapa Expressway BY OGHENE OMONISA, EBUN SESSOU, ANOZE EGOLE & ADERONKE ADEYERI

a ny are still surprised by what befell their eyes last week Friday on the Oshodi/Apapa Expressway, especially on the Mile 2 to Apapa Wharf stretch of the road. “Where are the tankers? And the trailers?” everyone was practically asking one another in amazement, from residents to business owners to workers and visitors alike. The articulated vehicles had all disappeared from a road made more famous by traffic jams. There was no gridlock and traffic moved freely. It was like magic! But there were still doubting Thomases who felt it was only a temporary relief as it was not the first time the road had been cleared of tankers and made free, which had caused many to celebrate, only for the gridlock madness to return a few days later. To the relief of all, the normalcy has been on till yesterday and both vehicular and human traffic have been with ease. “It’s now that I know the meaning of change”, enthuses Mr. Emmanuel Okafor, promoter of Cobe Cars, major dealers in fairly-used cars at Berger, Apapa. Voice filled with happiness, he says, “Now, see me and see you; no more traffic.” In recent times, Apapa had acquired a notoriety for traffic gridlock as the major road leading to the suburb, the Oshodi/Apapa Expressway, as well as the Ijora/Apapa Expressway, had been overtaken by articulated vehicles, especially tankers and trailers, which come to lift petroleum products and load goods imported through the two ports at Apapa. Drivers of these articulated vehicles had constituted law onto themselves, by not only using the service lanes, as traffic regulations allow, but also using the fast lanes, and even parking on both lanes, causing untold hardship to other road users. Apapa therefore became the major victim of this lawlessness as useful manhours were spent on the road.

Commuters alighted from motionless buses and trekked long distances to their various destinations. Also, motorists and passengers were robbed in the traffic. Businesses suffered low patronage and and some people relocated. Some residents who could not leave for work or return home without spending endless hours on the road had to relocate. Workers left their cars at home, while some passed nights in the office. But all these appear to be a thing of the past with the magic of last week Friday! Like Mr. Okafor, many others have cause to be relieved and happy. A hotel assistance at Apapa, Miss Linda Abanum, informs that things were not easy for them during the time of the heavy traffic. “Before recently”, she says, “we used to have about 20 guests but during the period of the heavy traffic, we hardly recorded up to 10 customers.” She expects a resumption of high patronage with the return of normalcy on the road. In his comment, a bicycle seller at Apapa said that they lost a lot of customers due to the gridlock. “All these have changed for good since normalcy returned to the road”, he says. For Ejike Lawrence, a car dealer at Apapa, life for the past six months, during the height of the gridlock, was hell. He says they experienced low sales as people were afraid to come to Apapa because of the traffic. “The thing affected everything.” John Odunze, another car dealer, says “the problem with the traffic was that it caused a lot of accidents. Sales have also been low. The way the road is clear now is very good. We pray that it continues.” In his response on how the seemly magic was achieved, acting chairman of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) Task Force, Coconut Island, Apapa, Comrade Akinola Samuel opines that the free road is an indication that tanker drivers were not touts or illiterates as many people believe. “We were instructed by the state government through our zonal chairmen to vacate the expressway after a long meeting at

Lagos State Secretariat, Alausa on Tuesday (May, 12). And as result, we now have a free road.” When asked if the road will continue to be free, he answers in the affirmative. In his response, the Deputy Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Kolawole Taiwo advised that tanker drivers should not take laws into their hands by not adhering to traffic laws so as to maintain the new orderliness. He disclosed plans by the state government to open a dry port at Badagry and Ibeju-Lekki to reduce the activities at Apapa ports. The Lagos State government had given a 48-hour ultimatum penultimate Wednesday, to tanker drivers who blocked the Oshodi/Apapa Expressway, to relocate to safe parking lots pending the availability of petroleum products. Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Kayode Opeifa had given the ultimatum. Mr. Opeifa said that the meeting had agreed that 48 hours should be given to tanker drivers queuing between 200 and 300 metres to the fuel depots to vacate, pending availability of the commodity. Following the expiration of the 48hour ultimatum, the commissioner was reported to have led a team to effect the order, which led to the free movement of traffic that Friday. There is a snag, however. In his response on Monday, the Chairman, Ibeto Unit of NUPENG, Comrade Peter Ben Ukatu stated, “I cannot give you any information on how the traffic was cleared. We got a message from our overall chairman that we should stop loading as from today. They did not tell us why. That was the reason you did not see any tanker on the road. When they ask us to start loading, we will commence.” Though Comrade Ukata did not mention it, Saturday Vanguard gathered that the message to each NUPENG unit at Apapa was a nationwide directive to suspend all loading activities at all the depots from Monday, May 18, following the strike order by Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), an arm of NUPENG. Our investigations also revealed that the order was said to have been instigated by oil marketers, who are owed subsidy arrears running into over N200bn by the Federal Government, from which they

It remains to be seen whether the normalcy on the Oshodi/ Apapa Expressway will be sustained, with the tanker drivers obeying the order of the Lagos State government whenever the strike is called off

Magic wand that unlocked perennial Oshodi/Apapa gridlock *Task force tows over 30 articulated vehicles off the road OLASUNKANMI AKONI

ore details have emerged on the Apapa gridlock miracle. M Well-thought-out solutions and

resolute execution, it was learnt, were the magic wand that brought final end to the perennial lockjam on the Oshodi/Apapa Expressway. Determined to succeed this time after many failed attempts, the Lagos State government, last week, convened an emergency stakeholders’ meeting, where it was agreed to free roads and bridges being taken over by petroleum tankers and trucks around Apapa. Those at the emergency meeting included among others, officials of the Lagos State governmnet; representative of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Kayode Aderanti; Chairman, Lagos State Special Taskforce on Environment and Enforcement Unit, Police Superintendent Bayo Sulaiman; representatives of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD); Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO); Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO); Ibru Oganisation; Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG); Independent Petroleum Marketers’ Association of Nigeria (IPMAN); Major Oil Marketers’ Association of Nigeria (MOMAN); Apapa Local Government; Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW); and Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN).Commissioner for Transportation, Comrade Kayode Opeifa, while reading the communiqué arrived at after the meeting, said government had decided to use persuasive enforcement to effect the resolutions arrived at. It was agreed at the meeting that tankers currently staying on the roads 300 metres to any fuel depot should vacate while the call-up arrangement that allows a tanker to head for a depot only when called upon be introduced. It also issued a 48-hour ultimatum to tanker drivers parked beyond 300 metres to fuel depots in the state to vacate and relocate to safe parking lots pending the availability of petroleum products for loading. The meeting charged NNPC to stop issuing tickets to marketers to head for Lagos when fuel is not available to be lifted.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—59

Mariupol may not be next target for Russia-backed separatists

n many other instances, questions are raised on where the Russianbacked separatists in eastern Ukraine will go next now that the second ceasefire agreement has failed. Many have raised concerns on the issue, saying that Mariupol will be the next target, for fact that it is the busiest commercial marine hub on the Azov Sea. It is also considered a musthave for Russia if a land corridor to Crimea is ever to be realized and Mariupol would also be a symbolic coup for the separatists. It is important to note that an advance on Mariupol would require the rebels to adopt tactics that are currently impossible without a large influx of manpower. A disturbing question of where this influx would come from exposes the limits of Russian involvement in eastern Ukraine. The deployment of senior Russian officers to plan the assault, as was the case in Debaltseve, would be

insufficient. The element of surprise, which allowed Russian heavy armor to inflict heavy losses on the Ukrainian forces in Ilovaisk, would also be gone. Reportedly, the Russians would need to use huge firepower to take the heavily fortified city and it may result in many Russian casualties. Meanwhile, Head, Donetsk People’s Republic, Alexander Zakharchenko, who earlier warned that the separatists will take Mariupol if Ukrainian forces continue their aggression, reportedly said that Mariupol would not become the next frontline for two reasons. He said one of the reasons is that the separatists

do not have the military capabilities. Secondly, taking Mariupol would require an influx of troops that the separatists cannot possibly deploy without assistance from Russian volunteers. Observation Mariupol represents a completely different challenge for the 30,000-35,000 fighters that constitute rebel forces in eastern Ukraine. The battles in Debaltseve, Shyrokyne, and Pavlopil have served as primary examples of the types of environments most favored by the separatists. At Debaltseve, separatists relied

•A woman visits a market in the Mariupol, which was recently attacked by Russia on small assault groups backed by artillery and armored vehicles. But even in the case of Debaltseve, analysts in Russia and eastern Ukraine noted that the separatists were exhausted and probably lacked the

reserves to finish the job. In other instances however, the confined, close quarters fighting that characterized the battle for the Donetsk International Airport in January catered to the small battalion-sized units that comprise the rebel forces.

US, Cuba resumes talks with re-opening of embassies

he United States and Cuba began a fourth round of talks which are aimed at overcoming obstacles to opening embassies in each other’s capitals and re-establishing diplomatic ties, the crucial next step in their historic detente. The meetings at the State Department are being led by US Assistant Secretary

of State Roberta Jacobson and director of US affairs at the Cuban foreign ministry, Josefina Vidal. There were no remarks as the talks began, although both sides have reported progress in closing in on a deal, part of an agreement clinched between US President Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro in December.

Once diplomatic relations are restored, the long-time adversaries will work on the more complicated task of normalizing overall relations. But Washington wants assurances that its diplomats will have more freedom of movement in Havana, while Castro reiterated Cuban concerns that dissidents are receiving ‘illegal’ training at the U.S. Interests Section in Havana.

For Anenih, a vibrant political era ends in dignifying style… BY JOHNSON MOMODU

n Wednesday, May 20, this year, two significant events happened in the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which suffered a crushing defeat in the hands of the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) in the recently-held general elections, namely: the resignation, in quick succession, of the party’s National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu and Chairman of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), Chief Tony Anenih. Whereas, Mu’azu’s resignation did not come as a surprise, given the lingering agitations and mounting pressure on him to do so on account of the party’s dismal electoral performance; it was the decision by Anenih to step down as BoT chairman that caught a vast majority of PDP members unawares. In a one-page letter to President Goodluck Jonathan, dated May 20, 2015, Anenih cited the current state of affairs in the party as a reason. Anenih said further that his decision to step down would enable President Jonathan to effectively assume the chairmanship of the BoT. According to him, “Your Excellency will recall that in a conversation I had with you a few weeks ago, I had offered to step down from the office of the Chairman of our party’s Board of Trustees and proposed to hand over to you as its new Chairman in a ceremony that would have taken place on the 23rd of May, 2015. I had also repeated this position in our subsequent meetings.” He continued in the letter, “As a follow up to the above proposal and in view of the current state of affairs in our party, I have decided to formally put my offer in writing

Chief Tony Anenih to enable you effectively assume the Chairmanship of Board of Trustees or approve a process that will enable any other member of the BoT, who is considered competent, to assume the position. Kindly accept, therefore, this letter of notice of my decision to step down from the position of Chairman of the BoT of our party with effect from today, the 20th of May, 2015. I am happy to inform you that, I remain a loyal foundation member of our great party and will continue to pray for the prosperity of Nigeria, our party, and for you and your family….” It is not always that this kind of magnanimity manifests in the dark alleys of cloak and dagger politics in Nigeria. Besides Anenih’s magnanimous action is the strategic wisdom on his part to seize the initiative to step down as chair of the BoT, a position he

once occupied between 2004 and 2007. He must have learnt one or to lessons from the 2007 incident when former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who had then just completed his eight-year presidency, unceremoniously snatched the position of BoT chair from him. Obasanjo had deliberately caused the constitution of the party to be amended to make the BoT chair the exclusive preserve of former presidents. Indeed, Obasanjo’s coup-like move against Anenih then was not unconnected with his (Anenih’s) subtle opposition to his (Obasanjo’s) third term agenda. To Obasanjo, it was pay-back time for Anenih. Obasanjo was not ready to follow due process in assuming the coveted position. He was not ready to be nice. However, Anenih had taken Obasanjo’s gangsteric act philosophically in his strides. His taciturn nature

played out in much bolder reliefs. The man, popularly called Leader, who had functioned in Obasanjo’s cabinet as Minister of Works (1999-2002) and overseen his re-election in 2003 as Deputy National Coordinator of the Presidential Campaign Organisation was, after the rough treatment, appointed Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua. He has, under the Jonathan administration, had the second chance of being chosen as BoT chair following Obasanjo’s resignation. The administration had also appointed him for the second time as Chairman of the Board of NPA. These appointments were in recognition of his leadership qualities and roles. He has always been a successful strategist in the plotting of election victory for the PDP since 1999, until the 2015 general elections when things went awry due to a combination of factors, including the great betrayal of Jonathan by his party men and women as well as the party's National Working Committee. Even in the current state of the party, worsened by the worst kind of defections (pre and post election), Anenih, as constant as the Northern star, has resolved to remain a loyal foundation member of the party. Many frontline foundation members of the PDP are today in the APC. The Uromiborn politician always exudes the courage of his political conviction. For him, it is not about politics of convenience, but of collective purpose, indeed, of good governance. This would appear to be his driving force;

which perhaps explains his decision to invest his time, energy and resources in his political belief including his party and politics. Over the years, especially during the Second Republic and the illfated Third Republic, Anenih has played the role of a dependable leader and robust stabilising factor. Deploying his wealth of experience, he has been able to lead his parties to victory at different times and dispensations. Consider: he led the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in the Second Republic to electoral victory in the old Bendel state when he was the party’s State Chairman; he did the same to the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) of which he was national chairman, at a point in time, to victory both in Edo state and in the country; and he repeated the same in PDP in 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2011 in the presidential elections. It is common knowledge the strategic role that Anenih played in all of these elections. He was largely instrumental to the ground works that resulted in the party’s string of victories. He did not only build the party; he also built men and women as foot soldiers. In the 2015 general elections, he was the National Campaign Adviser in the PDP Presidential Campaign Organisation; his role was said to be offering advice on how to run the campaign and manage the funds. With the defeat of the PDP in the presidential election and the need for President Jonathan to still provide a rallying point for the party, if he wishes, the position of BoT chair is the most rational platform to occupy.

*Momodu, a public affairs analyst, contributed this piece from Benin City.

60—SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

BY ISHOLA BALOGUN

r Julien Tétrault, is a Quebec lawyer, President of JTH Lawyers Inc, Canada. He founded and acted as President of the Immigrant Investor section of Québec Lawyers abroad. According to report, he has represented over 1,000 immigrant investors from over 60 countries, including a significant number of Nigerian families that have already relocated to the province of Quebec, Canada. In this interview, he speaks about Quebec Immigrant Investor Program. About Quebec Immigrant Investor Program The program was designed to offer the possibility to managers, executives, company owners to obtain unconditional Permanent Residence to Canada through a guaranteed investment of about 220,000CA$ (about N35million), regardless of their age or education. A price that may seem high at first glance even for HNWI, but that leads to further savings already in student fee just by having two children doing their superior studies in Canada. Benefits Most people will do it first and foremost for their children, because it is the smartest solution on all levels. On economical level, it gives top quality education, free until college, then get about 90% rebate compared to foreign student fees at University. Its free healthcare system is amongst the best in the world. And as Canadian permanent residents (eventually citizens), they enjoy the freedom to take employment. But there is more to itquality of life, low crime rate, social stability, affordable housing, and also excellent business opportunities. Canada is at crossroads of a generation gap that will lead to about 50% SME to change hands in the next 10 years, and this is especially true in Quebec province where 25,000 businesses will be sold within the next 5 years. Canada is the only country in the world actively seeking for new immigrants to support the growth of its economy. With Nigeria economy being now the first in African; Canada economy has continued to strive despite the world economic crisis, the ties between the two countries continue to grow substantially, and Quebec is the best location and strategic province in Canada. Besides all these advantages, we cannot ignore the security issue. For example, our clients from Libya, Iraq, Lebanon and Syria that have gone through the process are so happy they took the decision to engage in the Investor Program while there was

Why investors, families prefer to settle in Canada — Immigration lawyer

•Warns Nigerians against immigration fraud, scams

•Julien Tétrault

still stability in their country. I am very confident in Nigeria stability, do not get me wrong on this, but no one can ignore the fact that it is intelligent planning to continue to plant seeds – and by this I mean submitting one’s application under the QIIP, - for having the option to later move to a safer harbor. The Quebec Immigrant Investor Program is not a process that can be completed overnight, and people that realize that usually want to engage in the process right away. Professional assistance Only Quebec lawyers or registered Quebec immigration consultants are authorized by our government to

Nigerian teenager bags UK Imperial College Scholarship for Ph.D By Tom Moses

OR emerging the best graduating student in her Masters programme in Advanced Chemical Engineering in the latest 2014/2015 convocation ceremony of the Imperial College, London, United Kingdom, Miss Christiana Esio Okwong Udoh has been offered a Doctorate scholarship by the school. The teenage girl was appreci-

still taking full charge of file preparation, from identifying tailormade solutions to investor applicants under the QIIP, to designing their file and representing them throughout the process of immigration until they obtain permanent residency in Canada, which is the first step prior to citizenship. But in order to facilitate this process, the support from JTH Immigration Services will have an added value for the customer : from assistance to document collection, guidance through the process, to after-landing services such as school registration for the children, assistance in finding a home, getting a car, and all the paper work such as getting the Canada health card, Social Insurance card, etc. Basically, the Permanent Residence status in Canada leads to the Nigerian investor to enjoy same rights and privileges as Canadian citizens, except for the right to vote. Then four years after getting permanent residency, family can apply for Canadian citizenship. Canada allows dual citizenship so it will not affect the Nigerians nationality. Besides, I cannot think of any passport that has a better reputation and value than the Canadian passport and its visafree travel possibilities throughout North America, Europe, Asia, etc.

ated for making her marks academically since she arrived the institution on the platform of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) scholarship for her Master’s programme. With the students’ population of over 14,000 drawn from at least, 100 countries in the world, Miss Udoh, according to source was able to weather the storm to make Akwa-Ibom and Nigeria proud. According to her father, Hon. Esio

represent immigration applicants, and we are to my knowledge the only law firm in Quebec to have focused solely on servicing applicants under the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program. But we as lawyers have been confronted with the challenge of having Nigerian investors seeking further support in the document preparation and collection, or simply wanting to see how legitimate we were because of numerous fraudsters taking advantage of Nigerians. Hence, in order to be closer to our Nigeria HNWI clients, our Canada office has made an affiliation with a Nigerian entity called JTH Immigration Services. Our lawyers in Montreal are

Okwong Udoh, in an interview soon after the convocation, her daughter’s unassailable academic brilliance has been standing her out as the best in academic excellence since 2006 at the Air Force Sec-

Canada is the only country in the world actively seeking for new immigrants to support the growth of its economy

ondary School in the State. Hon. Udoh, a former member of the House of Representatives exuding joy, said her “daughter is only repeating what she had done in 2012” recalling that as a stu-

Advice for prospective immigrant First of all, beware of fraudsters: ask for recommendation from former clients, and double-check the validity of the license since all Quebec lawyers are registered with the Quebec Bar and verification can be made by anybody online. Also, seek for experienced lawyer that knows the Nigeria environment and its challenges: ask questions and make sure you can get the assistance you need. And finally, look for added value, look for leadership: immigration process is important and must be properly done, but once landed immigrant, you will wish to be accompanied for business and investment solutions. For all these reasons, I believe we represent the best choice for Nigerian HNWI. Every one of our client tells us the same thing. They say: “If I had really understood and realized all these advantages, I would have started this process much earlier.” Every year the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program is getting more expensive, conditions are becoming more stringent, delays are not getting any shorter. Top managers and business owners are used to planning for the future hence if they ever consider getting permanent residency for Canada for their families, they don’t miss the opportunity. There is no better time than right now to launch their application. dent of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, Ghana, in 2012, her daughter had dwarfed others to emerge one of the best in her department.

NANS hails Delta Poly’s rector over projects, convocation

ICE President of the National Association of Nigeria Students, NANS, Comrade Ufuoma Victor Erharhine, has commended the Rector of the Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe, Oghara, Ethiope West local government area, Dr Clara Sogbiake, Registrar, Mr. Benson Omonode and the management of the

school over numerous projects executed and its first combine convocation. He also commended Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan and his education commissioner, Prof. Hope Eghagha on the educational transformation which had recently earned the governor a well deserved award as the Man of the Year by SilverBird. The NANS Vice President

while calling on sister Polytechnics in the State to emulate the Rector of the Otefe, Oghara Polytechnic, Erharhine mentioned some of the projects executed to include Mass Communication twin block hall, Laboratory hall, two studios, ultra modern expaneded Mechanical Workshop, Engineering complex and a block of twenty-four offices.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015—61

C M Y K

62— SATURDAY VANGUARD, MAY 23, 2015

Bashir: I didn’t get enough pla ying playing time at En yimba Enyimba T

wo years ago, Abdulrahman Bashir, was one of the big-name signings of double CAF Champions League winners, Enyimba. His arrival was greeted with pomp, colour and hope of a better future for the Aba-based side, who wanted to dethrone Kano Pillars as league champions. Expectations were high amongst fans of the Elephants that the goals that will catapult them to the summit of Nigerian football would come from the boots of the highly rated Bashir, whose reputation as a clinical finisher was not in doubt. Bashir;s first season with Enyimba started on a bright note as he scored in the Glo Super Four of that year and went on to score on the opening day against Akwa United. But the goals soon dried out as he battled for places with other strikers and Enyimba’s quest for the league faded as Pillars won the title again. As the 2015 season was about to start, players began their usual move from one club to another and like a train on the move, Bashir shifted his tent to Lobi Stars and in his first match for the club midweek against Heartland, the former ABS striker scored and speaking later to reporters, he said he was excited with his debut goal for Lobi Stars. “I thank God for my first goal of the season in my first game for Lobi. It was a special goal because it was my first game and first victory of the season for Lobi in 10 games. The victory will give us more power and confidence when the league resumes to get more victories”, said Bashir. Giving an insight on why he left Enyimba, Bashir, who dedicated his debut goal to his fans, said “my fans were worried and concerned that I was not getting enough playing time at Enyimba and I was also concerned. That is why I am dedicating the goal to them and I appreciate them concerns and prayers for me”.

NIGERIAN LEAGUE WATCH......

Giwa go tactical for Gabros

•Pandev, Gabros coach

ith the Nigerian Premier League on a three week recess, teams have started putting plans in place for a bumper performance when action resumes on June 14. One team conscious of using the break to reassess the journey so far are Giwa FC, the Jos-based outfit who are in the fifth position of the 20-team table. With 17 points in their kitty, Giwa Fc are just three points shy of tabletopping Sunshine Stars and two points adrift of reigning champions, Kano Pillars and Enyimba who have 18 points respectively. It is so close at the top of the table, with the possibility of a win or a loss by any of their top five side changing the shape of their placings. That is how close and

competitive the league has been this season, with some close observers predicting a nail-biting finale at the end of the season. Undaunted by the challenges ahead in the season, Giwa FC striker Charles Okoro, who featured in the midweek clash with Sharks at the Liberation Stadium in Port Harcourt, believes his side can cope well with the pressures when the league resumes on June 14. “It is not easy at all competing in the league but we are confident that we can cope with the demands, irrespective of the stiff challenges that await us when the league resumes n e x t month”, said Okoro, who added that the away point they gained in Port Harcourt will further boost their belief. “We’re happy with the point at Sharks, it’s not an easy work to earn a point in Port Harcourt. We needed to fight extra hard to salvage a point for ourselves after the weekend home draw against FC Taraba. “Sharks are a good side and

•Okoro they fought really hard to end the encounter in their own favour, but met a side not ready to concede defeat. “The draw will motivate us to go for a win against Gabros at home when the season restarts after the three-week break. We must still continue our home work even on break as we’ve two tough away matches at champions Kano Pillars and Dolphins once we’re done with the Gabros clash,”

Curtain falls on CBN Tennis

•Bashir

BY JOHN EGBOKHAN fter one week of serves and volleys, the curtain will today fall on the 2015 Central A Bank of Nigeria All Nigerian Tennis Open holding at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

•Babalola C M Y K

It has been a great week of tennis action on the about seven courts of the stadium, with players serving sizzling aces and returning hard-hitting forehands and backhands to the delight of tennis faithful, who have turned the venue to a mecca of sorts. With senior tournaments difficult to come by these days, owing to low sponsorship and economic downturns, it is not a surprise that players have seized the opportunity of the tournament to improve their game and earn some quick cash. Although the biggest prizes and cash are reserved for today’s winners in the men’s and women’s singles respectively, all the players who competed in the main draw have gotten their bite of the cherry. The total prize money for the competition is N14, 436, 000.000, with the men’s and women’s singles winners scooping N700,000 respectively, while the runners-up will pocket N500,000 each. The CBN open is the oldest and longest-running tennis competition in the country, with players always looking up to it to eke a living in a difficult terrain. The tourney has been running since its inception in 1979, producing great stars like David Imonitie, Veronica Oyibokia, Sunday Maku, Sadiq Abdullahi, Remi Osho and Clara Usofa. President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation and former Minister of Sports, Sani Ndanusa, who will •Ndanusa grace today’s final matches thanked CBN for its continuous sponsorship of the game and urged players to use the tournament as a springboard to improve their fortunes.

Top 5 Table Team Sunshine Kano Pillars Enyimba Gabros Giwa

P W D 10 6 2 10 6 0 10 5 3 10 5 2 10 4 5

L PTS 2 20 4 18 2 18 3 17 1 17

P W 10 2 10 2 10 1 10 2 10 1

L PTS 4 10 4 10 3 9 5 8 4 8

Last 5 Table Team Dolphins Bayelsa Lobi Shooting Sharks

D 4 4 6 2 5

Results Enyimba 3 El-Kanemi 1 Pillars 2 Gabros 1 Akwa Utd 2 Shooting Stars Lobi Stars 1 Heartland Sunshine Stars 1 Kwara Utd Taraba 1 Dolphins Sharks 1 Giwa Rangers 0 Nasarawa Bayelsa 1 Wikki 0

1 0 0 1 1 0

SATURDAY VANGUARD, MAY 23, 2015 — 63

TRANSFER TTALK....TRANSFER ALK....TRANSFER TTALK ALK

Benitez ‘happy at

Real Madrid’

•Advocaat

Advocaat:

s reports intensify around the Napoli boss, Rafa Benitez’s agent confirms “he would be truly happy to manage Real Madrid.” Multiple sources in Italy and Spain suggest Benitez has been chosen to replace Carlo Ancelotti on the Bernabeu bench next season. “At the moment there is nothing, it’s all just general rumours,” agent Manuel Garcia Quilon told Cuatro. “Rafa was a Real Madrid player, he is from Madrid and was a Coach of their B Team, so I doubt anyone would be unhappy with that history. “I am not inside his head, but I think he would be truly happy to manage Real Madrid one day.” Benitez would be a free agent, as his contract with Napoli is due to expire next month and he does not appear intent on a renewal.

•Benitez

UNDERLAND saviour Dick Advocaat will announce next week S whether he’ll be staying on at the

Pasalic: I’m going back to Chelsea lche midfielder Mario Pasalic believes he will return to E Chelsea this summer after a successful loan spell with Los Franjiverdes.

The 20-year-old Croatian, signed from Hajduk Split for a reported €3.5m in July last year, was immediately farmed out to Elche for a season and has impressed at the Martinez Valero this term, having scored three times in 30 La Liga appearances. Pasalic has recently been linked with a move to Lazio, although Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is understood to be keen to bring him back to Stamford Bridge. Pasalic, in the meantime, is confident he will shortly receive a contract extension with the Blues and that England is where his immediate future lies. “Given the intensity of the communications with Chelsea, I’m optimistic that I’ll go to London in late May to sign a new deal with them,” he told Croatian website Slobodna Dalmacija. Pasalic is aware he faces a battle to get into Mourinho’s starting line-up with the likes of Oriol Romeu and Marco van Ginkel also trying to earn a regular spot.

•Pasalic

ovic: ko Stank

Mancini right for Inter

•Mancini C M Y K

My tears will outlive my retirement

rule out a future at Dejan Stankovic won’t rto Mancini “is the Inter, but assures Robe right man for the job.” razzurri jersey for Stankovic wore the Ne assistant manager to many years and is now Udinese. Andrea Stramaccioni at art that Inter can “I hope with all my he ague,” he told Le qualify for the Europa Gentleman event. reporters at the Premio Inter, which is only “I have a weak spot for for 10 years and re normal, as I played the sh them all the best. wi I ll. we b clu the know iming I would be “An article came out cla the bench, but on reunited with Mancini from it actually that’s light years away happening. on these last two “I am fully concentratedUdinese, but you th games of the season wi never know in life. n to relaunch Inter? “Is Mancini the right mafor the job.” n Absolutely the right ma

Stadium of Light. But whatever the 67-year-old Dutchman decides, he’s already a fully-fledged Mackem hero. And not just because he masterminded a great escape which looked just as unlikely as the Houdinilike achievement of his predecessor Gus Poyet 12 months. But it was the sight of Advocaat breaking down in tears after the final whistle which has already taken on iconic status. Advocaat has coached national teams at World Cups and won major honours across Europe yet never has he cracked in the way he did on Wednesday night. He’s only been Sunderland head coach for six weeks but clearly the club has got under his skin. “Dick Advocaat is a Sunderland legend now,” said Martyn McFadden, editor of long-standing fanzine A Love Supreme. “He’d already earned our respect for sparking a revival and now he has our gratitude for pulling us out of the dirt and keeping us up. But those tears will be remembered forever. Dick Advocaat is the same age as my Dad and belongs to that generation which usually hides emotions”,

Monaco move for Mandzukic M

onaco want Atletico Madrid striker Mario Mandzukic in a deal which could see Radamel Falcao return to the Vicente Calderon. According to France Football, the Ligue 1 outfit’s President Dmitry Rybolovlev has set his sights on Croatian hitman Mandzukic to lead Monaco’s attack next season as he looks to strengthen his team for an assault on the Champions League. Mandzukic’s arrival in the Principality would in turn lead Atleti to consider taking back Falcao, who will go back to Monaco after Manchester United decided against exercising their option to buy the Colombian for €55m, following his loan spell at •Mandzukic Old Trafford this season.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MAY 23, 2015

Six pages of spor ts star sports startt here, 37,38,39,62,63

•Keshi

Eagles must go back to wing play >>38,39

•Tijani Babangida

— Babangida

Amokachi: My FA cup experience

Today’s Matches SERIE A Juventus v Napoli 5pm Genoa v Inter Milan 7:45pm

>>37

LA LIGA Levante v Elche 3:30pm Almeria v Valencia 5:30pm Athletic Bilbao v Villarreal 5:30pm •Daniel Barcelona v Deportivo 5:30pm Amokachi Celta Vigo v Espanyol 5:30pm Eibar v Cordoba 5:30pm Granada v Atletico Madrid 5:30pm Malaga v Sevilla 5:30pm Rayo Vallecano v Real Sociedad 5:30pm ACROSS 1)Malawi Real Madrid v Getafe 7:30 pm Saulos_(7) BUNDESLIGA Bayern Munich v Mainz 2:30pm Dortmund v Werder Bremen 2:30pm M’gladbach v Augsburg 2:30pm Cologne v Wolfsburg 2:30pm Frankfurt v Leverkusen 2:30pm Hamburg v Schalke 2:30pm Hannover v SC Freiburg 2:30pm Hoffenheim v Hertha Berlin 2:30pm Paderborn v Stuttgart 2:30pm Ligue 1 Bordeaux v Montpellier 8pm Caen v Evian 8pm Lorient v Monaco 8pm Marseille v Bastia 8pm Metz v Lille 8pm PSG v Reims 8pm RC Lens v Nantes 8pm Rennes v Lyon 8pm St Etienne v Guingamp 8pm Toulouse v Nice 8pm

CROSS WORD PUZZLE Vice

President,

5)Country in Africa (5) 8)L.G.A. in Taraba State (3) 9)L.G.A. in Oyo State (7) 10) Super Eagles Goalkeeper, Austin_(5) 11) Iraqi Currency Unit (3) 12) Morocco “Atlas Lions’’ Striker, Youssef_(2,5) 16) Sierra-Leone Currency (5) 17) Director-General, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr. Abdullahi Dikko_(4) 19)Number (6) 22) President, National Populations Commission (NPC), Mr. Sam_(6) 25 Cardinal Direction (4) 27) Bayern Munich Goalkeeper, Manuel_(5) 28) Estonia Capital City (7) 32) Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Joseph_(3) 33)Tantalizers Plc Boss, Mr. Folu_(5) 34)Senator for Kogi West Constituency, Hon. Smart_(7) 35) Sailor (3) 36) Kwara United Media Officer

Mr. Olayioye_(5) 37) Ethiopian President, Mulatu_(7) DOWN 1)Enugu State Governor, Mr. Sullivan_(5) 2)Ethnic Group in Nigeria (5) 3)L.G.A. In Kaduna State (5) 4)Traditional Ruler of Oyo (6) 5)Djibouti President, Mr. Omar_(7) 6)Oyo State Governor, Abiola_(7) 7)Minister of State for Works, Mr. Dayo_(7) 13) Germany |Coach, Joachim_(3) 14) Manage (3) 15) Cameroun President, Paul_(4) 18) Information (4) 19) L.G.A. in Sokoto State (7) 20) Chairman, Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Mr. William_(7) 21) Insect (7) 23) Carpenter’s Tool (3) 24) North Korean Currency (3) 26) Barbados Prime Minister, Mr. Freundel_(6) 29) England Premiership Club (5) 30) L.G.A. in Akwa-Ibom State (5) 31) Former Anambra State Governor, Dr. Chris_(5)

Solution on page 21

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