MISSING EXCESS CRUDE MONEY- Amaechi raises more questions for Okonjo-Iweala by Vanguard Media Limited

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LAST WEEK IN BRIEF BY MARIAM EKO

Police investigates assassination of 80-yr-old monarch

HE Osun Police Command is investigating the alleged assassination of the Alase of Ilase-Ijesa in Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State, Oba Adesina Alobijuwon, and the burning down of his palace last Wednesday by criminals. To this end, the police is interrogating the chiefs as well as kingmakers of Ilase-Ijesa. *From left: Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, GM/Editor-in Chief, Vanguard Newspapers; Dame Abimbola Fashola, First Lady of Lagos State; Ms. Evelyn Ndali Oputu, MD/CEO, Bank of Industry, key notes speaker; Mrs. Remmy Diagbare, Editor, Allure Vanguard; and Mr. Fred Udueme, AGM Brand, Vanguard; during the 5th Anniversary of Allure Vanguard Women On Wellness[WOW] Seminar, held at Intercontinetal Hotel, Lagos. Photo: Bunmi Azeez

Reacting to the incident, the Osun State police commissioner, Mrs. Dorothy Gimba, said no stone would be left unturned as the investigative team would be given a free hand to do their job. Gimba disclosed that those arrested by the police on the matter include the house-help of the monarch. The house-help has been taken to the SCID for interrogation by detectives.

700,000 live with HIV/AIDS in Benue

HE Benue State Government says out of a population of 4.3 million people in the state, 700,000 were living with HIV/AIDS. It also revealed that of the number, only 50,000 had been registered. The Ministry of Infor-

mation and Orientation, in conjunction with Benue State Action Committee on AIDS, organised a one-day HIV/AIDS review meeting with newsmen. It was at the meeting that the coordinator for PLWHA, Mr. Stephen Yongo, made the disclosure.

Nigeria to sell oil refineries in 2014 – Diezani

HE Nigerian Petro leum Minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke says the country plans to privatize the four stateowned oil refineries before the first quarter of next year. In an interview with Bloomberg TV Africa in London, the minister said, “We would like to see major infrastructural entities such as refineries moving out of government hands into the private sector”, adding, “government does not want to be in-

volved in the business of running major infrastructure entities as they haven’t done a very good job at it over all these years”. However, while Nigeria is Africa’s top crude exporter and the most populous country with more than 160 million people, it still relies on fuel imports to meet more than 70 percent of its needs. According to the minister, “We are right now undergoing a major turnaround maintenance programme”.

Escape from Boko Haram

NNE-MARIE Col lomp celebrated with relations and wellwishers after watching the release of her husband on television. Mr. Collomp, a French national,

was held captive by the Islamist group, Boko Haram, but managed to escape from his captors, arrived at a military airport and rescued by the Nigerian Army.

1.3m people die from road accidents annually

.3million people die annually, worldwide, through road accidents. This was disclosed by the Corps Marshal of the Federation and chief executive of Federal Roads Service Commission, FRSC, Osita Chidoka. He was speaking at the 2013 Africa Road Safety Remembrance Day for road crash victims and their families in Onitsha,

Anambra State. Represented at the occasion by the zonal commanding officer, Zone R55, Benin, Asst. Corps Marshal, Charles Nseobong, Chidoka said unless punitive measures is taken, road traffic injuries would become the leading cause of death in the world, resulting in an estimated 2.4 million deaths yearly.

Jigawa gov son’s arrest led to protest

OUTHS under the umbrella of National Volunteer for Lamido 2015 took to the streets of Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, to protest the arrest of the two sons of Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, by the Economic and Financial Crimes

Commission, EFCC,. The governor’s two sons were arrested on Thursday at their residence for alleged money laundering of N10 billion. All efforts by their father, Lamido, as well as his associates to effect their release on bail proved abortive.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 24, 2013 — PAGE 5

Jonathan, Mark, Tambuwal, others to grace Oba of Benin book launch Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, significantly broaden our

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

Nobel Laureate, Prof.Wole Soyinka, while Governor Adams Oshiomhole is the chief host. The book, edited by Dr Osarhieme Benson Osadolor of the University of Benin, demonstrates how the constitution of knowledge emerges as ideas in separate spheres of intellectual activities and influences through the construction and definition of meanings. According to Osadolor ’s preface,“ As a result, his (Oba) writings, which project his integrity and intellectual legacy,

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan, former Head of State, Gen.Yakubu Gowon and President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, are among prominent Nigerians expected at the public presentation of the “Cradle of Ideas”, a compendium of speeches and writings of the Benin monarch, Omo N’Oba Erediauwa, scheduled for Thursday. Other dignitaries expected include the Speaker of the House of Representatives,

perspective of the challenges to nationhood. Captain Hosa Okunbor, a chieftain of the PDP”, is the chief launcher while the former Vice Chancellor of the Igbinedion University Okada, Prof. Eghosa Osagie, is book reviewer. The Oba, Enogie of Evbuobanosa/Abudu, HRH, Prof.Gregory Akenzua, said many Nigerians will appreciate the Benin monarch more after reading the speeches and writings of the Oba carefully selected by the revered royal father.

From left: President, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Bayo Oyero, Chairman of the occasion; Chief Emiola Adesina; Hon. Aliyu Ahman-Pategi and the award winner ,Oloye Jumoke Akinjide, FCT Minister of State, during the presentation of the 2013 Merit Award of Excellence by the CCII to Akinjide, yesterday as part of activities marking Ibadan Week. Photo by Dare Fasube

ECA: Amaechi raises fresh posers for Okonjo-Iweala Continued from page 1

requests to the presidency for the account to be shared for the purpose of augmenting the regular allocations from the Federation Account whenever there was a shortfall, Governor Chibuike Amaechi and his colleague-governors have attended only one meeting where ONE REQUEST was made for the sharing of $1billion from the Excess Crude Account”. Beyond that one meeting, the statement said, there has been no other meeting where it was decided that money from the ECA be shared among the three tiers of government. “There is a position of the National Executive Council’s (NEC) on the matter of the Excess Crude Account. This position is that the savings in the ECA belonging to all the states is not to be touched. Indeed this is in tandem with the position of the Honourable minister that the ECA is savings for all to be set-aside for the rainy day and not to be “shared” in the manner she now seems to suggest. The Rivers State Government finds it curious and very disturbing that our rainy day savings has been “shared” in complete breach of the known procedure for doing such and in what might be considered an under the table and clandestine manner,” the statement said. “The appropriate procedure as the Honourable Minster knows

also the Coordinating Minister for the Economy, that the $5 billion allegedly missing from the ECA had been shared to the three tiers of government to make up for the revenue shortfalls during the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee process while part of it also went for SUREP payments and the balance for subsidy payments to oil marketers, the governor asked Okonjo-Iweala to shed more light on subsidy savings since the reduction in petroleum subsidy, among many other questions. Amaechi, who is also the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), had, at the second retreat of the group, penultimate Saturday, raised the alarm about the depletion of the ECA from $9 billion to $4 billion, saying the Federal Government had questions to answer about the $5 billion balance. Okonjo-Iweala debunked the allegation, saying no money was missing from the ECA. In a statement, yesterday, entitled, ‘Dr Ngozi OkonjoIweala - $5 billion is not missing from ECA – Rivers State Government’s position’, the state government said that contrary to the Finance Minister ’s claim “that Amaechi was closely involved and actively participated in making

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is that usually members of the NEC have to make recommendations to Mr. President should there be need recourse to the Excess Crude account. The Rivers State Government is certain that its Chief Executive and Governor did not participate in any such meeting where any such approval was requested or even discussed and given.” On the minister’s claim that Rivers State received N56.2 billion from the ECA between January and September 2013, the statement said the state would not have any inkling that the money it received among other state governments was funded from the ECA. “According to a communiqué issued by the office of the Accountant General of the Federation after the June allocation meeting, the sum of N7.617 billion refunded by NNPC and the N35.547 billion from the Subsidy Reinvestment Programme (SURE-P) formed part of the total distributable revenue for the month. The communiqué confirmed that the gross revenue for the month was N863.026 billion. This was higher than the N590.777 billion received in May by N272.249 billion. It said very unambiguously that the higher revenue was a result of increased crude oil production due to the completion of pipeline repairs in some terminals. There was also a significant increase in nonoil revenue uring the period due to the receipt of

accumulated arrears on companies,” the statement said. “Rivers State government therefore finds it puzzling the suggestion by the Honourable Minister that the savings for 2012 has been used to fund the budget for 2013”. Posers Raising posers on OkonjoIweala’s explanation, the statement said: ”For the purposes of clarity and for avoidance of doubt, the Rivers State government may respectfully request the Honourable Minister to shed more light on the following: · How much oil does the country produce per day? · Clarification that the benchmark price for oil in the 2013 budget is $79? · Is it a fact that crude oil was sold at prices that hovered around $110 per day throughout the year? · How much exactly has Nigeria earned from its oil sales in 2013 and what percentage of the budget is funded by these receipts? “The position of the Federal Government has been that there are shortfalls in production but does this position also take into cognisance the over $30 differential between the benchmark price of $79 and the actual sale price which averaged $110 per barrel during the period. The position of the Rivers State Government is that the differential of over $30 should have been enough to fund the shortfall in production? Unfortunately there has been no accounting for this huge differential.

Perhaps the Honourable Minister may assist us in putting this in better perspective”. ‘Piggy bank’ The statement continued: “Governor Amaechi’s position in Sokoto was that the ECA is being managed like a piggy-bank contrary to provisions of the law and in a manner that does not allow for transparency and accountability, a position which the Honourable Minister ’s rebuttal now seems to confirm, as can be noted in the third issue she raised in her response. “According to her, the SURE-P is being funded from the ECA. But the President, in his broadcast, had stated that SURE-P ‘is designed to manage and reinvest the Federal Government’s share of the savings from the partial reduction of subsidy on petroleum products.’ It was not and is not meant to be that SURE-P is to be funded from ECA nor can the Federal Government unilaterally withdraw money from the ECA to balance payments to oil marketers. Indeed the statement of the Accountant General of the Federation previously quoted gives credence to this position – ‘N35.547 billion from the Subsidy Re-investment Programme (SURE-P)’ formed part of the total distributable revenue for the month.’ It has been the understanding of the Rivers State government that SURE-P is funded from the extra money realised from the pump price of

petroleum, which Nigerians protested against when the pump price of fuel was raised. Is the Honorable Minister telling Nigerians that the SURE-P is now being funded from the ECA! Might it then be true as was recently suggested in the National Assembly that over N500billion of SURE-P money may be missing? “The issues raised by Governor Amaech were raised purely out of concern for the need for accountability and safeguarding the wealth of future generations of Rivers people. It is for this purpose and to this end that we most respectfully seek clarification of the following. · How much oil does Nigeria produce? · Where is the differential between the oil pump prices? · What price is our oil being sold for? · How much have we earned from our crude oil sales in the last year? · What percentage of budget 2013 does our crude oil sales revenue fund? · Can the Honourable Minister assist in shedding more light on the subsidy savings since the reduction in petroleum subsidy? “As a government that is also a major stakeholder in the administration, we believe that answers to these very pertinent questions would put paid to whatever false or misleading informationmay have been put out or peddled in the public domain”.

How Akhigbe paved the way to my becoming governor — Oshiomohole *As ex-CGS is buried BY SIMON EBEGBULEM VICE-PRESIDENT Namadi Sambo, former Head of State, Gen.Abdulsalami Abubakar, led other prominent Nigerians, yesterday, when the remains of former Chief of General Staff(CGS), Vice-Admiral Mike Okhai Akhigbe, were laid to rest at his country home, Fugar in Etsako Local Government Council of Edo State. Other dignitaries include Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Governor Olusegun

Mimiko of Ondo State, Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Tony Anenih, and Minister of Works, Arch.Mike Onolemenmen. Curiously, the Chief of Staff to the President, Chief Mike Oghiadohme, was absent at the occasion. Akhigbe, from Fugar with Oghiadohme, made the latter the deputy governor under the administration of Governor Lucky Igbinedion. Sambo, who represented President Jonathan at the occasion, described Akhigbe as an exemplary officer and

gentleman, “ consumate administrator who displayed outstanding leadership.” In his remark, Mark described Akhigbe as a humble man who thought more of Nigeria, adding that he was the rallying point for members of the 3 Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy(NDA). Oshiomhole expressed gratitude to God for what He used Akhigbe to do for the country, Edo State and for him.. “There are many things Nigerians can learn from Akhigbe. One lesson from Admiral is that it is not how long you stay in power

that would define what you do”. The governor praised the honesty of purpose and courage of Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar and Admiral Akhigbe in handing over power to civilians within a short time. “Akhigbe helped in my being governor today because he convinced Gen.Abdulsalami to repeal the decrees made by Abacha to stop me from becoming NLC President. And thank God it was due to their magnanimity that I became governor today”.

PAGE 6 —SUNDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

Gov Aliyu exposes ‘400 northern traitors’ BY WOLE MOSADOMI

HAIRMAN of the Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) and Governor of Niger State, Babangida Aliyu, yesterday, alleged that over 400 northerners may have betrayed the region after collecting money to back President Goodluck Jonathan’s second term. Aliyu threatened that the list of the traitors will soon be published for all to see. The governor, who spoke while paying tribute to the late Emir of Minna, Alhaji Ahmadu Bahago, at the 25th anniversary of the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Umaru Faruk Bahago, said the North was not afraid ahead of the 2015 presidential election. “We hear people who say they have a list of over 400 northerners they are going to settle, and they are sure that if they settle the 400, everything will be okay. We

are looking for that list so that we will tell the people that these are the people that want to betray you. This sense of betrayal by the northerners has festered into a groundswell of mistrust”, he said. “I must advise all of us to be conversant with the happenings in our country. We must be cautious that, through the ballot paper, we can always determine who becomes our leader in

Nigeria. By God’s grace, plenty good things will happen in 2015. Whoever God brings we will follow. Do not be afraid, let there be 200 candidates, God will allow only one candidate to emerge.” Aliyu condemned the outcome of the Anambra gubernatorial election. “What happened in Anambra State, we don’t pray it repeats itself in 2015 general elections because

that could cause a problem for all of us as a nation. We must all put our hands on deck to ensure that INEC does the right thing and the people understand their right,” the governor said. “INEC and others must understand that election is not all about money. If politics is about number, then northern states should not complain, because whatever touches one, touches all us”.

Obi: Why I am assisting universities

EEKS after Gov. Peter Obi changed the name of Anambra State University to C h u k w u e m e k a Odumegwu-Ojukwu University and gave it N5billion for i n f r a s t r u c t u r a l development, he explained, yesterday, at St Paul’s University and Madonna

Man jailed five years for selling child for N10m BY WOLE MOSADOMI Niger State magistrate court sitting in Minna, the state capital, has sentenced one Isah Aliyu to five years imprisonment for intending to sell his 9-yearold child for N10m. The 30-year-old man attributed his action to poverty. The incident occurred on November 15 when the buyer, one Mallam Magaji, agreed to buy the child for

N7 million. But the buyer promised to pay half of the money and balance at a later date. The father of the child was said to have refused because of his desperation to collect the N7 million at once. After the negotiation, the father agreed to the half payment but, instead of bringing the money, the buyer headed for the police station to report the deal. The police then followed Magaji to the meeting place and arrested Aliyu

who was still waiting for the money so that he could hand over his son. Aliyu was charged to court under the clause prohibiting selling of child in the Niger State Child’s Right Act. Aliyu pleaded guilty and was summarily sentenced to five years imprisonment by Chief Magistrate Hassan Mohammed. When asked why he intended to sell his son, the convict said, “The poverty in the country is biting and

things are difficult for me and my family. I felt since the boy was under my custody and he is my son, I could sell him and use the money to cater for the rest of the family.” The Chief Magistrate described his reason as inhuman, adding that poverty was not a strong reason for the father to sell his son. He sentenced Aliyu to five years imprisonment without option of fine.

University at Awka and Okija respectively, that the intervention was necessary. Obi presented cheques of one hundred million each to St Paul’s University and Madonna University as well as buses. He inspected equipment and facilities at the universities’ premises, saying the support to the institutions, which will get to others, was in line with the comprehensive education programme of his administration geared towards turning around all schools and institutions, irrespective of ownership for functional and qualitative knowledge. The governor charged the students to aspire to be good and worthy ambassadors by working hard to equip themselves properly to attain full potentials in life, assuring that the state government would continue to assist the universities to tackle their various challenges.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 24, 2013— PAGE 7

BRIEFS

Rep dies

Catholics mark Corpus Christi today

HE House of Repre sentatives yesterday lost a member representing Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency of Ondo State, Hon. Raphael Nomiye. The lawmaker passed on in Abuja. The Special Adviser to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Malam Imam Imam, confirmed the demise of the lawmaker.

Why ASUU should end strike – UNIJOS VC BY TAYE OBATERU & MARIE-THERESE NANLONG

ICE-CHANCELLOR of the University of Jos, UNIJOS, Prof. Hayward Mafuyai, has appealed to striking lecturers, especially the institution’s local chapter, to accept the offer made by President Goodluck Jonathan at a recent meeting with their leadership and call off their over four-month old strike. ”Continuing the strike will in no way help, but we should take what government has given and press forward for the good of all as no one can deny that this government has done what no government has done in regards to the welfare of ASUU”, he told newsmen at the weekend. ”President Jonathan has done well by looking into the problems of ASUU; my appeal to them is to call off the strike.” Mafuyai said UNIJOS has been recording various achievements in the area of research which has earned it recognition within and without the country. He said that the university has been involved in phytomedicine researches for which it won a grant of $8,000,000 for the establishment of African Centre of Excellence sponsored by the World Bank. ”The university has produced anti-diabetic product, anti-hypertensive product, anti-snake venom vaccine and contraceptive product which it wants patented and produced in a commercial quantity “to force the university research out of the shelf for the advancement of the country and we are seeking for industries to partner with us to patent our products from phytomedicines”, the VC said.

Group awards scholarship to female students

IGERIA Women Association of Georgia, NWAG, has given scholarship awards to 29 female students from selected universities across the country. The NGO also made a donation of #550,000 to 10 orphanage homes, each getting #55,000. Speaking at the 11th NWAG scholarship award ceremony in Abuja, its National Coordinator, Mrs. Agatha Nnaji, said the award was to enhance and educate women in order to promote unity in Nigeria.

ATHOLICS today mark Solemnity of Christ the King celebration, a statement said.Director of Social Communications, Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Rev. Monsignor Gabriel Osu, in a statement, said the event would mark the official closure of the Catholic year of faith. “It is a day set aside to celebrate and remember Christ’s kingship over all creation as well as remind us that all humankind must submit to Christ’s rule,”Osu said. “Here in the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Archbishop Adewale Martins will be leading representatives of the faithful and the clergy on a procession from Holy Cross Cathedral to St. Gregory’s College, Obalende, where the event will be rounded up,”

From left: Lagos State Commissioner for Rural Development, Cornelius Ojelabi, Chair man Olorunda LCDA, Hon. Abudu Amida,Chair man, Community Development Committee, Evang. Ezekiel Ogunyemi and Special Adviser to Governor Babatunde Fashola on Rural Development,Mr. Babatunde Hunpe, at the handing over of Igbanko Rural Electrification Project to Igbanko Community in Olorunda LCDA to commemorate the year 2013 community day celebration. PHOTO; Kehinde Gbadamosi

Worries as abductors of 80-yr-old industrialist fail to contact family BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

IVE days after the Ilesa-based 80year-old industrialist, Chief (Mrs.) Yinka Obaleye, was kidnapped in front of her company along Ijebu-Jesa road, Ilesa, the family is yet to establish contact with her abductors. The victim’s age and state of health are a matter of concern to the family. The fear was heightened by the abduction of another prominent Ilesa business man, Idowu

Obembe, who was kidnapped two years ago only for his decomposed body to be found a year later after a huge ransom had been paid to his abductors. The Owa Obokun of Ijesha land, Oba Adekunle Aromolaran, has directed that prayer be raised by Christians, Muslims and traditional religious worshippers groups for the release of the victim. The monarch, who raised the alarm over the increasing crime rate in Osun State and Ilesa,

said the situation could ruin the economy of the state. Speaking with newsmen in his palace in Ilesa, Aromolaran condemned the rate at which crime is being perpetrated in the state. Describing the abduction of Obaleye as unfortunate, he stressed that the abduction was a bad omen for the state. According to him, the victim was diabetic and also suffering from malaria at the time of her abduction around 7.00pm last Wednesday.

‘Fit President Jonathan returns today’ *Abdominal pains didn’t need surgery *There was no birthday bash BY BEN AGANDE

HE Presidency says President Goodluck Jonathan is fit and will return to Nigeria today. Jonathan, on a trip to Britain, had, on Wednesday, taken ill thus unable to honour a meeting with British investors. In a statement, yesterday, the Presidency said the president merely suffered abdominal pains that did not require surgery. It dismissed the claim that the illness stemmed from Jonathan’s 56th birthday bash in London, saying there was no such bash as the president marked the birthday quietly. The statement thanked all Nigerians for showing concern over Jonathan’s health. “The Presidency also commends the generality of the mainstream media whose coverage of the President’s slight health challenge in London was mostly factual, objective, fair-minded and supportive”, the statement said. It continued: “We however condemn the utterly irresponsible, deplorable, highly unprofessional and unethical antics of certain fringe elements operating in the nebulous sphere of cyberspace who persist in seizing every opportunity to unjustifiably malign and impugn the character and integrity

of the elected leader of their country. ”It is very regrettable indeed that after, in compliance with President Jonathan’s standing instruction that Nigerians must never be kept in the dark about the state of his health, the public was duly informed that the President had received precautionary medical attention for an unexpected indisposition in London, Sahara Reporters and some other reckless, lawless, impudent and unpatriotic internet-based media chose to assault the sensibilities of all decent Nigerians again with their entirely fictional, malicious, hatedriven and scurrilous distortion of the facts of the President’s indisposition. ”The suggestion by Sahara Reporters that President

Jonathan took ill following a “heavy birthday party thrown to celebrate the President’s 56th birthday at his Presidential suite in the Intercontinental Hotel in London” is fictional nonsense as there was definitely no party in London to celebrate President Jonathan’s birthday on Wednesday night. The truth is that President Jonathan observed his 56th birthday anniversary quietly. For the better part of the day, he was airborne, in transit between Abuja and London. ”On arrival in London, he spent the rest of the day in the privacy of his hotel room. It has never been his custom to celebrate birthday anniversaries and no exception was made this year. No birthday party was therefore held for the President in London and there was certainly no drinking spree as Sahara Reporters claimed”.

Ndokwa alleges neglect by FG THE Ndokwa ethnic nationality has urged President Goodluck Jonathan, to intervene over what it described as continued marginalization of the group by the Federal Government in appointments and provision of facilities. The ethnic nationality made the appeal after an enlarged meeting of the group comprising the three local government areas of Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West and Ukwuani in Del-

ta State. In a communique signed by its President, Rear Admiral M.C.O Onah (rtd), l sl Vice President, Brig. Gen. Philip Onyekweli, 2nd Vice President, Brig. Gen. Mike Ndubuisi and Secretary, Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Ekeruche, the Ndokwa nation stated that the area, inspite of being a major producer of crude oil and natural gas in the Niger Delta, has regrettably remained in the background of development.

Delta Scholarship Board award

XECUTIVE Secretary of the Delta State Bursary and Scholarship Board, Asaba, Mr Peter Amromanoh, has bagged the 2013 National Wavers Newspapers/Magazine Achievers Award. Presenting Amromanoh with the award yesterday, Editor –In- Chief of the newspaper, Mr Jimmy Enyeh, said: “You have been identified as a very resourceful and innovative personality”. Amromanoh thanked the organization for finding him worthy of the award and dedicated the award to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof Hope Eghagha, the board chairman, Monsignor Buchi Aninye, and the entire people of Delta State.

Sapele Athletic Club centenary celebration

GOVERNOR Emmanuel Ewetan Uduaghan of D

el ta State, yesterday, declared open activities to mark the centenary celebration of the oldest athletic club in Nigeria, the Sapele Athletic Club. The governor, represented by a member of the Delta State Sports Commission, Hon. Okpuno Gabriel, said the state government would upgrade the club in the state 2014 budget, adding that the club, apart from being the oldest in Nigeria, will be a role model in Africa and beyond, when all facilities have been put in place. Uduaghan said Sapele Stadium is one of the best in Nigeria, having been equipped with the state-of-the-art lightening system and two generating sets, strong enough to transmit electricity to the whole of Sapele. While Sapele town saunters its centenary achievement of given birth to the oldest club in Nigeria, the traditional ruler of Okpe Kingdom, HRM The Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, disagreed with the state government on the state of infrastructure in Sapele and called on the government to speed up the completion of the Sapele Stadium commissioned over a year ago, as well as focus on infrastructural development of the town.

Motailatu Church holds harvest

CTIVITIES marking the week-long first Adoption Service of Motailatu Church Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide, Restoration Parish, Akute, will culminate today with the Adult Harvest. A statement signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Harvest Committee, Engineer Emmanuel Abiodun Adegbulugbe and Sister Regina Jacobs, said the Primate, Supreme Head of Motailatu Organisation Worldwide, His Most Eminence, Archbishop Dr. I.M. Akinadewo, will preside at the event. The week-long activities featured bible quiz, singing competition, debate, crusade and praise night.

COCOA REVOLUTION

Ondo, US firm sign pact

NDO State government has signed a memorandum of understanding with a United States concern, SPAGnVOLA Chocolatie LLC, on the establishment of Cocoa Academy, where indigenes will be trained to process cocoa to chocolate. Signing the MOU on behalf of Ondo State, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Aderotimi Adelola, said the partnership is aimed at enhancing the wealth of farmers and improving agriculture. The SSG stressed that with the establishment of academy, Ondo indigenes will be trained on how to convert cocoa to end products, particularly chocolate, which will transform farmers. Also speaking at the event, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice,

Mr Eyitayo Jegede, explained that the memorandum of understanding.will ensure that the production of cocoa in the state is stimulated from planting to processing, manufacturing and other by – products. In an interview, the Team Leader, Cocoa Value Chain Department, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Peter Aikpokpodian, stressed that the programme will bring value to cocoa farmers and transform them, by connecting to value chain of production to processes. The Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Engr. Ademola Olorunfemi, said the state partnering with many companies - local and abroad on how better to improve agricultural allocation across the state.

PAGE 8, SUNDAY

Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

People misunderstand bureaucracy in civil service — Aliyu, Katsina HOS *Says ‘we don’t have non-indigenes in our state’

does the state key into this? It is not a directive. Democratically since we have the 1999 Constitution and some semblance of federalism, what we have presently in service, to the best of my knowledge, the Federal Government does not have a direct bearing on the state. It is not like the military command structure thing with the state government. Any circular from the Federal Government is always addressed to the heads of agencies but, if the states are willing to adopt it, they get the circular to adopt and adapt to suit their own environment. So it is not a directive per se but any good policy at the top, naturally we always take a cue from it to adopt and adapt to our local environment because the policy is aimed at weeding out aged staff so as to give room for young and dynamic ones in order to improve effectiveness of the civil service, so the state

BY LEKAN BILESANMI

The Head of Service in Katsina State, Alhaji Lawal Aliyu, speaks on how Governor Ibrahim Shehu Shema is strengthening the civil service to enable it meet the mandate of executing government policies.

What were the challenges when you came in? The initial challenge at that time was the backlog of outstanding promotions and the training and retraining of civil servants. The issue of training is very fundamental in civil service and all the outstanding promotions, when it was presented to the governor, he approved all even with arrears. On the issue of training now, we can beat our chest to say the governor has given consideration for training and retraining of civil servants. We have what we call the short, long term and regular training processes. These trainings are on-going. The short term trainings are those ones you go to recognised institutions like ASCON, Centre for Management Development, and other cognate professional agencies like ICAN. The long term training is those ones civil servants go on course like our nurses reading BSc nursing. In this regard we

Gov. Ibrahim Shehu Shema

have sent a lot of nurses for BSc so that they can reach the pinnacle of their career. We have policy and strategic courses at the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies which are the main senior executive courses for the award of MNI but they also have the junior policy and strategic courses; this year, the governor approved we send four officers because the institute gives four slots, that is one slot per quarter. So, three have gone and the last officer for this last quarter is about going for the course. We also have business apprentice and training centres. There is also the youth craft village which also complements the trainings we are talking about. In order to meet up with the current trend in ICT, the governor is setting up ICT and Business School in Katsina. Already the policy approval has been given. And the law establishing the centre is presently with the state House of Assembly just as contract has been awarded for the construction of the centre and it is most likely taking in its first batch of trainees before the end of the year. This is to key in to the current demand of ICT and business. This is all about the training and retraining which this government places a lot of premium on. It is about the effectiveness and efficiency of governance.

OW has it been since you assumed office? I think it is all to Allah for giving us the opportunity to be head of civil servants in the state, to be able to reach the pinnacle of my career. My aim then, at best, was to be permanent secretary; just like the military, once you are a general, that is the end, being a chief of staff, is an additional privilege given to you by the executive or the commander-in -chief. To be head of service is a rare privilege given to me by the governor and I really thank Allah and His Excellency for choosing me among the pool of permanent secretaries to be the head of civil service. So far so good, the challenges are quite enormous but with Allah’s guidance and His Excellency, as part of his vision and leadership, we have been able to achieve a lot. By and large, we have been able to maintain the tempo because, since I came in, our civil servants have been dynamic and rising up to the challenges, they have been part and parcel of the developmental structures.

It is not a directive. Democratically since we have the 1999 Constitution and some semblance of federalism, what we have presently in service, to the best of my knowledge, the Federal Government does not have a direct bearing on the state. It is not like the military command structure thing with the state government

Ghost workers, what are you doing to this? As you said, it is a phenomenon, it is like it has supernatural consideration but, for us here, you cannot say emphatically that we have it. Since the governor approved the biometric capture of all workers in the workforce of government, I don’t think we have that trend in the civil service; that is people earning pay but not working. We did the biometric in stages. The first was capturing the biometric of all civil servants in the state service. We then did another one for the staff in the local government service including teachers. So, I don’t think we have people in the civil service here earning without working. No. Directors and permanent secretaries not having more than eight years tenure. How

government has keyed into this policy. The governor has even set up a committee to study the tenure policy; incidentally I am the head of the committee, after vigorous work, the report was submitted to Council which of course approved for its implementation. Let me tell you what makes that of Katsina State special, the governor, in view of the time frame given to the civil servants affected by the policy, gave them three months salaries in lieu of notice for those being retired. I doubt if any state or even the Federal Government did anything like that. The implementation took off September ending. Bureaucracy is another factor that slows down government in civil service. Redundancy in number in English is repeating what has

been done. Don’t you have duplication of duties? We don’t have that. In reality in service, every officer employed has what we call schedule of duty and schedule of duty does not overlap. They can only overlap in terms of seniority. In service, you don’t have redundancy. I always tell people I am a political scientist, I chose to be in the civil service. Bureaucracy in itself is not negative. It is positive. But it can be negative if you operate it in a wrong way, you are dealing with public service and resources and you will need what we called transparency and accountability in expenditure and these are records that are supposed to be beyond you. If people are charged with responsibility of public funds, you must have channel of communication and when people delay, that is when we say people are bureaucratic. Bureaucracy in itself is a good thing in the civil service because it enhances transparency and accountability and also helps to keep records for generations to come about what is done and not done. It is only here in Nigeria that we don’t respect archives and records. In Europe, they have archives. In Nigeria too, we have national archives where you can get what was written about certain things, the correspondences between the writer and the recipient, the colonial administrators. That is what we are talking about bureaucracy. It is very essential in civil service. Minimum wage The labour joined the strike regarding the minimum wage at that time not because Katsina State was not paying but essentially because it was a national strike. When the issue of the minimum wage came up, the governor said he was going to implement it but that would be after the biometric capture of the civil service. I was part of the committee that did that biometric. I was permanent secretary ministry of finance then. As soon as the biometric was done, he gave approval to pay the minimum wage in January 2011. As a matter of fact, we are the first in the country to have implemented the minimum wage in total of over N18,500 and something.

SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 9

All letters bearing writers' names and full addresses should be typed and forwarded to: The Editor, Sunday Vanguard, Kirikiri Canal, P. M. B. 1007, Apapa, Lagos. E-mail: sunvanguardmail@yahoo.com

Oshiomhole: Golden 5 years of Edo transformation Dear Sir, “There is massive investment in infrastructure. The vision we have is that Edo State in the nearest future will become the preferred destination of investment.” ______ Louis Odion.

IRST Executive Governor of Edo State stated that Edo State has now been placed squarely on the elite list of the handful of states that point to a Nigerian future that we dream about and that is possible of realization. My prayer and new expectations of Comrade Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, is that whilst he continues with his salvage operations in Edo State, he must also see it as a cardinal responsibility, indeed a calling to use his mobilizing and motivational gifts to help, in tandem with like minds to ensure that the atmosphere of change, which today pervades our long suffering nation becomes a reality. Omo N’ Oba Erediauwa said “we make bold to say that your (Oshiomhole’s) struggle for good governance and better welfare for the good people of Edo State has created a deep and positive impression on the great people of Edo State that history will hardly forget”. Now this is what Nigeria’s Ambassador to Italy, Prime Eheneden Erediauwa, Ediaken N’ Uselu describing the transformation taking place in Benin City and other parts of the state during the Edo Leadership Assembly’s Annual Convention held in USA made these following statements. “The infrastructure and political horizon are being systematically transformed. The transformation I have seen within this short period in Benin City City as many other people would have observed is unprecedented. In my capacity

as Grand patron of Edo Leadership Assembly, I wish to on behalf of Edo people at home and in the Diaspora, to congratulate His Excellency, Governor Oshiomhole on the hope for a brighter future he has offered the people of Edo State. The ancient kingdom of Benin is fast catching up with other modern metropolis such as Abuja for example. The governor has already set a standard and is blazing a trail for other Governor to follow”. It is not the intention of this writer to dwell on those touching and heart – rending word since it will be a repetition of the obvious to devote this space to enumerating the pace of development going on in Edo State today because it is already in the public domain. But like the comrade Governor once said, it takes one person to begin a revolution and over time others will fall in line. What he is doing in

Edo State today; the revolution he is leading in all sectors across the state is there for all including the opposition to see. Well, before I forget to pay my own tribute, let me just say that at 5years in office Governor Oshiomhole has become an institution. The Governor has beome a reference point for good governance, home-grown leadership and international relations. Without mincing words, the Governor has, in a space of five years, changed the concept of governance, dismantling the old concept of “We and Then” and giving the masses a new hope that Nigeria is not a failed project after all. He has awakened the hitherto apathetic elite to once again feel part of the system and contribute their rich ideas to nation building. He has made Edo, the mini-Nigeria, a hub and preferred destination for investors, business

mongers and tourists alike, winning for the state a pride of place as Africa’s Big Apple. But most of all, he had redrawn the political map of Nigeria, giving the hitherto voiceless and toothless opposition a pride of place in the nation’s political space as well as enlarging their coast to include some hitherto hard core conservatives under a new and befitting name “Progressive” Nigeria politics will never be that of winner-takes all ever again. And as I have said in my soon to be published book. “Wind of Change Across Edo State”. So Your Excellency, as we celebrate your 5years in Office, we are celebrating the fall of the Wall of Executive Immunity and impunity. We are celebrating the emergence of true and people oriented democracy. Mr Charles Afe Ikhaghe, is an author, resident in Lagos.

This madness on our roads must stop! Dear Sir,

VER since General Muritala Mohammed was killed on his way to work on 13/2/76, both our military and civilian rulers started to move on our roads with armed escorts at break-neck speed, as if they were being pursued by devils and in the process driving away other road users, as if they have no right to use our roads at that material time and in the process causing accidents that most of the time led to the death of innocent

road users or the death of some of those in their convoy, while they, themselves, ironically survived such unavoidable accidents! Since this present political dispensation took off on 29/5/99, this madness on our roads has become worse, because every Tom, Dick and Harry that does not have the constitutional right to move with armed police escort with sirens blaring, now do so with our politicians, with the result that innocent road users are now in double jeopardy everyday on our roads, with no end in sight to their

unnecessary predicament! With the death of Professor Festus Iyayi caused by the reckless convoy of the Governor of Kogi State at Lokoja on 12/11/13, a stop must be put to this madness on our roads, as it beats my imagination why the high and mighty break our laws with reckless abandon to our detriment!

Ifeka Okonkwo, Plot 44, Ahocol Housing Estate, Phase 11 GRA, Awka

PAGE 10 —SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

Behold the world’s largest Slave Republic – Nigeria

tunately, for our founding fathers (Ahmadu Bello, Awolowo and Azikiwe included), they were the first victims of their collective folly. The democratic republic they pronounced in 1963 was demolished by a small band of armed adventurers; who promptly sent democracy in Nigeria to the dustbin of history. It has remained there till today. In fact, what we are practicing today is a of combination banana and slave republic. You ask how? Then, let me count some of the ways we have become the largest slave colony on earth. And why any National Conference, Sovereign or not, will fail. No government, at any level, national, regional or state, calling itself democratic, treats its citizens with such disdain as Nigerians are treated. I am writing this article on Saturday, November 16, 2013, while the election for Governor of Anambra State is underway. It is known world wide as a bye election – an election taking place outside the normal cycle of national elections. It happens all the time in the United States, whose constitution we borrowed, without caring to

To be a critic: A riposite "My father always used to say, "Don't raise your voice. Improve your argument." Good sense does not always lie with the loudest shouters, nor can we say that a large, unruly crowd is always the best arbiter of what is right." -- Desmond Tutu

AST week, I wrote about the uproar caused when Osun State took up Sukuk, an Islamic financial bond or certificate for the sole purpose of developing projects in the state. The accusations were that by doing so, the Osun State administration was on a fast trajectory of Islamising the state. So on what basis did they base this? Judging from my mail bag, some of the readers think there is a case to answer and that there is indeed, something going on. I have added some of the comments from last week's column further down this page. Frankly speaking, I believe they(apparently there are many!) also feel that the governor is a

Muslim and is using a Sukuk, which is Islamic in principle (it does not charge interest on the capital) that therefore, the governor is slowly making the state Islamic. Whatever their rationale, it is important to have a sane and civil dialogue without reducing the discussions to a mudslinging match. It is not going be too good for anyone that we cannot deal with our differences without throwing the baby out with the bath water. There is a big elephant in the room and some opportunists are using it to their advantage because they have ulterior motives. While they start the fire, they will stand back and let people fight it out and innocent people will get embroiled in this melee. I felt that the brouhaha was in the least alarmist, and at most, prejudicial with a thick religious extremist profiling. So I question the way some of our people love stoking the Islamic/Christian divide and the worrying trend

learn the collective attitudes that would make the constitution work. I challenge anyone to tell Nigerians when the President of the United

“A democratic republic; if you can keep it”, James Madison, 17511836. AMES Madison, one of the found ing fathers of the United States, who along with Thomas Jefferson, 1743-1826, laid out in the famous book, The Federalist Papers, the outlines of the American constitution, which was later adopted on September 7, 1787 gave that reply to a reporter who had asked him: “What form of government have you given to the American people”? Madison knew from historical experience that freedom and democracy don’t exist simply because a constitution had been written. Madison and the founding fathers of America and their descendants, till today, knew too well that “eternal vigilance is the price of freedom”. By contrast, when Nigeria became a republic in 1963, neither the Prime Minister, Alhaji Tafawa Balewa, nor anybody else, warned Nigerians in the same vein. It was just assumed that a democratic republic, once pronounced and a constitution written would guarantee and perpetuate liberty. Unfor-

amount of money that no Police officer and no President of the United States can issue such an order and have it obeyed. The Americans would just ignore “the nut”, as he would be called, and those wanting to go to that state will go anyway. Why? Because America is the “land of the free and home of the brave”. Here we are a nation of slaves and cowards and our leaders know us. Even the National Assembly, which should see the coup against the people, for what it is, kept silent. David Mark, I can for-

No government, at any level, national, regional or state, calling itself democratic, treats its citizens with such disdain as Nigerians are treated

States, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, FBI, which is the national law enforcement agency in America and the Electoral Commission had closed the borders of any state holding a byeelection. Yet, the day before the Anambra election, the Nigeria Police, hopefully with the consent of the President of Nigeria, staged a constitutional coup by taking away one of our fundamental rights – The Right to Free Movement. Nigerians were told that we could not travel through Anambra State for two days for security reasons. I will bet anyone any

give, he never went to law school. But, the Speaker of the House of Representatives is a lawyer. Why their collective silence is pregnant with danger will be revealed at the end of this article. At state level, the same disregard for citizens is patently manifest as examples, drawn from two political parties will illustrate. Let me start with Ogun State, APC, where massive demolition is underway. The last time the Southwest experienced such inhuman demolition was when Colonel Raji Rasaki (rtd) descended like a Typhoon on the people of

of creating religious hatred over certain conspiracy theorists that there has been a dominance of one religion over another. I believed it will be wrong to start fanning and inciting hatred on religious and tribal lines and, a week after I am resolute that anyone heading towards this notion is treading a hornets’ nest. So what matters to the ordinary people, what do they really, really want? Employment, housing, education, training, proper stand-

tion, lack or insufficient quality education, massive corruption, bribery, abuse of power, misappropriation of resources and capital. So no one Christian or Muslim, Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba and other tribes are lily white, they are all tarred with the same brush. Our politicians are world renowned for their level of corruption and favouring one side over the other does not take the shine off the fact. What is wrong is wrong. The truth needs to be told and I owe it to my children and those around me to do so. Without a doubt, I am a Nigerian, regardless of my tribe and religion. I will not be dictated to by the hate mongers to choose a camp. Let it be said there is good and bad in people of all religions and tribes after all. What I disagree most vehemently is the need for anyone to discard my opinion as invalid because it is not in line with their beliefs. It is a free world, don't you think? And I will defend my right and their rights to their opinion no matter what. Let it be said, my religion and tribe does not define me as it is part of who I am but not all I am. It is bad enough to face discrimination as a black person in the UK and around the world but to have to deal with the level of prejudice and stereotype in a country we call our own I find this so dis-

Our politicians who are world renowned for their level of corruption and favouring one side over the other does not take the shine off the fact. What is wrong is wrong

ard of living, consistent and regular power supply, better access to health and social care, safe roads and transports and better governance in all sphere of public and private institutions. That's what the ordinary Nigerian wants and should have. So what have they been fed? More of the same; poverty, insecurity, depriva-

Maroko in Victoria Island and now Lekki and mindlessly rendered hundreds of thousands homeless without compensations or alternative means of abode. We shook our heads in disbelief and shrugged it off. What do you expect of Mad dogs (as late Chief MKO Abiola had called the military officers who invaded his house) anyway. But, this Governor Bulldozer, and called “progressive”, only in 2011 was begging the people for their votes. How many would have voted for him, if they knew that by 2013 they would be rendered homeless and asked to come and collect compensations unilaterally determined by government afterwards? Is this democracy in practice? And where is the State House of Assembly in all these? When the mind turns to Governor Wada of Kogi State, it immediately thinks Convoy Terrorism. His convoy ’s collision with Iyayi’s vehicle, killing the Professor and halting FG-ASUU talks, was the third involving the Governor since December 28, 2013. So, it has been one crash every four months and the year is not over yet. I can testify that Wada’s Convoy Terrorism has become legendary in Kogi State. In February this year, on my way from Enugu, heading for Abuja, I encountered the menace near the Confluence Hotel in Lokoja. The road was terrible; but that did not deter Wada’s convoy from speeding like demons. Even when vehicles moved off the road

for them, some of the policemen in the convoy will still kick out or hit with the butt of their guns, vehicles which failed to drive into the ditch fast enough so that Kogi’s Lord and master can move as fast as the Devil will drive his convoy. Several deaths have occurred on account of a man whose first duty is the safety of the citizens. And, where is the State Assembly? Where are the people in Kogi saying enough to a governor who apparently cannot control his delirium of power? In my ten years in the US, I found myself stopped at traffic lights, in Boston, four times with two Governors of Massachusetts. None violated the red light stopping every citizen. But, I forgot. Those governors were human beings leading other human beings not the political monsters we have created to rule over slaves. Since the Police can order us to stay away from Anambra for three days “for security reasons”, what stops the Army from closing the borders to Abuja for a week or month for the same reasons if they choose? The black man is backward because he, alone among races, cannot think deeply until the precedents they allow come to haunt them. These are only examples. LAST LINE: Despite the coup against the people, the election will still be disputed. So what was the use of violating our constitutional rights? V i s i t : www.delesobowale.com

turbing and oxymoronic. We fail to address this malady within our socalled elders who should know better we maybe storing problems for generation to come.

with the rising discontent from hitherto quiet quarters about the perceived Islamisation of the South West. Currently ALL the governments of the states therein ARE governed by people of ONE faith. In a multi faith society like ours, trouble is brewing. Please, please, please know this for sure: many of the people talking about Osun State and his not too subtle tilt towards his faith in the major ARE not officials of CAN nor the PDP: both of which you clearly despise. Apolitical (without affiliation to any political party in Nigeria) people are seriously worried about Osun State and the religious tensions brewing. Name calling is an APC thing so the tone of the article wasn't a surprise. Just listen to people more My response: Dear Reader, I have not stepped on Nigerian soil for over 26 years, I have no affiliation to any political parties in Nigeria! Frankly speaking, The Nigerian brand of politics is too toxic for my liking. If you read my column often, you will know that I am not a big fan of any Nigerian political party. The victims are ordinary Nigerians and if we don't have an opinion then we are no better than those dividing our nation along religious and tribal lines. Thank you for your email and you are entitled to your views as I am to mine. Kind Regards, Derenle.

Mail bag response;

/-*Aunty Denrele, Your write up-To be a critic: say nothing positive, do nothing positive and be nothing positive in the Vanguard Newspaper of Sunday, November 17, 2013 is a treasure. The current crops of Christian leaders are halfbaked religious leaders who never studied comparative religion to have a wider scope. They are shareholders in most of these interest charging bank, who see Islamic Banking as a challenge to their business. They teach their members nothing, but hatred, intolerance and aggressions towards other faith. Thanks for being your father's daughter. Tajdeen Ozimede Another mail: I just read your article and it's clear you belong to the APC; so whatever the party faithful does is okay by you. Your choice really. Point is, the South West has turned a page and people ARE murmuring and for good reasons. I also assume you're a Muslim. Kindly read the article of Dele Sobowale( right above yours) and juxtapose that

SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 11

Inconclusive INEC! tive advertisement of INEC, the Executive Director, Civil Societies Legislative and Advocacy Centre, Auwual Musa-Rafsanjani regretted that ‘more than one decade after the present INEC began conducting elections, it was still grappling with problems of logistics such as late arrival or non-arrival of staff and voting materials’. Governorship elections held earlier in Edo and Ondo did not fare better. In the case of the edo election of July 2012, Governor Ad-

HE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has since 2011 established for itself; certain constant canons of behaviour which Nigerians need to appreciate whenever they seek to participate in an election in the country. One of them is that no matter the election; be it nationwide or in only one state or indeed in just a single constituency, election personnel and materials must arrive late for the event. The present INEC opened its tenure with it in April 2011 when it postponed the National Assembly elections because of late arrival of materials. Since then, that principle of lateness “due logistics reasons” has become part and parcel of INEC just the same way, our airlines run permanently delayed flights “due operational reasons”. In last Saturday’s governorship election in Anambra State, election materials were allegedly late to even a polling unit behind the INEC office-the operational base of the commission in Awka, the state capital. Reacting to this nega-

voters became restive after waiting in vain for several hours for the election process to commence. They were however luckier than many others who were disenfranchised – an aspect that has also become a permanent feature in INEC’s conduct of elections. The way the names of voters get in and out of the voters’ register now and again has turned the register into an in-house ‘gerrymandering’ facility for INEC officials to manipulate an election in favour or their pre-

It is because INEC is yet to embrace best practices in election management that security operatives always collaborate with some corrupt election officials to destabilize INEC plans

ams Oshiomhole had to publicly protest the development. The case of the Oguta election of June 2013was more scandalous because although it was held in only 4 wards for just one seat in the Imo State House of Assembly, many

ferred candidates. What can a disfavoured candidate do about the injection of unlawful names into a voters’ register which is used to conduct an election? The Ondo State governorship election tribunal dismissed a petition to that effect as a

PhD, Department of Philosophy, University of Lagos,

08116759758

How lecturers underdeveloped the universities (2) prolonged strike against those of us who hold a contrary view is that we should not benefit financially from a process that we reject. Specifically, colleagues have told me repeatedly that, based on my negative attitude to recurrent ASUU strikes, I ought to return to the government any increase in my entitlements derived from the process. Of course, university teachers, just like everyone else with legitimate employment, deserve living wages. However, it is an index of the growing overemphasis on pecuniary rewards by lecturers that most of them do not worry about the value they should add to the system to justify additional income after strikes. Perhaps, this is due to burgeoning materialistic orientation in the larger society and the inflationary repercussions of poor economic management by government. Still, lecturers must remember that teaching in a university is a vocation, and that the opportunity for job satisfaction it provides to those who truly love imparting knowledge cannot be measured in terms of naira and kobo. Anyway, instead of rejecting increases in my salary and allowances as my critics mischievously challenge me to do, I would rather demand

something better than what ASUU agreed with government. The reason is that my critical stance on prolonged strikes demonstrates willingness to keep the system running at the risk of obloquy from majority of my colleagues who believe that strike "is the only language government understands."

OST lecturers who detest fre quent indefinite strikes are pusillanimous about speaking out openly; they prefer to hide their real opinions rather than endure intemperate verbal attacks from vociferous pro-strike colleagues. In most universities nowadays during congress meetings to decide on strike, lecturers who refuse to jump uncritically into the ASUU bandwagon are derided as pro-government saboteurs. To worsen matters, the atmosphere is usually so polluted and thick with enthusiasm for "total, comprehensive and indefinite strike" that it is extremely difficult to discuss the issue dispassionately. In most cases, opponents of strikes are harassed and shouted at during debates. Furthermore, the democratic credential of the decision to embark on indefinite strike in many universities is weak. For instance, at the great University of Lagos less than eighty lecturers voted for the present strike: an overwhelming majority who might have voted one way or the other did not attend the meeting because of indifference, and unfortunately so, because they felt helpless in the face of vociferous champions of strike. One of the persistent rejoinders from supporters of

pre-election matter. In the Anambra polls of last Saturday, those disenfranchised included one of the candidates and his family. It is also rather disappointing that the commission has now become an outfit which expects new results from the use of old strategies. Last Saturday, INEC was reportedly in Anambra State with a team made up of its Chairman and no less than16 Electoral Commissioners, ostensibly to supervise the governorship election in the state. That type of highranking team had been at similar exercises like the Delta State re-run Governorship election with little or no effect. How does applying it to Anambra produce a change in an election that is compromised down the line at polling booths and ward levels? Again INEC has since 2011 been asking university vice chancellors(VCs) to serve as returning officers in elections as if their presence can stop election malpractices by professional riggers. If so, we are forced to ask again: why have the VCs not stopped examination malpractices in their campuses? Our premise is that while there is no harm in using the VCs, it does not really matter who reads out a result collated from figures he can neither vouch for nor change. The innovation is thus puerile. The latest weird trait of INEC is the comfort she derives in announcing that an election conducted by

her was inconclusive. The latest being the controversial governorship election in Anambra State on November 16, 2013. To whom is an inconclusive election cheering? In the case of the Oguta election, it was the Imo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Professor Celina Okoh who eloquently described how the election was violently disrupted in certain polling centres which made INEC to declare the event as inconclusive. Were security operatives not on ground? If so, what gives INEC so much faith in an election process that is secured by our security agencies? Of course no one expects the commission to establish its own police just as nothing compels her to rely on convoluted security framework. In other nations, securing an election is now premised on technologynot compromised human operatives. It is because INEC is yet to embrace best practices in election management that security operatives always collaborate with some corrupt election officials to destabilize INEC plans. On the eve of last Saturday’s Anambra election, security agencies were battle ready and they read the riot act to would be miscreants. Consequently, they arrested 183 election observers from Osun State who were lodged at Desney Hotel, Owerri for illegal assembly. Then, they restricted certain politicians to their hotel rooms during voting and as

one bizarre allegation stated, some staff of INEC were held-up at Onitsha Bridge for hours on Election Day. After voting, tear gas was used to disperse about 300 women who were protesting what they felt was a poorly organized election. Some of the women fainted but alas, 28,000 security operatives led by a Deputy Inspector-General of Police deployed to secure the election could not stop the snatching of ballot boxes. INEC could not have been surprised because the snatching of ballot boxes has been part of our elections. It was an issue which characterized the by-election into the seat of Moba Constituency 1 of the Ekiti State House of Assembly. In the Delta governorship rerun, ballot snatching occurred prominently with 25,000 security operatives on ground. In the case of the Oguta election, security operatives armed to the teeth were everywhere. They reportedly rounded off a batch of thugs numbering about 20 at Agwa community yet; there was still ample snatching of ballot boxes. So what else? We can only restate two issues. First, election management needs to be more competently managed. Second, technology which can render nugatory, the gains of malpractices would be more rewarding than reliance on ‘analogue securing’ of elections. INEC needs to act before she herself becomes inconclusive

that I pay my monthly dues to ASUU and my salary is also withheld whenever government applies the "no work, no pay" policy. Why should I suffer the penalties for strike without enjoying the benefits that accrue from the process? In any case, there is no good reason why all lecturers should always support the strike option simply because it puts more money in their pockets - what about the avoidable collateral damages associated with it? I completely agree with Prof. Akinjide Osuntokun's claim that frequent indefinite strike is destroying the universities; it is difficult to overestimate the damage he was thinking about when he made that statement. Recurrent strikes multiply instability in the system,

should institute a scientific inquiry to ascertain the true position. A properly conducted research programme on the effects of strike on different aspects of the university system and on various stakeholders can reveal whether the measure is good or bad, overall. It is just not enough to presume that strike is the only appropriate option for addressing the issue of poor funding and remuneration for academics merely because government usually makes financial concessions to end strikes. Let us now beam our searchlight on the management of universities at different levels, and the best place to begin is the National Universities Commission (NUC). At a Forum on Creating World Universities in Nigeria, organised by the Independent Policy Group Policy Think Tank of Mr. President, The Presidency, Ibadan, June 2005, Profs. J.F. Ade-Ajayi, O.O. Akinkugbe and Adamu Baikie, lamented that the NUC, which ought to be "a counsellor and watchdog" to the universities, has over the years mutated into a kind of dictator. In otherwords, NUC is now part of the hunchback afflicting our universities. The clearest example of this is licensing of new universities and accreditation of courses by the commission without careful planning and thorough consideration of the faculty and facilities required for qualitative university education. Sometimes when I visit certain universities, I wonder how NUC could have approved such institutions, which, in terms of facilities, are worse than my secondary school in its heydays, Ngwa High School Abayi, Aba. In addition, many of the accredited courses in these "emergency universi-

ties" cannot survive quality assessment processes, because of grossly inadequate teaching staff, libraries and laboratories. Interestingly, management of these institutions use different tactics to deceive NUC's accreditation teams. Some Vice Chancellors, using financial inducement, falsely present senior academic staff on sabbatical leave as permanent staff, fill otherwise empty libraries and laboratories with borrowed or hired books and equipment, and lavishly entertain accreditation members (in addition to brown envelopes) just to secure a positive outcome. Aside from the fact that Vice Chancellors of these universities are lecturers, most principal officers of NUC are senior academics. Therefore, whenever ASUU leaders criticise NUC for its shambolic accreditation exercises and other oversight functions on the universities, or tackle Vice Chancellors for corruption and dictatorial tendencies, it is an indirect admission that some senior ASUU members have failed in their responsibilities. The argument that government prefers malleable lecturers to do hatchet jobs in the system is beside the point: the main issue is that those selected are lecturers and, by definition, ASUU members. The conclusion is clear: some senior members of the academia entrusted with running the universities constitute part of the problems they are supposed to assist in solving. As we pointed out earlier, inadequate funding and poor planning by both federal and state government are partly responsible for the decay and brain drain in the sector. TO BE CONTINUED

There is no good reason why all lecturers should always support the strike option simply because it puts more money in their pockets - what about the avoidable collateral damages associated with it?

Moreover, all lecturers suffer the same penalties for embarking on strike, irrespective of each lecturer's position about it. I have not been paid for some months now, just like my other colleagues who "carry the strike on their heads," so to speak. Members of the public hardly discriminate between lecturers who support indefinite strike and lecturers that do not when they lambast us for keeping their children and wards out of school for extended periods. Consequently, my friends commit the fallacy of ad hominem by abusing me for not rejecting the financial benefit of strikes, forgetting

make nonsense of the academic calendars of public universities, and cause cognitive and psychological dissonance among students. They prolong the agonies of underprivileged parents and guardians of students already traumatised by poverty. For lecturers who really enjoy teaching, strike while it lasts deprives them of avenue for self-actualisation and fulfilment and dampens the spirit of productive research. If ASUU leaders are so sure that frequent prolonged strikes are good for the system as a whole to warrant universal support from colleagues, they

PAGE 12—SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

The Logic of Opposition Dr. Alex Ekwueme, if anybody cares to read the party’s charter; it is one that would make the American Republican Party feel like it has a Trans-Atlantic ideological ally. The New PDP is opposed to Jonathan, not because it does not share the old PDPs ideas; not on any clear principle, say against the president’s monetary policy, or policy on education or public health or Energy – and well of course the Jonathan administration seems to have no clear policies in

HE Nigerian political left is deci mated, or at best lies flat on the ground like the lizard with a bellyache. This fact itself makes one ask the question, what is the meaning of “opposition” in Nigeria, given that the field is absolutely dominated by politicians with the same fundamental worldviews about society? Extremely socially conservative and fiscally conservative, their political goals are far often too constrained by the immediate gratifications of power to warrant any ideological scrutiny in any case. Very often, a cohort of politicians gather together and call themselves “progressives” – and the term is indeed very ambiguous because no one actually knows from where they are progressing and to what. Once they are not in government, these politicians become vociferous critics of the government in power. It therefore seems like the logic of political opposition in Nigeria is dictated by the inconvenience of outsiderhood; or betterstill, once you identify with a political party with its ventriloquists issuing mostly from the West of Nigeria, you don the convenient and bogus term, “progressive” – which means, currently out of power. This is the central lie in Nigeria’s political organizing, and its major quandary: contemporary Nigerian politicians are drawn mostly from an extremely conservative cut of the cloth. It is difficult to make or discern any difference in ideas, methods, orientation, and goals in governance. In fact, there is no goal in governance other than the ambition to occupy public office by all means necessary and supervise the sharing of the dead elephant meat called Nigeria. This week, Governor Jonah Jang of Plateau State described Mr. Chibuike Amechi of Rivers State as leader of the Opposition Governors Forum. It left me with a chuckle certainly, but what is Amechi in opposition of? Ideas? He is still in the PDP, a party shaped by the Right-of-the center ideas of

People become “opposition” when they are edged out of their sinecures. They are not necessarily opposed to whatever is going on

these matters anyway – the new PDP simply is organizing to “return power to the North” from what I can understand. Last week, the gubernatorial elections held in Anambra State with the APGA, the PDP, the APC, the Labour Party, fielding candidates. Scratch at these parties, and you will find them all ideologically compatible at their basic genomic levels; there is no clear difference in their organizational methods and in their visions; they are hybrid of the same impulse that has governed Nigeria

since the military era of Ibrahim Babangida, and there have been no changes in worldview because these were the people positioned to carry out the various local and international agendas of their sponsors on Nigeria. The APGA is little more than a provincial copy of the PDP. Its sponsors call it an “Igbo party.” It is not an Igbo party, and the Igbo should ask the party if it continues to make that claim, “what have you done for me lately?” The APC calls itself a “progressive” party for instance, but all you need is study their manifesto, and look at Lagos state, its beautiful bride, and you will see the true face of the party: it is party of the oligarchs – mostly those who are not able to fit their fat bumsies in the PDP “come chop” wagon. But they too exist on the right of the ideological spectrum. Their economic policies, like the policies of the governing PDP, seem like it walked straight out of Milton Friedman’s Economic textbooks, with its Darwinist impulse or what the Canadian Naomi Klein has called, “Disaster capitalism.” The most surprising of course, is the Labour Party. Aside from being profoundly disorganized as a political party capable of winning elections on alternative principles, the Nigerian Labour Party offered its ticket in Anambra state to Ifeanyi Ubah, a quintessential oligarch, playing the fields with no clear ideological anchor. Needless to say that the Nigerian Labour Party reflects the ideological confusion in contemporary Nigerian politics which seems to offer Nigerians no choice – no properly organized political parties to which Nigerians with different political values and ideas can honestly subscribe; no alternative economic and social goals anchored on a truly nationalist reform platform to which Nigerians can truly rally; and in the end, Nigerian political opposition seem aberrant, a ruse; a term in errors. People become “opposition” when they are edged out of their sinecures. They are not necessarily opposed to whatever is going on. For example, no one has challenged this administration’s penchant, following in the steps of the Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, to sell-off Nigeria’s national investment under a skewered policy of privatization. The privatization of Nigeria’s energy infrastructure is not only a long term national security risk, but it also places Nigerian consumers at the whims of those to whom their commonwealth has been ceded for mere pittance. It also closes the field for truly private en-

deavors in those directions. There is no visible benefit or accounting to the public about the nature of these sales. Now, the minister for Petroleum Diezani Madueke revealed two weeks ago, the Jonathan administration’s next move to embark yet again to finalize the sale of Nigeria’s National Refineries. It is true that Nigerians have been given the impression – a classic conservative argument – that governments have no business investing in public services and utilities. This is hogwash. All Nigerians need to do is look around and see the effects of radical privatization in other societies and they will shudder at the implications of these kind of unsustainable divestments that impoverishes the nation, but enriches a few oligarchs who establish monopolies that will in the long run be unregulated and fierce in its exploitation of the public. The economic empowerment of a few people in a society is not democracy, it is oligarchy. This is the legacy of the current ruling party – the radical and unsustainable impoverishment of the mass of Nigerians to the benefit of a few insiders and oligopolists. This happens as a result of the impotence of the Nigerian left and so-called leftist intellectuals, who frankly were always illorganized, ill-motivated, and ill-equipped. Allied groups, like ASUU for instance has sustained a five-month strike that has crippled Nigerian universities. But ASUU is now also at the point where citizens will turn against it because their strike is beginning to hurt. But they have not embarked on the critical phase of that struggle, the hearts and mind campaign, with grassroots outreaches that should force the true stakeholders in Nigerian public education – the parents and students themselves – to write-in to their Reps in parliament, stage protests, organize massive sitins in the National Assembly and in Local government Headquarters nationwide, to demand the impeachment of the president if he fails to secure agreements that would reopen Nigerian universities and meet the terms of the agreement. ASUU is unable to do this because it is yet to see itself in the 21st century, and it continues to use the terms of engagement that worked with the military. It is important that it allies itself with the Nigerian Labour party, organize it, raise money to field and support its own candidates and secure its public interest in government. Perhaps only then might we begin to have a true political party defined by clearly alternative political ideas, and true political opposition.

Diplomat Travels goes “Adventure Tourism”

N IATA and UFTAA licensed travel agency located at AP Pla za, Wuse 2, Abuja, Diplomat Travels and Tourism Agency, is the first in the country to introduce what it called “Adventure Tourism” targeted at fun-seekers and tourists who wish to experience tourism at the highest level. in a chat with the Managing Director of the company, Mr. Akor Otobo, he explained that tourism is beyond travelling as it encompasses culture, arts and craft, sports, fashion and food. ”Many people don’t understand what tourism actually means. When we travel out of the country, we appreciate what we see out there but we don’t appreciate our own gift of nature and the problem is because the so-called tourist centres are not well conserved. I have travelled a number of times to attend the World Tourism Summit through which I gained ideas on what tourism entails and that is what we are practising at Diplomat Travels”, Otobo said. ”Tourism is life because it provides a practical education that teaches tourists about the culture of other ethnic groups across the world. It provides an insight into the hidden treasures of the world. Diplomat Travels is the only a Nigerian company on the membership of the Adventure Travel Trade Association, we have been licensed to embark on Adventure Tourism in any part of the world and this is why we have provided the platform for Nigerians to avail themselves of this golden opportunity to experience nature at its best”. Commenting of the state of tourism in Nigeria, he lamented the poor state

Mr. Akor Otobo of tourist centres in the country, explaining that such locations would have been contributing significantly to the GDP if they have been upgraded to world standards. According to him, “tourism is still at an infant stage in Nigeria because government is yet to realize the huge benefits it possesses”. “Tourism has developed from the stage of having to travel certain miles to visit a tourist site and having to go back same day. Today, tourists are made to have a feel of the environment for as long as they want because such locations now have accommodation facilities, that is the level at which tourism has developed in other African countries. Only Ikogosi Warm Spring boast of such facility in Nigeria”, the Diplomat Travels boss added Otobo urged the Federal Government to put in place a legislation to help develop the tourism industry.

Governor Ibrahim Shema of Katsina State (right); Emir of Daura, Alhaji Umar Faruk Umar (2nd right); Vice President Namadi Sambo (left), during a condolence visit by Sambo to Shema over the death of his father.

Ex-militant leader warns against calling for Kuku’s sack

X-MILITANT leader,’General’ Augus tine Ogedegbe has warned those calling on President Goodluck Jonathan to sack his Special Adviser on Amnesty Programme, Mr. Kingsley Kuku, to desist from such act and allow him concentrate on his good work. Ogedegbe who also called on all NigerDelta ex-militants to rally round President Jonathan and Kuku in ensuring that they carry out their legitimate duties, said Kuku’s office of the Amnesty Programme has immensely changed a lot of lives in the Niger-Delta region. He stated that there was nothing that Kuku has done which should warrant investigation, adding that since he assumed office as the Special Adviser to the President on Amnesty Programme, there has been relative peace in the region and that much has also been achieved. Ogedegbe who made this statement while

reacting to an online publication by exleader, Sobomabo Jackrich said as a stakeholder in the amnesty, that there was no time the programme experienced any form of manipulation or shortchanging of any sort or any deliberate delay of payment as alleged, calling on Niger-Delta ex-militants to disregard such rumour and that there was no time Urhhobo nation had any group known as Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, MEND as claimed by some people. He said, “Jackrich who claimed to be the Director General of Network for the Defense of Democracy and Good Governance (NDDGG), has not given any substantial evidence over his claim that he should call on EFCC to beam his search-light on the Amnesty Office instead of appreciating his good work and encouraging him to do more.”

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SUND AY SUNDA

Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 13

Prologue To buttress his point, Churchill used this simple statement: “You were given the choice between war and dishonor. You chose dishonor and you will have war In Anambra State, there are just three senatorial districts, 326 registration areas and 4, 608 polling units. Idemili North Local Government Area is said to have an estimated voter number of 173,832 in 306 voting wards. The election of November 16 had 1, 763, 751 registered voters; with the recorded massive turn out, only 451, 826 were accredited because they were the only ones whose names were verifiably correct in the register. The number of votes cast was 429, 549 while 16, 544 were rejected. The result so far declared shows APGA with 174, 710; PDP, 94, 356; APC, 92, 300 and LP, 37, 446. Section 179 of the Nigerian Constitution states clearly that the two conditions for any individual to be deemed to have won such an election would be to have “the highest number of votes cast in the election” and “have not less than onequarter of all the votes cast in each of at least two-thirds of all the local government areas in the state. Anambra has 21 LGAs and two-thirds is 14 – APGA already qualifies in 18; PDP in 9; APC in 7; and LP in 1. Addendum register For the PDP candidate, Tony Nwoye, he needs to be told that good luck can be funny because it can only take you to a point. When proper organisational skills, wisdom and hard work are required, even good luck would run for cover. For APC’s Chris Ngige, the miracle it intended to wrought, especially after the deportation saga, was ill-conceived. LP’s Ifeanyi Ubah needed to be reminded that politics is not the same thing as petroleum products importation and its attendant subsidy voodoo. Now, for APGA’s Peter Obi and his protégé, Willie Obiano, it is early days yet in their relationship; and the ghost of godfather/godson acrimony is yet to be exorcised - mind you, the same Victor Umeh, APGA Chairman, engendered a no-love-lost situation with Obi for quite some time and even threatening to tear down the walls of the party. Therefore, the sincere ignorance before, during and, surely, after the facts, after all said and done, would unravel in due course. At the University of London’s Lecture series, one Professor Mohammed Kuna, described as Special Adviser to INEC Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, was at pains – great pains – to explain away the shambolic Anambra election. When asked by Dr. Funmi Olonisakin, the Director of the African Leadership Centre, Kings College, London, of the lessons the Anambra debacle present as challenges for the 2015 elections, Kuna heaped the blames on the political class – a now too familiar refrain of the electoral body whenever elections are bungled. The issues to put in context are as

ANAMBRA ELECTION: 2015 ON THE CROSS

The danger of sincere ignorance Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance - Martin Lurther King

BY JIDE AJANI

gnorance can be powerful, very powerful, especially when it is borne out of sinceri ty. Ignorance is a state of “not knowing” - not knowing that what you believed you knew so well is known in breach. The move to pursue this belief sometimes leads to fanaticism. Fanaticism itself is described as a “ wild and often dangerous enthusiasm, especially in politics or religion”. For the former, it is apt to capture the actions of Nigerian politicians under the umbrella of inordinate zealotry. Now, what can be more dangerous than a man convinced that the works of his hand are the best under any circumstance and in every material particular, no matter any more enlightened reasoning or information to the contrary? What can be more dangerous even, when the individual turns the act into a directive principle of his daily existence? This is the best way to appreciate the activities of all those who were involved in penultimate Saturday’s limited fiasco that passed for the gubernatorial election in Anambra State. These are interesting times in Nigeria. For the actors and their audience, it is all too familiar. The political actors delight the audience with all manner of shenanigans while the audience also tries to tolerate the antics of the politicians. We can be categorical here that in Nigeria, elections are won by sheer force, let fools contend. The force of the winner is encapsulated in the means and ways employed before, during and immediately after every election and these include and can never be limited to the following: the security agencies, collusion of the umpire with politicians, thugs, propaganda and local popularity. When all these are employed

This cycle of ignorance about the ends to be justified by their every action has never and would never do Nigeria any good because if, as one thinker said, the end justifies the means, we also ask: What justifies the end either positively or negatively, they constitute brute force. Now, each time the masses complain about rigged election, their complaints peter into insignificance after a few days save for the 1983 election in Ondo State and the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election. The politicaisn are ignorant of the fact that stealing votes that do not belong to them to foist a leader on the people can create sabotage which itself creates underdevelopment of some sort, all fueled by mis-governance. The masses, too, are ignorant of the simple verifiable fact that for as long as they allow hokum, for so long would they remain impoverished. Almost always, the spirit of appeasement to avoid “unduly overheating” the polity imbues them and they go back to their sheds contented that at least there is peace. Peace of the graveyard? It was former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, who explained the doctrine of appeasement as a product of sheer ignorance. According to him, “an

appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile hoping it will eat him last”. To buttress his point, he used this simple statement: “You were given the choice between war and dishonor. You chose dishonor and you will have war” . In an educated analysis of Churchill’s position on the evils appeasement wrought, thinkers have insisted that an appeaser believes he is so weak that he cannot defeat the tyrant and, therefore, he makes concessions so as to avoid confrontation or war. Unbeknownst to him, each round of concession he makes reduces his humanity and emboldens the tyrant – even making the latter stronger. This fits into Che Guevara’s thoughts about the non-existence of liberators, that the people should liberate themselves. The thought that some people are ordained as liberators only fuel the ignorance of the masses because what has been happening one after the other is one form of tyranny supplanting another form of tyranny. On a different platform which relates to the sympathy and understanding of the wickedness of man, Martin Lurther King made this profound observation about the lot of mankind that is enslaved by a mentality that is beyond their comprehension and which pushes them to do that which is indecipherable to other more rational men, when he said, “Nothing in the world is more dangerous that sincere ignorance” - this was in relation to white supremacist argument that black Americans were of a lesser humanity. Relating this to the Anambra election, the ignorance displayed across board led to the bungling of the election – from INEC the electoral umpire, the ruling All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and All Progressive Congress, APC, it is a regime of ignorance that fueled the inconclusiveness of the election.

Continues on page 15

PAGE 14—SUND AY 14—SUNDA

Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

Anambra: For APC, it is fresh election or nothing — Lai Mohammed W

ith the governorship election in Anambra State declared inconclusive by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and mixed reactions trailing the outcome, the interim National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressive Congress, APC, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, argues, in this interview, that the exercise remains irredeemably defective. Excerpts:

•Lai Mohammed BY DAPO AKINREFON

he governorship election in Anambra State has come and gone... It has not gone. Okay it is still ongoing but while some are calling for outright cancellation of the election, INEC has vowed to go ahead with a supplementary election. What happens if it goes ahead with the supplementary poll? There are many options to be explored and such options will be discussed at the NEC meeting of the party. But what does INEC mean by supplementary election? The November 16 governorship election in Anambra State is irredeemably defective. We do not understand what INEC means by supplementary election. It is defective to the point that it cannot be redeemed either by a supplementary election or by election being conducted in isolated wards. There are two reasons the November 16 election is irredeemable. One is that the strong holds of the opposition were denied voting materials. And this is a clear case of not just disenfranchisement but there was sabotage as admitted by even the National Chairman of INEC. He said a senior official of INEC sabotaged the electoral process. We also have it on good authority that the voter register has been so tampered with that anybody whose

C M Y K

names start with O or U could not find his names in the register. With these, you cannot start talking about a supplementary election. It is like somebody putting a potion of poison in a bucket of water. Are you now saying that you can save part of that water? You have to throw the whole thing away. So, I do not know what they mean by supplementary election. As for Anambra, it has to be fresh election or nothing and, beyond that, Nigerians want to know the name of that INEC official, his position and how he was able to sabotage the election. Nigerians want to know who he was working for? This matter must not be swept under the carpet. If it is allowed to be swept under the carpet, it will lead to an explosion which is better imagined. We hear from the grapevine that he is working for a particular state governor and that a lot of money has been uncovered and traced to his account. He also indicted a particular state governor.

people. Of course, Nigerians have a right to know and INEC has the obligation to tell us the name of this man and how far did he sabotage the election. If they can do it in Anambra, it can be done in Ekiti, Osun and everywhere. So. the problem is much more fundamental than that. Again, it raises the issue of credibility of the register we have because if one person can so tamper with the register, to exclude names starting with certain alphabets, all needed to be done is just come to Osun or Ekiti and remove some names from the register. So, this problem is very fundamental, we cannot start talking about supplementary elections; as a matter of fact, we should stop talking about Anambra now, we should start talking about the integrity of the INEC register. Going by what has happened in Anambra, what do you think will happen in the elections coming up in Osun and Ekiti? Even the whole of Nigeria come 2015... If somebody in INEC can compromise the register, so effectively, that names starting with certain alphabets do not appear, this is a dangerous development and we are very worried about the integrity and safety of the data. Probably, at the end of the day, we might have to adopt another form of election because this is a serious matter.

The November 16 governorship election in Anambra State is irredeemably defective. We do not understand what INEC means by supplementary election

And you think INEC will mention the official’s name? This is now in the open and people are seriously concerned. Because what is done is not just sabotage, it is treason and this could lead to violent reactions on the part of

Like what? Again, when our party meets, we shall decide. Protests greeted the outcome of the election but an aide to Governor Peter Obi has come out to say that those who protested were not from Anambra but from outside the state... Of what relevance is that? Is the election defective because of the protests? Or are people protesting as a result of the defective election?

The question to ask is: Why are they protesting? Let us assume that those who protested are from Mars or Jupiter, the question to ask is, Was election free and fair? Did Idemili North and Idemili South receive voting materials? Did INEC chairman admit or not that a senior official of his commission actually sabotaged the election? These are the issues, whether they are from Mars or Jupiter, it has no consequence. The PDP has come out to hail the outcome of the exercise but the PDP candidate has faulted the process, does that give your party concern? There is a proverb in Igboland which says it is bad to steal but don’t steal for the owner to notice. This is a situation where PDP has stolen for the owner to notice. From the statement of the factional spokesperson for the PDP, Olisa Metuh, it is clear that the PDP apologists are working for the success of APGA. How else would the National Publicity Secretary of a party describe, in superlative forms, an election, which your candidate was not allowed to vote? The conventional thing for any political party is for you to be in touch with your candidate on the field and get first hand information on how the election is going. The candidate said it loud and clear that he was not allowed to vote, his name was not even on the register and yet, because they had a prepared agenda which was, as long as APC does not win, the election is free and fair. Now, Olisa Metuh, from the records at our disposal, lost his own ward but, as long as APC does not win, it was okay for the prince and the PDP. It has shown to the world what happened. This one has boomeranged. What signal is this sending as we approach 2015? Well, three things are clear: the integrity of the INEC register is suspect from this moment on; the integrity of INEC as a whole is suspect from this moment on and, again the 2014 and 2015 elections should be watched because there will be huge potentials for violence. Would you agitate for the removal of the INEC Chairman or the restructuring of the commission? That will be a decision that our party will take.

C M Y K

SUND AY SUNDA

Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 15

sound convincing to those, who cited the precedent which saw the June 12, 1993 presidential election being stopped through a court order by Justice Bassey Ikpeme. But INEC spokesperson, Mr. Kayode Idowu, said the issue of whether the courts could intervene or not is left for the courts to interpret. The implication of this is that the courts might become a factor in the issue as the supplementary contest approaches. Regardless of that, if the trio of Nwoye, Ngige and Uba fail to participate in the supplementary poll as it appears, APGA candidate, Chief Willie Obiano, will emerge as governor-elect.

BY CHARLES KUMOLU

nambra State governorship election has come but refused to go thereby creating an atmosphere of suspense and suspicion ahead of the rescheduled supplementary poll. This mood is not limited to the aggrieved camps as the leading party in the November 16 election despite being optimistic, also stands to gain or lose from the rescheduled exercise ordered by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. Findings showed that despite the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, cruise to victory, a good number of Anambrarians are not comfortable with the idea of supplementary poll across 208 polling units.

Trouble spots

“What we are saying is that the exercise should be annulled. Have we not had rerun elections in the past? Why can’t we have it in Anambra? You, as a journalist, witnessed the fraud that INEC did in favour of APGA. So we want cancellation,” a Labour Party, LP, chieftain in Anambra, Chief Chukwudi Egbenu Okonkwo, told Sunday Vanguard at INEC office, Awka. Nonetheless, the rescheduled election is expected to hold in three poling units in Ayamelum local government (1,247 voters), one poling unit in Anambra East (250 voters), six units in Anambra West (2,000 voters), one unit in Anaocha (276 voters), two units in Awka North (1,356 voters), one unit in Aguata (310 voters) and one unit in Awka South (249 voters). Others are three units in Ekwusigo (884 voters), two units in Idemili South (800 voters), one unit in Onitsha North (484 voters), 17 units in Onitsha South (12,299 voters), four units in Orumba North (588 voters) and four units in Oyi (1,202 voters). What this implies is that about 113,113, registered voters are expected to file out on the day of the supplementary polls to cast their votes. But whether or not these

Nwoye/PDP

Another issue that cannot be rightly

ANAMBRA POLL FIASCO

The shape of the war to come •Nobody can invalidate Nov 16 election result - APGA •The dilemma of the PDP voters would turn out to vote for their respective candidates is a big issue following the insistence of All Progressive Congress ,APC, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and Labour Party, LP, candidates, Messrs. Chris Ngige, Ifeanyi Uba and Tony Nwoye, that the entire poll be voided. Infact, the boycott of the first rescheduled election in 65 polling units in Idemili North Local Government Area,LGA, was an indication that the supplementary poll might be shunned by the trio. Giving credence to this, a source in the camp of Ngige said the trio would not drop their demands, adding that the Ngige Campaign Organization is currently gathering more evidence from their agents to substantiate the claim that the event of penultimate Saturday was fraudulent.

The election cannot be cancelled. We have the highest number of votes. Those calling for cancellation are losers

Same page

With APGA and INEC at the centre of the storm, it is unlikely that they are being rattled by the growing discontent ahead of the supplementary election, as the duo are upbeat about the possibility of the poll. In this regard, APGA Chairman Victor Umeh, whose defense of his party’s performance is unequaled, told Sunday Vanguard: “The election cannot be cancelled. We have the highest number of votes. Those calling for cancellation are losers. Some of the places affected by the supplementary election are places where APGA won”, adding that while other candidates would be striving to meet his party, the party would also be garnering more votes.”

Fear of court injunction

The suspicion that the aggrieved parties might get a court order to stop the supplementary election was punctured by Umeh, who said, “the court cannot intervene until the election is concluded.” This position, however, does not

The danger of sincere ignorance Continues on page 13 follows: What is the percentage of those who voted, as against those who actually came out to vote but were denied voting? There is a difference between low voter turnout and a complete disenfranchisement of voters based on a register that is distorted. What did INEC mean when it talked about one funny addendum register? Miracle product Jega should have built on the old INEC register instead of going for a completely new one as he did for the 2011 elections. Just hours to the election, INEC announced to the world that it had spotted anomalies in its own register that it had touted would be a miracle product. Why is APC complaining? It sowed the wind for today’s whirlwind by hailing Jega’s move to do away with the past register. We are not even talking about the funds wasted and more funds that would still be wasted for the exercise that has refused to produce a superb register. Now, why is INEC obsessed with the employment of consultants as against INEC staff? Using university professors as returning officers for elections suggests that they are super human beings immune to Nigeria’s attitudinal

challenges. If so, why do we have exam malpractices in the universities. Then there is Jega’s Messianic disposition. The INEC chairman needs to be reminded that the business of organizing elections in Nigeria is a totally different ball game from ASUU activism. He may indeed mean well no doubt. But giving assurances that are almost always stood on their heads has not burnished his image. For all the players, this cycle of ignorance about the ends to be justified by their every action has never and would never do Nigeria any good because if, as one thinker said, the end justifies the means, we also ask: What justifies the end? In Nigeria, what appears to justify the end has never been, in most cases, the delivery of democracy dividends, it has always been the aggrandizement of wealth in a very inordinate manner. What makes this very unwholesome is that even as the world is leaving Nigeria behind, the actors believe sincerely (nay ignorantly) that they are doing the Nigerian people a favour. This, in a nutshell, is the grave danger of sincere ignorance.

predicted in the build-up to the supplementary election is the direction the unusual alliance between the PDP candidate and other aggrieved contenders is headed to. Nwoye, who, before now, was not a political associate of Ngige, surprisingly formed an alliance with Ngige and Uba in protest against what they described as massive irregularities that marred the November 16 election. Nwoye’s move was to the chagrin of many observers who claimed that the national leadership of the PDP has sympathy for APGA. And that played out through a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olise Metuh, which applauded the poll. Metuh, in the statement a day after the disputed election, said the PDP was satisfied that despite the alleged massive importation of thugs and plots by the APC to introduce violence to disrupt and rig the election, the process was conducted peacefully. “The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) hereby commends President Goodluck Jonathan for providing adequate security and the enabling environment for the conduct of credible, free and fair governorship election in Anambra State last Saturday in spite of any perceived hitch(es),” the PDP scribe stated. He further said, “While we now await the official result, we wish to express our satisfaction that the election was conducted without disturbances, despite the massive importation of political thugs by the All Progressives Congress (APC) as well as their heinous plots to introduce violence to disrupt and rig the poll having discovered that they have been rejected by the people.” With PDP’s stand clearly opposed to Nwoye’s association with Ngige and Ubah, it is left to be seen if Nwoye would insist on his demand for the cancellation. Speaking in this regard, a source in Ngige camp, told Sunday Vanguard that though the PDP candidate had not shifted grounds, the stance of his party appears to be slowing him down.

PAGE 16 — SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

Pentecostal past o r s go to white garm e n t churches for spiritual powers —

Primate Ayodele •’Na

tional Conference is taking us nowhere’

rimate Babatunde Ayodele, General Overseer of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Lagos, bares his mind on the proposed National Conference, Nigeria’s fate in the hands of Goodluck Ebele Jonathan in 2015, the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, airplane crashes and the crisis rocking the polity. Excerpts: well you’ve been able to touch the lives of others. CAN should employ not less than 20,000 youths and should do something about women, widows. The truth is: Ayo Oritsejafor is a politician and not a pastor. If any white garment church should invite Ayo, he won’t go! We need somebody who is more vibrant as CAN leader.

•Primate Babatunde Ayodele

BY JOSEPHINE IGBINOVIA

s there any spiritual undertone to airplane crashes in Nigeria? There is. When there is a cleansing for the whole nation, then the aviation sector will be calm. For now, there are still going to be troubles in the sector and some ministers will be removed from the cabinet. I could see some averted plane crashes, but still, I advise that the air force and police watch their aircraft very well. The presidential fleet should also be guarded against technical faults. Nigerians do not respect God, that is why the Dana plane crash occurred the other time despite warnings from God. That also is exactly what is affecting this government. There’s going to be a lot of political turmoil in the polity. Governor Rotimi Amaechi particularly has to be very careful because they want to ground him politically; they want to rubbish him. He also should manage his court cases well. Kwara State’s Bukola too should manage his court cases so they are not used against him. Akpabio and Presidency will face challenges. The seven

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governors in the New Peoples Democratic PartynPDP- will come back to PDP; they’re just wasting their time. The All Progressive Congress, APC, will be a strong opposition but it will not be able to overthrow the PDP in 2015. In the end, where are these leading us; will they work in our favour as a nation? Nigeria needs a lot of prayers to avert dangers ahead. I’ve said it several times that Nigeria is going to break. Even this National Conference will take us nowhere! Kidnapping for instance has come to stay! Government will only do its best but it is coming to the South-west as well. Before Nigeria splits however, we need prayers to sustain the country and end disasters. The problem is that we have a president who has turned deaf hears to the word of God. AndCAN is unfortunately nothing to write about. You just said the national confab will lead us nowhere while most people seem optimistic about it… There will be elections in 2015. However, the National Conference is a mere waste of resources and time

because nothing will come out of it. Even when decisions are taken at the end of the conference, they will not be executed. When the time comes for a genuine National Conference, you will see the signs and be convinced. But this particular conference has a lot of political undertones which I will not disclose because I am speaking as a prophet, not a political analyst. I therefore want to rename it a ‘corrupt national conference’. But is Jonathan the best candidate for 2015? Jonathan’s second term will cause some problem in this country. I see republics coming out. Mind you, may have more pipeline explosions and bombing is not over. Jonathan is not fighting Boko Haram the way he is supposed to fight it! The truth is, Boko Haram is more spiritual than physical and until the sect is weakened spiritually, it will not go. Are you indirectly advising Jonathan to step down since you’ve said his second term will not be fantastic? If I say he should step down, he will not listen. So, I will let him go and see the

consequences. The only way forward is to consult God. By a very slim chance, he will get his second term, but that second term will not be fantastic. Where exactly has CAN gone wrong? They go to Mr.President every now and then, why can they not advise him on what to do and what not to do? Truth is bitter but you have to say it! CAN is political! Ayo Oritsejafor is not operating as CAN but as a Christian politician. CAN

What if he is turning down their invitations because he doesn’t see them to be genuine? Is he God to say a church is not genuine? Any man who does that is not a pastor! It’s not your right to say you are holy! But the Bible says God has blessed us with the spirit of discernment… Can Ayo see? Is he a prophet? How can he tell me his spirit discerns? White garment churches are among the best worldwide! That’s why you see influential men

White garment churches are among the best worldwide! That’s why you see influential men and women going to them for prayers! is blindfolded and there is no leadership in it. That’s why we’re getting so many things wrong in Christendom. CAN doesn’t know how many churches we have in the country, it has not created any youth empowerment or pastors’ empowerment. CAN should be scrapped. Christianity is not how rich you are but how

and women going to them for prayers! Why don’t they remain in their Pentecostal churches? Even pastors from Pentecostal churches go to white garment churches to consult privately and get spiritual powers. I am a godfather to many Pentecostal churches but I have no godfather! God is my only father in the Lord!

AMAECHI: Audacity of conviction and NGF’s parley in Sokoto Be accountable to Nigerians, leaders tell Jonathan BY SONI DANIEL, Regional Editor, North

n what was termed a retreat, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, NGF, led by Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State, chose to prick the conscience of the Federal Government of Nigeria in its handling of the nation’s finances in a manner that is somewhat opaque. The communiqué of the Forum read like an audacious inquisition. They made a strong statement at the end of the day. The absence of some governors notwithstanding, the Amaechi-led NGF made a mark with the assemblage of some of Nigeria’s leading lights to brainstorm on issues of good governance, democracy and national security, which are very germane to the national question. Although there was initial suspicion that the Presidency could scuttle the Sokoto meeting because of its aversion to the Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi’s leadership of the NGF, the governors braced for the two-day parley and wrapped up their discussions without any interruption from security agencies, which were however not in short supply at the venue. However, unlike when armed policemen, led by the Divisional Police Officer for Asokoro Abuja swooped on the Kano Governor’s Lodge in the federal capital territory and attempted to scuttle the meeting of the G7 Governors, those present in Sokoto provided cover for their Excellencies to brainstorm on the way forward for Nigeria. The successful hosting of the meeting of the governors by the Sokoto State Governor Aliyu Wamakko, and the adoption of a common position by the governors present, is seen by observers as a victory for the Amaechi group, which vehemently resisted the attempt by the Presidency to cage it. It was obvious from the outset that not all the 36 governors in the country would attend the retreat even though from the programme of the event, they were all listed and given possible roles to play. For instance, President Goodluck Jonathan, who

was listed as the Special Guest of Honour and expected to read a keynote address, shunned the meeting just as the governors loyal to Governor David Jang of Plateau State, who wants to be called, known and addressed as the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum. Jang himself appears unhappy that the Sokoto event took place in the first instance. He reacted angrily to the outcome of the retreat when he described Amaechi as the leader of the ‘opposition governors’ forum’. The Plateau governor chided Amaechi further saying he remained the authentic NGF Chairman. The governor must have been emboldened by the declaration by Ahmed Gulak, Political Adviser to President Jonathan, that the River ’s governor was not the NGF leader. The Jang statement followed the declaration by the Presidency that it only recognised the faction of the forum led by him. Affirming that the NGF was originally formed for peer review among the states and to provide needed social and economic elevation to the Nigerian people, he said: “Instead, Governor Amaechi has turned his team into an opposition group. They are

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SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 17

The opening speech by the governor changed the mood in the expansive conference hall of the Giginya Hotel, the venue of the meeting, and emboldened other speakers to fine tune their presentations

now obsessed with the Presidency and the Federal Government.” Although Jang and his supporters are in the minority among the 36 governors, they all the same take pleasure in the massive backing they enjoy from the Presidency, which reportedly threw up the Plateau governor as a challenger to Amaechi. The governor, however, failed to get the support of the majority of his counterparts to be elected the NGF leader on May 24, 2013, paving the way for the balkanisation of the once united entity, but to the delight of the President, which had

obviously become threatened by the Amaechi leadership of the forum. Fearless in speech and overwhelmed by courage, Amaechi, at the Sokoto retreat, declared, “Nigeria is faced with a lot of challenges, which can only be overcome if her leaders make conscious efforts to do the right thing. This retreat is coming at a crucial time in our national life, when we as leaders must live up to the expectations of the electorate, at a time when our insecure population looks up to us for security and social justice. As we brainstorm on the way forward for our states and

county, it is my sincere hope that our resolutions would provide answers to the many questions plaguing our dear nation. “Today’s event provides yet another unique opportunity not only for an indepth deliberation on the state of the nation and the challenges confronting states, but also an occasion for renewing our vision as a forum,.” The opening speech by the governor changed the mood in the expansive conference hall of the Giginya Hotel, the venue of the meeting, and emboldened other speakers to fine tune their presentations, which mostly x-rayed the nation’s socio-economic matrix and proposed possible remedies. It also set the tone for the first set of speakers - Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka and erudite Catholic priest, Fr. Matthew Kukah, to fire on the tenets of “Good Governance and the Imperative for Managing and Leaving a Sustainable Legacy ”. That done, the duo of Aminu Tambuwal, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Nuhu Ribadu, held the participants spell-bound, with

Continues on page 18

PAGE 18 — SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

Gulak

Jonathan

AMAECHI: Audacity of conviction and NGF’s parley in Sokoto issues that shape the Nigerian federalism and consistently and substantially tilt the tide of our federalism towards unitarism. Federalism vs unitarism hile contributing to the second topic of the day entitled, “Deepening Democracy and Federalism in Nigeria - The Role of States”, the two Nigerian politicians lamented the clear departure by Nigeria from the tenets that shape other nations’ federalism, thereby tilting Nigeria towards a unitary system in practice. Tambuwal decried the over concentration of powers in the federal level, leaving states and local government with little or nothing, thereby stifling development. The Speaker also lamented the current practice whereby resources are being controlled and shared by the centre instead of the states where they are produced as is the case in other democracies around the world. Tambuwal noted: “Nigeria is practising more of a unitary system than federalism. The unwieldy powers vested on the centre are examples and when you see the way the government is being run, you get the feeling that we are not practising the kind of Presidential system of government in the United States of America from where we copied our system.

”In fact, I want to say that our own federalism is peculiar to Nigeria as no other country in the world does the kind of things we do in the name of federalism. This is the only country in the world where the police force is controlled by the centre as if we were a unitary state,” the Speaker noted. ”The tragedy of our situation is that state Houses of Assembly have not been able to exercise adequate oversight over the executive, thereby making the executives to usurp the functions and finances of the local government councils in most places”. ‘Run in the dark’ hen it was his turn to speak, Ribadu took a look at the way the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, was being run in the dark and asked for a change in the interest of all Nigerians. The former police boss said that Nigeria was one of the few countries in the world where the activities of its oil company were largely transacted in secrecy and global best practices that guide such operations around the world thrown overboard. Ribadu said it was also wrong for the Federal Government to handle the NNPC as a personal estate leaving out states and local governments from its operations. He noted, “Today, the NNPC is a producer, an importer, a marketer and a regulator paying to the Federal

Continues on page 17

Gulak said, "What happened in Sokoto was not a retreat for the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. It was an event for Amaechi Governors Forum"

Government what it likes at any time and treating the states and local governments in Nigeria as if they have not stake in the establishment. “Let me say that states are very important because of the essential roles they play in the development of the communities and in the lives of Nigerians and should be allowed to have a say in what happens in NNPC,” the former anti-graft agency boss noted.The speakers noted that the ability by the government to deepen democracy and sustain good governance is largely hinged on its willingness to cater for the basic needs of the citizens and conduct its affairs openly and in accordance with global best practices that have made other countries to excel holistically.

Presidential strategy y the time the speeches ended, the organisers were satisfied that they had made the point they wanted to put in the public domain and

that the NGF under the Amaechi leadership had made its voice heard despite a calculated attempt to silence it in favour of the Jang group. As it were, even before the gathering ended, there was a deliberate attempt by presidential strategists to label the meeting as a flop, having been ‘shunned’ by many G7 Governors. One top government official wanted the impression that the there was a split among the G7 family since the governors of Jigawa, Kano, Niger and Kwara did not attend but dispatched their deputies to stand in for them. However, the attempt to disparage the success of the Sokoto meeting did not catch fire because many of the G7 Governors were out of the country at the time of the meeting and had communicated their positions to their colleagues even before departing

Nigeria. It was noted that while Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido had to take permission to attend to his two sons, who were taken in by the EFCC on the allegations of laundering up to N10 billion, the duo of Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano governor) and Babangida Aliyu (Niger governor) were outside Nigeria for some engagements in Europe. On the other hand, Ahmed Abdulfatah of Kwara State had to stay back and host two former heads of state, Ibrahim Babangida and Abdulsalam; Abubakar. However, when it dawned on the opponents of the NGF that their tar brush had failed to stain the group, the Presidency openly disowned the Amaechi leadership, saying it only recognised the Jang faction that scored 16 votes as against Amaechi’s 19 at the ay 24 NGF election. Political Adviser to the President and an avowed opponent of the Rivers governor, Gulak, described the Sokoto retreat as Amaechi’s Governors’ Forum and not the authentic NGF led by Jang, which is recognised by the Presidency. Gulak said, “What happened in Sokoto was not a retreat for the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. It was an event for Amaechi Governors Forum. “As far as the President is concerned, Governor Jonah Jang of Plateau State is the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and not Amaechi. “The poor attendance at the Sokoto event confirmed that it was not organised by the genuine governors’ forum. President Jonathan would have attended if the event was organised by the genuine and proper governors’ forum.” Tantrums maechi, like members of the G7 and members loyal to him, however, remained unfazed by the tantrums of the Jang faction and the Presidency, pushing ahead with his agenda to bolster good governance and deepen democracy. With his state aircraft still seized by the federal authorities to cripple his movements and with his freedom partly curtailed by the police, Amaechi cuts the image of an unwanted child by an estranged mother. But it appears that the more he is chastised by the forces loyal to the centre, more Nigerians are becoming sympathetic to his cause. As a sign of the times, Amaechi had to squeeze himself into a commercial flight to and from Sokoto just to preside over the retreat, which had no fewer than 15 governors in attendance. More trouble and more sympathy for a man, who has chosen to challenge the forces that are neither necessary nor permanent in the Nigerian political arena. The poser is: Who wins?

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SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE19

‘PORT HARCOURT MEGACITY REVOLUTION IS ALIVE’ A

dministrator of Greater Port Harcourt City Development Authority, Dame Aleruchi CookeyGams, in this interview, dismisses the claim that the agency is stagnated on its quest to restore and consolidate on the lost beauty of Rivers State capital city

How long have you been in the saddle as Administrator of Greater Port Harcourt City Development Authority? It’s been four years. The Greater Port Harcourt project is widely viewed as one of the strongest pillars of development of the Governor Amaechi’s ‘Rivers of Possibilities’ dream. How far have you gone with projecting the Greater Port Harcourt Master plan? The Master Plan for the Greater Port Harcourt area covers Port Harcourt metropolis and environs and projections for future expansion. In specifics, we are looking at the whole of Port Harcourt and parts of Obio/ Akpor, Ikwerre, Etchie, Oyigbo, Eleme, Okrika, and Ogu-Bolo. The city is expanding to these adjoining localities. What we have decided to do is identify these extending frontiers and plan for future expansion. In carrying out implementation, the Master Plan is domiciled in every Ministry, Department and Agency. We do not for any reason see implementation as the sole responsibility of Greater Port Harcourt Authority, such that if the Ministry of Works is planning a road construction, for instance, it goes to the Master Plan where we have the relevant subsectors –roads, water, power, where each new facility should be now and maybe ten years ahead. So you now revise it onwards in terms of the realities on ground. Implementing is two pronged. There is urban renewal of the old city where government has invested extensively in providing better infrastructures in most area. We have done a lot infrastructure expansion, particularly road expansion on Trans-Amadi, Rumuola, AdaGeorge, Elekahia, Rumuomasi, and all of that. For the new City Area, we have identified our Phase I development for 30,000 housing units. We started with Phase IA for 3000 housing units. Our responsibility is to provide infrastructures. We are providing roads, streets, paved walkways, electricity supply because it is green field for the C M Y K

new city and we are providing storm water because Port Harcourt is flat and there is lot of flooding. So we have to manage the storm water and not forgetting sewage management. We are dealing with a central sewage treatment that would not require individual developers not to cast septic tanks all over the place. We are providing water and underground electricity. That is where we are now. Contracts have been awarded. The three anchors of the Greater Port Harcourt area are the airport area, the old city itself and the seaports. We have planned that we link that triangle. Phase I of the roads contracts takes the new freeway that runs from the airport area to Aba Road, to Port HarcourtOwerri Road and comes through Brookstone. That is the first p h a s e . It is that elaborate? Phase II brings it out on the Aba Expressway; Phase III will take it, from Aba Express on to the new Federal Government Road that is going into Onne. That is Eleme axis. We have awarded that contract aside contractors providing all the infrastructures for the Phase 1A development. In terms of tying our power plan with the overall Master Plan, we are also dealing with that. In the Master Plan, you know where the Sports Complex is. That has been done by the Ministry of Sports. We also have area allocated to Ministry of Health for hospital. Rivers State University of Science and Technology also has its permanent site there as our agency interfaces with respective ministries. We also have an educational area to allow for private establishment of educational and allied institutions. Currently we have within that boundary the Jesuit Memorial College established by the Society of Jesuit in memory of the 60 children that lost their lives. They have just started a session as the first tenant to develop in our education area. We also have a school that the Federal Ministry of Education is building and the

*Cookey-Gams

In the Greater Port Harcourt, we are not waiting for development and population to explode before struggling to solve the challenges. There is urban renewal of the old city where government has invested extensively in providing better infrastructures in most areas State School for the Physically Challenged is also going to be there. The idea is to regulate how all of these developments would take place. We have been canvassing for developers and investors to come to the authority to chart their lands to be guided on their development interest, where and how it can be developed and obtain standard plan on what to develop, so we do not have a situation where right next to a residential house you have heavy duty industry and people selling gas. Our land use management system defines areas for specific interests, like residential, from industrial. Government responsibility is to provide infrastructures, but we cannot do it all alone. Currently people are building. There is a

lot of social dislocation to ask people to vacate places after erecting in the wrong locations. Ministry of Urban Development also has its own regulatory boundaries as we enforce within the Greater Port Harcourt Area. How do you deal with likely conflict with other arms or agencies of government? It is one government. With proper communications we are not encountering much challenge here. There is an understanding that approvals at this point of development should not be the responsibility of the local governments, but that of the state and communicated to the local government affected. It is believed that your agency started with so much urgency. The pace in the estimation of

many has slowed so much. What is the limitation? I don’t know when last you went there. The bridges pillars are all up. The first phase of our M10 Road has three interchanges. One of the critical things we must do as government is plan for the future rather than allow development to catch up with us in an unplanned manner. The first interchange is the airport. It will have a flyover. The interchange at Rumuokurushi was only built after we started spending six hours waiting to cross the interchanges. In the Greater Port Harcourt, we are not waiting for development and population to explode before struggling to solve the challenges. That is what happens in developed climes. Nothing has slowed at all. What we can say is that for, some time, the engineers were not in the field because they were carrying out detailed engineering drawings and procurement processes with the Bureau for Public Procurement for necessary approvals. Now we are better positioned to start delivering several of these projects. Some of our contracts were awarded in the first half of 2011, so I do not understand where the perception of slow down is coming from. What about issues of compensation for land acquired? We did compensation for lands acquired for infrastructures development. People may say things. First, government does not buy land, but we paid compensation. And it is a very expensive exercise. I don’t think there is any state that is paying our kind of compensation. What has been your motivation in exercising this towering responsibility delegated by a governor known for big dreams and excellence of delivery? The driving force would be first that it is a call to service. We must commit to public service of our state, our nation. And it is a privilege and you realise that it is a decision between you and God in terms of how well you serve. And nobody is perfect. If you put ten different people on this same seat, they will come up with ten different results. But I think there should be that sincerity of purpose. There must be commitment and satisfaction derived at the end of the day. I may not be the most knowledgeable, but I am satisfied that I have done my best and more so that I can defend my actions. Six years into the Supreme Court judgment that brought in the government of Amaechi under which you now have the opportunity to serve at such high level, how do you feel about the journey of the ‘Rivers of Possibilities’ so far? If I were the governor, I would feel a deep sense of self fulfilment. In all his policies and programmes, he has made a lot of giant strides. You would see he has gone out of his way to do things that will benefit the future. He has done things that he would not even get the glory because that is the thing about leadership.

PAGE 20—SUND AY V ANGU ARD, NO VEMBER 24, 2013 20—SUNDA VANGU ANGUARD, NOVEMBER

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Girls’ school in Festac where students sit on the floor

What a conducive learning environment! BY JOSEPHINE IGBINOVIA

o imagine that a supposed elitist area of Lagos like Festac Town could contain such academic embarrassment as one finds in Festac Girls Junior Secondary School is hard to understand. This is basically because the mere mention of the name ‘Festac’ alone gives an instant imagery of a community where all things are beautiful, if not

bright. But in ‘W’ Close on 3rd Avenue, right in this suburb in Nigeria’s acclaimed mega-city where “everything is working” stands Festac Girls Junior Secondary School in a complex which also houses its senior school. The Rotary Club of Festac Central headed by Rotn.Tonia Agugoesi had last week invited Feminista to witness the donation of 60 chairs and tables to the school, but out of curiosity, this reporter took a walk round the classes to as-

certain whether Rotary was pouring water in an already filled cup since a girls’ school in the almighty Festac shouldn’t be that ‘needy’! This curiosity however resulted in an overwhelming disenchantment: most of the classrooms have no chairs and the bags of these girls serve as desk on their thighs! The most outrageous of the entire drama was the bold inscription on the wall of the ground floor which displayed

the motto, vision and mission statement of the school. Boldly, the mission statement read: “Inspiring quality education as a bedrock of knowledge in a conducive teaching/learning environment to groom girls to be self-reliant”. The cry of joy that greeted the vehicle which conveyed the seats into the school’s premises insinuated that the girls were in no way ignorant of the weird ‘conducive teaching/ learning environment’ under

which they had to get education, especially as the clarion call for girl-child education heightens across the country. Due to the helpful but inadequate number of seats, without waiting on anyone to instruct them to do justice to the chairs, each classroom mobilized its members to grab as many seats as possible. Yet, the seats were inadequate and most of the girls were seen returning to the floor, wishing government could be more sensitive to their physiology.

‘Women’s health, index for national wellbeing’

Does anyone still see these?

ITH the 2015 target for the Millennium Development Goals-MDGs just around the corner, female doctors have reminded Nigeria of the need to strive to attain goals 4 and 5 which seek to reduce child mortality and improve maternal health. Emphasising that women comprised the bulk of Nigeria’s population, Dr.Dumebi Owa, immediate past president, Medical Women Association of Nigeria- MWAN Lagos State, stressed that issues affecting them should be put on the front burner due to the importance of their numerical strength to economic growth and sustenance. Dumebi who was speaking at the 18th Biennial Conference/8th Dr.Irene

Thomas Memorial Lecture whose climax was the transfer of the baton of MWAN Lagos chapter ’s leadership to Dr.Iyabode Tijani, Medical Director, Orile-Agege General Hospital, said, “The wellbeing of any nation lies in the wellbeing of her women. Therefore, nations can only find the wealth they seek when the wellbeing of women is prioritised. Sadly, while Malaysia meets all the MDGs targets before 2015, Nigeria is painfully and seriously lagging behind in all the goals.” Adding that only healthy mothers could build a healthy child, family and nation, Dr. Boma Otogho of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Ogun State, and Dr.Ekanem Ekure of the Paediatrics Department,

College of Medicine, University of Lagos, in their lectures at the event tagged ‘Enhancing Global Health through Women’s Wellbeing’, stressed that the ignorance of most women was taking a toll on national health. “Measles for instance is a vaccine-preventable disease but most mothers, due to ignorance, do not adhere to routine immunisation. The appropriate age for immunising a child against measles is when the child is nine-month old but many of them do not know this”, the duo said. Among dignitaries at the event were Dr.Tunji Braithwaite and Dr.Arafat Ifemeje of the Nigerian Airforce Hospital, Ikeja.

SUND AY V ANGU ARD, NO VEMBER 24, 2013, SUNDA VANGU ANGUARD, NOVEMBER

P AGE 21 PA

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By IYABO AINA

OOKS are indeed deceptive. At first sight, one would believe any dark-skinned, tall, slim damsel to have built a career in modeling, but that’s not Zaria Mimano. Only in her 20s, this British-born business strategist has rather carved a niche for herself in the oil business! The Founder of Aba Oil LLC, a flourishing oil firm based in New York with visible presence in Abuja, she had left the banking industry after a brief romance with Morgan Stanley and UBS Investment Banks, both in London, to fearlessly tread the oil path. Mimano who is of Kenyan and Ghanaian descent spoke about her business, adventures and values during a recent trip to Nigeria. Enjoy! How did the big times start? Business has always been there for me. But if I were to rephrase your question to the good times or fruitful times then it would have been when I started to develop understanding and started to see God’s will in my life. I started my own business while in university, buying and selling cars, which I did eventually have to suspend for a while, in order to concentrate on finishing university. During and after university, I had an office in London, where we also dealt in latest electronics. Then, before the latest Blackberry and iPhone became available in the UK, we would have them already. Our Middle Eastern customers and the bankers in London gave us great business ideas, but the big idea- exposure- came through travels. What is behind Aba Oil? Aba Oil is an African oil and gas company that specialises exclusively in accessing and securing the most efficient and advantageous exploration rights, leasing and servicing for oil and gas block acquisition, both offshore and onshore, across Africa. Our mission is to continue to do this whilst ensuring that the people are also securing the correct value for their assets to support future development in all aspects of their daily lives. Does your name have anything to do with the city of Zaria in Kaduna State, Nigeria? Yes. My father went to school in Ghana and during

‘Why I prefer business to modeling’

When you are not, they say you are arrogant. Those who have money to throw around try to buy you with it. They are not fair to themselves. What is your ideal man like? Someone that challenges me intellectually; someone that I know if anything happens to me, I can rely on. The option is there. It is simple. I used to love men who are tall, well-built and handsome; but now, that has changed. Nowadays it is all about a confident, intelligent man. Maybe I may change my mind again one day(Laughs).

— Zaria Mimano, Aba Oil boss his time there he was always coming to Nigeria. I guess he came to Nigeria and went to Zaria, in Kaduna State. Perhaps he was impressed with something there that made him name me after the place when I was born. My dad is very random but in a special way, he also named my brother after the Emperor of Ethiopia. You have an impressive portfolio as a business strategist despite being young, how have you managed this feat? Taking it from scratch, I went to a private school in London. Although, we did not pay tuition due to the fact that one of our old boys

Though, the best ideas always come once I consult God first. You studied Law but have not practiced, was it not a waste of time? It was not. The four years I invested into studying the course has helped me a great deal in life and in business. It helps me to get into the mind of people I work with and try to look at things from all angles, being as positive as possible with the aim of finishing anything that I start.

So cuteness doesn’t have anything to do with it? It depends. Although, I do think it is possible to fall in love with somebody you won’t ordinarily think you will ever find yourself with. Well, I have never fallen in love before, so let me not talk about it. Are you saying that all your life you have never been in love? I have never. As far as I know, I have never been in love before. But it is something that can grow, right? So, it’s cool. Are you ready to settle down? Oh Gosh. Let’s just say God’s speed is always best.

I am more interested in being challenged intellectually. For me, at this stage, modeling is not mentally challenging enough; business is was paying our tuition fees. As such, a lot of people within the private school world looked down on us; but we were really smart. However, during my time in school, I was involved in a lot of business competitions, where I was made the managing director, and as a team, we achieved many highs. My early years also saw me having wise mentors who exposed me to a lot business-wise. What would you say is unique about you? Like with everyone; my mind. My thought process. Constantly coming up with fresh unique ideas and strategies is not easy; how do you do it? That is my job. The fact that it is not always so easy is what makes it fun.

You appear rather too independent; what’s your relationship with your parents llike? I won’t say too independent. I learn a lot from those around me. I am very close to my dad. He is a very intelligent man. My dad is all about book knowledge, while my mum is more of a common sense person. So, I am influenced by both of them.

You are young and beautiful, have you ever thought of modeling? I am more interested in being challenged intellectually. For me, at this stage, modeling is not mentally challenging enough; business is. What are your thoughts on our country the Federal Republic of Nigeria? As with many places around the world, I think the need to learn to give more before we take, in every aspect, is paramount. Nigeria is special. The country has an amazing amount of potential and the people here are incredibly

smart. What is your take on Nigerian men? What a question! The Nigerian men that I have come into contact with want me to be dependent on them.

What are the key skills or ideals you would say are needed in business? Confidence and courage. Every challenge is an opportunity. Basically, always seeing the treasure in adversity. Spontaneity, taking risks. Learning to labour and learning to wait. The ability to be able to put things in the pipeline. Patience and self-control. The thought process. Educating oneself. Most are still work in progress for myself even but the aim is kaizen (continuous improvement), learning with each day that passes.

PAGE 22—SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

The Power of the Will BY FEMI FANI-KAYODE

In brief

The concept of mind over matter

O people shape society or does society shape people? This is the question of the century and my answer is as follows. The sheer power of vision, creativity and strength that the human mind harbours and is capable of harnessing is truly remarkable. If properly channeled and developed it does not only have the potential of shaping sociey but it can also change it and alter destinies. This ethos and philosophy is well enunciated in William Ernest Henley ’s 19th century poem (which happens to be one of my favourites) entitled ‘’Invictus’’. Its most famous lines confidently assert that ‘’in the fell clutch of circumstance I have not winced nor cried aloud. Under the bludgeonings of chance, my head is bloody but unbowed. Beyond this place of wrath and tears looms but the horror of the shade, and yet the menace of the years finds, and shall find me unafraid. It matters not how strait the gate, how charged with punishments the scroll. I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul’’. These words resonate deeply with me. They are not only profound but they are also inspiring and beautiful. In his poem, drawing from his own personal experiences, Henley is eulogising a beleagured soul who refuses to be intimidated, limited, bound or overwhelmed by the circumstances he has found himself in or by the cruel fate and ill-fortune that life has thrown his way. He depicts a gallant soul that has resolved to rise above it all, chart it’s own course and forge it’s own destiny. He is alluding to the philosophy of the ’’triumph of the will’’ and the concept of ‘’mind over matter ’’ and in so doing he affirms the Elizabethan worldview of life as enunciated by William Shakespear ’s character Lago (from the play ‘’Othello’’) when he said ‘’’tis in ourselves that we are thus or thus’’. I share this worldview and what it affirms is the belief that real men ought to help shape the societies that they live in and invariably great men, who have the courage of their convictions, often do. I totally reject the opposite and paradoxical philosophy that was so well enunciated by Othello himself when he rhetorically asked ‘’who can control his fate?’’ He obviously, and in my view erroneously, believes that fate and destiny lies in the hands of a ‘’higher power ’’ alone. I also believe in the supremacy of God and in His ability to ‘’rule in the affairs of men’’ but I am also of the view that to a great extent we mortals can also control our fate and that our future is determined by the choices that we make . S h a kespear ’s character Cassius in the play ‘’Julius Caesar ’’ reiterates my point when he asserted that ’’the fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars but in ourselves that we are underlings’’. Charles Kay Anyabuike, a

*Fani-Kayode

young and obviously insightful Nigerian, put it even more succinctly when he said ‘’weak minds are shaped by society whilst powerful minds shape society ’’. Both Cassius and Anyabuike hit the nail on the head because throughout world history it has always been the powerful and assertive soul and the strong-willed that have made the difference and that have determined the course of events and the fortunes of their people. A few examples will suffice. Without Genghis Khan and the power of his will the Mongols would have never amounted to anything. Without Atilla and the power of his will the Huns would have been nothing. Without George Washington and the power of his will America would never have been independent and free. Without Napolean Bonaparte and the power of his will France would never have ruled Europe and almost the entire civilised world. Without Vladimir Lenin and the power of his will the Soviet Union would never have been established and without Mikhail Gorbachev and the power of his will it would never have been dismantled and destroyed. Without Adolf Hitler and the power of his will Germany would never have ruled Europe and aspired to rule the world. Without Winston Churchill and the power of his will the Allies would have lost the Second World War. Without Margeret Thatcher and the power of her will Great Britain would never have got back on her feet. Without Maria Callas, Pavarotti and Placido Domingo and the power of their will opera would never have been loved and heard in the four corners of the earth. Without Plato, Aristotle, Voltaire, Shakespeare, Christopher Marlowe, Bertrand Russel, Machiavelli, C.S. Lewis, Michaelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, Constable and Picasso and the power of their will we would never have enjoyed the pleasures and delights of philosophy and literature or the power of the arts. Without Beethoven, Mozart,

Wagner and Handel and the power of their will we would never have enjoyed the most refined, the most beautiful and the most pure form of music ever created by mortals. Without H o m e r, Vergil, Wordsworth, Max Ehrmann, Tennyson and Coleridge and the power of their will we would never have tasted the sweet nectar of poetry. Without Martin Luther King jnr. and the power of his will the United States of America would not have had a civil rights movement. Without William Wilberforce and the power of his will the slave trade would never have been abolished and British naval vessels would never have blown slave ships out of the sea. Without Robspiere and

Brittania would never have ‘’ruled the waves’’. Without Ayatollah Khomeini and the power of his will the Iranian revolution would never have succeeded. Without Ben Gurion, Golda Meir, Moshe Dayan and Menachim Begin and the power of their will there would never have been a state of Israel and she would never have survived. Without John Jerry Rawlings and the power of his will the Ghanaian revolution would have crumbled and would have been killed at birth. Without Kwame Nkrumah and the power of his will there would never have been any concept of ’’Pan-Africanism’’. Without Thomas Sankara and Patrice Lumumba and the power of their will, Burkina Faso and the Congo would never have been free. Without Jomo Kenyatta and the power of his will Kenya would never have been rid of the British. Without Nelson Mandela and the power of his will apartheid would not have been crushed in South Africa. Without Mao Tze Tung and the power of his will China would never have been the great giant that she is today. Without Count Von Bismark and the power of his will there would never have been a united German state. Without Achilles and the power of his will Troy would never have fallen. Without Alexander the Great and the power of his will Greece would never have been united. Without Leonidas and the power of his will the Spartan 300 would not have been heroes. Without Augustus Caesar and the power of his will the Roman empire would never have flourished and gone from strength to strength. Without Alexander Bell and the power of his will there would have been no phones. Without Mark Zuckerburg and the power of his will there would have been no Facebook. Without Bill Gates and the power of his will there would have been no Microsoft.

The sheer power of vision, creativity and strength that the human mind harbours and is capable of harnessing is truly remarkable Marat and the power of their will the French Revolution would never have been successful. Without Abraham Lincoln and the power of his will the United States of America would never have remained as one united nation and slavery would have continued to flourish in the south. Without Martin Luther and the power of his will the Protestant Church would never have been established. Without Queen Elizabeth the First and the power of her will England would have remained a tiny island-state and she would have been overwhelmed by the Spanish Armada. Without Queen Victoria and the power of her will Great Britain would never have been the greatest and most powerful empire in the history of the world and

Without Steve Jobs and the power of his will there would have been no Apple. Without Marconi and the power of his will there would have been no radio. Without Alexander Fleming and the power of his will there would have been no penicillin and no antibiotics. Without Eddison and the power of his will there would have been no light bulbs. Without Tessler and the power of his will there would have been no electricity. Without Albert Einstein and the power of his will there would have been no theory of relativity. Without Charles Darwin and the power of his will there would have been no theory of evolution. Without Buddha and the power of his will there would have been n o b u d d h i s m . Without Mohammed and the power of his will there would have been no islam. Without our

Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ and the power of His will there would have been no christianity. Without Abraham and the power of his will there would have been no Judaism. I could go on and on. The list is endless. These men and women, and many others like them through the ages, had courage, drive, purpose and vision and they helped to shape the fortunes of humanity and the destiny of nations. Society did not shape them but rather they shaped society by the very force of their will and by the courage of their convictions. This is what is known as the ‘’triumph of the will’’. Some have argued that had they not existed others could have successfully played their role. I beg to differ. Every single one of these men and women was unique and irreplaceable. Each one of them was carefully and specifically crafted, created, configured and contrived by the Living God to play his role on the world stage and to achieve life’s purpose. And even if there were others that could have achieved what they did or that assisted them from the behind the scenes, they alone had the drive, the commitment, the strength of character, the courage and the sheer force of will to bite the bullet, to take the risks that needed to be taken, to take the bull by the horns and to take a leap of faith. Not many can do that even where the seed of greatnesss has been planted in them. And that is precisely why there are so many dead heroes in the grave that never fulfilled their life’s calling or had the chance to answer the call of greatness. Sadly such people have been long forgotten and tossed into the dustbin of history. T h e s e are men and women who were gifted with briliant ideas and great talents but who could not muster the fortitude and resolve to do whatever it took to bring out those potentials. This is tragic and sad and it results in nothing but unfulfilled dreams and shattered souls. What cripples most people is a lack of confidence, conviction, fortitude and faith and worse of all the fear of failure. This is what separates potentially great men and women who end up just being losers and dreamers and those that are the real heroes who end up being covered in th e irresistab l e rob es of eternal glory and greatness. The character trait that makes the real hero stand out is the ability to persevere against all odds, to endure difficult circumstances, to reject the fear of failure, to cultivate the ability to take a gamble and to cultivate an unshakeable belief in himself and in his cause. That is what makes such people unique. They were destined by God and providence to make a difference in their generation and in their various fields of endeavour, they worked extreemly hard, they burnt the night candle and perservered against all odds and they were gifted with extraordinary qualities to do all these things. This should be the quest and objective of every great man and woman- to live forever in glory in the hearts and minds of their people. This is what is known as ’’the triumph of the will’’. *Fani-Kayode was a minister of aviation

SUND AY Vanguard , NO VEMBER 24 , 2013, P AGE 23 SUNDA NOVEMBER

Husbands who rape their wives!

HEN did that man you mar ried with such love and hope turn into a monster who couldn’t stick to his vow to ‘protect’ you because he’s now the one actually violating you? You hear about rape cases and how victims are viciously treated without recourse to any form of redress; without giving a thought to the likelihood of the perpetrator being the man you share your marital bed with. In the past, mothers discreetly told their soon-to-be-married daughters never to refuse their husbands their ‘conjugal rights.’ If the husband wanted sex, it should be on tap! Nothing about what happened if the wives didn’t want any intimacy yet for legitimate reasons? That one line sentence from mother to daughter was about the only sex education the poor bride had before she was plunged into matrimony. Now, decades later, there are actually husbands who believe a wife who refuses to sleep with her husband must be nuts and needs to be shown who the boss is. Tonia and her husband, Gabby, were childhood sweethearts who’d experimented with sex before they got married 16 years ago. “He never showed any sign that after we got married, he would be needing sex virtually every night, come rain or

shine!” Tonia said. ‘I was pregnant when we got married and as soon as we had the naming ceremony of our daughter eight days later, Gabby wanted sex. I didn’t as I was still recovering from a difficult birth but my husband ignored my protest and forced himself on me. He sneered that: “When you married me, you said you would love, honour and obey me.” “‘But hadn’t he made promises too? “Over the years of our marriage, this was a phrase I heard a lot. If I refused to have sex with Gabby, he’d pin me down and take what he wanted anyway. ‘It’s my right,’ he’d tell me and this made me mad. This went on even after we went on to have two more children, both boys. Whenever I asked Gabby for money for the house or for the children’s needs, he would say ‘later in the morning.’ If I didn’t deliver the night before, I got nothing. I felt like a prostitute in spite of the fact that I was a successful fashion designer. I used to work from home but I needed a sort of haven, so I splashed out on a very comfortable showroom and I had some breathing space. Gabby wasn’t encouraging as far as my business was concerned. He used to sneer that as a mother of three, I could doll myself

all wanted but no one would have me. That I should be proud of a husband who took care of his home financially by being grateful to him in the bedroom. Things got to a head the day I came home late because I had to do a rushed job for a very cantankerous but valued customer. Gabby raged that I must have stayed with a lover. With the state our sex life was, I wasn’t even interested in the stuff any more. He didn’t listen. Instead, he said he would show me how a ‘ real’ man made love, then he raped me. The ordeal lasted for over an hour. He stopped only when I started bleeding - the sheets were covered in blood. ‘I’d mentioned this abuse fleetingly to my mum and she was all for my leaving Gabby. She’d never liked Gabby - she thought he looked too

lecherous for her liking, that he looked like a sex maniac! But I’d hung on for this long because I’d seen how bad a marriage could be with my friends’ experience and I wanted to make mine work. It was my daughter, now 13, who let the cat out of the bag. She always stayed with mum after school and she told her she needed new earphones as the ones she had weren’t that good. Mum scolded her that she shouldn’t be wearing earphones all the time as they were bad for the ears. 1 need to wear them to bed,’ she told her grandma, ‘it’s the only way I drown out what dad does to mum at night. He’s a beast. I hate him because he makes mum cry a lot.’ When I came to take my daughter home, mum was distant and I wondered what was on her mind. I

didn’t have long to wait. She was at the house later in the evening and called our daughter to repeat what she told her about needing earphones. She did so without batting an eyelid, giving her father a look of pure hatred! I was so ashamed that I burst into tears. I didn’t realize to what extent my putting up with the beast I called a husband had affected my only daughter. What was the point in hanging on when the children would eventually lose all respect for their father? My mother would have beaten Gabby to death if she could. She called him all the unprintable names she could think of. If he as much as laid a finger on me again, she would kill him, she threatened. He just shrugged and gave me a hostile look. When I saw mum to the car, she scolded that I shouldn’t have put up with pains my parents never inflicted on me. I was free to come home any time I felt like - with the children. “I was a bit relieved that my abuse had all come out in the open. loving someone is one thing, but constantly inflicting pain under the guise of performing your marital duties is cruel. I stopped finding my husband sexually attractive a long time ago. All my sacrifice now looked selfish when I realized what we’d put our daughter trough. I dared not ask my boys if they noticed or felt anything over the years of their dad’s abuse of me. I was afraid in case they too had been trau-

matized. My husband showed no remorse after he was shamed. “He embarked on a reckless chase of anything in skirt, bragging that if I didn’t want sex, several other women did. I was sorry that he never exhibited this side of his character in our courting days or I wouldn’t have married him. In the end, I left him. I had no other choice. That was some three years ago and instead of paying the children’s school fees, he said arrogantly that he could only afford to train two of them - the boys. I guess he wouldn’t want anything to do with a daughter who exposed his evil way and told him to his face how much she’d hated him. “I have since told a few of my close friends what I went through. Some were sympathetic and some even confessed that their husbands either didn’t like sex, or they were getting it somewhere else. I still believe that lovemaking should be a co~sensual thing or it is debased. What is the point of forcing yourself on someone who finds you repulsive? I guess some men, when possessed by their urge, don’t see beyond their immediate needs. Their victims could be their wives or any faceless woman!”

08052201867(Text Only)

Fight stiffness with regular exercise good posture to the winds. He would say “do your exercise regularly to avoid that sort of stiffness which starts from the nape to the neck down to the heels of the feet.’‘ I, myself, have found out through the years of teaching Yoga to others that even a little boy of less than six years could be incapable of doing the head-toknee posture, whereas, someone of 30 who exercises regularly has no problem with the same posture. That fact drives home the point that the deteriorating of the tone of the C M Y K

muscles can occur even while a child is growing up. Loss of muscle tone will not wait till you have attained the same age as Methuselah. This means that we owe it to ourselves to start to keep the body healthy very early in life. Parents should, therefore, realise the importance of fitness not only for themselves but also for those that they bring into the world to delight their days on earth! Parents do not have to breathe down the necks of their children to get them to exercise. Children almost always learn by example. Seeing their parents exercise will in most cases inspire them to follow lead. Typical of this situation was what ex-

isted between my own Yoga teacher and his children. He would tell me that because his children thought most of the exercises were funny, they would want to join in the fun by doing them too.

Y yoga teacher was of the opinion that old age sets in when one throws away

Parents do not have to breathe down the necks of their children to get them to exercise. Children almost always learn by example

The end result being that his children of both genders became very good at doing the exercises, enjoying all the therapeutic benefits of the practices. He would tell me, for instance, that none of his daughters suffered from period pains or had problems at child delivery. And, he would put all that down to their practice of Yoga. After a few weeks of Yoga classes, I once told a group of ladies that one of the benefits of the headto-knee posture was that of painless periods and one of them said, ‘’no wonder, I have not had to take pain relievers for some time now during my periods. I see,’ I want the reader to know that this was an honest-to-God incidence. For a good posture, which means an absence of a round back, the following exercise is to be practised. Lie flat on the back rais-

ing the legs vertically and making sure the small of the back remains on the ground. Now, while you breathe in, bring down the right leg to the right side of the body to touch the floor. Exhale and raise again upwards. Thrice in all. Re-

peat with the left leg to the left side of the body. For the stronger individuals doing the exercise with both legs at the same time is encouraged. This exercise will strengthen the spine and expel fatigue in the small of the back.

The Leg Raise

Yoga classes STARTED at 32 Adetokunbo Ademola, Victoria Island, Lagos, 9.10am on Saturdays

PAGE 24—SUNDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

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So you’ve been dumped? Get over it!

E’VE all gone through the pain of being rejected one time or the other. It might be better to have loved and lost as they say, but heartbreak is one of the worst kinds of emotional pain. It comes in many forms too - either through a shortlived romance or a 30year marriage. One thing remains the same though - severe emotional pain. Hotelier Nkiru said she was devastated when her marriage failed. Not only did she have four children, she also ran an hotel supplies outfit with her ex. Naturally, by the time her bum landed on the kerb with a thud; she had no job, but four anxious children to look after. “I was heartbroken for myself and my children,” she says. “It was such a shock to my system that I actually broke out in a skin rash. It was one of the worst experiences of my life. I had to start again and didn’t know how. Facing life as a single mum was daunting. It felt like a shock to my identity. I had so much to think about. I knew I’d need to be there for my kids more than ever, so I decided to fight back. “Most of our clients were friends I’d known a long time and they were furious when they heard of Kingsley’s (her husband) treachery. They had no: qualms shifting their orders to a company I hadn’t even registered. It took me quite a while to finally stand on my feet but believe me it was an experience I would rather do without.” Christine Webber, author of How to Mend a Broken heart and Help Yourself says heartbreak should be

again. “It is important to note that heartbreak never lasts for ever”, she says. “However, painful it feels, it won’t go on and on. It will heal, life will move on and someone else will walk into your life.

taken seriously, and people should treat themselves as if they have suffered a physical trauma. Doctors even estimate two per cent of annual heart attacks are caused by a huge emotional upset.

up in being a wife to our husband. Or we might have planned to have kids with our partner. It means reassessing the future as well. This coupled with a very personal rejection, makes it overwhelming for many of us.”

ccording to her: “There is no doubt heartbreak is devastating. But often people don’t treat it as seriously as they should. If you take care of yourself and move through the pain you’re more likely to recover from it. So in those initial few days treat yourself as if you’ve been in a car accident or had an operation. You need lots of TLC from family and friends, so tell them to step in.” Nobody likes being rejected but why does being dumped feel so excruciating? Christine says, “Firstly, we have often invested a lot of time and energy in a relationship. And we also harbour a fantasy about our future. Our identity might be caught

o what’s the next stage in the process of recovery after the initial shock dies down? Christine believes acceptance is key to moving on. “The biggest mistake anyone can make while grieving for a lost love is not accepting that the person is gone and is not coming back ,” she says, “sometimes couples do get back together but it’s not likely, then letting go of a belief that you will is very important. If you refuse to let go of someone, you will only end up prolonging the pain. There are many practical steps in helping you let go. Getting rid of all physical reminders, such as their belongings or gifts they gave you is one. Also stopping all contact, at least for a few months until your initial

OUR column to express your loving thoughts in words to your sweetheart. Don’t be shy. Let it flow and let him or her know how dearly you feel. Write now in not more than 75 words to: The Editor, Sunday Vanguard, P.M.B. 1007, Apapa, Lagos. E.mail: sunlovenotes@yahoo.com Please mark your envelope: “LOVE NOTES"

My Dearest,

Tips to help you recover from a broken heart hristine offers these tips to the broken-hearted Treat yourself with great care. Tell friends and loved ones you need help. Ask them to give you time to talk and express your feelings. Try to be rational and honest – if it’s not likely they will come back, focus on letting go. Write a long list of things you will NOT miss. Stick it up where you will see it. • Draw up a list of things you will like to do such as travel or fundraise for charity. A change of scene such as a holiday might help. Don’t throw yourself into a new relationship. Processing pain takes time and you need your energy to rebuild your resources. *Try to enjoy the freedom of being single,

Being in a relationship, it's not about the labels or

grief has died down. “Sometimes, this is necessary to deal with your emotions and keeping in touch doesn’t always help. These feelings often are anger, disappointment, sadness and anxiety. The person who has been left often doubt their own judgment, often asking: ‘What’s so awful about me?’ and ‘How could I have misjudged this person?’ This is where talking it over with friends or a therapist can help. Often, you’ll look back and realise the relationship wasn’t perfect. There were signs things were wrong.”

ther recom mended ways of dealing with emotional pain is doing exercise to release feel-good endorphins, going on holiday, or trying something new. However you face it, Christine believes if you’ve loved once, it’s possible

becoming official. It's about getting to know someone well enough to develop genuine feelings for them. It's about understanding and forgiving when situations are at their worst. It's about loving someone, not for what they have to offer but who they are. It's never about blaming your significant to others for not treating you like how you want to be treated, it's about how hard they try to keep you around! Thanks for your love. Emma Mine 07051037749 Delta State

Co-incidence of life

1. CHURCH has 6 letters so does MOSQUE. 2. BIBLE has 5 letters so does QURAN. 3. LIFE has 4 letters so does DEAD. 4. HATE has 4 letters, so does LOVE.

A Long Way To Fall (Humour) The priest had been in his new parish for 18 months and already he was fed up with a number of people coming to him in confession and talking about their affairs. Eventually he told his congregation to use another word. “From now on; I would like you to say you have fallen, instead of telling me you’re having an affair,” he said. The new word

worked out well. Then it came to the priest’s summer holiday and another priest came to stand in for a mouth but was not made aware of the new arrangement. After two weeks of listening to the daily confessions, he was astonished at what he was being told, so he went to see the Lord Mayor. “I’m very pleased with the local people’s morals;’ he said. “They have very little to confess to me. I think something should be done about the state of the pavements, though, because people seem to be falling down all the time.” The Lord Mayor smiled knowingly. “Oh, there’s nothing to worry about there, Father,” he replied. “Well, I think there is,” persisted the priest. “Your wife has fallen three times this week.” It’s All In The Colours! (Humour) he husband re turned from work and enthused about his new secretary. “You know, she wears a blue and yellow bra,” he said, “the colours of my favourite football team.” Then seeing his wife’s face, he added hastily, “but it’s no big deal. It just makes me feel good.” The following night, he returned home and said to his wife, “ you won’t believe this but she told me she also wears blue and yellow knickers. Of course, its no big deal, but it makes me feel good.” A couple of days went by before his wife greeted him at the door with the words, “I’ve got a new boss at work. His dick’s three inches longer than yours. But it’s no big deal, it just makes me feel good!”

5. ENEMIES has 7, so does FRIENDS. 6. LYING has 5, so does TRUTH. 7. HURT has 4, so does HEAL. 8. NEGATIVE has 8, so does POSITIVE. 9. FAILURE has 7, so does SUCCESS. 10. BELOW has 5, so does ABOVE. 11. CRY has 3 letters so does JOY. 12. ANGER has 5, so does HAPPY. 13. RIGHT has 5, so does WRONG. 14. RICH has 4, so does POOR. 15. FAIL has 4, so does PASS 16. KNOWLEDGE has 9, so does IGNORANCE. Are they all by co-incidence? So, we should always choose wisely,because it simply means that "LIFE" is like a Double-Edged Sword.BE WISE!!! Chris Onunaku dekris4real@gmail.com 08032988826/08184844015.

SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 25

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A gov’s wife and her women BY EMMANUEL UNA

he sun uncharacteris tically rose early in Calabar on Tuesday 12th of November 2013 even as there was a torrential down pour the previous night. The early sunrise kept the temperature in the city warm and sultry that morning. The simmering weather was enough to deter anyone accustomed to the comfort of a cool and soothing environment out of the streets, but not so for Mrs Obioma Imoke, wife of Senator Liyel Imoke, the Cross River State governor. She had earmarked that day, which was the World Pneumonia Day , for the sensitization of mothers in the state on the high mortality rate, especially among children occasioned by the attack of diseases. As she undertook the three kilometers walk aided by Glory Cobham, wife of the Cross River State Deputy Governor, Efiok Cobham, Onayi Odey, wife of Mr Larry Odey, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, and a host of other women from across the state, heavy sweat drops poured down her face. Preoccupied with the project at hand, she occasionally dabbed her face with a handkerchief tucked away at her jeans pockets as she energetically walked from 8 Miles Junction through the streets down to the Market and finally to the Christian Central Chapel, venue of the sensitization exercise where hundreds of women waited for her. As he passed through the streets she stopped at the sight of every mother or father to hand out the stop pneumonia flyer and t-shirts to them. This was to the excitement of many of the people on the streets who, seeing her for the first time in flesh and blood, clutched the flyers and shirts with so much value. One of the beneficiaries, Nkoyo Etim, a trader at the 8 Miles market had to lock her shop and go over to the venue of the sensitization exercise to, according to her, listen “to a woman like me who left her office to come her to talk to us about pneumonia which I have no knowledge about; there must be an important message she came with”. At the sensitization venue, the large crowd which turned out, comprising significantly of mothers listened with rapt attention to the lectures by the plethora of medical and paramedical personnel invited by Mrs Imoke to educate them on the “silent killer of children called pneumonia” as she put it. The governor ’s wife narrated: “{My experience with this infection made me nearly go mad. One day my C M Y K

We are no nott Juju priests – Herbal drugs makers

*Mrs Imoke (I) ...walking with others to educate on ‘ silent killer’ baby became very sick and suddenly turned blue, I was watching him die right before me, and I thought what is it that is taking the life of my precious baby away? When I called the doctor, she said bring the child fast to the emergency unit l and when I got to the hospital I saw so many mothers with babies suffering the same condition like mine and when I asked the doctor, she said it was pneumonia”. According to her, mortality figures in the country show that out of every five children who die in Nigeria two die from pneumonia which makes it the number one killer disease in the country. She said the number of chil-

to follow up on the vaccination exercise. . “Let everyone who can make a contribution towards the vaccination of the children against pneumonia do and you children tell your parents to take you to where you can be immunized against the infection” she admonished. She warned mothers not to heed the advice of any pastor or faith based agency which seeks to stop them from seeking medical attention for their children or ward because even Jesus Christ believes in medical care. “When Jesus mixed saliva with mud which he robbed on the eyes of the blind man and healed him, that was medicine, so let nobody fool you that medicine is evil” Bishop Joseph Edra Ukpo,

She warned mothers not to heed the advice of any pastor or faith based agency which seeks to stop them from seeking medical attention for their children or ward because even Jesus Christ believes in medical care dren killed by pneumonia is higher than those killed by other killer diseases like HIV/ Aids, Diarrhea and measles combined which makes it the most dreadful childhood killer diseases. “People say the silent killer is hypertension but if you ask me I would say the silent killer is pneumonia because it kills very fast and does not care whether you are a man, woman, rich or poor so we must join hands to fight this scourge”. She compared the number of deaths from pneumonia infection every year, which she said is higher than five jumbo jets filled with people that crash into the seas at the same time “therefore the urgent need to fight and eliminate the carnage because the disease is preventable”. She stressed. She said last year she sought the help of Pfizer Pharmaceutical company which gave 1000 doses of pneumonia vaccines used in immunizing children in Bekwara local government council but owing to the high cost of the vaccine, the state government has not been able

the Metropolitan Archbishop of Calabar Emirtus and Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in Cross River State, said the Church has a vital role to play in the health of the people because a congregation that is sick will not listen to the pastor or participate actively in Church work. He called on churches and faith based organisation to enlighten their members on the importance of seeking adequate medical assistance to keep their body and souls active. “The spirit works in an active body so it is important to keep the body healthy through adequate medical care”. Professor Angela OyoIta, the Cross River State Commissioner for Health, said the state has over 800 health care centres spread across the state to ensure that people of the state do not have to trek long distances to seek for medical care so that they remain healthy. “Governor Liyel Imoke cares so much about the people that is why he is investing so much to provide health care facilities in every ward of the state so take advantage of it even if you are HIV positive, drugs would stops its spread and keep to strong and safeguard the spread to your baby if you are a mother”.

erbal Therapy Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter ,established 12 years ago, is saddled with the responsibility of advancing herbal practice and administration. The society avails herbal practitioners the opportunity to interact, exchange ideas and pursue implementation of decisions on matters affecting herbal practice howbeit to achieve high standard natural medicine, discipline and integrity. Speaking on the activities, challenges and expectations of the society, the Chairman, Dr. Qumas Olasunkanmi said the main goal of the body is to foster mutual understanding and harmonious cooperation among practitioners. According to him, the role of the body training and re-training of members on herbal preparation techniques that can compete with products from other climes particularly China, India, etc. He added: “ Our drugs are accepted in most parts of the world now because of our efforts to train our members on the latest techniques on herbal preparation, packaging, and other useful information which our members have now more than ever before”. On the challenges confronting the body, the PRO, Dr. Obafemi Raphael, stated that chief among them is the lack of botanical gardens in the country and the frosty relationship between the society and regulatory bodies like NAFDAC and APCON. He said, “ We will appreciate if government establishes botanical gardens like the one in China, India, etc, and approve grants for research.” He added: “ APCON should lift embargo placed on advertisement of some of our products and tacitly stop referring to us as “babalawo” whose stock in trade is inimical to public health”.

Cleric urges govs to ffost ost er religious oster harmon harmonyy BY OLAYINKA AJAYI The President of Evangelical Church of Winning All, ECWA, Rev. Jeremiah Gado, has commended President Goodluck Jonathan for raising the National Conference Committee. He stated this at the opening ceremony of ECWA International Pastors Conference held at the Redemption Camp on Lagos/Ibadan expressway. In his remarks, he stated that leaders should desist from imposing themselves on the masses as it is undemocratic. His words: “Political and traditional leaders are often imposed on Nigerians, but with the National Conference in view, Nigerians, will elect those that have their interest. Politicians in this part of the world are like a man with two wives. For peace to reign, political leaders must be fair to Christians and Muslims, he said. He commended Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State and Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun for embarking on projects that are people oriented. Gado urged both governors to lead the campaign on religious harmony by liaising with their northern counterparts.“According to him, religious crisis has cost serious damage to our country but can be curtailed if the state governors work together and are fair in their relationship with adherents of different religions.“The ECWA National President said the challenges facing Christians in the North need the attention of Christians and non-Christians.“The representative of Fashola at the event, Sam Ogendengbe, commended pastors for praying for the nation, saying the government of Lagos State will always be ready to give helping hands to the church.“Similarly, the Ogun State Head of Service, Mrs Modupe Adekunle, who represented Amosun, stated that the state government will assist the church with land to build on.

PAGE 26 — SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

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Alleged false oath that killed 3 elders: Our story, by Benin community *’Why we went to court after the palace ruled on disputed land’ BY GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE, BENIN

GUOMON situated along the Benin- Agbor- Asaba highway is one of the communities in Uhunmwonde local government area of Edo State. The community enjoyed peaceful co-existence with its Ikhuenbo, Amufi and Ikhueniro neighbours until 1985 when Ikhuenbo community allegedly trespassed into its land following a road construction. Iguomon was in the news recently when Ikhuenbo laid claim to the ownership of the land in dispute. The Odionwere of Iguomon, Chief David Uwagboe, refuted the claim and explained that Iguomon was founded by his ancestor, Imadegwe, around 900 A.D. who deforested the place and settled there with his followers. He said that community had its name changed to Iguomon by Oba Ozolua, the Conqueror, who reigned about 1481 A.D. when he visited the village and met only women due to the fact that the male members of the community committed suicide by jumping into the well to avoid being conscripted into his army as the Oba was said to be at war. He disagreed with the claims by Ikhuenbo that Iguomon was a settlement made up of the Oba of Benin palace servants and slaves; that it was Oba Eresoyen who sent them to been Chief Priest Ehenegha to be engaged in farming and other chores; that Iguomon paid traditional homage to them but later stopped. He said, “Our community has been in existence even before Oba Ewuare the Great ascended the throne of his fore fathers. Uwagboe argued that Ikhuenbo was formerly called Iguenegbon, the name of the place they migrated from. When they arrived in our land, they changed their name to Ikhuenbo and their chief priest (Ohen) who is claiming to be number two in the worship of the Okhuaihe deity was never number two. He was never given any share in the sharing of the Okhuaihe deity, but because of the role he played in the safe delivery of the Oba’s wife as a herbalist, he was elevated to number two position. The baby that was safely delivered was made the Enogie (Duke) of Ohobve”.

We took them to court because we were dissatisfied with the position of the palace on the issue Explaining that contrary to the assertion by its neighbor that Iguomon disobeyed the judgment of the Oba of Benin on the issue, the Odionwere said, “We took them to court because we were dissatisfied with the position of the palace on the issue. We did not defy the order of the Oba of Benin; those who were delegated by the Oba to look into the dispute went beyond the brief, hence we went to court”. He also denied the claim that the Benin monarch, in order to ascertain the true ownership of the disputed land, ordered that a sacrifice be performed and three elders of Iguomon that

Mr Jolly Agbontaen

took oath died, interpreted to mean a signal from the gods that the community was not the owner of the disputed land. “There was no oath taking and no elder of Iguomon died as a result. One of the elders said to have been involved in the sacrifice lived to become the Odionwere, that is, the highest position one can attained in the community.” He explained that at the High Court, Abudu, the judge who heard the case, Justice J. Agu, ruled in favour of the community when he said: “On the whole, the plaintiffs have presented a more impressive case of their traditional history

Owere David Uwagboe

which the court finds as credible, cogent and compelling. That case sustains a claim of declaration of title to land. On the final analysis, I am satisfied that the plaintiffs have established their case on preponderance of evidence and their claim succeeds. In the same vein, defendants counter claim must fail and it is hereby dismissed in its entirety. Accordingly judgment is hereby entered in favour of the plaintiffs in the following terms:- In accordance with Bini customary law and tradition, the plaintiffs, the people of Iguomon village, Uhunmwode local government area of Edo State are the persons vested with all existing right to the use and occupation of all that piece or parcel of land lying, being and situate at Iguomon village in Uhunmwode local government area of Edo State verged in PINK in Survey Plan Number ISO/BD/1358/ 87 of 14th October, 1987 filed in this action.”

Thomas Evbaruese

The position of the Abudu High Court was affirmed by the Court of Appeal, Benin Division and the Supreme Court. Speaking on the claim by Ikhuenbo that they invaded his community to take possession of the land, Uwagboe said, “We went to the High Court at Abudu to file a motion for contempt of court and some of their people were sent to prison by Justice G.O Imandegbelo while others ran away. The accused persons have failed to defend their act of disobedience to court order. “Warrant for possession of adjudged land property Pursuant to order 11 rule 5 of the Sheriffs and Civil Process Law Cap.151, Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria applicable to Edo State” was also issued to the people of Iguomon to take possession of their land inconsonance with the judgment of the High Court, Appeal Court and the Supreme Court. “ We still have confidence in the governments of the federation and Edo State; that they will not allow the Supreme Court judgment to just die away. If they can help us to implement the Supreme Court judgment, we will know that the rule of law is really working in this country; that they will not allow some people to take the law into their hands and that the law must be respected. The judgment of the Supreme Court being the apex court in Nigeria must be respected. “We are waiting for government to intervene in this matter because Iguomon people don’t want to take the law into our hands although we have the youths who would want to fight to recover what belongs to the people.”

SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 27

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Policeman drags wife to court over fetish substances BY ADEOLA ADENUGA

r. Folorunso Egbedokun,a policeman, told an Agege Grade ‘A’ Customary Court that he saw a bag full of fetish substances in the wardrobe of his wife, Mrs. Risikat Egbedokun, who did not give him peace of mind. ”One day, I went into her wardrobe and I saw a bag full of fetish substances. When I asked her who owned them, she begged me not

to tell anybody”, the husband said. “Since that day, I stopped loving her.” Folorunso informed the court that Risikat said that her mother procured the fetish items for her. He also said the wife always rained curses on him. The husband therefore urged the court to dissolve the marriage, and grant him the custody of the children for proper care. In her defence, Risikat, who did not want to divorce her husband, said Folorunso

deflowered her. The woman said his husband drinks every time he receives his salary. ”So, he abandons his responsibility as a father, and drinks around town,” she said. ”His sister wants me to leave my husband’s house and rent a house in the neighbourhood, but I still love my husband”. Meanwhile, the court president, Mr. Shokunle, adjourned the case for further hearing and warned the couple to maintain the peace.

Resilience, secret of Nigerian’s ent er prising spirit enter erprising BY TONY NWANKWO

he resilient and enter prising nature of Nigerians has elevated them to exceptional levels of performance in multi-level marketing business. Ranked in the 4th position among over 150 countries where one of the foremost multi-level marketing companies – Forever Living Products, operates worldwide, Nigeria retains the largest market share and networkers in Africa today. Nigerians also hold 5 seats in the exclusive “Global Leadership Team” of FLP International, in recognition of their overall performance in the company’s Marketing Plan. There are 20 seats presently in this class of FLP distributors worldwide. And this is the reason why Nigeria is looked upon at the FLP head quarters in the USA as a potential leader in the world. Speaking after an exhaustive special training and recognition event at the Forever Complex, Ikeja recently, visiting FLP International Vice President, Africa, Mr. Gary Shreeve, said he was always inspired by each visit to the country and the success that is being achieved. “Forever Living Products has been doing business here in Nigeria for more than 10 years. Nigeria is, without doubt, our number one market in all of Africa. It is our number four in the world. The people are fantastic; they are energetic and loving. The people are very resilient. While I can understand that life could be difficult at times, the perseverance and determination of the Nigerian, C M Y K

*Shreen makes them overcome uncommon obstacles. Nigerians continue to work hard and triumph and achieve success”. He described Nigeria’s success in FLP as exceptional and praised the commitment and fairness of the management in Lagos for the outstanding performance that has put other countries at edge as to what next Nigeria could come up with. “We, at the headquarters in the United States love Caroline and Cornelius Tay, who oversee the operations here. They are great people. They have been in charge of our business here for about six years now and they have done a fantastic job. Under their direction, the company has grown considerably; we have helped more people with our fantastic products; we are changing lives with the opportunities we offer. With their guidance and direction here in Nigeria, they are doing a fantastic job”, Shreeve said. In 2010, FLP International launched the Eagle Manager Incentive, an incentive for managers to work towards some particular goals within the company. Since that launch, there has been so much

success in Nigeria with the Eagle Managers Incentive. Distributors all over the country have been so excited and passionate about the Incentive that Nigeria emerged the number one country in terms of the number of Eagle Managers produced annually throughout Africa. The country also has emerged the number one country in sales. According to Shreeve, “The Eagle Managers Incentive has grown in popularity and all FLP Managers now strive and work hard to achieve it. Financially, our sales have gone up as our Nigerian distributors continue to share our unique products and the opportunities with more and more people throughout the country”. Shreeve also reiterated the commitment of FLP International founder, Mr. Rex Maughan to help more people in Nigeria achieve their dreams. “We are looking for greater and bigger things. Nigerians have a lot of hope and dreams and what we want to do in Forever is to help them achieve those things. We have just been very successful, but in life, you can always do better; you can always do more. And for us, in Forever, what that means is that we want to help more people”. Earlier in a training session, Shreeve said the nation’s distributors were blessed to have outstanding Global Leaders like Oma and Tony Attah; Justina and John Ekperigin; Maria and Clement Idigo; Kike and David Apeji, because they are always ready to share their success stories with upstarting distributors. The rise of Nigeria in Forever had brought special interest from people around the world. The FLP International Vice President urged all distributors in Nigeria to take advantage of the awesome management who had provided a conducive environment for all engaged the FLP business.

I escaped being used for money ritual by my husband – Wife STORIES BY ADEOLA ADENUGA

housewife, Caroline Omoseebi, tes tified before an Alakuko Customary Court that her husband, Ayemisan, wanted to use her for money ritual. According to her, the husband took her pants to a herbalist in pursuit of the money ritual and also joined a secret cult. Caroline said they got married 44 years ago, and have seven grown up children. She said they lived in harmony until some years ago when their relationship went sour. “He said he wanted to be rich at all costs. That is the reason he joined a secret cult. He actually took my pants to a herbalist in his attempt to get rich quick”, the petitioner told the court. In his defence, the husband said there was no trouble between him and the wife until she joined a club of bad friends and became uncontrollable. The respondent said he was not ready for divorce and pledged to change his character. The court president, Mr. Godwin Awosola, said the court could not force Ayemisan on the wife and, while adjourning the case, warned the couple to maintain peace.

DRIVER TELLS COURT

Wife turned our home into hell for 43 yrs

r. Samson Adekunle, 60, says his marriage of 43 years crashed following his wife’s complaint of his poor attitude to sex that prompted her moving out of his house. Adekunle, a driver, who lives at IyanaIpaja, said his wife, Shafiat, was fond of quarreling over small issues. “When she was living with me, my family could not visit me. She left my house eight years ago”, he said. The petitioner pleaded with the court to dissolve their marriage, and Shafiat should cease to bear his name. The respondent was not in court, while president of the court, Mr. Lateef Omilola, adjourned the case for further hearing.

Housewife seeks divorce over alleged deafness from beating

partially deaf woman, Mrs. Toyin Ola, told an Agege Grade ‘A’ Customary Court that his husband, Mr. Lanre Ola, made life difficult for her.The 35year-old hairdresser said constant beating she received from her hubby made her deaf. “We lived together for five years without a child consequent upon which Lanre abandoned me in his house. At first, he started beating me. I reported him to his family which intervened but the situation did not change,” the petitioner stated. She urged the court to dissolve the marriage. Lanre denied the constant beating charge. Meanwhile, the president of the court, Mr. Shokunle, adjourned the case for judgment.

PAGE 28â&#x20AC;&#x201D;SUNDAY, Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

When Lagos installed new Iyaloja-General ALL roads led to the Iga Idunganran palace of Oba of Lagos on Tuesday, October 29th, when the new Iyaloja-General to succeed unforgettable Alhaja Abibat Magaji, was installed. The new Iyaloja, Chief (Mrs) Mujidat Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, took oaths of office before highprofile dignitaries, including elites of Lagos State. The celebration continued at the Haven Event Centre in Ikeja, where King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal thrilled the guests with his exhilarating Fuji music. Photos by Azeez

L-R:Chief[Mrs] Mujidat Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, new Iyaloja, Oba Riliwon Akiolu, Oba of Lagos, Chief[Mrs] Bintu Fatimah Tinubu, new Iyalode of Lagos and Senator Oluremi Tinubu

Chief (Mrs) Mujidat Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, new Iyaloja of Nigeria.

L-R: Chief Molade Okoya-Thomas, Alh. Umar Saro and Dr. Leke Pitan.

L-R:Oba Alayeluwa Saheed Ademola Elegushi, The Elegushi of Ikateland, Dame Abimbola Fashola, First Lady of Lagos state and Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

L-R:Otunba Femi Pedro, Senator Gbenga Ashafa and Mrs Folashade.

Multichoice 20th anniversary/unveiling of product The 20th anniversary and product unveiling (DSTV explora) of MultiChoice Nigeria was held at Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos recently.

Mr. Nico Meyer, CEO, MultiChoice Africa (left) and Mr. John Ugbe, MD MultiChoice Nigeria.

From left: Mr. Adewunmi Ogunsanya, Chairman, MultiChoice Nigeria; Mr. Nico Meyer, CEO, MultiChoice Africa and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Chairman, Senate Committee on Information. C M Y K

L-R: Funmilola Aofiyebi; Zac Orji; Mrs. Abiola Alabi, Managing Director, M-Net Africa and Jide Kosoko

L-R: Popular TV personalities Uti Nwachukwu and Gbenro Ajibade

SUNDAY, Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 29

V Phones un PTV unvv eils Blissful day as Iyobosa’s daughter weds PT

t was a blissful day to remember when Henry Chiedozie Enemo, a banker with United Bank for Africa, UBA, Asaba branch, took for a wife, lovely Ewemade Aighobahi, daughter of Prince Iyobosa Sunny, Executive Director, Iyobosa Ventures, Benin. The wedding took place at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Asaba,Delta State. Photos by Nath Onojake

R-L: Prince Iyobosa Sunny, bride’s father,the couple and Mrs Josephine Aighobahi, bride’s mother.

new look

PEACE Tidings Ventures (PTV) Phones unveiled its new Corporate Identity on Sunday 17th November, 2013 at the Events Centre, Alausa. Ikeja. The company also presented Seyilaw as its Brand Ambassador.

L-R: Mr Bolaji Ajiboye,Sales Manager, PTV Phones,Mr Ugo Okoye, Managing Creative Director, Etu Odi Communications,Mr Banji Adesanmi, CEO, PTV Phones and Mr Wunmi Raji, Logistics Manger, PTV Phones

The couple: Mr and Mrs Henry Enemo

L-R:Capt.Gabriel Enemo (Rtd) groom’s father, the couple, Mrs Josephine Aighobahi, bride’s mother, Lady Felicia Oniawa, groom’s mother and Prince Iyobosa Sunny, bride’s father

GCUOBA meeting

monthly

THE monthly meeting of Government College Ughelli Old Boys Association, Benin branch was recently held at the residence of Mr. Anthony Okotie (Okuan), GRA, Benin City.

R-L:Chief Emma Ejiofor, the Onitshe of Ubulu-Uku and Chairman of The Occasion, Ogbueshi Albert Enemoh and Lady Felicia Oniawa.

40 cheers for EnitanOlubode THANKSGIVING service to mark the 40th Birthday of Mrs. Oluwaseyi Enitan-Olubode, Special Assistant to Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State, on Public Communications, took place at the Government House Chapel, Oke Igbein, Abeokuta recently. Family, friends and colleagues graced the occasion. Photos by Wumi Akinola

CEO, PTV Phones, Mr. Banji Adesanmi with Seyilaw, the brand ambassador

Among those in attendance were Chief San Iredia, Sir. Moses Avoko, the President, Chief Martins Eseigbe, Prof .F Ogis, the host, Anthony Okotie, Mr Kingsley Okunbo and Prof. Momoh (formal Commissioner of Health Edo state).

Eko Club President marks 70

The Association proposed the hosting of the general ‘Old Boys’ at the end of the year.

Cross section of attendees at the meeting

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CEO, PTV, MR. Banji Adesanmi, his parents, Mr And Mrs Adesanmi and friends.

PREESIDENT of Eko Club, Engineer Owolabi Lawal celebrated his 70th birthday at the Club hall in Surulere, Lagos, penultimate Monday. Photo by Lamidi Bamidi

R-L:Mrs. Seyi Enitan-Olubode cutting the birthday cake, while Mrs. Funmi Wakama S. S. A. on media and Communications to Gov. Amosun, watches.

L-R:Engineer Owolabi Lawal, President, Eko Club; his wife, Mrs Adebisi Lawal and Chief Akin Disu, Chairman Eagle Paints

PAGE 30, SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

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SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 31

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PAGE 32—SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

Conspiracy theories

*President John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jackie, in a motorcade minutes, before he was killed by Harvley Lee Oswald on the streets of Dallas, Texas on November 22, 1963.

The killing of John Fitzgerald Kennedy *How a single event changed the course of history Friday marked 50 years since the assassination of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, the former American president. This report captures the controversy that arose in the aftermath of the killing as well as the presidency of Kennedy.

BY HUGO ODIOGOR & EMMANUEL EDUKUGHO

*Harvey Lee Oswald

egarded as the crime of the century, America, and in deed the whole world, suf fered a nervous breakdown on the afternoon of Friday, November 22, 1963, some 50 years ago, when President John Fitzerald Kennedy (JFK) was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. He was riding with his wife, Jacqueline (Jackie) Bouvier Kennedy, in the rear seat of a blue Lincoln convertible limousine car. The Kennedys had been receiving a tumultuous welcome in Dallas city where the president had gone in an effort to reconcile two bitterly opposing Democratic Party factions - Texas Governor John Connally’s conservative backers were not on speaking terms with Senator Ralph Yarborough’s liberal forces and, with the 1964 elections coming up, the feud could adversely affect the Democratic Party which President Kennedy belonged to. The first shot that hit the President came from the sixth floor of the Texas School Book Depository, ripped a hole in his throat, after entering through the back of his neck. Another shot sheared off the side of his head, sending bone and brain tissues splattering on the rear seat, onto Jackie’s hands and unto her lap, staining the strawberry pink wool suit she was wearing. Few moments earlier, a loud noise came from a building eighty-five feet away as the President’s car made the turn around Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas. Kennedy, with a dazed, uncompreC M Y K

*Jack Ruby who killed Lee Oswald on November 24, 1963 hending look on his face, reached out to his throat with both hands. An instant later, came another shot, then a third. Some of the secret service men and witnesses around thought the loud sounds were car backfires, while others believed they were fire-crackers. But Texas Governor Connally, in the jumpseat with his wife, recognised the sounds immediately as rifle fire. Connally knew this because he was a hunter. In the book – Jacqueline Kennedy-Onasis: A portrait of her private years, written by Lester David - it was recalled that, slowly, President Kennedy slumped toward his wife, Jackie, who stared at him. “Jack, Jack,” she cried out. “What are they doing to you?” Only a few seconds before, Mrs. Conally had leaned toward the President and said to him, “Mr. Kennedy, you can’t say Dallas doesn’t love you.” The unconscious President, rushed to

n the days that followed the assas sination, Jackie gave America and the world an unforgettable image of courage that will remain etched forever in the minds of the estimated one hundred million people who watched her on television, read about her in newspapers and later in his story books. The Kennedy assassination resembles a gigantic puzzle. A number of “conspiracy” theories were advanced in the years following the assassination - some believed Kennedy was murdered by a conspiracy of exactly three shooters, that is, there were three assassins, not one. William Manchester, who wrote the definitive account of the assassination, as well as Robert Kennedy, brother of the slain President, believed there was only one killer: Lee Harvey Oswald. When asked for his version of the assassination barely a year afterward in 1964 during a visit to Poland by the leader of Polish students’ union in Cracow, Bobby Kennedy said: “I believe it was done by a man with the name of Oswald who was a misfit in society, who lived in the United States and was dissatisfied with our government and our way of life, who took up communism and went to the Soviet Union. He was dissatisfied there. He came back to the United States and was anti-social and felt that the only way to take out his strong feeling was by killing the President of United States.” Three months later, after the Warren Commission had issued its report in which it named Oswald as the sole killer, Bobby Kennedy was again asked by a student at Columbia University for his views. Stunned, with tears flooding his eyes, he managed to respond thus: “As I said when I was asked this question in Poland, I agree with the conclusions of the report that the man they identified was the man, that he acted on his own.” On Friday, June 5, 1964, Jacqueline Kennedy, for ten minutes, testified before the Presidential Commission on the assassination of President Kennedy, headed by Chief Justice Earl Warren. She was questioned by J. Lee Rankin,

Parkland Memorial Hospital four miles away, was pronounced dead at 2 p.m by Dr. William Kemp Clark, Chief of Neurosurgery. JFK never regained consciousness and his wife Jackie remained in the emergency operating room, refusing to leave. “I want to be there when he dies,” she said to the hospital’s supervisor of nurses. Jackie was unable to sleep that night after the President’s body had been flown to WashingThe first shot that hit the Presiton, on Air-Force One plane in dent came from the sixth floor which Vice Presiof the Texas School Book Dedent Lyndon pository, ripped a hole in his Baines Johnson (LBJ) immediately throat, after entering through the back took oath of office of his neck. Another shot sheared off and was sworn in as the new Presi- the side of his head, sending bone and dent of United brain tissues splattering on the rear States. seat, onto Jackie’s hands and onto her The next morn- lap, staining the strawberry pink wool ing, Jackie appeared confused suit she was wearing and disoriented. After a 10 am Mass in the East Room, the Commission’s General Counsel. where John Kennedy was lying in state, Chief Justice Warren was present, along she went with the Chief Usher to the with all members of the commission. Oval Office. Robert Kennedy, JFK’s brother, then still Workers were already dismantling the the Attorney-General of USA, was also room, removing the late President’s rock- there, ready to come to Jackie’s help if ing chair, the paintings and the bric-a- emotion overcame her as she recalled brac on his desk, putting them into the terrible moments. But speaking in crates. monotone, Jackie was composed The evening before, Jackie was seen throughout as she gave her testimony. to be in her bloodstained suit inside the Continues on page 37 White House, moving in a trance.

SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 33

How a single event changed the course of history Continues on page 37

Three-assassins model

In his book, Best Evidence, David S. Lifton, turned up intriguing new evidence, a comprehensive narrative of the assassination fact and theory, a frightening alternative to the accepted version of Kennedy’s death, and very provocative which posed a challenge to the Warren Commission. He proposed in 1966, as a working hypothesis, the “three-assassins model,” not because he believed Kennedy was murdered by a conspiracy of exactly three shooters, but because that model provided the “simplest way of explaining a variety of medical, ballistic, and eyewitness data about the shooting.” Lifton asked: “Why the necessity for a “third assassin”? Why not just two-one up front, inferred from the “grassy-knoll” evidence and one to the rear, at the “Snipper’s nest”? This is because additional data, unrelated to the grassy knoll, indicated two gunmen were shooting from behind. He said that the critical problem was the timing of two shots which, according to the Warren Commission, struck from the rear in less time than it would take to fire the sniper’s rifle twice. The back-to-front trajectory through Kennedy’s neck was a conclusion of the Kennedy autopsy. The back-to-front trajectory through Connally resulted from the combined testimony and medical reports of the Dallas doctors who treated his wounds. The timing conflict arose because the commission had in its evidence the home movie taken by bystander Abrahamm Zapruder, which was tantamount to a clock – one that told time in eighteenth of a second. According to Lifton, the time squeeze developed because the alleged murder weapon was a bolt–action rifle and there was an upper limit, imposed by its mechanism to the rapidity with which it could be fired. When the rifle was tested by the FBI Lab to determine the time required to operate the bolt and then reload, it was found to have a minimum firing time of 2.3 seconds, or 42 frames on the Zapruder film. The commission’s own analysis however, revealed that there was a “time-window” only 30 frames wide (between frames 210 and 240) during which both men had to be hit – if the shots were fired from the sniper’s nest at the sixth floor of the Texas School Book Depository. Thus, the FBI Lab data established that only one shot could have been fired during a time span when, according to the commission, both men had been hit. In simple terms, this means the weapon used by Oswald could not have on its own fired the shots that killed Kennedy. According to the medical data, both President Kennedy and Texas Governor Connally, who were seated one in front of the other, were struck from the rear.

*Kennedy ... Youngest US President Also, according to the timing data, both were struck in less than the minimum time necessary to fire successive shots by Oswald. The alternatives: either one bullet passed through both men, or there was a second gunman firing from behind. In one of its most controversial findings, the commission concluded that a single bullet passed back-to-front through Kennedy’s neck, and went on to produce all five of the Governor’s wounds – entering at the extreme right side of his back, travelling through his

moon. At the age of 43, he was the youngest President the USA ever elected. JFK’s father, Joseph Patrick Kennedy, one-time ambassador to Britain, was a very rich person, whose financial and political support helped the son win elections for the House of Representatives and Senate. He also worked hard behind the scenes in his son’s 1960 presidential election. When JFK was inaugurated January 20, 1961, Joseph was reported as saying: “This is what I’ve been looking for-

A number of “conspiracy” theories were advanced in the years following the assassination - some believed Kennedy was murdered by a conspiracy of exactly three shooters, that is, there were three assassins, not one right chest in a downward and forward direction, exiting from beneath his right nipple, passing through his right wrist, and wounding his left thigh. This is known as the “single-bullet theory”. As Warren Commission Attorney aptly put it: “To say that they were hit by separate bullets is synonymous with saying there were two assassins.” Another melodrama of the Kennedy killing was the shooting of the assassin Lee Harvey Oswald two days after on Sunday November 24, 1963, by Jack Ruby, a night club owner, in Dallas while under Police arrest.

No trial

The death of Oswald made it impossible for the assassin to be put on trial and so nobody was tried for the assassination of President Kennedy; one of 20th century’s most charismatic, handsome, bold, caring, committed, dedicated, humanistic, freedom-loving leader, who launched the space missions that culminated in America landing man on the

ward to for a long time.” In many ways, it was the father’s triumph as well as the son’s. JFK’s handsomeness made him go for scores of women. But his aim was almost always sexual conquest, not forming a loving relationship with another person. He battled with a lot of health problems that included a back pain, ulcers, asthma, and malaria he had contracted during 2nd World War which almost killed him in 1947.

Death in plane crash

ith all the health problems he had, he made the American public believe he was strong, vigorous as the young President sailed often (ex Naval officer), played golf and other games. However, his poor health sometimes made him depressed worsened by the death of his beloved sister, Kathleen who died in a plane crash in 1948. At the 1956 Democratic Party convention, John and his younger brother, Robert, waged a last-minute campaign to

wrest the presidential ticket from Illinois Governor Adlai Stevenson, but were unsuccessful. Four years later, in the 1960 presidential campaign, he contested a tough primary battle involving Minnesota Senator Hubert Humphrey who claimed so many Kennedys were arrayed against him, saying, “I feel like an independent merchant competing against a chain store.” Robert, who became US Attorney-General, was John’s campaign manger; Edward handled the western states; Jacqueline, Rose his mother and other family members campaigned across the US for him. In the presidential election, John Kennedy defeated the experienced Republican Richard Nixon who was Vice President for eight years under President Dwight Eisenhower. Kennedy defeated Nixon by only 114,673 votes out of over 68 million cast, while in the electoral college he won 303 to 219. His presidency began with an inspiring inaugural speech when, among other things, he told the nation that Americans should think of what they can do for the country, not what the country can do for them. Not long after, Cuban exiles unsuccessfully invaded the nearby Island nation in an attempt to overthrow the communist regime of dictator Fidel Castro in what was known as the Bay of Pigs military invasion, April 1961 planned by the Eisenhoer administration but Kennedy had given it the final approval. On October 16, 1962, pictures by a spy plane over Cuba showed that USSR was building facilities that could launch nuclear missiles against the United States. Soviet Premier, Nikita Khrushev, thought Kennedy was weak and won’t do anything. Kennedy demanded removal of the missiles and ordered a naval blockade to stop further shipments of military hardware to Cuba. Kennedy said the missile site was a deliberate provocation and unjustified change in status quo which cannot be accepted by the US, “if our courage and commitments are ever to be trusted by either friend or foe”. Indeed, this singular event inched the world to the edge of Armageddon because the fear of apocalypse was very palpable. It was thought that both countries would launch missile strikes against one another. Kennedy’s resolve to allow a clear head prevail when the military leadership wanted force helped in very large measure to create the fertile ground for the eventual resolution of the crisis. After a few tense days, the Soviet Union agreed to remove the missiles. It is generally believed that Kennedy was on his way to winning a second term. And for a man who had instituted the building blocks for racial integration in America, the air of freshness regarding attitude to governance, his disarmament policies and his avowed commitment to improving the lot of America, his assassination changed the course of history in more ways than America losing a charmer. Till date, most people in America who were knowledgeable at the time of his assassination still remember where they were and what they were doing at that time on that day.

PAGE 34— SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

Nigeria needs strategic devt like China, Singapore —Prof Ekpo BY UDEME CLEMENT

Akpan H. Ekpo, a professor of economics, is the Director General, West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management. He speaks on the state of Nigeria’s economy after 53 years of independence. How do you assess Nigeria’s economy after 53 years of independence? Well, in reviewing the economy, we must look at the indices of growth. For example, in the 1980s, Nigeria’s economy, on average, registered high rates of inflation but with low rate of unemployment. In 1980, the rate of inflation in the economy was about 10 per cent and the growth of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was 4.2 per cent, which was higher than the growth rate of the entire population. Also, the rediscount rate was 6 per cent and the level of unemployment in the system was 6.4 per cent. So, from the 1980s up to 1991, the economy experienced relative full employment while inflation remained double digit, except for the years between 1990 and 1998 to 2000. Notwithstanding, the rate of economic growth from 1980 to 1999 was slow. The lending rates stood at lower double digits except in 1985 when it recorded 9.5 per cent. In all these, the real interest rates were negative for most of the period in 1980s to 1990s, which, in a way, showed inconsistency in savings and investments, even in excess liquidity ratio in the economy. Therefore, between 2000 and 2011, inflation rate, though double digit, was still within the accepted threshold. As the economy grew by 7 per cent, unemployment was still high, from about 13.1 per cent in 2010 to 23.9 per cent in 2011. The increasing unemployment rate brought about output loss, showing that Nigeria’s economy was producing below full potential expected. However, from 2012, unemployment became prevalent in the system with a substantial part of the labour being idle. Could you give us a comparative analysis between the economy in 2012 and 2013? The economy, half way into 2013, could be compared with the same period in 2012 but the macroeconomic fundamentals are much better in 2013. The rate of inflation is now single digit

meaning that people could be able to buy more goods and services than what was the case in the first half of last year. Beyond that, the fiscal deficit/ GDP is lower than the same period in 2012. The growth of the nation’s economy appears to maintain almost the same ratio because contribution of manufacturing to GDP is about 4 per cent, which was the same rate half year 2012, and the forecast is that, it may still be within the same trend by 2015. What we are experiencing is jobless growth with discomfort index and misery index rising by the day. The deteriorating state of social services such as public education, healthcare and other infrastructure are clear indications of the current state of our economy. For us to say that an economy is doing well there must be evidence that the citizens are moved out of poverty to better living condition. Today lending rates remain very high

Prof. Akpan Ekpo private sector-GPD is a dominant trend from 2010 to 2011 fiscal year. So, between 2009 and 2011, the net credit to government was high and could even result in fiscal risk. The analogy here is that the more volatile these rates, the higher the interest and foreign exchange risks for the economy as well. In that case, how could the monetary authorities strengthen the local currency to ensure its stability in the economy? For government to ensure the

The fact still remains that Nigeria has enough resources and if well managed could finance major projects instead of getting foreign loans hence the real sector is in comatose. One sees the efforts of some policymakers and technocrats trying to move the economy forward but unfortunately, they are not guided by a working-class ideology that is crucial to radically tackle the matter of poverty and hopelessness in the system. Does it mean that the banking reform is not impacting on other sectors of the economy to increase productivity? The on-going reform in the banking sector is yielding positive results in various aspects but it is important for us to note that our financial system is not that developed like the advanced economies. For example, net credit to the nation’s economy dropped from 59.2 per cent in 2009 to about 10 per cent in 2010, while the credit to private sector grew by 27 per cent in 2009 to about 4.1 per cent in 2010, increasing rapidly to 31.6 per cent in 2011. This shows vividly that the credit to private sector as a share of GDP is on the increase while credit to the core

stability of the naira, we must focus more on production of goods for export to big economies in the world, rather than depending on excessive imports of every commodity we need in the country. Engaging more in export trades would automatically shore up the value of our currency and the economy as well. Production for exports is quite imperative because this is the only way through which we could easily shore up the local currency. Exporting crude oil for the economy to earn more foreign exchange is certainly not the best way to strengthen the naira, because the demand for dollars by offshore investors selling off local debt and stocks is also putting more pressure on the naira. That is why our manufacturing sector must be revamped. For instance, Japan does not care about what the Yen is to the Dollar because the economy is productive, as the people are producing massively for export. In other countries, their income-flow includes the use of coins. Why are we not using

coins in Nigeria In big countries people use coins for daily business transactions and even for shopping in super markets. We could do the same in Nigeria because coins would help to resolve the issue of inflation. So, commercial banks should be compelled to use coins. The apex bank is trying to encourage people about the use of coins but the problem is just the attitude of people. Few months back the World Bank approved $300million credit facility for Nigeria to boost agriculture. Why is Nigeria taking foreign loan when government is saving money in Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF)? Looking at it, practically it is clear that borrowing is not helping Nigeria in terms of growth and development. This is because borrowing has not reduced abject poverty to improve the standard of living and life expectancy rate, as such funds were not channelled to productive economic activities to benefit the citizens. We have potentials for growth and if things are right, foreign investors would come and open industries here. Beyond that, no country has final resources, so there is no problem with borrowing as long as prudent utilisation of the loan is ensured. We must look at the interest rate in taking foreign loans and I know that World Bank has low rate where a country could pay for a period of 30years. The questions we must ask are, is the exchange rate risk taken into account? Could Nigeria sustain paying the loan for 30 years? These are important so that the country would not run into huge debt again. To me, African Development Bank (AfDB) where Nigeria has a window is a good alternative to World Bank loan but I also want to believe that the World Bank loan must be long-term with low interest rate. Bilateral trade agreement is another alternative source of funding for agriculture and capital projects

within strategic sectors of the economy, because it is better to owe a country than World Bank. The fact still remains that Nigeria has enough resources and if well managed could finance major projects instead of getting foreign loans. For instance, government is saving money in SWF, which could also be used to finance capital projects across the country. Does it mean this loan is for the next generation? Since the current statistics show that Nigeria’s economy is growing, every nation wants Nigeria to borrow even when the perceived satisfactory growth rate has not created jobs for the citizens. The loan may be for the next generation if it attracts longterm payment agreement. At present, unemployment rate is about 24 per cent, about 37 per cent for youths and still rising, the incidence of poverty is almost 70 per cent. Unemployment rate in the country is a national crisis and a time bomb just waiting to explode is not tackled urgently. Why is government always borrowing? Building a market economy like Nigeria survives on credit as well as debt and we must manage it prudently to be sustainable. This has to do with financialisation where everything is reduced to naira and kobo in order to put money into the commodity market. Why didn’t government take IMF loan? The IMF loan, which government claimed it did not take, was just a condition to implement the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) embarked upon in 1986. The concept of SAP was designed to deregulate the entire economy to depend on the market forces of demand and supply. Along the line, the implementation strategy became inefficient and there was market failure. The problem with SAP was that everything was deregulated, so much that the economy could not absorb the shock. For instance, the capital market was also deregulated, when the market was not fully developed. That was the beginning of the crisis in Nigeria because we abandoned economic planning.

Global brand

AUMPLUS, a global interior furniture company, says it is committed to world class furnishings in Nigeria. Managing Director of the firm, Mr. Adeyanju Adelakun, said since the company commenced operations, it has contributed its quota to Nigeria’s economic development. “The company intends to adhere to ethical and professional standards in its approach to business. We are prepared to raise the bar in interior design for both office and home furniture. It is as a result of this that we have benchmarked ourselves for excellence,” Adelakun said. He added that Raumplus is a global brand that has carved a niche in manufacturing interior furniture, sliding doors, room dividers with uncompromising quality, honest trade and friendliness. .

SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 35

Counting the cost of cement crisis in Cross River BY EMMANUEL UNA

INCE its commencement of production, United Nigeria Cement, UniCem, Nigeria’s second largest cement factory, has prided itself as an example in industrial and community relations having had no issues with its staff and landlords. Commissioned on May 12, 2009 with an installed 2.5 million metric tons capacity for cement production, it has boosted the supply of cement in the local market particularly in the South-south and Southeast states. Located in Mfamosing, Akamkpa, some 35 kilometres north -east of Calabar, the company has turned around the fortunes of many people including staff, community members and, of course, the teeming businessmen and truck drivers who depend on the factory for their daily livelihood. The abundant lime stone, the raw material for cement production, coupled with the injection of 800 million US dollars by Larfarge, Holcim, both of Spain, Dangote, and Nigeria Flour Mills into the moribund Calabar Cement company, is daily being churned out as cement used for construction work. The factory has helped to significantly stabilise the price of cement at between N1,500 and N1,550 per bag but recent events in the company may put that at stake. First was the introduction of N12,800 road maintenance levy per truck load of cement by Cross River State government which has shot up the price of cement to N1,800 as the levy is being transferred to consumers. Cross River State government argues that the introduction of the levy is occasioned by the damage to its roads by the several trucks that ply the

UniCem route daily to evacuate products from the factory. “We do not collect taxes from the factory because it is in the exclusive list; so the levy is to help fix our roads which daily are devastated by the trucks which ply the route to the factory”, Edem Ekong, Special Adviser to Governor Imoke on Department of Road Transport told Sunday Vanguard. The number of trucks that ply the route has since dwindled as many truck owners are not willing to pay the levy, which they see as additional cost and therefore taken to sourcing for cement from other factories like Gboko Cement. “Even we traders in cement now prefer to bring in cement from outside the state than buy from UniCem because of the levy which has increased the cost of a truck load of cement and buyers are not willing to pay the additional cost since the price of Gboko cement has not increased”, Asuquo Okon, a cement trader along Mayne Avenue said. While still battling the road maintenance levy, UniCem workers went on industrial action on November 6 to protest alleged abuse of office, administrative incompetence and miscondouct and excessive high handedness, victmisation by management officials of the company. The workers, under the aegis of National Union of Chemical, Foot Wear, Rubber, Leather and Non Metallic Products Employees, an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, in a petition to the Managing Director of the company, dated August 12 cited instances of allegeddiscrimination against its members while others lost their jobs. The workers accused the human resources manager, Mr Michael Anuga, of introducing lopsided staff grading which they claimed was “degrading and

of the Nigerian Labour Act and filling same positions with non Cross Riverians whihe factle preaching headcount reduction, it will also surprise you to know that positions are created as often as he and the Managing Director desire and filled up with non Cross Riverians”, Asuquo said. The industrial action by the staff, which lasted two days, led to the closure of the production plant. Mr Oliver Lenoir, the Managing Director of the company, said the action of the junior staff was illegal and clearly in contravention of due process for resolving conflict between union and management. Mr Lenoir said though no punitive action would be taken against any of the workers for participating in the strike, further training on industrial relations would be given to the union leaders to keep them better informed on the processes for industrial dialogue and negotiation. On the issue of marginalization of indigenes of Cross River State in appointment into management positions, Lenoir said, “As a Nigerian company of international standard, we operate based on policies, procedures, and best practices which are openly communicated to all and our recruitment is based on competences, skills, and not tribe, race, religion or social status”. According to him, out of the company ’s 463 staff strength, over 50% are from Cross River State. “The company blames the action of the union which was a clear violation of the procedure for resolving conflict between the union and the management because Cross River State has the highest number of staff in the company and two of the seven directors in the company are from the state”.

S a n u s i Lamido Sanusi *Conflict over cement

As a Nigerian company of international standard, we operate based on policies, procedures, and best practices which are openly communicated to all and our recruitment is based on competences, skills, and not tribe, race, religion or social status” discouraging productivity amongst workers and was tended to bring low human esteem and out rightly violated basic principles of labour and infringed on Section 34(A-C) of the 1999 Constitution”. The petition, signed by Conrade Blessed Okokon Effiom and Ayuk Peter, chairman and secretary of the union respectively, also accused some of the management staff of “ethnic cleansing”. “There is a high degree of conflict of interest exhibited by the HRD (Human Resources Department) as sensitive positions are manned by one

favoured ethnic group at the expense of other more qualified and experienced workers which is detrimental, discriminatory, and injurious to the growth and productivity of the company ”, the union claimed. Bassey Asuquo, an indigene of Mfamosing, the host community, and a staff of the company, also complained that there was a grand design to remove some of his kinsmen in the employ of the company and replace them with people who are less qualified. “Apart from t that he is tactically terminating the employment of Cross Riverians in key positions under the guise

Ibadan Business School progs are market-driven — Prof. Afolabi Professor Oladapo Afolabi, onetime Head of Service of the Federation, is the Chairman, Board of Advisors of newlyestablished Ibadan Business School. He speaks on the vision and character of the school. What is the vision of Ibadan Business School? It will focus on development needs of the public sector being the drivers of the economy in the developing world and address capacity needs of micro, small and medium enterprises and entrepreneurs who represent the agents of sustainable growth in any economy. Are there peculiar attributes that distinguish IBS from other Business Education Institutions across the globe? Yes, there are four distinct features of IBS that should it appeal to the prospective market. One, about 75% of its courses would be run on-line through electronic learning (e-learning). This provides both convenience and access to many who have longed to improve on their capacities but were unable to do so due to busy schedule, geographical consideration, and even costs. Two, Ibadan Business School prides itself as the first

business school in Africa to provide a double platform of e-learning for its students. Apart from the use of laptops, desktops, tablets to receive lectures, students would also enjoy the rare convenience of also being able to receive their lectures on-the-go through their mobile phones such as Nokia, Samsung, Blackberry, Tecno, etc. With these technologies, no prospective student should have any excuse, based on convenience and access, not to improve on his or her human capital potential. Three, is the universality of IBS faculty. Prospective students would have the rare opportunity of benefiting from the immense wealth of experience of its resource persons who are domiciled in various parts of the world. For instance, a Nigeria resident student in our programme could receive lectures from lecturers located in United Kingdom, South Africa, Singapore, United States of America, Ghana, etc. This unique feature offers every enrolled student to benefit from contemporary best practices and experiences in their respective fields of study. Four, all our courses are marketdriven. The various courses we would be running are identified through market needs analysis.

Professor Oladapo Afolabi This would make the school attractive to all who sincerely desire to better their human capital capacities. Who are the promoters of Ibadan Business School? 21-year old Supreme Management Consultants Ltd (SMC) is the chief promoter of IBS. SMC has been a foremost management institution with operational network that cuts across all the seven continents in the world. A critical body of promoters of IBS is also found in its Board of Advisors that is made up of very distinguished and accomplished Nigerians and expatriates, myself, Chief Wole Olanipekun, Alhaji

Mohammed Abubakar, Prof. Pickey Richardson of University of Manchester Business School, Mr. Bayo Jimoh, Dr. (Mrs.) Sally Adukwu-Bolujoko and Mr. Yinka Fasuyi. What is the operation profile of IBS? Basically the Board provides the policy direction for the school through regular appraisal of global business environment and its consequences for business education requirements. The school will also rely on the global tested skills of its Board of Advisors whose members have earned respect in management consultancy both in Nigeria and outside. The day to day operation of Ibadan Business School however resides with its Registrar who doubles as the Chief Operating Officer. The school is blessed to have a foremost and tested administrator – Chief Mojisola Ladipo - as Registrar/ COO. The Registrar/COO, a former two-term registrar of University of Ibadan is expected to leverage on her international network and exposure to make IBS a foremost business education institution of first choice. Does it mean Ibadan Business School will not run a face-toface, conventional classroom

system at all? What I said was that a large percentage of our courses will run online while about 25% of the programme would still employ the conventional face to face approach. From the third quarter of 2014, most of the face-to-face programmes would draw participants from Sub-Saharan African countries whereby participants would enjoy the benefits of sharing contemporary experiences How adequate are IBS infrastructure facilities to meet this goal? The taste of the pudding is in the eating. So also is the validity of the old adage that says “seeing is believing”. I am happy to share with you that Ibadan Business School has a world-class infrastructure facility located in a very serene environment, most conducive for learning. The standard and features of the learning rooms, syndicate rooms, plenary halls, library, parks, can conveniently match those of its contemporaries anywhere in the world. Even inspite of its existing infrastructures, the school keeps expanding its infrastructures ahead of its future needs.

PAGE 36— SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

Again, dusts in power sector as PHCN successor-companies axe 30,000 workers BY UDEME CLEMENT

HE National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) says it has recorded 30,000 job losses following the handing over of the privatised Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) and all the assets to owners of successor generation and distribution companies on November 1 by the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE). NUEE described the development as blackmail and intimidation of electricity workers by the Federal Government. In a document, the General Secretary of NUEE, Mr. JOE AJAERO, lamented that the union was worried about the action of BPE in handing over the facilities of PHCN to private investors without resolving all labour related issues, saying the development negates the agreement between labour and government /BPE that all the issues must be resolved before physical handover of assets. He said, “For the purpose of clarity, the gratuity payments have only about 68 per cent while no member of staff has received a dime of the pension funds savings into his/her Retirement Savings Account – (RSA) as at today. The staff, who retired from service since 2011, have not received their benefits totaling about N19 billion. The differences in the short fall of the terminal benefits from June 30, 2012 till date have not been considered for payment. “The biometrically captured and considered casuals’ appointment has not been addressed. The question of 10 per cent equity shareholding by the workers as statutorily provided has not been given attention. Part of our agreement, which stipulates that training and counselling programmes should be organised for workers before disengagement in order to enlighten them on business and investment opportunities in line with international best practice has been flagrantly violated by government, while less than 50 percent of union deductions have been remitted.” He added, “While we appreciate and sympathise with the core investors, we ask for their understanding and Nigerians in our pursuit to ensure a seamless transition. We are resolute on receiving every kobo owed us as we are sure such liabilities will not be borne by the new investors unless there is a commitment to that effect from them.” Liabilities of PHCN/Nigerian Electricity Liability Company President Goodluck Jonathan had, on October 1, 2013, formally handed over the licenses and share certificates of PHCN to private investors amid protests nationwide by the workers of PHCN over unresolved labour issues, even as he declared that the liabilities of the company would be managed by Nigerian Electricity Liability Company (NELMCO). The President explained that arrangement was

PHCN: Throwing more people into unemployment? in place to enhance adequate funding of NELMCO to assume liabilities associated with the privatisation of PHCN successor companies, as well as other related liabilities. Investors/Companies During the licences presentation by Jonathan, about 5 generating companies and 10 distribution companies received share certificates. He stressed that the successful handover of the companies underscored the transparent manner the entire process went through by local and foreign investors involved in the exercise. His words “Going forward, this administration is committed to providing all elements necessary for our private sector partners to succeed in providing Nigerians with uninterrupted power supply. To start with, the Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Company, NBET, the off-taker, has been

provided with a capitalisation of over $750 million, positioning it to carry out its mandate without financial constraints. “Carefully worked out measures are also being taken to address all other issues, particularly the resolution of labour-related issues. In partnership with the labour unions, we have been able to come up with an outcome that is beneficial for all stakeholders. As earlier pointed out by the Minister of Power, Professor Chinedu Nebo, the payment of all labour related benefits commenced in August this year, and is almost concluded as a condition precedent to this event. “It is important to say to our labour partners, who we know to be patriotic Nigerians who should not nurse a feeling of displacement, but dwell on the tremendous possibilities partnering with the government through the reform process and

Experts are of the opinion that the new investors should expedite action to provide pre-paid meters for all consumers of electricity in Nigeria if they want to achieve tangible growth in the power sector urge them to continue in this spirit for the greater good of all Nigerians.” Pre-paid meters The issue of pre-paid meters is also a major challenge facing the power sector in the country. Though most individuals and corporate organisations welcomed the initiative by government to provide pre-paid meters when it was first mooted few years ago, today, Nigerians are frustrated about getting prepaid meters to escape the burden of estimated billings. The reason being that, after many years, a greater number of electricity consumers are yet to get pre-paid meters despite promises made by government to deliver on this project. Our investigation revealed that some Lagos residents waited for

two years after payment before their meters were delivered. Also, there are some individuals and industries that paid for the meters for over six months and are yet to receive theirs. While some residents of Ikeja expressed displeasure about the inability of government to provide pre-paid meters, others said some officials of PHCN were deliberately hoarding the meters in order to continue placing customers on estimated bills. However, experts are of the opinion that the new investors should expedite action to provide pre-paid meters for all consumers of electricity in Nigeria if they want to achieve tangible growth in the power sector. Thus, NERC, earlier this year announced that pre-paid meters were no longer free, contrary to its June 1, 2012 directive that pre-paid meters should be distributed free to electricity customers across the country by distribution companies. The chairman of NERC, Mr. Sam Amadi, also confirmed the revision of the earlier free meters pronouncement, saying that customers who desire to pay for the meters now would be compensated over time. In return for paid meters, these customers would get energy credit and reduction in their fixed charges over time to make up for the money paid. Electricity generation Electricity generating capacity in the country fluctuates between 5,000 and 6,000 megawatts (MW) but experts say Nigeria has the potentials to generate sufficient power for domestic and industrial consumption. Recently, the former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Alfa Belgore, disclosed that Nigeria has the capacity to generate about 60,000 MW in five years, if all human and material resources are adequately utilised.

‘With good infrastructure, ICT can grow faster’ BY ADEOLA ADENUGA

R. Banji Adesanmi, the CEO of Peace Tiding Ventures (PTV) Ltd, PTV, recently unveiled the company’s new corporate identity as a full fledged ICT firm. He speaks, in this interview, on the ICT industry and its potentials. THE INDUSTRY The level of sophistication in the industry has increased. Movement of data and communication is easier and faster. Ipad, Phones and computers can now transfer data. The ICT industry is growing and the quality of what is being offered is comparable with the world. The only area to improve on is in the quality of internet as this will increase the depth of ICT in Nigeria. The transfer of data needs to be achieved more. The industry is exciting as you can check bank account online and a host of other things. ROLE OF GOVERNMENT The problem from government’s side is a generic one for businesses. The problem of injustice has to be resolved. The courts should accelerate the process of justice. Businesses face a lot of encumbrances like power

and it hampers our operations. We cannot even interlink our branches due to power failure. There are technologies in the U.S that you can give instructions during any season through the internet. You cannot do all these where there is no infrastructure underneath. One of our staff engaged in fraud and it took us four and a half years to prosecute the case amidst frustration. When there is justice and order, the Government can then provide infrastructure. The provision of infrastructure to support business should be the major priority of government as this has hampered a lot of activities. PTV AS A BRAND We have been in the market since inception. The Nigerian market is evolving and changing. We as a brand need to rebrand to provide service to every strata of the society. Now, we are transiting to full ICT company. Whatever segment you are in the Nigerian market, we will meet you. We also want to support the loyalty of our customers; they want us to provide other offerings and this informed our decision to expand the coast of our businesses. We want to amplify the customer experience and engage customers

Mr. Banji Adesanmi more. We are providing integrity alongside exceptional customer satisfaction. ISSUE OF FAKE PHONES The issue is not new as it has been there from day one. There are bad issues such as substandard phones without quality control and warranty service. The way PTV responded to this is that we do not engage in this act. We know ourselves in the industry but for us in PTV, we have focused on integrity. This has really worked for us and we stay away from such acts. GREY MARKET The grey market thrives as a function of the effectiveness of

the brand to protect their brands in the warranted market. The advantage of Nigerian warranty is that customers go to their phone outlets directly when the brands came. To kill grey market, it has to be countered with prices. The products also need to be differentiated. Service should also be provided to back up the original brands. It is a function of each brand as it depends on their response to such issues. The phone brands also attempt to blacklist such from their loyalty scheme. FUTURE OF PHONE MARKET When we started, what we recognized was the ability to carry huge boxes of phones but the market is changing, customers now want to come directly to stores to ask questions. In those days, we did not have time to respond to questions but now the future is that customers have to be attended to. That is the future of the market. People want answers as customers should not just go home with devices only. Now, when people come in, we profile them before providing phones to them.

SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 37

MULTICHOICE 20TH ANNIVERSARY GALA

A night of glamour, dance and drama! S

EEING translates to believing! Its penchant for high drama as illustrated by films from the AfricaMagic Channels on its bouquet was brought alive last Sunday when it celebrated its 20 th anniversary. Through stand-up comedy deliveries and dance performance on stage, the story was told in no unmistakable terms of its 20year jour ney. H e a d - on collisions normally deliver carnage. But when dance and drama clashed on that day at the Eko Convention Centre of Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, the outcome was breathtakingly beautiful. It was a Gala Night of pay-TV giants, MultiChoice Nigeria, organised to celebrate its two decades of operating in the country. Long before the start of the event, guests from various segments of life had started arriving the venue, first in rivulets. And as the hour approached, the rivulets turned into throngs of glamorously dressed people for what was a black tie/formal African dress event. The night started slowly, with guests taking time to chat, having cocktails before helping themselves to the rich menu on offer. A considerably richer menu – of culture, contemporary history, dance and drama – awaited them and it was duly delivered immediately after the alimentary gratification. A large portion of the cultural/ historical menu was served via high-energy dance, pulsating music and indigenous costumes by Crown Troupe of Africa, led by the famously dreadlocked artiste, Segun Adefila. The troupe’s performances, which followed the Broadway format, was created, scripted and produced by Jenkins Alumona - it chronicled the countr y ’s socio -political situation in 1993, when MultiChoice arrived. A dark epoch in the country’s history, the period was marked by political turmoil that had bred public disenchantment with military rule, demand for democracy and the perception of the country as a pariah state. Despite the countr y ’s blighted reputation, MultiChoice jumped in. The performance also recreated the evolution of the company from the humble days of offering pay TV via an analogue bouquet of six channels through its emergence as the driver of digital broadcasting/ migration as well as its immense contributions to the country’s socio-economic wellb e i n g . Adewunmi Ogunsanya, Chairman, MultiChoice Nigeria, explained that it was necessary to celebrate two decades of operating in

L-R: Chief Tom Adaba, former DG, NBC; Biola Alabi, MD M-Net Africa; John Ugbe, MD, Multi-Choice Nigeria; Felix Awogu, GM Supersports; Adewunmi Ogunsanya, Chairman Multi-Choice Nigeria; and Emeka Mba, DG, NBC; at the gala night. Nigeria, given the mile-high odds it had to contend with on arrival in Nigeria. These took the shape of inclement investment climate characterised by frequent government policy shifts, poor profile of the country on account of military dictatorship and squalid human rights record as well a dire lack of broadcast infrastructure among other things. “We started with satellite broadcast, which was the first in Africa and second in the world. It was an enormous challenge, as the market had not previously had an experience of pay-TV platform. And being the first licensed operator was not an easy task. It came with the need to constantly innovate to stay ahead with cutting-edge technology while still creating digital television channels, which are backed up with world-class service,” said Ogunsanya. He explained that the success of the company is built on years of investment and deep commitment to the growth of digital broadcasting and support structure in the country. The investments, he noted, have boosted the profile of Nigerian content across the African continent and in other parts of the world. John Ugbe, Managing Director, MultiChoice Nigeria, said the company recognises the family as the pillar that has sustained its operations over the last 20 years. “At MultiChoice, we pride ourselves as the global leader in technology. We bring entertainment to homes in over 50 countries across the African continent. The theme for our 20th anniversary celebration, ‘Keeping Families Together for Over 20 Years’,

was not chosen casually. It is a major responsibility for MultiChoice that serves both as a mantra and a philosophy, a promise that we will invest continually in cutting-edge technology and the content we expose daily will help create the atmosphere we call home,” Ugbe said. There were also musical performances by some of the country ’s brightest musical talents. Tuface Idibia, songstresses Waje, Omawumi and Seyi Shay as well as Daddy Showkey, who sparked

launching a wave of enterprise development schemes in the industr y. “Establishing operations in Nigeria at a time other companies were taking flight was not only commendable, the tenacity with which MultiChoice has pursued growth in all facets of the country’s economy cannot be overemphasised,” Maku s a i d . The company currently has over 5,000 Nigerians in direct and indirect employment. Aside from those directly employed by the company -

The company currently has over 5,000 Nigerians in direct and indirect employment. Aside from those directly employed by the company - dealers, retailers and installers as well as production cast and crew. nostalgia with the performance of his smash hit, Dyna. The event, broadcast live on Africa Magic, attracted a large gathering of prominent Nigerians, including Nollywood stars like Jide Kosoko, Funke Akindele, Chinedu Ikedieze and Kate Henshaw. Mr. Labaran Maku, Minister of Information, represented by Emeka Mba, Director General, National Broadcasting Commission, congratulated MultiChoice for defying the odds against its dream of playing a frontline role in the quest to avail Nigeria of world-class digital broadcasting. The minister also commended the company for

dealers, retailers and installers as well as production cast and crew. Similarly, there are 54 super dealers who, on their own operate over 110 offices nationwide, providing a vast range of services to subscribers and employing thousands. MultiChoice, notably through M-Net, AfricaMagic and SuperSport on its DSTv platform, has invested and continues to invest in wholly local content production. Its investment, the biggest by any organisation in the country, has kept the local content industry afloat as well as taken Nigerian culture to more than 50 countries on the continent. In the last seven years, the

company ’s investments in sports production, broadcasting and training in the country are in the region of N10billion. It has invested over $200million in the local content industry, paid N15 billion in taxes and was the first to set up the country’s first uplink station that puts Nigerian stations on satellite. Nollywood, the countr y ’s movie industry, has been greatly propelled by investments from M-Net and Africa Magic, which air an overwhelming proportion of Nigerian content. From the community perspective, MultiChoice supports the Sickle Cell Foundation-Nigeria and the Lagos State Government in the Adopted Schools Programme. MultiChoice’s biggest investment in the community is MultiChoice Resource Centre project, which has delivered over 200 resource centres to schools nationwide. Each resource centre comprises a television set, a HD PVR decoder, satellite dish, a generator, stabilizer, a set of chairs and desks for the laboratory. MultiChoice has also democratised access to topclass digital pay-TV content through its introduction of pocket-friendly bouquets– DStv Access, Family, Compact, Compact Plus– and GOtv, a low-end service that delivers a range of exciting channels for family e n t e r t a i n m e n t . At the gala night, which was also attended by subscribers and representatives of the country’s media organs, the DStv Explora, the latest in High Definition (HD) decoder technology, was unveiled and given to guests.

PAGE 38 — SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

By BASHIR ADEFAKA

t may as well be taken as pardon without benefits.

That is the case with Adenike, the widow of Lt. Col O.O. Akiyode, aide to the former minister of communications, Major General Tajudeen Olanrewaju, who was convicted for the 1997 ‘phantom’ coup under the Abacha administration. Akiyode died while still serving his prison term and before all those also jailed for the controversial coup plot, including Lt. General Oladipo Diya, Olanrewaju and the late Major General AbdulKarim Adisa, were released courtesy of an amnesty proclamation in 1999 under the Abdulsalami administration. They received presidential pardon on March 12, 2013 after the National Council of State (NCS) approved a list presented to it by President Goodluck Jonathan. The implication of the pardon is that the former convicts are to receive all their benefits from the military authorities. Eight months after, however, the pardon seems to be in vain as the benefits are not forthcoming. A military source blamed the situation on the Presidency which has since failed to gazette the pardon after which the Army authorities would implement the payment. “Once the gazette is out from the Presidency, the Army will formally invite all those concerned to Abuja for documentation,” the source said. Meanwhile the beneficiaries are unhappy that it is taking too long for the benefits to come. Two of them – Akiyode and Adisa – are dead. Akiyode’s widow, Adenike, went emotional over the issue when Sunday Vanguard encountered her. “He served his country faithfully. While others came back after amnesty was granted to them in 1999, my husband died in prison”, Adenike lamented. She spoke on the difficulties the family faces in the absence of the payment of her husband’s benefits by the authorities. “Since he passed on, it has been difficult for me to take up the responsibility of a bread winner with the little I receive from my job. I had to struggle to pay our four children’s school fees, the house rent, buy clothes and feed the children. It is the assistance of some God-fearing friends, well wishers and God’s grace that sustains us. The children, after their university education, are looking for job. The past 14 years has been full of pains and sorrow with the absence of our bread winner”, the widow said. “It was with great relief when we heard that the long awaited ‘pardon’ has been granted to my husband and others. We waited for further instructions about their gratuity and allowances but nothing has come. I cannot but ask myself, `why did the government announce the pardon when it is not ready to effect what it entails? My husband was used as sacrifice for a better Nigeria, please pay what is due to him. I believe President Goodluck Jonathan will use his good office to do the necessary thing to alleviate the suffering of my family and others”. Letter peaking in the same vein, from the Adisa’s GRA, Ilorin home, the late major gen-

C M Y K

coup because in the past sixteen years they could not have lived a good life without that. Living a good life in any city in Nigeria must be commensurate to your earnings especially for this class of elites who have worked hard to attain high positions in the country. In fact, the delay in the payment of the entitlements obviously affects their contribution to the society, family and dependants. Be that as it may, we thank the President and Commander-inChief of the armed forces, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, for the pardon and the same time appeal to him to promptly effect payment of the entitlements.” Injustice former military governor of old Western Region, MajorGeneral Adeyinka Adebayo, had, in July, called on Jonathan to complete the pardon process, adding that what the officers were accused of, by Abacha, was not a bad thing in the first place. He said, “President Jonathan has started well by pardoning these generals and I can only advise him to complete it by ensuring that the gazette regarding their pardon is published on time so that the grey areas due to conflicting media reports as to who and who have benefited will be cleared and the generals will be restored finally to their normal lives with full enjoyment of their entitlements. These are generals that have contributed their quotas to the building of the nation. Diya lives near me here. He is a good man; a good Yoruba man both inside and outside the military. The same thing is General Tajudeen Olanrewaju, the late General Adisa and others. “In the first place, there was nothing they did that was bad as to warrant that sentence. But we thank God now that the President has done what is necessary and pardon has been issued. But I am also aware that the army authorities have not been able to effect the release of their entitlements because of either the delay in the release of the gazette or that the Presidency has not officially informed them. “This makes it necessary that President Jonathan should see this as a major component of the laudable effort he is making in ensuring that things get better in this country and he should cause all those involved in the release of the gazette to do so without delay”. Yoruba Unity Forum (YUF) leader, Bishop Bolanle Gbonigi (rtd), said to have been visible in the move to grant the pardon to the military officers, declined comments when contacted on the delay in paying the benefits to the beneficiaries. An eminent Nigerian, who spoke under strict anonymity, however added a voice, saying, “It may be emphasized that Mr. President might not have been aware of the stage that the issue of this granting of pardon and its gazette publication has reached, but when it is finally accomplished, it will be a fulfilment in the lives of the affected officers and their families. And it will definitely create necessary drive for any challenging task. It will be a beacon of hope for these gentlemen of the Nigeria Armed F o r c e s . ”As Nigerians they need to get back to work and compete to gain equal access to opportunities that are available”.

*Jonathan

*Diya

*Adisa

*Olanrewaju

ECHOES OF ABACHA’S ‘PHANTOM’ COUP

General Adisa’s wife opens up: Life without husband’s benefits *My hubby was sacrificed — Col Akiyode’s widow *Presidency, Army keep Diya, Olanrewaju waiting

eral’s widow, Rahmat, said the family had written a letter to call the attention of government to the delay in the implementation of the pardon and payment of entitlements but that the authorities replied that the gazette to that effect would be released. When the gazette would be released and why it was being delayed, she did not know. Her words: “Whatever anybody can do should be done to assist us on this matter. Although we thank God we are eating as we don’t have any problem running helterskelter, the truth stands out that what is due as the entitlements of our bread winner, my husband, the late General Abdulkarim Adisa, should be released to us. “It is unfair that we are not getting these benefits but I do not know whether the problem is from above or not. We even wrote a letter of reminder to them but, up till now, nothing came out of it. They are just telling us that we have to wait for the gazette. “My appeal to Mr. President as the decider of all these things is that he should help us to complete this process so that what is due to my late husband and others in his group can once and for all relieve all the pains resulting

from these many years of nosalary. The President said he would give us and I know he will, but I appeal that he should expedite action on it”. Oputa Panel report lso speaking for the family of Olanrewaju, his brother, Comrade Gabby Adeagbo, said the pardon granted to the military officers involved in the 1997 phantom coup had shown that Jonathan had listening ears to the voice of the people as documented in the Oputa Panel report which, in 2006, asked that they should be properly retired, granted state pardon and paid their entitlements paid. His words: “Definitely it is a big relief to the officers and their respective families but it appears to be a pain in the neck of those who see nothing good in any effort made by this government. Towards the end of this year, there is a great concern about delay in the implementation of the entitlements. Has the President done wrong again? Sometimes questions are complicated and answers are simple. If we could fight civil war and reconcile with the ‘No victor, no vanquished’ slogan, if we could

dialogue and formulate amnesty programmes in order to eradicate militancy, then we can also implement the policy that granted this pardon with entitlements of the pardoned officers paid and then correct the past with ‘To err is human to forgive is divine’ slogan. More importantly, if we spend so much time thinking about a thing, we will never get it done. “Any citizen of a country who volunteers his life to serve in the armed forces is a genuine volunteer. And any country without a genuine volunteer is bereaved of deepest concern to serve humanity. 30 years of lengthy dedicated life to the service of our great country especially as a war veteran must have taken the better of your life. Despite the tribulation, clemency, reconciliation, and Justice Oputa Panel recommendation, which overruled the previous illegality, it is still a dedicated life to the service of our fatherland and the family will continue to pray for our brother to be alive to reap the fruit of his labour. “What Nigerians and his family expect is the release of pardon and payment of entitlements to all the officers involved in the phantom

SUNDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 39

Modern Nation-States As Brands Truth is constant

C M Y K

President Goodluck Jonathan perspective of governance was clean(er), green(er), and a discussed. The program left more liveable society/nation, me sad, for reasons of the versus competition (other revelations made there-in; countries). The calculation is looking at what obtains in that the more attractive the Nigeria, the conclusion leads to fear. In that program, as narrated, Michael Bloomberg, in a forum under Clinton Global Initiative (CGI), spoke of wealth of City-States as being product of careful strategic and economic engagements - by political leaders. In detailed account, Bloomberg broke down the ingredients essential for wealth creation today, even at the level of a City (within a country). In developed economies, the drive is even more among Mayors, not even state governors. For instance, nation/country is to investors it was revealed in that - individuals and corporate program, that China’s bodies - the higher the prosperity is based on a single potentials for investment, tax character trait: earning, industrialization and over-all economic RESPONSIVENESS. As a responsive nation development. As a statement (business entity), China is for competitiveness, China’s focused on a big economic strategic plan understands agenda that can support its money and investment is an equally big size. Therefore, opportunity that is, like pays attention to the smallest chance, opens to all nations. detail of those elements that The volume of investment will drive private sector attracted by any country in investment, and attract rich today ’s global village is a people to invest in the country. direct consequence of that competitive In line with this strategic nation’s advantage (as among brands). focus, China invests in a According to Michael

NOTHER constant submission is the classic definition of a BRAND: a promise with a name (you are free to rearrange the words. In other words, you can say ‘a name with a promise’. This definition is only one of the various others given of BRAND over time by scholars and practitioners of global influence. But in spite of the number of definitions, they all say the same thing...as it is simply stated in the definition above. However the consideration of BRAND is diverse. To a large extent, the struggle to stretch the definition of a BRAND along the lines of characteristics inherent, tend to skew the definition. But as we say, because it is a fact, the classic definition has endured over the years. In practical terms, a brand is only a brand if it is IDENTIFIABLE (its name), and if it makes a PROMISE (value proposition/ offer). Between these characteristics, all other ingredients rest: emotional, responsive, truthful/credible, and responsible - can sue and can be sued...and all such other elements that supports its personality profile. We can go on and on in breaking into beats the personality, character (duties, obligations and rights of a BRAND), but it will amount to distraction. We at MC&A DIGEST have ceased to refer to the prevalent world economic order as an ‘emerging trend’, for reason of timing. An Order, a concert or practice in existence for longer than 10 to 15 years cannot be said to be new. In one of our articles on the position and role of NEXIM Bank as a DFI (Development Fund Institution), in juxtaposition with similar institutions in other economies, we highlighted the new elements of POWER among nations. In it we did mention that the new world order run on economic power, in replacement of military might. Nations now gauge or measure their strength along the line of economic prosperity. Global competitiveness is now wholly economic, not military. Therefore, political leadership or governance is now about business management. Some others will like to put it as profitable resource allocation and investment. On Sunday, November 3, 2013, I listened carefully to CNN/Fareed’s GPS (Global Public Square), where modern

Bloomberg, Cities (in America) now concern themselves with economic investment influencers, in their efforts towards economic growth and development. For instance, these cities now channel own resource investment towards developing incentives that will attract the rich (corporate and individual) and the productive masses, for purposes of investment and tax income. And the interesting thing is that this gesture is not punitive and discriminatory (like we have with Lagos State - which is a poor replication of development models in operation in developed societies. In those markets, such measures are designed to attract ALL, based on equal opportunities and not equal results. The focus among those development-driven political leaders in developed economies are (1) better building codes (2) technology (3) building capacities and social resilience (4) better education (5) building strong social fabrics and (5) checking heat waves. These are clearly expressive of purposeful planning, objective-driven leadership, business minded strategic planning and show of focus and responsiveness. When we talk of branding Nigeria, centenary celebration and all those mouthed

For a brand to succeed, it must make an attractive offer, parade a good measure of competitive advantage versus competition, she must exhibit good character traits with potentials to attract target market interest and engagement

emptiness, one thing comes clear to a discerning mind: there is a gross lack of awareness of the prevalent world economic order, among our political leaders. Inherent in that deficiency is the inappropriate allocation of the already very scarce resources available to us as a nation (BRAND); resources that should have been properly valued in line with global needs, for our competitive advantage(s) – are all wasted on frivolities. How else would one explain the centenary celebration going on, if not wastage? Nations, being

brands, are today focused on value proposition, wealth creation, resource appreciation and profitable investment for quantifiable gains. Let us put it to us all, that the days when GDP is a mere statement of ceremonial expression is gone. GDP figures are now truly indicative of strength of nations at the global public square. Nations are now rated on economic power, based on pure accounting calculations that tells the ’interesting’ story. Diplomatic relations and global alignment are now based on economic strength of individual nations. The question for our leaders is: WHAT IS NIGERIA, AS A NATION, SELLING OR OFFERING TO THE WORLD for which we expect earning? As we finance our centenary celebration, we must invest in education/knowledge acquisition, starting from among our political leadership. Nations live the life of a BRAND in the new world order. For a brand to succeed, it must make an attractive offer, parade a good measure of competitive advantage versus competition, she must exhibit good character traits with potentials to attract target market interest and engagement, and she must be innovative and focused on target market/ consumer satisfaction. We do not want to support clichés by talking about our oil and the revenue accruing there-from. Our political leaders must begin to think and act like business executives focused on set-objectives. The task ahead is enormous. Experts have predicted the future terror of the world to be economic crises. It is therefore imperative for nations and political leaders to take deliberate steps towards preparing for the future. The extractive economic activities we depend on are already dwindling in earning prospect because oil is still the only foreign currency earner. NEXIM Bank talked about non-oil mineral extraction, but one fears for the level of success expected from a lone voice in the midst of loud noise and corporate confusion. We all need to be clear on one thing: individual wealth will not save the individual from the collapse of our economy. Our collective economic failure will be of collective consequence. Therefore, we all need to work together to build BRAND NIGERIA.

PAGE 40— SUSNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

AS CONSULTATIVE MEETINGS END...

How we are winning converts for National Conference — Advisory Committee BY EMMANUEL AJIBULU

EMBERS of Presiden tial Advisory Committee on National Dialogue, Mr Tony Uranta and Senator Khairat Gwadabe, are commending Nigerians on the manners at which participants conducted themselves at all the locations where presentations of memoranda are made. The duo also affirmed that the completion of the first phase of the committee’s assignment has recorded key milestone in line with the terms of reference. They made this known recently in Abuja, at the venue of the final stop to the consultations and memoranda received from Nigerians. “First of all, it has been very successful, we have found out that 80 to 90 percent Nigerians are eagerly awaiting this opportunity to come together and talk candidly about what they believe are things that bind us together and those things that we need to resolve that would tear us apart. More importantly however, I find that even though this is not a conference, it was just collect-

•Uranta ing of opinions based on our terms of reference. Nigerians already started putting issues on the table and actually debating them”, Uranta said. Uranta, who doubles as Secretary General of the Nigerian National Summit Group (NNSG), expressed confi-

dence in the success of the National Conference, having seen the positive attitudes of Nigerians about the exercise. “The ability to talk, the readiness to talk is there. There was a period that we thought part of the country was shying away from talking, and

there was another one part that was more interested, but right now every part is eager. Some people even said they wouldn’t want a Sovereign National Conference are now even demanding a Sovereign National Conference. We don’t know exactly what we are going to recommend yet; as the chairman (Sen. Femi Okunrounmu) said what we are now faced with in the next phase is collating, remembering, listing, reading and coming up with those things we can distill out, before we start thinking of what we are going to advice the President.” On the part of Gwadabe, one-time senator representing FCT, she said some participants already assumed the conference had started which made many of them to ventilate and bring their concerns to the open. She also confirmed that others who do not believe in the exercise initially later changed their minds and now throwing their weight behind the convocation of National Conference. Her words: “We just ended the first phase of dialogue/consultative meetings which had

taken a form of town hall meetings, everybody was free to come, free to attend, deliver and state their minds. As contained on our terms of reference, we wanted people to also have feedbacks from that, and we have had tremendous reactions. At many locations we have hundreds of memoranda and many came in through email. A lot of people assumed this is a conference; many of them have actually come to ventilate and bring their issues on board. We have to keep reminding them that this was just a precursor to the conference itself, and for the responses, some cynics from the beginning eventually become converts. Those cynics were initially feeling that nothing good will come out of this, it was a distraction, waste of time, a lot of opinions in that regard. But gradually some of them are giving it a chance. But the good thing is that many of the people are not talking about breaking up, although we had few ones who did, they are very small in number and that’s a good one. I sat and I heard a lot, I am really impressed with the presentations.”

National Dialogue must be ethnicity based —Hon Reyenieju

on Daniel Reyenieju is the Chairman House Committee on Inter-parliamentary Relations and member representing Warri Federal Constituency, Delta State. In this chat, Reyenieju speaks on the expectations of Nigerians from members of the National Dialogue committee. BY EMMAN OVUAKPORIE

What is your opinion on National Dialogue? In answering your question, permit me to go down memory lane. I have been involved in the call for a National Conference prior to the rebirth of democracy in 1999. I was actively involved in asking the military to leave governance of the country and, at that time, we thought we had no other way of achieving that except through a Sovereign National Conference. I think we would have achieved it more easily and the talks would have been more even than what we are expecting to get right now. We had a military junta in place which was totally illegal. We thought that the military regime and everything that came out of it were aberrations. C M Y K

But they were controlling us and we were obeying to the extent that we accepted a Constitution given to us by this same illegal government. So that shows you the level of aberration and Nigerians started calling for a Sovereign National Conference. The cry became even louder after the annulment of June 12, 1993 election and loudest after the death of Chief MKO Abiola. What we meant then was that this country is built on different tripods - you have the ethnic, regional and religious tripods. So people from different divides were saying that we must not continue with the way things were especially when the June 12 election was annulled by a military president from the north and the symbol of that election also died under the watch of another northern

Those were the issues at that time. The Sovereign National Conference would have been legal because we had no constitutional representation in place. We have passed those phases. We have a Constitution right now and we have democratic structures all in place. Constitutional amendment is also going on.

•Reyenieju president. Don’t forget that the election was annulled by Babangida; Abacha sat on it and Abiola died during Abdulsalami’s regime. So this was why the call for a Sovereign National Conference became loudest. We wanted to discuss our existence as a nation. We needed to decide if there was any need to continue to live together. No body wants the country to divide but, if we must live together, under what arrangement would that be?

Conflict of legitimacy Now the President has come up with this idea which is not too different from what we were calling for prior to 1999. When I look at it, I see it as a welcome development. It is long overdue but right now there is a conflict of legitimacy. Some school of thought is saying we cannot have two sovereigns. Right now you have democratic structures in place which are sovereign and you are calling for another sovereign conference. Which takes precedence? There is a conflict. But then, Mr President says no, the issues that will be discussed at the National Conference will go to the National Assembly for ratification. But another school of thought says no; it

shouldn’t go there; it should go to a referendum. Don’t forget that these people whom you are sending the resolutions of the conference to in the case of referendum have also donated their sovereignty to their representatives in the National Assembly. So there is a conflict that we need to actually assess and divorce before moving forward. Having said all these, I welcome the call for a National Conference. It is better to jaw jaw than to war war. Whether we like to admit it or not we are at war in this nation. We are at religious war; we are at ethnic wars; we are at regional wars and we must sit down to look at these issues holistically.Some of us are not really happy. For instance, I am the only Itsekiri man in both chambers of the National Assembly while some other tribes have more than 20 members from one state. This is not proportional and this is why I will like the whole exercise to be ethnic based as this will enhance better representation at all levels.

Vanguard, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 41

We must be optimistic, not •Jonathan should not be taken cynical—Sagay seriously—Ikuforiji I

t is no doubt that there is need for a dialogue on the way forward for Nigeria but, as much as the idea of conference is widely accepted, some Nigerians don’t believe in the arrangement. In these interviews with renown lawyer and activist, Prof Itse Sagay, SAN, and Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, opinions differ on the whole arrangement and essence of the dialogue. Sagay speaks first. Nigerian people. BY ISHOLA BALOGUN &

any people believe the proposed National Conference is an idea that will lead to n owhere. Do you

share that perspective? I don’t agree with that notion and, I think, it is a wrong attitude. As much as one cannot guarantee that it will lead to the objectives that we are all hoping for, yet, it is not enough reason to isolate ourselves from it because it is an opportunity for us to meet together to resolve some major problems that are hindering inter-community, harmony, development and generally the progress of the country or things that would further threaten the existence of the country. This is an opportunity to iron them out and map out a new way forward. Therefore, we must be optimistic and not cynical. We must go into it with opened mind and the intention of achieving the result. But, if we are frustrated at the end, then we will say, we have tried. Those who are cynical believe that government is only trying to save its face from the myriads of criticism it has had to contend with It is possible. But for me, motive is not important in this matter. Rather, it is opportunity that is important. Motive may not be right but it provides an opportunity for this country to move forward. Personally, I am not ready to be going into possible analysis of what motivated the President after rejecting the idea not so long ago. But, I think, it is a positive development we should take advantage of and try to bring it to an outcome that can salvage this country from the verge of disintegration.

n your own opinion, how do you think, the Confab can be achieved? For any Nigerian who has the interest of the country at heart, who is not selfish and does not have a private agenda which is more important to him than the interest of the whole country, for any such person, the major objective is to get a final establishment of true federalism and a way of achieving it by hammering out a constitution that would reflect true federalism and have it approved by a referendum of

eople believe that the National Assembly is also saddled with responsibility especially when it comes to the issue of national conference; what is their role in all of these? There are two levels of constitutional review as we have found out. There are certain issues that are beyond the National Assembly. But when we are talking of a fundamental basis which means a total constitutional revolution, the National Assembly is not equipped for this. That is something that has to go outside National Assembly and must be endorsed by the Nigerian people. The national conference is a total overhauling so that what is going to come out is a new thing and not anywhere relating to the present constitution. Only the people’s representation will then be endorsed by the national referendum.

here are insinuations that it would lead to disintegration? I don’t know why people say that. If people are inclined to leave, it is not the National Conference that will stop them. I think, if there is no conference, we will all break up. But, the conference will probably be looking into how people would live in harmony. The clinching is too harsh such that some few persons in Abuja are sucking all the resources and dishing what they like to the federating unit. The federating unit created the centre and the entity that relates to the people and humanity is the state. The centre is a coordinator for things that have to be done in general including foreign affairs, defense, security, currency, immigration, customs among a few others. Unfortunately, everywhere is failing and because of the amount that has soaked up, everybody is killing each other. And that is the essence of the new PDP and the old PDP. When the North says it is its turn to control the country, it only means that, it is my time to come and control the Niger Delta’s petroleum. We have a federal government

•Itse Sagay that is giving little to the states at the end of the month which is a great tragedy. The state

supposed to be autonomous. So, it means if the conference cannot resolve the issue of federalism, it has failed? It has failed miserably and the country cannot survive it. The state should be able to meet the demands of the citizens. The federal government cannot develop the country because it does not have the capacity to do

EBUN SESSOU

•Adeyemi Ikuforiji months to a general election, when will the campaign for a general election start? How many months are we going to spend on this, when would we start the national conference, when would it come to an end and when will the President implement the solutions. If the President is serious about it, he should have supported it since 2011 especially when he assumed office. At that time, he had enough time to think about a national conference and

There are certain issues that are beyond the National Assembly. But when we are talking of a fundamental basis which means a total constitutional revolution, the National Assembly is not equipped for this

so. I am saying that the national conference will achieve its rightful purpose because it is our last chance. Nobody should take Jonathan seriously—Ikuforiji What is your opinion about the proposed conference? It is a good idea to have a National Conference but one is worried over the sudden change of mind of President Goodluck Jonathan. He was never in support of National Conference initially. Just barely 14 months to another general election, he started showing interest. To have a conference to decide on the future of a local government takes decisive approach not alone having a National Conference. The question then is, how visible is it to convene different groups in the country together under 14

give us a direction and we would have felt that he was sincere. But, with the way it is now and the development in the camp of the socalled biggest party in Nigeria, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), I don’t think anybody in the nation will take the presidency seriously. But, some people say it doesn’t matter even if it causes a delay in the election. I don’t think that is democratic, there should be no delay in the general election. I believe, nobody is thinking of elongating the tenure of the present administration across the nation. It is important that we have a new government in May 29, 2015 in Abuja and in most of the states. So, you think the PDP crisis would hamper the essence of the conference? It is not only the disarray in the PDP that would hamper the

essence of the national conference, the truth is that the leadership had failed overtime and it is now

disastrous to hear that the same government that had failed to support national conference at first has just decided to organise national conference at the tail of its administration. How many Nigerians trust Nigerian government or believe any of their pronouncements especially when it comes to important subjects. A good scenario is the Lagos/Ibadan Expressway that has taken years to construct. Many serious leaders across the world have built thousands of kilometers of roads within the same period, unfortunately, it has been impossible for Nigerian government to construct a 100 kilometre of road.

lot of money has been pumped into security, it seems it is paying off, what do you think? The first thing to know is if there is any sector of our national life that is properly crafted. If we are to mention the amount of money pumped into security, what do you say about

lots of monies pumped into energy generation, yet nothing has come out of it. Don’t forget the volume of money that has gone into oil production, yet nothing has come out of it. It is quite devastating that we seek medical assistance in other countries. People prefer to go South Africa or fly to Europe to treat headache. There are lots of monies pumped into health sector in the national budget, yet we are still lagging behind.

We have failed ourselves and all what we need is to come together and think of the way forward for the nation. It is not only the leadership

PAGE 42—Vanguard, SUSNDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

‘National Conference will reshape Nigeria’ By LUCKY OJI

Nigeria, as a country, we have come a long way; interestingly, we know our past, where we are today, but we do not know where we are going. Therefore, it is very important to sit down as one people to decide where we are going

A prominent leader and the incumbent President of Niger Delta Oil and Gas Communities Consultative Forum, NDOGCCF, High Chief Ebikpolade Mark Bou, speaking on behalf of the group, in this interview, maintains that the proposed National Conference will reshape the country and that Nigerians will re-elect President Goodluck Jonathan come 2015, no matter the opposition even within the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP. Excerpts: HE National Conference proposed by President Jonathan has received massive commendations from Nigerians, but it seems the opposition parties among other people are against it. How do you see? To be honest with you, Nigerians are comfortable with the National Conference proposed by President Goodluck Jonathan, because many Nigerians have seen it as an opportunity to reshape our country. From the very day the President announced the proposed National Conference, he has been receiving commendations from Nigerians, even some top chieftains of the opposition parties are supporting the positive move. In life, there is a moment as an individual you would sit down and review how things are going and plan for the future. Nigeria,

President Goodluck Jonathan as a country, we have come a long way; interestingly, we know our past, where we are today, but we do not know where we are going. Therefore, it is very important to sit down as one people to decide where we are going. There is nothing bad about that, it is unfortunate that some few persons are selfcentred. I want to commend Nigerians for supporting the National Conference as proposed by President Jonathan and I believe the outcome of the conference will reshape the country. The 2015 presidential election is approaching, but the opposition parties, particularly the APC, and some members of PDP, that is, the G7 governors and the nPDP seem to be against the re-election of President. Do have any problem with that?

Why should I have problem when I know for sure that it is only God that gives power to any individual. Even the G7 governors didn’t acquire power by themselves; it was God that gave them power, so why would they ever think they can give power to anybody. I have read the disrespectful statements made by the opposition parties or individuals against President Jonathan and his administration. Some have suggested that Nigerians should kick out Jonathan in 2015. My problem with such persons is that they have forgotten that Nigerians are human and have conscience, they see what is happening in the country, so you do not need to tell them what to do or who to kick out. As an individual, you only have one vote, so on the day of the

election you go out there and cast your vote for your choice candidate, simple. If you are ignorantly criticising President Jonathan and his administration by telling Nigerians not to vote for President Jonathan in 2015, you are day-dreaming. One thing is sure, since Jonathan became President, Nigerians living here and at abroad have been monitoring his activities and his administration, including events happening across the country. They (Nigerians) have the last say, they have the votes, and it is my belief that since they are satisfied with his performance, they will re-elect him come 2015. Jonathan’s candidature and reelection in the 2015 presidential election is not negotiable and it is beyond party politics. And I know for sure that members of the nPDP and the G7 governors are coming back to support Jonathan, they do not have any option but to support the President. Why do you think the nPDP and G7 governors will come back to support the President? There is an adage that says, “A woman who is jumping from marriage to marriage is always referred to as a new wife, no matter how old she is”. The new here is applicable to the nPDP members and G7 governors. Now they are major stakeholders in PDP, but I can tell you this that as soon as they cross to APC, they would be

referred to and treated as new comers and strangers, it is natural. The opposition says President Jonathan is not fighting corruption in the country as expected. Do you subscribe to that? My understanding of corruption is dishonest or illegal behaviour or the action of corrupting someone or the state of being morally corrupt. Corruption is not what you see and fight physically; it is a thought that dwells in the heart of every human, whether to do it or not. The fight against corruption in this country is an individual thing, we must collectively or individually decide to be honest in all our dealings with ourselves and to government and in turn government to the people. The continued agitation by the people of Niger Delta over poor development of the oilrich region is still a major concern. As a leader from this region, what exactly do you think is responsible? The truth is that previous governments were not sincere to the people of the Niger Delta. Despite the fact that the resources of the region sustain the country, all these years there is nothing to show for it, it is quite unfortunate and unacceptable. Niger Delta has been marginalized and abandoned for too long by the Federal Government.

SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 43

Who will save Oyinlola, Baraje, others?

•Anxiety as Jonathan, G7 meet BY HENRY UMORU

NOTHER round of battle looms in Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. The battle climaxed August 31 after the walk out staged by six aggrieved governors at the party ’s special national convention and led to the ‘formation’ of a splinter group chaired by the PDP former acting National Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje. On that day at Eagle Square, venue of the convention and before the very eyes of President Goodluck Jonathan, Vice President Namadi Sambo, PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, and other leaders of the party, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the six aggrieved governors stormed out of Eagle Square. They were later joined by Governor Chibuike Amaechi of Rivers State to address a press conference where the Barajeled splinter group was inaugurated. Dr. Sam Sam Jaja became the Deputy Chairman and Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola the group’s National Secretary. The seven governors in the group, aka G-7, are the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, NSGF, and governor of Niger State, Babangida Aliyu; Amaechi; Rabiu Kwakwanso of Kano; Sule Lamido of Jigawa; Murtala Nyako of Adamawa ; Aliyu Wamakko of Sokoto and Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara. Since then, it has been war between the Tukur and Baraje sides. It was a case of a family washing its dirty linen in the public, but having realised the need to cease fire, the Tukur-led NWC decided to ignore the Baraje group. Meanwhile, the latter didn’t stop attacking the former. Penultimate week, the Tukur NWC moved to assert its power when it wielded the big stick by suspending Oyinlola who was in January sacked by a High Court as National Secretary, but was re-instated through a judgment by an Appeal Court sitting in Abuja. Suspended with Oyinlola was Baraje; Jaja; and the National Vice-Chairman of the PDP, North-west, Ambassador Ibrahim Kazaure, over alleged anti-party activities. The leadership of the party boasted that the suspended members must face the National Disciplinary Committee chaired by Second Republic Minister of Transport, Alhaji Umaru Dikko.

C M Y K

• Oyinlola The 2010 episode or the records, the suspension of Baraje came three years after the PDP NWC in which he served as National Secretary suspended two former Presidents of the Senate — Chief Ken Nnamani and Chief Adolphus Wabara; a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Masari; a former governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili; and a former Transport Minister, Mr. Abiye Sekibo, for forming the PDP Reform Group without waiting for the party’s NEC to approve the action since the suspended members include senior party chieftains in the Board of Trustees (BoT). Also suspended were an expresidential aspirant, Owelle Rochas Okorocha; the then PDP governorship candidate in Abia State, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu; a former Minister of Commerce and Industry, Chief Achike Udenwa, and a former governorship candidate of the party in Imo State, Senator Ifeanyichukwu Ararume. Baraje, in a statement in June 2010 while suspending them, said: “If statesmen like him (Nnamani) who should inspire younger generations by upholding laid down rules choose to desecrate the institutions they belong to, then we have a long way to go in consolidating our democracy. “The highest level of anarchy in any organization is to abandon available channels of communication. The so-called PDP Reform Group has demonstrated through their publications and activities that they lack the discipline and team ethic to belong to an organized association. “As a law abiding organization, the NWC has provided the so-called PDP Reform Group every

• Baraje opportunity to appear before it and explain their roles in this project of undermining the party. They have chosen to arrogantly rebuff this invitation and rather gone ahead to hold illegal meetings. “The NWC therefore has no choice but to invoke provisions of Article 21.4 and 21 (I) of the Party constitution and suspend them and refer their case to the Disciplinary Committee”. The suspension of Oyinlola and Jaja also came a year after they as National Secretary and Deputy National Chairman respectively in the PDP NEC on 13 November 2012 sat and approved the suspension of the incumbent National Vice Chairman, North-east, Alhaji Mohammed Girigiri Lawal, without waiting for NEC to approve the action. Oyinlola, Baraje, Jaja, Kazaure are scheduled to

• Yukur Giving reasons why they must appear, Onwe said, “The alleged grounds are: On the 31st August 2013 at the Special National Convention of the Party at the Eagle Square, Abuja the above mentioned persons and others staged a walk-out in a manner contrary to Section 58 (1) (b) (g) and (h) of the Constitution; On the 2nd day of September 2013, Alhaji Kawu Baraje, Dr. Sam Sam Jaja and Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola filed suit No. ID/704/ 2013 against the legitimate Party leadership at the High Court of Lagos State without first pursuing the internal remedies of the party contrary to Section 58(1) (L) of the Constitution; “Since 31st August, 2013, the persons mentioned above have granted interviews and made statements in the print and electronic media not only disparaging the National

The leadership of the party boasted that the suspended members must face the National Disciplinary Committee .... But Oyinlola says he will shun the Disciplinary Committee, against the backdrop that he was not aware of the composition of any such committee as the panel must be ratified by the National Executive Committee appear before the Dikko-led Disciplinary Committee on Wednesday. ‘Why they must appear’ ccording to a statement by the Secretary, National Disciplinary Committee and PDP Deputy National Secretary, Onwe Solomon Onwe, the affected persons must appear on Wednesday, 27 November, 2013, at the PDP Presidential Campaign Office, Legacy House, Maitama, Abuja at 12 noon.

Chairman and other national leaders of the party, but also unduly publicizing disputes/ differences within the party, even in the face of the great restraint demonstrated by the National Chairman and other national leaders against whom their calumny is targeted; this, clearly, contravenes Section 58(1)(i) of the Constitution; “On 1st and 23rd September, 2013, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola wrote two letters to INEC requesting the Commission to recognize the

persons above mentioned as the National Working Committee of the party, even in the face of the National Convention held on 24th March, 2012 and 31st August, 2013. This, also clearly, contravenes Section 58(1)(b)(h)(i) and (j) of the Constitution of the Party; “Since 31st August 2013, the above mentioned persons have consistently maintained that they are of the “New PDP (nPDP)” thereby promoting factionalization of the Party, and in doing so, recruiting to their ranks members of the party in the National Assembly contrary to Section 58(1)(b)(i) and (j) of the Constitution. “In keeping with Section 57(4) of the Peoples Democratic Party Constitution, the National Disciplinary Committee has since informed the affected persons of the allegations. “They are invited to present their own side of the issues before the National Disciplinary Committee. The affected persons may wish to present their cases orally or in writing either in person or through a counsel of their choice. They may also wish to call witnesses.” The National Disciplinary Committee, chaired by Dikko, has former Minister of Transport, Chief Ebenezer Babatope as Deputy, and former Deputy National Chairman of PDP, Alhaji Shauibu Oyedokun; Hajia Nana Aisha Kadiri; Publisher of Champion Newspapers, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu; Hussaini Duraki Kazaer as members while Onwe is Secretary. ‘Persecutors will fail’ ut Oyinlola says he will shun the Disciplinary Committee, against the backdrop that he was not aware of the composition of any such committee as the panel must be ratified by the National Executive Committee, NEC of the party, just as he vowed that his persecutors will fail. Baraje; Jaja; and Kazuare equally say they will not appear before the committee on the grounds that it lacks the courtesy to directly extend the invitation to them. In the 2010 face-off, suspended members of PDP Reform Group filed a motion, praying an Abuja High Court to quash the action of Prince Vincent Ogbulafor, Baraje and other NWC members. Following the same line, Oyinlola, last week, dragged Tukur and members of the NWC to court to quash his suspension.

PAGE 44—SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

Ekiti 2014: Between Fayemi and the opposition BY IFEDAYO SAYO

OLITICS has started in earnest in Ekiti State as the 2014 governorship election approaches. Allegations and counter allegations have started flying with political gladiators trying to nail their opponents and blackmailing them in the face of the electorate who will determine their fate in the election. And allegation of planned use of thugs and political assassination has not taken the back seat. This was further fuelled by the killing of the All Progressive Congress {APC} chieftain, Foluso Ogundare, in Emure. Governor Kayode Fayemi, the leading candidate in the election, no doubt, has his bag full of allegations aimed at blackmailing him and making him ineligible for the election. Essentially, there have been attempts to link him to the killing. The move by members of the opposition to dent the image of the governor may have stemmed from the fact that Fayemi has lived up to the expectation of the people. But unknown to Fayemi’s foes, he has consistently warned members of his party against employing violence in settling disputes. Even during his struggle to reclaim his mandate, he warned that nobody should kill for his sake. Now in office, at every meeting with his aides, he warns them against aggression on members of the opposition for any reason saying rather than taking laws into their hands after provocation, they should take their case to law enforcement agents. He has treated all Ekiti people equally without discriminating against those in opposition in the implementation of his programmes including Social Security for the Elderly and the Youth Volunteer Corps. This triggered protest from members of his party who believe the implementation of government programmes should be in their favour. At a meeting he held with his special assistants in his country home, Isan, recently, he read a riot act to them that

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anyone caught formenting trouble would have himself to blame as he was not ready to make his second term bid a do-or-die affair especially as he has delivered on his electioneering promise. Therefore any attempt to link the governor or his aides to the Emure violence would amount to an exercise in futility as everyone around Fayemi knows he is not a violent man and that he abhors violence in all ramifications. The non-violent nature of the governor seems to have informed the latest attempt at blackmailing some of his aides. Ahead of the 2014 poll, Fayemi remains a front runner in the race and the man to beat. His excellent performance and the prudent manner he has managed the resources of Ekiti in last three years speak for him. To demonstrate his preference for peaceful co-existence in the state irrespective of political leanings, the governor, at a recent “Meet the People” tour, said in Osi Ekiti: “We the people of Ekiti are one. We are not people of 20 tongues; there is unity in diversity…there is no amount of crisis that should result in killing ourselves. Please let us embrace peace”. Notable indigenes of the state have been coming out to identify with Fayemi after series of adoption by his party members at different fora. Right from last year December when a former governor of the state, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, led APC Chieftains to appeal to the governor to seek second term in office based on his performance, different professional groups have expressed their support for his second term bid. Foremost lawyer and proprietor of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, at a mega rally in Ado-Ekiti, recently, identified with the governor, saying he would identify with anyone who has delivered on the infrastructural development of the state.

Governor Kayode Fayemi

Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe, also hailed the governor for the many achievements posted by him, particularly in the area of urban renewal which has moved the state capital from mere council headquarters to a befitting state capital. Industrialist and the richest man in Africa, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, said Fayemi has performed to the expectation of the people. He urged the people to support the governor for second term to enable him continue with his good works. The immediate past chairman of the state Council of Obas, Owaooye of Okemesi, Oba Gbadebo Adedeji, declared that he would

Ado-Ekiti now being extended to Ijero, Ikole and Ikere. The urban renewal programme has led to the installation of street lights in Ado with the attendant aesthetic value to the state capital at night. Also included in the programme is the walk way for pedestrians. Apparently happy with the number of good roads delivered by his administration, Fayemi declared at the celebration of his third anniversary: “This well defined initiative has so far engendered accelerated growth in the state socioeconomic activities, reduce travel time, impacted positively on commuters with the penchant to expand the life span of vehicles, strengthened

But unknown to Fayemi’s foes, he has consistently warned members of his party against employing violence in settling disputes. Even during his struggle to reclaim his mandate, he warned that nobody should kill for his sake. identify with the lofty achievements of the governor in the area of physical infrastructure. Adedeji pointe at the massive road reconstruction and rehabilitation across the state. For instance, the Fayemi administration in the last three years has rehabilitated 728.365km of federal and state roads at a cost of N8billion. And a total of 81.2km of roads across the 16 council areas have been completed under the 5km road per council area. This is in addition to the urban renewal programme implemented in

the state’s competiveness and attractiveness to both domestic and foreign investors thereby improving Ekiti Doing Business ranking and citizens propensity to access economic opportunities”. In the area water supply, the governor increased water supply from 25 percent to 52 percent while it reactivated mini dams in the state. This is in addition to the construction of 167 modern fetching points across the 16 council areas The administration has provided fire fighting trucks and equipment to the state fire service while operational vehicles have been provided to

the state command of the Nigeria Police through the Swift Response outfit. The administration has completed the rehabilitation of Oluyemi Kayode stadium and the stadium for now ranked among the best in the country. The state new mega pavilion is nearing completion with a new civic centre named after the late deputy governor, Mrs Funmi Olayinka. On agricultural development, Fayemi established the Youth Commercial Agriculture Development {YCAD}. The programme seeks to achieve the twin of objective of creating employment for youths and increase food production. Ekiti is reported to have achieved the largest productivity {yield/Ha} and cultivation in Nigeria. Ekiti yield at 15T/Ha is above the national average of 12T/Ha. On education and capital development, the governor distributed 30,000 units of laptops to students of public secondary schools and another 18,000 to teachers in public schools, renovated 100 dilapidated secondary school buildings across the state, employed 4,643 graduates under the youth Volunteer Scheme, facilitated the acquisition of critical skills by 200 youths at Oodua Skills Acquisition Centre, distributed 20,000 sets of lockers and chairs to public schools across the state, trained 4,160 teachers under the Universal Basic education Board, procured and distributed diverse science equipment to 179 public schools, restructured the technical colleges for quality technical manpower development and trained 4,000 teachers in e-learning techniques.

SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 45

Much ado about Kwara LG poll BY DEMOLA AKINYEMI

ANY challenges came the way of Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission’s (KWASIEC) efforts to conduct the state council poll penultimate weeken d,but it surmounted them all. Principals among the challenges are the two pronged problems of the protracted crisis in the ruling party, PDP, which is taking its toll on the state since it belongs to the Kawu Barajeled faction, and that of the APC, the opposition party. KWASIEC, before the poll, expressed its preparedness to conduct a free and fair election in the 15 remaining local governments,on October 26, 2013. Offa local government, earlier in the year, had a bye election ordered by the tribunal which saw the PDP candidate Alhaji Abdulwaheed Olanipekun winning. KWASIEC chairman, Dr. Uthman Ajidagba, said APC was not among the three political parties that indicated interest to participate in the election. He said that Labour Party(LP), Social Democratic Party(SDP) and the PDP were the three political parties that will participate in the remaining 15 council poll. The chairman warned that the commission would not condone any act of violence as anybody found wanting will be

sanctioned appropriately. Ajidagba assured that there was no cause for alarm as the election would be free and fair. Meanwhile, unconfirmed sources alleged plans by the Bamangar Tukur led PDP, which didn’t field candidates in the election, in Abuja, to draw the list of candidates for the poll. However, the Kwara PDP clarified the situation, saying it had concluded arrangements to take part in the council poll. Speaking with journalists, the state PDP chairman, Alhaji Isola Balogun-Fulani, said the party would participate in the election in the 181 wards and 15 council areas. The party chairman, who said the national leadership of the party was carried along throughout the preparation of the council poll since August, 2013, showed documents to justify his claims. He described the speculation that the party had no candidate in the council poll as mischievous. The election took a twist when the APC, which did not indicate interest to participate in the election and the mainstream PDP in the state, headed to court to stop the poll but failed. ,Justice Sulaiman Kawu, delivering judgement on the interlocutory injunction filed by the APC, said it failed to meet the requirements to stop the election. “The application is hereby dismissed”, the judge ruled.. But the suit filed by the

Governor Ahmed mainstream PDP, seeking the extension of the election date, was adjourned. With the legal hurdles cleared, KWASIEC went on with the poll with the LP, SDP and PDP slugging it out. The election was a walkover for the PDP given that LP and SDP are virtually non-existent in the state. And in an unmistaken manner as witnessed by observers and widely reported by the media,the electorate massively turned out to vote for the chairmanship and councillorship candidates of their choice. The observers adjudged the poll as free, fair, peaceful and credible.The observers, under the aegis of CITAR-NGO, applauded

the poll. In its report signed by its National Coordinator, Engr. Mohammed Lawal, the NGO noted that though there were pockets of complaints bordering on late arrival of election materials, the exercise was generally peaceful. According to the report, few voters also turned out in some wards like Ekan, Imode and Ilofa wards in Oke-Ero LG as well as Ifelodun local government. Barely 24 hours after the election, the KWASIEC chairman, Ajidagba, declared PDP candidates as winners in all the 15 chairmanship and 181 councillorship seats contested. The PDP chairmanship candidate in Asa Local

Government Council,Mallam Saka Obalana, polled 43,748 while his counterpart in Baruten Local Government Mohammed Bio scored 76,478. Alhaji Abubakar TShonga of Rdu Local Government scored 61,291 while his counterpart in Ekiti Local Government Council, Akintoba Fatigun, got 23,888 votes. The PDP candidate in Ifelodun Local Government, Babatunde Salami, scored 74,299 while his counterpart for Ilorin East Local Council, Abdullateef Okandeji, polled 89,416. Usman Ebedi, the party ’s candidate the IIorin South, scored 63,267 while his counterpart for IIorin West , Tajudeen Zulu- Oloje polled 129,885. The PDP candidate’s in Irepodun Local Government, Lukman Owolewa, scored 41,187 while the candidate for Isin Local Government, Moruf Thanni, got 21,144. The party’s flagbearer for Kaima Local Goverment, Alhassan Bagudu, scored 43,747, while AbdulGaniyu Ajibola of Moro Local Goverrnment polled 46,493. The PDP candidate for Oke-Ero Local Government Council, Aminat Yusuf, got 23,957 while his counterpart for Oyun Local Government, Jimoh Alao, scored 34,783 and Othman Mohammed of Patigi Local Government polled 36,294. Ajidagba did not disclose the scores of the councillorship candidates in the election.

ANTI-GRAFT LAW REVIEW

Corruption cases may soon end within 90 days, security agents to lose power By Caleb Ayansina

IGERIA Law Reform Commission (NLRC) is proposing an amendment to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences (ICPC) Act 2000 to reflect the current reality of the society. This will also deter potential offenders and strengthen the capacity of the commission to fight corruption. The reform was embarked upon pursuant to the mandate of the NLRC to update the country laws to bring them in consonance with the prevailing norms of the society. The Chairman of NLRC, Justice Umaru Kalgo, explained at a workshop that it was designed to elicit inputs from stakeholders in the process of reforming the Act of ICPC. According to him, “the proposals include amendments to improve the provisions of the Act on composition, qualification and tenure of members of the commission; fraudulent acquisition of property, deliberate frustration of investigation by the commission and the offence of using position for gratification.” Giving the highlight of the review, a Commissioner of NLRF, Prof Osareme Osunbor, said some sections of the Act were amended, while others were deleted to make it in consonance with the societal norms, as well as guarantee the independence

of the judiciary. Osunbor said there is need to remove undue power from security investigating officers, who use their positions to amass wealth, adding that it would also take care of undue trial delays, while proposing stiffer penalties to serve as deterrent. He explained: “Section 2 which has to do with interpretation, the commission has proposed that some words like bank and money instrument whose meanings have changed but used in the Act be redefined in the interpretation to reflect advancements in technology and also for the purpose of clarity. “On Section 3, the composition of a commission or a council often determines its functionality or effectiveness. Therefore, NLFC proposes an amendment of the membership of the commission and again introduces some level of qualification to be possessed by some members to reflect the seriousness of the task of the commission”. The NCRC Commissioner continued: “The provision of section 15 which has to do with deliberate frustration of investigation by the commission is not comprehensive enough to capture different ways by which an accused person can deliberately frustrate investigation. We have to look into it. “Section 26 (1)(b), this section criminalizes acts which constitute attempts, preparation, abetments and criminal conspiracy in relation to an

Ekpo Nta offence under the act. In criminal law, acts done preparatory to an offence are not ordinarily punishable except in few cases such as coinage offences. Preparation is quite distinct from attempt, as the offender has not manifested the intention to commit the offence by an overt act nor taken the last steps towards the actual commission of the offence. So, mere preparation should not be an offence. It is therefore recommended that the words; ‘preparatory to or ’ in section 26 (1)(b) of the act be deleted. “Under section 26 (3) of the Act, a court must to deliver judgment in corruption cases within ninety working days from the commencement of prosecution.

It is our hope that when these amendments here proposed are implemented, the ICPC will be better strengthened and positioned to effectively perform its functions This obviously looks impracticable in the present day Nigeria, when courts usually have many cases to adjudicate. Moreover, this requirement encroaches on the independence of the judiciary. We have proposed that this section should be deleted having been declared unconstitutional, null and void by the Supreme Court”. Osunbor was of the opinion that the attitude of the Nigerian public toward the problem of corruption is one of ambivalence. While some are quick to condemn corruption they honour and celebrate those that have become affluent by amassing illgotten wealth through corruption’, he said. “Many eagerly rise to the

defence of accused persons with whom they share family or ethnic relationship while urging that proper action be taken by anticorruption agencies against others with whom they share no affinity. “The best way to tackle corruption in Nigeria is to strengthen the anti-corruption agencies and give them the necessary powers to function effectively. They must be truly independent and responsive. “It is our hope that when these amendments here proposed are implemented, the ICPC will be better strengthened and positioned to effectively perform its functions.” At the opening ceremony of the workshop, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Mohammed Adoke, expressed optimism that the current reform of ICPC Act would address some impediments militating against crusade against corruption in the country. Represented by Prof. Deji Adekunle, the minister said: “A re-examination of our existing laws on corruption is necessary to bring them in tandem with modern times.” In his remarks, the Chairman of ICPC, Mr. Ekpo Nta, noted that the preventive mechanism of the commission had been yielding positive results, adding that the attitude of Nigerians to corruption and reporting style are major issues that need to be changed.

PAGE 46 —SUNDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

Ogun as Nigeria’s fastest-growing economy

VIEWPOINT

Ogun won the prestigious VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF award “because it has the Reward for upswing in eco- highest number of businesses establishing in its domain and nomic activities. that the government has made HE title of a report in the November 2, the environment more attractive 2013 edition of The Economist reads: Many of Africa’s fastest-growing economies to investors BY SOYOMBO OPEYEMI

have not relied on oil or mining. It listed six countries in the continent as being in the enviable club of Africa’s fastest-growing economies. The publication, in my appraisal, listed, among others, prudence and ingenuity in public finance management, leading to higher revenues and enabling climate for private investment, leading to local and foreign investments. “Progress,” according to the story, “was not restricted to economic policy. The six countries in the IMF study are far better governed than they were in the mid-1990s. Based on indicators compiled by the World Bank, they are less corrupt, have better bureaucrats, enjoy more stable politics and are better regulated than their African peers.” (Emphasis supplied) Although these countries, the leading financial medium concludes, still have a lot to do, they are on the right track. The above is simply apt for the appraisal of Ogun State, Nigeria, which, last Wednesday in Lagos, was adjudged the fastest growing economy and first choice for industrialists and entrepreneurs among the 36 states in Nigeria by the Management and Board of Editors of the nation’s leading business newspaper, Business Day, at its States Competitiveness and Good Governance Awards ceremony. According to the Editor of the paper,Mr Phil Isakpa,Ogun won the prestigious award “because it has the highest number of businesses

establishing in its domain and that the government has made the environment more attractive to investors. Ogun also has the highest positive number of Gross Domestic Product in the last one year, the number of bank branches has increased more than that of other states in the last three years and its financial inclusion, particularly the embrace of cashless economy and use of Automated Teller Machine by residents had increased tremendously.” It is no longer news that before the advent of the administration of Senator IbikunleAmosun, Ogun State was in a state of siege. Of course, under such a climate of anxiety, businesses would close shops and move to other states; investors would avoid the state like plague; economy would plummet; unemployment would rise; crime and social vices would become the norm; development would be in abeyance; and life would become a restriction. That was the public perception of Ogun State before the inauguration of the current government in May, 2011. To the glory of God, insecurity has been fought to a standstill. During the inauguration of another multibillion naira investment,Wempco Steel Mills Co. Ltd, Ibafo, on April 18, 2013, President

Goodluck Jonathan said, “I congratulate the Governor, the Government and people of Ogun State on another landmark achievement in this great state. I thank you for sustaining a conducive and business friendly environment that promotes economic activities in the state. I look forward to coming again in the very near future.” The Business Day award is therefore an affirmation of what is generally acknowledged - even across party line - about Ogun under the current government. Among the multi-billion naira investments in Ogun in the last 30 months are May and Baker Nigeria Plc, Idiroko Road, Ota; Lafarge Cement Wapco Nigeria Plc, Ewekoro II (Lakatabu); Dangote Cement Factory, Ibese; Metal Recycling Industries Limited, Ogijo and African Foundries Limited, Ogijo. All these are providing employment for thousands of Ogun indigenes. But the success of the Amosun administration is even more patent in the over 45,000 jobs created through direct and indirect employment. Through partnership with institutions like the Bank of Industry, thousands of youths have been taken off the streets and many SMEs established, hence the natural drastic fall in crime rate in the state. The Uplifting Project of the wife of governor, Olufunso Amosun, has been of tremendous help in this regard, as hundreds more are provided free training on handicrafts and empowered with start-off kits. Ogun could not have been known all over the country today as one huge construction site with only gravels, irons and earth-moving equipment in place. Thousands of jobs are equally generated through construction work. The Olokola Free Trade Zone is receiving attention and the state is expected to reap maximum benefits from its rich deposits of bitumen, kaolin, limestone, phosphate, granite stone, gypsum, bauxite, feldspar, among others. The governments waging war against illegal taxes and fees while harmonisation of

Better Honour for Iyayi TRIBUTE BY MAHMUD ABUBAKAR

VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF

Time for ASUU to call off strike

ITH the tributes that have been pour ing in across all strata of the society locally and internationally, there is no doubt that the academic world in particular and Nigeria in general has lost one of its most distinguished academician, author, foremost humanist and unionist following the death of Professor Festus Iyayi in the unfortunate accident involving the convoy of Kogi State Governor Idris Wada. For obvious reasons, the most pained about the untimely death was the immediate constituency of the late professor of University of Benin, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). The late professor of business administration was not just a very distinguished former President of ASUU, he was actively involved in the struggles of the university teachers for enhanced welfare and improvements of the teaching and learning environment in the tertiary institutions till his death. Indeed, Iyayi died in the struggle! He was on the way to Kano in the company of a couple of other members of the union to attend the National Executive Committee, NEC, meeting of ASUU. The meeting was called to consider a fresh offer made to the university lecturers by a Federal Government team led by President Goodluck Jonathan to call off their nationwide strike that has grounded ac-

ademic activities at all public universities since July 1, 2013. Of course, it is no longer news that ASUU did not waste time in calling off the NEC meeting. Dr. Nasir Fagge, the President of ASUU, told anxious journalists that the meeting has been suspended indefinitely in honour of the late professor. In a way, this was expected and will be in tune with time honoured tradition of respect for the dead. What many Nigerians did not however expect was the indefinite nature of the suspension, with even more troubling speculation that the NEC meeting may not hold until mid January, 2014. One can only hope that the speculation about the January date is not true. But if it is true, it may well rank as, perhaps, the greatest disservice done to university education in Nigeria in the past ten years. The implication is that at the end of the strike, academic and socio-economic activities, which are largely driven by presence of students on our various campuses, would have been grounded for seven months. For generality of university students and their parents, this will also mean undue elongation of already delayed dreams, hopes and aspirations. And it will also not be strange if it emerges that some of the students had out of boredom taken to some unsavoury activities in tune with the popular adage that an idle hand is the devil’s workshop. The agony to the students and their parents aside, there is also the long term effect on the nation as the human capital needed for critical national development are kept in school in seeming perpetuity. President Jonathan very well realized the negative consequences when he decided to personally lead the last all, night negotiation with ASUU. This, I also believe, was also why the Federal Government bent backwards in

Late Prof. Festus Iyayi its bid to meet the demands of the university teachers in spite of the competing demands from other critical sectors of national life. The government’s offer of annual investments of N220 billion in university infrastructure over the next five years will in the end amount to just slightly below what ASUU is demanding for in the contentious 2009 agreement. As has been widely reported, it was also agreed that the funds will be domiciled at the Central Bank of Nigeria to be released on a quarterly basis to the higher institutions as a further assurance that government will keep to its side of the bargain. Details of the deal in the public domain also indicated that the local chapters of ASUU will also be involved in deciding which projects the funds will be invested on. The contentious issue of earned allowance has also been taken care of. The few areas of the 2009 agreement that are yet to be fully ironed out related to issues of pensions, the lecturers’ bid to take over assets of Federal Government which are presently lying idle and one or two other items. Government has argued rightly that some of the issues will require setting up institutional structures for their actualization. ASUU will need to set up an asset management compa-

company taxes has been substantially achieved, with companies already enjoying the benefits. From a paltry sum of N700 million monthly Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) it inherited, the Amosun-led administration has raised the IGR of Ogun to a record figure of N4billion per month. This is done essentially by plugging the loop-holes in the old system, automating revenue collection processes, encouraging residents to pay their tax as prescribed by law and removing bottlenecks in the interface of the public with government officials. The administration has zero tolerance for corruption. For instance, officials recently indicted have faced the full wrath of the law. The fact that Amosun is a chartered accountant and highly experienced auditor has equally ensured that processes in government are less prone to corruption; workers are motivated through regular payment of salaries and provision of work-friendly environment. The first international investors’ forum organised by the administration, where rebates and discounts were announced for genuine entrepreneurs, has opened a floodgate of requests for investment in the state:37 new industries (not SMEs) have already established their businesses in Ogun, 14 are at various stages of building their factories while 32, according to the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, have got approval for land allocation. These new firms will generate another round of thousands of direct and indirect employment in the state. The on-going investment in agriculture, road, ultra-modern markets, power, water, transport (contract for a light rail has been signed), education,etc, can only ensure one thing – Ogun State remains investors’ destination of choice. Although the Business Day award is welldeserved, Senator Amosun insists ‘we have just begun’…

Soyombo, Special Assistant on Media to Ogun State Governor, can be reached via densityshow@yahoo.com

ny if its bid to take over assets of the Federal Government should be successful. Analysts have contended that the Jonathan administration offers to ASUU are the best that have been put before the union by any administration since it began its agitations. Indeed, a top official of the Nigeria Labour Congress who was part of the negotiation has been quoted to have described the offers as “okay and acceptable”. Reports also indicated that most of the local chapters of ASUU had at their congresses voted in support of suspension of the long drawn strike before the news of the death of Iyayi who was also part of the ASUU negotiation team. The expectation was that but for the sad event, the NEC of ASUU would have called off the strike based on this overwhelming demand of its members. But should the death of this distinguished academic be the reason to keep university students at home for over two more months as being speculated? Even as we shared in the agony of ASUU over the death of its foremost member, not many Nigerians will think so. For one, keeping the universities shut for the next 100 years will not bring Iyayi back to life. This aside, it is doubtful if the professor himself will agree that his death should be the reason for the deferment of hopes and aspirations of millions of university students by keeping them out of school, especially when their privileged counterparts in private universities have not missed a day of school. Therefore, the best honour that can be done to the memory of Iyayi as many Nigerians have noted is to allow public university students to return to the classroom. And ASUU should do this by calling off the national strike without any further delay. *Abubakar, a public affairs analyst, is resident in Kaduna.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 47 sameyoboka@yahoo.com

08023145567 (sms only)

TERRORISM: Anglican bishop urges more prayers By LAJA THOMAS

IGERIANS have been urged to intensify prayers so that terrorism in the country can be curbed. The appeal was made by the Bishop of Ijebu North Diocese, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev. Solomon Kuponu at the silver jubilee celebration of Young Men and Women Christian Association, YMWCA, of St. John Anglican Church, Iju-Ishaga, Lagos on Tuesday. Speaking on a topic “Terrorism as it affects social and political life of Nigeria: Christian perspective”, Rev. Kuponu said, “Nigeria is a multireligious country. The problems of Nigeria are many but the deadliest and most worrisome is terror attacks. From its inception, Boko Haram viewed Nigeria as a state run by nonbelievers and made the government its main target, even when the country had a Muslim president. The effect of this insurgency on the social and political life of the people cannot be over emphasized.” Rev. Kuponu added that the challenges facing Nigeria are serious, and the solutions are scarce. He warned that inviting foreign aid as solutions will compound the problem as

there are only few countries with the capability to help. He suggested solutions to the menace of terrorism in Nigeria to include: "we need to intensify prayers; ban activities of Almajiris in the North." Thuggery is rampant, especially around politicians, who use political thugs to terrorize their opponents and rig elections, he said. Continuing, Rev. Kuponu urged religious leaders to stop preaching hatred, instead they should preach love and encourage followers to live in peace. According to him, Nigerian government should reach out to the poor countries where the terrorists come from and lend a helping hand. "Let them sow seed of love and people can see that there is no need for violence, provide food and medicine and their major problem will be solved. "Government should deal with corruption, poverty and hopelessness and above all let dialogue be used to settle differences,” he stated. In his welcome address, the president of the Young Men Christian Association of St. John Anglican Church, Mr. Elijah Oni said, “the YMWCA is a non-denominational organisation committed to providing charity works."

L-R:

Cardinal G. A. A. A. Ojuyah, Cardinal J. Ade Idowu and Snr. Apostle General M. Igberase during the Service of Songs for late Senior Apostle General James Minna Okpeki at his residence in Ajao Estate, Lagos on Thursday. Photo By DIRAN OSHE.

Tom Samson commissions Royal City at 47 By SAM ANOKAM

T will be a week long cel ebration for the general overseer of Christ Royal Family Church, Bishop Tom Samson as he celebrates his 47th birthday anniversary as well as the commissioning of his multi-billion naira project christened, Royal City. The city which is built on 100 acres of land in Iyesi, Otta,

Ogun State will be a centre for world revival. It boasts of a camp ground for prayers and revival with over 200 chalets, well equipped hospital, vocational training centres, Royal Dynasty Nursery and Primary School, Royal City College, Royal Diadem Schools, Royal City College of Education, water purification and packaging company, a printing press and take-off ground for the al-

SJCCG proposes a cathedral for Abuja By SAM EYOBOKA

FTER about seven years of presence in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Saint Joseph Chosen Church of God, SJCCG, is now poised to build a beffiting cathedral that draw all men to God. Speaking in an interview in

Lagos, the spiritual leader of the church, Apostle Hayford Alile said though the church is young in Abuja, God is saying; “I will use the weak to tell the strong that I am God. According to him, some young members of the church in Abuja have come up with the idea of mega church that

Adefarasin, Erumaka, Ezekiel, 16 others for award

ASTOR Wale Adefarasin, Bishop Humphrey Erumaka, Rev (Dr) O. Ezekiel and 16 other men of God are to be honoured by First Further A-far Nigeria Limited, publishers of Preachers' News and The Eastern Eye Magazine at a ceremony to mark the 10th anniversary Preachers' News, reports ETOP EKANEM. The event scheduled for December 4, will take place at Villa Park, Festac Town Lagos. Addressing newsmen in Lagos, publisher of the magazines, Dr. Solomon Okorie, said the celebration was meant to “serve as a barometer for as-

sessing where we were, where we are now and where we are going. “Our primary target is to be an instrument for propagating the gospel of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ," he stated, adding "there is need to reward some men of God who have made huge contribution towards making heaven an abode of the majority." He said some gospel musicians and comedians are also billed for honours, including Chinyere Udoma, Aity Inyang, Buchi, Rosemary Chukwu and Julius Agwu, among others.

will accept the high and the low as well as the middle class people; a Cathedral that will be pleasant enough to be home for the different categories of residents of Abuja including politicians, business people as well as the middle class people. "That is their vision and of course, their regional apostle, Nosa Obasuyi, is a young man, he was able to fit in to the clamour and they brought the concept to me about six months ago. As they were talking, I kept asking myself, if they have the money for a cathedral? And I heard a voice say; “money, resources and things like that come from God, not from man. So, their idea is to have a cathedral that will be hospitable where people will find themselves--the rich and the poor will find themselves comfortable in such a cathedral and I support them", Alile said. Asked about the cost of the project, he said: "Well, these young men have done their studies and they are looking at a figure of about N2 billion. "I know we don’t have money, but we can talk to friends who have money, who God has blessed. We want a cathedral that is clean and beautiful enough to attract the

strong and the mighty," he explained, noting that the capacity of the cathedral would depend on the direction that God people are prepared to grow the church. According to the Spiritual leader, "you cannot sit down in the four corners of your church and preach to politicians. You too can be a politician; go there and change from inside out. So, if they want to attract politicians to their church, build something that is attractive enough and let them come and hear the Word of God that can cleanse them, make them do the right thing and become agents of God. With spiritual eyes, you can see the blessings of God in this country---unbelievable abundance, but unfortunately, a young man who has not been exposed to wealth before suddenly finds N10 million in his pocket, he thinks that’s the limit of God." For this purpose, the church is proposing a fund raising ceremony in the new year. "We are targeting Nigerians whom God has touched spiritually, financ-ially and materially. We have identified some Nigerians. To chairman the occasion, we identified our former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon," Alile said.

ready licensed Monarch University. Equally worthy of mention is the eye-popping 100,000seater Royal City Stadium with a giant podium. The programme is scheduled for December 8-15. On December 8, activities will take place at the Lagos Airport Hotel and on Monday and Tuesday respectively, the train moves to Royal Towers, beside Ikeja Local Government. By December 14, “we will be playing host to governors, captains of industries, politicians, over 100 bishops, 120 apostles, people from within and outside the country to open the Royal City, while Sunday will be family thanksgiving service,” said Samson.

Group asks Fashola, Amosun to lead campaign on religious harmony

ASTORS under the aegis of Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) have called on Lagos and Ogun State governors, Babatunde Fashola and Ibikunle Amosun to lead the campaign on religious harmony by liaising with their northern counterparts to ensure peace in the country, reports OLAYINKA AJAYI. The call was made recently by ECWA national president, Rev. Jeremiah Gado while addressing a congregation of over 4,000 pastors attending the ECWA Pastors’ International Conference, tagged: Lagos 2013 at the Redemption Camp, LagosIbadan expressway.

PAGE 48—SUNDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

HRISTIANS are confronted with the following contradictions about David in the bible. David is “a young boy, untrained for war:” David is a “skilled warrior.” David is living at home: David is living with Saul. David enters Saul's service as a harp player: David enters Saul’s service as a Goliath-fighting warrior. Saul knows David and his father: Saul does not know David and his father. Nevertheless, these turn out to be minor contradictions. There are more major ones in the bible that effectively lead to the conclusion that the whole story of David killing Goliath is fabricated.

Choice of David The terms of the combat between the Israelites and the Philistines were ostensibly laid down by Goliath. Instead of having the two armies battle it out, he said: “Choose a man for yourselves, and let him come down to me. If he is able to fight with me and kill me, then we will be your servants. But if I prevail against him and kill him, then you shall be our servants and serve us.” (I Samuel 17: 8-9). When David offers to meet this challenge, Saul is said to have told him: “You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him; for you are a youth, and he a man of war from his youth." (I Samuel 17:33). It therefore beggars belief that Saul would then agree to

DAVID DID NOT KILL GOLIATH (2) put the fate of the whole nation of Israel on the shoulders of inexperienced young David. While fully acknowledging that there is nothing God cannot do, it is not credible that Saul would agree that Israel should be represented by David’s incompetence, after all no directive about this came from God. The idea that Saul may have been persuaded by David’s tale of having killed a lion with his bare hands just won’t cut it. Such tall tales are not believed without proof. Even more ludicrous is Saul’s agreement that little David should fight mighty Goliath without armour and with nothing but a catapult. Rather than provoke a revolt by his regular soldiers, Saul would have selected one of his trained and experienced military officers to do the job.

Two different killings And then there is the problem of the actual killing of Goliath. Did David kill Goliath with a catapult or did he kill him with a sword? The bible is double-minded, recording two contradictory oral traditions side-byside. As a result, David

After David became king, Elhanan killed the Philistine champion called Goliath killed Goliath twice. The first time, he killed him with a catapult: “So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, and struck the Philistine and KILLED HIM. But there was no sword in the hand of David.” (I Samuel 17: 50-51). The second time, David killed him with a sword: “Therefore David ran and stood over the Philistine, took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and KILLED HIM, and cut off his head with it. (I Samuel 17:51). We are then told what David did with Goliath’s head: “David took the head of the Philistine and brought it to Jerusalem, but he put his armor in his tent. (I Samuel 17:54). This is nothing but pure fiction. David could not have taken Goliath’s head to Jerusalem at this time because the Israelites had not yet captured Jerusalem from the Jebusites. According to II Samuel, Jerusalem was not captured from the Je-

busites until after David became King: “The time came when King David and his men set out to attack Jerusalem. The Jebusites, who lived there, thought that David would not be able to conquer the city, and so they said to him, ‘You will never get in here; even the blind and the crippled could keep you out.’ (But David did capture their fortress of Zion, and it became known as ‘David's City.’)” (II Samuel 5:6-7). This suggests then that, in the original story, David was already king when Goliath was killed. Indeed, in the version crediting Elhanan with killing Goliath, David is already king and Elhanan is a member of his elite fighting squad. (II Samuel 21:19).

More anomalies The confusion in the bible account is compounded by the fact that while we are told in I Samuel 17:54 that after killing Goliath, David carried his head to Jerusalem; three

verses later we are told he carried it elsewhere: “Then, as David returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, Abner took him and brought him before Saul with the head of the Philistine in his hand.” (I Samuel 17:57). David was then made a General in the Israeli army, and we are told this promotion of a young upstart over older more-experienced soldiers pleased everyone including Saul’s officials. (I Samuel 18:5). This is nothing short of political propaganda.

City of refuge But the clincher is as follows. After ostensibly killing Goliath, David became so popular that Saul soon saw him as a threat to his throne. He was determined to kill him and David had to run for his life. Of all the places that David could find to seek refuge, he ended up in Philistine territory: “That day David fled from Saul and went to Achish king of GATH.” (I Samuel 21: 10). This is absolutely incredible. How could the arch-enemy of the Philistines seek refuge in Philistine territory? Of all the cities that David could choose for safety, he

Apologise to Oritsejafor or…, Group warns South South bishops By SAM EYOBOKA

ESPITE the sus pension of some bishops from the South South geo-political region of the country for anti-Christian activities, a group of Christian youth known as Christian Youth Mov-ement for Emancipation and Justice has given them an ultimatum for recently employing abusive language on the person of CAN president to publicly retract such invectives or risk being exposed for the world to know. Reacting to media reports purportedly at the instance of a group known as Global Peace Relief Initiative, led by Prophet Jones Erue who initiated

an unauthorized dialogue between two PDP factions, chairman of CYMEJ, Mr. Thomas Musa Ibrahim who described the group members as political thugs who are out to extort money from politicians are acting their master’s script who had given them N10 million. Mr. Ibrahim said the South South Christian leaders under the pretext of initiating dialogue on behalf of feuding PDP factions, adding that the umbrella body of Christians in the country, CAN is not a political party and has demonstrated its apolitical stance by allowing political parties to resolve their differences themselves. In a recent press confer-

ence, Prophet Erue described a statement credited to the CAN president, Pastor Oritse-jafor to the effect that CAN is apolitical as laughable, adding that “they were disappointed that the leader could sit and watch his two children fight while the rest of us suffer only to come and blackmail those who take their time to seek solutions to the crisis.” They warned that no amount of blackmail or intimidation would deter them from the noble mission of rescuing the country from imminent collapse. According to him: “If these people are genuinely interested in resolving crisis in political parties, what have they done about the protracted crisis

in APGA involving two practicing Christians, Chief Chek-was Okorie and Chief Victor Umeh? If they are not abusing elders to justify the money they got from a South South politician, why have not intervened in the crisis between the Imo State governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha and APGA?” Continuing, Mr. Ibrahim asked: “If they are truly men of God, as they claim, and they are genuinely pursuing dialogue in a political party, why are they making reference to the CAN president’s private jet and what is the involvement of grey hairs? For persons whio claim to be prophets in the household of God to employ such derogatory language on their

leaders shows the level of mentorship they received from their mentor. “There are all manner of Christian leaders in the country, which is why a group of ‘bishops’ can engage in peace moves in political parties in the name of CAN, without getting authorization from their elected leaders,” he stated, noting that if members of the said group fail to tender the apology within the seven days “we will not hesitate to invite the EFCC to investigate the source of their sponsors”. The South South chairman of CAN, Archbishop GodDowell Avwomakpa has, however, announ-ced the suspension of members of the group from all activities of the regional CAN.

chose Gath, the very hometown of Goliath: “So David dwelt with Achish at GATH, he and his men, each man with his household.” (I Samuel 27:3). This is conclusive proof that David did not kill Goliath. If he did, the last place he would seek refuge would be in Goliath’s hometown. That is a sure way to get him killed. But according to the bible record, David not only lived for years among the Gittites, the people of Gath, he was even prepared to go to war on their side against Israel. However, the Philistine commanders objected on the grounds that he could not be trusted: “He must not go with us into battle, or he will turn against us during the fighting. How better could he regain his master's favor than by taking the heads of our own men? Isn't this the David they sang about in their dances: ‘Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands’?” (I Samuel 29:4-5). This is another giveaway. It shows that whatever tens of thousands David killed; they could not have been Philistines and certainly could not have included Goliath the Gittite. As a matter of fact, when David became king, his bodyguards were 600 Philistines headed by Ittai the Gittite. (II Samuel 15:18-22). If after all this you still think David killed Goliath the Gittite, then you are entitled to your gullibility.

To Be continued

Onwenu, Nathaniel storm His Majesty conference

OREMOST Nige rian performers including Elegant Stallion, Onwenu Onwenu, Nathaniel Bassey, Shenwele Jesu among others have been selected as guest singers for this years edition of “His Majesty ” conference billed for November 26 till December 1, at Fountain of Life Church in Ilupeju, Lagos, reports OLAYINKA LATONA. The one week programme, according to the organisers, will start at 5:30 p.m. daily and is expected to be streamed live on the Internet. According to the organisers, His Majesty Conference has always been a life changing gathering and this year’s edition will not be an exception.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 49 08056402376

Reconnect gallery set to reposition arts in Lagos mainland VISUAL

new vision geared to wards effective growth of contemporary visual art practice, promotion, patronage and appreciation in Lagos Mainland matrialised last week with the opening of a new gallery known as Reconnect Art gallery. The new project which is the brain child of Mrs Olayemi Madu, a 1999 Industrial and Fine Arts graduate of University of Uyo situated at 18 Carter street, by Herbert Macaulay way, Yaba is based on the need to have a good gallery that will carter for both the rich and average art lover in the Lagos mainland. According to Mrs Madu, the young mother whose passion for art started during her secondary school days, and after that went into two years apprenticeship with a renowned artist, Abayomi Barber before she proceeded to the University of Uyo for a degree in Industrial and Fine Arts, “after many years of absence in the art scene due to certain factors , I am back to my first love which is art.” Continuing, she stated that, “though, initially my parents did not encourage my foray into arts, and that affected me

somehow but recent developments had turned the tide for me as I now enjoy their full support and that of my husband and that support gave birth to Reconnect Art gallery.” The new gallery which is already stocked with works of celebrated master artists like Abayomi Barber, Kolade Oshinowo, Kunle Adeyemi etc and emerging artists like Lekan Okeshola, Mike Ikeobi, Adeola Adenuga etc has already started attracting patronage from art lovers. The gallery which boost of a gallery space, art workshops, exhibitions, seminars and others was officially opened on September 16 with an exhibition of drawings, paintings, printmaking, sculpture, textile designs and mixed media works and a seminar ti-

BY JAPHET ALAKAM &

Rhythm of the North by Biodun Okemakinde, one of the paintings at the gallery Speaking at the occasion, Mrs Madu stated that the

The vision of Reconnect art gallery is to professionally reposition visual art promotion and give new direction for better value and veritable development

tled Repositioning Visual Arts for a better value. The exhibition will run till December 14, 2013.

coming of the gallery is to fill the gap created in the mainland. “There has been a dramatic growth in con-

Nwosu’s handbook on leadership out By PRISCA SAM DURU BOOK LUANCH

ound Political Leadership as pivot for the development of Nigeria as well as other third World countries was the focal point of the public presentation of “Leadership & Developmental Issues in Nigeria: A Search for Development Strategies”, written by Chief Evarist Nwosu. The book launch which held penultimate week, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, (NIIA), Lagos, attracted friends, family members and colleagues of the author as well as eminent Nigerians comprising Ndi Igbo community led by the Eze Igbo Lagos, Eze Hycinth Ohazuruike; President Aka Ikenga, Chief Goddy Uwazuruike; Former Director of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Mrs. Victoria Okoli and children of the author. Authored by the former Comptroller of Customs and ardent believer in the unity of Nigeria, “Leadership & Developmental Issues in Nigeria: A Search for Development Strategies”, offers solutions to Nigeria’s numerous challenges which have long undermined her, in addition to strategies to be employed for attainment of national development. In his welcome speech, the chairman of the occasion, Senator Mike Ajegbo stated that the major problem with Nigeria is her inability to define where “we are going

which is why it has been absolutely difficult to fashion out the system of how to get there.” “The Military, he continued, deprived the natural growth of Nigeria otherwise, the country would have developed by now”. Commending Chief Evarist for his contributions towards providing a long lasting solution to the problems of the nation, Senator Ajegbo described the book as a priceless material for individuals preparing for leadership. He added that no country can develop without strategising and regretted that the people of Nigeria are still groping in the dark. The guest Lecturer, Chief Joseph Ikonna commended the author for the high intellectual level with which he put together the book as well as his passion for the development of Nigeria. Ikonna stressed the need for Nigerians to join people like the author in the struggle for change, adding that “I understand the implication of what happens to Nigeria if we do not begin to work towards reshaping affairs.” He also, emphasised the importance of bridging the gap between the rich and the poor and maintained that failure to do so will amount to serious chaos. is words, “Bridging the gap between the poor and the rich is very important. If this gulf is not narrowed, there could be chaos. Good leadership has been in scarce supply in Nigeria while poor leadership has affected our lives which is why I can understand the frustrations of students at home because of ASSU strike, besides, there are no jobs after graduation.”

temporary visual art practice in Nigeria and the height of success experienced in arts promotion needs to be improved and maintained, hence Reconnect Art Gallery has taken up the challenge of helping to sustain the tempo.” he pointed out that the vi sion of reconnect art gallery is to professionally reposition visual arts promotion and give new direction for better value and veritable development. Operate as a springboard of promotion for young artist to launch their careers.

To act as a one stop shop for sales and marketing of total visual art products and to help the visual artists exhibit and expose their works through the provision of gallery space and workshop cum studio space just like our international counterparts. On his part, Dr Kunle Adeyemi who tutored her about the art business noted that there are many areas in art business and that presently the gallery will be into promotion of artists and their works.

Dejak Artistic boss presents artworks to Fashola BY BASHIR ADEFAKA PRESENTATION

he Principal Artist/Chief Executive of Dejak Artistique, Mr. Oladejo Victor Akinlonu, has revealed his plans to present art works, worth N2.5 million to Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN. The presentation, which he said was part of activities marking his 50th birthday anniversary, it was gathered, is in appreciation of the governor ’s support and patronage of his works over the years. In a media chat, during the week, Akinlonu, who said he started out in one room, spoke on he had now arrived at what he described as the stage of successes in the arts. The Ondo State born artist further disclosed that he has made his landmarks in arts in Nigeria as he now enjoys high profile patronages especially in Lagos State. His words: “I have every reason to thank God at this time. I started in one room some three

decades ago. I was the one that was crafting for Tunde Debasco and I had done a lot for Lagos State Government , in fact I dedicated a particular work to the state government which they appreciated. “I did the Oshodi Parks and more for the state government. In fact, impressed by a work I did for WAPCO in Ikeja in 1991, the boss, Dr. Warburton, paid me to put my own name on the work, besides President Ibrahim Babangida’s name,” he said. kinlonu’s works have at tracted attention and patronage of many eminent people and organizations including people like Pastor E. A. Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church; Pastor Tunde Bakare of the Latter Rain Assembly; Chief Bolu Akin-Olugbade; Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko; Juju king, Sunny Ade; government, corporate and religious bodies.

PAGE 50—SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013 08056402376

Honour for Onobrakpeya, Nike Okundaye, others at SPANFEST awards night

AWARD

T was a colourful week for lovers of art, theatre, fashion, dance, spoken word, comedy and music as they were treated to series of entertainment when some of the silent heroes in the art industry were honoured during the launch edition of the The Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN) festival. The SPANFEST is an 8 day performing arts festival while the award was organised to recognise and celebrate individuals and corporate bodies that have made transformational impact and commendable investment in the development of the arts in Nigeria. The Festival which kicked off last week at Oceanview, Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos had an impressive opening as people from all walks of life converged to enjoy the cultural gift of the people and at the same time felicitate with the recipients. The stage opened with ‘Battery Dance Company ’, a prestigious international dance group from New York, putting up a spectacular show ‘AUTOBIOGRAPHICA’. The event also showcased a

presentation from the Nigerian students who had been trained by the dance company during the week. It was a captivating and inspiring evening with a mixed audience of the corporate community,art lovers, celebrities, and the expatriate community. Other events that shaped the week includes, ‘Gospel & Comedy Night’ on Sunday, The African Jazz Night, Taruwa Night, I.D,O Dance Battle, and two amazing dance theatre productions ‘Love is…’ show, and ‘Wishes

BY JAPHET ALAKAM

• Nike Davies Okundaye, receive the Fine Art award individual from Yetunde Babaeko The awards ceremony was a welcome development as it was coming on the heels

It is amazing to realise how many silent heroes we have in the industry and I commend SPAN for having initiated this important award

& Horses’. The highpoint of the festival was the SPAN awards night that brought the festival to a grand close on Friday, November 15, 2013. It was indeed a glamorous night of fine dining and exquisite entertainment, as individuals and organisations that have made an impact in the arts were honoured.

of the fact that despite their contributions to the development of the country, the arts community are one of the most under-celebrated sectors. he recipients were se lected by a10man jury of reputable professionals from the creative industry, including Nollywood veteran, Joke Silva, Jahman

Anikulapo and Ugoma Adegoke of The Lifehouse, who had a tough time going through the names submitted and after the screening recommended 13 recipients. The Awards recipients were in many categories;Music for Performance Award: individual went to Mr. Ben Ogbeiwi while Nigerian Breweries got the Corporate. Nike Okundaye received the Fine Arts Award Individual while Corporate went to Arthouse Contemporary. Fashion Award individual went to Ituen Bassey and Corporate went to Lagos Fashion & Design Week. Others were, Film Award individual:Femi Odugbemi, Corporate:Ultima. Dance Award individual: Segun Adefila [Crowne Troupe] Cor-

porate: Maltina Dance All; Dramatic Arts Award: individual: Teju Karim [Z-Mirage] Corporate: Terra Kulture, while the Lifetime Achievement Award in the Arts went to Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya. “All the jury members and I were delighted to be part of the process of choosing winners in numerous categories for outstanding achievements and transformational investment in the creative industry in Nigeria,” said Sandra Mbanefo Obiago, Head of the Jury for the SPAN Awards for Excellence. “It is amazing to realize how many silent heroes we have in the industry, and I commend SPAN for having initiated this important award for the continued and strategic development of the performing arts in Nigeria.”

Dance, drama as Kids Time Out Faith Joshua Season 2 ends BY SAM ANOKAM DANCE

t was an exciting time last week in Ajegunle, when Aligary School won the Second edition of the Kids Time Out with Faith Joshua Choreography Competition. The event also known as Honey Jesus 2 played host to 30,000 kids at the audition stages that held in different centres in Lagos . At the end of the competition, Aligary School won the first prize of N150,000, followed by Real Shepherd Schools which smiled home with N100,000 and Elite Ambassadors with N75,000 as the third winner. There were also consolation prizes. Held at Abayomi Awodiora hall, the 15 final contestants displayed great dance moves, skills and daring stunts that got the audience sitting at the edge of their seats. The participating schools

Faith Joshua (Right) with students of Aligary School (Winner of the competition) and groups include- Ernest Divine Light Academy, Kennyrose Group, Aboa School , Acorns of Grace School, Aligary School , Bright Spark School , Fibass School , Root of Knowledge School, Cridy School , Real Shephered School , VKC School , Young Entertainers,

Success Kids Choreographers, Elite Ambassadors and Ejero Baptist School . According to the judges, Ransome Obekpa and Bridget Okonkwo, the rating of their performances was based on costume, timing, interpretation, crowed appeal and stage usage Explaining the concept

behind the programme, Faith Joshua says: “ What you witnessed was the pain staking pursuit of a woman, wife, mother, music artiste, business executive, and an uncompromising lover of children with a burden to create a platform for wholesome recreational activities that tend to build the mind and body, with special focus on our children, pupils/students and wards. This burden and passion is what birthed into reality the ‘Kids Time out with Faith Joshua; a project saddled with the responsibility to create enabling environments for educating, informative, developmental and instructive recreation centred activities geared towards making the child better equipped to handle day to day demands of growing up and fostering

better and more cordial relationships amongst parents, guardians, instructors, coaches, their peers and the society at large, in an atmosphere of fanfare and good sportsmanship.” Courtesy of Nutri C, four brand new bicycles were presented to four outstanding performers from their different schools and group which also includes last year ’s winner. They are -Destiny from Real Sherpherd, Anjola Olufolajimi(Aligary) Ogechi(Kennyros) and the last year’s winner.

C Dee and Adeseye Adebola Amoke gave a good account of themselves as anchors while Tallest Talker cracked ribs with his jokes. Richie and Rovabs spiced up the event with scintillating music performance. Ige of Project Fame was also in attendance. Sponsors and partners include: Vconnect, Nutri C, La Casera, Christ Like Ministries, Span, Indomie fan club team, Best Joe Ventures.

SUND AY V ANGU ARD , NO VEMBER 24, 2013, PA GE 51 NOVEMBER 2013,P SUNDA VANGU ANGUARD

Love

People no longer believe in the idea of soul mates, or love at first sight. They are beginning to believe that a very few times in your life if you were lucky, you might meet someone who was exactly right for you. Not because he was perfect, or because you were, but because your combined flaws were arranged in a way that allowed two separate beings to hinge together. Cheers! i,

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PAGE 52 — SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

ith all 32 teams participating in the 2014 World Cup now confirmed, it’s as good a time as any to take a look at the top 10 Golden Boot contenders for the finals next summer,writes John Egbokhan. Host nation Brazil are naturally one of the pre-tournament favourites, and for that reason possess a number of possible candidates to claim the individual goalscoring accolade. South American rivals Argentina will also fancy themselves, as will Uruguay and Chile, whilst Colombia could prove to be one of the competition’s surprise packages, given their array of attacking talent. Reigning world and European champions Spain also boast a fearsome forward line that will provide no shortage of goals, and as a result will rightly consider themselves as one of the leading candidates, while Germany will be looking to beat them to the Jules Rimet trophy in July. Belgium are arguably the darkest horses of all the European competitors, but the likes of Holland, Italy, France, Portugal and England, will all hold ambitions of reaching the knockout stages. For any of the aforementioned countries to go all the way in the World Cup, they’ll need their star players firing on all cylinders when the competition starts in June.

• Diego Costa

•Mario Gomez

Radamel Falcao

•Edinson Cavani

Robin van Persie

•Luis Suarez

Diego Costa

(Spain) After turning down the opportunity to represent the home nation, Costa has set his sights on establishing himself as Spain’s leading man in Vicente del Bosque’s side.

Radamel Falcao

(Colombia) 17 goals in 42 international appearances Depending on how far Colombia go in the competition, Falcao could be up their with the leading goalscorers, as his country’s number one talisman.

Edinson Cavani

(Uruguay) 19 goals 57 international appearances The PSG forward also has a good international record, and could contribute his fair share of goals alongside Suarez in the Uruguay attack

Sergio Aguero

(Argentina) 20 goals 46 international appearances Another prolific striker, Aguero is almost as important as Messi in the sense that his poacher’s instinct

•Sergio Aguero

•Cristiano Ronaldo

Golden Boot contenders at 2014 World Cup might prove to be the difference between Argentina going all the way next year.

Mario Gomez

(Germany) 25 goals in 59 international appearances Gomez is Germany’s go-to man for goals. Joachim Loew has an array of creative midfield talent, meaning the Fiorentina striker will have the opportunity to fill his

boots in Brazil

Luis Suarez

(Uruguay) 35 goals in 69 international appearances A prolific marksman at club and international level, Suarez will aim to maintain his fine goalscoring form for Liverpool, and carry it into the World Cup in Brazil.

Robin van Persie (Netherlands)

41 goals in 81 international appearances The deadly Dutch striker is among the most prolific players in Europe and will set his sights on the Golden Boot award with the Netherlands.

Cristiano Ronaldo

(Portugal) 47 goals in 109 international appearances After almost singlehandedly carrying his country to Brazil next summer via the

•Lionel Messi playoffs, the Portugal captain must maintain his fine form if Paulo Bento’s side are to have any chance of success next summer.

Lionel Messi

(Argentina) 37 goals in 73 international appearances The four-time FIFA Ballon d’Or winner will want to get his hands on one of the few remaining trophies he’s yet to win, by helping fire Argentina all the way.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 24, 2013, PAGE 53

First winner of Heineken ‘Match Your Half Ticket’ emerges O

NE of the loyal Hei neken consumers, Adewale Ajadi, was the hero of the night on Match Day-Four, when he emerged as the first winner of ‘Match Your Half Ticket’ promo of the international premium lager beer, Heineken, in the ongoing UEFA Champions League. At a brief ceremony held at the Sailors Lounge, Lekki Phase 1 in Lagos last match day, the young lad’s ticket, came out of the hat from the pool of over 300 participants. He will therefore enjoy the rare opportunity of watching a live match in one of the stadiums in Europe during the knock out stage of the UEFA Champions League next year courtesy of Heineken. The winner, who was not at the venue of the ceremony, was informed of the fortune that just smiled on him via phone call .He was notably speechless because of the magnitude of the success that has come to him. The reality of the truth began to manifest in him when he heard his name on Nigerian Info during the live telecast of Borussia Dortmund and Arsenal match. ”I remember that I participated in the ‘Match Your Half Ticket’ promo at

a Heineken viewing bar earlier in the season while I was watching the Barcelona and AC Milan match. I was interrupted with a call that I have won a match ticket. My initial response to the lady caller was ‘wrong number’. The persistence of the caller made me to listen to the full message which to me was too good to be true. But the reality of the truth came when I tuned to Nigerian Info radio station during the match I heard my name as a winner. I was elated and celebrated the feat with friends who came to celebrate with me,” Ajadi recalled. The first winner, howev-

er has one wish from Heineken when the knockout stage gets underway next February. “I will want Heineken to take me to Nou Camp in Spain or any other stadium where FC Barcelona will play in the next round. FC Barcelona is my favourite team and Heineken as my favourite lager beer can complete my UEFA Champions League dreams,’ he said. The senior brand Manager Heineken, Jacqueline van Faassen, said the brand would be delighted to make the wish of all its loyal consumers come true but the round of 16 draw results and travelling logistics will play a prominent role.

*Senior Brand Manager Heineken, Jacqueline van Faassen attempts a kick, while the Marketing Director Nigerian Breweries Plc, Walter Drenth,(l) Edem Vindah and ex international, Victor Ikpeba (right)watch with keen interest at the Heineken Champions Planet in Lagos .

Golfers ‘Totally’ unite for Charity P

AT Bassey, branding eight handicaps coasted home with 77 gross score to win the gross prize at the final of the annual Total Charity golf tournament decided at the Ikoyi Golf Club in Lagos. Bassey beat Sam Ogbu, Tijanni Abdusalam and Meka Olowola to the second third and fourth spot respectively.The eighteen holes tournament pulled some of the best players in the south

west region of the country, while others were on invite to make up the huge attendance recorded at the one-day charity event. Tayo Babalakin, Captain of the host club said that his team and members at the club were impressed with the initiative to help the underprivileged and would be glad to host it in the future. Earlier in the day, other players that featured at

the charity event included, Mike Ikpoki, Ted Iwere, Frank Gboneme, Alek Musa, Dayo Ojo , Jackson Gaius Obaseki among others Total Managing Director, Guy Maurice reiterated his company’s commitment to investing her resources to making the society a better place. Addressing, over two hundred golfers at the prize giving gala at the golf section of Ikoyi Club,

Mr Charles Ngoka, the Deputy MD Deep Waters District, said “I want to express my immense gratitude to all of you who accepted to contribute to the two charities, St. Kizito’s Clinic and Ajofa Special Education Foundation for the Deaf that will be the beneficiaries of the playing fees paid by the players.” While reeling Total’s support for sports development in the country,

Ngoka added that: “ Total is also a strong sponsor of various sporting competitions in our host communities in Rivers State and other parts of Nigeria. We have sponsored competitions in football, swimming, track and field, etc. A young Nigerian golf pro, Gift Willy, who has been to various tournaments around the world, is being sponsored by Total.”

Ethiope East LG boss boosts Gbagbeke Furore over high performance coaches

ONG jumper, Stanley Gbagbeke is singing a new song after he received assurances of financial support from the Ethiope East local government caretaker committee chairman, Sunday Eromedoghene Onoriode. Gbagbeke represents Nigeria’s only hope in the men’s long jump in international meets, but over the years the athlete has been unable to achieve his true potential. However, with Mr. Onoriode stepping in to assist, Gbagbeke is hopeful of landing his first major medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. “I reached the decision to help him because of my belief in the development of our youths. Besides he is from the local government area and we cannot see one of our own in need and ignore him,” said the LG boss. Apart from support for Gbabgeke, Onoriode is thinking of sponsoring a grassroots athletics development programme for primary and secondary schools in the area. Gbagbeke whose personal best in the long jump is 8.20m has been seeking to enthrone himself as the king of Nigeria’s long jump, but each time he tried, the long standing 8.27m national record set by Yusuf Alli in 1987 keeps gaping at him. Speaking on the new development, the athlete said that he was thrilled by the support of the LG boss. “I am indeed looking forward to a good performance in the new season. This is

IGERIAN athletics coaches were taken aback by the appointment of Angie Taylor and Eric Campbell as coaches who will run the high performance programme being envisioned by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, AFN and bankrolled by the National Sports Commission, NSC. Sports Minister and chairman of the NSC, Bolaji Abdullahi on Tuesday in Abuja unveiled the American born coaches to Nigerians. He stated that Taylor will head the high performance programme that will produce medal placing positions in various Olympic sports, while Campbell will be performance director of the AFN. Some of the Nigerian coaches who bared their minds on the development

•Stanley Gbagbeke coming at a time when I needed it most,” said the athlete. He disclosed that he was yet to join in the national camp of athletes in Abuja. “There are a lot of pending issues that need to be sorted out and once that is done, I will be going to camp. “Besides, I find it difficult that my coach Paul Obodochina will not be in camp. He is also coach to Ogho-Oghene Egwero. It would have been very wise that some of the coaches with elite athletes are in camp so that our training will not be hindered.”

•Chief Ogba, AFN President

expressed regrets that a Nigerian was not considered for at least one of the positions when there are capable hands. They called to mind the Minister’s position when the Nigeria Football Federation hired Belgian coach Tom Saintfiet as technical director. “I do not know the yardstick for these appointments. I will discuss with my fellow coaches to examine the situation,” said Nigerian Coaches Association president, Gabriel Okon. Hurdles coach, Maria Osifo said that it was shocking, adding, “Time will tell,” if those were the best choice in Nigeria’s quest to reposition athletics. However, AFN board member, Olukayode Thomas said in Lagos duing the week that the appointments of Campbell and Taylor were not a whimsical decision by the sports minister. He submitted that many Nigerian coaches including Michael Afilaka applied, but it was down to the consultancy firm that handled the applications to make the choice. “It was the consultancy firm that handled the appointments. Applications were received from all over the world and Nigerian coaches also applied in numbers. There was no under the table dealing in the process.” He added that the AFN was carried along in the recruitment drive. “The AFN president, Solomon Ogba was present when the interviews were being conducted in London.”

PAGE 54 — SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

C M Y K

SUNDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 24, 2013—55

BY JACOB AJOM

ASUU strike worries Obisia in massive investment for A retirement *Advocates boxing BY EDDIE AKALONU

ATIONAL boxing coach Obisia Nwakpa, who recently retired from the service of the National Sports Commission and the Nigerian Boxing Federation, is a bit worried about his future. “Unending strike by university lecturers is my problem now. I had looked forward to having a quiet time in retire-ment and I had so planned it to coincide with my last two children graduating this year from university such that I would be free from paying school fees. However, it looks like I have to live a bit more with this issue than I had hoped,” he stated. Besides this issue, the former African and Commonwealth Super-lightweight champ-ion,who got a shot at the world title in 1981 against Saoul Mamby in Lagos but lost has since been looking for a new role to build on. “Outside of this, I think I’m okay. I have had a fruitful and swell time any boxer or ex- athlete in Ni-

geria would have because besides my job as a coach, the Nigerian Army made me comf-ortable. I believe the struggle continues,” he said. Asked to point the way forward for boxing, Obisia said, “there has to be massive investment in the sport, on equipment, on training for boxers, coach-

es and ring officials which are areas we have neglected. Boxers will need regular competitions at home and abroad and the National Sports Commission has to fund this. The boxing federation too has a role to play by being in the forefront of re-engineering boxing,” he said.

From Left, Hon Olufemi Allen Taylor,Chairman,House Committee on Sports and Employment Generation for Ogun State with Mrs Moyo Olowonmi, Permanent Secretary Ministry Of Youth and Sports Ogun State and Mr Wole Odejobi, Director of Admin and Suppliers Ministry of Youth And Sports at the opening ceremony of Falilat Ogunkoya National 400metres Meet held at Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State on Friday. PHOTO:AKEEM SALAU

Unresolved football issues T

HEN comes the Sports Minister, Alhaji Bolaji Abdullahi ... Let history record and properly too that the arrival of the youthful minister signaled the end of bitter rancour in the Nation’s football house... This was taken from Paul Bassey’s column in the Vanguard of Monday, November 18, 2013 titled: Take a bow Nigerians, Pop Champagnes..., Klink Glasses. Bassey was celebrating the revival of Nigeria’s football through the Golden Eaglets World Cup win, the Super Eagles World Cup qualification and their earlier Nations Cup victory in South Africa early this year. He attributed this to the trouble shooting efforts of the sports minister which gave the Nigeria Football Federation the relative peace to run football the way it should be. He praised the NFF Board led by Aminu Maigari. Earlier after the Eaglets’ win, some close stakeholders had even called for a second term and national award for Maigari. While we are still savour-

ing the victories of our national teams, we should not gloss over some unresolved issues around our football which makes me disagree with Paul Bassey that the bitter rancour in our football has truly ended. Unknown to many, while the NFF Board members were beating their chest in celebration, Justice Okon Abang was issuing a fresh order that they appear before him to justify why they are still parading themselves as football administrators. This, according to the president of the National Association of Nigerian Footballers, NANF, Harrison Jalla, they must do on December 9, 2013. That day may signal the end of the Maigari Board and his quest for a second term because “ we have delivered” which is now his swan song. According to Jalla, the NFF or NFA which is the only known body to Nigerian laws, has no Board because the earlier ruling that election should not hold was flouted by Maigari and

co. and Justice Abang insists it must be obeyed. He argued that the former Inspector General of Police, Hafiz Ringim dilly dallied on the issue but the present IG, Mohammed Abubakar has been cooperating even though he is slow about it. The pressure to obey the court ruling is believed to be coming from the presidency which has asked the Chief of Staff to the president, Chief Mike Oghiadomhe to ensure the laws of the country are obeyed. Except something extra ordinary happens between now and December 9, the Maigari Board may cease to exist and football could be run by a caretaker comm-ittee. Apart from this legal tango Maigari has found himself, there is the other issue of breach of trust with Total Promotion, the outfit that agreed to hands off the Title sponsorship of the Premier League but still has the broadcast right which the NFF and the League Management Company, are still trying hard to snatch from it. From records, it is clear that Maigari has many

FTER three days of excellent display of skills and intense competition, the 52nd First Bank Lagos Amateur Open Golf tournament draws to a close today at the Ikoyi Club 1938 golf course. The Lagos Open is the biggest amateur golf tournament in the country and this year ’s edition attracted participants from major golf clubs across the country. In a pre-event briefing at the weekend, First Bank Head of Sponsorship and Events, Bridget Oyefeso who represented head of Marketing and Corporate Communications said the bank has been the sole sponsor of the competition since its inception 52 years ago. ”We believe in the promotion of healthy living and capacity building for our customers,” she said, adding, “a healthy populace makes a healthy nation.” Oyefeso said, with its strong tradition in sports, the bank will continue its sponsorship of the event as a way of contributing to the development of faces in the matters of the legal tussle with NANF and the Title/Broadcast right palaver with Total Promotion. In one breadth, Maigari says he is president of the NFF, in another he prefers to be called Chairman of the NFA, when it comes to collecting money from the Federal Government which says the NFF is not recognised by law and so can’t be funded. He had even gone to swear to an affidavit that he is not Chairman of the NFA when NANF took the body to court over the election which the court stopped the body from conducting. Surprisingly too, Maigari in an agreement with the LMC to run the league,

Curtain falls on First Bank Open golf tourney sports in the country and for the empowerment of the youth. “Last year we sponsored two kids who took part in this tournament to the UK and we were encouraged because they did very well there,” she said. For the third year running, instructors were

on hand to impart their vast knowledge in the game to kids, and some adults who wanted to improve their skills. The tournament which is a handicap 14 event featured about 100 golfers in the qualifiers but only 80 took part in the competition proper.

CAF instructor backs Keshi continued from B/Page player. In order to improve the standards of coaching in Africa, the continent’s governing body Caf will soon introduce a law which forbids any national coach without an A Licence to coach national teams on the continent. And it is Ghanaian Koufie’s job to run a 20-22 November course in South Africa, which will be attended by the likes of South Africa coach Gordon Igesund, to take coaches to that standard. “I know this might sound funny as most failed to sign as NFF president or as NFA chairman but as a ‘football admini-strator’ who holds a certain percentage of the shares of the LMC, making some stakeholders to ask in whose interest are the shares being held? The LMC has come out to say that the new league season will kick off after the African Nations Championships in January but if these issues are not ironed out, including the grievances earlier expressed by club owners or club chairmen immediately after the 2012/2013 season ended, a fresh crisis may hit our local football. The stance of the NFF and the sports minister who castigated the club chairmen over their re-

coaches might say why I should have a certificate when I am already a good coach, however, the truth is, you can be a good driver but it is an offence to drive without a valid driver ’s licence,” said Koufie. South African Football Association acting Technical Director, Fran Hilton Smith, said she was impressed with the direction the country was taking in empowering local coaches. “We can only develop top quality players if we have qualified coaches,” she said.

quest that the LMC should fold up and prepare ground for an election of a new executive to run the league is not the panacea for the imminent crisis the league may run into again. By also pretending that the bitter rancour in the Nation’s football house, which Paul Bassey wrote about, is over is tantamount to sweeping the matter under the carpet. It amounts to beating the child and asking him or her not to cry out. The earlier these issues are tackled headlong and justice is allowed to reign, the peace we think we have could just be the peace of a grave yard.

Anybody still doubting Keshi

F the Sani Lulu-led board of the NFF had foresight, Stephen Keshi and not Shaibu Amodu would have been contracted after the exit of Berti Vogts in 2008. Even when Amodu was shown the way out after another Golden Bronze performance at the 2010 Nations Cup in Angola, the same Lulu-Board didn’t consider Keshi but went for Siasia because according them, Nigerians yearned for Siasia. Siasia crashed

with the Eagles who couldn’t qualify for the Nations Cup in Equatorial Guinea/Gabon and so Keshi was finally considered by the Maigari group who later turned against their own employee who dared to ask for his right. In the process, one of them, who claims to have run a club successively, queried Keshi’s pedigree in coaching, claiming the victory in South Africa was made possible by the NFF Board. Keshi has gone

beyond all that to qualify Nigeria for the CHAN in South Africa, the first time ever and capped it with the World Cup qualification. Are they, including some Nigerian fans who love to hate the Illah-born coach, still doubting Keshi’s pedigree? He did it with little Togo, he has done it again with Nigeria. His next target, I believe, is to surpass Cameroon, Senegal and Ghana’s World Cup quarter-final performances. Who says it is not possible?

SUNDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

Enyeama bags award in France S

UPER Eagles and OSC Lille Metropole goalkeeper, Vincent Enyeama, has been voted the Ligue 1 player of the month of October by the French National Union of Professional Footballers (UNFP). Enyeama, who as in goal as Nigeria picked up a World Cup ticket against Ethiopia last weekend beat the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Edinson Cavani to scope the monthly award. The former Hapoel Tel Aviv shot stopper will receive his award today when his team Lille, lock horns with Toulouse in a Ligue 1 encounter. Enyeama who has been in imperious form this season raked up 71 percent of the votes ahead of Ibrahimovic who scored 19 percent and Cavani who had 10 percent of the votes. The 31 year old was also listed by the Confedera-

•Enyeama, so hot in France. Photo: Courtesy Shengol pix tion of African Football sheets from 13 league (CAF) as one of the nom- appearances, and he is inees for the 2013 African in line to beat PSG’s SalFootballer of the year to vatore Sirigu’s record of cap a wonderful year for 948 minutes as Enyeama the former Enyimba FC is currently on 765 mingoalkeeper. utes without conceding. He has kept 11 clean

•Keshi

CAF instructor, Koufie backs Keshi’s call for African coaches E

LEVEN months af ter Super Eagles Chief Coach, Stephen Keshi made a call for African teams to be handled by local coaches, a Confederation of African Football (Caf) technical instructor, Ben Koufie has joined in the clamour for Africa to produce more local coaches at the top level. Koufie, a Ghanaian who teaches Caf’s equivalent of Uefa’s A licence, like Keshi is concerned by the number of foreign coaches in Africa and stresses that “This must change. Africa must own its own space if we are going to get the respect of the world.”

His call for more local to handle African national teams may have been borne out of the fact that of the 10 nations who qualified for the World Cup play-offs only Ghana, Nigeria and Ethiopia have African coaches. While Sewnet Bishaw was unable to qualify Ethiopia to next year’s World Cup, Ghana were guided through by Kwesi Appiah, who became the first black African coach to achieve the feat with the Black Stars. The Super Eagles, African champions were also tutored by Keshi to berth in Brazil, a feat European coaches who handled more than half

RESULTS Everton Fulham Hull City Newcastle Stoke City Arsenal West Ham

3 1 0 2 2 2 0

Liverpool Swansea Crystal Norwich Sunderland S’hampton Chelsea

3 2 1 1 0 0 3

of the African teams in the qualifiers could not achieve. In January, Keshi was saying that, “The white guys are coming to Africa just for the money. They are not doing anything that we cannot do.

I am not racist but that’s just the way it is,” a statement Malawi’s stop-gap coach, Belgian Tom Saintfiet dragged him to FIFA for claiming racism. Keshi coached Nigeria to the Africa Cup of Nations title in February - the

CROSS WORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1. Nigerian state (5) 3. Snarled (7) 7. Of the dark race (5) 8. Respond (5) 9. Consumed (5) 10. Wit (3) 11. Church part (5) 13. Entrance (4) 15. Stitch (3) 17. Deed (4) 19. Hope (6) 21. However (3) 23. Thanks (2) 25. Curve (3) 26. Class (5) 29. Important (5) 30. Before (3) 31. Revise (4) 34. Mate (4) 36. Italian City (4) 39. Push back (5) 40. Heed (4) 42. End of day (5) 43. Exposed (8)

TODAY’S MATCHES Man City Cardiff

v v

2.30 pm 5 pm

second man to win the title as a coach and a

first black African coach to have won the trophy for 21 years and only the

Coninues on page 55

44. Halt (5) DOWN 1. Rubbish (7) 2. Go in (5) 3. Proceeding (5) 4. Eye-socket (5) 5. Fortune (4) 6. Faculty head (4) 14. Newt (3) 15. Heavenly body (4) 16. Damp (3) 18. Keen (4) 20. Treaty (4) 22. Goad (4) 24. Always (4) 25. Beer (3) 27. Grow old (3) 28. Stray (3) 32. Lucifer (5) 33. Fashion (5) 34. Schemes (5) 37. Leer (4) 38. Otherwise (4) 41. Pup’s cry (3)

Tottenham Man Utd

7 8 9 11

13 15

23 24

29 31 36

39 40 42

SOLUTION on page 55

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