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Snail-speed light-rail project?

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News

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Gbenga Ashiru, ex-Foreign Minister, dies at 66 www.nationalmirroronline.net

Vol. 4 No. 51

Sunday, November 30, 2014

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No plan to impeach Jonathan –Senate ...as South-South group issues threat

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Alabi-led exco sweeps Ondo PDP primaries I’ll defend election to Supreme Court, says Jimoh Ibrahim

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(See court judgement on pages 2, 3)

63 escape death as plane crashlands in Ilorin N O I S S PA 25

The Overland ATR 72 aircraft that crash-landed in Ilorin, Kwara State, yesterday.

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Sunday ber 30, Novem 2014

Borno: Scores dead as Boko Haram strikes again

azine tyle Mag A Lifes

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frican ‘It’s un-Aude’ n e to b >>27

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Why I’m running again, by Al-Makura P. 16

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er sh hardn u p n a c I e ost m than–Sm e, z E ra d an r actress

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Gunmen invade Rivers community, kill 7

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Sunday, November 30, 2014

NEWS

Sunday November 30, 2014

No plot to impeach Jonathan -Senate GEORGE OJI ABUJA

nvestigation has revealed that the alleged plot to impeach President Goodluck Jonathan is not true after all. Findings showed that the rumour was originated by a few senators whose quest to return to the Senate is under serious threat after the recent nationwide Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ward congresses, and therefore sees the impeachment threat as a tool to blackmail and threaten the President to come to their aid. Chairman, Senate Committee on Information, Media and Public Affairs, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, while responding to inquiries on the authenticity of the alleged impeachment plot, simply responded to the text message sent by Sunday Mirror that, “No, not to my knowledge such plot.” It was reported that 63 senators have signed up to support the impeachment of the President. The report also alleged that the group has commenced the compilation of the President’s impeachable offences.

•‘Frustrated lawmakers behind rumours’ But one of the ranking senators from the North Central zone of the country who spoke to Sunday Mirror under condition of anonymity questioned what the President did to warrant the reported impeachment by the parliament. He said the Senate is made up of experienced and matured members who do not act in unserious and irresponsible manner as to be associated with such frivolous acts. “The Senate is known to be a very serious arm of the National Assembly. The men and women we have there are people of unquestionable integrity. The senators do not act irresponsibly and therefore cannot be associated with such a baseless rumour. The Senate has always acted as a mediating institution to stabilize the polity and not create unnecessary political tensions. “If the Senate has any grievance they think the President can resolve, they take such a matter to him, as has been the case in the past.

We do not act irresponsibly. That is why Mr. President has a lot of respect and regard for us. When some of us had issues with our state governors recently, we went to Mr. President and he addressed it to our satisfaction,” the lawmaker said. He wondered what has happened between then and now to warrant such an “unfounded and baseless,” rumour of impeachment. The lawmaker remarked that “if you read the reports, they bear similar style and content, showing that somebody must have gathered a few reporters and dictated to them what to write and they went about it without applying

discretion.” Another ranking senator from the North West geo-political zone, who also spoke with Sunday Mirror, expressed surprise at the source of the reported impeachment allegation. Going back to memory lane, he asked, apart from sometime in 2005 when the Senate was involved in the attempt to impeach the then President Olusegun Obasanjo, have you ever heard that the Senate has engaged is similar acts? According to him, “The Senate is made up of very serious minded persons who do not have time to engage in unserious matters. “For your information, the process of impeach-

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

ing a President or indeed a state governor is a serious parliamentary act.” Citing section 143 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which deals with the issue of impeachment, the lawmaker remarked that the framers of the Constitution intended the process to be a very serious exercise. According to him, from the Constitutional provisions, the President must be seen to have seriously and reasonably violated the constitution before the process can sail through. He said the violation, which the constitution intends, is not the type of hearsay being bandied by those behind the recent allegation. The lawmaker noted that, “If you observe, the presidency in an apparent

realisation that the report originated from a source that is not credible has decided not to comment on the issue or take any action because it will simmer out the same way it surfaced”. Another senator from the South-South region simply dismissed our correspondent when asked to comment on the alleged impeachment. “My friend, I don’t have time for such baseless and unfounded allegation. I don’t comment on hearsay and rumours. Right now, I am in my constituency and saddled with issues from my constituents. We in the Senate have more serious things to do with our time and our constituencies than engage in such frivolous allegations”. With that, the lawmaker banged the phone on our reporter.

2015: PDP may vote out Nigeria, if... –Buhari DENNIS AGBO ENUGU

residential aspirant of the All Progressives Congress, APC, General Mohammadu Buhari (rtd) has once again restated that Nigerians must either vote the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) out of government next year or the PDP will vote Nigeria out. Addressing delegates of the party for the December 10 presidential primaries of the party in Enugu, Buhari stated that the level of corruption in the country perpetrated by the PDP had become so alarming that Nigerians should be concerned on how to secure the future. He stated that he decided to contest the presidential election to salvage the country from the claws of insecurity, corruption,

inefficiency among other vices that had held it down, stressing that unless the people agree on how to move the country forward, it would continue to get worse daily. He said: “It is a pity, this visit has to be rushed but the main intention is to meet with the delegates who on the 10th of next month will determine the person that will participate in next year’s presidential election of the APC. I am sure that all the delegates here know that next year will be another landmark in Nigeria’s political history. “To reflect what we experienced from 1999 till now and what we have in terms of foreign exchange, you will be amazed and how corrupt the PDP administration in the centre and state has been.

The MD of Innoson Vehicles Manufacturing Company, Nnewi, Dr. Innocent Chukwuma( middle), with the former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi (right) and the Hon. Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, during the unveiling of new cars by Innoson Group, IVM Fox, UMU and UZO at the company’s premises at Nnewi, Anambra State, yesterday.

Don’t impeach Jonathan, S’ South group warns National Assembly

The group rose from its NEC meeting in Calabar, Cross River State capital, yesterday, with an 8-point communiqué which urged the lawmakers to rescind the current plot to oust the

president in order not to cause chaos in the country. The group’s position which was endorsed by its National Coordinator, Mr. Bassey Umoh, the National Secretary, Comrade Ogele Joshua and six other State Chairmen, reasoned that the development could heat up the polity ahead of the 2015 general elections. “We warn against further acts of legislative rascality including the planned impeachment of the President as currently exhibited by some mem-

bers of the House of Representatives which may heat up the polity or deepen division in our beloved country.” It also noted that the President has been unduly antagonized despite his achievements, stating that such was against the spirit of national cohesion. While also condemning what it called “the recent legislative rascality” where members of the House of Representatives took on the police at the National Assembly, the SSF said the duel

had portrayed the country in bad light among the comity of nations. It however urged all well meaning Nigerians to eschew all forms of violence and come out en masse to exercise their franchise in the coming elections so as to elect leaders they can trust. The group assured that it would contribute objectively to all electioneering processes as well as increase awareness of the grassroots people by embarking on massive grassroots mobilization and sensitization.

(NCAA) recorded no casualty as passengers on board were able to disembark safely. Sources at the airport said one of the tyres of the plane got burst as soon as it touched ground on the tarmac. It was gathered that the aircraft was towed from the

tarmac at about 7.00pm yesterday. Meanwhile, the Accident and Prevention Bureau (AIB) in conjunction with the NCAA has launched an investigation into the cause of the incident. The regulatory body has however used the

occasion to reassure Nigerians that their safety was still paramount and cannot be compromised. Innoson vehicles will remain grateful to Obi Chukwuma The Managing Director of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company,

Dr. Innocent Chukwuma, said the industry would ever remain grateful to former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, for his massive support to the company right from the time when the company was under connstruction and thereafter.

political advocacy group in the SouthSouth zone of the country, South South Solidarity Forum (SSF), has warned the National Assembly against their impeachment of President Goodluck Jonathan as being plotted by some members of the National Assembly.

Overland Airways plane crash-lands in Ilorin

OLUSEGUN KOIKI AND WOLE ADEDEJI

n Overland flight 1186, an ATR 72 aircraft with Registration number 5N-BPG from Abuja airport to Ilorin, the Kwara State cap-

ital, carrying fifty nine passengers and four crew yesterday veered off the runway at low speed after a normal landing at the Ilorin Airport. The incident which occurred yesterday at 4.45pm according to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority

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THE

The Big Read

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Big Read SUNDAY SPECIAL INVESTIGATION

NOVEMBER 30, 2014

Snail-speed light-rail project? Both the federal and some state governments have been ambitious in enhancing rail transportation in the country. Specifically, Lagos and Ogun states have embarked on a mono-rail project powered by electricity. But there have been worries about the seeming snail speed at which government pursue such a lofty aspiration. Acting Head of Special Investigations, Yemi Olakitan, dissects the debate

n specific terms, Encyclopedia Britannica defines light rail transit as “a system of railways usually powered by overhead electrical wires and used for medium-capacity local transportation in metropolitan areas. Light rail vehicles (LRVs) are a technological outgrowth of streetcars (trams). Light rail transit lines are more segregated from street traffic than are tramways ‘’ It is an urban form of public transport using the same rolling stock as a tramway, but operating primarily along exclusive rights of way and having vehicles capable of operating as a single train or as multiple units coupled together. The term light rail was coined in 1972 by the U.S. Urban Mass Transportation Administration to describe new streetcar transformations that were taking place in Europe and the United States. The Transportation Research Board defined “light rail” in 1977 as “a mode of urban transportation utilizing predominantly reserved but not necessarily gradeseparated rights-of-way. Electrically propelled rail vehicles operating singly or in trains. LRT provides a wide range of passenger capabilities and performance characteristics at moderate costs.”

It is no longer news that the Lagos State Government is constructing a light rail system under a public private partnership (PPP) that will ease the heavy traffic problems faced by the people of Lagos on a daily basis and usher in an era of economic prosperity and development. The project is sponsored by the State Government (LSG), developed by Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) and financed by the World Bank. As part of his campaign in 2007, Governor Babatunde Fashola made the laudable pledge to bestow an efficient and comprehensive rail transportation system on the state. While the administration has made significant progress in this regard, few months to the end of the governor’s tenure, the project is far from being completed. However, the light rail project was billed to gulp from a sum of N160 billion, ($981million) borrowed by the state government from the Word Bank. According to the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transportation Authority, LAMATA, the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) network is a component of the TransCONTINUED ON PAGE 6

The Big Read

Sunday, November 30, 2014

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Fashola gives reasons for delay

(Clockwise) Different faces of the light-rail project

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 port Master Plan (STMP) developed as a compass for the growth of public transport infrastructures in Lagos state. According to LAMATA, it is a 30 year plan put together under series of analyses of future transportation needs of the state. ‘‘The Lagos Urban Rail Network (LURN) is an urban rail-based systems covering seven major corridors of high commuter traffic demand within and beyond the metropolitan Lagos extending to border areas with states like Ogun and Oyo. The Urban Rail Network consists of seven railway lines planned along priority and high commuter demand corridors within the Lagos metropolis and farther. The 7 lines link the major population and activity centers in the state, as well as taking advantage, where possible, of existing transport corridors. The network is fully integrated with planned and existing water transport and BRT routes. These lines are: Blue Line - Okokomaiko to Marina. Red Line - Agbado to Marina via Iddo and Muritala Mohammed International Airport, (MMIA) The Blue and Red Lines are priority routes, which are already at advanced stages for immediate development. Other routes for development are: Green Line -Marina to Lekki (Airport) Yellow Line -Otta to Iddo, Purple Line Redeem to Ojo, Orange Line- Redeem to Marina. Brown Line- Mile 12 to Marina. The North-South corridor between Agbado and Iddo along the Nigerian Railway corridor; the Eastern corridor to serve the emerging development along the Lekki to Epe axis; and the western corridor along the Mile2 - Okokomaiko axis,’’ LAMATA says others include Marina to Lekki axis,

THE LAGOS URBAN RAIL NETWORK (LURN) IS AN URBAN RAIL-BASED SYSTEMS COVERING SEVEN MAJOR CORRIDORS OF HIGH COMMUTER TRAFFIC DEMAND WITHIN AND BEYOND THE METROPOLITAN

LAGOS

EXTENDING TO BORDER AREAS WITH STATES LIKE

OYO

OGUN AND

Redeem to Ojo, Otta to Iddo, Redeem to Marina and Mile 12 to Marina route. The seven corridors will be connected by a central ring road between Victoria Island and Lagos Island. Blue Line Rail Project: The Blue Line is a 27 km rail road with thirteen stations from Okokomaiko to Marina. The Blue Line is undergoing construction right in the middle of Lagos-Badagry Expressway which government is currently expanding and redeveloping into a ten-lane international gateway. Apart from rail, the infrastructure design also includes provision for BRT and multimode integration with Non-Motorized Transport such as pedestrian walkways and overhead bridges for

safe access by passengers to rail and bus stations. According to reports from LAMATA, ‘‘work on the project commenced in August 2009 for construction of the Blue Line rail infrastructure, awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC) as a design and build contract. CCECC prepared the detailed plan, design and construction works for the rail infrastructure. These works includes stations, roadbed, bridges, permanent way (P-way) tracks works, pedestrian ways and other associated fixed infrastructure. All survey work, a proportion of the detailed design work and mobilization of contractor was completed between August 2009 and August 2010. The fixed infrastructure is to be implemented in phases and actual construction work commenced at a ceremony attended by, Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola on 26th July 2010.’’ Investigations by Sunday Mirror reveal that, construction works have reached National Theatre and Mile 2 through Orile-Iganmu, Okomaiko but there is still much to be done considering the enormity of the project. LAMATA had said the infrastructure for the first phase is expected to be completed within the first quarter of 2014 while operation would commence after the conclusion of negotiation with the concessionaire, which is expected to provide the rolling stock, operate and manage the rail line. On the problem of environmental pollution, LAMATA said, ‘‘the types of trains proposed for the Blue Line Rail Project are Electric Multiple Units (EMUs). EMUs are emissions free and therefore do not pose problems of environmental pollution usually associated with CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

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Sunday, November 30, 2014

News

‘Lagos borrowed N160bn to execute project’

(Clockwise) Fashola; Opeifa; Fashola (middle) with the light-rail project contractors

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 conventional diesel locomotives. EMUs are proven to be more efficient and easier to maintain than diesel locomotives. Initially, the Blue Line will carry 400,000 passengers daily with capacity increased to 700,000 passengers daily when the rail route becomes fully operational. To incorporate the use of EMUs, a depot including power generating plant has been proposed for construction at the final western station, Okokomaiko. The depot will serve as train maintenance and repair yard, sidings, final train destination, office complex and power station.’’ In a chat with Mr. Sunday Eze, Lagos businessman based in Orile, where one of the rail stations is based, he expressed his frustrations on the project. ‘‘The work is going on too slowly. It is a laudable project, Lagosians will benefit from it particularly in the area of traffic jams. However, it seems to me that it is being politicised because for eight years since Governor Fashola came to power and started the work, he has not finished the project; look at the roads, they cannot complete that either. The way it is going now, we are very certain that Governor Fashola cannot complete this project because his tenure will be over soon and only God can help us, if the next Governor is not interested in the light rail project. Who knows the kind of person the next Governor will

be, whether he will be a good one or a bad one? The law will not allow Governor Fashola to go for a third term. The project is just too slow and it seems to me that they are not serious or they are just using the project to make political gains without really having the interest of the people at heart, because if they do, they would have completed it by now,’’ he said. In another chat with Mr. Isa Shittu, an automobile engineer, also based in Orile-Iganmu, he said, ‘‘the light rail is not the major problem of Lagos. Our major problems are unemployment and poor electricity. The rail project will indeed help solve one of the major problems since it can create employment for the people and promote business activities in the state. When transportation is efficient then trade and business activities will greatly improve which will have a positive impact on employment and the general economic situation. The problem with the project is that it is too slow. Everyday people come into Lagos State. If you go to the east, you will discover that half of the people in the east are now living in Lagos. There is hardly a Nigerian who does not have a family link in Lagos. This is the state we all call home and the population is skyrocketing, the infrastructure is not skyrocketing in a way that matches the demands of the people. This project is laudable but one would have expected the Federal Government to give

the Lagos state government additional helping hand in terms of funding. When former Governor Raji Rasaki was building the Third Mainland Bridge, General Ibrahim Babangida who was the President at that time, supported him with funding. This project is bigger than the third mainland bridge and should not be left for the state government alone. All Nigerians live in Lagos. I am sure, if the federal government had given our governor more support, the project would have been completed.’’ On whether the state government is not serious about the project as it is being suggested in some quarters, he said, ‘‘I have heard people say such things, they say, ‘it is a political exercise aimed at scoring opinionated points, I don’t think so, because most people on the ground here, the commoners don’t even know that it is a Lagos state project. They say it is an ECOWAS project backed by the Federal Government. If you speak to majority of the people here, they are not even aware that it is a state government project except the informed Lagosians. So if it is a tool for political campaigning, I don’t think the government has succeeded yet. I am sure that the government of Fashola is sincere about the project. The point is that they need to speed it up. It is just too slow. This is why people are coming up with all forms of explanations and conspiracy theories.’’ The Lagos State Government has had to explain the delay in the completion of the project through, when the Federal Government through its Debt Management Office published the Lagos State’s debt profile. The State Government justified the N160 billion it borrowed from the World Bank, saying that the fund was channeled to finance the light rail (blue line) project. Governor Fashola said, “We are talking of about a billion naira debt to a population of over 21 million people; because if you are measuring the debt, you also have to measure the responsibility, the state government already “has in place, strategies to repay the loan. The Federal Government was in the know of the state’s decision to take the bond and it approved it.” Governor Fashola attributed the slowness to some petty delay saying that the state government was taken to court by residents of some areas whose structures were affected as a result of the project. The residents eventually agreed to be settled out of court and to be compensated. He also lamented the delay of the federal government to approve a corridor for the development of a light rail (red line) project which, he said, had been designed and perfected. He expressed disappointment with the federal government’s approach to issues relating to Lagos State development, at a stewardship forum when he was marking 2,700 days in office at the Lagos TV complex, Agidingbi, Ikeja. Governor Fashola also gave other reasons for the delay, saying that the project has suffered delays OWING to permission needed to pass through existing properties. He said much progress has been made at the Mile 2 end of the project, where the work started to the Iganmu end which is about seven kilometers, adding, “The tracks have been constructed, the rail has been laid and four stations are now completed. What is currently being done is to cross the water to the final station in Marina “which is another five kilometers of heavy construction work, concrete and iron rods.’’ According to him, a number of rail crossings with elevated road structures will be built along the lines. A total of 35 pedestrian bridges will be constructed over the Nigerian Railway Corridor. Cable ducts and walkways, in addition to drainage system with two walls will be built along different sections of the lines. Between Marina and Iddo stations, a combined 5km viaduct rail over road and cable Stay Bridge will CONTINUED ON PAGE 57

NEWS

Sunday November 30, 2014

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Again, Boko Haram strikes in Borno, scores feared dead INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

uspected members of dreaded Boko Haram sect yesterday evening invaded Shani, the Local Government Council headquarters of Shani in Borno State and opened fire on innocent residents which led to the killing of scores of people with many injured. Also, the invasion of the terrorists into Shani has forced many residents to flee into the bush for safety, sources said. Shani south shares borders with some communities in Adamawa State and about 260 kilo-

metres drive from Maiduguri, the Borno State the state capital. This is the third time Shani came under deadly attacks. The first one was a day to the 2011 general elections where some gunmen suspected to be terrorists attacked some Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ad-hoc staff, killing some of them with the destruction of electoral materials and a police station. Also in June 2014, the town of Shani witnessed a destructive attack by some terrorists which led to the burning down of the Divisional Police Headquarters and some

few people lost their lives. Fleeing residents of Shani who did not want their name mentioned in print for security reasons told our Correspondent that “some group of insurgents invaded the town at about 8pm on Saturday and started shooting sporadically targeting civilians, public buildings and recre-

ational centres. “They came in about 10 motorcycles from Gwaskara axis well armed with Ak47 rifles Improvised Explosive Devices and petrol bombs wrecking havoc without confrontation as there were no military operatives or police to assist the armless civilians who were running helter-skelter for

their dear lives. “As I speak to you now, I left my people running towards Pakaina village for safety. It is only God that will know what is happening with the sporadic gunshots that engulfed the entire council area,” Mallam Babayo Ardo, a resident of the town, told our Correspondent on phone. All efforts to get con-

firmation from the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Gideon Jubrin, at press time proved abortive as his cell phones were switched off, but a reliable security source who is not authorised to talk to the press confirmed the latest attack on Shani by insurgents on Saturday evening.

Innoson vehicles will remain grateful to Obi –Chukwuma

he Managing Director of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company, Dr. Innocent Chukwuma, said the industry would ever remain grateful to former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, for his massive support to the company right from the time when the company was under connstruction and thereafter.

Chukwuma said this at the wekend during the unveiling of its new cars, namely, IVM Fox, IVM UMU and IVM UZO at the companies premises at Nnewi. Besides Obi, Chukwuma also thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for commissioning the industry and the continued interest of Federal Government in the progress of the industry, especially through the Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga. Describing Obi as the number one in terms of patronage to the company, Chukwuma called on Nigerians to emulate him by being proud users of made in Nigeria products. In his remarks, Minister of Trade and Investment,

ormer Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Olugbenga Ashiru, died in a South African hospital after a long battle with illness yesterday.

The career diplomat, credited with re-energising Nigeria’s presence in international diplomacy in the post-Olusegun Obasanjo era.

Dr. Olusegun Aganga, who called Obi the Champion of local industry, thanked Chukwuma for his efforts. He said Innoson Motors was the first truly made in Nigeria vehicles and that such investments were needed to move the nation forward. He said that by manufacturing the first indigenous vehicle, that Innoson had put Nnewi, Anambra and Nigeria on the map. Speaking at the event, former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, who said that right from when he was the Governor and thereafter, that Innoson made vehicles had remained his official vehicles, called on Nigerians to embrace Innoson vehicles, as well as other products manufactured in the country. The Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Industry, Mr. Rasheed Adejare, said that the bank was proud of Innoson company and had admitted him into their Hall of Fame for his faithfulness in repaying the loans advanced to him always.

L-R: Group Managing Director, DAAR Communications Plc, Mr. Tony Akiotu; National Coordinator, Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Chief Sunny Nwosu and Chairman, Chief Raymond Dokpesi Jnr, during the annual general meeting DAAR Communications Plc in Abuja at the weekend. PHOTO: ROTIMI

2015: Stop abusing nation’s leaders, Chukwumerije warns opposition OBIORA IFOH ABUJA

he senator representing Abia North, Comrade Uche Chukwumerije, has said that persistent hurling of abuses on the nation’s leaders by some individuals and opposition parties is a dangerous development which is capable of ridiculing the image of the nation in the comity nations. The senator while speaking with journalists yesterday in Abuja also called for moderation in the utterances of the political class on na-

tional issues particularly issues that could whip up sentiments across the divide, warning that Nigerians will be better if the coming general election is held under peaceful atmosphere. Senator Chukwumerije, who has been cleared to contest the Abia North Senate seat for the record fourth time, also said that his achievement in the legislature speaks for itself and the Abia North and the entire South East will continue to benefit from his wealth of experience. He said: “I am aware that a few mischievous

politicians from Abia North are disenchanted by my colossal achievements, massive support from the people, from the Ohaneze as well as the endorsement by our party, the Peoples Democratic Party, but no amount of protest from the insignificant few can obliterate the goodwill of the people. “Several thousand voters from Abia North will not be bothered by a mere protest from 43 uninfluential politicians or an advertorial by fictitious Igbo Youths body that I leant is being bankrolled by an aspirant. The peo-

Former Foreign Minister, Gbenga Ashiru, dies at 66

Family sources said that he had been battling with brain tumour for a while and had be hospitalised for over three months. Ashiru played a key role in the diplomatic face-off between Nigeria and South Africa in 2012 over the deportation of 125 Nigerians for not pos-

sessing valid yellow fever vaccination certificates. Nigeria retaliated and the stand-off was eventually resolved. Ashiru, appointed minister by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2011, was removed in 2013 in a cabinet reshuffle. He had been one of the most respected ministers

but he was said to have been nominated into the cabinet by former President Obasanjo. Ashiru, while handing over, said he had succeeded in securing 22 key international appointments for Nigerians. Some of the positions included the Commissioner for Political Af-

fairs in African Union and Commissioner for Peace and Security at the ECOWAS commission. “I am leaving foreign ministry as a fulfilled man considering my achievements in just two years,” he said. He was born on August 27, 1948 in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

ple are not blind; they want to know the pedigree, the antecedents of these aspirants. And if I may ask, when have age and experience become impediments to legislative excellence. “The numerous roads I attracted across Abia North are there. I have attracted water schemes, sponsored skills acquisition, given scholarships to students, employment opportunities to graduates and empowered several tens of thousands of women and youths of the constituency and the people are not tired of this dividend, which is why they want me back.”

The product of University of Lagos, was Third Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1972, and served as ambassador to the South Korea in 1991. He was Nigeria’s high commissioner to South Africa, with concurrent accreditation to Lesotho and Swaziland, in 2005.

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NEWS

Sunday, November 30, 2014

PDP House of Assembly primaries Stalemate in Adamawa OBIORA IFOH ABUJA

he conduct of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary for the election of candidates for the State House of Assembly election in 2015 was yesterday stalemated in the Adamawa State. This followed the rejection of the list of delegates sent to the state by the national secretariat of the party by Governor Bala James Ngilari and majority of the stakeholders of the party in the state. Ngilari, told the committee sent to conduct the pri-

maries that the delegates list had been doctored and therefore completely unknown to the party in the state, adding that it was in sharp contrast to the authentic list agreed to by all stakeholders of the party in the state. Ngilari said: “When Senator Bala Adamu came, all stakeholders agreed that in view of the security challenges the list used for the primary that produced Fintri should be used, unless where such delegates have decamped or are dead. Everyone signed on. That is the list. And nobody can force anyone on us.”

Exercise peaceful in Lagos AYO ESAN

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Assembly primaries in Lagos State went smoothly in most of the centres across the state yesterday. Though the exercise took off late in nearly all the 40 constituencies in the 20 Local Government areas making up the state, results of the exercise have begun to trickle in. In Mainland Constituency 1 at Ebute-Metta, comprising seven wards, Hon. Ishola Jelili Balogun, emerged as the sole candidate, and his candidature was said to have been affirmed by the delegates at the primary exercise.

At the Constituency 11 in Yaba comprising four wards, 16 out of the 27 delegates voted to elect Hon. Ibrahim Olumide Ajiga, who beat his co-contestant, Hon. Emmanuel Oloyede. Oloyede polled 11 votes. Speaking with journalists on the exercise, one of the party’s governorship aspirant, Dr. Adegbola Dominic, described the exercise as very peaceful and orderly notwithstanding its late commencement. He said there was no violence recorded and that the reports he had from across the state was that people waited patiently and ensured peaceful conduct of the exercise and equally accepted the results.

Confusion trails exercise in Awka CHARLES OKEKE AWKA

ttempt by Peoples Democratic Party, Anambra State chapter to elect a House of Assembly candidate for Awka South 1 Constituency ended in confusion yesterday as the contending factions allegedly quarrelled over the issues of delegates lists and voting pattern, and held separate primaries at their chosen venue. The primaries of Anambra PDP for the election of House of Assembly candidates purportedly were held in the designated venues spread across the applicable thir-

ty constituencies. And at the Umuzocha Village Hall, Awka, yesterday, which was slated as the venue, where the three-man delegates drawn from the 9 wards in Awka South 1 would elect a House of Assembly candidate, the loyalists of Prince Ken Emeakayi and their supporters, as well as the two contenders namely Chief Okwuchkwu Okafor and Sir Tony Egbunonu who turned up for the exercise fought head-on and quarrelled over the issue of the authenticity or otherwise of the delegates list which was brought for the exercise by the supervising officers.

Students receiving lecture on AIDS preventives at the Education Resource Centre in Abuja recently.

PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

Alabi-led exco sweeps Ondo PDP primaries z I’ll defend election result to S’Court –Jimoh Ibrahim

HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE

he House of Assembly primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State which held yesterday saw aspirants cleared by the Hon. Ebenezer Alabi-led state exco emerging winners. This is even as a Chieftain of the party in Ondo State, Barrister Jimoh Ibrahim, CFR, vowed to defend the results of the primaries up to the Supreme Court if it becomes necessary. Our correspondent reports however that primary elections were held in most of the state Assembly constituencies in the state, with the Alabiled state exco which had been cleared by a Federal High Court in Abuja producing authentic candidates for the party. The development may not be unconnected with the Friday judgment by the court which ruled that the Alabi-led executive remains the authentic Chairman of the party in the state empowering the executive to conduct

the primaries in the state. The PDP members from various constituencies across the state started trooping out in their numbers to the various centres where the election was expected to hold as early as 10am but our correspondence noticed that parallel primaries were held by the party for the same constituency. However, it was gathered the situation was different in some constituencies where the old members of the party and the new members have reached a compromise and produced just a candidate. These include the constituencies in Idanre, Ondo East, Ondo West and Ese Odo Local Government area of the state. It was however noticed that though security agents were seen at the venue of the elections. Speaking on the development, the state chairman of the party, Hon. Alabi, said the primaries had taken place in the 26 state constituencies across the state, saying he had been empowered by the court to conduct the

election as the authentic and elected chairman of the party in the state. According to him, the party approached the state office of the INEC in Akure when the party officials noticed their absence, saying “there was delay at the initial stage and we had this argument in their office about the conflicting list that was sent to their office, one from the governor and the other from the party. “It was finally resolved that the order of the court says the state executive of our party remains and by that decision they have mandated all their staff to go and monitor the exercise”. Alabi disclosed that candidates have emerged in some of the constituencies where the officials of INEC visited and said the results of the primaries will be made known soon. The Ondo PDP Chairman however did not rule out ending the crisis, saying the leaders of the party are ready for roundtable talks if the national leadership of the party desired to put an end to

the lingering crisis. Also speaking on the conduct of the primaries, the state Commissioner of Information, Kayode Akinmade, expressed satisfaction on the conduct of the primary election and said officials of the INEC were present at the venue of the election in Idanre. He said: “We did not encounter any problems in our own constituency. INEC officials witnessed the proceedings here. There is only one PDP recognised in our constituency because it involves the old and the new PDP.” However, there was jubilation from the two camps where parallel party primaries were conducted with each of the groups laying claim to the tickets. It would be recalled that an Abuja High Court on Friday declared that the Alabi-led executive in the state cannot be dissolved until March 2016, restraining the INEC from accepting any list or results from primaries conducted in the state except from Alabi-led executive.

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Interview ENCOUNTER WITH A NEWS MAKER November 30, 2014

Delta guber: I’m the best man for the job –Utuama Prof Amos Agbe Utuama, a Senior Advocate Nigeria (SAN) and a Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (FNIALS) is the Deputy Governor of Delta State and a governorship aspirant for the 2015 general election in the state. Utuama had served as the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice for two consecutive terms of four years each and has been Deputy to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, since May 29, 2007. In this interview with THEOPHILUS ONOJEGHEN, he explains why he is the best man for the job. You entered the race rather quietly and some people even considered it somewhat late. What are your chances? My chances are very bright. I can say, with all sense of modesty, that I am known across the state. I have been here and have firsthand experience of the workings of government. First, as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, I held that portfolio for two con-

Utuama

secutive terms of four years each. That makes it a total of eight years. Then, in 2007, I returned as the Deputy Governor of the state and I have held that position up till now. I am very familiar with the proce4ss of policy formulation and implementation. Most of the delegates to the primary election which will take place on December 8, 2014, know me and my capacity for hard work and trans-

ON DELTA BEYOND OIL

TO START WITH, I THINK THE POLICY OF DELTA BEYOND OIL HAS COME TO STAY AND NOBODY WHO LOVES DELTA STATE WILL REVERSE IT OR ABOLISH IT. NOT WITH THE WAY CRUDE OIL PRICE IS TUMBLING IN GLOBAL MARKET AND OTHER RECENT ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENTS ACROSS AFRICA AND THE GLOBE. IT IS THE WAY TO GO.

parent service delivery. They are the ones who will hand the ticket to the person who will fly the party’s flag. I know very well that these people want the best candidate for the state. They want a man who is dependable, a man with capacity to deliver, a man with character, a person who is tested and trusted. A man they know and I fit this mould. So, my chances are very bright. As for the timing, as long as it was not in breach of the timetable set by my party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), it is fine by me. Don’t forget that it is a marathon. Those who initiated the idea, the Peoples Network for Utuama, did a considerable consultation; they weighed all available options very carefully before they settled for me. Then as an individual too, I had to also seek the face of God. I was waiting for God’s call because without God I cannot be where I am today. With the conviction that God is on our side we launched out. Tell us exactly why you think you are the best choice for Delta State going forward. I am the most properly positioned to take the state higher. From what I have stated earlier, I have the requisite experience, I have the exposure, the education and practical knowledge of the workings of the system. You can’t buy experience, it is what makes the difference. I represent a purposeful and exemplary leadership; I represent a visionary, transparent, integrity-driven and people oriented administration that will serve the best interest of all Deltans both at home and in the Diaspora. Look, given the outstanding performance of Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, Delta State needs a Governor with proven ability to perform and the vision to transform dreams into reality. Our dear state, at this time in our history, needs a Governor who will accel-

erate to new frontiers the ground breaking works of Chief James Ibori and the developmental strides of Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON. Our state needs a Governor who will be able to unite Delta State further and who will respect its diverse interests. Our state needs a Governor who has every corner of the state in his heart and who can pursue a broad development agenda that will serve the interest of all Deltans irrespective of where you are coming from. I believe I fit best, the bill of the kind of governor Delta State desires at this moment. There has been so much talk about an alleged zoning arrangement in the state. What is your position on it? I don’t know of any zoning arrangement. We all have been here since 1999, I challenge anybody who claims there is a zoning arrangement to prove that at a particular election in the past in this state, all aspirants and candidates were all from only one zone. Of course there is none. If at all there is zoning, it has been honoured more in breach than in observance. For the good of this state, we must emphasis those things that unite us and make us act as a family and not fan the primordial ember of division based on ethnicity or district. Our state is one and belongs to all. What would be your appeal to the delegates as you go into the primaries on December 8, 2014? Thank you very much for that question. My appeal to our honourable delegates is that they must see themselves as the people who will show the direction of our state in the next four years. As respected and responsible delegates, I know CONTINUED ON PAGE 55

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2015: Ladoja as Oyo’s beautiful bride

Politics PROVIDING FRESH PERSPECTIVES TO ISSUES NOVEMBER 30, 2014

BOKO HARAM IS NOT SIMPLY A MENACE BASED ON RELIGION OR ONE DIRECTED TO FRUSTRATE ANYBODY’S POLITICAL AMBITION. IT IS ESSENTIALLY A SOCIO- ECONOMIC PROBLEM THAT IS TAINTED WITH RELIGIONS. –FORMER PRESIDENT OLUSEGUN OBASANJO.

INEC’S PVC is mere sham –APC Chieftain

P 54

Briefly Nigeria will not break –Abiara

Tambuwal

Embattled Speaker builds legal fortress •Why he’s thorn in Presidency’s flesh TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

s efforts continue to see the back of Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, indications emerged at the weekend of how the controversial Speaker has built a legal fortress to make him retain his seat, despite being in a minority party. Tambuwal defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday, October 28, 2014, before the House adjourned for a short recess to attend to political party primaries slated for next month. His APC destination, was long foretold by this newspaper, going by the circumstances of his emergence as Speaker of the House and his subsequent bashing of the establishment. Tambuwal, like his immediate predecessor, Dimeji Bankole, emerged with the support of his colleagues, not his party. But unlike his predecessor, he was not even from the area his party zoned the Speakership to. The latter issue is what makes Tambuwal a political phenomenon. The issues around his ascendancy may have encouraged his searing attacks on his party’s (PDP) approach to governance. Not even Bankole in his earlier idealistic posturing, was as unyielding in his strictures. Criticism of the leadership of one’s party is not strange in India, the United CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

he General Evangelist of the CAC Worldwide, Prophet Samuel Kayode Abiara, has said that Nigeria will not break and that God will put an end to bloodshed currently happening in the country . Abiara who was speaking at the 29th anniversary thanksgiving service of CAC Agbala-Itura Lagos, also called on politicians to eschew violence as we approached the 2015 general election. He said the insecurity challenge facing the country will soon become a thing of the past and commended the Federal Government on its effort in fighting the insurgence in Northern Nigerian. Abiara urged the Federal Government to find other means to rescue the Chibok girls saying it should also exploit all available means and find a permanent solution to the crisis in the troubled region. He further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, not to encourage any form of rigging. He said those who try to tamper with the success of the election will incur the wrath of God thus called on politicians and all other stakeholders in the 2015 election to be warned. Abiara also called on all eligible Nigerians to go register and get their voter’s card. “Go out and vote during election. Vote for the right person. Do not sell your vote. God will take control of the election”, he said. . He called on the politicians not to take the forthcoming election as a do or die affairs saying,” God owns everything, including position of authority. So if you are there it is a great privilege with huge responsibility to serve”.

‘PVC holder should be allowed to vote anywhere in the country’

Tambuwal

he former Vice Chairman of Ikeja Local Government and a chieftain of All Progressive Congress, APC, Alhaji Abdulfatah Anifowoshe has advised that holder of Permanent Voter’s Card, PVC, should not be restrained to use it to vote only at his polling unit rather he said the holder of the card should be allow to use it to vote in any part of the country. Speaking with Sunday Mirror, Anifowoshe said that this is the practice in the United States of America and other advanced countries. He said a situation where somebody will register in a place and after moving from there he will need to replace the card to vote in his new place of abode will be too cumbersome. He also defended the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu who said that if PDP win Lagos State, the gods of the land will fight, saying Oba Akiolu is only appreciative of the developments that Lagos has witnessed in the last 16 years through the Alliance for Democracy, AD; Action Congress, AC; Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN and now APC He commended Oba Akiolu for staying with the truth and progressive.

Politics

Sunday, November 30, 2014

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2015: Ladoja as Oyo’s b AYO ESAN

s part of effort to secure solid votes in the South-West for President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 presidential election, there are said to be intense pressure on the former Governor of Oyo State and leader of Accord Party, AP, Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, to move into the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. Ladoja is believed to be capable of capturing high votes for the President in Oyo State during the February 2015 election and there are desperate moves to ensure he moves back to the PDP where he formerly belonged . Though Ladoja has dismissed the idea of dumping his party, the Accord Party, more so as he recently intensified efforts at selling the party to different segments of the state, there are palpable signs that his moves are mere smokescreen intended to confound the unwary. It was gathered that Ladoja is under intense pressure from loyalists of President Jonathan to join the PDP. To them whatever it would take, Ladoja must return to the PDP to contribute to the success of President Jonathan in the February 2015 general election, in Oyo State. It would be recalled that sometimes last month, it was revealed that the First

THOUGH LADOJA HAS DISMISSED THE IDEA OF DUMPING HIS PARTY, THE ACCORD PARTY, MORE SO AS HE RECENTLY INTENSIFIED EFFORTS AT SELLING THE PARTY TO DIFFERENT SEGMENTS OF THE STATE, THERE ARE PALPABLE SIGNS THAT HIS MOVES ARE MERE SMOKESCREEN

INTENDED TO CONFOUND THE UNWARY. Ladojja

Lady, Mrs. Patience Jonathan, informed the PDP leaders in Oyo State to accommodate Ladoja. But it was further revealed that the stakeholders of the party in the state resisted the move by the first lady to have Ladoja, “accommodated” in the PDP. Mrs. Jonathan was said to have requested that Ladoja be admitted into the party at a meeting she had with the state PDP leaders at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Some of the leaders in attendance were

another former governor of the state, Adebayo Alao-Akala; Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Olajumoke Akinjide; a former Senate Leader, Senator Teslim Folarin, and Chief Yekini Adeojo. Most of the people at the meeting were said to have been stunned when the President’s wife suggested that Ladoja should be supported to realise his ambition. It was then reported that they did not only kick against her proposal but that they also rejected her suggestion to share party of-

fices in the state with Ladoja. It was further said that she was tactically telling them to support his governorship ambition because she was saying she knew that Ladoja had the capacity to win election and defeat the All Progressives Congress in the state. But they were said to have disagreed and told her so. Alao-Akala also said then that it was true that the meeting with the First Lady was held, but he said he was not asked to step down for

Ding-dong as Tambuwal build CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

Kingdom, the United States or even in South Africa, but in Nigeria, it is greeted with cruel rejection and punitive consequences. In fact, Joseph Liebermann, a Republican in the United States, has been one of the most consistent critics of the policies of the party without being punished for ‘anti-party activities’. But Tambuwal, as a consequence, has had to walk a tightrope. He has had to relinquish some perquisites of office. For example, he has never, unlike his predecessors, flown a jet on the presidential fleet. He has avoided the snares of the Presidency and his party. He had relinquished his rights as a member of National Executive Committee of the PDP. The ruling party had felt sorely cheated by his non-cooperation. The party had fumed and schemed. Frustrated, the PDP is now baying for a disciplinary action against him through the instrumentality of the House Rules and the Constitution. But the challenge here again is that, Tambuwal’s colleagues do not appear enthusiastic about ousting him. It even worsens matters that neither the 1999 Constitution nor the Eight and recent edition of the Standing Orders of the House allows for the ouster of a presiding officer from a Minority or Majority party.

The rules and the Organic law do not even allow for the election of the Speaker on the basis of his party. Section 50(1) (b) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, states that, “a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, who shall be elected by the members of that House from among themselves.” Section 68(2) of the 1999 Constitution also says only the Speaker can sack any defector, and in this case, he is affected, so it is very unlikely, no matter where the judicial pendulum swings, that he would declare his own seat vacant. Order 2 Rule 4 of the Standing Orders of the House (Eight and Present Edition), states that, “the election of Speaker shall be conducted in the following manner: (a) a Member-elect, addressing the Clerk, shall propose another member-elect with legislative experience as member of the National Assembly to the House to be Speaker and shall move that such memberelect, “do take the Chair of the house as Speaker of the House of Representatives”. Not even the subsequent sections talk of the party the said Speaker must belong to. On the issue of a possible declaration of the seat of a member vacant, the Legislative Houses and Privileges Act only confers such powers on a Speaker and not members. So, therein lies the conundrum of the ruling party. The Speaker may have anticipated the plot against him, hence his smart decision

SECTION 68(2) OF THE 1999 CONSTITUTION ALSO SAYS ONLY THE

SPEAKER CAN SACK ANY DEFECTOR, AND IN THIS CASE, HE IS AFFECTED, SO IT IS VERY UNLIKELY, NO MATTER WHERE THE JUDICIAL PENDULUM

SWINGS, THAT HE WOULD DECLARE HIS OWN SEAT VACANT.

to block every loophole in the Rule book of the House that would have allowed for his removal. The Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal has been a skilled politician. In 2006, he emerged the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, after the radical Dr. Ahmed Salik from Dala Federal Constituency of Kano State was booted out by the opposition members, for his recalcitrance. He defected to the Peoples Democratic Party in 2007 after the fallout of an intense battle of supremacy involving the present

Ade eola a-Ak kand de

Governor of Sokoto State Aliyu Wamakko and his predecessor, Alhaji Attahiru Bafarawa. Tambuwal’s short-lived leadership of the opposition in the Green Chamber, notwithstanding, he was elected as Minority Whip of the House to represent the majority PDP in the Speakership of Hon. Patricia Etteh. A few months into that leadership, Etteh was removed on account of alleged corruption, but Etteh’s successor, Hon. Dimeji Bankole, retained Tambuwal as Deputy Whip. After the overwhelming support Presi-

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Sunday November 30, 2014

Man in the News North-East Local Hunters

Liberators from unusual quarters AYO ESAN

ndubitably, the Boko Haram insurgency has paralysed activities in the North-Eastern part of the country and its effects are more intense in the three states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe. Middle this month, the activities of the sect could not be curtailed by the military, leading to the taking over of over five local government areas of Adamawa State by the insurgents. The Boko Haram sect not only took over the areas but also removed Nigeria’s flag and hoisted its flag as it declared the territory as belonging to the Caliphate. Worried by the situation, the Senate Committee on Army and Defence invited the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Kenneth Minimah, who explained that the loss of some territories, including Mubi in Adamawa State to Boko Haram, was caused by a setback recorded by the Nigerian Army in Baza community. Minimah, however, failed to disclose the nature of the setback, but assured Nigerians that the military was working hard to ensure that the captured territories were recovered. “We had a setback in Baza that resulted in the loss of territories up to Mubi and as painful as it is, we are working hard to reclaim those territories. “Very soon, we will recover the territories and indeed other territories that the insurgents have taken. I want to continue to rekindle the confidence of Nigerians and particularly, the ordinary Nigerians who have suffered the pains of the insurgency. “The Nigerian Army will continue to do its best and strive to win this war and reclaim the lost territories,” Minimah assured. Speaking after the meeting, chairman of the committee, Senator George Sekibo, also assured that though a few mistakes might have been made by the military officers in the course of fighting the insurgents, the mistakes would be corrected and the captured territories recovered. Sekibo, who also said from the outcome of the meeting, the situation would not get worse than it was already, echoed Minimah’s state that the captured territories would be recovered and elections would still hold in the troubled region. “We have deliberated on security issues affecting our country and the Chief of Army Staff has also responded to all the issues that were raised

before him. “As a committee, we have come to find out or have an opinion that the Nigerian army is doing well. There are areas we may have some setbacks because this insurgency is not a conventional warfare. Because it is not conventional, a few mistakes may have been made here and there and the issue is that it will be corrected. “We have been assured that within a very short period, some of the territories that were taken by the insurgents will be recovered. It will not go worse than what it is now. We believe that from the charge we have given to them, from tomorrow and perhaps in the next couple of weeks, we are going to have better results,” Sekibo said. Despite this assurance however, the local people who felt the pain most and who realised that the situation was getting out of hands, summoned courage and invited local hunters to confront the insurgents. Most of the local hunters and Civilian JTF (coined from Joint military Task Force) were mobilised from Gombe, Kano, Bauchi and Borno States by some top politicians in Adamawa following fears that the state might be taken over by the insurgents, if nothing was done to dislodge them. It was gathered that over 30,000 local hunters and Civilian JTF were mobilised for the fight against the insurgents. It was further revealed that the Emir

of Mubi was the one who initiated the idea, seeing that he might lose his kingdom to the insurgents. In less than three to four days, the local hunters were able to chase away the insurgents and recover some of the territories that had been taken over by the insurgents. The feat achieved by the local hunters was soon to turn them to instant heroes and their photographs occupied the front pages of newspapers. The military which had hitherto felt reluctant to accommodate the local hunters into its team succumbed to the pressure. The combined team of local hunters, Civilian JTF and the military thus battled to recover Mubi, and in the process, several insurgents were killed, several injured, while a number of them were arrested. In the course of the clash, the military was also able to recapture the 234 Army Battalion as well as other strategic security formations in the town which fell into the hands of the insurgents when they overran Mubi. Residents reported that about five armoured personnel carriers (APCs) and military hardware were recovered from the insurgents. The residents also disclosed that all the flags hoisted by the insurgents had been uprooted and replaced with the Nigerian flags, adding that even the palace of the Emir, which was converted to

the spiritual headquarters of the insurgents, was liberated. Praising the combination of local hunters, Civilian JTF and the military, the Adamawa State Governor, Bala James Ngilari, said: “The insurgents have been flushed out of Mubi and are on the run.” Ngilari said the success recorded in the fight against the Boko Haram insurgents was the handwork of God, adding,: “God is in this business of security in Adamawa State. You know in the last one week or so, the government decided to work with the vigilance group- ‘Yan Baka’, local hunters and Civilian JTF. We have been working hand-in-hand with them.” From Mubi, the local hunters and Civilian JTF proceeded to other parts of the North-East still under the control of the insurgents to uproot them. Within some days, Mubi, Adamawa’s second largest town, was liberated by a combined team of the Nigerian military, local hunters and the Civilian JTF, which collaborated to flush out Boko Haram terrorists who had captured the town two weeks earlier. Vintim, the hometown of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh, was also liberated in the battle spearheaded by the military, local vigilantes and hunters, to uproot the terrorists who had taken over five local government areas in Adamawa State.

Opinion

Sunday November 30, 2014

Uncensored U nc

Sheriff S Folarin

E-mail: sheffie2004@yahoo.co.uk 08094217972 (SMS only)

here seems to be a shared view among scholars of various ideological and philosophical persuasions that Nigeria is indeed, in deep crisis. It was Karl Meier

that wrote in 2001 that the “House”, Nigeria, had fallen. That popular classic, fancied by the members of the academic community and often a reference point by commentators at departmental corridors and staff clubs of Nigerian universities in the early 2000’s, chronicled the beginning of the “fall” of Nigeria. It did it in a very exciting and creative way: tracing the crash to a shaky foundation at independence, with political brinksmanship, ethnicity and corruption trailing the activities of the First Republic, until its fall in 1966. The events thereafter, including an ethnic-inspired counter-coup of July 1966, pogroms against the Igbo in the North and West, Civil War and decimation of the Southeastern population rather led to a crystallization of the ills that ended the First Republic. Meier then linked that to the ethnic balancing that followed, the ironic oil-resource curse and the momentary boom that soon metamorphosed into doom in the 1980’s. The doom, including loss of jobs, inflation and massive national looting by government officials, culminated in a cocktail of backlashes: frustration and anger of the people, rising wave of Islamic fundamentalism, and the sudden recourse of people to the many Christian movements that sprang up, where they sought spiritual refuge for socio-economic redemption. Meier then forayed into the second phase of military rule, identifying the incursions of the generals in Nigerian politics between 1985 and 1999 as the final nail in the coffin of the fragile peace, stability and prosperity of the country. The deception, corruption and inordinate as well as insatiable quest of the soldiers to remain in power led to series of electoral annulments, witch-hunt of political

Safety Tips with

Jonas Agwu

Email: j.agwu@frsc.gov.ng Tel: -8033026491, 8077690055

atrick Adenusi of Safety without Borders, a non-governmental organization (NGO) on road safety is one safety crusader whose passion I admire. Although Patrick is from the South-West of the country, we call each other twin brothers from another mother. Patrick, like I said earlier, runs an NGO-Safety beyond Borders. This piece is not about Patrick. However, the title of today’s piece is borrowed from text sent by Patrick who lately bombards me with all sorts of materials as his way of keeping me on my toes in the divine assignment of saving lives on our roads. Several times, I have written on the use of phone infraction which has become common place among motorists under titles such as, “The black berry phobia”, “The black berry craze”, “The last call” and “That call can wait.” Today’s title

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Terror, impunity and the falling “House” enemies and unprecedented looting of the treasury for the purpose of self-preservation. Nigeria had thus been mortified and all that was left was physical death. While Karl, a foreigner, ended there, Osaghae and a host of other Nigerian scholars could not have agreed more. In their treatise, Nigeria: Crippled Giant, they identified the historical bad governance, and a number of other issues, including corruption, ethnicity and a sick policy environment as the poor screws holding the country together. They picked the military-imposed and supervised Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP), arbitrary creation of states and giving of white elephants utmost priority as the bane of national development. Adebanjo and Adekeye and some other intellectuals, in their Gulliver’s Troubles, simply described the home-front as the nemesis of a sustained Nigerian ability to pull the strings on the African continent and that because of the obvious problems at home, and despite its many self-imposed burdens, Nigeria cannot keep its leadership in Africa. Chinua Achebe’s The Trouble with Nigeria, like his satirical novel, Man of the People, throws light at the social and sociological manifestations of the rot from atop. The book breaks down the happenings at the individual and social cluster levels, describing a sordidly collapsed national culture or value of decency and morality. Many of Wole Soyinka’s plays and autobiographies, including Ibadan: The Penkelemes Years decried the many self-induced injuries the country brought upon itself. All of these writings were before the present times. The most recent of them was Meier’s This House has Fallen: Nigeria in Crisis of 2001. But between 2010 and now, the analyses and predictions of the scholars seem to have not only made more sense, but appear to have also been validated by real time decline, crash, and outright collapse as evident in some parts of the Nigerian State. The happenings, including territorial losses to Boko Haram (in which more than twenty cities and villages have been seized and now bear another national flag), inability of government to tame insurgent groups such as the Ombatse in Nasarawa, flight of war gen-

erals and soldiers from warfronts, breaking of jails and release of criminals by suspected Islamic militants without any apprehension or prosecution of anyone, abduction of 234 Chibok girls and unhindered abductions of more women and children on daily basis, bomb explosions and terrorist attacks on Central Nigerian cities and the Federal Capital Territory, among other extreme acts of sabotage: demonstrate a failed state. Aside these acts of the ‘enemy’, are also the unfriendly acts of “friends” of democracy. There is impunity everywhere. The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), more likely acting on instruction “from above”, locked the gates to the parliament, preventing the lawmakers and their Speaker from gathering to possibly throw out the presidential bill seeking extension of the State of Emergency in the three terrorism-troubled Nigerian states. The IGP also denigrated and desecrated hallowed grounds by giving the troops the latitude to shoot teargas at the federal legislators; and when summoned to explain this impunity, he shocked everyone by not even recognizing the Speaker, thus implying that he had interpreted the federal law by himself and concluded that having defected from the ruling party to the opposition, the Speaker had lost his position. That is the IGP, a supposed umpire and expected guardian of the electoral process next year. The IGP had even asked for the immediate withdrawal of security details of the Speaker twenty-four hours after the decampment. IGPs are the final arbiter in any civil matter and when DPOs or CPs mess up, the IGP ensures issues are redressed and offended parties get fairness. But in this case, the final arbiter is the first offender. God bless Nigeria! Aside the impunity of the executive at the federal level, the state actors are also catching up with their mentors and benefactors. Governor Fayose, who is yet to be in the newspapers for any tangible policy or deed since assumption of office, has busied himself in tell-tales and dealing blows on his real and perceived political enemies. Aside releasing to the mass media, pictures of the multibillion naira exotic bedroom and architectural masterpieces of the governor’s lodge in which former Governor Fayemi lived, he

obviously sponsored seven lawmakers of his party to impeach the House of Assembly Speaker who belongs to the opposition party. Now, seven members “impeached” in a House made of twenty-six members. Universally, “two” is more than “one’, just as “nineteen” is not only more than “seven”, but also constitutes a far higher percentage than the mandatory two-third majority required to remove any officer in a democracy. But in the case of Nigeria, “seven” appears higher than “nineteen” and the society, including the media are already referring to the so-called impeached Speaker as “former”. If Fayose had won by simple majority, then he should know better that his sponsored seven legislators cannot impeach even a fly, let alone a popularly elected Speaker. If not, then Fayemi can go to court too and claim that his fewer numbers in the last guber election were the winning numbers. Impunity had been attempted in Adamawa; but as fate would have it, the enemies of democracy have been put to shame. Rivers State Governor also had his own fair share; but he stayed “gidigba”, like Mama Gee of the Africa Magic fame. Amaechi should not however perpetrate impunity too as it now seems, as Ogoni people are claiming he betrayed them by hand-picking a successor, rather than subjecting the process to the critical mass of people. Impunity in Nassarawa failed to throw Governor Al-Makura out of office. We cannot afford to waste more opportunities to rebuild Nigeria. We are in dire need of reconstruction of our national conscience. We also require the rebuilding of this House. Between 1960 and now, if we had taken full advantage of all our blessings and endowments, wouldn’t we have emerged as a contender for global space with the great powers? But, where we are, by reason of the bungled opportunities, is struggling to provide petty social infrastructure such as borehole and patching failed roads, and calling ourselves big in the midst of smaller and poor neighbours.

• Dr. Folarin, an Associate Professor, is the Immediate Past Head of Department of Political Science and International Relations, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State.

Is that call worth your life? which like I said was influenced by a recent text message sent to me by my friend and brother, Patrick, was accentuated by the need to alert us as we draw nearer to the December rush which is often categorised by increased violation-especially driving and phoning by motorists eager to meet both family and personal expectations. ‘Driving or phoning or better still distracted driving is a global concern. Despite the efforts in developed countries, there are still calls by some, especially in countries such as the United States of America, for distracted driving to be a legislative priority, devoid of steps referred to by some observers as ‘baby steps’. This group maintains that driving and phoning should demand tougher and stiffer penalties just like the case of driving under the influence of alcohol. They call for penalties and licence suspension for chronic offenders, arguing that, “Anyone who spends time behind the wheel sees that today’s fines don’t deter drivers from talking or texting when they should be paying attention to traffic”, adding further that it is not the physical act of holding a phone that creates the danger; it’s

the mental distraction of a conversation. This group maintains further that drivers do lots more than drive; they talk to passengers, fiddle with the radio or GPS, eat, drink or smoke. But these behaviors don’t match the uninterrupted distraction of a phone call. The multitasking of conversation — speaking, listening and responding — creates “inattention blindness” to the road. Driving while using a handheld device, whether talking or texting, handheld or hands-free, should be outlawed. The dangers of distracted driving rival those of drunken driving. So should the penalties. In the US, the National Transportation Safety Board recommends a ban on all phones while driving — talking or texting, handheld or hands-free. Polls conducted by the Board showed 64 percent of Americans approved this position. Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that U.S. drivers like their Nigerian counterparts are more than willing to use their mobile devices while behind the wheel, and most believe phone calls have no effect on their driving.

The data shows that 77 percent will answer calls while driving; 41 percent say they will make phone calls while 76 percent will say something to a driver texting or e-mailing. The data further shows that 54 percent say talking on a handheld device makes no difference on their driving performance; 40 percent will say something about unsafe driving to a driver using a handheld phone; 25 percent say texting makes no difference on their driving; 10 percent will read text messages while 6 percent say they will send a text. A study on done the Nigerian driving habits will be our focus at a later time. What is texting while driving? According to Wikipedia, texting while driving is the act of composing, sending, reading, texting messages, and email or making other similar use of web on the mobile phone while operating a motor vehicle. This act is dangerous and has fatal consequences. Globally, the act has been outlawed in some part of the world or restricted. In the United Kingdom, the use of a hand-held mobile or similar the device while driving or CONTINUED ON PAGE 52

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South News

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Gunmen invade Rivers community, kill 7 • JTF arrest 2 over PVC distribution

DENNIS NAKU

PORT HARCOURT

unmen suspected to be cultist invaded Omoku town in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government area of Rivers State, killing seven persons on Friday evening. Among those killed is a chieftain of All Progressives Congress, APC, Godspower Ayodu. The motive for the killing and the identities of the assailants could not be ascertained at the time of filing this report. Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government area, Austin Ayamadu, said the gunmen went from house to house, killing innocent people.

Ayamadu called on people of the area, especially Omoku to remain calm, saying a combined team of police and operatives of the Joint Taskforce are patrolling the area. He said: “Unknown gunmen invaded Omoku and started by killing an elder of the APC and few other people were also killed. The figure I cannot immediately say because of the security situation, but it is more than five.” Contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, PPRO, DSP Ahmad Mohammad, said it was a clash by rival cult groups, adding that investigation has begun. According to him, “it was a suspected clash of rival cult groups. Investi-

gations have commenced. People with information of any person with bullet wound can assist the police in this regard.” Meanwhile, two suspected thugs who attempted to burn a vehicle conveying people going to their various communities to collect their PVC’s in Oyigbo Local Government area were arrested yesterday. The suspects where nabbed by a combined team of JTF and policemen from Afam Police station on yesterday. The press secretary of Oyigbo council, Bobby Oforji, who confirmed the arrest, said the suspects have been transferred to the Police Investigation and Intelligence Bureau, Port Harcourt.

He however advised residents to go to the polling units where they registered to collect their PVC’s as security operatives were patrolling the area. In a related development, the Trade Union Congress, TUC has expressed disappointment over the irregularities experienced over the PVC distribution in some wards in Emohua Local Government area of the state. The State TUC Chairman, Mr. Chika Onuegbun, criticised the fixing of Sunday for the PVC distribution by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, saying the people were mainly Christians. He said: “I am disappointed because INEC

came up with a programme for the distribution of PVC. First, it was postponed and we thought that the postponement would enable INEC prepare. “This time around, they (INEC) put it (PVC distribution) in 14 areas from Friday, Saturday and Sunday and my local government happened to be one.

“On Friday, we were there to collect, but nothing happened. Today (yesterday) again, I went there, INEC was not there and they said we should come on Sunday (today),” he said, adding that the irregularities being experienced shows that INEC is not ready to conduct free and fair elections.

NSCDC tasks private security firms on 2015 polls YEMI OLAKITAN

he Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSDC) has called on stakeholders in the security sector to work together for a free and fair elections in the country. Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum with theme “The importance of collaborative security protection towards free and fair general elections: The Nigerian situation’’, organised by the agency, Mr. Gabriel Abafi, the Director of Training of (NSCDC) said all hands must be on deck to ensure the success of the forthcoming elections. He said private security firms are very important to

security in Nigeria, adding that it is important to create a synergy between private security companies and government security agencies in the country so that all can work together towards a better and more secured society.’’ Also speaking, Colonel Shobo, a lecturer on security and strategies at the University of Lagos said ‘‘no group or section of the security community in the country can be left behind as security is too important to be abandoned in the hands of government agencies alone. He said ‘‘even vigilante groups in rural communities are very essential to security’’ and called on members of the media to help in enlightening the public and ensure that information is exchanged adequately.

Waste reduction: Environmentalists harp on use of technology, monitoring techniques OBASOLUYI TELEWA Prospective voters collecting their permanent voter cards at a distribution centre in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, yesterday.

APC primaries: Ambode ends consultation, pledges open-door policy

head the December 4, 2014 primaries, a governorship aspirant on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, at the weekend ended state-wide consultation and pledged to operate an open-door policy. Ambode also rallied support for the APC at the grassroots, urging the party faithful and leaders in all local councils to campaign house-to-house in order to secure the party landslide in

the 2015 general election. He gave the charge at a meeting in Ikoyi with leaders of Lagos Deserves More Campaign Group after a consultation tour of 20 local governments and 37 local council development areas. At the meeting, the governorship aspirant promised to respect diverse views and interests if he emerged the party’s flag bearer and elected the governor of the state in the next governorship election. He explained that he consulted the party faithful and leaders at different levels in the state with view to seek-

ing their support and assuring them of accommodating their interests if offered the privilege to serve the state. He added that no view would be discarded, neither any interest by undermined, but pledged “to run a participatory government in which every voice in the state will be heard and every grievance will be treated with regard.” Ambode, who had served as the Auditor-General and Accountant-General between 2001 and 2012, passionately urged the party faithful in the state to team up with him “to take Lagos

to the next level.” The aspirant promised to be a true example of ‘servant leader’, which he said, was the hallmark of every elected public official, assuring that he would run an open-door policy that allowed every resident “to make input into the process of decision making. “That is indeed the beauty of democracy and we are ready to demonstrate these qualities to a fault if given opportunity to serve. In democracy, people are sovereign while public officials are elected to serve the people.”

he Nigerian Environmental Society (NES) has restated its commitment towards protection, development and sustenance of the environment; hence the need for proper implementation of environmental technology and monitoring techniques in the country, a feat according to the association, would be of greater advantage to reduce waste. National President of NES, Engineer Olu Andah Wai-Ogosu, made the pronouncement while presenting his paper at the first Environmental trade fair in Nigeria at the National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, organised by Lagos Island chapter of the association. He maintained that the purpose of the first En-

vironmental trade fair in Nigeria was to address the issues about environmental technology in general and the way it could be used to assist with different monitoring techniques. “This is a new innovation which we are of the opinion that we as environmentalists need to start with before we bring other practitioners, regulators, academics, students and young ones”, he said. The NES president pointed out that environmental degradation as things that usually caused by the human, industrial activities as waste materials are also in form of solid, liquid or gas and all can be monitored with the technological machines and as well use to reduce the quantum, instance of oil pollution problems, adding that without any doubt, the awareness so created would go a long way to reduce the burning of refuse in homes.

North News

2015: Stop blackmailing Shema, group warns APC, others A ZA MSUE KADUNA

group under the auspices of Civil Society Alliance for Good Governance has warned the All Progressives Congress, APC, and other opposition forces to stop blackmailing Katsina State governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Shema, over a purported video clip showing the governor encouraging supporters to attack opponents ahead of 2015 polls. In a statement signed by the group’s President, Abdulsalam Ahmad and Secretary, Bashir Musa, the group while calling on Nigerians to disregard what they called falsehood by agents of destabilisation said the video was doctored and manipulated to tarnish the image of the governor. The group argued that Governor Shema never en-

couraged his supporters to kill but rather urged them to crush opposition in 2015 general elections by rejecting non Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, aspirants in the field. The statement reads in part: “Even when the crowd were trying to derail in their response, Governor Shema corrected them when he said crush them at the polls just as football lovers in Nigeria always encourage our Super Eagles to crush our opponents in the field of play. The deliberate attempt by the opposition to quote Governor Shema out of context is to say the least laughable. This is so because everyone knows that Governor Shema is a peace loving, tolerant and accommodating individual. These armchair critics lack the wisdom and moral authority to engineer any form of positive change,” the group said.

Sunday, November 30, 2014

IGBAWASE UKUMBA LAFIA

asarawa State Governor, Alhaji Umaru Al-Makura, at the weekend stressed that his intention to run for another term was informed by the need to execute more masses-oriented projects. “I put myself to serve the people as I’ve done in the last three and half years because I have the passion to stamp out poverty among the masses of Nasarawa State. They need more schools, more potable water outlets, electricity and empowerment,” he told Sunday Mirror. Meanwhile, Umaru

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Why I declared for second term –Al-Makura Tanko Almakura, yesterday, applauded the efforts of Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, on its role in effective information dissemination to Nigerians on the commission’s day to day activities. The governor made the commendation when playing host to the Independent Electoral Commissioner in-charge of Nasarawa, Kogi and Benue States, Dr. Abduladir Oniyangi, who led a delegation of the commission on a courtesy

visit to him at the Government House Lafia, the State capital. Al-Makura said effective information and sensitization has given citizens comfort, impression and satisfaction to enable them exercise their franchise during the forthcoming general election which is their civic responsibility. The governor further implored the people of the state to embrace the exercise by turning out enmass to fully participate in

the three days Permanent Voters’ Registration and (CVR) in the state irrespective of their political parties, adding that by so doing, it will go a long way to promote democracy in the country. He however appealed to the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the state to ensure that the exercise covers every nook and crannies of the state, assuring that the Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs, exercise would be a huge success in the state.

Physically challenged, others win PDP primaries in Plateau JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

physically challenged, Mr. Ayuba Gofwan, has won the ticket for Mangu North State constituency in Plateau State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party during the party’s primaries held yesterday. Gofwan, who spoke to our correspondent while sitting on his wheel chair yesterday, said he believed in himself which is why he came out to contest for the seat. According to him, the people knew that there is ability in disability, promising that if he is elected, he will provide a purposeful leadership that will be fair to all. Our Correspondent who

monitored the exercise across the 17 Local Government areas in the state reports that the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon.Titus Alams, also won the primaries for Bokkos constituency seat. Others who also won the primaries include former Speaker, Hon. Istifanus Mwansat, Pankshin South; Mr. Simon Barry, Mangu South; Hon. Diket Plang, Pankshin North. Meanwhile, the Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) State House of Assembly Electoral Committee in-charge of Plateau State, Alhaji Danjuma Musa Dadere, has commended the House of assembly delegates and supporters of the party for conducting themselves peacefully and orderly during the exercise yesterday.

Journalists barred from covering PDP primaries in Benue HENRY IYORKASE MAKURDI

ournalists were yesterday barred from covering the primaries into the Benue State House of Assembly on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the Aper Aku Stadium, Makurdi, venue of the exercise. Anxious journalists who thronged venue of the primaries at about 1:30pm were denied access by stern looking plain clothes men.

Though their identity were not ascertained as at press time, one of them insisted that journalists were not allowed to go in and that the order from above. When some journalists enquired to know why they should not be granted access to cover the primaries, one of the security personnel whose identity was not known claimed to be taking instructions from their boss, adding “Oga” we cannot conclusively give satisfactory reason as per why the press are not allowed period.

Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, Alhaji Sagir Saleh (middle) with members of the Arewa Nationalist Movement, during presentation of the award of most achieved governor in Northern Nigeria from 2007-2014 in Bauchi at the weekend.

PHOTO: NAN

UNIJOS probes students protest JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

seven member Committee has been inaugurated by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Hayward Mafuyai, to probe the recent students protests which led to the closure of the institution last week. The Institution’s Senior Assistant Registrar (Information and Publications), Mr. Abdullahi Abdullahi, who disclosed this in a statement, said the Vice Chancellor while inaugurating the Committee made it clear that the purpose was not to witch-hunt anybody but to get to the roots of the matter with a view to forestalling future recurrence. The Vice Chancellor, according to the statement, called on members to work without any preconceived mind-set as the Committee is expected to be fair and firm. He also appealed to them to submit themselves to God for the enablement to

execute their assignment without fear and favour and assured them of Management’s support and necessary assistance to enable them complete the assignment on schedule. The Chairman of the Committee, Prof. P.O. Awotunde, in his acceptance speech, thanked management for finding them worthy to serve on the Committee. He assured management

that they would work assiduously to complete the assignment on schedule. He solicited the support of management and other key stakeholders to enable them do a thorough job. Other members of the committee also prayed God to help them fulfil His expectations in the discharge of the mandate given them. The Committee’s terms of reference include determining the immediate

and remote causes of the Students’ unrest, to determine the role played by individuals or groups leading to the escalation of the unrest, to determine the extent of damage and cost to physical infrastructural facilities of the university, to make appropriate recommendations on sanction to those found involved and also any other recommendations that will forestall future recurrence.

There’ll be problem if democracy is not taken to grassroots –Gov. Aliyu PRISCILLA DENNIS MINNA

iger State Governor, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, has insisted that for the country to achieve credible result in the 2015 general elections, democracy must be taken to local government level of the nation where the bulk of the people reside. Gov. Aliyu stated this shortly after casting his vote in the Peoples Demo-

cratic Party (PDP) State Assembly primaries for Chanchaga constituency at UK Bello Art Theatre, Minna, the state capital, noting that the nation will get it wrong should it fail to carry the people at the grassroots along. He said: “My opinion is that democracy starts at the local government level. If we get it right at the ward and local government levels, believe me, the state and federal levels will be normal. But where

you do not take it to where the people are, there must be problem.” Aliyu pointed out the need to respect the states’ local arrangement of zoning, adding that though a particular office may be zoned to an area, in the spirit of democracy, no candidate would be barred from contesting, saying, “We hope that our delegates will vote in accordance with the local arrangement that has been in place.”

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On INEC’s contentious PVC project T

he Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), among other stakeholders that have expressed worry about the sad experiences trailing Permanent Voters’ Cards’ (PVC) distribution by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), drew attention to the possibility of millions of voters being disenfranchised in next year’s general elections if the difficulties voters seeking to obtain their PVCs are facing are not promptly addressed. The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the body, after a recent meeting in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, advised INEC in a communiqué to ensure that the votes of the electorate count in the 2015 polls. The PVC distribution exercise, which purportedly ended on November 19 after a two- day extension, attracted scathing criticisms and numerous complaints bordering on some voters not seeing their names on the registers displayed by INEC, late arrival or total absence of the Commission’s ad hoc staff charged with the responsibility, bad or inadequate equipment or wilful damage to machines meant for the exercise because of non-payment of stipends to the ad hoc staff, and so on. It was also alleged that INEC officials extorted N500 per person from some prospective voters registered after the closing time. In Lagos State, for example, the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) complained bitterly that over one million names were missing from the voters’ register. But INEC’s spokesman, Mr. Kayode Idowu, denied claims that the electoral umpire removed 1.4 million names from the Lagos State register of voters compiled in 2011. He agreed though that it was true that at the end of the 2011 registration exercise, INEC announced 6.1 million as the number of voters registered in Lagos, but went on to say that when that data was subjected to the Commission’s automated finger prints identification software, 82,892 multiple registra-

tion were eliminated. “… there was also the technical challenge of loss of data and incomplete data affecting about one million records mostly in 1,792 polling units that were identified and made public before the present exercise”, Idowu stated, stressing that that was why and how the ‘Post Business Rule Figure’ for Lagos State (on the basis of which PVCs were printed) came down to about 4.6 million registrants. Even the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) complained that its members in some states were not adequately captured by the exercise. Indeed, it was a harvest of reserva-

THE PROFESSOR ATTAHIRU JEGA-LED INEC SHOULD DO ALL IT COULD TO ENSURE THAT THE FRAGILE CONFIDENCE

NIGERIANS

HAVE MANAGED TO REPOSE IN IT IS NOT ERODED tions in most states nationwide, with many expressing fears that what happened might be a prelude to the rigging of the 2015 elections. The situation was such that a Non-Governmental Organisation, the Coalition of Democrats for Electoral Reforms (CODER) described the exercise as a disaster, and suggested that INEC should make use of the 2011 voters register for the 2015 election. Mr. Ayo Opadokun, the group’s spokesman, said it was possible that INEC’s digitalized voters’ register had been corrupted by what he termed a technically deficient and untested ‘patchsoftware’ which might not prevent multiple registration and under-age registration. Opadokun said unless INEC extended the duration of the ex-

ercise, thousands of Nigerians would stand disenfranchised. And with the presidential and National Assembly elections fixed for February14, 2015, it is CODER’s conviction that between now and then, no magic could be done to produce a fresh, reliable and all-inclusive biometric data-based register to enable a significant number of voters perform their civic duty of electing the candidates of their choice into political offices next year. However rationalised, nonetheless, the public experience seems a strong suggestion that the PVC project witnessed a huge failure. Not just remedying it has become imperative, but equally ensuring that voters who qualified to cast votes next year by reason of age are duly registered to partake in the polls. INEC’s explanation concerning automated finger prints identification, technical challenge of loss of data and incomplete data of some registrants, etc. are all strong indications that all is not well with the voters’ register the electoral body is taking to the polls next year. If INEC wants 2015 polls to have any semblance of credibility, it should move fast and remedy the situation. If the Commission could resolve the additional polling units’ controversy it ignited recently, like it had done through the revocation of same, it should find an acceptable solution to the more or less bungled PVC project. For us, we think the extension of the PVC distribution exercise and allowing more voters to register are the points to start from. Temporary registration slips can be used for the polls provided they are valid and closely monitored to avoid their being used to perpetrate electoral frauds. Closer supervision and monitoring of INEC personnel handling the national assignment are also very necessary. The Professor Attahiru Jega-led INEC should do all it could to ensure that the fragile confidence Nigerians have managed to repose in it is not eroded.

Reminiscences NOVEMBER 30 IN HISTORY 1936: Great Britain’s Crystal Palace Burnt Crystal Palace which had been built for the Great Exhibition of 1851 is destroyed by fire. The Crystal Palace also featured the first public conveniences in use in England / Monkey Closets and during the exhibition, 827,280 visitors paid one penny each to use them. 1979: Uk Pink Floyd’s ‘The Wall’ Album Released Nov. 30th, 1979: Pink Floyd release the 4th in their series of multi award winning concept albums “The Wall” which is later made into a movie. The Wall featured the most popular single ever released by Pink Floyd “Another Brick in the Wall” which became a number one hit throughout the world. 1950: Truman Authorizes Use Of Atomic Bomb Against Korea President Harry S. Truman announces during a press conference that he is prepared to authorize the use of atomic weapons in order to achieve peace in Korea. 1939: Russia attacks Finland Following its attack on Poland, Russia attacks Finland with 540,000 men, 2485 tanks, and 2000 guns. Finnish troops led by Field Marshall Gustaf Mannerheim over the next two weeks, resisted the invasion using forest combat to inflict heavy damage on the Russian invaders, But by March the following year, due to the sheer volume of Russian invaders, the “Peace of Moscow” treaty was signed, and Finland ceded 16,000-square miles of land to the Soviet Union. 1954: First victim of meteorite fall U.S.A. Meteorite 30th November, 1954 : An Alabama woman Mrs. Hulett Hodges became the first known person today to be struck by a meteorite. The meteorite six or eight inches in diameter, fell through her roof leaving a three-foot hole. She was only slightly injured, the United States Air Force flew to the Hodge’s Alabama home and took the nine-pound object back to Washington. The Hodges demanded that the rock be returned to them so their family could keep it as a souvenir. 1960: Argentina Riots Members of the right-wing political group protested in cities such as Rosario, near Buenos Aires. Other riots broke out near two oil towns in Northern Argentina. 1966: Barbados Gains Independence Barbados gains its independence from that of a self-governing colony to full independence from the United Kingdom. 1972: Italy Fireworks Factory Explodes An illegal fireworks factory being run in an eight floor apartment building, exploded in Rome with 15 killed and 100 injured in the blast.

Sunday, November 30, 2014

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EDIFYING GOD

QUOTE The Church must begin to show diligence in the things of the God rather than the things of the earth. Heaven will come to the earth, when the message of heaven is preached. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Pastor Bola Bello

Sunday November 30, 2014

Cleric politicians

What fuss?

Pastor Tunde Bakare

Pastor Chris Okotie

Rev. Nyame

The road to heaven, by Pastor 24

Muokaa

How to Christianity overcome has troubles, by Prophet standard Oloruntimilehin 42

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Vineyard

Briefly Comfort International confab 2014 holds

Celebration

4-day Comfort International conference hosted by Victory Life Bible Church Palace of Comfort began on Thursday, November 27 to Saturday, November 29, 2014 at 5pm. The programme will continue today, Sunday, November, 30, 2014 at 11am. Venue is 3, Alaba Obe Street, off Akinojo, Iju- Ajuwon. The themed of the conference is ‘By My Spirit’- Zech 4:6. The host, Pastor Odewole Odidi Tunde, in a statement said in the course of the programme and in a Christlike manner, the church will visit the orphanage home, host widows, adding that there will be free medical check-up and free feeding for all who attend.

Church holds Iboko Ishasi for Christ crusade

Sunday November 30, 2014

Kingdom Life World confab ends as participants count gains

oulwinners Redemption Army on Friday, November 28, 2014 at 5pm began a 3-day revival power crusade tagged ‘Iboko- Ishasi for Christ’.

The crusade ends today, Sunday, November 30, 2014 at 5pm. Venue is at No. 10 Iboko Road, Ishasi, Akute, Ogun State. The programme has “For This God is Our God’ as theme. Apostle Wilson Alika, the host, said the crusade is set apart to call out the heart of man back to God, adding that the only time that God can be your God is when you returned back with your whole heart to him. He said it is time for great miracles, great harvests of souls, urging all to come for salvation, healing, breaking of evil yokes, deliverance, fruit of the womb, financial breakthrough. He also disclosed that there will be free clothes, food items for all who attend, adding that Prophet Adeniyi Adebayo (Woli inu apata) and Prophet Adejoh Itodo will minister at the event.

December to Remember berths at Lagos church

od of Miracle Evangelical Bible Ministries a.k.a Gathering of the Redeemed has concluded plan to hold its first 14 days December to Remember fire Revival programme with theme, ‘The Next Level’ from Monday, December 1 – Saturday, December13, 2014 at 5pm.

The programme ends on Sunday, December 14, 2014, with thanksgiving service at 10am. Venue is No. 11, Olalekan Magbagbeola Street, off Pipeline Road, Oyeyemi Bus-stop, Ajuwon – Akute, Ogun State. Speaking about the programme, the host, Prophet Samuel Olayemi Orogojimo (JP) described it as first of its kind, adding that all worshippers, guests, families, nation and ministries will move to the next level, adding that there will be power of encounter at 9am and that Lady Evang Grace Adebisi Orogojimo a.k.a Ola Ade Jesu (Gospel Singer) will minister in songs.

Roll out the stone at Lanakomi Prayer Mountain

he stage is set for the third annual convention of Lanakomi Prayer Mountain. The convention is billed for Lanakomi Street, Sojuola Road, Idi Ope Bus-Stop, Ifo, Ogun State.

Themed ‘Rollout the Stone’ (Eyi Okuta Naa Kuro), the event will begin with a 5-day Open air crusade. The morning session is from 5:30am – 6:30am and evening session at 5pm – 8pm daily, beginning on Monday, December, 1 to Friday, December 5 for Lanakomi Prayer ground and Arigbajo Palace, Mosaku Compound respectively.

Bishop Mike Okonkwo (3rd left) and Rev Iyke Osuji (2nd left) flanked by the winners of the raffle draw after the presentation of award certificates and car keys.

he Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) last weekend drew the curtain on the celebration of its 25th annual Kingdom Life World Conference in grand style. The week-long affair tagged ‘God and God alone’, held at the auditorium of the headquarters of TREM, Gbagada expressway, Lagos, saw worshippers and invited guests who had the time of their life still savouring the gains and prospects of the conference. The conference which was attended by over 50,000 participants featured fanfare events such as musical concert, the Big Lead Summit for pastors, ordination of new pastors, and raffle draw. A good number of people went home blessed from the various programmes outlined for the event which included ministrations by indigenous and foreign clerics as those who won prizes such as brand new cars, plots of lands, refrigerators, washing machines among others would continue to count their blessings. Declaring the conference open, founder of Kingsway International Christian Centre, KICC, Pastor Mathew Ashimolowo, who preached a message titled ‘Maximising the Grace of God’ described grace as unmerited ability, adding that grace makes uncommon ability that empowers destiny. “There is one grace that brings favour which simplifies life and empowers destiny. Favour helps one to prevail over adversity”, he said. According to the host and presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission, Bishop Mike Okonkwo, organising the raffle draw was part of the mandate of the church to be a blessing to others. He said: “It has been part of our commission from the onset that as God is providing for us, we will also be a blessing to others. As part of our mandate, we also award scholarship and give skill acquisition free of charge to people from all religious background not just Christians alone. Giving has been part of us right from inception and it has become our tradition so the raffle draw is part of our traditions.” Speaking on the political issues in the

country, Bishop Okonkwo said the recent assault on members of the National Assembly proves that policy makers have not learnt their lessons, adding that people don’t know what governance is all about. “It is high time our politicians realise that this country is not for sale, governance is not a do-or-die affair. That is the reason the church has been educating the people about the importance of their vote and how to get involved in the transition process. The ongoing open assault shows that a lot of our democracy operators have not learnt their lessons”, he insisted. Concerning the rising wave of insurgency in Nigeria, Okonkwo appealed to the Federal Government to fish out saboteurs within the security agencies, adding that all hands must be on deck to arrest the insurgents in the country. He noted that there are some individuals in the country who are making military effort fruitless, stressing “the truth is that there are saboteurs in the army and that is why I am concerned about the soldiers who were sentenced to death for mutiny and dismissal of the commander in charge. To me, it is not acceptable. “We need to find out the bad eggs within the military because I don’t believe that Nigeria lacks the military capability to deal with the insurgents. When you have saboteurs within the military, it becomes very difficult for the Army to operate”, he maintained. The cleric also decried the fact that there are some individuals who are seen as sacred cows in the country and are also using the resources of the nation to destroy the nation, adding that such should be fished out and disciplined. On 2015 election, Okonkwo said if the election does not hold it will create some anomalies and problems, adding that government should try and look into some of the recommendations that have been of-

fered to them. “The theme of this year’s event, ‘God and God Alone’ only tells us that with all the crises going on in the country, it is God alone that can help Nigeria. After this conference, we expect a new Nigeria to emerge, where politicians will deliver on their jobs and most of the challenges facing this country would have been resolved”, he said. Speaking on the occasion, Chairman of the planning committee, Rev. Ikechukwu Osuji, said he had no doubt that the participants at the conference have been impacted with life transforming messages which he described as explosive. He added that this edition is special as it marks the Silver Jubilee of the annual conference. The cleric encouraged the pastors that were ordained as Reverends as well as the Deacons and Deaconesses that were promoted to Pastors to see their ordination as a call to higher service as he urged them to render selfless service to God and humanity. Winners of a brand new car, Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Ataghana expressed joy and gratitude to the church for giving them such opportunity as they maintained that the new gift has added joy to their family and assurance that the year 2015 will usher in good things for them. “Some words of prophecy have gone out from the mouth of the servant of God and we have received them. What is now left for us is to go back to our branch and live with those words as they begin to manifest in our lives. We are so grateful to TREM and to our Bishop for the raffle draw that has added a new gift to our family. This proves to us that the coming year will be a year of blessing”, said Mr. Ataghana. Another participant, Mrs. Binta Max from TREM Abuja who won a car and a plot of land said she feels so excited to win two special prizes after putting in a lot of efforts by buying multiple raffle tickets. She further said that she had gained a lot from the conference which she described as impactful, adding that she was going back to Abuja more loaded, enriched and refreshed both spiritually and physically.

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Hour of Change with Primate

Oyelowo

n this write up, attention will be focused on some female characters in the Bible who took risk and made a difference to their world. A dictionary definition of risk is “the possibility of suffering harm, or loss”.

Dorothy Confield Fisher asked “what is life but one long risk”. William Crapo (Billing) Durant also believed that “he who takes the greatest risk deserves the biggest prize”. Mention must be made here of three female characters who took risk and where duly rewarded (positively) for their respective gallant actions. The first of these three characters are the daughters of Zelophehad, the son of Gilead of the descendent of Manasseh, son of Joseph. They approached the entrance of the tent of meeting and stood before Moses and leaders of Israel and the whole assembly to demand for their inheritance. ‘Our father died in the desert. He was not among Korah’s followers who banded together against the Lord, but he died and left no sons. Why should our father’s name disappear from his clan because he had no sons? Give us property among our father’s relatives”(Number 27:3-4). It is necessary to mention here that Israel’s tradition forbade a woman to have inheritance in her father’s property. To those women of valour, it was considered a pure injustice, hence they Endtime Message

with Archbishop

Williams King For prayers, counseling, contact: Arch-Bishop (Dr.) Williams King (Prophet unto the Nations) on Tel: 080362658888; Email: wmking2k5@yahoo.com

elcome once again to this great publication even as I hope and pray that these write-ups have been meaningful to you, and that you will continually benefit from this End Time message corner. Ps 119:105 says, ‘’Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto thy path’’. May the entrance of these words in this message bring illumination and awareness, and positive consciousness into your person, and enlighten and empower you to move towards the direction of knowledge, distinction and understanding of the Time. Proverbs 2.11 says, “Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee”. In the previous edition, I dealt with 3 points in the issue of Stepping into greatness (3). I wish to continue from where I stopped. Point 4 Enforcing your prophesy You are a divine project by God, and not an accidental discharge, as some people think. If that be so, then the all Purposeful God has a mandate of achievement for you, which means, you are destined to actualise God’s purpose for you on earth. Accordingly therefore, it is your place to do 3 major things. 1. Identify your purpose/pursuit in life 2. Enforce your prophesy 3. Acquire grace to live long (PS 91.16) so as to

From the Pulpit 21

Sunday November 30, 2014

Risk taking: Painful but rewarding

summed up courage and confronted Moses with the anomaly and made request to rectify the injustice. I decree the release of your right which has been denied you. Moses had to take their petition before the Lord which was granted unconditionally by the same Lord (Number 27:5-10). I pray that your long standing requests in whatever form will appear before the almighty God and answers will be given. Another woman of valour who took risk was Esther. Her family had been taken into exile from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon along with Jehoiachim, King of Judah. Esther was an orphan who was brought up by her uncle, Mordecai. The lesson here is that your present predicament should not be allowed to hinder your future success.She succeeded Vashti, when the latter was deposed for her disobedience to appear before the king (who happened to be her husband) and his council of ministers. It was when she became the queen that Haman, one of her husband’s ministers, plotted to exterminate the Israelites who chose to remain in their country of exile for reasons best known to them. When the conspiracy was discovered by Mordecai, he had no choice than to send a message to Esther, his niece, forthwith not only to intimate her of the danger hanging on their neck but also to mobilize her to help to avert the looming danger ahead (Esther 4:13-14). I pray that any conspiracy planned against you will be thwarted in Jesus Name. Esther did not waste time in setting machinery in motion to liberate her

people. She asked her uncle to join her in a three days fasting and prayer aimed at securing the king’s favour. Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai, “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me, do not eat or drink for three days, night and day, I and my maids will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king even though it is against the law, if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:15-16). At the end of the fasting period, Esther appeared before the king to make her request known to him. It was at this stage that the almighty God proved himself by touching the heart of the king to give approval to her request. By that singular act, she did not only save her race from total extermination, but also saw to the end of the life of the arch-enemy of her race, Haman. I pray that the Lord you worship with the sincerity of your heart will confound the evil plan of your enemy and he will be put to shame, Amen. Benefits derivable from taking of risk 1. It creates awareness: By taking risk, your mind and your eyes are open which enables you to discover your strength and weakness which invariably enhances humility. Some of the strength of Israel was from prayer and fasting. Therefore, they utilized them to the maximum and it paid off. Awareness also gives you immeasurable resources for the future. As your sensitivity to other people’s values and needs increases, you have more courage to act. 2. Knowledge is also gained as risk taking teaches valuable lessons. You learn more about your ability and will-

Stepping into greatness (4) fulfill your destiny. Let us examine 3 scriptures. Romans 8.29-30. “For whom he did fore know he also did predestinate, to be conformed to the image of his son that he might be the first born among the brethren”. Verse 30 “More so, whom he did predestinate, them he also called, whom he called, he also justified and whom he justified, them he glorified”. Jeremiah 29:11 ‘’For I know the thought I think of you, saith the lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you an expected end.’’ The sum total of the above scripture including Jeremiah 1:5 declares clearly that God had pre-planned your life before you were born and you have a destiny/prophetic destiny to fulfill in order to step into greatness. How do you enforce your destiny? i. Through right standing with God- Ps 34:15, 14, and 19. Righteousness and uprightness. ii. Though prayers (effectual fervent prayer) which availeth much………..James 5:13-16 as well as 1 Thess 5:17, Ephesians 6:18, Philippians 4:6, etc. iii. Through obedience…….Isaiah 1:19. It was through obedience that Joseph went to see his brethren after, the resultant effects being that he eventually became a leader in Egypt. It was through obedience that David went to see his brethren at the war front, the resultant

effect being that he became the king of Israel. You must also learn to obey your prophet 2nd chronicles 20:20. iv. Appropriate positioning. Let’s look at the story of Esau and Jacob in Genesis 27, reading from verse 5 to the end. Take note of the following truths… Rebecca, the wife of Isaac, knew the secret prophesy about her twins when in Genesis 25, the prophet told her, “alone” that she had twins in her womb, and that (Verse 23) the elder would serve the younger, in other words, the younger would step into greatness while the elder serves the younger. Bear it in mind that when this prophesy came, Isaac was not there. Therefore when he felt he was about to die, he called on his elder son, according to customs/ culture/traditions, to empower him with the father (Abrahamic) blessings. So what Rebecca did was not an error and it was not fraudulent. Take note…. She partnered with Jacob to position Jacob to collect the father’s blessings which would enforce his prophesy into greatness. If God was not in it, he (God) would not have allowed Rebecca to be at the scene of discussion between Isaac and Jacob. Why did Isaac not recognise that the meat he was eating was not “bush meat” taking into consideration that he had spent more than half of his life, eating bush meat and goat meat and he should have known the difference? When Jacob answered his father and said “I am Esau thy first born) he did not lie because technically and spiritually the day they ex-

ingness to take risks. Risk taking is the best way to add to your knowledge of what works and what doesn’t. 3. Risk taking brings excitement. Involvement with people who are doing exciting and positive things through risk taking causes life greater pleasure. When the Israelites were saved from being exterminated, they celebrated the festival of Purim which is still in vogue today. Positive contribution brings recognition and growth to the society as well as to individual. But for the risk taken by the daughters of Zelophahad, women would have lost their right of inheritance to the male counterparts of their father’s property. Many nations of the world developed their law from the Bible, one of which is the law of property. But for the gallant action of Esther, history would have forgotten the existence of the nation of Israel by now. Her persistence from thence through 20th century granted her independence in 1948 when she was recognised as an independent state. Don’t keep quiet when you are being denied of your right. Utilize spiritual as well as physical efforts to gain favour. Let the word of God be your companion. Accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and your personal saviour (Roman 10:9-11). Have a wonderful and blissful week. Shalom!

•You can contact us at: The Word of Life, Agbo Igbala Ti Kiish Aladura Church 70 Patey street Lagos State. Tel: 07040517413 changed birthright, Jacob became Esau. If Isaac was in doubts about reality of his true first son, he should have waited for the 2 son to be around to ensure that Esau gets the blessing, but because God was in it all, it went the way of prophesy. Accordingly therefore, without any controversy, Rebecca partnered with her son, to enforce prophetic fulfillment of stepping into greatness. Point 5 Divine connection We all need Divine helpers and Divine connection to achieve greatness. Take note: 1. Portiphars wife in Genesis must have seemed evil but her actions and inaction linked Joseph through the prison, through the chief butter, to the king of Egypt. 2. If Jonathan was not in Israel when David showed up, the ministry of David and his entering into greatness as king of Israel would never have materialized. 3. But for Zibas presence in the palace at the particular time when David the king was looking for any leftover family to bless, Prince Mephiboseth (There in lode bar-land of suffering) would ever have stepped into greatness. I leave you in the hands of God to bless you abundantly and direct your footsteps into greatness. In the next edition, I will invite you to my Prophetic night of prayers/wonders. Remain blessed and highly lifted till we meet again. •End Time Message With Arch-Bishop (Dr.) Williams King Email: wmking2k5@yahoo. com Telephone: 08036265888

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Cleric politicians: What J

ust like the two sides of a pole, religion, Christianity to be precise, and politics are supposed to be opposites where one does not have anything to do with the other, and cannot have a merging or meeting point. But over the years, there has emerged instances where these two entities are been fused as reverend gentlemen as clerics are generally called have for one reason or the other best known to them diverted from the active service of God and humanity to take active part in partisan politics. According to Wikipedia definition, Christianity is religion stemming from the teachings of Jesus in the 1st century AD. Its sacred scripture is the Bible, particularly the New Testament. Its principal tenets are that Jesus is the Son of God (the second person of the Holy Trinity), that God’s love for the world is the essential component of his being, and that Jesus died to redeem humankind. The early Christian movement was allegedly shaped by St. Paul and other Christian missionaries and theologians who were persecuted under the Roman Empire but supported by Constantine I, the first Christian emperor who according to scriptural records, eventually, politicized Christianity. The term politics is coined from the Greek word politikos, meaning ‘of, for, or relating to citizens is defined by the free Merriam Webster as the practice and theory of influencing other people on a global, civic or individual level. More narrowly, it refers to achieving and exercising positions of governance; organised control over a human community, particularly a state. Furthermore, politics is defined as the study or practice of the distribution of power and resources within a given community; a hierarchically organised population, as well as the interrelationship(s) between communities. To understand the game better, a variety of methods are employed in politics, which include promoting one’s own political views among people, negotiation with other political subjects, making laws, and exercising force, including warfare against adversaries. Politics is exercised on a wide range of social levels, from clans and tribes of traditional societies, through modern local governments, companies and institutions up to sovereign states, to the international level. After Constantine, over the years, there have also emerged men of the sacred order who have shown interest in achieving and exercising positions of governance despite their religious vows to serve in the vineyard of God all their lives like Rev. (Dr.) Martin Luther King Jnr. and Rev. Jesse Jackson. In Nigeria, we have had people like Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu who became governor of Benue State in 1992, on the Social Democratic Party (SDP) platform. He left office after the mili-

A campaign ground

As the road to the 2015 general elections gets shorter by the day, the suitability or otherwise of Christian clerics getting involved actively in politics is once again on the front burner of national discuss. ODINAKA URUAPKA looks at the issue with some Christian views. tary coup in November 1993 in which General Sani Abacha came to power. Rev. Jolly Tavoro Nyame was Governor of Taraba State from 1999 to 2007 on the platform People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He also served as governor of the state from January 1992 to November 1993. Pastor Tunde Bakare, founder of the Latter Rain Assembly Lagos and convener of Save Nigeria Group (SNG), contested elections on the platform of Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) as a running mate to General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd). Then, of course, the legendary Rev. Chris Okotie of Fresh Democratic Party (FDP) and founder of the Household of God Church, who has contested on the platform of his party as presidential candidate for a record three times, and recently, Roman Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Francis Agantem Eworo of the Ogoja Diocese in Cross Rivers State, has signified interest in running for governor of the state in the 2015 general election. In a chat with Senior Pastor of Liberation City, Ojodu, Dr. Christian Okafor, the cleric said he does not see anything wrong with men of God getting involved in politics. “As far as I am concerned, there is nothing wrong with men of God going into politics. After all, people who are not men of God have always been involved in being at the helms of affair in

AS FAR AS I AM CONCERNED, THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH MEN OF GOD GOING INTO POLITICS. AFTER ALL, PEOPLE WHO ARE NOT MEN OF GOD HAVE ALWAYS BEEN INVOLVED IN BEING AT THE HELMS OF AFFAIR IN THIS COUNTRY AND NOTHING HAS CHANGED.

SO, IF IT WILL TAKE A MAN OF

GOD TO CHANGE THINGS FROM BAD TO GOOD IN THE COUNTRY, THEN WHY SHOULDN’T A MAN OF GOD BE THERE? this country and nothing has changed. So, if it will take a man of God to change things from bad to good in the country, then why shouldn’t a man of God be there? The Bible says when the righteous is on the throne, the people rejoice. If we have credible men of God who can rule us and put things right, then we have no choice but to give them our utmost support. In another chat with Peter Nwaru, a pastor with Christ Embassy, Surulere, Lagos, he said the worst aspect of Nigeria’s life is politicisation of Christianity and Islam; the two major religions in the country. He said: “Christianity and Islam were already politicised before their emergence in Africa. Prophet Muhammad

became the ruler of Medina. We read that he was an excellent and selfless ruler. Despite this, many Muslim rulers manipulated the ruled for their own self-aggrandizement. They exploited the ruled, and turned them to paupers and beggars. “Jesus Christ was not a politician. He is quoted as telling his followers to give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God. Yes, everything belongs to God, but don’t quote Jesus out of context. Eventually, Christianity became politicised through Emperor Constantine. Bishops and other clerics started to wear imperial regalia for their liturgical services. Today, many Pentecostal General Overseers are among the wealthiest individuals in the world, and

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fuss?

Sunday November 30, 2014

Pastor Chris Okotie

Pastor Tunde Bakare

many churches are among the wealthiest institutions, even though Jesus had to go and fish to pay tax. Politicisation of religion and wealth-acquisition by Christo-Islamic clerics are two sides of the same coin. Both realities corrupt life in Nigeria. Christo-Islamic clerics divert attention from the irresponsibility of the politicians who contribute much money to churches and mosques. The former prays for the latter. Public funds are also spent on sending some privileged persons on pilgrimages to Rome, Jerusalem, and Saudi Arabia. “As a cleric, I don’t see myself taking any other responsibility other than the one I swore to which is serving in the vineyard of God for the rest of my life. Come to think of it, I wonder what will be of an acclaimed man of God who also decides to delve into politics after his term of office must have ended. In the first place, can he combine the two? No, I don’t think that is possible. After his political term ends, will he come back to take up his religious mantle after soiling his fingers, so to say in playing politics which actually is dirty in this part of the world? Seriously, I don’t subscribe to such an idea.”

According to Samson Ayooso, a writer and critic, politics is free for all and open to all irrespective of whatever one may be, where they come from or their belief. “So far as you are a Nigerian citizen, the Constitution does not discriminate against your religion, affiliation or geographical/political leanings or social and economic status. It is not written anywhere either in the Bible or Koran that a cleric should not stand for the truth or what he believes. And if his convictions tell him to aspire for any position or office in life and in the country, what on earth should stop him and why should people question his rationale or judgment? It is his constitutional right, and I dare say he took a shot and his chances irrespective of the outcome”. Also speaking on the issue, Director of Communications, Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Monsignor Gabriel Osu, said Catholic priests are not allowed to practice politics in any form. “As Catholic priests, we are not allowed to join or be involved in politics of any form or at any level. A priest is regarded and seen as father of all

the people he is shepherding. In short, it is against the ministry for a priest to venture into partisan politics for any reason whatsoever. For this reason, any priest who decides to join politics is on his own and knows that he wouldn’t get any form of support from the church. The only good thing a priest can do when it comes to politics is for him to conscientise his congregation to vote the right candidates that will deliver on their promise. But when he (priest) starts to solicit for votes from his congregation, then it is a slap on the church since they know the teachings

of the church concerning this”. Meanwhile, a number of other respondents insist that a person’s cassock or toga should not be a hindrance or barrier as to the seriousness or integrity cum character such office requires. A lot of these men, they say, are supposed to be people of high moral character and integrity who, most times, bring this to bear on their conduct and office. “We should know that they are all like us and are not different from any average Nigerian. So, they have a right to nurse any political ambition,” they maintained.

AS CATHOLIC PRIESTS, WE ARE NOT ALLOWED TO JOIN OR BE INVOLVED IN POLITICS OF ANY

FORM OR AT ANY LEVEL.

A PRIEST IS REGARDED

AND SEEN AS FATHER OF ALL THE PEOPLE HE IS SHEPHERDING. IN SHORT, IT IS AGAINST THE MINISTRY FOR A PRIEST TO VENTURE INTO PARTISAN POLITICS FOR ANY REASON WHATSOEVER.

Rev. Jolly Nyame

Monsignor

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From the

Pulpit Sunday November 30, 2014

The road to heaven, by Pastor Muoka

General Overseer of the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministry, Pastor Lazarus Muoka, in this piece, explains how to make heaven. Excerpts:

saiah 35:8-10 says, “And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein. No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there.” Beloved, it is expected that whoever that wishes to embark on a journey must first know the route to his destination because in the absence of that, such person may not get to his or her desired destination, and all roads will look like right way. The same is pertinent to any person who wishes to be in heaven at the end of this earthly journey. But unfortunately many people including religious leaders in this generation do not bother to know the road to the Kingdom of heaven, and as a result made a ship wreck of their journey, because they followed the wrong way- the sinful way y, the way y of pleasure, p , the way y of reveling and banqueting. Such people love the things of this world which unfortunately will not be buried with them. They would watch home videos and other worldly television programs for many hours even the whole day but would detest listening to sermon for only an hour. They will hate to be in the presence of the Holy Spirit for few minutes. Such people want to attend social gathering and merry making but could not spare few seconds to search the Scripture. No wonder the Bible says the road is a narrow way. Matt. 7:13-14 says, “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it”. There are but two ways in which the race of mankind can travel, the one narrow, that leads to life and salvation and the other broad and wide, which leads to hell and destruction. But because of the difficulties in the way to salvation, and the easiness of the way to hell and destruction, only few walk in the one, but so many in the other. Our Lord Jesus Christ here compares the way to life to an entrance through a gate. The words straight, and strait, have very different meanings. The word straight means not crooked, very wide, smooth, and open, many thronged on it and it is the way to death. The way y to death is CONTINUED

broad. Multitudes are in it. It is the great highway in which men go. They fall into it easily, and without effort go without thought. If they wish to leave that, and go by the narrow gate, it would require effort and thought, so they considered it very inconvenient to follow. You may go in at this gate with all your lusts about you; it gives no check to appetites or passions. It does not care whether you are on micro skimpy skirt or clothe that flaunts your breast. It does not care about the number of rings on your fingers and toes or quality cum quantity of jewels you put on. It does not matter whether your hair style is made up of human hairs or lion skins, or whether the attachments on your head stretch to your legs or stop at the neck, or whether you are rich or poor, what matters is that your name is not in the book of life and therefore you are condemned. That is why you are on this broad way and that is why there is a large company on this way. The strait road on the other hand which is the way to heaven is pent up, narrow, difficult to be entered. It is constricted,, close, and not obviously entered. It is not the great highway that men tread. Few go there. The few on n this way are seen travelling in solitude and singularity. Heaven is not for the carefree person neither is it a place for the halfhearted, but, it is a prepared place for the prepared people. It does not matter how rich h and generous you are arre re to the people, or how w regular you are in the e house of God, or how many days and weeks you observed fast, or what your position is in the house of God. What matters is yourr relationship with h your Creator, thus,, the qualification is righteousness and holiness in Christ Jesus. You must be able to deny self,

keep the body under control from riotous life, and mortify corruptions if you are to be on the way to heaven. You must be able to resist daily temptations and go through much tribulation. You must watch in all things, walk with care, and ignore all the difficulties that attend to your faith, put off evil habits and part with old companions that entice you with sins. Nothing sinful or unclean enters the road, including whatever that works abomination, or makes a lie, or he who turns the grace of God into lasciviousness, or he that gives heed to false prophecy and dreamers, or holds and propagates false doctrines but the road is meant for only they that are written in the Lamb’s book of life who are saved from their sin. Rev. 21: 8 says, “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death”. The fearful, ssuch su ch that f o r

Pastor Muoka

fear of suffering disowned Jesus, and rejected the grace of God that has come to mankind. The unbelievers, such as have sat under the dispensation of the gospel, but have rejected our Lord Jesus Christ, and have refused to come unto Him that they might have life. Those that do not believe the great work of God in The Lord’s Chosen shall never be found on the road to heaven. Also, the abominable, such as live in the practice of sins against nature, sodomy, lesbianism, homosexuals, and such uncleanness as renders them abominable in the sight of God and man. The abominable included those women that put on men’s clothes and vice versa as stated in the Holy Book of the Bible. Deut. 22: 5 says, “The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman’s garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the LORD thy God”. Women that wear trousers or any of the men’s clothes whether they consent to the fact or not shall have no business being on the road to heaven. Heaven is not meant for such people. Also, the murderers, such as destroy either the soul, body, or good name, of their neighbours, especially persecutors; the whore and her followers, who are drunk with the blood of the saints, the abortionists and those that assist in such heinous crime shall not be found on the road to heaven. The whoremongers of all sorts, both spiritual and corporal, particularly such as are guilty of uncleanness in a matrimonial state; the fornicators, adulterers and prostitutes are not candidates of heaven and thus cannot be allowed on the road to heaven. If such are your cases, you are on the broad way that leads to destruction. The sorcerers, such as exercise witchcraft, consult with the devil and his human m n agents such as the seer, marabout ma and and trade with familiar spirits shall not tread t ead on the road to heaven. The idolatr ters ters of all sorts and kinds, such as worship ship false gods, or the true God after a false false manner; covetous persons, who make make the world their god; and sensual persons, persons, who make their belly their god god shall not be found on this narrow way way because they cannot be accommodated dated on the strait way to heaven. All liars, those which lie with the lip, and talk falsely; those that lie in their lives, as all hypocrites do, whose practice gives their profession the lie; those who are the inventors of the doctrine of lies, which is no better better than the doctrine of devils; all these, t ese, shall have their way on the broad th way way thronged by multitudes that leads to hell hell fire which burns with fire and brimstone, that is, in exquisite torments, and everlasting. Behold the above are God’s martial law which will be executed b upon

PASSION A Lifestyle Magazine

Sunday November 30, 2014

APPLAUSE

‘It’s un-African to be nude’ >>27

I can push harder than most men –Sandra Eze, actress/TV Presenter

Passion

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

I can push harder than most men –Sandra Eze, actress/TV Presenter Sandra Eze from Anambra State has four other siblings, “and we’re very close.” She refused to disclose her age, saying, “I’m pretty young and ambitious.” The English Language and Literature graduate from Nnamdi Azikiwe University is a TV personality, a model and an actress. In this interview with Adaeze Amos, she talked about how she combines the three tasking career together successfully. You are an actress, a TV personality and a model, how do you juggle these three tasking professionS together? Yes, I do the three daunting professions to the glory of God. God gave me the talents, I asked Him for opportunities to showcase them and He provided it. So, as much as juggling it all is tasking, I don’t complain. I’m doing what I love and I could only pray the pay cheque keeps rising. Although all days are not usually busy. On days like that, I’d just have a ‘me’ time at home or at the beach.

What are some of the movies you have starred in? I’ve featured in projects such as 4 Walls, Karma, Bella’s Place, Silence, Tinsel, Knocking on Heaven’s Door and so on. Which very one is more challenging? I can’t tell which is more challenging because all characters have their requirements and you have to feed it the right nutrient. I think the challenge is feeding your character a balanced nutrient and not being a mediocre. Though on a second thought, I’d say initially, I found my Tinsel Character ‘Lola’ quite disarming because she was the exact opposite of the real me. But I had a great director and co-actors; so they really helped me become the monster that the character required (laughs). Which brought you to the limelight? Coming to limelight was a gradual build-up. But I must confess being on prime time shows like Tinsel and your view on TVC sure did the trick. What exactly thrills you about your acting job? I love the fact that I can connect to a lot of people, whether young or old by just playing out a character in a film or sharing my opinions on social issues. I also love the fact that my job puts me out there where I can prove to the world that whether my society is male-dominated or not, I still stand out, I am different. And I can bet I push myself harder than most men. What really makes me happy about my job is that I’m doing what I love and making money from it as well as impacting lives and the society. That is a fulfilling reward. Who exactly are you aspiring to be like in the acting world? I don’t know the answer to this honestly because as I get older and experienced, they change. At some point it was Stephanie Okereke, then Genevieve Nnaji, then Julia Roberts, RMD, Ramsey Nouah, Mercy Johnson, Leo Di Caprio, Meryl Steep; my human inspirations/motivators keep changing. I study each one for a while, pick up what I want from their interpretation and move on to the next. I guess I’m a player (laughs). But seriously, I’ll end up being a glorious combination of the world’s best (I pray). How was growing up? Growing up was only fun when I was with my family. Outside, especially in school, I got bullied a lot and I stam-

mered so badly I couldn’t defend my self without causing me more shame. I was always the silent observer, I only talked when necessary. Otherwise, I’d be somewhere quiet, reading my books. My siblings never bullied me, they were actually my defendants. I am the second daughter and second child. My parents were disciplinarians but luckily for me, I was a good girl so I barely ever got into trouble. We relocated a few times and I was okay with it because since I got bored easily, a road trip or change of environment was always welcomed. During my childhood days, I never got a taste of luxury because my parents as much as they loved us all, couldn’t provide it and so one of constant prayers was, ‘I’ll be rich’ but now, it is ‘I’ll be wealthy’ (laughs). Can you relieve your first experience on a movie set? My first time on a movie set was on ‘Bella Place’ back in 2010. I played a pregnant lady, ‘Bridget’. I was clueless, I didn’t even know how to act like a pregnant lady but I was good with lines. We had so many takes I felt sorry for everyone and was really embarrassed for myself. But I was lucky the director and producer Debbie Odutayo understood my situation and was patient. She walked me through that set and through my baby steps. Now when I remember it all, it’s really funny. Beginner days are always funny and largely emotional when you look back. Are you like some ladies who would tell you they are not ready to settle down because of their acting career? I’m not one of those ladies but neither am I judging them. I love the idea of marriage and a wedding dress but that won’t blind me from the most important thing; which is a man who loves me, understands me and my vision and is willing to support me every step of the way. See, I’m very ambitious, but I won’t push raising a family aside. I need a man who’ll make it easier to balance the roles out. Till I meet him, I’m single and making the best of this stage in my life. What are the qualities of your ideal man? Don’t call me picky when it comes to my ideal man, but I can get picky (laughs). I like thoughtful men from good backgrounds, dependable and spontaneous, plus comfortable with a deep, sincere love and respect for God and man also. What puts you off in people? Lies! I hate lies and unreliability. I hate gossip; if you tell me bad stuff about people and I notice it’s coming from a wicked / jealous heart, I’ll help you pass the message without your consent and that could get ugly. So I just stay out of gossip. I also hate the sound of people chewing gums, it distorts my concentration and I think it’s barbaric to chew like that in public. What makes your day? Gifts, good surprises, a great day at work, a good date, quiet time with God. Quite frankly, I have no Idea what could make my day until it makes my day.(Laughs) When you are down, what do you do to get inspiration? Oh, that’s easy, I head to the beach or go see a movie at the cinema and sometimes, if my friends are available, we’d hangout and I’ll laugh it off. Other times, I’d just play music or talk

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday, November 30, 2014

‘It’s un-African to be nude’ ADAEZE AMOS

lossom Gabriel is a mother of two. She is an inspirational speaker, a songwriter, gospel artiste and a triple award-winning fashion designer . This diva also “deals on beads, hats and men’s wears. It amazes people how a lady could design, cut and sew men’s clothing. But I do that very well. I sew for both sexes including kiddies,” she nodded. She is one very successful woman who has bagged numerous awards. “Apart from my first fashion award in 2009 as the best accessory designer of the year from Nigeria TV Fashion Show, on the 14th of September 2014, I was also honoured by City Pride Media Group, as the Best Creative and Innovative Designer of the Year, and recently, precisely on the 9th of November, 2014, I was also honoured by Exclusive Media Group as The Most Innovative Fashion Brand of the year,” she giggled. With loads of her creativity, one would wonder where this fashionista derives her inspiration. “I’m inspired by God; my creativity and my passion for fashion are gifts from God. That is why I don’t get tired or worn out when I’m sewing, making hats and beads or even when I’m composing songs,” she said, as a matter of fact. She has designed clothes for some known celebrities in our society. “I have designed for Senator Ganiyu Olarenwaju Solomon, actor Emeka Ike, Stephanie Okere, Ireti Doyle, Clarion Chukwurah, Alao Akala’s daughter, Evangelist Elishama Ude, I can’t mention all, men and women of all classes,” she nodded. Blossom is thrilled by anything Africa. “Once any fashion is connected to Africa, I’m thrilled. I love African fashion so much, our local fabrics in particular.

to my sister. What kind of books do you read? I like fiction. I read everything except war and horror books. Mostly I love Sidney Sheldon, Francine Rivers and Nora Roberts. Most importantly, I read only relevant biography and history books too. Can you define your style? I don’t put too much effort into style. I love my denim jeans and colourful casual tops. When I’m not working, I wear a nude face but I make sure my brows are done, eyeliner, mascara and lip balm. So, to answer your question, my personal style is between bohemian and casual chic. On rare occasions, I go official. What is that style you won’t be caught wearing? Indecent outfits! I won’t wear them. I strongly believe a woman is more beautiful when she is confident and decently covered up. What is that fashion item that makes a larger part of your wardrobe? Well if you visit my wardrobe, you’d see more of tops and dresses. I wear few accessories and switching handbags just too much work for me (laughs). What is that fashion blunder you have committed? With my fashion style, it’s hard to commit a blunder; even with a bad combination, you can still be let off the hook. Although, if I remember correctly, I had terrible fashion blunder when the colour blocking trend just hit town. What is the naughtiest thing you have ever done? Well, that one I can’t tell you. It’s a secret that died back on campus.

I’m also thrilled by colours. I love colours a lot. In fact, my advice to women is that they should carefully select their colours and gracefully carry themselves in their attires as African women of honour. By this, I mean you should retain your poise and pride regardless of what you are passing through in life. And remember you can’t retain your dignity by dressing halfnude. Bear moral values and moderation in mind while dressing up,” she stressed. This style aficionado has common fashion blunders of our women on her fingertips. “Our women get it wrong when they don’t consider their body frame before opting for styles that are in vogue . They feel that any good design they see on someone must suit them without considering how it would look on them. Another common fashion blunder is that most women copy sheepishly, the western fashion, not considering our society, our way of life and climate,” she said. According to her, with the way Nigerian fashion industry is going, “soon, the sky would not be our limit. From my own judgement, our own fashion is the best in the world, believe me; because African fashion doesn’t encourage nudity. What we need to introduce into our fabric industry right now is elastic African prints, so that we don’t depend on western fabrics for some styles. With that done, honestly, we would be flying. Reason is that when you want to make body-hugging dresses, you will depend on the western fabrics before you can achieve that purpose. We don’t have such locally or home-made stretchy fabrics,” she gesticulated. She loves giving back to the society a whole lot of times. “This is what I love doing without being reminded of it. I have empowered so many women by teaching them how to sew, make hats and beads without collecting a dime from them. And today, they are on their own, empowering other women as well. I also helped to empower 400 Nigerian youths early this year and I hope to do more,” she said.

Applause

Sunday, November 30, 2014

GROWING UP with

Aunty Titi

Hello children, How are you going about your studies? Ensure you do your home assignments and read your books so as to excel in your examinations. In this edition, there are interesting and educative articles that are meant to improve your learning skills. Have a wonderful week.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

JOKE

Funny tale of a lost senior citizen

soup for lunch and my favourite biscuits, cleans the house and then watches sports TV with me for the rest of the afternoon.’ I said, ‘Well, why are you crying?’ He said, ‘For dinner she makes me a gourmet meal with wine and my favorite dessert and then we cuddle until the small hours.’ I inquired, ‘Well then, why in the world would you be crying?’ He replied, ‘I can’t remember where I live.’

hen I went to lunch today, I noticed an old man sitting on a park bench sobbing his eyes out. I stopped and asked him what was wrong. He told me, ‘I have a 22 year old wife at home. She rubs my back every morning and then gets up and makes me pancakes, sausage, fresh fruit and freshly ground coffee.’ I continued, ‘Well, then why are you crying?’ He added, ‘She makes me homemade

WORDS ON MARBLES

The Crocodile

Knowing trees, I understand the meaning of patience. Knowing grass, I can appreciate persistence. Hal Borland

TONGUE TWISTER

rocodile are large aquatic reptiles that live throughout the tropics in Africa, Asia, the Americas and Australia. The term crocodile here applies only to the species within the subfamily of Crocodylinae and appear to be similar to the untrained eye, crocodiles, alligators and the gharial belong to separate biological families. The gharial having a narrow snout is easier to distinguish, while morphological differences are more difficult to spot in crocodiles and alligators. The most obvious external differences are visible in the head with crocodiles having narrower and longer heads, with a more V-shaped than a U-shaped snout compared to alligators and caimans. Another obvious trait is the upper and lower jaws of the crocodiles are the same width and teeth in the lower jaw fall along the edge or outside the upper jaw when the mouth is closed; therefore all teeth are visible unlike an alligator; which possesses small depressions in the upper jaw where the lower teeth fit into. Also when the crocodile’s mouth is closed, the large fourth tooth in the lower jaw fits into a constriction in the upper jaw. For hardto-distinguish specimens, the protruding tooth is the most reliable feature to define the family that the species belongs to. Crocodiles have more webbing on the toes of the hind feet and can better tolerate saltwater due to specialized salt glands for filtering out salt, which are present but non-functioning in alligators. Another trait that separates crocodiles from other crocodilians is their much higher levels of aggression

Crocodile size, morphology, behavior and ecology somewhat differs between species. However, they have many similarities in these areas as well. All crocodiles are semi aquatic and tend to congregate in freshwater habitats such as rivers, lakes, wetlands and sometimes in brackish water and saltwater. They are carnivorous animals, feeding mostly on vertebrates such as fish, reptiles, birds and mammals, and sometimes on invertebrates such as molluscs and crustaceans, depending on species and age. All crocodiles are tropical species unlike alligators they are very sensitive to cold. A crocodile’s physical traits allow it to be a successful predator .Its external morphology is a sign of its aquatic and predatory lifestyle. Its streamlined body enables it to swim swiftly, it also tucks its feet to the side while swimming, which makes it faster by decreasing water resistance. They have webbed feet which, though not used to propel the animal through the water, allow them to make fast turns and sudden moves in the water or initiate swimming Webbed feet are an advantage in shallower water, where the animal sometimes moves around by walking. Crocodiles have a palatal flap, a rigid tissue at the back of the mouth that blocks the entry of water. The palate has a special path from the nostril to the glottis that bypasses the mouth. Crocodiles have acute senses, an evolutionary advantage that makes them successful predators. The eyes, ears and nostrils are located on top of the head, allowing the crocodile to lie low in the water, almost totally submerged and hidden from prey

Children, you can send your contributions and pictures through this email address jokkyisland@yahoo.com or call telephone number: 08050324794

How much wood would a wood chuck chuck If a woodchuck could chuck chuck wood He would chuck, he would, sas much as he could And chuck as much wood as a woodchuck would If a woodchuck could chuck wood

BRAIN TEASERS

There was a green house. Inside the green house there was a white house. Inside the white house there was a red house. Inside the red house there were lots of babies. What is it? Answer: Watermelon

DO YOU KNOW? Rainbow

rainbow is an optical and meteorological phenomenon that is caused by both reflection and refraction of light in water droplets resulting in a spectrum of light appearing in the sky. It takes the form of a multicolored arc and caused by sunlight which always appear in the section of the sky directly opposite the sun. Rainbows can be ob-

served whenever there are water drops in the air and sunlight shining from behind the observer at a low altitude angle. Colours in rainbow are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. Rainbows form a significant part of human culture. They occur frequently in mythology, and have been used in the arts.

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Sunday, November 30, 2014

Dude Style

29 victorudoh804@yahoo.com 07067124302

‘Honestly speaking, perfumes dominate my wardrobe’ Kehinde Rotimi Olusola, one of the musical duo that goes by the stage name, Twins Affair, is from Odo-Eri in Yagba West Local Government area of Kogi State. He and his twin brother, Taye Damilola Olusola, are the only children of their parents who came into the world seven years after their parents got married. This dude, who bagged a degree in Music told Adaeze Amos in this interview the very thing he would never be seen doing even as a musician. What did you study and at which University? I graduated from Delta State University, Abraka with a B. A Hons. in Music in 2010. I also attended the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja for a PostGraduate Diploma in Journalism. You are a musician; what motivated your penchant for music? I was born into a music- loving family and as such, I was compelled to go into music by my then civil servant and loving father who is a multi-instrumentalist and the guitarist of a University of Lagos pop group in the late 1970s, when he was a Political Science student. My father not only taught me how to play musical instruments at the age of four, he made sure I joined the choir of our church. Which is, Living Faith Church, Kabba, Kogi State; and I became the bass guitarist at the age of eight. In 1999, when I was in Junior Secondary School at Saint Barnabas Secondary School Kabba, Kogi state, my father took my twin brother and I to the studio at Ilorin to record our first album titled, ‘Egunje Has Spoilt Everything’. The album was produced by ace music producer/musicologist, Austin Emielu, now Dr. Austin Emielu, Senior Lecturer at University of Ilorin, Kwara State. Can I know some of the songs you have dropped and the very one that brought you to the limelight? We have released many songs such as ASA, O bad Gan, Beautiful, 365 Days, Go There, Melody, to mention but a few. The very song that brought the Twins Affair of which I am a member to the limelight is Asa, which was released in 2010. The single became an instant hit and dominated the electronic media both locally and internationally. It was aired on Channel O, MTV Base, BBC and VOA. Top Nigerian stations such as Sound city, AIT, NTA, Silverbird, MITV, LTV, Super screen, Galaxy, Nagizie and so on also contributed in no small measure in bringing the Twins Affair to the limelight through their constant playing of the hit track and we will continue to appreciate them because without them, we would have remained obscure and unnoticed. The print media also contributed immensely to the success story of my musical life. What stands you out in the musical circles? What stands me out in the musical circles is that I belong to a duo musical group (Twins Affair) that believes in professionalism. I am not only a recording artiste but also a music producer who produces his own songs devoid of obscene languages and that is why they have been universally accepted. What really inspires your songs? I draw the inspirations of my songs from God and not from drugs which has become the hallmark of some musicians. I don’t smoke, neither do I take alcohol. Can you relieve your first experience on stage? Honestly, I cannot remember because I joined the children choir at the age of four and the adult choir at the age of eight. So, I have been involved in music, facing huge crowd since I was four years old.

What really thrills you about music? I am always happy whenever I am doing music. In fact, life would have been dull without music. That is why whenever I am down, I listen to good music. What is your style signature? I always like looking good, and I prefer corporate outfits. What very fashion item forms a larger part of your wardrobe? Designer label perfumes form larger part of my wardrobe. Where do you think guys are not getting it right in the musical circles and fashion world? Lack of good music, lack of good promotion and poor management have continued to hamper the musical ambitions of most artistes. Some musicians who dress like hooligans and glorify the use of hard drugs are also undoing themselves. How about ladies, where are they not getting it right? Some ladies are not getting it right because of their abnormal styles and weird make-up which make them look like masquerades Who are you aspiring to be like in the music world Usher Raymond, T-Pain, and D.J Khaleed What is the craziest thing a male fan has done to you? Nothing really. What is your life philosophy? My life’s philosophy is to be good to people on my way up because I may need them on my way down. What very lesson has life taught you? To be hardworking and plan for the rainy day. When you had a heart break, what did you do to wriggle out of the pain? I tried to forget about the issue. What kind of books do you read and why? I only read magazines and newspapers, not books because I am no more a student What very style won’t you be seen wearing even if everyone goes for it? Plaiting of hair. What are your favourite perfumes? Hugo boss. Who are those Nigerian musicians you admire and why? I admire P Square, 2 Face and Don Jazzy, because they do good music.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Weddings Engagements CELEBRATING THE JOY IN MARITAL BLISS

You have a story to tell us about your wedding/engagement, or your new born baby. You can call this line 08050324794

NOVEMBER 30, 2014

She is loving and caring –Groom STORIES BY TITILOPE MORAKINYO

aturday November 22, will forever be memorable in the lives of the families of Olajide and Adetayo as it was the day their lovely children, Adetutu and Abimbola, were joined in matrimony. The couple who appeared in their wedding attires waiting to be called in by the officials of the Ikoyi Registry to solemnize their marriage were evidently filled with joy as they be-held each other. The Groom was looking

Aniekan Boluwatife

niekan Boluwatife was born at the Inland hospital Alapere to Blessing and Ogunfowora she was delivered at 8.24pm and weighed 2.8kg. According to Blessing, “during the pregnancy, I longed for food and fruit like Orange, Pineapple and even Apple, food like Beans, Amala,Eba and most especially, Rice was my favorite and I drank a lot of water”. “There was no obvious physical body change aside from my swollen leg and I looked more radiant and beautiful. Delivery too was normal I didn’t experience any

handsome in a black suit which he combined with a white shirt and pink bow tie while the bride was clad in a flowing white gown with cream bouquet adorned with white and pink, to complement the groom’s attire. The bride, a marketing graduate from the Lead City University, said her husband met her at the Redemption Camp along Ibadan Expressway and later discovered that he had taken her telephone number from one of her friends. She further said that her husband was attracted to her because of her lovely and caring

strain or complications.” During the pregnancy offensive odour irritated me like smelling gutters or dirty environment while I get angry easily: she revealed. What Boluwatife’s p a r e n t s love about their d a u g h t e r. They confessed: “she is beautiful, sweet, adorable and loving angel sent from above”, Blessing bluffed O n w h a t they want

character. Olajide, too was drawn to his wife as she is adorable, caring like his mum and her personality. The groom who was also a graduate from the Lead City University said the union is definitely a divinely ordained one as he never knew that his heartthrob was also attending the same university with him but later discovered and was surprised. The engagement ceremony, a colourful event, had taken place the previous day at Gbagada Estate in Lagos and was attended by friends, colleagues and relatives.

He is mature in decision making –Bride

t was a cross-cultural wedding recently, as Chike and Olufunke tied the nuptial knots at The Redeemed Christian Church of God,Lagos. The church which was filled to capacity, had in attendance, family, friends, loved ones as well as well-wishers to show their love, support and also celebrate with the couple. After the conjugal bliss, guests moved to the classy reception, looking stunning in assorted styles of the aso-ebi, thus adding colour and style to the occasion. However, pink and silver were the colours of the day. Guests were

BABIES OF THE WEEK

their daughter to become in future “we want her to become a journalist I have always loved that profession and I want my daughter to become one in the future” she noted. On the meaning of her names, she said: “Boluwatife means a s ‘God wants’ ,so we put our fate in G o d to protect and keep her for us”. She disclosed.

Oiza Amber Tom

iza Amber Tom was born at Vine branch Hospital, Ibadan to Frank and Chidinma and weighed 3kg. What did Chidinma crave for during the pregnancy? According to her, “I craved for yam and red oil, and vegetables. I also love mango took a lot of it during my pregnancy”. What were the obvious physical body changes during the pregnancy? “Aside from my bulging stomach, I had a little bit of swollen face and legs, my nose was wider than the way it was before. Chidinma however confirmed that during the

sumptuously fed as there were also enough souvenirs for everyone. Dark-skinned Chike wore a black suit paired with a white shirt, maroon cravat and pocket square while beautiful Olufunke looked stunning in her sleeveless sequined ball gown wedding dress. She complemented her bridal look with lovely drop earrings. Before the couple’s dance, Olufunke changed into a pink front-slit, sleeveless gown. While they danced tremendously to the admiration of all eyes. Speaking on how they met, Chike who works with

Humber Marine Works Nigeria Limited said, “We met four years ago at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State where I was running a Master’s degree programme. Since then we have been friends until I proposed to her last year and in a matter of two minutes she said, “Yes!” What does he appreciate about her? “She is a nice person, God-fearing and fun to be with”, he revealed. Olufunke the bride has this to say about her sweetheart: “He is the best person I can ever ask for; he is optimistic, wonderful and mature in decision making.”

pregnancy, she was not irritated by anything. What do Oiza’s parents love about her? We love everything about our first princess, she is beautiful, fun to be with, and lovable,” revealed Chidinma . What is the meaning of her names? According to Chidinma, “Oiza means ‘Good thing’ and Amber means ‘precious stone.’ What d o e s

Oiza’s parent want her to become in future?”We want only God’s best plan for her because he is the only person we trust and put our hope on,” said Chidinma.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

What to wear â&#x20AC;Śto a fashion show NOVEMBER 30, 2014

ADAEZE AMOS

igeria Fashion Week just ended but the dust it raised is yet to settle. Guess why? Fashion designers, style aficionados, celebrities who attended are still talking about how styles sizzled at the show. Style pundits who came to unwind by merely watching some latest hot styles that models showcased on the th runway came well dressed. Need blame them? After all, all fashion needed to be celebrated that week. One of the th divas whose presence added glamour to the event was wa Nollywood super screen goddess, Ruky Sandar. She Sh came donning polka-dots skirt and peplum blouse with wi red hot accessories to pep it up. She was honestly looking dashing. So, if you have a fashion show you are loo getting set to attend this season, your dressing should ge be able to tell where you are headed for. Slip into something similar and hit it off. th

Perfect Cut

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Pep up red dress with leopard skin ADAEZE AMOS

uess why fashion is never boring? Because it gives you room to explore. Have you tried pepping up your red dress with skin accessories? If you have not, try it this time and see how different you would look. Leopard skin print shoes and clutch would sure give your style that finishing look you have been longing for. So, for that party/glamorous event you are getting ready for this Sunday, opt for a red dress with a touch of skin.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday, November 30, 2014

accessories

Perfect Cut

OVE

TALK

Sunday, November 30, 2014

with Yemisi

Adeniran

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Models

When dating an introvert D ating an extrovert is more fun than dating an introvert. Extroverts are more lively and open to ignite life into your world. Meanwhile, introvert lovers cannot but be around because that is the way God created the world. Some are loud, some are quiet. Some are troublesome, some are easy-going. Interesting, because one man’s meat is most times anther’s poison, you will sure find some enjoying the company of either of the two. But if you find yourself with a lover that is an introvert, do not withdraw, only learn few things to turn your world around. Introverts are reserved, sometimes strange and hard to understand; but dating them can be advantageous. Here are seven essential tips to enjoy your relationship with them.

Overlook their silence A different style of communication is the most striking and significant thing about dating an introvert. Though it can be boring to be in a company of a lover who hardly talks, you need to get used to it. When your man isn’t asking you questions or isn’t joking, you are pushed to easily conclude that he is most probably not interested in you as a woman. This, however, is not so with an introvert. It’s absolutely different. They talk less, but whenever they say something it’s really important to them. It is not as if they are not interested in you, they simply don’t waste time on silly talk. Just try and draw them into sensible talks. You are saved of violent conflicts If you’re dating an introvert, you will rarely have severe conflicts and fights. Introverts never act and speak rashly. They need a lot of time to reflect on things; therefore their responses are deliberate. Chances are you’ll forget about the argument, but your sweetheart can start talking about it in several days. When you really want to settle a conflict, adopt a patient behaviour. An excessive pressure will only lead to distrust and resentment. Their style will end up rubbing off on you even if you are the violent type. Your social life will be different He is not a partying type; so, get ready to have a withdrawn man at that your party. Introverts don’t lack communication skills and they aren’t anti-social; they just need less time socialising. You should also be ready to spend a great amount of time at home watching films or reading. Spontaneous and unplanned events are highly stressful and unwelcome for introverted people. You won’t go out every day, but if your leisure time is properly planned, your guy will be more confident and comfortable.

Introvert can’t be converted into extrovert What many do not know is that introverts, with time, can be converted into an extroverted nature. But being pushy is indeed the worst strategy you can choose. You won’t stir up your partner by asking him thousand questions or telling jokes. Most probably, your partner will retreat to save his sanity. You shouldn’t urge your partner to do anything or embarrass him, especially in public. Just as it is very hard to change yourself and it’s almost impossible to change another person. Remember it. But if you will gradually and patiently deal with him, you wll eventually drag him or her out of his or shell and right on your side. Give them more time Introverts need more time to recharge their strength and energy. Stillness and solitude are essential things they will always need. Thus, don’t minimise the importance of time and try not to take it personally. If you aren’t able to adjust to this need, your relationship would be rather disastrous. You can be assured of their honesty at all times While extroverts are often superficial and pretending, introverts say and do exactly what they mean. In other words, you stand to enjoy honesty all through your time with introverts. Introverts are always honest about their feelings and thoughts. They focus their attention on people they are interested in. If you’re dating an introvert, you can be sure you’re the only one in his life. Moreover, introverts tend to stay in long-lasting relationships since they’re very picky when choosing a girlfriend. Be tolerant and indulging No doubt, it’s awfully hard to accept his strangeness and those odd traits. For instance, when you want to go to a party, he wants to stay at home. Or, you’re overflowed with emotions and your partner just can’t take it. An introvert’s ways are most times 100 per cent poles apart from yours. Most times, they are moody because they are utterly introspective and sensitive to their feelings. You should give them a lot of time to process. Remember that a compromise is a pledge of any healthy and long-lasting relationship. Try to be tolerant and overlook what you consider as his errors because, he will get better with time. The fun of any relationship rests firmly on the quality of efforts, great work and compromise devoted by its players to make it worthwhile. Just a little understanding and sacrifice will help your relationship flourish and work out. Don’t forget that love is about accepting but not changing a person. It’s up to you to create a wonderful world with your peculiar partner. A little bit of tolerance, indulgence, commitment and indifference is all that you need.

I’m Junior, I reside in Enugu. I need a bed-mate who is living in Enugu. I wouldn’t mind if she becomes my living-in-lover. Call me on 08074600653 l am Gbenga, 43; l need a responsible lady between 23 and 36 years for a relationship. Don’t flash me, just call me on 09097283689. My name is Kunle, 43, l live in Ibafo, Ogun State. l need an open-minded lady between 28 and 40 to share love with. Student not needed please. Get me on 09097283689. My name is Ade, 44, a working class university graduate. I’m tall, strong and dark in complexion. I want a lady of 35 and above for immediate marriage. My number: 08180743815 Pius is my name, 42, well read, handsome and caring. I need a mature lady for marriage. Number: 07087424091 My name is Debora Adebiyi , from Osun State but I’m residing in Lagos State. Please I need a very serious relationship with a good man that can culminate in marriage. I’m not particular about the state the person hails from. Call me on my telephone number which is 08106500762 Nice is my name, 29, caring and romantic. I need a loving, caring and sexy sugar mummy that can take care of me. I promise to make her happy as well. Number: 08029523252 I’m Babalola, 37, single and I’m based in Lagos. I need a single, religious Yoruba Muslim girl below 30years old for marriage. Call 08087074640/08138856900 Confidence is my name, 41. I reside In Abuja. I need a busty businesswoman or a working class lady who is HIV positive for a relationship. She has to be between 30 - 35 years old for mature relationship. Please text or call 08116805300 I m Ben, a graduate and I’m working in Oyo State. I need a good Christian lady from a good home for a relationship. She has to be between 23 and 34 years old, single, and without a child. Please call me on 08163349582 I’m John, 43, a university graduate, a businessman, tall, dark and strong. I need a lady for immediate marriage-07087424091 Gabriel is my name, 43, AA genotype, 5.8 inches tall, dark complexioned and a civil servant. I’m residing in lbafo, Ogun State. l need a responsible lady precisely a fashion design or a hair stylist, between 25 and 40 for a relationship. Contact me on 09097283689. Am Jude, 29, dark, caring, and a Christian from Edo State. I need an understanding, pretty and a caring female friend between 19 and 40 years for friendship. Please feel free to call me but night call is not allowed. My numbers are 08105931115 and 08170411044 I’m Charles, 28 years old, 5ft and fair. I live and work in Lagos. I need a lady between 18 and 22 years for a relationship. You can reach me on 07087515984 or 08171864525. I am Sony Texas living in Enugu. I need a bedtime sweetheart for romantic affair –08030887308. I’m Henry, 32, from Enugu. I live in Lagos. I want a working-class graduate who is ready for a serious relationship that may lead to marriage –08060018369. My name is Alexander, 32, from Ekiti. I’m tall and dark. I need a fat female banker for a serious relationship –08170383174. I’m Samuel, 26 years old. I want a sugar mummy who is living atLekki, Lagos that can take good care of me –08120002725. Segzy is my name. I’m tall, cool, caring and romantic. I need a loving, caring, sexy and beautiful sugar mummy that can take good care of me. I promise to be making her happy as well –08111140248. l am Gbenga, 43 years old, and l live in Ogun State. l need a single lady or mother, between 27 and 36 years of age, for a relationship that would lead to marriage –09097283689.

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Sunday, November 30, 2014

Pregnancy Talk with

National News

Naughtiest Thing The naughtiest thing I’ve ever done

Adaeze Amos 08023012293 (SMS ONLY)

Emeka John ‘I scared people with make-believe snake’

10 most essential tips of pregnancy

hen you miss your monthly flow, you are assumed to be pregnant all things being equal. This then means you are about being a mum, after nine or 10 months, right? Whether you are pregnant by choice or by chance, the paramount thing is that you are pregnant and you ought to take care of yourself and your unborn baby, healthwise. That is why this topic is deemed necessary this week to unfurl some necessary things you should do and things to avoid till the end of your nine months’ term. Below are 10 ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ of pregnancy. Or better still, call them 10 essential tips you ought to abide by while pregnant. *The first on the list is, you should not take medication on your own without consulting your doctor. In your nine months’ journey, desist from self-medication. Days are gone when you feel feverish and suspect that it is malaria and pronto, you walk into any pharmaceutical shop close to you and buy malaria drugs on your own. Self-medication is dangerous and more dangerous when you are pregnant. There are some drugs you are not supposed to take while pregnant so as to avoid any form of malformation for your baby. *You should not fling away your routine drugs. Take them on daily basis, according to your doctor’s prescription. It is no good news when your tiny infant starts having jaundice at birth because you refused to take some medications that ought to have prevented it. *Start your ante-natal clinic early enough so that you would be taken care of. Don’t wait until you are seven months due, simply because your friend waited that long and she was still able to deliver safely. There is no crime in starting as early as when you are 16 weeks gone. You start receiving lectures on the signs of labour, what to do when you observe those signs, your blood pressure would be regularly checked and some other necessary medical tests can be done early enough. *Learn to tell your doctor everything about your pregnancy. Confide in him/her. Information needed to help you at this stage shouldn’t be concealed. Don’t hide your age from your doctor for the fear that he would insist you have your birth by caesarean session.

Even if he insists, he may have his reasons. It is for your own safety and the safety of your baby. *Eat the right food. Good foods would give you enough blood and strength you would need at the time of delivery. Or don’t you know a woman in labour is equivalent to a warrior in the battle field? When you deliver safely and carry your baby, it means you have won the battle. *Don’t wear tight under-pants that would keep you uncomfortable. This is the period you need to consider comfort while dressing up. So, jettison every tight under-pant, girdle of any form and body magic, until you are delivered of your baby. *Don’t brood over how you would deliver your baby. Don’t lose sleep over that. I know it could be fearful at times when you remember that soon, the labour would start with its usual painful contractions. Don’t bother much about it. Sleep well, so that you don’t shoot up your blood pressure. It is rather unnecessary to think of how to cross the bridge, wait till when you get thereyou will cross it. Always occupy your thoughts with positive things. Remember, those you are far older than were still able to push their babies out. *When your amniotic fluid/water breaks, report to the hospital at once. Even if your doctor told you it is false labour but that you ought to be hospitalised for a few days and wait for the real labour to start, hearken to his instruction and wait. Some women disregard that and go home only to be infected before coming back to the hospital. Remember, once your water has broken, there are chances that you can easily be infected. That is why your doctor may choose to place you on antibiotics until the real labour starts. It is all for your good. *It is not out of place to read journals on pregnancy and what you should know. Also feel free to ask your doctor about anything you read that confuses you. *Always know your Expected Date of Delivery (EDD) off-hand. And also know it that labour may start two weeks to the date or two weeks after. When you are long overdue for delivery and labour is still a far cry, your doctor may want to induce labour. And who are you not to accept? So that your unborn baby would not begin to be stressed right inside of you.

s a little boy, I played so many pranks. I don’t even know the one to tell you because they are all funny. Honestly, (laughs for long) while growing up, I was known for several crazy pranks, one of such is perching on top of any tree by the roadside at nights, close to where I was residing with my parents. And before I climbed up, I would place a motorcycle chain on the ground, waiting for anybody to cross over it. As soon as anyone approached it, I would pull the chain towards myself; that would make some funny snake noise on the ground. That scared people from that very particular spot. While I remained on top of the tree and watched, I laughed my head off because of the way people ran from that snake-like chain. Sometimes, they fell while trying to run and that made me laugh. It was entertaining, it was fun honestly, watching some ladies scream, scamper off from the spot because they thought it was a real snake. Some market women returning from market threw off their baskets and ran and I would laugh. They never suspected that anybody was on top of the tree, manipulating the fake snake with a rope. I had a lot of fun doing that every now and then, until the very day a man caught me red-handed after I had scared him as well. He descended on me and beat me black and blue. John is a musician –Victor Udoh

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African Look NOVEMBER 30, 2014

Stand out in red Ankara star with a touch of black lace ADAEZE AMOS

f you are a lover of colour red, that’s good; after all, red is the colour of love. This Xmas season is the period you need to show love to your relatives and friends, remember? So, you are on point if you decide to make this colour a must-have in your wardrobe. But if you want to tone it down a little, you may opt for a black, lace top and stand out. Just as this style aficionado, Jumoke Raji, the CEO, TeeKay Fashion House, has done on this page . Take a closer look of her picture here. Aren’t you amazed that Ankara tiny star has indeed refused to take a bow? It’s still hot and fashionistas can’t have enough of it.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Growing Up

Sunday, November 30, 2014

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

YOUNG FASHION Understanding the crop jacket for Girls What better time for young girls to rock the famous crop jacket. You can rock either the jean, camo or even shredded jeans crop jackets. Enjoy the look book below.

Once upon a time

Monkey and the Crocodile

nce upon a time, a clever monkey lived in a tree that bore juicy, red rose apples. He was very happy. One fine day, a crocodile swam up to that tree and told the monkey that he had traveled a long distance and was in search of food as he was very hungry. The kind monkey offered him a few rose apples. The crocodile enjoyed them very much and asked the monkey whether he could come again for some more fruit. The generous monkey happily agreed. The crocodile returned the next day. And the next. And the next one after that. Soon the two became very good friends. They discussed their lives, their friends and family, like all friends do. The crocodile told the monkey that he had a wife and that they lived on the other side of the river. So the kind monkey offered him some extra rose apples to take home to his wife. The crocodile’s wife loved the rose apples and made her husband promise to get her some every day. Meanwhile, the friendship between the monkey and the crocodile deepened as they spent more and more time together. The crocodile’s wife started getting jealous. She wanted to put an end to this friendship. So she pretended that she could not believe that her husband could be friends with a monkey. Her husband tried to convince her that he and the monkey shared a true friendship. The crocodile’s wife thought to herself that if the monkey lived on a diet of rose monkeys, his flesh would be very sweet. So she asked the crocodile to invite the monkey to their house. The crocodile was not happy about this. He tried to make the excuse that it would be difficult to get the monkey across the river. But his wife was determined to eat the monkey’s flesh. So she thought of a plan. One day, she pretended to be very ill and told the crocodile that the doctor said that she would only recover if she ate a monkey’s heart. If her husband wanted to save her life, he must bring her his friend’s heart. The crocodile was aghast. He was in

WHO INVENTED WHAT? Binney& Smith invented Crayon

a dilemma. On the one hand, he loved his friend. On the other, he could not possibly let his wife die. The crocodile’s wife threatened him saying that if he did not get her the monkey’s heart, she would surely die. So the crocodile went to the rose apple tree and invited the monkey to come home to meet his wife. He told the monkey that he could ride across the river on the crocodile’s back. The monkey happily agreed. As they reached the middle of the river, the crocodile began to sink. The frightened monkey asked him why he was doing that. The crocodile explained that he would have to kill the monkey to save his wife’s life. The clever monkey told him that he would gladly give up his heart to save the life of the crocodile’s wife, but he had left his heart behind in the rose apple tree. He asked the crocodile to make haste and turn back so that the monkey could go get his heart from the apple tree. The stupid crocodile quickly swam back to the rose apple tree. The monkey scampered up the tree to safety. He told the crocodile to tell his wicked wife that she had married the biggest fool in the world. Moral: Never lose a good friend on selfish purpose………

rayola did not invent the crayon. Records show that Europe was the birthplace of the “modern” crayon. The first crayons were made from a mixture of charcoal and oil. Later, powdered pigments of various hues replaced the charcoal. It was discovered that substituting wax for the oil in the mixture made the sticks sturdier and easier to handle. Crayola Crayons were invented by Binney & Smith in 1902 and first offered for sale in 1903. Alice (Stead) Binney, a school teacher and wife of co-founder

RIDDLES

Edwin Binney, suggested the company manufacture an inexpensive alternative to imported crayons of that era. The trade name Crayola was coined by Mrs. Edwin Binney who joined the French word “craie,” meaning stick of chalk and “ola” from the word “oleaginous,” meaning oily. Crayola Crayons are made primarily from paraffin wax and color pigment. The Crayola brand celebrated its 100th anniversary during 2003 and today we manufacture over 3 billion crayons each year.

Question: What has a face and two hands but no arms or legs? Answer: A clock Question: What five-letter word becomes shorter when you add two letters to it? Answer: Short Question: What word begins and ends with an ‘e’ but only has one letter? Answer: Envelope Question : What has a neck but no head? Answer: A bottle

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

& ovies M usic M Edited by Adaeze Amos 08023012293 e-mail: adaezeamos@gmail.com

2Face, Wizkid, others party at Hennessy S’African Club Tour

nternationally renowned artistes and headliners for Hennessy Artistry 2014, 2Face idibia and Wizkid gave South Africans an epic and unforgettable evening at the first-ever Hennessy Artistry club tour in South Africa. The event which held recently at Club Harem, the biggest nightclub in RoseBank, Johannesburg, had music lovers and fans come out in their numbers to experience the much-anticipated club tour of the season. Wizkid who could not get enough of the love from fans throughout the event, gave a huge shoutout to South Africa for the love. “Thanks for the love South Africa… My first time in club Harem and I can already feel the vibe… Tonight has been a movie!”. Wiz later performed tracks off his latest album, “Ayo” including Ojuelegba, In my Bed to the delight of fans present. 2Face also thrilled guests as they sang along to his monster tracks including Spiritual Healing,

Let Somebody Love You, among other tracks. He commented, “I promised a wild night and it’s amazing to see fans outside Nigeria come out to show you support. Thanks to Hennessy and our fans so far… South Africa has been real!” Brand manager, Hennessy Nigeria, Lere Awokoya also commented, “Tonight has been nothing short of the experience we promised and the reception of both 2Face and Wizkid was great . The next stop is the Hennessy Artistry 2014 finale on the 6th of December- it should be something! I look forward to that ” Notable guests present at the club tour include Senior Vice President, Viacom Africa, Alex Okosi, Tola Odunsi, Efe Omorogbe, Efe Tommy, among other Nigerian guests. 2Face and Wizkid will head back to Lagos for the final club tour of the year, which will hold at Club Escape in Victoria Island, Lagos. Other performances to expect include Wande Coal, Reminisce and Shaydee.

Wizkid and 2Face

Timaya co-hosts MTV Base Naija Top Ten

eggae and dancehall artiste, Timaya, is this week’s co-host on the MTV Base Official Naija Top Ten with MTV Base, VJ Ehiz. During his freestyle session, the entertainer gushes about his relevance in the music industry despite how long he has been around. The artiste whose song ‘Sanko’ is on the lucky number five spot this week, was filled with excitement while dropping dope lines in the studio. Meanwhile, MAVIN’s anthem, Dorobucci, is finally off the chart while Wizkid’s ‘Show You The Money’ maintains the number one spot, as ‘Amin’ by Dammy Krane moves up to the number two spot followed by ‘Skales’ with ‘Shake Body’. Other buzzing artistes on this week’s chart include Iyanya, P-Square Ft TI, Patoranking, Sean Tizzle FT 9ice, Cynthia Morgan and DJ Jimmy Jatt FT Banky W & Phyno.

Glo launches exclusive caller ring-back tunes

igeria’s national telecommunications carrier, Globacom, recently treated Lagos youths to an exciting time at an Industry Nite jam at Spice Route, Victoria Island, Lagos. It was a way of launching Glo Exclusive Caller Ringback Tunes, which enable the operator’s subscribers to have exclusive access to many of Nigeria’s new music releases from popular artistes by simply subscribing to Glo Mobile’s Caller Ringback Tunes. The artistes include Naeto C, MI, Omawumi, Flavour, Bez and Chee among others. At a press conference at the company’s corporate head office in Victoria Island, Lagos earlier, Globacom’s top executives, led by Viswanath Nagasai, officially unveiled some of the artistes whose songs will be available on the Glo Mobile’s CRBT platform. The artistes unveiled included cross-over highlife rave-of-the-moment, Flavour, and talented female artistes Omawumi and Chee. Also presented to the media are Hip Hop stars, Burna Boy, MI, Naeto C and one of the best known artistes from the North, Sanni Danja. “Nigerians would readily recall that we blazed the CRBT trail in Nigeria over seven years ago when for the first time in Nigeria, we made it possible for our subscribers to download their favourite tunes and make them their ringback tunes. Others were to follow the trail, and today, Nigerian artistes net millions of naira in revenue from their music distributed by mobile operators in the country through the CRBT platform,” said Nagasai. He said consistent with its pedigree of leadership in innovation, Globacom is yet again raising the bar by expanding the collection of songs available to customers on its CRBT platform.

Shaydee drops new single, ‘Potential Freestyle’

ip-hop recording artiste and EME star, Shaydee, is on a roll as he keeps churning out songs to entertain his fans. He gets together with Legendury Beatz for a new single – ‘Potential Freestyle’. The three-minute club banger is a freestyle dancehall song produced by super producers Beatz who worked on ‘Azonto’ by Wizkid. Shaydee’s vocal melody on this beat showcases his love for the dancehall style of music and has him dropping stunning vocals. His work is indicative that he’s a voice to be reckoned with in the music industry..

Sunny Ade, Ras Kimono, Davido, others thrill st Tyme Out With Tee A

ecently, lovers of comedy and good music, gathered at the prestigious Intercontinental Hotel, Lagos where they witnessed another unusual edition of Tyme out with Tee A. The lavish event had legendary performances by headliner and multiple Grammy nominee, King Sunny Ade (KSA), ace comedian and master of ceremony, Alibaba and the sensational hit maker, Davido. Amongst the major highlights from the concert was a surprise performance from reggae legend and Rastafarian, Ras Kimono, who performed his popular hit songs Rumba Stylee, Under pressure and Kimono dey want, to the extreme delight of guests present. According to the event host, Tee A “the event was a great success and the turn out, amazing. We have brought you an unusual mix of comedy and quality music and next year by the grace of God, will be bigger and better”. Other distinguished guests at the event were Mrs. Abimbola Fashola, the First Lady of Lagos State. MD of Zenith Bank Peter Amangbo, former Assistant Inspector-General of Polic,e Tunji Alapeni, Ayo Animashaun, Basket Mouth.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Kollington

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Ali Baba

Ara

9ice

Echo of K1 Live unusual concert

...where Jimmy Jatt, Kollington Ayinla, Kenny Ogungbe, others stunned crowd

ust recently, the biggest Fuji-pop concert K1 Live Unusual was held at Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos with exciting performances from some of the biggest names in the Nigerian music industry. Fuji legend, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall (K1 The Ultimate) performed some of his popular hits like ‘Talazo system’, ‘Baby mi show colour re’,’Omo Niger”, “Eyo” with super collaborations with indigenous rapper Olamide, 9ice, Sasha P, Muma Gee, Ara and his daughter Honey B.

The unusual concert which attracted lots of music lovers was hosted by the King of comedy, Alibaba, with rib cracking comedy from Buchi while 2shotz, Sir Victor Olaiya, Saheed Osupa, Shola Allyson, DNMT and celebrity disc jockey, DJ Jimmy Jatt took turns to entertain the audience. Ogbeni Rauf Adesola Aregbesola, Governor of Osun State; First Lady of Lagos, Abimbola Fashola; Chief Kollington Ayinla, Femi Adebayo, Dayo Amusa, Olakunle Afoja, Chief Kenny Ogungbe, Tunde Kelani,

Chris Jeyibo, Seun Soyinka, ID Ogungbe, Mary Atuyota, Aremo Oniru, Doris Simeon, Kunle Afolayan, Fathia Balogun, Ayo Animashaun, Chris Ihidero, YAW, Toolz, Tunde Ednut, Tee Billz, Toke Makinwa, Teju Baby Face, Sikiratu Sindodo and other notable faces. The exquisite concert was produced by Green light Productions and proudly supported by LASSA, LIRS, Beat Fm, BHM Group, HIP TV, Ray Power, Primetime Africa, Naija Fm, Classic Fm, Kennis Music, Sodium Brand Solutions, and many others.

Day in the life of Wizkid on MTV Base

Cynthia Morgan

I am a Tom Boy, Cynthia Morgan reveals

ast-rising dancehall artiste, Cynthia Morgan, has revealed her diverse personality on “One To Watch”, a brand-new segment on MTV Base Official Naija Top Ten chart. One to watch, which promotes hot Naija tracks featured Morgan’s ‘I’m Taken’ as Pick of the week. Cynthia Morgan who was in the spotlight revealed the reactions that trailed the song as well as other interesting facts about her, including her Tomboy behaviour. Dammy Krane’s Amin has maintained the Number One spot on this week’s Official Naija Top Ten, while Timaya’s Sanko moves to the Number Two spot and Mr Oreo by Iyanya is on the number three spot. Other artistes on the chart include Sean Tizzle, Patoranking, Dj Jimmy Jatt feat Banky W, Phyno, Waje and Mr 2kay.

ans of Star Boy, Wizkid, are in for a swell time this week as Africa’s biggest music channel, MTV Base, brings an exclusive scoop into the young superstar’s life. The documentary showcases the other side of Wizkid and reveals various interesting facts about him, one of which is his crush on fellow Nigerian singer, Chidinma. “I’ve had a huge crush on Chidinma for a long time… she doesn’t know it but it’s true!” Wizkid gushed. Wizkid will also reveal his journey through music and how he has managed to maintain the hype. Wizkid & Chidinma

Lessons of Life

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

ADAEZE AMOS Adanneamos@gmail.com 08023012293 (sms only)

TRUE LIFE STORY ON MATTERS OF THE HEART NOVEMBER 30, 2014

‘My road to becoming a second wife’

hen Lovett met Victor who later became her husband, he was already married to Stella his first wife and the love of his youth. He met Stella when he was a young man before he gained admission into the university. According to the story as related by lovett, “he (Victor) told me they both grew up in the same neighbourhood. In fact, they were neighbours. His parents’ house was next to hers. That was when they started being close. Stella used to visit him and his siblings, watch movies in his house and play indoor games with him. She was free with his mum and later both families became friends. After some years, the platonic relationship between the duo blossomed into an affair. They continued being lovers even when they were both in the university and could only see when the school was on vacation,” Lovett said. This continued even when they graduated and went for youth service at different states of the nation. When they came back to Lagos after youth service, they continued their affair from where they stopped. And soon after, Stella became pregnant and Victor happily married her with the assistance of his parents. He happened to be the only male child of his parents. Because he had four other siblings who were all girls, so his parents didn’t frown at him settling down at 26. They also never saw anything wrong when he put Stella in a family way. They needed grand-children badly, especially male ones. And before Stella’s tummy started protruding, Victor married her and his parents allowed him and his wife resided in a different apartment which was also in Lagos. Reason was that his parents needed to give them a breathing space, to study themselves the more without the interference of a third party. Victor and his wife had four children, but no male child. Hence, he became worried. His parents felt more concerned because they wanted their only son to have an heir. At that time, all his sisters were married. Victor was the only one visiting home often to

A Model

see how his parents were faring. His sisters only visited once in a year, during Christmas preferably because they were occupied with their own families. Some were not even in the country but they called on the telephone more often. That made Victor an unhappy man. “Although he loved his four daughters, pampered them so well, vowed to give them the best of education so that they would be useful to themselves, their families and to the society, he never relented in praying for a male child even when his doctor had warned his wife to desist from having more children. This is because she nearly lost her life when she was having her fourth baby,” Lovett recalled. Though that bothered Victor a whole lot, he still tried to cover up most times. He tried to make himself happy. The only person who noticed that something was eating him up from inside was Lovett, his office assistant. “I started working in Victor’s company when

I had lost my husband (his ex-staff) whom I couldn’t give a child when he was alive. We lived together as man and wife for eight years before he died through fatal motor accident. After I had mourned him for a year, he employed me in replacement of my late husband. He didn’t want to leave me idle in the house. He said idleness and loneliness could kill faster than any disaster. I accepted the job and he became fond of me, so much that at the close of work, we would remain in the office, talking about our problems and brooding together. He would tell me everything about his home-front, how he had longed to have a male child, how his family doctor warned his wife never to get pregnant again because of her health condition and how she nearly died if not for the intervention of God when she was having the fourth child. He would also tell me how he loved his daughters but that he needed a male child, an heir, who would continue with the family name. While we were discussing one night in the

office, he asked me why I refused to give my late husband a child. That was when I opened my own old wound. I cried before I could answer his question, and he waited for me to be through. Didn’t want to stop me from crying because he had always believed it was better for one to cry than to bottle it up. “And since he didn’t conceal anything from me about his own situation, I too bared my mind to him. I told him about my late husband’s low sperm count, mentioned the names of the drugs he was placed on. I told him how hard he tried to boost his sperm count but all to no avail. At a time, he stopped taking his drugs due to sheer carelessness. Then, his drinking habit worsened, our doctor descended on him one day and tonguelashed him when he complained that his drugs were not effective. He asked him to desist from liquor so that his drugs could work, but my late hubby couldn’t. He was an alcoholic. And his problem remained unsolved until he died suddenly in a car crash,” Lovett said, wiping away tears. Gradually she became her boss’ confidant. She hadn’t much to do in the office except to see to the welfare of the office. She was more like a tea girl/ confidential secretary to Victor. Meanwhile, she was employed out of mercy although she was a computer guru. “That was what I studied, Computer Science, but because I was pre occupied with my late husband’s infertility problem, I couldn’t get myself a job. So, when Victor employed me, I was at home with it. I was good in typing and storing documents in the computer. My typing speed was what he liked. While in the office, my boss gradually became my friend. We would stay put in the office after work when the rest of the staff had gone home and discuss everything, virtually everything; concealing nothing! And he would drop me off on his way home. This continued till one night when we decided to go tell our stories outside the office, in a cosy restaurant. That was when the relationship became intimate,” she said. To be continued next week.

RESPONSES

Re: ‘Frank doesn’t want me to adopt a child’ Dear Antonia, Your mother who had four daughters from four different men, gave you the advice I could have given you, that you start attending church and give your life to Jesus. The other advice was from your doctor, who confirmed that you are still fertile but due to your age, pregnancy may not come easily and you have been taking your fertility drugs. You met Frank when you were 43 and got married at 44, which means that you were approaching menopause. Frank has three children from three different women and his fertility status was not disclosed. I would advise you to continue steadfastly in your prayers for God to open your womb and give you children. In addition, Frank should go for medical check-up to confirm his fertility status and also attend church

service with you. If he refuses, apply your best judgement, not that you should become unfaithful but be smart. I do not think that Frank is a born-again Christian, because he visits bar for drinks. You must also not be anxious, because anxiety is an impediment to pregnancy. Patrick Adiasor, Surulere, Lagos (08033452087) Dear Antonia, Please listen to Frank and pray for God to help you. Frank has not started dealing with you and you are already complaining that he is dealing with you treacherously. Remember he loves you so much. So, calm down and remain with him. What you need do is to pray and fast and God in His mercy will answer you and give you a child. Don’t be carried away with your career, just re-

spect your husband first. MS from Ikorodu (08022207109) Antonia, Your story is indeed very emotional. Know it that every human being must go through some trials in life. So, to proceed to the next phase of life, my advice to you is that you seek God first with all your heart. Pray vehemently and never stop or cease praying. At due time, God will give you your own children. Remember He made it possible for you and your sisters to get married. He still lives. He would open your womb and you would smile at last. Just put your trust in Him, don’t disobey your husband. Instead, love, care for and obey him. Yemi (07036275806) Antonia

Don’t adopt a child. Don’t allow Satan to rob you of your joy. Are you not lucky that your hubby is loving and caring? Be prayerful and put your trust in God. Your miracle is on the way. Read the story of Sarah and Hannah in the Bible. God bless you. 08038442222 Antonia, Your situation is neither new nor is it the first or last. It has a spiritual undertone. You must trust and rely on God almighty to unravel this mystery. Or better still, look up to Him prayerfully, He would bless you with babies. But remember, adoption is not a bad option. Convince Frank that it is apt to turn to God whole-heartedly for His mercies. Be patient and wise. Apeji Pat Eneyeme, Badagry (07044445550)

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From the Pulpit

Sunday November 30, 2014

How to overcome troubles, by Prophet Oloruntimilehin T

here are lots of things that are troubling people. People know they are being troubled but they do not know what is particularly wrong with them. At times what is troubling a person would not allow him or her to sleep. If he or she sleeps that thing would not give the person rest of mind. This trouble would not make a person comfortable. Some people would say nothing is wrong with them but they are troubled. For instance, a lady was enjoying herself in a social party. In fact, she claimed to be the best dancer at the party. People at the party saw her to be a trouble – free lady because of the way and manner she was dancing. She caught the attention of other guests. Later on, she was informed that her sick child had died. She cried, threw her wrapper and head tie away. She came to the party while her husband and child were sick. She pretended as if nothing was wrong with her. Similarly, a 70-year-old woman was narrating a story to some people and at certain intervals, she would breathe. Then they asked her why the breathing at intervals. She answered that for 7 months she had been looking for her second daughter. Imagine, she was telling the story as if nothing was wrong with her. Brethren, many people are sitting down walking about with troubled mind. Some people are thinking about the education of their children, and that their debt would not lead to police case. Some people keep secrets that they do not want to leak out. They would pray that God should cover up their secrets. What they are praying for must have been sinful act. Many people both rich and poor are facing problems that make them breath intermittently when they ponder on their problems. Joseph, the son of Jacob, was confronted with problems; his

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 cowards and renegades, whose fear makes them revolt from Christ in time of danger. All the faint-hearted who refused to embrace the grace of God and accept Christ as the Lord and personal Saviour will endure to lie in a lake of fire and brimstone for disowning Him. Whoever lives in the habitual practice of any known sin, without converting from it unto God, is certainly in a state of damnation. Anybody who wants to really make heaven at last must follow the road, for there is no other road that leads to heaven except the way of holiness. The Bible made us to understand that the ways of God are not our ways. And if any man wants to be in heaven but refuses to follow the way of holiness and decides to go on his own way, that man will get to his own destination and not to heaven. The way to heaven is unambiguously described by the Holy Bible. And all that aspire to be there at last are to renounce the devil and all his works, to give up the pomp and vanities of this wicked world, and all

General Overseer of Omnipotence Mission of God, Prophet Joshua Daramola Oloruntimilehin, in this admonition, explains how to overcome troubles. Excerpts:

brothers sold him into slavery, he was imprisoned for the offence he did not commit. But God had been supporting Joseph in all his troubles. God blessed him and all that concern him. Genesis 39:2 &5 says, “The Lord was with Joseph and he prospered and lived in the house of his Egyptian master”. Verse 5 says, “…The Lord blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph”. The blessing of the Lord was everything Potiphar had. The Lord that supported Joseph during his tribulation shall support all trouble – minded people in the name of Jesus. Similarly, Hannah had troubled mind because she could not bear children for her husband despite the love her husband had for her. I Samuel 1:15 says, “…Hannah replied, I am a woman who is deeply troubled…” Hannah committed her problem into the hand of God and promised to give the child back to God if she could bear a child. God granted her request. God that turned Hannah’s problem to joy will turn peoples’ problem to joy in the name of Jesus. Some people keep aside their problems in the day time but in the night they take over their problems again. Laughing does not mean people will not hiss. A woman that lost her husband in the morning could still laugh in the night. In same vein, a man that his wife dies would still laugh before night period. People that lose l o v e d ones

would not cry unstoppably. But what happens is that bereaved people cry intermittently when he or she thinks about the lost person. People are confronted with heavy burden which brings about sick-

ness, depres-

sion and discomfort to their lives. But David was confronted with heavy burden of facing Goliath in warfare. He pronounced that the burden was not his but God’s own. I Samuel 17:45 says, “David said to the Philistine, you came against me with sword and spear and javelin but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel whom you have defied”. Eventually, David conquered the heavy burden and he was uplifted after he won the battle. Brethren, the battle that is confronting you is for God not you because it’s God that will overcome the battle for you. People who are troubled need to commit their troubles to God because the Bible says in the book of John 14:1, “Do not let your heart be troubled. Trust in God and trust in me”. Jesus was confronting his disciples and made them to understand that they should put their trust in Him and God. I pray our heavy burdens will be surmounted in Jesus name. •For more enquiries call: 08023020108, 08058110288; facebook.com/pastoroloruntimilehin

Prophet Oloruntimilehin

‘The road to heaven’

the sinful lusts of the flesh, to keep God’s holy word and commandments and to walk in the same all the days of their life. For this is the road to heaven. Heb. 12: 14- 17 says, “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: 15. Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled 16. Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. 17. For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears”. If a person follows holiness, though he may not have peace, but he shall be in heaven and shall see God provided he pursues peace. Those aspiring to be on the road to heaven must be of peaceable as well as of virtuous conduct devoid of any sin. A disposition of seeking peace with all, is eminently suited unto the doctrine and grace of the gospel. But a froward spirit, ready for strife and contention, who is easily

provoked, and who retains long a sense of anger, is directly contrary to the spirit and temper of the gospel and thus shall not be found on the way to heaven. Gal. 5: 20- 21 says, “Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God”. Those that indulge in any of the sin above cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven nor is it desirable that they should. What would heaven be if filled up with adulterers, and fornicators, and idolaters, with the proud and envious, and with murderers and drunkards? To call such a place heaven, would be an abuse of the word. No one could wish to dwell there; and such men cannot enter into heaven. We should rejoice that such men cannot be admitted to heaven. We should rejoice that there is one world where these vices cannot be seen, a world of perfect and eternal purity which is heaven.

Beloved, you that is reading this message kindly consider if you are among those on the road to heaven or are you expecting an eternal glory while living in sin? If so, you will be fearfully disappointed. Presuming on the mercy of God is as ruinous as deriding of His grace. For where God gives power both to will and to do, the individual should work out his own salvation with fear and trembling if he wishes to be on the narrow way that leads to heaven. Matt. 6: 33 says, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you”. If you desire to be allowed to walk on the way that leads to heaven, your must first seek and promote the kingdom of God in this world, so that you can secure the permission to walk through the strait way to the kingdom of glory in the next. It is only on this premise that heaven shall be added in measure. So whatever challenges of life you are having now it is of no consequence to compare with the blessing of being in heaven at the end of this life.

From the Pulpit Learn with Kunle

Macaulay

Email: profkunlemacaulay@ yahoo.com (08023032698, sms pls)

ible is the only authority for all believers of Jesus Christ. It is a search light that points to the will of God and it concerns itself with the life Christians live in Christ.

Christianity is not a social club to please people but it is a community of people who meet the standard of life set by Jesus Christ. It has a purpose that should be fulfilled by everybody called Christian. There is no doubt that the conditions of this purpose are very difficult for human beings to fulfill, hence God provides Holy Spirit to teach and direct believers. Jesus calls him ‘’Counselor’’. ‘’ But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you’’ - John 14:26. To be a Christian is to accept a new life in Christ that is spirit-filled and spirit-controlled. The Holy Spirit becomes an instrument of God to mature new life he creates and the ‘’word of truth’’ is the instrument by which the new birth is lived. The word of truth then becomes the standard by which every believer lives in this physical world. It is this word of truth that brings us to God and we are guided by it as we live for him. The world we live is full of trials, temptations and afflictions of all kinds. The bible said of Satan,’’ The thief (Satan) comes only to steal and kill and destroy….’’John 10:10a. The purpose of Holy Spirit is to build believers to conform to the spiritual standards set by God and that is why the bible states clearly that every man needs God and without him nothing good can be achieved. The nature of man attracts evil. Man naturally has a desire to do evil, which includes anger, greed, sexual desire, lusting after material things and succumbing to depression. Satan entices the desires of the flesh to make a

Desti Destiny Hour with Pastor Femi

Lanre-Oke

elcome to the last month in the year 2014, indeed in less than 24 hours you will be in the month of December. The enemy thought you wouldn’t last till February; see you now, not only are you alive and well, you have surpassed the expectations of friends and enemies alike. In fact, God has made it such that you have surpassed your own expectations and aspirations as well. Psalm 103:2 says, “Bless the Lord O My soul and forget not all His benefits….” Persons have lost their lives, some lost their sanity among other things but you are alive and well.

I have only come here this morning to provoke a thanksgiving spirit from within you; some persons are so focused on what did not go well in the year 2014 that they have forgotten to give God adequate thanks for what He did. Let me tell you something, the reason why you will see the rest of the best that God has for you before 2014 is over is thanksgiving. Yes, you have thanked God but how well, how sufficient-

Sunday November 30, 2014

Christianity has standard

man think and do what is wrong. God is generous and he gives the supreme gift of regeneration. He bestows man a new life. Jesus said, ’’My sheep (my followers) listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand’’- John 10: 27-28. The word of God when received and acted upon, produces eternal life and makes us do the right thing, so, Bible reminds us that we have been born through the ‘’word of truth’’, therefore we must receive it, embrace it and give it our utmost attention. Unrighteousness does not bring about the righteous life which God desires. God requires obedience of his word by his followers. Believers need quick ear, a cautious tongue and a calm temper. Bible warns, ‘’ Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you’’- James 1:21. To receive the word of God means to welcome it into our hearts with all readiness of mind. The word of God must influence our actions and attitudes. God requires that we receive the instructions of the bible with teachable Spirit. The word of God is able to build us up and give us an inheritance. When the word is accepted and rooted in our hearts, then Holy Spirit will use it to promote holiness and all things that accompany salvation. Christianity is very practical, real and authentic. Christians are easily identified by the way they dress, act, speak and in all they do. It is not about hearing alone but more about doing. James advises, ‘’ Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.’’ James 1:22. This is the heart of the scriptures, doing the will of God. All believers of Jesus Christ are required to read the bible diligently, obey every word and act; meaning maintaining the standard of life as instructed by God. Church of God on earth is an instrument to teach and prepare people for the arrival of Jesus Christ. Instead of the church mould-

ing the character and manners of believers, Christian leaders are competing, denominationalizing, racializing, institutionalizing, ritualizing, nationalizing, tribalizing, localizing and rationalizing Jesus.Every church founder comes with his own style of worship, method of praying including personalizing the God of heaven and even designing mode of dress to be worn by his adherents instead of following a universal Christian way of life as Bible dictates. The success of the first century church was not based on money, affluence, educational attainment or spiritual prowess of their leaders but on obedience to the word of God. The success of Israel depended on obedience to the laws of God. ‘’These are the commands, decrees and laws the Lord your God directed me to teach you to observe in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess, so that you, your children and their children after them may fear the Lord your God as long as you live by keeping all his decrees and commands that I give you and so that you may enjoy long life. Hear O Israel, and be careful to obey so that it may go well with you and that you may increase greatly in a land flowing with milk and honey, just as the Lord, the God of your fathers promised you’’- Deut 6:1-3. What God expects from Christians of this generation is not different, ‘’Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifices’’- 1 Sam 15:22. Modern Christians and their leaders are very rebellious and arrogant. They make their laws and form their doctrines that are meant for their followers alone. The rigidity of their doctrines and man-made laws makes it difficult for the presence of God to flow freely when Christians congregate. Jesus said, ‘’ If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching’’- John 14:23. How many Christians and their leaders exhibit the love of God in the physical and how many obey the teaching of Jesus Christ? The word of God is secularized,

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liberalized and personalized by Christian leaders to please their followers. The modern church is rapidly developing a dischristianized culture that is not of God and that is non-religious. The Bible assures us that, ‘’ There is one body and one Spirit- just as you were called to one hope when you were called ---one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all’’. The bible exhorts all believers ‘’to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love’’ – Ephesians 4 :1-6. Christianity is about the laws of God, obeying the laws, acting upon the laws and living according to the wish of God. It is then we can claim to be Christians indeed. Jesus said, ‘’If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples - John 8:31. Are Christians holding to the teaching of Jesus Christ? Are they living together as Jesus wishes? ‘’ ..That all of them (Christians) may be one….’’John 17:21a. Christianity has standards that do not encourage denominationalism or sectarianism as part of its life but oneness in Christ based on uniformity in character and manners. If leaders in Nigeria are truly called by God, they should maintain this standard and use their pulpits to teach the oneness of Christianity as well as its dos and don’ts. Theologians and theological teachers should explore the Bible with the intention of bringing from it the standard requirements of a living life-style for all believers of Jesus Christ. Christians have access to the Bible which reveals the MIND of God to anybody who cares to read under the guidance of Holy Spirit. We should stop being deceived by men and women who are heretic in teaching and who are placed in the church by Satan. •Prof. Kunle Macaulay is the Director of Studies of United Bible University, Lagos. Phone: 0802 – 303 – 2698; email : profkunlemacaulay@yahoo.com; Twitter. com/Kunle Macaulay1

Almost over? Thanksgiving and praise guarantee the rest ly, have you thanked God? Let me show you a kingdom mystery. Better is the end of a matter than the beginning thereof, Eccl. 7:8; Job 8:7 says though your beginning may be small; thy later end shall greatly increase. All these passages mean that the month of December can become that month when you receive all that the Lord has promised you in 2014. There is another interesting passage I want to share with you; Zechariah 10:11 Ask ye of the LORD rain in the time of the latter rain; so the LORD shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field. The latter rain is what you need in this month of December to take a full delivery of all that God has promised you. How do you ask at a time such as this? Psalm 67:5-6 Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee. Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, even our own God, shall bless us. You need to engage the mystery of quality praise in this month so that the increase promised you by God can be poured upon you through the latter rain. Remember, kingdom mysteries are best dived into so begin to give God quality thanks and praises now. God who never fails will settle everything that remains to be settled in the year 2014 in Jesus name.

People who give thanks and praise God in situations enjoy consistent victory. When you thank God for His acts and praise Him for what He can and will do, then you have committed Him to your situation and God is ‘faithful’. Do you know what this word faithful means? It is a strong word that means that God will never deny what He has said in His word concerning you. Irrespective of the timing, you can count on Him to show up in your favour. The bible says they look up unto Him and they were lightened and their faces were not ashamed. God is the commander in Chief of the angel army, He is the mighty man of valour that turns the tide of any war just with His presence and a way to get the fullness of heaven for the remaining days in 2014 is to be a praiser. Have you ever seen a king without the one that praises him by his side? Then become a thankful person, commit yourself and decide today that before the year is over, you will make heaven notice you from the way you will praise and thank God. Apparently you have issues that are bothering you, you want to cry out to God but why don’t you forget about yourself and give quality praise to God and He will show up with the rest for you in Jesus name. Remember, the gospel of Christ is not with eloquence of words but

the display of God’s power therefore, do not try to out reason or outsmart God just dive into full-scale praise and God will surprise you. Remain blessed in Jesus name. The way of the gospel and the mysteries of the Kingdom of God will not make any sense to you until you have surrendered your life to Jesus and what a wonderful opportunity to do this and receive the best that God has for you before 2014 is over. The process is simple: • Believe in your heart that you are a sinner and cannot save yourself. • Believe in your heart that Jesus died on the cross of Calvary paying the price for your sins and rose from the dead the third day to establish your victory • Confess with your mouth that Jesus is lord and saviour. • Repent of all sins before the Lord and forsake them. • Welcome into God’s family. Now you can enjoy and experience total wealth in Christ. Please locate a Bible believing church and share you new-birth experience with the church leaders. •For further prayer & counseling, Please contact: Pastor Femi Lanre-Oke, Jesus Praise Evangelical Ministries International, Plot A22 Power Crescent, Arab road, Kubwa. Abuja, +2348030752799, +2348053695097, Email: femi_lanre01@yahoo.co.uk

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Priesthood House with Pastor Bola

Sunday November 30, 2014

Bello

or behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered; nor come into mind”- Isaiah 65:17. The Church should be a witness of the new earth and the new heavens. This is the only

“

agency appointed for such witness. The new heavens are not the throne of God but the realms of influence of sun, moon and stars over the earth. The clouds and the firmaments are all regarded as heavens. They have powerfully impacted the earth through their various activities. However, they will pass through renewal. The challenge of the Church now, is how to bring the new earth and the new heavens to fore. The new earth and the new heavens are not time bound. They are bound to come when the activities of this present earth is colonized by Zion which is the desire of Christ. What is required of the Church is a shift in her spiritual orientation. To create a serene environment where wickedness become stale, and righteousness the order of the day, the Church, which is the agency of this change must come to renewal of the mind. The earth is groaning for a change. The present earth is weary and fatigue of the current operators of the earth. Its expectation is the manifestation of new breeds who will anchor the essence in which the earth is created - Rom 8:19. The Church was created as an agency to foster the agenda of God rather than that of man. She is to pioneer the emergence of new government after the order of the righteous king of heaven. Church is to summon heaven to appear in the earth where the earth is governed by the

Church as God designed it: The agency of God’s battle axe (4)

principles of the King of heaven. The current calamity, disaster and the viciousness of Babylon would persist on the earth until the Church shift her orientation from the values of this world. The reality of God’s kingdom on the earth is predicated upon a new mentality of the Church. The charge to the Church is “Come out from them”. Babylon would not give up its kingship over the earth until Church gives up the things of Babylon. The kingdom of God cannot be revealed with the substance of Babylon. It is not shown in meat and drinks - Rom 14:17. Meat is a metaphorical expression of material world. They represent the riches, glory and power of the earth framed after corruption. The earth of Adam was not governed by Adam through these substances, yet Adam was the lord of all. The emphasis of Church over the legitimate needs has brought the attitude of Babylon to the Church. Babylon is known for exploitation. This is the reason why Babylon creates capitalist society. Church is not run with this kind of principle. Church is not a place where individual acquire more than what he need. Church is not a place of competition as witnessed by the gladiators of today’s Church. The concept and the principle of Church is about service to humanity and given to the needy. As long as we continue to run Churches as business concern, we are far from bringing the kingdom of God down to the earth. The passage of this earth is before us. It is a transient reality. The dawning of another earth is envisaged even by the Babylon leaders of our time. They are

daily preparing for its emergence. Their anxiety is manifested through the creation of counterfeit “new world order”. The new world order is not another name for the new earth. The new earth is the earth envisaged by God himself. It is the earth where the kingdom of God comes and His will being done on earth. The new earth is about the righteousness of Christ reigning and ruling in the earth. The Bible says “For the former shall not be remembered. The new earth would be superior to this present earth. It shall not be created or fashioned after corruptible desire of man but after the power of endless life. Wickedness shall not be found in this new earth. Greed and inordinate desire where an individual desires to become the best or the first, shall be alien to this earth. The desire of man shall be God and His righteousness. God and His kingdom shall be the focus of man. 2 Peter 3:13-14 says, Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. As earlier mentioned, Church is expected to pioneer as an orchestras, the tune of the new earth. The above passage is an allusion to the prophecy of Isa 65:17. John the beloved, attested to the specificity of this new emerging earth not as a theory but as reality which he touched in the revelation showed to him by the Lord Jesus. Revelation 21:1 says; “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and first earth

were passed away and there was no more sea”. All shall be created new. Pains and wailings shall cease from the existence of man. However, the new earth would not be imposed without the input of the Church. The Church must firstly experience the baptism and purification before the earth is created anew. Regeneration of souls, both members and leaders, and a shift from the ephemeral to the eternal would be a catalyst for the rebirth of the earth. The pursuit of the Church must change. The desires, the thoughts and the affections of the Church must go through scrutiny. Peter cried for a blameless Church. Paul wailed for a Church without sport or wrinkles. The desire of Christ for his Church is to prevail against Babylon. The Church must begin to show diligence in the things of the God rather than the things of the earth. Heaven will come to the earth, when the message of heaven is preached. An environment could be made, created and summoned by the word speaking to it. If the message of heaven is preached to the earth, the heaven would be created on the earth. If the message of the earth is given to the earth, it produces nothing but the earthly substance. We must lay aside all superfluity of ephemeral and lay hold on to the promise of eternity. No matter your getting, death is the sure reward of all things. To them that sow to the flesh they would reap death. This is the design of the Church.

•Pastor Bola Bello – The Priesthood House bolabelo@gmail.com 08033704564

The

Chorister’s World

Choristers are soul winners –Uchenna ODINAKA URUAKPA

or Cyprian Uchenna, a chorister with the Saint Cecilia Choir, Ss Mulumba and David Catholic Church Lawanson, Surulere Lagos, singing in the choir is a veritable means for propagating the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The young man who claimed to have grown up in the midst of family members and friends who were choristers said he knew he had no other option but to use his God-given voice in the singing ministry. He said: ‘‘I grew up seeing people around me as choristers, using their voices in the service of the Lord and when the time came for me, I succumbed and joined the choir so as to be a better Christian and win more souls to God’s kingdom.” On his early days in the choir, he said: “When I first joined the ministry,

I got attracted to the instruments and started by playing the small drums and later graduated to the bigger drums which I believe I did well owing to the fact that I come from a family of drummers. I performed in many concerts and competitions which my group went for. We won laurels in many of the competitions organised in the parish and at Archdiocesan level.’’ Speaking on the fun part of being a chorister, Uchenna said during his choir’s sojourn in some of the concerts they attended, the first time he saw a female organist playing a pipe organ with full pedal, he was impressed and happy that a woman could also expertly handle such Instrument which he initially perceived to be for the men. “I was really impressed at the way the lady took control of the pipe organ with full pedal. It actually was a source of inspiration for me and when I went back to my parish I tried to play

the organ. This coupled with other interesting experiences in the choir has continued to inspire and attract me to venture more into music. On how he has been able to combine music and his work, the chorister said he does not experience any difficulty in combining the two. According to him, his music career complements his choir ministry as a church musician. Uchenna maintained that he has the vision of using his singing to complement the ministrations of priest during service where souls will be won for Christ. ‘‘This is the level everyone in the church choir must aim at. We are not entertainers. We are ministers. So, if our music has not served as a healing balm in which people listen to and they cry to the Saviour for salvation, then we have not started, we have something to aim at and this we must do to get the desired effect,” he said.

Uchenna

From the Pulpit

T The Voice of wisdom o

with Dr. David

Oyedepo

vision from God always has a time element. Correct timing is very important in God’s programme. All visions have their appointed time for execution, which is determined by God alone. These are what we learnt last week.

As I conclude this teaching, this week, we shall be discussing, Vision Boosters. There are certain things that help you to stay focused, in the pursuit of vision. I call them Vision Boosters. These are forces that boost vision or provoke the realization of vision. They help you to fulfill your heaven-given vision, so you end up in distinction. Let us examine some of them: Be Joyful: Joy boosts vision, because only excited people excel in the race of life. Jesus was ever joyful; no wonder He ran His race to a successful end. He couldn’t be distracted from His purpose for coming to the world – to die on the cross for the redemption of mankind from their sins (Hebrews 12:2). Joy and enthusiasm are forces that guarantee outstanding results. Until you are depressed and downcast, you can’t see failure. Only excited people excel in life. True great-

The bride voice with Pastor Moses

Alu

Continued from last edition Jesus in Matthew Chapter 13:9-11spoke to his disciples and the crowd that gathered to hear him about the parable of the soil. He gave them this parable and after finishing, He didn’t give them the meaning, so everyone that left the crusade that day had his private interpretation. Different churches have their understanding of marriage and divorce. Some believe that if you marry three wives and you give your life to Christ, you should drive away the last two because only the first one is your wife. And when they are preaching, you will think they are saying something from the Bible. ‘Holy, holy, holy… God in three persons, blessed trinity’. And you will think they are singing a scriptural song! Jesus gave the command to go and ‘baptize in the name of the father, and of the son and of the Holy Ghost’. Based on this command, someone will take you to the river, deep you inside the water and say, ‘I baptize you in the name of the father, and of the son and of the Holy Ghost’. By so doing, they think they have baptized you. The question is; why didn’t Jesus just say it plainly? He said it the way He did so as to cause confusion. And the disciples asked Him why He speaks to them in parables. Verse 11 says, “He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.” If this scripture does not make you shake as a Bible student, nothing will make you shake. People are following Jesus and here He is saying they should not know the mysteries of the kingdom but ‘only you that I have called should know’. Verse 12-15 says, “For whosoever hath, to

Sunday November 30, 2014

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The pursuit of vision (3)

ness is channeled through enthusiastic individuals. True successes are smiling people. No wonder Apostle Paul commanded us: Rejoice in the Lord always; and again, I say, Rejoice (Philippians 4:4). Testimonies: Testimonies are not mere stories, but evidences of the faithfulness and integrity of God, the infallibility of scriptures and the immutability of His counsel. They boost vision as they help you to overcome your next obstacle. They are triggers for victory in spiritual conflicts, as they energize the inner man for exploits. That is why those who don’t mind testimonies keep struggling with trials. When David confronted Goliath, testimony was what gave him the victory. He said to himself, “God who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the bear will also deliver me from this uncircumcised Philistine,” and the little boy ran towards Goliath and brought down his head (1 Sam. 17:37-51). He was empowered by testimony. Testimonies are faith boosters, and faith is the principal booster of vision. As a matter of fact, faith is the life of every vision. If faith is boosted by testimonies, then testimony is the substance of every vision. Decision: Decision is fundamental for the success of any vision. Indecision is a plague; its effects are frustration, depression and devastation. Somebody said indecision is the graveyard of good intentions. No matter

how lofty and promising a vision is, without a strong decision to pursue it, it will fail. No indecisive man can ever be distinguished. Reuben had to pay the price for his indecisiveness (Gen. 49:3-4). God has shown you where you’re going; make a decision to press on to its accomplishment. Information: It is one thing to know where you are going and another to know how to get there. Every vision rides on the wheels of information. No matter the quality of your vision, if you lack information to match, you will end up in frustration. Information, whether spiritual or secular, is the hub of every outstanding accomplishment. When a vision is starved of information, it begins to suffer disintegration. Information is the cheapest way to eradicate regrets (Hosea 4:6). When you invest your time in acquiring relevant information that will help drive your vision, the result will prove that your time was not wasted (Proverbs 13:15). Association: A wise man said, “You are going to be the same person you are today in five years time except for two things – the books you read and the people you walk with.” Your relationships in life will either make or break you; they never leave you at the same spot (Prov. 13:20). Abraham’s vision was delayed because of the presence of Lot and Terah with him. Until Terah died and Lot was separated from him, Abraham did not enjoy speed in the pursuit of his purpose.

There are certain people you have to separate from, if you must see the fulfillment of your vision. The Bible says: Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners (1 Corinthians 15:33). Friend, the power to access vision boosters is for those saved. Are you saved? You get saved by confessing your sins, forsaking them and accepting Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. If you are set to be saved, please say this prayer with all your heart: “Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. From today, I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Now I know I am a child of God.” Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name! Every exploit in life is a product of knowledge. For further reading, please get my books —Understanding Divine Direction and In Pursuit Of Vision. I am glad to inform you that from December 9-13, 2014 at Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Idiroko Road, Ota, many destinies will be transformed to higher levels of greatness at SHILOH 2014, tagged, Heaven On Earth! SHILOH is the annual prophetic gathering of the Winners’ family worldwide. Be there! •I know this teaching has blessed you. Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria; or call 7747546-8; or E-mail: feedback@lfcww.org

‘Deceived’ by God (7)

him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath. Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.” But, Bride Assembly, “Blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear. Verse 34-35 says, “All these things spake Jesus unto the multitude in parables; and without a parable spake he not unto them: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world.” What does He do? He blinds the people so that they will not understand and get converted. But you will ask, are there people following Jesus but are ordained to go to hell? Yes! So how will they go to hell? God will deceive them! Blessed be the name of the Lord. Another way that He deceives them is that He uses foolish things to confound the wise. For lack of time, read on your own 1 Cor. 1:18-29. God is known in simplicity. When you are weak, then God’s strength is demonstrated in your weakness. That is the sermon of its own. He told Apostle Paul that His strength is made perfect in weakness. Jesus Christ was hanging on the Cross of Calvary and they were telling Him if He is the son of God, He should come down. Apostle Paul, that handkerchiefs from his pocket and his shadow were healing the sick and crippled, with mighty miracles, signs and wonders took place at his ministra-

tion had a torn in his flesh. His eyes troubled him. The light that struck him on his way to persecute Christians in Damascus left an injury that affected his sight. He said he cried unto the Lord three times but God refused to answer him. The response was, “My grace is sufficient for you”. Apostle Paul then got to know that God’s strength is perfected in weakness. All this is so that they will know it is God and no man will take the glory. And I say this because those of us God is using mightily, unless we catch this, we will never grow in the ministry. It is something I have caught and I know it is true. Always know that when God wants to move, He will move so that man will know it is God. Check through the Bible, how many do you see; even in church history, how many people do you see God use mightily that were great intellectuals and philosophers? He said where are the wise of this world? Where is their wisdom? He (God) turned their wisdom to foolishness! The mighty God that has the ability and power to do and undo; that can under a second, convert every sinner to become a saint, decided to adopt a method that seems as if He is begging people to give their lives to Christ. God wants to save some people and He will anoint a man to go to those people and preach to them. And this could take one week, months or more trying to convince the people. After doing this, the minister may get just 3 people there. It is as if God does not have the ability but it is God working in simplicity. The creator of the heavens and earth came among men and would have expected Him to come in mighty glory but He came not through some big or noble families but came through the family of a carpenter; a poor man! And that is why they didn’t accept him. God deceived the religious people at that time, so that they will not recognize that He was the one in their midst; Emmanuel. That is why even now; they have refused to accept Him as the savior. Some believe that He died

because he was a criminal. But you and I, with eyes and ears of understanding know better. Blessed be the name of the Lord. He did that to confound the wise. He said, “If they had known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory”. But He made sure they didn’t know and because they didn’t know, they meted out that treatment to Him. And the Israelites ended up going through all the sufferings and persecutions. God had the ability and power to make them know Him but since they were not ready for the truth, He deceived them so that they will not understand who He was. But I want you to note something in 2 Thess. 2:13 - “But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth”. We are ordained; God’s elect. He chose us not the way of others that are being deceived but through sanctification of the spirit; holy living; holy life. You can’t come to Him anyhow! Anyone that will come to God, God will reveal to you that He is a holy God. And He chooses you to come to Him through a sanctified life and believe of the truth. Anywhere the truth is spoken; you will catch and obey it. It is God that has put that in you because you are looking for truth because of what is in you. But those who are just for a church to join; those who are just looking for religion, those who want to follow Christ but add their nature; He gives them their own 400 prophets of Ahab to delude them. But you and I, with the opportunity to hear what we are hearing, God has called us from the beginning; before the foundation of the world; you whose names are written in the Book of Life, holiness is your watch word. •Pastor Moses Alu; The Bride Assembly, Odofin Park Estate, OshodiApapa Expressway, Ijesha Bus stop 08033524903 : Email: pastormosesalu@yahoo.com

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“

From the Pulpit

Sunday November 30, 2014

ired nature’s sweet restorer, balmy sleep,” is essential to the health and vigor of body and mind. But our moral and spiritual natures need no sleep. Love, faith, hope, humility need never slumber. Hence in Heaven we shall be able to serve God day and night. The spiritual will have the supremacy. The untiring will be forever active.

In the 9th verse of the previous chapter Israel is trying to wake up Jehovah. “Awake, awake; put on strength, O arm of the Lord.” The words of our text are God’s answer to that prayer. “Awake, awake; put on thy strength, O Zion.” “Wake up yourself,” says the Lord. “I am not asleep. No attribute of mine needs repose. I am ready, willing, waiting to exert my power, whenever you fulfill the conditions I have imposed.” We have not by prayer or exertion to induce God to bless us. But prayer and exertion God requires for our good. It would be no kindness in Him to bless sleeping Christians. They would not know it, if He did. Let us inquire: I. What are the signs of sleep? II. What are the causes of sleep? III. Why should we awake?

Sleeping and slumbering Christian (1) slight impressions: If I wished to learn whether a man were asleep, I would not fire a cannon over him. Awake or asleep, he would be aroused by that. I would whisper to him or touch him gently. The fact that you are startled by the cannon-boom of great crime, that you shudder at the thought of theft, murder or lying, is no proof that you are awake. But how are you affected by what the world calls call little sins? Things Thing that are not crimina criminal but simply worldly, doubtful, unscripunscrip tural, un-Christun-Christ like. The Christian who can indulge without compunccompunc tion of conscience what may do harm in the way of weakweak ening his influinflu ence or causcaus ing his hi

we suspect that a friend, a long while asleep, is dead, we put our ear to his side and listen for the heart-beat and breathing. The movement of the heart and lungs indicates that life is not extinct. And so we put the test to some Christians who really appear to be dead. A close examination shows that they have the heart-beat of faith in Christ, love for His word and people. They breathe prayer and praise. They are simply asleep, and some of them have the Rip Van Winkle power of long continuance in slumber. It is a pity that a close examination should ever be necessary to distinguish their sleep from death. Were they doing their duty no one would have a doubt on the subject. Insensibility to

I. The signs of sleep Inactivity: If a man remains motionless on the lounge for three or four hours, I take it for granted that he is asleep. If he should continue in that motionless condition for three or four days, I should pronounce him dead. If a Christian does nothing for Christ, he is asleep. If he persists in his course of uselessness, it is a fair presumption that he is no Christian at all. Life will express itself. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” And the ability to sleep is not one of the fruits. If

Let’s go

BIBLE with Favour

Tioluwani

Email: letsgobible@gmail.com

y list included more tasks than any normal human could accomplish in two days and a few hours.

Even for me, an early riser at six o’clock most mornings, it’s too much, so I decided to prioritize: The events on my list were nonnegotiable because I already made the commitments—bridal shower, family dinner, time with my mom—so everything else had to fit around those. Since we were going on vacation the following week, I really needed to finish my resume beforehand (my vacation also meant I’d be wearing a swimsuit, so I considered getting up 20 minutes early on Saturday to run an extra couple miles). We have to eat, so I’ll fit in the grocery shopping and meal planning on Sunday. On and on this went. By the time I arrived home, I had made an hour-by-hour weekend schedule for myself (a red flag, even for someone who loves a good plan). Reading, the activity that makes me feel the most recharged and sustained, was relegated to the last ten minutes (let’s be real, five minutes) before my eyes slam shut in bed each night. My time with Segun was squeezed into attending church and our family dinner because we would be together anyway Is this my life? My thoughts stirred and turned against me. That’s not prioritizing. Yes, it is. I made a list of all the things I needed to do, and then I decided the most logical order of operations to get it all done. I put the non-negotiable items first. That’s not prioritizing. In that moment, I saw my ideas about prioritizing for what they were: distorted,

brother to stumble is asleep. The man who refuses to obey Christ, just because that act of obedience does not give him heaven, is asleep. Disobedience of any kind makes the wide-awake Christian smart with pain. Dreams: Sleep produces dreams. And there is a kind of dreaming that is good for us. It is well to dream of doing great things for God and humanity. Such castles in the air have become solid structures. But the dreaming which expresses itself in idle speculation and mystical revelry is a sure sign of sleep. It is not uncommon for a sleeping Christian to have a nightmare. He gorges himself with some infidel book or magazine, and no wonder he feels the weight of a black mountain of doubt pressing upon him. Giant Despair, with his foot upon his breast, is crushing the light out of him. If you fill your mental stomach with such pork and cabbage, you may expect to suffer the consequences. Ill-directed effort: People talk and walk in their sleep, but it is all to no purpose. Their talk is incoherent, and their walk without aim. When pastor and people, with all their preaching and activities, have no blessing, it is because they are asleep. Continues in next edition

Pastor Ade-David

•Your Steward: Pastor Jacob Ade-David can be reached at No. 54/56 Okesuna Street, Lagos Island Lagos. Tel: 08023535110, 08023539857,, 08034078158, Email:jacobpastordavid@yahoo.com

A need to read write up unhealthy, and damaging. Prioritizing is not about choosing the correct order of tasks from an insanely long to-do list. Real prioritizing is about choosing what must get done, what can wait, and what actually needs to be scrapped altogether. It’s about sacrificing important tasks to ensure that the most important tasks get the best of my time and energy. I once complained to Segun that I felt as though I constantly had to balance eight to ten priorities at once. Segun responded, “Well, that’s the problem. Priorities are meant to be a few of the most important things. When you prioritize more than that, they are no longer priorities. They’re a task list.” My life has become a task list. If I don’t get control of this now, how will I ever build a strong, healthy marriage? How will I survive raising children? I now believe successful prioritizing starts not with setting boundaries, but with filtering. By first having a strong filter for the endless tasks that could drown me, I can set appropriate boundaries on items that do not make it through the filter. These are the questions I’m asking myself as I relearn prioritizing: Does it honour God and draw me closer to Him? God is explicit about this in his Word. My first priority must be to honour him and put him first. Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:33, “Seek the kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” This sounds very different from my control-oriented mindset in which I decide what’s on my to-do list, and I decide what is most important. By honouring God with my time and giving him the first portion of my energy, I allow him to work in different and better ways than I had planned. Does it make my marriage healthier? My relationship with my husband is the most significant relationship I have on earth. God entrusted me with the heart of a wonderful man. I have the power to build

him up or tear him apart. I have the power to make him feel desired or unwanted. What does it do to his soul when I choose work over intimacy? Conversely, what does it do for our marriage when I affirm him after a difficult day instead of fussing about how he forgot to clean the bathroom? When my priorities are caught up in desires that don’t matter for eternity, I consistently make choices that neglect my husband. When I break this cycle, I breathe life into him. Does it make me healthier? I am a steward of the body God gave me, and it is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). Taking care of my body by cooking healthy meals and making time to exercise shows that I treasure this gift. I want to live a long, healthy life with Segun, and I hope to be healthy enough to take care of my children very well. However, as someone who has struggled with disordered eating and exercise habits, I must set healthy boundaries on this priority and not allow it to reign over everything else. Sometimes prioritizing time with Segun (or prioritizing my sanity when I just can’t stand the idea of cooking another meal) means popping a frozen pizza in the oven or cutting my workout short. (So what if I don’t look perfect in my swimsuit in vacation pictures?) In addition to my physical health, I must prioritize my mental and emotional health. As a deep introvert, I need to make time to be quiet before God, to curl up with a book, and to enjoy solitude. If I don’t, my energy levels become dangerously low, and my nerves frazzle. I snap at my husband and make poor decisions. Quiet time recharges me in a way that allows me to give of myself more freely and graciously. Does it build up my other relationships and God’s kingdom? Again, as a deep introvert, this is difficult for me. But, who at the end of their life would say, “I wish I had spent more time by myself, and less time with my friends.” Let

me be clear: to be a gracious friend, I have to make time for myself. Then, when I’m fully charged, I long to pour out love and grace to those around me Segun and I have a few trusted friends who can pour into our lives, speak truth about our relationship, encourage our souls, and spur us on—and we can do the same for them. If we never make time for these friends, these relationships will stay at the surface, and our marriage could stagnate. I also need to make space to pour into my non-Christian friends. This doesn’t have to be a grand gesture—it can be as simple as obeying the Spirit’s prompting to bring a friend a cup of coffee or send an encouraging email. But when my mind is buzzing with tasks, I miss these whispers. Is it necessary for living? At the end of the day, my husband and I have bills to pay. Rent, student loan debt, and utility bills will still be there no matter how much time I make for Segun, myself, and our friends. I must prioritize being a diligent worker so I reflect Christ in my workplace, and so I can continue to receive a paycheck. There is a fine line, though, between working diligently and letting work consume me. Dan and I are both learning the value of working to live, not living to work, in this season of our marriage. Even as I round out this list of questions, I think of more. I imagine this list will change in different seasons of life: with children, during periods of intense trials or grief, or in times of increased prosperity. For now, these are the questions to which I commit in order to orient my mind to true prioritization and to begin setting healthier boundaries. •You can send in your QUESTIONS and the Holy Spirit will be set to give you the ANSWERS. Barr. (Mrs.) Favour Tioluwani Tel: 08050272259 or 07062738213. Email: letsgobible@gmail.com

From the Pulpit

Sunday November 30, 2014

The inevitable laws of harvest “

he Creator of the universe has put several laws in place to govern the operation of everything. For example, we have the law of gravity: “whatever goes up must come down.” The law of Mathematics states that two parallel lines do not meet. In housekeeping, we are reminded: “as you lay your bed so you will sleep on it.”

The structure and order of things all around us confirm that everything operates on certain laws and principles. God put these laws in place and He Himself chooses to obey them! Of all these laws, there is one that God never allows to fail, even when all else fail. God has bound Himself intricately to the “THE LAW OF HARVEST.”God vowed: “while the earth remains, seedtime and harvest . . . shall not cease” (Gen 8:22). Apostle Paul reiterates: “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life” (Gal 6:78). You have to sow much labour in learning the English alphabet to reap the ability to read and understand the English language and grammar. A farmer must sow seed to have harvest of crops. Couples must sow their individual seed to have a newborn baby. A teacher must teach to become proficient in his or her career. We sow good or bad behaviuor and

reap in kind. It is possible to sow humility or pride, and mercy or hatred and reap accordingly. It is possible to sow spiritual seed too. If we sow indifference to God, we reap the fruit of indifference (Eph 4:17-19). Be careful of what you think. When you sow a thought, you reap an act. When you sow an act, you reap a habit. When you sow a habit, you reap a character. When you sow a character, you reap a destiny. Watch your thoughts! “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things (Phil 4:8). Consider the following inevitable laws of harvest: Law One: We reap only what has been sown. All of our current life comes from antecedent life: from the labour and sowing of God, others, or ourselves. This could be positive or negative. We benefit from what we did not labour for. We enter into the labor of others either for good or for bad. This is the law of the harvest. Every good gift we enjoy comes from God (Acts 17:24-28; James 1:17). He gives us grace and mercy. His supreme gift is Jesus Christ (John 3:16). We must receive with thanksgiving! All of your actions today are seed that will yield harvest for your posterity. The liberty we enjoy today was purchased by the blood, sacrifices, and efforts of our pioneers. The current decay in our nation stems from the antecedents of our leaders. Your choices today have far-reaching implications on the lives of your children, family members, co-workers, and friends (2 Chron 17:3; John 13:15; 1 Thess 1:7; 2 Thess 3:7-9; 1 Tim 4:12; Titus 2:7). Be a trail blazer. Live your life in a way that posterity will praise you. Edward Gibson, in

his 1787 book: The Decline and fall of the Roman Empire, enumerated the causes of the fall of the Roman Empire. These include among others: the rapid increase of divorce; the undermining of the dignity and sanctity of the home, which is the basis of human society. He also included the mad craze for pleasure. We are towing the same line today! We are reminded to sow only what is good; maintain moral responsibility, be vigilant, and prayerful. Law Two: We reap in the same kind we sow. That is, what you sow is what you reap. You cannot plant mango tree and expect to harvest tomatoes. This is in sync with the principle of reproduction. The Creator God created everything “after their kind” (Gen 1:11-12, 21, 24-25). This is true in the physical, biological, and zoological world as well as in the spiritual world. “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh shall from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit shall from the Spirit reap eternal life” (Gal 6:7-8). What we sow, we reap. Do not expect a crop failure! Your lifestyle will catch up with you. Law 3: We reap in a different season than we sow. There is an appointed time for everything” (Eccl 3:1-8). Rome was not built in a day. Children and plants do not grow overnight. No “overnight success” among athletes and artists. Each has had months, even years of practice and preparations. Often times when we do not see the immediate results, we think we have escaped something. Not so! “Because the sentence against an evil deed is not executed quickly, therefore the hearts of

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the sons of men among them are given fully to do evil. Although a sinner does evil a hundred times and may lengthen his life, still I know that it will be well for those who fear God, who fear Him openly (Eccl 8:11-12). This self-oriented instant gratification get-rich-quick society preaches:“do your own thing,” or “to thine own self be true.” We have instant everything: instant tea, instant oat meal, quick rice, driveby meals, and microwave cooking. Technology allows us to communicate instantly across the globe in seconds. We can now commute faster than our forefathers. Consequently, we are deceived into expecting immediate harvest from every act of sowing. Not that quick. The Bible teaches: “And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time/season we shall reap if we do not grow weary” (Gal 6:9). “Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him” (Ps 37:79; 130:5-6). Wait with faith and patience (James 5:7-9). Do not faint. Pray. “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Cor 15:58). Your harvest is coming! Tunde Ojewole, PhD, is the Babcock University Pastor in charge: Division of Spiritual Life. Get your copy of the newly released book: GOD’S FOOTPRINTS. For enquiries, contact: ojewolea@babcock.edu.ng or call/ SMS 08058299434/08060376577. Answers to 23/11/14 Quiz 1. About 30 years. 2. Grace. 3. Locusts and wild honey. Quiz For This Week 1. Which Bible passage says in KJV. “Evil communication corrupts...” Complete the sentence. 2. Who lived longest in the Bible times? 3. Jesus teaches us to forgive how many times daily? Supply the passage.

Truth every leader must know and apply (7) (The Coach) Pastor Moses A Omogbehin

Continued from last edition 63 As a leader, you must learn how to become an effective leader. What is effective leader? The ability to gather a group of individuals together in order to become a team and to achieve the following purposes or aims: • To correct • To inspire • To give instruction • To rebuke • Initiate a positive change • To be focus • Be positive oriented, etc. 1 Chron. 11:10-18, I Sam 22:1-3 64 As a leader, you must carefully select your followers - 1Sam 30:9-10. 65 Be a courageous leader always irrespective of the present situation -1Sam. 30:1-6. 66 The essence of a true leadership is as follows: i. To train your follower(s) ii. To develop your follower(s) iii. To grow your follower(s) iv. To correct your follower(s) v. To listen your follower(s) vi. To bear their burden when it is necessary vii. To release your followers to fulfill their God’s given vision if there is need. 67 As a leader, when you train your followers, you stand to gain the following:

i. The ministry we gain good speed ii. The ministry will grow spiritual, financially, emotionally, socially, etc. iii. There will be perfect peace iv. You as a leader would fulfill purposes v. Your followers will also fulfill their God’s given vision. 68 As a leader, you must learn or know the different between correction and criticism. i. Criticism is not totally bad as it were because in every criticism there is an element of truth. ii. Sometimes criticism is based on misconception, misunderstanding, hatred, evil plot, ignorance of a particular man or ministry, disagreement, etc. iii. Correction builds while criticism that is not constructive destroys. iv. The root of every godly correction is mainly based on divine love and perfection. 69 As a leader, always practice your teaching and preaching or always put what you are teaching and preaching to work. 70 Leadership is a re-cycle: You are to serve people who had gone ahead of you or know more than you do before someone (follower) will serve you. 71 As a wise leader, you must not joke or take the place of warfare in your destiny and ministry for granted. Why? Life is a battlefield not a funfair. Life is warfare not a playing field. The battle we are fighting as leaders (G.Os) is headed by the devil. Who is the devil? Let us have a brief introduction of who the devil is and his names. Devil’s names are: 1. Satan - Job 1:6 2. Accuser of the brethren

2:2

3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Adversary - 1Pet. 5:8 Angel of the bottomless pit - Rev. 9:11 Belial - 2Cor. 5:15 Beelzebub - Matt. 12:24 God of this world - 2 Cor. 4:4 Murderer - John 8:44 Prince of devil - Matt. 12:24 Prince of the power of the air - Eph.

11. Principalities, power, ruler of darkness, wicked spirits - Eph. 6:1 12. Abandon - Rev. 9:11 13. Father of lies - John 8:44 14. Lucifer - Isa 14:12, Ezk. 28:13-15 15. The wicked one - Matt. 13:19 16. Unclean spirit - Matt. 12:43 17. The temper - Matt. 4:3 18. The old Serpent - Gen. 3:4 19. Devil - John 6:70 20. Prince of world - John 14:30 21. Prince the deceiver - Rev. 12:9e Hear this: “And there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon: and the dragon fought and his angels, and prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that Old Serpent called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast with him” - Rev. 12:7-9. Note how the devil was introduced according to the book of Ezekiel 28:11-17: “Moreover the word of the lord came unto me, saying, son of man, take up a lamentation upon the King of Tyrus, and say unto Him, Thus saith the Lord God; Thou Sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty. Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering, the Sardis, topaz, and diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald and the carbuncle and gold: the work man ship of thy tabret and of thy pipes

was prepared in thee in the day that thou was created. Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so: thou waist upon the Holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire. Thou hast perfect in thy ways from the day thou hast created, till iniquity was found in thee. By the multitude of thy merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast sinned: therefore I will cast thee as profane out of the mountain of God: and I will destroy thee, o covering cherub, from the mist of the stones of fire. Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by the reason of thy brightness: I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before Kings, that they may behold thee”. 72 I) Every leader must be a man of vision. What is vision? The mental picture of a future. It is vision that gives you a clue or knowledge of the future. ii) Vision is what you stand for and you are a ready to sacrifice all your life for. Note: Having a great vision is noting, it is the application of it that bring you into the reality (Testimony, blessing, connecting, honour, relevance, fulfillment, etc). You are never remembered for what you did not do. The world will only celebrate a man who bless and impacted their destiny positively - Prov 29:18; Lk. 18: 1-5. Continues in next edition •I know this teaching has blessed and imparted you. Please, write and share your testimony with me through: Covenant and Fulfillment Ministries, 10, Onuwusasoigwe Close, Hostel Bus Stop, Egbe, Ikotun, Lagos. Email: omogbehin31@yahoo.com or Call: 08034980921, 08054120540

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Text: Judges 6: 1-18 and Judges 11: 1-11

hen you act against the instruction of God, you end up in the den of the enemies - Judges 6: 1-5. That means you lose your inheritance, your position as a child of God. Every time a believer is dipping his hand in sin, he is heading for the ditch (pit). God sent a prophet to the Israelites to deliver them from the hand of their oppressors i.e. the Midianites and the Amalekites. Gideon offered a sacrifice unto the Lord to appease him - Judges 6:18- 29. The offering (sacrifice) of the Israelites was acceptable unto God - Numbers 31: 1-10. The Midianites were destroyed by Israelites under the leadership of Moses. Ammon the son of David slept with her sister Tamar and he was killed by Absalom -2 Sam 13: 6. Every time you dip your hand in sin, you are only inviting death unto yourself- Heb 11: 3538: The wages of sin - Judges 7:7- 14. My people are destroyed for lack of

Endtime Revelation with Bishop Bernard

Ojemeni (JP)

n this today’s write-up, I will be discussing one of the greatest End-time Revelation concerning the organization that will produce the anti-Christ, the superman who will rule the globe through the instrumentality of the New World Order (N.W.O.). The New World Order no doubt is the apparatus of the anti-Christ to rule the world. The Bible predicted a total of 7 Gentile World Powers that will dominate Israel of which the last is the future Fortress Europe or United State of Europe before the government of Jesus Christ will take over the governments of the earth, with Jerusalem as the Headquarters in the millennium. The number seven stands for completeness or bringing to an end. In history we read the fulfillment of the prophecies that have been fulfilled at one point or the other. Some of these nations that have dominated Israel, the dates of their prophetic fulfillment are quite known to us from historical records. No wonder the best spiritual definition of History is His - story i.e. God’s story told in advance. It is whenever His – story told in advance in form of prophecy fulfils we call it History. In Genesis 15:13-14, God said to Abram that his seed would be a stranger in the land of Egypt and be oppressed for 400 years after which He would deliver them by punishing the Egyptians. This prediction fulfilled in about 1206 B.C. and that was when Joseph asked his father Jacob to come to Egypt with all the members of his family having been made a governor in Egypt. For 30 years, the children of Jacob or Israel were not under oppression. They were living in the land of Goshen in Egypt as Joseph’s family members, and so they were well catered for. It was after the death of Joseph, that a new Pharaoh who did not know Joseph came up

From the Pulpit

Sunday November 30, 2014

Turning oppression to victory Prophet Lai Bamidele, General Overseer of Christ Glorious End Time Evangelical Church, AbuleEgba, Lagos, in this exhortation, explains how praise can turn struggle to testimony. Excerpts:

Pastor Bamidele

knowledge - Hosea 4: 6. When you lack knowledge, you will be faced with the oppression of the

devil. It is your revelation that determines your revolution. Oppression can come when you engage yourself in sinful acts. It is the level of your understanding that determines your victory. In Genesis 39: 10-20, Joseph chose not to destroy himself by running from the sexual harassment of his master’s wife. If you look at the scriptures he eventually overcame the oppression of his master’s wife and he ended up in victory. What are the sources of oppression? (1) Fear: Fear is a spirit. Oppression is spirit. In Job 3: 25, it was the fear of Job that affected him. Those who fear them fall. To overcome fear is to over-

come oppression. (2) Sin: Proverbs 14: 34 says, “Righteousness exalts a nation but sin is a reproach”. Every time a believer is walking in the route of sin, he/she will end up being oppressed by the devil. Rom 6:23 says the wages of sin is death. Every time a sinner is dipping his hand in sin, he is inviting death. (3) Bitterness: When you carry the spirit of envy and bitterness, you will end up being oppressed. Many believers keep an unforgiving spirit. Remember bitterness leads to envy and envy leads to murder. So stop being bitter about your neighbour. •For counselling, contact: Pst_lai@yahoo. com. Phone: 0807448415, 08027502864 and 08161285586

Europe as last Gentile World Power Bishop Bernard Chukwuma Mbamalu Ojemeni, General Superintendent of Endtime Believers’ Ministry Inc, in this piece, gives insight on the last Gentile World power. Excerpts: and started oppressing the Israelites before Moses was born and God used him to deliver them. And so when you add the 30 years of Joseph’s reign and the 400 years of oppression, you will have a total of 430 years as the period Israel was in Egypt. Exodus 12:40-41. The next Gentile World power to dominate Israel was Assyria for about 200 years in about 806 B.C. Isaiah 10:24; Jeremiah 50:17-18. The popular Kings of Assyria were Shalmaneser and Semmancherib. II Kings 18:9, 11-13. The 3rd Gentile World Power to dominate Israel is Babylon for 70 years in about 621 B.C. Jeremiah 25:29-10. In Daniel Chapter 2, the Lord showed king Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon the remaining 5 Gentile World Powers in their sequence starting with Babylon as the head of gold. Daniel 2:37-38. Medo-Persia as arms and chest of silver. Daniel 2:39. The leaders were Darius and Cyrus. Daniel 5:3031; 6:28; 8:20-25. Grecce as belly and thighs of bronze. Daniel 2:32. Their leader was Alexander the great in 333 B.C., dominated Israel for about 270 years. Daniel 2:39; 8:21; 10:20. Rome as the two legs of iron was on the world stage in about 63 B.C. Daniel 2:40; Luke 2:1. Augustus Caeser was the emperor ruling the world when Jesus was born. Rome was on the world’s stage for about 500 years. The imperial system of Rome suffered a set-back. But according to the Bible prophecy Rome is going to come back in the latter days as the last world power as Revised Rome otherwise known as Fortress Europe Daniel 2:41-45. Here the Bible predicts the emergence of 10 nation European confederacy in the last days that will be on the world’s stage when Christ will return. The ten nations will come from the old Roman boundaries. Note the toes of the image of the man in the vision are made up of mixture of iron and clay. Remember the Bible says in the days of these kings shall the God of Heaven set up a kingdom which shall not

be destroyed and the kingdom shall not be left for other people but the saints of God shall possess the kingdom. The stone that demolished the image represents the coming of Jesus Christ to take over the governments of this world. The prophecy says “the dream is certain, and its interpretation is sure”. Note: The stone landed on the ten toes being the reigning world power and subsequently destroyed all the influences of the past world powers together. In Daniel chapter 7, the Lord gave the same progression of the world empires in form of wild beasts beginning with Babylon to the Revised Rome. The ten horns of the 4th indescribable beast refer to the Revised Rome. That is the 10 Nation European confederacy that will rule the world during the 70th week of Daniel’s prophecy i.e. the last 7 years. In Revelation 17:12-14, the Bible says, “And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast”. These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast. These shall make war with the Lamb and the Lamb shall overcome them. For He is Lord of lords and King of kings: and they that are with Him are called, and chosen, and faithful. Note: The ten kings of these ten nations is yet a future event. But one thing is obvious and that is they will rule at the same time with the anti-Christ before Christ and His saints will invade the earth to overthrow the anti-Christ and his government, immediately after the tribulation of those days. Matthew 24:29-31. The question is when will this last world power be on the world’s stage? Is there any sign that the Revised Rome or Fortress Europe will soon become the last world power? Yes. In the year 1957, a number of countries (6) in number namely – Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg and Netherlands from the old

Roman boundaries met in Rome to form European Economic Community (EEC). The treaty of Rome established European Economy Community – EEC in 1957 and has its objective as follows: The Economic and political unification of Europe to be founded on a large single market. As far back as 1957, EEC had the plan that in the near future, they would have a single currency which will be followed by political unification. The question of Europe single currency is now a history. In 1st January 1999 they introduced Euro and were using it alongside with the national currencies of the member nations until 1st July 2002 when they phased off their national currencies in favour of Euro, with 16 nations, member block as at 2002. In addition to the original 6 member nations are as follows: In 1973 – Britain, Denmark and Ireland joined making them 9. In 1981 – Greece joined making them 10. In 1986, Portugal and Spain joined making them 12. In 1995, Austria, Finland and Sweden joined making them 15. In 2001, Switzerland joined making them 16. In 2004 – Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithunia, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia joined them making them 26. In 2007 – Romania joined them making them 27. In 2013 – Croatia joined them making them 28. Today, there are 28 Nations that make up European Union. No matter the number of the nations that will still join them, all we know is that in the fullness of time, 10 nations out of the original 12 as represented by their symbols – (stars in circle form) will work with the anti-Christ. Continues in next edition •For further information, contact us at: Endtime Believers’ Ministry Inc.16/18, Johnson Street, off Kajola Street, Yakoyo, Lagos. Tel: 08023261219, 09095268897, 08036116881; Email: bishop.bernard@yahoo.com

From the Pulpit Chapel of Holiness and Testimony with Pastor K. I.

Bona

e give all praise to God Almighty that in His mercy He has delayed the rapture till this generation. His reason being to give humanity enough time to repent since it is not His wish that any soul should perish. Romans 2:4 says, “Or despisest thou, the riches of his goodness and forbearance and long-suffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.” You see as it was in the days of the Apostles, so it is in our own days today, a lot of people are despising the riches of the grace of God, in waiting for them to repent. Many instead of repenting get worse with sinning and many others wrongs and dirty life styles. They are saying, there is nothing like rapture, ever since they were born, every thing has remained the same. Beside they have been hearing of rapture and other end time stories, but nothing has happened. But they failed to realize what the Bible said that these delays as they may consider it, is only showing the long suffering and forbearance of God in waiting for their repentance.

How will rapture take place? The word of God told us that it will take place in a moment, in a twinkling of an eye. At the last trumpet sounds. When the trumpet is sounded the dead in Christ shall first rise. Who are the dead in Christ? They are all those men, women, youth and children who died righteously, those who were born again before their death, those who died in plane crash, motor accident, fire disaster or any other form of accident, those who died in the seas, river, ocean, those who were killed by wicked men, those who died by charms and poison, those who died in wars, diseases and any other form of deathho where in Christ before their death shall all arise first. Then we who are alive shall be immediately changed and transformed at the same sounding of the last trumpet, by the Arch Angel. Those who are changed shall meet our Lord Jesus in the clouds to be with Him for ever. However, it is not all the Christians that will hear the trumpet sound, when it will be sounded, except them that are born again with the incorruptible seed of the word of God who has the indwelling Holy Spirit in them. The presence of Holy Spirit in a life of a Christians gives him/her the grace to hear the trumpet.

Sunday Mirror Sunday November 30, 2014 www.nationalmirroronline.net

The End Time (7)

That is why it is expedient that every child of God should be endowed with the Holy Spirit. Ephesians chapter 1:13-14 says, “In whom ye also trusted after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. In whom also after that ye believed ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise. Which is the earnest of our inheritance, until the redemption of the purchased possession into the praise of his glory”. You see that the Holy Spirit is the rubber stamp of God in the life of every Child of God, sealing them for the day of rapture. It is therefore only Christians who were sealed with this divine seal could hear the trumpet sound. The divine sealing makes one eligible for divine transformation. Beloved, how prepared are you to all these? The only preparation you can do now is to go for the incorruptible seed of the word of God. The word of God dwellings richly in you, gives access to the Holy Spirit. For where the spirit is, is where the word is, and where the word is, the spirit is there also. A lot of Christians shall be disappointed because though they had gone about prophesying their faith as Christians, yet they were void of the Holy Spirit. The unfortunate thing about this is that many Christians do not even know whether they have the Holy Spirit or not. But how do you know a company, is it not from the product? How do you know a tree, is not from its fruit? You will also know a Christian who has the Holy Sprit by his/ her character. Who are you dear child of God especially in secret? What are your hobbies? How reactive are you when you are offended? What is your attitude towards spiritual things in the house of God, such as fasting, prayer, evangelism, visitation, bible studies, family altars and your quiet time? Is prayer a burden for you? Or rather is any of the above spiritual activities a burden to you? Then you do not have the Holy Spirit. Are you a Christian but you love worldliness, fashion, cosmetic, disco dancing, cinema halls, power, politics, chieftaincy titles, and other such related worldliness, then you are void of the Holy Spirit. May be you are a Christian but you are being controlled by lust, or you are full of pride of life then you have not the Holy Spirit. Are you a gossiper, backbiter, or slanderer? Are you full of envy and jealousy? Anyone who is controlled by all or any of these things cannot be a friend of the Holy Spirit. Are you an adulterer or adulteress? You can not have the Holy Spirit; rapture is not for you as well.

In the epistle of James 4:4, it is written, “You adulterers and adulteresses know you not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God. Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God”. In 1st John chapter 2:15 -17, it is written, “ Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world, if any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever” Eternity in Christ is not earned by mere wishes, or rather by mere identifying of one’s self as a Christian belonging to one known denomination. Instead it is a reward from God to them that do the will of God. Those who do the will of God are those that are being controlled by the Holy Spirit. For how can one know the mind of God or even do the will of God, except he/ she is filled with the Holy Spirit. “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord for as much as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord” -1st Corinthians 15:58. When will rapture take place? The Bible expressly made us to understand that the time and the hour is not known. Even Jesus the Son of God, testified that He does not know the hour and time. But it will come like a thief in the night. That is the more reason why we have to get prepared now being that the exact time of His coming is unknown. Ist Thessalonians 5:1-3 says, “But the times and seasons brethren ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourself known perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say peace and safety, the sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child and he shall not escape”. To the world it will come to them as a sudden destruction, but to the saints it will come to us as the fulfillment of divine promise. This is because we are already aware of it and we are waiting for it earnestly. That is why the Bible called us the

BSN tasks parents on child responsibility ODINAKA URUAKPA

arents, especially fathers, have been urged to teach their children the word of God, so that when they grow up, they will turn out to be good leaders who can transform the country and lead followers in the right direction.

This charge was given by the Assistant General Secretary of BSN Publishing, Pastor Victor Damilare, at the finals of the national Secondary School Bible quiz competition organised by the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) recently in Lagos. According to the cleric, the motive of the competition is for the students whom he said are going to become the leaders of tomorrow to have the word of God, not only in their heads but also in their hearts.

He said: “The essence of this competition is to inculcate the word of God in the youth because so many worldly things such as playing games on the internet and watching cable television occupy their time. It is only when these young ones have the word of God in their hearts that they can grow in the fear of God and at the end become agents of transformation for the country. Nigeria as it is is in dire need of real leaders and not looters, who know the word of God and who can lead the citizens in the right direction which is God’s way. The Bible told us in the book of Deuteronomy that we should teach our children in the way of the Lord, so that when they grow up they will not depart from it”. Speaking on the role of parents in raising their children to become true agents of transfor-

mation, Damilare said most of the time, it is the women that are left with the job of bringing the young ones up in the home and this he insisted is not in line with the word of God. “It is the responsibility of both parents to teach their children the word of God, but it is unfortunate that people are turning the word of God upside down. These days, mothers assume it is the responsibility to take care of the children; the Bible does not support this, God didn’t ask the mothers, rather it is the fathers that he mandated to take care of the children. The Bible states ‘how will I hide this from Abraham; for I know, he is going to train his children in the way of the Lord,’ so it is the fathers that are responsible to train

children of light. Children of light because the Holy Ghost had already told us about what will happen. All we are doing is just hoping and waiting for Him by faith. Beloved, if your denomination does not believe in the second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, leave that denomination, they will lead you to hell. Go to the church that believes and teaches the second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. In 1st John 4:2-3, it is written, “Hereby known ye the spirit of God. Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God. And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God; and this is that spirit of ant-Christ, where of ye have heard that it should come and even now already is in the world”. Therefore any spirit that confesseth in reality that Jesus Christ came in the flesh to die for the world will also teach that Jesus Christ will come in the flesh the second time not do die again but to gather his elects in glory. May the good God give us grace to make rapture in the name of Jesus Christ. Remain blessed continue next week. Pray like this Any celebration going on in the witchcraft coven or any other spiritual realms to wipe away my celebration this season, host of heaven scatter them by fire in the name Jesus Christ. Testimony The great provider remembered me The word of God says that seek ye first the kingdom of God, every other thing shall be added unto you, I am a worker in the house of God. Early this year the man of God prophesied to my wife that he saw her established here in Lagos. Then last month, he prophesied to me that I am going to live in plenty for God to honour his word. Surprisingly, a far relation whom I have never set my eyes on before called from USA and asked my wife what type of business would she want to do? After the discussion, he paid a very huge amount of money in my account which will be enough for my wife to establish her business. Glory be to God! Bro. Chigbo •Pastor K. I. Bona is General Overseer of Chapel of Holiness and Testimony Ministries, 6 David Egbetuyi Street, Fagbile Ijegun, Ikotun, Lagos. Tel:08038206508, 08023404926

these children in the world and in the way of the Lord”, he maintained. The quiz was keenly contested as Prestige Educational Centre, Port Harcourt, Rivers State

NEWS emerged winners of the competition, while Mary Summer Juniorate, Okpofe, Imo State was first runner-up and Kishi Community Grammar School, Oyo State came third.

L-R: Chairman, 2014 anniversary committee, Mr. Sanya Ajibade; Assembly Pastor, Oluwadare Folorunsho; Baba Ijo, Kola Akinlade; General Evangelist, Christ Apostolic Church Worldwide, Prophet Samuel Abiara; Iya Ijo, Mrs. Adetoun Bolarinwa; and secretary, CAC, Agbala Itura, Mrs. Fowowe Komolafe during the 29thanniversary/thanksgiving service of CAC Agbala Itura, Oke Odo, Lagos recently.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

STORIES THAT TOUCH YOU Sunday November 30 2014

Nasarawa: Ombatse, its casualties and a gov’s peace moves IGBAWASE UKUMBA LAFIA

ecent crises in Nasarawa State had been occasioned by the activities of a weird cult known as Ombatse and headed by its Capone, Baba Alakyo. In one of such attacks, economic activities such as banking services and marketing were completely paralysed as there was a mass exodus of people from the city centres to places like Nasarawa Eggon, Akwanga and neighboring states of Benue, Plateau and even, the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, for dear life. An eyewitness had told Sunday Mirror that the remote cause of the latest crisis started after some fleeing Ombatse militiamen were booed at by Gwandara youths at Shabu town for starting a fight they are now running away from. The Ombatse militia members were reported to have been provoked by the action of the Gwandara youths and consequently shot sporadically in the air and in the process, a bullet caught up with a woman who was also a refugee from Arikya village where over30 persons were allegedly killed by Fulani marauders sometime ago. Consequent upon that, one Mr. Samaila Hudu, who had claimed to be fixing his motorcycle in Shabu town as at the time of the attack, narrated that shortly after the first contingent of Ombatse left Shabu town after being booed, they mobilised their members and returned in their hundreds, shooting at anyone in sight; hence forcing inhabitants of the community to scamper for safety. Similarly, Beatrice Sunday whom the car she was travelling in was stopped at Shabu said, “The Ombatse militia stopped and searched every vehicle that passed as at the time of the crisis even as they killed anyone who had the resemblance of a Fulani man. Two people were pulled out of the Sienna bus we were traveling in and butchered. In fact, they started butchering the one sitting at the back

( Clockwise) Fleeing villagers; an aged victim; Governor Al-Makura seat with me, even when he was still alighting and that is why you are seeing blood all over my body,” she recounted in tears to Sunday Mirror. The devastating Shabu crisis soon had spillover effect on the state capital at about 9:30am when a group of Kambari youths in Lafia metropolis were alleged to have accosted a traveller from Barikin Abdullahi village, stripping him and setting him ablaze alongside his motorcycle thus setting the stage for a string of other security breaches that followed throughout the day. Following that, aggrieved Eggon youths immediately mobilised and launched a counter- attack to avenge the killing of their kindred which consequently left seven persons critically wounded and one dead with most of the injured rushed to Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital (DASH) on motorcycles, before the arrival of joint military patrol teams to restore peace. Governor Umaru Al-Makura who was so devastated at the rate which the crises in the state have escalated despite many peaceful initiatives had to ride on the tiger’s back by visiting the areas engulfed in

the Lafia upheavals personally at about the same time the burnings were taking place. The popular Angbas hospital was also burnt down after the patients were asked by attackers to evacuate the premises. It was also gathered that houses belonging to one Mrs. Cecilia Azgaku, principal of Government Secondary School (GSS) Atabula, and one Pastor A. Bello, were burnt down. The Lafia crisis however, took a surprising and worri-

some dimension when the irate Kambari hoodlums set the building of Methodist Church, Tudun Gwandara ablaze, introducing a religious angle to crisis that was originally seen as ethnic. Even though the Nasarawa communal violence was reported to have predated the administration of Governor Al-Makura, on assumption of duty, the governor saw it as imperative to see to the end of the lingering violence in the state when his first official assignment on the second day of

b e i n g swornin in J u n e 2011 was at Yelewata village, a border town in Benue state, where he attended a joint peace meeting between Nasarawa and Benue state governments, looking for solution to the lingering herdsmen and farmers’ crises along the border line of the two states. This is even as the governor had instituted a judicial panel of inquiry into the massacre of over 70 law enforcement agents made up of the police and the State Security Service, SSS, in May, 2013 at Alakyo village by the outlawed Ombatse cult group. The panel had since concluded its findings and submitted its report to the state government which implementation has since begun. It may interest one to know that the panel in its report had indicted notable persons in the state of either aiding or abetting most of the crises.

Civil Service

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

SOTU, AMHiN urge Jonathan to sign Health Bill TOLA AKINMUTIMI ABUJA

Pan-African Civil Society Organisation, the State of the Union, SOTU, and Accountability for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health in Nigeria, AMHiN, committed to transparency and accountability in governance, yesterday called on President Goodluck Jonathan to assent to the National Health Bill 2014 in view of the far-reaching positive implications for the nation’s health sector. The groups noted that

enactment of the Bill into law would help the country in addressing major health challenges it is currently grappling with, especially following the lessons from the recent Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, for the country. A statement joint issued by SOTU’s Project Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Okeke Anya, and AMHiN’s Chioma Blessing Kanu, pointed out that whilst the celebration Nigeria recorded on the EVD scourge is still on, a vital lesson that the EVD experience had brought to the fore, is the need to urgent-

ly develop a framework that effectively addresses the many challenges afflicting the healthcare sector. While recalling that the Health Bill had been passed by the National Assembly two times and forwarded for the President’s assent, the groups stated that the Bill, if signed into law by him, will become a veritable framework for driving the nation’s sector forward and by implication improve the nation’s life expectancy. Specifically, they listed some of the key benefits to the country’s health

sector as the provisions for the establishment of a National Health System anchored on the principles of coordination, collaboration and shared responsibility; recognition of the Right to good healthcare for Nigerians; and requirement for appropriate classification of all health establishments and healthcare technologies in the country. Others are its provision for incorporation into the National Health System a stratified framework that goes all the way down to the Local, Wards and Village Health Committees,

and makes the establishment, construction, modification, acquisition, operation and/or expansion of any healthcare institutions in the country and the provision of prescribed healthcare services and/or the acquisition of any prescribed health technology by any healthcare institution in Nigeria. The CSOs stated: “The transmission of the Bill to President Jonathan on 28 October makes the 2nd time that the Bill would go to him for his consideration and assent. “Previously it went to him in 2011, shortly be-

fore the elections and by coincidence it is also back on his desk, about three months before another round of national elections for which he proposes to stand as the candidate of the ruling party. “The Bill has so many positives that space constraints would not enable us discuss extensively. Nigeria in getting this bill assented to will be in line with its commitment to the Africa Health Strategy 2007-2015 adopted in Abuja in 2007 and the Maputo Plan of Action on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights”, they added.

Foundation solicits support for less privileged ODINAKA URUAKPA

L-R: Member, Board of Advisers, Ajesola Solarin Majekodunmi Foundation, Engr. Layi Adegbola; guest speaker, Oluwatoyin Ademola; the founder, Prof. Ajesola Majekodunmi; chairman of the occasion, Sir Teju Ogunjimi and the foundation’s Board of Trustees Chairman, Prof. Soga Sofola, at the 2013/2014 scholarship awards/fund raising of the organization held at the UNILAG, Akoka, Yaba, Lagos, recently.

ICT firm trains 80 participants from 8 varsities HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE

s part of efforts toward the development of Information and Communication Technology, ICT, in the country, a two weeks intensive training workshop has been put together by Intel Corporation which trained over eighty participants from eight universities across the country with the use of Intel Galileo Board. The training workshop which was held at Federal

University of Technology Akure ,FUTA, had participating schools from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria; Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State; Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State; Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ekiti State; Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Ondo State. Others include the Federal University of Science and Technology Owerri, FUTO, Imo State and the University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara State.

Speaking at the event, a member of Intel Education Service Corps, Wolf Witt, said that Intel Corporation was committed towards contributing to engineering and technology development at FUTA and Nigeria as a whole Witt said: “Engineering is the process of applying science to create technology that solves real problems and thereby makes our lives better. Two weeks is not a lot of time to learn and integrate many new software and hardware concepts, and

I wish we could have shared more”. Also speaking during the training session, the Corporate Affairs Manager, Intel Nigeria, Babatunde Akinola, commended the participants for embracing the opportunity and for the enthusiasm demonstrated during the training period. He charged them to be innovative by exploring opportunities and potentials that can be derived with the use of the Intel Galileo Board, saying “Galileo is a platform for you to express yourself.

igerians have been called upon to assist poor but intelligent indigenes of their communities in their academic pursuit so that in doing this, the recipients through their excellent performance, can bring positive change to and turn the nation’s fortunes to good. This charge was made by the Chairman Board of Trustees, Ajesola Solarin Majekodunmi Foundation, Prof. Soga Sofola, during the 2013/2014 Scholarship Awards/ Fundraising by the Ajesola Solarin Majekodunmi Foundation (ASMAF) held at the Julius Berger Auditorium University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos. Sofola while pleading with the those in authority to rise up to their responsibilities by providing the much deserved comfort and facilities to drive economic empowerment in the country and society also called on parents, guardians and stakeholders in the economy to counsel youths left in their care towards living

lives worthy of emulation by being exemplary role models from whom these young ones can borrow a leaf from. He, in conjunction with other dignitaries such as Sir Teju Ogunjimi KJW, Chairman of the day, Engr. Layi Adegbola, member, Board of Advisers of the Foundation, the Founder, Prof. Ajesola Majekodunmi and guest Speaker, Oluwatoyi Ademola among others, expressed profound gratitude to Nigerians, friends and associates of the foundation, whose dogged strides, have improved the lots of others as well as actualize the age long dreams of the recipients. Recipients included Bose Odeyanro, Chemical Engineering student of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Mary Pamilerin Olopade from University of Ibadan and Cherie Amaka Emewusin, from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The event was well attended by dons, stakeholders from different disciplines, students from different institutions and third in the foundation’s series.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

IIn the Patio

Kayode Fasua

kayfasua@yahoo.com (08034101207; SMS only, pls)

t the recent convocation ceremony of the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka, was reported to have exclaimed, “Oh! The University of Maiduguri has disappeared”. The varsity, with the acronym, UNIMAID, is located in the capital of war-torn Maiduguri, Borno State. Despite that over 5,000 persons have so far died in the state of Borno, owing to the Boko Haram insurgency, it is appalling to note that walking on corpses to their campaign stumps, politicians still manage to launch crusades, promising heaven and earth to a people waiting for the next bomb to explode. But recapitulating the days of modern yore, in the early 80s when Borno was still Borno, here is an interesting story that would naturally transport you to the political glory of once didactic state:

His full name is Abdurrahman Shugaba Darman, an Alhaji and a grassroots politician from Maiduguri, Borno State. He was born in 1920. However, folks in his native home simply called him by his middle name, Shugaba. This politician, who cut his political teeth in the 1950s, was a contemporary of the late Sir Ahmadu Bello. When the military returned power

Opinion

Sunday November 30 2014

When Borno was Borno... to the civilians in 1979, after a 13-year stint, Shugaba simply allied with Alhaji Waziri Ibrahim, the leader of Great Nigeria People’s Party (GNPP) and was thus a founding member of the party. On the platform of the party, he was elected as a member of the Borno State House of Assembly in 1979, where he also became the House Majority Leader. But while in the House, Shugaba proved a thorn in the flesh of the President Shehu Shagari-led National Party of Nigeria (NPN) which ruled at the centre. He was regarded as a threat by the ruling party, especially as he was a charismatic politician who attracted large crowds at political rallies. The crowds, usually stirred by his speeches, were said to be fond of chanting political war songs or songs that fanned his adulation, which to the rival NPN, was turning Waziri, his party leader, and himself to folk heroes, to the detriment of the NPN’s aspiration to dislodge the GNPP from Borno, a northern state considered strategic. And on January 24, 1980, Immigration officials, in the wee hours of the day, stormed Shugaba’s Maiduguri home and arrested him. They brought with them a deportation order signed by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Alhaji Bello Maitama. The deportation order entitled, “Shugaba Abdurrahman Darman’s Deportation Order 1980”, stated among other things that “…Shugaba Abdurrahman Darman at present in Nigeria ought to be clas-

sified as a prohibited immigrant” and also that “Shugaba Abdurrahman be deported from Nigeria by the first available means….” Shugaba was as such deported to a village in Chad. The government claimed that his father was a Chadian, hence he was from Chad. During the subsequent court case he filed to challenge the deportation order, the government brought a Chadian woman who claimed that Shugaba was her biological son whom she wanted back. While making this claim, this woman was weeping profusely. Shugaba denied knowing the woman and claimed that his mother was alive and well known in Maiduguri, even though her sight was now poor. The deportation elicited public outcries, especially in the media, as it was widely alleged that the man is a victim of political vendetta. And in response to the public outcry against the deportation, the government instituted a oneman tribunal of inquiry presided over by Justice P.C Okpanbo. The NPN government and President Shehu Shagari in particular, on the surface, displayed that they were concerned about the negative publicity the issue was generating and also about attempts in the media to mock government’s sincerity in setting up a one-man tribunal. And government as such, gave the tribunal the mandate to sit in any place of its choice. An autobiography, ‘Shehu Shagari: My Vision of Nigeria’, recalls the Shugaba episode, thus, “An important constitutional issue which arose early in 1980

efforts and commitment of the present administration to see to its passage is chosen as the focal issue of this write up which, essentially is intended to tickle public consciousness about the present state of the Bill and what is needed to ensure its passage into law before the expiration of the life of the 7th National Assembly next year. A cursory appraisal of the recent initiatives embarked upon by the present administration showed that on her assumption of office, the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Allison-Madueke, has prioritized the passage of the Bill amongst other key agenda she sets for herself in a spirited move to end years of opacity that characterized the operations of the most vital sector of the nation’s economy. AllisonMadueke, a silent achiever, incidentally became the first female President of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC. For instance, she appointed Senator Udo Udoma to Head a Committee of eminent Nigerians to decipher the bill with a view to making it easy for passage. The Committee was able to remove the thorny issues and resubmit the bill to the Minister for onward submission to the National Assembly. In furtherance of the Federal Government’s determination to see the Bill passed into law, the minister has in the last three years engaged the leadership of the Legislature and the lawmakers in series of dialogues with a view to ensuring that the laws guiding the operations of the upstream sector of the oil industry conform to global best standards. Determined to ensure that all obstacles to the passage of the PIB are removed, AllisonMadueke, in collaboration with stakeholders in the sector and with the support of President Goodluck Jonathan, also recommended

that the Bill should be split into two so that the ‘touchy’ issues in it will be set aside while the less thorny ones are passed without delay. This initiative is still receiving attention at the National Assembly. For instance, at a one-day enlightenment workshop on PIB organised by National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria held in Lagos recently, she disclosed that the Petroleum Industrial Bill (PIB) embodies the essential reforms that will put the petroleum sector on the path of robust growth, particularly by opening it up for investment inflows and transparent operations. She said: “Today, Nigeria is on the way to assessing capital investors in a sector that hitherto had been without prospects due to policies that made investments uneconomic to pursue. It is my firm belief that the PIB embodies the essential reforms that will put the petroleum sector on the path to robust growth. Adhering to the principles advocated, Nigeria fully expects to be a significant hub in the African region for petroleum activities.” According to her, the PIB will not only create a deregulated and competitive petroleum sector that will attract foreign and local investments but also ensure a viable commercial framework including a tariff regime that promotes transparency, guarantees security of investments and a reasonable rate of return on investments. As an open-minded technocrat and advocate of social engagement, the minister has continued to take all stakeholders along on how to get the contents of the PIB rich enough to serve the interest of all stakeholders without compromising the nation’s interest by any means. This has led to her extensive collaboration with all Nigerians and

concerned the deportation to Chad, his alleged birthplace of Alhaji Abdurrahman Shugaba Darman, majority leader in the Borno State legislature, which is controlled by the GNPP, one of the parties which oppose the President’s NPN. There had been some political disorder in the state. The deported politician denied the claim that he was a foreigner. The President appointed a tribunal to examine the matter. But the High Court of Borno State found that Alhaji Shugaba was a Nigerian citizen and awarded him heavy damages against the Federal Government.” Wrenched over his deportation, Shugaba in the heat of the crisis had headed for court and a Borno High Court sitting in Maiduguri ruled in his favour in the case of “Shugaba Darman vs. Federal Minister of Internal Affairs and Others”. It revoked the deportation order and awarded damages to the tune of N350, 000 to Shugaba. The Federal Government appealed the verdict at the Appeal Court in Kaduna and lost. The case then shifted to the Supreme Court and that court also ruled in Shugaba’s favour in a unanimous judgement by four justices led by Justice Coker. The case was overtaken by the subsequent military coup and no compensation was paid by the civilians. Nevertheless, Shugaba later said he had forgiven the Shagari-led government for his deportation. But today, the sort of Shugaba story is like a tale from the moonlight. All over Borno, it is bombs, guns, bayonets and hate. When will the real Borno return?

Alison-Madueke, Emefiele, and the PIB debate YUSUF MOHAMMED “

he harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; it is the dearness only that gives everything its value” – Thomas Paine Discussing the implications of the Petroleum Industry Bill for Nigeria’s oil sector and broad-based sustainable national development in the years ahead could not have come at a more auspicious time than now when most oil producing countries are thinking out of the box to keep their economies on course in the face of the current price crisis in the international oil market. The problem of glut and volatility of international oil market has become a recurring issue in the global economic order but oil producing countries, particularly Nigeria, have in most cases been caught napping in troubling moments of pricing upheavals. Expectedly, at such times most of the countries helplessly resort to austere fiscal, monetary and other regulatory measures to ensure macroeconomic stability in their economies. For Nigeria that has over the years been fiscally exposed to risks associated with persistent drop in oil prices due to absence of enabling legal and fiscal instruments to explore the opportunities in its hydrocarbon resources assets, the increasing need to constantly review existing legislations and policy frameworks as a strategic option of adapting to pricing crisis whenever it occurs and growing the sector is seen by analysts as logical. It is against this background that the pending PIB at the National Assembly and the

foreign investors on enacting the Bill into law that would guarantee sustainable growth of the industry in the years ahead. Believing in the forthrightness of the Federal Government’s position on the Bill especially now that the country is exploring fiscal and monetary policy options to sustain the nation’s macro economy, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Mr Godwin Emefiele, supported the need to fast-track the current deliberations on the PIB at the National Assembly and its enactment into law. The CBN Governor said that the Committee noted the robust expansion in domestic output in the third quarter of 2014 anchored by the improved performance in services, agriculture, trade, and industry against the tepid growth in the global economy but expressed its concern over the declining contributions of the oil sector. The ugly development, the Committee believes, would be reversed if the PIB is enacted into law. As the lawmakers in the National Assembly will again be returning within the next few days after their recess, I believe that Nigerians, irrespective of their political affiliations or religious-ethnic divides, should join forces with the government to ensure the passage of the PIB into law. For me, a vote for the passage of the PIB is key to current drives to open up the oil sector for a transformative regime that will create a level playing ground for local and foreign investors and ensure probity and accountability in the sector’s operations as have been clamoured for by stakeholders these past years. May God bless Nigeria! •Mohammed is of Diezani Promoters Group

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Quill

...of arts, people & places

Aare Afe Babalola

Sunday November 30, 2014

From humble beginning to legal pinnacle

BANKOLE BETIKU

hief Afe Babalola (SAN) is undoubtedly a household name in Nigeria. His prowess in his chosen legal career and love for education which led to the establishment of Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has shown his level of competence, excellence and epitome of a great thinker.

Born without the proverbial silver spoon in his mouth as evidenced in his inability to attend a secondary school due to financial deficiency, Afe was determined to succeed in life and success has become his middle name as of today. Though brilliant, he started the uphill of climbing the academic ladder without a secondary education. He however obtained the Cambridge School Certificate, GCE Ordinary and Advanced Level Certificate of London University, BSC Economics of London University and LLB Hons of London University through private study. He was called to the Bar in England in 1963. He is a member of the Lincoln’s Inn, London, a registered member of the Bar of England and Wales and a distinguished member of the Nigerian Bar. Chief Afe Babalola cut his legal teeth when he started his Legal Practice in the Chambers of Olu Ayoola and was there till 1965 when he proceeded to establish the firm of Afe Babalola & Co (Emmanuel Chambers), which is indisputably reputed today as a leading law firms in the country . He was admitted into the Nigerian Inner Bar as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1987. And since then he has been an active member of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) and International Bar Association (IBA).

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 supervising a leaner is illegal. This includes when stopped at traffic lights; the only exception is emergency calls. In the Unite States such as Arizoma, Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Louisiana and Maryland, among others, texting while driving has been out Lawed.The state of Texas prohibits school bus drivers from texting while transport-

He is a fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Nigeria, fellow of the Leadership Institute of Nigeria, member of the Body of Benchers, the highest legal body in Nigeria. He is a holder of the prestigious award of the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) A renowned advocate, Chief Afe Babalola has made outstanding contributions to the development of Nigerian Law and Jurisprudence through his advocacy in Court and has evidenced in so many celebrated cases which he has handled successfully. He has also written many legal books include Injunctions and Enforcement of Order;. Law and Practice of Evidence in Nigeria;. Enforcement of Judgment and Election Law and Practice, among many others. These books have enriched the promotion of legal education and practice in Nigeria just as he has written also so many legal and nonlegal well researched articles which are in journals and law books Chief Afe Babalola is a Lecturer at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, visiting lecturer at the Post Graduate Schools of the University of Lagos and the University of Ibadan, as well as the Centre of African Law and Development studies. He is an administrator of repute and is actively involved in both domestic and international arbitration. The legal icon owns a huge law library which is strongly devoted to the advancement of law and the legal profession in Nigeria. He is also reputed to have succeeded in employing the instrument of the law and judicial process in maintaining and sustaining peace both domestically and internationally. Apart from his legal profession, another field that occupied the mind of Babalola was his love

Chief Afe Babalola (SAN

for education. To say that Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), is passionate about education is to say the least. He does not just love education; he has sponsored the education of many less privileged Nigerians. Besides, he has been on the council of many universities until he established Afe Babalola University, ABUAD in 2009. It would be recalled that his love for education may have take root in the fact that teaching was his first line of duty. He had ventured into the law profession after some years of teaching in some secondary schools. He even became a vice-principal before he ventured into the law profession His university, ABUAD remains the first and only University in Nigeria to commence academic activities on its permanent site with all the facilities in place within eight months and is often ranked as one of the best universities in Nigeria. The National Universities Commission (NUC) described the university as a miracle, model reference point and benchmark for other universities. Afe Babalola University academ-

ic programmes are run in eight Colleges which include the College of Sciences; College of Law; College of Social & Management Sciences; College of Engineering and College of Medicine and Health Sciences Babalola was UNILAG’s ProChancellor and Chairman-of-Council between 2002 and 2007 during which he won the ‘Best Pro-Chancellor Award’ in 2005 and 2006. He was also given an Honorary Doctor of Letter by the Kogi State University, Ayingba in November last year. Five years after he left the University of Lagos (UNILAG) as its Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Council, leaving behind a resounding success, he received an Honorary Doctor of Letters at its Golden Jubilee Convocation. Babalola was nominated for the Honorary Doctoral Degree with two others- former Prime Minister Alhaji Tafawa Balewa and Arthur Mbanefo. Aare Babalola, also the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), described the honour as ‘the most fulfilling’ of his career, adding that the experience at Unilag helped him establish and nurture ABUAD to a reference point today. Said he: “Of all the letters of award I have received from Nigeria and beyond, the letter of award dated November 5, 2012 addressed to me by the University of Lagos, is the most inspiring, exciting and moving. “Significantly, it was my experience garnered at that time which, in large measure, has assisted me in the planning and execution of ‘the project ABUAD’, which has now metamorphosed into a model, reference point and pace-setter university in reformatory education in Nigeria.” A philanthropist of high repute, Afe Babalola has donated equipment, buildings and offered scholarships to deserving students . He also has an unequal passion

Is that call worth your life? ing a child under 17 years and on October 2009, the United state department of transportation announced President Barak Obama signing of an executive order directing federal employee not to engage in text message while driving government owned vehicles. This according to the department sends clear signal to the American public that distracted driving is dangerous and unacceptable. Texting while

driving led to increased distraction behind the wheel. In 2006, Liberty Mutual Insurance Group conducted a survey of more than 90 teens from than 26 high schools. The result shows that 37 percent consider texting to be “extremely” distracting. A study by the American Automobile Association discovered that 47 percent of teens admitted to being distracted behind the wheel because of texting. Distraction

while driving is alarming because 40 percent of all American teens say they have been in a car when the driver uses a cell phone in a way that puts them in danger. Eleven percent of ages 18 -20 who were involved in a crash admitted they sent or received text when they crashed. In 2010, the national highway traffic safety administration reported driver’s distraction was the course of 18 per cent of fatal crashes with 3,092 people killed

for development and this is exemplified in his donations worth over N2 billion. He built a 400- seater lecture Theatre to the University of Ado Ekiti, a 500seater ultra modern auditorium to University of Lagos and a modern building to African Heritage Library at Olorunda-Aba Ibadan. In addition to this, he has donated a modern building to NBA, Ado-Ekiti, as Bar Centre; a state of the art Nuclear Medicine Building to the University College Hospital ( UCH) Ibadan He also has interest in farming and owns a huge farm with over half a million tick trees, palm trees, oranges and other permanent crops as well as two huge man –made lakes and ten ponds with over 75,000 fishes at anytime . Babalola is no doubt an erudite lawyer , a great educationist , a successful farmer and indeed an unrivaled philanthropist.

The Poet’s

Ever on the line We are on the line but we can’t cross the line; because of your lie, our lives are pie and every day, we cry The pain, the agon y of not enjoying the harmony for which we are created but never initiated We keep on running, even when we are falling, even when we stumble, we still rumble The end is near, near is the line; the end of the fear -Shola Omoniyi, Ajuwon, Ogun State.

and 416,000 people injured. The risk of crashing while texting increases by 23% because reading or sending text diverts the driver’s eye from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, the same as driving the length of a football field, at 55 mph. •Agwu, an Assistant Corps Marshal, is Zonal Commanding Officer, Zone 7HQ of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC).

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Sunday, November 30, 2014

beautiful bride IF HE SUCCUMBS TO THE PRESSURE OF MOVING TO THE PDP, LADOJA WILL STILL MEET STIFF OPPOSITION IN FORMER SENATE LEADER, SENATOR

TESLIM FOLARIN, WHO MAY PICK

THE GOVERNORSHIP TICKET OF THE

PARTY;

Alao-A Akalla

Ladoja. This new move to get Ladoja back into the PDP may be a bit difficult now because the process of picking the governorship candidate of the party had started and Ladoja was not part of the arrangement . A close aide of Ladoja confirmed to Sunday Mirror that “Oga was truly under pressure to move not only to the PDP but also to the APC. APC are dragging him and PDP national body is also dragging him but we remain in Accord Party and if election comes up tomor-

ALHAJI YEKININ ADEOJO, SENATOR LEKAN BALOGUN, FORMER GOVERNOR ADEBAYO ALAO-AKALA, AMONG OTHERS, ARE ALSO VERITABLE OPPONENTS. row, we will win without any problem in Oyo State.” What many political analysts are not clear about is whether through this move, Ladoja will sacrifice his ambition of contesting the governorship of the state for that of President Jonathan by moving to the PDP, even without getting the governorship ticket and helping Jonathan to secure huge votes in the presidential election in Oyo State. What will also be the fate of numerous as-

pirants in Accord Party, especially in Oyo State, who are hibernating under Ladoja’s political influence? If he succumbs to the pressure of moving to the PDP, Ladoja will still meet stiff opposition in former Senate Leader, Senator Teslim Folarin, who may pick the governorship ticket of the party. The former Deputy National Chairman of the party and Board of Trustee Member, Alhaji Yekinin Adeojo, the Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland and chieftain of the party,

Senator Lekan Balogun, former Governor of Oyo State, Otunba Adebayo AlaoAkala, among others, are also veritable opponents. Political analysts are quick to add that should Ladoja succumb to the pressure and rejoin the PDP , the crisis which is ongoing in Ondo PDP as a result of Governor Mimiko’s return to the party will be a child’s play . It would be recalled that an attempt in 2013 to bring back Ladoja into the PDP and offer him the PDP National Secretary was frustrated by the PDP leaders in Oyo when he and his supporters were outmaneuovered in the ward and local government congresses, a situation which made him withdrew into his shell and remain in his Accord Party. Speaking on the issue, the Chief Press Secretary to Ladoja, Alhaji Lanre Latinwo, said whoever is insinuating that Ladoja is going to PDP is saying nothing but falsehood. His words:” We are not going to PDP or any other party. There is no such plan and such plan is not in our radar at all. As far as we are concerned, we don’t want any distraction. We remain in Accord Party and there, we are going to contest all elections. We are already preparing for the elections and you know that we are the leading party in the state. Please, ignore those who are saying such a thing now”.

ds legal fortress IN THE COURSE OF

ANSWERING QUESTIONS, THE IGP ADDRESSED THE SPEAKER AS

ALHAJI AMINU WAZIRI TAMBUWAL WITHOUT HIS OFFICE, SPARKING THE ANGER OF THE LEGISLATORS CUTTING ACROSS PARTY AND REGIONAL LINES. Ette eh

dent Goodluck Jonathan got from the Southwest to win the presidency in 2011, he decided it was fair to reward the area with the fourth position on the protocol of State leadership. The House however revolted. The lawmakers did not have problems with the Southwest. They had issues with the candidate from the area. After a close watch of his leadership qualities and because of the decision of the different camps of the PDP to settle for Hon. Ajibola Muraina and Mulikat Akande-Adeola, who were less popular candidates, the House

opted for Tambuwal in 2011 and damned the consequences. Leading the charge for Tambuwal was Hon. Leo Ogor, a staunch member of the PDP from Delta State and Hon. Emmanuel Jime, also a then staunch member of the PDP, but now an APC member from Benue State. In the House, the Speaker has led wisely. He has been a leader for all parties in the House and it will be very difficult, if not impossible, to even destabilise his leadership as he moves on to contest to govern Sokoto State.

Other events were to follow quickly. Lawmakers mostly from APC, started mounting pressure on Tambuwal to contest for the Presidency in 2015. They visited his House with a nomination form, urging him to run. But after more consultations, Tambuwal perished the thought of going for the Presidency, and decided to settle for the governorship race. Tambuwal’s decision to defect, has since brought commotion into the polity. For instance, the Inspector General of Police, Suleiman Abba had on Tuesday, November 25, this year, taken a step that ruffled feathers. He stunned the House of Representatives, as he flatly refused to recognise Tambuwal as the Speaker of the Green Chamber. The IGP was fielding questions from an ad hoc Committee investigating an earlier assault on the Speaker and other members of the National Assembly with several canisters of tear gas. In the course of answering questions, the IGP addressed the Speaker as Alhaji Aminu Waziri Tambuwal without his office, sparking the anger of the legislators cutting across party and regional lines. The lawmakers led by the Chairman of the panel, Hon. Usman Kumo (PDP-Gombe), rebuked Abba for refusing to “properly address Tambuwal”. But the IGP was adamant, insisting that the matter of Tambuwal’s status remained in contention. “You know too well, that this is a matter

before the court. I think it will be subjudice for us to refer to matters before the court”, Abba insisted. A member of the APC from Kaduna State, Hon. Rufai Chanchangi in his reaction had insisted that he would not address Abba by his office until he accorded Tambuwal his due respect. Chanchangi was one of the lawmakers who were forced last week to scale the fence by the police. He was also affected by the three tear-gas canisters thrown at the Speaker by the police. Other legislators, Hon. Shuaibu Gobir Gwandu (APC-Sokoto) and Hakeem Muniru (Lagos-APC), Hon. Chris Eta (PDP-Cross River) also joined the fray in rebuking the IGP, for what they considered his recalcitrance and disrespect for the authority of the Speaker. The meeting of the Police ended abruptly in 30 minutes, with lawmakers storming out of the venue at the National Assembly, without the traditional exchange of curtesies between hosts and guests. The House said they would meet and decide a next line of action against the IGP. The last is yet to be heard on the ding-dong between ruling PDP and the Presidency on the one hand, and embattled Tambuwal and the APC on the other.

Politics

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

INEC’S PVC is mere sham –Okeyomi, APC Chieftain Hon.Dipo Okeyomi is a security consultant and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC. In this interview with AYO ESAN, he speaks on the controversy surrounding the distribution of Permanent Voter’s Cards by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC; the 2015 general elections and the security situation in the country, among other issues. Excerpts: There have been complaints over the distribution of Permanent Voter’s cards, PVCs. As a chieftain of APC, what is your assessment of the distribution of PVCs and the registration of voters in Lagos State? You know INEC is not a very serious organisation. It is an unserious umpire. INEC announced the dates for all the states to collect their PVCs and on the day fixed for Lagos State, we were all there, we didn’t see any INEC official. The second day, they came around 4.00pm, so nobody could collect anything. The third day, few people collected the PVC. Even for the new registration, about 85 percent of Lagosians are disenfranchised because they could not register for the new voters’ cards. People are still willing to collect PVCs, people are still willing to register but I think INEC should have a rethink and allow people to register and they should give them the PVCs. I don’t know what INEC is doing, may be they are doing the bidding of the opposition party, PDP. Then what is your advice to the electorate? Well, registration is supposed to be a continuous exercise, it is happening in other countries. Why not in Nigeria? Though they say people can collect their PVCs at INEC’s local government offices but how many people have been able to collect from INEC local government offices? That is the question, they are just deceiving people. 2015 general elections are around the corner. How are you looking up to the election? What we are working towards now is to win the presidential election. By the grace of God the APC, my party, the great party, is going to win. The PDP is not prepared, they are just not prepared. Asari Dokubo said if Jonathan does not win they are going to fight and they are going to do this and that but we are waiting for them. He should know that nobody has monopoly of violence. We will not even fight anybody; we will use our thumb, our votes to push them out of office. They are in control of everything. Look at the Inspector General of Police, refusing the order of the court. He still said Tambuwal is not the Speaker of House of Representatives while the court recognizes Tambuwal as the speaker. They are just messing up the polity. There is impunity everywhere.

Nigeria should be ready to vote wisely this time around. You have the aspiration of becoming the Chairman of Ojokoro Local Council Development Authority, LCDA. How prepare are you for the election into that council? By the grace of God I am ready for the election, very prepared. I am fully prepared and I am ready to serve the people of Ojokoro. That is my local government and by the grace of God I have a lot of programmes for them. I am an international man and I have investors from outside the country that are willing to come and invest in my local government. And by the grace of God, they are coming . If I win that election, I am telling the Ojokoro people that in my 100 days in office I will employ 700 people. The Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola started his second term in office two days ago. As an aide of the governor, what should the people of the state expect from him? I know Governor Aregbesola very well. He is an anointed man of God. This man did not acquire property for himself. Some people when they are in government, they will acquire property in France, in Belgium, in USA and everywhere. Somebody should just mention a place outside the country that this man has property in. The man has just about two buildings. When he was Commissioner of Works in Lagos he built one house with his salary. The other one he got when he was working outside the country He is a man of honour. He would even perform better than his first term. Look at the new roads, the new schools, the new buildings. The children are eating free in the schools. Look at the International Airport and everything the man is doing in Osun. He is a man of honour and whatever he says he will do, he will do it. As a security expert how will you assess the security situation in the country? The situation is bad. How can soldiers be running from Boko Haram? Ordinary local hunters face the Boko Haram and more than 400 of them were killed and soldiers that have guns, that have everything are running away from Boko Haram, that means something is wrong. The National Assembly should investigate this and find out what is going on. Some people have been feeding fat on this insurgency. They have been travelling out to buy ammunition among other things. So what is the

Okeyomi

ON EKITI SITUATION

LOOK AT WHAT FAYOSE IS DOING IN EKITI. NO PEACE IN EKITI AGAIN; HOW CAN SEVEN BE MORE THAN 19, WHAT KIND OF MATHEMATICS IS THAT? WHAT FAYOSE IS DOING IN EKITI IS A BREACH OF SECURITY AND PEACE AND HE SHOULD BE CALLED TO ORDER.

problem of the military? We need to know. The Federal Government said it want the state of emergency again, the formula that you have used before and did not work, you should look for another one. Look at what Fayose is doing in Ekiti. No peace in Ekiti again; how

can seven be more than 19, what kind of Mathematics is that? What Fayose is doing in Ekiti is a breach of security and peace and he should be called to order, so the security situation in Nigeria is not good.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Interview

Sunday November 30, 2014

‘There no zoning arrangement in Delta’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 they are very much aware of the fact that the politics of our state has changed from that of mere ethnic and moral sentiments driven by personal gains to the politics of issues that is focused on development, progress, job creation, food security, security of lives and property, industrialization, shelter, health, education and other good things of life for all. To get these things for our people, we need somebody who has experience, credibility, capability, somebody who is dependable, somebody who is politi-

cally humane and effcticve to harness our state’s great potential for the good of all. I joined this race not for any personal gain but with one purpose in mind – to truly provide and care for all Deltans from Anioma to Kwale, from Isoko to Ijaw, and from Itsekiri to Urhobo. I believe I am properly positioned to lead all Deltans to dream, turn those dreams to reality and benefits of democracy for the improved well being of all Deltans. I joined the gubernatorial race with one message and one expectation. The expectation is that, I am going to consolidate the gains of democracy since 1999 till

date, add to it, and move Delta State forward for the good of all. Anything good that has happened in Delta State will be consolidated, for the good of all, irrespective of your background and tribe, because I am a Deltan. So I appeal to them to please vote for me. Delta Beyond Oil has come to represent a major policy thrust of this state. There are fears in some quarters that it may be jettisoned if a politician and not a technocrat takes over from the incumbent. What have you to say to this line of argument?

To start with, I think the policy of Delta Beyond Oil has come to stay and nobody who loves Delta State will reverse it or abolish it. Not with the way crude oil price is tumbling in global market and other recent economic developments across Africa and the globe. It is the way to go. One can improve on its policy implementation. And I don’t see the next governor of the state doing that be he a politician or a technocrat, to use your word. The determination to sustain the policy of Delta Beyond Oil will not be because somebody is a technocrat or a politician.

Pwajok: I’m in guber race to re-build Plateau Senator Gyang Pwajok representing Plateau North in the National Assembly, is a governorship aspirant in Plateau State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In this interview with JAMES ABRAHAM, he speaks on his ambition and his passion to re-build a state which has suffered some setbacks as a result of security challenge. Excerpts: What informed the adoption of your campaign mantra, which is, “greater together, redemption continues”? That concept revolves around the people and Plateau as a state. It’s about transformation. It’s about total development. The concept is better understood when you consider where we are coming from and where we are going. As you can see, my experience in the course of my campaign for Senate reflected to a large extent, the team work that was exemplified during the contest that eventually ensured our victory. I must also say that I enjoyed significantly, the contributions of the media as well as people from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds, that by the nature of the election results that took me to the Senate, reflected the willingness of those within my senatorial constituency to forget their differences and act together and vote, regardless of religion or ethnicity, believing that God will use me to serve as a bridge builder, sufficient enough to bring about the needed transformation in the state. And I have made my little contribution within the two years I have been at the Senate. I know there is so much that is yet to be done but I believe God that moving from the legislative arm of government to the executive arm gives me another opportunity to begin to address those issues that we have not been able to address while I was Director, Research and Planning and later Chief of Staff (CoS) Government House, before I became a Senator. I must say that the concept of ‘greater together’ means that there is greatness that needs to be explored, that needs to be attained and actualised, that can only be attainable when people act togther, and as they do so believing in one another, hoping that, God willing, we will be able to transform the state of Plateau. And I believe that we are endowed with both human and natural resources. What we require is the will to harness these resources for the betterment of our

state and its people. As a first time Senator, what would you consider as the major successes you have recorded and challenges you have faced, to make you pre-eminently qualified for the governorship position? Well, the first major challenge was for me to settle down with the business of law making having spent most of my time in an executive capacity. Nevertheless, I was opportune to serve in various committees in the Senate. I was also privileged to be appointed the Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport. It has broadened my horizon in regard to governance challenges as far as legislation is concerned. And as you know, legislation requires not only making laws, it also requires oversight functions. I have watched keenly how our budget has performed in the nation and we have raised questions about why we are not performing sufficiently as far as what you might call ‘capital expenditure’ is concerned. So far, we have spent more on recurrent expenditure than on capital expenditure. I have also pushed in a

bill before the Senate that has to do with reconciliation and rehabilitation. Something that I have promised in the course of my campaign and it has passed through the First Reading. Fortunately, the Federal Government in its wisdom picked a few things from that bill and set up what is called ‘The Victim Support Fund’ which is in line with that proposal. And I strongly believe that given the crisis moment that we are passing through as a nation ,we need to ensure that not only our people will be rehabilitated, but that the destruction that has occurred should be reconstructed and at the end, we must be able to ensure that the country remains together and undivided. Not only that, I have been part of the Committee on Aviation, NEPAD, Health and we have passed the National Health bill and I played a significant role in the passage of that bill. To a large extent, there are other bills that we have been working on. In the Senate, I have also made sure that I convey the feeling of Plateau people and the very constituency that I rep-

ROLE AT THE SENATE

I HAVE WATCHED KEENLY HOW OUR BUDGET HAS PERFORMED IN THE NATION AND WE HAVE RAISED QUESTIONS ABOUT WHY WE ARE NOT PERFORMING SUFFICIENTLY AS FAR AS WHAT YOU MIGHT CALL ‘CAPITAL EXPENDITURE’ IS CONCERNED.

Pwajok

resent. I have stood firm along with other Senators to present motions that address critical issues that are felt by the citizens of this country. We have also worked together with other Senators from other states to present the issue of security challenge facing the zone. I have been a strong advocate for the creation of state police. I have also been a strong advocate for the restructuring of the present security process and I’m happy that to that extent, we are gradually witnessing some changes that will help us address these challenges. Besides these, my two years in office as Senator has been characterised by the construction of visible projects that we have commissioned, while some are still ongoing-distribution of empowerment materials and so on. I believe that there is still so much to be done for the people of my zone and the rest of Plateau citizens, which is the main reason I am contesting for the Governorship of the state .My appeal is for everyone to key into the noble objective because only the best is good enough for Plateau State

SMExtra

Sunday November 30 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Day robbers caused accident on Benin-Ore road •One dead, many injured

OBASOLUYI TELEWA & HAKEEM GBADAMOSI

t least one person lost his life and four others sustained serious injuries in a ghastly motor accident that occurred at Mile 48, Lagos-Benin Expressway, Ondo State section , at the weekend.

Sunday Mirror learnt that the accident was caused at about 8am by some armed robbers who emerged from the bush at 49 Junction, asection of the road and started operating in the area. According to sources, the driver of the Golf 4 car with registration number, EDO AH 596 GB forcefully applied the breaks on sighting the robbers which led to the car to sommersault several times before hitting the pillar on the road. When our correspondent visited the scene of the accident on Thursday morning, a lifeless body of an unidentified young man in his mid-20s was seen beside the road covered with carbon paper while hides and skin (ponmo) littered the road. An eyewitness who gave his name as Mr. Wale Adebayo, during a chat with Sunday Mirror at the scene recounted thus: “It was the armed robbers

The ill-fated car

A dead victim that usually operate from the area that caused the accident . They usually emerge from the bush at the 49 Junction to rob on daily basis without resistance. When the driver sighted them, he forcefully applied the breaks at top speed, thinking he could make a U-Turn. Unfortunately, the car sommersaulted and hit the pillar,” he told our correspondent. Also speaking, a commercial driver plying route who identified himself simply as Mr. Noah said, “the driver of the car has been taken to the hospital with

other occupants who were badly injured in the crash . According to him, “five people were in the Golf car ,including the woman selling “Ponmo”. She was carrying the ponmo to the market for sale. “I want to appeal to the government to provide enough security in the area, it’s lack of security that made the criminals to be operating freely in the area on daily basis. According to him, the car was coming from Ore, in Odigbo LG and area of Ondo State. Chairman, Igbotako – Lagos unit of the National Union of

road Transport Workers, Mr. Segun Olowosusi, disclosed to Sunday Mirror that, “we have been witnessing the ferocious activities of the hoodlums operating in the area for sometime and nothing has been done to check them. There is no proper security in the area. The Police have no vehicles to operate, at least 50,000 litres of fuel should be provided for them to patrol the area.@ The local government chairman should assist the Police with vehicles as it is done in Lagos and other parts of the coun-

try for them to be effective The Head of Operation of the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, Cyril Malomo confirmed the accident but said that it was caused by armed robbers. He said one life was lost in the accident while some other passengers sustained various degrees of injuries. He explained that the accident occurred in the early hour of Thursday and said the body of the dead victim had been deposited at the mortuary while the injured ones receiving treatment at the hospital.

‘Sickle cell is no challenge to succeeding’ A

debisi Adesina is a Britishborn Nigerian Rugby player turned businessman with an amazing story to tell. He grew and schooled in the United Kingdom under the loving and caring watch of his mother, but recently decided to return to settle down in his home country, Nigeria. While residing in the United Kingdom, Adebisi played professional Rugby and even played for the England National Youth Rugby side, an achievement regarded by experts as a miracle. It will be normal for anybody familiar with the exploits of Nigerians in the sport to ask why Adebisi’s exploit is a miracle. In his words, “believe it or not, I was actually the best sport player in the whole school throughout my stay and with sickle cell anaemia won vari-

ous awards, including the annual Sport Personality Awards in Years Seven, Eight, Nine and Ten.” Of course, Adebisi is neither the first nor only Nigerian to have achieved such a feat, but he is the only one to have been a sickle cell anaemia sufferer to have played Professional Rugby for his clubside and of course, England. It will amaze anybody who knows how tedious the game of Rugby could be how he survived Professional Rugby in the United Kingdom where Rugby ranks close behind Soccer. “I hid my status for several years to play the game I love and do some other things I would have been discouraged from. In fact, my status as a sickle cell anemia patient was made public about three years.” Adebisi believes firmly that al-

Adebisi in action though his privileged background was a factor in his achievements, but also believes it acted as a barrier he had to surmount through dogged moves and strongly posits that his major strength was his determination to succeed where

others have failed. “My mother was over protective and will even restrict my interaction with other kids. I remember vividly an incident when I sneaked out for about two hours and my mother had already rang the police to report me

missing.”Adebisi revealed. Adebisi believes the Sickle Cell anaemia is certainly a challenge that can be surmounted if sufferers, parents, family and friends will stop treating the sickness as a limitation. He said, “I have always told people who pity me when they learn that I am a sufferer to look at themselves and tell me who needs pity, because I don’t want to be depressed with their needless pity.” His rise to the height of Youth Rugby was fraught with challenges, especially from his mother who he said like other mothers with sickle cell anemia sufferers over-protected him to a shocking extent that nearly turned him into a hermit like his contemporary sufferers, but he trudged through to his goal without looking back.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

The Big Read

Sunday, November 30, 2014

‘Next govt expected to complete rail project’

Yet, the dream trains

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 be built, linking the Red and Blue lines. Other infrastructure to be built as part of the project include stations; signaling, control and communications (SC&C) systems; supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems; depot and workshop facilities; an operations control centre and a training facility for train drivers. In a chat with a resident of the one of the areas, Pastor Oyekachi Eze in Orile-Iganmu, he said, ‘‘many people lost their homes to Lagos state rail project and many homes have been marked for demolition.’’ According to him, he knew of a neighboUr who was compensated by the state government after his home was demolished. ‘‘My neighboUr went to another location to build another house with the money he received from the government.’’ Speaking further, Pastor Eze said, ‘‘even this house by my church has been marked for demolition. The people who have Certificate of Occupancy were compensated but if you don’t have certificate of occupancy what happens to your building? Lagosians are making sacrifices but we are eager to see the results,’’ he said. In Ogun, the Ibikunle Amosun-led administration reiterated its commitment towards ensuring that the light rail project in his state really takes off soon. Ogun government emphasised that it is one of the surest ways towards addressing the transportation problem confronting Nigerians who work in Lagos but reside in different parts of the state and are faced with daily transportation challenges before getting to their offices on daily basis. Speaking with Sunday Mirror on the project, the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Transportation, Barrister Gbenga Opesanwo explained that Governor Amosun has already signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a Chinese company for the construction of a Mono-Rail project in the state. Opesanwo explained that the mono-rail project which will run across Sango- Ota -Akute - Ojodu Abiodun communities is expected to ease the transportation challenges often face by workers before getting to the Lagos. He also stated that the mono-rail project may join with that of the Lagos state in the spirit of the on-going regional integration. Amosun’s SSA on Transport further hinted that the state is still proposing same project along the Sagamu interchange to terminate at Ibadan in the Oyo state capital along the Lagos - Ibadan expressway corridor. Opesanwo explained that the rationale behind the Sagamu Interchange - Ibadan light rail project is to decongest the volume of vehicular traffic that ply the Lagos - Ibadan expressway on a daily basis. Investigations revealed that The Managing Director, Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola had said the state government was working towards launching the first phase of the Okokomaiko -Marina (Blue Line) Light Rail Mass Transit for operation in 2014 while the project has reached advanced stages, the launching date of operation has not come. In a media chat, Dr. Mobereola said that due to the huge capital outlay, construction of the rail project was divided into three phases, the first of which is the sur-

IN OGUN, THE IBIKUNLE AMOSUN-LED ADMINISTRATION REITERATED ITS COMMITMENT TOWARDS ENSURING THAT THE LIGHT RAIL PROJECT IN HIS STATE REALLY TAKES OFF SOON.

OGUN GOVERNMENT

EMPHASISED THAT IT IS ONE OF THE SUREST WAYS TOWARDS ADDRESSING THE TRANSPORTATION PROBLEM

NIGERIANS WHO WORK IN LAGOS BUT

CONFRONTING

RESIDE IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE STATE AND ARE FACED WITH DAILY TRANSPORTATION CHALLENGES vey, design, preparation of construction yard and the rail infrastructure between National Theatre and Mile 2. He said, “the quality of work done so far will stand the test of time.’’ According to him, Railway is not something that is for 5 years, 10 years. It is built to last 50 to 100 years. The quality of work has to be very good. The LAMATA boss said, “The contractor working on the railway system has over 50 years experience in the business. They know how to build a very good rail way system and the quality is commendable, it is very good and we are quite happy with it.” He pointed out that the rail project was being implemented under a public and private partnership. The state is building the infrastructure while the private sector will provide the rolling stock and management. Dr Mobereola also pointed out that Lagos rail project will generate employment and create more housing in remote areas. “The Blue Line (Okokomaiko -Marina) Light Rail Project will boost the state economy through the creation of employment and generation of economic activities. When the 27 kilometre rail project becomes operational, several industrial parks were bound to spring up and this would lead to the creation of many industrial estates and will reduce the travel time because at the moment, it takes about 3-4 hours from Okokomaiko to Marina.’’ According to him, those going to work on the Island, schools, hospitals, and to other various places will benefit tremendously from it. it is also going to generate economic development along those corridors. It’s going to

open up access to all those areas, generate employment, create housing and industrial development, hospitals, schools everything that is needed along that corridor. The rail project situated in the middle of the LagosBadagry corridor, which leads to neighbouring Benin Republic and other countries in the ECOWAS, would make it easy for people from those countries doing business in Lagos to have easy access to the commercial nerve centre of Nigeria. It will lead to vibrant city, making Lagos an accessible place and making goods affordable within and outside Lagos,’’ he said. In a chat with John Makuyi, a resident of Okokomaiko in Lagos, he applauded Governor Babatunde Fashola for his diligence and commitment to the development of Lagos state. ‘You have to agree with me that Governor Fashola has done well for the people of Lagos. We all know how the state was before he took over but look at the situation in the state. We have a more organized, cleaner Lagos state. I will never forget his transformation of oshodi. We know that he has not completed the light rail project which he promised Nigeria but he has started and he has done it to a level. You governance is like that, let everyone does his own quota. Governor Fashola has done his part, he is going, another person is coming, let him come and improve on what Governor Fahsola has done and even take the state to a greater heights. We want somebody that will perform better than Fashola. You see, Fashola is not God. He is a human being. He may have started something but he is not able to finish it, let someone else complete it. This is my own submission. He has done well. I don’t think Lagosians should crucify Fashola because of the rail system. It is a very ambitious project and requires time, resources and intensive human resources, he said. In another chat with Sunday Mirror, Ahmed Ajibola who described himself as a business man based in Mile 2, said, ‘‘to whom much is given much, much is expected. The Lagos state government has a lot of revenue. There should be no excuse on the non completion of the projects. These politicians always look for excuses to deceive us. I am personally in suspicion of all of them whether Tinubu, Jonathan or Fashola. I don’t trust them because I know that they are always fighting for their pockets or their personal ambition. This government took a loan from the World Bank for this project. Some billions of Dollars. The problem cannot be funding, since they have bank funding. If you remove funding every other problem is minimal. I don’t see why Fashola could not finish that projects other than they are not serious. If they are serious they will complete it. In my area, here, you will just see some people raising hands, doing some things. They should complete it this project and let’s move on,’’ he said. In a chat with Prince Henry, an engineer and security consultant based in Lekki Lagos, he said, ‘‘the project is a huge one. Rome was not built in a day. No government will rush such a project just because they want to please the people. The administration of Fashola should not rush it either. It is not compulsory that he must complete the project during his own tenure. If he cannot complete it, another Governor will complete it,’’ he said.

& Faces Events

Celebrity

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NOVEMBER 30, 2014

Faces at Yoruba Unity Summit, Ile-Ife, Osun State (1) L-R: Chairman of FERMA, Engr. Jide Adeniji, Group Managing Director, Energy Group, Barr. Jimoh Ibrahim CFR, National Chairman, People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu and President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan at Yoruba Unity Summit in Ile-Ife, Osun State at the weekend.

(2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7); Barr. Jimoh Ibrahim, CFR, with President Jonathan, Alhaji Mu’azu and others at the event.

(8) President Jonathan (middle) arriving for the programme.

4 6

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Faces & Events

Iju-Odo, Ondo community, gets new monarch OBASOLUYI TELEWA

n Tuesday November 24, 2014, it was celebration galore for the people of Iju-Odo, especially Joola/Lumeko family in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo state, as their son, Festus Oyedele Olumoyegun, became the new Oniju of Iju-Odo Kingdom. Leader of Lumeko family, Pa. Joshua Fanayajo, who spoke to Sunday Mirror on behalf of the family through the Ludagun of Osooro, Chief J, Akindoyo, expressed great delight at the coming of the new king, saying his reign will usher in a new wave of peace, progress, unity and

developments in the area. Wife of the King, Olori Modupe Olumoyegun, called for support and cooperation to move the town forward, as the new King, while dedicating his Crown to God. Several events were held to commemorate the new dawn such as cultural display, special rendition by the traditional Biripo group and Kegites, among others. Until his appointment, he was the Lisa of Osooro and Director, IMAN/NATFORCE, Ondo State Command, Akure. Dignitories on the occasion include past and serving government functionaries, politicians, traditional rulers, prominent sons and daughters of the town, students, among others.

Representative of Ondo State Governor, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon.Bamiduro Dada, presenting the Staff of Office to the new Oniju of Iju-Odo, Oba Festus Oyedele Olumoyegun.

The Oniju of Iju-Odo,Oba Olumoyegun.

The Ogoni Masquerade entertaining the crowd on the occasion.

Hon.Bamiro,2nd left, Oba Olumoyegun and other government functionaries

Traditional rulers and Chiefs from Ode- Aye , with Oba Olumoyegu

The .Oniju of Iju-Odo with Olori Modupe Olumoyegun on the occasion.

The Oba acknowledging cheers from the crowd. The Oniju and wife being followed by the people to the Lumeko Quarters at Iju-Odo.

Some Iju-Odo sons and daughters in happy mood.

Some elders of the community.

Sport

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday, November 30, 2014

M Modern ffootball is fast, aaggressive and ttechnical ––Capello P. 62

Sport

KEEPING YOU ABREAST OF SPORTING NEWS

Henry will be welcomed to Arsenal, says Wenger P. 63

November 30, 2014

Welbeck’s header earns Arsenal win at West Brom

…As Red Devils brush aside Hull City

Danny Welbeck (right) scores with a powerful header to earn Arsenal a 1-0 win over a lacklustre West Brom at the Hawthorns yesterday

ANDREW EKEJIUBA WITH AGENCY REPORT

rsenal prevented a third straight Premier League loss with a 1-0 win over a lacklustre West Brom at the Hawthorns yesterday. The Gunners started the fixture with their lowest points tally after 12 games in 32 years, but Danny Welbeck’s powerful header moved them to the sixth position on the log. Welbeck - denied by a Ben Foster save in the first half - powered in Santi Cazorla’s cross after half-time. West Brom came closest when Saido Berahino headed onto the bar during a late rally but were deservedly beaten. Their fans have now not seen their side score a league goal in over 300 minutes and chants of “you don’t know what you’re doing” when manager Alan Irvine substituted Stephane Sessegnon will do little for confidence. In Arsenal, the Baggies faced a side under intense scrutiny following their own poor start to the season, but Wenger’s side have at least now followed last weekend’s defeat by Manchester United with two wins, including Champions League progress in the midweek. They have reached the latter stages of that competition for 15 straight seasons, but that pattern contrasts the inconsistency which hampers any title challenge and banners calling for Wenger to leave his role were visible among the travelling support. His side are 11 points worse off than

at this stage last season despite the additions of Alexis Sanchez, Calum Chambers and Welbeck - who was shifted out of the central striker’s berth for Olivier Giroud - but produced the game’s decisive moment. His header - one of 17 Arsenal attempts at goal - arrived after a first-half in which only Foster had been called into action, denying Welbeck from 12 yards. The West Brom keeper almost turned villain before the break when he presented Giroud - back in the starting XI for the first time since breaking his leg in August - with an open goal near the corner flag but the angle proved too acute. Arsenal looked solid with Laurent Koscielny returning at the heart of defence and with all their wins this season coming against sides in the bottom half, the breakthrough inevitably arrived. Cazorla was impressive throughout completing 93% of his passes in the opponents’ half - and he crafted space to dig out a neat cross which Welbeck delivered from eight yards to earn Gunners a hard earned 1-0 win, away from home. The closing five minutes was the Baggies’ best spell as Craig Gardner whistled a shot from range narrowly wide, but Arsenal held on for a fourth win in 12 league games. Meanwhile, Chris Smalling, Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie scored a goal each as Manchester United eased to a resounding 3-0 victory over Hull City yesterday. Smalling forced the ball across the line at the second attempt after Hull failed to

clear Rooney’s corner to score the opener. England striker Rooney scored his fifth of the season from 20 yards after Van Persie’s lay-off before the Dutch

striker added a third from similar range following Ander Herrera’s pass. United’s third successive win came despite an early Angel Di Maria injury.

Iniesta to miss Barca, Valencia cracker

arcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta has shaken off a calf strain ahead of today’s La Liga clash at Valencia, but the club will be careful not to rush him back, Coach Luis Enrique said yesterday. Iniesta, who has been out of action since sustaining the injury in the La Liga ‘Clasico’ at Real Madrid at the end of October, was “in good shape”, Luis Enrique told a news conference. However, he cautioned that it was important to be “careful” with the Spain playmaker, suggesting Iniesta is unlikely to be included in the starting line-up at Valencia’s Mestalla Stadium. “He has clearly improved and he has been back in training with his teammates the past few days,” Luis Enrique said. “I always miss a player who is injured and if it is Iniesta much more so,” added the former Barca and Spain midfielder. Enrique said the decision to operate on centre back Thomas Vermaelen to correct a lingering thigh injury was unlikely to prompt the club to buy a replacement for the Belgium international in the January transfer window.

Iniesta

Vermaelen, who sustained the injury playing against Russia at the World Cup in June, has yet to make his competitive debut after joining from Arsenal and his signing has become something of an embarrassment for the Barca board. He is expected to be out for four to five months. “Injuries are normal in professional football because it is a physical contact sport and very hard,” Luis Enrique said. “We believe the operation is the best solution so he can recover and help us. We have no doubt he will give us a lot. There is no intention of reinforcing that position.”

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Gumel makes athletes’ pledge JOY UMUKORO

ewly elected President of Nigeria Olympic committee (NOC) Engr. Habu Gummel has promised that London 2012 Olympics would be the last time Team Nigeria would participate in an international event of that magnitude without winning a medal. Speaking through the NOC’s Public Relations Officer, Tony Ubani, Gumel who defeated the former President of NOC, Alhaji Sani Ndanusa, in a keenly contested election to stage a comeback as the helmsman of the Olympic body in Nigeria noted that his second coming would usher an unprecedented athletes development. “We are ready to drive the ghost of London 2012 out with adequate

preparations and good welfare packages that will motivate our athletes into winning medals for the country. “We believe that the welfare of the athletes are paramount and as such, we will put logistics in place on how to address the welfare of our athletes, as well as ensure prompt payment of their training grants as that is the only way they can be motivated to put in their best for the country,” he said. Gumel who is also an executive member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) promised to work in harmony with the National Sports Commission (NSC) and different sporting Federations in order to achieve result. “My administration will ensure we work harmoniously with the NSC and various sports Federations in order to achieve result. “As partners in progress, we need

08055829770 ifeduz24@yahoo.com

Ola Afolabi (right) exchanging blows with Marco Huck during their WBO cruiserweight title fight. Gumel

the support of each other to succeed and that is why we must work together at all levels to ensure we achieve the desired breakthrough in our sports industry,” he concluded.

IFEANYI EDUZOR

A Del Basketball clinic gets date IFEANYI EDUZOR

rganizers of the annual Del Basketball Clinic have announced that this year’s edition will hold from December 11- 13 at the Oworonshoki play ground. Coordinator of the academy, Dele Simon Awonuga told our correspondent that the annual clinic, tagged “Del Camp 2014” which is open to children from ages 5-18 is being organized to enable less privileged children of the society learn the basic rudiments of the game, even as he noted that different gift items will be distributed to them at the end of the three-day clinic. “We are organizing the clinic in Oworonshoki, to enable children who reside in such places as Oshodi, Gbagada, Ketu, Alapere, Ogudu, Iyana Oworo, Ojota and its environs have an opportunity of learning the rudiments of basketball. “It is not every time that these children have the opportunity to come all the way to the National Stadium or Rowe Park at Yaba to train and that

was why we decided to take the game to their backyard,” Awonuga stated. According to him, the successes recorded in previous clinics prompted his academy to embark on the programme this year with a promise that this year’s event will witness a lot of improvement from previous editions.

PREMIERSHIP TABLE Team

PTS

Chelsea

Southampton

Man City

Man Utd

West Ham

Arsenal

Swansea

Newcastle

-2

Everton

Tottenham

-1

Liverpool

-2

Stoke

-3

Sunderland

-7

Crystal Palace

-4

West Brom

-5

Aston Villa

-11

Hull

-6

QPR

-11

Burnley

-12

Leicester

-8

Knockout IFEANYI Eduzor with

YSFON: Shema Cup kicks off today

Coordinator of Del Basketball Academy, Dele Simon Awonuga (right) giving out instructions to last year’s participants of the clinic

rrangements have been concluded by the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) for the kick off of the 4th edition of the annual Governor Ibrahim Shehu Shema U-17 Football Tournament for boys slated for November 30—December 6, in Katsina State. According to a statement by the Secretary General of the Federation, Patrick Okpavuerhe, participating states should ensure that their teams made up of 20 players are under the age of 17 years as at December 15, with a body weight of 60kg and maximum height of 1.78 m to avoid disqualification by the screening committee. He further stated that each team must be accompanied by 3 officials, one of which must be an official from YSFON. The statement further advised all teams to arrive Katsina early as screening of players will commence today. Okpavuerhe while commending the Governor and good people of Katsina State for partnering with YSFON towards grassroots football development in the country, appealed to other state governments to emulate Governor Shema towards football development in the country.

Hernandez pulls out of Afolabi fight IBF Cruiserweight champion, Yoan Pablo Hernandez, has pulled out of his mandatory title defense against Ola Afolabi after he suffered a right elbow injury during training. “After sparring on Thursday I had minor problems, but it got worse on Friday and I could not properly stretch my right arm. I went to the doctor immediately,” Hernandez said through an interpreter. The injury, diagnosed as loose cartilage, is similar to the one Hernandez suffered

in his split points decision win against former champion, Firat Arslan on August 16. The 30-year-old Hernandez (29-1, 14 KOs), a Cuban defector living in Germany, has made four title defenses while Afolabi 34, (21-3-4, 10 KOs) has won two fights in a row since a majority decision loss to title holder Marco Huck in their third title fight. Afolabi went 0-2-1 in their trilogy. Hernandez/Afolabi fight is expected to be rescheduled once Hernandez’s elbow has healed.

Usman eyes more boxing glory Newly crowned national Featherweight champion, Waidi “Skoro” Usman has expressed his readiness to challenge for the African title, saying that he has what it takes to rule the continent in the paid ranks. Usman last Sunday at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, defeated the former champion, Dare “Fighting Machine” Oyewole by technical knockout in the 5th round of their scheduled 12 rounds encounter to emerge as the new national champion. He told our correspondent that his emergence as the national Featherweight champion will serve as a stepping stone to his dream of ruling the continent in his weight category, even as he assured that he is ready to

win the title for Nigeria whenever the opportunity calls. “My emergence as the new national Featherweight champion is now reality because for more than two years, I have been looking for an opportunity to challenge for the title. “Having won the title, my next target would be the West African title and probably the African title which I hope will prepare me for greater challenges in future,” he said.

Usman

Best boxer award excites “Afonja warrior” After emerging as the best boxer in the just concluded “Gotv Boxing Night,” Light welterweight boxer, Rasheed ‘Afonja warrior’ Abolaji said the award will spur him to win laurels for the country in future. Abolaji was adjudged as the best boxer of the night after he recorded a unanimous point decision against experienced Dele ‘Lagelu’ Adeleke and was quick to express his readiness to use his prowess in

the ring to put smiles on the faces of Nigerian boxing fans. “My emergence as the best boxer of the Gotv boxing tournament is an indication that people appreciate my fight since turning professional and I promise not to disappoint my fans. “The award will spur me to train harder and be at my best all the time, as that is the only way I can win my fights and make my fans happy,” he promised.

Sport

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Modern football is fast, aggressive and technical –Capello Russia coach Fabio Capello has pretty much seen it all on the pitch and on the touchline. Yet even he was taken aback by the speed and enterprise of the football served up at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. FIFA.com caught up with the hugely experienced Italian at a FIFA/UEFA conference for Europe’s national team bosses, held in the Russian city of St Petersburg in September, where he spoke of his surprise at the football he saw at Brazil 2014 and what he learned from the competition. The 68-year old coach also discussed the problems his side are currently facing in a tough UEFA EURO 2016 qualifying group and preparations for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. Your contract as Russia coach runs until the end of 2018. What are your objectives with the team? My objectives are to have a good World Cup on home soil and for the team to perform at a high level there. The main aim, though, is to put together a competitive side, which means we need players who are capable of doing big things. Alexander Kerzhakov recently became Russia’s highest goalscorer of all time. How important is he to your plans?

There’s no doubt that Kerzhakov is one of our best goalscorers. He’s 31 now and he works really hard too. He’s a great example for the younger players coming through. What I’m hoping g p g for,, then, is that he keeps on setting that example and scoring goals (laughs). You’ve brought a few of those youngsters through in recent times, such as Dmitriy Poloz, Denis Cheryshev, Magomed Ozdoev and Artem Dzyuba. How important is it for you to blend youth and experience? It’s very important to mix the two, though what matters most of all is blending qualities and attributes. That’s what counts, and I can see that these young players have got quality.

WHAT CAUGHT MY EYE MOST IN COMPARISON TO

SO OUTH AFRICA AND THE EUROAN PEAN QUALIFIERS PEA WAS JUST HOW WA FAST THE PACE FA OF PLAY WAS. O

THAT’S WHAT STOOD OUT FOR ST ME MORE THAN

ANYTHING ELSE. AN

EVERY TEAM PLAYED THE P

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VERY FAST, AND VE THEY WERE RETH ALLY AGGRESAL SIVE AND TECHNICAL T Russia have qualified for the three UEFA EURO Champilast thre onships. How confident are you onships reaching the 2016 finals? of reach We’re in a very difficult group, Sweden and Ibra Zlatan Ibrawith Sw himovic, Austria, who are a really himovic side, and Montenegro, who good si cause problems. They’re the could ca dangerous rivals. It’s a long most da but we’re bringing young road, b players into the team and they’re starting to blend. We’re hoping to push on now.

Capello

mentioned Zlatan IbrahiYou me movic’s Sweden. He’s always that when he was at Juvensaid tha tus you did a lot to make him

Capello

into the free-scoring player he is today. What’s your view? Ibra has an awful lot of natural talent and it’s not hard at all to turn someone that gifted into a goal machine. All it took was to explain a few things to him. The rest is down to training hard every day, which is something he’s always done. He always did a lot of work on his finishing. When he started out he could kick the ball very hard but the quality wasn’t quite there. He wasn’t that great in the air either, so what he did was practise his heading over and over. His game really came on as a result. I called him over one day and I said to him: ‘You’re as good as Marco Van Basten. You’ve got the potential to be right up there with him, but I’m going to show you how he did it.’ I had someone make a video with all Van Basten’s goals. I showed it to him and I said: ‘You never get close to goal. If you want to score, you have to get close to the opposition goal. You’re always far away. You have fun creating play and you’re great at setting up your team-mates, but if you want to be a goalscorer, you’re going to have to play closer to the area.’ He got the message very quickly. When you come up against a match winner like that do you have to change the way you play? When you’re a coach you try to cover every angle, but the players are the ones who go out on the pitch. You try to explain things, but then you have to look closely and try to see if the charisma and the sheer presence of the player like that can lead to mistakes being made. And there’s no doubt that with someone like Ibrahimovic you absolutely have to be on your guard.

You’ve said on many occasions that Russia were given a tough group in the UEFA EURO 2016 qualifiers. Do you still hold that opinion now? Well, my thinking has always been that you have to respect every team you play. Obviously you can’t talk about Sweden and not mention Ibra. And when you talk about Austria, it’s the team you focus on. They’re a good side and they play quality football. As for Montenegro, their biggest asset is the individual quality they’ve got. They have some really exceptional players. They’re all teams that, in one way or another, command a lot of respect from us. What can a coach with your experience learn from a conference like this? I’ve noted down everything that was said, which was all very interesting, and now I’m going to go away and reflect on what I heard. There are always things you can learn. If you don’t want to learn new things, then you should go and do something else. You need to keep your feet on the ground and have respect for others. Those are both fundamental things. Looking back at Brazil 2014, did you see any innovations or new trends? What caught my eye most in comparison to South Africa and the European qualifiers was just how fast the pace of play was. That’s what stood out for me more than anything else. Every team played the game very, very fast, and they were really aggressive and technical. It was a great World Cup and probably the best one in recent times in terms of technique and tactics.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Henry will be welcomed to Arsenal, says Wenger

Henry

rsene Wenger admits club legend Thierry Henry may return to Arsenal in a coaching capacity. The Frenchman scored 227 goals during his first spell in north London, before adding another one to his tally during a loan

return to the club in 2012. Speculation has been rife that Henry could return for a third stint at the club, with his career in the MLS with New York Red Bulls drawing to a close, and Wenger admits that a return to the Emirates could be on the cards in the future. “It’s not something that’s current,” he said. “And then, there must be a post available. For the moment, that’s not the case. But it’s not impossible.” Wenger also aired his belief that Henry would be best served by emulating Zinedine Zidane when he finally hangs up his boots, and manage a youth team before stepping up to a senior team. “He is better to have responsibility for a team, like Zidane at Real Madrid,” Wenger added. “Because you learn to handle a dress-

ing room, to handle personalities. This trade, it’s above all to have ideas and put them into practice. “And you can only do that if you have the respect of your team. You have another example in France with Claude Makelele. He was an assistant coach to Ancelotti and then Blanc at PSG, but he never had the responsibility of a team before and I think that’s important.” “He is intelligent and passionate about football,” he added. “It’s a good base to be a great player, but there are many other ingredients. But yes, he could be a very good manager. “He understands quickly, he understands the play. He has a good nature and is a nice manner with people. He has all the qualities. But it’s a choice that must come profoundly from the inside, because it’s a lifestyle choice.”

Bayern eager to extend Guardiola’s contract

EURO BRIEFS

Udinese sacks Riera over tweet Spanish midfield player Albert Riera was sacked by Udinese, without ever playing a match in Italy, over an abusive tweet that Udinese were “the worst club” he had played for. The Friuli club issued a terse statement earlier this week announcing “the mutual cancellation of the payer’s contract” Riera

Martinez tips Tottenham for top-four finish

Martinez

Everton boss Roberto Martinez believes Tottenham will emerge as strong contenders for a Champions League place this season. The Merseysiders have overcome a poor start to go unbeaten in eight games in all competitions, while Tottenham also are rising steadily up the Premier League table, winning five of their last six matches.

Man City planning January signings Manchester City boss, Manuel Pellegrini has not ruled out making new signings in the January transfer window. The champions look to have a serious fight on their hands to retain their Premier League crown with leaders Chelsea currently setting a ferocious pace. Pellegrini

Injured Asamoah out for three months

Asamoah

Juventus midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah has been ruled out for three months with a knee injury which means the Ghana international player will also miss the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. Asamoah will undergo surgery on a cartilage problem in his left knee in the upcoming days.

Allardyce slams treatment of Sakho injury Guardiola

ayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge says the Bundesliga leaders are eager to extend coach Pep Guardiola’s contract after describing the Spaniard as the “best coach” for the Bavarian giants. “He is the best coach that could have happened to Bayern Munich,” Rummenigge told report-

ers at the opening of the club’s new merchandise store in Berlin. “He’s a wonderful person with whom it is great fun to work with; I hope he stays with us for as long as possible.” In his first year in charge, Guardiola won last season’s Bundesliga title with a record seven matches to spare, as Bayern went on to claim the league and cup double, and is under contract

until 2016. But Rummenigge says he will tread carefully with Guardiola, 43, who has won 18 titles as coach of either Barcelona or Bayern. “I know him, he’s not the sort of person who wants to extend his contract early or values a longterm deal,” he said. “I won’t annoy him with it and I know when the right time will be to have that conversation.”

Di Maria: I don’t watch Champions League

ngel Di Maria admits that he does not watch any Champions League or Europa League matches, choosing to play with his daughter instead of watching Europe’s elite. The Argentina international joined United from European champions Real Madrid in a British-record £59.7 million deal in the summer, thus joining a club that narrowly missed out on European football in 2013-14. And he readily concedes that he has no interest in watching his former club slug it out in Europe’s premier club competition in 201314, instead opting to spend time with his family.

“No, I don’t watch the European matches,” he told reporters. “I play with my daughter instead. It’s more important.” Di Maria’s daughter Mia, who turns two in April, was born premature and had to spend time in hospital, but the Argentina international insists he and his family have settled well in Manchester since moving from Madrid. “They’re fine now, they’re happy,” he added. “She was in hospital for two months but there weren’t any further problems, thank God. So, we’re really great and happy to be here in Manchester. “I think that, with what happened with my daughter, I realized that there isn’t anything more important than that. You

just want to be with your kids in these difficult moments, like the ones my daughter went through.” Di Maria insists he has no regrets about foregoing the chance to add to his one Champions League medal in 2014-15, and believes United will soon return to a competition they last won in 2008.

Di Maria

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce claims the injury his striker Diafra Sakho suffered whilst on duty with Senegal was “mistreated so badly”, the club could now be without the player for at least a month. Sakho is the London club’s leading scorer this season with seven goals; six of them in the Premier League. Sakho

Van Persie is still struggling –Van Gaal

anchester United manager Louis van Gaal says Robin van Persie is struggling for confidence in front of goal and admits the striker had “a very bad game” against Arsenal last weekend. Van Persie only touched the ball 13 times against his former club, three of which were while taking corners, before Van Gaal replaced him with 18-year-old James Wilson for the last 15 minutes. Indeed, in the whole of 2014, the Dutch striker has scored only eight goals in 21 Premier League

games. Van Gaal said: “I do think 13 is few for a striker. I want to improve that. You can count his touches on the ball but more important is how he is playing. “It was a very bad game for him. That is why I changed him. When I change a player, it is not because he is the best player on the pitch. You are doing something wrong. I believe in the players. When I change them, normally, it is because they are doing something not good in their performance. “When you pick up this match it is easy to put a question about 13 touches. Okay. But strikers do not touch the ball often. That is their profession. “Now I have a surprise for you. I had an international striker, Mario Gomez. He touched the ball nine times during Bayern Munich matches in my time.” Asked what Van Persie needs to do to get back to the level of being the best striker in England, the United boss added: “It is a question of confidence, or maybe scoring a wonderful goal at the right moment.”

N I G E R I A

N2.1

I N

bn – Amount the federal

government loses daily as, Shell shuts oil pipeline

Vol. 4 No. 51

Sunday, November 30, 2014

N150

N489

.69bn – Amount the Lagos state Governor Babatunde Fashola presents as budget for 2015

Emerging options to end terrorism

Back Page

Comment E-mail:

nwaunah@yahoo.com Deputy Vice-Chancellor & Dean, School of Languages and General Studies, The Premier University of Sao Tome and Principe

with Jim Unah

www.nationalmirroronline.net

F I G U R E S

n the one hand, the National Assembly has stated in unequivocal terms that the extension of emergency rule in the states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe is no longer an option in the fight against insurgency. Two arguments have been advanced in this regard. The first argument of the lawmakers is anchored on the claim that the application of emergence rule previously granted to the President had not abated the spate of insurgency in the affected states; that the Boko Haram killings had increased in intensity, and that there have been more loses than gains in the war against terrorism. The second argument, largely championed by the opposition, is that further approval of emergency rule would chase away prospective voters from the three states, and being the stronghold of the opposition, extension of emergency rule is tantamount to a blank cheque for the executive to cash in the 2015 general elections, well in advance. While the first argument appears politically neutral and purports to appeal to common sense, the second argument is unscrupulously political. In any case,

what is not clear at all is whether the national lawmakers have proposed unambiguous alternative strategy to put an end to terrorism. They thus appear to have tacitly endorsed a sit-and-watch attitude to the challenge of daily bloodletting by the insurgents. In other words, ending terrorism in the North-Eastern part of the country is none of the business of the legislators. It is entirely the headache of President Goodluck Jonathan since he opted not only to remain in power, but also to seek re-election as President in 2015. On the other hand, President Jonathan believes that the fight against insurgency is the collective effort of all Nigerians from the lesson of the fight against the ebola scourge; even as he had proposed the extension of emergency rule to the legislature, to step up the battle to crush insurgency. He believes that his administration has recorded tremendous success given the level of sabotage in the military in the first phase of counter-terrorism; that the end of terrorism is in sight with the re-tooling and renewed commitment of the army to crush the Boko Haram, and that extension of emergency rule is all that is required now to flush the insurgents out of business. The common sense position of the legislators for rejecting the extension of emergency rule to the effect that it has not succeeded in ending insurgency is premised on the wrong assumption that suicide bombing terrorism is similar to the Ogoni protest against oil spills and

the devastation of their natural habitat by oil exploration activities which was crushed with the leveling of Odi by the erstwhile Obasanjo regime. They are two separate events not comparable each to the other. The Odi militants never killed people or targeted civilian population to discredit the government of the day. Nor did they have the benefit of the sponsorship, sophisticated weaponry and Al Qaeda international connection and network that the Boko Haram could boast of. Again, contrary to the claim of the legislators, it is not true that nothing has been gained in the fight against insurgency since the application of emergency rule. With the reduction of free movements in the affected states, it is easier to isolate and spot the insurgents than when they were using civilian population as shield after wreaking havoc on their targets. More and more of the insurgents have either been killed or apprehended by the Nigerian soldiers, especially since the uncovering of the fifth columnist in the army. With the stepped up onslaughts against the terrorists, the latter have become more desperate and have even been chased away from their cells in the cities and suburbs to the Shambisha forests, and sometimes overflowing to the neighbouring Chad or Cameroon in the heat of the fire power of the Nigerian soldiers. Furthermore, the emergency rule opened the eyes of the Nigerian public to the poverty of equipment and arms and ammunition of the army and the need to re-tool the Armed Forces. The local

EPL leaders Chelsea held at Sunderland

underland became the first team this season to stop Chelsea scoring as they earned a deserved barren draw yesterday. Gus Poyet’s team frustrated and tested the Premier League leaders with a display of discipline and organization as Chelsea could not find a way through the Black Cats defence, the closest they came a first-half drive from Willian which hit the post. Santiago Vergini clipped the bar for the home side, who missed chances late on to take the three points. The result was a shock for those who expected Jose Mourinho’s Blues to continue their seemingly relentless surge towards the Premier League title.

Chelsea - whose 5-0 Champions League hammering of Schalke on Tuesday was described by their manager as “perfection” - have made the second best start in Premier League history, while Diego Costa’s total of 11 league goals is just one fewer than

the entire Sunderland squad. But Mourinho’s men who are now unbeaten in 20 matches across all competitions - have not found it easy against Sunderland in recent times. The Black Cats are the last team to beat Chelsea in

a league game - Sunderland’s 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge in April began a run of 13 points from a possible 15 which completed their great escape and kept them in the Premier League. They also beat Chelsea in the Capital One Cup last term.

people, including vigilante groups, hunters and youths in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states have generally become more patriotic and alive to the need to cooperate with federal forces to rein in the insurgents. CONSEQUENTLY, IT CANNOT BE SAID, WITHOUT ABSURDITY, THAT THE APPLICATION OF EMERGENCY RULE IN THE AFFECTED STATES IS TOTALLY WITHOUT MERITS. However, the protracted nature of the battle in recent times, resulting in more fatalities and casualties on both sides openly canvasses an argument that both government and opposition have been shying away from, namely, the upgrade of limited emergency rule to full blown declaration of a state of emergency. No one could deny that there is a state of war in the three north-eastern states. The government should declare full state of emergency and appoint sole administrators that can take full charge of the area in trouble, and avoid the double trouble of killing civilians in the line of fire as the soldiers move in to flush out the insurgents. To neglect this and subscribe to the veiled option of political opposition that the impeachment of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan or his defeat in 2015 presidential election will automatically put an end to terrorism or the campaign of the ruling party that the re-election of President Jonathan in 2015 will end insurgency without any further ado is merely to juxtapose two inconclusive pieces of evidence to laugh at each other.

Welbeck’s header earns Arsenal win at West Brom P. 60 PREMIERSHIP RESULTS

West Brom 0 – 1 Arsenal Burnley 1 – 1 Aston Villa Liverpool 1 – 0 Stoke City Man United 3 – 0 Hull City QPR 3 – 2 Leicester City Swansea 1 – 1 Crystal Palace West Ham 1 - 0 Newcastle Sunderland 0 – 0 Chelsea Today’s Matches Southampton v Man City 14:30 Tottenham v Everton 17:00

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