I went into drug biz to maintain my Brazilian wife – Suspect

A suspected drug trafficker arrested recently by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has allegedly confessed that he went into the illegal business to raise money to take care of his Brazilian wife. The suspect, simply identified as Ogbona, together with one other was arrested on his way from Brazil with ceramics allegedly stuffed with cocaine.

There was a mild drama during the search conducted by NDLEA Officials as Ogbona was ranting that they would pay through their nose if they destroyed the ceramics but the Commander NDLEA Murtala Mohammed Airport, Lagos Hamza Umar on suspicion ordered his men to break some of the ceramics promising to pay for the damage.

Crimewatch gathered that when one of the items was broken, substances suspected to be drugs were discovered. An official of NDLEA told Crimewatch that immediately the substance was found; the suspects allegedly started begging the officials and offered to grease their palms if they should allow them to go but they rejected the offer and arrested the them.

Ogbona was quoted as saying, “please forgive me. My Brazilian wife is pregnant and I needed money to take care of her; so when I was offered $IO,OOO dollars, I quickly accepted to take the consignment to Nigeria.

I needed the money urgently; please forgive. The other suspect simply identified as Godgive was alleged to have confessed that he had lived in Brazil for five years looking for money but there was nothing to show for his wasted years so when he was offered N1million he had no alternative than to accept the offer.

He was also quoted as saying that he needed the money badly to enable him re unite with his family in Nigeria. Commander Umar who confirmed the arrest said: “Cocaine industrially concealed inside ceramics meant for interior decoration as well as buttons was discovered by his men at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) Lagos when officers broke the ceramic ornaments.

Two suspected drug traffickers who were arrested in connection with the illegal import from Brazil said that they could not resist the offer made to them by their sponsors.” According to Umar the suspects that imported the narcotics are Ogbonna 38 and Godgive, 45 years old. In his words, “both suspects were found to have concealed cocaine in their luggage’s on their way from Brazil. Ogbonna had 1.435kg of cocaine hidden in ceramics and buttons while Godgive packed 1.180kg of cocaine also in ceramics.

They have given us useful information and investigation is in progress.” Ogbonna who hails from Enugu State had lived in Brazil for two years. He said he was asked to bring samples of the ceramics and buttons to Nigeria for marketing: “I am married to a Brazilian woman who is pregnant for me. I agreed to bring the drugs because I needed money to take care of my pregnant wife.

They promised to pay me $10,000 dollars. It was a good offer and I had planned to use the money to take care of my family” Ogbonna said. He explained that the second suspects, Godgive who had lived in Brazil for five years said that he needed the money to settle down in Nigeria with his wife and four children. Umar quoted him as saying “I went to Brazil in search of greener pastures since 2007. I have tried my best but life has been difficult. They promised to pay me one million naira and I agreed to bring the drugs.

I did not imagine that the drug would be detected but unfortunately the officers broke the ceramics and found the drug”. Chairman/Chief Executive of the Agency, Ahmadu Giade said that the Agency was prepared to uncover the tricks drug barons adopt in smuggling drugs.

“The Agency is prepared to uncover various tricks that drug barons adopt in concealing drugs. This seizure will serve as a warning to the cartels that they are running out of tricks” Giade said the suspects would soon be charged to court.

Man, 45, nabbed for raping 16-yr-old daughter

The Ogun  State Police Command has said it arrested a-45-year-old man, Toyin Sodimu, for allegedly raping his own 16-year-old daughter.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a statement in Abeokuta, yesterday, said Sodimu who lives in Temidire community of Oke Apo, Akomoje, Abeokuta  committed the offence on Saturday and  was arrested after he was reported by the  victim.
According to Adejobi, the lady went to report the incident to the Police in Adatan division after her father had forcefully had carnal knowledge of her in her room at about  2 p.m  on Saturday.
“The victim was then taken to the General Hospital, Abeokuta by the Police  for examination and treatment.
“The Commissioner of  Police  in Ogun State, Ikemefuna Okoye, has ordered full scale investigation into the horrible incident and vowed to make the suspect face the wrath of the law if found wanting to serve as deterrent to such cruel and devilish fathers who may want to venture into raping their daughters in the state.
“Okoye has  also appealed to parents particularly mothers to keep watch on their children and avoid collapse of marriages which is perceived to be a catalyst  to incredible cases like this.”
“He urges rape victims to always emulate this victim’s bravery to report any rape case which will help the police tackle rape and related offences in the state.”
“The police command will always partner with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in the state to profer a lasting solution to this menace of rape, gender violence and child abuse as the command will improve on strengthening its Anti Human Trafficking And Child Labour Unit to be effective.”

Man, 45, nabbed for raping 16-yr-old daughter

The Ogun  State Police Command has said it arrested a-45-year-old man, Toyin Sodimu, for allegedly raping his own 16-year-old daughter.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a statement in Abeokuta, yesterday, said Sodimu who lives in Temidire community of Oke Apo, Akomoje, Abeokuta  committed the offence on Saturday and  was arrested after he was reported by the  victim.
According to Adejobi, the lady went to report the incident to the Police in Adatan division after her father had forcefully had carnal knowledge of her in her room at about  2 p.m  on Saturday.
“The victim was then taken to the General Hospital, Abeokuta by the Police  for examination and treatment.
“The Commissioner of  Police  in Ogun State, Ikemefuna Okoye, has ordered full scale investigation into the horrible incident and vowed to make the suspect face the wrath of the law if found wanting to serve as deterrent to such cruel and devilish fathers who may want to venture into raping their daughters in the state.
“Okoye has  also appealed to parents particularly mothers to keep watch on their children and avoid collapse of marriages which is perceived to be a catalyst  to incredible cases like this.”
“He urges rape victims to always emulate this victim’s bravery to report any rape case which will help the police tackle rape and related offences in the state.”
“The police command will always partner with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in the state to profer a lasting solution to this menace of rape, gender violence and child abuse as the command will improve on strengthening its Anti Human Trafficking And Child Labour Unit to be effective.”

BEST DIVORCE LETTER EVER

JOKES:BEST DIVORCE LETTER EVER Dear Wife, I’m writing you this letter to tell you that I’m leaving you forever. I’ve been a good man to you for 7 years & I have nothing to show for it. These last 2 weeks have been hell. … Your boss called to tell me that you quit your job today & that was the last straw. Last week, you came home & didn’t even notice I had a new haircut, had cooked your favorite meal & even wore a brand new pair of silk boxers. You ate in 2 minutes, & went straight to sleep after watching all of your soaps. You don’t tell me you love me anymore; you
don’t want sex or anything that connects us as husband & wife. Either you’re cheating on me or you don’t love me anymore; whatever the case, I’m gone. Your EX-Husband
P.S. don’t try to find me. Your SISTER & I are moving away to West Virginia together! Have a great life!


—— Dear Ex-Husband Nothing has made my day more than receiving your letter. It’s true you & I have been married for 7 years, although a good man is a far cry from what you’ve been. I watch my soaps so much because they drown out your constant whining & griping Too bad that doesn’t work. I DID notice when you got a hair cut last week, but the 1st thing that came to mind was ‘You look just like a girl!’ Since my mother raised me not to say anything if you can’t say something nice, I didn’t comment. And when you cooked my favorite meal, you must have gotten me confused with MY SISTER, because I stopped eating pork 7 years ago. About those new silk boxers: I turned away from you because the $49.99 price tag was still on them, & I prayed it was a coincidence that my sister had just borrowed $50 from me that morning. After all of this, I still loved you & felt we could work it out.
So when I hit the lotto for 10 million dollars, I quit my job & bought us 2 tickets to Jamaica But when I got home you were gone.. Everything happens for a reason, I guess.
I hope you have the fulfilling life you always wanted. My lawyer said that the letter you wrote ensures you won’t get a dime from me. So take care. Signed, Your Ex-Wife, Rich As Hell & Free! P.S. I don’t know if I ever told you this, but my sister Carla was born Carl. I hope that’s not a problem

School expels, suspends pupils for praying, alleged assault

Twelve pupils of Gaskiya Senior College, Ijora, Lagos State, are currently undergoing punishments for holding fellowship beyond the time allowed in the school and allegedly assaulting the principal.

The students were also branded "cultists" by the school principal, Mrs Oghenetega Sobowale, who signed the letters that informed them of their punishments.

While one of the students was expelled, five were placed on indefinite suspension.The six others were given lesser punishment. The suspended students have been missing third term examinations currently being written by their schoolmates

The students involved are Ejiro John, Otega John, Michael Changa, Valentine Okoye, Faith Okolie, Chidinma Chidozie, Jennifer Emmanuel, Eunice Ikpesu, Okiemute Jeremiah, Goodluck Kalu, Samuel Egwu and Rebecca David.

Otega, 16-year-old SS2 student, said it was a break down in communication that caused their problem.

He said, "We usually hold fellowship on Tuesdays after school hours by 3.30pm. The principal had told us to always end it at 5pm.

"On April 2, 2013, while the 12 of us were praying, the school guard entered and told us that the principal said we should end the fellowship immediately. My brother, Ejiro, told the guard we were rounding off. But the guard told the principal that we refused to leave."

Otega said the principal came into the class as they were saying the closing prayer  and later pounced on Jennifer Emmanuel who was "praying fervently."

He said, "Jennifer was not aware that the principal was standing beside her and she mistakenly hit the principal as she was praying.

"Not long after, a teacher came and wrote our names and classes. He told us to bring our parents the next day."

Another of the affected students, Ejiro, said, "On the following day, we were called out during the morning assembly.  A teacher announced to the school that we were cultists.

"Later in the day, our parents had a meeting with the Principal, Vice-Principal Mr. Omonijo, and other members of staff. The principal refused our pleas. She also warned the teachers against pleading for us."

Another affected student, Okiemute Jeremiah, said, like her, all the SS3 students involved were prefects of the school.

She said, "We were removed from our various positions by the principal. Mrs. Sobowale also banned the fellowship and gave us a week suspension. She told our parents that the case would be reported to Education District V."

Chidinma Chidozie, who also spoke with our correspondent, said, "On the second day of third term, we received letters from the principal that five SS2 students involved had been suspended indefinitely. Jennifer Emmanuel, also in SS2, was expelled."

The remaining six SS3 students were issued letters titled, 'Re: Emergence of cultism in school', in which they were accused of "insurgency."

Copies of the letters, which were shown to our correspondent, stated that the SS3 students would only be allowed to write Senior Secondary Certificate Examination if their parents accompanied them to school on each examination day.

One of the parents, Mrs. Beauty John, lamented the fate of her children.

She said, "We have pleaded with the principal and we have written letters of apology to her. We copied the letters and sent them to Education District V. But all to no avail.

Mrs Goodness Chidozie, said she had been praying for divine intervention because he daughter, Chidinma, was still in SS2.

Okiemute's father, Mr. Ojagbube Jeremiah, said, "My daughter missed one SSCE paper because I couldn't go with her on the examination day. She is a good Christian, but the the government has it in its record that she is a cultist. I want her name cleared."

Michael Changa's mother, Mrs. Jacinta Changa, said, "This is a serious case and I want Governor Babtunde Fashola to intervene."

When our correspondent called the principal on the telephone, she said she would rather speak in person.  However, she told our correspondent in her office, "The case is no longer in my hands. It is now handled by Education District V. I am not authorised to speak."

The Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Lateef Ibirogba, said he was aware of the students' expulsion and suspensions.

He said, "We will investigate the case of Gaskiya Senior College. The government will not allow the students to be unjustly punished if they didn't commit any offence.  However, I want to state that if the students were actually Christians, who are morally upright, I find it difficult to believe that one of them will mistakenly slap the principal.

"While we won't allow the students to be unjustly punished, we will not also allow the principal to be ridiculed. We will not tolerate indiscipline."

God is Priority: P-Square Set Up a Group Prayer Before Their Concert in Congo-Brazzaville (PHOTO)

Electrifying duo Peter and Paul Okoye (P-Square) have presently shown that with all their success, they still stick to what matters most – Prayer.

This year has already been filled with success and more success for the twin brothers, their new single “Personally” is making waves all around the African continent and even overseas.
P-Square are presently on tour in Congo Brazzaville and they know whom they owe all their success to, the duo with their dancers gathered in a circle to say a little prayer before their performance.

Akpabio meets Obasanjo over Jonathan’s ambition

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Akwa Ibom State Governor,  Godswill Akpabio, met behind closed doors  in Abuja on Thursday to deliberate on  the  polarisation of  the  Peoples Democratic Party governors.

 It was gathered that at the meeting, Akpabio also  solicited Obasanjo’s support for President Goodluck Jonathan’s second term bid in 2015.

Akpabio, who chairs  the PDP Governors’ Forum, was said to have used the  opportunity of the meeting which was attended by a PDP chieftain,  Otunba Oyewole Fasawe,  to solicit for the intervention of the former President in ending the differences among the governors.

He was said to have told  Obasanjo that the ongoing acrimony among the governors was not good for the image of the  PDP and its determination to win the 2015 presidential election.

Since the conduct of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum election, which was won by  Rivers State Governor,  Rotimi Amaechi, the  PDP governors have continued to exchange hot words on the pages of newspapers.

While those who supported Amaechi’s opponent , Governor Jonah Jang of Plateau State,   have continued to accuse those in the other camp of betrayal, supporters of the winner said it was victory for democracy.

The outcome of the election had resorted in  the NGF having two secretariats.

Also, some of the governors, like Sule Lamido of Jigawa State, have  warned that  winning the  PDP  presidential  primary  by  Jonathan would not be a guarantee that he  would triumph  during   the presidential election.

Lamido, who is known to be very close to Obasanjo,   is one of  the four governors from the northern region that visited Amaechi in Port Harcourt on Tuesday. The others  were   Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano);  Babangida Aliyu (Niger); and Murtala Nyako (Adamawa).

At the meeting, Obasanjo was said to have listened with rapt attention when Akpabio solicited his intervention to smoothen the relationship between the President and the governors.

Though the former President was said not to have made any commitment, it was gathered that Akpabio was working towards bringing   Obasanjo and Jonathan to come together and discuss.

Akpabio, who is also close to the former President, was said to have expressed his worry  on  how the former President had distanced himself from the activities of the PDP.

A source privy to the meeting which held at   Hilton Hotel  said, “It was a brief meeting, where the former President listened with rapt attention as Akpabio spoke. But unexpectedly, he did not make any commitment.  But I think that   President Jonathan  would want to meet with the former President.”

Obasanjo was said to have immediately left for Zimbabwe after the meeting while  Fasawe went to  the headquarters of the PDP for  a  discussion with  the party’s National Chairman, Dr. Bamanga Tukur.

Fasawe confirmed the meeting but declined to give details.

“But you know my relationship with Chief Obasanjo,” was the answer he gave when asked to speak on issues that were discussed at the Hilton Hotel meeting.

Meanwhile, members of the National Working Committee of the  PDP   have been asked not  to turn Anambra State into an “oil well” during  the forthcoming governorship election in  state.

The PDP stakeholders in the state, who stated this at a meeting they had with the leadership of the party at its headquarters, called for transparency in the conduct of the primary.

The meeting was held as part of preparations for the November 16 governorship  election in the state.

The stakeholders were drawn from groups within the party in the state.

Among those who spoke at the   meeting were a former Governor of the state, Chief Chinwoke Mbadinuju; a former Chairman of Police Service Commission, Chief Simeon Okeke; a former Minister of Health, Prof. A.B.C. Nwosu; a governorship aspirant, Prince Nicolas Ukachukwu, and Mrs. Bridget Obi.

Obi said, “It is only in Anambra State that primaries are held  in three different hotels and results would not be announced until they get to a police station.

“My plea is that, please don’t make Anambra your new oil well. Resist temptations in order to succeed.”

The meeting resolved that all members of  the state PDP would  work in unity to ensure victory for the party during the election.

They also said that all those who have cases in court should withdraw them failing which the party would  take severe disciplinary measures against them.

While they said that no member of the party in  the  state shall institute any suit on any matter affecting the conduct of the forthcoming congresses and primary election for the November governorship election,  they however warned that the PDP must not be partial during the polls

Rivers crisis: Eight opposition govs visit Amaechi

Thousands of youths  stormed the Port Harcourt International Airport in Omagwa Rivers State  to receive  five  Action Congress of Nigeria governors   who were  on a solidarity visit  to  Governor  Rotimi Amaechi.

The governors -  Babatunde Fashola (Lagos); Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti); Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo);  Rauf Aregbesola (Osun); and Ibikunle Amosu (Ogun) –  had in their company, the  deputy governors  of  Imo State ( Eze Madumere);  Nasarawa (Dameshi  Luka),  and Muktar Ankar (Zamfara).

The visit came about two days after  youths believed to be  supporters of the  Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike, protested  a similar  visit by four governors from the North. The youths   had  pelted  some vehicles on Amaechi’s convoy with stones.

At the airport on Thursday, the youths said to be members of the Ikwerre Youths Movement, ensured that no opponent had a space to spring any surprise that   could embarrass Amaechi and his visitors, who were driven straight to the Government House, Port Harcourt.

During their discussion, the governors and the deputy governors, all of them from opposition political parties, advised Amaechi to brief President Goodluck Jonathan on the dwindling security situation in the state.

They also  urged  the Inspector-General  of Police, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, to restore the confidence of the people in the state police command.

After the meeting,   Fayemi  told journalists that Amaechi had briefed them on the security situation in  the state.

Describing  Jonathan as their  leader, Fayemi stated that the situation in the state  also required the moral authority of the President to solve.

He said,  “It is just to stress the importance of our concern  for  the security of the citizens of Rivers State. We have met with our brother, the Chairman of our forum (Nigeria Governors’ Forum), Governor   Amaechi.

“We  had extensive discussions; he has briefed us on the situation on the ground here (Rivers State) and we feel very strongly that having listened to him, that it will be quite important for him to actually go and brief Mr. President,  who is our leader and the chief security officer of this country on the very challenging security situation here in Rivers State.

“We believe that our chairman and brother,  as the chief security officer of Rivers State,   should   go and brief Mr. President on the security situation in the state.

“It is also of importance for the   police authorities, especially the IG  to help in restoring the confidence of the people of Rivers State  in the Police Command here in Rivers State.

“We believe that the IG  is very well placed to help take the necessary steps to restore the confidence of the government, of the governor and the people   and every step that is crucial to making these  possible is an aspect that we believe that Mr. President can address.”

Fayemi explained though the National Economic Council was holding in Abuja on Thursday (yesterday), their  presence in Rivers State  did not mean the denigration of the meeting.

“We believe Mr. President,  being our leader, we are all President’s men;  we are all President’ s governors, he is our leader and we feel that he actually occupies a very critical position that necessitates wielding his moral authority in ensuring peace reigns here and that nobody uses him by subterfuge to create situations that are entirely avoidable.

“The tension in Rivers State is entirely avoidable and we want all parties to sheathe their swords and to help restore the peace and security here.”

Also,  Ankar  said, “We   advised him (Amaechi)  to meet with the President to discuss with him so that we can find a way out of this crisis which is avoidable. We  believe that his meeting with the President will actually bring this crisis  to an end  and strengthen  democracy in Nigeria.”

But the Peoples Democratic Party in the state and the state government differed on the visit by the  opposition parties’ governors.

While the PDP   insisted  that the visit  was a sign that Amaechi  had moved to the opposition,  the  government  said that the Ikwerre-born politician was still an ardent member of the PDP.

The PDP, in  a statement signed by the Special Adviser, Media, to the State Chairman, Mr. Jerry Needam, argued  that the   solidarity visit  to Amaechi had  justified its petition against the governor.

 The party said, “It’s no longer hidden that Governor Amaechi has pitched his tent with the opposition where he belongs but only plans to destroy the PDP in Rivers State before leaving finally.

“One clear quality of Gov Amaechi is that he does not leave anybody in the dark as to his moves and plots as proved by the solidarity visits of four northern governors on Tuesday, July 16, 2013 and that of the Action Congress of Nigeria governors, the Congress for Progressive Change governors and All Progressives Grand Alliance governor today; Thursday, July 18, 2013 in Port Harcourt.”

But the  Chief Press secretary to the Governor, Mr. David Iyofor, told The  PUNCH in a telephone interview that Amaechi was still in the PDP.

Iyofor argued that since the governor  is the NGF  Chairman , it was not out of place for  members of the forum  to pay solidarity visit to him over the situation in the state.

Iyofor described the allegation that Amaechi had left the PDP as the handiwork of mischief makers.

He said, “The governor has not left the PDP. Those making such a statement should realise that Amaechi is the NGF  chairman  and other governors can decide to pay  him  a solidarity visit because of  the challenges in the state.

“Again as a governor, other governors may want to visit him (Amaechi) as their colleague. So, the solidarity visit by some governors today (Thursday) has nothing to do with the Rivers State Governor leaving the PDP. He is still a member of the PDP.”

Also, the Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt, Mr. Tony Okocha, recalled that PDP governors also paid solidarity visit to Amaechi, wondering why the visit  by the opposition parties’ governors  was being  misinterpreted.

Okocha explained that there was nothing wrong in governors coming to the state to see the “impunity from Wike and his cohorts”.

“The governors that came to visit are saying no to what is happening in the state. Apart from that, Nigerians are watching and they know the reason for the crisis in the state. The fact is that Amaechi still remains an ardent member of the PDP,” he said.

 Meanwhile, a  former  Head of State, Gen.  Abdulsalami Abubakar,  has  described the lingering crisis in Rivers State  as unfortunate.

Abdulsalami,  at an interactive session with newsmen in Minna on Thursday , therefore advised  politicians  to put a break to the crisis so that the country’s democracy  would not be truncated.

He said,  “The  happenings in Rivers State are quite bad. Politicians should try to  reflect on what they are doing in order not to truncate democracy in this country.  They should  check themselves. But certainly, what is  happening  in Rivers State is unfortunate.”

Abubakar also spoke on the situation in both the North and South Sudan, where he has been very much involved in ensuring a lasting peace.

On this, he said, “We  have been making efforts and there is peace in North and South Sudan. South Sudan marked her  second  independence anniversary  four days ago. So we have been involved and trying to make sure that peace reigns in these  countries and that is what we have been doing on behalf of the African Union ”.

I Found Joy In An Older Woman

Tayo Babatunde Bernard, better known as Baba Tee, is a fast-rising actor/comedian. In this interview with FUNSHO AROGUNDADE, the 32-year old actor spoke about his marriage to top celebrity journalist, Yetunde Oduwole

Have you produced any movie of your own?

I have one already, Ijewuru, which was all about an eating competition and really I thank God for its acceptance.

How are you coping as a married man?

I don't talk about my love life.

Why?

I just don't know how to talk about it. Please, I wouldn't want to talk about my marriage.

But you married a woman who has been saying a lot of nice things about you?

It doesn't matter. I just don't feel it is necessary to talk about that part of my private life.

Given that you married an older woman, what is your perspective about age in marriage?

From my little experience, there are what we called culture and norms. The Yoruba culture is very rich and the traditions place much emphasis on seniority. God had created Adam before Eve and that means the male is the superior and it has remained that way. But if God had created Eve before Adam, maybe we would have been having older women marrying younger men. But because of culture which lay emphasis on the role of men as the head and he must be older, we can't fault that. It is a cultural thing in this part of the world but not everywhere.

But even at that, I still feel there is nothing special about age. After all, Prophet Mohammed (SAW)'s wife was older than him and he still remains one prophet we make reference to and revere. So, there is only one thing I believe in life which is joy. Basically, I think wherever and whoever will give you joy should be the most important. To me, age is never a barrier. A lot of parents have driven their children to untimely deaths by making them go against their hearts' desires . Your partner will be with you for more than 50 or 60 years but your parents won't, so, irrespective of age, people should go for whoever they find love with. To me, I'll go for what will give me joy and have no regrets. Age is nothing to me in a relationship, it is where I will derive joy from that I will be.

How are you handling your female admirers?

It is normal for ladies to come around but it doesn't go beyond that. I appreciate beauties but I draw the line between everything that I do and don't allow myself get caught in any unwholesome act. I also try to remind myself of how I started. I go back to those places that remind me of my background and that helps me to stay disciplined.

[PM NEWS]

I Can't Expose My Selling Point For Any Reason –Nollywood Actress, Mimi Orjiekwe

In case you didn't know, Miriam was the place the Mimi that complemented the Orjiekwe emerged. Today, the name has grown in leaps and bounds, even as the face has constantly continued to remain famous and known.

The fact that this sexy, light-skinned and sparkling actress is taking the center-stage of the Nollywood industry, does not in any way reckon around lip-servicing, as her uncanny and professional way of interpreting roles on screen cannot be over-emphasized. In this enthralling but sensational interview with Ugochukwu Favour-Mayor, Mimi Orjiekwe bares her mind on the over-zealousness of the everyday rising industry-Nollywood, and her childhood experience.

What's your childhood story like?

I don't have a different story, because I grew up like every other girl; it wasn't bad. Things were good though I didn't have everything I wanted but it was good. Being the only daughter, I always got attention from my parents and they pampered me a lot too. No matter I'm the third child and the only daughter of my parents, with three brothers. So, you know what it is being the only daughter? I got it all that I couldn't have asked for a better family. Being the only daughter doesn't mean I'm a spoilt child. My parents monitored me, and they are still monitoring me to make sure I get the best in life.

How about your memorable moment while growing up?

What I can vividly recall was my time at the boarding house. Yes, I had my secondary education at Holy Rosary College. I used to get loads of provisions in school way back then. I was in my teen's way back then and that's a time in my life I memorably recall.

And it does not really mean that I didn't cope, because I had to go through a process as boarder and when it was time for holidays I always relish the opportunity to be at home. Even when I was in the university, I lived in the campus. I have been living with my mum ever since I graduated from school and I am mostly in Lagos or in the East when I am needed on set.

How about your interest for modeling and what really motivated you for the beauty contests you've been part of in the past?

First, I would trace it to my days in the university, I schooled at Caritas University. While I was in school I was always conscious of myself and I emerged the winner of the Miss Business Administration beauty contest back in the university. Already I had the hunch that I would end up being part of one beauty contest or the other while growing up as a young girl. I also have the height for such contests and that factor is very important when it comes to beauty contests. My passion was further fueled when I was discovered by a certain agent who works for a modeling agency and I took part in the Miss Anambra beauty contest and I emerged the 3rd runner up. At the same time, my venture into beauty contests also opened doors on the movie scene as I got my first movie role after I was discovered at a beauty contest.

How has it been handling overtures from men, even when you had neck deep in partaking in beauty contests?

I never really allowed the attention get into my head because I had someone managing me then. I was just focused on getting the best out of each contest and I took all compliments in good faith. I also tried to treat everyone I came across as a friend with no strings attached.

What really motivated your venturing into the showbiz industry?

I have always had a flair for entertainment and I think it was natural that I gravitated towards that point. I am not in it for the money but I need the money anyway because there is money to be made and I need to pay my bills. I love the world of entertainment and I am open to growth and getting more knowledgeable in the business.

Which movie would you say shot you into limelight?

I have done series of movies and the first major I starred was Royal Madness. I was in that movie with Majid Michelle and Van Vicker. It was the first time I worked with them. They are good people and at a point Van Vicker was acting like a Chinese. Jim Iyke was also on set too and you can imagine the sight on the set of the movie. I got challenging role and it brought out the best in me. The movie is quite popular and most people don't even know that I was part of the movie. But I think now that I have the face, maybe they will spot me out.

The biggest movie project you were part of, what was it like?

The movie was directed by a different person entirely. What was it like? Well, it opened my eyes to so many things as a burgeoning actress.

How did you get the role for the movie?

I was in Ghana to shoot a different film and I ran into the director of the movie and I got to understand that his name is Sallam Bello and he is one of the biggest marketers in Ghana. He invited me over, where he said he wanted me to be part of a movie production and that was it. I didn't plan to be part of the movie and it turned out to be one of the biggest projects that I have been part of in recent times.

Who are your role models?

I have always admired Angelina Jolie and the role she played in the movie titled Tomb Raider. I love action films; I also love Halle Berry and the sexiness she brings to acting. I also love Genevieve Nnaji and her mode of delivery. I am also in love with the world of beauty pageantry. I have been part of some beauty pageant competitions in the past.

Meaning you would someday get back to the modeling industry?

Of course yes! Modeling I will say it's part of entertainment.

What can you do on set of a movie?

You have to be specific; like I said I can do so many things. Paramount of which is the ability for me to interpret my roles as an actress. You need to give your best when you are called upon to deliver your lines.

What are your strengths?

Personally, I think my strength as an actress is my ability to deliver and the fact that I have a friendly outlook. I also have the talent and that keeps me going.

Have you noticed any weakness you have as an actress?

I think I need to be more professional in what I do; I also think I need to be more determined and hardworking. I also need to give my very best whenever I am on set.

What other talents do you have?

I think I can do averagely well in every artistic work that I can think of. I can dance; I can sing that I know because I have good vocals. I am stylish and I can tell you what looks good on you.

The issue of sexual harassment, have you experienced it before?

I relate with people the way they should be handled and that to an extent also determines how people relate with you too. I have never been sexually harassed but I hear stories about people being sexually harassed. I have got advances but I have handled them maturely. It is a give or take affair because no one can force you to do what you don't want to do. It has never stopped me from giving my best on set and ultimately trying to get more movie roles. The fear of sexual harassment has not diminished my drive. I still have a lot to accomplish and that cannot hold me back.

If you are handed an irresistible offer, would you act nude?

No! I can't act nude; I can't do it for any amount because I don't have any reason to do that. I believe you can pass on your message without necessarily going nude. Besides, I choose to act movie and not porn. I wonder why a professional actor or actress would accept a huge sum of money and sell it out. Common, I can't expose my selling point for any reason, not for fame or fortune.

How about most actresses who take the hard way to get attention?

I don't believe exposing all will get me to the top; for me, sex doesn't sell.

Who is in your life now?

I'd like to keep that part of me private. It is true I'm dating, but it's not for public discourse.

Dating or don't you have plans of getting married?

Of course I am going to get married and have kids; I want to have beautiful kids so I intend to marry a cute guy.

When should we expect wedding bells?

I don't know; in God's time I think.

Is acting paying your bills now?

First, I will give God the glory. It is worth the trial; it pays my bills. You will reap what you sow in the long run and in everything you do; you need to sacrifice to get the best. I just have to work hard and be determined and with faith I know I will definitely make it to the top in the end.

What is your philosophy to life?

Life is hard; one has to be strong, then you have to eat and pray well to get to your destination point.

You rejected a script a time like that; please what would make you not accept a movie script?

Yes I did! Let's not get at it again. So, I would reject a script if I do not like the script; I would reject the script if it is not original too. Most movies produced today are fictional and I would not accept a script if is haphazardly done and if it does not pass on a positive message.

What kind of movie production excites you?

I would definitely like to be part of an action movie that's why I really like Angelina Jolie for the action role she plays in most of her movies, especially Tomb Raider and Mr. and Mrs. I'd like to work with her someday if that is possible. I am going to be part of an action film too and it will be out very soon.

Do you have plans of producing your own movie someday?

Yes I have that in mind; I want to own a production studio and I also hope to learn more about movie making and possibly get a degree in film making in the future. I just don't want to stop at being an actress I want to learn more and earn more money from the movie industry.

What's the challenge so far?

You really need to understand that the entertainment industry is growing better and stronger now. Some productions no longer use the old camera, because we want the best. We've seen some cases where people want to meet up with the cinema quality. Nollywood is seriously evolving, and also at a fast pace. New and more talented people are coming into the industry, and even our old people are getting better. Yes the competition is tough, but I can't help it because I have found joy doing it.

In future, would you for any reason quit acting?

What could the reason be? Sorry, no way.

Has Pastor Chris Okotie Found A New Lover?

There are reports that Pastor Chris Okotie of the Household of God Church, Lagos may have found a new lover to keep him warn whenever the weather gets cold. Some reports are suggesting that the man of God, who has divorced more than once, might presently be in love with a light-skinned young lady simply called Delphine.

The interesting thing about the whole thing is that the beautiful lady does not worship at Okotie's church as she is reported to attend another popular church in Lagos.

If this report is true, Delphine might be the next Mrs Okotie, but for now, she might just remain a candidate of the Mrs Okotie 'vacant title'.

But wait a minute, it seems Okotie loves light-skinned ladies.



There are reports that Pastor Chris Okotie of the Household of God Church, Lagos may have found a new lover to keep him warn whenever the weather gets cold. Some reports are suggesting that the man of God, who has divorced more than once, might presently be in love with a light-skinned young lady simply called Delphine.

The interesting thing about the whole thing is that the beautiful lady does not worship at Okotie's church as she is reported to attend another popular church in Lagos.

If this report is true, Delphine might be the next Mrs Okotie, but for now, she might just remain a candidate of the Mrs Okotie 'vacant title'.

But wait a minute, it seems Okotie loves light-skinned ladies.

Patience Ozokwo, Oge Okoye Dinner At Presidential Villa

Prompt please where it is possible to take a treatment for an hepatitis? In advance thanks. Top Nollywood stars, Patience Ozokwo, Oge Okoye and others recently attended a dinner held at the Presidential Villa in Aso Rock, Abuja. The screen goddesses were at the villa for launch of 'Fascinating Nigeria' which took place on Thursday at the Banquet Hall.

The event was set up to help promote the tourism potentials of Nigeria using the stars to help sell the idea. As expected, Patience Ozokwo and Oge Okoye represented Nollywood well at the occasion.
Patience Ozokwo, who is fondly called Mama G, is a respected actress in the Nigerian movie industry.

Why Jesse Jagz, Brymo Dumped Choc City--Label Boss, Audu Maikori Speaks At Last

A couple of months ago, Jesse Jagz left Chocolate City, aka Choc City. Some weeks after, another artiste under the same label, Brymo, dumped Choc City even though his contract hasn't expired. The exit of the two artistes sent a signal that all was not well with the record label, which has now produced a BET awards winner; Ice Prince.

Recently, Brymo claimed he was cheated by his former label, which forced him to quit Choc City.

However, Audu Maikori, who is the boss of the label, has finally spoken on the matter and has explained why both singers left Choc City. He said Brymo left because the singer felt the label wasn't giving him the necessary attention he needed and accused the label's management of concentrating too much on Ice Prince.

On why Jesse Jagz dumped the label, Audu explained that the rapper wanted absolute control of his business. He stated further that Jesse Jagz's lyrical contents and music videos gave an impression that he encouraging drugs and nicotine, which is completely against the company's policies.

Strike: ASUU kicks as FG pleads with lecturers

Minister of Education, Prof. Ruqayyatu Rufa’i
| credits: File copy

The Minister of Education, Prof. Ruqayyatu Rufa’i, on Monday appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities to suspend its current strike and “go back to classes’’.

But ASUU President, Dr. Isa Fagge, has said that the lecturers would not call it off until the union’s demands were met. The union, he said, was satisfied with the compliance with the strike so far.

Rufa’i, who made the appeal at a meeting with vice-chancellors of Nigerian universities in Abuja, said, “We plead with them to go back to classes.

“We are having a meeting tomorrow at the National Assembly with the Senate and House of Representatives to resolve all the issues.

“Besides, the white paper on the 2010 Visitation Panel Reports on Federal Universities has since been released and forwarded to the universities for implementation.

“Consequently, monitoring teams will soon visit the universities to ensure implementation of the recommendations.’’

The minister noted with dismay that many private and state universities were yet to establish effective governance structures and that the development had grave implications for the running and development of the universities.

She noted that the issue of the award of honorary degrees to undeserving personalities remained an embarrassment to government.

Rufa’i said the Federal Government was disturbed by the continuous establishment of universities and running of programmes without regard to due process.

The minister advised those culpable to desist from such acts which were capable of inflicting injury on the university education system.

Fagge, who spoke on Monday, said it was satisfied with the level of compliance of its members to the nationwide strike it declared on July 1.

The strike has paralysed academic activities in all public universities across the country. Students have been forced to return home while those in the final year have been forced to stay action on their final year projects.

It was also learnt that some universities are now tinkering with the idea of postponing the post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination being planned for prospective students.

ASUU declared the indefinite strike to protest the FG’s non-implementation of a part of an agreement it entered into with the union in 2009.

The agreement includes university autonomy and adequate funding of universities.

The government also reneged  on the Memorandum of Understanding it signed with the union in December, 2011, according to Fagge.

Fagge told the News Agency of Nigeria on telephone  that the compliance by state chapters of the union was encouraging.

He said that ASUU was determined to continue the action until the FG meets its demands.

“I am happy with the level of compliance by members of the union.

“All of them have downed tools as directed, and we have communicated the National Executive Committee’s decision to government; we are waiting for its response.

“It is time for people to start probing why government is not taking the much needed steps to address problems in our university system.

“I want to admonish parents to find time to look into the standards  of these institutions so that we can be convinced on why something must be done to salvage the situation, and urgently too,” he said.

He noted that overcrowding of students in hostels, lecture theatres, laboratories and workshops had become worrisome.

“What will one make of a situation where a hostel room made for just two or four, as the case may be, is being occupied by 12 students?

“This same situation also applies to the use of laboratories as well as workshops; yet, we want to produce quality graduates who are expected to use their knowledge to drive our economy,” Fagge said.

The unionist said that such a situation would not ensure quality assurance on the part of the students and universities.

According to him, research and development are non-existent in universities due to poor funding and other constraints.

“It is based on this that we are saying it is time to face realities, tell ourselves the truth about the state of things in our universities and seek ways of tackling them once and for all.

“Instead of deceiving ourselves, we should find the NEEDS assessment report on these institutions and study it passionately,” he said.

Housemaid jailed 28 years for stealing N35m jewellery

A housemaid, Mary John, has been sentenced to 28 years in prison for stealing her mistress’ jewellery estimated at N35m.

The 30-year-old woman slumped moments after hearing the sentence, hitting her head against the carpeted surface of the court room.

The impact shook the walls of the court room, but she was quickly resuscitated and carried out by prison warders.

The convict had been arraigned since September 2012 on four counts of conspiracy, entry, breaking and stealing.

Her mistress, Mrs. Esohe Kadiri, a lawyer, said she stole wristwatches valued at N9m, bangles and bracelets worth N10m, diamond set worth N8m, rings worth N3m, chains and pendants worth N5m, and a camera priced at N100, 000, which all totalled N35, 100,000.

The theft was said to have occurred in July 2012 at her residence in Victoria Garden City, Ajah.

Kadiri, in her evidence before the court said John took advantage of her travel outside the country to perpetrate the theft.

She said she was alerted to the crime by her sister, and after challenging John on phone, she suddenly became incommunicado.

Together with three other witnesses- Kelvin Ikeagwe, Francis Ugbem and Inspector Patrick Onu- 34 exhibits were tendered to nail the accused.

John, however, in her oral testimony, told the court she was hypnotised by some men whom she met on the road.

She also claimed she was taken to an herbalist’s house where she was told that if she told anyone about her experience, she would die.

She said she took the men to her mistress’ residence, and they broke through the burglar  proof door to steal the items.

The magistrate, Mrs. Aje Afunwa, in her ruling however observed that the defendant’s written statement was inconsistent with her oral evidence.

She said John had indeed confessed to the crime in her written evidence which the court would admit as true.

She said, “In her evidence, she confessed to breaking the door, climbing the house and stealing the jewellery.

“I choose to believe more the defendant’s written statement than her oral evidence which is an attempt to shift the blame to another person. I believe her oral statement is a figment of her imagination.

“More so, hypnotism or superstition is a phenomenon which is not admissible in law.”

She further referred to her demeanor which she said did not show any sign of “one whose eyes had just been cleared of hypnotism.”

Afunwa said John did not show any remorse or regret for her action and hence deserved full punishment for her action.

She said, “I strongly believe that the defendant stole the items by herself with the help of another person who is at large.

“In view of the rampancy of such a crime where house helps, clerks and servants engage in the stealing of the property of their employer, this honourable court will not be lenient with the accused to serve as a deterrent to others.

“I therefore find the defendant guilty on the four counts of conspiracy, breaking, felony and stealing. She is to serve a prison term of seven years on each count, with hard labour, and the terms are to run concurrently for a maximum of seven years.

“And probably while serving her jail term, she would have a change of heart and probably confess as to where the jewellery is.”

Why some women don’t have enough breast milk for baby

Why do so many mothers have difficulty making enough milk to breastfeed? A new study by scientists at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Centre and the University of California Davis adds to their previous research implicating insulin’s role in lactation success.

The study is the first to describe how the human mammary gland becomes highly sensitive to insulin during lactation. It is also the first study to get an accurate picture of how specific genes are switched on in the human mammary gland during lactation.

The researchers used next generation sequencing technology, RNA sequencing, to reveal “in exquisite detail” the blueprint for making milk in the human mammary gland, according to Laurie Nommsen-Rivers, PhD, RD, IBCLC, a scientist at Cincinnati Children’s and corresponding author of the study, published online in PLOS ONE, a journal of the Public Library of Science.

Nommsen-Rivers’ previous research had shown that for mothers with markers of sub-optimal glucose metabolism, such as being overweight, being at an advanced maternal age, or having a large birth-weight baby, it takes longer for their milk to come in, suggesting a role for insulin in the mammary gland. The new research shows how the mammary gland becomes sensitive to insulin during lactation.

For a long time, insulin was not thought to play a direct role in regulating the milk-making cells of the human breast, because insulin is not needed for these cells to take in sugars, such as glucose. Scientists now, however, appreciate that insulin does more than facilitate uptake of sugars.

“This new study shows a dramatic switching-on of the insulin receptor and its downstream signals during the breast’s transition to a bio factory that manufactures massive amounts of proteins, fats and carbohydrates for nourishing the newborn baby,” says Dr. Nommsen-Rivers.

“Considering that 20 per cent of women between 20 and 44 years old are pre-diabetic, it’s conceivable that up to 20 per cent of new mothers in the United States are at risk for low milk supply due to insulin dysregulation.”

Dr. Nommsen-Rivers and her colleagues were able to use a non-invasive method to capture mammary gland RNA — a chain of molecules that are blueprints for making specified proteins — in samples of human breast milk. They then created the first publicly accessible library of genes expressed in the mammary gland based on RNA-sequencing technology.

This approach revealed a highly sensitive portrait of the genes being expressed in human milk-making cells. They discovered an orchestrated switching on and off of various genes as the mammary gland transitions from secreting small amounts of immunity-boosting colostrum in the first days after giving birth to the copious production of milk in mature lactation.

In particular, the PTPRF gene, which is known to suppress intracellular signals that are usually triggered by insulin binding to its receptor on the cell surface, may serve as a biomarker linking insulin resistance with insufficient milk supply. These results lay the foundation for future research focused on the physiological contributors to mothers’ milk supply difficulties.

Now that they’ve demonstrated the significance of insulin signalling in the human mammary gland, they are planning a phase I/II clinical trial with a drug used to control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes to determine whether it improves insulin action in the mammary gland, thus improving milk supply. While a drug is not an ideal way to solve the problem of sub-optimal glucose metabolism impairing breastfeeding, according to Dr. Nommsen-Rivers, it is excellent for establishing proof-of-concept through the use of a placebo controlled randomized clinical trial.

“The ideal approach is a preventive one,” she says. “Modifications in diet and exercise are more powerful than any drug. After this clinical trial, we hope to study those interventions.”

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OJB Jezreel saved at last

A positive twist in the Save-OJB campaign implies that ailing producer, OJB Jezreel’s life may no longer be in danger, writes CHUX OHAI

A timely donation of $100,000 to the OJB Fund Raising Committee by Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State may have guaranteed the much-needed kidney transplant and treatment to save the life of ailing music producer and songwriter, Babatunde Okungbowa, aka OJB Jezreel, anytime from now.

Announcing this development on his Twitter handle on Wednesday night, the head of the committee, Muyiwa Oshinuga, aka Nomoreloss, tweeted: “We have on record that the Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, has approved the sum of $100,000 to be handed to #OJB on Friday.”

Governor Amaechi’s kind gesture finally ended several weeks of anxiety for the relatives, fans, friends, colleagues and well wishers of OJB Jezreel, who have been involved in a campaign to raise funds for his treatment. About N15m was required to cover the expenses for his treatment.

Also, the donation may have put paid to the controversy that had previously sneaked in on Nomoreloss and his team of fundraisers and consequently, threatened the progress of the Save-OJB campaign.

Irritated by reports about cash donations presumed to have been made by some A-list artistes, Nomoreloss had virtually been at his wit’s end to check possible moves by unscrupulous individuals to exploit the situation to their selfish ends.

In an interview with a popular entertainment magazine in Lagos, the musician noted that the activities of these individuals and others, who peddled false figures to give the impression that his committee had accomplished its task, almost affected the campaign.

When asked if he was involved in a musical show organised by a group of people allegedly to raise funds for Jezreel’s kidney transplant, he replied, “I wasn’t involved in it, so whatever show that anybody is organising, they are organising for themselves. You ask simple questions, how do you hope to remit funds to the person, you don’t get an answer. Obviously, there’s some scam going on there and I am not going to be a part of that.”

Just when Nomoreloss was expecting a positive turn in the campaign to save OJB, a comment posted on Instagram by Ghanaian actress, Juliet Ibrahim, seemed to throw a spanner in the works.

Worried by insinuations that celebrities, especially top flight music artistes whom OJB Jezreel had helped to rise to stardom, were not giving enough financial support to the campaign to save the producer’s life, Ibrahim wondered why the committee was insisting on the sum of $100,000 for his treatment.

The actress, who runs a kidney foundation in Ghana, had said that a kidney transplant did not cost more than $50,000 and that there were cheaper alternatives.  She urged members of the fundraising committee, reach out to the right people and to ‘stop harassing’ celebrities for funds.

But OJB responded to Ibrahim’s posting in an interview with a Lagos-based gossip magazine. “The procedure itself is $55,000. When you take out $55,000, you are left with $45,000. What about the running cost of the procedure? You don’t go to India only to come back and ask for help again. At least, I need some money to maintain myself for the next one year. So, when you factor in all these costs, add air tickets and lodging, you will appreciate what we are talking about,” he was quoted as saying.

Now that there will be no need for further controversy, Nigerians can heave a sigh of relief and wish the ailing producer the best in the days ahead.

I make N10,000 daily from picking pockets – Suspect

A 22-year-old man, Terry Umuokoro, who makes a living as a pickpocket, has been arrested by the Apapa Police Division.

Also in custody are five others, suspected to have taken part in a robbery operation at Senator Muse Road, Apapa in June 2013.

Umuokoro was arrested last week at a hotel along Ojo Road, Ajegunle, Lagos. He had allegedly resided at the hotel for two months.

But the suspect denied being part of any robbery operation. Umukoro explained that he was a pickpocket.

He said, “I pick pockets for a living, I am not a robber. I started in January 2013 because I had no job after completing my secondary school education.”

Explaining how he operates, the suspects said he usually armed himself with a school bag to create the appearance of a university undergraduate.

 He said he would then board as many commercial buses as possible, where he would pick the pockets of unsuspecting passengers. His loot included money and phones.

He said, “I only steal Nokia phones because you can sell them easily. I steal about three phones daily and have a buyer at Boundary bus stop in Ajegunle. I give him the phones and get paid in return. I make about N10,000 daily.”

Due to the success of his trade, Umuokoro allegedly moved out of his family home to the hotel at Ojo road where a room goes at a rate of N5, 000 daily.

The other suspects, Desmond Ozore, Solomon Mibien, Nelson Mbabie, Jamiu Adigun and Akeem Apejoye, were initially arrested at the same hotel by the Victoria Garden City Police Post after a Blackberry Bold 5 which was stolen from a resident at Senator Muse road, was found with Ozore’s girlfriend.

On June 4 2013, two buildings were robbed on Senator Muse Road and valuables such as BlackBerrys, laptops and money were allegedly taken by the armed robbers.

One of the stolen phones was traced to Ozore’s girlfriend who claimed that he had given her the phone.

Ozore said, “I am not a robber, none of my friends are. We are all into internet fraud. We stayed in the hotel because we need uninterrupted electricity.

“I bought the phone for N26,000 from Mibien. I never knew it was stolen.”

Mibien denied being part of the robbery gang and claimed he also bought the phone from another friend who is currently at large.

There was no response from the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ngozi Braide. She did not respond to calls or text messages to her phone.

ASUU strikes again: What else is new?

Minister of Education, Professor Ruqqayatu Rufa'i

On Monday, July 1,  2013, the Academic Staff Union of Universities embarked on yet another “indefinite strike” for the umpteenth time. Incidentally, the blame being traded is the same. “The Federal Government has refused to implement some of the issues contained in a 2009 agreement it had with us,” or “The government has a penchant for reneging on promises.” The union is also claiming that the strike is aimed at checking the near lack of foreign scholars in our education system and the recurring brain-drain in the sector.

The Federal Government will soon reply. But, “The lecturers are being unreasonable”, is usually its famous line of attack. Then the Minister of Education will go on television to convince every one of how much effort they are making to reposition the education system — not forgetting to remind us, she was a teacher therefore holds their interest as a priority. The bewildered students, always the victims of the needless strikes, will sit at home and watch it all unfold. In three or four weeks time, they will be told the warring parties have sheathed their swords. “All is well, please return to school immediately.” Of course, there will be no explanation on what the outcome of the strike was and whether another one might be imminent. Within two weeks, the institutions will hurriedly prepare the examination timetable for students who just resumed lectures. Lecturers will then prepare “Indomie” lectures to beat deadlines. In the end, when they cannot defend the CGPA, those that claim they know better will call them “half-baked graduates”.

I am not holding brief for any one because all the stakeholders in the system — government, lecturers, students, and parents ought to be alive to their responsibilities. However, when one’s gaping hole keeps reflecting badly on the rest, it becomes a thing of concern. The so-called rot in the country’s tertiary education system is largely the handiwork of two actors — government and lecturers. They are the primary enforcers in the system. Their action or inaction leaves imprints on their direct subjects — the students.

ASUU’s strikes and agreements with government go way back. The agreements, according to the university lecturers, started from 1981 to 2001. The 1981 Agreement, “established the principle of collective bargaining, in line with the International Labour Organisation,” providing a platform for resolving issues like salaries and conditions of service of their members. Subsequent agreements addressed other salient areas concerning the welfare of the body and the education sector. The 2001 Agreement, for instance, tackled the issue of brain drain and the rot in the university system.

Despite all these agreements, the status quo persists. Every year, ASUU will go on strike and the Federal Government will call for “dialogue”. The end product is yet another agreement, the strike is called off only to resume the very next year. What else is new?

According to the National Chairman of ASUU, Dr. Isa Faggae, the present strike action “is going to last for as long as the Federal Government wants it.” It is the same thing they said in December 2012 before some negotiators from the government compelled them to call it off. When will it end? When will the Nigerian student enjoy at least one year uninterrupted school calendar?

Progress cannot thrive in instability. The persistent bickering between the two parties is responsible for where the sector is presently. It is time ASUU focused on new frontiers if it sincerely desires an end to brain drain.

Incessant strike actions are mostly responsible for parents taking their children outside the country for quality education. No parent is happy when a child is forced to spend six years over a four year course because the school system is constantly disrupted by strike actions. Strike action is responsible for the lack of reforms in the tertiary curricular which many have complained about to no avail. Over a period of time, the patience of most parents runs out and those who can afford to send their children to schools outside the country take that option. Time that should have been dedicated to developing and exploring progressive ideas towards a value-driven curriculum is spent on activism or lobbying the government to honour the agreements that no one forced them to enter into in the first place.

Going forward, ASUU will have to develop a new way of doing things. Its age-long battles have produced little because those in the corridors of power place low premium on education in the first place. Or, how else will one explain the existence of over 10.1 million out of school children in the country? One state in northern Nigeria has about 750, 000 out-of-school children. What about the fact that the budgets for education have never reached the minimum requirement by UNESCO? Rather than fight the government all the time, ASUU can channel its energy in exploring new sources of funding, after all why is the school a citadel of learning?

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Amaechi leading Jonathan’s opponents – Rivers PDP

Former Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili, and the Minister of State, Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, on Thursday led chiefs of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state that is opposed to Governor Rotimi Amaechi to a closed-door session with President Goodluck Jonathan.

The meeting, which was held inside one of the guest houses in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, was attended by a factional state chairman of the party, Mr. Felix Obuah; the five anti-Amaechi members of the state House of Assembly; the acting Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Chief Chibudom Nwuche; a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Austin Opara; a former Minister of Transport, Abiye Sekibo; Senator Lee Maeba and Sergeant Awuse among other party chiefs.

In his remarks during the meeting, copies of which was made available to journalists, Obuah said the party chiefs were pained that Amaechi had remained the main champion of opposition in the country against the President and the Federal Government.

He alleged that the governor had repeatedly rebuffed all efforts aimed at making him to show remorse and respect the President.

While apologising to Jonathan and his wife, Patience, on the governor’s actions, Obuah said the people of the state were not with Amaechi in his hostile attitude towards the President.

He said, “We are pained and our heart bleeds today that the main champion of opposition in the country against Mr. President is Governor Chibuike Amaechi.

“We do not know what has come over the young man. Is it that he wants to destabilise the PDP before his eventual movement to his new party, having been handed over the ACN/APC structure in Rivers State?”

Obuah said apart from showing disrespect to the President, the governor is also attacking the Nigeria Police because the new Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Joseph Mbu, is not doing his bidding.

In an interview with State House correspondents, Obuah however insisted that there was no crisis in the state chapter of the party.

On Amaechi’s threat to leave the PDP, Obuah said nobody could stop the governor if he decides to leave.

Wike told journalists that  the problem with Amaechi was because he did not have the party structure.

He said, “That the governor does not have the party structure does not make him comfortable.”

On the situation in the state, Odili said, “What is important is for us to recognise that at any point in time respect for authority, respect for the rule of law and discipline are the guiding principles that will make us run whatever system or societies we are running in an orderly, disciplined fashion.”

Meanwhile, the Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari, explained that it was wrong for Obuah to say that Amaechi was opposing the President of the country.

Semenitari maintained that Amaechi had always being in support of Jonathan and wondered why the state PDP chairman would accuse the governor of antagonising the President.

She said, “I don’t really know if Mr. Obuah really campaigned for the President. I hope that our memory is not short as the governor has always been there to support the President. Governor Amaechi is not opposed to Mr. President,” Semenitari said.

She also dismissed Obuah’s insinuation that the governor was trying to destabilise the PDP before moving to another party, insisting that Amaechi remained a member of the PDP and has no plan to defect to another party.

Star Trek: Timaya, Wande Coal head for Aba

The Star Music Trek holding in Aba on July 7 is dragging several music stars to the popular eastern state.
On the list are Wande Coal, Timaya, Mr. Raw, Kcee and Naeto C, with the organisers saying up-and-coming artistes too will have an opportunity to perform at the Recreation Centre, venue of the event.
Last weekend, the popular concert tour had visited Enugu, and is said to have drawn thousands of excited music fans to Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium at the city center for a night of extravagant entertainment.

Senate rejects motion to ban armed vigilance groups

THE Senate yesterday refused to approve a motion seeking to stop governors from establishing armed vigilance groups in the country.

  The position was made known after a thorough debate on a motion sponsored by Bashir Garba Mohammed (Kano-Central) and 50 others, which specifically identified Zamfara as an example of states where governors have allegedly procured arms to boost the activities of vigilance groups.

  The motion had asked the Senate to “request the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces to prevail on Governor Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar of Zamfara State to rescind his decision to ban arm vigilance groups in the state with rifles”.

  The Senate, however, resolved that “the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria be urged to deploy more security personnel to Zamfara and other states with similar security challenges.

  Moving the motion earlier, Mohammed said he was alarmed by the easy access to arms by groups that were neither trained nor authorised to bear arms, as well as the rate at which groups and individuals took to armed resistance.

  He noted that the foregoing was partly responsible for the security challenges experienced in many parts of the country, including Zamfara State.

  The senator further noted that the decision of the governor to arm the vigilance groups in Zamfara with rifles was capable of further jeopardising the fragile security situation in the state.   

  Rather, Mohammed submitted that what should be done was the strengthening of statutory security agencies and not setting up of alternative or rival security outfits.

  He, however, acknowledged that the Federal Government was vigorously pursuing the policy of mopping up light and heavy weapons in the hands of the members of the public, in compliance with the ECOWAS convention on the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.

  To this end, he was convinced that Zamfara and other states with peculiar security challenges will better address their security problems by requesting for additional security personnel and other assistance rather than setting up armed groups that may soon go out of control.

  Meanwhile, a member of the 1994/95 National Constitution Review Committee (NCRC) and the 2005 National Constitution Reform Conference, Prof. Joshua Ogbonna, has asked the Senate Committee on Amendment of 1999 Constitution to consider the recommendations of the NCRC on the issue of rotational presidency.

  Ogbonna, who was the Chairman of the Abia State Constitution Review Committee, criticised the panel on constitution review for allegedly failing to consider a definite recommendation on the issue of the rotation of the presidency with a multi-ethnic composition.

  While the don welcomed the committee’s recommendation of a single six-year tenure for president and governors, he noted that the issue of rotational presidency would not have brought unease in the polity had the recommendations of the 1995 Constitution Review Committee on the matter been adopted in the 1999 Constitution.