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Tunisia election: Beji Caid Essebsi to besworn in as president

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/79994356_79994355-624x336.jpg "> Tunisian President-elect Beji Caid Essebsi is to take his oath of office after winning the country’s first free presidential poll. He secured victory last week over incumbent Moncef Marzouki. His triumph means Tunisia – where the Arab Spring began – remains the only Arab country to move from authoritarian rule to democracy in that period. On Monday, electoral authorities confirmed that Mr Essebsi had won a run-off vote against Mr Marzouki. The new president will be sworn in at a ceremony in the newly elected parliament – where his party Nidaa Tounes also holds the largest number of seats. The swearing in takes place on the anniversary four years ago of protests that eventually toppled President Zine al- Abidine Ben Ali in January 2011. The BBC’s Naveena Kottoor in Tunis says that while this is the latest democratic milestone for Tunisia, many in the country are arguing that political transition will only succeed if newly- elected politicians usher in social and economic changes. Mr Essebsi, 88, has urged all Tunisians to “work together” for stability but critics say his win marks the return of a discredited establishment, pointing out that he served under President Ben Ali. This month’s vote was the first time Tunisians have been able to vote freely for their president since independence from France in 1956. The new president will have restricted powers under a constitution passed earlier this year. He will be commander-in-chief of the armed forces but can appoint or sack senior officers only in consultation with the prime minister. ( BBC )

Tunisia election: Beji Caid Essebsi to besworn in as president

Tunisian President-elect Beji Caid Essebsi is to take his oath of office after winning the country’s first free presidential poll. He secure...

Nigerian, Not Cameroon Airforce BombedBoko Haram Terrorists in North-East – –DHQ

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/maj-gen-chris-olukolade-702x336.jpg "> Following reports Tuesday, that Cameroonian air force jets on Monday launched air strikes on scores of Boko Haram terrorists who occupied a military base in Northern Cameroon and bombed them on the Nigerian side, the Defence Headquarters said yesterday that no foreign air force aircraft launched any airstrike on Nigeria’s territory. Rather, DHQ in a post on its twitter handle, disclosed that the air strikes that killed Boko Haram terrorists in the said confrontation at the Nigerian divide of the border town with Cameroon was carried out by Nigerian Airforce fighter aircraft. It said it will investigate the source of the information claiming that the air strikes were carried out by a foreign air force. Cameroon’s minister of information, Issa Tchiroma had in a statement, said the coordinated assaults on five towns and villages showed a change in tactics by Boko Haram fighters, adding that the group’s campaign to carve out an Islamic Caliphate has spread from North East Nigeria to neighbouring Cameroon. He added that President Paul Biya ordered air strikes to flush out Boko Haram terrorists’ from Northern Cameroon. However, Defence Spokesman, Major General Chris Olukolade said, “Ongoing highly Coordinated Air operation is being conducted by the Nigeria Air force. No indication of any Foreign Force engaging in any part of Nigeria. We will investigate claims of Airstrikes by a Foreign Force on our Soil. This serves to satisfy peddlers of strange claims and stories” Continuing, Olukolade asked, “What could be the motive of Foreign Media outfits peddling false/exaggerated claims of a neighboring Army’s exploits on Nigerian soil?”

Nigerian, Not Cameroon Airforce BombedBoko Haram Terrorists in North-East – –DHQ

Following reports Tuesday, that Cameroonian air force jets on Monday launched air strikes on scores of Boko Haram terrorists who occupied a ...

Chelsea, Man United title chanceshampered by draws

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/man-united-622x336.jpg "> Leaders, Chelsea could only pick up a point as they were held by a resilient Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium. Sadio Mane gave the Saints the lead when he pounced on John Terry’s hesitancy in defence before lifting his shot past Thibaut Courtois. Eden Hazard equalised seconds before the interval when he drifted in from the left before firing in low. Saints finished with 10 men when Morgan Schneiderlin was shown a second yellow card for a foul on Cesc Fabregas. However, Manchester United’s pursuit of Chelsea and Manchester City in the Premier League title race was hampered by a frustrating draw at Tottenham. United created several good chances in the first half, with Juan Mata’s deflected free-kick hitting the post. Home keeper Hugo Lloris also denied Radamel Falcao, Robin van Persie and Ashley Young as Spurs offered little. Spurs’s Andros Townsend saw two shots easily saved, but the hosts rallied late on with Ryan Mason firing over. Mauricio Pochettino’s team had scored late winners against Swansea and Leicester recently but, despite enjoying almost 65 percent of possession in the final 15 minutes, could not create any last-gasp drama against third-placed United. United boss Louis van Gaal grimaced as he disappeared down the White Hart Lane tunnel, probably wondering how his side did not close the gap on leaders, Chelsea, who also dropped points at Southampton. The Dutchman had been critical of the Pre mier League’s busy Christmas schedule, but decided to name an unchanged XI from the 3-1 home win against Newcastle less than 48 hours earlier. Despite the short turnaround, his players looked full of energy as they dominated the first half, moving the ball quickly – and with purpose – as they picked holes in the Spurs defence. Mata’s free-kick clipped the home wall and deflected on to Lloris’s left-hand post before only Vlad Chiriches’s desperate lunge prevented Falcao scrambling in the rebound. Seconds later, Phil Jones thought his close-range header had crossed the Spurs line before Jan Vertonghen’s acrobatic clearance, and although the United defender was proved right by goal-line technology, he was denied by an offside flag. W hile t he p ossession and territorial statistics were evenly matched, United continued to create the goalscoring opportunities. Falcao shot tamely at Lloris, Van Persie could not convert when clean through and the France keeper brilliantly tipped away Young’s curling shot. But United appeared tired after the break, failing to have a shot on target, as Spurs improved. Knowing they would move into the top four with their fourth straight win, Spurs pressed higher up the pitch as the visitors were not allowed the time or space that they enjoyed in the first half.

Chelsea, Man United title chanceshampered by draws

Leaders, Chelsea could only pick up a point as they were held by a resilient Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium. Sadio Mane gave the Saints th...

Eaglets cry out over Kano house giftsagain

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/golden-eaglet-702x336.jpg "> World Cup-winning Golden Eaglets stars, Musa Muhammed and Zaharadeen Bello have again cried out that they are yet to receive the houses promised them by the Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso a year ago. Musa Muhammed, who led the Eaglets to win the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup in the UAE, was promised a house along with fellow Kano State native, Bello by Kwankwaso but a year later they are yet to get allocations of the houses. “We were informed that our houses are at Amana Estate, but I have made countless visits to the Kano State Investment and Properties Limited and what they are still telling me is that they are yet to allocate houses there,” said a frustrated Muhammed. “I have met with the managing director of the investment company and have been in constant touch with Dauda Sheshe, the principal manager PID of the company. But still no hope in sight. “We can’t reach the governor to alert him of our situation, we don’t even know what to do now.” It was reliably gathered that a Chinese group, who bought hundreds of units at the Amana Estate had since been allocated their houses.

Eaglets cry out over Kano house giftsagain

World Cup-winning Golden Eaglets stars, Musa Muhammed and Zaharadeen Bello have again cried out that they are yet to receive the houses prom...

The changing face of Anambra

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Mr.-Willie-Obiano-700x336.jpg "> The end may have come for the dismal look of Awka and Onitsha. Both cities suffered near total neglect in the past, and were almost given up or abandoned. Neither the administrative status of Awka nor the commercial strength of Onitsha could earn them gubernatorial attention. Past governments seemed obsessed with other aspects of governance to bother with their rustic state. An out of humour critic of those administrations once called Awka a bucolic town, mismanaged by a line of do-nothing governors who wished to change its looks by standing still. The failure to transform both cities, though inexcusable, might be as a result of either of two things. One is the lack of political will to embark on a capital intensive venture such as building a new capital city. Two is that past governments were too conservative and blind to notice the unbefitting status of Awka as a state capital, and might have cared less about the sprawling condition in which Onitsha has lapsed. Accordingly, the long neglect blotted the otherwise beautiful landscape, and rendered incomplete whatever achievements those governments posted. Awka contrasts brutally to the least devel oped state capital in Nigeria. Its rustic state very easily magnifies in juxtaposition to the beautifully laid out streets of Enugu while Onitsha is greatly diminished by the emerging attraction which Asaba has become in recent time. A visitor to Awka or Onitsha from either of the two adjoining state capitals would feel a whiffling air of rustic neglect on arrival. A certain columnist once described his journey from Enugu to Awka as a descent from light to darkness. All too often, the neglect questioned the Anambra spirit of enterprise, and pioneering streak, which has seen to her people being in the vanguard of developing cities outside of the state. The decrepit infrastructure was not helped by the fractious nature of her politics. Needless to retell the dreary story here, but suffice it to say that it conspired with the failed infrastructure to rob the state a measure of respect in the comity of other states. It is important to mention that the lacuna in infrastructural development was not because the state could not stump up bills in transforming itself, but more for the lack of vision and political will by past governments to do so. The poor state of infrastructure inevitably encumbered development in other areas. In time, the condition conduced to criminal activities. The burgeoning commercial activities of Onitsha very easily exposed it to tidal surges in criminality. Awka, on its part, held no better promise as it lacked the enablers for transformation and stifled growth in social interaction. Both repelled rather than attracted visitors. Investors whose activities should have driven development, nibbled at the thought of coming to the state. Those who did refused to take up residence in it. Perhaps only fly-by-night contractors and wheeler-dealer business men could brave the odds. A section of her citizens was no less enamoured by the desolate infrastructure and prefers to work from the comfort of either Enugu or Asaba. However, since no condition abides forever something fortunate has come swift upon the state. The Obiano government has, since coming on the po litical stage, kept its nose to the grindstone to change the old order. Today Awka, the state capital, billows in dust of reconstruction. The decrepit infrastructure is now caving in to the menacing strides of the contractor’s bulldozers. By the time the dust settles, three flyovers at Arroma, Kwatta, and Amawbia bypass would stand firm to mark Awka distinctly out. This is a precursor to building an entirely new capital city in the ancient town. The huge constructions (the flyovers), though a prerogative of the federal government, when completed, will achieve two things. First, it will decongest the town and allow for free flow of traffic that is fast forming a tailback in the town. Secondly, it will enliven Awka and make it attractive for residents. No longer will the state capital be passed unnoticed as was earlier the case. Already a body (Awka Capital Development Authority) has been constituted and charged with drawing up a befitting capital for the state. It was also instructed to be as eclectic as pos sible in harnessing ideas in order to give the state one of the best. Nothing could be more compensatory, given the wasted years. In line with the transformation, an estate developer, Rockland Builders, has been commissioned to build over a thousand housing units for the state civil servants. This will help reduce exposure to risk by some of the civil servants who shuttle from Enugu and Asaba to work. A lot of renovation work is also going on at the State House in much the same way as Onitsha is being renovated and lit up. The Upper Iweka/ Bridgehead area has since exploded in resplendent colours. What makes the Onitsha case most gratifying is that the transformation was not shabbily wrought. It first dealt with the foundation by routing criminals in the town. This has not only allowed for luxury of transformation, but also sane commercial activities and a good repose. No longer are people in breathless haste to escape the menace of muggers who skulked in shacks that abutted the expressway. Night life is gradually returning to the town just as parks, hitherto dens of robbers and alcoholics are being renovated and new ones built. All these are adorned with flowers and lit up for aesthetic effect. One good thing about the effort of the government in the whole transformation is that work is going on speedily at all the sites. At the Zik roundabout, for example, the park is nearing completion. Ditto for all the others where the governor either in herited projects or is doing new ones. It may not be presumptuous to say that before four years of this administration Awka, and indeed the state, will be greatly transformed. .Anyaduba writes from Abatete, Anambra.

The changing face of Anambra

The end may have come for the dismal look of Awka and Onitsha. Both cities suffered near total neglect in the past, and were almost given up...

Anambra attracts $1.65bn investments as Oduah heads Anambra airport project

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Stella-Oduah-e1390929647783-380x336.jpg "> In keeping with his avowed commitment to achieve increased investment inflow to the state, Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, said the state has attracted about $1.65 billion investment from investors since March 17, 2014 when the new administration was inaugurated. These investments, he said, were attracted to key areas covering agriculture, hospitality and tourism industry, power generation, trade and commerce, among others. Obiano, who addressed journalists on the various programmes and achievements as well as challenges facing his government, also disclosed that he had appointed former Aviation Minister, Prin cess Stella Oduah, as head of Anambra State Airport Development Agency based on her wealth of experience and track record of turning around the country’s aviation industry, noting that his administration had distributed high- yielding seedlings to farmers and en couraged the formation of cooperative societies for easy access to farm inputs and credits. The governor stated that through the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA), investments had flowed in from the Coched Farms $175 million, Ekcel Farms Limited ($150 million) and Grains and Silos Llimited ($11 million). Others are Delfarm Limited and Songhai Regional Centre from Benin Republic with $200 million investment, West Africa Inter-continental Trade Centre ($320 million) and Cardinal Developers and Trust which took over the completion of Anambra’s four-star luxury hotel in Onitsha, among others. He stated that the investment feat recorded by his administration in a few months in office was made possible by well-deserved appointment of competent professionals, especially in the areas of financial investment and banking as board members of the Anambra State investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA), led by Cyril Enweze, traditional ruler of Umuoji and an accom plished professional of international repute. The governor pointed out that consideration was being given to an idea of expanding Onitsha Main Market to the River Niger, stressing that four other urban markets had been proposed for urban settlements of the state.

Anambra attracts $1.65bn investments as Oduah heads Anambra airport project

In keeping with his avowed commitment to achieve increased investment inflow to the state, Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, said...

We have no hands in recent bombings – FG

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/bomb-kano-700x336.jpg "> The Federal Government has debunked insinuations that the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan is responsible for the spate of bombings that have been rocking some parts of the country in recent times. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Senator Bala Muhammed, yesterday declared, in Bauchi when he led a Federal Government delegation to the Central Market, Bauchi which was rocked by bomb explosion last Monday evening, that President Jonathan had no hand in the spate of bombings rocking parts of the country Bala said: “I seize this opportunity to debunk some of the insinuations and lies being peddled around that the Federal Government has a hand in some of these bombings. It is unheard off; it is unfair for anybody to use the blood of people to play politics. Cheap popularity that can be achieved, using mischief and treachery is not good. Certainly, we are not going to join issues with anybody. The Federal Government is a beneficiary of the people because you have voted for us and you will continue to vote for us. It can be seen during the last Christmas which was free of any crisis and this will continue and be sustained.” The minister, who made a donation of N20 million to assisted the affected traders of the market, called on Nigerians to eschew all forms of sentiment that were being expressed in order to repeat what happened in 2011, particularly in Bauchi State where so many people died, including corps members during the post- election violence. “It was all the working of those mischievous people who are selling information that are not true. Certainly, Mr. President bears with you and I bear with as your representative in Nigeria to make sure that we give you the kind of solace and encouragement whenever it is required,” he added. The minister later visited the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Zsuleiman Sdamu, in his palace in company with the Director General of NEMA, Dr. Mohammed Sani Sidi, where he commiserated with the traditional ruler and the people of Bauchi over the incident. He promised to mobilise support for the reconstruction of the damaged market and compensation to the affected traders and victims. Responding, the emir thanked the federal Government for identifying with the people of Bauchi during the trying period, saying what happened was destined by God. Speaking with journalists at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, the NEMA director general said the government would donate drugs and consumables for the treatment of the victims of he blast that were receiving treatment in the hospital.

We have no hands in recent bombings – FG

The Federal Government has debunked insinuations that the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan is responsible for the spate of bomb...

2015: Don’t use insurgency, oil price tojudge Jonathan –APGA BoT member

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Apga.jpg "> Nigerians have been urged not to support the call by some people using the fall in oil price and insurgency in the northern part of the country to campaign against President Goodluck Jonathan in next year’s election, saying such move is cheap, anti-progressive and undemocratic. Speaking yesterday at his Rojenny tourist village, Oba in Anambra State, where he hosted the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) candidates in next year’s election, APGA’s Board of Trustee (BoT) member, Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka, said the fall in oil price and insurgency were two major global issues facing almost all countries of the world, stressing that for some people to now use it as a campaign against President Jonathan, who he said had transformed the country in the last five years, was callous and wicked. “Every right thinking person is aware that the fall in oil price is affecting almost every country, Nigeria inclusive. The pres ident and his economic advisers are doing everything possible to ensure that the economy stays afloat. Terrorism is a global problem. The developed countries, with all their advancement in technology and warfare are not spared, as these sons of the devil have penetrated their de fenses numerous times, including America and the United Kingdom. So, why should Nigeria’s case be different? The Federal Government and the Army should be given thumbs up. They are doing a wonderful job in fighting Boko Haram and soon, it will be over,” he said. The Ogirisi Igbo also warned those trying to destabilise APGA in the South-East to desist or be ready to face God’s wrath. “As Ogirisi Igbo, I hereby call on those Abuja politicians who think they can sit in Abuja and dictate to the people who become their representatives to desist or face God’s anger. Primaries have been held and the people have picked their candidates. With APGA’s adoption of President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate, we urge the presi dent to reciprocate by giving our leader, Chief Willie Obiano the necessary support so that he can deliver the region to him in next year’s presidential election. We call on the president to be careful of those who claim they can help him deliver APGA. They are not our party members and cannot offer any help. Chief Willie Obiano has the authority to do that, as party leader and governor of Anambra State,” he said.

2015: Don’t use insurgency, oil price tojudge Jonathan –APGA BoT member

Nigerians have been urged not to support the call by some people using the fall in oil price and insurgency in the northern part of the coun...

PDP has nothing more to offer Nigerians–Bakare

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Tunde-Bakare.jpg "> Pastor of The Latter Rain Assembly (End- Time Church), Tunde Bakare, yesterday threw a punch at the leadership of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), warning that economic dangers loom in the country. At the church’s last-Sunday-of-the-year service in Lagos, the cleric said after PDP had dominated political power in the country for 15 years, the party had shown that it had nothing to offer than poor per formance. He told the congregation that the nation needed a change in leadership, adding that the time was now. On the kind of leadership needed, the pastor, who turned 60 recently, promised to address Nige rians on the state of the nation by the first Sunday in 2015. “After 15 years of PDP dominance and about five years of President Jonathan’s rule, what else can they offer? There had been so much giving and little return for the people. It is time for change and what kind of change do we want? I will dedicate first Sunday of next year to find ing the way forward out of the situation. There is danger ahead. It is like a time bomb ticking. Those who have ears would hear and I pray that God will preserve our lives till that day,” Bakare said. The cleric, who was the presidential running mate to Gen. Muhammadu Buhari under the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), described the country as a jungle. He lamented that it was difficult to do business in a legitimate way in the country without bribing one’s way through.

PDP has nothing more to offer Nigerians–Bakare

Pastor of The Latter Rain Assembly (End- Time Church), Tunde Bakare, yesterday threw a punch at the leadership of Peoples Democratic Party (...

Leave me alone, I’m not a lesbian! –Okoli

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Lilian-Okolie-702x336.jpg "> Actress, Lillian Okoli, is not happy at the moment because of a purported rumour associating her with lesbianism. The fair complexioned thespian angrily responded to the rumour thus: “I just want people to know that I am not a lesbian and by the grace of God, I can never be a lesbian. I am from a Christian home and I know that it was because of these unnatural acts that made God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. “People get it twisted when they see my pictures with my sister. And I think not many of them know that she is my sister. They write nonsense to me on facebook and I don’t even know how they got my number asking me out on whatsapp. “I am not a lesbian and I do not have any intention of becoming one. I love my sisters, they are my friends; we grew up together. They should let me be because the disturbance is getting out of hand.” Okoli however hinted that she will travel abroad to rest for the yuletide season and return early next year to begin the production of her new movies.

Leave me alone, I’m not a lesbian! –Okoli

Actress, Lillian Okoli, is not happy at the moment because of a purported rumour associating her with lesbianism. The fair complexioned thes...

Buy me a Mercedes 2014 C Class for mybirthday –Bardia Olowu

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Bardia-Olowu-702x336.jpg "> Bardia Olowu, popularly known as ILLRymz in the entertainment circle is a man of many parts. He is a radio and TV personality and also a businessman. At the auditioning of Star Rising Talent hunt in Lagos, he was the chief judge. ILLRymz is also host of Nigeria Idol and Star Gist on Africa Magic. Talking about his involvement in Star Rising talent hunt, he said “ What we do there is creating an enabling facility. We are talking of grassroot kids of between the ages 7 and 17. With the proposed skill centre, they can come in there and have full mentoring by industry leaders and teachers to help them with their academics. No matter where you are coming from, you can be successful. Star Rising is a talent hunt where they can show their creativity and the second is Master Mind to test their intellectual acumen.” The encounter was an opportunity to know his favourites. Excerpts: What’s your favourite colour? My favourite colour will probably be white. You always catch me wearing a white shirt. I like to keep myself very simple and very clean. Favourite food? My favourite food , I would say is pasta. I can eat a bucket of pasta. Favourite holiday spot? My studio. I’m always working but I like to travel. Favourite book? It used to be John Grisham novel . He wrote Runaway Jury . I talk a lot, every body thought I was going to be a lawyer. I really like his book. Favourite leader? I’m not really politically inclined but I would say one of my favourite successful people is Richard Branson. He is not just a wealthy man, he is somebody who lives an ideal life. Favourite car? Hmmm, I don’t want to sound like a great guy, but I’m into cars. I really like the Mercedes brand. My favourite everyday car now will be 2014 C Class. So, if you want to buy me a car for my birthday , buy me a 2014 Mercedes C Class. Favourite quote? It will probably be mine and it says “Identify your passion and turn your passion into your profession. What I do is what I love.” Favourite weather? I like the winter. Funny enough, I like it when it’s cold because I don’t like to sweat. Favourite outfit? Sweat pants and a T-shirt. It’s my most comfortable outfit. I don’t wear suits except to a meeting , when hosting any event or doing a show like Idol, where you have to be formal and classy.

Buy me a Mercedes 2014 C Class for mybirthday –Bardia Olowu

Bardia Olowu, popularly known as ILLRymz in the entertainment circle is a man of many parts. He is a radio and TV personality and also a bus...

I had crush on Omotola –Mykey

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Mykey-George-Michael-702x336.jpg "> New kid on the block, George Michael aka Mykey, has revealed that he once had a crush on screen goddess and super mom, Omotola Jalade Ekehinde. Mykey described Omotola as an actress he looks up to as far as Nollywood is concerned. “Yeah, I once had a crush on Omotola Jalade Ekeinde. I hope she is reading this. She is one actress who has successfully written her name into the annals of Nollywood and besides, she is a Time 100 girl. She is one of those I look up to in the industry,” the up-and-coming act said. Born into a family of six, Mykey had to take decisions for himself very early in life after he lost both parents at a very tender age and ended up in an orphanage. “Growing up for me started off very rough. I lost my parents at a very early stage and so I had to be a little more matured while making decisions on my own. But things began to change when Little Saints Orphanage picked me up and helped me redirect my life and that was when everything changed.” Mykey says. On his kind of music, the indigene of Etsako West Local Government, Edo State says: “I am a very versatile artiste. I am interested in all kinds of music. As long as it sounds or feels good to me, I’ll flesh it up with lyrics and make me a song. I am comfortable with R&B and soul music because it allows me to express my vocal dexterity.” To date, Mykey says he has recorded about 12 songs but work is still in progress: “My latest single entitled Amen is getting appreciable airplay. I intend to record more songs and choose the best of them for my fans. However my focus is to always pass an inspiring message to listeners.”

I had crush on Omotola –Mykey

New kid on the block, George Michael aka Mykey, has revealed that he once had a crush on screen goddess and super mom, Omotola Jalade Ekehin...

I still don’t know why I fell in love withmy wife – Righteousman Erabor

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Righteousman-Erabo-702x336.jpg "> Gospel singer, Righteousman Erabo is one person who is very sad about the state of the music industry right now. He is deeply disturbed that the society prefers secular music to Christian music. He is miffed that companies favour secular artistes for celebrity endorsement of their brands. In this interview he bares his mind on this and reveals how he has safeguarded his marriage and kept it from hitting the rocks. Excerpts… What project are you currently working on? I have so many projects at hand. I am cur rently the President of Praise Affairs Inter national and I aIso preside over a movement called Tongues of Unity. I am in partnership with Now Musik. We are working on Save Nigeria Project. We all know the situation of things in our beloved country. People are being bombed daily and children are slaugh tered like chickens. We should not be smil ing about it, even if it isn’t raining in this part of Nigeria, but for the fact that it is raining in the north and this rain can change direction any sooner. The song, No, isn’t just a song. It is a song that documents the conscience of the nation, and it is the responsibility of all entertainers to speak one voice, the voice of the common man. So the song ‘No’ featured 60 artistes. You had people like Tuface, Pasuma, Buchi, Sound Sultan, Daddy Showkey, Dele Taiwo, Terry G, African China, Carol Cece, Keppy Ekpeyong, Osita Iheme, Sunny Neji and so many others. They all keyed into it and it is all about saying ‘No’ to terrorism, corruption, rigging etc. Another serious project is the media tour of Awesome, a single from Carol Cece, one of the artistes of Praise Affairs International artiste, whose video is gaining massive airplay in the country and the Web. Which of these particular crises really inspired you to do that? When those four guys were burnt in Aluu community, Rivers State, I wept all through the night. Man-to-man is so unjust. It was a sad experience that can never be erased from my heart. I am an advocate of love, peace and justice but there can never be peace until there is justice in the land. What does it take to be successful as a gospel artist? Any tips…? For me, the grace of God is number one then quality, distinction, integrity and humility. How was your growing up? My growing up was beautiful, both the positive and negative vibes brought about the light that is shining today. I knew what I wanted, my direction and goals as a little child. Though, I was the opposite of my name. Gangsterism was the game, but I never gave up my purpose in life. I was focused and the grace of God prevailed. Like in one of my songs I would have been dead but HE SAVED ME. Was there at any time when you thought about pulling out from the industry? I have been paying dues and still paying till date. There was no time I ever thought of withdrawing from the music industry, because music has always been my life. If you want to kill me take music away from me. I started playing music at a very young age, mastering the guitar when I was 14 years old, appearing on NTA Benin music panorama at age 16. I knew at that time that I was not game for white-collar jobs. A lot of water passed under the bridge; it was like using fire to refine gold but music made me stronger. There was never a time I thought of quitting music for any reason. When was your turning point in music? My turning point was when I met pop icon-turned-pastor, Felix Lebarty, who signed me on his Liberty Records label. He is the one God used, who brought the ladder in 1990 that I am still climbing on till date. What were the challenges you encountered? Life itself is challenging. David who killed Goliath didn’t get to the throne immediately; he still had to pay his dues. So I see challenges as the ladder of life. You can’t run through it but walking carefully and prayerfully. I can’t start counting my encounters; instead I count my blessings. What is the source of your inspiration? I get my inspiration from God and things I hear or see around me. My choice of mu sic has never been displeasing to God. I was conscious, inspirational and motivational, but the choice of brand is from Bob Marley, Steel Purse and Fellowman. What made you to move from secular to gospel music? I never for once changed my style of mu sic; even I didn’t change my content. I have always been a preacher. What I changed was my lifestyle. Change is one thing that is constant in life. It will surprise a lot of people to know that when I recorded the song (Who that man?) I was not the Righteous Man of today but a month later things began to change. It is the present life that is reflecting in my music today as a gospel artiste. I was like a banker who counts people’s money in millions and does not have millions in his own account. I know the name Jesus; I sing about Him but do not have Him in my life. That was the difference between my secular life and gospel life, it’s a life transformation not music per say. How do you see the future of gospel music? Great. Things are changing fast; platforms are being created, not waiting for God to bless us with bread but bless our bread. At least last year I was on MTN Load in Naija tour as a gospel artiste, first in the history of Nigeria. So, expect more great openings. The future is very pregnant. As a gospel artiste, do you go to clubs to have fun? That depends on what you call club. If you are talking about nude (strippers) club, I can’t go there because I don’t have that calling, and you know people are called into different ministries. My wife and I attend events done in clubs and music premieres and so forth, but if it’s the other way round, my answer is capital NO. What is your philosophy of life? The only way forward is forward. What is your advice to those who look up to you? My advice to those who look up to me is to warn them not to look up to me, but look up to God. You have been in the industry for ages now, what has been your most embarrassing moment? It is so embarrassing to record a song with the feeling that it would be the next big thing. It is passion that keeps us going. What naughty thing have you ever done? I was a very stubborn youth, and I did a lot of things of which I can’t even remember. Many young men find it difficult to find wives. Now using yours as a case study, did you go through prayers before finding your wife? No, I didn’t pray. I made lots of mistakes but the only thing God did was to convert my mistakes to miracles. God doesn’t give anybody a wife these days because of the experience with Adam, in the scripture. God says, ‘He that finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favour from God.’ So, it is left for man to go find his own wife. I went for my friend, I got married to my best friend and I am enjoying every bit of it and God is blessing our union on daily basis. Who is your mentor? Jesus Christ is my all in all. How did you meet your wife? We met in a recording studio. My backup singer who happened to be her best friend brought her to the studio. She is the best gift from God to me. Ask and it shall be given but you need to knock and seek. It is a process that should be followed squarely. So I followed mine diligently. What attracted you to her? It is a difficult question; it is hard for me to tell you categorically what made me fall in love with her. Many people set standards and parameters and in doing that, you will love that person only when that thing is present and when it expires, you will lose your love. You might even end up falling in love with all those who have the same characteristics. So, I don’t really know what made me fall in love with her. Maybe that is why I am still stuck to her. How do you handle female admirers? Where do you draw the line? It takes the grace of God not because one is super human; it is what your heart desires that you will always attract to yourself but God has been faithful. How have you been able to manage your marriage and keep it from failing as has become common among celebrities? I am a favoured man; everything revolves around me. I have an understanding fam ily that loves what I do, and we also have friends and people who love what we do and support us. The most beautiful of all is that I have my studio in my house; so I don’t really leave the house except for events, location and church. You have been able to sustain your marriage very well. What advice can you give to celebrities who are going into marriage? I am still counting; keeping relationship is not about the years involved. We see people that broke-up after 40 years; some others are in the marital union, but aren’t in the marriage: they are just tolerating each other. How long can you tolerate someone that you intend to spend the rest of your life with? Marriage should not be built on tolerance; I can only tolerate my friends because they come and go. My wife and I correct each other rather tolerate our errors. My advice is that you shouldn’t learn to tolerate because as a human, you can only tolerate for a short period. You don’t manage a life support machine.

I still don’t know why I fell in love withmy wife – Righteousman Erabor

Gospel singer, Righteousman Erabo is one person who is very sad about the state of the music industry right now. He is deeply disturbed that...

General Overseer in police net for sellingunborn baby

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/jail-man-702x336.jpg "> The female General Overseer of a church, Prophetess Kanu and members of her syndicate are now in police net for attempting to buy a baby yet to be born. Operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Anambra State Police Command apprehended Kanu and her accomplices. Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Hassan Karma alleged that the prophetess had for long deceived people through the use of charms, while pretending to counsel individuals beset by problems. Her world of deceit began to unravel when 22-year-old old Happiness John, whose pregnancy had reached nine months was deceitfully taken by her friend, Chioma Okonkwo, to the prophetess on September 30, 2014 for counseling. The fake prophetess told John that she had a spiritual problem. Recalling that visit, she said: “Chioma Okonkwo and myself were friends and neighbours. Chioma took me to Prophetess Kanu for counseling and it was there that she told me that I was under spiritual attack. She prayed for me and later rubbed an egg on my body with palm oil, saying that it was a protection against enemy attack.” Prophetess Grace was further alleged to have informed the victim that her younger brother (the prophetess’) would assist John, since no man had owned up to be responsible for the pregnancy. Based on what seemed like a good intent, the prophetess took the victim to her village at Ngboro in Abia State, where she spent weeks in the village believing that she would deliver the baby there. Meanwhile, the suspect sent her brother, Kanu to check on the victim and promise marriage to her, despite the nine-month pregnancy. As part of the elaborate plan to deceive the victim, Kanu bought clothes for her and also gave her N5000. With the stage set, the prophetess took John to meet a nurse and member of her child-trafficking syndicate, Ifeoma Obiora, who took medical care of John. The victim’s phone was taken away so that she would not be able to communicate with her relations. As Sunday Sun gathered from the police boss, the nurse always locked up John in the house whenever she had to go out. But providence stepped in and the scale fell from the eyes of the victim, when the prophetess mentioned that if she delievered a baby boy, she would be paid N180,000. That was when she realized what was the real intention of the prophetess. By then, John had been taken for an ultrasound scan at New Hope Hospital Onitsha. According to Karma, an argument ensued at the hospital and the victim demanded for her phone while the Prophetess seized her bag and alleged she must pay a debt of N65,000 allegedly owed by her being the cost of caring for her. As this turn of events, the victim quickly called her father, Mr Ugbanu John on November 28, 2014, who promptly reported the case at the SARS office. Acting with dispatch, Karma ordered the Commander of SARS, Mr. James Nwafor to take up the matter. This led to the arrest of the three suspects, namely, Chioma Okonkwo, Prophetess Grace Kanu and Ifeoma Obiora,on November 30, 2014 at Ugudegbe street, Owerri, Imo State, Akokwa Awada Obosi and No 24 Nwaziki street, Awada Obosi, both in Anambra State. Commenting on the incident, the father of the victim said: “My daughter left my house on September 30, 2014 and I saw her when she was leaving around 5.00am. She said she was follow ing somebody to their church. It was Chioma who took her to their prophetess, Grace Kanu. We didn’t see her. I thought she had run to meet her boyfriend, who impregnated her . It was on November 28, 2014 that she called me that we should come and rescue her. She told me that it was what the prophetess said when she wanted to deliver that led to the crisis. That prompted me to report the case at SARS office.” Karma said that the three suspects would soon be charged to court.

General Overseer in police net for sellingunborn baby

The female General Overseer of a church, Prophetess Kanu and members of her syndicate are now in police net for attempting to buy a baby yet...

EVIL NEPHEW: Lures uncle’s wife withfake job offer, kidnaps her 8-month-oldbaby

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/police-men-GUYS-702x336.jpg "> An interstate commercial bus driver, 22- year-old Chisom Nwaiwu is now cooling his heels in the custody of the Anti-Kidnap ping Squad of the Imo State Police Command. Nwaiwu, a native of Amuzi in Obowo Local Government Area of Imo State was alleged to have masterminded the abduction of the eight-month baby of his uncle after luring the wife with a fake job offer and then getting her drunk. As Sunday Sun learnt from the Imo State Police Commissioner, Abdulmajid Ali, the incident happened on October 23, 2014, after Nwaiwu introduced a member of a kidnapping gang, 24-year-old Chibuzor Ugochukwu, to his uncle’s wife, Chidime Okechalam, who needed employment. Ugochukwu bought local gin worth N100 and gave to the uncle’s wife to drink and she had a good go at it and got very drunk, but was still able to return home. With stage one of their inglorious plan carried out, the conspirators then followed while she was still drunk. Her baby was on her back. With alcohol having dulled her senses, and at gunpoint, Ugochukwu took the baby off her back. In an interview with Sunday Sun at the headquarters of the Anti Kidnapping Squad, Nwaiwu recounted his role in the abduction and revealed how the plot was hatched and executed: “I was the one who organized the kidnapping of the eight- month-old baby of my uncle. Her weak point is that she is a drunkard. So I introduced one of my friends, Chibuzor Ugochukwu, to her, who said that he would get a job for her, because she was not working. Ugochukwu bought alcoholic drink for her. She got drunk and then went home with her child. On the way, and at 7.00pm we kidnapped the baby from her and handed it over to our contact person, Onwa, who lives in Umuahia in Abia, who was to sell the baby for the sum of N250,000.” Meanwhile, Ali said that the prime suspect in the abduction tale, Onwa, who was supposed to sell the baby is still at large and the baby is yet to be recovered.

EVIL NEPHEW: Lures uncle’s wife withfake job offer, kidnaps her 8-month-oldbaby

An interstate commercial bus driver, 22- year-old Chisom Nwaiwu is now cooling his heels in the custody of the Anti-Kidnap ping Squad of th...

Fear, anger as Nigerians prepare forharsher times in 2015

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/harsher-time.jpg "> Amid the dwindling price of crude oil and the attendant austere measures proposed by the federal government, Nigerians have continued to express fear over the possibility of more difficult times in the new year. The price of crude oil, Nigeria’s primary source of income, has plummeted in the last few months by more than 40 per cent from an average of over $100 per barrel, a development that had forced the nation’s economic managers to embark on measures aimed at mitigating the effect of the price slide on the nation’s economy. One of the measures is the recent devaluation of Naira which has seen the nation’s currency weakened against the Dollar by more than eight per cent and the likelihood of total removal of subsidy on fuel in the country. The measures, in the views of some experts, are capable of subjecting Nigerian masses to more hardship in the coming year. In an interview with Sunday Sun, the President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alhaji Remi Bello, explained that the situation was already affecting the cost of production across the country. He blamed the situation on what he called the import dependent nature of the nation’s economy. “Many firms are already feeling the heat across all sectors. In the last few weeks, naira exchange rate has depreciated by about 11 per cent in the interbank market and over 12 per cent in the parallel market. The impact of the depreciation on operating costs is very profound.” In spite of the harsh implication, Bello noted that the current exchange rate condition offered some advantages to industries with high local value addition. According to him, “It makes such industries more competitive than their foreign or import-dependent counterparts. The current situation is therefore a good opportunity to encourage industries and investors, to look inwards for products and services that are hitherto imported,” he said. Speaking further, the LCCI boss identified high inflation rate as yet another factor Nigerians will have to deal with in the incoming year. “A natural outcome of depreciating exchange of rate is inflation for an import dependent. Cost push infla tion will be pronounced in the next few months. This will be driven by high cost of production and high cost of imported finished goods.” Bello is also of the opinion that there would be decline in government businesses and high risk of payment default by government. “Businesses driven by government patronage are likely to experience a decline in the short term given the current government revenue outlook. Capital projects of governments will reduce drastically and this would affect some segments of the private sector. Other expenditure heads such as training and travels may also suffer major reductions. Generally, government contractors would experience a slowdown in tempo of activities. “With declining revenue, the risk of default in payment for jobs executed for government agencies will be higher in the short term. This situation calls for cautious engagement with government contracts at all levels of government. As government revenue contracts, the capacity to meet financial contractual obligations may be difficult. “With the current developments, many contracts, especially the medium to large ones will come with variations. Clearly the exchange rate depreciation will alter many cost parameters. This is a new challenge that many contractors and suppliers as well as their clients will have to confront. This will happen in public and private sectors,” Bello explained. Also speaking on the development, the immediate past President of Trade Union Congress, TUC, Peter Esele said the quagmire is the price Nigeria has to pay for being a mono-economy adding that Nigerians are yet to get the benefits of being citizens of an oil-producing nation in the over 50 years that the nation joined the league of oil-producing countries in the world. “It is a shame that for over 50 years since we found crude oil in Nigeria, one cannot really get the benefit. Now that the price of crude oil is falling we are fretting. When the price becomes too high we will fret. So, what really do we want? Our biggest problem is that we are a mono-economy. If you practice mono-economy this is what will happen to you,” he noted. Expressing his reservation over the likelihood of total removal of subsidy by the government, the former TUC boss said the challenge before the government is not whether or not to remove subsidy. The challenge, according to him is government’s justification for the decision. “The challenge before the government is not whether or not to remove subsidy. The challenge is why will ordinary Nigerians not enjoy the benefit of the falling price of crude oil? It is only when you are able to tell the people that that we can begin to talk about removing subsidy. “With the falling price of crude how much should a litre of PMS cost Because if the price of PMS goes down and people in other parts of the world are enjoying it means that there is a fundamental question the government must answer. Ordinarily, you cannot remove subsidy when the price of crude oil is falling, that will be adding to the problem. “The implication for the masses is that it will be difficult for everyone. Devaluation means more money with less purchasing power; With a general election too we need all the prayers and best wishes we can get,” Esele said Also reacting to the issue, Dr. Adebisi Afolabi of Department of Economics, University of Lagos said although the current economic situation is not new to Nigeria. He however condemned the seeming panicky approach by the nation’s economic managers to the devel opment. “The issue to me is this: Our economic managers are bad managers. Otherwise why should they begin to raise people’s anxiety within a very short period that the prices of crude oil crashed? What has happened to the accruals from excess crude for a long time that the price was favourable? They were just sharing it. When the price of crude oil was favourable were the masses better off?” Adebis queried. The development, he noted has grave implication for the Nigerian masses whom, according to him got little or no benefit when the price was favourable. “The implication is that the masses will be impoverished the more. It means more hardship and more sufferings for the already impoverished people of this country. “The masses you are talking able about depend solely on the government, no job, no alternative means of eking out their living. So how do you expect them to wriggle their way out of the coming eco nomic hardship when the system has failed to provide them with anything?” he queried. In his own contribution, Kehinde Okunuga, a public analyst said an attempt by the government to increase pump price of fuel in the name of removing the subsidy totally will amount to a scam. According to Okunuga, the price of PMS going by the current price of crude oil at international market is N82.57k adding that the most honourable step to be taken by the government is to announce a further reduction in the pump price in the country. “What are they subsidizing again? Already, the price of petroleum is N82:57k, less than N97, so, which subsidy again? I think, the most honorable thing that the Presidency should do is to reduce the price of petrol with immediate effect, not even having to wait till next year. As for me, waiting for another week will amount to scamming all of us and any moment from now, if the government does not do so humbly, all of us will force it to be done,” he said.

Fear, anger as Nigerians prepare forharsher times in 2015

Amid the dwindling price of crude oil and the attendant austere measures proposed by the federal government, Nigerians have continued to exp...

Serena Williams kick starts training for2015

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/serena-702x336.jpg "> Serena Williams kick-started her training for next year in familiar style as she took part in the the Ultimate Run South Beach on Sunday morning. The world No 1 was joined by her sister, Venus, in the Miami-based event, and the two stars then took it upon themselves to entertain the crowds with a spot of singing after the race, The race, which includes either a five kilometer or quarter marathon option, is a fun-run benefiting the Serena Williams Fund, which supports victims of violent crime. The 33-year-old made light work of the course and was filmed on a Go pro camera during the race. Afterwards, the sisters had just about enough puff left to get up on stage to perform karaoke. Serena got the idea to host a race after running a 5k in Palm Beach, Florida last Thanksgiving, she told the Miami Herald. All money raised from Sunday’s event will go to the Serena Williams Foundation to help underprivileged children. ‘Every year, I do a run for Thanksgiving, the 5K or 10K, to kick-start my training for the year, and last year after running the 5K, I thought, ‘Wow, I really should do my charity based on running because it’s a really fun way to promote a healthy lifestyle,’ she told the Florida newspaper. ‘People love it. You can run, walk, bring your family, it’s early in the morning. I love karaoke, so at my race, afterward you can go on the beach, relax, have Gatorade and sing karaoke. ‘It definitely helps your endurance on the court,’ she said. ‘You feel you can run so many miles, you can last three hours, four hours if you need to.’ She added: ‘I like running the shorter distances, like 5K. You don’t kill your body, but you can still feel part of the race atmosphere.’

Serena Williams kick starts training for2015

Serena Williams kick-started her training for next year in familiar style as she took part in the the Ultimate Run South Beach on Sunday mor...

DIABETES, COMPLEMENTARY ANDALTERNATIVE THERAPIES

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/diabetes.jpg "> DIABETES CORNER By Dr Olubiyi Adesina, Consultant Diabetologist, fbadesina@gmail.com, 08034712568 On various Television stations, Radio stations and other media across the country, Nigerians are being inundated with advertorials by self styled ‘Doctors’ promoting the efficacy of certain remedies that act as a ‘cure all’. Some of the remedies are touted to improve libido, cure diabetes, cure an enlarged prostate, cancers, warts, help you to lose weight in an almost magical manner and achieve overall good health. Such advertorials also include the ‘testimony’ and other anecdotal reports from individuals who have used such remedies. These ‘testimonies’ serve as very effective tools to convince the unwary that he or she, irre spective of educational status, needs to use such a remedy. The scientific community needs much more proof than what is currently made available in order to know the truth about the safety and efficacy of such remedies. The presence of such alternative therapies have quite complicated the diabetes treatment landscape, not only by the unproven but highly touted ‘efficacy’ of such therapies but also by the avidity with which numerous individuals with diabetes in and out of Nigeria cling to such therapies. One of the downsides of the use of alternative therapies in Nigeria and elsewhere is the increasing incidence of kidney and liver failure following the use of such alternative therapies. Most times, the practitioners of this form of therapy are very secretive about their products and do not make them available for scientific scrutiny. Complementary therapy refers to therapeutic and diagnostic disciplines outside conventional medical practice which are used alongside conventional medicine while alternative medicine is used instead of conventional medicine. These two forms of therapy, though around for decades, have gained further ground in Nigeria in the last two decades through widespread and unregulated advertisement. Individuals with diabetes must be educated about which of such therapies may be of some benefit and those with ab solutely no proven value. As evidence becomes available to the scientific community about the efficacy of some of these complementary therapies, they can then be absorbed in into the main diabetes treatment armamentarium. A whole wide range of complementary therapies are currently available in Nigeria which are expensive, of unproven efficacy, unknown safety profile which are being used by people with diabetes instead of their orthodox/conventional therapy. It is strongly advised by healthcare practitioners worldwide that instead of individuals with diabetes buying expensive dietary supplements that contain vitamins and other micronutrients, they should invest in eating a very balanced diet and their conventional anti-diabetic agents. Individuals with diabetes who wish to use remedies aside from that prescribed by their healthcare workers are advised to discuss such use with their Doctors. Majority of the proponents of alternative therapies do not possess strong clinical credentials and often misapply infor mation from scientific literature. A strong case in point is the over celebration of staphylococcus in Nigeria by the combi nation of outright falsehood and half truths. It is an incontrovertible fact that a lot of conventional drugs used nowadays to treat diabetes and other diseases are de rived from herbs. A vivid example is Metformin which is the most used anti- diabetic drug worldwide which was derived from French lilac plant, a traditional remedy for the disease. The onus is thus on herbal practitioners in Nigeria and elsewhere to make their products available for scientific proof. Before the efficacy and safety of currently used herbal remedies are proven scientifically, one can only advise that such remedies are taken with a pinch of salt. Orthodox medical practitioners must make it a point of duty to ask individuals with diabetes that they attend to whether they use any form of complementary or alternative therapy, especially in those whose blood sugar level control is poor. At the risk of sounding repetitive, one must again say that the safety of these alternative therapies is a serious cause for concern. For now, it is still good to keep an open mind about these therapies as they may be proven in the future to be effective and safe, but until then, one will strongly advice that individuals with diabetes stick with their orthodox medications. The burden of scientific proof rests with the practitioners of these therapies.

DIABETES, COMPLEMENTARY ANDALTERNATIVE THERAPIES

DIABETES CORNER By Dr Olubiyi Adesina, Consultant Diabetologist, fbadesina@gmail.com, 08034712568 On various Television stations, Radio stat...

The massacre in Pakistan

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Pakistan-702x336.jpg "> Last week, a squad of six Talibans stormed an Army-run school in Peshawar, Pakistan, and slaughtered 141 persons, 132 of them schoolchildren. Doctors said the children, some as young as five years, were all shot either in the head or the chest. Afghan Taliban cruelty seems to have risen to incredible heights since the ascendancy of its new leader, Maulana Fazlullah who, like Boko Haram’s Abubakar Shekau, glories in ruthless bloodletting. A shocked world expectedly expressed revulsion. From Britain, Prime Minister David Cameron condemned the “horrifying targeting of children.” The United States President, Barack Obama, remarked that the Taliban has once more displayed its depravity. We commend the people of Peshawar who have bravely defied the threats of the Taliban and gathered to honour the victims with flowers and mementos. Nigerians know what this sad incident feels like because the Pakistani Taliban and the Nigerian Boko Haram are two sides of the same coin. They are one and the same in bloodthirstiness and psychopathic violence. Indeed, Boko Haram is known also as the Nigerian Taliban. Both sides share the same antipathy to Western education. It is, therefore, not surprising they attacked the school. We understand the pain and anguish of the Pakistani people. They have had to bear previous, numerous Taliban bloodshed, but the peculiarity of this case is that most Pakistanis could not reconcile Taliban politics with the massacre of in nocent children. All the signs and protests seem to indicate they are not taking this massacre lying low at all, and agitation for revenge has almost begun. There is a sign that the Pakistani government, in a fit of anger, has now lifted a moratorium on death sentences by which more than 500 Taliban terrorists might soon be executed. Much as this might assuage some feelings and look like the Talibans’ just recompense for their dastardly act, we urge the Pakistanis to reflect deeply on this move. Policy change at a time of emotional upset is never rational. Taliban watchers seem unanimous that the group has been in a state of rage owing to its recent reverses on the battlefield. It is lashing out hard to show that it is still capable of causing as much damage as it wishes. The answer to that is that the Pakistani Army should not re lent. Indeed, the massacre of those innocent children should serve as an impetus to move more strongly against the Taliban with a view to finally seeing to its final destruction or disbandment. Thus, the backlash from the Peshawar massacre of innocent persons seems to have released vital energies against the Taliban. As one Pakistani put it, “the mood of the entire nation toward the Tali ban was always of hatred, but there was an element of fear attached to it. This time, after they killed our children, the anger and sorrow have deepened so much that the fear has been eliminated. Every Pakistani is angry enough to forget the fear of the Taliban. Everyone is demanding action against them.” We sympathise with the people and government of Pakistan on this horrible incident. The excesses of the Taliban and by extension, Boko Haram, may finally be their undoing. Many Pakistanis who had on religious grounds been tolerant of the jihadists now seem totally against them. The same reaction greeted the Boko Haram attack on the Kano Central Mosque where it killed 120 Muslim worshippers. Like all totalitarian and extremist organisations in history, they will eventually be destroyed by their own internal contradictions. It is only a matter of time.

The massacre in Pakistan

Last week, a squad of six Talibans stormed an Army-run school in Peshawar, Pakistan, and slaughtered 141 persons, 132 of them schoolchildren...

Growing up in the ghetto made me –Ruth Kadiri

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Ruth-Kadiri-702x336.jpg "> For actress, script writer and movie maker, Ruth Kadiri, it’s a story of grass to grace. Kadiri, who grew up in Africa’s largest ghetto, Ajegunle, but who ended up becoming a screen goddess recently shared her story with The Entertainer. Excerpts: SOME PEOPLE SAY YOU ARE A BETTER WRITER THAN AN ACTRESS, WHAT IS YOUR TAKE? In my opinion, it is not right for me to judge my works. I appreciate every talent that I have; both acting and writing. They are uniquely different. I don’t see myself comparing them in any way. It is my duty to do my job and it is their duty to analyze it. WHEN YOU STARTED OUT, DID YOU EVER SEE YOURSELF COMING THIS FAR? Yes. HAS THERE BEEN A COMMENT THAT HIT YOU REAL HARD YOU BROKE DOWN IN TEARS? No, not yet. I have never had that experience and I pray that it doesn’t get to that level. HAVE YOU EVER HAD TO KISS AN ACTOR WITH BAD BREATH ON SET? I hardly kiss in movies. WHICH ACTOR WOULD YOU SAY HAS GIVEN YOU YOUR BEST KISS EVER? (Laughter) Are you kidding me? I don’t know. There is no personal attachment when you kiss in a movie; I still don’t know why people don’t understand that there is no attachment when it comes to kissing in a film. YOU RECENTLY FLAUNTED YOUR RANGE ROVER SPORT. WHAT SPURRED THAT MOVE? No! I did not; I am not that kind of a person. If you go to my Instagram page, you will not find it there. I don’t even know where or how they got that picture. It was just a presumption from a blogger that turned out to be true; I don’t post pictures of my car online. SO, PRESUMPTION WAS RIGHT JUST AS THEY PRESUMED THAT THE GUY WITH YOU WAS YOUR BOYFRIEND… No, he is not my boyfriend! Are you kidding me? Oh my God! I don’t even have the strength. He is just a friend; somebody I have known for like forever. ARE YOU CURRENTLY IN A RELATIONSHIP? Yes DO YOU HAVE ANY MARRIAGE PLANS? Hopefully, we will get there by the grace of God. I AM SURE YOUR FANS WOULD WANT TO KNOW… I am a woman. I don’t know when the proposal…. BUT WHO IS YOUR IDEAL MAN? Every woman wants a good man; every woman wants a God-fearing man. BUT WHAT’S YOUR WISH LIST, THERE MUST BE SOMETHING YOU REALLY, REALLY DESIRE? I want somebody who would respect me. SO, WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF SUCCESS? Success is getting to a point where you are comfortable with what you have and who you are. WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS? I am running a production company called Ruth Kadiri Productions and hoping that in five years’ time, it would be a household name and I am hoping that Ruth Kadiri will become a brand. I see myself as someone who inspires people and I hope that I don’t disappoint them. HOW MANY KIDS DO YOU INTEND TO HAVE? Maybe two… BUT YOU LOVE KIDS. I WAS HOPING YOU’D SAY LIKE 10 OR SOMETHING IN THAT NEIGHBOURHOOD? No! Loving kids does not mean you have to have many of them. YOU ADORE UCHE JUMBO, WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO SAY ABOUT HER? I think she is the most hardworking and sincere person I know especially in this industry. She is someone who is ready to tutor you and I’m somebody who doesn’t listen. For a colleague who could pick up somebody and dust her up and don’t give up on her no matter what speaks volumes. That is a strength I know I don’t have and I appreciate her so much for that. YOU’RE HONEST WITH THE FACT THAT YOU’RE SOMEONE WHO DOESN’T LISTEN. TELL US HOW THAT PLAYED OUT WHILE GROWING UP? I believe that every child who hopes to be independent must always have a mind of its own. And I also know that in being independent, not everybody will agree with you. Mind you, having a mind of your own means that you must be able to define yourself. Like I said earlier, not everybody will agree with you so if I agree with you, you have to make me see reasons with you. If I don’t, then sorry! independent, not everybody will AND HOW DID THAT PLAY OUT WITH YOUR DAD, YOU KNOW, YOUR PARENTS? My dad is a very patient person and he is a complete gentleman; he never raised his hand on me. NEVER? A NIGERIAN FATHER? Yeah. He never did but my mum, hmmm… (Laughter). HOW HAS YOUR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATIONS SKILLS IMPACTED YOUR ACTING? I’m a businesswoman; I producing my own films now and I also run a clothes line called KR. WERE YOU BORN WITH AT SILVER SPOON? No! Does anybody think that? TELL US ABOUT YOUR CHILDHOOD? Even as a child, I knew what I wanted to be. In my bedroom then I had these picture of what I would be when I turn 18. I did a write up that when I turn 18, I would rent my own house. And my dad came by and saw it and he was like ‘where are you going by 18? Are you thinking about school?’ I was like ‘Dad, I want to be able to rent my own house and make my own money when I am 18.’ He just laughed it off but I think that decision helped me; the desire to want to make your own money the right way helped me. When you grow up as a child in Ajegunle, it’s either it’s lost on you or it helps you find your way. Right now, there are so many mistakes that I can’t make. I see a lot of girls making certain mistakes that I don’t see myself ever making today. If I could discipline myself from childhood, then I should have a high level of resilience today. And then, growing up in the slum helps you to define yourself and it is either you are defined or you’re not. I READ SOMEWHERE THAT A FEMALE LECTURER ONCE ASKED YOU OUT. IS THAT TRUE? COULD YOU RELIEVE THE EXPERIENCE? Yes. BUT THERE WAS ALSO A DENIAL TO THAT CLAIM… Somebody denied it? No! I have never. Hmmm… Okay, I was in school then. At first she took special interest in me and she was like ‘oh Ruth, you came to class today? Oh Ruth, you look like this and you look like that.’ In fact, the first time I wrote her paper she saw me and she was like ‘hmmm… you look familiar.’ And I said ‘No.’ Buts she was like ‘what are you even writing?’ You know that kind of interest, and later she added, ‘come and look me up in school.’ In fact, she knew the day that I was admitted to school and knew my scores. And then, one day, I think I missed her test or something like that and then I went to her office and she told me to take a seat opposite her and then she and she moved her legs and she was like doing what do they call it? I was pushing my chair backward and she was like ‘where are you going, listen to me!’ I was like ‘ah!’ DID YOU RUN OUT OF THE OFFICE EVENTUALLY OR DID YOU JUST SAY NO? No, I didn’t say no… WHAT IS IT ABOUT YOU THAT ATTRACTED HER TO YOU? I don’t know. SO, HOW DID YOU COPE? I just started avoiding her. I knew her daughter so I went straight to make friend with her. WHAT COULD MAKE RUTH KADIRI CRY? (Laughs). I think I am very emotional-o. Anything could make me cry. THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED, WHAT TRIGGERED IT? It was something hurtful. CAN YOU GIVE US SOMETHING SPECIFIC? When was the last time I cried? Guess what, I cry so much that I don’t even know what makes me cry these days? DO YOU CRY WHEN SEEING A MOVIE? Yea! I cry when I watch myself cry in a movie. RUTH KADIRI, DO YOU HAVE TATTOOS? IF NO, WHY? No! I don’t, I just don’t like them-o. A TATTOO WILL SIT WELL ON YOUR ARMS SO WHY DON’T YOU LIKE TATTOOS? I am indifferent about tattoos but I don’t just like the idea of having one on my body. YOU DON’T HAVE ANY ISSUES WITH PEOPLE HAVING TATTOOS, DO YOU? No! But when it is too much I have a problem. If you have tattoo it is okay as long as you can handle it. YOU DON’T SEE YOURSELF TATTOOING YOUR LOVER’S NAME ACROSS YOUR BACK ANYTIME SOON, DO YOU? Haba! Let me ask you a question. Did it favour all those that did it? Why should I go and do the same thing (laughter)? WHAT IF HE DECIDES TO TATTOO YOU ON HIS BODY? WHAT WOULD BE YOUR TAKE? Who will date a man that would want to tattoo you on his body? SO, YOU WON’T DATE A MAN WITH TATTOOS? I didn’t say that-o. BUT YOU DON’T DRINK AND CLUB AND DO STUFFS LIKE THAT… Ah, I drink alcohol-o. A PHOTO OF YOU CLUTCHING YOUR BOOBS HAS GONE VIRAL ON SOCIAL MEDIA. WAS IT A PUBLICITY STUNT? Guess what, the funny thing is that anytime I want to take a photo, I just find out that my hands are drifting unconsciously towards my boobs. But that, picture is causing a lot of controversy, hmmm…I don’t know-o. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR BODY? I don’t know. I love every part of my body but probably, my head; yeah, that is my favourite part. I READ SOMEWHERE ONLINE WHERE YOU CLAIMED THAT A PARTICULAR STALKER TRACED YOU TO YOUR CHURCH BUT ENDED UP GETTING CONVERTED. AND THEN, THERE WAS THIS OTHER STORY OF A FEMALE LECTURER MAKING ADVANCES AT YOU. DON’T YOU THINK THAT IT IS YOUR FAULT THAT THESE PEOPLE ARE AFTER YOU BECAUSE YOU GIVE THEM SIGNALS THAT MAKE THEM COME AFTER YOU? DO YOU SWING BOTH WAYS? You see, that was the first time it has ever happened but wait a minute, are you kidding me? Swing both ways? If you visit Unilag any day, you’ll notice that there are certain dresses that are allowed there. My favorite dress was a pair of jeans trousers and a top. What signal will somebody wearing a pair of jeans trousers and a top send? I hardly make up. I had to make-up because I was coming to meet you guys. YOU GREW UP IN THE GHETTO. TO WHAT EXTENT HAS THE GHETTO MOULDED YOU INTO THE PERSON YOU ARE TODAY? Coming from the ghetto helps you make certain decisions. For instance, lots of girls are doing hard drugs like heroin, marijuana, ecstasy, crack and cocaine today. I am not a judge but coming from where I grew up, I couldn’t engage in such things because I grew up in a place where smoking and sniffing of hard drugs was the norm. It didn’t influence me back then so I don’t see anybody or anything influencing me right now. I think growing up in the ghetto helps you; it has helped me tremendously. A lot of people had to make mistakes before learning their lessons; I grew up in the mistakes. Now the question is, if I was able to chart my course through all that, wouldn’t it be difficult to find myself ending up a victim today? I HAVE THIS FEELING THAT RUTH IS A GOOD GIRL. HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN A GOOD GIRL? No, I am not a good girl and I am not a bad girl either. What makes one a good girl by the way? HAVE YOU DONE ANYTHING THAT YOU ARE NOT PROUD OF? We all have. But I don’t regret anything; I don’t think I regret anything.

Growing up in the ghetto made me –Ruth Kadiri

For actress, script writer and movie maker, Ruth Kadiri, it’s a story of grass to grace. Kadiri, who grew up in Africa’s largest ghetto, Aje...

30 Days In Atlanta is Nigeria’s highestgrossing film –Guy Murray-Bruce

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/30day-AY-N-Ramsy-noah-702x336.jpg "> After two months of showing at cinemas across the country and making a whop ping N85 million, 30 Days In Atlanta, a movie produced by top comedian, Ayo Makun popularly known as AY, has been pronounced as Nigeria’s highest grossing film ever. According to Mr. Guy Murray-Bruce, Executive Director, Silverbird Distribution, the movie raked in N85 million only in eight weeks, which made it the highest grossing film in Nigeria. “That it is N85 million is quite impressive for a Nol lywood film and we are so proud of AY. We hope he produces more movies in the nearest future,” he enthused. The Muray Bruce-led Silverbird Film Distribution has contributed immensely to the development of Nigerian film industry globally known as Nollywood. Since its inception in 2007, the company has released different genres of movies in cluding Hollywood, Bollywood and Nollywood blockbusters. Speaking on their achievements so far, Ms Rosana Hart, Business Manager, Silverbird Film Distribution, says 2014 has been a remarkable year for the organization, with the release of Hollywood movies like Think Like A Man Too, Amazing Spider Man and The Equalizer to mention a few. “Also, there have been some great Nollywood releases such as Knocking on Heaven’s Door, Single, Married And Complicated 2, Being Mrs. Elliot, A Place In The Stars, and recently released 30 Days in Atlanta, a movie that has topped box office charts across the country, grossing an impressive N85 million since its theatrical release on October 31, 2014,” she said. Described as a hilarious and roller coaster twists, 30 Days In Atlanta is based on a popular comic character, Akpors, who is known for his display of naivety and astuteness with grains of truth in his act. The movie is a perfect blend of Nollywood and Hollywood stars starring the likes of Vivica Fox, Karlie Redd and Lynn Whitefield. Others include Richard Mofe-Damijo, Mercy Johnson, Ramsey Nouah, Desmond Elliot and comedian Ayo Makun (AY) as the lead actor. “30 Days In Atlanta is still in cinemas, and if we extrapolate our data judging by exit poll from cinema lovers, perfor mances and screen averages, the movie might as well gross over N100 million after Christmas,” Mr. Moses Babatope, Executive Director, Filmhouse Cinemas said. Going by the figures made available by Uwem Jacobs, West Africa Agent for United International Pictures, South Africa, Kunle Afolayan’s Figurine is estimated to have grossed N20 million while Through The Glass, a film produced by Stephanie Okereke, grossed only N10 million in 2008. In 2010, Ije, starring top acts like Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and Genevieve Nnaji, raked in N57 million and this year, two blockbusters, Half Of A Yellow Sun and October 1 grossed an impressive N60 million and N50 million respectively. To Miss Hart, the current milestones in Nollywood confirms the belief of Mr. Ben Murray-Bruce, President, Silverbird Group that Nigerians would celebrate their identity by supporting indigenous films in the cinemas. She said: “We are quite pleased with the box office record set by 30 Days In Atlanta and are very optimistic about the possibilities of our local titles achieving more successes in future. However, like 30 Days In Atlanta, we also expect Lancelot Imasuen’s historical epic, Inva sion 1897, and Emem Isong’s Champagne, which are currently showing at cinemas, to turn out box office hits.”

30 Days In Atlanta is Nigeria’s highestgrossing film –Guy Murray-Bruce

After two months of showing at cinemas across the country and making a whop ping N85 million, 30 Days In Atlanta, a movie produced by top c...

2015: Abia youths vow to vote out PDP

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/pdp-logo3.jpg "> A bia Youths for Change, Lagos Chapter has condemned the December 8, 2014 governorship primary in the state that produced Mr. Okezie Ikpeazu as the party’s flagbearer for the 2015 election, and vowed to vote against the party if the result was not reversed. While speaking with journalists on Saturday, the youths alleged that the primary was marred with irregularities and accused the state governor of im posing his choice, Ikpeazu on the party against the people’s choice, Dr. Samson Uchechukwu Ogah. According to the President of the group, Ikenna James, and the National President of Ohafia Youths, Engr. Ukariwe Ajike Godwin, delegates to the primary were ‘fake’ as they were selected by the governor. “The supposed delegates were fake as they were chosen by the governor. They were kept in governor’s house for 72hours and their phones seized so they could vote for the governor’s choice. Police and military men without army badge and names were used to beat people,” they claimed. They added: “We are not pleased with the outcome of the primary, so we want it declared null and void. President Jona than should look into Abia’s case or else we would mobilise Abians against PDP in 2015. Ikpeazu is not the people’s choice.” The secretary of the group, Chima Joel and its Public Relations Officer, PRO Nnenna Kalu said the youths in the state would defend their votes against PDP in 2015 with their blood, adding that they might resort to legal action to press their demands. “Abia is the worst governed state in Nigeria. Ikpeazu means the last person in Igbo language. The youths are yearning for change in Abia but the governor wants to bring somebody who will not perform like him. We are crying for Abia and we are ready to defend our votes against PDP with our blood if PDP fails to present the people’s choice. The president should drop Ikpeazu if he wants our votes,” they threatened. Children cutting the cake at the Christmas party/carol of the Four Square Gospel Church, Haruna, Lagos.

2015: Abia youths vow to vote out PDP

A bia Youths for Change, Lagos Chapter has condemned the December 8, 2014 governorship primary in the state that produced Mr. Okezie Ikpeazu...

Jonathan hijacked – Paul Unongo

<img src=" http://sunnewsonline.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Paul-Unongo-702x336.jpg "> D eputy Chairman of the Northern Elders Forum, NEF, Dr. Paul Unongo has warned that there would be chaos in Nigeria in 2015. “For the sake of Nigeria and those of you who publish correctly, you need to advise the people who are running Jonathan that in the interest of Nigeria, they should guarantee us. When we vote them out they shouldn’t try to remain in power. They will overheat the system”, Unongo, a People’s Democratic Party, PDP, chieftain from Benue State warned, adding: “ Everybody is behaving as if the world would come to an end if Jonathan is not President, it is much more likely that Nigeria’s world would come to an end if Jonathan is elected President because he has demonstrated no capacity to run this country. “Jonathan has been hijacked by people telling him that they own the oil wells in Nigeria. As a leader, he has shown no qualities that would warrant his insistence to become a leader for another four years because another four years of what we have in Nigeria today will break up this nation or will lead, at my old age, having read history, to conflicts similar to the Biafran conflict. And it will be senseless. It is simple. Let’s have free and fair elections,” the former minister said. He described President Goodluck Jonathan as an incompetent leader who lacks the capacity to run the affairs of Nigeria and warned the press to stop trivializing such incompetence. “This young man is just not competent. You people want this young man to push us into war to start killing ourselves again. People don’t know the seriousness of the game these young men are playing with Nigeria. On the indices of performance, can we say Jonathan can continue?,” he asked. In this interview, the ex-minister took a long look at the match of the Nigerian nation state from inception till date and concluded that Nigeria has become more primitive than any other primitive country in the world. He blamed the elite for the slide into primitiveness and declared that Nigeria is now “a dead, sleep walking nation”. He also spoke of what he described as the theology of the Major Gideon Orkar coup that was to excise some parts of the North from Nigeria, among other national issues. Excerpts: A lot of things have happened in this country. Some would say Nigeria is making progress; but how would you assess the present state of the nation? I would like to say I remember you. You in terviewed me many years back and you published me correctly. I am very happy to talk to you about Nigeria which is my constituency. It’s the only place I hang on. It’s the only hope I have in this world and I don’t want to leave for any other place. I am 79 years old now. So I love this country. It’s the only country I have. So, I promise you as I promised you then that I will tell you the truth as I feel it, as I see it. It depends on how you define the word progress. Nigeria has made progress as it has more people registered. We are about 175 million human beings now, from about 30 million when we started. That is progress. Nigeria didn’t have as many buildings as we have today. We have huge fantastic structures. If you look at that, you will think this country has really developed. We have gone through some kinds of democratisation from colonialism where we owed allegiance to the crown in Britain, the UK. Today, we can pretend that we are an independent state. Thanks to Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Rt. Hon. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, and the Sardauna of Sokoto. They bequeathed to us a nation state that we confused. Nation state is a political statement and it is a political, scientific statement that defined what we are supposed to be-a multi-ethnic, multi- national country that respected the idiosyncracies of the various components that make the Republic of Nigeria as we became known. And the founding fathers were very clear. Chief Awolowo articulated this in terms of his federalism. And it was very clear that this is what was intended for this country. Within that context, yes, Nigeria is no longer a colonial country. We messed ourselves up. We got into a funny civil war that cost us two million men. At the end of it, we reconciled beyond anybody’s wildest imagination. No country has gone into civil war and reconciled the way Nigeria did in the shortest time possible. For it to make Rt. Hon. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe contest the presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 1979, just eight years after the war, I think Nigeria is great. He was Igbo. And the heart of Biafra was Igbo. So, there are so many good things about Nigeria. In those days, we talked about the potentials, the economic development of Nigeria, structurally. We may not have liked it, but there are some elements of manufacturing without electricity. There are elements of a few things we used to import that are now done in Nigeria. So, you can say even economically, all the things impact on the people and the well being of the people. Nigeria has done well. But in Africa and in developing countries, like India, Malaysia and Singapore, development in terms of your question, started at the same time with these countries. India became a nation state from Britain in 1947. Pakistan was born in 1947. Today, India is one of the most technologically advanced nation states. It has nuclear power. It has the Atomic Bomb, so does Pakistan. They were all colonies. They have their own problems, but they manufacture everything they need, including aircraft put together during the era of the Nehrus of this world. If you go to Malaysia now, we started the same time with them, Ceylon and the rest of them. In fact, Singapore came here and imported our palm fruits and today, they are technologically more advanced than us. They have settled. They are now developed to the extent that we go to them and import technology into Nigeria. What has happened to Nigeria? I think when Nigerians talks about development, without mincing words, they ought to talk about economics. When I finished secondary school, there was no university in Northern Nigeria. We went to the “highest institution” then. It was then called Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology located in Zaria. It became later, by the wisdom of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Ahmadu Bello University. That was the highest institution. I was the first Middle Belter to teach anywhere in the university. I also taught at the University of Lagos where I founded the Department of Psychology with a few friends and I was the Head. They couldn’t believe I was from the North and I was. So, they said I was a crazy man. Today from my part of Nigeria which is the Middle Belt, that is within northern region, I think there are hundreds of thousands of graduates. So, if you want to talk about progress and numbers in education, Nigeria has done it. If you want to talk about more manufactured goods that we never used to have, that we imported from Britain, Nigeria has done it. So, I believe that your question is located to Nigeria as a nation. It is the political life of Nigeria where I do not believe we have done much. I believe we have messed this country up, we the educated elite. And anywhere in the world, it is the educated elite that determine and decide the direction of the nation state. In the time of the Awolowos, it was also the elite. Even during the military regimes, the elite military officers that determined the fate of Nigeria, resolved we should fight a civil war and we fought a civil war behind them. In fact, Gowon was just 29. Ojukwu was 30+, about 32. They were the young elite. So, it was not a matter of youth. It is an attitude that has destroyed this country and this attitude has made me so sad that it has come out more emphatically under the present administration which is the attitude of absolute insensitivity. To real issues, to human beings, to issues of development, to issues that are critical, we take them seem as if nothing is happening. Within that context, Nigeria has become more primitive than any other primitive country I have seen in the world. In fact, it has become so bad that one wonders and ask questions at my level, at my age. When I have to reflect, sometimes I wonder, were we right? Did we know what we were doing when we were fighting the whiteman? When we were fighting the soldiers? When we got beaten up and got sent to jail. The whiteman thought we were inferior to him, the Ziks, Awos and Sardaunas of Nigeria answered the call. We were like the second eleven, the youths in school rallied around them and we had patriotism. The only thing I have seen in Nigeria today is impunity. There is also insensitivity, lack of care. We don’t believe we owe any human being anything for being Nigerian. There is nothing in this country that stimulates somebody’s trust in the nation state to warrant him to say I will sacrifice my life. My daughter has just come from youth service which I helped in establishing. She went to Zamfara. Now, I am saying why should I allow my daughter to go to Zamfara? For this Nigeria that I see that doesn’t think about her? That doesn’t plan for her; that is insensitive, where small girls like her are abducted? We laugh, we throw parties, we dance at political party rallies and we are the leaders of Nigeria? A ragtag army like Boko Haram had come here before. Others were in charge. They dealt with it. Now, this thing is laying siege to the greatest African nation state on earth, the greatest nation with the largest number of black human beings and geniuses. And our ingenuity was revealed during our civil war, if nothing else. The ingenuity that was revealed during the civil war on the side of Biafra was staggering; on the side of Nigeria it was also staggering among the Federalists. This country went and organized Congo when there was total chaos there. This country went and fought, physically against Charles Taylor and saved Sierra Leone. This country even during Obasanjo’s regime, saved Equatorial Guinea which couldn’t do anything about a coup. This same Nigerian Army made Liberia a country. This Army has been so bastardized that it cannot face a ragtag army that say they are religious extremists. And they are laying claim to Nigerian territory and the response we have is that I must be President forever. We must dance Owambe. So what do you think is the problem? I think Nigeria has not developed. I think we have gone backwards. And this is the heart, this is the nucleus, this is where the life of the nation state is. Nigeria, to me, is a dead, sleep walking nation. It is as if somebody put opium on the rest of us. We are watching this destruction unfolding and nobody talks. It is as if we have been hypnotized. And when you try to talk, everybody pounces on you. You hate the President. Oh you are a Muslim. Oh you don’t like Christians to be President. I am just answering the first part of your question. You asked my opinion about how developed Nigeria is and I am telling you that Nigeria has gone nowhere. Nigeria has matched backwards. We are now tribalists. You are an Ijaw man. It is our oil. I don’t drink oil and I don’t give a damn. Oil has brought disaster to Nigeria. Nigeria was a great country when we were selling our beniseed, hides and skin, groundnuts and developing Nigeria. To day, there is so much money, there is so much stealing, there is so much devastation and there is so much insensitivity in the system. Nigerians that loved themselves so much don’t exist. What kind of society is that? How did we get to where we are now? We got to this stage because one, Nigerians developed a thick skin and became insensitive themselves. And then there is this national effort by people who usurped power. First, the military usurped power and they tried to force everybody to see things their way. If you didn’t, they killed you or locked you up. Some of us were lucky. We were locked up, but God intervened and we were not killed. We got close to being killed when we were falsely accused of doing a coup. How can a civilian do a coup during a military regime? But it happened because nobody spoke. I don’t know when Nigerians became such cowards. And I don’t know when Nigerians became people that depended on government to get food. Everybody is saying no, no ,no, you can’t talk. If you talk, you won’t eat. My child is going to school, I can’t pay school fees. When did this happen? When did this acceptance of bestial irresponsibility happen? We think we are hoping that we will develop a set of values where our children will learn how to evaluate themselves. Then suddenly, this disappeared. This came in punitive way which has reached its height under the present administration. Impunity started from corruption. Nobody asked anyone how wealth was acquired. If someone would just be dashing people hundreds of thousands, nobody would ask questions. Don’t we have a system? Can this sustain the economy of a nation? Why so much money? Why is this money concentrated in the hands of a few people? Why not the majority? There are no amenities. There are no social services. How come the ones in government don’t look at it as service? How come going into governance means going to make money? And this again has reached its peak during this administration. Then there’s this idea of my own; I want my own to be there. Ni geria became a country where some of us have had to re-learn to say well, I come from the North. I have never talked about coming from the North. I talked about just being a Nigerian. But I now talk very vocally about coming from the North because I can see I am educated. I can see what has been done to the North, structurally at governmental level. I feel I should come in at this point. From your analysis of the Nigerian situation so far, there is a turn around in the attitude of our leaders towards governance. But the last time I spoke with you, you sounded different. Why do you feel differently? There is no turn around. You didn’t study me properly. I have written books. You supported President Jonathan then, but now… That is what I mean, but I have not turned around. Now, you are pro another… I am not for anybody. I am for justice, fair play and honesty. Try to be honest in government with the people. Try to serve the people. Try to develop the people. Try to be fair before you steal all. This government is just stealing too much. This government is too insensitive. This government doesn’t want anybody to criticize them. Why did we criticize the British? They locked us up but we survived. Why did we criticize the military? We did so because we wanted a democratic set up. The so called democratic set up has come and we cannot criticize with all your knowledge, with all your eyes wide open, you are seeing this kleptomania. You can’t talk about it. And people are cowards. They say let’s just give everybody opportunity, we minorities. Jonathan rode on the back of people like me from the Middle Belt. We were preaching minority politics, that the majority has been cheating us too much. Now, we have a minority person; at least he has suffered,so when he goes there, he would develop Nigeria because the minorities have kept Nigeria together. We were the people who joined our hands; we even fought more to keep Nigeria one. So here is our son. I was excited. Here is a university man, a teacher, a lecturer like Umaru Yar’Adua whom I knew very well. He came from my school, Keffi and I knew he would do well. And when God took him away and I heard that the next person is a minority person who is also a university person, I was very excited. I remember I wrote Jonathan a letter. I also remember what I told Jonathan when he came to Makurdi. I was selected by the governor of the state and by that time he was not swallowed up by Jonathan in the game that they are playing with Nigeria. He told Jonathan that this is the father of this state. This is the father that will speak on our behalf and I did. I do not think that Jonathan has forgotten what I said. I told him he didn’t need to come back here, we will vote for him. He represented hope. He represents us who have been feeling that after the British and all these single-handedness of the military, here is a person who comes from the small people that were never empowered. So, we would use power with restraint, we will restructure Nigeria to be patriotic. And I said please let us come to a sovereign national conference, redesign Nigeria the way you want Nigeria so that for once Nigerians can be honest to say we the people of Nigeria give to ourselves this constitution and we are prepared to support him and we supported him. And when there were hiccups, after our son from the North died, there were a lot of hiccups about his successor and we stood firm with Jonathan to take over and he took over. And when Jonathan took over, somehow the accusations that the majority, the Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa people used to level against the minorities, Jonathan started showing them. Jonathan suddenly ended up becoming an Ijaw man. He was captured by a clique that was so nationalistic, the ones we dealt with like Tam David West. They relegated those people to the background, brought young men that were militants. I like militancy. I was a militant too. So we thought we are going to have progress, they concentrated on fighting Nigeria because Nigeria, supposedly, stole their oil. Which is their oil? This thing got to Jonathan’s head and he left Nigeria and joined his group. He became an Ijaw man. And Ijaws didn’t bring him to power. We did and we thought he would give us leadership. And then the second factor was that Jonathan appeared to be a Christian and the Christian elements that were always feeling that no Christian ever comes from the North or anywhere by their own choosing to become the President, said since Umaru was dead and Jonathan is a Christian, we Christians will rally around him. I am talking from the point of view of the Christians now. I have noticed now that everyone who felt so strong about Jonathan don’t feel that way anymore. He disappointed Christians of Nigeria by his utterances, his behavior that appears so insensitive. How can small children be abducted from their parents and taken away by criminals. Their fathers are weeping, their mothers are crying. And they are weeping up till six months now and Jonathan was playing politics and wants to be re-elected. This is the seventh month since the Chibok girls were abducted. Our Christian brother Jonathan has many advisers, including me that may have resolved this issue. It became a political thing. That somebody gets into power, learns how to use the instruments of power, including the coercive forces of the nation state of Nigeria to perpetuate himself in power. Is that not why we fought the British? Is that not why we fought the military? Is that not what Jona than has become now? He must be President for life because of Ijaw’s oil. Ijaw’s oil is located in their land, the one that has been developed. But is Jonathan aware that most of the oil, the one that has been found in Nigeria is off-shore in the territorial waters of Nigeria. I am not getting into any argument. In International Law what exists anywhere and everywhere in the whole world, is that the extent of territorial waters of a nation and a nation state, including Nigeria is determined by the land mass of that nation. The region that joins two other regions to form the nation state of Nigeria is called Northern Nigeria. It has three- quarters of the land mass of Nigeria. It’s like you are using the utterances of a few people to… Please listen to me. I am not using the utterances of other people. How has he reacted to them? I have too much knowledge and I have too much information at my disposal. I am not a kid. I have been active in politics all my life, except the short spell I taught at the university, I have never worked for anybody except myself. And I have just sat down to do nothing but to write constitutions for Nigeria and argue for Ni geria. So, I know what I am talking about. You are a leader and people dominate you and you don’t extricate yourself from them and you allow your utterances to guide your behavior, you are as guilty as charged. Let me just give you an example, because I am not usually vocal, I don’t go around preaching what is wrong, when you ask for my reaction to it, I give it. Let’s take a simple thing like choosing people to go to the so- called place I described as a place Jonathan was giving money to his friends to help him to drum up support for him to be President of Nigeria. Who are those so much qualified than people like me who started writing constitutions for this country since 1957? And I served on committees with people like Ben Nwabueze, Chief Rotimi Williams and I came through all constitutions, all conferences in this country that were written. I was invited to participate in all of them. And I think I participated in all except one, including that of Abacha’s that ended in 1994. There, I was right at the top of arranging the type of Nigeria we want, the type of institutions we want and how we can make these institutions strong. I have always been there. As a man with this type of experience, I am still alive. Jonathan knows me. He is a much younger brother. In fact, I can call him my son because at 79 I am Jonathan’s father. I am not a Nigerian that minces words. My Nephew whom I adopted is 60. I am 79. So, Jonathan is my son. Why would Jonathan be inviting people; he came to Benue, the governor showed deference, called me to speak. The Tiv nation is a major nation in Nigeria. We are the fourth largest in population and when there is crisis in this country, the contributions to the second world war; in fact, in the first and second world wars, the Tiv people were there. Our contribution was critical to the British. And in the Nigeria civil war, our contribution was absolutely necessary. It was a factor in the war turning in favour of the federalists and I was vocal. I was with Gowon throughout. I gave all kinds of advices that were implemented. Jonathan is old enough to know that. If Jonathan wants the Tiv people to be represented in a discussion, the first Tiv man to teach in a university is alive and is articulate and has participated in designing all kinds of things and going overseas to represent Nigeria, I was not qualified? Why? The Ijaw people that were around Jonathan told him I was his enemy. He came to Benue and they told him this is the father of our place, he would talk on our behalf, including the governor of our state, what I told Jonathan we would do we did . We, the Tiv people, when we make a statement, real Tiv people, when we make a commitment, we stay there and we put our blood to the commitment. We have stayed with Jonathan and Jonathan decided that in the type of conference he wanted, Paul Unongo was not qualified. And yet this conference was going to talk about how we could organise Nigeria to include Tiv people and I am the leader of the Tiv people. Can you imagine Awolowo being barred from participating in discussing how you can make Nigeria peaceful? That’s what Jonathan did. That’s number one. But sir… No,no, no. I must end this one. Number two. When Jonathan selected the people to advise him, Jonathan selected somebody called Col. Nyam, …I studied and know the man they call Col. Nyam. He was the leader of the coup that was to oust Ibrahim Babangida. I knew this because I, a civilian, was picked as the leader of this type of coup because one Tiv person, one little Tiv young man, called Major Gideon Orkar announced the coup. So, it must be Paul Unongo that influenced him. I was incarcerated for almost seven months and I knew and studied the coup. After anger, I decided that I will study the theology of the coup, why it came about and why people like me were arrested. It was a coup of minorities. Yes, but minorities of the south. And Orkar’s knowledge of the coup…I think I am qualified to say so because I suffered a lot…I don’t believe it was more than 30 hours before the execution of the coup. And I swore that I will reveal the nature of the coup because I am trained to serve my country and the government of my country and I will advise them despite my incarceration. So, I studied the kids that were wasted and I talked to all of them and then transferred all their frustrations in my evidence in chief. I told them if you want to kill me, these are the things that were disturbing these young men that did this coup. This is the line of the coup, the leadership and so on. I know because I am there with them. I have asked them questions. Now, I discovered that the leader was not even Mukoro. It was Col. Nyam. This coup, the first thing they did, the first speech that was written that Col. Nyam was going to deliver excised about seven states from Northern Nigeria or thereabout and threw them out of Nigeria and say we don’t want them. They said after some years, may be these people if they come and beg us, then we can re-admit them into Nigeria. When I saw Nyam who ran away and abandoned these young men, his role was to make the broadcast. When they got to the venue of the broadcast, Radio Nigeria, Col. Nyam was not there. He had left. He ran away. This was to be their leader. He ran away. Mukoro ran away after entering Dodan Barracks. And they came and caught us innocent people that didn’t know anything about the coup and one young man, Ogboru’s brother was tortured. And they suffered a lot. So, I felt if Jonathan was sincere about this country, would he take for an adviser, a person who did a coup to expunge almost half of the population of the country away from Nigeria? He doesn’t want to see these people in Nigeria. And I didn’t keep quiet. I went there to tell Jonathan that I don’t believe in this thing that you are doing. I don’t believe that you are sincere. I know you want to have political gain to prepare yourself for an election, but the senseless dash called allowance, how can you give these people N4 million?. It was bribery to corrupt them to write what he wanted, do what he wanted. And this is happening in Nigeria where half of the population can hardly make N40,000 a year. And you gave people this amount for four or five months and you pay them N4 million every month? Look at the number. There is so much that went wrong. When I saw all these, I said this man cannot be a Christian. This man cannot represent the suffering people in the creeks. This man is just using us the minorities for a big political plan. What is he looking for? Why N4 million? Col. Nyam who sought to break up Nigeria and some of us went and suffered for him while he ran away,. he brought him and he didn’t care. And then Nyam went and started fighting Oshiomhole, one of the progressive governors form the labour movement. He abused him and wanted to engage him in physical combat to the embarrassment of the committee that was set up by Jonathan. So they removed Nyam from the committee. You know what? When Jonathan wanted to appoint a larger team, Jonathan brought Nyam again and put him so as to pay him N4 million a month. He had the indecency to stretch his hands and collect the money of Nigeria he wanted to break up. Is it a planned issue? And look at this insecurity. Is this deliberate? Could your not being appointed a member of the National Conference be the reason why you turned against President Jonathan because you are sounding bitter over the issue? The inference might as well be, rightly or wrongly, that you are now anti- Jonathan because you were not appointed a National Conference mem ber. Right? How many people appointed me into posi tions? If I was somebody looking for positions in Nigeria, don’t you think I am capable of being a Minister? Couldn’t I have played the same game you Nigerians play to make money? You think that I am so down that I would go and kowtow before people in authority and say look, oga this one I know I am small I will do it for you so give me money? I think you are trivialising the issues I have raised. I am saying a leader of Nigeria should not, publicly, you can have private relationship with these people if you admire them, but to the public, Nigeria’s leader cannot go and shore up an inconsequential person trying to break up Nigeria and in the assignment you gave to him he showed himself not suitable, if not incompetent. He was not suitable. His colleagues kicked him out of the committee you set up. They said they cannot work with this kind of person. Then when you were selecting people to come, to show how you felt about that person that you believed in him, you went out of your way and brought him back and announced him as a member of these people that you dashed N4 million. For what?

Jonathan hijacked – Paul Unongo

D eputy Chairman of the Northern Elders Forum, NEF, Dr. Paul Unongo has warned that there would be chaos in Nigeria in 2015. “For the sake o...