₦airaland Forum

The Economic situation in the world today calls for man to look back on the events and signs in the bible, signs of End time. 2 Timothy 3:1-7 "These know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.  For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, truce breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,"  If u read further you will see more. time is telling on the problems posed by men himself. for God tells us on the signs and symbols of End Time.

1. War here and there, Countries waging war against each other, community war tribal and sectional war.

2. Economic down tool, Falling and rising in prices of Goods and services, with the level and numbers of professionals in the field of Economics and business management the world is still running within the circles of Economic woes due to our non regard for God.

3. Gay Marriages, Lesbianism even in the house of God shows more of the END OF DAYS.

A lot, I say A lot has effects on the situation in the world today If only and only If Man will have regard and respect for his creator he will heals his land. "If My people"

ScrabbedShould be Scrab, am saying due to my experience in the Desert of Yamaltu Deba Local Govt of Gombe State, Corp members sent to remote areas are not treated specially, and that is bad of the scheme, as a corp member, the money I spend on Water and medical Treatment is almost the meagre Alawi they are paying us, and a fellow member will see u and tell u am serving in NNPC, Oceanic Bank, PPMC, and so on. with good pay an Accommodation and u are sleeping with scorpion in a Channel O Building. I think the Scheme NYSC (Now Your Suffering Continue) should be scrapped

Let the view be relay in the dallies and may be paid advert , i will in my own strength write a letter to some dallies, this is bad

Has anyone been called for Interview?

I belive this sub forum is for JOB not links or old students forum, so dear ATBU or what is ur skool try and go to another sub forum and link your self not JOB

Majek Fashek returns to the streets
Written by Wakiri Warigbo
Saturday, 05 April 2008
The first time it happened, it took the intervention of several well meaning Nigerians like Charles Novia who helped in releasing his new work in Nigeria and Azuka Jebose the former Punch entertainment editor who opted to become his manager.

Image
Majek,
At the time these Nigerians took interest in Majek, he had almost become a destitute.

After an unsuccessful attempt at rekindling his career, he returned to America where he was put into a rehab by friends. But today the story is different, Majek sources say has returned to the streets of Brooklyn in America doing what he knows best, begging.

The big question is what next could be done to save this talented musician from killing himself and ruining his career? Who can save Majek from alcoholism? If you have a solution to this problem please write in and tell us.

Guy Bruce And His Double Breasted Suit

Ordinarily Silverbird strongman Guy Murray- Bruce could pass for a very handsome man, but the way the Akassa, Bayelsa State pageant organiser is increasing in weight is getting observers worried.

Recently STP couldn’t but express concern at the way the very expensive double breasted suit sat on the oyiboman.

As a matter of fact, there was some kind of drama at the back stage over the best way to describe what he was wearing. I swear, I didn’t say this, but some of the gbeboruns were overheard insisting that he was wearing a pair of skirt and blouse and not a pair of suit. I have sworn, it wasn’t me. That’s all.

Paul Ogazi and Wrinkars Experience

If Paul Ogazi, NTA’s sports personality didn’t take up the NTA’s job, maybe he would have become the leader of any great band in this world.

I stand to be corrected, if he was not a member of Wrinkars Experience when it was top on the charts then.

I find it hard to explain the dexterity with which he handled the microphone at Peter Igho’s 60th birthday celebration.

The way he took the microphone and belted the popular I want you to be mine assured me that Paul indeed has no fear of the unemployment market as it was obvious another job (music) was in the wing as soon as he retires like his boss from active service.

Everybody was so moved that it took Bisi Olatilo to stop him from further ooh yea, ooh yea,


Police PPRO or Lagos Big Boy?

Saw the Police spokesman Supol Frank Mba at the Eko Hotel venueof MBGN pageant and couldn’t believe it was the same young man who’d stand by his boss all starched up in his khaki uniform.

It was a brand new Frank that stormed the pageant all looking prim and trim in his ash coloured jacket over a clean pair of pants.

With his chubby and ever smiling face, he almost fooled me into thinking he was one of the latest big boys in town. Hmm, asked to comment on the night’s show, he simply parried the question with “my friend this no time for questions.

As you can see I’m here to enjoin myself and not answer question”. With that he quickly slipped into the crowd. A case of all work and no play, , you’d say.

KCPresh Caught Too

Elkay Mowarin wasn’t the only one caught at the Delta Kitchen. Our little also tattled that the duo of KC Presh, the Hip-Hiop artists that emerged on the platform of Nigerian Breweries organised Star Quest were also caught sneaking in with some of their hommies.

Like the proverbial gold fish there was no hiding place for the high riding boys whom sources say are planning a joint marriage ceremony very soon.

Ma Abasi, our feathered friend swore that for the over 30 minutes they spent at the eatery several plates of rice and eba and egusi soup were sentenced to their tummies. And as soon as they emerged from the joint they quickly dived into a caravan and disappeared into thin air.

Joseph Evah and his passion for the Ijaw

Joseph Evah is a renowned activist, who has elected to champion the cause of Ijaw speaking people. He has done well in this area by presenting the position of his people in the media.

Evah has been at the forefront of advocating in his region, the Niger Delta where he has physically helped present the grievances of his people to various oil multi-nationals.

One aspect of him that has not been fully reported is that his office has become a Mecca of sort for Ijaw ethnic nationality, at least those domiciled in Lagos.

During a visit to his Lagos office recently, a lot of people virtually from all walks of life were on hand awaiting their turn to consult with him. So large was the number of those people who came to see him that one could have mistaken the Delta born activist to government official

Who knows, perhaps he is eyeing an elective office at the national level in the nearest future.


Between Bash Ali and Samuel Peters

Do Nigerians really need a Kamikaze (suicide) boxer like Bash Ali? Once upon a time Nigerians swallowed whole his story about wanting to become the oldest boxer in history to capture a world boxing title.

And for the three years the campaign has been running, many Nigerians/organisations have given and in large quantity too, to support the Edo State boxer’s aspiration.

Now that we have produced a world champion in the person of Samuel Peter at no cost to Nigerians, shouldn’t this charade stop? STP thinks that if Grand father Bash desperately needs his name in the Guinness book of world records, the thing to do is for him to go straight to Guinness Nigerian Plc and

I’m sure his name would be written in gold as the first world title aspirant to visit the company.
After all Guinness book na the same.

ASA Returns for Kanu Nwankwo

Hip Hop World multiple awards winning Soul singer, ASA, who is currently in Paris on the sponsorship ticket of the French Embassy in Nigeria is expected to return home in May to honour the invitation of Kanu Nwankwo’s Heart Foundation.

Gist mongers say the young lady who was once at the centre of controversy with her former record company CEO Kelvin Luciano is expected to feature in a charity ball to raise funds for the kid beneficiaries of the famed footballer’s foundation.

Kelvin Luciano In Sierra Leone

Controversial CEO of Question Mark Records, Kelvin Luciano, is somewhere in Sierra Leone where, he is said to be concluding one or two business transactions. What we can’t tell you for sure is the sort of business the smooth talking dude has his fingers in but be sure to get the real gist as soon as he lands on the soil of Naija.

What’s Up Zack Orji?

Sighted Nollywood actor Zack Orji cruising along in his Land Cruiser jeep on Akin Adesola street on the Island and wondered what the Igboman could be doing on the street without his better half Ngozi (thought they were inseparable).

Deep in thought he couldn’t even acknowledge the waving from several of his fans. And later in the evening, Zack was once again caught by the roving cameras of our little bird along Adeniran Ogunsanya Street in Surulere and na that time we begin to dey wonder wonder.

New improved Sonny Okosuns in town

It is no longer news that Evangelist Sonny Okosuns is down with cancer but the new twist to the story is the amazing recovery the former militant singer has made in his battle to stay alive.

Sighted the man of God moments before he left Thursday for Benin, the Edo State for ministration and could hardly believe that the same man whom many had written off for dead was looking trim and as matter of fact he was sporting a new Afro hair style.

Words have it that the man who has been under going chemotherapy treatment in America amazed doctors with his large feeding habit. Most people who undergo such treatment hardly eat but the Evangelist’s case is different sources said. He eats about seven times a day.

Little wonder, the hotel staff where he was lodged had hectic time coping with his appetite

Tu Face’s Spouse Undergoes Marriage Counselling

The clamour by some Nigerian girls to drag Tu Face (By force ni) to the altar is getting more serious by the day Oh!. The latest gist reaching us says one of the many women who claim to be pregnant for the superstar has begun marriage counselling.

Observers say Tu face may have finally agreed to settle with his African Queen after all. So all the gist about his children going for DNA test may just be an effort to separate the fake people from the real people.

Tu Face moves back into his home, drives around with Police escort

Tu Face has moved back into his private residence in Festac and this is authoritative. The embattled musician who fled from his home on account of the numbers of babes who thronged his place in search of fortune and babies in the past, returned over the week and was escorted home by close pals.
Secretly too Gov’nor Fashola over the week ordered the provision of a police escort to follow the Benue State born super star around.

Government source hinted that His Excellency was tired of hearing stories that the African Queen crooner was either shot at or have his vehicle snatched at gun point. So if you are driving behind Tu Face either in a traffic jam or otherwise be careful or you may get a load of hot lead in your guts.

EXCITING JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN THE ENERGY SECTOR
LOCATION: PORT HARCOURT.

PROJECT MANAGERS [REF: RE/108/PM:]
You will be degree qualified in Civil, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (COREN or NSE membership will be an advantage) and aged between 37 and 45 years.
You must have a minimum of 12 years post graduation experience, five of which must have been at Management level within a power generation plant and/or high voltage 330kV sub-station and transmission line, and be familiar with standard computer based project management systems.
To be successful in the role, the individual must be self-motivated, possess a sound analytical mind, as well as excellent management and reporting skills,

FINANCE MANAGER [REF: RE/108/FM]
You will be degree qualified (preferably with a relevant post-graduate degree qualification) and aged between 37 and 45 years.
You must have a minimum of twelve years post graduation experience five of which must have been in a management role within a reputable corporate organisation. Ideally, you will also have a minimum of five years post-ICAN membership industry experience.
To be successful in the role the individual must be familiar with standard computer-based accounting systems. Possess excellent management skills and display some flexibility with regards to problem solving and decision making, Prudence, integrity and a cool head are also essential.

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER [REF: RE/108/HRM]
You will be degree qualified (preferably with a relevant post-graduate degree qualification and IPMN membership) and aged between 37 and 42 years.
You must have a minimum of ten years post graduation experience; five of which must have been in a similar role within a reputable corporate organisation. You must be familiar with current national issues and possess an open-minded approach to problem solving.
Success in the role will require a deep understanding of current best practices in HR management.

ADMINISTRATIVE MANGER [REF: RE/108/AM]
You will be degree qualified (preferably with a relevant post graduate degree qualification) and aged between 35 and 40 years.
You must have a minimum of ten years post graduation experience, five of which must have been in a similar role within a reputable corporate organisation.
Strong management and interpersonal skills will be complemented by a high degree of personal organisation and effectiveness.

HEAD INTERNAL CONTROL AND COMPLIANCE [REF: RE/108/HICC]
You will be degree-qualified chartered accountant (preferably with a relevant post graduate degree qualification) and aged between 37 and 42 years.
You must have a minimum of ten years post graduation experience five of which must have been in a similar role within a reputable corporate organisation or a medium large successful audit firm.
You must be familiar with computer aided audit procedures and possess sound reporting skills.
Success in the role will require excellent management and organisational skills plus a high level of integrity.

GUEST HOUSE MANAGER [REF: RE/108/GHM]
You will be degree-qualified in estate management or a related field; and aged between 35 and 40 years.
You must have a minimum of six years post graduation experience; three of which must have been in a similar role.
You must be a firm and responsive manager and be able to address the problems and concerns of guests in a timely and courteous manner.
Success in the role will require excellent management and organisational skills plus a willingness to work at odd hours.

PERSONAL ASSISTANTS/ EXECUTIVE SECRETARIES [REF: RE/108/PA/ES]
Degree-qualified and aged between 28 and 36 years.
You will have a minimum of five years prior experience of working closely with senior management in an executive support role.
Ideally, you will have a secretarial background and be proficient in report/speech writing and the use of a wide range of electronic office equipment and applications. Superb organization, presentation and interpersonal skills as well as a strong work ethic and confidence, will be essential determinants of success in a demanding and fast-paced work environment.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
These positions offer outstanding career opportunities and rewards to the right candidates.
To apply, please send your resume and current salary details, quoting the appropriate position reference to:
The Head, Staffing Services Group,
Human Edge Limited
10/l2 Adenubi Close, Behind St. Leos Catholic Church, Toyin Street, Ikeja,
P.M.B 80061, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Tel: 234-1-73037I6, 7403723, 2347028193892.
Online applications should be sent to: recruitment@heworld.com.

Entries close on the 8th of April 2008.

VINE FOODS LIMITED is an emerging company in the consumer products market. As a result they have new vacancies for highly proactive and result-oriented candidates to fill the following positions in their organization. Please note that only candidates who meet the requirements need apply.

1. ACCOUNTANT [VFL/01]
* BSc/ACA in Accountancy and must be chartered.
* Must have btw 5-7 yrs experience, 2 of which must be at similar level in corporate organization.
* Experience in a Beverage Industry is advantage.
2. SALESMEN [VFL/02]
* B.Sc or HND in Marketing or any of the Social Sciences.
* Must have 2-3 years practical experience in direct selling preferably in the Beverage industry.
3. LOGISTICS CO-ORDINATORS [VFL/03]
* Must be vast in Storekeeping/Warehousing operations.
* Knowledge of dispatches/Transportation arrangements and must be familiar with the major cities in Nigeria.
* A university graduate with relevant Work experience.
* Must have 3-5 years experience, 3 of which must be in a similar position.
* Should have thorough Knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
4. DRIVERS (TRUCK/LIGHT VEHICLES) [VFL/04]
* First School Leaving Certificate, good driving experience with a valid drivers license.
* WAEC/GCE will be an advantage.
5. STOREKEEPERS [VFL/05]
* OND with 3-5 years relevant experience in a similar position.
* Must be vast in warehousing operations.
* Beverage industries experience an advantage.
* Should have thorough knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
6. NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER [VFL/06]
* A graduate of any of the Social Sciences.
* Must have Project Management experience using MS Project Management tools like MS Project and Advance Excel.
* Experience of 3-5 years in a Beverage Industry.
* Candidate should possess unique combination of creative and analytical talents and must be able to conceptualize new ideas, evaluate, them objectively from a market and financial standpoint.
7. ELECTRICAL ENGINEER [VFL/07]
* BSc or HND (Electrical Engineering),
* 1-2 years experience in the Soft Drinks Bottling Industry is compulsory.
8. PRODUCTION MANAGER [VFL/08]
* BSc or HND (Mechanical or Electrical Engineering)
* 2-3 years experience in the Soft Drinks Bottling Industry Is compulsory.
9. ELECTRICIANS [VFL/09]
* Candidates for this position must be literate
* Minimum of Trade Test II, III or City and Guilds or OND in Electrical/Electronics Engineering
* Must not be more than 35 years old.
* Must have 3-5 years post qualification experience in related fields.
* Beverage industries experience an advantage.
10. SUPERVISOR QUALITY ASSURANCE [VFL/10]
* B.Sc (2:2), HND (Lower Credit) in Microbiology, Industrial Chemistry, Biochemistry & Food Technology.
* Willingness and ability to do shift work (morning, afternoon and night)
* Must have 2 years cognate Working experience in microbial, chemical analysis of water, raw materials intermediates and finished products in a reputable company
11. PLUMBER [VFL/11]
* Trade Test I, II, III or City and Guilds or OND in Plumbing.
* 5 years experience in a similar position in an industrial setup.
* Beverage industries experience an advantage.

REMUNERATION:
Attractive and commensurate with industry standards.

METHOD OF APPLICATION:
Interested and qualified candidates to send their CVs to: nfloxy@yahoo.com
OR TO:
Vine Foods Ltd,
P.O. Box 5895,
Surulere, Lagos.

Entries close on the 1st of April 2008.

TOWER ALUMINIUM (NIG.) PLC.
CHALLENGING MANAGEMENT AND ENGINEERING OPPORTUNITIES.
-Aluminium & Steel Production -Independent Power Station -Compress Gas Processing
A pioneer and largest manufacturer of Aluminium Products in Nigeria with plants in Ikeja and Otta, seeks to identify resourceful and focused professionals to fill the following positions:

CHIEF ACCOUNTANTS:
Qualification, Experience and Competencies:
Suitable candidates will be University Graduates of Accounting, Business Administration, Social Sciences or related disciplines, with professional accounting qualifications (ACA, ACMA, ACCA, CFA) with upwards of ten years post-qualification experience, preferably in the manufacturing or service industry.

INTERNAL AUDITOR:
Qualification, Experience and Competencies:
The candidate must hold a good degree in Accounting, Business Administration with professional accounting qualifications (ACA, ACMA, ACCA, CFA). Candidate with relevant postgraduate degree qualification has definite advantage and must possess upwards of five years cognate experience, preferably in the manufacturing sector. The candidate must be familiar with computer aided audit procedures and possess sound reporting skills. Above all, the candidate must be a person of high level of integrity.

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER:
Qualifications, Experience Competencies
University degrees, preferably at post-graduate level in Industrial Relations, Social Sciences, Business Administration or related disciplines with upwards of 5 years experience in the HR function of well structured manufacturing companies. Membership of the Institute of Personnel Management will be a definite advantage.

MARKETING AND SALES MANAGER:
Qualifications, Experience & Competencies:
Suitable candidate will be University Graduate of Marketing, Business Administration, Social Sciences or related disciplines with upwards of five years experience in the marketing and sales functions of well established manufacturing or service companies. Candidates with marketing/sales experience in the aluminium or steel industries will be particularly suitable for this position although candidates with experience of other sectors (consumer durables and industrial products) are also encouraged to apply.

WORKS MANAGER:
Qualifications, Experience and Competencies
Suitable candidates will be Graduate of Mechanical/Electrical or Industrial Engineering, with at least five years manufacturing experience in the aluminium or steel industries. Ideal candidates will currently be functioning in a similar capacity, with supervisory roles for manufacturing, engineering and quality control.

MAINTENANCE MANAGER:
Qualifications, Experience and Competencies:
Suitable candidate will be graduate of mechanical engineering, who has upwards of three to five years experience in the maintenance function of a well structured manufacturing company.

MECHANICAL/ELECTRICAL ENGINEER:
Qualifications, Experience and Competencies
University degrees in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering with upwards of three to five years experience in the mechanical/electrical engineering function of a manufacturing company.

POWER GENERATION ENGINEER:
Qualification, Experience and Competencies
Suitable candidates for this position will be holder of the Higher National Diploma (HND) or University Graduate of the appropriate engineering disciplines who have not less than five years experience in the operation and maintenance of industrial gas fired power plants.
The candidate will be electro-mechanical engineer with experience of electrical controls and electrical power distribution systems.

GAS ENGINE ENGINEER:
Qualification, Experience and Competencies
Suitable candidate for this position must be familiar with up to 200 Bar, and 3000 PSI compressed gas-processing facilities. This position calls for specialised gas technicians who must have-excellent knowledge of the operational and service parameters of gas fired high compression power stations.
Candidates with HND or University Degrees in Engineering disciplines and who have a minimum of five years experience working with similar facilities will be particularly suitable for this position. Ideal candidates for the position would have good functional experience at appropriate levels in gas-fired power stations in the manufacturing oil industry, or in public sector gas powered stations.

PROCUREMENT MANAGER:
Qualification, Experience and Competencies
Suitable candidates will be University Graduate of Business Administration, Social Sciences, HND in Purchasing and Supply with upwards of 5 years experience, preferably in manufacturing industry. Membership of Institute of Purchasing and Supply will be a definite advantage.

HOW TO APPLY:
Interested candidates are required to submit on-line applications with their CVs to
victor.eburajolo@towerplc.net
Or address same to:
The Group Executive Director HR.
Tower Aluminium [Nig.] Plc
9 Oba Akran Avenue
P. O. Box 9,
Ikeja Lagos.
All applications must be received before the 8th of April 2008.

For the fact that all these guys came out with 3rd or last class does not mean that u limit ur self to the place,

Nigerians eyes is wild open to see how things unfolds , lets see

danvy:
test is conducted by waec, so make your pencils HB and remember hw u shaded waec then! test consisted 2 papers then, each containibg 2 subjects. subjects containd are english commprehension,best complete sentences,antonmyms,stnomyms. there's quantittative,logic(gmat style), and management questions. all tests are objectives. all da best

thanks for the info, Jah bless ya

CHECK OUT ON THIS NEW SITE BY A FELLOW NAILANDER,
http://acrossnigeria.com

U WILL FIND IT INTERESTING,

Anybody with a knowledge on The way UAC asked their Questions, am hooked up with them

pls let me know

Police detain 30 Reps over death of policeman
By John Ameh, Abuja
Saturday, 8 Mar 2008
punch

About 30 members of the House of Representatives were arrested and detained by the police in Abuja on Thursday over an accident that claimed the life of a policeman.

Investigations by Saturday Punch on Friday, revealed that the accident involved a member of the House, Alhaji Suleiman Kokori Abudul.

Kokori, a member of the Action Congress, representing Okene/Ogori-Magongo Federal Constituency of Kogi State, was reportedly returning from a late night meeting at the Asokoro District when his car and that of the policeman had a head-on collision.

The policeman, whose name could not be immediately ascertained, was driving a Mercedes Benz 190 when the accident occurred. He later died at a hospital while the lawmaker was hospitalised at the National Hospital, Abuja.

Saturday Punch, however, gathered that the incident took a new twist when policemen allegedly went to his bedside at the hospital “under the guise of protecting him,” but they ended up arresting him.

Abdul reportedly followed the policemen, led by an assistant commissioner, to the Garki Police Station.

Investigations showed that about 29 of his colleagues, who got wind of the development, went to the police station and tried to mediate in the matter.

They sought for the release of the lawmaker on the ground of his health, but the policemen allegedly objected.

At the police station, the situation later degenerated as the lawmakers insisted that they should be arrested along with Abdul if the police would not release him.

A divisional police officer in the area ordered that the lawmakers be locked up at the premises.

Saturday Punch learnt that, for over two hours the legislators were detained by the police, who allegedly shut the gates of the premises.

The Speaker of the House, Mr. Dimeji Bankole, was said to have been informed of the incident and he, in turn, telephoned the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Mike Okiro, seeking for his intervention.

Although, Okiro was said to have directed his men to release the lawmakers, a certain female assistant commissioner allegedly gave a contrary instruction resulting in the legislators being held for more than two hours before they were released.

Okiro later visited the speaker on Friday, apparently to explain the details of the incident to him, but Bankole, in turn, kept him waiting for about 45 minutes.

“The speaker initially snubbed him but he eventually saw him grudgingly for a brief moment”, a National Assembly aide, told Saturday Punch on Friday.

When the IG’s reactions were sought, Okiro confirmed the accident, describing it as “minor” but denied that his men detained the 30 lawmakers.

“They were not arrested; they were invited for questioning; it was a minor issue and it has been resolved,’’ he told House of Representatives correspondents.

One of the lawmakers detained is the Chairman of the House Committee on Information and National Orientation, Mr. Dino Malaye.

Speaking on the incident, Abdul admitted that he was returning from a meeting at Asokoro.

“I was driving to my house, which is in Maitama, at about 12.15am. At a junction where the traffic lights were not on, my vehicle collided with another car. All I heard was a bang and I was taken to the hospital”, he stated
http://www.punchontheweb.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art2008030815572357

By-elections or bye-bye to elections
Kanmi Ademiluyi

Outside of the circle of lawyers and political junkies, bored yawns greeted the ruling of the Presidential Elections Tribunal. It is clear that most people will rather go about their day-to-day chores, rather than get animated about the finer points of the ruling. Apart from bored resignation to fate, there is an almost total lack of faith in the ability of the political elite to ‘deliver the goods.’

The disillusionment cuts across the board, which is rather dangerous for a democracy. The general cynicism does not portend any good as there are grave dangers when the populace in a democracy simply withdraw into a shell. This will create a vacuum, which will be willingly, indeed enthusiastically, occupied by anti-democratic forces. This is obviously what those behind the mayhem in places such as Ibadan and Anambra want. It will portend ill if by inducing apathy, they are allowed to get their way. We can already see the manifestation of this trend in the recently concluded by-elections conducted to fill vacancies in the various legislatures.

In the case of an Ibadan Federal Constituency, where a by-election was forced by the death of a sitting member, the turnout was not just low, it was pathetic. On polling day, the voters got the message, they voted with their feet and stayed indoors. Now, it will be unfair to preach sanctimonious sermons and admonish the unenthusiastic electors for staying at home. From recent unpalatable experience this might actually be the sensible thing to do. What is it going to profit anyone to have his skull cracked and his or her anatomy re-arranged in the pursuit of their civic responsibilities? The ‘security’ agencies have been unambiguous in making it clear that the electors turn up to vote at their own risk. With this ‘car parked at owners risk’ forewarning, the security forces have ceded their purported monopoly over the means of violence, intimidation and coercion. Through this bizarre concession, Nigeria has introduced a whole new innovative dimension to their concept of rolling back the frontiers of the state. It is hardly surprising then, that there is a paucity of prosecution of those who were caught in election-related violence. All the victims of such violence especially those who made the supreme sacrifice have only their begotten families to grief for them.

With the courts nullifying so many ‘elections,’ we are now going to be inundated with a myriad of bye-elections at all levels. You do not need to be a psepseclogy genius to know that turnout will be low. With the security forces surrendering their mandates, it can hardly be otherwise. What this means, of course, is that the democratic base is being whittled down in a low intensity insurgent warfare. If care is not taken it will get to the point where people will ask, what’s the point of the democracy, anyway? This is what the forces of darkness in Ibadan and Anambra want and they should be denied their aim.

Unfortunately, the insipid opposition does not appear to realize that there is both danger and opportunity here. Danger, for they will be the first casualty of the truncation of the democratic process. On the other hand, there is also opportunity even in this dismal time. The lack of legitimacy of the April elections should have galvanized those outside the Peoples Democratic Party electoral coalition into action. Instead they appear to be uncoordinated. Lack of focus, of a coherent philosophical orientation, and the absence of a committed dedicated cadre have all taken their toll. In the aftermath of the presidential tribunal ruling it was astonishing to hear some of those who claim to have a patent on the leadership of the opposition speaking from both sides of their mouth. In the case of some notables, this might be seemingly justifiable. After all, there is a need to keep the EFCC at bay and the doublespeak could be a form of plea-bargaining.

Nevertheless, the absence of a vigorous, coordinated and focused alternative, a prepared government-in-waiting cannot bode well for a democracy. For in view of the violence that has accompanied the primaries of the PDP, there is obviously a clear need for a democratic alternative. If there had been sincerity of purpose in the first place, by now the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties, the umbrella grouping of political formations outside of the PDP should have formed a united, popular front. Such an alignment of forces would have evolved a clear programme, encompassing a well thought-out, and detailed alternative to the PDP. Frankly, there is a need for this. How can one fathom out a situation in which incredibly high oil prices have not translated into any discernable advance in living standards and prospects for the Nigerian people? The country is still near the bottom of many league tables relating to Human Index performance. Shockingly, $100 per barrel oil has not led to any dividend of democracy for the mass of the people and their families. Absurdly, the country is way behind meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). When one considers that other less endowed African countries are better placed in meeting the rather minimalist MDGs, one can begin to appreciate the magnitude of the problem. The opposition’s response to all this is tepid and inchoate.

It is obvious that an alternative electoral coalition based on a popular programme will be essential to restore democracy in the real sense in Nigeria. Such a coalition will eventually be widened and deepend with the inevitable implosion of the PDP. However, there is no point in just hoping for a collapse of the PDP, the real work must start immediately. The coming by-elections provide an opportunity. Given the formidable obstacles from the security forces and professional manipulators of the electoral process, the non-PDP parties have to join hands to fight a formidable leviathan. Common security and logistics will have to be worked out as well as financing and fund raising. In view of the fact that the electoral system is based on ‘first past the post,’ as opposed to any form of proportional representation, running different candidates and in the process splitting the vote will be calamitous. Above all, they must campaign on the basis of a programme which can galvanise a disillusioned electorate to come out, be mobilized and fight for their rights.

The downside here is that the opposition, to a considerable extent, belong to the same pool of military-induced ‘militicians.’ From this dismal perspective, it is clear that the notion of political parties will have to be re-invented. If a start is not made there is bound to be some not very palatable side effects. It means that the country will continue to pursue an economic strategy which does not benefit the generality of the people. In addition, rather ominously, there will be a persistent threat to the entrenchment of democratic principles. More disconcerting still, the elections to be held in 2011 will weigh upon the soul like a nightmare. The need for a democratic alternative is critical. An abdication of responsibility by the opposition, as we are seeing now, will not do the country any good.

…, Briefly

Will he be his own Man?

The indifference with which the judgment of the Presidential Elections Tribunal was received is an indication of a lack of popular acceptance. Ordinarily, this should galvanise the President into action. Unfortunately, the President came in carrying a load of baggage. To jettison them is going to require terrific political skills and sagacity. Unfortunately, Yar’Adua comes across as a man who does not have the stomach for the fight. With an eye on history, Yar’Adua should muscle up the courage to now jettison his odious patron. Can he? Will he? It won’t do any of us any good if he does not decide to be his own man. For a start, he should go back to his own “Seven-point Agenda’ and try to revitalize and refocus.

It is true of course that the ‘agenda’ itself is rather banal and clichÈ ridden, which must be why it is being reviewed. Inspite of this there are some fine points in it worthy of pursuing. From this perspective, repealing the Land Use Act is imperative as is the need for a Marshall type plan for the Niger Delta. In the end it’s all up to Yar’Adua. Will he have an eye on history and confound his critics? Or will he go down as just OBJ’s convenient poodle or pavlovian lapdog?The answer seems to be blowing in the wind.

Tribunal sacks Oyo lawmaker
From Iyabo Lawal, Ibadan

THE elections petitions tribunal sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, yesterday nullified the election of a lawmaker in the House of Assembly, Dauda Lawal, for failing to comply substantially with the relevant provisions of the Electoral Act.


In the judgment read by Justice Y.A. Bashir, the tribunal held that since a case of over-voting and non-accreditation of voters pleaded by the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) candidate, Sikiru Adebayo was established, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should conduct a fresh election into Lagelu Constituency.

The ruling brings to five the number of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers who have lost their seats in the Assembly.

INEC had gone to the tribunal to challenge the declaration of Lawal by the electoral commission as the winner of the April 14, 2007 poll into the constituency.

Through his counsel, Mr. Tiamiyu Abdul Wahab, the petitioner prayed the tribunal to void Lawal's election on the ground that it was inconclusive and did not comply substantially with the Electoral Act.

Adedayo claimed that election in Lagelu was characterised by over-voting, snatching of ballot boxes, non-accreditation of voters, violence and acts of thuggery.

Lawal faulted all the allegations and urged the tribunal to dismiss the petition, arguing that the election complied substantially with the Electoral Act.

The tribunal did not accept his pleas as it held that a case of over-voting and non-accreditation of voters was established by the petitioner.

Justice Bashir said that where such instances were established, all the votes cast should be deducted from the score of each candidate that participated in the exercise.

He said after the deductions were made, the defendant led the petitioner by 95 votes, which could go either way if the election had complied substantially with the Electoral Act.

The tribunal, therefore, nullified the election and ordered a fresh poll.

Amen!, i pray soooo

I’ve made up my mind to marry Augustine though he doesn’t have money to pay my bride price

By Adaeze Amos

Ruth and Augustine have made up their minds to get married. They dated for three years before Augustine proposed marriage. But Ruth kept him waiting for two years because he didn’t have a job. Five years into the relationship, Ruth decided to buy some of the items needed for the traditional wedding so that the ceremony can take place



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They were staying in the same neighbourhood in Lagos and saw each other as neighbours –– nothing more. But whenever Augustine needed water, he would come to Ruth’s compound. Ruth said, “The flat he was sharing with his brother had no water because their pumping machine broke down and no one cared to fix it. And because he hails from the same tribe with me, I always allowed him into my compound to fetch water. Although my neighbours frowned upon this, I lied that Augustine was a relative and pleaded with them to allow him fetch whenever he came.”

That was how Augustine started developing a cordial relationship with Ruth. “Sometimes, he would come into my apartment to iron his clothes. I made him to feel free anytime he came around. We would discuss and he would always tell me how hard-working I was, leaving the house early in the morning and coming back late in the evening because my office was on the Island. I always found his company interesting. When I moved into that neighbourhood, I only had my weekends to stay at home, except of course when I was on leave. Augustine was the only person who was coming to my house. More so, we spoke the same language, although we hail from different states.”

There was a day it rained heavily and Ruth had some of her washed clothes spread outside. “He collected the clothes, took them to his house and brought them back when I returned. I was already getting worried and was about asking my neighbours about the clothes when he opened the gate and handed them to me. That was the kind of relationship we had. It was a platonic relationship.”

Gradually, the relationship developed into a sizzling affair. Ruth explained, “The affair didn’t start suddenly. It took Augustine time to woo me, although I saw the writing on the wall. Perhaps, he was waiting for an ideal time to do that. And that happened one Saturday evening when Augustine and his elder brother, whom he was staying with, came to watch a football match in my apartment.

“He felt so free in my house that a close observer would think we were dating and that was what I liked about him. I never had much interest in football, but because they came to watch, I sat down with them and watched with them. While we were all watching, he went to my fridge, brought out some soft drinks and a bottle of peanuts from the dining table, poured it into a saucer and served. I was only smiling. The brother was just observing him in awe. The reason was because people around me thought I was always feeling too big and hardly smiled or greeted anybody. So, the young man was surprised that I could find a friend in Augustine.”

After the match, his brother left, but Augustine stayed behind. “We discussed until it was late at night. Although it was raining heavily that night, I reminded him that he would not sleep in my house. His response was funny.

“Augustine said if sleeping over would make me start to keep him at arm’s length as I did to other people in the street, he wouldn’t mind going home drenched. He avoided anything that would annoy me and he respected me like a lady. Apart from the fact that Augustine was dark complexioned, good looking, with a body frame that attracted me the first time I saw him (which was what made me to greet him with a smile and allow him to be fetching water from my apartment), he knew how to talk. His spoken English was fluent. He knew the right words to use. He read Economics, but had no job after seven years of graduation. He studied in Benin and came to Lagos to look for a job, but Mother Luck hadn’t smiled on him yet. So, he would confide in me and tell me about his family, his sisters, and his poor mother. His father was late.”

Ruth started seeing Augustine, not just as a mere friend, but a confidant. “We would talk about almost everything; but one thing he never asked was if I had a man in my life. I also did not ask if he had a girlfriend. I had this fear that if he said he had a girlfriend, I might not be able to hide my ill feelings. So, both of us avoided the question. He also had not met a guy in my house, not even once.”

Ruth’s love life had been shattered when the man in her life travelled out of the country. Since then, she had refused to give another relationship a trial. “But when I met Augustine, I told myself that I would re-consider having an affair. But he had not said anything. I was waiting for him to pop the question. I’m very traditional. I’m not one of the educated ladies who feel it is normal for a lady to woo a guy, instead of the other way round.”

Ruth and Augustine continued like that. Maybe Augustine was waiting for the right time. Perhaps Ruth felt he was long overdue to name the relationship. She overlooked it. “But when a colleague visited me one Sunday evening, and we were chatting, Augustine strolled in as usual and met him chatting with me. His countenance changed. I could read it on his face that he wasn’t happy at all. He was jealous. In order to prove to the guy that he had been coming to my house and he wasn’t a stranger, he went to the fridge, took a bottle of soft drink, picked one of the dailies on my table and was reading it as if he was going to write an exam on it. He purposely refused to contribute to our discussion and I too purposely refused to introduce the man to him.”

When the man left, Augustine dropped the paper he pretended to be reading and asked me a series of questions. “You should have told me your boyfriend was coming, I wouldn’t have interrupted.”

I replied, “But you didn’t interrupt. I welcomed you, didn’t I?”

“I was listening to his wishy-washy discussion. I think he talks a lot,” he continued.

Ruth kept quiet for a while, knowing that he was just being jealous. When she didn’t talk, Augustine broke the silence. “But I don’t think he looks more handsome than me. I wonder what you are looking for?”

“But why this comparison? You have refused to say anything about our relationship. So, what is your problem?”

“But you already know that I love you. My actions are glaring about it.”

“I believe so much in what I hear because one’s actions may not be glaring enough. So say it,” She challenged him.

Augustine left his seat and sat beside her, “I don’t want a mere affair. I want you to be my wife, but why it looked as if I was delaying was because of my jobless situation. But I know things will be all right soon.”

That marked the beginning of their courtship. Their discussions also changed from that moment. “I told him about my love life and how Henry jetted out of the country and out of my life. He told me some interesting stories about himself too. He told me how he had not been able to love a woman until he found me. Even if that is not true but that honestly made me happy and I believed him.”

A few weeks after the discussion, Augustine insisted that Ruth should be wearing an engagement ring on her third finger. “Yes, so that people would know that you are engaged and leave you for me. Please, I don’t want to see any male colleague in your house. The female ones can come, but the male ones. No!”

Augustine had no money to buy the engagement ring. Ruth ended up paying for it, although both of them went to the jewellery shop. Ruth picked the one she liked; but when they got to the counter, Ruth had to pay because Augustine had no money. “That is my fear. How can I engage myself? I hope this will not tarry for long. I’m waiting for Augustine to raise the money for the traditional wedding ceremony first.”

Readers, when they waited for a year and Augustine was still jobless and there was no money for the traditional wedding, Ruth took a bold step. Keep a date with us as you get to know what happened.

boye/larry:
There are no government housings for sale now in ikorodu. What the government has now are lands. In alternative there are some estates that the goverment has sold in the past that beneficiaries are re-selling. The houses are 2 bedroom which yiu can modify to get about 3 bedroom and they are sold for 3.5million at the least. for further information call 23417348083 or mail segg & partners to seggs.partners@yahoo.com

thats cheep, 2-3m a house in lag

AH2MUCH:
nigerian wil eep being one untill there is no more oil in the ND

then . . . .

then what? tell me,

at all nothing dey happen

i prefer Niger delta

AH2MUCH:
nigerian wil eep being one untill there is no more oil in the ND

then . . . .

at all

na sooo, i preffer Niger Delta to Nigeria

PUBLIC NOTICE OF MISSING PLAIN CERTIFICATES OF NATIONAL SERVICE

The National Youth Service Corps wishes to inform the general public that the plain Certificates of National Service have been reported missing from its office at the National Directorate Headquaters.

The serial numbers of the missing Certificates are as follows:

(1) A001195301 - A001195500

(2) A001201917 - A001201950

(3) A001191651 - A001191700

(4) A001215501 - A001215700

Consequently, the Federal Civil Service Commission, State and Local Government agencies as well ad other employers of labour in the private Sector are advised to Scrutinize all Certificates of National Service presented to them for employment purposes.

In addition, the general public is further adviced to always verify with the Scheme all letters of exemption from National Service presented by prospective employees before the final engagement of such persons.

MANAGEMENT

for details check the page www.nysc.gov.ng

na God, but sta have it that male are better,

time will tell

opokonwa:
@poster
Your view/frustration is almost as old as the nation itself.
Why dwell on it when all we may do here is just words, words and more words!
Abeg quit whining and start living!

yesooooooooooo na true ooooo

i now fully agree with the word, DEMOCRAT BULD THE WORLD WHILE REPUBLICAN DESTROY IT

i now fully agree with the word, DEMOCRAT BULD THE WORLD WHILE REPUBLICAN DESTROY IT

I Hate Anything Related To Politics, then leave these section (politics)

All these nulification shows the BABOONATE NATURE of Obasanjo, poor beneficiary

NO! I SAY NO TO THE JUDGMENT, YARADUA HIMSELF ADMIT TO THE A FACT THAT THE ELECTION WAS NOT FREE AND FARE, SO YARADUA DID NOT WIN THE ELECTION ON A PLANE LEVEL