Photos: Presidential delegation visit
Abuja bomb blast scenes
The President's delegation comprising of Chief of Staff,
Abba Kyari, Secretary to the Government of the
Federation, Babachir David Lawal and others visited the
scenes of yesterday's bomb blast in Abuja and also visited
the hospitals where the injured are being treated. More
photos after the cut...
The Spain manager insisted he "did not like" the
Chelsea striker's behaviour in the 2-0 Premier League
win over Arsenal in September
Spain head coach Vicente del Bosque was far from
impressed by Diego Costa's actions in Chelsea's win over
Arsenal last month.
Costa was hit with a retrospective three-game ban by
the Football Association for striking Laurent Koscielny
with his arm during the Premier League champions' ill-
tempered 2-0 victory.
The striker has since been left out of the Spain squad
for the final Euro 2016 qualifiers against Luxembourg
and Ukraine, and while Del Bosque stressed the decision
was due to Costa's one-game ban at international level,
he admitted he was not happy to see the 26-year-old's
actions.
"It's not because he's been playing badly," Del Bosque
said when explaining why Costa was omitted. "We took
the road to this decision irrespective of his ban with
Chelsea. We don't have to make it all about the ban. But
I don't like what he did, of course."
Del Bosque had words of encouragement for Thiago
Alcantara, however, after the Bayern Munich
midfielder earned a recall following the calf injury
suffered by Andres Iniesta.
"He's been with us many times before and we hold him
in high esteem. He's a great player and we're happy
with him," Del Bosque added.
Spain, who need just one more point to qualify for the
Euro 2016 finals, host Luxembourg on October 9 before
they travel to Kiev three days later.
The Portugal forward apologised to the media as he
picked up an award for breaking the club's goalscoring
record in the 2-0 Champions League win over Malmo on
Wednesday
Cristiano Ronaldo has apologised for being "a bit of a
bastard" to the media at an event to celebrate him
equalling Raul's record as Real Madrid's all-time
leading goal scorer.
Ronaldo broke Raul's record of 323 goals for the Madrid
club with a brace in the 2-0 Champions League win over
Malmo on Wednesday.
The double in Sweden also took the former Manchester
United forward passed the 500 career goals mark,
joining the ranks of prodigious goalscorers such as Gerd
Muller and Ferenc Puskas.
But at an event organised by Real, with his team-mates
and coaching staff present, Ronaldo chose to thank
those that had helped him throughout his career and
also apologised for the way he has treated the media
recently.
"I am very happy, thanks to my team-mates because
without them this would never be possible," Ronaldo
said. "Also thanks to all my coaches, [Manuel]
Pellegrini, [Jose] Mourinho, [Carlo] Ancelotti, [Rafael]
Benitez. They have always helped me, the equipment
managers, the physios
"I also thank the media, because I know that lately I've
been a little bastard with them, but it's my way of
being.
"And my friends, Jorge Mendes and my mother. And
the president for this event, Hala Madrid!"
There is some controversy behind the counting of the
goal tally, with Ronaldo, the club and newspaper Marca
all believing that the former Manchester United
attacker has reached 324 goals, but official records
suggesting the Portuguese remains on 323 goals, level
with Raul.
The disagreement centres on a goal against Real
Sociedad in 2010 which looped off Real team-mate
Pepe and into the net, with the defender suggesting the
goal should be Ronaldo's but official records disputing
the claim.
But speaking at the event organised by the club, who
have themselves awarded the disputed goal to Ronaldo,
the 30-year-old spoke with pride about being
associated with players such as Raul and Alfredi Di
Stefano.
"For me it is an honour to receive this award, I never
imagined when I dressed for the first time this shirt
that I would be the best scorer of the team, that could
beat my friend Raul and Alfredo Di Stefano," he
added.
Some of the health benefit of ginger will be discuss below:
1. Ginger Contains Gingerol, a Substance With Powerful
Medicinal Properties Ginger is a flowering plant that
originated from China.
It belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, and is
closely related to turmeric , cardomon and galangal The
rhizome (underground part of the stem) is the
part commonly used as a spice. It is often called ginger
root, or simply ginger.
Ginger has a very long history of use in various forms
of traditional/alternative medicine. It has been used to
help digestion, reduce nausea and help fight the flu
and common cold, to name a few. This is what ground,
fresh and sliced ginger looks like:
Ginger can be used fresh, dried, powdered, or as an oil or
juice, and is sometimes added to processed foods and
cosmetics. It is a very common ingredient in recipes.
The unique fragrance and flavor of ginger come from its
natural oils, the most important of which is gingerol
. Gingerol is the main bioactive compound in
ginger, responsible for much of its medicinal properties. It
has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
Bottom Line: Ginger is a popular spice. It is high in
gingerol, a substance with powerful anti-
inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
2. Ginger Can Treat Many Forms of Nausea, Especially
Morning Sickness Ginger appears to be highly effective
against nausea
For example, it has a long history of use as a sea sickness
remedy, and there is some evidence that it may be as
effective as prescription medication Ginger may also relieve
nausea and vomiting after surgery,
and in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy But it
may be the most effective when it comes to pregnancy-
related nausea, such as morning sickness .
Although ginger is considered safe, talk to your doctor
before taking large amounts if you are pregnant. Some
believe that large amounts can raise the risk of
miscarriage, but there are currently no studies to support
this.
Bottom Line: 1-1.5 grams of ginger can help prevent
various types of nausea. This applies to sea
sickness, chemotherapy-related nausea, nausea after
surgery and morning sickness.
3. Ginger May Reduce Muscle Pain and Soreness Ginger has
been shown to be effective against exercise- induced
muscle pain. In one study, consuming 2 grams of ginger per
day, for 11
days, significantly reduced muscle pain in
people performing elbow exercises. Ginger does not have an
immediate impact, but may be effective at reducing the
day-to-day progression of muscle pain.
These effects are believed to be mediated by the anti-
inflammatory properties. Ginger appears to be effective
at reducing the day-to-day progression of muscle
pain, and may reduce exercise-induced muscle soreness.
4. The Anti-Inflammatory Effects Can Help With
Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis is a common health problem. It
involves degeneration of the joints in the body, leading to
symptoms like joint pain and stiffness.
In a controlled trial of 247 people with osteoarthritis of the
knee, those who took ginger extract had less pain
and required less pain medication. Another study found
that a combination of ginger, mastic, cinnamon and sesame
oil, can reduce pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis patients
when applied topically
Bottom Line: There are some studies showing ginger to be
effective at reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis, which is a
very common health problem.
5. Ginger May Drastically Lower Blood Sugars and Improve
Heart Disease Risk Factors This area of research is
relatively new, but ginger may have powerful anti-diabetic
properties. In a recent 2015 study of 41 participants with
type 2 diabetes, 2 grams of ginger powder per day
lowered fasting blood sugar by 12% It also dramatically
improved HbA1c (a marker for long- term blood sugar
levels), leading to a 10% reduction over a period of 12
weeks. There was also a 28%.
The Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Leye Oyebade, said on
Friday that 13 suspects would be arraigned in court for
various crimes ranging from armed robbery to stealing and
cultism.
One of the suspects, Kamoru Opeyemi, claimed to be a final
year student of Business Administration, Federal
Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti. Also arrested is Godbless Oluku, who
was earlier convicted and recently released after serving
prison term.
While parading the suspects at the state police command in
Ibadan, Oyebade said his men acted swiftly after tip off
from members of the public.
He said, “four suspected armed robbers were arrested in
Alakia area of Ibadan as a result of information gathered
from our patrol men. After their arrest, we found
incriminating exhibits with them and they have confessed to
the crime.
“We also arrested a five-man robbery gang in Ogbomoso
who specialised in robbing people of their motorcycles. Five
of the stolen properties were found in their possession. This
command has also apprehended four suspects who broke
into a store and stole all the goods in it. They will all be
charged to court soon,” Oyebade added.
Opeyemi said he had left school to celebrate the Sallah
festival with friends in Ibadan when he was caught
alongside three others with a locally made pistol.
He said, “I came to Ibadan to celebrate the festival. I was
going towards Olodo area of Ibadan with three others,
Olayinka Olamide, Michael Emeka and Olaniyi Oyeniyi when
we were caught by the police. I belong to eye confraternity
in the school. I inherited the gun from senior colleague in
the confraternity who was graduating. We also use charms
which I prepared for our protection.”
The police said the four were actually arrested while going
for a robbery operation.
Leader of the motorcycle snatching syndicate, Waheed
Kareem, said he was a pickpocket before a friend
introduced him to robbery.
“I specialised in picking pockets and I am from Lagos. I
have stolen motorcycles in Ogbomoso in Oyo State and Idofio
in Kwara State. We started the ignition with a spanner but
after the last operation, we were caught.”
The police said Kareem, Akeem Salami, Abdulwasiu Fingba,
Fatai Fasasi and Adam Laaro were notorious armed robbers
who, apart from committing other crimes, also robbed
Simeon Adeleye at gun point in Ogbomoso, saying they were
arrested while trying to transport the motorcycle to ilorin.
Adejumo Afeez is just 21 but he looks older than his age.
This might not be unconnected with his current travails. He
is cooling off in the custody of the Department of Criminal
Investigation, Yaba, Lagos, for stabbing his bosom friend,
Ibitoye Saheed, 28, leading to the victim’s eventual death.
Afeez is evidently full of regrets.
Police sources said Afeez inflicted a severe injury on
Saheed’s joint cavity (the inner part of the elbow) in the
course of a fight between them during the Sallah
celebrations last Thursday, causing him to bleed and die
before the next morning.
Afeez, who was all tears as he made to explain his side of
the story to Saturday PUNCH few days ago, stated that the
incident, which happened in the Onipanu area of Lagos on
Thursday, September, 24, 2015, had left some bad taste in
the mouth of all concerned.
He recalled that he had been living with Saheed, who was
married and had a child, for a long time and they were
very close. He added they had both gone out in the evening
to have some fun in the spirit of the Sallah break around
Abidogun Street, Onipanu, Lagos, when the incident
happened.
While Saheed, a motor electrician, was inside a popular bar
on the street, enjoying himself, Afeez, who is a dancer by
profession, was outside the same bar, doing what he knows
how to do best; dancing to entertain passers-by. He said it
was around 9pm when a moving vehicle splashed dirty
water on him, which got him angry.
He said, “It was around 9pm, and while I was dancing to
the music blaring from a DJ’s stand, Saheed was inside,
drinking and watching the television. I was still arguing with
the driver of the vehicle, trying to make them apologise to
me when Saheed suddenly came out of the bar where he
was drinking, obviously he was drunk, and started
supporting those people.
“I thought he was even coming out to support me but he did
otherwise. The people I was fighting with had gone but the
two of us faced ourselves and we started fighting.
Afeez explained that the fisticuffs were so severe that it
drew the attention of the people around.
He continued, “Suddenly, Saheed grabbed my neck and
wanted to strangle me. He said he would kill me because he
said I was beginning to disrespect him. He ran inside,
brought outside a cutlass and used it to cut my left hand.
“Meanwhile, I had the knife we used to kill ram in the
morning in my pocket. In retalitaion, I brought out the
knife and used it to cut the hand that he used to hold my
neck, and blood started gushing out of his hand.”
When asked why he was carrying a knife in his pocket,
Afeez explained that Saheed told him to take the knife
along as they were going out. According to him, the blood
gushing out of Saheed’s hand continued for about three
minutes, but they never knew the end was near for him.
He added that Saheed soaked him with his blood, and after
the fight, he dropped the cutlass and entered the house,
while he also left.
Afeez maintained that he had to go and sleep somewhere
else because of the fight between them but when he went to
his house the next morning, he learnt his friend was dead.
He explained, “I know he lost so much blood, and the blood
was gushing out for about three minutes but I didn’t know
that could lead to anything. I have been living with him for
a long time but I couldn’t go to his house that night because
of the fight, so he wouldn’t hurt me in retaliation. I don’t
think he went to the hospital but my own injury was mild, so
I just cleaned it.
“I went to his house the following day. I checked where we
used to sleep but I didn’t see him, so, I thought he had
gone to the hospital. But suddenly, I saw people gathered
and among them was his brother-in-law. Suddenly, some
of those people started shouting and pointing at me as the
killer.
“His brother-in-law came after me and cut my leg with a
cutlass, including my nerves and they all left me in pains,
while I was screaming for help. That was how I got to the
police station. Even though he wasn’t sure if the knife
attack led to the death of his friend, Afeez, who is
currently regretting his action, said he if he knew his action
would lead to the death of his “good friend” he would not
have retaliated.
“If I had known it would be severe, I wouldn’t have done
anything to him when he cut my hand with a cutlass. We
used to eat and move around together. He was my friend. I
need help because I’m in pains. His brother-in-law
successfully cut my leg and all the nerves in my left leg
have been cut off.”
Police sources told our correspondent that the suspect would
soon be charged to court.
It was on a cloudy Sunday evening in Lagos. A large number
of eager fans were gathered on the sandy pitch and the
venue was the Jalisco Sports Centre at Oshodi, a highly
populated area in the state.
The fighters looked set for the showdown, however; the
nervous looks on the faces of the spectators were frank
enough to take a calculated guess of the amount they had
wagered on the contest.
Then the referee whistled for the fight to begin. With that
official command, the two men sweating to hold back the
fighters suddenly let go of the leashes and the animals
charged at each other like raging bulls.
The sound of the collision rang round the playground and
was immediately met by a huge cheer from the crowd.
“Oh! This is real fun; Shakiti Bobo is no match for Kill and
Go ,” a spectator with a deep voice shouted.
Our correspondent figured that the black ram was named
Kill and Go while its opponent, a white ram with a brown
patch at its back, was Shakiti Bobo .
Kill and Go and Shakiti Bobo slowly retreated in opposite
directions and then charged at each other again. And as
they got closer to each other, they reared a little and
brought their heads down to deliver the resounding blows.
The ritual went on again and again and again, each time,
with renewed venom.
Ram fighting: the sport
It was the preliminary round but a lot was at stake. A
chance to make it to the group stage of the Annual National
Ramfighting Competition beckoned the owners, and
unfortunately for the rams that have to endure the head
butts too. It was a realistic prospect for the owners as their
rams repeatedly charged at each other.
Then the rams showed signs of fatigue. Soon the glorious
prospect of making the national tournament perished for
Skakiti Bobo , who had started to retreat, surely to the
satisfaction of Kill and Go’s fans in the crowd, including
the man with the deep voice.
The last blow it delivered seemed to have done the job as
Shakiti Bobo fled the pitch with its owner at its heels. The
fight was settled. Kill and Go had won the bout.
Wild jubilations seized the playground as someone in the
crowd lifted Kill and Go up, saying the winner would be a
worthy representative of the zone.
The proud owner of Kill and Go , an IT consultant, who
identified himself as Yinka, said his hard work had paid
off.
With a huge grin, he likened the way rams are prepared for
fights to the way professional boxers are carefully
managed before bouts.
“It goes way beyond what you witnessed here today; it is a
lot of work and it is very deep,” he said with palpable
satisfaction.
Ram fights are usually held in round enclosures created by
the bodies of spectators in Nigeria, where it is a traditional
sport, particularly among its Muslim population.
The deadly sport, which is for the entertainment of
spectators, has continued to grow in popularity and the
competitions have grown bigger with millions of Naira, cars,
motor cycles, freezers, generators and other prizes at stake
for different categories of winners.
Rams are raised and trained specifically to fight and
therefore not killed for their mutton (meat) or sacrificed
during Muslim Sallah celebrations, except they have passed
their prime.
Findings by Saturday PUNCH showed that preparing rams
for bouts and competitions starts from prospecting for
lambs that are potential champions.
The breeding and feeding of such potential champions of
ram fights also take special forms.
The Ram Owners Association of Nigeria and the Ram Lovers
Association of Nigeria are the two major groups involved in
the sport in the country. Also, a Facebook forum called RAM
Combat: Fan Zone, offers an online platform for members
of the group to discuss events, buy and sell fighter rams
otherwise called gladiators and share videos and pictures
from events.
Interestingly, rich celebrities, foreigners and executives of
banks and multinational companies are some of those
involved in the sport.
To lovers of the sport, each head butt is called a blow.
Rams are fed Indian hemp too
A breeder, Mr. Ganiyu Otobo, identified aggressiveness as
one of the qualities to look out for when shopping for
potential gladiators. The horns and foreheads are also
features considered integral for rams to be used for
fights.
A pronounced forehead, which is referred to as ‘guarding’
in the local parlance is one of the important features of
good fighter rams.
Big horns hardly break, which also make them a good
attribute for rams. Some breeders cut off the horn tips as
experience has taught them that such horns are replaced by
larger ones.
Some breeders also incise the forehead of rams to remove a
thick mould of flesh that often prevents rams from fighting
once it gets damaged.
“What we do is to encourage a ram that wants to fight,”
Otobo said.
“When I notice that a ram is aggressive towards others,
head butting them while they are eating together from the
same bowl, then I may be interested in it, particularly if it
also looks fit. Even then, I will still have to do a lot of work
to improve on its fitness by taking it for frequent road
walks.”
Otobo lives in Surulere in Lagos and has employed a nomad,
who takes his rams for road walks to far distances like
Costain, Oyingbo and even the Lagos Island.
Some breeders in Lagos take their gladiators on fitness
walks to other places like Aganga, a deserted area off
College Road in Lagos, where rams can be taken for 10 to 15
km walks and Odo Akonko (Akonko River), a mountainous
area in Ogba, also in Lagos, which has 77 steps that can be
walked up and down.
“At Akonko, the ram can be taken up the 77 steps 20 times
and the essence is to enlarge its heart and improve its
fitness,” a ram owner, Mr. Oyindamola Akanni, said.
“The larger the heart, the more it can withstand the stress
of fighting. There are gymnasts that take the rams on such
rigorous walks for a fee.
“The rams must also be well-fed and there are special feed
compositions that are given to them which are different
from what are given to rams reared for meat purpose.
While rams reared for meat are allowed to grow fat, their
counterparts that are bred as gladiators are not permitted
to get heavy. Their breeders are after less fat, strong
bones, horns and teeth for the animals. So they don’t like
the special drug locally called ‘Mawumawu’ that some ram
sellers give to their animals to enhance their size.
Therefore, they are fed special combinations of malt
extract, corn shaft, plantain skin, cassava peel, wheat
cover, sorghum, bean shells and Ugwu leaves.
They are de-wormed quarterly and washed regularly with
shampoo to safeguard them against infections since
logically; an ailing ram is a bad fighter.
Fighter rams are given Codeine injection, an opium-
containing painkilling drug that is sometimes given to
horses. They are also given a lot of calcium to ensure strong
bones and teeth.
Some owners add Indian hemp (powder, seeds and/or
weed), gin, beer, salt and stimulants to their rams’ rations.
“Such inducements do not give my rams power, but they
make them fight more fiercely,” said a breeder, Afeez
Folahan, who admitted to including Indian hemp in his
animals’ rations.
Luckily for him, rams are not tested for drugs before or
after fights, unlike organised human sport competitions.
Akanni, who confirmed that some rams are fed with drugs,
described the breeding of gladiators as an expensive
venture.
He said, “It is very expensive but it also depends on how
deep the owner’s pocket is. Those who give their rams
Indian hemp powder, seeds or weed to eat want to enhance
their aggressiveness. So it won’t make a ram that is not fit
fight better but it will make it to be aggressive.
“Some rams that are really crazy also take gin and beer,
usually the ones in green bottles because rams from the
north usually take drugs from bottles.
“So when they see a green bottle, they may run after you,
thinking it contains their drugs. Some breeders indulge
their rams. The rams will grab the bottles of alcohol with
their mouths and drain the contents. After being fed with
Indian hemp or alcohol, you will see the rams misbehaving,
spoiling for a fight and chasing after persons and animals
in sight. And when there is no person or animal in sight,
such will start hitting their heads against the wall.
“We give rams stimulant to make them eat well but we don’t
enhance their growth with a drug called ‘Mawumawu’, which
some ram sellers use to blow up the size of their animals.
This is the essence of de-worming them so that they can
lose their worms and a lot of fats. After de-worming, rams
lose a lot of weight.
“Once they are given salt to eat, it helps clean their mouths
and makes them eat better. An alternative to that is black
stone, which is often sold at ranches and polo clubs, where
they are used for horses. They perform a similar job as the
salt.”
Akanni also explained how rams should be bred on pallets
and not on concrete floors to prevent their droppings from
getting stuck in their hooves, as this can give them
infections.
It is also believed that rams charge faster during fights
when their hooves are dry, healthy and free of
impediments.
Interestingly, rams are also psychologically prepared for
fights.
About two weeks to the time that Femi Olubayo’s biggest
ram, Agbako, is to fight, he makes sure he prevents it from
seeing the sunlight.
Naturally, gladiators are kept in separate cages and
Olubayo said that keeping it away from sunlight makes it
more hostile when it is brought out to fight. Extended
periods of isolation, he said, works for rams’ psych and
make them realise their mission when brought out to fight.
He explained that isolation “helps gladiators rest well and
prevents them from getting used to the company of other
rams.”
At the same time, a gladiator ought to be prepared ahead
of major competitions to deal with the large crowd.
Some rams, though good fighters, can be intimidated by
large crowds.
A ram owner, Mr. Ajibike Lawal, recalled that he once had
a ram that was the neighbourhood champion, but ran from
a major fight because it was not used to fighting before
large crowds.
The experience taught Lawal to take his rams with him to
competitions in order to acclimatise them to noise and large
number of people.
“When you take rams to major competitions, they also learn
to fight better apart from the fact that it helps them to be
less intimidated by large crowds,” he said.
“After a while, the rams understand the game and know
what they are there to do. They learn from other good
gladiators how to fight better.”
Ram fights are not peculiar to Nigeria; for instance, the
event is a tradition in Russia and in central China,
particularly on the first day of the Chinese New Year.
In Algeria, rams also compete in fighting tournaments, a
local Algerian tradition held in the lead up to celebrations
for Eid al-Adha or the Feast of the Sacrifice.
Gambling and violence
However, ram fighting is often linked to gambling, drug use
and violence.
Apart from the winning prizes, spectators engage in side
wagers to back their ram of choice.
And with the huge amounts of money involved in betting
come the propensity for violent conducts by losers, Otobo
said.
He recalled attending a competition where up to N5m was
wagered on a ram.
“I’ve seen people put so much money on a ram, up to N5m,”
he said.
“And because there is so much money involved, you will
often see ram owners coming to tournaments with personal
security like mobile police officers, even though the
organisers have constitutions that guard conducts.”
Akanni also recalled cases where losers would angrily
butcher the winning rams, saying that some competitors get
emotional when their rams lose.
He said, “It is hard to accept it when you lose after
spending so much money on your ram. Some people would
want to disrupt the fight once they realise they have lost or
about to lose.
“You could see some people coming prepared to fight but
the organisation is better now, though.”
And betting patterns are not just about which ram wins the
bout, other favourite things onlookers put their money on
include: which ram charges the other first? Which one runs
off first? Which one runs before 30 blows, 50 blows or 100
blows?
Findings show that with the huge investment and likely
turnover in the sport, people also come to the competition to
buy or steal good gladiators.
“Lovers of the sport know the good gladiators in the zones,
so you see people also offering lots of money to buy rams
that have been champions,” Lawal said.
“I’ve seen where N500,000 was offered to buy a ram. A
couple of years ago, someone offered me N300,000 for one
of my gladiators, but I refused to sell because it was still
winning lots of money for me.”
Akanni recalled how at an event in Mushin area of Lagos,
someone sighted his lost ram out of the two fighters in the
ring.
“It was a serious matter on that day. The guy said someone
had broken into his yard to steal his ram some weeks earlier
only for him to spot the ram during a competition in
Mushin,” Akanni said.
So one of the ways by which breeders in the sport try to
prevent their rams from being stolen is by often drenching
them with engine oil to discourage taxi drivers or
commercial motor cyclists from allowing their vehicles to be
used to transport the stolen animals.
Nicknames for rams
Gladiators are given interesting names like Shodamo ,
Rambo , Commando , Ronaldo, Messi , Stainless, Shanko, Big
Daddy, Kogberegbe, and so on.
Major tournaments like the Annual National Ram
Competition in Lagos attract rams from all over Nigeria and
beyond, with competitors coming from as far as Cotonou in
Benin Republic.
Therefore to ensure fairness, rams are grouped into
categories A to H for fights, which mean that competitors
can only fight with any ram that falls within the same
category with them.
Categories include 101kg to 120kg; 91kg to 100kg; 81kg to
90kg; 71kg to 80kg; 61kg to 70kg and 51kg to 60kg.
Even with that, there are some deceptions in the process as
our correspondent has learnt.
Akanni said, “A ram that is bigger than the 51kg to 60kg
category, for instance, its owner may decide not to feed it
for two days before the competition so that it can drop
some kilos.
“So it will still be bigger and stronger than the rams in the
immediate lower category where it will now fall. That is one
of the tricks people use to win competitions.”
In Lagos, some of the major arenas for ram fights include
the National Stadium, Surulere; Military Barracks,
Shomolu; Onala, Lagos Island; and Yidi and Ile Pako,
Agege.
World Animal Day
Meanwhile, October 4 of every year is the World Animal
Day, an international day of action for animal rights and
welfare celebrated annually.
Osagie Ekhator, founder of All About Animal Survival, a
group committed to enlightening the public about treating
animals right, has called for the abolishment of ram fights
in Nigeria and internationally.
He said it was wrong for animals to be bred to fight and
induced with drugs.
“It is wrong to use animals to fight because it is an unjust
cause,” he said.
“Animals can entertain us in a loving way and not in a
barbaric manner like that. That is why we allow the use of
animals as pets but when you are now killing animals, then
something is wrong.
“We can eat animals but it is wrong to abuse their privilege
by giving them drugs for game fights and killing them
unjustly and treating them anyhow. They are living things
like us so they have feelings too. Treat them with love.
“It may be in the instinct of animals to fight one another
for supremacy but it is wrong for us to be the ones to make
them fight. Animals are very territorial so they fight for
territory, their mates, their family and other reasons, but
it is criminal to induce them to fight for your own selfish
reasons or profit making. Some of them die in the process.”
Also, a doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Adedayo Ojo,
described the sport as human wickedness to animals.
He said, “The weaker may die in the process. In most cases,
their horns get damaged. For some, their horns are totally
removed after a fight. There could be bleeding and
occasionally, there could be hemorrhage (internal
bleeding) after their fights. This can also lead to the death
of the animal.
“Such fights also affect the immunity of the animals. They
come down with unnecessary illnesses and diseases because
the fights make them susceptible. Once their horn is
exposed, and there is bleeding, it can get infected and this
would affect the animal.”
He said that drugging the animals can damage their brains
and make them violent.
He said, “I will not advise the use of such drugs as Indian
hemp or alcohol on animals. The training also reduces the
life span of such animals. It can even get to a point that
the animal becomes a threat to the owner and the owner
then decides to kill it by himself.
He recalled a case where a drugged ram went berserk and
charged at its owner, smashing his scrotums in the process.
Before we conclude the causes and cure of low libido, kindly
note that it has been found that low libido in men is a
much more common complaint. Men who have a reduced sex
drive don’t want to talk about it, and the wives don’t want
to talk about it either. The wife is afraid that if she says
much about it, people will think that her husband is either
gay, or she’s a ‘bad lady.’ She also fears that people will
say she is unattractive to stir her husband’s passions. And
many husbands have the myth that they’re supposed to
want it all the time, anywhere, but this is the time and age
of high information. You either see a sex therapist or a
neurologist or a medical practitioner for help.
Couples need not feel they have to have sex a certain
number of times a week to have a good sex life. The best
and biggest low libido remedy is just do it. Once the more
obvious causes for a man’s low libido have been identified
and eliminated, couples must often work through
differences in their relationship to arrive at a solution.
When your wife is interested, just do it, this has cured a lot
of low libido cases.
For couples who have been together longer, anger often
stands in the way of one or both partners’ sex drive. By not
dealing with marital anger immediately, it can be a big
leading cause of low libido. One possible solution is some
long, honest talks. Ideally, couples should have sex about
thrice a week but assigning a number to normal frequency
of sex may not work for some couples considering their
temperament, age, health stability, nature of work,
general belief and the type of marriage relationship they
operate in. And couples should always do what they are
happy about and always think about how happy the person
next to you is in bed.
But it is very paramount to note that the loss of oestrogen
and testosterone following menopause can lead to changes
in a woman’s body and sexual drive. Some categories of
women in menopausal and postmenopausal may notice that
they’re not as easily aroused, and they may be less
sensitive to touching and stroking. That can lead to less
interest in sex. Also, lower levels of oestrogen can cause a
drop in blood supply to the vagina. That can affect vaginal
lubrication, causing the vagina to be too dry for
comfortable sex — but there’s help for that. Menopause
does not lower sex drive in all women. Rather, many
postmenopausal women say they’ve got an improved sex
drive. That may be due to less anxiety linked to a fear of
pregnancy. Also, many postmenopausal women often have
fewer child-rearing responsibilities, allowing them to relax
and enjoy intimacy with their husbands.
But for some women who do not want sex during
menopause, it is still advisable to still take time for
intimacy. You can still show your husband love and
affection without having sex. Enjoy your time together:
take walks, eat dinner out, or give each other back rubs.
This gradually leads to good sex. And to improve your
physical intimacy, you can consider experimenting with
erotic videos or books, and changes to sexual routines. Use
distraction techniques to boost relaxation and ease anxiety.
These can include erotic or non-erotic fantasies, exercises
with sex, and music, videos, or television. Have fun with
foreplay, such as sensual massage or oral sex. These
activities can make you feel more comfortable and improve
communication between you and your husband. Minimise
any pain you might have by using sexual positions that allow
you to control the depth of penetration. You may also want
to take a warm bath before sex to help you relax, and use
vaginal lubricants to help ease pain caused by friction. Tell
your husband what’s comfortable and what’s not.
It is needful for both husband and wife suffering from low
libido to always try to focus on the last time they had real
good passionate earth-shaking sex together. Taking just
five minutes out of your busy day to replay the specifics of
your last really great sexual encounter will whet your
appetite and instantly increase your libido. One of the
reasons many wives lose their libido is when they constantly
compare their bodies’ configuration with some unrealistic
body ideals; you will definitely feel unsexy. Remember
some of those body types are un-attainable; they are
artificial in most cases and yours is just very natural and
fine.
A leading cause of loss of sexual interest and drive is the
constant bombardment of old night wears both from the
man and the woman. So, buy new under things. Throw away
those ripped, faded, you’ve-had-them-for-four-years
granny panties and invest in some new underwear. The
sexier, the better new bikinis, boy shorts, or even basic briefs
can make you feel special.
Never forget to stop worrying. When you’re focused on
worry, the last thing on your mind is feeling sexy. Husband
in particular should see the bedroom as for three things:
friendship arena, sleep and sex. TV, iPhone, laptop etc are
life’s distractions, they reduce friend-shipness, reduce
hugs and keep you from being fully in touch with real life,
never mind anyone else and reduce sex drive. When this
persists, low libido sets in practically. Stay in a room
without these gadgets for one year, you will notice that
your sex drive will improve; your libido will be high all
because you are friendlier, communicate better, cuddle
frequently and have sex often. And if you can exist without
them, try to unplug for a few minutes each day so you can
plug in to what’s important, your marriage relationship.
Focus on just one activity— just gisting together. Tuning out
from the world helps make you a priority, which in turn
reminds you just how lovable you are.
Nothing kills sensuality, sexuality and sex drive than a room
full of baby stuff: toys, diaper bags and crayon-drawn
art. Have a space in your house that’s for daddy and
mummy only, so you can focus on yourselves. This room
should have nothing kid-oriented in it. No toys, no pictures
of their adorable faces. It should be an environment for
you as lovers, sweethearts instead of mom and dad’s room.
No! It’s better captioned with a more erotic name such as
the greatest sweethearts’ room.
Both husband and wife should have a positive mental
attitude and keep their stress level low. If you feel good
and self-confident, you may feel more sexual and
attractive to your spouse. Remember, prolonged stress can
lead to a diminished interest in sex.
Consider special foods and supplements that claim to
increase libido in man and woman. Natural supplements
can help increase blood flow and sometimes help fight
vaginal dryness. Some natural supplements that may
increase libido include: vitamin, zinc, vitamin C, arginine,
vitamin A, vitamin C, Beta-carotene, vitamin B6, and
vitamin B complex. These nutrients may help to boost sperm
count, improve sperm motility, enhance prostate gland
function, increase testosterone production and create a
healthier nervous system. Some foods that may increase
libido include: Celery, raw oysters, bananas, avocado, nuts,
mangoes, peaches, strawberries, eggs, liver, figs, garlic,
pumpkin and chocolate. Certain foods and natural
supplements such as these may add much needed nutrients
and minerals to your diet, but they are unlikely to make a
bigger impact on your sex drive and sexual performance.
Questions and Answers
Money issues getting in the way
My husband and I have separate bank accounts. This did
not bother me initially, because we agreed that we should
combine our finances. But now, I make more money than
him; and when it is time for both of us to pay for any
purchase, his decision is getting to be a drag on our
relationship. He spends money anyhow and I am not very
comfortable with this. This has killed our sex desire for each
other. As a matter of fact, I only hear of my husband’s
hyper high libido among the girls around rather than with
me. Should I just accept things as they are or keep trying to
combine our money?
Hope you are not making it so obvious that he who pays the
piper dictates the tune. The man may be poor but most of
our husbands read in-between the lines; so kindly ask for
wisdom on how to handle this dicey issue. Then also in most
cases, one person will handle the bills and keep track of the
finances. If you two are paying separate bills and
expenses, it is easy to lose control of your spending. The
best remedy is to set up three checking accounts. The first
is the main account to pay all the household bills. Determine
how much each of you will deposit into this account from
your pay cheques. Even when his own contribution is a kobo,
let him put something down. The other two accounts are the
ones you are currently using. Instead of paying bills with
those accounts, use them for miscellaneous items you spend
money on. Make sure you keep enough money in them so you
do not have to dip into your joint household account.
If your husband procrastinates on opening the main
account, then you take the initiative, go to your bank, and
begin the process. Then make a list of all the bills you will
pay through this account; do all you can to get the support
of your husband because success in life requires being
smart.
‘My wife is about leaving’
I am one of your ardent readers. I have a pressing problem
that is about to scatter my marriage of three years. I do
have quick ejaculation and I cannot go more than one
round of sex. My wife is about walking out of our marriage.
Kindly tell me what drugs to use to win her back.
Mr. Sunrise Hormalu
‘I lost four girls to premature ejaculation’
I lost four girls that I would have married to premature
ejaculation. I hardly read newspapers except for sports. I
stumbled on your third series on premature ejaculation
which you published in the Saturday Punch of August 16th
2008. I almost shed tears because my case is very critical. I
call it ‘pre-premature ejaculation.’ I ejaculate 10 seconds
immediately after penetration. At times while fixing
condoms, I will ejaculate with the condom half fixed. I feel
very disappointed each time it happens, so I have decided
not to get married until I have found a solution because of
the shame and frustration. Please ma, kindly help me out.
I do not want to have any problem with my marital life.
Mr. Psalms
Victor
Is it true?
Since having our two children, my husband and I have lost
our sex drives and have mutually agreed sex is no longer
important. Is there anything wrong with this?
Umman Uyimere
If you are both being honest, I see nothing wrong with your
chastity agreement. Keep your options open, however, since
sexual interest varies throughout seasons of life. Having
children can certainly impact your sexual interests. The
fatigue alone could ruin your romance. Worries of having
another baby or being unable to support your family’s needs
may also contribute. If there are underlying conflicts about
your sexual intimacy, investigate those.
My major concern is that sexual intimacy and physical
pleasure are significant parts of human needs. Denying
their expression may cause either or both of you to become
susceptible to outside sexual attractions. Keep a close watch
on your hearts and model physical affection for your
children. Good family planning will also help.
…………………………………………………………………………………………
Master and Johnson Tips
1. Relax and make sure you are free from distractions.
This is not a good time to try fixing your mind on non-
sexual issues, in order not to ejaculate. Concentrate.
2. You and your partner can engage in foreplay, for you
to get aroused.
3. Signal your partner when you are about to ejaculate.
4. At that point, she should stop stimulating you and apply
firm but gentle pressure at the point where the head
meets the shaft of the male organ.
5. The pressure can be applied for about 15 seconds.
6. She should then let go and you can both rest for 30
seconds before repeating the technique.
Kegel’s PC Exercise Tips
1. Urinate before the exercise and do not do the exercise
while urinating. This is not advisable. However, you can
use urination to locate the muscles as described in the
main article.
2. Squeeze your PC muscles shut as tightly as you can and
hold them for like 10 seconds.
Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew
Kukah
The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew
Kukah, has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to send
public officials found guilty of embezzlement to prison.
He also said the President should set minimum standard of
human behaviour for ministers that would be named in his
cabinet.
Kukah, who spoke at “The Platform” – a programme
organised by the Covenant Christian Centre, Lagos on
Thursday on the topic “Nigeria: Euphoria, Hysteria and
Dementia, still a Long Walk to Freedom,” said very little
had changed in 55 years of Nigeria’s independence from
the British colonial masters.
He said, “On the fight against corruption, whether it
involves trials or people going to prison, Buhari has an
opportunity now. He must set minimum standard of moral
behaviour for his ministers.
“Every past government in Nigeria promised to fight
corruption, but left us worse than where they met us. Every
government must have an opposition of itself, not of politics
and political pasts. We need to set minimum standards of
human behaviour that are acceptable to us as individuals
for our leaders.
“The idea that once you become a governor or minister,
several monarchs will start giving you traditional titles
should stop. That is where corruption starts. The idea that
because you are a minister, you have to turn your children’s
wedding to state functions should stop.
“Every minister’s children should get their education in
Nigeria, except if they already have the money and their
children are already there. There should be measures to
fight corruption if we are really serious about it.”
Meanwhile, a professor of economics, Pat Utomi, who was
also at the event, said one of the ways the government
could create economic prosperity for Nigerians is to
decentralise the Central Bank of Nigeria into regional
central banks.
Former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani
Alison-Madueke
Operatives of the Economic Financial Crimes Commission
have taken over the residence of the former Minister of
Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, in
Asokoro, Abuja.
The operatives stormed Alison-Madueke’s residence on
Friday shortly after she was arrested by the police in the
United Kingdom.
The EFCC officials, who were fully armed, were sighted in
two buses at the gate of the residence as of 8pm on Friday.
They had earlier stormed the place with three trucks, one
of which was marked ‘police.’
Earlier, the former minister was arrested by the operatives
of the National Crime Agency in London, the United
Kingdom.
Investigations revealed that Alison-Madueke was arrested
in relation to offences bordering on fraud and bribery.
The Spokesman for the UK High Commission in Abuja, Joe
Abuku, confirmed to one of our correspondents that five
persons were arrested by the agency.
The International Corruption Unit of the NCA, on its
website, also confirmed the arrest of five people across
London as part of an investigation into suspected bribery
and money laundering activities.
The ICU is mainly responsible for investigating
international corruption affecting developing countries.
Findings also revealed that her arrest was connected with
her alleged mismanagement of the Nigerian National
Petroleum Corporation and missing funds in the
corporation.
It was learnt that the Seizure Organised Crime Agency
within the National Crimes Agency of the UK was responsible
for arresting Alison-Madueke over the ongoing probe of
allegations against her.
It was also learnt that Alison-Madueke was picked up by
operatives of the SOCA at the instance of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, which had also been probing
her in Nigeria, discreetly.
Saturday PUNCH investigations revealed that the SOCA has
a working agreement with the EFCC in the area of
investigation of allegations of financial crimes and
proceeds of such crimes.
The source said, “It is true that the former Minister of
Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Alison-Maduake, has been
arrested by the UK’s National Crimes Agency, not the
Metropolitan Police.
“There is an agency within the National Crimes Agency
called the Seizures Organised Crimes Agency. She was
actually arrested by operatives of SOCA because the agency
has a working agreement with the EFCC.
“We have been cooperating with SOCA on a number of issues.
“I can tell you that Diezani is being quizzed over allegations
of bribery and fraud by the UK police.”
Investigations further revealed that the EFCC dispatched a
team of crack investigators to Alison-Madueke’s residence
at Frederick Chiluba Avenue, Asokoro, Abuja, moments
after the commission was alerted that the investigation
had commenced from the UK’s end.
It was further gathered that the EFCC operatives were still
searching her residence as of the time of filing this report.
A relation of Alison-Madueke, who spoke on condition of
anonymity, confirmed her arrest to one of our
correspondents on Friday.
Our correspondent could not get the Head of Media and
Publicity of the EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, to comment on
the issue as repeated calls to his mobile telephone line
indicated that it was either switched off or in an area
outside network coverage.
Speaking to one of our correspondents on the telephone, an
official of the NCA, who didn’t disclose his identity, said he
could not comment on an ongoing investigation.
“I’m afraid I cannot comment on an ongoing
investigation,” he said. Another official of the ICU, who
also didn’t disclose his identity, told Saturday PUNCH on
the telephone that he could neither confirm nor deny that
the former petroleum minister was arrested.
“It is part of our policy not to disclose information like that
to anyone, so I cannot confirm nor deny that she has been
arrested,” the official said.
Another official at the Press Office of the Department for
International Development said he would get in touch with
Saturday PUNCH on the development, but he had yet to do
so as of the time of publishing this report.
The ICU, however, said it was stepping up its work to
investigate cases of international corruption affecting
developing countries. Its International Development
Secretary, Justine Greening, on the agency’s website, said,
“Corruption is not only picking the pockets of the poor, it is
an enemy of prosperity and a brake on a country’s
development. Through the international corruption unit,
the best of British law enforcement will step up our aid
work combating corruption head on across the developing
world.”
The Joint Head of the ICU, Jon Benton, also said the work
the agency was doing was absolutely vital for helping
developing countries get back what is rightfully theirs.
“The UK has zero tolerance for overseas bribery and
corruption,” he said.
Meanwhile, a source at the EFCC confirmed to The Cable, an
online newspaper that the commission carried out a raid on
Friday at the residence of the former minister.
The raid took place just few minutes after the ICU
arrested the former minister, the report said.
“The raid on her [Alison-Madueke] residence today
(Friday) yielded vital information that will help in the
prosecution of the case. Many agencies across several
countries are involved in this investigation. Anti-money
laundering agencies in Austria, France, Switzerland,
Nigeria and the UK are working together on it,” the source
was quoted to have said.
The former petroleum resources minister’s arrest came two
days after President Muhammadu Buhari announced
himself as Nigeria’s Minister of Petroleum.
He had vowed to recover all looted funds worth several
millions of dollars that were allegedly stolen in the
petroleum ministry under the watch of Alison-Madueke,
who had become an object of attacks from Nigerians over
scandals that rocked the ministry during the former
administration.
For instance, in June 2008, Alison-Madueke was subjected
to a Senate probe after it emerged that as Transport
Minister, she had paid N30.9bn ($263m) to contractors
between December 26 and 31, 2007. She is said to be worth
over N1bn.
However, she has never been officially charged or tried for
these allegations and has strongly denied any wrongdoing.
She was alleged to have spent billions of dollars
inappropriately on private jets and responsible for some
$20bn, reportedly missing.
She is also widely accused of reckless spending of
government funds. When contacted, the Special Adviser to
the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina,
said, “I have no comment or information on it. It is a
security matter.”
Meanwhile, EFCC operatives also stormed the home of Jide
Omokore, one of her business allies while she was the oil
minister.
Omokore owns SPOG and Atlantic Energy and is said to be
involved in multi-billion dollar oil deals, including kerosene
scam that denied Nigeria’s treasury by over $6bn.
It was reported by Sahara Reporters that Omokore’s 9
Turnbull Street home in Ikoyi, Lagos and his Glover Street,
Ikoyi office were raided by the EFCC operatives.
It was, however, learnt that the former minister was
granted bail hours after she was detained by the ICU.
A report by Channels TV said that the London Police
confirmed that she had been charged to court for money
laundering and she’s expected to appear at the Charing
Cross Police Station for questioning on Monday.
Former Nigerian minister arrested in
London today
According to a reliable LIB source, a former Nigerian
minister was arrested in London today and will be
extradited to Nigeria to answer questions on allegations of
corruption. I can't mention any names until an
announcement has been made...and when it's announced,
remember you read it here first! :-)
A 4-year-old Indian boy was reportedly beheaded
Wednesday September 30th in a ritual in a southern
coastal region of the country in what was believed to be an
offering to a deity.
The New Indian Express reported that the boy had been
studying when he was kidnapped in the Prakasam district.
The family grew alarmed when the boy, named L.
Manusagar, failed to return home that afternoon.
A friend of the boy told his mother that he was taken by a
man named Tirumala Rao, the report said.
The mother arrived at the man’s house and reportedly
found the body of her son in an otherwise empty home. He
was decapitated and the report described a “utensil” that
was filled with blood. The paper said it appeared to be an
offering to a deity.
The villagers learned about the killing by the screams of the
mother and were reportedly irate. They located the
suspect, tied him up and set him on fire, the report said.
He was rescued by police and taken to a local hospital in
critical condition.
Van Heerden and her family, from Pretoria, South Africa
were on board the 09:15am Air Mauritius flight MK851
headed for OR Tambo on Thursday morning when she made
the nauseating discovery.
The Van Heerden's had just enjoyed a 9-day Sugar Bay
beach break on the island of Mauritius but unfortunately it
was not about to end well.
"It was really upsetting for me, as I had eaten half of my
meal already," said Van Heerden. "I believe they came
from the mushrooms, I looked down, asking myself, 'What
is this? I took a photo with my iPad and enlarged it. That's
when I saw it was a maggot and said 'no this can’t be?'."
"Maggots!?” After bringing it to the flight attendants
attention, Van Heerden said he explained it might be some
“kind of spice”. "He tried to cut it in front of me and then
agreed that it definitely was not a spice. It was a maggot.
I didn’t even think to get the flight attendants name, as I
was too busy concentrating on not throwing up."
According to Van Heerden, the male flight attendant was
very apologetic, saying how sorry he was when he took the
meal away. But it was the attitude of a female flight
attendant that disappointed Van Heerden the most. "She
did not apologise, she only brought me a form and said she
would bring the issue to the attention of the catering
company. They didn’t even bring me water or offer me Eno
even though I was clearly feeling very ill and even told
them I was feeling sick. Instead, I had to take two nausea
tablets from a lady who was sitting two rows down from
me," Van Heerden said.
Air Mauritius is investigating the matter and will respond
with comment as soon as possible.
Some foreign kindergarten books, novels and instructional
materials available online are the latest source of concern
for parents and educationists. The educational resources,
which are said to have homosexual undertones, are
generating debates of morality and cultural acceptance.
Educationists, who spoke with our correspondent on
Thursday, expressed fears that such instructional materials
might soon be part of the curricula in some elitist schools in
the country.
Findings by our correspondent revealed that the
“offensive” materials were targeted at preschoolers and
pupils in both the junior and senior secondary school
grades.
Some of the books include When Kayla was Kyle, It’s Okay
to be Different, Mommy, Momma and Me, Who is in a
Family?, among others. Others meant for older pupils
include Conversations with God by Neale D. Walsch, Tango
Makes Three by Justin Richard, as well as Heather has Two
Mummies and A Tale of Two Daddies, both by Lesley
Newman.
Our correspondent, who checked out Conversations with God
online, found out that the author tried to answer questions
from children, while posing as the voice of God.
When a girl asked, “Why am I a lesbian?” Neale, answering
the question, said it was because she was born that way,
urging her to celebrate her differences.
Speaking with our correspondent on Thursday, the
principal, Preserved Generation Schools, Amuwo-Odofin,
Lagos, Mrs. Chioma Akin-Adekeye, said some of the books
were being promoted by some popular international
organisations.
According to Akin-Adekeye, the themes of the books are
not compatible with African culture, urging stakeholders to
act fast before the materials arrive in the country.
The educationist also noted that colouring worksheets and
drawing books from some foreign authors also have
homosexual underpinnings.
“These worksheets are on the Internet, from where 60 per
cent of schools in Nigeria take them. School heads must
supervise worksheets before they are sent home.
“Parents must make time to check children’s homework and
the sites they surf for materials. Religious bodies must also
be involved. Nigeria must say no to the adoption of the
Comprehensive Sexuality Education curriculum that an
international organisation is trying to force down the
throat of countries in the world,” she said.
Speaking on the issue, the President, National Parent-
Teacher Association of Nigeria, Mr. Haruna Danjuma, said
the practice of homosexuality was not consistent with the
cultural and religious dispositions of most Nigerians.
Danjuma, who said private schools were culpable, urged the
Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council,
the agency in charge of formulating and implementing
policy on books and curriculum, to look into the issue.
He added, “According to our findings, only private schools
have the tendency of bringing such books into the country.
If the books are already in the country, I am sure they did
not pass through NERDC.
“Besides the fact that such books are against everything
our country stands for, we at NAPTAN have always
wondered why some private schools do not consider the
Nigerian curricula good enough.
“Why is it that these schools cannot use Nigerian curricula?
We have discussed this issue with the Ministry of Education
repeatedly. For instance, these foreign books are not in the
Nigerian curriculum. It was approved in a country and some
of our schools have adopted their curricula. We have
decided to table the mater again at our next national
council meeting in Abuja.”
Danjuma also said that parents should pay attention to
what their children watch on television and the Internet.
He added that they should be aware of the music they
listen to and the books they read.
Attempts to reach the Executive Secretary, NERDC, Prof.
Ismail Junaidu, as well as Theresa Oresanya, the Head of
Public Affairs, on Wednesday were not successful as their
lines were switched off.
Meanwhile, proprietors in Lagos State have urged the state
government to check the influx of certain learning
materials with the potentials of promoting homosexuality
among pupils.
However, the Director General, Lagos State Office of Quality
Assurance, Mrs. Ronke Soyombo, has assured that no such
books would be in use in schools in the state.
Soyombo spoke recently at a stakeholders meeting with
private school proprietors in the state.
According to her, the Nigerian curriculum is not inferior to
any other one and should not be allowed to play second
fiddle.
“I agree that such books are against our culture and I
would like to say that they will not find a place in Lagos
State,” she said.
Dr. Fredrick Fasehun
The National Chairman of the Unity Party of Nigeria, Dr.
Fredrick Fasehun, who recently turned 80, says he cannot
quit politics.
He, therefore, denied media reports that he said he had
quit politics.
Fasehun, who is also the founder of the Oodua People’s
Congress, said this in a statement on Wednesday.
He said, “I am a democrat to the core. And I cannot just
on my own say ‘bye-bye’ to politics. No! It will be a
collective decision by my party and my associates. Although
I turned 80 last week, I have been especially blessed with a
virile constitution, great health and sound mind. And it
would be a disservice to God, humanity and the nation for
me to be quitting active politics at this time.
“What I actually said was that with the good age and
health that God has blessed me with, I am counted as one
of Nigeria’s elder statesmen and I would be available
henceforth to provide non-partisan and cross-partisan
direction for the benefit of nation-building.”
Fasehun admitted that at some point, he would no longer
head the UPN but explained that he will not quit the party
until a succession plan is put in place.
Fasehun said, “Of course, I have no intention of heading
the UPN for life. In time, we shall work out a succession
plan, but it would be in consonance with the authentic
leaders of the UPN.
“I count it an honour to walk in the footsteps of Chief
Obafemi Awolowo and lead this legacy party. But I will not
leave the party in crisis. We shall resolve all issues and set
the party into its historical role within the Nigerian political
milieu.”
*New book reveals positive effects of soy,
broccoli, beetroot, sage, sesame seeds
IT is believed to protect against heart disease,
Alzheimer’s and depression and is hailed as
the secret to a long, healthy life.
Now, researchers have found a Mediterranean
diet can help breast cancer at bay.
A new study found eating the diet
supplemented with extra virgin olive oil was
associated with a ‘relatively lower’ risk of
breast cancer.
Spanish women who followed the diet reduced
their risk of the disease by 68 per cent,
compared to women told to follow a low-fat
diet.
The Mediterranean consists of plant-based
foods such as vegetables, legumes, fruit, nuts,
seeds and olives, lots of extra virgin olive oil,
fish, and moderate red wine intake.
It also involves a low consumption of
processed food, processed carbohydrates,
sweets, chocolate and red meat.
The researchers recruited 4,282 women, aged
60 to 80 who were at a high risk of developing
a cardiovascular disease including heart
disease or a stroke.
They were randomly assigned to the
Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra
virgin olive oil, the Mediterranean diet
supplemented with nuts, or the control diet in
which they were advised to reduce their intake
of fat.
Those following the Mediterranean diet were
given one litre per week of their extra virgin
olive oil for themselves and their families or
30 grams of mixed nuts, made up of 15 grams
of walnuts, 7.5 grams of hazelnuts and 7.5
grams of almonds.
The researchers found that women eating a
Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra
virgin olive oil showed a 68 per cent relatively
lower risk of malignant breast cancer than
those allocated to the low-fat diet.
Women eating a Mediterranean diet
supplemented with nuts showed a reduction in
their risk that was not significant compared
with women in the group told to reduce their
fat intake.
The researchers noted a number of limitations
in their study, including that breast cancer
was not the only disease suffered by the
women recruited for the study.
They said the study cannot establish whether
the beneficial effect they observed could be
attributed mainly to olive oil or its
consumption within the context of the
Mediterranean diet.
But lead author Dr. Miguel Martinez-Gonzalez,
of the University of Navarra, Spain, added:
‘The results suggest a beneficial effect of a
Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra
virgin olive oil in the primary prevention of
breast cancer. Preventative strategies
represent the most sensible approach against
cancer.”
The intervention studied in the trial –
following a Mediterranean diet with olive oil –
provides a ‘useful scenario’ for preventing
breast cancer because it can be carried out in
primary health care centres and offers a range
of beneficial effects on different health
outcomes, he continued.
He added: “Nevertheless, these results need
confirmation by long-term studies with a
higher number of incident cases.”
Dr. Mitchell Katz, a deputy editor of JAMA
Internal Medicine, where the study was
published, said of the findings: “Of course, no
study is perfect. This one has a small number
of outcomes – only 35 incident cases of breast
cancer, the women were not all screened for
breast cancer with mammography, they were
not blinded to the type of diet they were
receiving, and all were white, postmenopausal
and at high risk for cardiovascular disease.
“Still, consumption of a Mediterranean diet,
which is based on plant foods, fish and extra
virgin olive oil, is known to reduce the risk of
cardiovascular disease and is safe. It may also
prevent breast cancer. We hope to see more
emphasis on Mediterranean diet to reduce
cancer and cardiovascular disease and
improve health and well-being.”
Also, scientists have discovered how a
compound found in chilli peppers can kill
prostate cancer cells.
A study found capsaicin – the compound that
gives the peppers their heat – binds to the
cells’ membranes – it’s protective outer shell.
In a high enough doses, the capsaicin pulls the
membrane apart, triggering the cell to ‘commit
suicide’, they found.
Finding out how the compound works could
help experts harness it’s power and transform
it into an effective pill or injection to treat
prostate cancer.The news follows a study
published last year, which found eating chilli
could also reduce the risk of developing bowel
cancer.
Researchers gave capsaicin to mice genetically
prone to developing multiple tumours in their
gastrointestinal tract. It triggered a pain
receptor in the cells lining their intestines,
setting off a reaction that reduced the risk of
growing colorectal tumours.
Scientists publishing their work in the Journal
of Clinical Investigation found the treatment
extended the lifespan of the mice by more
than 30 per cent.
Meanwhile, scientists have revealed the latest
weapon in the fight against cancer – flower
power.
Also, a new book by one of Britain’s leading
cancer surgeons has revealed what to eat to
cut your risk of breast cancer. Dietary
recommendations include eating soy, broccoli,
beetroot, sage, and sesame seeds.
As consultant breast cancer surgeon at
London’s Royal Free Hospital, I know first-
hand the impact of this illness on women and
their families. But avoiding it isn’t just about
luck.
Working with nutritionist Dr. Claire Robertson
and biochemist Dr. Miriam Dwek, from the
University of Westminster’s Against Breast
Cancer Unit, we have come up with a simple
set of dietary recommendations that will
improve your health – and might just save
your life.
WHAT TO EAT MORE OF
Aim to eat at least five portions (400g/1 lb) of
vegetables and fruit per day. Here’s why:
Vegetables and fruit are rich in antioxidants
which prevent a process called oxidation
(where oxygen molecules join with other
chemicals to create gene damage in cells)
which can lead to cancer development.
They are an excellent source of dietary fibre
which, studies suggest, can reduce the risk of
developing breast cancer.
Plants such as soy contain phyto- estrogens,
which mimic the oestrogen found in your
body. These may modulate the body’s own
production of the hormone in a way that
prevents cancer cell growth.
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli,
Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale and
cabbage are a particularly excellent source of
plant nutrients which have been shown to
prevent the formation of cancer cells and stop
the spread of cancer.
Beans and pulses are a great source of fibre,
vegetable protein – which can help your body
repair any damage imposed by cancer
treatments – calcium, iron and B vitamins.
Increase your consumption by adding canned
pulses to soups, stews and salads or blitz them
to make dips.
Dark leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale
and beetroot are loaded with a B vitamin,
which can strengthen your DNA and so reduce
cancer risk.
WHAT TO EAT LESS OF
Red meat. Saturated fat is associated with the
risk of developing post- menopausal breast
cancer and poorer survival after breast cancer
diagnosis.
Eat less than 70 to 90g per day and try to
avoid overcooking meat. Be careful not to char
your food on a grill or barbecue as this can
produce carcinogenic chemicals.
Cakes, biscuits and pastries. Watch out for the
‘hidden fats’ in treats and avoid trans fatty
acids (hydrogenated fat), which increase total
cholesterol and lower the ‘good’ (HDL)
cholesterol.
Sugar. Refined sugar raises blood glucose
levels and elevates insulin concentrations – a
known risk factor for breast cancer
development.
Processed meats. Some preservatives that are
used in the production of processed meats
(bacon, ham and hot dogs, for example) are
thought (but not proven) to be carcinogenic.
TIME TO LOSE THE BOOZE
Alcohol consumption has been linked to an
increase in both the risk of developing breast
cancer and the likelihood of breast cancer
recurrence, even in light drinkers.
SIX CANCER-FIGHTING SUPERSTARS
SESAME SEEDS: Packed with healthy
unsaturated fats, all seeds are an excellent
source of omega-3s and omega-6s. They also
provide soluble fibre, phytochemicals and
plant sterols, which can protect against many
diseases, including cancer.
KEEP FIT AND STAY SLIM : About five per cent
of breast cancer cases could be avoided by
simply maintaining a healthy body weight.
Several studies confirm exercise’s link to
reduced risk, possibly as it lowers oestrogen
levels, modifying ways we store and process
what we eat.
EDAMAME BEANS: These bright green soy
beans are a good source of vitamins, minerals,
fibre and phytoestrogens, thought to inhibit
the growth of cancer cells), and the only
vegetable regarded as a complete protein food
because they contain all nine essential amino
acids.
BEETROOT: Beetroot is delicious eaten raw,
finely shredded, roasted, or cooked and
pickled. The purple colour comes from
betacyanin, a compound shown in studies to
have anti-carcinogenic properties. Leaves can
be eaten like spinach and are packed with
iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C and E.
SAGE: This common herb is rich in
phytochemicals and a good source of vital
nutrients, including vitamins A, C and K and
several B vitamins, as well as important
minerals.
TOMATOES: A powerful source of the
antioxidant lycopene, which has the potential
to inhibit breast cancer by stopping cancer cell
growth. Lycopene becomes more potent after
cooking and processing, so try our recipes
below.
SALMON
Oily fish such as salmon, sardines and
mackerel – which are rich in omega-3 – help to
decrease inflammation (and blood pressure),
and provide a source of vitamin D to promote
calcium uptake by the bones. Salmon may also
contain natural chemopreventative agents that
can inhibit or impede cancer.
Aim to eat oily fish once or twice a week.
LAGOS State governor, Akinwunmi Ambode,
on Wednesday urged Nigerians on the values
of patriotism and selfless service as the
country marks 55th independence
anniversary.
Ambode, in his congratulatory message, said
the commemoration must not be lost on
anyone, but should be another opportunity for
Nigerians to rededicate themselves to the pride
and service of the nation as exemplified by the
founding fathers.
He said there was need to rekindle the flame
that ignited the determination of the founding
fathers to fight for and obtain independence,
coupled with the pride they had in serving the
country. He there was no better time than
now to reawaken the waning glory of the
nation.
According to him, “You would recall that
Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Alhaji Abubakar
Tafawa Balewa, had on that memorable day,
55 years ago, in his Independence
Anniversary speech, admonished everyone to
dedicate their life and service to our country.
This, for me is the springboard that can help
us return to our glorious past that the likes of
Pa Anthony Enahoro, Chief Obafemi Awolowo,
Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Herbert Macaulay
and a host of others helped to build in their
time,” the governor said.
Ambode described the recent 2015 elections as
the period that handed Nigeria a lifeline to put
her back on track and reclaim its waning
glory as the giant of Africa. He, therefore,
urged all Nigerians irrespective of party
affiliation, religious belief or ethnic leaning to
join hands with the government of the day to
salvage the nation.
He also called on Nigerians to support the
ongoing efforts by President Muhammadu
Buhari’s administration to rebuild the nation’s
foundation, saying such efforts could not be
left to the government alone.
He expressed optimism that the Buhari
administration would succeed in its quest to
reduce the rate of poverty, fight corruption,
change the economic fortunes and stem the
tide of insecurity in the country especially in
North East Nigeria, saying it would however
require all hands to be on deck
How we think about something often determines our
experience thereof and it all depends on what or how we
think about it. One of my favourite quotes smartly sums
this up: “ If you change the way you look at things, the
things you look at change. ” – Wayne Dyer
We’re faced with challenges throughout our lives. Now, we
can either think about these challenges as great
inconveniences OR we could realise that they are perhaps
opportunities for personal growth.
A couple of weeks ago, I thought I had been robbed of my
purse. I couldn’t find it anywhere. My driver’s license,
ID, medical aid card and debit card were all gone. Talk
about an inconvenience.
I endured the tedious process at Home Affairs TWICE –
first for my temporary ID then the permanent one. I
then went to the bank where I cancelled my missing debit
card and was kindly reissued a new one. I then applied
for a new driver’s license card and endured an intensive
glare from a police woman who, after some questioning,
let me fill out an affidavit declaring that my purse was
indeed missing.
Two weeks later, I look under my desk, and what do I
find? My purse of course.
I went completely blank; I was shocked, stunned, and
speechless. If it weren’t for my boss, who said to me that I
now at least have duplicates of everything – one to store
safely and the other to carry with me - I would have
probably been more angry about the fact that I had spent
my entire Saturday sorting out my legal existence.
A classic example of either seeing the glass half empty or
half full. Life really is mind over matter and what we
think greatly effects the quality of life we live.
This all sounds fantastic in theory, but first, disrupt the
following 10 thinking-patterns to improve your quality of
life:
1. Always thinking of the worst case scenario. This is a
rather common way of thinking that causes you
unnecessary trauma, drama and stress. Such negativity
only breeds more negativity. It is also such a tragic waste
of imagination because you’re creating a series of events
that are highly unlikely to happen.
Firstly, chill. Deal with what IS happening, rather than
figuring out a modus operandi for what isn’t.
2. Never living in the now. If you’re guilty of the point
above, chances are you’re pretty much guilty of this one
too.
“You can’t change yesterday, but you can ruin today by
worrying about tomorrow.”– I could not have stated this
any more effectively. Kudos, Mind Unleashed.
3. Jumping to conclusions. Have you ever walked into a
break room at work, found a group of colleagues suddenly
go quiet and you probably thought they’re talking about
you?
Chance are they weren’t, but this goes to show just how we
jump to conclusion. There’s always more to life than
meets the eye and sometimes it’s good to remind yourself
that the world does not revolve around you. There are
many, many, MANY more topics.
4. Being unforgiving of your mistakes. I cannot stress
enough the importance of forgiving yourself of your
mistakes because dwelling on them will only cause
bitterness.
Don’t imprison yourself like that, rather learn from the
error of your ways and make peace. Let the past be
forgotten for you no longer living there.
5. Mental filtering. People often tend to filter out
anything and everything great about whatever is
happening to them only to persuade themselves out of it.
I don’t know why people do this –perhaps it’s fear?
If you’re doing this to yourself to avoid people, events or
situations, remember that the only things you ever regret
is the things you don’t do. So, live and love openly.
6. Allowing the doubt of others to direct your life.
Relationships and friendships aren’t eternally
guaranteed, but living with who are you is. So, do what’s
in your heart because you can’t live without your heart.
7. Taking things personally. Do you often find yourself
feeling offended by what people say or do? Don’t,
because what people say or do has more to do with who
they are than you.
8. Trying to compete with everyone else. Realise this:
When competing with others, you become bitter, but when
you compete with a previous version of yourself, you will
become better.
9. Emotional reasoning. When we feel bad, we reflect
this emotion into reality and suddenly everything
happening around us seems bad.
Separate what you feel from everything else that is
happening and deal with it. You’ll then open yourself up
to accept all the good life has coming your way.
10. Take responsibility. Believe and accept that you’re
in control of your life. Ultimately, if you are unhappy
with an aspect in your life, it is up to you to correct it –
peacefully and happily.
The dollar was little changed against most of
its Asia-Pacific peers on Friday as foreign
exchange dealers looked ahead to closely
watched US employment figures released later
in the day.
The exceptions were the Malaysian ringgit and
the South Korean won, which both shedded
more than half a percent against the dollar as
most regional equity markets paused after a
two-day rally marking the beginning of the
month.
With analysts expecting a fresh clue from the
US jobs report on whether the Federal Reserve
will change its monetary policy this year, the
greenback edged up against a handful of other
currencies from emerging economies.
“Today’s US payrolls number has once again
been labelled a ‘much watch’,” Chris Weston,
chief markets strategist at IG Markets, said.
“To be fair, I think traders are getting a bit
exhausted of these event risks which are
supposed to carry so much weight that they
can alter the investment landscape.”
Equity markets have seen a spike in volatility
since China suddenly devalued its yuan
currency in August, triggering the largest
quarterly selloff since 2011.
The turmoil in financial markets was a key
factor the Fed held off raising near-zero
interest rates in September, but investors still
expect the hike to come before the end of the
year.
The ringgit declined 0.80 percent against the
US unit, while the won was down 0.53
percent.
Other Asia-Pacific currencies also lost against
the dollar: the Singapore dollar fell 0.26
percent, the Thai baht lost 0.36 percent and
the Australian dollar edged 0.02 lower to
70.29 US cents.
The Indian rupee rose 0.11 percent, while the
Taiwan dollar and the Indonesian rupiah
traded flat.
With the unemployment rate expected near
seven-year lows, a strong reading in the
unemployment figures will likely add to calls
for the US central bank to start raising rates
gradually, putting further pressure on
emerging economies as investors take out
their cash to seek better returns in the US.
The US unit rose to 119.94 yen from 119.93
yen Thursday in New York, while the euro
traded at $1.1174 and 134.02 yen from $1.1187
and 134.16 yen in US trade.
