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Liquidity crunch hits banks over TSA implementation

Assets declaration:

Court summons CCB, CCT over Saraki’s arraignment

...as CBN allays fears JOHNSON OKANLAWON AND ISAAC ASABOR Emefiele

Vol. 5 N0. 1203

tinued decline in liquidity in the banking system after new government

nterbank money market halted trading for the third consecutive day yesterday amid con-

Friday, September 18, 2015

P.7

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

National Mirror Online

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Boko Haram

Military arrests producer of fake ID cards for terrorists Army won’t contravene humanitarian laws –CoAS INUSA NDAHI AND UBONG UKPONG

en of the 7 Division, Nigerian Army, in Maiduguri, Borno State capital, yesterday identified a business centre, which specialised in the production of fake National Identity Cards and other documents for terrorists. The business centre, located around the popular and busy Post Office area of the metropolis, was beCONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

L-R: Secretary to the National Economic Council, Mr Bassey Akanyung; Permanent Secretary, State House, Mr Nebolisa Emodi; Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Mr David Babachir Lawal and Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, during the National Economic Council meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Yesterday.

FLIGHT SCHEDULE

MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS

TEL: 0700FLYMEDVIEW Email: info@medviewairline.com http://www.medviewairline.com

LAGOS TO PHC

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Shell loses 110,000bdp to oil theft, vandalism P5 P.5

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SUNDAYS DESTINATION

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VL2111

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Updated Sept 9, 2015

News

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Military arrests producer of fake ID cards for terrorists CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

ing operated by Mr. John Zakariya and Mallam Makinta Umarm, who are now in military custody. This disclosure is contained in a statement signed by Col. Tukur Gusau, the Deputy Director Army Public Relations. The statement reads: “The arrest of the accom-

plices were made possible after a Boko Haram terrorist, who was earlier arrested confessed to Joint Investigation Centre that the suspected persons were in the business of producing ID cards for the terrorists group. “The items recovered from the accomplices include; computer laptops, memory sticks, still cam-

era among others. “During preliminary investigation, it was discovered that the accomplices produce fake National Identity Cards and other documents for the terrorists in a Business Centre located in Maiduguri. “These documents enable the terrorists to move freely to various destina-

tions and carry out their terrorists activities, killing and inflicting hardship on law abiding citizens in the country. “The documents also facilitate the smooth movement of the terrorists to neighbouring countries to network with other terrorists. “This act by the accomplices is detrimental to

the ongoing effort of the various security agencies under Operation Lafiya Dole.” The statement says the arrested accomplices will be handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution. In this regard, Gusau said, the Army, Air Force and all other security agencies in Operation

L-R: Representative of Managing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr Victor Famuyibo; Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Idiat Adebule; Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Shotobi, and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Heath, Lagos State, Dr Modele Osukiyesi, at the inauguration of Accident,Emergency Centre and Agbala Pediatric Ward, Ikorodu General Hospital, Lagos, yesterday.

Liquidity crunch hits banks over TSA implementation CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

directives triggered huge cash outflows. “We only have indicative quotes of about 20-30 per cent in the market for overnight lending, but no bank was willing to do any deal even at that rate yet,” one dealer said. Dealers said system liquidity had continued to drop as more banks moved money to the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, to comply with a directive to transfer government revenues to a single account, while banks also had to provide funding for advance payment for their forex purchases. Cash balances held with the central bank by commercial lenders stood at N173bn credit, down

from about N366bn on Wednesday. The balance stood at N486bn on Tuesday. President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered that all revenues be paid into the Treasury Single Account, TSA, from Tuesday, as part of a drive to fight corruption and aid transparency. The policy caused panic among commercial lenders at the expiry of the deadline on Tuesday, with trading halted on the interbank money market over fear that the move could cripple their operations. Traders said rate moderated from the initial 100-200 per cent indicative rate quoted on Tuesday to 15-20 per cent because

some banks resorted to borrowing fund at the central bank discount window at 15 per cent, using their Treasury bill holdings as collateral. “The indicative rates have been kept at a level below 20 per cent since Wednesday because of the opening up of the central bank discount window at 15 per cent for those who have treasury bills backing to borrow,” another trader said. Meanwhile, Central Bank Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, has urged Nigerians not to be apprehensive over the transfer of public sector funds in compliance with the Federal Government directive on TSA. Emefiele who spoke to

Reuters, maintained that the policy had not created any liquidity crisis of any form in the economy He said: “There is no shortage of liquidity,” pointing out that the sales of treasury bills on Wednesday was oversubscribed and that “a spike is a momentary action. It’s sentiment.” While pointing out that less than N1trn ($5bn) would be moved into the single account, the governor restated the regulatory banking institution management’s commitment to maintaining the naira’s stability, which has been subjected to devaluation in the past year due to dwindling oil revenues. “There will not be de-

valuation because right now the currency is appropriately priced,” he maintained. On the foreign exchange management measures undertaken by the apex bank so far, including that which excluded some import items from accessing foreign currency through official window of the forex market, Emefiele said that the list of restricted items could be expanded to encourage local production. He also refuted claims by some businessmen on the difficulties of obtaining dollars for their business operations and ruled out the possibility of a default by any company with dollar-denominated debt.

Lafiya Dole appreciated the continuous support and cooperation of the people of all the affected states in the campaign against terrorism and insurgency, and therefore promised to exercise its duties with high sense of professionalism in order to restore law and order in the state. Meanwhile, Chief of Army Staff, COAS, LtGen Tukur Yusufu Buratai, yesterday, reiterated the resolve of military authorities not to offend humanitarian laws in all its operations, especially the ongoing war against insurgency in the NorthEast. A statement through the Director of Army Public Relations, DAPR, Col. Sani Usman, says Gen. Buratai re-echoed this commitment when the Head of Operations, African Region, International Committee of the Red Cross, ICRC, Patricia Danzi, led other members of the organisation to the Army headquarters in Abuja. The COAS stated that the mandate of the Nigerian Army was to facilitate humanitarian assistance provided by the ICRC and other humanitarian agencies like the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, adding that he was happy with the cordial relationship existing between the Nigerian Army and the ICRC. He promised that the Army would continue to collaborate with ICRC and ensure adherence to international best practices as well as alleviate the sufferings of vulnerable persons, particularly women and children. Speaking earlier, Danzi congratulated the COAS on his appointment, stating that the organisation would continue to identify with the Nigerian Army. The ICRC chief noted with satisfaction that the two institutions were working together to ensure that humanitarian laws were protected. She commended the Nigerian Army’s efforts in the ongoing fight against insurgency. She reiterated the need for a continued frank and transparent relationship between the ICRC and the Nigerian Army.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, September 18, 2015

Photo News

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: Deputy General Manager, Coral Banking, Heritage Bank Limited (HBL), Mr. George OkoOboh; Executive Director, Abuja/North Bank, Mr. Niyi Adeseun; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and General Manager, Abuja/North Central Zone, HBL , Mr. Lekan Busari, when the bank paid a courtesy visit to the Vice President at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, recently

L-R: Winner of 5,000 dollar grant from Tony Elumelu Foundation, Tobias Igwe and Titus Igwe; Guest/Group Managing Director, Deode Oil and Gas, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan; the convener, Prince Joshua Oyeniyi and former executive, Statoil Nigeria, Doris Akpovwa, during the Annual Ambassadors Summit 2.0 in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

L-R: Deputy Director, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) Mr. Faruna Adaji; Acting Managing Director, Nigerian Incentive-based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) Plc, Mr. Edwin Nzelu; Assistant Director, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Osa Amadasun and Dr. Maryam Yaro of NIRSAL Plc, at a NIRSAL workshop in Lagos, yesterday.

L-R: HOD, Human Resources Management, Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mrs. Mary Helen Nnamdi; Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Mike Omeri; Acting Managing Director, Nigerian Capital Market Institute (NCMI), Mrs. Sa’adatu Faruk and Head, Ethics, SEC, Mrs. Bridget .J. Emakpor, at the inauguration of SEC in-house Round Table session on Patriotism and Ethics by NOA, in Abuja, yesterday.

National News

NLC to monitor N338bn bailout funds disbursement Olufemi Adeosun ABUJA

igeria Labour Congress, NLC, yesterday expressed readiness to partner the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission, ICPC, to monitor the disbursement and use of N338bn bailout funds to states. It would be recalled that Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, had last week released the funds to enable states that had been unable to pay salaries to offset such arrears. The Congress in a statement signed by its President, Ayuba Wabba, added that the union had directed its affiliates in states to serve as whistle blowers on any criminal diversion of the bailout funds. The statement reads in part: “We agree with ICPC that the painful days of the public ‘running after funds after appropriation’ are over for the good of all

Nigerians, including our working members. “NLC is monitoring those who have benefited from the disbursed N338bn bailout funds. The 27 states

are – Abia (N14.152bn); Adamawa (N2.378bn); Bauchi (N8.60bn); Bayelsa (N1.285bn); Benue (N28.013bn); Borno (N7.680bn); Cross River (N7.856bn);

Delta (N10.036bn); Ebonyi (N4.063bn); Edo (N3.167bn); Ekiti (N9.604bn); Enugu (N4.207bn); Gombe (N16.459bn) and Imo (N26.806bn).

“Others are – Kastina (N3.304bn); Kebbi (N0.690bn); Kogi (N50.842bn); Kwara (N4.320bn); Nasarawa (N8.317bn); Niger (N4.306bn); Ogun

(N20.00bn); Ondo (N14.686bn); Osun (N34.988bn); Oyo (N26.606bn); Plateau (N5.357bn); Sokoto (N10.093bn) and Zamfara (N10.020bn).”

SAHCOL may sack 250 workers over ‘redundancy’ ...NAHCO to promote 400 staff Olusegun Koiki

kyway Aviation Handling Company, SAHCOL, may any moment from now disengage about 250 workers from its payroll over what it termed “rightsizing and redundancy.” This is also as the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company, NAHCO Plc, has finally agreed to promote 400 staff, who had not been promoted for over eight years. A source in SAHCOL yesterday told our correspondent that the management had drawn up list of those to be sacked with three months gross pay as compensation ir-

respective of the number of years they have put into the company. According to the source, the management gave the poor economy as an excuse to lay off the workers. Acting General Secretary, National Union of Air Transport Workers, NUATE, Comrade Olainka Abioye confirmed the development in an interview with our correspondent. He, however, said the unions would not assent to such maltreatment of workers in the ground handling company. Spokesman for NAHCO, Mr. Tayo Ajakaye confirmed an ongoing

meeting with the industry unions, but noted that both parties were yet to reach agreements on contending issues. He told our correspondent on phone that NAHCO’s in-house unions would meet soon with the management, stressing that the board of directors would eventually determine the issues raised, especially as it pertains to promotion and alleged plan to sack some. Abioye said the management had already notified the two unions; NUATE and the Air Transport Senior Staff Services Association of Nigeria, ATSSSAN, of its intent to sack some workers, stressing that

following Section 20 of the Trade Union Act, the unions had commenced dialogue with the company. He however said the proposal from the management was insignificant when compared to the demand of the unions and described the stands of the management as callous. He pointed out that several of the workers had spent up to five years in SAHCOL after its privatization and wondered why they would only be remunerated with just three months’ pay. At NAHCO, he informed that after the marathon meeting, which lasted for about

six hours on Tuesday, management had finally agreed to promote the 400 employees who were due for promotion, but not promoted. He said the list of those to be promoted may be released today. The union had on Monday, also raised the alarm of plan by management to sack some of its workforce.

Abioye

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Friday, September 18, 2015

Shell loses 110,000bdp to oil theft, vandalism THEOPHILUS ONO JEGHEN WARRI

igeria’s oil major, Shell Petroleum Production Company, SPDC, said over 110,000 crude oil barrels estimated to worth $5 million is lost daily to activities of oil thieves and pipelines vandalism. This was disclosed yesterday by the General Manager, External Relations, Shell Nigeria, Mr. Igo Weli, during a one day seminar for journalists in Warri, Delta State. The programme with its theme, “The Effects of Pipeline Vandalism, Crude Oil Theft and Encroachment” was organised for journalists to create awareness on the impact of oil vandalism and theft on the environment particularly in the Niger Delta region.

Weli noted that aside the huge revenue loss to the activities, it was also responsible for the high level environmental degradation being witnessed in the region. He observed that the main causes of environmental pollution in the country was the activities of vandals who mostly burst oil pipes for the purpose of building illegal refinery or selling the crude to buyers who would later leave for their countries to sell. Weli said: “An average of 110,000bpd was deferred in 2014 due to pipelines interference and other illegal activities.” “An average of 37,000 barrels crude oil is stolen daily from SPDC JV facilities”, he added. While explaining further, Shell External Relations General Manager

posited that from 20102014 over 92 per cent of all oil spill from SPDC facilities were caused by oil thieves and saboteurs. This, he added, posed serious threat to the fresh water and marine environments in the region as those living in the coastal area could no longer fish or drink the water. “It affects surface resources and wide range of surfaces. Spilled oil can harm the environ-

ment in several ways including damages that directly impact the environment,” Weli stated. He also decried the encroachment of pipeline right of way by host communities. According to him, it had become a common trend for people to build around locations visibly marked as pipeline right of way without recourse. He blamed the situation on the non-compliance with Survey Coordination

Act of 1962 as well as lack of awareness of the implication of living around area marked as pipeline right of way. “The commercial activity along Right of Way is common in the urban cities and it should be discouraged,” he suggested. Weli, however, noted that SPDC was doing all it could to stop the incessant oil theft and vandalism facilities in the country. He added that aside being a major contributor to

the nation’s economy, it was also working in partnership with government and communities to making lives of the people better. Journalists who attended the programme were also taught on stress management. The guest lecturer told media workers to prioritise their health by going for periodic medical checkup to keep fit in spite of their busy schedules.

We suspended PDP national conference to accommodate all interests –Metuh

eoples Democratic Party, PDP, yesterday said the suspension of its proposed national conference was to accommodate all interests within the party. National Publicity Secretary of the party, Chief Olisa Metuh, stated this in Abuja while briefing newsmen on the issue. Metuh confirmed that the party’s leadership received a letter from Prof. Jerry Gana’s committee proposing the conference. He said on receipt of the proposal, the National Working Committee, NWC, supported the proposal but felt the need to accommodate all interests in such conference. “We felt that if we are going to do it, all interests will be accommodated in terms of the leadership of the National Assembly and the Governors’ Forum. “We will take nominees from state Houses of Assembly, nominees of youth leaders and the youth forum, because we want the party to go back to the youths. “We want the youths to be involved in whatever we are doing,” he said. Metuh said due to a communication gap, the advert on the proposed conference was aired before Gana received the NWC letter. “Immediately the advertisement was aired, the NWC was bombarded with lots of

complaints saying that why should we spread the membership of the committee to include some of those who have left the party. “They also complained about why we should exclude a lot of people whom they felt should have been involved and not those who walked out on this party,” he said. Metuh added that the NWC also felt it was necessary to suspend the conference as it was still awaiting Sen. Ike Ekweremadu’s committee’s report on reconciliation of members, due for submission next week. “The NWC felt that the delay was necessary, especially when the highest elected member of the party, in the person of the Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu, had been given an assignment that he is yet to turn in. “Without waiting for that report, and without considering the input of that report, it means that we have discarded and foreclosed the issue of the Ekweremadu committee. “That would also be a huge insult on the office of the Deputy President of the Senate, on the part of the NWC, more so when members of the governors’ forum, BOT, and other high caliber individuals are also there in the committee.”

L-R: Bauchi State Governor Abubakar; Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano; Akwa Ibom State Deputy Governor Moses Ekpo and Adamawa Governor Jibrilla Bindowa, during the National Economic Council meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday.

NEC committee indicts revenue generating agencies over fund remittance ROTIMI FADEYI ABUJA

ational Economic Council, NEC, committee investigating the remittances into federation account has indicted revenue generating agencies of the Federal Government for lack of transparency and accountability. NEC had on July 29 set up a four-man committee headed by Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole to scrutinise the accounts of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, and the Excess Crude Account, ECA, managed by the last administration. Briefing State House Correspondents yesterday after the meeting of the Council, presided over by Vice President

Yemi Osinbajo, Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi said the committee reported to NEC that it interacted with revenue generating agencies of the Federal Government. He said: “It was established among others that there was lack of transparency and accountability in the operation of the federation account, and they also noted that there were no checks and balances in the operation.” Ajimobi who briefed in company of three other governors; Sam Ortom (Benue), Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta) and Abdullahi Ganduje (Kano), explained that the work of the committee was still going on and that NEC was still expecting more reports. On the restructuring of bank loans to states, Ajimobi stated that out

of the 26 states that applied for the loans, 11 have concluded and submitted all relevant documents, while 13 states are involved in the second phase He disclosed that the total money involved in the restructuring was over N500bn, stressing that the loans were converted into Federal Government bonds. Ajimobi also said that the Federal Government would reimburse 21 states with a total of N535.6bn spent on road projects. According to him, 13 states have complied with the reimbursement requirements, while eight states have partially complied adding that N13bn had already been disbursed to the states as at 2013. The governor also disclosed that Council was

informed that the balance of ECA as at September 15 stood at over $2.257bn. Ajimobi said the council was informed that fertilizer used by farmers increased by over 271 per cent, adding that the conclusion was that there was need for more interaction with the states and local governments and their approach in agriculture should be bottom-top approach. The Council also briefed about the planned agricultural training programme that the ministry of agriculture intends to pursue, saying that 12 states and Federal Capital Territory, FCT, had been selected for the first phase, while the second phase would include non educated youths from the geopolitical zones of the country.

News

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NEITI seeks power to double penalty on oil firms CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

igeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, NEITI, is seeking an amendment to its laws that would allow it double penalty on oil and gas and mining companies for providing false information regarding volumes of production, sales and income. Director, Legal, Peter Ogbobine, who presented an overview of the proposed amendments to

the NEITI Act 2007 to a roundtable in Abuja, explained that limiting civil sanctions to about N20m was inadequate, given the value of transactions involved in the oil and gas industry. Ogbobine, who proposed 12 areas of amendment, said though NEITI has broken new grounds and brought more transparency to the extractive sector, the desired end of accountability has not been significantly achieved.

NEITI admitted that poor funding from Federal Government has greatly hindered its operation, and therefore sought amendment to its enabling laws that allows it to retain five per cent of monies recovered from oil companies due to findings of its audit report of the sector. It also proposed that five per cent of monies accruing to Natural Resources Development Fund should be made available to it. But reacting to the presentation, Chairman of

Dogara, Ezekwesili, task churches on nation building TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

hurches in Nigeria have been enjoined to contribute conscientiously in rebuilding the nation from the ruins of bad governance. Speaker of House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, and former Minister of Education, Mrs. Obiageli Ezekwesili, gave the task yesterday while speaking on the topic: “The role of the Church in Nation Building” to mark the 2nd Diamond Jubilee of Foursquare Gospel Church in Abuja. The Speaker said considering the current socio-economic and security challenges, the church must take active steps in moulding the characters of members, out of which leaders

of the country emerges. Dogara, who was represented by a member of the House, Hon. Rima Shawulu, observed that the litany of challenges facing the country have made it imperative for the church to rise up to its responsibilities. “Indeed, if our children are properly brought up with the fear of God and good morals, the society would be better for it. “Nigeria needs individuals of tested character to lead the country to the required height. “To achieve this, the church and other religious groups must stamp their feet in striving to fill this void that has remained the bane of leadership in the nation. “The church must never

look to the world for leadership; rather the world should look to the church for leadership. “It’s only men and women of influence that build a nation and you cannot have influence without character. Therefore, we need men and women whose character must necessarily precede them to help build our nation. “It’s so sad that some churches are trying to interpret God’s word in the light of prevailing permissive and pervasive culture in the world. “How come is the church so scared to call sins such as homosexuality, sin? We must all be on the watch out because an apostate church cannot play a part in building a nation,” he said.

N3.6bn fraud: EFCC declares ex- Societe Generale Bank director wanted OLUFEMI ADEOSUN ABUJA

conomic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has declared wanted a former director of Societe Generale Bank Nigeria Plc and Managing Director of Carlisle Properties and Investment Limited, Kennedy Izuagbe, over alleged N3.6bn fraud. This is even as the commission arrested one Alhaji Umar Audu Bida, chief executive officer, Universal Contractors Limited, over alleged possession of some documents of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, for the supply of crude to his American business partner, Donald Laletta,

CEO, North Park LLLC. A statement from the commission stated that Izuagbe, 45, who is being investigated in a case of conspiracy and money laundering to the tune of over N3.6bn, had gone into hiding and all efforts to reach him had failed, hence the decision to declare him wanted. He is linked to the several shady deals and gross financial misconducts that took place in the bank, in which several millions of naira were granted as loans without due diligence. The suspect, who is believed to have fled the country, is a native of Iviukhua village, near Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.

EFCC urged members of the public with information on the whereabouts of Izuagbe to contact any of its offices in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Gombe and Kano, or the nearest police station. Meanwhile, the antigraft agency also said it arrested Bida for allegedly parading fake oil lifting documents According to the commission, the 62-year-old suspect, who was picked up on Tuesday, September 15, at his residence on Gumel Road, Kaduna, was in possession of fake documents pertaining to the lifting of crude by the vessels, MT Antartic, MT Sonagol Namibe and MT Caped Bowen.

the occasion, who was also former Chairman of Senate Committee on Public Accounts, Ahmed Lawan said NEITI must seek more realistic source of funding for its activities. Lawan noted that though NEITI needed additional funding, seeking for five per cent of Natural Resources Development Fund may not be achiev-

able. According to him, in 2012, the Natural Resource Development Fund had N870bn in its account but the 7th Senate last year discovered that over N700bn had been misapplied. Also speaking, Executive Secretary of NEITI, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed said the organisation requires more power to impose

sanctions on extractive industries operators. She however suggested that NEITI should restrict its activities to audit and leave the power to prosecute to the office of the Attorney General of the Federation, noting that the job would become cumbersome if the law empowers the organisation to prosecute offenders.

Aisha Buhari decries pregnancy-related deaths

ife of the President, Mrs Aisha Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday expressed sadness over loss of 33,000 women annually to pregnancy-related cases in the country. She spoke at a stakeholders’ meeting on proposed efforts to improve the health of women and children in the country at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. She said: “It is painful to know that every year Nigeria loses 33,000 women due to pregnancy-related conditions; 800,000 of its children under five years and 260,000 new-

borns. “Furthermore, Nigeria disproportionately bears 50 per cent of global child mortality even though it makes up only about two per cent of the global population. “Far too many children under the age five are still stunted and underweight.” The president’s wife lamented that Nigeria was still classified among countries that made insufficient progress towards attainment of the Millennium Development Goals. She said the “gloomy outlook” regarding the

health of women and children provided more than enough reasons for a holistic and concerted action to accelerate efforts to change the status quo. Aisha said the health of women and children was one of the major issues dear to her heart and would do everything possible to address it. She said the forum was part of measures to address the challenges and called for suggestion on how best to augment the ongoing efforts towards improving the health and well being of women and children in the country.

NATIONAL OBSTETRICS FISTULA CENTRE, NINGI, BAUCHI STATE KANO ROAD, FORMER STATE HOTEL NINGI, BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA

INVITATION FOR SUBMISSION OF TENDER

1:0 INTRODUCTION The National Obstetrics Fistula Centre, Ningi is a North East Regional Centre established by the Federal Government of Nigeria for the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of patients with ObstetricsFistula and similar disorders. Its mandate also includes Research and Training. The Centre hereby invites interested contractors and suppliers to tender for the following:LOT 1: Purchase of Hospital Equipments/Instruments LOT 2: Renovation of Administrative Block LOT 3: Construction of Medical Ward (All documents and specifications are available for collection) 2:0 PRE-QUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS/REQUIREMENTS (i) Copy of Certificate of Incorporation with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). (ii) Evidence of Compliance Certificate by PENCOM in line with Pension Act 2014 (as amended). (iii) Evidence of Compliance with the amended Industrial Training Fund Act 2011. (iv) Tax Clearance for the last three (3) years ending December, 2015. (v) Copy of VAT Certificate with TIN Number. (vi) Bankers Reference. (vii) Company Profile with list of Directors, Technical Staff and Projects executed. (viii) Evidence of payment of Non-refundable Tender Processing Fees of N10,000.00 to the National Obstetrics Fistula Centre, Ningi. 3:0 SUBMISSION OF PRE-QUALIFICATION Interested companies should submit their proposals in 2 (two) sealed envelopes marked “Technical” and “Financial” Bids with the title of the project and addressed to: The Medical Director, National Obstetrics Fistula Centre, Ningi, Kano Road, Ningi, Bauchi State. 4:0 CLOSING DATE All documents should be delivered on or before 12:00 noon of Tuesday, 3rd November, 2015 [six 6 weeks from the date of this advert] Late submission will be rejected. 5:0 PUBLIC OPENING OF TENDER Opening of the bids will take place on Tuesday, 3rd November, 2015 by 12:00 noon. All expenses incurred in preparing a pre qualification response and all expenses otherwise associated with the response, shall be borne solely by the contractors/suppliers concerned. DAHIRU ADAMU BELLO HEAD OF ADMINISTRATION for MEDICAL DIRECTOR

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Assets declaration: Court summons CCB, CCT over Saraki’s arraignment Obiora Ifoh Abuja

Federal High Court sitting in Abuja yesterday summoned the Code of Conduct Bureau, CCB, and the Code of Conduct Tribunal over the planned arrangement of Senate President, Olubukola Saraki, by the Bureau. The Federal Ministry of Justice had on September 11, 2015, through Deputy Director in the office of Attorney General of the Federation, M.S. Hassan, filed a 13-count corruption charge against Saraki at the Code of Conduct Tribunal.  He was expected to appear before the tribunal today, but Saraki through his Counsel Mahmud Magaji (SAN), yesterday filed an ex parte motion at the Federal High Court seeking to stop his planned arraignment. The trial Judge, Justice Ahmed Mohammed, while granting the ex parte motion that was argued before him, directed the bureau and the tribunal to appear before the court on Monday, September 21, 2015, and show cause why the interim injunction being sought by the Senate President should not be granted. Justice Mohammed also

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Friday, September 18, 2015

directed that all parties should be served with the motion ex parte and the accompanied affidavit, and that hearing notice should be served on the respondents. In the ex parte motion, Saraki is praying the court for an order of injunction, restraining the respondent, their offices, servants, agents and/or privies from taking any further step cumulating in arraignment and or preferring a charge against him, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit. In the relief sought, Saraki asked the court for a declaration that in light of S24(1) of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act CAP C15 LFN 2010, the 1st defendant has not complied with the provisions of the third schedule to the Act before proffering a charge against the plaintiff. He is also asking the court for an interim injunction directing the parties in the suit to maintain status quo without any further overreaching actions on each other, and to return to their former positions prior to this suit pending the determination of the motion on notice and substantive originating summons filed before the court.

INEC admits fraud in Ilaje Assembly poll Ojo Oyewamide Akure

ndo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Segun Agbaje, yesterday admitted that the April 11 House of Assembly poll in Ilaje Constituency II was characterised by irregularities. Agbaje said the election would have been declared inconclusive, but a security report advised otherwise because of the safety of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, officers posted to the area. He said from reports made available to him by INEC officials on the field, the election was marred with irregulari-

ties and violence. The INEC chief spoke while giving evidence at the House of Assembly Tribunal. Agbaje explained that the electoral officer in Ilaje called to inform him about the tensed atmosphere in the area. He said the electoral officers were advised to declare the result after seeking security advice from the then Commissioner of Police, Isaac Eke, who confirmed the tensed atmosphere. He said: “On the fateful day, at about 3:45pm, Mr. Ajala, the electoral officer, called me. He briefed me about the tensed atmosphere in the area. He said his life and that of the returning officer

were in danger. I told him I would call him back. “At about 3:50pm, I phoned the then Commissioner of Police, Mr. Isaac Eke. He said he was going to call me back. At exactly 4:10pm, he called back and told me he had got in touch with his officers on phone. He confirmed that the area was tensed.” Agbaje further disclosed that the then police boss advised him not to declare the poll inconclusive in order to ensure safety of INEC officials in the area. He said he announced the result because the returning officer was held hostage. According to Agbaje, the Police Commissioner advised that the return-

ing officer should announce the result at Ilaje and come back to Akure to write his report. “My Lord, I am a retired director of SSS and I understand the implication of such a security situation. Consequently, I phoned back to my officers that the result should be declared. The result was announced,” Agbaje said. The Returning Officer, Joseph Adewuyi, said he wrote a letter to the REC dated 13th April, 2015, that he announced the result under duress. The said letter was later tendered as evidence before the Tribunal by the APC lead counsel, Rotimi Akeredolu SAN.

Five airlines to commence international flight from Enugu Emmanuel Ezeh Enugu

ive airlines would soon resume flight at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu. Chairman of the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc, NAHCO, Malam Suleman Yahyah, who disclosed this yesterday during the commissioning ceremony of the NAHCO/Aviance Bonded Warehouse at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, added that NAHCO would continue to sustain its professionalism in the South-East. Yahyah, while expressing happiness over completion and commissioning of the project, described it as the second largest in the country. He said they were happy to re-connect with the people of the South-East zone, assuring that the facility would alleviate the suffering of businessmen and women from the

zone occasioned by absence of a warehouse. He noted that people of the South-East region had contributed a lot in the cargo sector and advised traders from the zone to patronise the facility. In his speech, Managing Director of NAHCO, Mr. Norbert Bielderman, stated that about N60 billion worth of cargo, which is about 20 per cent of the entire cargo in Lagos, is earmarked for the five eastern states with a lot of them finding their ways to Enugu, Onitsha, Aba and Umuahia. Represented by Chief Operating Officer, Hassan Yahaya, he added that when the immediate past administration decided to upgrade the Enugu Airport to international status, his company decided to be the first to support operations in the airport, adding that they have already done a lot of test run with Ethiopian Airlines for six months.

L-R: Chief Pilot, Dana Air, Capt. Olukayode Ola, Commissioner of Police, Airport Police Command, Mrs. Victoria N. Menta, Accountable Manager, Mr. Obi Mbanuzuo and Assistant Commissioner of Police, Operations, Mr. Chucks Enwonwu, during a courtesy visit to Dana Air by the Commissioner at Murtala Mohammed Airport-2, Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday.

Boladale Bamigbola Osogbo

afogido Ruling House of Ile-Ife yesterday said it approached the court over move to narrow the contest for Ooni stool to only Giesi Ruling House because it was alien to the town. Sookoo Adeleke Adewoyin, head of Sooko of Lafogido Ruling House, told newsmen yesterday that the criteria the state government and the kingmakers want to use to select new monarch for the town has never been used before. The former Osun deputy governor further described the 1980 declara-

We approached court due to 1980 ‘fraudulent’ declaration —Lafogido • You intend to ridicule stool, says group tion as “fraudulent and completely outside Ife customs and tradition” and demanded its immediate review. Adewoyin said the call for review became imperative because the Lafogido ruling house has since been marginalised in all the chieftaincy reviews that had taken place in IleIfe. According to him, “all the new Ife chieftaincy declarations are alien to the ruling houses, stress-

ing that there are only two ruling houses in Ile-Ife, and adding that Lafogido is one of the major ruling houses in Ile-Ife. “The edict being used was done in a manner we don’t understand. The declaration used cannot hold water in Ife and Ife people are completely against it.” Meanwhile, a group called The Cradle Youths has asked the Lafogido and Ogboru Ruling Houses to retract their steps of

going to court. The group, in a statement by its coordinator, Kunle Elusayo, expressed disappointment with the court’s injunction. According the group, the 1980 declaration is clear enough, would promote peace and the prestige of the Ooni stool. The Ile-Ife based group also lamented that the two families, who headed to court were not laying good examples for the coming generations.

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Friday, September 18, 2015

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Court remands Diamond Bank staff over N111m fraud WALE IGNINTADE

Joint protest of SSANU,NASU and Nigerian Labour Congress on non-payment of University of Lagos Staff allowances since 2004 in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

Court jails pastor, other over fraud ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

n Ado-Ekiti magistrate’s court has sentenced one Pastor Anjorin Adaniki and one Mallam Maliu Aliu to one year imprisonment each for fraud. Police prosecutor, Sgt. Oriyomi Akinwale, told the court that the accused fraudulently hiked the price of 1,800 bags of fertilizer meant for distribu-

tion to farmers in Emure Council area of the state instead of the subsided rate of N2,750 per bag. The prosecutor said the accused persons had between May and June 2013 at Emure-Ekiti sold the fertilizer to the farmers at N3,500 per bag instead of the stipulated N2,750. Oriyomi said the fertilizers were in three loads of trailers and were given by government to ease the plight of farmers in the

council area as well as help in their farming system, but the accused persons fraudulently jerked up the price in their own interest. The police prosecutor said the offence contravenes Section 1(3) of the Advanced Fee Fraud and other Related Offence Act LFN 2006. Counsel to the accused, Mr. Ademola Okeya, urged the court to be lenient in the dispensation

of judgment in the matter. In his judgment, the Magistrate, Bayode Owoeye, said the action of the pastor and the Mallam in converting fertilizers meant for farmers to their own advantage against the order of the government was callous. He thereafter sentenced them to one year in imprisonment each without an option of fine.

Ambode assures Lagosians of global health standard FRANCIS SUBERU

agos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday promised to continuously upgrade health facilities in the state in order to bring about adequate healthcare delivery and globally acceptable health standard in the metropolis. Governor Ambode, who said this while commissioning the renovated Agbala Paediatric Centre in Ikorodu, as well as the newly-constructed Accident and Emergency Ward, at the Ikorodu General Hospital, Ikorodu, said the state government was ready to drive rapid improvement in its health sector. Speaking at the function, Governor Ambode, represented by his deputy, Dr. Idiat Adebule, praised financier of the projects, Heineken African Foundation of the

Nigerian Breweries Plc, for its contribution, saying the two projects undertaken by the company were in line with his administration’s desire to provide accessible and qualitative healthcare for Lagosians. He noted that having commissioned similar health improving projects in recent time, the paediatric centre would not only complement the existing Mother and Child Centre at the hospital, but also provide additional facilities for the treatment of children. He added that the emergency and accident centre would serve the fast growing population in Ikorodu, which he attributed to government’s continuous improvement of infrastructural facilities in that part of the state. He thanked the company and implored other corporate organisations in Lagos to take a cue and support the government

in its quest to better the lives of the people by embarking on philanthropic projects that could help in the growth and development of Lagos and its residents. Speaking on the idea behind the project, the managing director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Nicholas Vervelde, represented by the company’s director of Human Re-

sources, Victor Famoyinbo, stated that Heineken African Foundation, which is being coordinated by Nigerian Breweries in Nigeria, identified healthy living as the core agenda of its operation and has over the years assisted various health institutions and non-governmental organisations in health-related interventions.

Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday remanded an employee of Diamond Bank, Obioha Okengwu, at the Ikoyi prison for allegedly defrauding the bank to the tune of N111.2m. Justice Mohammed Mohammed Yunusa remanded the accused shortly after he pleaded not guilty to the offence. The accused, whose address was not given, is standing trial on a nineparagraph affidavit bordering on conspiracy and fraud. The prosecutor, Mr. Effiong Asuquo, told the court that the accused committed the alleged offence between April and August 2014, in Lagos. He said the accused conspired with members of his family to swindle the bank. Asuquo alleged that the accused committed the offence while working in the E-business unit of

UNILAG workers protest unpaid allowances TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

embers of Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, SSANU, and their nonacademic counterparts of the University of Lagos, UNILAG, Akoka, yesterday blocked main gate to the institution, disrupting free vehicular movement in and out of the university for about three hours. The action, which pre-

Lawyer sues Ondo govt over residency card OJO OYEWAMIDE AKURE

human rights lawyer, Morakinyo Ogele, has taken the Ondo State government to court, challenging the mandatory collection of residency cards called ‘Kaadi Igbe Ayo.’ An Akure high court has fixed hearing in the case for September 22. It is mandatory for all residents of the state to

have the residency card before accessing any government facilities. The suit numbered AK/44M/2015 has the state government, Governor Olusegun Mimiko and State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice as defendants. The lawyer argued that the demand for residency card from residents before having access to government utilities is unconstitutional, null and void. The suit reads: “A declara-

Diamond Bank Plc as a staff handling daily settlement entries of transactions done on Point of Sales, POS, and ATM. He said the accused unlawfully credited huge sums of money into his family members’ account instead of the accounts of the bank. The prosecutor alleged that the different accounts in which the accused credited the moneys were as follows: N37m and N41.4m lodged in two different accounts owned by one Uchenna Okengwu. He said the accused also unlawfully credited N10m into the account of one Rosamund Okengwu with account No. 004683082. Other accounts that benefitted from the fraud include account No. 0007415291, belonging to one Bekky Okengwu, which was credited with N13. 3m, and account No. 0046643855, owned by Chukwuemeka Okengwu, which was credited with N9.5m.

tion that the demand for Residency Card (Kadi Igbeayo) by the respondents from all residents in Ondo State before having access to government utilities, infrastructures and amenities to Wit: primary schools, secondary schools, state polytechnic, state universities, hospitals and maternities is unconstitutional, null and void, crude, unprogressive and retrogressive and contrary to Section 18 (1) 42 (1) of 1999 Constitution as amended.

vented visiting motorists from gaining entry for the period, did not in any way affect academic activities. The two unions, however, protested the inability of management to pay them earned allowances up to 13 months, among other issues. Chairman of SSANU, Mr. Adetomiwa Adekola, while addressing members at the gate asked the authority to pay them their allowances up to date as well as refund what he termed illegal deductions of contributory pension from their salaries since July 2004 and immediate stoppage of further deduction of such contribution. He claimed that the contribution had already been deducted from their salaries from source by the Federal Government before releasing subversion for personnel cost to the university. He noted that the protest was like sending a signal to the authority and government to meet their demands without further delay.

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Benin City, Surulere host Glo wave-making shows this weekend

igeria’s culture-rich city of Benin and upbeat Surulere district in Nigeria’s commercial hub, Lagos, will this weekend play host to the Glo Slide ‘n’ Bounce musical concert and the Glo Laffta Fest comedy show respectively. The Slide ‘n’ Bounce concert takes place at the Best Western Hotel, Benin City on Saturday September 19, while Laftta Fest on its part will berth at the Eagle Club, Surulere, on Sunday September 20, 2015. Award-winning artistes including Dapo Oyebanjo, popularly called D’banj, the Ojuelegba crooner, Wizkid, Mavin records protégé, Korede Bello, and Burna Boy will entertain at the Slide ‘n’Bounce concert in Benin. The evening will be spiced up with a guest appearance by Nollywood actor, OC Ukeje, while comedian Okey Bakassi will anchor the concert. While Laffta Fest in Surulere will host some of the best Nigerian comedians such as Basket Mouth, Julius Agwu, Gordons, Dan D Humourous, 2Can Talk and MC Casino and one of

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Friday, September 18, 2015

Uganda’s best – Salvador, popular musicians, Wande Coal and Korede Bello will be on the band stand. The two shows have been running side by side and back to back for the past three weeks. Laffta Fest was launched by Globacom to bring fun and entertainment to millions of subscribers on its network across the country. This is the fourth season and it debuted on August 30, 2015. Slide ‘n’ Bounce began on August 29 and both shows have pulled over 30,000 Glo subscribers cumulatively, across six locations, namely, Ibadan, Port Harcourt, Victoria Island, Benin, Ikorodu and Abeokuta. A statement from Globacom said both shows would soon tour other cities around the country, including Abuja, Ijebu Ode, Egbeda and Ikeja. According to the network, Glo subscribers who wish to attend the Laffta Fest show should use up to 3,000 before the event and send ‘LOL SURLERE’ to 33001.

Revival of Ekiti airport project excites Babalola Abiodun Nejo, Ado Ekiti

ounder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, ABUAD, Aare Afe Babalola, has expressed delight at the revival of the Ekiti Airport project by the present administration in the state. Babalola who spoke in Ado Ekiti at a meeting between the state governor and stakeholders

involved in the project, said he mooted the idea of the airport in 2009 as he thanked the governor for revisiting the issue. The present administration in the state has, following the meeting, set up a five-man committee chaired by Works Commissioner, Mr. Kayode Osho, to ensure the take off of the Ado-Ekiti Airport project within the next few weeks. The committee is ex-

pected to begin its assignment with the marking out of 2,000 hectares out of the 6,000 hectares of land set apart for the project. The governor, while speaking during the meeting, said the state government might start with the construction of a standard air strip which could be improved upon in the future. He said with the prevailing financial con-

straint being experienced by the state, it would be foolhardy to embark on any grandiose project. The governor said a fund-raising dinner for the project would be held later in Lagos. Other aviation experts at the meeting also supported the idea that the state could start with an air strip and that many states of the federation also did that before expanding their facilities.

Medical workers issue 10-day strike notice Boladale Bamigbola, Osogbo

embers of the Osun State Association of Medical and Dental Officers, OSAMDO, yesterday gave government 10 days ultimatum to pay all arrears of salaries and cooperative deductions owed them or they would embark on an indefinite strike. The association also dissociated itself from the memorandum of understanding, MoU, leaders of the organised labour signed with government, detailing how workers’ outstanding salaries and allowances would be paid. Addressing newsmen in Osogbo, the state chairman of the association, Dr. Isiaka Adekunle, who was flanked by other executive members, said OSAMDO was not part of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC’s negotiations with government and as such, the dictates of the MoU would not be binding on it. He also demanded that machinery be set in motion for immediate implementation of the revised CONMESS circular for medical and dental officers in the state.

Listing other demands of the association, Adekunle added: “The state government must clear the arrears of hospital running cost and restore the provision for same as it is not possible to run a hospital without running cost. “Our association should be carried along in all subsequently negotiations of salaries and emoluments affecting our members as we are not members of the NLC.” He further posited that members of the association did not embark on strike before now because of the hardship patients are usually subjected to whenever hospitals are shut. Adekunle however warned that the poor working condition and non-payment of salaries to doctors is making them mentally unstable, stressing that an unstable mind treating patients can be dangerous. The association subsequently called for intervention of all concerned indigenes, urging them to be awake to their responsibility of checking government whenever it is embarking on policies and programmes inimical to the welfare of the citizens.

L-R: Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode; Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Godwin Emefiele and Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, during the NEC meeting at State House, Abuja, yesterday.

AIG seeks stronger ties among police, sister agencies, communities Abiodun Nejo, Ado Ekiti

ssistant Inspector General of Police, AIGP, Zone 8, Lawal Tanko, has advocated stronger ties among policemen and the communities as well sister agencies in the interest of efficient and effective policing. Tanko urged men and officers of the police to partner with members of the public to ensure their cooperation and assistance in the security agency’s fight against crime in society. The AIGP who spoke in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti

State capital, yesterday during an inspection tour of state commands in the zone (police commands in Ekiti, Kogi and Kwara states), said the Nigeria Police had keyed into President Muhammadu Buhari’s anti-corruption stance and would not spare any officer who engages in corrupt practices. He assured men and officers in the state command that the Inspector General Police, IGP, Mr. Solomon Arase, was paying priority attention to their welfare to ensure better living for them even beyond the service. According to him, apart from prompt

payment of salaries, constant promotions and encouragement for outstanding policemen, the Nigeria Police is setting up a Police Mortgage Bank, where men and officers could get money to build low cost housing units in all the 36 states of the federation. The AIGP said the scheme is targeted at making their officers live comfortable postretirement lives and avert ejection from the barracks due to lack of shelters. Tanko who said the houses would be cheap and repayment plan easy, said the mortgage bank would “either

build houses for policemen to buy or provide money for our men to build houses.” He said policemen who display professionalism and effectiveness would be compensated through promotion, as part of strategies to instill patriotism in the minds of the men and officers of the force. Speaking earlier, the state’s Police Commissioner, Mr. James Etop, said all the road blocks in the state had been dismantled in compliance with the IGP’s directive, adding that the command has increased highway patrol to rid the roads of criminal elements.

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Customs impounds fake drugs, other items worth N219m Chris Njoku Owerri

igeria Customs Service, NCS, has continued to beam its search light on the activities of die- hard smugglers and their collaborators as it has impounded fake drugs and other contraband goods with Duty Paid Value, DPV, of over N219 million. The seizure was made by the Federal Operations Unit, FOU, Zone ‘C’, Owerri. Briefing newsmen at the customs warehouses at both Owerri and Benin, Customs Area Controller of the unit, Comptroller Dimka Victor David, listed the items to include 1,920 cartons of banned mosquito coils with a duty paid value of N38,400,000. He said that the driver with his vehicle had been arrested and would be prosecuted after necessary investigation. According to him, 4,480 cartons of foreign Eva soap known in local parlance as “complexion care soap” with a DPV of N23,655,720 was also seized on the Aba/Eleme axis even as he frowned at the type of chemicals used in manufacturing the soap. The Customs Area Controller who condemned the use of soap manufactured without NAFDAC official registration numbers, disclosed that these products usually find their way into the country with Chinese

language written on the leaflets, and warned that any consumable item manufactured within or outside the country must not only bear English inscriptions, but also the country of origin, manufacturing and expiration dates. Other items impounded by the unit according to Dimka, include 596 pieces of used tyres on the Owerri Port-Harcourt axis with a DPV of N3,439,729, a truck load of 714 various brands of fake drugs on the Benin express way without NAFDAC registration numbers, manufacturing and expiring dates, as well as brand new six Toyota Hilux with DPV of N57,769,470 impounded on the Asaba/Benin expressway. He stressed the need for Nigerians to always comply with government regulations especially on those activities like smuggling capable of sabotaging the nation’s economy. While urging Nigerians to join hands with the NCS in the war against smuggling in line with persistent calls by the establishment, NAFDAC, and the Standard Organization of Nigeria, SON, Dimka handed over the seized items on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs Colonel Hameed Ibrahim Ali (Rtd) to officials of the NAFDAC, Mrs. Esther Itua, who represented of the Director General of NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii.

FG lauds FEC Enugu, U.S. varsity collaboration on e-learning

ederal Ministry of Education has commended the collaboration on e-learning between the Federal College of Education, Enugu and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) University in Baton Rouge, U.S.A. Mrs Hindatu Abdullahi, the ministry’s Acting Permanent Secretary, made the commendation on Wednesday during the launching of the e-learning centre by Professor Victor Mbarika, President, Board of Trustees, ICT University. She described the partnership as `a veritable platform’ for improving the capacity of the staff and students of the college in research. The permanent secretary pledged that the ministry would continue to provide the necessary support to ensure effective implementation and sustenance of e-learning for the

benefit of Nigerians. Abdullahi applauded Professor Ben Mba, the provost of the college, and his management for their commitment to ensuring quality education via elearning and urged other tertiary institutions in the country to key into e-learning. In his remarks, Professor Victor Mbarika, the President, ICT University, said the university took up the challenge of ICT revolution in Africa and urged other institutions to join the e-learning programme. He said that the launching of the e-learning centre would enable staff and students of the college access about 300, 000 textbooks on-line. Mbah said the objective of the collaboration was to enhance the use of e-learning to improve teaching and learning and the quality of education.

L-R: Vice Chancellor, Ebonyi State University, Prof. Festus Idike; Ebonyi Commissioner for Education, Prof. Uchenna Ekeh; representative of Director-General of NEMA, Alhaji Alhassan Nuhu; representative of Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, Mr Peter Ekweozor, and Dr Halidu Ahmadu, during the commissioning of Nigerian Network and Seismological Station, at Abakaliki, Ebonyi, yesterday.

Abia governorship: Again, Appeal Court dismisses Ikpeazu’s appeal …parties praise judgment Chris Njoku Owerri

ourt of Appeal sitting in Owerri, Imo State capital, yesterday struck out an appeal filed by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State against the ruling of Abia State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Umuahia. The Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal had earlier struck out the governor’s application, stating that all preliminary objections should be taken along with the substantive petition. But the governor and his Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, approached

the appellate court to challenge the decision of the tribunal, asking the court to set aside the decision of the tribunal to hear Alex Otti’s petition because it was not properly filed. However, in a unanimous ruling delivered by Justice H.A, Baka and Justice J.S. Abiriu, the Appeal Court overruled Ikpeazu, saying the governorship election petition tribunal reserved the right to keep all the motions till the final date. The court stated that the decision of the tribunal was in line with Section 12 (5) ,which states that the tribunal has discretion to keep all the motions till the final date. The appellate court also dismissed PDP’s

prayer asking the court to dismiss Otti’s petition as it was not properly signed to be accepted as a petition before the tribunal, as well as to reject the pre-trial form as the party claimed was not issued by Otti and his party, APGA. It would be recalled that the same court of appeal had on August 3, 2015, thrown out Ikpeazu’s appeal against the ruling of the tribunal that his motion be taken along with the judgment. Otti also filed an appeal urging the appellate court to set aside the ruling of the tribunal against his application for extension of time to tender more evidence and call more witnesses to close his case formally.

Speaking with journalists after the ruling, Counsel to APGA and Otti, Nwala Chukwudi Oracle, hailed the judgment, adding that the ruling had only advanced the course of justice, “otherwise, justice would be delayed by so much obstacles.” He expressed sadness that most times, the respondents always come up with applications, preliminary objections and motions just to derail the tribunal. I am absolutely confident that my client will take the position which he properly and clearly won. Also speaking, counsel to the PDP, Charles Esonu, accepted the ruling as one that had enhanced the course of law.

is also the Deputy Secretary-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, was reportedly freed after the kidnappers received a ransom of N2million. Sources said relatives of the Chief Imam reached an agreement with his kidnappers, not to involve security operatives in his rescue. The abductors dropped Idoko off at Amala, Udenu LGA of Enugu State, after informing his family that he would be dropped off at Okpo.

The spokesman of the Enugu State Police Command, DSP, Ebere Amaraizu, who confirmed his release in a statement, disclosed that the Chief Imam is currently receiving medical attention in a nearby hospital. Amaraizu said: “The victim was abandoned by his abductors in the early hours of yesterday at Amaja community, by Orokam towards the Enugu /Benue boundary due to intense pressure and trail on the hoodlums by operatives, which left

them unsettled and they had to abandon their victim.” He added that police operatives of the antikidnap unit of the Enugu State Command have been on the trail of the kidnappers to ensure that the victim regained his freedom. “The onslaught against the hoodlums was intensified following the arrest of one of their associates, who guided the operatives with useful information. Meanwhile manhunt on the hoodlums by the operatives is ongoing,” he further stated.

‘Kidnappers collect N2m ransom to free UNN chief imam’ Emmanuel Ezeh Enugu

hief Imam of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, Sheik Adam Idoko, who was abducted last Thursday has been released. It could be recalled that he was kidnapped by gunmen in his village, Ogrute Enugu-Ezike, in Igbo-Eze North Council Area of Enugu State, where he had gone for a meeting. Thereafter, his abductors demanded a ransom of N20m. However, Idoko, who

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Friday, September 18, 2015

Gunmen kill four cops in Delta Amour Udemude Asaba

elta State Police Command was yesterday thrown into mourning following the killing of four policemen by yet-to-be identified gunmen at Ugbolu community in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State. The tragic incident, which sources said occurred at the early hours of yesterday, forced people to run for their lives. The four policemen, it was learnt, were attached to a patrol team in the community when the hoodlums opened fire on

Arase, Police boss

them on the lonely road, killing the victims before escaping into a nearby bush. It was gathered that the remains of the four policemen have since been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre, FMC, mortuary. When contacted, state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Celestina Kalu, denied that four policemen were killed, but admitted that one police officer, who was driver of the patrol van, was killed by the attackers. It would be recalled that the police had recently foiled an attempt by suspected armed robbers to hijack a bullion van at Ubulu-Okiti along the Benin-Asaba-Onitsha highway, while only last weekend, the police also killed three suspected kidnappers during an exchange of gunfire at Okuokoko, Okpe Local Government Area of the state following alleged kidnapping of one Mrs Paaga Blessing Emabari.

C’ River FRSC arrests 606 traffic offenders in 3 months Richard Ndoma Calabar

ederal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, yesterday said it arrested 606 motorists for various traffic offences in Cross River State between July and September this year. Sector Commander in Cross River State, Mr Ikechukwu Igwe, revealed this while fielding questions from journalists in his office in Calabar. Igwe stated that most motorists indicted by Road Safety officials were arrested for not using their seatbelt while driving. “I wish to disclose to you that in July we arrested 251 traffic offenders, in August we arrested 235 and as at today we have arrested 120 traffic offenders. “This brings to 606 traffic offenders we arrested from July till date. “We have started night patrol and we are doing everything possible to ensure the roads are safe for motorists,” he said. The sector commander added that offenders were

charged to pay fines as stipulated by the law. “We are trying to hold mobile court frequently so that if we charge you and you are not comfortable, you have the right to challenge us in the mobile court,” Igwe said . The Road Safety boss warned road users that anyone caught violating traffic rules would not be spared, adding that the FRSC was committed to ensuring safety on the highways. On the rate of accident at Calabar-Odukpani highway, the sector commander attributed the cause to impatience by drivers. “Most crashes occur due to impatience of drivers. They are always in a hurry and because of that some of them do not even obey traffic rules. “Some drivers overtake without horning and looking ahead if any vehicle was coming on their way. Some also lack the mental alertness,” he added. Okechukwu urged motorists to always obey traffic rules, adding that road crashes can be prevented if simple traffic rules were obeyed.

L-R: Bayelsa State Deputy, Governor John Jonah; Governor Seriake Dickson and state acting PDP Chairman, Chief Serena Dokubo-Spiff, during a meeting with party members at the PDP secretariat, Ovom, Yenagoa, yesterday.

Rivers tribunal: INEC denies ballot box snatching Obiora Ifoh Abuja

ndependent National Electoral Commission, INEC, yesterday told the Rivers State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Abuja that contrary to evidence of witnesses that were produced by the All Progressives Congress, APC, and its gubernatorial candidate in the state, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, there was no incidence of ballot-snatching or multiple thump-printing of ballot papers at Obiakpo. The witness, Mr. Ebikoru Tebekaemi, who told the tribunal that he was the electoral officer that superintended the governorship poll at Obiakpo Local Gov-

ernment Area in Rivers State, insisted that election was duly conducted in 15 of 17 wards in the local government area, saying “My lords, it was only at ward 12 and 13, which is Rumuigbo and Rumokuta that election did not take place.” While responding to questions by the petitioner’s counsel, Chief Akinolu Olujimi, SAN, if he was aware that there was widespread rigging and hijacking of electoral materials by armed thugs, the witness said he was not aware that such incident occurred. He insisted that election was duly conducted in 15 of 17 wards in the local government area, saying “My lords, it was only at ward 12 and 13, which is Rumuigbo and Rumokuta that election

did not take place”. Under cross-examination by counsel to the petitioners, the witness said he was not also aware that people were seen at a football pitch thumb-printing ballot papers in favour of Governor Nyesom Wike of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. He also told the tribunal that from his record, a total of 304,745 voters were accredited at the local government area, but added that only 40,481 were accredited with the Card Reader machines. On whether the electoral materials marred the governorship poll, the witness said he could only give evidence with regard to Obiakpo LGA, which was under his control. “But I can confirm that

sufficient electoral materials were distributed across Obiakpo and other parts of Rivers State during the governorship election,” the witness added. Among the exhibits that were tendered before the tribunal by the witness included a copy of the election result sheets from Obiakpor LGA. Meanwhile, the Justice Suleiman Ambrusa-led tribunal has adjourned till Friday to enable INEC to produce more witnesses. It will be recalled that the petitioners closed their case on Wednesday after they called a total of 58 witnesses that testified that the election was marred by violence and widespread irregularities.

Mixed feelings trail shift of Bayelsa APC guber primaries Osahon Julius Yenagoa

here was palpable disquiet yesterday at the state headquarters of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, as reactions continue to trail postponement of the party’s governorship primaries earlier scheduled for September 19. The postponement, which was announced in Abuja by Deputy Publicity Secretary of the Party, Timi Frank, was attributed to logistics and based

on the request of Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who is leader of the party’s delegation to supervise the primaries. A visit to the party’s secretariat saw members discussing possible effects of the postponement and how it would affect outcome of the primaries. While some claimed the postponement might be due to alleged plot by some party leaders to manipulate the outcome, others, however, said the few days allowed by the postponement would create healthy room for negotiations.

One of the governorship aspirants and former federal Permanent Secretary, Dr. Inuro Kubo, expressed concern over alleged poaching of delegates by some aspirants and called on the delegates to vote the right candidate during the coming primaries. Former governor of Bayelsa State and governorship aspirant on the platform of APC, Chief Timipre Sylva, also called on his supporters to remain steadfast and focused on the goal of winning the December 5 governorship

election in the state. Sylva in a statement issued by his media adviser, Mr. Doifie Buokoribo, stated, “I appeal to all our supporters, delegates, and the entire APC family in Bayelsa State to stay focused, positive, and determined as we wait for the new date, September 22, fixed by the national headquarters of our great party for the primary election in the state.” Sylva, who is also leader of APC in Bayelsa State, equally appealed for calm and understanding among APC members in state.

North East

Friday, September 18, 2015

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Two kidnappers meet waterloo in Kogi Wale Ibrahim, Lokoja

wo suspected kidnappers met their waterloo yesterday when a vigilante group at Imere village in Igalamela Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State rescued their victim, lynched one of them and arrested the other and handed him over to Kogi State Police Command. Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Emmanuel Ojukwu, who disclosed this yesterday while parading the suspected kidnapper, Ibrahim Yakubu, and his late accomplice, Wada Mustapha, at the command

headquarters in Lokoja, the state capital. He said the duo had robbed a household, whisked away their victim in her vehicle and later demanded N50 million ransom to free her. The suspects were said to have gained entrance into the victim’s home through the ceiling, demanded the whereabouts of her husband, a council treasurer, and failure to produce him resulted in brutalisation of the victim and her children. Ojukwu explained that the suspects met their waterloo shortly after 6:30pm when the victim’s vehicle, a Honda of Discussion Continues, developed a fault and they had to abandon it.

Kadunung attacks: Situation calm, people return home –STF

pecial Task Force, STF, maintaining peace in Plateau State has confirmed the restoration of law and order at Kadunung, Mangu Local Government Area, which was attacked by gunmen on Wednesday. “The situation is very calm now; there is no further apprehension and we are helping those returning to their abodes to settle

down,’’ STF spokesman, Capt. Ikedichi Iweha, said in Jos yesterday. Iweha declined comments on casualties from the midnight attacks and also declined any comments on claims by Mangu Local Government Chairman, Titus Bisem, that 17 people were killed. “We did not go there to count dead bodies. That is not part of our mandate.

The kidnappers quickly hijacked a motorcycle, which later gave them away as the local vigilante group at Imere village accosted them on suspicion that they were not the owner of the

agreement, plea deal, copping a plea, or plea in mitigation) is any agreement in a criminal case between the prosecutor and defendant whereby the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a particular charge in return for some concession from the prosecutor. “We are using this opportunity to let the government know that the Nigerian people will no longer accept plea bargain because it is another form of corruption. “The few greedy and corrupt Nigerians will no doubt take advantage of it, considering the fact that they would be made to bring back a very small fraction of their loot in the pro-

Ocheje, stated that the kidnappers came in army uniform and collected four phones. Said she: “After beating us with cutlasses and other weapons they came with,

they asked for the key of my car and demanded if it had security, I demobilised the security thinking they would go with it, but they shoved me inside, blindfolded me and took off.

L-R: Wives of Kebbi, Lagos and Niger states’ governors: Hajia Zainab Bagudu, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode, Hajia Aminat Abubakar Sanni Bello and Chairman, Organising Committee, National Women Conference, Mrs. Rhoda Ayinde, at the opening ceremony of the annual National Women Conference organized by COWLSO in Lagos, on Wednesday.

“Our mandate is to repel attacks and restore law and order. “One thing I am sure of is that we intervened quickly and prevented the situation from getting bad. “The village people saw the attackers coming and ran away before even alerting us. “The only thing I can tell you now is that the situation is calm and normalcy has returned,’’ he said.

Corruption: NGO urges FG to discourage plea bargain

lobal Action Against Corruption and Bad Leadership Initiative, GAACBLI, an NGO, yesterday urged the Federal Government to discourage plea bargaining in corruption cases. Prof. Matthew Atoba, a research consultant, made the call in Abuja during the organisation’s road show to the Presidential Villa and the National Assembly in support of President Muhammadu Burhari’s anti-corruption programme. He said the act of plea bargain is not in the interest of the country, adding that it is corruption in another form. News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that a plea bargain (also plea

motorcycle on which they rode with their victim tucked in the middle. Narrating her ordeal, the victim said she and her children were mercilessly beaten by the suspects. The victim, Mrs. Mary

cess,” Atoba said. He said the road show tagged, `Bring Back Our Money’ was aimed at mobilising Nigerians to support the Federal Government’s anti-corruption drive. His Words: “This road show is to let Nigerians know that the President is not alone in the fight against corruption and that corruption can destroy the country if we fail to support him. “We are tasking the National Assembly to come up with laws that will expose these few greedy Nigerians who have stolen money that belong to the Nigerian people.” Atoba blamed the high rate of corruption in the country on faulty policies.

Civil servants demand uniform salary structure

ssociation of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, ASCSN, yesterday urged the Federal Government to unify the salaries of civil servants. The association also called for enhanced condition of service for the nation’s civil servants. Speaking at a workshop organised by the association in Abuja, Mr. Hassan Abba, chairman, Federal Ministry of Health branch of ASCSN, argued that it would get rid of corruption in the service. The workshop was titled “Enlightenment workshop

on corruption in civil service.” He said the association was ready to take the campaign to the grassroots, declaring that ``we are in support of President Muhammadu Buhari’s war against corruption.’’ According to him, the civil service is one aspect of government institution that corruption has eaten deep into especially in the health sector. “Government policies are geared towards fostering good governance; this cannot be achieved if cer-

Kaduna tightens security around closed churches

Aza Msue, Kaduna

aduna State government yesterday beefed up security around the two Assemblies of God Churches closed down in Saminaka, Lere Local Government Area, over leadership crisis. The move was to protect members of the church. Speaking with journalists in Kaduna, Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the governor, Samuel Aruwan, appealed to leadership of the church to reconcile themselves for peace to rain among its members.

Aruwan further explained that the tightening of security in the area and other parts of the state was for safety and to avert break down of law and order. He, however, asked citizens to be law-abiding and cooperate with security agencies and government. It would be recalled that Kaduna State Security Council on Wednesday announced the immediate closure of the two churches, a seminary school as well as a hospital as government’s previous efforts at resolving the crisis were aborted by those involved in the leadership tussle.

tain required structures are not put in place for the movers of policies to be comfortable and shun corruption. “Today, the average civil servant is vulnerable to all sorts of things for him to make ends meet: no good shelter, no uniformity in the emolument and no effective motivation. “These, among others, force most of us into corruption with the prevailing life situation,’’ he said. Abba said civil servants must join hands in the fight against corruption, commending the leadership of the union for securing the approval of the President for payment of all outstanding workers’ claims. In a paper titled, ``Corruption in the Civil Service Fostering Integrity and Good Governance,|” Mr. Akeem Lawal, Head, Corruption Monitoring and Evaluation at Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, ICPC, said civil servants and public officials were expected to maintain and strengthen public’s trust and confidence in government. “Civil servants must demonstrate the highest standard of professional competence, efficiency and effectiveness by upholding the Constitution and laws seeking to advance public good at all times,” he charged.

Friday, September 18, 2015

Paris to Abuja: We are happy with the visit 14

Wole Adedeji ILORIN

enate President, Senator Bukola Saraki may have lost out in his expected role as the political leader of Kwara State in picking the nominees for the state’s ministerial slots in President Mohammadu Buhari’s cabinet. There were indications yesterday that President Buhari had penciled the National Publicity Secretary of All Progressives Congress, APC; Alhaji Lai

Senator Saraki, since 2003 when he became the governor of the state and later, a senator had been the sole nominator of political appointees from the state at both national and state levels As a key figure in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, he singlehandedly nominated all those that became ministers, the incumbent governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, commissioners, local government chairmen, councilors, federal and state chairmen, board members and para-

statals in the state. However, on Thursday news went round that former Sports Minister, Bolaji Abdullahi and former Acting National Chairman of PDP, Kawu Baraje who had earlier been nominated by the Senate President would not make the President’s list. Senator Saraki is reportedly not to be in good terms with the President following the manner he emerged Senate President which was against the directive of the APC hierarchy.

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, being decorated by the National President, Ilorin Emirate Descendant Progressive Union, IEDPU, Alhaji Abdulhamid Adi, after a courtesy visit by the group to the Senate President at the National Assembly, yesterday.

Masari, Mantu, Youth Council back Buhari’s anti–corruption war Obiora Ifoh ABUJA

he National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN has thrown its weight behind President Muhammadu Buhari’s fight against corruption and governance reforms . NYCN, led by its president, Barr Ikenga Imo- Ugochinyere, former Deputy Senate President, Ibrahim Mantu, deputy governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Mannir Yakubu, signed the anti-corruption register symbolically to kick start a rally in Abuja at the Unity Fountain. In his speech, Katsi-

na State governor, Hon. Aminu Bello Masari stated that the youths are the greatest beneficiaries of a corruption-free Nigeria adding that, it’s a plus that the youths have understood this which led to their support for the war against corruption. Masari who was represented by his deputy, Mannir Yakubu also reiterated the commitment of his state to uprooting corruption and accordingly instituted enquiries into past government activities with a view to bringing to book all culprits that have looted government resources. He also added that the

initiative to root out cor ruption in the state will guarantee a better future for Nigerian youths in Katsina State. He said “ As you march I urge you to be peaceful, do not allow fifth columnist to infiltrate your ranks, stand firm with the president, he means well for the country, he is dedicating every second of his life now to recover our commonwealth from the looters who have halted our march to national development “. “The mess he met is so much and fixing it will require time and effort so he requires time and effort, so he requires your patience, understanding and support. We also urge you to shun

Politics

Again, Wada picks PDP ticket against all odds 15

Buhari’s ministers: Gambari may make list Mohammed and former Foreign Affairs Minister and Representative to the United Nations, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, both indigenes of Kwara State for appointments. Two others; former Finance Commissioner and a renowned chieftain of the rested Congress for Progressive Change, CPC and later of the APC, Alhaji Nurudeen Mohammed; as well as Alhaji Saliu Mohammed have equally been said to be picked for possible appointment by the resident.

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corruption and indiscipline in all your daily lives”. On his part Senator Mantu said the youths are the conscience of a nation adding that, he has no doubt in his mind that President Buhari will win the war against corruption just as he did in 1983 when he was the military head of state. He also appealed to the youths not to elect corrupt politicians who will use them to unleash terror and hijack ballot boxes during elections stating that” if you allow people in authority to destroy your opportunities, there will be no tomorrow for you.

LP Reps candidate accuses tribunal of compromise Amour Udemude ASABA

abour Party, LP, candidate for Ughelli/ Ughelli South/Udu Federal Constituency in Delta State during the 2015 general elections, Julius Akpovoka, has accused the National Assembly Elections Petition Tribunal sitting in Asaba of compromise. In a strong worded petition addressed to the President of the Court of Appeal, a copy of which was made available to our correspondent in Asaba yesterday, Akpovoka described the undue delay in judgment delivery as an attempt to manipulate justice in favour of his opponent at the tribunal. Akpovoka, is challenging the declaration of Solomon Ahwinawhin of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as winner of the March, 2015 National Assembly election by the Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, at the tribunal (Panel 1) sitting in Asaba. While raising an alarm that his petition at the tribunal would expire in less than 29 days, Akpovoka however

appealed to the Court of Appeal President to prevail on the Tribunal Chairman, Justice L. M. Boufini to expedite action on the petition and deliver justice on the merit of his petition or set up another panel to hear the matter and deliver judgment in two weeks. According to the petitioner, the matter was adjourned “sine die” insisted that the issue of paragraph 4 (3) (b) of the 1st schedule of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended was complied with and wonder why the tribunal was wasting time in delivering judgment on the matter which according to him has fully been heard. He also wondered why the respondents would raise the issue of paragraph 4 (3) (b) of the 1st schedule of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended which he complied with after the matter has been concluded and awaiting judgment. “I plead that my issue be looked at in order for a directive to be given concerning my petition because the tribunal has reached a conclusion that it won’t act or take any step further in my petition.

APC berates PDP for distracting President

ll Progressives Congress, APC, yesterday berated the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, over what the ruling party called irrational hecklings and outlandish statements on the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. Accusing the PDP of plotting to pit the millions of Nigerians who voted for “Change” in the last general elections against the Federal Government by distracting the Buhari administration, the ruling party urged the rival party to bury its head in shame. According to the APC, the rival party was dissipating its energies on a

wasteful venture as Nigerians have not forgotten how the PDP plundered the wealth of nation between 1999 and May 29. “For a PDP that totally destroyed the Nigerian economy and stole 16 years of the nation’s providential oil boom to now mount a daily credo of rootless criticism of a regime that is working so hard to recover the country from PDP’s wasteful hang-over, shows that it is insulting the intelligence of Nigerians who roundly rejected it some months ago,” the party said in a statement by Lagos State spokesman, Joe Igbokwe. The party said that the CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

Politics

Friday, September 18, 2015

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Paris to Abuja: We are happy with the visit Garba Shehu

e here had a good meeting. Is your President happy? This was a very senior French cabinet official talking to a Nigerian diplomat, shortly after a one hour tête-à-tête between our visiting President Muhammadu Buhari and the host French President Francois Hollande. They felt the pulse of each other behind closed doors. From this meeting, the two leaders were joined by their officials at a lavish banquet. The French hardly do dinners for visiting heads of states. But the one visiting was not just your run of the mill foreign leader. The President of Nigeria came with his own pedigree. Besides being the largest economy on the continent, the United Nations Commission on Trade and Development, UNCTAD, classifies Nigeria as the most preferred investment destination in Africa. We are in addition, the country with the fourth highest returns on investment all over the world. Nigeria is important to France and the African continent and potentially a key partner to Paris given her human and economic potentials as well as major land and sea resources. Early evidence that this was not going to be one of those ordinary visits started showing at the Pavilion de Honour at Orly International Airport, the airport of arrival. About two dozen African ambassadors lined the red carpet to join our embassy officials in welcoming the Nigerian leader. President Buhari maintains a tradition, no matter how tight the schedule of meeting Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, or African Union, AU, ambassadors or both, never had I seen as much a show of African appreciation of our President in any of the countries President Buhari had visited since his inauguration. It was learnt that President Hollande had, before the arrival of the Nigerian delegation ordered for the highest level of reception for his West African guest. The reception that greeted the President at the National des Invalides, the official welcome for a visiting Head of State on arrival would have seemed improbable even a year ago, and I doubt if I would forget the spectacle for a very long time to come. The camaraderie between the two leaders at the Élysées Palace as they stepped forward before the television cameras showed tremendous personal chemistry, a factor that stood to be a great interest and assistance to the two countries as they chart a new path in the relationship between them. As many would expect, the issue of defence and security was most dominant among the ones put up for discussions. France is important in Nigeria’s strategic calculations not only in the defeat of the Boko Haram terrorists but in the establishment of permanent peace and harmony between us and our mostly French-speaking neighbours. Little wonder therefore that the President took with him “a team” of his security advisers made up of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Aliyu Ismaila, the National Security Adviser, General Munguno, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Air Vice Marshal Monday Morgan, the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Ayodele Oke and the Defence Adviser in the Nigerian mission in Paris. Arising from the meetings, the two countries identified Boko Haram terrorism as a shared threat and from this point, set out to agree on the most important issues that needed consideration. France expressed their full readiness to show interest in the security challenges facing Nigeria and in this regard, pledged their support for the regional intelligence fusion unit just set up in Ndjamena. They promised their continued support for the countries in the Lake Chad region with intelligence and training and, in the case of Nigeria asked President Buhari to say pointedly whatever is needed in military supplies and he will be given (subject, as the French said, to the limits their U.K. and American partners may wish to place). This activity will involve the maintenance; upgrade and

Buhari

As many would expect, the issue of defence and security was most dominant among the ones put up for discussions procurement of equipment to enable the Armed Forces of Nigeria achieve the deadline of December this year, given by the President to overcome the Boko Haram threat. It is equally important that France and Nigeria have resolved to widen their military cooperation, hitherto limited to the Navy and maritime sector to now cover the army and air force. Going forward, France is expected to assist Nigeria curb the theft of crude oil and other nefarious activities such as piracy and other sea crimes in the Gulf of Guinea region. Considering that the receding water level of the Lake Chad is itself considered a security threat to all the countries of the region, France equally agreed to join in the effort by Nigeria in collaboration with the member-countries of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, LCBC, in the regeneration of the lake. This, in the long run may entail the channelling of some Central African rivers to emptying their waters in the Lake Chad. In addition to seeking diplomatic and military rapport, President Buhari met hundreds of CEOs in an attempt to woo them to come and invest in Nigeria. In the course of this short but memorable visit, he met the leadership of the Mouvement des entreprises de France, MEDEF, the umbrella organization grouping 800,000 French manufacturing firms and businesses. As an outcome, they will undertake their first-ever business mission to Africa, with a visit to Nigeria between October 4 and 7. This trade mission, according to Pierre Gattaz, the elected president of MEDEF will be composed of prospective investors with such varied interests as agriculture, mining, automobile, energy, skills development, light manufac-

turing, food processing, military and civilian transportation services and “business to consumer” products among many others. President Muhammadu Buhari, leading a team of Nigerian officials made up of Ajiya Mamman, acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade and Investment and his counterparts in Finance, Anastasia Mabi Daniel-Nwaobia, Justice, Abdullahi Yola, Foreign Affairs, suave Ambassador Bulus Lolo and that of Agriculture, Arc Sunny Ochono as well Uju Aisha Hassan of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council, NIPC, and Olusegun Awolowo of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, NEPC, which had on Tuesday morning first met with a group of 25 leading French and European investors before a bigger meeting involving about 300 others under the auspices of the FranceNigeria Business Forum. At the series of meeting, the French business community expressed its willingness to key into the plan by the Buhari administration to diversify the Nigeria economy following its decision to move the country from over-dependence on oil. Many of the companies in business in Nigeria gave their commitment towards the widening and deepening of their investments and several new companies indicated their interest to come on the trade mission in October. President Buhari told the two meetings that there was more to Nigeria than oil, especially given the decline in its world price as well as the challenges of piracy and its theft in the Gulf of Guinea. The President enjoined the prospective investors to be in touch with the ministries and development agencies such as NIPC and NEPC. In a major speech echoing the call last year by the French President for the doubling of the existing $5 billion trade between the two countries, President Buhari said: “I believe we should take advantage of this call and I want to assure you of the firm determination of the Federal Government to achieve this target. After the peaceful, credible and successful election of 28 March 2015 which brought the new Nigerian Government to office, Nigeria is now at a new dawn to chart and reposition its destiny for greatness. “We are resolved and firmly determined to consolidate on industrialising Nigeria and diversifying its economy into sectors such as agro-processing, mining, manufacturing, petro-chemicals, food processing and textiles. “We recognise the private sector as the engine of growth and a veritable partner in our Change Economic Agenda, CEA, and in this context, will support foreign and domestic investments and entrepreneurs. The present administration is poised to redress the serious infrastructural gaps in the country, raise production and diversify the economy to create massive jobs, both in the short and medium terms, build capital and stimulate growth and prosperity of the country.” Considering the “dangerous situation “ in which 63 per cent of the country’s population of 170 million is made up, mostly of unemployed youths, President Buhari made a passionate case for investment in agriculture, mining and power to create jobs and for the nation to feed itself. At the meeting of the France-Nigeria Business Forum, two memoranda of understanding, MOUs, were signed, one on investment in agriculture and the other on renewable energy (solar power). Alhaji Sani Dangote, penned the signature on the agreement on agriculture, on behalf of Nigerians in that sector and Ogun State Governor Amosun, signed the MOU on solar energy generation. In the pro-activeness of his engagements which equally yielded strong French backing for his war against corruption and the recovery of the country’s stolen assets, President Buhari did not forget to host social engagements with African ambassadors and the members of the Nigerian community in France. There is no doubt that the Nigerian gathering at the residence of Ambassador Hakeem Suleiman, will reverberate for a long time among the Nigerian community in France. Garba Shehu, is Senior Special Assistant, SSA, to the President. (Media and Publicity)

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Politics

Friday, September 18, 2015

Again, Wada picks PDP ticket against all odds WALE IBRAHIM writes about the political calculations, manoeuvring and intrigues that played out prior and during the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, gubernatorial primaries in Kogi State and how Captain Idris Wada against all odds, emerged PDP’s standard bearer.

olitics is indeed war without bloodshed as propounded by the late Chinese leader, Chairman Mao Tse Tung. This was manifested in the just concluded Kogi State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship primary election which came up last Monday. It was a war between the centripetal and centrifugal forces as to who becomes the next governor of Kogi State on the platform of the PDP. God’s intervention and voice of reasoning seemed to have stopped history repeating itself, when a sitting governor was denied the opportunity to seek second term in office in Bayelsa State in 2011 by power that be then. Against the backdrop of all odds and political manoeuvring by some forces in PDP, the incumbent governor of Kogi State, Captain Idris Wada uprooted all the impending obstacles militating against his returning to Lugard House. Prior to Monday September 14, a lot of political intrigues, scheming, calculations and permutations came to play, as measures to discourage him not to contest the PDP primary election was heightened. The first sign was the cancellation of the earlier conducted ward congress where the governor was accused of overseeing improper primaries. A petition was said to have been forwarded to the National Working Committee, NWC, of PDP at national level. Another ward congress was slated for September 3 which was greeted with different protest as some aggrieved party members registered their protest at the party national headquarters in Abuja after they alleged that they were short-changed, at last, the crises were resolved. Besides, opposition mounted and rumours were making the round that some powerful PDP top notches at national level did not want Captain Wada to run for the governorship again for reasons best known to them. Also, when the PDP governorship primary election earlier scheduled for Thursday September 10, was rescheduled, the state capital and other parts of state were left with insinuations that it was a ploy to ask the governor to step down and allow his opponent to pick the PDP governorship ticket. It was also rumoured that those who had earlier endorsed the candidacy of Captain Wada as the sole candidate of PDP in Kogi State at the Elder’s Forum of the party have backed out and now pitched their tent with the preferred aspirant, Alhaji Isah Jibrin (Echocho). As if that was not enough, they went as far as dropping the name of the immedi-

Wada

Jibrin

ate past President Goodluck Jonathan as brain behind Captain Wada’s predicament as he does not want him to pick the PDP governorship ticket again What first appeared like rumour, finally surfaced when PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, announced the decision of the NWC to postpone the PDP governorship primary election earlier slated for Thursday, September 10 to Monday September 14. The state secretariat of PDP did not only become jittery but also confused as preparations were on top gear, as 95 per cent of the delegates had arrived the state capital for the primaries. National Mirror investigations revealed that most of PDP delegates who were already in Lokoja for the primary election became apprehensive and disillusioned over the turn of event. This, it was gathered brought a lot of tension among the supporters of the two political gladiators who hailed from same local government area of Kogi State. Apparently dissatisfied with the power play that was unfolding between Abuja and Lokoja, an emergency stakeholders meeting was held at Government House involving some delegates, who at the place resolved to work assiduously for emergency of the incumbent governor, Captain Wada, as PDP standard bearer in the November 21governorship election. The stakeholders also averred that no amount of manipulations from national hierarchy of PDP can change the existing structure of the party in the state. However, observers of political events in Confluence state argued that it would not augur well for the party should it stop second term aspiration of Captain Wada, saying it would have adverse effect on the party. Although, the opposition was not relenting in its bid to stop Wada as propaganda, allegations, counter allegations and press war increased, but despite all that, Wada’s camp was resolute in its determination to ensure victory. The arrival of the chairman Kogi State PDP governorship primary election committee and the Enugu State governor, Chief Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi somehow doused the tension. The atmosphere however became tensed at the venue of the primary election at the Lokoja Confluence Stadium, security was beefed with all delegates as well as observers thorough scrutinise before allowed entrance into the venue.

While addressing the aspirants and delegates, Governor Ugwuanyi said his committee was mandated to conduct free, fair and credible primary election, urging every stakeholder to cooperate with the committee to ensure success. At the end of the exercise, which lasted few hours, the result was sorted and out of 191 statutory delegates, Wada polled 155 votes while Echocho scored 34. While announcing the final result at about 10.00 pm on Monday, the chairman of Kogi State electoral panel and returning officer, Governor Ugwuanyi declared Captain Wada as winner of the primary having secured the highest votes, 709, while his arch political rivals, Alhaji Jibrin Isah scored 139 votes and the third aspirant Moses Abogun Ameto scored zero as 10 votes were invalid. He explained that the total delegates were 864, while 858 were accredited and valid votes stood at 848. “I Chief Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as a returning officer and by the power conferred on me hereby declared Captain Idris Wada as the winner of Kogi State PDP primary election having won the highest votes with 709,I hereby return him as winner.” In his acceptance speech, Kogi State governor, Captain Wada pledged to continue to consolidate on the dividends of democracy and transformation agenda of the state. Wada, who made this pledge while speaking after he had been declared winner of the Kogi State PDP governorship primary election at Lokoja Confluence Sta-

dium, stated that the election was credible, fair and transparent. Wada commending the chairman of the Kogi State PDP governorship primary election committee and Enugu state governor, Ugwuanyi and members of his electoral panel for conducting peaceful, credible and fair primary election for the party in the state, promised to reconcile all the aggrieved members of the party in the state and unite them to ensure victory in November 21 governorship election in the state. The governor also commended all the delegates and members of the PDP in the state for conducting violent free primary election, urging them to join hands with him to ensure victory for the party at gubernatorial polls. The state Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Alhaji Halilu Hussein Pai, who supervised the conduct of the election, commended the electoral panel’s efforts to conduct credible primary election and appealed to stakeholders in the state to join hands with the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to conduct hitch free governorship election in the state, saying that INEC cannot do it alone without necessary support. Meanwhile, a former bank director, Alhaji Jibrin Isah (Echocho), who also contested with Wada in 2011, had conceded defeat and embraced the governor while the votes were being counted, promising to work with the standard flag bearer of PDP and ensure victory at governorship polls. On the other hand, the House of Representatives member representing Yagba federal constituency and strong supporter of Echocho, Sunday Karimi said that the primary was built on faulty foundation from abintio. Karimi lamented that the last ward congress that preceded the primary election was fraught with irregularities, noting that all protest and petition to the NWC of the party were turned down. He also decried the arrangement where ballot boxes were labelled by local government councils, noting that it was a ploy to intimidate the delegates from each of the local governments, with a view to sanction errant council bosses, saying that APC is waiting to take over the seat of power because of the present situation of PDP in the state.

Adebutu bags doctorate degree Michael Ogbonna

ember representing Remo federal constituency, Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu, has been conferred with a Doctorate Degree, Doctor of Political Science (DSc. Honoris Causa) by the Universite Bilingue Libre du Togo, on Wednesday, September 9. The award which was presented by the vice chancellor of the institution, Professor Adetunji Amusa, at an event held at the main auditorium, Universite du Lome, Togo, is in recognition of the awardee’s distinguished contribution to national politics and expansion of political economy in the West African sub-region, having been found worthy by the university’s

governing council, upon the recommendation of the university’s Senate. In his acceptance speech, Hon Adebutu, according to a release signed by his legislative aide, Hon. Seye Sonuga, thanked the institution for the honour bestowed on him. The awardee, who was represented by his son, Olubukunola Adebutu, also pledged to do more to better the lots of the common man. Other awardees who were honoured alongside Adebutu include, Mr. Tunji Olugbodi, GMD, Verdant Zeal Group; Madame Mathys Adidjatou, former Minister of Finance, Republic of Benin; His Royal Highness, Oba Oyekola Lawal, Iba of Kishi Kingdom; and Dr. Yemi Ajayi, CEO, Heron Communications.

Editorial

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

All the Facts, All the Sides A PUBLICATION OF GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LTD BARRISTER JIMOH IBRAHIM, CFR PUBLISHER

SUNDAY OLAJIDE MANAGING DIRECTOR/CEO BEN MEMULETIWON ACTING DAILY EDITOR GBEMI OLUJOBI SATURDAY EDITOR AYO OLESIN SUNDAY EDITOR DOZIE OKEBALAMA COORDINATOR, EDITORIAL BOARD CALLISTUS OKE EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR OBIORA IFOH ACTING ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF AUGUSTUS IMEKAN ACTING HEAD, GRAPHICS

The North and repression of CRK teachers

overnor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger State recently upbraided his predecessor in office, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, for the nonemployment of Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) teachers for public schools in the state. Bello spoke through his Chief Special Adviser, Political, Mr. Solomon Nyaze, at a religious function in Minna, the state capital. Reports had it that at the tail end of ex-Governor Aliyu’s administration, Christians led by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) requested severally for teachers of CRK in public schools since there were already Islamic Religious teachers, but got no positive response from the former governor. Governor Bello’s observation about the current predicament of CRK in Niger State (indeed the entire North) resonated how parochial; most probably with generous elements of malice, some formulators and drivers of public policy could choose to be. What, for instance, could be the real motive behind a government’s refusal to employ teachers to cater for children from one of the two dominant religions in the country (Muslim and Christian) if not religious intolerance? Meanwhile, the CRK being tactically suppressed forms part of the nation’s secondary school

curriculum. An eminent Christian religious leader at the same occasion Governor Bello spoke, the Anglican Bishop of Wusasa Diocese in Kaduna State, Dr. Ali Buba-Lamido, said: “Previous governments in the north did not give much opportunity in the teaching of CRK in schools, especially in the far north. We do experience a situation where CRK is not being taught and it’s not acknowledged in the curriculum of the schools. It is only desirable that this is afforded a very good privilege where Christians will also be taught. We are talking of moral development, it can only come through the teachings of religion, and you have to balance it. If you have Islamic teachers, you must have Christian teachers. It is advisable that government employs CRK teachers because the subject is part and parcel of the School Certificate Examinations”. If Nigerian policy makers could recall, Reverend Hugh Blair, one of the Ministers of Canongate, on January 1, 1750, and under the auspices of the Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge, at their anniversary meeting held in the High Church of Edinburgh, preached a sermon on “The Importance of Religious Knowledge to the Happiness of Mankind”. Blair chose

IT IS ONE OF THE DISTURBING SYMPTOMS OF A HORRIBLE DISEASE AFFLICTING THE

NIGERIAN SOCIETY the book of Isaiah, XI. 9. from the Holy Bible to vividly project the topic. The scripture in question says: “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: For the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea”. This passage of the said scripture, Blair says, “is understood by all Christian interpreters to refer to the days of the gospel. The prophet is describing in the context the influence of the Messiah’s reign, extending thro’ all nature, and producing universal happiness. This, in its full accomplishment, doubtless, is yet future, and respects some more advanced period of the Kingdom of God, foretold in other passages of the prophetic writings; when true religion shall universally prevail, and the native tendency of the gospel attain its entire effect. “In the prospect of this, the prophet seems to rise above himself, and celebrates those happy days in the most sublime, figurative strain of Eastern poetry. He opens a beautiful view of the

ON THIS DAY September 18, 1961 United Nations’ Secretary-General, Dag Hammarskjold, died in a plane crash while attempting to negotiate peace in the then war-torn Katanga region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Hammarskjold (July 29, 1905 – September 18, 1961) was a Swedish diplomat, economist, and author. The second Secretary-General of the UN, he served from April 1953 until his death in the plane crash of September 1961.

Letters tothe theEditor Editor Letters to

September 18, 1997 United States’ media magnate, Ted Turner, donated $1 billion to the United Nations. Robert Edward ‘Ted’ Turner III (born November 19, 1938) is an American media mogul and philanthropist. As a businessman, he is known as the founder of the Cable News Network (CNN), the first 24-hour cable news channel. He also founded the WTBS, which pioneered the superstation concept in cable television.

state of the world as a state of returning innocence. He represents all nature flourishing in peace; discord and guile abolished; the most hostile natures reconciled, and the most savage tamed and reformed. The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb; and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion, and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. And the cow and the bear shall feed, their young ones shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox; and the sucking child shall play on the hole of the Asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the Cockatrice Den…”, the clergy man said. It may sound a fairy visualisation of heavenly pleasure, but Blair merely painted a picture of how blissful, peaceful, accommodating and stress-free godly living ought to be or may be in the future. Nothing sustains that rare hope and expectation like religion (whether Muslim or Christian), as well as the morals, discipline and restraint they instill in generations. We consider the contradiction in Niger, and perhaps other northern states, regrettable. It is one of the disturbing symptoms of a horrible disease afflicting the Nigerian society, a society truly bugged down by a visionless leadership.

x September 18, 2014 Scotland voted against independence from the United Kingdom. The independence referendum question, which voters answered with “Yes” or “No”, was: “Should Scotland be an independent country?” The “No” side won, with 2,001,926 (55.3%); voting against independence and 1,617,989 (44.7%) voting in favour. The turnout of 84.6% was the highest recorded for an election or referendum in the United Kingdom.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Friday, September 18, 2015

Bridging our security gaps with IMINT & OSINT Counter-terrorism Tips With

Ethelbert Oney ethelbertoney@zissltd.com, 08029929121 (sms only)

hat has changed since last June is that the nation’s counterterrorism offensives have been transformed from a purely passive intelligence gathering efforts to an interactive one that is being used to hunt down and destroy the Boko Haram cells in the northeast part of Nigeria. One does not have to look far to find evidence that Imagery Intelligence gathering (IMINT) is now actively used to locate Boko Haram’s havens in the Sambisa forest and its environs. The future of IMINT in the fight against the sect can be sketched by delineating the key lessons learned from the review of our law enforcement workforce’s performance prior to the current administration of General Buhari. One of the lessons, I suppose, is the need for more clandestine IMINT collection resources. This collection can get better intelligence by getting closer to BH’s targets than most other sources. Another lesson learned from the six years of violence is that our IMINT team has broken down the barriers that have historically existed between our human intelligence (HUMINT) agents and signals intelligence (SIGINT) service. It is widely rec-

ognised that the deeply ingrained partisan attitude among the differing intelligence and security agencies in Nigeria was very difficult to break down. Professionally, regardless of whether intelligence consumers have personal preference for HUMINT, IMINT or any other intelligence source, it is absolutely essential that intelligence analysts and consumers accept that all sources of intelligence fused together into an all source of intelligence product. This development definitely gave us the lead so far on the battle ground to effectively force a reasonable amount of BH operatives to surrender over the weekend. However, this is no time yet for complacency and merriments. Yes the partisans of HUMINT and IMINT must recognise and accept that there has always existed synergistic cross-dependency between these two long time competitors and that this cross-dependency continued till today. That means one cannot survive without the other because the presence of both makes intelligence collection very strong and meaningful. On the other hand, another old lady on the field often ignored is the Open Source Intelligence (OSINT). Our supposed increasingly and voluminous OSINT sheds light on issues of the day for all source analysts, covert collection and policy-makers. Now, the question is have we done enough to exploit its potentials on BH war? Unfortunately, my answer is no. Here are my reasons. Intelligence gathering today is no longer a matter of stealing through the dark alleys to meet some secret agents than one surfing the internet to find

A MOUSE CLICK TODAY OFTEN PROVES MORE USEFUL THAN STYLISH CLOAKS AND SHINY DAGGERS IN GATHERING INTELLIGENCE…

out BH characteristics, strategies and modus operandi etc. Then based on their most frequently used tactics, we could deduce Boko Haram’s next moves through competent analyst’s interpretations and forecasts. The world is evolving by the minutes with advanced technology; so a mere mouse click today often proves more useful than stylish cloaks and shiny daggers in gathering intelligence required to help analyst understand BH’s modus operandi. It is worth noting that all powers exploited OSINT during the World War 11 and also most of the intelligence used to thwart the Al-Qaeda’s money laundering and sponsors were all products of OSINT. Most of the means used in capturing A-Qaeda’s leaders and their movements, development that helped suppress the organisation to a large extent to date, were by means of OSINT. The revolution in information technology and the polity since the Nigerian civil war, and other wars around the world have made OSINT more accessible and valuable. However, it beats my imagination that it appears we are not paying attention to the ease of its

availability and cheapness to acquire measures. In fact, one can use OSINT to collect intelligence about BH’s movements and targeting profiles with great ease and less cost than before. If this was done, we might have realised that the majority of the sect’s members were simply brainwashed and were already tired of killing innocent brothers and sisters for their leaders’ cause. Realistically, not only are OSINT increasingly accessible and valuable, it can prove helpful in demobilizing the hardest of hard targets, such as BH. In order to achieve this, we must realise that for some time OSINT was the first resort, last resort and every resort in between intelligence gathering techniques. So, why are we neglecting it? OSINT is no replacement for covert collection; rather it increasingly enhances secret collection measures. In addition, OSINT has played major roles in covert operation in both conventional and asymmetric warfare’s. Surprisingly, some agencies in our system still reject OSINT, and too few are able to exploit it. Most seriously, it appears our intelligence agencies assign only a handful of those capable to this area. Even those who are in the position to know still mistake secrecy for the only intelligence, which is a very unforgivable misconception. Let me conclude by saying anything we need to know about Boko Haram is out there in the open. It is left for our analysts, particularly those that can read Arabic to interpret them meaningfully. IMINT, HUMINT and OSINT are all intertwined.

Revised governance version in Ekiti OGWAZU NNAMDI

o most indigenes and non-indigenes residing in Ekiti State, the appellation ”Fountain of Knowledge” is apt considering her array of developed manpower necessary for the 21st century sojourn. I could remember my year in a neighbouring state during National Youth Service Corps as my friend, Yemi, never allowed many of us from outside the South West discuss governance without using Ekiti State as case study. To Yemi, Ekiti remained positioned to serve as export of knowledge as no single person in the state, according to him, could pocket the numerous educated minds, who are ready to do long battles on issues of governance and human rights. The above scenario came to my consciousness recently upon the inauguration of a 72-year old illiterate carpenter, Pa Olatunde Afolayan, as caretaker chairman of Mopa Local Government Council of the stat Governor Ayodele Fayose. As much as I do not begrudge Pa Afolayan for whatever Providence might have thrown at him, I certainly felt Yemi might have over priced his darling state before most of us from the other side. It is certainly not a mistake for the Holy Scripture to ask those boasting to beware else they pay the price. This fact, Yemi, never thought of before embarking on his numerous long drawn battles with us years back.

EKITI STATE MUST BE MOVED OUTSIDE THE PRESENT BRAND OF SHARING RICE AND PONMO TO VERY SUSTAINABLE PLATFORM…

Obviously, Pa Afolayan had asked for a lowly position, according to him, as party ward chairman, but he caught the eyes of the big man who Ekiti majority elected to carry their burden. Today, Pa Afolayan is a caretaker chairman, superintending over the ward chairman and other Ekiti intelligentsia from Mopa LGA. Interestingly, Pa Afolayan, realizing where he is coming from, acknowledged: ”I have not gone to school for a day, but that does not diminish my intelligence. I may not be educated or certificated but I have brain and experience to pilot the affairs of the council”. So, I am at peace with Daddy Afolayan for his boldness at admitting he never tried scaling the fence of our tertiary Institutions for ‘certificate’ as some have done. Looking at the logic of the deposition of the miracle man Fayose, who believe in and elevated Pa Afolayan to this great height: ”Some of us used them to get to position and forget these people. In my government, whether you are educated

or not, you will get something. The vote of a professor and an illiterate is the same. So under my administration those who are not educated can rise to any level they want”. So, why bother on the twin issue of merit and innovativeness? Baba Afolayan worked for his nomination and should chop his own. However, the greater trauma remains a comparison of professor’s vote with that of an illiterate vote in a state boasting of rich human capital base. Do we conclude that education has no place in our development drive? Or, that we need not join the rest of the world deepening education and human development? The clear lines must be drawn to allow Governor Fayose appreciate the impacts education could throw at the speedy development of his state. Interestingly, putting one on the driver’s seat as governor does not amount to a mortgage or partitioning of a state making for global issues like institutional building and good governance pushed backwards. Pa Afolayan can only run the race of Mopa’s development according to his level, but certainly not for a time like this where there exists global decline in oil prices affecting our national import receipts. It is never for a time like this when state governments are moving into cost-cutting, debt restructuring and innovative Internal Generated Revenue approach. Possibly, Pa Afolayan is expected to release his policy thrust and strategies in the coming days towards kick-starting the economy of Mopa LGA. Mind You! Pa

Afolayan is expected to treat memo coming from the system and possibly, face the LGA’s public servants. Now, I ask: Can Governor Fayose categorically state that given the opportunity, would he employ Pa Afolaya as Chief Executive of one of the states companies and quietly recline into his innermost, expecting geometric growth? Truthfully, the intelligentsia of Ekiti must let Fayose understand that governance as presently constituted is an investment expected to produce giant returns in service delivery to the populace. It is also no longer a place for men who cannot think outside the box of human development. So, a comparison of derivable from tarred road and rice sharing do not arise as a good road propels the economy to growth. Ekiti State must be moved outside the present brand of sharing rice and ponmo to very sustainable platform where innovation and creativity resides. This state must redefine her concept of ‘stomach infrastructure’. Nnamdi, a journalist and commentator, wrote from Owerri, Imo State via ndogwazu@gmail.com Send your views by mail or sms to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mail@ nationalmirroronline.net mirrorlagos@ yahoo.com or 08164966858 (SMS only). The Editor reserves the right to edit and reject views or photographs. Pseudonyms may be used but must be clearly marked as such.

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Curbing the pervasive corruption

C Professor Ada deserves Benue Varsity VC

would have loved that the tenure of Professor Charity Angya, the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Benue State University, Makurdi, be extended due to her dedication to duties and diligent towards the modernization of the university. However, if her tenure cannot be extended, then Professor Nicholas Ada, one of the aspirants for the position, should be considered. He is the most qualified candidate, both academically and administratively. Prof. Ada had contended previously for the position in question and came second. It was as a result of his excellent performance during the competition that he was given the position of Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration). While serving as the VC Admin, he fully supported Prof. Angya, who defeated him during the contest. Professor Ada has put the pain of the defeat behind him and assisted Professor Angya to achieve the remarkable success of his tenure. Professor Angya succeeded in delivering the best service that would place the university on the global watch. Under Professor Angya’s administration, the university received many awards, nationally and internationally, due to the success recorded in infrastructural development and the academic performances of the students. However, it was as the result of Prof. Ada’s administrative work, while serving as the Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University that necessitated his appointment as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs during the immediate administration of Dr.Goodluck Jonathan. Permit me to use this medium to expose the underground political consultations on who should be given the position of the VC. Let it be given to the best candidate. The best candidate should be allowed without the intervention of political gladiators in the state. Appointments should be given to people due to the fact that they are the most qualified and not base on the political party they belong to, or the religion they belong to, and not based on the influence their brothers or sisters and friends have in the society. It must not be based on the connection they have with those in authority. Awunah Pius Terwase, Mpape, Abuja (08179289948)

Letters to the Editor

orruption constitutes a monster that has eaten deep into all fabrics of the Nigerian society. Its ramifications are seen in increasing immorality, dishonesty and impurity manifesting in all strata of the society - family, school system, public service, governance and social relationships. Husband and wife relationship, for example, there may be no trust amongst

Success demands a good spirit:

them. Corruption exists at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels of our educational system. The admission process, teaching and learning, and periodic evaluation of students or pupils are replete with corruption as all the laid down rules and procedures have been perverted. School administrators are induced with bribes or grati-

fications to admit unqualified students; and teachers do not take their jobs seriously by not attending to their students regularly. Similarly, students absent from lectures only to bribe their ways into the next class or graduation through examinations malpractices which unfortunately in many instances are with support of their parents. This results in the production of dysfunc-

PHOTO:

Samuel Adetimilehin

Amosun on life sentence for corrupt officials

here is no denying that it is corruption that has brought Nigeria to its knees today. It is, therefore, a welcome development when public officeholders are in the forefront of agitation for life imprisonment for corrupt public servants. It is in Nigeria that you have people who could not ride a bicycle before coming into government emerging as richest men after a spell of public service. But it is also in Nigeria that people believe that everyone that go into government was nobody before. Indeed, there are people who were already wealthy and had accomplished so much in life long before venturing into politics or occupying public offices. This point should never be

e the people of Sokoto State waited keenly and patiently for the emergence of the Executive Council of the state. Now it has emerged. So, our expectations are high in terms of general development of the state. No doubt, Sokoto is one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria. The atmosphere is conducive for any legitimate businesses you want embark upon. Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has what it takes to lead

lost on anyone even as we all rail against corruption. By and large, it is corruption that has held Nigeria hostage and stifled its development. The structure and form of government we operate also allow corruption to fester. I wholeheartedly congratulate President Muhammadu Buhari for his efforts to deliver Nigeria from the bondage of corruption. I believe also that there is need to amend extant laws so that corrupt public officials (elected, appointed or career civil servants) can get life imprisonment for the sins of corruption as recommended by the governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun. It is interesting that every government in Nigeria is trying to imbibe the Treasury Single Account in order to block leak-

Waiting for Sokoto EXCO people. That the commissioners were chosen because of their proven ability to perform and the integrity to play the game according to the rules, is not in doubt. Therefore, I imploy the new commissioners to work hard and in harmony in order to ensure the dividends of democracy are optimally delivered for the overall health of our dear state. Hon Bello Abdullahi, Sifawa, Bodinga LGA (08064042584)

ages and end corruption. Governor Amosun actually ordered immediate implementation of TSA when he mounted the saddle of leadership in 2011. It may shock readers to discover that about 300 bank accounts were closed in Ogun State upon the introduction of TSA. How could one government, either at the state or federal level, operate hundreds of bank accounts without some funds ending in private pockets? Apart from TSA, which played a vital role in boosting Ogun IGR from a paltry N750 million a month to about N3 billion per month within just two years, the introduction of e-payment by the Amosun administration also helped to block drainpipes in the finances of the state and curb corruption. Finally, both political office holders and career public servants should take a lesson from the submission of Amosun: “It takes two to tango. This anti-corruption crusade is not only about political office holders, government workers too should detest corruption. It is time we all denounced and stigmatized corruption. If we all come together to kill corruption, we would be the better for it.” Soyombo Opeyemi, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

tional graduates, whose certificates are not worth the papers they are possessed. Instead of fixing the educational system, our leaders and the so-called money bags prefer to send their children overseas to study. The endemic corruption in the country is further aggravated by the lack of adequate institutionalized checks and balances, particularly in the public service; accountability is also lacking which is occasioned by a weak enforcement system. Similarly, unemployment, poverty, poor remuneration of workers, ignorance and lack of adequate public enlightenment on the ills of corruption are some of the factors that aggravate corruption to a crisis level. Of this evil is not tactically checked it will result in malfunctioning of various sections of the economy, moral decadence, increase in unemployment, increase in crime rate, loss of innocent lives, insecurity and compromise of the rule of law. To survive as a nation and to remain relevant in the comity of nations, corruption must be confronted head on through stringent and concerted measures. First and foremost, the judiciary has to be reformed particularly, the criminal justice administration system. This arm of government needs to be truly independent in the real sense of it. The independence should extend to finance, and appointment, promotion and discipline of judicial officers. The two anti-graft bodies (EFCC and ICPC) should be strengthened by being statutorily empowered to investigate, arrest and prosecute suspects without unnecessary interference from the judiciary through manipulation of technicalities. Our youths should be given functional education with marketable skills to be gainfully self-employed. Public servants should be properly remunerated and motivated through incentives. Parents should nurture and observe their children to become good citizens. The academic curricula should include sound religious teachings, as well as studies in morality and civic responsibility. The fight against corruption should be all encompassing starting from the griddle. Magai Tanko, Taraba State University, Jalingo.

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How actresses make and spend money

GENEVIEVE NNAJI An icon in her own world, a screen goddess and the queen of Nollywood, many describe her as an industry of her own. The Best AMAA Actress in a Leading Role in 2005, Genevieve Nnaji is arguably the most popular actress in the Nigerian make-believe movie industry. She has over 10,000 registered fans on her website genevievennaji.ning.com and receives about 3,000 letters from fans all over the world every week. In September 2009, Oprah Winfrey named her one of the 100 most famous people in the world. She is also by far the highest paid actress per movie and the first to earn a million naira in a single movie. By 2009 she raised the bar and she was paid $45,000 in movie IJE produced by Chineze Anyaene. A model and also a singer, in 2004 she became the Face of Lux and subsequently was involved with a beverage drink and detergent. She would release her debut album, Longolongo in Ghana, a move that raked in cash from her associations in the political circles of West Africa. Between 2004 and 2006 she earned a whooping of N31.3 million. Major part of the money N14.7 million came from her two-year deal with Lux ($100,000). With no great interest in real estate she has two buildings in Lagos and another one in her home town, Mbaise. She launched her clothing line St. Genevieve in 2008 started with N20 million. She also signed another contract for Loya milk as well as becoming the face of MUD cosmetics. Omotola Jalade Ekeinde She is the princess of Nollywood, bold and a beauty to behold. Many believe she shares the same status with Genevieve Nnaji and together they are the two biggest actresses in Nollywood. Omotola takes it easy with her life and also has

KATE HENSHAW NUTTAL Humble and hardworking, her income suffered a setback lately following the termination of the Glo Ambassadorial deal, but none the less, she is what one may call the silent millionaire. She became one of the actresses to try out other ventures. Spared by the tabloids’ bashing, the African Movie Academy 2008 Best Actress winner has graced the screen of Nigerian television like an amazon. The screen star who also has a daughter, Gabrielle, is a business woman to the core. Although she often appears classy, she spends wisely on what she wears and only travels abroad for business rather than pleasure. She does not drive very expensive cars and she lives a purely average and normal life. The Cross River-born star has her own company which specialises in different businesses but with passion for real estate. She currently has three buildings and several landed properties scattered all over the country. CHIKA IKE Chika is one of the actresses with the most enterprising spirit, and had actually started thinking of investing her resources shortly after she started. She owns a restaurant which caters to a high profile clientele in her neighborhood, and shortly after, she added a night club to that. Although Chika has not been part of any telecoms endorsement deals, reports suggest she has some branding deals under her desk. She took delivery of a Range Rover jeep, as a way of commending herself for all the hard work.

Comedy Workshop

he Lagos Comic Con is Nigeria’s first popular culture convention. It was established in 2012 by Ayodele Elegba. The convention is organized by the Comic Panel Entertainment Company, a subsidiary of the Mustardseed Communication International Group. This year’s convention is to hold on 18 September 2015 at 17:00 at Aquatic Hall Water Parks, 31/37 Toyin Street Ikeja, Lagos State. This event brings likeminded creative comedy artists together to share ideas and teach up-coming comedy artists.

Arty

Isiguzo Destiny

great passion for cars. She drives more expensive cars than any actress in Nollywood and her garage is estimated to be worth millions. The mother, model and musician has recently stepped up her game in the music industry. Her first album Gba was her first introduction to the music industry but her sophomore album Me, Myself & Eyes has defined her as truly talented. The production and promotion of her album cost her a whopping N13 million.

Genevieve.

Omotola

PATIENCE OZOKWOR The Enugu star is nicknamed ‘’Mama G’ in Nollywood. She got into acting, the career that brought her money and fame because she was sacked as a broadcaster. The sack wrecked her and her household, as they battled with the life of an ailing husband. But opportunity called when she met Chika Okpala, aka Zebrudaya, who offered her a chance to appear in a commercial he was shooting then. That gave her the lee way into Nollywood, where she is one of the best-paid actresses. Also a musician, she has been consistent in the industry and her roles have been applauded. She is very diverse in her investments but also has several landed properties. She lives at Enugu GRA, a mansion she completed two years ago and owns some businesses in the metropolis. Mama G shocked people when she handed out cars as gifts to her daughters getting married. INI EDO She has remained very consistent and has proved time and time again that she was born to be a star. Ini believes in landed and housing properties and has invested in this area more than any other Nollywood sister. She has five buildings, one in Abuja, to her credit and another one to be completed by the end of the year. Most of the build-

ings are being rented to tenants. The actress, model and producer presently has nine landed properties which she either plans to build upon, fence for keeps or lease. She has produced a movie Memories of The Heart. She also stunned the world when she moved into a brand new house in Lekki after her marriage crumbled. Mercy Johnson Definitely her new husband, Prince Odiniaose Osagie, must be proud that his wife is worth some millions of naira. At the moment she remains the most controversial actress in Nollywood. The movie, The Maid, was not enough to woo Nollywood fans to her, but 19 Mackaulay Street revealed her to be the Nollywood sensation. Since then she has never looked back. Many argue that the tens of movie scripts that come her way are due to the fact that she’s is not a Glo ambassador, but the actresses does not see it that way. In the past three years she appeared in more movies than any other Nollywood actress. By 2008 Mercy Johnson had appeared in fifteen movies and earned N11.4 million from movies alone. The following year, she earned N13 million and she featured in the Emen Isong hit movie, Guilty Pleasures. She is also an investor in properties and she is about to complete two houses at the moment. She also owns landed properties in Ajah area of Lagos.

WEEKEND STARTERS

Photography Exhibition and workshop

pen Range I” photography exhibition is conceived to promote a new form of collaboration and presentation of photographs. Here artists, photographers, freely swap ideas on various themes that often embrace politics, the economy and religion. The Lagos OPEN RANGE I is curated by renowned Nigerian photographer Abraham Oghobase and Video artist Jude Anogwih and holds at the Federal Government Printing Press, Broad Street Lagos and Goethe Institut Nigeria, City Hall, Catholic Mission Street, Lagos Island between on Friday to Sunday 18th to 20th September, 2015 at. Exhibition opens 10am-4pm daily only on appointment.

Creative Art Performance

reative Arts and Social Development Center (CASDEC) is organizing an evening of poetry, drama and music performance on Saturday, 19th September 2015 at 2pm. The event will feature poetry reading from notable Nigerian poets like Akachi Ezaeigbo, Folu Agoi and Charles Akwen. The event will hold at The King Royal Resort, Eleko Junction, Lekki Ekpe Expressway, Lagos State. Akachi Ezeigbo.

Inside FCT P. 24-25

Here is a glimpse into the spending patterns of Nigerian screen actresses.

News P. 32, 33

16 PAGES OF ARTS, REVIEWS, LIFESTYLE AND BUZZ TO START YOUR WEEKEND

Critics P. 22-23

Friday, September 18, 2015

Flavour

Mirror Mongers P. 26

Artman In The House

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

In filmmaking, I’m an incurable Bakare Adeoye, a director and producer is also the husband of popular Yoruba actress, Ireti Osayemi. In this Interview, he recounts his works and challenges as a filmmaker. Interestingly, he attributes the success of having a good home to his wife. Born fifty two years ago; he attended then University of Ife where he studied Dramatic Arts. He has been practising theatre and filming since then and has produced films both in Yoruba and English languages. He grew up in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, where he attended United African Methodist Church School Elega at Ijemo Abeokuta, His Secondary School was at Abeokuta Grammar School where he passed glowingly in 1981. He talks more in this interview with NGOZI EMEDOLIBE. Excerpts:

Bakare Adeoye

hen did you start filming and what has been the experience? Professionally, I started filming in 1992 but before then I have been practicing theatre on stage where we do more of stage plays. And since then I have be filming in all areas of the endeavour. The first Yoruba movie that I could say I was strongly involved as a production manager was ‘Oko Iyawo’ in 1993 and since then the journey of filming has been progressive. All the movies that I have featured in are all fantastic works either I am being called to take part in or organized by me. I have been involved in up 70% of the big projects like Sango, Oduduwa, Aramotu, Felele in 1995, Mosunmola 1997, Eja Osan 2001 and some other big project films. So far so good, thank God, it has been very well, the industry started taking off before our very eyes, we are grateful at the point that we are today even though it has its own problems and challenges, we are happy to see the industry grow, not only because of only that we making money. am grateful more because a lot of our friends that we started off together way back then are not relevant again, the ones that are relevant, still work with people that have imagination; and more of a young new generation of artists, and we are still looked up to as reference point in what they want to do both in management, directing, producing, we thank God

that we are still able to do things in the industry, we are not outdated. When it comes to film production and directing, I have no restrictions; I have done couple of documentaries, Yoruba and English films, lighting, stage management, I am capable, if am called for an Hausa movie today, I will definitely do it. How was the industry when you came in? By the time I came in, the industry was practically nothing. I mean there is an evolution where films {big frames and Cinema films] are produced during the era of Baba Sala, Ogunde, Soyinka, the all big reference are all great Icons. But the industry of movies; home movies which started with the VHS recording was just taking off when we joined at the time of Alade, we started at that point, shooting with just VHS cameras. Probably we cannot call it an Industry then because it didn’t have the requirements

to be referred to as an industry until the 90s, towards 1996 and 1997. Compare the industry then and now? It is fully an industry now, even government refers to it. Today we are in the fore front and highly recognized in the ranking of entertainment industries in the world. The Nigerian industry is ranked third best, after Hollywood, there is Bollywood then followed by Nigeria’s Nollywood. Although we are not ranked in times of quality, we are highly ranked in times of quantity, in the last few years ago, we have really witnessed the emergence of good films that can stand their space alongside world dramas. In terms of dramatic works, we are really coming up. How can you define your present stage in the industry? Well, success is about your head, I am very successful in my chosen area of career in the industry which is more of management; I am sort of a reference point in that area in the industry. I may not be a reference point in directing and producing but when it comes to management; God has been very faithful to me in that aspect and other areas of the profession. What are the qualities you look out for when choosing your crew, how do you manage them, your choice of script and how it affects the well-being of the society? Basically the first two things I look for in choosing my actors are their ability to deliver the role and how manageable the actor is. I work with people who are level-headed, who can flow with the job and also someone who is able to bring life

to the story. As for managing my crew; I could say I believe so much in dialogue. Before choosing anybody as my crew, I try as much I can to give them the dos and don’ts of working with me. So it has been very easy to manage different people in the industry. I try as much as I can to choose and work on scripts that have in-depth meaning and filled with the potential to solve some of the controversies in the society today though choosing script depends on the theme of the work we are about to commence. I choose whichever script that is detailed and meaningful though it might vary in topics, it might be focused on health, I can decide to look at it from the aspect of prostitution, so I just break it down, generate ideas and attach to the theme of the movie to give solid message but the main important thing is the message of the movie, the main focus of the idea and how it associates with the populace. The message of the movie should be able to change people’s perception about the chosen aspect. Can you give us an account of the works that have your imprint, the number of awards that you have won and what you are currently working on? I can’t count the number of works that I have worked in? Filming is what I

When it comes to film production and directing, I have no restrictions; I have done couple of documentaries, Yoruba and English films, lighting, stage management, I am capable, if am called for an Hausa movie today, I will definitely do it. Adeoye Bakare and some PFN Members.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Artman In The House

Friday, September 18, 2015

optimist –Bakare Adeoye have been doing right from the start so if I want to think of the number of works that I am in, they must be over hundreds. I have been managing and directing television series; I have my footprint in most of all successful Nigeria movies and dramas since 1998. Although It is very rare in this industry to see production managers receiving awards, only of recent that I heard that City People presented an award to a production manager, But I have received various awards locally not only as Production Manager but as a Producer; a lot of my works and some that I am part of; have also won quite a number of awards, Even though my name might not be called personally as the award winner. How can you define your relationship with literary works, how often do you read? Books? I read everyday either online or on hard prints. Reading is one of the major things I do every day; I read any type of book I find interesting based on Social life, Economy, Management and Life. Other books are the ones that can boost intellectuals, influence one’s life, influence thinking, Biographies at any particular period of time. It might be through the internet, e-Books, social media. I have lots of great Nigeria deep script writers whom when I read their writings, I am always at peace. People like; Dimodu Mosu, Akanni and many young ones coming up. I give opportunity to young upcoming writers who have scripts that are deep and beyond entertaining not like the girl meet boy story that most young ones have in mind today. Currently I am working on a soap opera titled ‘Dear Dairy’. It features stars like Nobert Young, Baba Tee, MC Kirikiri and some American returnees to Nigeria by October. I am shooting on a set in Ibadan and by the grace of God, I should be able to resume on ‘Tales of Love’, ‘Tales of Eve’ to mention of few. What is your main source of inspiration? The first I do have in mind is that I have a job that must be done, set to take on the job, have worked on most difficult jobs;

works that can make people run away. My main source of inspiration is God and I motivate myself a lot, whenever I see some works too demanding; I always say to myself that yes I can do it and this has really helped me to the stage I am today, if I am to describe myself in one word, I could say ‘am an Incurable Optimist’. I don’t see anything impossible when it comes to my profession, even when people refers to it as impossible, I think as an optimist and get a very good idea to make it become very easy and less tasking. Another source of inspiration is people around me; when you see someone very young trying to do some great things, I am always like asking myself that what is stopping me from doing great stuffs too. If this person can do it; so why not me, I never relent in my fighting spirit to achieve great things through my profession. My other sources of inspiration include location settings, happenings around me, people, culture, controversies. My spirit is always awake and inspired to work whenever I see locations situated in beautiful environment, beautifully arranged at ecery point in time. Lagos as popularly known as a city where you have all the enjoyment you require or need; can you tell us how you spend your social life, how you relax most times and some your favourite delicacies? I relax a lot but my way of relaxing is actually different to the way people out there take it. Majorly, my means of relaxing is ‘sleeping’, whenever I am not in location, I am at home spending time with my family, I rarely go out, I don’t socialise much, If am attending a party, then the party is very important and necessary. I watch television a lot and mostly I sleep. I always believe in the comfort of my home; whenever I am with my lovely children, I am always comfortable, inspired, relax and happy so I choose to stay indoor most times. Other things I do to relax are reading; I can just pick some old scripts that have been written years ago, read through them and generate new great ideas from them, also I browse through the internet, chat on some social media to discuss with some friends, joke, catch fun and sometimes we go serious to generate valuable new ideas. As for delicacies; I love solid food, pounded yam with vegetables or draw soup, and lots of meats. I don’t eat much, my wife is a good cook, she is a specialist in cooking great meals so that has actually made me number one fan of good foods. You have been married to popular actress Ireti Osayemi for years now, how has your marriage been? Well, I don’t really want to go deep into my personal life but so far, Ireti has been a great woman compared to some female celebrities who don’t take their marriages as priority, for about ten years now we having been keeping on and still very strong like some good marriages out there even though we have our own issues but God has always been with us in our marriage. The beauty of our marriage is that we have never fought for a

ireti osayemi children.

whole day before and it will never happen; our argument has never gone past a minute before we proffer a solution or resolve the issue. God has really been faithful to us, we have kids and we live happily. What’s your take about the current crowd in the entertainment industry? I see the crowd as normal, everyone wants to be part of success, during our own time, no parent could want their

children to go to the university to study Theatre Art, they see us as jobless and lazy people but because there is success, the story is now different, we now have parents working up to us to inform us about their intention of their child becoming an artist. But the important thing is that we have to structure the industry, there is need for more governmental involvement, then there will be required qualification for entries not like people coming in on a free unreasonable access.

Bakare and his wife

Well, success is about your head, I am very successful in my chosen area of career in the industry which is more of management;

I am

sort of a reference point in that area in the industry.

I may not be a reference point in

directing and producing but when it comes to

management;

God has been very faithful to me

Critics

BOOK

Friday, September 18, 2015

Citadel of hope or hopelessness?

The poor ranking of universities in Nigeria may not be as worrisome as the revelations from this compilation of essays called, ‘Assessment of Nigerian Universities Environment’ Ngozi Emedolibe

t is no longer news that the standard of education in the country has dropped drastically. But is interesting that the book, Assessment of Nigerian Universities Environment is a child of circumstance: a project that was headed in one direction but ultimately stumbles on other interesting but disturbing realities. When Educational Support Services and the Voice of Nigeria jointly set out to get essays from Nigerian undergraduates under the theme, Assessment of Nigerian Universities Environment, their sole aim was to get the students to offer some insights about their campuses that could help parents and prospective students make choices concerning the schools. It

FILM

was thrown open like a literary competition and the students were asked to dwell on areas such as social and political environment, unionism, cultism and academic environment amongst others. Unfortunately in spite of the wide publicity the competition enjoyed, having been published in four national dailies aside from being advertised on all the campuses, only about 150 entries were received from the length and breadth of Nigeria. This is an appalling number of entries considering that the country has about 122 universities with a student population running into tens of millions. But that is a far cry to what this 192 page book, edited by Temple Onyeukwu

University students is revealing. From the essays on parade, it is obvious that the quality of education has further dropped to a frightening level, as most of the entries lacked creativity and style. The book, which is a compilation of

Story of obsession

Movie set

A Nollywood director unleashes one of his uncommon stories about an unusual man. However, he fails to explain the mystery behind the oddity. Chijioke Okike

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

very good story starts with a conflict, which is gradually resolved with suspense-filled plots. This is what has made Tchidi Chikere (one of the writer-directors in Nollywood) a dependable name, considering his works like Blood Sisters, Onye Eze, John Bull and Rosekate, My Idol and Street President amongst many others. This movie, Bachelor’s Heart, which stars Kenneth Okonkwo as Frank, start-

ed almost in the same light, as he presents him as a man obsessed with ‘local girls’ in spite of the entrapments of splendour suffusing around him. Frank is so cautious of any girl that has a bit of elegance around her that his best friend, Mark (played by Abraham Nwado) and his father are worried sick about him. The movie opens with Frank running

into a hawker, Kadeisha (Ejine Okorafor) and gets carried away by her ‘local looks’. He is determined to make her happy, and even goes the extra mile by lavishing gifts on her. Naturally, Kadeisha’s family, could not let go of this new meal ticket and they begin to scheme to make it permanent, detailing the girl to lie about certain aspects of her life, including claiming that she is a virgin when she is not. But her light finger is a burden. It sets in and ruins a relationship that seemed headed to the altar. While Frank’s friend and family think it is a relief, good riddance to bad rubbish, he would jump over to yet another ‘local girl’, making everyone sad. Bachelor’s Heart, to a great extent relied on the screen friendliness of Kenneth Okonkwo, who is one of the tested and trusted thespians in the Nigerian movie industry. Of course, he delivered his lines as his numerous fans would expect, but commendation needs to go to the many upcoming acts that paired with him in bringing this movie to reality. In this regards, the likes of Ejine Okoroafor (Kadeisha) and Chinelo Oloh (Mmesoma) deserve a thumbs up. The idea of pairing these new faces with Kenneth

Like every movie that has the Tchidi touch, Bachelor’s Heart is entertaining, with so many rib-cracking dialogues; but the morals of the entire project seems hidden in the bank balance of the executive producer.

the 21 best essays that were entered by the students, obviously portrayed a student population that is not in tune with their subject before embarking on the writing task. While the sole aim of an essay of this

Okonkwo is healthy in the sense that it has the potentials of breeding the stars of the future. Anyone who has followed Tchidi’s scriptwriting history will realise what Bachelor’s Heart is all about. With over 40 Nollywood scripts to his credit, marketers now ‘dream up stories’ and ask him to develop the plot and dialogue. In an industry driven by commerce rather than art, Tchidi would often do that to his disadvantage. Bachelor’s Heart is one of such examples. Perhaps, that is why some gaps are noticeable in the entire story. Beginning with the name of the supporting lead, Kadeisha; one would hardly find a ‘real local Igbo girl’ going by that kind of name. Since the story was about a ‘local girl’, the writer should have given her a ‘truly local name’. But this may have been overlooked considering that nobody had an oversight on the work- the director is also the writer, and happens to be a trusted figure whose name means ‘perfect’ to the executive producers at Upper Iweka end of Nollywood. Such could be avoided indeed. However the aforementioned lapse is not as disheartening as the lack of interest in explaining why Frank is obsessed with local women. Having a character hate something that is good is not an easy trait and the idea of building a character in this vein could have explored the hindsight of unraveling the mystery behind this. Like every movie that has the Tchidi touch, Bachelor’s Heart is entertaining, with so many rib-cracking dialogues; but the morals of the entire project seems hidden in the bank balance of the executive producer.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

While an essay ought to be an arrangement of logical thoughts

(in words); most of the essays in the

compilation lacked

reasoning.

Critics

Friday, September 18, 2015

Someone

who is hoping to find an essay that would help policy

formulators, school administrators or prospective students make a changing decision

MUSIC

Racing against time New works usually leave every industry stakeholders guessing. It has pretty been the same since the release of Ghen Ghen, Orezi’s new album. What’s in it for the charts? Justin Akpovi

would obviously be disappointed with these works.

nature is to convince one that a certain school is good or bad, the essays would leave one more confused about making a choice at all. While pretending to be dwelling on the areas the competition tasked the students to cover, a lot of the entries only consumed space talking about the administrative structures of their schools. And these basic facts are usually handed out in most handbooks or brochures offered during registration, and would leave one wondering how many of the essays are original. This is not as frightening as the lack of cohesion the bodies of the essays represent. While an essay ought to be an arrangement of logical thoughts (in words); most of the essays in the compilation lacked reasoning. Someone who is hoping to find an essay that would help policy formulators, school administrators or prospective students make a changing decision would obviously be disappointed with these works. Also appalling is the way most of them handled the issue of cultism. Most of the entries treated it feebly as if it does not exist. That aspect of campus culture in Nigeria could be handled in an essay by dwelling on what the students’ experiences are and what the school authorities have been able to do to curb the trend. While most of the essays have structural deficiencies, something is also worrying about the entire package called, Assessment of Nigerian Universities Environment. The book owing to the poor packaging came out like government probe reports, which are usually dumped after findings by the committees. The binding, printing and designs left little to be desired. Although a subject of this nature may seem hard, nothing says that when a book is about to be published, it should not be done well. Some questions remain unanswered about this project. What is responsible for this poor outing? Is it that the prize money, (N100,000 for the best essay) is too paltry or that Nigerian students lack the competence? The answer may be buried in the latter!

fro hip hop artiste Orezi Esegine Allen popularly known as Alhaji Orez finally dropped his much anticipated debut album last week but his management company, Sprisal Entertainment, is in a race of his life at the moment. The initial copies of the album initially printed have been exhausted due to high demand, according to the management of the record label. “We are reprinting a large quantity of the album as we speak because demand is high even before the official release date, we are in a race against time to satisfy people who are demanding for the work,” a source at Sprisal Entertainment who does not want to be named, said on Monday. The album which featured collaborations with top Nigeria artistes and an international star and it has been described by music critics as one of the best things to happen in the music industry at a private listening party held in the Victoria

The presenters singled Orezi out for commendation for what they described as the great video concept especially for him going extra length to get a

Rihanna look alike to feature in the video

Orezi Island area of Lagos recently. Orezi with hit songs such as ‘Shuperu’, ‘Shoki’, ‘You Garrit’ and ‘Rihanna’ has been one of the most consistent and talented entertainers in the country at the moment with lots of local and continental awards and nominations to show for it alongside an international recognition. ‘’I had to drop it (album) now because it is hot. Every other artiste planning to drop an album in September should be advised because from September till next year, Orezi will rule the club houses, the streets and airwaves. My fans can never be disappointed. We are working with a reputable marketer to make sure it is widely spread. I am really grateful to everyone that has supported me since day one till date and I bless the name of Almighty God that maketh things come to pass. I am really grateful, and just to add, expect great and unique hit songs (RnB, Dancehall, Afro and hip hop). It is really hot,” he submitted. He has shot the video of the chart busting Shoki, one of the songs in the album, so also is the video of Rihanna. Rihanna’s video last year created the kind

of buzz in the industry that a young artiste had not achieved in a long while. Rihanna’s video was rated number seven out of eight Most Incredible Videos Around The World by the world’s number one online TV channel YouTube late last year. The presenters singled Orezi out for commendation for what they described as the great video concept especially for him going extra length to get a Rihanna look alike to feature in the video. The concept, quality and directing was great, they said. He also travelled to South Africa to shoot his U Garrit song video. He spoke on his hit song, Shoki. “God has been good to me, as you can see things have really changed for me in both my music career and life… Shoki is actually a dance that has been in existence but not popular until I saw a boy in my hood, dancing and I asked him what kind of dance is this, he said it’s called shoki and at that moment the inspiration came and played it along a beat that has been on my phone since and behold it went well I called the owner of the beat “Popito” and the rest is history.

Inside FCT

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Abuja parents groan over exorbitant school fees Adeola Tukuru

arents, civil servants and artisans in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) who comprise of the focus working population have raised alarm over exorbitant school saying it is difficult getting an affordable private school for their offsprings. Owners of these schools which are scattered all over the city centres and also in the suburbs, set their eyes on the parents, like commercial banks would target prospective customers. These school owners’ primary targets are making money while providing the needed educational services for the students come second. Although many of them are making waves as centres of excellence going by the sustained production of high-flying graduates yearly, parents of such students are paying through their nose for the educational services. Compared to public schools in Abuja, which charge peanuts, the private ones are milking the low income parents who desire reasonable level of education for their children. The average range of fees in a secondary school isbetween N5, 000/N10, 000 per term, while their private counterparts charge fortune. Which is between the rate of N100, 000/ N300, 000 per term, a charge which most parents consider out of reach. A parent, who resides in Kubwa, Abuja and also a civil servant ,Mr Yemi Popoola expressed worry that the school fees keep changing every term without notice nor justification. Another parent, Mr Obi Ezechi , residing in Gwarimpa said “Just last year, I paid N120,000 as school fees for my son who was in SS1 but this term, I just paid N150,000 for the same child in the same school, who is now in SS2. The annoying thing about these private schools is that every year they increase one fee or the other apparently because the public schools are decaying very fast and not much is being done to arrest the rot,’’ Obi added. Also Mrs Jocelyn Abe in Gwarinpa whose children attend a private school in Wuse 2, recalled how she had to cough out N660, 000 for her three children in the pri-

School compound

vate school this term alone. “I had to pay for new sets of uniforms including blazers, sport kits, books, and school fees. I think the proprietors of these schools just wake up and decide the fees without considering what parents can afford’’. Most of the private schools have not witnessed any significant growth in terms of facilities despite the ever-increasing fees they charge parents. Nor have they considered increasing their workers’ salaries. While the charges continue to rise every term, most of the workers in private schools earn a meagre pay for life. They cannot complain because of very stringent and almost ridiculous employment conditions put in place for the workers to signup on assumption of duties. As one of the private school workers pointed out, the condition of service in the schools are very strict and dehumanising. “It is not as if whenever there is an increase in school fees, our salaries are increased. I have been working in this school for the past three years now but I can tell you that my salary was only recently increased by a paltry N10, 000 by the authorities,” a female worker in one of the schools in Kubwa lamented. But have the high fees deterred parents who want quality for their children? Mrs. Ruth Isibor, whose three children attend one of the most expensive schools in

Abuja, is quick to root for the private school instead of public schools. She said: “The difference is very clear between achild in a private school and another in a public/ government school. Their command of English is very good. As a parent, I am always proud when my children speak in the public, they are not only well-spoken but they are very confident. They also know a lot about Science and Technology and many other fields. Most of the time, my kids educate me; they fill me in on all the new and exciting things they are exposed to in school. So really, I get value for my money,’’ she confessed. “ I strongly believe in private schools. If God has blessed a parent with a lot of money, the child or children should be sent to a good private school because these schools tend to look out for the children. They have a lot of good facilities used in training their students and they also conduct extracurricular activities such as music, dance, drama, swimming and

karate classes which make the students wellrounded” these were the words of Mr. Solabi, a teacher and father of four whose children attend a private school in the city. Most of the public schools on the other hand, lack the basic facilities for teaching and learning as well as the capacity to enforce discipline and control needed to bring about better performance by the pupils. While most of the private schools assign 20 to 25students to a teacher, the reverse is the case in public schools. A typical public school has as many as 60 pupils in a class, which in many cases are conducted under the tree or in dilapidated classrooms. Mr Adejumo, a class teacher in one of the most popular public primary schools in Abuja said that a classroom in a public school has as many as 50 students while in a private school, it is almost impossible to record such number of students in a single classroom. She counseled that there should be a standard number of children in a class to make room for proper teaching and learning. She noted that in a private school with 12 pupils in a class for instance, it would be easier for the teacher to communicate with the pupils and impart knowledge to them than in a crowded classroom in most public schools. One of the toughest decisions that you’re going to face as a parent is that you’re going to have to decide where to send your kids to school. For some parents the choice is easy because the options are limited by funds and availability of a parent’s time. Those kids just have to go to the local public school, no doubt about it. However, most parents at least consider alternative options like private school and homeschooling. And even parents looking at public schools often have options such as charter schools and magnet schools. It’s a tough call because there are pros and cons to each option.

It is not as if whenever there is an increase in school fees, our salaries are increased. I have been working in this school for the past three years now but I can tell you that my salary was only recently increased by a paltry N10, 000 by the authorities

Group launches Girls’ Safety Initiative campaign in FCT Joel Ajayi

s part of its quest in providing security awareness, peace building, conflict resolution, life- building skills and mentorship among others a group called TABITHA Cumi Foundation, with support from the Australian government, at the weekend launched the Girls’ Safety Initiative addressing some of the multiplicity of challenges facing girls’ education and widening access to education for them. At the launch of the initiative in Abuja, the Executive Director of Tabitha Cumi Foundation, Mrs. Adetayo Erinle, said the project was conceived as a result of the state of insecurity in the country which has been unsafe and insecure for young women and girls who have been the most affected in the security chal-

lenges facing the nation. According to her, the country is insecure and girls have been the prime targets. Many of these girls stay in communities that are underserved on the outskirts where accommodation is relatively cheaper than the city. These communities have been found to be places where people from other places can stay for a while quietly before they launch out to do whatever they want to do. These girls are usually the first targets. “We have brought out these girls to teach them about their environment, se-

curity, how they can identify strangers in the community, how they can know what to do when they notice suspicious activities or persons. Besides these points mentioned, in many communities, there are so many isolated areas where girls have been violated and nothing has been done about it. They can’t speak out, sometimes nobody becomes aware and most often, these experiences affect their lives.” “These girls have also been brought together to learn life building skills so that they can grow beyond their envi-

We have brought out these girls to teach them about their environment, security, how they can identify strangers in the community, Girls in FCT

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Inside FCT

Friday, September 18, 2015

Students, parents ready for new academic session Regina Otokpa

he streets are busy, some environments are filled with noise again and some traders back in business as students filled with renewed vigor, return to school for a new academic session after the long holidays. Speaking to a number of students, while some expressed joy going back to school after several weeks of staying at home, others especially the lazy ones are quite sad they were back to a normal routine of academic related stress. Busayo Ojo, a secondary school student told INSIDE FCT she was glad to be back in school “ I am happy the holidays are over, now we can go back to studies. “Its funny, when school is in session at some point I get bored and wish for any public holiday of some sort but when the big holidays comes around I get tired staying at home but I enjoyed the break.” For Tracy Omogbude she told INSIDE FCT she didn’t feel there was a holiday for her or her siblings because “we spent the whole holidays attending summer lessons so it was like we were still in school and so the studying continues. “I just want to be over with secondary school so I can also gain admission into the university because till then, I don’t think my parents would ever allow us have what we can call a holiday.” Little Joshua is not quite happy he is back to the classroom, according to the six year old, it was time for yet another season of numerous take home assignments and other school related stress. “When I was attending summer school, i go much later in the day and close early but now I wake up very early and every day my teacher will be giving me plenty of home work to do.” Also speaking to some parents INSIDE FCT gathered that it was time to get all busy again. Mrs Stella Adoba said “once again we are back to getting up as early as 5: 00am to start preparing breakfast and the kids

School children

so they don’t miss their school bus. “Its usually stressful but its a sacrifice and a price we have to pay to ensure our kids have a secured future with something tangible to hold on to so as to live much better lives than our’s their parents” Though happy his kids are back in school Mr Collins however, is still counting the huge amount of money he just parted with paying his children’s school fees. “ I have four kids and I just paid their school fees which just drained my account. Really I shouldn’t be complaining but with a draining economy and exorbitant school fees, what can I parent do.”

Meanwhile, the Secondary Education Board (SEB) of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has promised to ensure qualitative, efficient and sustainable education in the Federal Capital Territory. The Acting Director of the Board, Hajya Rakiat Daniya speaking on monday during her meeting with principals of the fifty-six (56) Senior Secondary Schools in FCT, noted that the FCT Administration through the Board had put in place various strategies aimed at improving the teacher’s readiness to teaching, student’s academic performance, and provision of facilities in schools as well as adequate security measures

I just want to be over with secondary school so I can also gain admission into the university because till then, I don’t think my parents would ever allow us have what we can call a holiday.

ronments because we have found that it is not as if these girls are dull, what they lack is opportunity. If they have the same opportunities the ones in the city have, they can become whatever they desire to be and more in the future. Because they don’t have the high fences and security that protect the girls in the city, we don’t want them neglected but to have safe places within their communities.” “These girls have had a wonderful time with their facilitators and have done well through the learning process and I believe that if they take

ahead of the schools resumption. She tasked principals on the need to give priority to sustainable efforts that would enhance teaching and learning in the schools. Also, she directed the principals to ensure teachers are on ground to discharge their duties as expected these include, filling of the statutory records in the school, look into the curriculum content for update teaching and retaining the students’ interest in a conducive learning environment as well as adhere strictly to professional ethics. According to her, the beginning of the session holds much academic activities, hence teacher as a custodian of knowledge is expected to prepare ahead, keep abreast of new trends in curriculum and global teaching techniques reminding them to take advantage offered by Information Communication Technology (ICT) to enhance their knowledge. Dariya further revealed that the management of the Board including the Monitoring and Evaluation Division would embark on a tour of schools to carry out what she called on-the-spot assessment of schools resumption and compliance to directives which would enhance the schools progress as well as ensuring that educational standard is not compromised in FCT. To this end, she urged principals to continue to bring to bear their wealth of experience to lay a solid educational foundation in their various schools stressing that, the Board will not toy with capacity building of teachers, development of non-teaching staff, creating opportunities for academic, moral, civic and other positive extracurricular improvement of students. The Acting Director added that, the FCT Administration has taken into consideration the influx of people into the Territory and is not relenting in its efforts in making education accessible and affordable to accommodate this extra emergency.

their knowledge back to other girls in their communities, in time, we would have developed hundreds of girls with these life building skills,” Erinle said. With the GSI campaign the foundation aims to create Girls Clubs in five communities across the Federal Capital Territory to support over 300 girls and young women to provide them with a safe place to grow, learn, have fun and develop confidence in themselves and their ability to stand out and make a difference. The launch of the initiative signified the end of a three-day training workshop for 50 girls se-

lected to be peer educators and leaders of the Girls Clubs. The girls who have learnt valuable life skills about safety, security, family and health, society and culture are expected to take the skills back to their communities and pass it on to other girls through their clubs. The Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Jonathan Richardson, who was appointed one of the Girls Safety Ambassadors for the High Commission’s support for the project, said the project is one of the 21 projects his country has supported over the last one ye

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Friday, September 18, 2015

‘Politic-onomics’ in Nigeria

Ibinabo Fiberisima

efore you get a dictionary to check the meaning of the word-politiconomics, just be rest assured that it can only be explained by common

sense, and refers to the politics of seeking one’s well-being. Yes, that is what goes on in Nigeria and you can seek clarifications at the Actors Guild of Nigeria and the various Students’ Union governments in Nigerian universities. One instance is this: If you think it is only in the People’s Democratic Party, PDP or APC that you will have to cough out huge sums to buy nomination forms for elective positions, then you had better contact Mr. Segun Arinze to tell you what it takes to aspire to become the national president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN. MM gathered that nomination forms for the post of the national president of the AGN goes for N300,000, while positions like secretary and treasurer will set one back by N250,000 and N200,000 respectively. This hurdle has of course, reserved the positions for only actors whose vaults are over-flowing with cash to continue the contest. What are in this for them? Well, in such circles, such funds are seen as investments that can easily recouped in office.

Going ‘gay-wire’

he typical Nigerian, who understands the language of the people, will know what a ‘format’ means. If your mind is drifting to the technical meaning of the word ‘format’ as in the computer age,, then you are dead wrong. It is a term popularised by fraudsters, otherwise called ‘Yahoo Yahoo boys’. The truth is that from time to time, ‘formats’ change and from time to time, certain circumstances engender certain ‘formats’. And like the ‘Yahoo boys’ will say, ‘formats are usually thrown at foreign maga to make them pay’.

ONE-SECOND &

With

EBUBE ESSIENGARRICKS

APC Chairman, Oyegun

Blantyre Street in Abuja

lantyre Street, home of the All Progressives Congress, APC has been receiving a lot of visitors lately. According to the buzz, that is the only way to seek greener pastures for most Nigerian politicians who actually lack ideology. Well, it is not only the politicians that are visiting APC for greener pastures. MM observed that the headquarters of the party in Abuja is also a centre where

people come for greener pastures. From small bands to beggars and touts, everyone is hanging around the gate in the hope that one big politician would drive by and part with something. Yes, while the political bigwigs have their eyes on the big pies, the downtrodden can make do with the crumbs and you will notice this when you go to Blantyre Street in Wuse, Abuja.

Remembering Aisha Audu in Kogi

How does this concern Nigeria? Now with the signing into law of the bill banning same sex relationships, MM gathered that the ‘format’ of the ‘Yahoo boys’ has once again changed. In the past couple of days, the latest ‘format’ is posing as a foundation that is fighting the Nigerian government over the new law. The buzz is that with so many advanced countries sad over the development in Nigeria, the new ‘format’ is now the key for those who want to pick from their ‘maga’. Someone called it the ‘spirit of turning challenges to causes’.

f course, the people of Kogi State will in a matter of months file out to determine who will oversee the affairs of the state in the next dispensation. The contest has however been riddled with lots of intrigues and side talks, especially now that it is set between two heavy weights, Idris Wada and Audu Abubakar. But this brings to the fore what happened when Aisha Audu Abubakar

stepped out to run as governor of the state some time ago. According to her, Kogi had remained a ‘glorified village’ in spite of the purported dividends of democracy. Aisha also carpeted the other contestants including her husband for not knowing what a computer key board is in this digital age. That was four years ago. But the question now is: Will the former First Lady step up to repeat this position today?

Mrs Aisha Audu Abubakar and Audu Abubakar

Ebube Gladys EssienGarricks is the student whose life changed after she emerged winner of MTN promo, which availed her N64m as an alternative to a plane. She reacts to the attention the victory gave her amongst Nigerian men.

r you won the Talking about your love life afte ? ters toas money; did you get lots of y all came The he. a! It gave me headac w…many kno you ey because of the mon sisters, my from tact of them got my con mises; pro ty emp e they would call me to mak he’ll ng sayi as far one of them even went as me take also and build a big house for my mum to ing call as far as t abroad, imagine! They wen all it’s t …bu ried mar ask my parents if I was ything has died good now, since I relocated, ever

down. I will get marI am now in a relationship and ried in due season.

Friday, September 18, 2015 4 Thul-Hijjah 1436

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Call to Worship

On the authority of Anas bin Malik, the servant of the Messenger of Allah, the prophet said: “None of you [truly] believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.” RELATED BY BUKHARI AND MUSLIM

How qualities could be misrepresented To take ‘forgiveness” as meaning selfhumiliation Among these illusions is some people’s consideration to take ‘forgiveness’ as meaning self-humiliation. This is also false and an illusion according to consensus. Because forgiveness means surrendering (of one’s right of retaliation) merely out of grace and liberality, although he has the power to retaliate or take revenge; while humiliation means abandoning (the right of) revenge as a result of inability, fear and meanness.

To consider that dignity or self-respect amounts to pride and haughtiness Among these illusions is that some people consider that dignity or selfrespect amount to pride and haughtiness. This is also false and an illusion according to consensus. Because the object of self-respect is to protect the self from such disgraceful qualities, immoral acts, and ambition that may cost them their lives; while the origin of self-pride is self-appreciation and showing contempt for others.

To consider jealousy similar to emotion Among these illusions is to consider jealousy similar to emotion. This is also false and an illusion according to consensus. Because, emotion is the consciousness and knowledge of what is painful, a feeling which the soul is capable of removing and hence very transitory and evanescent; while ‘jealousy’ is to conceal evil (emotion for other) and may be expressed any moment. Such a feeling usually last for longer time (and hardly disappears from the heart).

diture.

To consider ‘pride’ equivalent to respect or veneration Among these illusions is to consider ‘pride’ equivalent to respect or veneration. Veneration for a person is caused by his good fame and a peace of mind manifested in his physical appearance and originating from the realization of God’s sublimity, love and exaltation. On the other hand, the sense of pride stems form self-adoration, arrogance and complete ignorance and darkness of the heart.

To consider the virtue of modesty equal to inferiority Among these illusions is that some people consider the virtue of modesty equal to inferiority. This is also false and an illusion according to consensus. Beause, modesty is a virtue that stems from (its owner’s) knowledge of Allah, (his) acquaintance with His attributes and sublimity, his knowledge of his own soul, its faults, defects of his action and its disease. (The realization of such knowledge) produces submission of the mind (heart) to Allah and humility to His servants (showing respect to them). Consequently, such a man does not think of himself as having excellence over others or as possessing any (special) right towards anyone. Contrary to this, inferiority is (a mental state of) self-abasement and humiliation, whereby he abuses his own soul merely to satisfy his sensual passions and desires and subjects it to humiliation to please worldly men, in order to obtain kindness or favourable decisions on anything which he may aspire to.

To consider generosity as meaning extravagance

To consider distrust as meaning vigilance

Among these illusions is to consider generosity as meaning extravagance. This is also false and an illusion according to consensus. Because generosity consists in the donor’s spending his wealth according to the instructions of the Law while ‘extravagance’ is spending of wealth in a situation where Law has forbidden such expen-

Among these illusions is that some people consider distrust as meaning vigilance. This is also false and an illusion according to consensus. Because vigilance is (a moral quality) that brings readiness and preparedness to adopt ways and means which deliver him from adverse situations; while mistrust is (a state of) mind, being

Between asset before and after office 28

Quintessence of Eidul-Adha 29

completely obsessed by evil and malicious opinions about others and c o n s e quently, he (the person in such a state) expresses (such illconstr ued opinions) defaming them (their character).

To consider anxiety as meaning tenderheartedness Among these illusions is that some p e o p l e consider anxiety as meaning tender heartedness. This is also false and an illusion according to consensus. (The reason is that) tender heartedness is caused by feeling of kindness and mercy; while anxiety is caused by the weakness of the soul and the possession of the heart with poor faith and strong passions of greediness and avarice.

To consider fortitude or forbearance as meaning hard-heartedness Among these illusions is the some people consider fortitude or forbearance as meaning hard-heartedness. This is also false and an illusion according to consensus. Fortitude is (a moral virtue of) restraining the self from anxiety, importance, complaint

and determination of mind (heart) to accept the judgment of fate or the law; while stubbornness is coarseness of mind – that prevents the heart from being influenced by even serious calamities or misfortunes (due to such coarseness) and not due to his forbearance or fortitude. Quoted from: Principles of Leadership According to the Founding Fathers of the Sokoto Caliphate Collated and edited by Hamid Bobboyi with the Compliments of His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar mni, CFR, LLD, Sultan of Sokoto

Remember to fast on Arafah Day 30

Call to Worship

4 Thul-Hijjah 1436 Friday, September 18, 2015

Between asset before and after office

henever anybody goes through places like Gatwick, Heathrow, Dubai international airports among others and finds himself or herself at the Lagos international airport, then, you will be right for cursing our past leaders who were busy embezzling money instead of developing the nation as done by other oil-rich countries and even those without oil. Despite the several billions of naira purportedly spent by past administrations to rehabilitate our airports, the pervasive embarrassing situation of the Lagos international airport is nothing to write home about. Going from Dubai international airport to Gatwick and Heathrow, it was all smooth operations in terms of baggage handling and other procedures but a different ball game at the Lagos international airport. We were waiting for nearly one hour at the baggage reclaim area because only one was functioning out of the three machines. Passengers were sweating due to the non-functioning airconditioners in the hall while many children were seen sleep-

ing on the floor due to their tiredness. It is very annoying even for these young minds who witnessed the smooth operations in other countries they visited only to be held to ransom in their own country. What a shame! At every other airport, entering the baggage reclaim area, the flight will be shown on the information screens with free baggage trolleys in the hall. Here in Nigeria, you will pay for the trolleys without good services; those selling the trolley tickets will not give tickets at times and have different means of making extra money in their usual Nigerian style. Anyway, these nonsense must stop and be replaced with efficiency in all ramifications. The airport experience and many others also bring about the question of what happens next after asset declaration. Who are those determining the difference between what was declared at assumption of office and what obtains after office? For instance, what is the difference margin should we expect from former President Jonathan declared asset some years

back in comparison to what he owns now? This and many other questions are what we should be asking our rulers for they are not leaders. As President of Nigeria from 2010 to 2015 who served as VicePresident from 2007 to 2010 and Governor of Bayelsa State from 2005 to 2007, he declared in 2007 that his assets worth a total of 295,304,420 Naira ($1,845,652

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Sekinah Lawal t: 08055102994 e: sakinah207@yahoo.com USD). However, on 9 October 2014, the richestlifestyle.com website ranked Mr. Jonathan sixth on its list, claiming his net worth was about $100m (ÂŁ62m). What is the actual asset worth now? It is not just enough to call on public office holders to publicly declare their assets while in of-

Heathrow Interrnational Airport Baggage Reclaim Hall

those determining the difference between what was declared at assumption of office and what obtains

after office?

Heathrow Interrnational Airport Baggage Reclaim Hall

Lagos International Airport Baggage Reclaim Hall

Dubai Interrnational Airport Baggage Reclaim Hall

One of the non-functioning machine at Lagos Interrnational Airport Baggage Reclaim Hall

Who are

fice, we must also be interested in what their assets are after office. Those who are not ready to allow the people to know how much they are worth and what they really own should not venture into public office. The issue of public asset declaration cannot be a matter of personal principle once they are public officers; if they truly want to serve the people. Relevant agencies should be up and doing in assessing our past rulers whether they have amassed wealth or not. They must all be investigated for the rot they have put the nation into.

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Call to Worship

Friday, September 18, 2015 4 Thul-Hijjah 1436

Quintessence of Eidul-Adha I t is barely one week to EidulAdha. One wonders how time flies. Every season like this is an opportunity by which a Muslim renews his allegiance to Allah (SWT). It reminds him of great historical occurrences. In this case, celebrating the eid is commemorating the great subservience of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to the commands of his Lord. His was a model family where the trio (husband, wife and son) submitted to their Lord unconditionally. The ram or cow we kill is only symbolic of submission. The real celebration is that of the heart, where one places one’s Lord. A man, through deep thinking, will realize that he will return to his Lord as the sacrificial animals die and return. It is a period where we gather as an ummah or family members to remember that we shall so gather

before our Lord for judgement. Therefore, if you want to worship Allah (SWT) through these rams you kill, you must make your intention clear. Do not kill it for the sake of it or for show off. Do not use haram money to buy such rams as it will not be accepted. The bigness or smallness of the animal is immaterial but the piety in your heart. With proper intention and having the means, it is highly recommended that you slaughter the ram as your reward will be as much as the furs on the animal. There are, however, some etiquettes guiding or attached to this sacrifice. One, the person who intends to involve in the sacrifice, that is, plans to kill a ram, is not allowed to cut his fingernails or shave his hair from the first day of DhulHijjah till after he has slaughtered his animal on the Eid day.

Two, the animal should be properly slaughtered as most people just kill the animals anyhow. The knife should be properly sharpened but not in the presence of the animal. Where one plans to kill more than one, it should not be done in the presence of the other. The cutting of the jugular veins and gullet should be done smartly and once. Moreover, the nine days before eidul-Adha are very great. The Prophet (SAW) says that no deeds in other days of the world are as rewarding as in these days except for one who goes out for jihad and dies there with all his belongings. It is encouraged that one fast on these days; most especially on the Arafah day where one is forgiven sins of two years. One should also profusely chant laa ilaha ill Allah, al-hamdulillah, subhanallah, etc. and en-

IN HIS LIGHT with

USTAZ

A. ZAFARAN e-mail: zatabumuneeb@yahoo.com

It is encouraged that one fast on these days; most especially on the Arafah day where one is forgiven sins of two years gage in other spiritual activities as one will do in Ramadan. At this point in time too, pilgrims have already started landing in Saudi Arabia. For those who could not make the Hajj, they should mentally interact with the pilgrims and follow the processes. It is a demonstration of solidarity. And Hajj, as the

enlightened people of the world know, is an unequalled pillar of Islam which unites the Muslims across the world. It has no parallel in human history; where almost every nation or even city is represented under the commonwealth of Islam. We advise the Pilgrims to be good ambassadors of Islam.

Remember to fast on Arafah Day

Dr Saheed Timehin, Head of Tabligh, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, Nigeria, Sheikh Muyideen Nojeemudeen Al-Kubura II, founder of Asalatur-Rahman Islamic Association Association, United Kingdom during a Special Prayer and lecture for the Ibadur-Rahman Hajj Pilgrims in London where Dr Timehin of Ahmadiyya Jamaat was the guest lecturer.

Maulvi Abdul Khalique Nayyar, others honoured in UK Sekinah L awal

issionary-incharge, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Maulvi Abdul Khalique Nayyar and two others; Maulana Zikrullah Tayo Ayuuba, former Deputy Head, South West and Maulvi Abdul Rasheed Sani of Ilaro Jama’at, were honoured for dedication and immense contribution to the growth of missionary work in Nigeria at the just-concluded 2015 UK conference. The award was given by the Pan Africa Ahmadiyya Muslim Association, PAAMA, UK, made up of all African nationals living in the United Kingdom.

Maulvi Ayyuba and Sani were honoured with Maulana Abdul Wahab Adam’s award in recognition of the immense contributions to missionary activities in Nigeria since their return to the country from Pakistan. PAAMA also gave Nayyar the award for his long service as one of the foreign missionaries in Nigeria and in recognition of the immense contributions and sterling performances of the first foreign Ahmadiyya Missionary Maulana Nayyar to West Africa in 1916. Late Nayyar was sent to West Africa on missionary work. He along with 16 prominent Muslims in Lagos including Lawal Ba-

sil Agusto, Jubril Martins among others established the Ahmadiyya Movement then in 1916. He later went to Ghana to establish same. In a related development, members of the Jamaat in Benin Eastern region of the country, have honoured the outgoing Missionary Maulvi Akram for his immense contributions to the growth of missionary activities in the region. He was just posted to the Ilorin Jama’at, Kwara State. The deputy head of the Jamaat and chairman of the occasion, Dr. AbdulGaniy Enahoro, urged Maulvi Akram to go on with his new posting in full confidence that he served the Jamaat sincerely while he was in Eastern Region

and that they shall always remember him and his family in prayers. The President, Benin Jamaat, Alhaji Suleiman Egwa, past Circuit President, Alhaji Elias and Muallim Tirmizy who worked very closely with Maulvi Akram, mentioned many projects executed as a result of his encouragement and insistence. In his response, Maulvi Akram thanked all for their support, kindness and help offered him as well for Allah’s favours while he served in Eastern Region. Meanwhile, the Eastern Region of the Jama’at has held its inaugural meeting for the 2016 annual Educational Conference in Benin.

ay of Arafah (Yaumul Arafah) is one of the most important days in the Islamic calendar. The virtues and blessings of this day are immense. There is no other day like it and millions of Muslims turn to Allah on this day. Insha Allah Arafah will likely be Wednesday, September 23, 2015. Let us remember to fast on that day, in search of forgiveness and Mercy of Allah , except the pilgrims who performed hajj. The pilgrims will perform wuquf at Arafah. Fasting on the day of Arafat is a true blessing and a means of great forgiveness for all who undertakes it and there is no doubt that we should all try our best to fast on this blessed day. Our noble Prophet Muhammed said: “Fasting the day of Arafah-I hope from Allah-abolished (sin) a year past and the year to come…” Rasulullah Shalallahu ‘alaihi wasallam also said: “Be content with the fact that Allah will expiate for your sins for a whole year before the day of Arafat and the year after the day of Arafat”! [Saheeh Muslim] “There is no day on which Allah frees more people from the Fire than the day of Arafat. He comes close and expresses His pride to the angels saying, ‘What do these people want?’” [Saheeh Muslim] Iblis, the enemy of Allah (swt), was never more humil-

iated and enraged than on the day of the battle of Badr, except for every year on the day of Arafah, the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah (the Month of Hajj). On that day he sees the mercy that Allah pours down. When he witnesses the descent of Allah’s angels and Allah’s forgiveness of sins, Iblis weeps. It was on this mount– Mount Arafah— that the prophet gave his final sermon, a kind of a constitution for us Muslims; it’s our duty to pass it on to our brothers and sisters. The Messenger (saw) of Allah (swt) said: The best supplication is the supplication on the day of Arafat. [At-Tirmidhi and Malik] The day of Arafah is the greatest day and the essence of Hajj. On this great day millions of worshippers from every corner of the world, black and white, rich and poor, sick and healthy, gather together on one plain with only one purpose in mind. Men and women dressed in white, showing the unity of Muslims, cry out to their Lord in humility, asking for forgiveness. Moreover, the day of Arafah is so blessed that fasting on it will expiate the sins of two years. Abu Qatadah narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: Fasting it (Arafah) expiates the sins of the previous and the current year. (Muslim) May Allah forgive all our sins and give us the sweetness and noor of Iman.

Call to Worship

4 Thul-Hijjah 1436 Friday, September 18, 2015

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Every Friday with

Khalifatul

Ahmadiyya

Faith and Islam

fter greeting everyone with “Assalamo-Alaikum wa Rahmatullah” - peace be upon you and the Mercy of Allah - and bearing witness to the absolute Unity of Allah and that Muhammad is His Messenger and Servant, and seeking the protection of Allah against Satan, Huzur Aqdas (may Allah strengthen him with His Mighty Help) recited Sura Al-Fatiha, and then said that: An individual who claims to be a Muslim can only be defined as true Muslim if he has strong faith and understands the reality of the teachings of Islam. Faith is to dedicate oneself solely to God and to act upon His commandments. Islam implies understanding all commandments and while saving oneself from every kind of evil, also be the source of spreading security for others. This is the essence of Faith and Islam. If the Islamic world understood these two principles, we would see such magnificent scenes of lasting peace and the spreading of security as could create Heaven on Earth In this era, Allah, the exalted sent the Promised Messiah (as) into the world to establish this true faith in the hearts of men and to show the world true examples of such true teachings of Islam and having accepted him and declared our being attached to him, this has become our responsibility. Having true faith & being true role models for Islam, become the Helpers of the Promised Messiah (as) in this blessed work and make the world aware of the true Faith and spread peace and security . By the Grace of Allah, through the Nizam [the System and Organization], the Jama’at Ahmadiyya is performing this task throughout the world but it is the task of each Ahmadi to be a role model of teachings of Islam so that every one of us can fulfill this responsibility. Unfortunately the disorder in Muslim countries have tarnished the name of Islam. How we wish that the Muslim countries would understand how much damage their policies of pursuing their own personal interest have caused to Islam & extremism and extremist organizations have come into being and gained strength because these same self-interest pervades the scene everywhere. The peace of entire nations is being shattered. Neither they themselves enjoy peace nor are they the source of peace for others. The Governments are not upholding principles of justice for their citizens and neither are the citizens discharging the responsibilities they owe to the governments. The Promised Messiah (as) states, at one place, in this connection that so long as the gevernments and the citizens con-

tinue to behave with justice towards each other peace reigns in the land but when any injustice surfaces from the people or from the ruler then peace of the land is disturbed. Unfortunately, this is all that we witness taking place in most Muslim countries. And on top of this we see that the interests who are the enemies of Islam also are engaged in trying to benefit from these conditions. On the one hand, both blocs are helped to ensure that the situation of disorder goes on worsening while on the other, the activities of the extremists are given undue coverage and the press and media provides limitless coverage to such misdeeds and thus Islam is maligned. Huzoor (ab) says that in my interviews I have stated that media has played a role in spreading hatred of Islam and in presenting Islam is as a religion of extremism and that the media does not do justice in the manner in which it handles these issues. Political upheaval is attributed to Islam, the actions of political leaders are so presented and given such immense publicity as to make people think that Islam is a horrible faith. However, where their own interests are involved sometimes they suppress news also, but only when such bad actions are not from so-called Muslims. This happened in Ireland, for example, a while back, when disorderly elements were perpetrating violence the press decided to not cover the news or they were made to not issue news about such events. As a result such events just caused things to boil over just in that local area and the government was able to have things return to normal after a short period. It may be true that disorder created by extremists or those who oppose the governments in Muslim nations may be greater, perhaps, but how are such people able to continuously carry out such misdeeds? The weapons that they need to keep these fires burning is being supplied to them from the outside. Huzur says that I have also told them that when people who are experiencing restlessness get involved in such actions in Muslim countries then intense publicity is given to these events and it is reported with great detail how many people have gone to do such things from here and how many from there etc. and in one way or another Islam is attacked which goes to further increase the restlessness and generates reaction. But when thousands, hundreds of thousands of Muslims discuss peace the media fails to cover them totally or they are not given such coverage as is extended to those who behave negatively.

L-R: General Secretary Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Alhaji Abass Olawale Iromini; Amir, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Alhaji Dr. Masshood Adenrele Fashola; Chairman, Oyo State Circuit President Forum Ahmadiyya Muslim JAma’at: Alhaji M.O. Baiyewu; and Circuit President Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Oluyole Ona-Ara, at the 3rd Aminul Quran graduation and Official Opening Ceremony of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Mosque Ile-Sheu, Agric Ibadan, Oyo State State.

Group Photograph.

Amir, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Alhaji Dr. Masshood Adenrele Fashola; officially opening the Mosque.

L-R: Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, representing Oyo Central Senatorial District and former Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly and other female members of Asalatur-Rahman Islamic Association during a Special Prayer and lecture for the Ibadur-Rahman Hajj Pilgrims in London recently.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, September 18, 2015

L-R: Chairman, Youth Reformation and Awareness Centre, Mrs. Margaret Udoh; National Coordinator, Standards Awareness Group, Barr. Mohammed Attah and National Coordinator, Fix Nigeria Movement, Dr. Emma Anoliefo, during a press briefing on the nationwide advocacy to support the fight against substandard products in Nigeria, in Abuja, on Tuesday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

Participants during the International Day of Democracy in Lagos, yesterday.

People In The Mirror

L-R: Trade Manager, Nigeria, British Airways, Ademola Sanya; British Deputy High Commissioner, Ray Kyles; Country Commercial Manager, West Africa, British Airways, Kola Olayinka and Corporate Sales Manager, Nigeria, British Airways, Adetutu Otuyalo, during the British Deputy High Commissioner courtesy visit to British Airways office in Lagos, yesterday.

L-R: Head, Business Development, Stockcorp Leasing Ltd, Miss Joy Ofoegbu; Managing Director, Mr. Tunji Tolani and Head, Leasing Department, Mrs. Monica Idi, during the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forum for its customers on the new Equipment Leasing Act 2015, in Abuja, on Tuesday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

L-R: Head of Policy and Public Affairs, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Michael Onuoha; Director-General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier-General, Johnson Bamidele Olawumi and Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Sesan Sobowale, during a visitto the NYSC Head Quarters in Abuja, at the weekend.

L-R: Representative of Chairman, Panel of Assessors,(POA), Nigeria Media Merit Award, (NMMA), Mr. Dele Adetiba; Chairman, NMMA Board of Trustees, Engr. Vincent Maduka and Chairman, NMMA Administration, Mr. Yemi Akeju, at the inauguration of NMMA 2015 Panel of Assessors in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO:ADEMOLA AKINLABI

L-R: Representative of the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Wapada Balami; member, Nigeria Stroke Reference Group (NSRG), Dr. Eliezer Okirie; Protem Chairman of NSRG, Dr. Jacob Akoh; other members, Dr. Ibrahim Imam and Mrs. Rita Melifonwu, during the inauguration of NSRG in Abuja, recently. PHOTO: NAN

L-R: Assistant Brand Manager, Maltina, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Ms. Phoebe Larry-Izamoje; Brand Manager Goldberg, Mr. Mfon Bassey; Vice Chairman Ojude Oba organizing committee, Chief Olu Oboyejo; Chairman, Otunba Wahab Osinusi, and Corporate Affairs Manager, West, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Tayo Adelaja (right) at a press conference on Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu Ode recently, which Goldberg and Maltina brands are official sponsors.

Arty News

Friday, September 18, 2015

Rapper Eazy seeks support for new acts

apper Eazy is calling on notable stars to come to the aid of upcoming acts. Born Abdul Ismail Babatunde, the rapper in his early twenties describes the hardships faced by upcoming acts as worse than ever now given that unlike before when raw talents were assisted and refined, nowadays the talent isn’t even encouraged let alone assisted. The rapper began music professionally in 2013 but claims music has always been a part of him. Eazy who describes his music journey as a miracle said most of the artistes he began with have given up most especially those

with tremendous music talents due to lack of finance and encouragement. He went as far as citing the reasons why most of the hopefuls throw in the towel is because the superstars aren’t willing to help, forgetting they were once in the same shoes and it was someone who helped them. He also talked politics and godfatherism in the Nigerian music scene that every superstar has their successor and are hell bent on frustrating the efforts of every other artiste not affiliated with them. Eazy’s music idols include Olamide, the late DaGrin, MI and Don Jazzy.

Yemi Alade, Mercy Johnson for TAWA 2015

he Advisory Board of Mckinggs Media Productions and TREK magazine has released the official list of awardees for its most prestigious and stylish women celebration event, TREK AFRICAN WOMEN AWARDS (TAWA 2015). TREK African Women Awards is a continental showpiece geared at celebrating personalities who have excelled in different walks of life and led exemplary lifestyles. The maiden edition was hosted in 2014 a n d it assembled the crème de la crème of Africa with over 600 high profile personalities cutting across various spheres of life including Politics, Entertainment, Banking, Industry, Yemi Alade Judiciary, Media and Pageantry. According to the publisher of TREK Magazine, Oki Samson, the initiative of TAWA is to acknowledge and celebrate African women and other personalities with great impact to the society. The TAWA 2015 criteria focuses mainly on the personalities’ creativity, level of success recorded and degree of societal impact. A shortlist of recipients of TAWA 2015 include: Mrs. Ekaette Akpabio- former Akwa Ibom First Lady, Mrs. Ebelle Obiano- Anambra state, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode- Lagos State, Senator Dino Melaye, Don Jazzy, Joke Silver, Di’Ja, Simi, Reekado Banks, Samuel Wofai, Jackie Appiah, Mercy Johnson, Helen Paul, Anne Idibia, Hon. Funmi Tejuosho, Akofah to mention a few. Past

recipients of the prestigious award include Folorunsho Alakija, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Hon. Abike Dabiri, Yemi Alade and UBA amongst many others. With media support from several top media houses including Noir Bleu Concepts, TAWA 2015 promises to be an irresistible evening of glamour and fashion, awards, wine and dine and soulful music from award winning artistes. Also expected are First Ladies of states across Nigeria, top hovernment officials, celebrities, corporate personalities and beauty queens. Hosted by Gordons, M a d a m Kofo and Simi and music by Reekado Banks, Di’Ja, Akofah and several A-list acts, it is sure to be an unforgettable night. The event is scheduled for Sunday 20th September with the red carpet rolling at 3pm and event proper beginning at 5pm, the venue is Tafewa Balewa Square Banquet Hall, Race Course, Onikan, Victoria Island Lagos.

Mercy Johnson

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Triangle premieres in Abuja Regina Otokpa

ecently, movie lovers and some big wigs in the industry stormed the Silverbird Galleria for the premiere of the movie ‘Triangle’. Produced by Fiona Garba and directed by Chibuike Ibe, Triangle is a three dimensional movie about a set of triplets who fell in love with a man at the same time thereby causing lots of issues that threatens the peace, love and unity existing between them. The movie is also a platform to create awareness on the causes and dangers of drugs among drug users and its adverse and traumatic effect on the family. Speaking, the producer clad in cute black top on maroon pants, noted that ‘by three dimensional movie, I mean there is love, there is hatred and there is betrayal’. According to her: “There is also a part where we had to put in a lot of drugs to teach the public and to make them understand that drugs kills and if you do not stop it at an early stage you are just going to waste your life.” Taking a cue from the effect of third

party involvement which led to the ruin of a beautiful relationship in the movie, Fiona appealed to ladies not to place so much trust on people’s opinion especially friends saying “I want to use this medium to pass this message to girls out there that you do have a life but then you allow people to ride on your relationship, making you lose something beautiful that brought you so much joy and happiness.” Starring in Triangle are Melvin Oduah, Yvonne Okoro, Dandy Ish, Empress Njamah, Esther Audi, Bishop Imeh Umoh, Oma Iyasara, IK Ogbonna and the producer, Fiona Garba.

Susan Eniolorunda emerges Face of Culture

Susan Eniolorunda

Regina Otokpa

ormer Miss Democracy Tourism, Susan Eniolorunda is not done clinching crowns as a beauty queen, as she has succeeded in beating 22 ladies to emerge Miss Face of Culture in Nigeria alongside a brand new car over the weekend in Abuja. With more than a thousand crowns in the country, the project director Rowland Onwualah, maintains that Face of Culture in Nigeria was different from other beauty pageants as it targets reviving the nation’s culture which he stressed was going into extinction. Akeju According to him, it was a platform

through which Nigerian cultures could be revived through beauty, to promote showcase and also promote the rich indigenous cultures within and outside the country to enable the rest of the world catch a glimpse of their unique disposition. Onwualah said “The whole initiative is to unite us through culture the more because we found out that the Nigerian is being eroded everyday and if we do not do something very quick we might just lose it. “Our boys and girls are beginning to forget the Nigerian attire and what we represent, now everybody wants to go naked which is the western culture,” he added. Lamenting the frustration most pageantry organisers undergo in terms of low support, he noted that ‘Pageantry in Nigeria is hectic because nobody supports a baby project; people want to identify with adult projects that have stood the test of time it. This doesn’t encourage young entrepreneurs and minds to start off something useful.” The project director appealed to corporate bodies and government organisations to support projects targeted at impacting on society positively, so as to curb the growing rate of social vices due to lack of opportunity to explore creative dispositions. Also speaking, the event manager, Obasuyi Osas stressed that the pageant unique not only because it was a non bikini pageant but the models were groomed culturally in norms and values of the Nigerian people. “‘We are very mindful of what we showcase in terms of dressing and diverse cultures. The contestants are well groomed in culture and lives as members of the family where they are cultured in the way they should eat and behave.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, September 18, 2015

Arty News

Project Fame provided me platform to meet people –Ruky Olotu Ruky Olotu is the first-runner-up Project Fame Season 7 ( 2014); the talented female artiste talks about her new video ‘Show Them’ released by her group R-CUBE and other vital issues in this interview with REGINA OTOKPA. Excerpts:

You are youth corps member, a musician and an artiste. How do you combine these three personalities? That is not easy at all. Sometimes, I don’t even feel like I’m an artiste. Sometimes, I get uncomfortable and angry maybe if they just wake me up that I have to perform somewhere in a particular radio station and maybe I have my NYSC CDS the next morning; this is very annoying. It is not that easy to double that entire but I am hoping to be better and hoping to learn.

Can you tell us more about your life after Project Fame? It has been interesting, Project Fame provided me the platform to meet other people and really enter the music industry and because of that I was that, I was able to meet quite a number of celebrities and music stars. In all, it’s been good after Project Fame. For me, personally I’ve learned so much and become a bit comfortable. I’ve actually been happier after Project Fame and more confident and happier. Was Project Fame instrumental to your singing career? I did a couple of songs back in 2010 before the 2014 auditioning. Because I was still in school, I was not able to focus but I had already started singing but that also helped me because I was already doing music then I met people who now directed me to apply for Project Fame. How many albums do you have to your credit? I don’t have any album yet. We are still working on that. What we are trying to do is to at least bring a few singles that would circulate the market before we bring out the album. That is what we are doing at this level. Could you tell us more about the group R-CUBE? R-CUBE is a girl band group which consists of me, my sister and cousins Rouna and Rubunu, we just shot a video. I just released it last week and it is on promotional level and we are still trying to get more radio play. As soon as this single is out there in the market and people are hearing it, we may not even waste time before we will bring out more. What is the song all about? The song “Show Them” is basically a contract between me and the person that will wear the Versace dress that he bought from Aba market and the person who wears a Versace dress that he bought from a Versace shop. They will wear it and people might not even know the difference. They will wear it and will go to the same place and event and we were like, whatever you value and whatever you have, you should offer the world. You don’t have to go and kill but we should be content with what we have and show it out confidently. We highlighted everything like if I’m wearing a Brazilian hair or if I’m wearing a human hair, it doesn’t matter, it is your choice really. People are driving Mercedes Benz and you are entering Keke Napep, it doesn’t matter, Show Them. What do think is unique in your songs that will make you create impact in the music industry? First of all, we want to start by bringing our music with what people can see even if they are in primary school and we want to reach out to the younger group and to our age group as well. The thing that will make us stand out is because of the fusion in our music- how we mix the genres together because I’m more of the RnB, jazz and pop. People say I’m pop. My sister is RnB and Reggae and then my cousin is jazz and soul. Listening to our songs, you will hear the difference generally that we combine into one song to make it work. What challenges are you confronted with and how do you

Ruky Olotu

intend to overcome them? My present challenges right now is first of all circulation and getting my music to a wide range of listeners and viewers. Basically the marketing, I can say that is the biggest challenge and if I can get a setup that will really help push the songs out there, that would be really nice- people that have the right channel, big promoters, people that know what they are doing and have done it before. What are your plans, do you want to go fully into music or you want to practice your profession? My profession is still there and I intend to use what I studied in school to help me with some areas of what I’m doing but for now I want to focus on my music. After Project Fame, have you had other performances? Yes, we have performed in Freedom Park, Lagos, we have performed in Industry Line, we have performed in MTN Project Fame and a couple of other performances as a group. Do you have plans of remaining as a group or as Ruky? I’m Ruky in R-CUBE and we still want to express individuality so that when people are listening to us, they could differentiate who is who that is singing and also when we decide to do our singles people can choose anyone us they want to preferably listen to. In R-CUBE, we want to have dynamism- a particular way of handling things. Where do you hope to see Ruky in the next three years? MTV Award, BET Awards, Grammy Awards and others by God’s grace. I intend to have been able to gotten a name out there that when they hear a song, they will know I sang it and be able to reach very far even across Africa. I want my song to heard across, Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana etc.

People are driving Mercedes Benz and you are entering Keke NAPEP, it doesn’t matter, ‘Show Them’

So far have you faced any form of harassment in the industry? I’m very much aware of that and I don’t want to say that I’m dating but put myself in a situation whereby that wouldn’t happen or I might not come across that. So I’m that it wouldn’t happen to us and the fact that we are all girls, that may be a disadvantage but we want to dwell on the trend that we have as a group and see how we can build on that and avoid such. Who is or are your role models in the music industry both in Nigeria and outside? First of all, I have the Mary Mary Sisters. They had a huge influence on me while I was growing up and my younger sister. I have Grandy, Beyonce, Kelly Rowland, Mary Debrde. In Nigeria I would mention Eva, Waje and Omawumi. Are you planning to go for any reality show again in the future? No I don’t. Could you tell us more about yourself ? I studied Business Information Systems at the University of East London. I love to dance, to sing, and to make new cool friends. What advice do you have for the young ones who would like to tow your line? You think about what you want to do and what kind of song you want to sing about and believe that is your calling and if it is, don’t let anyone talk you out of it. Don’t let anything discourage you and push forward and put everything in the hands of God. Be positive, do good and never lose faith. If you believe, then you would see.

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Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sights and sounds of Ogah Ocheche

WITH AGENCY REPORTS

Beautiful locale with cultural mix of Creoles, Africans, Amerindians and Europeans

rinidad and Tobago is a twin island country off the northern edge of South America, lying just off the coast of north-eastern Venezuela and south of Grenada in the Lesser Antilles. Close to Venezuela, Trinidad is the busier of the two and the southernmost of all the West Indian islands. In the bustling capital, Port of Spain, on Trinidad’s northwest coast, travelers will find some impressive examples of colonial and Renaissance-style architecture, as well as an eclectic cultural mix of Creoles, Africans, Amerindians, Europeans, and East Indians. Popular palm-fringed beaches are nearby and three forest-cloaked mountain ranges dissect the island, creating some striking landscapes. Naturally beautiful Tobago is Trinidad’s less-developed younger sister. Rainforests, reefs, and beautiful white sand beaches are the prime attractions here with many opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Usually considered part of the Caribbean, it shares maritime boundaries with other nations including Barbados to the northeast, Grenada to the northwest, Guyana to the southeast, and Venezuela to the south and west. The country covers an area of 5,128 square kilometres (1,980 sq mi) and consists of two main islands, Trinidad and Tobago, with numerous smaller landforms. The two main islands are divided into nine regions, and one ward. Sangre Grande is the largest of the country’s nine regions, comprising about 18% of the total area and 10% of the total population of the country. The nation lies outside of the hurricane belt. The island of Trinidad was a Spanish colony from the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1498 to the capitulation of the Spanish Governor, Don José Maria Chacón, on the arrival of a British fleet of 18 warships on 18 February 1797. During the same period, the island of Tobago changed hands among Spanish, British, French, Dutch and Courlander colonizers. Trinidad and Tobago (remaining separate until 1889) were ceded to Britain in 1802 under the Treaty of Amiens. The country Trinidad and Tobago obtained independence in 1962, becoming a republic in 1976. Unlike most of the English-speaking Caribbean, the country’s economy is primarily industrial, with an emphasis on petroleum and petrochemicals. The country is also one of the wealthiest in the Caribbean, due to its large reserves of oil and gas. Trinidad and Tobago is known for its Carnival and is the birthplace of steelpan, limbo, and the music styles of calypso, soca and chutney. Trinidad and Tobago lie on the continental shelf of South America, and is thus geologically considered to lie entirely in South America. However, the West Indies are generally considered to be part of North America, and as the language and cultural links of Trinidad and Tobago are not to South America but to the rest of the English-speaking Caribbean nations,

City of Port of Spain the nation is often treated as part of North America. The terrain of the islands is a mixture of mountains and plains. The highest point in the country is found on the Northern Range at El Cerro del Aripo, which is 940 metres (3,080 ft) above sea level. As of 2005, most (96%) of the country’s 1.3 million inhabitants reside on the island of Trinidad with the remainder (4%) in Tobago. The ethnic composition of Trinidad and Tobago reflects a history of conquest and immigration.

Climate The climate is tropical. There are two seasons annually: the dry season for the first six months of the year, and the rainy season in the second half of the year. Winds are predominantly from the northeast and are dominated by the northeast trade winds. Unlike most of the other Caribbean islands, both Trinidad and Tobago have frequently escaped the wrath of major devastating hurricanes, including Hurricane Ivan, the most powerful storm to have passed close to the islands in recent history, in September 2004.

Language English is the country’s official language (the local variety of standard English is Trinidadian English or more properly, Trinidad and Tobago Standard English (TTSE)), but the main spoken language is either of two English-based creole languages (Trinidadian Creole or Tobagonian Creole), which reflects the Amerindian, European, African, and Asian heritage of the nation. Both creoles contain elements from a variety of African languages; Trinidadian English Creole, however, is also influenced by French and French Creole

(Patois). Spanish is estimated to be spoken by around 5% of the population and has been promoted by recent governments as a “first foreign language”.

Culture Trinidad and Tobago is the birthplace of calypso music and the steelpan, which is widely claimed in Trinidad and Tobago to be the only acoustic musical instrument invented during the 20th century. Trinidad is also the birthplace of Soca music, Chutney music, Parang, and Carnival (in the form that has been widely copied in the Caribbean and around the world). The diverse cultural and religious background also allows for many festivities and ceremonies throughout the year such as Carnival, Diwali, and Eid festivities. Trinidad and Tobago claims two Nobel Prize-winning authors, V. S. Naipaul and St Lucian-born Derek Walcott (who founded the Trinidad Theatre Workshop, working and raising a family in Trinidad for much of his career). Edmundo Ros, the “King of Latin American Music”, was born in Port of Spain. Designer Peter Minshall is renowned not only for his Carnival costumes but also for his role in opening ceremonies of the Barcelona Olympics, the 1994 Football World Cup, the 1996 Summer Olympics, and the 2002 Winter Olympics, for which he won an Emmy Award. Geoffrey Holder (brother of Boscoe Holder) and Heather Headley are two Trinidad-born artists who have won Tony Awards for theatre. Holder also has a distinguished film career, and Headley has won a Grammy Award as well. Recording artists Billy Ocean and Nicki Minaj are also Trinidadian. Interestingly, three actors who appeared on Will Smith’s sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air are of Trini-

dadian descent: Tatyana Ali and Alfonso Ribeiro were series regulars as Will’s cousins Ashley and Carlton, respectively, while Nia Long played Will’s girlfriend Lisa. Foxy Brown, Dean Marshall, Sommore, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Gabrielle Reece, pop singer Haddaway, Tracy Quan, Mike Bibby, Lauryn Williams, Fresh Kid Ice, and Roy Hibbert are all of Trinidadian descent. Trinidad and Tobago also has the distinction of being the smallest country to have two Miss Universe titleholders and the first Black women ever to win: Janelle Commissiong in 1977 and Wendy Fitzwilliam in 1998, and one Miss World titleholder Giselle LaRonde.

Cuisine Trinidad and Tobago cuisine is indicative of the blends of Indian, African, Creole, Amerindian, European, Chinese and Lebanese gastronomic influences. Popular Breakfast Fast Food - sada roti which is usually served with: Fried or curry Bodi(long beans), Baigan choka (roasted eggplant), Tomato Choka (Roasted Tomatoes), Pumpkin Talkari (pumpkin simmered in garlic, onion, cumin) Aloo choka (Potatoes fried with onion and garlic), fried Plaintain, Stew chicken liver or gizzard, and the popular bake and shark. A very popular and nationally well known dish with distinctly African roots is callaloo, a creamy and spicy side dish made of dasheen or Taro leaves, okra known locally as Okro, crab or pigtails, thyme, coconut milk and shado beni (from “Chardon Bénit,”French thistle or Fitweed) or bhandhanya (Hindi bandh dhanya, “closed cilantro”) or culantro.

Tourist Attractions In Trinidad And Tobago Maracas Bay, Trinidad

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, September 18, 2015

Trinidad and Tobago About 40 minutes drive northeast from Port of Spain, Maracas Bay is one of Trinidad’s most famous beaches. A deep bay protects this palm-fringed strip of golden sand, one of the most beautiful beaches close to the city. From Port of Spain, the scenic drive through mountainous rainforest provides breathtaking views of lush peninsulas jutting into the sea. Food vendors and showers are available by the beach.

Pigeon Point, Tobago Many consider the white-sands and aqua seas of Pigeon Point to be the most beautiful beach on Tobago. Also known as the Pigeon Point Heritage Park, this popular stretch of coral-sand coast requires an entrance fee and encompasses snack bars, shops, change rooms, and thatch-covered seating. Sun loungers are also available for rent. Boats leave from here to tour nearby reefs.

Port of Spain, Trinidad Capital of the nation, this bustling business center boasts many fine examples of colonial-style architecture as well as a few popular tourist attractions. Architectural highlights include the impressive Renaissance-style Red House Parliament in Woodford Square, and the “Magnificent Seven,” a group of elegant mansions along the sprawling green space of Queen’s Park Savannah. Near this park, visitors will also find the Botanical Gardens bordering the president’s grand residence, and the

Paria waterfall and pool

National Museum and Art Gallery with exhibits on local art, history, and culture. Caroni Bird Sanctuary, Trinidad Caroni Bird Sanctuary, just south of Port of Spain, is a nirvana for nature lovers. This series of mangrove-lined waterways is the nesting place of the Scarlet Ibis, the national bird of Trinidad and Tobago. Afternoon boat tours cruise the estuaries in search of these spectacular flamecolored birds as they descend on the trees in large flocks. The area is rich in biodiversity and visitors may also spot many other species of wildlife such as herons, egrets, cormorants, tree boas, anteaters, and caimans. Fishing and photography tours are also available.

Asa Wright Nature Centre & Lodge, Trinidad A paradise for birders, the Asa Wright Nature Centre & Lodge encompasses 1,500 acres of dense forest in the Arima and Aripo Valleys. Hummingbirds, Woodcreepers, Pygmy Owls, Trogons, and the rare nocturnal Oilbird are just some of the avian species spotted at this former cocoa, coffee, and citrus plantation. Income from guests funds conservation of the surrounding forest, new land purchases, and environmental educational programs.

Little Tobago Island On the east end of Tobago, across from Speyside, Little Tobago Island is an uninhabited bird sanctuary with several kilometers of trails. The most spectacular views are from the hills overlooking

the seaward direction where Red-footed Boobies and Frigate birds swoop in large flocks. Glass-bottomed boats whisk visitors to the island, revealing the coral reefs below as they circle past the smaller Goat Island in Tyrrel’s Bay. Tours often include snorkeling on the nearby reef and a hike to the island’s peak.

Mount St. Benedict Monastery, Trinidad Rising above the Northern Range Hills over Tunapuna, the red-roofed church tower of Mount St. Benedict Monastery is one of the most striking landmarks east of Port of Spain. Benedictine monks established this community in 1912, and the monastery is the largest and oldest in the Caribbean. Founded on the principles of self-sufficiency and hospitality to strangers, the monastery complex encompasses religious buildings, a farm, an apiary, a home for the aged, a rehabilitation center, a vocational school, and guesthouse. Hiking and birding opportunities abound in the surrounding forest, and the monastery is famous for its yogurt, jams, and jellies filled with locally-grown fruit.

Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust, Trinidad The middle of an oil refinery may seem an odd place for a nature sanctuary, but this is one of the best bird viewing spots in Trinidad. Surrounded by lush tropical foliage, the 30-hectare sanctuary encompasses an interpretive center and nature trails along lily-topped lakes where visitors may spot species such as the Scarlet Ibis,

Escape

Black-bellied Whistling Duck, and Whitecheeked Pintail. The Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust protects the sanctuary and operates rehabilitation and captive breeding programs for endangered species.

Main Ridge Forest Reserve, Tobago Rich in biodiversity, the Main Ridge Forest Reserve is purportedly the oldest legally protected forest in the Western Hemisphere. The reserve harbors more than half of the island’s bird species, including the Blue-backed Manakin, Collared Trogon, and many species of hummingbirds. Hiking through the lush foliage, nature lovers may also spot frogs, lizards, snakes, and butterflies. The road through the reserve from north to south, near the eastern end of Tobago, is one of the more scenic ways to see the forest. At the top of the ridge, visitors will find hiking trails and freelance guides.

Fort King George and Tobago Museum, Tobago Built in the 1780s overlooking Scarborough Bay, Fort King George offers both a good view of the town and a parklike tranquillity with some magnificent trees. Still surviving are remnants of the original brick and stone walls, an early prison, the officers’ mess, several cannons, and a lighthouse. Fort King George is the most well-preserved fort on the island. Also on the grounds, The Tobago Museum displays collections of antique maps, African Art, Amerindian artefacts, coins, and shells.

Promoting Sustainable Energy

Trinidad’s Maracas Beach

Following the ugly incidents of armed robbery attacks on luxury buses in recent time, which have cost passengers their lives and properties, the Nigeria Police have promised maximum security for luxury bus operators and travellers across the country. Adejuwon Osunnuyi writes

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, September 18, 2015

Police reassure luxury bus drivers of robbery-free voyages

‘

We are greatly worried that despite

the above commendable efforts of the IG in the fight against crime, the incidence of armed robbery attacks have increased and even extended to day operations

‘

motional outbursts pervaded the hitherto quiet ambience of Ajao Estate, Isolo-Lagos abode of a 16-yearold school girl (names withheld) as she narrated how she luckily escaped being gang- raped during penultimate Saturday’s robbery attack on one of the luxury buses plying the Ijebu/Ode/Ore expressway route. According to the school girl, who was returning to Lagos along other girls, in the luxury bus, the gunmen, carried out the reported rape out of frustration, when they discovered that their victims were students and not business women who were possibly travelling to purchase goods in Lagos. But for sheer providence through her unexpected menstruation, she would have ended up being raped along other girls by the robbers. She recalled “I was sleeping and did not know how the bus was intercepted. But what woke me up was a bark and the next thing I noticed was that we were inside the forest. “At that point, I started reciting my rosary on protection. Our phones were first collected and then cash. I was just with N1,200 out of which I was to buy recharge card to contact my parents on approaching Lagos. That, they collected. “We were thereafter asked to lie down. It was at that point that they discovered we were students and one of them shouted in pidgin English “so na because of these small children we dey do all this wahala? “Then, they started approaching us saying we should pull off our clothes. But one of them challenged the person that said so, asking if he did not realise we were children and it resulted in a shouting match between them. “As the quarrel was on, another member of the gang came to me and said I should strip naked, pointing his long gun at me. I cried and begged him to have mercy on me but he didn’t listen . “Out of fear of being shot, I pulled my underwear, only to discover I was already soaked in

Arase

blood. I did not know what got into me then. But the next statement that came out from me was that one of them had already done it and I started crying. He pointed his touch light and said ‘you want talk say you never do am before?’ and he went away. I do not know what would have happened to me had my menstrual flow not occurred”, she said, shivering from the thought of the unexpected. Though she was lucky, but about 16 other girls were not as they were reportedly gang raped. Aside the Ijebu/Ode/Ore expressway incident, it seems to have become a daily occurrence as many travellers especially those on luxury buses have reportedly become victims of armed robbery attacks. Obviously, since most of the buses prefer to embark on night journey because traveling hours are unnecessarily prolonged during the day as a result of traffic congestions, the robbers cash in on the opportunities by waylaying the buses and robbing the passengers blindly of their cash

and other belongings without any help at sight. Hence, worried by the incessant robbery attacks, it didn’t come as a surprise when owners of long distance luxury buses plying various routes across the country stormed the InspectorGeneral of Police, Solomon Arase’s office seeking for intervention. While calling on the IGP to immediately deploy anti-crime teams that will provide day and night surveillance on the highways to stem the rising cases of armed robbery, the bus owners, under the aegis of the Association of Luxury Bus Owners of Nigeria, ALBON, urged the police to investigate the frequent robbery attacks targeted at their vehicles and the hapless passengers. Led by the National President of ALBON, Sir Dan Okemuo, the bus owners lauded the efforts so far made by the Inspector-General to address the problem of insecurity since his assumption of office a few months ago, adding, however, that with regular patrol, crime on the highways “would be drastically reduced, if not totally eliminated.” The association identified some of the routes on which its

members’ buses and “innocent passengers have become victims of targeted vicious armed robbery attacks” as: Jos-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi stretch (especially at Kadoroko); Makurdi-Alaide-Oturukpo Obollo-9th Mile (especially at Ugbokolo); Okene-Lokoja Road; Abuja-Kaduna-Zaira-Kano Highway; and Lagos-Ibadan-Owo-Okene Road. Okemuo said other routes where robbers have been laying siege on luxury buses and travellers are Lagos-Shagamu-Benin, Benin by-pass (even in the day time); Jos-Nasarawa-Keffi-Abuja Road; and Onitsha-9th MileObollo stretch. The ALBON delegation stated: “Indeed, we note with admiration the professionalism, courage and determination the Inspector-General has demonstrated in policing our nation within this short period of his assumption of office. “We are greatly worried that despite the above commendable efforts of the IG in the fight against crime, the incidence of armed robbery attacks have increased and even extended to day operations. Armed robbery attacks have discouraged night travels and now locked the nation’s economy to an eight-hour

shift. “This seriously impedes productivity and affects our businesses adversely. “Regardless of this ugly situation, the association strongly believes that the office of the Inspector-General is capable and in position to put a stop to the menace of armed robbery attacks on the aforementioned roads.” Reacting to their request, IGP Arase promised maximum security for luxury bus operators and travellers across the country. The IG said the problem of armed robbery along the highways would be tackled head long. Arase further expressed police commitment to tackling all forms of criminality in the country through intelligence-led policing. In another development, drivers of luxurious buses blocked the Ife- Ilesa Expressway to protest the robbery incident, which they said, happened on the road over night. One of the motorists trapped in the traffic congestion caused by the blockage of the road, Sanya, revealed that the protest started around 4am on Monday. Sanya said the protesting drivers said robbery cases were frequent on the road and vowed not to leave the road until the state governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, came to address them. He said the policemen, who arrived at the scene to restore order, were chased away by the irate drivers, who demanded to see the commissioner of police. Speaking with National Mirror in an interview on how to combat the reoccurring robbery incidents on our roads, a security expert, Kayode Odukoya urged passengers to always avoid travelling at night. According to Odukoya, “travellers should adopt the new methods of money transfer to discourage robbery cases on our roads. Passengers should also keep their traveling plans secret as much as possible as a way of fostering safety.” He noted that security personnel trained to combat armed robbers should be used as escorts and secret intelligent personnel be employed by transport companies to monitor the activities of their workers as well as commuters patronising them. “Metal screening equipments should also be used at the point of embankment not only for the passengers but as well as their

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, September 18, 2015

FRSC boss urges petrol marketers on safety standard

Kia dazzles auto lovers with bulletproof Quoris

he Corps Marsha of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Boboye Oyeyemi has asked the Independent Petroleum Marketers to upgrade their safety standards in line with global best practice in conveying petroleum products. Speaking at the Transport Service Providers’ Training Workshop held at the Head office of Oando Nigeria Plc Apapa, Lagos, Oyeyemi said safety standard must not be compromised on the altar of profit making. According to a statement made available by Bisi Kazeem, Head, Media Relations and Strategy, the Corps Marshal opined that Nigeria has reached a stage where all stakeholders must take issues of road safety serious by observing the safety standards set to guarantee safety of lives and property. He expressed dissatisfaction that most of the crashes involving tankers/trailers in the country were avoidable as the vehicles were old, mechanically dysfunctional while the drivers were poorly trained with some having poor eye sight and attitudes that see road crashes from fatalistic beliefs. Oyeyemi therefore called on stakeholders to come together to demonstrate commitment to issues of road safety by adopting scientific safety measures in their operations. “It is unprecedented in the history of this country that the number of tanker/trailer crashes as well as casualties that were recorded this year ever happened,” he stated. “In June 2015, we recorded 16 crashes involving tankers/trailers, while that of Onitsha alone claimed 49 lives. “The other crashes that occurred in Lagos and other parts of the country not only claimed precious lives, but destroyed houses and vehicles in the inferno that threw the entire nation into state of mourning,” he added. Giving an overview of the crash situation globally, Oyeyemi disclosed that 1.3 million people die annually from road crashes, while 50 million suffer various degree of injuries with Nigeria accounting for 10, 380 of the crashes in 2014. “5,596 people died last year in the country from road crashes,

megacrown1@yahoo.com 08025237926

Oyeyemi

while 32,089 suffered injuries and 16, 779 vehicles were involved,” he further stated. Expressing the concern of the FRSC with the social and economic losses from the crashes, most of which he said could have been avoided, with right attitudes and commitment to issues of road safety, the Corps Marshal commended the Major Petroleum Marketers in the country for taking issues of safety serious in their operations, pointing out that the various safety measures they have taken to avert tanker crashes, especially fuel spillage through the use of “Safety Valves” has paid off. “The use of Safety Valves in tankers ensures that even if a crash occurs, the fuel would not spill on the ground to cause further havoc,” he said. “It is possible that despite our best efforts, road crashes can still occur, but if adequate safety measures had been taken and the driver is in proper mental and physical state, the consequences would be minimal. That is why whenever crashes involving tankers belonging to Major Petroleum Markers occurred and the tank fell, they would not spill fuel on the ground, because the tankers are normally fitted with safety valves which prevent fuel from spilling,” he further stated. Speaking on the policy measures put in place by the FRSC to avoid crashes involving haulage vehicles, Oyeyemi stated that Road Transport Safety Standardisation Scheme (RTSSS), which the Corps launched in 2007 was aimed at creating safe environment for fleet operators. According to him, the Scheme requires the employment of a Safety Manager by every fleet

operator with over five vehicles in his fleet to ensure observance of safety rules and regulations by the drivers of the company. He further stressed that the FRSC organised the National Summit on haulage operation early in the year in furtherance of its consultation with the relevant stakeholders who identified the need for enforcement, retraining and recertification of tanker/trailer drivers as antidotes to the perennial tanker crashes. “We launched Operation Scorpion in July specifically against the truck and trailer drivers who indulge in the contravention of traffic rules and regulations leading to the prosecution of some of the offenders at the Mobile Courts. “We deployed 3,000 of our personnel for that operation which we flagged off in Lagos,” he stated. “During the first phase of the operation, 2,261 trailer and truck drivers were arrested with 32,089 offences out of which over 1,000 of the those apprehended were prosecuted at the Mobile Courts,” Oyeyemi stated. In order to sustain the campaign against carnage involving tankers/trailers, Oyeyemi called on stakeholders in the transport industry to join hands with the FRSC to tackle the challenges of road safety in support of the development efforts of the present administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, saying that road safety and development are inter-related. “Every Major Petroleum Marketer must endeavour to key into the Road Transport Standardisation Scheme of the FRSC and ensure that their drivers are subjected to regular training and retraining programmes to improve their knowledge of modern driving techniques.

ith a different beat and an enhanced armoured technology against munitions attacks, Kia Motors Nigeria has created a niche in the super-luxury market with the introduction of the shatterproof, grenade resistant, opaque anti-blast armour, and protective coated reinforced bulletproof Kia Quoris for high-net-worth individuals and government officials. The bulletproof Kia Quoris currently selling at N39.6M has enjoyed an impressive outing and gained momentum amongst top chief executive officers and government officials. It’s armour-plating is rated as one of the best bulletproof cars in the country with a sniper resistant roof fitted with special steel and shatterproof glass. “The armoured luxury sedan handily gets a turbo-charged 3.8-litre V6 and boasts enough protective capability to defend against rifle fire from military

weapons, hand grenades, explosive charges, amongst others. High-tech fibres and enhanced materials are used to implement the armouring process with top notch installation techniques to provide greater protection and exhilarating experience for our well-heeled, security-conscious customers” said, Sandeep Malhotra, Chief Commercial Officer, Kia Motors Nigeria. Kia Quoris armoured luxury sedan provides an exceptional level of protection from the impact of collisions for all occupants and is outfitted with high-performance run-flat-tire inserts. The springs, shock absorbers, role and torsion bars and brake system are replaced with new uprated parts. The ratings of these components are measured to provide the optimum balance in handling so as not to affect the overhaul driving dynamics of the reinforced luxury sedan from the standard model.

LASTMA seeks unions’ support in traffic control

s part of efforts to ensure smooth ride within the state metropolis, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA has unveiled its plan to meet and engage all stakeholders in the management and control of traffic in order to ameliorate daily hardship experience on the roads. General Manager LASTMA, Bashir Braimah who led the top officials of the agency on traffic management assessment lamented the nonchalant attitude of truck and commercial drivers plying Apapa Oshodi expressway who are indifferent to the plight of other road users with little or no regard for the road traffic law. At The MRS Truck Staging Area along Oshodi Apapa expressway, Tanker Trucks were indiscriminately parked on the dual carriage with the excuse of awaiting the collection of fuel loading teller leading to the total

blockage of other road users’ access to the road. The LASTMA chief condemned this act of impunity and charged the Petroleum Union Drivers (PTD) to cue into the vision of the government and reciprocate the kind gesture of the government on non enforcement policy by obeying road traffic laws and personnel who are working round the clock to ensure free flow of traffic on Lagos roads. He said traffic management is a collective responsibility and thereby seek for the corporation and support of the unions in tackling the menace. In his reaction, Joseph Okpara an executive of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) expressed displeasure on the conduct of his members and expressed the readiness of his union to partner with LASTMA in finding a lasting solution to the perennial traffic situation associated with the axis.

Cocktail

Friday, September 18, 2015

Goats attack forces rail closure

he U.S. Forest Service has temporarily closed a northern Idaho hiking trail over concerns about aggressive mountain goats after one animal bit a hiker and others reportedly tried to head-butt or charge visitors. Scotchman Peak Trail, which leads to the summit of Bonner County’s tallest mountain, was closed on Wednesday, according to reports. Visitors to the trail have been offering food to the goats or even allowing them to eat from their hands, the Forest Service said, adding that the animals had

behaved aggressively in an attempt to get food from humans. “The temporary closure is intended to allow time for the goats to find other sources of food beyond handouts provided by hikers and to reduce their willingness to approach humans,” Idaho Panhandle National Forests spokesman, Jason Kirchner said in a statement. There have been reports of goats trying to head-butt or charge hikers. One hiker was bitten by a goat in June and required multiple stitches, the Forest Service also said.

Cars in Reno, Nevada damaged by watermelons

olice said yesterday that vandals have been lobbing watermelons at cars in a Reno, Nevada, neighbourhood. Reports said Sunday night’s vandalism happened in Angelique Ybarra’s northwest Reno neighborhood. A watermelon dented the side of her car in

July, and she said the new attack shattered glass and splattered fruit throughout her vehicle. “It’s an unfortunate and sad incident and it has cost me almost $1, 000,” Ybarra lamented. The reports said several other cars were also hit by the melons.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Oddities Oddities

Court keeps ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’ records sealed

ll the medical records of the female serial killer who inspired the play and film “Arsenic and Old Lace” will remain sealed forever, Connecticut’s Supreme Court ruled yesterday, rejecting a request to open some of them half a century after her death. A Connecticut journalist planning a book on Amy Archer Gilligan, who was sentenced to life in prison in 1919 after admitting to poisoning one of her husbands as well as a resident of a nursing home where she worked by putting arsenic in their food, had requested the release of the documents. Gilligan died in 1962 at age 93 in a state psychiatric hospital. The journalist, Rob Robillard, had asked the court to order the release of all her records. The state’s Freedom of Information Commission had asked for a compromise solution: releasing

dental and medical records but keeping the psychiatric records private. In a 5-2 vote, the court de-

cided to release none of the documents, saying Connecticut’s freedom of information law does not apply to medical

A poster of the Arsenic and Old Lace film

records associated with a psychiatric facility. “Our understanding of the broad veil of secrecy created by the psychiatrist-patient privilege also supports our conclusion that medical and dental records that are created by an inpatient mental health facility during the treatment of a patient are exempt,” Justice Dennis Eveleigh wrote. “The majority’s resolution of this case yields a needless collision between two competing statutory mandates,” justices Andrew McDonald and Richard Palmer also wrote, adding, “Rather than charting a path that balances and accommodates both of these statutory priorities, the majority construes one to vanquish the other and, in the process, deviates significantly from critical principles at the core of open government.”

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business Maritime

Customs administration: The hurdles ahead of new Comptroller General The appointment of Col. Hameed Ali, as Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service remains one of the most controversial appointments made so far made by the President Buhari-led administration in the past three months. As the new helmsman resumes office this week, analysts believe that given the current dynamics of modernised Customs administration globally, he is set to contend with enormous hurdles in the task of consolidating on modest gains of the recent reforms in the maritime sector. FRANCIS EZEM reports.

he anxiety and euphoria that greeted the recent appointment of Col. Hameed Ali (rtd.) to head the Nigeria Customs Service may have come and gone, but what may never be wished away is the fact that the new Comptroller General would have to settle down to work, given the high expectation not only of the shipping public but also the Federal Government that counted him worthy to have the plum job. This is given the military background of the retired Army Officer, which is quite distinct and different from a modern customs administration, which is entirely Information Communication Technology IT, driven. It is also a well known fact that Customs Administrations of the 21st Century have become tools for fiscal policy implementation and trade facilitation and the Nigeria Customs Service of today is not left out of this trend, in fact it ranks high not only in Africa but also globally. There is no gain saying therefore that the service has in the last 10 years undergone series of reforms, not only in terms of manpower development especially in the areas of valuation and interpretation of the various HS Codes, the service has also deployed modern technology, which is in tandem with modern Customs Administration. For instance, from the former Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA 2.7), which is the limited version, the service has migrated to the ASYCUDA + +, which is the 3.0 model, which is globally compliant ans acceptable. This development has simplified the operations of the service. With the help of the ASYCUDA 3.0 model coupled with the establishment of the Data Trader Input DTI Cafes, clearing agents and freight forwarders can now make their declarations online real time without necessarily going to the Customs Processing Centre CPC. Even beyond this, the service has taken its IT reforms to

a higher pedestal. This follows the takeover of the Destination Inspection Scheme previously handled by three service providers comprising Cotecna Destination Inspection Limited, SGS and Global Scansystem Limited. This has necessitated the establishment of the Nigerian Trade Portal, also called the Ruling Centre. This centre enables the management to monitor all declarations across the 25 area commands of the service from the portal located in Abuja. Another major component of this is the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report PAAR, which enables the importers begin the process of clearance of their imported cargo even before the arrival of the consignment. Under this system, Shipping companies are expected to send their shipping manifest online as against the former manMikuriya ual system, which wastes a lot of time. also a core responsibility of the looked at as ‘very corrupt’, while This in a nut shell are a few of service, has the capacity to in- the new CG is looked at as a ‘saint’, the IT-reforms undergone by the crease participation of national who have come to ‘exorcise’ the service. This is also a Customs ser- industries in the global market entire service of their corrupt tenvice being handed over to military place, encourage investment and dencies. officer, who might not be conver- development of local industries He however noted that how the sant with all these systems. increase participation of Small rest of the officers and men of the These therefore pose a great and Medium Enterprises in in- service would respond to this perchallenge for the new helms man, ternational trade cannot be over ception depended largely on the who needs to integrate himself emphasized”, he said. body language of the new CG, who into this rather different strange Another stakeholder, who might be seen as a complete ‘outterrain, considering his military spoke on the condition of ano- sider’. background. nymity, noted that a major chalBut ultimately, the new CG, who It was probably in view of these lenge currently facing the new is seen as a sort of sole administrastartling realities that President CG has to do with the Federal tor, needs the support and cooperaof the National Association of Government’s anti-corruption tion of the officers and men of the Government Approved Freight campaign. service to succeed in this crucial Forwarders NAGAFF, Chief EuAccording to him, though assignment. This is because it is gene Nweke observed shortly af- there is nothing wrong in the not possible for the new CG to unter the appointment of the new government’s decision to sanitise derstand all the techniques of the CG that the overall strategic role the system, the rest of the officers job, which have taken career ofof the Customs Service is a cata- and men of the service might be ficers several decades of training lyst not only for national economic growth and development, but it is not possible for the new also for security and facilitation of trade. to understand all the According to him, the responsibilities of modern Customs Adtechniques of the job which ministrations are becoming more have taken career officers complex and ever dynamic, and now transcend revenue collection, several decades of training and border controls, security and antismuggling. learning on the job to know no “Furthermore, the importance matter how smart or intelligent of promoting effective and efficient clearance process, which is

and learning on the job to know, no matter how smart or intelligent. This was probably why the new CG on assumption of duty, addressed the high echelon of the service, during which he sought their support and cooperation. He identified three core elements of his mandate, which include reform, restructure it and increase the revenue generation and therefore pleaded with the officers and men not to see or treat him as a stranger. Overall, the new CG would be assessed based on his ability or otherwise to handle these hurdles. He would also have to grapple with sustaining the tempo of the global recognisation the Nigeria Customs has attained, especially given that the immediate past CG, Alhaji Abdullahi Dikko was elected Vice Chairman of World Customs Organisation WCO, West and Central Africa Region; chairman, African Region of Customs Administrations and chairman, Economic Community of West African States ECOWAS, Customs Administrations. As to whether and how far he would go in addressing these challenges, only time will tell.

Business Maritime

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Expert warns against government’s involvement in refloating national carrier STORIES: FRANCIS EZEM

foremost Master Mariner and chairman of Genesis Worldwide Shipping, one of the few surviving indigenous shipping companies, Captain Emmanuel Ihenacho has warned against any form of involvement by the Federal Government in the proposed re-floating of the nation’s National Carrier. The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA, under the immediate past Director General, Dr. Patrick Akpobolokemi had proposed a refloating of a National Shipping Carrier to replace the defunct Nigerian National Shipping Line NNSL, under a public-private sector arrangement. Captain Ihenacho, who spoke in an interview, however observed that any form of government’s involvement in the refloating of the national carrier might spell doom for the new company, given Nigerian government failure in running companies across different sectors of the economy. According to him, the Nigerian government contributed significantly to the demise of the NNSL, which at a point in time had nearly 30 ocean going vessels due to its direct involvement in the day to day running of the company. He argued that in as much as it is desirable for the country to own a national carrier, government’s involvement should stop only at providing the enabling environment for the business to thrive. “Nigeria can have a national carrier that is in private sector owned because everybody’s business is nobody business. If you run a shipping line at the center, it doesn’t really belong to anybody. Everybody is interested in what they can get from it and not what will grow the business”, he said. He also questioned: “Why would the government want to be involved. Which government-owned shipping lines do you see in other parts of the world today? They do not exist anymore because there is no need for that. The private sector operators are the ones that provide such shipping services, what

the government does is to make sure they give the necessary support to the industry to make it survive”. He cited the example in Europe, where the shipyards have stopped building ships anymore not because they suddenly lost the technical capacity to build ships, but because the cost structures are such that it is cheaper for them to build a ship in Korea than for them to build it in their homes and so they stopped building ships. It was gathered that what these shipyards in Europe do is only to specify to the Koreans and Chinese to build for them because it is cheaper and thus makes

Customs special squad impounds N38m contraband poultry products

he special squad of the Nigeria Customs Service code named ‘Operation Hawk Descend” and targeted at ridding the country of smuggled poultry products has impounded a total of 8,408 cartons of the contraband products. The special squad was set up about two months ago to curb the increasing influx of the contraband goods, which apart from posing serious health hazards to Nigerian, also poses a threat to local industry. A statement by the Deputy National Public Relations Officer of the service, Mr. Joseph Attah, said that the contraband poultry products were seized across the four major commands in the South –Western parts of the country. These commands cover the Federal Operations Unit Zone A, Ikeja, which accounts for 4, 412 cartons of the products valued at N19.9 million while the Ogun Command accounts for 2, 213 cartons estimated at N9.9million. Others include the Seme command, which accounts for 200 cartons valued at N900, 000 while the Western Marine Command, Lagos axis accounts for 1,583 cartons valued at N7.1million, bringing to a total of 8, 408 cartons with a total value of N37.8 million.

Jauro, DG NIMASA

Captain Iheanacho (Rtd)

It was gathered that these contraband frozen products were impounded at different locations along the South Western borders of Nigeria. They include Badagry/Yekeme and Seme Ashipa Creeks in Badagry Seme axis, Seme, Gbaji and Owode Creeks in Lagos and Idiroko axis. Attah however assured that the new Comptroller General of the service, Col. Hameed Ali Rtd would leave no stone unturned in his efforts to rid the nation’s markets of smuggled contraband poultry products. The new CG had on assumption of office last week, reaffirmed the service’s commitment to arresting and prosecuting anyone caught in the act of smuggling, adding that all revenue leakages will be appropriately blocked. He had also said that every act of economic sabotage including false declarations, deliberate misapplication of the tariff, undervaluation and concealment would be dealt with decisively. Ali however called on all stakeholders to support the service in order to achieve its mandate towards the Federal Government’s resolve to secure the nation, boost the economy and create job opportunities for the youths.

more business sense to do that. On the ageing of most master mariners in the country, he noted that re-floating a national would be the easiest way of building a crop of young and competent Nigerians that would replace the aged workforce, most of which were trained during the time of the NNSL. He also made a strong case for the proper and adequate funding of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria MAN, located in Oron, Akwa Ibom State so that it would be dedicated to developing skills for people who work onboard ships.

Customs special squad impounds N38m contraband poultry products

The special squad was set up about two months ago to curb the increasing influx of the contraband goods, which apart from posing serious health hazards to Nigerian, also poses a threat to local industry. A statement by the Deputy National Public Relations Officer of the service, Mr. Joseph Attah, said that the contraband poultry products were seized across the four major commands in the South –Western parts of the country. These commands cover the Federal Operations Unit Zone A, Ikeja, which accounts for 4, 412 cartons of the products valued at N19.9 million while the Ogun Command accounts

for 2, 213 cartons estimated at N9.9million. Others include the Seme command, which accounts for 200 cartons valued at N900, 000 while the Western Marine Command, Lagos axis accounts for 1,583 cartons valued at N7.1million, bringing to a total of 8, 408 cartons with a total value of N37.8 million. It was gathered that these contraband frozen products were impounded at different locations along the South Western borders of Nigeria. They include Badagry/ Yekeme and Seme Ashipa Creeks in Badagry Seme axis, Seme, Gbaji and Owode Creeks in Lagos and Idiroko axis. Attah however assured that the new Comptroller General of the service, Col. Hameed Ali Rtd would leave no stone unturned in his efforts to rid the nation’s markets of smuggled contraband poultry products.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business News

Friday, September 18, 2015

JP Morgan: FGN bonds remain safe, liquid securities –DMO Tola Akinmutimi

he Debt Management Office, DMO, has allayed fears over threat by JP Morgan to phase the Bonds in its Government Bond Index – Emerging Markets (GBI-EM), saying that Federal Government of Nigeria’s (FGN) Bonds “remain the very safe and liquid securities they have always been. The Director General of the DMO, Dr Abraham Nwankwo, during a media briefing on Wednesday in Abuja pointed out that though the planned phasing out of FGN Bonds in American Bank’s Index was unwelcomed, but then does not signify a downturn or collapse of the FGN Bond Market or a downgrade of the Bonds.   He therefore urged investors and other participants in the FGN Bond market to continue

with their longstanding interest in the market, adding that they and other stakeholders “remain committed to further developments of the Nigerian Bond Market due to its strategic role of mobilising long term capital to finance growth and development.” Nwankwo explained that FGN Bonds market existed before it was listed on the JP Morgan index and that the market was based on a well diversified domestic investors-base which makes it largely insulated from the vagaries of foreign portfolio investors. The debt management expert maintained that the reaction of JP Morgan was based on their perception of the challenges in the foreign exchange (forex) market, lately occasioned by the crash in oil prices and not due to any underlying problem in the FGN Bond market.

He noted that this problem is not peculiar to Nigeria but common to all oil exporting countries such as Russia, Venezuela among others, and commended Nigeria for her resilience in withstanding the crash in oil price much longer than its counterparts. Nwankwo clarified: “The phasing out of FGN Bonds from the Index does not: amount to a downgrade of Nigeria or FGN Bonds since J P Morgan is not a credit rating agency: have any impact on the quality of the FGN Bonds.

According to him, the FGN Bonds remain risk-free securities that are backed by the full faith and credit of the Federal Government of Nigeria and are charged upon the general assets of Nigeria: imply that the Bonds are no longer liquid. The Bonds are supported by an active Secondary Market which allows investors to buy or sell them on any business day through any of the 13 Primary Dealer Market Makers licensed by the DMO or on the Nigerian Stock Exchange where the Bonds are listed and for which

purpose there is a Government Stockbroker: and imply that foreign investors cannot or will not be allowed to invest in FGN Bonds or the Nigerian financial markets as a whole. While the Index is a strong tool for attracting foreign investors to invest in a domestic market for which Nigeria derived some benefits, investors who have confidence in the potentials of Nigeria and the reforms targeted at their realisation, will still see Nigeria as an attractive investment destination.”

CSO seeks improved funding of maternal nutrition, IYCF practices

ivil Society Scaling-Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CSSUNN) on Wednesday called on governments in the country to commit more funds to maternal nutrition and Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices and interventions, at all levels and in all sectors. This is even as the organization, a non-governmental, non-profit making coalition, made up of organizations with a shared vision to transform Nigeria into a country where every citizen is food and nutrition-secured, also canvassed the implementation of the National Strategic Plan of Action for Nutrition (NSPAN 2014-2019) at every level, with emphasis on maternal and child nutrition. Giving this charge at the 45thAnnual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria , with the theme: “Nutrition Outlook – Beyond 2015 MDGs” held in Lagos, the Chairman, Steering Committee of the NGO, Professor Ngozi Nnam, also canvassed increase in maternity and Exclusive Breast Feeding (EBF) protection through the extension of maternity leave to six months from the current three months in the country. Similarly, she urged the media to continue to provide focused and strategic reportage, effective tracking and monitoring of nutrition interventions in the country just as the Organised Private Sector should support policy implementation through the development of low

cost, nutritious complementary foods and home fortification of staple foods. Nnam also urged NGOs to continue to advocate for the implementation of maternal and child nutrition interventions as well as promote sustained community health education on nutrition; The seasoned nutritionist said that the CS-SUNN was using the platform provided by the Conference to engage the media to sensitize civil societies, government and the public on the causes of malnutrition in Nigeria and the urgent need to find lasting solutions to them. She clarified: “Malnutrition and nutrition-related diseases continue to be problems of public health importance in Nigeria with the under-five mortality rate unacceptably high at 158 per 1,000 live births, prevalence of stunting 37 per cent, underweight 29 per cent, and wasting 18 per cent in children under five years (NDHS 2013). “Currently, under nutrition contributes to half (53 percent) of al ldeaths in children under the age of five. Poor nutrition in the first 1,000 days of a child’s life leads to poor physical growthwhich is irreversible and associated with poor brain development and reduced school and work performance. “Nigeria has about 11million stunted children, ranking highest in the Continent and second globally”, Nnam added.

L-R: Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (2nd right), Mr. George Oko-Oboh, Deputy General Manager, Coral Banking (left); Mr. Niyi Adeseun, Executive Director, Abuja/North Bank and Mr. Lekan Busari, General Manager, Abuja/North Central Zone when Heritage Bank’s team paid a courtesy visit to the Vice President in Abuja…recently

CPC to prosecute Benin DISCO for shunning Panel’s summons Olufemi Adeosun, Abuja

he Consumer Protection Council, CPC, on Wednesday threatened to prosecute Benin Distribution Company for violating its enabling Act in the on-going investigation of the activities of the country’s distribution companies (DISCOs), following consumer complaints. The Council’s action came on the heels of the non-appearance of the company without reason before the Council’s Panel, constituted to investigate numerous complaints of electricity consumers on estimated billings and non-provision of metres. A statement by Council indicated that company was expected to appear before the Panel on the day at 10 am in line with a schedule of appearance agreed upon with its representatives at a meeting with the Council on penultimate Monday. The distribution company, like its other counterparts, was

also expected to have forwarded some documents that would aid the Council in its hearing by Friday, September 11, 2015, even though the date was shifted to Monday, September 14, 2015 for all the DISCOs, pursuant to a plea from the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED) for more time for the submission of the documents. Although the Council’s Panel began its sitting last Tuesday with the appearance of Ikeja and Kaduna Distribution Companies before it, Benin Distribution Company disobeyed the Summons by not appearing before the Panel as scheduled and neither did it send in the requested documents. The Panel’s Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Ataguba, while announcing the Council’s decision to his Panel members and representatives of ANED present at the aborted hearing, declared that the action of the Benin DISCO was a clear violation of the Council’s enabling law. According to Ataguba, “I am satisfied that on 7th September

2015, Benin DISCO was served with the Summons to attend the Council’s hearing on the 16th day of September 2015 to provide documents and information. “They are not here and there is nothing on record to explain their absence, neither have they submitted any document. This conduct is contrary to Section 18 of the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) Act, which provides criminal sanctions for such conduct and the Council shall take immediate steps to ensure the prosecution of the Chief Executive and principal officers accordingly in the Federal High Court”, he added. Inundated with consumer complaints on exploitative electricity billing, the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) had, in a letter dated August 26, 2015 and signed by its Director General, Mrs. Dupe Atoki, summoned all electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOs) in the country to a hearing on alleged outrageous billings, based on estimated consumption.

Business News

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

YouWin beneficiaries allege diversion of grant    ABIODUN NEJO, ADO EKITI

eneficiaries of the Youth Enterprise With Innovation in Nigeria (YOUWIN) in Ekiti State have called on President Muhammadu Buhari to intervene in the prolonged non-release of their grants.  The

11 beneficiaries alleged that their findings from the Federal Ministry of Finance indicated that the grants meant for beneficiaries in Ekiti and Osun States had been allegedly diverted for personal use.  The coordinator of the YOUWIN awardees, Stephen Afolabi, told journalists in Ado Ekiti yesterday that only 11

from Ekiti were among the 1,500 beneficiaries of the grant in Nigeria.  He said that they received their first tranche on January 9, 2015 while on May 28, 2015, the second tranche was paid to 1007 in Nigeria but nine of the beneficiaries in Osun and Ekiti got payment.  Afolabi said: “We have been patiently waiting and

expecting our bank alerts on a daily basis since 28th May, 2015 but to no avail”.  He said that YOUWIN Secretariat had always assured them that payment to them was being processed, adding: “Until 14th September, 2015 that we sent delegates to make a presence at the Federal Ministry of Finance, Abuja.   “We were shocked to the marrow when the delegates reported to us that they gathered from a reliable source at the Federal Ministry of Finance that the money meant for all the awardees in Ekiti and Osun States has been diverted for personal use,” he said.  Afolabi said: “It will be of our utmost desire if our plight is seriously looked into by the nec-

essary agencies of government so that our grant can be given to us without further delay to revive our businesses.”  “While they have raised our hopes for payment, they have also made our YOUWIN businesses to suffer serious setback and now the deadly blow of some set of people nefariously destroying this nicely packaged national youth empowerment programme.  YOUWIN is a job creation platform established by the Goodluck Jonathan administration aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs to help winners to strengthen and expand existing as well as turn innovative ideas into solid businesses.

Expert hinges SMEs’ growth on technology Isaiah Erhiawarien

L-R: Group Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Mr. Obinna Nwosu; Environmental Activist, Desmond Majekodunmi and Group Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Dr. Herbert Wigwe during a workshop on International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer held at the Bank’s Head Office in Lagos on Tuesday.

echnology expert, Mr. Wale Odeyemi, at just concluded NigeriaCom 2015 technology forum for chief information officer CIO Forum, expressed the

NDIC-assisted NIPSS’ research centre commissioned

he Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on Monday commissioned the Directorate of Research building complex donated by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) to the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos. The Vice-President, who was represented by the Director of Administration in his Office, Alhaji Ibrahim Yabani, commended

the Corporation for identifying with the infrastructure needs of the Institute by the donation of the Office Complex. A statement by the Corporation’s Head, Communications and Public Affairs, Mallam Hadi Birchi, quoted Osinbajo as saying that the Federal Government is appreciative of the NDIC’s gesture and urged organisations in both the public and private sectors to emulate the Corporation.

This is even as he expressed optimism that the building complex would not only provide conducive environment for research but also charge the Institute to apply itself towards formulating policies that would accelerate socio-economic development in the country. In his remarks at the ceremony, the NDIC’s Managing Director, Alh. Umaru Ibrahim, said that the Corporation took the

sponsored campaign targeted at bringing successful Nigerians in the Diaspora back home to invest in the country. The new Mogaji, hitherto one of the leaders of Nigerians in the Diaspora, said he had been moving his businesses abroad to Nigeria to impact on the economy of the country and her citizens. The industrialist, hinted that he had concluded arrangement to set up a Ceramic Plant in Ibadan before yearending. He also promised to institute a far-reaching scholarship scheme in the Oyo State capital as part of his contributions to development of the state and the country. He clarified: “I have set up some companies in Nigeria

to contribute my quota to the national development. I have been moving my businesses in abroad back to Nigeria because I believe so much in this country and I have the conviction that Nigeria can be great again. “And let me tell you that very soon, something big from me is in the offing. I am planning to establish a Ceramic Village in Ibadan where tiles and other building materials will be produced. That would be done before the end of the year”, Adebayo added. He promised to redouble efforts in lending hands of support to his people which would include doubling and expanding the scope of his yearly scholarship from primary to the university level.

Improved electricity, boost to investment –Industrialist

ABIODUN NEJO, ADO EKITI

he President Muhammadu Buhari administration has been commended for the improvement being witnessed in the electricity supply across the country. Industrialist and Chairman of Orllar Oil and Gas Limited, Chief Idris Salaudeen Adebayo, said that the positive development was an attraction to both foreign and local investors. Adebayo, who spoke shortly after his installation as the new Mogaji of Agie Family by the Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Samuel Odulana, said that the improved power supply would certainly boost his self-

bold step to extend its gesture to the institute as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative. According to him, the Corporation started the project about 10 years ago and reiterated its readiness to continue to support educational institutions in order to advance academic standard nationwide. The Director-General of the Institute, Prof. Tijani Mohammed Bande, thanked the NDIC for responding to the challenge of office accommodation in the institute,. recalling that the problem of inadequate office space for staff of the Research Directorate compelled the institute to seek for assistance to build the office complex. While pledging that the complex would be judiciously utilised, Prof. Bande appealed to other corporate organisations and public spirited individuals to support the Institute in infrastructural development. On journalists’ enquiries on the recently introduced Single Treasury Account, STA, for public sector MDAs, the NDIC boss said that the full implementation of the Account was an indication that the era of arm-chair banking in Nigeria was over. He noted further that the TSA policy had actually presented banks with an opportunity to diversify their sources of deposit mobilisation.

great potential that small and medium enterprises, SMEs, held for the country, if technology is adapted. Odeyemi, while sharing his thoughts on how technology could be deployed to support SMEs, specifically noted that technology can help small and medium enterprises adapt to market changes, increase productivity, and improve competitive advantage. The Vodacom’s Executive Head of Products and Services at Vodacom Business Nigeria said that with unified communications SMEs customers can access the network from multiple devices at the same time, noting that this makes it easy to manage contacts, send and receive voice over internet protocol (VoIP) calls and carry out multiple communications at the same time. According to him, 75 percent of small business employees said that flexible working has made them more productive stressing that “productivity gains are one of the many reasons for SMEs to take advantage of unified communications. Other gains include cost reduction, increased customer service and improved competitive advantage.” Odeyemi explained that from instant messaging features to using the internet for voice calls unified communications improves profit margins by boosting overall operational efficiency; this is especially true for businesses that have mobile employees. He pointed out that with unified communications employees don’t have to be in the office to perform their duties and access the system from anywhere with an Internet connection, noting that “this means employees can work from home, log on to the system, contact and provide services to customers even after close of business.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business News

Friday, September 18, 2015

NBS to monitor Sustainable Development Goals’ progress Tola Akinmutimi

he National Bureau of Statistics, NBS, on Wednesday unveiled plans for early tracking of the progress of the proposed United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for effective implementation in the country. Disclosing the Bureau’s readiness for timely monitoring of the SDGs’ level of performance at a stakeholders’ workshop on data mapping for the SDGs in Nigeria in Abuja, the Statistician General of the Federation, Dr Yemi Kale, noted that the measures became necessary to avoid a repeat of some of the challenges that hampered the effective monitoring of MDGs implementation in the country.

Kale said that the NBS was strategising to map out data to achieve the SDGs in the country; adding that the agency was repositioning itself to be able to meet its mandate as the authoritative source of official statistical data in the country. The Statistician General said: “As Nigeria prepares to usher in the new sustainable development framework as defined by SDGs, there is need early on to set out a comprehensive, well-defined and coordinated strategy for data production at both national and sub-national levels to effectively track progress towards achieving the proposed goals. “This is very critical to ensure that everything necessary in put in place to avoid a repeat of some of the challenges we experienced during the MDGs implementa-

tion, particularly in terms of monitoring and evaluation of the process. It is in the light of the above that NBS in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) engaged the services of an Expert to carry out a comprehensive data mapping exercise on SDGs. “The output of this exercise will be useful and will serve as the first major step in commencing the process of extensive consultations with relevant data producers, with a view to each agency clearly understanding the proposed indicators, their relevance in the Nigerian context and the feasibility of producing the required data for purposes of SDGs implementation and performance monitoring”, Kale added

Cross River University donates land to Heritage Bank Richard Ndoma,Calabar

he Vice Chancellor for the Cross River University of Technology, CRUTECH, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh on Thursday in Calabar commended the management of Heritage Bank Plc for initiating a plan to open its branch in the institution.   Enoh gave the commendation at the handing over a plot of land to the bank while also charging the management to continue with the good works of rendering better banking services to its dear customers.  The bank’s Managing Director, Mr. Ifi Sekibo, who was represented by the Business Manager in Cross River and Akwa Ibom, Mr. Godwin Ukwa, explained that the bank`s visit to management

How airlines can increase passengers’ base –Experts Olusegun Koiki

ndigenous airlines have been advised to adopt safety and integrity in their operations if they want to more air travellers to embrace the industry and boost their revenue generations. A former engineer with the defunct national carrier, Nigeria Airways and now a consultant in the industry, Engr. Olawoye Idowu told our correspondent in an interview in Lagos that if airlines in the country could improve on safe practise and be more consistent with time on their air tickets, more passengers would be attracted to the sector. He also called on the financial institutions in the country to assist the airlines in acquisition of aircraft and other facilities necessary for their operations,

stressing that unlike in Europe and America where airlines are issued loans at single digit, the reverse was the case in Nigeria. He said: “This depends on the operation of the aircraft and that of your airline. One, safety and two, integrity; if it is safe and there is integrity in your operations, people will come because if you trust the departure time of an aircraft, people will come, but if they are no sure, they will not come to you. “All these boils down to business model; if you have good business model, you will have very efficient aircraft and sustainable aircraft operations to meet your public schedule. It is when you don’t have sufficient aircraft that you have delay and what have you. Then, you need to do your maintenance as at when due.”

Also speaking at the third Engr. Zakari Haruna Memorial Lecture who was the pioneer Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, the Managing Director, Finum Aviation Services and convener of the event, Engr. Sheri Kyari, decried that there were more airlines in the sector today than the available passengers. He explained that in spite of the fact that domestic airline operators had increased in recent years, passengers’ influx had not improved, noting that there are about 180 million people in the country, but decried that less than 10 per cent of the populace fly.  This is even as he advised the alleged of sales of kerosene as Jet A1 to airlines by the major oil marketers as one that should be investigated critically by NCAA.

of the institution was to enable the bank and the school’s authorities discuss on how to facilitate the take off of the branch project in the university.  Sekibo hinted also that arrangement had been concluded by the bank to set up a strategic training centre to help in building the capacity of students and requested for teachers from university to help in the boosting of the centre.  Meanwhile, the Vice Chancellor commended one of the institution`s old students, Mr.Nchor Julius Ut,i for making the school proud in his primary assignment with NYSC by bagging the Presidential Award of Best Corp member 2013/ 2014, He expressed the hope that the example he sets during his service year would be a source of inspiration to other students.

Onyema, ASEA President, targets improved market access

L-R: Director General NIPSS, Professor Tijjani Mohammed Bande, presenting a souvenir to the Managing Director, Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation, NDIC, Alh. Umaru Ibrahim, at the official commissioning of the Research Directorate building of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos, donated by the Corporation.

he Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE)) will in November host the African Securities Exchanges Associations (ASEA) conference, an association of 25 securities exchanges The theme of the conference is “Africa Evermore: Growth for sustainability”. The conference serves to underline the fact that Africa’s capital markets are stable, have huge potential, and are growing. ASEA President Oscar Onyema said: “The conference will be another step in establishing the sustainable development of African capital markets, finding ways to facilitate and increase market access at the regional level, and promoting greater interconnection among African exchanges.” ASEA aims at developing member exchanges while enhancing their global competitiveness. The

conference will include major players in the African capital markets, including listed companies, trading participants, regulators, government representatives, technology providers, legal advisors, and institutional investors from Africa, Europe, and Asia. The discussion topics will focus on themes relevant to Africa and will provide an ideal opportunity to network and exchange information with industry leaders from across the continent. Over the last 10 years, the continent has posted steady growth, standing up to the impact of global shocks and becoming an investment destination of choice. Capital markets have been the key drivers of this economic transformation and they continue to play a central role in Africa’s growth story.

Nigerian, Blessing Kwomo, among Anzisha Prize 2015 award finalists

lessing Fortune Kwomo, 19, Nigerian and Co-founder of De Rehoboths Therapeutic Studio, is one of the 12 accomplished young entrepreneurs as finalists for the 2015 Anzisha Prize. De Rehoboths Therapeutic Studio extends home-based health care through tailored family action plans for treating illness and addressing root causes to empower families to live healthier within the context of their surroundings/ circumstances. The award is orgnaised yearly by the African Leadership Academy, in partnership with The MasterCard Foundation. The Anzisha Prize team

scoured far and wide in an extensive search for African entrepreneurial talent between the ages of 15 and 22. The 12 finalists were selected from an impressive initial pool of 494 young entrepreneurs, up from 339 applications in 2014. The Anzisha Prize is proud to have attracted applicants from 33 African countries, with finalists from Zimbabwe and Ethiopia identified for the first time. Applications were also received from a diversity of sectors, with agriculture having the most applicants. Now in its fifth year, The Anzisha Prize will be celebrating these outstanding young people during Global Entrepreneurship Week.

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FG to implement fertilizer quality control system

...as draft Fertilizer Bill sails through first reading Tola Akinmutimi

he Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, has unveiled plans to develop a regulatory framework for quality checks and enforcement on fertilizer with a view to ensuring that farmers access quality fertilizer inputs. Giving the hint at the launch of a soil project on the Establishment and Implementation of fertilizer Quality Control System in Nigeria supported by the Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) at the Ministry in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono, said that the legal and regulatory framework for fertilizer quality control would enable Federal Government inspectors to undertake periodic quality control at fertilizer production plants, ports of discharge and market outlets. He said that fertilizer samples would be drawn by inspection officials for laboratory analysis. Represented by the Director, Farm Input Support Service Department of the Ministry, Mr. Akinbolawa Osho, the Permanent Secretary said government had identified some violations in the subsector which include, plant nutrient deficiencies, misbranding, adulteration, short weight of bags, bagging quality, operating without certificate

Fertilizer production

of registration or with expired certificate of registration. He condemned the activities of some unscrupulous players who had been ripping off farmers the benefit accruable from their investment in fertilizers.

Echono dislosed that a Draft Fertiliser Bill the ministry sent to the National Assembly had passed the first reading and would soon be passed by the Legislature. He reiterated the present administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive in the agricultural sec-

ARMTI tasks govt on agric data quality Abolaji Adebayo

he Director of Studies, Agricultural and Rural Management Training Institute, ARMTI, Dr. Olufemi Oladunni, has urged government at all levels to improve the quality and quantity of its data on agriculture and rural areas if it is to continue meeting the demands of a growing population. Oladunni, while speaking with newsmen stated that the data was vital for effective planning and strategy, noting that the accuracy and quality of agricultural statistics, has become a key priority as the government strives to develop more effective policies to tackle its food security problems. While the National Bureau of Statistics( NBS) is taking steps to improve on the situation, Oladunni said

the agricultural sector needs an industry specific data that is timely, accurate, and reliable that can be used by decision makers to develop policies, programs and investments that improve peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives. According to him, reliable statistics are vital in tracking country needs and achievements and that accurate government expenditure data are needed to track the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitments and expenditures on agriculture. He said the relevant authorities must find better ways to collate agricultural data as attempts to use figures to better predict the future of farming failed because the available statistics were either unreliable or not detailed enough to be useful. Oladunni, while ensuring that an equitable and sufficient future food supply is of critical importance, noted that the industry needs reliable statistics to jus-

tify the claims of increasing food production. According to him, industry statistics must reflect the pattern of structural change that the level of agricultural production and projected food demand targets. He emphasized the importance of connecting, national policy-makers, businesses, investors, researchers and analysts with official agricultural statistics, calling for national assessments that will generate reliable and timely food and agricultural statistics. He believes that the availability of accurate comparable agricultural data would enable farmers to make better production and marketing choices and in so doing, boost agricultural productivity and incomes. Quality data, he added would allow the country to develop more effective agricultural policies, monitor and evaluate progress.

tor of the economy which is geared towards job creation, food security and poverty reduction. He commended the AGRA for its continued support towards the development of a regulatory framework for the establishment and implementation of fertilizer quality control system in the country, amongst other initiatives. Earlier in her welcome address, the Deputy Director, Quality Control, in the ministry and the project Manager, Mrs. Chinyere Akudinobi, explained that the project was aimed at developing and implementing a functional fertilizer regulatory system in the country which she said would address the problems of fertilizer quality in Nigeria. In the goodwill message of AGRA, delivered by Mary Yaodze, Technical Assistant to the soil health programme, she expressed the confidence the organisation reposed in the ministry and pledged their continued collaboration, which she said would improve production, quality of fertilizer and its control. The launch of the project attracted representatives of development partners from ECOWAS Commission, International Fertilizer Development Centre (IFDC), USAID (Nigeria), and the clerks of both the Senate and House Committees on Agriculture.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Friday, September 18, 2015

FG raises N45bn in bonds, as yields rise Johnson Okanlawon

F of

ederal ment

Governhas

sold

N45 billion worth

naira-denominated

bonds maturing in 2020 and 2034 at an auction on Wednesday, paying higher yields than at its previous auction in August. A notice from the Debt Management Office website yesterday explained that the amount raised at the auction was short of the N70 billion initially proposed by the debt office.

Traders said the debt office was constrained by the higher yields that investors demanded and reduced the amount of debt sold. Investors had asked for yields ranging from 13.5 to 20 per cent for the 2020 bond and 14.5 to 20 per cent for the 2034 debt, but the debt office decided to cut off the sale at 15.95 and 15.97 per cent respectively. The debt office sold N20 billion worth of 2020 debt at 15.95 per cent yields, 57 basis points more than 15.38 per cent at the last auction in August.

A total of N25 billion worth of the 2034 bond was sold at 15.97 per cent against 15.19 per cent last month. Investors

submitted

bids worth N121.20 billion, lower than the N153 billion at the last auction. Traders said the auction showed the government was no longer willing to borrow at higher yields, especially in the near term. “The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and DMO have decided to cap interest rates on borrowing at below 16 per cent in

the near term, and this should signal an end to volatility in the debt market,” one dealer said. US investment bank JP Morgan said last week it would remove Nigeria from its Government Bond Index (GBI-EM) by the end of October, after warning the government that currency controls were making transactions too complicated. But traders said the market has already overcome the effects of that move, and most offshore investors had exited the market prior to the JP Morgan announcement.

Index rises further by 0.17% Johnson Okanlawon

rading in equities continued on a positive note on the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday, as more investors took position on stocks. Specifically, the All Share Index appreciated 0.17 per cent to close at 30,410.39 points, compared to the increase of 0.16 per cent recorded the preceding day to close at 30,359.47 points. Market capitalization gained N18 billion to close at N10.45 trillion, compared to the rise of

N16 billion recorded the preceding day to close at N10.43 trillion. Analysts at Meristem Securities Limited, an investment firm, noted that the recent news inflow attributed to the president of the country, Muhammadu Buhari, on issues bothering on the devaluation of the local currency may bode well for the financial market, as stances such as this from the right quarters will continue to culminate in positive investor bias. Okomu Oil Plc led the gainers’ table with N1.35

or 4.98 per cent to close at N28.47 per share, followed by Julius Berger Plc with N2.08 or 4.95 per cent to close at N44.08 per share. Unity Bank Plc was up six kobo or 4.80 per cent to close at N1.31 per share, while UACN Plc rose N1.50 or 4.76 per cent to close at N33.00 per share. E-Tranzact Plc added 10 kobo or 4.74 per cent to close at N2.21 per share. Conversely, Premier Breweries Plc lost 15 kobo or 4.84 per cent to close at N2.95 per share,

while Fidson Healthcare Plc shed 16 kobo or 4.78 per cent to close at N3.19 per share. Costain West Africa Plc dropped three kobo or 4.69 per cent to close at 61 kobo per share, while Champion Breweries Plc depreciated 20 kobo or 4.30 per cent to close at N4.45 per share. AIICO Insurance Plc declined three kobo or 3.23 per cent to close at 90 kobo per share. A total of 211.8 million shares valued at N2.73 billion were traded in 3,051 deals.

Emerging market slowdown to hit developed world – CLSA

urmoil in emerging markets has so far been relatively contained. Unfortunately, CLSA, an institutional brokerage arm of China’s Citic Securities, thinks that is about to change. According to a note sent out this morning, CLSA analyst, Christopher Wood, says that the market action in emerging market countries “is the lead indicator of the slowdown that will hit the developed world.” The crux of Wood’s argument is that emerging markets used to account for a massive portion

of the world’s economic growth, lending support to developed economies coming out of the financial crisis. Lately, their growth has been significantly lagging, and we could be in for a period of global stagnation. ... to return to the argument that the developed world is not “decoupled” from the turmoil in emerging markets, the obvious point is that emerging markets led by China have accounted for a significant proportion of the incremental growth seen in the world economy since the beginning of 2009.

Wood points out that emerging markets have accounted for 75 percent of the increase in world nominal GDP in U.S. dollar terms since 2009. Lose that growth, and developed markets would really have to pick up the pace to keep the world on track. And indeed, today is a big one for the emerging world, because of a possible interest rate hike from the Federal Reserve, which could further crimp their economies’ growth. Investors have been expressing concern throughout the year, with outflows from emerging

market funds hitting levels not seen since 2008. (Source – Bloomberg) Rate (%) Inflation

8.2

MPR

Crude oil price

$58.96

Source: NSE

Inter-Bank Rate Naira

US Dollar

N197 Market indicators All-Share Index 30,410.39 points Market capitalisation 10.45trn

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

OKOMUOIL

27.12

28.47

1.35

4.98

JBERGER

42.00

44.08

2.08

4.95

UNITYBNK

1.25

1.31

0.06

4.80

UACN

31.50

33.00

1.50

4.76

ETRANZACT

2.11

2.21

0.10

4.74

BETAGLAS

40.85

42.70

1.85

4.53

VONO

0.89

0.93

0.04

4.49

CONTINSURE

0.90

0.94

0.04

4.44

AGLEVENT

0.95

0.99

0.04

4.21

EVANSMED

0.73

0.76

0.03

4.11

CHANGE

% CHANGE

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

PREMBREW

3.10

2.95

-0.15

-4.84

FIDSON

3.35

3.19

-0.16

-4.78

COSTAIN

0.64

0.61

-0.03

-4.69

CHAMPION

4.65

4.45

-0.20

-4.30

AIICO

0.93

0.90

-0.03

-3.23

NEM

0.66

0.64

-0.02

-3.03

HONYFLOUR

2.51

2.44

-0.07

-2.79

TRANSCORP

2.44

2.38

-0.06

-2.46

UBN

6.13

5.98

-0.15

-2.45

LIVESTOCK

1.76

1.72

-0.04

-2.27

FGN Bonds

Offer

Bid

Description

Price

Yield

Price

Yield

15.10 27-APR-2017

1.61

99.40

15.50

99.55

15.39

16.00 29-JUN-2019

3.78

101.49

15.44

101.79

15.33

15.54 13-FEB-2020

4.41

99.48

15.70

99.78

15.60

16.39 27-JAN-2022

6.36

103.76

15.43

104.06

15.35

14.20 14-MAR-2024

8.49

93.46

15.62

93.76

15.55

10.00 23-JUL-2030

14.85 68.00

15.58

68.30

15.51

Closing Market Prices of September 17, 2015

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

Exchange

Rates (N)

17-Dec-15

11.26

11.58

WAUA

270

USD

197

17-Mar-16

13.48

14.45

EURO

214

01-Sep-16

13.33

15.29

CFA

0.32

YEN

1.64

Tenor

Rate (%)

SWISS FRANC

202

O/N

23.1250

POUNDS STERLING

293

16.2795

16.9368

SDR

273

17.7104

NIBOR

The Fixings of September 17, 2015

Capital Market

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, September 18, 2015

Stock exchange daily equities summary Daily Summary as of 17/09/2015

Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058

Daily Summary as of 17/09/2015 Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058

Daily Summary (Bonds)

Activity Summary on Board DEBT Federal Bond Name 16.39% FGN JAN 2022 Federal Totals

Equities as at September 17, 2015

Symbol FG9B2022S1

DEBT Board Totals

No. of Deals 1 1

Bond Activity Totals

1st Tier Securities Sector

Company name

Current Price 104.00

Quantity Traded 1,000 1000

Value Traded 1,064,941.30 1,064,941.30

1,000

1,064,941.30

1000

1,064,941.30

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY AGRICULTURE Daily Summary as of 17/09/2015 Crop Production Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058 FTN COCOA PROCESSORS PLC OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals Livestock/Animal Specialties LIVESTOCK PLC.EQTY Activity SummaryFEEDS on Board Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals CONGLOMERATES AGRICULTURE Totals Diversified Industries A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Symbol FTNCOCOA OKOMUOIL PRESCO

No. of Deals 1 29 3 33

Current Price 0.50 28.47 31.10

Quantity Traded 5,000 314,557 6,710 326,267

Value Traded 2,500.00 8,551,674.61 204,906.30 8,759,080.91

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 10 10

Current Price 1.72

Quantity Traded 185,100 185,100

Value Traded 319,779.00 319,779.00

Symbol AGLEVENT TRANSCORP UACN

43 No. of Deals 5 96 99 200

Current Price 0.99 2.38 33.00

Quantity511,367 Traded 125,642 6,116,355 17,196,067 23,438,064 Page

Daily Summary (Equities)

CONGLOMERATES Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Building Structure/Completion/Other COSTAIN (W A) PLC. Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals

Daily Summary as of 17/09/2015

Real Estate Development Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058 UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals CONSUMER GOODS Activity Summary on Board EQTY Beverages--Brewers/Distillers CHAMPION BREW. PLC. CONSUMER GOODS GUINNESS NIG PLC Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Published by INTERNATIONAL The Nigerian StockBREWERIES Exchange © PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. PREMIER BREWERIES PLC Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals Food Products DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. Daily Summary as of 17/09/2015 HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058 NASCON ALLIED INDUSTRIES PLC UNION DICON SALT PLC. U T C NIG. PLC. Food Products Totals Food Products--Diversified

Activity Summary on Board CADBURY NIGERIA PLC.EQTY NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. CONSUMER GOODS Food Products--Diversified Totals Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. VONO PRODUCTS PLC. Household Durables Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Personal/Household Products P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals

200

Micro-Finance Banks Daily Summary as of 17/09/2015 FORTIS MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058 NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY DEAP CAPITAL MANAGEMENT & TRUST PLC FCMB SERVICES GROUP PLC. FINANCIAL ROYAL EXCHANGE PLC. Other Financial Institutions STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS Published by The Nigerian Stock ExchangePLC © UBA CAPITAL PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals

Quantity Traded 73,500 73,500

Value Traded 44,835.00 44,835.00

Symbol JBERGER

No. of Deals 11 11

Current Price 44.08

Quantity Traded 161,410 161,410

Value Traded 6,770,215.19 6,770,215.19

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 7.42

Quantity Traded 20,200 20,200

Value Traded 157,339.00 157,339.00

255,110

6,972,389.19

ICTIT Services WAREHOUSE GROUP PLC IT COMPUTER Services IT Services Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Processing Systems CHAMS PLC E-TRANZACT INTERNATIONAL PLC Processing Systems Totals

No. of Deals Current Price 4 4.45 39 154.60 No. of Deals Current Price 9 17.85 109 134.52 1 2.95 162

Quantity Traded 61,200 60,760 Quantity Traded 21,975 Page 299,511 140,000 583,446

Value Traded 272,835.00 9,516,252.41 Value Traded 14 2 389,239.25 of 40,218,634.74 413,000.00 50,809,961.40

Symbol 7UP

No. of Deals 14 14

Current Price 190.40

Quantity Traded 26,627 26,627

Value Traded 5,104,615.50 5,104,615.50

No. of Deals 14 39 124 30 17 1 1 226 (Equities)

Current Price 2.85 6.91 23.01 2.44 6.54 11.84 0.50

Quantity Traded 74,451 11,881,975 2,536,894 1,690,178 342,735 900 109,900 16,637,033

Value Traded 205,199.10 82,011,525.50 58,067,765.89 4,154,403.13 2,186,050.72 10,125.00 54,950.00 146,690,019.34

No. of Deals Current Price 48 24.07 58 820.00 106 No. of Deals Current Price 16 5.85 3 0.93 19

Quantity Traded 148,241 311,615 459,856 Quantity Traded 375,536 89,700 465,236 Page

Value Traded 3,825,354.77 255,764,361.71 259,589,716.48 Value Traded 2,188,811.40 83,421.00 14 32,272,232.40 of

No. of Deals 38 12 50

Quantity Traded 190,875 12,177 203,052

Value Traded 4,942,957.28 553,124.06 5,496,081.34

18,375,250

469,962,626.46

Symbol DANGFLOUR DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR NASCON UNIONDICON UTC

Daily Summary Symbol CADBURY NESTLE Symbol VITAFOAM VONO

Symbol PZ UNILEVER

Current Price 26.65 45.80

577

Symbol No. of Deals Current Price ACCESS 182 5.05 DIAMONDBNK 18 3.40 ETI 29 18.75 FIDELITYBK 51 1.51 GUARANTY 203 24.10 SKYEBANK 37 2.25 Daily Summary (Equities) STERLNBANK 10 2.13 UBA 199 4.12 UBN 45 5.98 UNITYBNK 34 1.31 WEMABANK 17 0.97 Symbol No. of Deals Current Price AIICO 18 0.90 CONTINSURE 17 0.94 CORNERST 1 0.50 HMARKINS 1 0.50 MANSARD 1 2.58 MBENEFIT 1 0.50 NEM 4 0.64 NIGERINS 1 0.50 PRESTIGE 1 0.50 SOVRENINS 4 0.50 STACO 4 0.50 WAPIC 6 0.50 59

Symbol FORTISMFB NPFMCRFBK

No. of Deals 2 3 5

Current Price 5.42 1.03

Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Daily Summary (Equities) AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS DEAPCAP FCMB ROYALEX Symbol STANBIC UBCAP

46 2.70 10 4.00 1 0.61 35 2.42 2 0.50 No. of Deals Current Price 29 22.00 54 1.44 177 1,066

Symbol EVANSMED FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER NEIMETH NIG-GERMAN

No. of Deals 19 10 15 4 5 1 54

Quantity Traded 32,642,334 274,128 260,550 849,247 7,834,430 1,372,271 800,587 11,275,730 359,453 2,756,227 1,171,686 Quantity Traded 1,920,550 1,451,872 Page 1,000 1,000 7,000 126,000 2,030,633 5,000 137,277 1,750 2,600 32,266 5,716,948

Quantity Traded 56 31,555 31,611 Quantity Traded 858,172 41,667,795 100 433,813 6,988 Quantity Traded 1,230,617 Page 1,897,645 46,095,130 111,440,332

Current Price 0.76 3.19 35.20 1.36 1.02 5.16

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol No. of Deals Current Price

Value Traded 164,861,775.71 931,202.92 4,886,644.80 1,277,811.57 189,986,736.33 3,096,040.41 1,697,881.30 46,075,249.08 2,146,867.00 3,607,287.37 1,136,537.42 Value Traded 1,730,119.47 14 4 1,358,835.84 of 500.00 500.00 18,060.00 63,000.00 1,312,911.45 2,500.00 68,638.50 875.00 1,300.00 16,133.00 4,573,373.26

Value Traded 318.64 31,870.55 32,189.19 Value Traded 2,315,087.36 158,399,038.00 58.00 1,045,303.08 3,494.00 Value Traded 27,078,232.04 14 6 of 2,686,118.41 191,527,330.89 615,836,927.25

Quantity Traded 1,049,144 10,099,047 47,455 88,548 18,650 8 11,302,852

Value Traded 777,943.44 32,222,429.87 1,684,657.47 119,539.80 18,113.50 39.28 34,822,723.36

11,302,852

34,822,723.36

2 2

0.50

Quantity Traded 12,111 12,111

Value Traded 6,055.50 6,055.50

Symbol CWG Symbol

No. of Deals No. of Deals1

Current Price 2.67 Current Price

Quantity Traded 50 Quantity Traded

Value Traded 133.00 Value Traded

Symbol CHAMS ETRANZACT

No. of Deals 1 5 6

Current Price 0.50 2.21

Page Quantity Traded 1,000 283,500 284,500

COURTVILLE

ICT Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC FIRST ALUMINIUM NIGERIA PLC

Symbol CHAMPION GUINNESS Symbol INTBREW NB PREMBREW

HEALTHCARE Totals ICT Computer Based Systems COURTEVILLE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS PLC Computer Based Totals Activity Summary onSystems Board EQTY

543,552,103.29

Current Price 0.61

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals HEALTHCARE Pharmaceuticals EVANS MEDICAL PLC. FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC NIGERIA-GERMAN CHEMICALS PLC. Daily Summary as of 17/09/2015 Pharmaceuticals Totals Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058

23,438,064

No. of Deals 4 4

CONSUMER GOODS Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. Daily Summary as of 17/09/2015 DIAMOND BANK PLC Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058 ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC ActivityUNION Summary Board EQTY BANKon NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC FINANCIAL SERVICES WEMA BANK PLC. Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services AIICO INSURANCE PLC. REINSURANCE Published by CONTINENTAL The Nigerian Stock Exchange © PLC CORNERSTONE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC. CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC AXAMANSARD INSURANCE PLC MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC. N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. PRESTIGE ASSURANCE CO. PLC. SOVEREIGN TRUST INSURANCE PLC STANDARD TRUST ASSURANCE PLC WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

9,078,859.91 Value Traded 124,385.58 14,665,774.25 528,761,943.46 543,552,103.29 1 of 14

Symbol COSTAIN

Daily Summary (Equities)

Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER CAP CCNN FIRSTALUM

Activity Summary on Board EQTY ICT IT Services IT Services Totals

1st Tier Securities Processing Systems

Daily Summary (Equities)

No. of Deals 15 4 20 13 1

Current Price 22.01 9.46 37.05 8.80 0.50

133.00 7 of 14 Value Traded 500.00 626,535.00 627,035.00

296,661

633,223.50

Quantity Traded 156,650 101,050 121,823 95,966 100

Value Traded 3,448,036.99 956,423.00 4,564,553.76 822,369.40 50.00

Daily Summary (Equities)

Sector

CHAMS PLC Company name E-TRANZACT INTERNATIONAL PLC Processing Systems Totals

Symbol

Symbol CHAMS No Of Deals ETRANZACT

No. of Deals 1

Current Price

Packaging/Containers BETA GLASS CO PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY Packaging/Containers Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © NATURAL RESOURCES INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals Chemicals NATURAL B.O.C.RESOURCES GASES PLC. ChemicalsTotals Chemicals

Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER CAP CCNN FIRSTALUM PORTPAINT WAPCO

Daily Summary Symbol CUTIX

No. of Deals 5 6

Current Price Quantity Traded Value Traded 0.50 500.00 Quantity Traded1,000Value of Shares(N) 2.21 283,500 626,535.00 284,500 627,035.00

296,661

633,223.50

No. of Deals 15 4 20 13 1 4 28 (Equities) 85

Current Price 22.01 9.46 37.05 8.80 0.50 4.11 98.00

Quantity Traded 156,650 101,050 121,823 95,966 100 66,600 4,274,139 4,816,328

Value Traded 3,448,036.99 956,423.00 4,564,553.76 822,369.40 50.00 265,070.00 418,866,327.83 428,922,830.98

No. of Deals 4 4

Current Price 1.60

Quantity Traded 105,917 105,917

Value Traded 169,467.20 169,467.20

No. of Deals 3 3

Current Price 42.70

Quantity Traded 51,393 51,393 Page 4,973,638 Quantity Traded 50 Quantity Traded 50

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol BETAGLAS

92 No. of Deals Current Price 1 4.62 No. of Deals 1 Current Price

Symbol BOCGAS Symbol

NATURAL RESOURCES Totals OIL AND GAS Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals Integrated Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors CONOIL PLC Daily Summary as of 17/09/2015 ETERNA PLC. Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058 FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Activity Summary Board EQTY Exploration andon Production

SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD OIL AND GAS Exploration and Production Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Exploration and Production Totals

Employment Solutions C & I LEASING PLC. Employment Solutions Totals Daily Summary as of 17/09/2015 Hotels/Lodging Printed 17/09/2015 IKEJA14:32:58.058 HOTEL PLC

219.50

No. of Deals 3 3

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 32,100 32,100

Value Traded 16,050.00 16,050.00

Symbol OANDO

No. of Deals 135 135

Current Price 11.40

Quantity Traded 1,647,330 1,647,330

Value Traded 18,798,521.49 18,798,521.49

No. of Deals 7 8 69 15 1 26 (Equities) 126

Current Price 28.41 1.86 226.50 145.00 49.66 150.80

Quantity Traded 35,131 405,293 224,507 13,393 12,840 58,160 749,324 Page

Value Traded 1,047,957.73 753,934.98 50,584,182.84 1,965,641.02 605,791.20 8,737,632.97 63,695,140.74 14 9 of

Symbol CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL MRS TOTAL Daily Summary Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 1

Current Price 233.00

Quantity Traded 1,000

Symbol

No. of Deals 1

Current Price

Quantity Traded Page 1,000

265

Value Traded 244,650.00 Value Traded 14 10 244,650.00 of

2,429,754

82,754,362.23

Symbol REDSTAREX TRANSEXPR

No. of Deals 6 5 11

Current Price 4.23 1.32

Quantity Traded 43,700 130,000 173,700

Value Traded 179,627.00 164,300.00 343,927.00

Symbol CILEASING

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 11,111 11,111

Value Traded 5,555.50 5,555.50

Symbol IKEJAHOTEL

No. of Deals 8 8

Current Price 3.61

Quantity Traded 132,500 132,500

Value Traded 476,250.00 476,250.00

Symbol

No. of Deals 2 7 3 12 24 No. of Deals 3 3

Current Price 0.64 0.95 2.30 5.20

Quantity Traded 50,300 72,376 600 375,630 498,906 Quantity Traded 1,538,246 1,538,246 Page

Hotels/Lodging Totals Printing/Publishing ACADEMY PRESS PLC. LEARN AFRICA PLC STUDIO PRESS PLC. Activity Summary on(NIG) Board EQTY UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC. SERVICES Printing/Publishing Totals Road Transportation ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC Road Transportation Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Value Traded 2,193,131.10 2,193,131.10 8 of 14 431,285,429.28 Value Traded 219.50 Value Traded 219.50

Symbol JAPAULOIL

OIL AND GAS Totals SERVICES Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STAR EXPRESS PLC TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC. Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals

Value Traded 133.00

1 Quotation(N)

ICT Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP Daily Summary asPLC of 17/09/2015 CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058 FIRST ALUMINIUM NIGERIA PLC PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Daily Summary as ofMaterials 17/09/2015 Building Totals Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058 Electronic and Electrical Products Activity Summary on Board EQTY CUTIX PLC. Electronic GOODS and Electrical Products Totals INDUSTRIAL

Quantity Traded 50

Daily Summary (Equities) ACADEMY LEARNAFRCA STUDPRESS UPL Symbol ABCTRANS

Current Price 0.55

Value Traded 33,092.00 67,711.30 1,314.00 1,884,559.00 1,986,676.30 Value Traded 846,035.30 11 846,035.30 of 14

Transport-Related Services AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals

Symbol AIRSERVICE NAHCO

No. of Deals 1 8 9

Current Price 1.85 4.74

Quantity Traded 50,000 18,239 68,239

Value Traded 92,500.00 82,257.89 174,757.89

Support and Logistics CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC Support and Logistics Totals

Symbol CAVERTON

No. of Deals 3 3

Current Price 3.37

Quantity Traded 33,947 33,947

Value Traded 110,504.31 110,504.31

2,456,649

3,943,706.30

2,387

175,479,727

2,198,842,570.27

Quantity Traded 1,950 1,950

Value Traded 2,535.00 2,535.00

SERVICES Totals

EQTY Board Totals Daily Summary as of 17/09/2015 Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058

Daily Summary (Equities)

Activity Summary on Board ASeM CONSUMER GOODS Food Products MCNICHOLS PLC Activity on Board ASeM FoodSummary Products Totals

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol MCNICHOLS

No. of Deals 1 1

ASeM Board Totals

Current Price 1.26

1,950 Page

1,950

2,535.00

2,535.00 of 14

Daily Summary (Equities) Activity Summary on Board PREMIUM FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals Other Financial Institutions FBN HOLDINGS PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals

Symbol ZENITHBANK

No. of Deals 266 266

Current Price 18.15

Quantity Traded 13,063,038 13,063,038

Value Traded 235,239,778.48 235,239,778.48

Symbol FBNH

No. of Deals 353 353

Current Price 6.36

Quantity Traded 22,432,214 22,432,214

Value Traded 142,474,143.92 142,474,143.92

35,495,252

377,713,922.40

Quantity Traded 912,225 912,225

Value Traded 150,877,970.78 150,877,970.78

912,225

150,877,970.78

Daily Summary as of 17/09/2015 FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals Printed 17/09/2015 14:32:58.058 INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials DANGOTE CEMENT PLC Building Materials Totals

619

Symbol DANGCEM

No. of Deals 44 44

Daily Summary (Equities)

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Activity Summary on Totals Board PREMIUM

Current Price 170.00

PREMIUM Board Totals

Equity Activity Totals

663

36,407,477

528,591,893.18

3,051

211,889,154

2,727,436,998.45

Page

Daily Summary (ETP) Exchange Traded Fund Name LOTUS HALAL EQUITY ETF NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals

Symbol LOTUSHAL15 NEWGOLD VETGRIF30

No. of Deals 1 1 1 3

Current Price 9.71 2,144.00 14.18

Quantity Traded 10 52 10 72

Value Traded 97.10 111,488.00 141.80 111,726.90

ETF Board Totals

111,726.90

ETP Activity Totals

111,726.90

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Community Mirror Most of these allegations are frivolous and not true. It has been there since 2003 and you wake up 12 years after to start raising non-existing issues. Senate President – Bukola Saraki

2 robbery suspects mobbed by residents Franka Osakwe

n a manner of jungle justice, residents of Seriki Aro Street, Ikeja, and environs caught and almost lynched two robbery suspects to death yesterday morning following a robbery incident. The residents said they vented their anger on the suspects in such cruel manner due to the spate of robberies occurring in the neighbourhood. Like they say, ‘every day is for the thief but one day is for the owner’. Community Mirror gathered that one of the suspects almost beaten to death gave out the location of the other one after the timely intervention of police men. He also con-

fessed that there was still two at large. Prior to intervention of the police, the first suspect was already bleeding profusely due to beatings he received from the angry mob. According to one of the residents who simply identified himself as Charles, the suspect was caught while trying to make away with a sack containing 5 laptops around 5: 00 am when he was spotted and pursued. “He dropped the sack and hid somewhere around the vicinity. We searched for him but he cleverly ran to a house at Ajasa Street and hid. We searched from house to house until we found him”, he said. Another angry resident Obinna was happy that the thief was

finally caught. He told Community Mirror that he was sure the suspect was member of the squad responsible for series of theft incidents occurring in the neighbourhood. “These thieves normally come in to the street through an entrance from Hotel Royal, a night club at Oba Akran Street. Last week they entered a house

at Seriki Aro and made away with some phones and labtop. The same thing happened the previous week”, he said. According to the residents, this incident is thriving because of the continuous blackout and lack of security. “If there were street lights and adequate security, this theft incident won’t be occur-

ring. Now that we keep having robbery incidents, people are terrified of their lives. Government need to do more to secure the lives of Lagosians”, another resident said. Meanwhile, two of the suspects are currently at the Police Station located inside Wema board estate.

Corporate organisations tasked on giving back to society Dare Akogun

yaloja of Isolo, Alhaja Rafiat Balogun-Uzamot, has urged corporate organizations and wealthy individuals to support the poor and people with disabilities to reduce poverty in the country. She made the call during presentation of gift items to the motherless baby’s home, HEART OF GOLD, in Surulere as part of activities commemorating her birthday. Alhaja Uzamot said with the present level of poverty in the country, government alone could not solve the problem without assistance from the people directly living with the poor and less privileged. Alhaja Uzamot, a devoted Muslim and a textile dealer, stated that the recent declaration by the Vice-President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo that over 120 million Nigerians are poor should be a concern for every Nigerian. She explained that high rate of poverty was responsible for increasing number of beggars on our roads on daily basis. Alhaja Uzamot added that child abuse, rape and related societal problems were as a re-

sult of poverty in the country. In his remark, famous broadcaster with the Nigerian Television Authority, Alhaji Tajudeen Uzamot who is the husband of the celebrant described her as a gift to humanity and Islam. He said that Alhaja Uzamot is a cheerful giver that always ready to assist the poor any time. Alhaji Uzamot stated that her life of service inspired her to establish a foundation that she is using to assist students from poor background to finance their education and equally use the foundation to propagate Islam. Responding, the founder of the ‘’Heart of Gold” motherless babies home Surulere, Mrs. Laja Adedoyin thanked Alhaji Uzamot for her gesture and donation which he described as annual ritual of the celebrant. She added that her kindness and interest to make life worthy of living for others should be emulated by others. Food items including bags of rice, indomie, beans, cloths, and detergent were among other gift donated to the motherless babies and old age homes.

L-R: Iyaloja of Isolo, Alhaja Rafiat Balogun-Uzamot and founder of ``HEART OF GOLD’’ motherless babies home, Surulere, Mrs. Lara Adedoyin, after presenting gift items to the orphanage to celebrate her birthday.

Landlord arraigned over tenant’s missing money Dare Akogun

60-year-old landlord, Cletus Egwuatumba, and his secretary, Ngozi Onuaju, 36, have been arraigned for allegedly stealing money and valuables from his tenant’s apartment. The tenant, Pastor Evan Obiora, reported to the police that the landlord invaded his apartment and allegedly stole his 6,000 dollars and Digital camera. It was gathered that the accused illegally broke into a tenant’s apartment and removed his doors in order to renovate the apartment in his absence. The incident happened at 6, Amoka Street, Abaranje, Ikotun, Lagos State where Obiora rented the apartment.

The police at Ikotun Division arrested Egwuatumba and Ngozi over the incident. According the police, Egwuatumba broke into Obiora’s apartment and removed the two doors leading to his apartment and left it like that when Obiora was not at home. The landlord claimed he did so because he was carrying out renovation in the apartment, but did not explain why he did it in Obiora’s absence. According to Obiora, he went on an evangelical mission which took him days and nobody was in his threebedroom apartment when Egwuatumba broke the doors and left it like that until he returned. He said when he saw what happened, he went where he

kept the $6,000 and the digital camera and discovered they were no more there. He said when he confronted the landlord about renovating his apartment in his absence and asked about the money and the camera, he denied seeing the items. After their arrest and investigation they were charged with conspiracy and stealing before Magistrates’ Court sitting in Ejigbo under the Criminal Code. They pleaded not guilty and the presiding Magistrate, Mrs J.O.E. Adeyemi, granted them bail with two sureties. The matter was adjourned till 5 October, 2015. They were remanded in prison custody at Kirikiri pending when they will perfect their bail condition.

Politics

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Why Saraki’s Senate election cannot stand Kingsley Obolo

he purported emergence of Olubukola Saraki as Senate president, which election was held on the floor of the Senate, defies all logic, parliamentary ethics and standard practice because of the absence of legitimate legal procedure known to the constitution of the country. The constitution made it crystal clear that the party with the majority shall produce President of the Senate, but the dubious process relied upon by clerk of the house is patently wrong, null and void. What played out was that 48 members of the opposition pronounced Saraki as president of the Senate. This recorded 48 members of the opposition and a ‘gang’ of nine cannot make that election legitimate, the 51 members of All Progressives Congress, APC, that were schemed out surreptitiously constituted the majority. Therefore, the pretentious tendency of the Senate president is a facade only known to the gutters, his arrogance for tenaciously wanting to hold on to that office in spite of the doctored process may court disaster because there are apparent breaches and infraction of the 1999 Constitution. We are not opposed to his emergence, but due process must manifestly be seen to have been followed, we hasten to say that the build-up of the Senate around his personality for strength will ultimately be unhelpful to him because it’s intended to engage in a trial of strength with President Muhammadu Buhari. If this collision occurs, be certain, he would be worsted in such an encounter. Supporters of the Senate president are limited only to Kwara State, although discernible but equally of passive block, I pray his supporters do not challenge the thunder of authority of Buhari’s vociferous, boisterous and highly aggressive element if threaten, they spread across the entire North-West, North-East and sophisticated enlightened discernible support base in the South-West. Saraki is a man of great intellect, transparency, forthrightness and largeness of spirit, coupled with his political exposure that is quite comprehensive, he should submit the seal of his office and resign now or alternatively surrender to the national chairman of his party to accommodate that 51 majority APC members if he wants to legitimise his action to further his stay in office. We advise him to equally beg Ahmed Bola Tinubu to forgive him for his pride and arrogance, he is a Yoruba man located in the North Central and he needs Tinubu’s five states in the South West. Therefore, building support with reactionaries is the surest way to fail unless he does not want to go beyond the Senate presidency. Any pretention to the contrary will spell doom; he equally needs the support of President Muhammadu Buhari whose support base spreads across North-West, North-East and the entire Nigeria. All senators from the zone laying claims to individual electoral strength outside the Buhari phenomenon amount to plain dishonesty. Therefore, any untoward romance with the

Buhari

Saraki is a man of great intellect, transparency, forthrightness and largeness of

spirit... he should submit the seal of his office and resign now ‘gang’ of nine is clear political obituary. They should learn from the vast outpouring of love, affection, support and admiration of Nigerians showered on President Muhammadu Buhari, with more than 70 per cent rating, his performance thus far is an acknowledgment of the fact that he wants to serve God and humanity with singleness of purpose. He has amply demonstrated his firmness and sense of justice, even the Washington Post, a very influential newspaper of the western world, has said he is the most honest Africa leader, that is why we pass a vote of confidence on his leadership, he has succeeded in instilling discipline, which has been lacking in the past, he has blocked all financial leakages hitherto used as conduit pipe to siphon our money. His zero tolerance for corruption is legendary, he has reawakened the civil servants to rededicate themselves to the service of the nation, Buhari’s integrity has reverberated all over thereby instilling in all of us a sense of moral value. For some antiquated politicians accusing the President of dictatorship is a misuse of language; nobody at the moment has been detained without due process. It would be recalled that prior to Ekiti and Osun elections more than 2,000 opposition members were arrested for no just cause, the past administration used the instrumentality of the state to intimidate and harass people principally for electoral advantage. They are now criticising Buhari unjustly. Nigeria voted for the current positive change they are witnessing now, and any attempt to distract the President from discharging his constitutional responsibility would be a

Saraki

Tinubu

disservice to the nation. The last administration was not able to hold the line against the prodigals, which led us to this sorry state. The President must bring to account anybody who wants to put Nigeria’s economy in reverse gear. There is also need for Saraki not only to beg Tinubu but also acknowledge him as father of modern democracy, a real champion, defender of the oppressed, a man who defended democracy with his blood even after the death of Moshood Abiola of blessed memory. He fought all military administrations that wanted to thwart our democratic march and suffered privation, deprivation and all kinds of unwarranted indignities. In spite of everything he remains resolute and steadfast in his pursuit for justice, a man who was in the opposition for years. And as a reward he was offered the position of vice president by President Muhammadu Buhari, but he graciously declined because, looking at the complexity, heterogeneity, diversity and religious sensibility of being labelled Muslim Muslim ticket, he sacrificed this exalted office so that Nigeria’s dignity would be

preserved. We are even of the steadfast conviction that given the mood of the nation at that time, he would have won the election probably with greater margin than we witnessed. That is patriotism at its finest; there is no living Nigeria politician that ever sacrificed this much. Nigerians are not looking for a religious leader but a performer, how many of our leaders have sacrificed their personal interest for the service of the nation? When he was governor of Lagos State, he dedicated himself to redressing all economic imbalances in the state. He has equally produced leaders who have contributed to the shaping of modern Nigeria for better, all the pains he suffered during the NADECO era conditioned him and he never visited vengeance but clarity for all, it is now left to history and generations yet unborn to chronicle his achievements to posterity where he will be better appreciated. Professor Kingsley Obolo is National President, National Support for Buhari/Osinbajo Presidency (NSBOP)

APC berates PDP for distracting Buhari CONTINUED FROM PAGE14 shocking revelations of looting, corruption, plundering and impunity of the nation’s treasury by officials of the PDP were enough to lead to the proscription of the party, wondering why the PDP should believe it would make a headway distracting the Buhari government from rescuing Nigeria. The statement reads: “We advise the PDP to bear the burden of its corrupt acts as its pranks will not deter President Buhari from rescuing Nigeria from the pits dug by the PDP. “We observe that rather than keep quiet as Nigerians brace up with the shocking details of its nefarious acts of public stealing and corruption, the PDP has inundated the Nigerian space with spurious wolf crying as a way of staving off prosecution for its many corrupt acts. “When it is not crying wolf, the PDP is making specious and ridiculous allegations of non performance on a regime that has in three eventful months cleared much of the debris of rot and decay it studiously built to wreck Nigeria in sixteen

years of criminal leadership. “It said that what survived the regrettable PDP years are the litany of self-scripted spurious testimonials of superlative performance of the economy in the face of debilitating poverty, ead and crumbled infrastructures, relentless stealing of public funds and stupendous promotion of corrupt acts in every sector of governance. “A show of PDP’s dubious record is that life hit a halt as the PDP was disgraced out of office, with power supply going extinct, unemployment reaching a record high, poverty pervading more than eighty per cent of Nigerians, all known public infrastructures wrecked and unprecedented gluttony that saw PDP officials stealing every sector blind. This was the dishonest record President Buhari inherited and which he has significantly corrected in three months of disciplined leadership. “Nigerians are very much aware of the notorious record of despoliation left behind by the PDP which obtains in freely stealing resources that would have bettered the lots of Nigerians and leaving the country prostrate, the party said.

Friday, September 18, 2015

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World News

We have come to a juncture to say categorically that these European double standards are no longer acceptable. –Syrian President, Bashar al-Assad

Afolabi Gambari

with agency report

eadly violent protests erupted early yesterday in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, sequel to the coup staged on Wednesday by officers of the Presidential Guard in Burkina Faso. The coup leaders have imposed a night-time curfew across the West African state, and have ordered the closure of land and air borders. The US, France and African Union (AU) also condemned the coup in the former French colony. Reports said more than ten deaths amid protests in the capital, Ouagadougou. Those killed were shot dead by presidential guard forces in the capital, a civil society group, Balai Citoyen, said, although the claim could not be independently verified. Other reports said protesters had been assaulted and detained. A former chief-of-staff to former President Blaise Compaore, Gen Gilbert Diendere, has been named the country’s new leader, state television reported early yesterday. According to the reports, the headquarters of Compaore’s Congress for Democracy and Progress (CDP) party were ransacked in Ouagadougou as news of the coup spread. Meanwhile, the AU and the Economic Community of West African States have called for the immediate release of “hos-

Violent street protests greet Burkina Faso coup

Flood: S/Leone orders ‘stay-at-home’ Sierra Leone’s government has ordered people to stay at home after flooding killed four people and damaged parts of the capital, Freetown. The country’s main referral hospital, the Connaught Hospital, was also affected as operations have been cancelled because the theatre was flooded. But the government said those in vulnerable areas close to the coast and on hill tops should move to a safer place. Emergency accommodation for people already made homeless has been set up at the national football stadium. The government has warned that heavy rains are forecast for the next six days. An unknown number of people have been injured and the authorities say they are deploying extra health staff.

S/Sudan oil tanker blast claims lives A protester in Burkina Faso capital Ouagadougou, yesterday

tages”, referring to interim President Michel Kafando and Prime Minister Isaac Zida, who were detained at a cabinet meeting in the president palace before the coup plotters struck on Wednesday. Interestingly, the duo’s transitional authority was due to hand power to a new government after elections on October 11. Transitional Parliamentary

Speaker, Cheriff Sy, had called for people to “immediately rise up” against the coup, and declared himself the leader of the country. “We are in a resistance situation against adversity,” Sy said. The US State Department said it was deeply concerned about the events unfolding in Burkina Faso. French President Francois Hollande said he strongly con-

Mozambique declared free of landmines ozambique has removed its last known landmine after two decades of work to get rid of the explosives. Close to 171, 000 landmines were removed, according to the Halo Trust, a British charity that led the clearance. The landmines were left after a long fight for independence followed by a civil war. Many were planted up until the 1990s. The charity said it was the first large mine-contaminated country to be completely cleared of mines. The last mine was removed from the base of a railway bridge in the centre of the country. Many were planted close to key structures, such as dams,

AFRICA BULLETIN

bridges and electricity pylons. In all, 17m sq metres (183m sq ft) of land were cleared, areas that authorities now hope can be put to agricultural use.

The US, Russia and China are just some of the countries whose crude calling card has been left in Mozambique over the decades. The human toll is

File copy of Prince Harry (l) when he visited Mozambique in 2008 on mines awareness campaign

demned the coup “because an electoral process was under way” but said France “will not intervene militarily.” The US said it was deeply concerned about events in Burkina Faso, and it condemned the seizure of power through unconstitutional means. Burkina Faso is a key ally of the US and France in the campaign against militant Islamists in the region.

hard to quantify but the Halo Trust told me that hundreds of people have been wounded or killed by mines. Whilst anti-personnel mines rendered huge swathes of land in Mozambique no-go areas following the struggle for independence and a long civil war, what often gets lost in the headlines is the inhibiting effect landmines have on economic development. On the spot where the last known landmine was destroyed by the side of a railway line, I found fresh sprigs of grass poking up through the fertile soil, in what is rich sugar cane growing country. “Don’t be surprised if families quickly lay claim to the land and begin to farm informally,” an observer said.

At least 170 people have been killed after an oil tanker exploded in South Sudan, officials said yesterday. The tanker had veered off the road in Maridi, Western Equatoria state, and local residents were siphoning off the fuel when the vehicle exploded, according to the officials who put the number of injured at 50. Local hospitals have been overwhelmed, as state officials appealed to the Red Cross and the UN for help. Local doctor Chandi Savior said there were low on supplies of basics such as oxygen and pain killers. South Sudan became an independent country in 2011, after a peace deal with Sudan that ended Africa’s longest-running civil war.

Masses intervention for malaria Nearly 700 million cases of malaria have been prevented in Africa as a result of concerted efforts to tackle the disease since 2000, according to a study. The report published in the journal Nature showed that overall the number of infections fell by 50 per cent across the continent. Bed nets were responsible for the vast majority of the decrease. There have also been calls to maintain funding to ensure the progress is not undone. Meanwhile, a report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF has said malaria death rates have fallen 60 per cent globally since 2000 and more than six million lives have been saved. The report said 13 countries that had malaria in 2000 reported no cases in 2014 while a further six countries had fewer than ten cases.

World News

Friday, September 18, 2015

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Migrants ‘overwhelm’ Croatia border town R 48

Friday, September 18, 2015

iot police in the Croatian border town of Tovarnik were yesterday overwhelmed while trying to control crowds of migrants crossing from Serbia, even as the EU struggled to deal with the mass movement of people on its southern borders. More than 6, 000 have reportedly so far entered Croatia from Serbia after Hungary closed its border on Tuesday as Croatia warned limited capacity for migrants. Hundreds were inCHANGE OF NAME OKIKI: Formerly Known And Addressed As Okiki Joy Iluobe Now Wish To Be Known And Addressed As Odunze Joy Iluobe. All Former Documents Remain valid. General Public Take Note

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volved in clashes at the Hungary-Serbia border yesterday. Meanwhile, 7, 266 migrants arrived in Germany on Wednesday, twice the number for the previous day. Many of the migrants are fleeing fighting in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan and want to reach Germany. Long queues have formed in Tovarnik as people await buses and trains to reception centres elsewhere in Croatia. The crowds many of who were Iranian, Iraqi CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Miss Habib Muinat Omobolanle, now wishes to be known and addressed as Adediran Muinat Omobolanle. All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Railway Corporation Management Ebute Metta and General public to take note. CHANGE OF NAME OKAFOR: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS. OKAFOR SOPHIA CHINENYE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS UDOFIA SOPHIA CHINENYE. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public please take note.

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or Syrian looke angry and frustrated, demanding to know when transport would arrive. “We want to go,” they chanted, as a wall of people confronted a wall of Croatian riot police. Many migrants in Serbia had travelled to the Croatian border after Hungary completed a fence along its border, trying to find a new route through the Balkan countries into northern Europe. Croatian Prime Minister, Zoran Milanovic, said that while the miCONFIRMATION OF NAME

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grants were welcome, there was a risk of putting resources under too much strain. Health Minister Sinisa Varga however said Croatia had expected an estimated 20, 000 migrants to arrive in the next two weeks. Meanwhile, the European Parliament backed plans for the mandatory relocation of 120, 000 refugees around the EU separately on Thursday. The move came ahead of a meeting of interior ministers next Tuesday to discuss the measures which could put pressure on the ministers to give their approval. Croatia said it would allow migrants to travel into northern Europe, CHANGE OF NAME IGWE: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS IGWE CYNTHIA OLUCHI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OKORO CYNTHIA OLUCHI. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note.

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but officials in Slovenia said they would tighten their border security and would stick to rules which require asylumseekers to register on arrival. Like Hungary, Slovenia is an entry point to the borderless European Schengen zone, which normally allows people to travel between member countries without restrictions. Hungarian security forces at Horgos had clashed with migrants wanting to enter the Serbian border n Wednesday, using tear gas and water cannon to stop them forcing their way in. In chaotic scenes, police vehicles and ambulances were on the Serbian side of the borCHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as Miss Christiana Oluwafemi Akinrinade, Now wishes to be known and called as Mrs. Christiana Oluwafemi Jayeoba. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

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der, across from massed ranks of Hungarian riot police on the other side. Some migrants threw missiles, including stones and water bottles. But the firing of tear gas and water cannon created a stampede of migrants away from the border. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon described the police tactics as “totally unacceptable”. Hungary closed its entire border with Serbia on Tuesday after making it illegal to enter the country or damage the border fence. The country’s courts have started fast-track trials of arrested migrants. CHANGE OF SCHOOL NAME

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North

Friday, September 18, 2015

Bauchi receives N8bn FG bailout funds …pays backlog of salary arrears Ezekiel Titus Bauchi

auchi State Government said it has received N8billion bailout fund from the Federal Government, even as it has paid backlog of salaries owed workers in the state

Head of Service, HOS, Abdon Dalla Gin, dropped the hint yesterday, while addressing journalists at the Government House, Bauchi. The HOS said with the payment, which covers January, April and May, 2015, the state government no longer owed

workers. Gin used the medium to admonish workers to be committed and diligent while carrying out their duties According to Gin, government have restored monthly over charges allocations to ministries and agencies for enhance

productivity in offices in respect of procurement of working tools He also read riot act to erring workers, saying government will not condone any misconduct which could be manifested in laxity, spreading of falsehood and negligence of duty

Christian pilgrimage: Nasarawa to sponsor only clergies, teachers Igbawase Ukumba Lafia

asarawa State Government has resolved to sponsor only Christian clergies and religious studies teachers in the state for the 2015 Christian pilgrimage to the holy land. Executive Secretary of the State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr Clement Odeh, revealed this in Lafia, the state capital, while addressing clergies from different denominations in the state. He explained that the government decision is to cut down on the cost of governance due to the economic challenges currently being experienced in the country. His words: “Government at various levels decided to do that so as to assist the poor, but today that there is much talk about lack of resources, we are trying to sensitise members of the Christian community in the state to embrace self sponsorship.” He appealed to religious leaders to encourage followers of their faith to cultivate

the habit of self sponsorship as the 2015 Christian pilgrimage draws nearer, emphasizing on the need for the wealthy individuals to sponsor the less privileged to complement the effort of the government. The Executive Secretary also said the board would not encourage those who had already gone for the exercise in the past to go and perform another pilgrimage as there are many others who are yet to benefit from the exercise. Odeh also revealed that 300 seats have been allocated to Christian pilgrims from Nasarawa State for the 2015 pilgrimage to Israel by the National Christian Pilgrims Commission, NCPC. Chairman of the state Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Bishop Joseph Masin, commended the foresight of the state governor for making the exercise obligatory for religious teachers to perform the holy pilgrimage, even as he expressed hope that the exercise will equip and enhance the spiritual wellbeing of the clergies.

Ahmed charges Nigerians on unity Kemi Olaitan Ibadan

The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Zone 8, Mr Lawal Tanko (left), speaking during a courtesy visit to the Olomu Of Omu-Aran, Oba Charles ibitoye, in his palace at Omu-Aran in Kwara, yesterday.

NAFDAC, UNIMAID partner on new anti-cancer drug Joel Ajayi Abuja

o reinforce its commitment toward affordable drug in Nigeria, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control NAFDAC, has strengthened its partnership with the University of Maiduguri on the study and the research of the new anti-cancer medicine. However, the agency also solicited government financial intervention to carry out research in Nigeria which he said, will help in curbing fake drug in the country. Director-General of NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii, stated this yesterday in Abuja when the sub-committee on the 40th years anniver-

sary of University of Maiduguri visited him in office to seek the agency support on the forthcoming convocation of the institution. According to him, I heard you are working very hard on the new anti-cancer medication that show some promise. He said: “Incidentally, cancer medication has become one of the biggest challenges facing Nigeria, cancer medicines are very expensive and most Nigerians cannot afford them and those that can afford it, travel abroad for their own treatment and there is a big gap that needs to be filled especially in the supply of good cancer medication. “It has been our pas-

sion to have solution to such diseases, I believe is something that we should encourage and partner with you to see how we can encourage such work, there are so many good work in Nigeria that need to be encourage. “We can partner together and make sure that we shorten the period for clinical trial of the product, you don’t have to go through that rigorous research alone because funding can become major challenges, but with NAFDAC, we can do some abridge clinical trials of this medicine and make sure that people who need it get it,” Orhii stated. He added that “there is need to capture that study on our ‘NAFDAC

and your health’ programme for Nigerian to know what you are doing. “We believe Nigerians have the real opportunity to contribute to what we have in education, if pharmaceutical companies can develop a point where they make grants available for them for research, development of new research that can be developed into drugs that we can even export to other countries,” he said. On his earlier remarks, representative of University of Maiduguri 40-year Anniversary Sub-Committee, Professor Issa Hussein, commended NAFDAC for its effort toward fighting the fake drug menace in the country.

wara State Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed on Thursday, said for the country to take its rightful place among the comity of nations, Nigerians must be ready to promote national unity. He said this in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, while delivering a pre-Independence Anniversary lecture organised by the state council of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ. The governor who spoke through the Secretary to the State Government, SSG , Alhaji Isiaka Gold, lamented that the diversity among various groups in the country which is supposed to be a blessing in uniting the nation, has turned to a “curse” due to the ethno- centric nature of many past Nigerian leaders. According to him, it is only when the country is playing football matches with other countries that Nigerians see themselves as one. He insisted that Nigeria is not yet a nation due to the fact that Nigerians are still finding it difficult to use our diversity as a source of unity. Speaking on the topic “Nigeria @ 55: The Pains, The Gains, and The Pros-

pects,” he noted that the only way for Nigeria to come out of its present quagmire is for the citizens to promote national unity and have good leaders which will lead the country to the state where it is supposed to be. The governor similarly called for the overhauling of the country’s educational system in order to produce employable graduates, ensure accelerated development in all parts of the country and also re-embrace agriculture. He said: “So, how do we come out of this quagmire, what do we need to put in place to ensure that we are one of the truly 20 developed countries in the world? If a country must achieve its full economic and social development, the educational sector has to be overhauled in terms of curriculum and infrastructure. “Except we go back to agriculture, except we look at the past, Nigeria will remain the same.” Ahmed, however, expressed optimism in the leadership qualities of President Muhammadu Buhari, saying, “we have a leader, a good leader who can give the best he can to Nigeria, I am confident that we have found that leader who will do his best to take the country to the next level.”

Friday, September 18, 2015

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THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Mr.Segun Sowunmi-Chairman 2. Mrs.Titilayo Adeyemi Sowunmi -Secretary AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: • To educate young children about societal values in Nigeria and beyond • To teach young children on soft skills and develop talents • To regularly interface with the members of the public on the essence of public governance • To carry out mentorship programmes by organising seminars, trainings and public presentations in all part of the country • To do such other lawful things which are incidental to the attainment of any of the above objectives.

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Friday, September 18, 2015

Golf: 180 golfers for Nigeria Cup tourney

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

I have no doubt that this team would have blended perfectly when we resume AFCON qualifiers in March next year

–Super Eagles Coach, Sunday Oliseh

U-17 W/Cup

‘Only the best players for Chile’ O Ighalo

I want to play in Gabon 2017 AFCON –Ighalo Everest Onyewuchi

ne cap Super Eagles striker, Odion Ighalo, has spoken of his ambition to play with the senior national team at the next Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in 2017 in Gabon. The 26-year-old Watford striker, who had a goal assist and scored one himself as Nigeria defeated Chad 2-0 in Kaduna in June under Coach Stephen Keshi, was however, not called up by Sunday Oliseh against the Taifa Stars in Dar es Salam, Tanzania, a fortnight ago. Ighalo told supersport.com that he

prayed for the Super Eagles, as Nigeria played out a barren draw with Tanzania under Oliseh. Was he upset over his non-invitation, the former defunct Julius Berger FC of Lagos player said, “Sunday Oliseh was one of those I loved to watch when he captained Nigeria. He is now my boss. He is in charge of the Super Eagles. I believe I am still part of the team, but he can’t call everyone at the same time. All I have to do is work hard and keep believing God and when the time is right I will get my chance again.” Though the former Udinese of Italy attacker said he was disappointed over his exclusion from the Tanzania game,

he said he loves playing for his country and felt reassured after Oliseh said that himself, Mikel Obi and Victor Moses were still in his Super Eagles plan. “I was praying for the team as they played Tanzania. I want to play at the African Cup of Nations and am always ready to help us to get there,” Ighalo said. Having played at the Camp Nou, Bernebeu, Mestalla and those other big grounds in Spain with Granada, and trotting on the pitches at Anfield, Emirates and Old Trafford in England, the AFCON and World Cup participations are what he would like to add to his resume.

ne month to Nigeria’s opening match at next month’s FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile, Nigeria Coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, has vowed to select only the best players for his team. Speaking against the background of the team’s performance at the recent Suwon International Youth (U-17) Tournament in South Korea, Amuneke assured that the Golden Eaglets would acquit themselves in Chile and uphold Nigeria’s image as the defending champions. “The state of our team is that we are still preparing. We are glad that we were part of the intercontinental competition in Suwon, Korea because it gave us the opportunity to assess the players individually and collectively, as a team. “So, we are working towards the World Cup in Chile and we are hopeful that we would be able to give a good account of ourselves when we get to Chile,” Amuneke told thenff.com. The former Barcelona winger added, “In football, you cannot say that everything has been done at this stage; it is a continuous process. Even when we get to the World Cup you still have to prepare the team in order to face the challenges of the matches to be played.” Asked if he had penciled down the final 21 players for the World Cup, the coach replied, “No. I don’t have anybody in my head. Selecting the best 21 players is not as easy as that. We, I mean the technical crew, have to sit down and evaluate the performance of the players; and pick the ones that would be very useful to us. “We still have days to the World Cup but we would evaluate the players so that at the end of the day, we would take only those who can do the business for us in Chile. Only the best players would be taken to Chile because I want all the players to be able to play when occasion demands.”

Coach Amuneke

Sports

Friday, September 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Cricket will overtake football in Nigeria soon –Eshua It is obvious that cricket is a popular sport in the world, but not in Nigeria. What is your federation doing to popularise the sport in Nigeria? Yes, cricket is one of the most popular sports in the world, but we are not using Nigeria as a scenario. Definitely cricket is not popular in Nigeria. A man in the village may not know what cricket is all about, but the entire Asia countries play cricket, America plays cricket, so when you look at the entire world, after soccer cricket seems to follow. Not everybody plays games like basketball, judo, golf, rugby among others, the way the world plays cricket. Although in Nigeria cricket is not that popular, but when you leave the shores of Nigeria, you will discover that cricket is being played at every corner.

What do you think should be done here to grow cricket in Nigeria? First, we start with the press, because without the press the people will not hear about the game. We start with the press, our main priority is grassroots and we have taken this game beyond the elite. The game has to go to every corner of the country and we have started with coaching clinics, mass participation and introducing the game to national school sports festival: the last school sports festival in Otukpo, Benue State, cricket was played and people won medals. And now every state is preparing to play cricket in the next school games festival. Can you briefly tell us the Nigeria Cricket Federation activities for the remaining part of the year? We have a lot in stock. Let me just use the opportunity now, we had U-15 championship, U-17 girls here in Abuja recently and later we are going to call on coaches including games masters to gather either in Abuja or in Benin or Anambra for an elementary coaching course, where we will teach them how to teach this game in their various schools. All these will take place before the end of September. In the last quarter of the year, we would be having a national female championship from zonal eliminations in different zones where the champions from the zones will now play in the national championship in Abuja or Lagos. After that the National Men elimination will kick-off and same format like the female. And for the international level, our females will soon be called to camp because there are two invitations facing us at the moment. One for an international tournament in Tanzania and the other an international tournament in Gambia. Then, for the males would participate in the World Cricket League Division 5 where Nigeria is. We’re actually bidding to host that tournament, but if we are not given the hosting rights whoever country that wins, we are going to participate and preparations start this year.

The General Manager of Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF), Joseph Eshua, tells JOEL AJAYI that with a little more corporate and government supports, Nigeria can play in Division One of the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup.

For international content, we depend on individual support, government support and of course the International Cricket Council takes care of international tournaments. Preparation is key; if you don’t prepare, you don’t expect to do well. In football, there are many Nigerians who play around the world. Do we have Nigerians who are playing in the Indian League? Well, Nigerians have not started playing in the India League, a few of them are playing in the English League in lower division, but not in Division One and we have a Nigerian playing in the Canadian League. One of our players plays in the American League; so those are the cricketers that we have that play for the national team. When the trial is called most of them will come down here and participate in the trial to either be selected or not. Do we have qualified coaches or is the NCF considering bringing in a foreign expert to come and coach Nigeria? At the moment we don’t have any foreign coach, we used to have foreign coaches at some point and that foreign coach was actually paid by some group of people, but the foreign coach could not stay for a long time. Our Nigerian coaches, especially the present national team coach is a qualified coach. He has taken the national team to a good height, but we also look forward to upgrading most of the coaches if possible bringing other experts from more advanced cricketing nations to help us in our game. The kind of support football gets from government no other sport in Nigeria gets that, we cannot afford to pay foreign expert at the moment.

Before Nigeria was in Division 7, now we are in Division 5, we are working hard to go to

Division 4

Nigeria is right now in World Cricket Division 5, is there any possibility that we can graduate to main cadre of the sport in the world? If we come first or second you go to Division 4. Next year if you come first in the Division 4 championship you go to Division 3 like that until you reach Division 1 from one if you qualify from there you go to the world cup. It’s very tough, because no fewer than 105 countries in the world are affiliated to the ICC. Before Nigeria was in Division 7, now we are in Division 5, we are working hard to go to Division 4, and if God helps us that is how we will graduate to the world level. Though it has never happened before, but it’s our dream to play in Division One. Does Nigeria have the talent, prospect and the technical know-how to play at the world level? For the talent, we have them in abundance, the whole lot of cricketers at the moment, the only hindrance and chal-

lenge is funding and support from the government for proper preparation. But we are trying our best, the government of the day has assured us that they will always support every of our participations. At the moment it’s just the delay in funding that hindered most of the preparations. Apart from lack of funding, the NFF has Glo, NBBF has DStv and Zenith Bank, who are the corporate sponsors of NCF? At the moment we don’t have any bank partnering with us, but we have a corporate body at the moment, Montax Cable Network. They are not here to sponsor the national team, they want to start up with a league. MOU has been signed; they are going even to build a first class stadium here in Abuja for a league to be set up and be sponsored by them. They are the first to partner with the Nigeria Cricket Federation at this level and they are going to be committing millions of naira to such projects. And the pitch construction has already started and that is for our local content.

The Cricket Federation recently organised seminar for reporters, what brought the idea and what do you intend to achieve? We discovered that there are some misrepresentations in reporting cricket in Nigeria and we organised this seminar for the journalists to be able to report cricket the way it supposed to be, so that the layman will be able to know what we mean by cricket. That is why we came up with this programme, so any time we are having programme in or outside Nigeria they will be there. Are we expecting more of this seminar? Yes, this is just a day seminar. I don’t expect a newly introduced person to the game of cricket to know everything in a day. It’s never possible but what I expect from everybody is that at least, they will have basic knowledge of the game and from now on they can now see a cricket game going on, seat, watch and try to improve their knowledge of the game and once you understand such person will be able to report cricket properly.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sports

Friday, September 18, 2015

Golf: 180 golfers for Nigeria Cup tourney N o fewer than 180 golfers are to compete in the 18th edition of the Nigeria Cup, which teed off on September 12 and will run till October 3. Vice-President of the Golf Section of Ikoyi Club, who doubles as the Organising Committee Chairman of the tournament, Mr. Lanre Kalejaiye, made the announcement yesterday at a news conference in Lagos. “The Nigeria Cup was established to celebrate Nigeria’s Independence and it remains the most prestigious amateur golf tournament in the country. “The tournament is a platform for corporate organisations to interact with the golf community. “This is our own corporate social responsibility and so, it is our own way of improving the game and giving back to the society,” Kalejaiye said. The competition aims to protect the heritage of Nigeria as the nation clocks 55 on October 1 and has as a theme: “Seven Shades of Green.” Kalejaiye said a unique angle would be added to the event this year. “Every year, there is always a value added, as can be attested by the number of sponsors we have this time. “Aside the heritage protection aspect, we will also aim to promote our golfing excellence in tune with the 77-year history of the Ikoyi Golf Club which was founded in 1938,” he added. The seven-day competition which teed off on September 12 with a Qualifier will see children competing on Day 1 on September 26 as caddies, ladies and professionals take the course on 28, 29 and 30 while the Independence Kitty will hold on October 1.

Sponsors, veterans and guests will compete on October 2 ahead of the finals billed for the next day while October 3 will host the Gala Night to round of the competition. Nigeria Cup 2015 is sponsored by Diamond Bank, FCMB, UBA, Federal Palace Hotel, GDI, PWC and Heineken, among others. Aniefiok Inyang of Diamond Bank, one of the partners, promised that her company would continue to sponsor the event in view of their long-standing relationship with the club.

ABUJA

he National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) yesterday, decried the lackadaisical attitude of the Federal Ministry of Education towards promoting sports development in the country. NANS Director of Sports, Godwin Erheriene, who stated this at a press conference in Abuja, maintained that this was responsible for the abysmal performance of the Nigerian contingent at the last World University Games in South Korea and inability to hold the 2015 Nigerian Universities Games (NUGA). According to him, these are twin national shames caused by lack of sponsorship from the Federal Ministry of Education, which is tasked with the duty. “It is quite saddening that Federal Ministry of Education and its agencies

Sylvester Ikuejamoye

mopheys13@gmail.com 0805-407-1194 (SMS only)

My $1 humble donation for FIFA presidency

Blatter

...plans NISUGA to promote unity Joel Ajayi

MANDATE

THE

Chris Obije

NANS flays Education Ministry sports posture which have critical roles to play vis-a-vis intertwining the synergy between sports and education, have rather gone to sleep in open light while our campus sports facilities and activities rot away. “Their actions much more than words tell us that they care the least about the sporting potentials of the over 40 million young Nigerians in our schools and campuses,” Erheriene said. The students body described the forthcoming NISUGA as first of its kind to host competitions among all strata of tertiary institutions from Monotechnics, Colleges of Education, Polytechnics and through to Universities to give all participants a sense of pride and integration in the sports/education sector. “NISUGA fiesta will spell a new dawn in the annals of Nigeria’s sporting history and much more, it will play key roles in putting to rest dichotomy in the choice of institutions by Nigerian students,” it added.

all me an incurable optimist of almost on impossible mission. It is part of your fundamental rights of expression. You are also at liberty to question my sense of judgment. No qualms, as everyone is subject to human imperfection. Ultimate perfection belongs to God. My take on who should be supported to vie for the top most FIFA job is not in doubt. I have reeled out factors that are necessary to be considered in the previous three editions of this column. I am concerned on the possible negative effect of fielding a candidate that will be unable to fly which may lead to avoidable stain on the name and integrity of our dear country. Needless to say, therefore, that my $1 humble donation is meant for the best sellable candidate with every possibility of making an impressive outing at the FIFA election. It would be the greatest shocker of the century, particularly to the western world for a Nigerian to emerge as FIFA president. I don’t care if anyone should consider this a tall or short dream or eccentric order. It is not in every contest you emerge victorious. It is however im-

portant to make a very impressive and loud statement at such global centre with reasonable performance. That is why I’m insisting that our best material should be fielded. The NFF should ensure compliance with the rules and regulations set for contestants by FIFA before endorsing any candidate. It is also advised that Nigerians should not mount undue pressure on the NFF over the issue. Let us do an inward home analysis of our candidates without sentiments and present our very best for the global contest. The contest should not be personalized. It should be seen as a Nigerian project to which all football loving Nigerians should contribute. I have started with $1 donation which will be forwarded to the candidate endorsed by the NFF for the FIFA election. Be ready to do same.

Hard but the bitter truth United we stand, divided we fall. As simple as it may seem to be, it is equally hard and also the bitter truth. Until next week Friday, stay out of trouble and God bless Nigeria.

United announce revenues fall

anchester United’s revenues fell by 8.8 percent last season, but the club on Thursday predicted record revenues of £500 million ($776.4 million, 686 million euros) to £510 million for 2015-16. United’s failure to qualify for the lucrative Champions League saw revenues for the period 2014-15 fall by £38 million to £395.2 million, as revealed in their annual report, largely due to losses in gate receipts and broadcasting income. But with a new £750 million kit deal with Adidas having recently taken effect, United

expect to become the first English club to break through the £500 million barrier over the current campaign. “As we look to the new season, we are enthusiastic about our strong position, both on and off the pitch,” United’s executive vice chairman Ed Woodward said in a statement sent to investors. “In recent weeks we have further strengthened our squad with an exciting mix of experience and youth, qualified for the group stage of the Uefa Champions League, and seen an impressive launch of our partnership with Adidas.

WORLD RECORD

Largest migrant

Vol. 05 No. 1202

Friday, September 18, 2015

N150

At up to 27 m (88 ft) long and weighing 160 tonnes (352,000 lb), the blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) is not only the largest animal in the world but also the largest to migrate

India: When rural communities order rape as revenge I n India, it does seem the egregious moral, and perhaps, criminal justice norm gradually becoming entrenched is that “two wrongs can make a right”, which negates the globally accepted one which says “two wrongs do not make a right”. What is now playing out in India may be likened to what Wikipedia, the free encyclopaedia dramatised this way as a fallacy of relevance: “… Speaker A: You shouldn’t embezzle from your employer. It’s against the law. Speaker B: My employer cheats on their taxes. That’s against the law, too!” The second example is this: “Speaker A: President Williams lied in his testimony to Congress. He should not do that. Speaker B: But you are ignoring the fact that President Roberts lied in his Congressional testimony! What may be sieved from both instances is the justification for two wrongs

witzerland says it has approved the extradition of a Uruguayan football official accused of taking bribes. According to BBC Sport report yesterday, Eugenio Figueredo, 83, a former vicepresident of the South American Football Confederation

FRIDAY WITH Dozie Okebalama

dozieokeama@yahoo.co.uk 08164966858 (SMS only) which infract the law as being right. This is supportive of the popular ‘tu quoque’ fallacy that two wrongs make a right. For clarification, the ‘tu quoque’ or ‘you too’ fallacy, also recognised as ‘the appeal to hypocrisy’, is evident when it is assumed that because someone else has done a thing, there is nothing wrong with another fellow doing same thing. Special cognizance, nonetheless, should be accorded the recurrence of the word ‘fallacy’ in the entire discourse. This may be rightly applied to the lawlessness of some Indian village councils that derive pleasure in giving orders that girls should be gang-raped for either the offences they personally committed; or crimes committed by their close relations. Such village councils are said to be wielding awesome powers. The Associated Press (AP) reported that much in July 2014, for example. They exist across much of rural India and are deeply conservative local councils. They can pass decrees on any subject they choose – ranging from how women should dress to whether young lovers deserve to live or die; and they usually enforce strict social norms about marriage and gender roles. In some of the most extreme cases, the councils have sanctioned so-called honour killings, usually against men and women suspected of out-of-wedlock

THE PRIMITIVE PENCHANT FOR HUMAN RIGHTS’ VIOLATION AND ABUSE OF LARGELY INNOCENT WOMEN SHOULD BE HALTED BEFORE IT SPILLS OVER TO OTHER LANDS sex or marrying outside the community. In January 2014, for instance, reports said the council of elders in West Bengal ordered the gang rape of a 20-year-old woman by 13 men as punishment for her falling in love with a man from a different community. The girl’s mother was quoted as saying: “We kept begging them. We begged with folded hands but they would not listen. They dragged her away to the forest”. Incidentally, the police, described as either complicit or helpless under such circumstances, claimed later of making some arrests and taking the case seriously. Late last month, however, Aljazeera also reported that an unelected, all-male village council in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, India, ordered that a woman, Meenakshi Kumari (23); and her unnamed 15-yearold sister be raped and paraded naked af-

ter their brother ran away with a woman from the village’s dominant ‘Jat’ caste. The sisters and their family, from the underprivileged ‘Dalit’ caste, were said to have since fled their village. But Meenakshi had filed a petition before India’s Supreme Court seeking protection for her family so they can return back home. A brother of theirs was quoted as telling the rights group, Amnesty International, which has been following up the case and mounting pressure on Indian authorities to halt the travesty, however, that “after we went to the Supreme Court, the villagers are even more aggressive. In the panchayat (local council), the Jat decision is final. They don’t listen to us. The police don’t listen to us. The police said anyone can be murdered now”. This seems a confirmation of yet another report which claims that life for most people in Indian villages revolves around extreme poverty and brutal caste oppression. “In the countryside, rape of dalit (untouchable) women is considered a matter of caste privilege by upper caste men, who use rape as a weapon in the subjugation and humiliation of the woman and of her entire caste… Police often assist vigilante groups which conduct raids on entire dalit villages, burning homes and raping women. The scope of such violence is captured in a November 2012 incident in Tamil Nadu, where 148 dalit houses were torched by a 2500-strong mob because of a non-dalit woman who had married a dalit man in secret”, the report said. This is really pathetic! The United Nations, International Criminal Court and civil societies worldwide should rise in support of local Indians protesting against this strange style of justice, especially when it appears Indian authorities have soft spot for the fallacy that two wrongs can make a right. The primitive penchant for human rights violation and abuse of largely innocent women should be halted before it spills over to other lands.

Sport Extra

FIFA scandal: Uruguayan faces extradition to US (Conmebol) and also ex-FIFA vice-president, was one of seven officials with FIFA, who were arrested in Zurich on May 27. He is accused of receiving bribes worth millions of dollars relating to Copa America

tournaments, Switzerland’s Federal Office of Justice said. He has 30 days to appeal against his extradition to the United States of America. The Swiss statement Figueredo is accused of: Taking bribes from a Uruguayan

sports marketing company over the sale of marketing rights to the Copa America tournaments in 2015, 2016, 2019 and 2023, gaining US citizenship “fraudulently by submitting forged medical reports in 2005 and 2006.”

He had earlier contested attempts to extradite him. So far, only one arrested official - former FIFA VicePresident Jeffrey Webb, from the Cayman Islands - has agreed to be moved from Switzerland.

Figueredo

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