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Ex-soldier bags life imprisonment for raping 10-yr-old step-daughter P.9

PDP threatens to boycott elections conducted by INEC boss, Zakari P.5

Zakari

Vol. 5 N0. 1158

Friday, July 17, 2015

Eid-el-fitri: Buhari pleads for sacrifice to rebuild Nigeria P.8

National Mirror Online

N150

@NationalMirror

Jimoh Ibrahim to IBB:

OLAJIDE OMOJOLOMOJU

Make security strategy confidential to Buhari President hasn’t contradicted any strategic rule

strategy and innovation postgraduate student of the University of Oxford, Barrister Jimoh Ibrahim, has advised former military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, IBB, to make his memo on security concern, specifically on the Boko Haram insurgency, confidential to President Muhammadu Buhari in the future. Ibrahim, who said BuCONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

FG launches pain reliever for cancer, HIV, others

P.2

President fires NIMASA boss, dissolves boards P.7 Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah (right), handing over to his successor, Maj.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, in Abuja, yesterday.

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News

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Make security strategy confidential to Buhari CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

hari has not contradicted any strategic rule of engagement, pointed out that the President’s brief to Nigerians, creating hope to end the seemingly intractable Boko Haram crisis, was perfectly within acceptable global

strategic standard. He added that the strategic drivers in the security challenge were not revealed by the President to the public, stressing that “the military orchestrated conductors in the Boko Haram insurgency, the military ar-

chitects, and the military chess masters were not put in the open by President Buhari.” Ibrahim therefore urged the former President to, in the future, channel security strategy memo to the presidency in a confidential

manner saying, “this becomes important as a result of the subject matter of the memo.” He cited the American strategy on the Vietnam war, which was lost because American Generals were making open their strategic engage-

ment rules. According to the Oxford University-trained strategy and innovation expert, “as the war became intensified in Vietnam, many Generals were exchanging memos on their war strategies on the pages

President Muhammadu Buhari (right) with Akwa Ibom State Governor Emmanuel Udom during a visit to the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: STATE HOUSE

FG launches pain reliever for cancer, HIV, others MARCUS FATUNMOLE ABUJA

ederal Government yesterday launched a painrelieving drug for cancer, HIV and related diseases in the country. The drug, ‘Morphine,’ is expected to bring relief to patients suffering from the ailments. Following the launch, Morphine, which had been in use in very low quantity in health facilities in the country, would be supplied by the Federal Government and the American Cancer Society in the next one year. The programme is being implemented under the auspices of PainFree Hospital Initiative. Addressing journalists in Abuja, permanent secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, Mr. Linus Awute, said the launch is aimed at avoiding deaths associated with acute pain from certain ail-

ments and would equip health workers to assess pain and provide highquality first-line treatment. “In the past, ‘opioid’ pain relievers were not widely used in Nigeria, and as a result, hundreds of thousands of Nigerians have suffered unnecessarily. “Their unrelieved pain affected not only themselves. Their suffering traumatised their families, their communities and the health workers who took care of them,” said Dr. Megan O’Brien, managing director, Global Cancer Treatment, who spoke on behalf of the American Cancer Society at the event. She added that experience in more developed countries had shown that pain relievers, like Morphine, could be used in conjunction with simple algorithms treatment, developed by the World Health Organisation,

WHO, to effectively treat 80-90 per cent of people with moderate or severe pains. “These medicines are plentiful; but they are considered essential medicines by the WHO and are on the essential medicines list here in Nigeria,” O’Brien stressed. Four hospitals were selected and presented with a large box filled with the drug. The hospitals, chosen for the one-year pilot project, are the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, University College Hospital, Ibadan, University of Nigerian Teaching Hospital, Enugu and National Hospital, Abuja. Awute said the hospitals were chosen “based on the utilisation of Oral Morphine Solution in pain treatment.” He added: “Pain relief is a core component of cancer and HIV treat-

ment. It is estimated that approximately 80 per cent of people with advanced cancer and 50 per cent of HIV require narcotic medicines to treat moderate or severe pain. “In 2012, about 177,000 people were estimated to have died in moderate or severe pain from HIV or cancer. “In the same year, the utilisation of narcotic medicines such as Morphine was enough to treat only 266 people, representing a mere 0.2 per cent coverage of pain treatment need.” He maintained that 19.2kg of pulverised morphine had been imported by government and that it was enough to treat about 3,000 patients, while the American Cancer Society’s Treat the Pain Programme had been providing technical support for the ministry. Earlier, Director of Food and Drugs Ser-

vices in the Ministry, Mrs. Victoria Ogbechie, said the Pain-Free Hospital Initiative “targets large national referral and teaching hospitals to provide simple, accessible training for physicians, nurses, pharmacists and other healthcare providers. The goal of the initiative is to equip staff to assess pain and provide high quality first-line treatment. “The WHO considers morphine an essential medicine and treatment of choice recommended for moderate or severe pain. “Based on the annual deaths from HIV or cancer, and not including pain from other causes, the need for morphineequivalent opioids analgesics in Nigeria is 1,122kg. “Challenges of availability, insufficient clinical training, and poor access to healthcare are being addressed,” she added.

of newspapers, without addressing the solutions to the war, which was eventually lost, leading to unquantifiable loss in American society.” Ibrahim pointed out that for every nation which plans to make success of its security challenges; its war Generals must communicate their strategic engagement memos in a confidential manner. The business icon told IBB that by advising President Buhari on the strategic contents on Boko Haram crisis on the pages of newspapers had rendered such advice “unuseful, intimidating and capable of misinterpreting government policy.” He advised leaders to always make confidentiality a priority in channeling their concerns about security if the desired results are to be achieved. The multi-millionaire business mogul stressed that the takeoff strategy adopted by President Buhari in the war against Boko Haram, was in the best interest of Nigerians and that the government requires time to consolidate and settle down. He said the President owes Nigerians a duty to inform them on how best he intends to tackle the Boko Haram crisis which has become a major security challenge in the country. According to him, the expectation of Nigerians from a President who was formerly a General in the army and a former Head of State, and who has commanded various battalions and army formations was that he would fix the security challenge in no time. He added: “IBB should expect, as a former leader, that Buhari will respond quickly to Nigerians’ demands.” Concluding, Ibrahim said so far, the President has not revealed the military tactics, plans, philosophy and processes in combating the current security challenges facing the nation.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, July 17, 2015

Photo News

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: Director Enterprise Segment, Etisalat Nigeria, Lucas Dada; EasyBusiness Millionaires Hunt Monthly Winner, Obiakor Oscar Chizoba; and Manager, Enterprise Sales- Oil & Gas Sector, Etisalat Nigeria, Akinwunmi Olayiwola during the 2014/2015 EasyBusiness Millionaires Hunt Monthly Winner prize presentation at Etisalat Head Office, Victoria Island, Lagos, recently. L-R: Manager, Gas, Notore Chemical Industries Plc, Tammie Kingmate; Senior Manager, Commercial Gas, Seven Energy, James Odiase; Senior Account Lead, Seven Energy, Ndidi Ejekam; Managing Director, Accugas, Steve Tierney and Head, Project Delivery, Notore Chemical Industries Plc, Bode Agagu during Accugas SME Forum in Port Harcourt, recently.

Cross-section of graduating students of Pacelli School for the Blind and Partially Sighted Children during graduation ceremony in Lagos, yesterday.

L-R: Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Isaac Adewole; France Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Denya Gauer; Head of European Studies, University of Ibadan, Prof. Babatunde Ayeleru; Deputy Director, Alliance-Fransaice, Mr Michelland Nicolas, during the visit of France Ambassador to the University of Ibadan, yesterday.

National News SebaStine ebhuomhan BENIN

do State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, yesterday said blackmail won’t help the cause of former Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, on the issue of illegal withdrawal of funds during her tenure. The governor was replying claims by OkonjoIweala that he hated her after she refused to approve a loan of N15.3bn for Edo State government. Oshiomhole in a press statement signed by his Special Adviser, Prince Kassim Afegbua, said there is “nothing personal” between OkonjoIweala and himself other than for the Bretton Wood Economist to stop blackmailing him and “come clean on the issue of revenue that accrued to the Excess Crude Account, ECA,” He added: “What has the request for loans got to do with the claim that someone dips her hand into the public till to spend what was not approved by the collective? How does she expect the states to

Oshiomhole to Okonjo-Iweala: Blackmail won’t help your case

survive when she refused to make full disclosure on accruals and declined to give them their share on a regular basis as required by law?” Oshiomhole accused the former minister of changing her position on the controversial issue four times in the last 40 days with each position

exposing her and raising pertinent questions. “How come those accruals into the ECA got depleted without the knowledge of the National Economic Council? How come monies that were supposed to accrue into the said account cannot be found in it going by the balance sheet provided by

the former Minister? “How come the minister unilaterally dipped her hand into the ECA to spend money in defiance of the Constitution and the laws of the land? “How come that the minister finds it convenient to publish allocations to states and local governments, but refused

to publish accruals into the same account for us to know the status of the account at any point in time? “How much was left from where she was distributing from?” Oshiomhole reiterated that by December 2012, the ECA had a balance of over $10bn, while the

Eid-el-Fitr: Passenger turnout rises at Lagos Airport

assenger traffic rose at the Domestic Terminals 1 and 2 of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja, yesterday, ahead of the Eid-el-Fitr holidays. There was an influx of outbound and in-bound passengers at the airport as many travelled to various locations for the celebration. The Federal Government had declared Friday and Monday public holidays to mark the festive period. Many of the outbound

passengers were seen on long queues, waiting to board flights to their destinations, while others waited patiently to pick up their luggage on arrival. Several air travellers were also seen struggling to get seats on the few available flights to their various destinations across the country. NAN reports that an air ticket from Lagos to Kano, which used to sell for between N22, 500 and N27,000, rose to about N35,000 in some cases. Flights from Lagos to

Abuja, which normally cost between N15, 000 and N26,000, depending on the airline and the time of flight, also went for N30,000 or more. NAN observed that most of the flights that had their fares increased were headed for the northern part of the country. Aero Contractor Airlines check-in counter had the longest queue of passengers at the MMA2, while Arik Airline counters also had long queues at the General Aviation Terminal One, GAT1.

A passenger, Mrs Adeyinka Akilla, who was travelling to Abuja with her children, said she had purchased a ticket for the flight from Lagos the previous week. Akilla, however, said she got to the airport a few minutes after the first boarding call but was denied access to the plane on the excuse that she was late. “I was surprised to get here only to learn that I was late. My flight was scheduled for 3:30 p.m., and I got here at 2.30 p.m.

amount got depleted to $2.07bn by May 2015. “How come there was no accretion to the ECA even when crude oil prices averaged between $100 to $108 within the three years period of 2011 to 2014 that the national budgets were based on $77 and $79 benchmark?

because of traffic, but the airline’s officials didn’t check me in. “They said I was very late; I had to run around to raise extra money to pay in order to be able to go with the next available flight. “I think it is rather unfair, because I should still have been allowed to get on the plane,” she lamented. Mr. Olumide Faleti, who was heading to Enugu said: “It is funny how things operate here. This is a time to share and not to exploit your passengers.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Friday, July 17, 2015

PDP threatens to boycott elections conducted by INEC boss, Zakari OBIORA IFOH ABUJA

eoples Democratic Party, PDP, yesterday declared it would not accept elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, under the chairmanship of Ambassador Amina Bala Zakari. The party stated this when raising complaints to the international community over what it termed the decline to authoritarian rule in the country under the presidency of Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives Congress, APC. The party said the complaint was in view of Buhari’s official visit to the United States next week. It said besides the emergence of Zakari as acting INEC chairman, the interference of the Director General of the Department of State Services, DSS, Lawan Daura in the election tribunals and the travails of Senator Ike Ekweremadu over his emergence as deputy Senate president as orchestrated by the President and his party, are indications of the emergence of

an authoritarian regime. National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Olisa Metuh, who led a delegation to the National Democratic Institute and International Republican Institute, IRI, separately, said “it would be very difficult for the PDP to accept the result of any election conducted by Amina Zakari if she continues to be the chairperson of INEC. INEC has fixed November 21 and December 5 for the gubernatorial elections in Kogi and Bayelsa states respectively. The commission has also fixed August 8 to conduct bye-election into the Katsina Federal Constituency of Katsina State. But Metuh, who described Zakari as the “daughter of the President,” said there is nowhere in the world where the chairman of an electoral commission has a relationship with the President of the country. He noted that while the PDP does “not question her capacity to do the job,” it however rejects her appointment “because of her closeness to the President.” The spokesman added that the idea of independence of the electoral com-

We will fight terrorists to standstill, says Yari

overnor Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara State yesterday said a joint meeting of seven states in the north has resolved to fight terrorism to a standstill. Yari made this known at his country home in Talata-Mafara in a statewide television broadcast to commemorate the EidEl-Fitr celebration. He said leaders of Zamfara, Kebbi, Sokoto, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina and Niger states met with the nation’s security chiefs and drew up a workable plan that would make the areas very difficult for criminals. He said many states, especially in the north, were finding it difficult to meet their obligations to the people due to security challenges. Yari, who is also the Chairman of the Nigeria

Governors Forum, NGF, however, said the situation would soon change for the better. He appealed to the people of the state, particularly the poor, to bear with the little the administration had been able to provide for them during the Ramadan fast. Yari said this was caused by financial difficulties facing the nation, assuring that better days were coming. He urged the well-to-do in the society to continue with the spirit of assisting and supporting the poor in order to guarantee a peaceful future. Yari advised parents to watch over their children and ensure that the females among them wore good dresses that conformed to Islamic tenets during the Sallah celebration.

mission should be seen to be above board, noting that justice must be seen to be done. He further lamented what he described as witch-hunt, harassment, campaign of calumny and intimidation of PDP chieftains, especially the Deputy Senate President, Sen. Ekweremadu. While he warned that “democracy is already on

trial in Nigeria,” Metuh called on the “President to be fair and just and administer affairs as a father to all in the county.” Responding to the complaints by the PDP, the Resident Country Director of NDI, Jasper Veen, urged political parties to adhere to internal democracy and party constitutions. He noted that the quality of democratic system is

a reflection of how political parties deal with the emergence of candidates. Veen pledged to continue to support democratic structure in the country, even as he noted that being in opposition is not easy. He stressed the need for a robust and constructive relationship between civil society and the political society. Similarly, the Resident

Programme Officer, Sentell Barnes, corroborated the need for internal party democracy. Barnes reiterated that Nigeria remains a strategic partner to the American government. He noted that IRI is interested in free and fair elections in Nigeria as seen in the team of observers that came for the last election.

L-R: Former Secretary to the Federal Government, Sen. Anyim Puis Anyim; former Senate President, Sen. Ken Nnamani; former Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mrs Akon Eyakenyi and others, at the night of tributes and service of songs for Chief Chinyere Asika in Abuja, on Wednesday.

CBN orders BDCs to provide directors’, customers’ BVN details UDO ONYEKA

n furtherance of its efforts to ensure effective monitoring of the foreign exchange transactions in the economy, Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, yesterday directed all licensed Bureau De Change, BDCs, to ensure that with effect from August 1 this year they have the Bank Verification Number, BVN, of customers for all forms of transactions. CBN gave the directive through a circular to all BDCs signed by Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Department, Mr. Kevin Amugo. According to the apex bank, the BVN must be included in the returns to it, adding that in the case of corporate customers the BVN of a Director or an authorised signatory

of the entity must be provided. It stated: “To ensure a hitch free implementation of this directive, the list of all licensed BDCs would be provided by the CBN to the Nigerian Interbank Settlement System, NIBSS, to enable the company provide the necessary hardware token that would be used by the BDC in accessing the NIBSS website. “NIBSS has been directed to make a portal available on its website to facilitate access for the confirmation/ validation of the BVN number of the BDCs customers. This is to ensure that the correct BVN is recorded by the BDC and include in returns to the CBN.” The circular stated further that a token transaction fee of N100 would be paid for each access on the portal and that NIBSS will also approve the nec-

essary training manual for an “easy to use “operation of the system. In addition, the bank pointed out that licensed BDCs were required to provide the BVN of all their directors before August 15, 2015, warning that failure to meet this requirement may affect their continued participation in the foreign exchange market. The CBN clarified: “BDC operators should please note that any BDC that fails to provide the required information in its returns, or provides a wrong BVN would be penalised. “First offenders will be required to pay a fine of N1m, while any subsequent violation of the requirement may lead to revocation of the operation license of the BDC.” Meanwhile CBN has announced the appointment of two additional

pre- shipment inspection agents, PIAs, for non oil exports. A circular signed by Director, Trade and Exchange Department, Olakanmi Gbadamosi, addressed to dealers and operators in the non-oil sector stated that the notice was given in furtherance of its earlier circular on dated November 8, 2004. The banking sector regulator disclosed that in addition to Messrs Cobalt International Services Limited, Carmine Assayer Limited and Neroli Technologies Limited had been included as pre- shipment inspection agents for non-oil exports. The circular indicated that while Cobalt would cover Northern zone of the country, CARMINE Assayer and Neroli would be in charge of South West and South East and South-South zones respectively.

Sallah Message

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Pray for national unity, Saraki urges Muslims

enate President Bukola Saraki, yesterday enjoined Muslim faithful to pray for unity, peace and progress of the nation ahead of the

Eid el-Fitr. This was contained in a statement signed by Mr. Yusuph Olaniyonu, Special Adviser (Media) to Saraki, in Abuja.

He urged them to intensify prayers for their leaders as they have been enjoined by the Almighty Allah in the holy book as the month of Ramadan

ends. “At this point in our national life, unity among all the different ethnic and religious groups will usher in peace and only peace

Lalong urges Muslıms to fight terrorism James abraham JOS

overnor Sımon Lalong of Plateau State has called on Muslım faithful in the country to support the ongoing war against terror to ensure its defeat. In his Sallah message to the people, the governor also urged them to use the spiritual lessons learnt during the month of Ramadan for the betterment of humanity as enjoined by Prophet Mohammed (SAW).

The governor’s message, which was contained in a statement signed by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Samuel Emmanuel Nanle, noted that Islam preaches peace and peaceful coexistence; hence, the need for all its adherents to work for peace and most essentially commit themselves to community vigilance that would aid security operatives in fishing out all agents of Boko Haram and terrorism in the country. Governor Lalong added

that peace and good neighbourliness are commandments of the holy book, the virtues of which must have been restated in the lessons of the Ramadan

for the good of society. He also called for special prayers for the nation’s leadership in order for it to witness rapid transformation.

can engender progress and development. “We therefore, need to learn to live together in peace, tolerate one another and eschew actions that can threaten the peace of the nation. ``Muslims, in particular, should continue to demonstrate the fact that the meaning of Islam is peace, and therefore, we should learn to live in peace with people of other faith and tolerate each

other. ``We should also remember our fellow citizens in the north-eastern part of the country who are being assailed by insurgents who call themselves Boko Haram,’’ Saraki said. He also called on all Nigerians to continue to pray for the military which is engaged in the war against the insurgents so they could restore peace to the nation.

Ogun warns transport operators against fare hike Femi OyewesO ABEOKUTA

gun State government yesterday warned members of the road transport workers unions operating in the state not to make life difficult for commuters by hiking fares during the Eid-el-Fitr celebration. Government explained that hiking transport fares, which is the usual practice, may lead commuters to patronize llegal and unapproved parks where their safety could not be guaranteed.

General Manager of the state’s Parks and Garages Development Board, Alhaji Ola-Ayo Ogunsolu, made the appeal in his Ramadan message, which he sent to all members of the various transport unions operating in the state. He urged them to be considerate in dealing with commuters in view of the economic downturn being experienced in the country, noting that any hike in transport fares would encourage people to use illegal parks, which government is totally against.

Oyo APC sues for peace, unity Kemi Olaitan IBADAN

s the world celebrates the end of this year’s Ramadan fast, Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has called on all Muslims in the country to intensify their prayers for the country and prioritise the need to foster unity and harmony among themselves regardless of their differences. The party in an Eid-il-fitr message issued yesterday by its Director of Publicity and Strategy, Mr. Olawale Sadare, said the holy month of Ramadan is usually treasured as it offers mankind divine visitation, forgiveness of

sins and renewal of relationship with Allah. The party also enjoined citizens and residents of the state to join hands with Governor Abiola Ajimobi, who it said, was prepared to place the state on a high pedestal that would make it rank among the best in the next four years.

Women wing of Nasfat during Ramadan Lailatul Qudri Prayer session at Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. PHOTO: ABIOLA ABDULHAMMED

Atiku admonishes Muslims on forgiveness at Eid-el-fitr

ormer Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged Muslims in the country to embrace the virtues of forgiveness and common understanding as they join their counterparts across the world to celebrate the end of Ramadan fasting. The former vice presi-

dent in a press statement released by his media office yesterday, noted that one of the basic components of Ramadan fasting was to seek the mercy of God to forgive us our sins, and thus it becomes imperative for us as human beings to extend the grace of forgiveness and

common understanding to other human beings as well. According to the statement, “being good Muslims requires that we follow the examples of Prophet Muhammed, who was always quick to forgive those that transgressed against him and lived a life of building

common understanding among people.” The statement added that at a time such as now when Nigeria is at the threshold of a new beginning, it is important for all hands to be on deck and old gaps closed in order to support the new political leadership.

Dankwambo tasks Gombe people on vigilance williams attah GOMBE

overnor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo of Gombe State has tasked the people of the state on the need to be security conscious as they celebrate the Muslim festival of Eid-el-Fitr.

He stated this in a goodwill message, urging the people to report any suspicious act capable of threatening the prevailing peace in the state to security agents. He assured that his administration would remain committed to the protection of lives

and property of people of the state by supporting security agencies to discharge their duties diligently. He admonished Muslims to learn the good lessons of Ramadan, which are fortitude, selflessness, endurance and obedience to the com-

mandments of Allah. He said Islam means peace and preaches tolerance and mutual respect among members of every community and enjoined all Muslims to live in peace with one another irrespective of religious or ethnic differences.

Shehu Sani donates 12 camels, 8 cows to constituents

enator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial zone, Comrade Shehu Sani, yesterday donated 12 camels and eight cows to the poor and indigent Muslim faithful in the seven local government areas under the zone to enable

them celebrate the Eid-il-fitr festival with others. Sani also urged those clamouring for him to go for the governorship of the state come 2019 to allow him focus on the important mandate handed over to him by his people barely two months

ago. He said he wants to focus on his senatorial duties now rather than pursue any other ambition. Sani said he has been making donations during Eid-il-fitr celebrations for several years with the aim of pro-

viding succour for Muslims, many of whom could not afford to buy meat for their families during the celebrations. His words: “Part of my projects within the senatorial district is to feed of the poor and indigent during the fasting and Sallah celebrations.

My office has been involved in the feeding of the poor and in the indigent in the seven local government areas in the Kaduna Central Senatorial district. This is to make the Sallah a good one for the people of the areas.”

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Friday, July 17, 2015

Buhari sacks NIMASA boss, Akpobolokemi …dissolves boards of federal agencies, institutions ROtimi Fadeyi ABUJA

resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday terminated the appointment of Mr. Patrick Ziakede Akpo-

bolokemi as Director-General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA. A statement issued yesterday by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina,

Nigeria’ll continue to support peaceful use of nuclear tech –Buhari ROtimi Fadeyi ABUJA

resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday said under his leadership, Nigeria would continue to support the use of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes and human development only. Buhari said Nigeria would therefore welcome this week’s agreement between Iran and the six world powers on its nuclear programme. At a meeting with visiting Iranian Vice President for Executive Affairs, Mohammed Shariatmadari, the president applauded the agreement, saying it was a major step toward ensuring peace and stability in the Middle East. The president said as a signatory to the Nuclear

Non-Proliferation Treaty, Nigeria looks forward to the faithful implementation of terms of the agreement by all concerned parties. Buhari, who received an invitation from the Iranian Vice President to attend an upcoming Summit of Gas Exporting Countries in Tehran, remarked that it was in the interest of developing countries to maximise the use of their natural resources for the improvement of living conditions of their people. Shariatmadari congratulated Buhari on his election and assured him of Iran’s support in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism. “The government of President Hassan Rouhani of Iran advocates moderation and departure from any form of extremism,’’ he said.

Alleged interference with tribunals: You lied, APC tells PDP Olajide OmOjOlOmOju

ll Progressives Congress, APC, has accused the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, of engaging in brazen lies by alleging interference by security agencies in cases before election petitions tribunals, describing the allegation as a “futile attempt by PDP to pull the wool over the eyes of Nigerians.” The party in a statement issued in Lagos yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said not only did the PDP lie shamelessly in making the allegation; it was also trying to muddle waters on the true situation concerning the case before the Rivers State Election Petitions Tribunal, which it said precipitated the PDP’s frivolous accusation in the first instance. Mohammed said that

in truth, the invitation of some officials from the Rivers State office of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, was prompted by a petition to the Inspector General of Police, IGP, and the DirectorGeneral of the Department of State Security, DSS, by the APC that the officials were colluding with the PDP to deny it access to key documents used for the last gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections in the state. He said the petition also contained the fact that some directors at INEC head office in Abuja have been working strenuously to also deny APC access to some documents used for the elections, which were domiciled at INEC’s head office, even when INEC Chairman has promptly attended to the issue and directed the said officials to provide the needed documents.

said the termination of Akpobolokemi’s appointment takes immediate effect. According to the statement, Akpobolokemi is to hand over management of NIMASA and all government properties in his possession to the most senior officer in the agency, who would remain in charge until a new Director-General is appointed. Akpobolokemi was appointed NIMASA boss by former President Goodluck Jonathan. Only on Monday, Buhari

sacked all the Service Chiefs and the National Security Adviser appointed by Jonathan. He also announced new Service Chiefs. Buhari sacked Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh as Chief of Defence Staff, LieutenantGeneral Kenneth Minimah as Chief of Army Staff and Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin as Chief of Naval Staff. Also affected in the Monday purge were Air Marshal Adesola Amosu as Chief of Air Staff and Colonel Sambo Dasuki (rtd) as National Security Adviser, NSA.

In a related development, President Buhari has also approved the dissolution of Governing Boards of federal parastatals, agencies and institutions. The president said the dissolution of the governing boards was with immediate effect. A statement issued by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, said until the boards are reconstituted, Chief Executive Officers of the affected parastatals, agencies and institutions are

to refer all matters requiring the attention of their boards to the president through permanent secretaries of their supervising ministries. The statement further said the dissolution does not affect federal executive bodies listed in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, ‘’However, the dissolution covered administrative or technical committees and other similar organs established by the now dissolved boards,’’ the statement reads.

Chancellor, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Bishop David Oyedepo (left), and Vice-President, Living Faith Foundation, Pastor David Abioye, during a news conference at the institution’s conference centre in Omu-Aran, yesterday.

Minimah hands over to Buratai …says no ill filling over removal

• Badeh hands over secretly to Olonishakin too

ubOng ukpOng ABUJA

ormer Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lt-Gen. Kenneth Minimah, yesterday said he had no ill filling over his removal by President Muhammadu Buhari. He expressed satisfaction that he was handing over a potent and vibrant army that has not conceded any inch of Nigeria’s territory to terrorists. This is even as his successor, Major-General Tukur Buratai, has vowed to sustain the discipline his predecessor had already restored in the Nigerian Army, vowing also to build on his legacies.

While handing over to his successor in a colourful military tradition at Army Headquarters, AHQ, in Abuja, Minimah, who was appointed 18 months ago as the 19th COAS and 25th Head of Army, said as Service Chief, he knew he may never enjoy the privilege of being served notice of disengagement like other officers and soldiers got six months notice. He said: “Today is a day of joy by all standards and all means, there should be no grumbling. When I hear officers and soldiers complain about their disengagement, writing letters for extension and petition, I say theirs is a privilege because they have six months notice to plan to disengage. But ours is radio

announcement. You don’t enjoy such privilege.” Minimah reminded the soldiers that at the time of his appointment, the Nigerian Army and indeed, the country, were going through one of the worst crises in its history. He said the level of violence and insecurity unleashed on innocent citizens by Boko Haram terrorists had nearly brought the Nigerian Army and the armed forces to their knees. The former army boss said considering this, they had to take decisive action to deal with the menace of terrorism and criminality across the country. Minimah, who said that the successes did not come

cheap, but with their sweat and blood, disclosed that in the face of unusual events they had to take unusual actions. In his brief remark, General Buratai, warned those who may not have liked Minimah for his strict and discipline styles to brace up because he could not afford to compromise that discipline standpoint. In a related event, former Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, Air Chief Marshal Marshal Alex Badeh, has handed over to his successor, Major General Abayomi Olonishakin. The handover was said to have been done in secret yesterday morning between the outgoing and incoming CDS. Sources said that he was not interested in elaborate ceremony in view of his displeasure with the way their sack came.

News

Friday, July 17, 2015

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SCON building collapse: Lagos to prosecute contractor, church FRancis subeRu

overnor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State yesterday said his administration will enforce verdict of the Coroner’s inquest on the September 12, 2014, Synagogue building collapse that led to the deaths of over 116 people in consonance with the rule of law. Ambode in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Habib Aruna, said his government will prosecute the church and contractor in tandem with recommendation of the corner’s inquest.

He said the state government will uphold and enforce the sanctity of the law, just as he urged residents to also respect the rule of law. “His Excellency hereby restates his government’s commitment to uphold and enforce the sanctity of the law in the state and calls on all Lagos residents to respect the rule of law,” the statement said. To this end, he said the Coroner’s verdict of July, 2015, made a number of recommendations, which the state government will act upon accordingly. The governor said one of the provisions of the Coroner Law 2007 empowers a

Coroner to commence an inquest to find out the cause and manner of death which occur in an unusual manner. He recalled that consequent upon the collapse at the premises of Synagogue Church building, the state government applied that a coroner’s inquest be commenced into the cause of the tragic deaths. The governor said the state government “Will cause the prosecution of the contractor, Mr. Akinbela Fatiregun of Hardrock Engineering Company Limited and Structural Engineer, Oladele Ogundeji, who constructed and supervised the collapsed building re-

spectively at the Synagogue Church of All Nations for professional negligence”. He said the state government will also prosecute the Synagogue Church of All Nations for neglecting to obtain approval before commencing the building, contrary to the provisions of the Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law 2010. Ambode appealed to residents of the state to always allow emergency responders perform their duties as they are trained for this purpose. “He enjoins land owners within the state who intend to embark on construction

to employ the services of qualified and competent engineers who must obtain

building permit before construction,” the statement said.

50 feared dead as twin explosions hit Gombe market Williams attah GOMBE

bout 50 people were feared killed yesterday when a twin explosion rip-off a potion of Gombe New Market while businesses were at its peak in preparations for the Eidel-Fitr festival. Officials of the Red Cross, who did not want their names mentioned, said they had evacuated 48 corpses from the blast scenes, while another source put the death toll at 50. Our correspondent gathered that the first explosion

occurred around 5:10pm, close to a textile material shop when people were making their last shopping. Police Command spokesman, Fwaje Atajiri, confirmed the incident, saying the area had been cordoned off to safeguard people’s property while survivors were taken away for medical attention. Barely a week ago, a combined force of the Nigerian Army and the Department of State Service, DSS, arrested at Dadin Kowa, in Gombe State, masterminds of the Zaria and Jos bomb blasts that claimed almost a hundred lives.

Recruitment fraud: ICPC clears Peace Corps oluFemi adeosun ABUJA

I Representative of the U.S Ambassador, Maria Brewer (middle), with Nigerian students on scholarship trip to U.S, during their PreDeparture Orientation Lecture at the U.S Embassy in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

ndependent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission, ICPC, has cleared the Peace Corps of Nigeria, PCN, of complicity in the bribe for employment allegation against it. In the petition to ICPC, PCN was alleged to have been exploiting unsuspecting youths in the guise of recruitment exercise.

Eid-el- Fitr: Buhari pleads for more sacrifice to rebuild Nigeria Rotimi Fadeyi ABUJA

resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday pleaded with Nigerians to be ready to make more sacrifices, greater self-denial, and show more patriotism in order to quickly recover from the problems facing the nation. In his Eid-el-Fitr message to Nigerians, Buhari said this time in the life of the nation offers great opportunity to break from the vicious triangle of insecurity, corruption and underdevelopment, stressing that Nigerians must collectively resolve to seize the opportunity and unite to confront the problems. The President said though the Ramadan pe-

riod has ended, he still believed that a greater acceptance by Nigerians of its key lessons of self-denial and sacrifice would serve the country well as it strives to overcome the present challenges, undo the damage done by years of bad governance and accelerate the pace of national development. The President said: “Reviewing our dire circumstances and the many missed opportunities of the past, some commentators and observers have said that this is Nigeria’s last chance to get its act together and finally begin to fulfill its God-given potential for greatness. “While not going that far, I certainly believe that now, more than ever before, our country needs greater self-

denial, sacrifice and patriotism from all of its citizens, if we are to quickly recover from our numerous problems and start moving in a positive direction.” Buhari maintained that he remained wholly committed to giving the required leadership towards undoing the wrongs of the past. He also said he would ensure that Nigeria truly begins to unlock its great potential and that the benefits of immense national resources are shared and enjoyed by all, not just by successive cabals of corrupt leaders and their cronies. “I was very aware of your high expectations when I assumed office and I reassure you, my fellow citizens, that since my in-

auguration on the 29th of May this year, I have been working with utmost dedication to meticulously plan and tackle the many national challenges which we identified and promised to resolve. “To succeed however, I need your continued support, understanding and patience. “I fully understand and share the thirst of my longsuffering compatriots for corruption-free government institutions that work efficiently to deliver visible development for the benefit of all citizens. “I also share the feelings of those who think that we should be moving faster. But I urge them and all Nigerians to trust that my commitment to real and positive change in our nation is as firm as ever.

“There is indeed much work to be done, but we must do it well and carefully to ensure that the great opportunity which we now have is not lost to the ‘business as usual’ group who selfishly or shortsightedly prefer a status quo that panders to their personal or group interests. “The adverse effects of years of rot, corruption, inept and bad governance on our nation are immense, but certainly not insurmountable if we all resolve now to place the well-being of our nation above all other considerations and work wholeheartedly with the present administration to achieve greater peace and security across the nation, and reposition our country for faster economic development and progress,” he added.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja yesterday, National Commandant of PCN, Dr Dickson Akoh, said notice of the clean bill of health had already been conveyed to the Federal Ministry of Youth Development. The ICPC’s clearance, Dr Akoh said, was the outcome of a thorough and painstaking investigation conducted into series of petitions forwarded to the anti-graft agency by some people and organisations. The PCN boss appreciated ICPC and its leadership led by the Chairman, Mr. Ekpo Nta for conducting the investigations transparently without recourse to intimidation, harassment and violation of our rights. “This singular action is a testimony that ICPC is truly independent in discharging its statutory responsibility and not a tool for witch-hunting,” Akoh stated. In the same vein, the PCN boss commended President Muhammadu Buhari for the bold steps he had taken in effecting changes in the leadership of the Armed Forces and the Department of State Services, DSS. However, he advised the new service chiefs to critically study and conducts an indepth analysis of the factors that contributed to the inability of their predecessors to address the insurgency and arrest the situation.

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South West

Friday, July 17, 2015

Students shut Fed Poly over alleged high-handedness FEMI O YEWESO, ABEOKUTA

tudents of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, headquarters of Yewa South Local Government Area of Ogun State, yesterday shut the institution over management’s alleged high-handedness. Armed with placards bearing various inscriptions, the aggrieved students besieged the main entrance to the campus and prevented both staff and other workers of the institution from gaining access into the campus. All commercial activities in and around the campus were also paralysed, while the Ilaro/ Oja-Odan highway was also shut by the protesters, who alleged harassment and high-handedness of the institution’s management. Led by executive members of the institution’s Students Union Government, SUG, the protesting students defied all entreaties from officials of the institution to register their displeasure against management of the institution. They accused the management of harassment, intimidation and high-handedness, stressing that they had paid for a handbook, which is a guide for students’ conduct on campus, which was not made available to them. The SUG President, Saheed Oluwaseun, explained that some of his colleagues had been suspended by the authorities of the institution for unknown reasons, while some were still facing disciplinary panel. He added that all avenues to dialogue with the authorities of the polytechnic on the issues had not been successful. Other students, who spoke with our correspondent during the protest, described their experience on campus as appalling, adding that students are not being treated with dignity by the management of the

institution. The students, who were under the security watch of a detachment of policemen deployed to the scene, vowed not to leave the area until the rector of the institution attend to them and assure them that the situation on campus would change for better. When contacted, the public relations officer of the institution, Rev. Bolaji Olatunbosun, who appealed to our correspondent to speak off camera, said the handbook being demanded by the students was delayed due to an alteration and amendment that was made by the authorities of the institution. He challenged the students to be honest and speak out about some of the inhuman treatment being melted to them by the institution adding that some of them have skeletons in their cupboards. All attempts to get in touch with the rector of the polytechnic proved abortive as he was said to be away in Abuja on an official engagement.

L-R: Baale of Gberefu Island, Badagry, Chief Adeniyi Matuton Sanni, Numeton-1; Executive Secretary, Badagry West Local Government, Hon. Agoro Joseph; Executive Secretary, Badagry Central LCDA, Hon. [Mrs] Elizabeth Kappo Petetin, and Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, during the governor’s inspection tour of proposed site for Seaport and Point of No Return at Gberefu Island, Badagry, yesterday.

Osun workers shun resumption order B OLADALE BAMIGBOLA OSOGBO

espite a directive ordering workers in Osun State back to their duty posts by leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, many civil servants yesterday stayed off duty. Osun State NLC Chairman, Comrade Jacob Adekomi, had on Monday ordered civil

servants in the state to resume at their duty posts on Tuesday after six weeks of strike over non-payment of their salaries. However, a counterorder telling the workers to resume their suspended strike emanated from the NLC late Tuesday after they discovered that only 50 per cent of a month’s salary was paid to the workers. But on Wednesday,

NLC leadership in the state recanted and issued a press release signed by NLC chairman and the state chairman of Joint Negotiation Council, JNC, Comrade Bayo Adejumo, asking the workers to resume work immediately. Many government offices and schools visited within Osogbo metropolis were under lock and key. Meanwhile, Nigeria

Union of Teachers, NUT, Osun State wing, has ordered teachers in the state’s employ to stay off their duty posts. In a statement signed by principal state secretary of the union, Abdullahi Mohammed, the NUT observed that government reneged on the agreement signed with labour movement by paying only 50 per cent salaries to the workers.

Ex-soldier bags life jail over rape of 10-yr-old step-daughter …infects her with HIV FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

n Ogun State High Court sitting in Isabo area of Abeokuta yesterday sentenced a retired soldier identified as Ibrahim Alabi to life imprisonment for raping his 10-year-old step-daughter. Alabi was convicted on a one-count charge of having sexual intercourse with the child and infecting her with Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus, HIV, within the period he repeatedly had canal knowledge of the minor. State chapter of Child Protection Network, CPN, an umbrella body of non-governmental organisations fighting for the rights of children, had in 2012, dragged the convict to court, where he was accused of committing the crime in his home where the victim and her

mother reside together with him. Following CNP’s intervention, Alabi was arraigned before Ogun State High Court IV presided over by Justice Abiodun Akinyemi in suit number AB/37/C/14. In the course of crossexamination, the girl told the court that she had lost count of the number of times her step father slept with her, stressing that at the end of every sexual intercourse, Alabi always threatened that she would die if she told anybody. Also during trial, a medical examination report presented before the court by the Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, established that the girl had been sexually assaulted and also infected with HIV. The report of the medical investigation further revealed that the girl’s sexual reproductive organ (vagina) had been

penetrated, while blood investigation also revealed that she has HIV and that the convict’s blood sample also tested positive to HIV infection. Counsel to the convict, Adebola Okudoro, in his plea, appealed to the court to temper justice with mercy by considering the heath condition of his client. “He is infected with HIV and will need access to medical attention which is very expensive and there is no such facility in prisons custody. The accused person is the breadwinner of the family. He has several dependants. We pray the court to temper justice with mercy,” he said. Delivering his judgement, however, Justice Akinyemi said the accused had committed an offence contrary to section 3 of Child Rights Law of Ogun State, stressing that the court was convinced by the allegation against him after several

court sittings. The judge added that the victim’s testimony during cross-examination showed that she was telling the truth and not tutored and there were concrete evidence that the victim was sexually assaulted having also lost count on the number of times the convict sexually assaulted her. “The court is convinced about the girl’s evidences; she is intelligent; she remained consistent during crossexamination. She does not seem to have been tutored. I find her evidence credible. Evidence of her mother corroborated her own,” the judge stated. Akinyemi also made reference to medical report which stated that the accused infected the girl with HIV, stressing that the convict’s action has brought a permanent stigma on the innocent girl. The judge also ex-

plained that the evidence of the medical report does not suggest that the girl had earlier been sexually assaulted as been made to believe by the convict and also nullified argument that there was no eyewitness account on the sex allegation, pointing out that those who engage in rape do not employ the service of cameramen, rather the witnesses are the accused and the respondent. “I am fully convinced that the accused had repeatedly had sex with the girl. I found the accused guilty as charged. I find it not in my mind to show any mercy. The man is shameless, sleeping with mother and child; what an abomination. “People like him need not to be in the society. I therefore sentence him to life imprisonment. He should, however, be given access to reasonable treatment,” the judge declared.

South West

Friday, July 17, 2015

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UI VC tasks Buhari on war against insurgency K EMI OLAITAN IBADAN

L-R: Chairman, Osun State Seven-man Investigative Committee on Justice Oloyede’s Petition, Hon. Akintunde Adegboye; Speaker, Osun House of Assembly, Honourable Najeem Salaam, and a member of the committee, Hon. Timothy Owoeye, during a press conference to Inaugurate the committee in Osogbo, yesterday.

Lagos rail project for completion in 12 months –Ambode FRANCIS S UBERU

overnor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State yesterday promised to complete the Blue Light Rail project from Mile 2 to Marina in the next 12 months. Ambode, who inspected works done on the rail project on Thursday, said his administration was determined to complete the project at the shortest possible time. He added that he decided to inspect the project in order to quickly

mobilise the contractor to expedite action on the rail project and the Badagry expressway so that the project could be completed on time due to its importance to Lagosians. According to him, “the Mile 2-Badagry Expressway is very important to all of us and like we said, it’s a project we must finish. It’s a project I would like to be completed within the shortest possible time, so I’ll like to see greater work done on the road project itself. “On the rail project,

like we have said, we are going to mobilise immediately to see that what has been done from Mile 2 to the National Theatre continued to Marina within the next 12 months.” The governor said what his administration expected was that notwithstanding the rain or whatever, the immediate mobilisation of the contractor should be done and then, the contractor should also increase the pace of work and that’s what we’ll like to see. Ambode added that

whatever were the encumbrances to completing these projects, government officials would sit down with the contractors to see how it could be resolved to make sure that the suffering of the people was brought to an end. “We’re all going to sit down to make sure that we alleviate the suffering of our people and that these projects will definitely increase the economic activity along the corridors and that is what the government intends to do,” he said.

ice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Isaac Folorunso Adewole, has tasked President Muhammadu Buhari to adopt a multidimensional approach to nip in the bud the problem of terrorism and insecurity in the country. Adewole, while speaking with journalists yesterday on the award conferred on him by the University of Sunderland, said any war on terror required the collective efforts of all Nigerians. He said like diseases, any war against terror must be fought through collective efforts to nip it in the bud, including assemblage of sound team of experts capable of unmasking the masquerade with a view to reducing the fear, pain and terror inflicted on the people. According to him, this strategy has worked in the health sector on several diseases by gathering medical experts. On the award, he said he would continue to beam his searchlight of research on all threats to human existence, adding that the award was in recognition of the education and teamwork in taming a global scourge. He said: “An African proverb says, ‘until you unmask it, a masquer-

Impeachment: Osun assembly to try Aregbesola in camera …PDP rejects composition of probe panel BOLADALE BAMIGBOLA OSOGBO

peaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Najeem Salam, yesterday said the committee that will probe the petition written by Justice Oloyede Folahanmi against Governor Rauf Aregbesola, will hold its sittings behind close-doors. Inaugurating a 7-member committee on the floor of the House, Mr. Salam said both the petitioner, Justice Oloyede, and the respondent, Aregbesola, would appear in person before the committee to defend their positions.

He, however, added that the parties involved may be represented by lawyers, if they so wish, adding that the committee have two weeks duration to complete its assignment and report back to the House. “He who alleges must be able to provide proof. So, the two of them will be invited separately to the house to make their cases verbally. It is important that we see them and the committee will do that and other things necessary,” Salaam said. Members of the probe committee includes Deputy Speaker, Adegboye

Akintunde, who will serve as chairman of the panel. Others are Owoeye Timothy, Adebayo Bola, Ogunsola Adeleke, Olalekan Rsaheed, Akinola Adufe and Oladoyin Folorunsho. Also in the panel are the assembly’s Director of Legal Services and Director of Legislation Matters. Explaining why PDP lawmakers were not included in the committee, Salam said new lawmakers were not included in the panel because they are first term lawmakers with no cognitive legislative experience. He further explained: “There is no way a new member will have the nit-

ty-gritty and the needed experience of how to report back to the house on this petition. “Moreover, the house is one regardless on the platform of which party we are elected. We do not see them as opposition and I am sure they don’t see themselves as such. “Let it be known that we shall treat the petition with all commitment because it emanated from a serving judge of the state. But reacting to the composition of the committee, the Osun State House of Assembly Minority Leader, Dejo Makinde, dismissed the claims that the new lawmakers lack experience in legislative

matters, saying he holds Masters degree in law, which he said put him in good stead to be considered for such assignment. Speaking further, Makinde added: “I am not satisfied with the composition of the investigation committee and I couldn’t talk during the briefing because the rule of the house do not allow for interruption while the speaker speaks. “They nominated a new member and sidelined we the minority. Although, the majority may have their ways, but we the minority will have their say. So, we have no confidence in the committee.”

ade remains a terror’. A war against terror of any kind is best achieved through collective efforts. Our modest contributions from our corner of the globe have helped in restoring hope to millions of people without hope. “It has become a lamp among the armament that unmasked the monster HIV, and we shall continue to beam the light of research on all threats to human existence. “This award is in recognition of the power of education and teamwork in addressing a global scourge,” he said. Adewole is the only African among the two persons who received the award at the University of Sunderland 2015 convocation ceremony under the Faculty of Applied Sciences for his impactful scientific contributions to obstetrics and gynaecology which have improved the lives of countless women in Nigeria. To make the University of Ibadan globally competitive, Adewole said the premier university has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, with University of Sunderland with a focus on “progression arrangements for students within courses from undergraduate to postgraduate courses; transnational education and dual award degrees; collaborative and cooperative supervision of postgraduate research students and development and implementation of research and external engagement projects, particularly to support the development of academic staff ” Adewole who is the Principal Investigator of the AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria, CoPrincipal Investigator of the Medical Education Partnership, a former Chairman of the National Task Force team on Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV, and Principal Investigator for ‘Operation Stop Cervical Cancer’ in Nigeria is a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

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South East

Friday, July 17, 2015

Rep says rancor among security agencies calls for concern DeNNis Agbo ENUGU

he revealed acrimony between office of the National Security Adviser, NSA, and the Ministry of Defence has been attributed to the main cause of weakened security system in Nigeria. A member of the House of Representatives, Linus Okorie, who disclosed this in a press statement, said the stories of power tussle between the NSA and the Ministry of Defence threatens Nigeria’s war against terrorism. Okorie in a statement on Tuesday urged President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently review the nation’s security architecture

Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwanyi (sixth left, front row), with newly Commissioners in Enugu, yesterday.

by rolling out his promised Marshal Plan against terror and, among others, appoint his Minister of

35 injured in Hausa, hoodlums clash in Imo Chris Njoku OWERRI

ore than 35 people sustained various injuries as security agencies and Hausa traders clashed during a demolition exercise yesterday at Ama Hausa quarters located at Douglas Road, Owerri, Imo State. Properties and goods worth millions of naira were destroyed, as dollars belonging to some Bureau de Change dealers were carted away by hoodlums, who seized opportunity of the stampede to loot. The demolition carried out by ENTRACO Task Force was in continuation of the exercise by state government after some weeks of notice had been given to the traders to vacate the area, which had of recent become the hide-out for criminals and where stolen handsets were sold. Although the traders claimed that no such long notice was given to them, chairman of Suya meat section, Iliyasu Sule whose shop was destroyed, said the Chief of Staff, Chief Uche Nwosu, just addressed them few minutes ago before the bulldozer destroyed their properties. “I’m surprised at what happened because the chief of ctaff just addressed us few minutes ago that there was need for us to remove our proper-

ties on the road,” he said, adding that immediately after he addressed them, some youths armed with broken bottles, cutlasses and stones advanced towards their direction to attack them. Also reacting, Publicity Secretary, Arewa Consultative Forum, Imo State, Hassan Yahaya, condemned the way and manner the hoodlums were allowed to use the exercise to loot properties of Hausa traders during the demolition. He, however, blamed former SSA to the Governor on Northern Affairs, Faisal Lawal, for his failure to inform the people properly on the issue. He said Lawal only gave the information about relocating the front view of the quarters and not about demolition. In a statement signed by Chief Press Secretary, Sam Onwuemeodo, shortly after the incident, the government stated that it would not take such resistance and confrontation lightly; policy of ‘Imo my Pride’ is dear to the government and must be accomplished since the whole exercise is in the overall interest of the state and the citizenry. “The policy is not targeted at any person or group of persons and as such no stone would be left unturned to ensure its realisation,” Onwuemeodo said.

Justice for proper implementation of Nigeria’s Terrorism Act. Okorie, representing Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State, said it was laudable that President Buhari has prioritised the war on terror and has taken steps, including relocation of the military command and control centre to Maiduguri, mobilisation of regional neighbours, attendance of

the G7 summit to rally support against the security menace, and now, the appointment of new Service Chiefs and National Security Adviser, NSA. “However, President Buhari needs to act faster to put in place clear national security architecture and strategy to holistically confront this resurgence of terror threatening our collective existence. “He must seize the mo-

mentum of the new appointments to release the much expected Marshal Plan on insurgency, terrorism, ethnic and religious violence, kidnapping and rural banditry, which he promised during the presidential campaigns,” Okorie said. He urged President Buhari to quickly address whatever caused the resurgence of terrorists that were previously boxed,

Abia pledges support for NHIS

bia State government on Thursday pledged its commitment to the realisation of the objectives of the National Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS, in the state. Permanent Secretary, Abia Ministry of Health, Mr Agomoh Nwachukwu, made the promise in Umuahia during a meeting with NHIS officials. He said the state gov-

ernment had made plans to go into partnership with the private sector to make it possible for more people to become beneficiaries of the scheme. Nwachukwu said this would greatly help those in rural areas to have access to quality healthcare with little amount of money. He said the state government in its bid to establish efficient health

sector, would give the people of Abia the opportunity to receive proper healthcare service. An official of NHIS, Dr Jonathan Eke, in his response said there were baseline criteria, which made it the government’s responsibility to cater for the indigent through the scheme. Eke said this was done to ensure that no segment or person in the state was

PHOTO:NAN

while reminding his security czars that the security and welfare of the people remain the primary essence of governance. He suggested that Mr. President should abandon, at least for now, any plan to withdraw or limit military checkpoints in the country, citing recent arrest of the alleged kingpin of the recent Jos and Zaria terror attacks at a checkpoint in Dadin Kowa, Gombe State.

left out. He said the NHIS registration process had become modified and made easy through centralised registration with the help of modern technology. Eke commended Abia State government for becoming one of the frontline states that has passed National Health Insurance Scheme bill into law.

Ebonyi police parade robbery suspects, cultists AliuNA goDwiN ABAKALIKI

bonyi State Police Command on Thursday paraded cult suspects, who were alleged to have killed one Sunday Igwe due to leadership tussle among members of the gang. Commissioner of Police, Dikko Margari, who spoke through Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Chris Anyanwu, said the gang had been terrorising the state. Members of the gang include Eze Victor, Chisom Edozie, Jimoh Abu and Ejezie Chiemezie.

“A gang of four young men alleged to be members of Supreme Vikings Fraternity led by Ogbule Justice popularly known as ‘Stone Cold’ killed Sunday Igwe (a.k.a. Kawawa), who resided at Azugwu, Abakaliki, over leadership tussle in the clandestine group. “The killing took place at Umuoghara, Ezza North Local Government Area. Security operatives of this command have been on the trail of the gang. It is on note that the command coordinated an intelligence operation, the said Ogbule Justice was nabbed

at Timaya bush bar Nkaliki with members of his group, Emmanuel Oyota and Abuchi Mbuta Joshua. Items recovered from them included a portable shoulder bag, one English double- barreled gun, one locally-made six-round revolver pistol, one locally-made double-barreled pistol, seven live cartridges, two live 9mm ammunition, three expended 9mm ammunition shells, one red flag with the inscription “BE THE REDS” and one other blood-soaked red cloth. Also, paraded are

three armed robbery suspects who were operating at No. 2 Ebe Street Abakaliki. The commissioner added that the suspects will be arraigned in court immediately for murder and unlawful possession of firearms. He restated the preparedness of the command to mop-up arms and rid the state of crime, adding that the fight against criminal elements can never be compromised. Meanwhile, one of the suspects, Ejezie Chiemezie, had confessed to the crime.

South South

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Stakeholders want Delta to discontinue BRT project theOphilus OnOjeghen WARRI

L-R: Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson; Secretary, BYS Volunteers, Hon. Bonny Ayah and coordinator, CSP Emmanuel Asufi, during presentation of financial Instrument of N46 million, being allowances for the outfit, at Government House, Yenagoa.

Gay marriage: Halt relations with US, FG told Regina OtOkpa

ollowing legal declaration of same sex marriage in the United States, a group, Niger Delta Enlightenment Network, NIDEN, has advised the Federal Government to severe relations with the U.S. President of the group, Salvation Agele-Oba, while speaking with National Mirror in an interview, noted that same sex marriage was not only barbar-

ic, inhumane and occult in nature, but was also a grievous sin before God. He stressed that same sex marriage was a taboo in African culture and against the tenets of Christianity, which preaches against homosexuality, adding that such a practice connotes avoidable evil and doom. According to him, the only way to save the country from an impending doom is to severe all existing relationship with the U.S. and other countries in

support of the move, which he alleged was intended to frustrate countries working against the interest of the most powerful country in the world. Agele-Oba further condemned the proposed visit of President Muhammadu Buhari to the U.S, in a few days’ time, saying the visit was a strategy employed by President Barrack Obama of the United States to influence the acceptance of gay marriage as lawful in the country. He said: “Gay marriage

is a curse, it causes brain damage, gay marriage is very bad and it is unfortunate that America is doing it. The reason why they are doing it is to frustrate other nations dealing with them. “Before this gay marriage becomes law, we are telling Buhari not to go to America to meet Obama because that law has prevented Nigerians from going to America to study, because our children who will gain admission into American universities would suffer intimidations.

A’Ibom gov meets Buhari over erosion problem ROtimi Fadeyi ABUJA

overnor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State yesterday said the state was faced with problem of gully erosion that needed urgent intervention. Speaking with State House Correspondents after a closed-door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Emmanuel said the state had intervened in the problem while expecting a refund from the Federal Government. According to him, on few occasions, major commercial activities almost got to a halt because major federal roads linking both SouthSouth and South-East collapsed due to gully erosion. Emmanuel said: “We have problem of gully erosion. If you watch the news in recent time, you will see a lot of interventions and those

devastating menace in some federal assets and federal roads, which the state government has actually tried to intervene. “On few occasions, major commercial activities almost got to a halt because a major federal road linking both the South-South and South-East collapsed due to gully erosion and the state government had to intervene and these things cost a lot of money. Even at that you still need to carry on your own duty because those things exist within your state and as a governor, you can’t just ignore some of these issues,” he added. The governor said that the fact that his predecessor intervened in the problem of gully erosion in the state and never got refund, would not deter him from attending to issues that affect the people of the state. “It cannot deter us from taking up the interest of the

people; we will ensure that the interest of the people will be uppermost in whatever decision we are taking. My predecessor intervened so much in this problem of gully erosions and some of

them were approved by the immediate past president” The governor expressed delight with the way Buhari has been relating with governors irrespective of political affiliations.

One killed in Delta cult clash theOphilus OnOjeghen WARRI

here was pandemonium in Ovwian community in Udu Council Area of Delta State, Wednesday night, following rival cult clash, which claimed at least, one life with several properties destroyed. Residents of the area told National Mirror that one Mr. Erhuvwun Kebe was reportedly killed, while others sustained severe injuries during the fight which they said lasted till Thursday morning. Our sources claimed that Kebe was clubbed to death at NBTC junction in Ovwian by

rival cultists suspected to be members of Dominion Cult group. It was learnt that the fight was between the Baga and Dominion confraternity. No fewer than three cars and houses were destroyed during the fracas. The sources, who spoke under condition of anonymity, added that members of Dominion Cult led by one Righteous Sabuke were first to attack the leader of Baga Cult. According to them, they however, did not meet the leader of the Baga Cult group, identified as Whayenkufia Kebe but on their way

articipants at a stakeholders’ meeting, including the Ovie of Uvwie kingdom, HRM Emmanuel Sideso, Abe 1, and former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Delta State, Chief Victor Otomevwo, have expressed displeasure as well as appealed to the state government to discontinue the ongoing four-kilometre Bus Rapid Transit, BRT, project in Uvwie Local Government Area of the state. Former governor of the state, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, had amid protests in January 2014 begun the project, which has caused severe gridlock in state. At the foundation-laying ceremony, Uduaghan described it as one of his star projects when completed. He also vowed to complete it within six months, but it was, however, far from completion before May 29 when he handed over to Okowa. Uduaghan had said the dual BRT lane would cost the state over N6 billion, adding that it was designed to reduce traffic congestion at EffurunSapele road. But speaking during a con-

sultative meeting chaired by Deputy Governor, Mr. Kingsley Otuaro, participants told the state government to immediately halt the project as it has caused untold hardship to residents of Uvwie and Warri metropolises. At the meeting held at Governor Office Annex, Wednesday evening, the Ovie of Uvwie, Sideso, told the deputy governor that rather than continue with the project the already dualised road should be widened to address frequent traffic jams currently being experienced on the road. Others who spoke described the project as a wastepipe to swindle the state resources by the former administration. On his part, Mr. Biodun Otunola, representative of the contracting firm who used slide show presentation to try and convinced participants, blamed the slow pace of work on poor funding from government. Stakeholders were however, not persuaded by the presentation. Speaking at the occasion, Otuaro said the state government would consider the perception of benefitting communities and other stakeholders in arriving at a collective decision on the project.

Dickson orders payment of LGs’ salaries OsahOn julius YENAGOA

ayelsa State government is to commence payment of salaries of workers in local government service, starting with June 2015 salary.

back, they met his late younger brother at NBTC junction in Ovwian and clubbed him to death. The raging battle was escalated by the killing of Kebe leading to reprisal attack despite the presence of local vigilante outfit. Leader of Baga, who was identified as Whayenkufia Kebe, immediately mobilise his cult members and family relations to storm the Ovwian town hall, which also serves as office of the community vigilante outfit and set ablaze three cars, vandalise all the windows, doors, chairs and carted away other valuables.

To this end, Governor Seriake Dickson has directed relevant officials of the state government to work with chairmen of local government councils by way of rendering the needed assistance to facilitate prompt payment of salaries of workers in the third tier of government. A statement by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Daniel Iworiso-Markson, said even though the payment of salaries at that level of government was purely the responsibility of the local government councils, the state government has decided to intervene to ameliorate the plight of the council workers, adding that steps are already being taken to ensure payment of outstanding arrears of salaries within the shortest possible time. The statement enjoined all local government staff to exercise restraint, as every necessary step will be taken to ensure that all arrears of their salaries are paid.

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Before Buhari goes to America

Internal crises threatening Gombe APC survival

ven with the success of the All Progressive Congress, APC, during the last presidential election which brought President Muhammadu Buhari into power, the failure of the party in the governorship election in Gombe State is further tearing the party apart, thereby threatening its survival in the state. Recent happenings in the party now leave much to be desired as in-fighting has dealt a heavy blow on it which has left it polarised into factions struggling for supremacy. Just within last week, the party’s state Chairman, Barr Mohammed Magaji Doho, came out to slam an expulsion order on the party leader and former governor of the state, Senator Mohammed Danjuma Goje, who, along with his supporters, had been having prolonged battle with majority of party members almost immediately after the party’s primary election, where he and the party chairmen glaringly supported separate candidates for the gubernatorial election. While Goje supported the party’s flag bearer in the last election, Alhaji Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya, the chairman was solidly behind current Senator for Gombe North, Usman Bayero Nafada, a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. Nafada later got the party’s senatorial ticket for the Northern zone, which he won during the general elections after he had lost the APC gubernatorial ticket. Since that incident, it has been no love lost between the two factions, a situation which many see as a major factor that cost the party victory during the April 11 gubernatorial election where Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo swept the polls despite the APC “hurricane” that consumed many PDP gunbernatorial candidates in the North. Precisely on Monday, July 6, both factions came out to suspend rival opponents from the party, a situation that has left many wondering who to believe as the authentic party leadership. Earlier the same Monday, the Goje faction with Alhaji Manu Salau Pindiga as its arrow head, hurriedly called a press briefing, even when very few press men were present, when it became clear to them that the Doho faction could be far ahead of them. In the said briefing at the party state secretariat in Gombe, the state secretary of the party, who read the report of a seven man committee under the chairmanship of Umar Mohammed Saifudeen, that was set up to investigate the activities of the party chairman, said that Doho, Senator Nafada, Alhaji Murtala Aliyu, a former minister and top notcher of the party, current House of Representatives’ member representing Kwami/Funakaye/Gombe federal constituency, Hon Khamisu Ahmed Mailantarki and defunct Congress for Progressives Congress, CPC’s flag bearer in the 2011 gubernatorial election, Alhaji Abubakar Aliyu and thirteen others stood suspended for alleged antiparty activities. According to the Saifudeen report, “the state working committee, SWC, sat last week after the gubernatorial election and in the review, we were able to set up a committee to look into the issue of anti-party activities and the suspended executive members were found wanting of antiparty activities during the elections”. The report added that “we worked throughout the state through our coordinators, executive members who were at the scene of the election at wards and local government levels and we were able to find 18 of them who participated actively in anti-party activities.” It said letters of query were issued to the affected executive members on Saturday, May 16 and were given 72 hours to reply but none of them responded. The state party secretary added that Doho and his other sponsors who lost at the party’s gubernatorial primaries vowed to ensure that the party and its gubernatorial candidate, Yahaya, were defeated in the general election even if

WILLIAMS ATTAH examines the crises arising from last gubernatorial election in Gombe State, which are now threatening the survival of the state’s chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Coje

Doho

it was through foul means. Others suspended along with Doho and the other four were state Legal Adviser, Barr Dauda Manu; zonal vice chairman, Mohammed Kwairanga; state Assistant Treasurer, Bawa Musa Bungum; state Assistant Organising Secretary, Abdullahi Massad, zonal Youth Leader, Abubakar Gerengi and state Youth Leader, Ciroma Garkuwa. Others are zonal Youth Leader, South, Aaron Yakubu; state Public Relations Officer, Billiy Garba; state Women Leader, Alhamis Maigiba; ex-Officio member, Abubakar Dantata; state Assistant Auditor, Michael Luka; ex-Officio member, M. Nafada; Kaltung Local Government party chairman, AI Gonsis; Biliri Local Government party chairman, Timothy Seth; Nafada Local Government party chairman, Nadabo Hamidu; Kwami Local Government party chairman, Ali Kurugu and Dukku Local Government party chairman, Usman Abubakar. However, within a time lag of thirty minutes, the Doho faction reacted swiftly at the Gombe Local Government Area of the party which it declared as the party’s new state secretariat henceforth. Barr Doho, in his briefing, declared Senator Goje expelled from the party while eleven other party executives loyal to him were also suspended. In a letter of expulsion forwarded to APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, which Doho read to journalists, the party said: “Sir, it will interest you to know that Senator Goje, having destabilised the party in Gombe

State, which led to our inability to win the gubernatorial election in Gombe State, has now moved his anti-party activities by flouting the party directives and rebelled against the party and connived with PDP senators which led to the emergence of a Senate President and Deputy Senate President of the Senate respectively, and some positions of the National Assembly, contrary to the directives and the instructions of the national executives of the party and party caucus.” Doho also accused Goje of using President Buhari’s name during the presidential campaigns for his selfish aims, stressing that Goje decided to take Buhari around his senatorial constituency only exempting the South and the Northern senatorial districts. One of the reasons it said it had a poor outing during the gubernatorial elections. He stated that the party had earlier in a letter dated April 30 intimated the National Chairman of alleged mismanagement of campaigns and elections, factors it said greatly contributed to the loss of the gubernatorial election in the state as spearheaded by Goje. Backdating Goje’s expulsion, Doho stated that “consequently, we the undersigned, that is twenty members of the state executive members, resolved, following our meeting on June 30 and pursuant to article 21 A i, ii and iii of the APC constitution, hereby expelled Senator Goje from the party with immediate effect.” For now, while many are seeing external fact ors playing a major role in all the factions, this crisis is also seen as capable of polarising the party in its bid to recapture victory in the last governorship election through the tribunal. The polarisation of the party has obviously weakened its strength, and except the few loyal members who are busy trying to see that the tribunal upturned the election succeed by forming government, APC could best be described as mere jokers in the politics of the state. This is because even the leader of the party in the state, Senator Goje, is seen to be playing nonchalant attitude towards the success of the case. The ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on the other hand, having survived the APC hurricane in the North during the last general elections and being one of the few PDP states still standing, will obviously enjoy this in-house fracas as it will want the APC to remain weak.

Recent happenings in the paRty now leave much to be desiRed as in-fighting has dealt a heavy blow on it which has left it polaRised into factions stRuggling foR supRemacy.

Politics

SKC OgbOnnia

resident Muhammadu Buhari will be the guest of President Barack Obama of the United States of America on July 20. This visit is uniquely different. First, Nigeria no longer commands the respect and confidence it once did during the oil boom when the United States was competing to remain the top importer of Nigeria’s crude. Second, for no fault of his own, Buhari is going to America on a precarious perch to plead for Uncle Sam’s help. But before then, here is a necessary mock to consider.

Insecurity, particularly Boko Haram, is expected to top the agenda. However, it has become apparent that something else will dominate the august meeting. Of course, President Buhari will have the opportunity to appeal for additional US aid in combating the terrorist group, among other issues. But his request will meet wide-opened-eyes blaring with teetering suspicions. Obama’s view of Nigeria is an open book. When compared to the era of George W. Bush, the first African American President has been less charitable to Africa, particularly Nigeria, because of the endemic corruption that continues to ravage our nation. He is not alone. People with common sense are mystified of how and why Nigerian leaders have been so ruthless in squandering the future of the country through brazen corruption. To that end, Obama is acutely aware that past efforts on Boko Haram were not hampered because of lack of funds or lack of human resources. He is keenly aware that the failure is squarely tied to corruption in the security services. The American President, no doubt, will remind President Buhari that his pledge of eradicating systemic corruption in the most populous African country was the main reason the masses as well as the international community rooted for a change. But the ovation on the pledge will not last up to a second. Some historians in the audience will be quick to quip that the relationship between Hausa and koboko did not start today. The point is that Buhari is not the first Nigerian leader to have assumed power with best intentions and visited America to shore up support. His immediate predecessors, Umaru Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan, both paid similar visits to the United States with high hopes after being inaugurated presidents. They also preached reforms, adherence to rule of law, and commitment to wage war against corruption. However, rather than fight corruption, Yar’Adua and Jonathan went on to institutionalise corruption in high places. Patrons and other big wigs of the ruling party who were under investigation for stealing billions of public funds were being eulogised and padded into cabinet and other highly visible political appointments and party positions. We are all witnesses to the outcome. President Buhari is in a very delicate predicament. Unlike his predecessors, he will be arriving White House on a shaky ground. As a candidate for the presidency, Buhari had endeared himself to the world with the solemn vow that, if elected president, the All Progressives Congress, APC, central government will not appoint corrupt persons or people with pending cases at the anti-corruption agency. Thus far, Buhari has recorded some measurable success in the war against corruption. For the first time in a long time, the anticorruption agency has shown some muscle by investigating corrupt practices and detaining powerful suspects across the political spectrum. Further, he is taking his time to ensure that people appointed to the executive cabinet are of impeccable character. At the same time, the legislature under the APC administration is polar opposite to any idea of war against graft. In fact, the world view is simply that the leadership of Nigeria’s highest law making body, the 8th Senate, is too corrupt, selfish, and untoward to advance positive change. Not only is the very leadership of the upper chamber a hybrid of the comatose Senate that combined to ruin President Jonathan’s administration, it is a carbon copy of the same characters that Nigerian masses roundly rejected on March 28. The fact that the opposi-

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Before Buhari goes to America

Buhari

Obama

tion, the very enemies of change - instead of the ruling party - has suddenly become the most vocal cheerleaders of the Senate leadership is sufficient to alert Buhari of a hidden agenda. An attempt will be made by the Nigerian delegation to the White House to invoke the reigning glib of separation of power among the three arms of government, but their host will push back. Preaching separation of power to the Americans for lack of action will be viewed as a moral equivalence of a son boasting of begetting a male child before his father. President Buhari will be reminded that a government in a presidential democracy actually includes the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary. Put differently, the APC government headed by Buhari includes the presidency, the National Assembly, and the courts. Even before jetting all the way to Washington DC, Buhari can easily pick the brains of the US Consular-General in Nigeria who will readily agree that Republican Nancy Pelosi, the Minority Leader in the US Congress, will step down if she loses the confidence of the leader of her party, President Obama. True. The common rap across the globe is that Buhari is boxed to a corner. It is believed he is hesitant to ruffle corrupt people who are some of the biggest campaign contributors to the change movement that brought him to power. But Buhari must not allow recent history to repeat itself. No single individual or group of individuals, no matter how highly placed, should constitute a roadblock to common good. The March 28 mandate is not the province of loquacious opportunists but a global coalition of progressive elements from different walks of life who sacrificed, and must continue to sacrifice, for the success of the change. Some pundits can also argue that some of the Sen-

ate leaders being fingered for corruption should be presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, the nation is in crisis; this is not an ideal time to experiment with politicians with tarnished image. All told, there is hope at end of the tunnel. Buhari’s enviable pedigree is still potent. The American visit is a golden opportunity to reassert himself. It is time to reassure the Nigerian masses as well as the international community that he truly belongs to nobody. Obama will like to find out from Buhari on one-on-one basis the specific action plan to influence immediate changes to the leadership of Nigeria’s highest law-making body – the Senate. For perception is everything in politics, and no one needs to be told that the corrupt image of Nigeria’s Senate leadership puts a big question mark on the war against corruption. Finally, granted that recent shale oil boom in the United States has compelled the country to scale back in crude imports, yet there are many ways President Obama can still reignite interest in Nigerian oil and gas sector. But he is understandably very reluctant. The gospel truth is that the world is tired of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC. Apart from the dizzying corruption within the state oil company, President Obama in particular is very frustrated with the advanced-fee fraud letters that originate from Nigeria, most of which are linked to NNPC, a concern he raised in a campaign speech in 2008. Not only has this scam devastated many Americans, it has also contributed to Nigeria’s bad image in the United States and elsewhere. To restore America’s confidence and genuine investment in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, President Buhari must resolve to make NNPC more transparent and accountable. Besides the much-needed overhaul of the oil giant, one simple way to improve its image is to secure an office for NNPC in the United States, with immediate effect. It is mind boggling that Nigeria is the only major oil producing nation that does not boast of an office dedicated to its oil and gas interests in Houston, Texas, the oil and gas capital of the world. NNPC office in Houston will offer prospective foreign investors the opportunity to conduct business inquiries or the necessary due diligence on various offers with Nigerian addresses. •Ogbonnia, a leadership scholar, is the Executive Chairman of First Texas Energy Corporation, Houston, Texas.

To resTore AmericA’s confidence And genuine

nigeriA’s oil And gAs secTor, PresidenT BuhAri musT resolve To mAke nnPc

invesTmenT in

more TrAnsPArenT And AccounTABle.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Eid-el-fir: DPC, UPP rejoice with Muslims, hail Buhari on new Service Chiefs adeOla Tukuru ABUJA

he Democratic People’s Congress, DPC, felicitates with Muslims across the country on the occasion of this year’s Eid-el-fir celebrations, commending them for the successful completion of the monthlong Ramadan fast. Disclosing this in a press statement yesterday, National Chairman, DPC ,Rev Olusegun Peters said there is no doubt that the period was used for soul searching, rededication in service to God and the nation, as well as prayers for peace, unity and progress of Nigeria He said: “We enjoin Nigerians to renew their confidence and faith in the fatherland with a view to building a strong, virile and prosperous society, as the great arsenal of democracy in Africa. In this era of change and global goodwill following the success of the 2015 general election, it is imperative for Nigerians to be more

Politics

Friday, July 17, 2015

patriotic and consider the interest of the nation and set aside mundane partisan politics and self- aggrandisement. “We commend President Muhammadu Buhari for the appointment of the new Service Chiefs and National Security Adviser and hope that they will inject fresh air and passion in the fight against Boko Haram.” In a related development, United Progressive Party, UPP, urged the Moslem faithful to imbibe the virtues and lessons of Ramadan which include sacrifice, love, peace and patriotism in our collective quest at building a great nation. Its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Ogbuehi Dike, said the party support the on-going war on corruption and urge security agencies, particularly the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, to investigate and prosecute all public office holders who embezzled “our common patrimony to serve as a deterrent to others.”

Tinubu lauded for nurturing emerging political leaders abiOdun neJO ADO EKITI

socio-economic group in Ekiti State, the Leadership Advancement Platform, LEAP, has praised the contribution of the All Progressives Congress, APC, National leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, to the development of many emerging leaders across the country. LEAP president, Ayo Boluwade, and publicity secretary, Mr Femi David, said: “Tinubu has devel-

oped many people across the country in their various professions with his personal wherewithal and also empowered many others politically”. The group in a statement in Ado Ekiti yesterday said that the views of such personality like Tinubu deserved more attention than any other individual or group in the current new Nigeria, adding that his political leadership style could only be compared to that of the late Premier of the defunct Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and former Chief

of General Staff, the late Alhaji Shehu Yar’Adua. LEAP also described as indelible, the efforts of Tinubu alongside other astute politicians in forming the APC, a party it said defeated a sitting president of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, only in few months of its formation. It, however, advised that the efforts put together to build APC must not also be expended to pull it down, hence leaders of the party must be wary of any power play that could affect the party negatively. “Party supremacy needs

to be respected at all times and views of the party leaders including President Muhammadu Buhari must also be regarded as sacred for the party to succeed,” the group stated. According to LEAP, President Buhari has so far displayed to Nigerians that his administration is for all, saying the recent appointment of service chiefs where an Ekiti indigene, Major General Abayomi Olonishakin, was appointment as the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, in Nigeria for the first time exemplified such.

Anambra PPA on grassroots tour GlOria anaeze ONITSHA

ollowing the measures put in place to stamp its feet at the grassroots, the Anambra State executive council of the Peoples Progressive Alliance, PPA, has continued its familiarisation tour to the 21local government areas of Anambra State in preparation for the forthcoming local government election in December. The state chairman of PPA, Chief Mathias Ameeke, while addressing the party faithful in different council areas said that the tour was conceived to assess the structures of the party in the state, reconcile the members in all the wards and mobilise in readiness for the coming local government polls. Ameeke, while appealing to the party members to obtain their membership cards and make sure their ward executives were complete, urged the various wards and local government leaders of the party to remain focused and intact at all times and be people oriented in their dealings as to renew the party popu-

larity at the grassroots. He commended party leader in the state Godwin Ezeemo for his steadfastness, humanitarian works and effort towards repositioning the party in the state, adding that he possesses the life of equity, fairness, justice and good governance. He disclosed that the PPA state executives have so far visited Nnewi North, ldemili South, lhiala, Ogbaru, Onitsha North and South, Anaocha West, Dunukofia, Anambra East, Orumba North and South.

Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike (left), with the new Head of Service, Mr Godwill Rufus, during his swearing-in, in Port Harcourt, yesterday.

Bayelsa guber: Dickson best candidate – Ex-lawmaker OsahOn Julius YENAGOA

head December’s governorship polls in Bayelsa State, a former federal parliamentarian, Honorable Graham Ipigansi has urged Bayesians to be extremely

cautious, wise and practical in their choice of personality for the state’s top position, saying that incumbent governor of the state Seriake Dickson, remain the best choice. Ipigansi, who gave the advice while fielding questions from newsmen in

Yenagoa, stated that his call is informed by the unwarranted and unnecessary spate of defections among the political class in the state, noting that most of the defections are purely for selfish and pecuniary reasons. He called on the people of the state not to be distracted

IDPs: Bauchi youths tackle PINE over exclusion of insurgency victims ezekiel TiTus BAUCHI

oncern youths group in TafawaBalewa and Bogoro local government areas of Bauchi State have tackled the Presidential Initiative for North-East, PINE, for exclusion of victims of insurgency and related attacks in the areas from relief materials distributed to displaced persons. The group decried the exclusion of victims of various attacks in the areas from the recent distribution of relief materials to

displaced persons in eight local government areas of the state, describing it as serious discrimination to other ethnic nationals that are predominantly Christians. Leader of the youths, Mr Raymond Josiah, who disclosed this while briefing newsmen in Bauchi said it was glaringly that the distribution of the relief materials to the Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, worth N350 million was for only a section of one religious group was made to enjoy such gestures from the Federal Government. He said that hundreds of victims of attacks includ-

ing Boko Haram insurgency appeared to have been excluded and neglected in the scheme of things. He said: “It was wrong for a responsible government to exclude victims of insurgency from our axis even when the crisis has been for a long time, and with the recent invasion of the areas by the insurgents during the March election where innocent people were killed without any relief materials getting to them till date, speaks volume of the discrimination against a particular religious group. “If the measure was to

cushion the effect on the victims of insurgency as claimed by PINE, then why was the same gesture not extended to our areas which suffer attacks for several years?” The group said there was need for the Federal Government to take care of its citizens equally without discrimination. While urging the Federal Government to extend the olive branch to the neglected areas, it expressed its commitment to continued respect to constituted authority in the interest of peace and unity of Nigeria.

by the actions of this group of politicians, who have lost their self esteem, honour and focus, noting that, Bayesians must make the clear choice between those who mean well for the state and those who are pursuing their personal objectives and against the overall well being and growth of the state. Ipigansi, who represented the Ogbia Federal constituency in the House of Representatives between 1999 and 2003, noted that incumbent Governor Dickson has distinguished himself through the physical infrastructural to human capital development, like no other governor in the history of Bayelsa State and deserves a second tenure. He described Dickson as one the most patriotic, focused, transparent and result oriented leaders of Bayelsa State, as manifested through his policies, programmes and projects that are spread across the nooks and crannies of the state.

Editorial

Friday, July 17, 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 ISE-OLUWA IGE ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF AUGUSTUS IMEKAN ACTING HEAD, GRAPHICS

Religion and Nigeria’s secular state pretensions

igeria christens herself as a ‘secular state’. The country’s 1999 Constitution, even as amended, says in Section 10 that “the government of the federation or of a state shall not adopt any religion as state religion”. But in defiance of the constitutional provision, the federal and state governments brazenly dabble into religious matters as it pleases them. The most visible evidence of their flagrant disobedience to the nation’s constitution is the sponsoring of pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia (for Muslims) and Israel (for Christians) at government’s expense. Indeed, there are standby pilgrims’ welfare agencies for Muslims and Christians created by the state and run with annual government subventions. One of the states in Nigeria also had the effrontery to declare the ‘hijrah’ holiday under the present democratic dispensation; and in a so-called secular state. Then you begin to ask yourself what a secular state truly ought to be. Simply put, a secular state is one where the government recognises no religion. It is a state where the government is neutral in religious matters, though permissive of all religious denominations and inclinations that portend no evil or harm to the society. Nigeria, till date, makes a mockery of the spirit and letter of her constitution on the non-

adoption of state religion; and the worst culprits are the political and religious leaders who latch on the state contempt to waste public funds on religious rites, which ought to be individual burdens, especially Muslim and Christian pilgrimages. They also exploit religion, most times negatively, for political benefits. Like critics have constructively and sincerely observed, millions of naira worth of gifts from the highest and lowest rungs of government exchange hands during Muslim ‘Sallah’ and Christian Yuletide celebrations, even when the salaries of workers are hanging. It is sad that President Muhammadu Buhari has tacitly endorsed this contempt for the nation’s constitution with his approval of subsidized exchange rate for this year’s Christian pilgrims visiting Jerusalem. With official exchange rate of the naira to the dollar hovering around between N230 and N234, reports early in the week said Mr. President approved a state-subsidized exchange rate of N160 to $1 for the Christian pilgrims. Without any doubt, Nigeria and Israel have a sound relationship, especially beginning from 2006 when the Foreign Affairs ministries of both countries pulled through a Memorandum of Understanding to formalise bilateral consultations on political matters.

IN DEFIANCE OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISION, THE

FEDERAL AND STATE GOVERNMENTS BRAZENLY DABBLE INTO RELIGIOUS MATTERS AS IT PLEASES THEM Reports indicate, however, that between 2012 and 2013, over 30,000 Christian pilgrims visited Israel; while the head of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Mr. Kennedy Opara, was quoted as saying his aim was getting over 100,000 Nigerian Christian pilgrims to be in Israel annually. Opara says for this year, those going to Israel for the 11day trip would spend N379,840 each (for adults) and N357,000 (for youths). “The beauty of what we are doing is that we have added skill acquisition. In other words, people who go on pilgrimage can undergo the skill acquisition programme organised by the NCPC and Ministry of Agriculture in Israel to train our people in the area of agriculture. And also, we are introducing the pilgrimage pilot lottery scheme that will enable people who are lucky to be able to go on this trip without

ON THIS DAY July 17, 1979 After his overthrow, followed by an insurrection, Nicaraguan President, General Anastasio Somoza Debayle, resigned his position and fled to Miami, Florida, United States. Anastasio (1925 – 1980) was the 73rd and 76th President of Nicaragua from May 1, 1967 to May 1, 1972 and from December 1, 1974 to July 17, 1979. He was the last member of the Somoza family to be president, ending a dynasty that had been in power since 1936.

Letters tothe theEditor Editor Letters to

July 17, 1998 A diplomatic conference adopted the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, establishing a permanent international court to prosecute individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, as well as the crime of aggression. The statute was adopted in Rome on July 17, 1998 and it entered into force on July 1, 2002. As of February 1, 2012, 121 states were party to the statute.

much dependence on the state and the Federal Government”, Opara said, all indicating the huge albatross the FG is still shouldering in funding religious activities that religious bodies, some of which are richer than some state governments, can handle if they truly believe in their adherents’ religious fulfilment. We are just talking about Christian Muslims. Indeed, one report has it that the influx of Nigerian Christian pilgrims to Israel heavily boosts the country’s economy and that the numbers visiting have not been affected by the instability in the region. A former Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Moshe Ram, was quoted as saying that “the only steady components that go to Israel regardless of the security challenges are Nigerians”. When it is calculated, what Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia and Israel extract from the nation’s coffers on yearly basis, no thanks to irresolute leaders’ crass disobedience to the Constitution they are on oath to uphold, the bill will cancel out whatever gain Nigeria makes from her bilateral relationship with the two countries. It is, therefore, high time the FG and states stopped this expensive indulgence and accord the nation’s Constitution that defines the nation as a secular state the respect it deserves.

x July 17, 2014 Malaysia Airlines Flight 17, a Boeing 777, crashed near the border of Ukraine and Russia after being shot down, killing all 298 people on board. The aircraft was a scheduled international passenger flight from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur. The Boeing 777-200ER airliner lost contact about 50 km (31 mi) from the Ukraine–Russia border and crashed near Torez in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, 40 km (25 mi) from the border

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Friday, July 17, 2015

Stopping the senseless suicide bombings NEW HORIZON Wale Ajao With

waleajao2002@yahoo.com, 08023112006 (sms only)

ne of the most dastardly acts of wickedness by Boko Haram took place last week. A woman carried a baby on her back and showed up at the secretariat of Sabon Gari Local Government Area, Zaria where workers were undergoing biometrics. Everyone around the place easily gave way for the woman, who was seen as a normal mother like every other woman. Nobody suspected that a woman carrying a baby could be a suicide bomber. This is because there have been many woman suicide bombers, but none was seen to be carrying a baby. With the people actually caught unawares, the ‘unknown mother’ detonated the bomb she was carrying, killing herself, the baby and 45 other innocent people. This is bestiality in its crudest and annoying form. It is simply unfathomable how a woman would carry a baby and detonate a bomb to kill herself and the baby. This says a lot about the crudity of Boko Haram. An eye witness, Yusuf Hassan, narrated how the tragedy unfolded: “We were at the secretariat when the sole admin-

istrator was swearing in his councilors when we heard a loud sound which we discovered was a bomb blast. Most of the people affected in the blast were women, who came for screening. A female suicide bomber was telling the people to leave the way and on getting into the midst of other women, detonated the bomb. She and the baby died. It sounds incredible but it was real’’. Nothing can tell us more about Boko Haram than this particular disaster. And this tells us clearly that what government must do urgently is to find practical ways of stopping suicide bombings. The real joker Boko Haram depends upon is not its ill-equipped foot soldiers and poorly executed though unending guerilla warfare. The real menace of this devilish sect is in its ability to sustain suicide bombings. If the nation will quickly break the back bone of the sect, it must seriously make suicide bombing impossible. This piece will consequently proffer solutions to end suicide bombing. Government should install bomb detectors in strategic places where large numbers of people are likely to gather. CCTV cameras should be installed in all critical places where the insurgents are likely to use. Security forces should do more on information gathering to anticipate the next stage of suicide bombing tactics and strategies. Nigerians in the areas affected by Boko Haram suicide bombings

THE REAL JOKER BOKO HARAM DEPENDS UPON IS…ITS ABILITY TO SUSTAIN SUICIDE BOMBINGS should bear with the security forces as some inconvenience will follow any serious attempt to stop the acts. It is clear that a combination of suicide bombings with guerilla warfare is what is making Boko Haram invincible. Stopping suicide bombings has, therefore, become a task that must be done. Another technique of stopping suicide bombings is for the security forces, particularly the army, to be stationed in groups on a permanent basis in major urban centres where large people will gather. This is different from road blocks, which have served no purpose since suicide bombers do not operate on the road. By positioning themselves in groups and being sent to strategic places all over northern Nigeria and with bomb detectors all over the place, in addition to the search of passersby, suicide bombing will soon end. The traditional institution in Northern Nigeria should initiate a regular forum with the Presidency and top echelons of the security forces to do fortnightly or monthly situation report. The nation must be free

from this ugly and annoying phenomenon of suicide bombing. For the guerilla warfare, Nigeria should learn from the United States of America, which used its far eastern roving strike force to fish out Osama Bin laden 10 years after he master minded the September 11, 2001 deadly strikes in the US that killed thousands of people. The Nigerian military in particular need extra ordinary motivation in this critical time. Other additional measures to aid the military include adequate equipment and training. Patriotism has been missing among Nigerians. The government must consciously mobilize Nigerians to love their fatherland. Good governance will invariably become vital if we really want to stop suicide bombings. Regular awareness campaigns must be organized to sensitize the people and mobilize them so as to frustrate all efforts of the sect. There must be more attractive ways of encouraging people to volunteer useful information to the security forces to work on. Government should consider how to use information dissemination to dissuade persons used for the dirty job of suicide bombing. It is also important for government to investigate the various ways by which the sect gets its recruits. A nationwide mobilization campaign has become absolutely mandatory now. The nation must also unite against Boko Haram, as a house divided against itself cannot stand.

Boko Haram’s increasing revitalization

igerians have recently witnessed escalation in Boko Haram-induced violence, which is still in the increasing phase. And many questions have been asked as to the cause at a time the APC-led Federal Government promised deescalation measures. We seem to forget that the promise was made at a time the nation was preparing for general elections, and the sect could be busy re-enforcing and recruiting new members it exposed to more sophisticated insurgency approach. Even after the election, instead of the new leaders facing our immediate problems, internal political squabbles occupied them, while our adversaries grew from strength to strength, changing strategies and their modus operandi, which we as a liberal democratic nation find difficult to address. On a professional point of view, it is not yet late for the new administration to adopt a fresh mechanism that will de-escalate the threat level to a reasonable proportion. Having said that, President Muhammadu Buhari’s foremost task should be listening to voices of reason, and professional contributions on pathways out of our present predicament. He should shun ghost and unprofessional mediocrities flowing from political party or ethnic affiliation. What every Nigerian expected is an end to BH menace irrespective of where the messiah{s} emanates from. A great deal of unnecessary confusion has been created as a result of using the term terrorism as a synonym for political violence. Ironically, for some people terrorism seems an abhorrence; some prefer

THE ACTIVITIES OF BOKO HARAM SINCE 2009 CONSTITUTED PURE TERRORISM the more moderate label of ‘insurgents’, or holy warriors, or ‘freedom fighters’, according to the cause they are fighting for. The activities of Boko Haram since 2009 constituted pure terrorism. Although prior to the death of its founder, Mohammed Yusuf, the sect was still an ideologist movement trying hard to impress the imperative of using Sharia law in Borno State. As for identifying objective criteria for terrorist activity, common sense indicates that the general public in this country and the world in general can recognise terrorism when they see campaigns of bombings, suicide bombings, shooting attacks, especially when many of these acts are deliberately aimed at innocent civilians. Terrorism can be easily distinguished from other kinds of violence or crime in general. Terrorism possesses certain characteristics like premeditated violence designed to inculcate a climate of extreme fear that is directed to a wider target beyond the immediate victims.This inherently involves random attacks on symbolic targets, including civilian gatherings. Acts of terrorism can be used to influence political behaviour of a regime for the purposes of retaliation. The activities of Boko Haram since 2009 satisfy core terrorist characteristics in their entirety and that there is no part or

whole representing revolutionary movement, according to the meaning of insurgency. Arguably, there is no widely or generally acceptable definition of terrorism, however its characteristics remain the same. Governmental and inter governmental summits on problems terrorism pose to this nation should no longer waste time in definitional issues. Realistically, those who dismiss all national and international efforts to develop a legal framework to deal with various acts of the sect as futile are simply wrong. It should be noted that terrorism is not just a mere label; it is rather a concept which has proved indispensible in dealing with a complex national, regional and global phenomenon. It may be argued that those who advocate the use of terror to defeat terror as the only available counterterrorism option are genuinely guilty of being soft on Boko Haram’s activities. As a result of their support for serious violation of basic human rights, they undermine respect for international and national laws, and places themselves on the same moral level as the Boko Haram terrorist group. By trying to undermine human rights norms, the rules and principles of an effective counterterrorism options in the name of protecting national security have caused us nearly six years of assaults and violence by the sect, and yet we find it difficult to revalue other effective options confirmed to have worked for other democratic countries in our situation. This calls for much concern to Nigerians at home and abroad. An effective counterterrorism result is

Counter-terrorism Tips With

Ethelbert Oney ethelbertoney@zissltd.com, 08029929121 (sms only) traditionally achieved via the application of politics, diplomacy, law enforcement agencies, specialised agencies, experts involvement, use of criminal justice and the role of the military. The role of the military here is not constant, meaning they help the police and other specialised agencies when necessary. but not in a lead role as has been the case. It would be highly unreasonable to pretend that by upholding the values of the rule of law and human rights, we have surrendered to the sect, or a dialogue of unequal. I don’t think so. One thing remains certain: In a terrorism situation, no party is a winner. Boko Haram can never claim to be winners for pretty obvious reasons if peaceful and successful dialogue ends this mess today. Nigeria cannot claim winner because the ongoing violence and concomitant economic sabotages this group has inflicted on us will take ages to rebuilt or recover from. 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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Friday, July 17, 2015

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Okorocha and the social media

T Uncouth behaviour in NASS

igerians must not be tired of condemning the recent uncouth conduct of resort to physical combat by members of our House of Representatives. I was not surprised because I am aware that the House is peopled by some people who are barely literate and very selfish. The House is not a place, where lunatics or rascals should be sent to make law for the good people of Nigeria. We are aware that some socalled APC’s national leaders want to hijack National Assembly in order to pursue their selfish agenda. Therefore, these leaders will want to force the federal lawmakers to accept some selected persons for the principal positions in the two chambers. This is the genesis of that unruliness witnessed all over the world. However, no matter what and no matter how, there are still many matured and civilized ways of handling issues, as against the reprehensible one our so called representatives adopted. Let me be bold enough to let Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu know that he is the cause of the crisis and that Nigerians are closely watching him. He should also know that Nigerians cannot sit down and allow him or any person to pocket them. Nigeria is not a business enterprise that is owned by somebody or group of persons, who would like or want to run it the way it would benefit them only. We are tired of political god fathers; we are tired of corruption; we are tired of one man system of leadership in this country; we are tired of business as usual; we are tired of dictatorship; we are tired of looting, and we are tired of lackadaisical attitudes of our leaders towards issues that affect the poor masses. It was because of this Nigerians voted the last administration led by Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. Therefore, any person or group of persons, who wants a continuation of the old order, should go on exile. Awunah Pius Terwase, Mpape, Abuja (08179289948).

Letters to the Editor

he social media is now a factor that can make or mar politicians in the world; they have become dependable medium of mass communication and aid the spread of information more than the conventional media. Information travels very fast on social media super highway, thus it is susceptible for use by mischief makers. People can be misquoted or quoted out of context on the social media, leading to a resultant backlash on such a person’s image, political and social capital. Before the last general elections, the social media was used

as a platform to run down and destroy other opponents through outright propagation of falsehood, misquoting of candidates and character assassinations. The states that were in the eye of the storm while the campaigns lasted were the governors of the APC states, then in the opposition. One of the victim governors so targeted was Gov. Rochas Okorocha of Imo state. The opposition took advantage of the fact that he is a self-effacing leader, who does not court publicity for self aggrandizement to tarnish his image on social media

Masquerade buying stuffs at Oyingbo market.

platforms. There was nothing on earth they did not write to smear the governor’s name, but the more the negative publications the more his popularity grew in the state and nationwide. Neighboring states whose former governors’ eight years rule impoverished their states and people more than they met them were not even undermined the way some conceited politicians in Imo State and their paid apologists did to the people’s governor in his first tenure. One of the disadvantages of such reports on the social media is that Nigerians who are moved by sentiments in-

PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

Child abuse and sex slavery in South Sudan

he sight of arm-bearing children in SouthSudan has disturbingly being a norm. An estimated 11, 000 children were reported to have served in both the rebel and government armies in recent years according to a United Nations report. The harrowing tales of gruesome murders and sex slavery involving children in that country are leaving sour tastes on humanity. Children as young as 12 are drafted into the war equation and forced to kill or be killed; girls as young as nine suffer horrendous sexual abuse from soldiers as a form of gratification, their unwilling bodies, made subject to the torture of cruel rape. The psychological and physical damage of these nefarious practices on these children are by all means horrible, leading to them being traumatized, maimed or even knocked out of existence. In mid-August 2014, the South Sudanese govern-

ment used children soldiers in Bentiu, the capital of the Unity State and in neighbouring Rubkona, and sadly the story is not any different in the camp of the rebels as children are forcefully conscripted to serve the rebel groups. The African Director at Human Rights Watch, Daniel Bekele had to decry the situation despite pledges by both government and rebel groups to stop using child soldiers, pledges they refused to uphold. It is worthy of note that in 2014 alone, over 12,000 children were used as child soldiers and sex slaves. This madness did not end in 2014,as in May 2015 there were reports of the abduction, rape and murder of children, including those as young as seven years of age. Just on last June 30th, UN documented that scores of girls were gang-raped, some in front of their families and then burnt alive. It is awkward that these vi-

olations are prevalent in spite of the South Sudan 2008 Child Act and others laws protecting the rights of children that forbid recruiting children for violence. These laws obviously lack bite as the government itself is guilty of these crimes. These laws need to be given bite. It is highly desirable also that the South Sudanese government ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child as the Human Right Watch has rightly earlier proposed. The Protocol prescribes a minimum age of 18 for any participation in armed conflict. A huge cloak of responsibility hangs around the neck of the African Union as it appears silent and inactive in the face of all these abuses. All hands need to be on deck to combat these ugly violations of the rights of children, because, “No social problem is as universal as the oppression of the Child,” to quote Maria Montessori. Emmanuel Ayoola, Lagos.

stead of strategic thinking sometimes believe such gibberish; and convincing them that such hogwash only exists in the hearts of enemies of the state government becomes a herculean task. Governor Okorocha’s decision to expand his political vision and run an inclusive government, which he did by going into alliance with three other political parties that merged to form the APC worsened the situation. That decision gathered him a motley crowd of enemies not until after the merger produced the inevitable change. His foresight paid off as Imo State has connected with the governing party at the centre, the only state in the South East. This has made the people’s governor the highest ranking Igbo political office holder in the APC; thus he has been described as the proverbial egg of the Ndigbo in the ‘change basket’; this was not without damage to his person while the campaigns lasted. Even now, he’s still being taunted by some ethnic bigots as a traitor. Governor Okorocha has resumed his second tenure in earnest and many of the politicians complicit in the piles of scorns on print, electronic and social media against him in the past have all turned repentant critics and have joined the peoples governor in ensuring he continues with his giant strides in Imo State, while the remaining opposition politicians and their ilk who are still licking their wounds from the heavy defeat suffered on the aftermaths of the April 11th governorship election here in Imo State have resorted to blackmail and contrived propaganda. Ceaseless mudsling and their likes on social, print and electronic media have outlived their usefulness, (if any). All the contrived propaganda on social media could not stop Muhammadu Buhari from becoming the president of Nigeria neither did it stop Rochas Okorocha from being reelected as governor of Imo State. The idea of using the social media to propagate falsehoods about an individual, politicians or groups should be discouraged. It will continue to do us no good. Opposition politicians in Imo State should sheathe their swords and build a formidable opposition that will proffer alternative ideas for the betterment of the state. This will go a long way in checkmating the people’s governor. Joseph Chimezie, Owerri, Imo State.

Send your letters The Editor reserves thethe right letters or or mails mailsto toPMB PMB10001, 10001,Ikoyi, Ikoyi,or orour our Email: Email:mirrorlagos@yahoo.com mirrorlagos@yahoo.comand andinfo@nationalmirroronline.net info@nationalmirroronline.netoror08056180209, 08054103275,07033375481 07033375481(SMS (SMSonly). only). The Editor reserves right to to edit and reject letters photographs. Psuedonyms may used, must clearly marked such. edit and reject letters or or photographs. Psuedonyms may bebe used, butbut must bebe clearly marked asas such.

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FRIDAY

Flavour

A shot at Alaba, inset President Buhari

senal to ensure they arrest this ugly menace. Buhari charged all the relevant security agencies to ensure that perpetrators of copyright piracy, their sponsors and collaborators are caught and made to face the law. This development had sent excitement to Nigerian entertainers who most of them pitched tent with the immediate past President of Nigeria during the presidential election that took place this year. They received much support from the last administration that it was circulated in some quarters that Buhari may not give them the much-needed support to fight piracy in Nigeria. Surprisingly, Buhari seems to have identified with them over their loss due to this menace

He lamented tHat nigerian artistes are not enjoying tHe fruit of tHeir labour because of cHronic and poorly cHecked piracy going on in

WEEKEND STARTERS Relax - This Won’t Hurt Madmen and Specialists comes on stage

he producer ‘British Council’s Lagos Theatre Festival 2016/2017 Brenda Uphopho is bringing Wole Soyinka’s play “Madmen and Specialists” to the stage. The play reveals the after effect of the Civil War on Nigerians and featuring in the play are gifted performers like: Patrick Diabuah, Bolanle HaastrupAtitebi, Jeniffer Osammor, Austin Onuoha and Kelvinmary Ndukwe, amongst others with Kenneth Uphopho (Director of the critically acclaimed Saro the Musical and Single in Gidi) as the director. The place of action is Terra Kulture, Tiamiyu Savage Street Victoria Island on Sunday 19th July 19th 2015. Time: 1st show 3pm, 2nd show 6pm.

irrespective of the role most of them played in frustrating his emergence as a democratically elected president. In Buhari words,“Nollywood is making progress. We should work with them. Unless they are backed, they will be ruined by pirates who want to reap where they have not sowed. They have built an industry with their own sweat. It is, therefore, incumbent on us to give them the necessary support”. President Buhari also charged the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) to tap into vast opportunities presented by their wide reach in order to increase their revenue generation.

J House of Poetry, Goethe-Institut Nigeria and Ol Fo Naija are presenting to all poetry lovers poetry rendition. “Relax - This Won’t Hurt” will parade celebrated writer, poet and spoken word artiste Bassey Ikpi featuring, Joyce P and others. Freedom Spoke Words is a performance that enriches the immediate space we live in through poetic and intellectual exchange in different areas of life and living and will be held at GoetheInstitut Lagos, Lagos City Hall, 4th floor, Catholic Mission Street, Lagos Island on Friday 17th July at 4 pm.

nigeria

Inside FCT P. 24-25

here is unease at Alaba Market the ‘perceived’ home of piracy over President Buhari’s directives to the security operatives in Nigeria to ensure piracy in Nollywood is totally defeated. Friday Flavour’s visit to the market revealed that the traders and dealers on DVD and CD players are obviously cautious and suspicious of people who come to their shops to patronise them. The fear is that security operatives may have began hunting down those involved in the production and sales of pirated copies of Nollywood films as so many of the traders declined to sell or admit they have stocked Nollywood films currently showing at the cinemas. Friday Flavour’s interview with one of the traders who begged for anonymity confirmed that the traders are packing up their pirated copies, and that there is panic among the circle of people pirating Nollywood films. He said: “The big Ogas are very scared; some of them have not been seen since Buhari made that pronouncement. Their shops are even locked and I heard some of them have travelled”. On visiting one of the shops, the shop owner who refused to disclose his name was very aggressive. He demanded to know why the reporter asked for his name and also demanded to know who the reporter was. He declined to make further comment when the reporter told him he was a newspaper journalist. In another shop, the shop owner asked the reporter, “who sent you?” when he demanded for a particular recent Nigerian movie that was reported

to have been massively pirated. One of the people in the shops who said his name is Chuka revealed through a friendly chat that “the fight against piracy may not after all be a serious one due to failed attempts in the past to fight piracy. He said some of the security operatives may even be under the pay roll of these piracy kingpins. He said in pidgin that after the President’s order to the security operatives, “everywhere don scatter”. He further revealed that some of the rivalry going on in the market may be further intensified as some people will use that as an opportunity to witchhunt their rivals by giving false information to the security operatives, who may even gang up with them. Friday Flavour gathered that the threat of clamp down on piracy has not moved some of the dealers. An investigation revealed that some of them are not deterred as they still sell their pirated copies after being double sure that the buyer is not a security agent or an informant. They usually will go to their hide-outs to bring out pirated copies for the buyers who prefer to buy cheaper copies to buying original copies. The President gave this much dreaded order to the people dealing on pirated copies of Nigerian films on Tuesday in Abuja after receiving a briefing from the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Dr Folasade YemiEsan and her directors at the Presidential Villa. He lamented that Nigerian artistes are not enjoying the fruit of their labour because of chronic and poorly checked piracy going on in Nigeria and ordered the law enforcement agents to unleash everything within their ar-

Critics P. 22-23

IsIguzo DestIny

Arty

Alaba quakes over Buhari’s stance on piracy

News P. 32, 33

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

Retrospective with Rainer Werner Fassbinder

a g o s F i l m Society is an organisation dedicated to finding, nurturing and c e l e b r at i n g African filmmaking; offering filmmakers and film lovers a platform to survey a range of works from across and beyond the continent as well as making a renewed contribution from Nigeria to World Cinema. The society will be showing LOLA (1981) and MARTHA (1973/74) on the 18th of July 2015 at 3 pm. Venue of the event is Old Film Unit, Nigerian Film Corporation (beside VON), Obalende Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Mirror Mongers P. 26

Friday, July 17, 2015

Artman In The House

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Reggae music is big business Victor Essiet was the pillar of The Mandators, one of the finest reggae music bands to have emanated from Africa. His contribution to the band led to so many hits, which not only influenced the musical landscape at the time, but also made him one of the most recognisable celebrities in the sub-region. He talks about his life and career in this interview with VICTOR UDOH and OLAWALE OLUWADAHUNSI.

hat is the vision behind Af African Meets Reggae? African Meets Reggae is a platform that we are trying to make people to give people audience again, you know, those that have been in the business for a while, and those young people who are things playing reggae, all those young you know to empower people, to create an academy which would help young people to learn reggae business and music. We are announcing the beginning of the academy later this month in a press conference, you know all this things is to help out the young people and create a situation whereby when people have money or not they can have a place to get instruments to play, those are the things that we are trying to do. You are a guru in the reggae music industry. What does it take to produce reggae music? Now check this out. I heard a lot about hip hop, I heard some people say we were playing hip hop. But the hip hop they are talking about is a culture. Hip hop is an offspring of reggae music. Rock music is also an offspring of reggae music because rock is protest music. They are genres that are played by different kinds of people and from different society and community just to use as a voice against the system that’s probably not functioning well. So, if you look at hip hop, it started as something the black people in America were using to challenge the government and authorities. I even remember that there was a song they used to call ‘Fight the power’, ‘Fight the power that be’, ‘Fight the power’. That was hip hop. The musicians used it to talk about something that had kept them down for too long. It’s not because they wanted to sing like that but they usually used it to protest to the system that ‘we cannot suffer forever, we are capable of getting real, so we go back to our and lift everybody up, so you cannot shut us down’. That was what hip hop was from the beginning until the ‘mind controls’, the illuminatis, who comes up to try to bring some people in and try to use the ‘vulgarness’ in their lyrics and make the people not to think about anything. And funny enough, the people don’t know. With the death of people like Bob Marley, Lucky Dube and Peter Tosh,

reggae music has gone under the drain, how do you think reggae can bounce back? You cannot say that reggae music went under the drain. Reggae music is big, all over the places. Except in this country that you have this kind of trend that when one thing happens, everybody wants to support that. Like I talked about mind control right now, which is an attempt to derail young people not to be able to seriously think about the problems that we have and also feel the spirit and the sense of patriotism and become patriotic. What people see on the television and what people hear is what affects the people. If you wake up every day and you see somebody beating your mother, or your father, you could think that this the way that is right, you could do the same thing to someone, so whatever we watch on television or hear on radio is very important. So, reggae has not died! If reggae died, why would I have won an award as Best Entertainer of the Year 1999 in America? I have the award here. I won the Best New Entertainer at International Reggae World Music. In Nigeria here, I have never won an award because it’s the same issue we are talking about. All these people are ‘tribalistic and wicked’. If it is not what they want or where you come from, it’s going to be another reason. They are going to try to give you a problem and want to make you feel like you are not anything. Because they don’t give you that award, that sends a message to people like ‘Oh maybe he is not really great‘. And they have forgotten that it’s the people who bought the records. But leaving this country to go to foreign land and won an award is the greatest thing

Majek is a genius, he is highly talented. he is very ok; he is not in any Mental issue. you know, Majek is an individual that doesn’t like to eat, if you give hiM food

that can happen to me. So reggae music is still very much alive. It is the press in Nigeria, the radio, print media, is the reason why the music is not equally distributed and therefore not allowing listeners the alternative and to have variety. By playing all kinds of music, that’s how it works. We had King Sunny Ade, Ebenezer Obey, Sunny Okosun, Fela, and other people like Chris Okotie, Felix Liberty, and everybody coexisted, radio played everything and everybody could find their choice of music. But now the radio is depriving the elderly and those who want anything to listen to what they want. Because these people take too much of bribes from musicians and the people that don’t have money, how are they going to do that? I am just a tree. I can’t make a forest. But now we are coming back with different festivals like the Africa meets Reggae World Music International festival. Ok, sir. Moving a little concerning your senior brother, I’m very sorry for his death, it was said that he came down to Nigeria and was in a hotel room when he hit his head and died what do you say about that? That was not true, he didn’t fall down, because of this entire problem, for us to sort everything out, my elder brother, and he is the eldest and the most painful part is that I was not able to see him for one last time because the police abducted me, you know. I was to carry his corpse for us to go to my family’s compound, so on the way was when they kid-

napped me; they didn’t allow me to bury him or see his burial. Like I said before if they had wanted me, they should have told me that I am wanted in the police station because I would have followed them, I won’t run because it is only someone that has done something wrong that would run away. But they just wanted to intimidate me, injure me and do anything they can do because they feel that they can do anything. You know my brother was very worried; he didn’t want me to come to this country but just because I felt that I had to come and contribute, do something, try to build back the economy and to help the younger people you know, benefit from what we have achieved. Just because of this is why I’m you know, getting all this problems, all this could be the problem because I think he just maybe had an heart attack or something. With the issue you had with the Akwa Ibom state government, the kidnap and your brother’s death, how have you been able to cope with all this problems? Well, when your enemy tries to do something evil to you, what they want is to see you break down, what they want is to see you buckle, they want you to become confused, they want you to look stupid, and they want you to be disorganized. And knowing this I had to learn to stand firm to be able to figure out the right thing to do. How would you describe your experience in that you have decided to come back to Nigeria to bring back reggae alive coupled with this chal-

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Artman In The House

Friday, July 17, 2015

except in Nigeria –Victor Essiet

On stage

lenges, experiences, would you say that you regret coming? no, I cannot regret, you know uneasy lays the head that wears the crown , now trouble would come, like David said in psalm though they hold a camp against me but in thee would I put my trust, the host put their camp against me but in God do I put my trust. The family of Peggy said that you have a hand in the death of their son, how true is that? That is an issue that is not supposed to come out at all, as you know, Peggy was my wife, we had two beautiful kids, like I said previously that this guy is trying to intimidate me to collect things that is not due him, it is the same thing, when Peggy’s mother realized that she misled her daughter and led her to death. How

will a man in United States of America kill someone in Nigeria? Am I God? So all that was just a talk, it is not something to emphasize on. How is your friend Majek Fashek. According to the media, he has been having problem after problem? Majek is ok; there is nothing wrong with him, don’t mind those media people, they are miseries company, you know Majek is ok, you saw what he did in Africa Meets Reggae, he kicked everybody’s asses, he was the best. Majek is a genius, he is highly talented. He is very ok; he is not in any mental issue. You know, Majek is an individual that doesn’t like to eat, if you give him food, he would just take a little and leave, so don’t mind anything they tell you that Majek is not ok; because he is very ok.

At age 30, Bob Marley was able to infuse wisdom in his songs. The trend has changed now. What’s your take on this? A prophet is not manufactured in the factory, a prophet is a gift. If you are not on the spiritual real, you cannot see the things of the spirit. So, when you are prophetic, and able to transcend above the normal, usual thinking, that is spiritualism. You don’t have to be a pastor, or some kind of church man, but it has to be given to you by God. And we are the prophet of the last times. What we do, we don’t look for it, and it is given to us. That’s why we want to come back to continue with what we were doing. And we need to develop other youths right now to be able to take up the manual. If you want to do collaboration now, which musician will it be? It depends on who God tells me to do it with. An artiste like Snoop Dogg changed his name to Snoop Lion and now he wants to be the next Bob Marley. What’s your take on that? That’s to tell you the importance of reggae music if a hip hop musician known for years now turns reggae musician. You are not even talking about Eddie Murphy who has a big reggae hit right now. He is one of the highest-paid Hollywood actors. That makes you understand the extent and significance of what Bob Marley did to destroy the evil empire in the world. So today, from Europe, to Asia, to America, to UK, to Africa, People are listening to reggae music and that was what me and Majek Fashek, Ras Kimono were pushing right here. Majek Fashek was able to tell Babangida in one of his songs to leave the office. So how was your childhood?

At Onion Theatre, Cleveland, Ohio

x In

nIgerIa here, I have never won an award because It’s the same Issue we are talkIng about. all these people are ‘trIbalIstIc and wIcked’. If It Is not what they want or where you come from, It’s goIng to be another reason. they are goIng to try to gIve you a problem and want to make you feel lIke you are not anythIng.

Visiting Bob Marley’s house

I grew up in a village called Ikot Eyong, my parents were Christians who brought all of us up to fear God , love every human being and not stop doing good because it’s better for us to die doing things than to die in misery doing evil. My father had many wives and during the war, the soldiers came and shot everybody in my family. I barely survived that night too and I was robbed of my childhood. Everything went down. I went from that compound to struggle by myself and at the age of eleven, I was in Calabar and from that point, they took me to Lagos as a house boy to one Lieutenant Mohammed and from there, I worked with Nigerian Ports Authority as a cleaner. And I was able to save money to buy a guitar and go to school. Should we expect any album or single from you any time soon? I was about to before I heard that Africa Meets Reggae was not doing well so I had to leave my recording in the U.S.A to come to Nigeria and make sure that it becomes a success. So after this we are going back to complete the album. And you would here all this story in the song. The album is not coming out this year though. It is going to come out next year

Studio

Critics

MUSIC

Friday, July 17, 2015

Looking for Johnny

Here is a critical look at Yemi Alade’s debut album after the success from her singles. sifOn baba

ings of Queens, an album produced by some of the best producers around, exposes Yemi Alade’s versatility as she explores various genre’s, including Afropop, Reggae, and R&B. The album, punctuated with skits from Bovi, is richly blessed with premium features from Diamond, Phyno, Chidinma, R2Bees, and Dil. The album begins with a skit from comedian Bovi, introducing Ms Alade’s Hit single, Johnny, the single that catapulted her to stardom. Next on the album is Why, and she flaunts her versatility on this reggae beat produced by veteran producer, OJB Jezreel. Ms Alade delivers effortlessly, and this song is one that will have you nodding your head to the suave tune. In Pose, Yemi Alade features R2Bees, and the trio delivers a good afro pop song, with Yemi Alade infusing her wonderful personality on the song. R2Bees also puts out a good performance on the song. Duro Timi is one of the best songs on the album, if not the best, with Ms Alade putting in a near flawless effort as she displays her impressive vocal range for all to

BOOK

hear. In this RnB song, laced with pop undertones, Yemi Alade reminds us of the captivating performances she put out in 2009 at the peak talent show. To me, this is the best song on the album, and I’m looking forward to more songs like this from Ms Alade in the future. Rapping towards the end on Catch You, Ms Alade delivers a nice bedroom number, describing what she will do to a guy she misses, on a beat produced by Yemi Alade Shady Bizniz. It’s a four minute track that will leave any guy wishing he is the guy she’s singing about. The K.I.N.G interlude, produced by fliptyce goes on to buttress her point as the “King of Queens”. On Money, Ms

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Alade delivers a song for the clubs, and GospelOnDeBeatz gives us a nice beat that will definitely get the club rocking. I Like is a good song, which you’d definitely enjoy listening to, and it’s dotted with Hausa vibes which further broadens the appeal of the song. Taking Me Over,

Warning to nations

The book, Warnings To The Nations … A Collection Of Divine Signals, is indeed full of warnings. Oseyiza OOgbOdO

hen a book has been in publication since 1994, and it gets a new edition every year, that book must be worth reading or it wouldn’t have lasted up till now and is set to continue getting published every year. The book in question is titled: Warnings To The Nations … A Collection Of Divine Signals and it is written by the popular prophet, Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele. Though it’s presently known as Warnings To The Nations, its initial title back in 1994, its first year of publication, was Present And Future Watch. WTTN is not your everyday book that just anyone can write. It’s made up of prophecies for every sector of the world’s economy and every continent of the world. This latest edition, which is the 2015/2016 edition, is made up of 152 pages for the latest predictions in it and a further 17 pages for its foreword page, gratitude page, table of contents and its past prophecies that came to pass. Regarding its latest prophecies, its table of contents urges a potential reader to read the book as it informs the reader that the prophecies in the book are about a diverse range of topics and issues including the oil and gas sector, education, religion and Buhari’s administration. These are all issues that people want to know about as they are what will determine how well people will fare. Buhari’s administration especially is a

very hot topic for Nigerians. Buhari is seen as, and expected to be the messiah of the masses so they would like to know what his administration really portends for the country. And according to the book: “President Buhari will have few Senators in his caucus. He will be advised to seek for speedy passage of his bills. He will have problems with the Senate. Some people will instigate the Senate to fight the President. The President must be determined in dealing with the 8th Senate. Corruption will take a new dimension and as such, the president must be extra careful in dealing with such issues.” Bluntly, the book speaks about the immediate past regime of President Goodluck Jonathan, saying, “The spirit of God says there will be serious exposure of secrets about so many things pertaining to the Jonathan government. Issues relating to oil, money and graft. The Buhari government will investigate the corruption allegations against the past government so as to build the people’s confidence in the running of the Buhari regime.” And like its title, the book then warns

The book is

for everyone, regardless of race, Tribe, eThniciTy,

naTionaliTy and myriad oTher facTors ThaT divide The people of The world

people expecting severe punishments for the outgone Jonathan regime that “the Buhari government will unravel many secret dealings of the Jonathan administration but will develop cold feet in revealing some of the shocking discoveries. I (the author) foresee lots of cover-up as revealed by the Spirit of God. And the Buhari government will attempt to do so many things in the country but opposition will mount seriously against the government plans.” Considering its contents, revelations that touch on everything about the world, WTTN is not for just Nigerians alone because its author is a Nigerian and its origin is Nigerian. Rather, the book is for everyone, regardless of race, tribe, ethnicity, nationality and the myriad other factors that divide the people of the world. Since this is a book of prophecies, it’s not one to just criticize anyhow, as the author himself admits that he wrote the book through divine promptings. And in the foreword page, he shed light on the essence of the book, saying, “The Warnings To The Nations … A Collection Of Divine Signals is a product of rigorous spiritual engagement with the Spirit of God. The book of 2 Peter 1:21 says ‘Prophecy never comes by the will of man but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. “The messages (in the book)

must be classified as God’s divine favor sent to the whole of humanity to prepare us all for the challenges ahead and are not intended to cause panic, or frighten or intimidate anyone.” He added that “let us see this handbook as what it is, divine revelations, and not a mere literary work that can be subjectively interpreted. A word of prophecy is a time bomb that will explode at the appointed time of God.” And very important to note about the book is the author’s disclosure that “the messages in this book were received during the Lenten season, March 16th to April 2nd 2015.”

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Critics

Friday, July 17, 2015

Personally, yemi alade would have done a better job, but this is a very

good attemPt, and

for a debut album,

THEATRE

Identity resolution in theatre

Great stage plays like Belong will continue to thrill theatre audiences

i am more than imPressed

featuring the always impressing Phyno, sets the tone for a very good collaboration. Philkeyz on the beat on Sugar is also a number for the clubs, but Ms Alade fails to convey any message at all on this song, but if you want to dance, go ahead! Chidinma makes an appearance on Selense, one of standout songs of the album, delivering nice vocals on another song, for the clubs. Maybe she’s planning a club tour soon, with all the club bangers she has on her album… who knows? On Temperature, Ms Alade features Dil, and the duo offers a wonderfully blended love song, with Yemi Alade showing us her impressive command of the Igbo language. Kissing, an afro pop song is next on the album, and I feel the remix of the song featuring Diamond is better. This is clearly a song, made by the beat. She has to specially thank Diamond for saving the song with his impressive vocals. Tangerine, produced by Selebobo, is a good song that you will enjoy listening to. On Daddy Oyoyo, Ms Alade tries to stretch her versatility, and this time, she goes way too far. I don’t know if she’s trying to pull a Sinach, but this song shouldn’t have made the album. She’s a good singer, yes, but gospel is not her thing. She should just stick to her “club bangers” next time, or maybe write her a better gospel song next time. The album continues with the French version of Johnny, and the remix of Kissing featuring Diamond. Like I said earlier, the remix is better off than the original song, all thanks to Diamond. The album comes to an end with Looking at me, another party jam, but this time, with a message. Personally, Yemi Alade would have done a better job, but this is a very good attempt, and for a debut album, I am more than impressed. Although she needs to improve on her writing skills, Yemi Alade has set the tone for an amazing career ahead of her, and I am more than sure, that her next album will be better than this. The album would have been better too, if she didn’t try to make us dance too much. On tracks like Money and Sugar, I think she tries to over-do the afro-pop thing, which makes it quite tiring. Yemi Alade has called herself the King of Queens, a bold step in a music industry already dominated by other female acts. If this title is a prophetic declaration, fine, but for now, Yemi Alade still has ladders to climb before she eventually becomes the “King of Queens”

OlayiwOla awakan

agos is now characterised by various theatrical performances for lovers of stage business to enjoy the fun embedded in the creative industry. It is glaring that the level of patronage that live theatre receives, is increasing geometrically on daily basis and the standard infused into stage performances, also taking a better leap. This year is never an exception as both the Lagos Mainland and Island have got busy with various outstanding theatre productions, one of which is the ‘Belong’ performance. Conflict of identity is a crucial phenomenon that has been battling with some individuals; identity of place, person and time. Some people have over the years rebuffed their origin, probably because development created an option for them in a preferred geographical setting. These issues are being treated in the story ‘Belong’ written by Bola Agbaje, UK based Nigerian playwright, directed by Tosan Ugbeye and produced by Shola Adenugba at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. Belong was first acted in London at the Royal Court Theatre in 2012. It is a story that deals with situations of identity. Unlike some stage plays with upcoming faces dominating the stage, the producer of Belong assembled veterans in the Nigerian Live theatre to do justice to the play. Toyin Oshinaike who plays the character of Kayode and Dolapo Oni as Rita are both resident couple in London. Rita has got so glued to the British culture

•Sifon Baba is a freelance journalist, blogger and essayist A stage play

that she detests her native country. In solidifying their stay in London, Kayode decides to take a giant stride to Parliament through election, but he fails, having sacrificed his career to misguided allegations about the racism of his equally black political opponent. To save the situation, Fola (Bimbo Akintola) appears in the picture. She is deeply into the Nigerian dream and would do anything to persuade émigrés to return home- Nigeria. Her convincing mannerism and ‘proposal’ gets into Kayode and he decides to take a thoughtful break to visit his mother (Taiwo Ajai-Lycett) in Nigeria. Mama had earlier adopted Kunle (OC Ukeje), a former “area boy”, with the intention of turning him into a Local Politician to juice out the best in him. On the other hand, another desperate politician, Chief Olowolaye (Tunji Shotimirin) with the attitude of ‘Godfatherism’ is typical of a shady, wolfish and frantic leader. He grooms Kunle as his loyalist. Kayode’s visit to the country sprouts a conflicting interest between him and Chief Olowolaye. Kayode who never believes in the ideology of Chief Olowolaye tries to turn Kunle against him, after a clash. To frustrate the Chief and bring forth his political ideology of creating a positive change, he then picks up interest in contesting. As that ensues in Nigeria, Rita and Fola are busy tackling it out in London; Fola striving to change Rita’s mentality into conforming to her identity- Nigeria, while Rita has fully erased the Nigerian personality. In a nutshell, Kayode who initially wants to rule in a British way eventually changes his mind as he converses with the people in a language that they understand thereby winning their hearts. Rita got convinced by Fola to come into Nigeria and see things for herself. On her arrival, she discovers Kayode’s political ambition

the characters inserted an unusual energy

into the Play.

and

the directorial style also assisted to aid the Play in the country which shocks her. Kunle is made to turn against Chief Olowolaye. Kayode is at the end left with the choice of either staying to fight the injustice in the country or retire to London with his wife. And the play ends leaving the audience to fix the end from their own perspective. The full length piece tells of the challenges of being a ‘Diasporan’, deals with love, and explores the theme of gained and missed opportunities. Furthermore, it questions the notions of identity as many people go through life questioning where they truly belong. One area that the play also addresses is the fact that it is not the responsibility of those who have got soaked in the culture of another land to come and effect a change in Nigeria, rather, those at home should do that with all sincerity of purpose. Expectedly, the setting so unusual as the play was presented in a Theatre-on-the-round stage, which gets the audience really closer to the performers. The characters inserted an unusual energy into the play. And the directorial style also assisted to aid the play. The question of where does every one belong and where do they want to truly attach their identity to, lingers in the play. In all, origin should not be forgotten! Without doubt, this is a production Nigerians would be willing to see again and again.

Inside FCT

Friday, July 17, 2015

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Farmers bemoan persistent drought mArcus FAtunmole

esidents of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, may have challenges with food supply this year. The city which prides itself in subsistence agriculture has been facing drought in the past few weeks; and the farmers are lamenting. Abuja, like any other part of the North has large landmass, which residents use for farming. This activity cuts across all social strata in the city, as many who had been into agriculture in their native states, or where they were posted to the nation’s capital to work, explore the opportunity offered by vast arable land in the FCT to farm. Though only a limited number of mechanized farming is available in the city, subsistence farming is practiced in every part of the city. Besides, the vast land in the FCT provides adequate grazing areas for cattle and offer opportunities for other farming practices. By early May, farmers in Abuja begin to plant their crops. There are others who practice irrigated farming, making use of a few rivers in the city. Plants usually grow well between May and late October. And, food is generally cheap in sprawling satellite communities in the city. But the trends are being broken this year as rain has refused to fall. Since early May, rain has fallen on three times in most communities in the city (as at the time of filing this story last Monday) It is the first time in ten years that the city has faced the challenge. Crops are either withering or have dried off on the farms, especially maize and yam which are among the commonest staple foods. Speaking with our reporter, a farmer in Nuwalege village along the Airport Road, Martins Adamu, said it was long ago that the city had seen such a crisis. He blamed the drought on pervasive sins in the nation. His words: “We must expect this. Blood of the innocents being shed is too much. Even in the Bible, it was sin that made the people of God face

Maize farm in Abuja

famine. I see famine coming with this type of situation. Imagine how lives are being wasted in this country. It is unfortunate that it is innocents persons like me, who have no other means of livelihood except the farm, that pay for this. I have my farms and some of the crops are already dead. How does my family survive if this continues? “We have been praying to God to forgive us and give us rain. This is our only source of living. We have a fertile land, but when there is no rain, what can we do? It has been long we saw this kind of drought. By this time, our rice and other crops are supposed to be growing. Many of us cannot plant rice now because the swamps are too dry to plant anything on. Everybody knows that despite the population of people here, we supply food such as yam to different part of this country,” he added. Adamu’s argument nonetheless, weather experts have variously cautioned on adverse effects of global warming. There has been persistent change in climatic conditions globally, the result

of which is attributable to the present shortage of rainfall. The Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA, had predicted earlier this year that there would be flood in 14 states in the country. The prediction could come true as there had been flood in two neighbouring states to the nation’s capital. The states are Kogi and Kano states. There was reported flood in Kano state fortnight ago, while some communities in Kogi state were overrun by flood last weekend. While the rain fell last Saturday night, the FCT, which had not seen rain for many days, suddenly became very cold the following morning. Abuja is bordered by Kogi, Nasarawa and Niger states. Farming is a major occupation in the FCT as many of the in-

digenes, mainly Gbagyis are farmers. Some of the annual crops grown in the city are yam, maize, potato, garden eggs, water melon, millet, guinea corn, tomato and pepper. Abuja has a landmass of approximately 7,315 km², of which the actual city occupies 275.3 km2. It is situated within the Savanah region with moderate climatic conditions. The city, with estimated three million people, hosts an average 1000 new residents daily. With the current drought, most wells from which majority of the population get water are drying, forcing the people to resort to get water from unsafe water sources. There has been persistent heat, and its accompanying ailments, affecting mainly the children.

we hAve been prAying to god to forgive us And give us rAin. this is our only source of living. we hAve A fertile lAnd, but when there is no rAin, whAt cAn we do?

Art and science of auto repairs in FCT Femi Adeosun

ot few people gave him a slight chance of succeeding when Mr. Ayorinde Abiola voluntarily quit his promising civil service career some years ago to venture into the uncertain motor vehicle repairing world. He became a subject of deriding jokes among his peers and family members. But after close to two decades of toiling, the once rejected stone has now become a pillar of success owning one of the most innovative motor vehicle repairing shops at the capital city, Abuja. While the innovation cannot be said to be completely new in the city, what makes Auto 33.9 and Venture Limited

unique is in the number of workers it employs. When Inside FCT visited the one-stop shop auto-mobile centre located on Plot 1001, Karshi Orozo Road, Jikwoyi, the sight of vibrant young men and women doing their jobs with candour and cheerfulness, was inviting. The chairman of the mechanic shop, Mr. Ayorinde Abiola, took our correspondent on the memory lane of how

he took a bold step to quit his job, his foray into Europe where he had the opportunity to get both theoretical and practical trainings on the art of vehicle repairing and his joy in helping to reduce the unemployment situation in Nigeria. He said, “Not many people gave me a chance of succeeding when I quit my jobs some years ago. But I did not look back, believing in my vision and deter-

After close to two decAdes of toiling, the once rejected stone hAs now become A pillAr of success owning one of the most innovAtive motor vehicle repAiring shops Auto repair shop

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Inside FCT

Friday, July 17, 2015

How fans celebrated Oliseh’s arrival Joel AJAyi

t was victory song, jubilation, joy, celebration, calm, relief all emotions that Nigerians expressed after the then Super Eagles’ coach, Stephen keshi won the country’s Cup of Nations trophy in nearly two decades. But since then, the football fraternity has been thrown into series of unpalatable news as supremacy between coach and federation took a center stage to the detriment of growth and development of the round leather game in the most populous nation in the continent of Africa. As the issues of sacked, re-instatement, abusive words amongst other was the order of the day made it neither easy for federation nor for keshi which eventually led to failure on the part of Nigeria’s Super Eagles to qualify for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and defend the title they won in 2013. Also, Stephen Keshi returned as the coach of Nigeria barely two weeks after he was relieved of his position by the Nigeria Football Federation courtesy of the orders of former President Goodluck Jonathan. Lately, the issue of Keshi had finally laid to rest as the federation terminated keshi contract following a reports that the former Mali and Togo manager had applied for the vacant spot at the head of the Cote D’Ivoire national team. However, the Nigerian football analyst and former national team captain Sunday Oliseh has been open with his thoughts on the Super Eagles and their importance for the country, ahead of his expected instatement as coach of the national team. The stage has been set for stand-by Super Eagles Head coach Sunday Oliseh, having arrived the capital city of Nigeria Abuja to finalise the deal that will make him the successor to Stephen Keshi. The former Super Eagles midfielder was pictured on arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport in Abuja on Tuesday at around 5pm. Oliseh is expected to sign his contract and take over from his former national

Oliseh

team colleague Keshi, who was sacked following irreconcilable differences between him and the NFF. Those sport lovers who spoke to Inside FCT bore their mind and they did not hide the fact that instability in the federation since had affect the growth and development of the football in the country. While some lend out their voices in what could be a tip-off to help the in-

coming Super Eagles gaffer to succeed, as many remind and urged him to take a clue from what happened to his predecessor added that a big stick used for old wife is at the corner piece of the house for the new wife. Ronke Bello expressed happiness that NFF found Oliseh worthy and remind the coach of the task ahead counsel: “Olishe should make humility his watchword and carry everybody along, as foot-

He sHould dwell more on youtH development to raise a super eagles tHat will stand tHe test of time

mining to succeed, I travelled to Germany where I had hand-on training on the art and craft of vehicle repairing. “My joy today is not in the fact that I am living my dream, the opportunity to create employment for the jobless youth remains my driving force. Within the five years of opening this diagnostic centre, I have been able to employ over 15 workers. “ Asked to comment on some of the unique services he renders that differentiate his business from any other in town, he stated that apart from providing services ranging from electrical works, vulcanising, wheel balancing & alignment and vehicle diagnosis, all under the same roof, the fact that he did it with a finesse made his company unique. According to him, his utmost goal going forward is to be able to employ

ball remains a game of team work. “He should dwell more on youth development to raise a Super Eagles that will stand the test of time, a team devoid of acrimony and sentiment but of good performance. “We are tired of gnashing our teeth, we are tired of biting our nails, and we are tired of sitting on the edge of our seats for fear of another defeat whenever Eagles is playing.” In his contribution, Afonle Emmanuel said: “Nigerians are excited at his coming, we want a change from the old order, we want our Super Eagles back, the Super Eagles that made us dream, the Super Eagles that made us boast, the Super Eagles we can beat our chest about and raise four fingers in the air before our perplexed opponent. “A Super Eagles team that any country will hear of in the world and tell CAF or FIFA they are pulling out of the qualifiers, Not Eagles that struggled from two goals down against our perennial housewife South Africa in Uyo, a Super Eagles team that gave Shakes Masheba cause to scratch his bald head in bewilderment and surprise, Not a Super Eagles team that cannot beat 10-men, not a Super Eagles team that made ordinary Congo look like Brazil in Calabar, not a Super Eagles team with sentiment.” Another sport devotee Salifu Usman whispered Olishe appointment as the national coach was not a totally good idea by the NFF. “Understanding should be the watchword of Sunday Oliseh and his employer NFF all hands should be on deck to ensure that the employer and the employee succeed in helping Nigeria qualify for the 2017 AFCON and other future tournaments.” On his own, Ikenna Okonkwo said Oliseh should not sleep with his eye close with NFF “It’s a difficult assignment but am sure he can succeed if Olishe can put aside his youthful exuberance and concentrate. Talk less and work more. “I want to remind Oliseh that, a big stick used for old wife like Keshi is at corner piece of the house for whosoever is coming as a new wife.”

over 50 youths in the next five years, noting that nothing defines the essence of his being than adding value to the lives of the people and giving vision to the hitherto neglected people in the society. “Although, the joy of any investor is to ultimately work hard to ensure that his business grows, my fervent prayer is that I continue to provide employment for the people while pursuing the expansion. “My target is that in the next five years, I should be able to double the number of people in my employ. Helping young people to achieve their goals in life will not only help to boost the nation’s economy but will also help a great deal in addressing the security challenges in the country. An idle mind is the devil’s workshop,” he noted.

Mirror Mongers

Friday, July 17, 2015

Death holes in Maryland

Casualties of Apapa gridlock

he belief is that deaths resulting from flooding in Lagos come via people drowning when they mistakenly step into man holes; which is why man holes should be properly monitored to make sure they are safe, especially as the rains return. But the ones in Maryland area of Lagos have actually turned to death holes as shown in this photo. One concerned citizen captured the development thus: “The truth of the matter is that anytime we elect people in government we expect them to be smart and be able to provide solution on issues that affects people’s lives in the society but that is not the case with politicians in Nigeria. These two dangerously opened drainages at Maryland (directly in front of Nuel Ojei Holdings and a stone throw from Maryland Shopping complex) has been opened like this in the last two weeks with nobody caring to close it up or do the needful. The two dangerously opened drainages can become a form of major catastrophe for a pedestrian who might be unconscious of the danger while walking in the night. It is when such an accident occurs, that you will see some government people from either Onigbongbo Local Government Area which has the responsibility to correct the anomaly. You will now see a jammed up pot-bellied chairman showing up on

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Gridlock in Apapa

Hole in Maryland

TV cameras and claiming to tidy up the situation even after lives have been lost to it. These deadly drainages which are six feet deep have remained opened like this with no demarcation or whatsoever to warn people of the impending danger ahead. We once witnessed something like this at Omole Phase One gate (across) couple of years back and several cars kept falling into the carelessly opened drainage then. Cars kept falling in until after six months before it was covered by the people at Ojodu LGA.” Enough said!

ow if you live in Lagos, you will understand that slow moving traffic are of many dimensions, depending on where you live and where you are going. Some are called ‘slow traffic’ or ‘go-slow’ while others are called ‘gridlock’. For imaginations gridlock is the type that keeps you at a place for hours unending and avails you hawkers who make sure you can do all your shopping while waiting for the traffic to ease. Now, when you go to Apapa in Lagos that

is the type you will notice, and it appears it gets worse every day. Only two weeks ago, the Governor of Lagos, Akinwunmi Ambode, announced measures that would enforce compliance by lorry drivers whose activities are responsible for the traffic, but up till now, the situation is not abetting. Now the situation is leaving more Lagosians frustrated on one hand and maimed on another. MM gathered that in the last few weeks, the situation has forced bus drivers to be breaking the law on ‘using one way’. And this has caused a lot of deaths so far, because unsuspecting passers-by have been killed by the hit and run drivers. The buzz is that this is gradually becoming a daily incident on the Cele Bus stop area in Isolo.

As Senate prepares for Committees

Drug addicts in power

t was the Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanusi Lamido who hinted this when he was still in office as the Governor of the Central Bank, that so many politicians actually revel on the euphoria of hard drugs. E be like say, na true sha. The list is endless and the scenes variegated: His Excellency in a northern state, who would walk across his office to get himself a packet of cigarettes; a top politician, who would not get out of his jet in Germany because he was too drunk to do so; a former south south governor whose cocaine habit consumes millions of naira a month; Her Excellency who always mixed wine and vodka to get the real effect of booze and the governor whose suite in a Lagos hotel had remnants of Indian hemp after he checked out with his aides in the morning! While these scenes have continued to be whispered in circles, the man who does not fear whose ox is gored, Sanusi

ONE-SECOND &

With

MAJEK FASHEK

I made a comment that confirmed what is being suspected. According to Sanusi Lamido, it is time to ban confirmed addicts from elective offices in Nigeria. How can the nation enforce this? Sanusi had said that potential office seekers should be subjected to drug test. Meanwhile Davido’s video on drugs is still an issue in the country.

Some weeks ago, an initiative was launched to assist reggae star, Majek Fashek re-launch his musical career, as fans wonder how mentally sound he has become lately. He reacts to the insinuation:

t is not in doubt that the fight in the National Assembly is as a result of ‘who will be in what’ committee in both Houses. The buzz is that already how these Committee memberships would be shared is currently at the fore front as the National Assembly resumes next week. For those who do not know, membership of committees avails pecks that make the job of legislation highly rewarding in Nigeria. Already, people are speculating that Senator Remi Tinubu may head the Committee on Marine Transport, which had her as a member in the last dispensation. Of course, her days there were quite memorable. Once when the Senate Committee on Marine Transport visited Lagos as part of their oversight functions, something

that you are There are speculations in town e sparked off hav sick, as in mad. What could the rumour?

ds dee sick? The Nigeria press nee who s, list rna liverance. And all jou are me, inst aga gs write false thin te wri ays alw who se tho n going to hell. I mea for and me ut abo tion rma info e and give fals ts. Me and Jeblasphemy against the prophe ’t follow Jedon I sus Christ, we are one, me following am I o, ans isti sus Christ like Chr in differand way t eren diff a in Jesus Christ ent form.

happened. While waiting for the means that would take the Committee members which incidentally had Senator Oluremi Tinubu, several ‘Lagos Boys’, sighted the former First Lady, and that heralded a tumultuous reaction from the crowd. As a way of seeing ‘if something would drop’ from the former First Lady, all of them lay on the bare ground, literally begging the Senator to step on their heads! Initially, they were seen as clowns until they refused to get up and make way for the Committee members. But a timely intervention by the police team assembled by the agency promptly arrived at the scene to disperse the crowd, which left without getting anything. That is called, ‘pay as you praise’.

Friday, July 17, 2015 1 Shawwal, 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

Do not appoint officers who are anxious

now also that most of the evil that befalls the state comes from the appointment of officers who are anxious to have the appointment because none would be keen on such but a thief in the garb of a hermit and a fox in the guise of a pious worshipper, someone who is keen in the collection of money, sacrificing for such his religions and integrity; all his endeavours are for the fruits of this world, not portraying zeal and honesty, and that is the very sign of treachery. (Such a person) would enslave the slaves of Allah and use their

wealth for his own ends. Once the rights of the Muslims are usurped and their wealth unjustly taken, their souls are corrupted, their obedience diminishes, the affairs of the state become shaky and corruption pervades the state. Al-Ma’mum also said: “Whenever I was faced with a problem in my realm, I found out that the cause was the injustice of the governors.

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

Quoted from: Principles of Leadership According to the Founding

Follow religious injunctions, things will take shape –Sultan

he Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged Nigerians to live according to their religious injunctions in order for things to take shape. He also enjoined Nigerians to support President Muhammadu Buhari to move Nigeria forward. Speaking in Soko-

to at the yearly Ramadan dinner for journalists, he said that they have been making recommendations on how to move Nigeria forward and every patriotic Nigerian must do this. “We will continue to do this to ensure that Nigeria prospers as an indivisible, united nation.”

Expressing happiness with the peaceful conduct of the 2015 general elections, he said that the change Nigerians yearned for has now come and the work to actually realise that change is yet to begin. “The real job starts now and all Nigerians must join hands to move Nigeria

forward irrespective of our differences. We must trust God and sit down as one family and discuss the way forward.” His eminence decried the developments at the National Assembly and advocated the use of the law to resolve the impasse.

Words of wisdom

“Be mindful of Allah so that you may prosper,” Q3:200 “...That will be an admonition given to him who believes in Allah and the Last Day. And whosoever fears Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty). And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine. And whosoever puts his trust in Allah, then He will suffice him. Verily, Allah will accomplish his purpose. Indeed Allah has set a measure for all things. ...Whosoever fears Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make his matter easy for him. That is the Command of Allah, which He has sent down to you, and whosoever fears Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He will remit his sins from him, and will enlarge his reward”Q65:2-5.

Making Zakat impacts on Nigerian Muslims 28

‘Source from Halal, spend on Halal’ 29

Self-reformation and helping others reform (2) 30

Call to Worship

Making Zakat impacts on Nigerian Muslims

• Richest man in Africa a Muslim, Muslims still the poorest

s Ramadan is ending, it is our fervent hope that poverty will be a thing of the past in our society. It is very annoying that the richest man in Africa is a Nigerian Muslim and Muslims are still the poorest in this nation with many other millionaires in the Ummah. Let us put theories aside and do some calculations as some people have pointed out. If for instance, as the richest man in Africa, Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s net worth is $17.7 billion as at June 2015, then, the Zakat accruable from such amount should

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1 Shawwal, 1436 Friday, July 17, 2015

be enough to deliver many poor Muslims from shackles of poverty. Not to then talk of many other known and unknown “Dangotes” in our midst. With a proper Zakat structure in place, putting 2.5% annual Zakat dues from all our rich Muslims will give us over a billion in hard currency in a rough estimate which is enough to do some meaningful poverty alleviation programmes annually. From what is on ground now, our amiable Alhaji Dangote is expected to pay $708 million as Zakat this year alone. The ques-

THE PLATFORM with

Sekinah

Lawal E-mail: sakinah207@yahoo.com t: 08055102994

tion remains; who are the beneficiaries of this Zakat? Who are those collecting the Zakat of Dangote, Dantata, Arisekola, Folawiyo, our Muslim governors and Senators. It is high time the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs start overseeing other pillars of Islam apart from moon sighting for Ramadan and ensuring a sustainable Zakat collection and distribution structure in Nigeria. Yes, we need a National Zakat Foundation. Giving Sadaqah is quite different

from paying Zakat. Let the rich among us fear the Day of Judgement where they will be accountable to Allah, the Most-High as many are still giving out sadaqah rather than paying the full Zakat. All Muslim millionaires and billionaires must take the issue of alleviating poverty seriously to support government’s efforts. None of us can vouch for being alive to witness another glorious month of Ramadan; it is all about the grace of almighty Allah. May Allah the Most-Knowledgeable count us among His chosen servants. The time to repent is now and do the right thing. May Allah keep us on His right path, Aamin.

Let’s stop BokoHaram, Palestine destruction

s we celebrate Eid, it is a disheartening thing to hear and see people being killed, bombed and maimed in Nigeria, Palestine, Iraq, Egypt and other places by terrorist groups. It’s quite sad losing hundreds of innocent souls in cold blood. It is our fervent prayer that a permanent solution will be found to stop the spates of insurgencies all over, Aamin. The Palestinians’ stories are so sad and urgently need actions to help call for justice. The killings

must stop! Report has it that since 2000, Israeli forces have killed more than 8,896 Palestinians, with at least 1,895 children and overwhelming majority of them civilians. Let there be justice and some measure of accountability and justice for these needless deaths. Gazans have seen their cities reduced to rubbles, infrastructure devastated, with many hospitals, schools, factories and electric plants targeted and destroyed. These events occur against the

background of decades of Israeli occupation and illegal expansion. The G8 and entire world must take action to stop Israel’s crimes against Palestinians as well as the increasingly violent and discriminatory treatment of those Palestinians who remain in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and in Israel itself. There must be a more farreaching justice for the Palestinian people, including the displaced refugees, and at the same time the realisation of a situation in which

L-R: Head, Admin. Department, African Legacy International Media Service Limited, Mr. Titus Nwachukwu; Chairman, Mr. Innocent Ogu presenting an award of Africa’s Patriotic Woman of the Year to the President of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Omowole in Abuja on Tuesday.

the inhabitants of historic Palestine, whatever their ethnicity, religion, or culture, whether they now live as Palestinians or as Israelis, are able to coexist under conditions of meaningful freedom and equality – equality of civic status, of respect, and of access to land and resources. We believe that a radical change is needed in order to achieve this, and that whatever the substance of this change, it cannot happen without an end to the violence perpetrated by the

state of Israel against Palestinians, an end to the siege of Gaza and to the occupation, and an end to the discriminatory and dehumanising treatment of Palestinian citizens within Israel. All world leaders must find a lasting solution and stop the needless killings. Many have been condemning the killing, but the world powers need to do more than mere talk. Matters are at a sorry state when two groups are reduced to killing each other’s children.

L-R: Alhaja Monsurat Oladoja; Alhaja Faosiyat Oladoja and Alhaja Morufat George at the NASFAT’s Iftar with the media in Lagos.

Sitting L-R: Dr. Enobong Ikpeme, Asst Treasurer (WACS), Dr. Anyetei T. Lassey, President (GCPS), Dr. Ayodele Omotoso, Vice-President (WACP), Dr. Rasheed Arogundade, President (NPMCN), Dr. Adeyinka Omigbodun, President (WACS), Dr. Victoria Adabayeri, Treasurer (WACP), Back L-R: Dr. John Olutola Olatosi, Sec-Gen. (WACS), Dr. Oluwole Atoyebi, FMCS – Registrar (NPMCN), Dr. Jacob Plange-Rhule, Acting Rector (GCPS), Dr. John Nkrumah-Mills, Vice-President (GCPS), Dr. Albert Akpalu, FWACP – Asst Sec-Gen (WACP), Dr. Opubo da Lilly-Tariah, Treasurer (NPMCN), Dr. Ademola Olaitan, FMCDS – Vice-President (NPMCN), Dr. Oyenike Ekekezie, FMCPH – Dep. Registrar (NPMCN), Dr. Clement C. Ezechukwu, Sec-Gen (WACP) at the end of the 15th Quadripartite Meeting of sister Colleges in the West African Sub-region consisting of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, West Africa College Physicians and West Africa College of Surgeons held in Lagos recently.

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Frequently asked questions (2) W hat is the ruling on buying or eating the socalled ‘Bush eat’? Perhaps, you mean all those hunted or killed animals (like deer, antelope, grass cutter, etc,) which are sold on the road sides in the villages while travelling or the like which are sold anywhere. There are times they would have even removed the intestines and smoked or roasted them. The general ruling, however, is that what one does not see, one should not probe into it. Al-Qaradawi has explained that: “It is not required of the Muslim to inquire about what he has not witnessed i.e. how was the animal killed? Did the manner of slaughter meet the Islamic

condition? Was the name of Allah (SWT) mentioned during the slaughtering? If the animal was slaughtered by a Muslim, even if he is ignorant or sinful or by someone from among the People of the Book, eating it is halal for us.” (Yusuf al-Qaradawi, Al-Halaal wal-Haram.., p. 63.) This applies where one is sure that the animal has been slaughtered but ignorant of the details surrounding it. At the time of the Prophet (SAW), the Companions told him: People bring us meat and we do not know whether they have mentioned the name of Allah over it or not. Shall we eat it or not. His response was: “Mention the name

of Allah (over it) and eat. Imam Malik explained that the above Hadith was at the beginning of Islam and that Q6:121(Eat not of (meat) on which Allah’s name has not been pronounced...”) had abrogated it. Imam Al-Shafi’iyy, however, disagreed; he argued that the Hadith was said in Madinah while the verse was revealed in Makkah. The latter view has not overruled the former as it might still be true that the permission to eat such meat was due, on one hand, to Islamic evolutionary growth. On the other hand, it might be to create ease for the Muslims in a situation whereby the majority of those who hunted such animals were the non-Mus-

Cross section of participants at Lekki Muslim Ummah, LEMU’s quarterly workshop

‘Source from Halal, spend on Halal’ Sekinah L awaL

uslims have been advised to observe the following five moral and legal principles of wealth management by sourcing it from Halal (lawful means), spending it on Halal, not being extravagant, giving out its obligations and avoiding its distractions. Giving the advice at Lekki Muslim Ummah, LEMU’s quarterly workshop, Chief Imam, Lekki Central Mosque, Sheik Ridwan Jamiu said that leaving the family in penury and denial for religious purposes is not allowed. The Prophet said: “Working to cater for widows and indigents is like fighting in the cause of Allah or spending the day fasting and the night praying.” He also stated that there is no success for whoever lacks Taqwa. “Translating Taqwa to mean fear of Allah is not exhaustive. We shouldn’t worship Allah only through fear but through love and reverence. Allah is loving and kind, mighty and forgiving. Another example of Taqwa is wearing Hijab. It protects the women from sexual

Call to Worship

Friday, July 17, 2015 1 Shawwal, 1436

harassment. It beautifies and dignifies women. It protects them from skin cancer and destruction of muscle. It inhibits material competition. It saves morality and decency. It fosters love between couple. It purifies men’s hearts and preserves chastity. It brings Allah’s pleasure and love. It saves the society from promiscuity and moral. According to him, the evil of wealth begins when its acquisition becomes one’s sole focus and goal or when one doesn’t care from which source it comes, saying Muslims should do regular soul purification by curing the diseases of the hearts and seeking forgiveness, learn Islam and always reflect on the meanings of the Qurán, reflect deeply on the meanings of the Names and attributes of Allah, keep good company, do Salat attentively and meticulously, avoid distractions [e.g., obsession with social media and partying], visit graveyards to remember death and hospitals to remember Allah’s favours, ponder on the nature, have silent time for meditation, constantly remember Allah, Paradise, Hellfire and make Dua for increase in Taqwa. In Islam, poverty is not a sign or correlation of piety. Every

morning, the Prophet used to pray against poverty and deprivation. After every prayer he used to seek refuge against sins and debt. Speaking on the theme of the workshop; “Between Piety and Poverty”, an array of erudite scholars examined various topics of discussion. Sheikh Ridwan Jamiu spoke on “Essentials of Piety”, while the Head of the Department of Insurance and Actuarial Science, University of Lagos, Dr. Tajudeen Yusuf presented the topic; “Is Poverty an Islamic Virtue? Dr. Jubril Salahudeen examined the “Practical Ways of Alleviating Poverty” while Ustadh Nojeem Jimoh and Alhaji Niyi Akinlusi discussed the various presentations. Alhaji AbdulKabir Aliu was the chairman of the day. The President of LEMU, Alhaji Sulaimon Adebayo Alabi revealed that the Madrasah Building Project when completed will run a conventional Crèche, nursery, and primary classes, based strictly on Islamic ideals and standards, as well as a comprehensive Arabic and Islamic studies centre. “Our takeoff date for the Crèche, nursery and primary 1 - 3 (in Shaa Allah) is scheduled for September 1.”

IN HIS LIGHT with

USTAZ

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

PeoPle bring us meat and we do not know whether they have

mentioned the name of allah over it or not lims but that when Islam had its footing, the Muslims had control over such affair. One would thus suggest that a Muslim who is conscious of the delicate nature of the soul should avoid such meat except the ones he is sure to have been hunted by Muslims who would necessarily have mentioned the name of Allah (SWT). We, however, need to exercise an extreme caution so that we will not eat maytah. It is no more a news these days that animals are crudely and callously slaughtered in some abattoirs for the sake of money. To make the head purchasable to the buyer, they will, instead of cutting the neck with the jugular veins, cut it from the chest so that the head will have more meat to make it attractable. This kind of animal does not meet the standard of eatable flesh by a Muslim. Also, the practice of cutting some part of the neck to appear as if it was slaughtered is only to satisfy the buyers who may be Muslims. If we start to eat this kind of meat without restriction, it may not augur well with strict compliance with the Quranic prohibitions. If one can avoid it, it puts the soul at a higher plane of eating only that which is not ambiguous. And if for avoidance of doubt, you do not eat such meat, it will not affect your life in any way. Allah (SWT) knows best. What is the ruling on buying or eating frozen chicken, turkey and canned beef ? The above ruling also applies. However, on health ground, it may not be okay to consume imported meat. The importation and transportation of which are often shrouded with perilous health hazards. Eating of imported meat is lawful only if these two conditions are satisfied: to be of the one permitted by Allah (SWT) and only if killed in the Islamic manner. Otherwise, it will be unlawful. While quoting Sharbiyani (of the Al-Shafii school), Sabiq said: If a sinful (Muslim) or a people of the Book informs, for example, that this goat has been slaughtered; it is lawful to eat it; because he is among the people whose slaughtering is (legally) allowed. If it happens that there are Mag-

ians or polytheists and Muslims, and thus ignorant of whom the slaughterer is, it is not lawful to eat it due to doubt as regard the killing of what is allowed...but if it happens that the Muslims are in majority as in an Islamic country, it is worth making it lawful...” (Sayyid Sabiq, Fiqh us-Sunnah Vol III, p.459). Some Islamic Scholars have also suggested that if the imported meat carries a label of having been Islamically killed, then one can eat it. This opinion has, however, been proven unsafe based on the reality of the day and the conspiracy of the enemies of the Muslims who seize the opportunity to label their packaged chicken as having been Islamically slaughtered to the extent of inscribing such statements as halal even on packaged fish. Then where is the truth? Whereas an average Muslim knows clearly that all that lives in water is lawful as food without necessarily slaughtering it. It has also been discussed that some frozen chicken being sold are dead ones which the poultry owners dispose of secretly by selling them at give-away price so as not to suffer the loss of whatever eventually they might have suffered. If that holds, then the problem of health comes to focus. Who knows whether the chicken or the turkey died of a deadly disease? Fundamentally, Islam prohibits the eating of dead animal or bird which dies itself. How does one distinguish between the dead one and the one which is improperly slaughtered? Our society is so rotten that people have no living morality for them to be truthful. Furthermore, there are also authentic reports that these imported frozen chicken and turkey,”…are preserved with nitrites mixed with ascorbic acid to reduce the harmful effects of the former on the body. Even then, the nitrite still remains injurious to the body.” More so, nobody knows when they were preserved and for how long they had stayed in the cold room before they were brought into the country. (Tell Magazine, No.38, Sept. 23, 2002).

Call to Worship

1 Shawwal, 1436 Friday, July 17, 2015

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Every Friday with

Khalifatul

Ahmadiyya

Self-reformation and helping others reform (2)

fforts should be made in the special atmosphere of Ramadan to overcome any weakness in offering Prayers and this should be done with the intention of making it a permanent part of one’s life. Everyone should have a very clear understanding that Salat/Prayer is a one of the fundamental commandments of God. Most people focus on worship of God during Ramadan because it is a month of blessings and acceptance of prayers and they wish to seek the beneficence. It should be remembered that God knows what is in the depth of our hearts and knows our intentions and sees our practices in accordance with our intentions. Therefore we should focus on worship of God with the intention of abiding by righteousness and make the worship offered in this month part of our life. If we get used to offering Tahajjud or optional Salat, we should try to make it a constant part of our lives. God states: ‘O ye men, worship your Lord Who created you and those who were before you, that you may become righteous;’ (2:22) Explaining the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) wrote: ‘O people worship the God Who has created you…He alone is worthy of worship Who has created you, that is, He alone is Ever-Living, so it is Him you should love. Thus faithfulness is in having a special connection with God and in considering everything else nothing compared to Him.’ (Tafseer Hazrat Masih e Maud, Vol. I, p. 454) We know on an intellectual level and also have belief that God created us and it is God alone Who is Ever-Living and listens to prayers and we should love Him. Still, most people do not make the needed special effort in this regard which would make everything else nothing by comparison. The special atmosphere of Ramadan takes one towards forging this connection but afterwards gradually the process stops. We should prove from our actions that everything else is nothing to us when compared with God. The above verse states worship God so that you develop righteousness. Purpose of worship of God is not only to recognise God but is also to inculcate righteousness and attain spiritual heights and develop insight into Divine attributes. Indeed insight of Divine attributes is what makes us consider everything as nothing compared to God. In the verse above God states ‘…worship your Lord…’ . The Arabic word here is Rabb which is a Divine quality to create, to nurture and to develop. Thus it signifies that all progress of man is associated with God and while His worship alone will grant physical beneficence of His quality of Rububiyyat (quality to create, nurture, sustain)it will also provide spiritual nurturing and progress. Offering

L-R: Prof. Azeez Oladosu from University Ibadan, Chief Missiner Nasfat, Imam Abdulai Akinbode and Abuja branch Missioner, Alhaji Akeem Bello at Nasfat Laillatuly Qudri along Lagos-Ibadan express way recently. PHOTO: ABIOLA ABDULHAMMED

It Is very embarrassIng when a complaInt Is receIved about an offIce-holder not attendIng mosque for

salat

worship of God with its due requisites will give us spiritual beneficence of this Divine attribute and this will enhance us in righteousness making our spirituality not just limited to Ramadan but sustained throughout the year. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said: The fact is that the reason for the creation of man is worship of God alone. As stated elsewhere: ‘And I have not created the Jinn and the men but that they may worship Me.’ (51:57). In truth worship is when man clears the terrain of his heart from all manner of crookedness and hardness just as a farmer prepares his land.’ (Tafseer Hazrat Masih Maud, Vol. V, p. 237) He also said: There is a great need for you to understand that God Almighty created you so that you may worship Him and become His. The world should not be your objective. This is why I repetitively mention this fact, because for me this alone is the aspect behind the creation of man and this is the aspect from which man is distant.’ It is very embarrassing when a complaint is received about an office-holder not attending mosque for Salat or not offering Salat at home. There is a great need to pay attention to this because there can be no righteousness without it. Without it one can neither pay the dues of God nor the dues of mankind and there can be no blessing and such a worker cannot be a useful part of the Jama’at. God also commands: ‘O ye who believe! Do not betray Allah and the Messenger while you so often betray your trusts and you know it.’ (8: 28) This is a most essential commandment and requires great attention. Betrayal is not perpetrated on large scale only but breach of trust in small matters also constitutes betrayal. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) included avoiding and shunning betrayal in his second condition of Bai’at (as dishonesty). Some ills give rise to other ills and betraying trusts is one such ill. God states that one who betrays neither pays the dues of God nor the dues of mankind.

L-R: Former National Finance Secretary NASFAT, Alhaji Oduyoye; Alhaji Biyi Bamgbose and past President NASFAT, Alhaji Salami at the NASFAT’s Iftar with the media in Lagos.

Dignitaries at this year’s Quds Day marked by the Council of Chief Imams, Igando/Ikotun LCDA in Lagos, recently.

Cross section of participants at this year’s Quds Day marked by the Council of Chief Imams, Igando/Ikotun LCDA in Lagos, recently.

Muslims mark Quds Day

his year’s Quds Day was marked by the Council of Chief Imams, Igando/Ikotun LCDA for Muslims in its environs in conjunction with the Cultural Consular office of the Islamic Republic if Iran, Lagos. In a lecture by Alhaji Ashaafah, he stressed the global recognition and acceptance of Quds day celebrations by UN. In another joint lecture by Imams Abdl Rasak Akindele and Imam Abdl Qaadr AbdlAzeez, the historical and spiritual importance of

the Quds Mosque was emphasised urging Muslims around the world to be concerned about happenings there. The event marked the commemoration of the occupation of Palestinian territory by Isreal. It is an annual event initiated by Late Ayatulahi Khoemeni, and it has become a global event around the world. In attendance were the Cultural Officer of the Iranian Embassy, Mr. Sahed Omidi who gave the opening speech, Aare Nuha Obabiyi while Hajia Sherifah

Ahmed, General Manager of Bond FM 92.9 was given a merit award for her selfless services to Islam and humanity. There was peaceful procession along Abaranje Road, Ikotun-Lagos to show solidarity for Muslims in the occupied Palestinian territory. According to Imam Ahmad Tijani Ayolo, the event is usually held on the last Friday of the month of Ramadhan. There were also free meals for iftaar and gifts for lessprivileged for eid-ul fitr.

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Friday July 17, 2015

L-R: Former Governor of Osun state, Olagunsoye Oyinlola; Olori Omolola Aromolaran; HRM Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran at the wedding of Mr &Mrs Odeyemi John.

L-R: Eng. Peter Uyaelummuo; Ambassdor, Ndi Igbo in Diaspora, Chief Mishak Nnanta; Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Mr. Femi Adesina, and Chief( Mrs) Ifeoma Orji, during a visit to Adesina.

L-R: Executive Director, Bridge House College Ikoyi, Mrs. Foluke Abdulrazaq; Inspirational Speaker and CEO, West Africa Vocational Education, Ikoyi, Miss. Misan Rewane; Best 2014/15 University Foundation Student in Accounting, Mr. Oluwadamilola Smart; and his Dad, Mr. Tope Smart, during the 11th Annual prize giving day and Lecture, of Bridge House College Ikoyi, Lagos.

CEO Overland Capt. Edward Boyo and (right) Mr. Folu Olamiti with the family of Adeyanju Olowojoba during Adeyanju (fourth right) 50th Birthday thanksgiving in Lagos.

People In The Mirror

L-R: Former Speaker House of Rep. Dimeji Bankole with the newly wedded couple Mr. & Mrs. Abiola Dunmade during Church Service at Chapel of Light Lagos state secretariat Alausa Ikeja, Lagos.

L-R: Chairman, African Legacy International Media Service Limited, Mr Innocent Ogu; recipient, ‘Africa’s Patriotic Woman of the year’ award/President, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Mrs Ifenyiwa Omowole, and Editor-in-Chief, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mrs Nkechi Okoronkwo, during the presentation in Abuja.

L-R: Guest Lecturer, Maj Gen Mattias Efeovbokhan (rtd); Course Representative, Force Headquarters, Mr. Ikechukwu Nwanolue and Representative, Sensors and Safety Ltd, Dr. Ganiyu Obatoyinbo, during the Intensive Training Programme on Counter Terrorism, Explosive Ordnance Department and Dog Handling Skills at the Force Headquarters Abuja. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

L-R: Pastor Mrs. Funmi Ogayemi; Presiding Pastor of Faith In Christ Mission, Gbagada Assembly, Pastor (Mrs). Bunmi Salami and Prince Idowu Oyefusi at a press conference on their forthcoming crusade ‘’A Day With Jesus’’ in Lagos.

Arty News

Friday, July 17, 2015

‘Comedy Night’ berths at Silver Café

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Ekiti agog for ‘Dr. Smile Reloaded’ abiOdun nejO

R xxxx

Olawale Oluwadahunsi

t was a night of bliss, fun and excitement at the Silver Café as entertainers ranging from established to burgeoning artistes come together to wine, dine and have fun at Silver Café, situated at Ozone Cinemas, Yaba, Lagos. There was no dull moment as comedian Aje Bobo and Macati, reeled out stacks of rib cracking jokes to the amazement of everyone. It was also a night of unveiling of new comedians as they were given the opportunity to showcase their talents further inventing the new version of Nigeria’s got talent. The climax of the show came when the talented ‘Time Out with TEE A’ comedienne, Princess, handled the microphone like a maverick entertaining guests in a very seamless manner. The guests present could not but ask her

to stop a while for them not to vomit their drinks. She obviously ‘cracked their ribs’, leaving them saturated. The coordinator of the event and head of Silver Cafe, Mr Buchi, said that the show aims to provide endless innovative fun for every one that has gone through the stress of the day. “Silver Cafe is a place to be. The ambience of the vicinity, shadow lights, plenty of drinks, our experienced DJ, the always bubbling dance floor, warmth reception and innovative comedy makes us different from every other lounges in the country. We are have been in the hospitality business for over a decade and you can trust that you get nothing but the best whenever you come” Silver Cafe, an entertainment hub for relaxation holds its Comedy Night every Wednesday.

enowned comedians including Helen Paul, Dr Smile, Ajele, ATM, Seyi Law, Papa B and Omobaba are set to make this year’s Eid el Fitri memorable by treating the residents to laughter. The event billed for De Jewel Apartment and Suites on Federal Polytechnic Road in Ado Ekiti on Friday (July 17), would also serve as avenue to improve the skills and talents of upcoming comedians in Ekiti State. A statement by Asiwaju Oyedeji Olajubu, the Chief Executive Officer of De Jewels, said the event tagged: “Dr Smile Reloaded”, was packaged to recreate people of the state after months of work and as well Muslims on completion of the Ramaddan fast. Olajubu said the event, “is also targeted at elevating the face of entertainment industry in the state. It also targets promotion of entertainment Ambassadors and creation of avenue through which Ekiti based comedians can tap from their wealth of experience and expertise.” The De Jewels boss, an engineer, also harped on the need for hospitality business operators to be creative in provision of facilities. “De Jewels Apartments has carved an entertain-

IoD hosts Deon Rossouw adewunmi Peters

he Institute of Directors Nigeria (IoD Nigeria) is set to host the bi-annual Executive Committee meeting of the African Corporate Governance Network (ACGN) in Lagos, Nigeria from Monday 20th to Wednesday 22nd July 2015 at the Eko Hotel & Suites. Announcing this in Lagos, the Director General of IoD Nigeria, Mr. Victor Banjo, stated that ACGN is a network of Institutes of Directors and similar institutions, committed to enhancing effective corporate governance and ethical leadership throughout Africa, and is currently present in 16 key African countries representing over 16,000 directors and senior executives in Africa. The Chief Executives and representatives of ACGN member organisations will be in Nigeria for the 3-day event which will feature a business forum with Professor Deon Rossouw, CEO of the Ethics Institute of South Africa as Guest Speaker, sub-committee meetings, a cocktail/dinner with leaders of the Nigerian business

Akeju, IoD’s President

community and members of the diplomatic community as well as technical strategy sessions. Delegates expected to attend include CEOs of Institute of Directors from Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Others expected to attend are ACGN Affiliates and Collaborators such as: International Finance Corporation, ACCA, African Stock Exchange Association,

Ethics Institute of South Africa, ICSA Uganda, FITC Nigeria, African Development Bank, African PR Association, Africa Matters, CIPE and Essec Business School. Mr. Banjo, a member of the ACGN Executive Committee, said that the hosting of the ACGN event in Nigeria is a reflection of the influence of IoD Nigeria across the Continent in the area of Corporate Governance. He expressed confidence in IoD Nigeria’s readiness to welcome and host all the delegates to what he believes will be a very successful Biannual Meeting, the first time the meeting will hold in the West African sub-region. The ACGN was officially launched in Mauritius in October 2013 to work together to promote good corporate governance in Africa. Previous Executive Committee meetings were held in South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania and Zambia. Mr Banjo also added that ACGN is expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the African Stock Exchange Association (ASEA) during the Lagos Exco meeting. The CEO of the Nigeria Stock Exchange, Mr. Oscar Onyeama is the current President of ASEA.

Helen Paul

ment niche for itself in Ado Ekiti and indeed, Ekiti State with the provision of ultra-modern conference hall, gymnastic and sauna facilities, swimming pool for children and adults as well as internet service. Very soon, we will blaze the trail with a

state of the art film galleria for the ultimate entertainment of our guests and others. De Jewel Apartment was born because of the dearth of quality hospitality services in Ekiti, not because of the unavailability of hotels in Ado.”

Ogidi community celebrates ‘Nwafor Festival’ GlOria anaeze

he yearly week-long Nwafor Festival of Ogidi Community, Idemili North Local Government Area, Anambra State, to the shock of most people ended without any record of deaths which for about a decade is unheard of sequel to the proactive measure put in place by security operatives and leaders of the community. Addressing journalists on why there was no record of casualty figure, the President General of the Red Cap Chiefs, Kingsley Anyaegbunam Ndilika explained that the community through its President General, Dr. Eric Obiakor, warned dreaded and troublesome masquerades to steer clear of major roads, avoid harassing, assaulting women and strangers days to the commencement of the festival. Accordng to him, it was also agreed that non-indigenes of the community would be barred from participating in the masquerading to help identify the devil reincarnate. “We have also our members on white attire who patrol the

roads to find out masquerades and persons who may flout the order so that such persons would face the wrath of the law”, he said. Flanked by the Chairman of Tradition, Chief Emeka Nwobi and Financial Secretary of the Red Cap Chiefs, Chief Daniel Enendu, Chief Lawrence Okonkwo who is chairman Nkpor Main Market described Nwafor Festival as the highest of all celebrations in the area stating that it is a period of cultivation and preparation for harvesting of farm produce. They thanked Governor Willie Obiano, the Police in Ogidi and other security operatives for the proactive measures which resulted in the peaceful ceremony. The Ogidi Divisional Police Officer, Mr. Hassan Musa and the Commander, Idemili North and South Surveillance Vigilance Group, Mr. Arthur Ilongwu, told newsmen that their men were sent to flashpoints and patrol vehicles worked round the clock, before, during and after the festival in concert with the community leaders which resulted in hitchfree Nwafor Festival.

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Arty News

Friday, July 17, 2015

Modeling far beyond nudity –Chelsea Chukwu Chelsea Chinenye, has defiled all odds to establish her name in the modeling industry. A photographic model and undergraduate of the Federal Polytechnic Bida, she maintains that nudity is not a hallmark for modeling in this interview with REGINA OTOKPA. Excerpts:

Chelsea

Among the various aspects of modeling we operate in the country, which are you practicing? I am a photographic model and not a runway model Why did you decide to opt for photographic rather than runway modeling? People would expect to hear I am into runway modeling but I have what it takes to promote a brand. I am not just photogenic in nature, but I have the character, statue, and also, I have got an awesome smile which is good and sells out a photographic model. How would you rate the current status of modeling in Nigeria? Things have changed drastically and modeling has assumed a higher dimension, it has become a great deal in Nigeria compared to what we used to have and it is really helping in developing the countries entertainment industry but I believe we can do better. Are you close to any brand endorsement deal? We are still in the process of working out something and soon I believe, a deal would be struck. What efforts are you putting in place to give modeling in Nigeria a face lift? People come into modeling without focus, what they fail to realise is that modeling goes beyond beauty. Modeling is a combination of beauty, intelligence courage, representation and above all, confidence. A Model should possess qualities that will earn her respect and dignity, she should be an Ambassador anywhere she goes. How will you rate our entertainment industry today?

It has been a great, lovely, wonderful, awesome but challengIng experIence for me The entertainment industry is really growing, but we need to do more work. There is room to do better because we have all it takes to be rated number one in the world. All we need is getting the right support both from government and individual. Talking about the government and individuals supporting the entertainment industry, how can this support be rendered? The government can actually support the entertainment industry by funding the sector financially and morally by organising concerts and programmes that would encourage artistes and entertainers to appreciate what they do more, help imbibe a positive consciousness and encourage them to step out and embrace their talents knowing that there’s a future in what they do. Individuals on their part can also support the entertainment industry by encouraging their friends and colleagues who are in the industry or have a desire to wax their artistic skills, take their talents to the next level instead of criticizing their acts, person and seeing it as an impossible task to achieve especially in this part of the world. Have you suffered any form of criticism for being a model? Yes, I have been criticised by some persons around me. They said quite a number of things which includes why I have decided to indulge in modeling instead of getting a regular job like ev-

ery other person. Others feel and tell me there is no possibility of getting a successful future out of modeling.

pecially when I get to the studio where I am to have my studio sessions and I find other girls around.

Could that be because the environment does not encourage models to thrive? Yes, this is because a negative impression has been given to models in Nigeria.

What attracted you into modeling considering there are other aspects of entertainment for a beautiful young lady? It is simple; my passion for it was what attracted me into modeling. I have had this passion since I was 11 years of age.

By negative impression about models in the country, what exactly do you mean? People have this belief system that once they hear that you are a model, the next thing that comes to their mind is nudity or semi-porn. Because of that, parents don’t encourage their children to venture into modeling. And when encouragement is not there, the passion will eventually die. So you start pursuing something else that you probably have less passion for. You noted that people do not believe there is a future in modeling. Do you believe in that notion? I will say a very big NO to that notion because in our present world everything is going global, trends are changing and everyone wants to rebrand so to identify with what is in vogue. Every product and organisation now needs a face that can be identified with it, both home and abroad .and who would be doing the job representing them and giving their brand a face? It’s we the models. So I will say there is not just future for models, but there is a bright and amazing future for models. How did your family react when you decided to ply the path of photographic modeling? At first my mum was not comfortable with the thought of her daughter being a model but over time, I made her see reasons by enlightening her on what modeling was all about. It wasn’t easy but ever since she understood and accepted what it is I had decided to do, everything modeling has been going on smoothly for me. How has the experience as a photographic model been so far? It has been a great, lovely, wonderful, awesome but challenging experience for me es-

What wrong would you want corrected on the public view about models in the country? The view that people have every model is a porn star, and all that What advice do you have for aspiring models? Believe in God, yourself and never give up on your dreams for any reason. It is achievable. There are quite a number of models who have made a mark, who do you look up to in the international and local scene? In the international scene I will say Tyra Banks and Naomi Campbell are my mentors, while on the local scene, Oluchi Orlando has it though she is also an international face. What qualities would you want in your dream man? My dream man must be God fearing, handsome, supporting and rich. The bible has made it clear that money answers all things. I should also add that the negative love of money is the root of all evil.

p e r world. N o t el, but in

What is your greatest wish in life? My greatest wish is to be the most influential sonality in the

And your dislikes? I love ling, reading, television and friends with posiminds. I hate gossip lies. I can distance myfrom a person for life because of that.

just as a modevery aspect. likes and travelwatching making t i v e a n d self

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Friday, July 17, 2015

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Cuba: The Island of history, culture Steeped in faded grandeur, Cuba, Caribbean’s largest island, drips with history, culture, and a captivating mystique.

Olawale Oluwadahunsi WITH AGENCY REPORTS

uba abounds in natural beauty. This vast island has more than 3,000 kilometers of coastline, much of it rimmed by dazzling beaches. Coral reefs glimmer in the turquoise waters, and Cuba’s lush countryside and sublime islands have played host to presidents, provided refuge to revolutionaries, and inspired writers from around the world, Hemingway among them. Live music wafts through the cobbled squares in Havana’s World Heritage-listed Old Town, vintage cars still cruise the streets, and the beautiful old buildings of Cuba’s colonial cities evoke the feel of a country frozen in time. Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, and with over 11 million inhabitants, is the second-most populous after Hispaniola, albeit with a much lower population density than most nations in the region. It is a multiethnic country whose people, culture and customs derive from diverse origins, including the aboriginal Taíno and Ciboney peoples, the long period of Spanish colonialism, the introduction of African slaves, a close relationship with the Soviet Union during the Cold War, and proximity to the United States.

Tourism Tourism was initially restricted to enclave resorts where tourists would be segregated from Cuban society, referred to as “enclave tourism” and “tourism apartheid”. Contacts between foreign visitors and ordinary Cubans were de facto illegal between 1992 and 1997. The rapid growth of tourism during the Special Period had widespread social and economic repercussions in Cuba, and led to speculation about the emergence of a two-tier economy. Cuba has tripled its market share of Caribbean tourism in the last decade; as a result of significant investment in tourism infrastructure, this growth rate is predicted to continue. 1.9 million tourists visited Cuba in 2003, predominantly from Canada and the European Union, generating revenue of $2.1 billion. Cuba recorded 2,688,000 international tourists in 2011, the third-highest

Havana Vedado figure in the Caribbean (behind the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico).

Geography Cuba is an archipelago of islands located in the northern Caribbean Sea at the confluence with the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. It lies between latitudes 19° and 24°N, and longitudes 74° and 85°W. The United States lies 150 kilometers (90 miles) across the Straits of Florida to the north and northwest (to the closest tip of Key West, Florida), and the Bahamas to the north. The main island named Cuba is 1,250 km (780 mi) long, constituting most of the nation’s land area (104,556 km2 (40,369 sq mi)) and is the largest island in the Caribbean and 17th-largest island in the world by land area. The main island consists mostly of flat to rolling plains apart from the Sierra Maestra mountains in the southeast, whose highest point is Pico Turquino (1,974 m (6,476 ft)).

Climate With most of the island south of the Tropic of Cancer, the local climate is tropical, moderated by north-easterly trade winds that blow year-round. In general (with local variations), there is a drier season from November to April, and a rainier season from May to October. The average temperature is 21 °C (69.8 °F) in January and 27 °C (80.6 °F) in July. The warm temperatures of the Caribbean Sea and the fact that Cuba sits across the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico combine to make the country prone to frequent hurricanes. These are most com-

mon in September and October. Biodiversity Cuba signed the Rio Convention on Biological Diversity on 12 June 1992, and became a party to the convention on 8 March 1994. It has subsequently produced a National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, with one revision which was received by the convention on 24 January 2008. The country’s fourth national report to the CBD, however, contains a detailed breakdown of the numbers of species of each kingdom of life recorded from Cuba, the main groups being: animals (17,801 species), bacteria (270 species), chromista (707 species), fungi, including lichen-forming species (5844 species), plants (9107 species) and protozoa (1440 species).

Religion Cuba is officially a secular state. Religious freedom increased through the 1980s, with the government amending the constitution in 1992 to drop the state’s characterization as atheistic. Roman Catholicism is the largest religion, with its origins rooted in Spanish colonization. Despite less than half of the population identifying as Catholics in 2006, it nonetheless remains the dominant faith

Languages The official language of Cuba is Spanish and the vast majority of Cubans speak it. Spanish as spoken in Cuba is known as Cuban Spanish and is a form of Caribbean Spanish. Lucumi, a dialect of the West African language Yoruba, is also used as a

liturgical language by practitioners of Santería, and so only as a second language. Haitian Creole is the second largest language in Cuba, and is spoken by Haitian immigrants and their descendants. Other languages spoken by immigrants include Galician and Corsican

Culture Cuban culture is influenced by its melting pot of cultures, primarily those of Spain and Africa. After the 1959 revolution, the government started a national literacy campaign, offered free education to all and established rigorous sports, ballet and music programs

Music Cuban music is very rich and is the most commonly known expression of culture. The central form of this music is Son, which has been the basis of many other musical styles like salsa, rumba and mambo and an upbeat derivation of the rumba, the cha-chacha. Rumba music originated in

Baracoa

early Afro-Cuban culture. The Tres was also invented in Cuba, but other traditional Cuban instruments are of African origin, Taíno origin, or both, such as the maracas, güiro, marimba and various wooden drums including the mayohuacan.

Cuisine A traditional meal of ropa vieja (shredded flank steak in a tomato sauce base), black beans, yellow rice, plantains and fried yuca with beer. Cuban cuisine is a fusion of Spanish and Caribbean cuisines. Cuban recipes share spices and techniques with Spanish cooking, with some Caribbean influence in spice and flavor. Food rationing, which has been the norm in Cuba for the last four decades, restricts the common availability of these dishes. The traditional Cuban meal is not served in courses; all food items are served at the same time. The typical meal could consist of plantains, black beans

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and rice, ropa vieja (shredded beef), Cuban bread, pork with onions, and tropical fruits. Black beans and rice, referred to as Moros y Cristianos (or moros for short), and plantains are staples of the Cuban diet. Many of the meat dishes are cooked slowly with light sauces. Garlic, cumin, oregano, and bay leaves are the dominant spices.

years ago. Extensive renovations are now breathing new life into the historic buildings. Major attractions here include the Plaza de la Catedral, home to the Cuban Baroque Catedral de San Cristobal; the legendary restaurant and Hemingway hangout, Bodeguita del Medio; and the military fortress, Castillo de la Real Fuerza.

Literature

Varadero is one of Cuba’s most famous beach destinations. It stretches along the Peninsula de Hicacos, which juts into the sea off the north coast where a drawbridge connects it to the mainland. More than 50 hotels line this popular palm-fringed strip, and its magnificent white-sand beaches draw visitors from around the world. Highlights include Parque Natural Punta Hicacos (Parque Natural de Varaderos), a nature reserve with a pretty beach, and the two caves, Cueva de Ambrosio and Cueva de Musulmanes.

Cuban literature began to find its voice in the early 19th century. Dominant themes of independence and freedom were exemplified by José Martí, who led the Modernist movement in Cuban literature. Writers such as Nicolás Guillén and Jose Z. Tallet focused on literature as social protest. The poetry and novels of Dulce María Loynaz and José Lezama Lima have been influential. Romanticist Miguel Barnet, who wrote Everyone Dreamed of Cuba, reflects a more melancholy Cuba. Writers such as Reinaldo Arenas, Guillermo Cabrera Infante, and more recently Daína Chaviano, Pedro Juan Gutiérrez, Zoé Valdés, Guillermo Rosales and Leonardo Padura have earned international recognition in the post-revolutionary era, though many of these writers have felt compelled to continue their work in exile due to ideological control of media by the Cuban authorities. Popular Cuban music of all styles has been enjoyed and praised widely across the world. Cuban classical music, which includes music with strong African and European influences, and features symphonic works as well as music for soloists, has received international acclaim thanks to composers like Ernesto Lecuona. Havana was the heart of the rap scene in Cuba when it began in the 1990s.

Tourist attractions

Habana Vieja or Old Havana A UNESCO world heritage site, Habana Vieja or Old Havana is a well-preserved slice of Cuban history. Strolling around the cobbled streets and gazing up at the grand Baroque and neoclassical buildings, it’s easy to imagine what life in Cuba was like 200

Escape

Friday, July 17, 2015

Varadero

Trinidad Exploring the town of Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is like stepping back in time. The beautifully restored buildings and cobblestone streets in the city center imbue a quaint colonial feel. Much of the architecture dates from the 17th to the 19th century when Trinidad prospered from both the sugar and slave trades. Today, Trinidad is one of Cuba’s most popular tourist towns and the streets are often packed with foreigners. Travelers can soak up the lively ambiance of this charming city in the cobblestone Plaza Mayor, the city’s central square. Above the square stands the Neoclassical Church of the Holy Trinity (Iglesia Parroquial de la Santisima Trinidad). Other highlights are the Church and Monastery of Saint Francis (Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco) with its distinctive bell tower, the Museum of Colonial Architecture (Museo de Arquitectura Colonial), the art gallery at the Casa de Aldeman Ortiz, and the Palacio Brunet, a grand home, built in 1812 and still featuring original frescoes and marble floors. Guardalavaca Rimmed by glittering beaches, Guardalavaca, in the Holguin province, is quieter and more re-

mote than Varadero. Lush foliage fringes the sweeping strand of beach here providing plenty of shady patches for those seeking respite from the tropical sun. Divers and snorkelers can explore a plethora of sea life along the coral reefs.

Cayo Coco Another of Cuba’s idyllic beach destinations and one of its most isolated, Cayo Coco starred in Hemingway’s novels, Islands in the Stream and The Old Man and the Sea along with nearby Cayo Guillermo. As part of the Jardines Del Rey, the combined archipelago of Sabana-Camaguey, Cayo Coco is connected to the mainland by a bridge, though most visitors arrive by air. Parque Nacional Vinales A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Parque Nacional Vinales is a beautiful, verdant valley in the Sierra de los Organos, north of Pinar del Rio. Steep limestone hills called mogotes slice through the valleys creating a dramatic landscape. The valley floors in the Parque Nacional Vinales are agricultural areas where tobacco, fruit, and vegetables are grown. For outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers fantastic hiking and horseback riding in the hills. Nearby, the charming town of Vinales is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Tour companies also offer day trips here from Havana.

Baracoa One of the highlights of eastern Cuba is beautiful Baracoa, the oldest city in the country. It was founded in 1511 in the province of Guantanamo and construction began on the first church here around that time. Cut off from much of the outside world until the 1960s when the La Farola highway was built, the city still has a remote feel. Today, visitors come here for the charming colonial architecture and lush countryside where waterfalls and pretty beaches provide a cool counterpoint to the steamy jungle. The flat-topped peak of El Yunque presides over all this tropical beauty, beckoning hikers to take the guided ascent to its 589 meter summit. The hillside is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where rare birds and plants thrive.

Varadero

Diego Velasquez Museum

Malecon

Peninsula de Zapata

Santa Clara

When beach towns and resorts all start to see the same, Santa Clara, in the province of Villa Clara, will add some depth to a Cuban itinerary. Rich in cultural attractions, Santa Clara is a vibrant university town and the famous site of the last guerrilla battle led by Che Guevara in 1958.

Play Giron

Friday, July 17, 2015

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Concerns heightens on passage of National Transport Commission Bill With the last Assembly’s failure to pass the National Commission Bill (NTCB), experts and stakeholders have expressed optimism over the need to pass the National Transport Commission Bill into law as soon as possible. Adejuwon Osunnuyi reports.

Nigerian Port Authority

‘

The non passage of The Bill will

conTinue To give The concessionaires serious course for concern. i parTicularly used To BoTher so much Because a Bill such as This should noT Take longer Than one year To Be passed inTo law

‘

ore than eight years after the port reforms, transportation experts have expressed optimism that two key transport sector reform Bills-the nigerian ports and harbour Bill and the nigerian Transport commission Bill would be passed to law as soon as possible. The national council on privatisation (ncp) had approved and recommended four transport sector reform Bills namely; The ports and harbour Bill, the railway Bill, the national Transport commission Bill, and the national inland waterways Bill. while the ports and harbour bill and the national inland waterways bill are designed to provide adequate framework for private sector participation and to promote efficiency based on the principles of accountability, competition, fairness and transparency, the national Transport commission (nTc) bill seeks to establish a commission that is designed to be a multi-modal sector and to provide an economic regulator for the transport subsector, which includes the rail, road and maritime. it is expected to perform the role similar to the national communications commission (ncc) in the communication sector and the national electricity regulatory commission (nerc) for the electric power sector. while the nTc had suffered several setbacks, with the 8th assembly’s getting set for business, experts and stakeholders have not only expressed their disappointment but have also continued to urge the current law makers to pass the bill as it is needful, and without much work to do on it. according to the experts, amidst renewed calls by both stakeholders and national leaders on the government of president muhammadu Buhari to

develop the maritime sector as an alternative national income spinner to oil, it is pertinent to point out that the necessary laws will have to be made for easy application. “The national Transport commission Bill is the most important bill for the transport sector in nigeria. unfortunately, the bill has been marooned by the national assembly,” said a maritime lawyer, who wants to remain anonymous. The bill sets out a commission for the economic regulatory framework for the transportation of people and goods. according to the lawyer, the creation of statutory bodies provides the grassroot feeling for policies. “agencies are like the foot soldiers of the president in achieving regulatory goals,” he noted. according to him, there are two levels of regulation: compliance or technical regulation and economic regulation. The national Transport commission will be an economic

regulator. economic regulation will not deal with technicalities of the operations of transport, or compliance, but will ensure that there is fair commercial operation amidst competitive practices and ensure efficiency in transport services provision by the operators. The commission’s primary task will be economic regulation for the transport sec-

Emordi

tor – ports, inland waterways and land transport – which includes railway and road. section 5 of the bill specifically provides the functions of the commission as thus: “create an economic regulatory framework for the provision of transport services and facilities; facilitate effective competition, promote competitive market conduct and ensure that the misuse of monopoly or non-transitory market power is prevented in the provision of transport services, (as well as) promote private sector participation in the provison of transport services.” other tasks for the commission include to “ensure that operators and users have equitable access to the use of transport facilities, services, channels and routes while having regard to the level of competition in and efficency of the regulated transport industry; and monitor the performance of the regulated sector.” in doing these, the bill entails that the nTc shall exercise powers to implement government’s economic regulatory policies on transport; protect the interest of users of transport services by ensuring that prices are fair and reasonable while having regard for competition in the regulated industry. mrs. vicky hastruup, who spoke in an interview, disclosed that the non passage of the bill constitute a major source of concern to the concessionaires,

especially given the huge investments they have already in nigeria’s port industry. according to her, being an executive bill, the process of passage of the ports and harbours Bill should ordinarily not take longer that one year, but has regrettably lasted for more than eight years. “The non passage of the Bill will continue to give the concessionaires serious course for concern. i particularly used to bother so much because a bill such as this should not take longer than one year to be passed into law,” she said. it would be recalled that the ports and harbours bill had been embroiled in confusion and controversy since the conclusion of port concession in 2006. Two versions of the bill have been in circulation as there is one emanating from the national assembly, which had passed through second reading, and one through public hearing before controversy with the executive arm stalled the passage. The controversy between the executive and the legislature over the bill had blown open during a joint public hearing on the auction of overtime cargo organised by the house committees on finance, marine Transport and customs in abuja. Trouble started when the permanent secretary of the federal ministry of Transport, engr. nebolisa emordi, who represented the former minister, senator idris umar, at the event, while making his presentation hinted that the ministry was putting final changes to the ports and harbours Bill for submission to the national assembly. “The federal executive council will soon submit a Bill to the national assembly, which seeks to repeal the nigerian ports authority act of 1999 and enact the nigerian ports and harbours act. This act envisages the provision of ownership, management, operation, development and control of ports and harbours, make the ports and harbour authority the technical regulator and promote private participation,” he had said. from all indications, while it is generally acknowledged that a commercial regulator is an integral part of the port concession deal, stakeholders, including the nigerian ports authourity (npa), the concessionaires, importers etc have had to make do with a largely unregulated system.

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Friday, July 17, 2015

FRSC begins facing out of substandard tankers by Sept 1

ollowing the incessant accidents all over the country involving petroleum tankers and trucks, the Federal Road Safety Corps has announced that it would begin the enforcement of minimum standards for petroleum tankers and trucks as from September 1, 2015. The Corps Marshall, Mr. Boboye Oyeyemi, stated this in Lagos after a meeting with petroleum marketers, depot owners and petroleum tanker drivers associations. According to the FRSC boss, after the deadline, all fuel tankers found not to have met the minimum safety standards would be prevented from loading petroleum products at depots. He said, “Since May 31st, there have been unfortunate incidents all over the country involving petroleum tankers and trucks. This is why we engaged all stakeholders in a series of discussions towards a safe road culture.” Oyeyemi identified a number of factors as responsible for accidents involving petroleum tankers and cargo trucks. According to him, many petroleum tankers in Nigeria lack safety valves and as a result are prone to spill petroleum products whenever the tankers fall or overturn, resulting in loss of lives and property.

He recalled that the nation recorded about 16 tanker crashes last month; all due to brake failure. He said about 90 per cent of the petroleum tankers and trucks on the road were overaged and needed to be replaced. Oyeyemi said, “If nothing is done urgently to address the current situation, there would be more crashes before the end of the year. To check the trend, we began the retraining of commercial drivers. This, we have almost completed. We are also opening licensing centres in Warri, Kaduna, Lagos and Suleja for the processing of commercial drivers’ licences. It would be the responsibility of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers to secure these licensing centres.” Oyeyemi also called on all tank farm owners in the country to adopt a programming schedule for tankers so that they would not all go to Apapa at the same time to load petroleum products. Other standards stakeholders were expected to adhere to were listed as the tagging and batching of trucks at loading points to avoid congestion on port access roads; the eradication of old and substandard trucks from the roads and the fixing of safety valves on petroleum tankers at the points of loading and discharge. The Executive Secretary, Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association, Mr. Olufemi Adewole, said the plan to

automobile journalists, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation was represented by its General Manager, Nairobi Liaison Office, Mr. Taiki Murai. The Managing Director of CFAO Motors, Mr. Thomas Pelletier said “The all-new L200 gets its full redesign in nine years and CFAO Motors is happy to introduce it to the Nigerian Market.” With its muscular, sleek and dynamic styling, the vehicle is said to evoke the form of a wellhoned athlete. The all-new L200 also provides generous interior space, ample payload capacity, and class-leading handling. Safety It achieves high levels of safety performance through its durable and sturdy chassis and frame structures along with MMC’s own RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) impact safety body. The all-new L200 also delivers quietness and ride comfort on a par with a passenger car, thanks to a new engine, optimisation

ABC Transport commences new sprinter routes

Oyeyemi

install safety valves on petroleum tankers was initiated years ago but dropped because of the cost. He however added that the Nigeria Association Of Road Transport Owners would bear the cost of installing the safety valves on tankers in the country. He said, “When a tanker is found to be substandard at a depot, it should be communicated to other depots electronically so that that same tanker doesn’t go to another depot to load products. “The PTD should also ensure that tankers that are not scheduled to lift petroleum products for the day don’t come into Apapa.” The Secretary, Depot Owners Ibafon/Apapa axis, Mr. Victor Enebeli, called on the government to repair the bad roads in Apapa.

CFAO rolls out new-generation Mitsubishi L200 pickup

itsubishi Motors has introduced a completely redesigned L200 pickup model to the global auto market including Nigeria. This is coming nine years after marketing the last edition of the Mitsubishi L200 pickup truck. The L200 is considered one of the Mitsubishi’s long-time global best-sellers. First launched in August 2005, the outgoing model is reported to have sold a total of 1,260,000 units worldwide as of September last year. Designed as an ultimate Sport Utility Truck, the manufacturer says the new vehicle combines the comfortable interior of a passenger car with the functionality and reliability of a pickup. To this end, it was with great expectation that the distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Nigeria, CFAO Motors, launched the new product first in Abuja, the nation’s capital, at the prestigious Sheraton Hotel. At the presentation of the all-new L-200 pickup truck to the

megacrown1@yahoo.com 08025237926

of the suspension, the strategic placement of sound insulation, absorption and vibration damping materials. The all-new L200 is available in single cab and double cab variants, with a three-engine line-up. Engine performance The all new L200 is now available to the Nigerian customers in 2.4-litre petrol engine as well as 2.5-litre diesel engine. The new 2.4-litre MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic control system) turbo diesel, which provides environmental and motive performance among the best in its class, joins improved versions of the wellproven 2.5-litre turbo diesel and 2.4-litre petrol engine. The all-new L200 accommodates the varying needs and requirements of consumers, everything from commercial to private use. CFAO Motors said the muscular New L200 is built tough to handle all kind to terrain. Streamlined styling also contributes to its class-leading aerodynamics and a smooth quite ride.

BC Transport Plc has commenced its sprinter service operations on the Orlu-Port Harcourt and Orlu-Lagos routes. According to the transport firm, the service had been designed for passengers who would like to travel light, with little or no luggage, adding that the ABC Sprinter would run as a direct passenger service with daily departure schedules. The firm also said the ABC Cargo Express, a division of ABC Transport, had opened an office in Bodija, Ibadan. The opening of the Bodija office now brings the total number of ABC Cargo Express outlets in Oyo state to two. According to a statement by the company, ABC Cargo

Express is set to take delivery of additional new trucks before the last quarter runs out. In addition to strengthening ABC Cargo Express capacity, manpower training and enhancement, workshops had been organised between February and March 2015, especially for cargo workers, supervisors, and ground operatives. These workshops, which were aimed at imbuing them with the necessary skills to manage modern-day quality service delivery and customer relationship, took place in Owerri. The next session, aimed at re-orientating the drivers and attendants on matters of defensive driving, is billed for August 2015.

Coscharis Motors unveils Jaguar Landrover 5-year warranty product

aguar Land Rover, in partnership with Coscharis Motors, has announced the launch of 5-year warranty or 150,000km, whichever occurs sooner product to all Jaguar Landrover customers for any purchases made from 1st July 2015. The firm said the objective is to provide our valued customers with additional peace of mind motoring up to 5 years. According to the Group Managing Director, Josiah Samuel, “we are continuing with our commitment to ensuring that our customers enjoy fantastic opportunity for our Jaguar Landrover brands through ease ownership”. The 5-year/150,000km new vehicle warranty is an extension of the previous 3-year/100,00km warranty and avail customers a marginal reduction in the cost of their vehicle maintenance for the period. By implication, retail and fleet owners can decide to retain their vehicles for longer periods while Coscharis will

Samuel

take responsibility for the maintenance. The 5-year warranty is transferable to the new owner should the car be sold before it expires, given added resale value. The owners of 3-year or less aged Jaguar Landrover vehicles can also subscribe to two more years warranty. In order to keep their extended warranty valid, customers must keep their vehicles maintained in line with the manufacturers servicing schedule. If the service history is not complete, the extended warranty coverage may be reinstated through the completion of the necessary Technical Inspection, which may involve certain fees. As stated by William Letsoalo, Customer Services Manager JLRSSA: If 1 Service is missed the coverage level drops to only cover Non-Service Related claims, but can be reinstated to full coverage. If 2 Consecutive Services are missed the Warranty is invalidated, but can be reinstated to full coverage. If More than 2 Consecutive Services are missed the Warranty is invalidated and cannot be reinstated. Similarly, warranty provision has been made for the Approved Used vehicles. The Approved Used Warranty will ensure all Approved Used vehicles are sold with 24 months /50,000km warranty coverage. This warranty covers used vehicles within 3 years or 100,000km mileage.

Cocktail

Friday, July 17, 2015

Polish cow on the run for two years is finally caught

atylda finally moo’ved back home. The cow escaped from her Polish farm two years ago and lived a life on the lam in a nearby forest, sometimes damaging crops. She has finally been caught. Owner Leszek Zasada spoke about his adventure with the brown cow in a story broadcast Tuesday by the all-news station TVN24. He said Matylda escaped

in 2013 from his farm in Zloty Stok, in Western Poland, the day after he brought her home. She survived two frigid winters on her own, but the time on the run took its toll. She lost the calf she was sometimes spotted with and returned home with many scars. Farmers in the area complained of the damage she caused but nobody was able to catch her until last Saturday.

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Oddities Oddities

Hundreds of sex toys dangling from power lines in Oregon

undreds of phallic sex toys have been seen hanging in recent days from power lines across Portland, Oregon, provoking laughter, blushing and lots of photos. The large white and bright orange dildos ap-

pear to have been strung together in pairs, and have prompted numerous reports to the Portland Office of Neighbourhood Involvement, department spokeswoman Lisa Leddy said on Monday. A spokesman for public utility Portland General Electric said he did not be-

lieve the rubber products posed a fire hazard. In online forums, Portlanders posted photos of dildos swaying in the wind above a number of major commercial streets, and speculated about their origins. Portland resident Lucila Cejas Epple said she first encountered the phal-

luses at a neighbourhood street fair over the weekend. “You could spot them in several intersections and you could see all sorts of reactions to them,” she said. “Some would blush, others would laugh, and most would take photos.”

Dog leads owner to rescue beached baby porpoise

Welsh man shooting video with his dog during a walk on the beach recorded the moment his pet led him to a beached baby porpoise he was able to rescue. Rich Wilcock, whose video was shared on YouTube, was walking with Leia, his 2-year-old springer spaniel, along the shoreline in Criccieth when the canine brought the distressed sea mammal to his attention. Wilcock identified the animal as a “dolphin,” but officials with the Seawatch

Foundation said it actually appears to be a young porpoise. “I was stood taking pictures and videos of the scenery when Leia started to make a right old fuss,” Wilcock told the Daily Post. “She kept coming up to me, barking and nudging me, she must have smelt the dolphin from a mile off. At first I thought it was a baby shark, it was only about one and half foot but on a closer inspection I could see the blow hole on top of his head and real-

ized it was a dolphin. There was nobody around for miles so I did what I could as gently as possible. I lifted him gently under the belly and popped him back amongst the waves and he swam away into deeper water.” Wilcock said he stayed on the beach for about an hour to make sure the porpoise didn’t come back. He said Leia deserves most of the credit for the rescue. “[Leia] is a very intelligent dog, more intelligent than most,” he said.

A pair of sex toys hang over power lines above a residential street in Portland, Oregon

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business Maritime

Expectations high as Nigerian Maritime University takes off soon

As stakeholders gear up for takeoff of the Nigerian Maritime University NMU, Okerenko this 2015-2016 academic session. FRANCIS EZEM examines some events that culminated in the establishment of the premier maritime university expected to alter the entire landscape of human capacity development in the country.

o many maritime stakeholders, the Nigerian Maritime University NMU, Okerenkoko located in the Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State is a child of circumstance. For so many others, it represents a high point in the efforts of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA, to create a pool of Nigerian seafarers both for the local industry and the international labour market, which promises to provide a veritable tool for foreign exchange earnings. Basically, the NMU, which would take at its temporary site in Krutie, also in Warri South Local Government Area, is a major component of the Nigerian Seafarers’ Development Programme, a brainchild of the agency through which it intends to train as many seafarers as possible for the local industry and even surpass the Republic of Philippines, which currently supplies about 30 per cent of world seafarers’ requirement and through she earns over $6bn annually. Available records show that the agency has so far trained over 2, 500 seafarers in foreign maritime universities in United States, United Kingdom, Malaysia, Singapore, Egypt and Philippines, among others. Prior to the establishment of the NMU, the agency had set up Maritime Training Institutes in seven existing universities in the country comprising University of Nigeria NSUKKA, University of Lagos, Niger Delta University, Bayelsa, Ibrahim Babangida University Lapai, Niger State, among others. This is in addition to establishing the NIMASA Science and Technical College, Okoloba in Delta State. These are part of the build-up to the establishment of Maritime University, which is expected to domesticate the training of these seafarers and thus conserve foreign exchange for the country, especially at this time. While many sceptics were still wondering whether the agency was truly serious with the project, the Federal Government conveyed its approval for the tale off of the university. Immediate past Minister of Information, Mrs Patricia Akwashiki, who announced the approval of the Federal Executive Council, had said it was in tandem with Federal Government’s vision of enhancing human capital development in the maritime industry. She said that the institution remains the first full- fledged maritime university in West African sub-region. Only recently, the government also constituted the management and Governing

Akpobolokemi

Sekimizu

WE ARE CHALLENGED BY THE THINGS WE HEAR ABOUT OTHER MARITIME UNIVERSITIES IN DEVELOPED COUNTRIES,

THERE IS NO REASON OUR SEAFARERS SHOULD NOT BE EXPOSED TO SUCH FACILITIES IN NMU BECAUSE THAT WILL MAKE OUR SEAFARERS COMPETITIVE Onwuliri

board for the university with the appointment of Professor Ongoebi Maureen Etebu and Mr. Anho Nathaniel Esoghene Lucky as Vice Chancellor and Registrar, respectively. These appointment were sequel to the appointment of former Minister of State for Education, Professor Viola Onwuliri as the Pro Chancellor and chairman of governing council for the institution, an indication that all is set for the specialised university to commence academic activities, a development that has also attracted comments and reactions from stakeholders. A seasoned maritime teacher and a lecturer at the Chartered Institute of Shipping, Mr. Charles Okorefe, who spoke in an interview, commended both the efforts of the Federal Government and NIMASA in bringing the specialised institution to fruition. According to him, what the nation’s mari-

time industry needed at this point in time is to build capacities in all the segments of the industry to make it grow and pave way for the realisation of its full potential. “In all these, human capacity building is key because even the most sophisticated ships being built these days need to be operated by human beings who are also adequately trained to do that so no amount of money spent on building capacity is wasted”, he said. He also said: “With a population of over 170 million people and vast maritime potential, Nigeria has less than five maritime training institutions with the exception of the new ones but countries such as Phillippines has 44, United Kingdom 22, Singapore over 30, Egypt more than 25 and so Nigeria should build even more of such institutions”. He therefore charged President Muhammandu Buhari to devote even more atten-

tion and support to the maritime industry than his predecessor, President Goodluck Jonathan to further enhance the development of the industry, especially given the uncertainties in the global petroleum industry. Meanwhile, president of the Nigerian Institute of Freight Forwarders NIFF, Dr. Zeb Ikokide, who also spoke in a telephone interview, said that the commencement of the university is a welcome development. According to him, with such institution, the country would conserve its foreign exchange being spent in training her much needed manpower in foreign institutions. He however charged the board, management and even NIMASA to take necessary steps to secure all the necessary approvals and accreditations that are needed to make the institution meet international standards, arguing that shipping by its nature is an international business with globally set standards. It was probably in line with the thoughts of the stakeholders that the Pro Chancellor, Professor Mrs. Onwuliri, said in an interview that the Governing Council was currently consulting with relevant agencies, especially the Nigeria Universities Commission, Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB, and National Board for Technical Education to ensure that academic activities commence during the next academic session. Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Patrick Akpobolokemi, assured that the NMU will compete favourably with any similar institution in the world both in terms of infrastructure and academic curriculum. He disclosed that the agency and its consultants are working closely with the International Maritime Organisation IMO and other relevant bodies in developing the curriculum of the university to bring at par with what is obtained anywhere else in the world. According to him, in addition to globally acceptable curriculum, the agency will ensure that world-class infrastructure was installed at the university to make it competitive across the globe. “We have been challenged by the kind of things I hear about other maritime universities in developed countries and there is no reason our seafarers should not be exposed to such facilities in the NMU because that will also make our seafarers competitive and sellable in the global market”, the DG assured. It is expected that the management of the agency would do all it takes to make the institution one of the best in the world.

Business Maritime

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

US shipping firms scramble to invest in Nigeria STORIES: FRANCIS EZEM

trong indications emerged that foreign shipping firms, especially from the United States of America are currently making frantic efforts to partner indigenous shipping firms under the Coastal and Inland Shipping Cabotage, regime. This might not be unconnected with recent directives by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board NCDMB to all International Oil Companies IOCs, operating in the country that the board would not renew offshore supply jobs for their foreign owned, crewed and registered vessels on expiration in order to comply with the provisions of the Cabotage Act 2003. The Act, which provides that vessels to be deployed in the inland and coastal trade in the must be built, registered, owned and crewed by Nigerians, also provides for waiver to be granted to foreign shipping firms in situations where Nigerians lack the capacity to render certain services. President of the association, Captain Niyi Labinjo, who made the disclosure, said that the secretariat of the association has in the recent past been awash with requests and enquiries by American shipping companies, which desire to partner their Nigerian counterparts under the Cabotage regime.

Tanker vessel

According to him, shipping companies mainly from North and other parts of America have made proposals to many indigenous shipping companies for partnerships on Cabotage vessel acquisition. He however disclosed that many members of the association have before now entered into bare boat charter arrangements with Asian shipping companies from Greece and Turkey whereby the Nigerian shipping firms would operate the vessels under the terms and agreement and after that they acquire such vessels. “NISA recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding MoU with Greek ship owners whereby 40 ships of various tonnages and

class will be brought into Nigeria’s Cabotage trade on a bareboat charter arrangement and after 24 months, Nigerians will acquire those 40 vessels”, he said emphatically. .It was gathered that many of the indigenous shipping companies that have entered into such bare boat charter arrangement might not rush into another one with the North American companies, development that informed the delay in consummating the transactions with the American companies. Labinjo, who is CEO of Al-Dawood Shipping Limited expressed optimism that the fortunes of the indigenous shipping firms would change for good, adding that as

NIMAREX is a waste of public funds, says group

reight forwarders under the aegis of Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents NCMDCA, during the week, took a swipe at the organisers of the Nigeria Maritime Exhibition NIMAREX EXPO, saying that the annual exercise constitute a waste of public resources. The 2015 edition of the fiveyear old event had held in Lagos last week, with most operators, describing it as a dismal outing, as it was marred by poor attendance. President of the association, Mr. Lucky Amiwero, who spoke in a telephone interview, observed that the promoters of the ‘jamboree’ claimed it was to showcase the nation’s maritime potential, but regretted that the exercise has not attracted any investment in the last five years. According to him, the nation’s maritime industry is currently in a state of chaos occasioned by high cargo dwell time, perennial gridlock on the port access roads, high cost of doing business and

massive diversion of the nation’s cargo throughput to neighbouring West African countries as the ports have become uncompetitive. “What they are showcasing is inefficiency, gridlock on the port access roads, which are dilapidated and unfit for even tractors to ply, with the attendant cases of containers falling of the trucks, killing innocent and hapless Nigerians”, he lamented. He also said: “The sane thing to do should have been for the promoters of the programme to gather the various heads of the government agencies to brainstorm on how to address the myriads of challenges confronting the industry rather than engaging in this wasteful venture called exhibition”. While calling for the probe of the event in the last five years with a view to making the organisers account for all the money, he also urged the government agencies that fund the programme to desist from such and rather channel their resources to policies and

programme that would improve the lot of the industry to the benefit of the Nigerian nation and her people. “Since NIMAREX started five years ago, can anyone tell me what has been the effect of this on the industry? What policy has been implemented because of NIMAREX? So it is an exercise in futility and should therefore be scrapped immediately”, he also said. President of Nigeria Shipowners’ Association NISA, former Indigenous Shipowners Association of Nigeria ISAN, Captain Niyi Labinjo had in a recent chat with news men admitted that NIMAREX was a wasteful exercise. Labinjo, who claimed to have sold the idea of establishing the exhibition after a visit to Singapore and Greece, noted that with time stakeholders would begin to see and reap the benefits of the exhibition, which he insisted was primarily created to showcase the nation’s maritime potential to the outside world.

soon as the 40 ships enter the nation’s waters, many things would change. Nigerian waters coupled with the promise of government regarding lighterage operations. He therefore urged the government to fulfill its promise of allocating cargo to the indigenous

shipping companies under the Cabotage regime. “What we require to breakthrough is for the government to reserve Cabotage cargo exclusively for Nigerian ship owners so that the 40 vessels would not be idle, which has been the case with many of our vessels before now.

Iran ready to unleash its tanker fleet

ran’s oil-shipping giant National Iranian Tankers Company NITC is ready to make a comeback on the European and international markets as soon as possible following a deal on lifting of nuclear sanctions agreed upon on Tuesday between Iran and the six world powers in Vienna, a company official confirmed. Under the deal, sanctions against Iran’s oil export industry are to be lifted in exchange for additional restrains on the country’s nuclear program. The agreement is expected to boost the country’s oil exports and pave the way for its tankers to be unleashed into the market. “Iranian tankers will return to European and international markets in shortest possible time after the termination of nuclear sanctions,“ Shahram Farahbod, head of the NITC’s Insurance and Legal Suits Affairs Office told IRNA. According to Farahbod, the termination of the nuclear sanctions after signing of the comprehensive nuclear deal will also rid the NITC of the nuisance of those sanctions. NITC was blacklisted by the European Union for the second time in February this year as it had failed in its legal attempt to convince a London Court to prevent the EU from reimposing sanctions.

The sanctions had been imposed in 2012 over Iran’s nuclear program, and banned any trade between NITC and the EU, including insurance and banking. NITC was blacklisted in the United States as well. NITC contested the blacklisting arguing that the company is privately owned by Iranian pension funds, and affiliated neither with the Iranian government, nor with the Revolutionary Guards. As a result, the EU lifted the sanctions against Iran’s largest oil tanker company in October 2014, only to reimpose them in February. The legal wrangle has left out NITC from international trade ever since. Iran’s return to the market would be welcome in terms of increasing production in an oversupplied market, notably with regards to difficulties in placing and discharging cargoes ashore, Gibson Shipbrokers says in its tanker report. However, with more Iranian crude, comes the release of more Iranian tonnage. The Iranian fleet currently consists of 37 VLCCs (5.8% of the global VLCC fleet), 12 Suezmaxes and 5 Aframaxes, with most currently absent from the conventional tanker market. The Iranian fleet will need to re-establish compliance with international standards if it is to enter the mainstream spot markets.

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Business News

Friday, July 17, 2015

Nigeria, others’ crude oil, gas exports prospect high Udeme AkpAn

he Federal Government has concluded plans to exploit market opportunities for the nation’s crude oil and natural gas in Asia and Europe as a result of findings that the continents hold more prospects than other continents. Investigations showed that some experts, including International Oil Companies, IOCs have advised the President Buhari-led administration to explore market opportunities in the two continents because of huge demand forecasts. A top source in the Presidency, who gave the hint, said that the nation would continue to export crude oil and natural gas to other markets while exploiting the huge market

potentials of Asia and Europe. He said priority would be given to the two continents because of the possibility of meeting higher demand which are to be driven by increased socio-economic growth in the next few decades. “The economies of Asia and

Europe are still expanding despite the present global recession, and there are even greater prospect for expansion in the future. This and other factors clearly explain why this administration would explore more opportunities to export to the economies.”

“The nation used to enjoy such export opportunities in the United States until the emergence of the country as a major producer of shale oil became a reality a few years ago. It therefore, it critical that we explore other reliable markets while making efforts to diver-

sify the nation’s economy,” he said. The position of the government is supported by ExxonMobil which has predicted that the economies of Asia and Europe would continue to grow at unprecedented rates, thus calling for increased utilisation of energy, especially oil and gas.

Perm Sec reiterates plan to make Nigerian aviation hub OlUsegUn kOiki

he Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation, Hajiya Binta Bello, has restated the determination of the Federal Government to make the Nigeria the hub of aviation operations in the West African sub region. She said that government

….urges Nigerians on lessons, significance of Eid-El-Fitri would not only focus on increasing the capacity of the nation’s airlines, but would also ensure that the carriers grow to be leading players in the sub-region. Bello stated this in her EidEl-Fitri message to aviation stakeholders and professionals in a statement signed by the Assistant Director, Press and Public

Affairs, Mr. James Odaudu. According to the Permanent Secretary, when the nation’s aviation industry becomes a regional hub, apart from the increase in the aeronautical revenues, the sector would also benefit immensely in the non-aeronautical revenues, which could be used to further uplift the entire industry and the nation at large. Bello insisted that the ministry remained focused on the transformation of the aviation sector into a safe, efficient, profitable, selfsustaining and effective mode of transportation in the country. The statement added that the ministry had been doing through, amongst others, the modernisa-

tion and upgrade of airport facilities to meet world standards and technology advancement, She cited the retention of Federal Aviation Administration, FAA, Category One Status and the recent highly successful airport audit by the International Civil Aviation Organisation, ICAO, as some of the positive results of the ongoing reform in the industry had attained in recent time. Bello congratulated Muslim faithful and non-Muslims on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast, and urged them to allow their experiences during the fasting period to guide their daily lifestyles.

Japan to source 22% of power from nuclear energy by 2030

L-R: Mr. Ikechukwu Ofuani, Government Relations Manager, Procter & Gamble (P&G) Nigeria; Mr. Dennis Chukwu, Director, Special Duties, Federal Ministry of Finance; Mrs. Temitope Iluyemi, Director of Global Government Relations for P&G and Mr. Yemi Bello, Programme Team Leader, Youth Enterprise With Innovation in Nigeria (YouWin) at the P&G G-Win/ YouWin Small and Medium Enterprises Development Training in Lagos

apan confirmed a program setting out its ambitions for its long-term mix of power supply, anticipating nuclear will feed as much as 22 percent of the nation’s needs by 2030. Clean energy sources such as solar and hydro will generate up to 24 percent of Japan’s electricity in 15 years, according to the report by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. The document endorses measures set out in April. It’s the result of months of deliberation

by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s government, which is seeking to balance demands for lower greenhouse gas emissions and concerns about the safety of nuclear power with the need to keep affordable power flowing to homes and businesses. Nuclear generated slightly more than a quarter of Japan’s electricity before the Fukushima disaster in March 2011. Japan is now without nuclear while maintenance and safety checks are conducted on the country’s existing fleet of reactors.

Trade integration key to reduce poverty, support Africa’s growth –DHL boss

frica continues to remain vastly unexplored, and making Africa’s most remote regions accessible for trade will not only promote prosperity in those regions, but also elevate the continent’s continued growth path. This is according to Charles Brewer, Managing Director of DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa, commenting on The Role of Trade in Ending Poverty (All statistics sourced from report,

jointly written by the World Bank Group and World Trade Organisation -with the exception where stated) report recently released by the World Bank Group and World Trade Organisation. Explaining the role that international trade plays in development and poverty reduction in Africa, the report states that the value of trade is measured by the extent to which it delivers better livelihoods, measured through higher incomes, greater variety

of choice and a more sustainable future, among others. “While countries need to continue to establish better trade relations with international partners, enabling trade routes within the continent can yield numerous benefits for the region and its people,” adds Brewer. Having entered the African market in 1978, when the continent was still relatively ‘unknown’, Brewer says that DHL has explored the remotest of

regions in Africa and witnessed these areas transform; both economically and socially, simply due to access to new services. He points to Cape Verde, situated off the northwest coast of Africa, as a good example of this. “Cape Verde is a small country consisting of 10 islands, and as a result, the quickest and most reliable way of transporting goods to and from the country is by air. “Currently, there are three

commercial airlines operating in the area and given that commercial airlines offer priority to passenger baggage, offloading of cargo from these planes was a regular occurrence. In order to better service the area, we introduced a DHL flight which operates between Senegal and Cape Verde weekly. This dedicated flight route provides various trade opportunities and greatly improves connectivity in the region.”

Business News

FrancIs EzEm

he Nigeria Customs Service has said that its special anti-smuggling squad, ‘Operation Hawk Descend’, has impounded a total of 1, 803 cartons of prohibited poultry products with estimated market value of about N12 million in the past week. The Special Taskforce covers all the areas within the SouthWest geopolitical zone up to the Nigeria-Republic of Benin border at Seme. National Public Relations Officer of the service, Mr. Wale Adeniyi, dislcosed that smuggled products were seized in the

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Customs impounds N12m poultry products

South Western axis of the country up to Seme Border. Details of the seizures showed that the Federal Operations Unit FOU, Zone A, Lagos accounted for the seizure of 975 cartons, Seme Command of the service accounted for 461 cartons while Oyo/Osun Command accounted for 247 cartons even as Western Marine Command, which is the Marine antismuggling unit of the service

accounted for a total of 110 cartons, bringing to a total of 1,803 cartons. Adeniyi stated: “Most of these seizures were made when commercial vehicles conveying them were apprehended by Customs officers. However, a significant number were made on the Iyafin- Badagry waterways on the Lagoon that stretches through the Nigeria – Benin Border” Meanwhile, the Comptroller

General of the Service, Alhaji Abdullahi Dikko, while assessing the first week of the operation of the Special Taskforce, acknowledged the support of border communities, which led to the success of the operations. He commended the communities for obliging the patrol teams of the service with reliable intelligence about the activities of poultry products smugglers and the cold rooms where the smugglers store them.

The Customs-boss however urged hotel and restaurant operators, fast food outlet owners and barbecue sellers to shun patronizing smuggled poultry products. Dikko insisted that apart from the poor handling of these smuggled products, which make the inimical to health, there was the need to protect the nation’s poultry industry, which also has potential to create jobs for the youths.

We’ll work with FG to revitalize Ajaokuta steel firm –Habeeb sEkInah L awaL

L-R: Manager Chanrai Supermarket, Mr Virendra Bhagat; Area Sales Manager, Martein Rb, Nigeria, Mr Chris Nwawah and Brand Manager, Nigeria, Mejiro Iku, at the re-launching of Mortein Liquid Electric Device in Port Harcourt, yesterday.

South Energyx promises to resolve workers’ welfare problem

…as protesting workers paraylse operations syLva EmEka-OkErEkE

outh Energyx Nigeria Limited, developers of Eko Atlantic city has said it would address the growing demands of its workers on welfare packages in line with best practices in labour law. Construction workers of the company had yesterday barricaded the gates of the company as well as adjoining streets of Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, obstructing free flow of traffic, protesting failure of the management to improve their welfare as casual workers. Managing Director of the Company, Mr. David Frame, who addressed the workers, urged them to bring their issues on the table for peaceful resolution. One of the protesting workers, Ibrahim Azeez, expressed

the workers displeasure over alleged breach of agreement by the management on salary and entitlements, disclosing that they have agreed on $100 equivalent per day. He said, “We agreed that the company should pay us according to the advert on their site as 100 dollars per day for a worker, but management is paying them far less than the agreed amount”. Another worker, Philomenon Chukwuka, said there was no provision for transportation for workers, noting with displeasure that some workers cannot go home, after the day’s work as they always sleep around till the next day due to lack of transportation. This is as they also complained of poor medical facilities to take care of them when they sustain injury on duty.

The Managing Director however promised to review the condition of service, assuring that there would be no more casual worker in the company. He advised the protesting workers to nominate five of their members for dialogue in order to amicably resolve the problem of welfare packages. He assured: “I understand your grievances; I can assure you that the most important thing will be done. As I said, there will be no more casual worker and some of you should come and let us dialogue and see how we will resolve the rest of your demands,” Frame promised. ‘Staff are greatest asset and as a leading global brand in real estate, we cannot but adhere to the best practices in line with labour law, I promise that the issues will be amicably resolved’, he added.

n aspirant for Kogi State governorship elections, Dr. Yaqeen Habeeb, has promised to work with the Federal Government to revamp the Ajaokuta steel Mill as a strategic step towards developing the state, improve the nation’s revenue fortunes and job creation opportunities. In a monitored Radio programme with Kogi indigenes in the United States of America who promised to give him their support, the economic and finance expert-turned politician made it known that if elected as governor, his administration will raise bond that people all over the country and abroad will buy into in order to quickly revitalize the company and ensure prompt payment of investors in the bonds. “We can work with the Federal Government and go to the Debt Management Office (DMO) to raise the fund. Habeeb, the Alliance for Progressives Congress, APC, gubernatorial aspirant, said that if

elected into office; he would take all necessary steps to actualise his dream of seeing that the Ajaokuta Steel Mill is brought to life. According to him, he is not contesting to start waiting for what to do. “I will hit the ground running from the first day because we already have a masterplan. I have already outlined my action plan for the resuscitation of the Steel Mill. He explained: “We will require about N200 billion to revive Ajaokuta and this will not be difficult to do considering the huge benefits that will accrue from the project. Apart from raising bond, another way to revamp Ajaokuta is to go to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and seek for an intervention fund. “Also, I have met with people outside the country who are leading steel industries owners in the world and they are ready to come and take it over and run it. So once you put up these three, all you need is to work closely with the Federal Government to see the benefits for Nigeria, for my state and everybody. These are the options; let us pick the one that is the best.”, Habeeb added.

Alcatel-Lucent undersea data boost to telecoms, TV broadcast IsaIah ErhIawarIEn

elecom and cable television operators in Africa are set to improve on quality and increase their clientele reach following the completion of the Alcatel-Lucent Submarine Networks (ASN). The project enables data transmission over a distance of 10,000 kilometers using real-time processing prototypes of a unique cost-effective 300 gigabits-per-second. Described as a high tech innovation, the ASN, which is the undersea cables subsidiary of

Alcatel-Lucent, earmarks this new modulation technology to help optimise the performance of submarine cable systems whose introduction in Africa has seen the costs of internet and other telecom related services slashed by almost half and further helping deepening the adoption of technology. A statement by the company, indicated that the trial had been achieved on the 10,000km of ASN’s test bed, combining the innovative 300G 8QAM (8 quadrature amplitude modulation) technology of ASN’s 1620 SOFTNODE platform and second-generation coherent submarine fiber (CSF-2).

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Interbank rates ease on treasury bills’ maturity Johnson okanlawon WITH AGENCY REPORT

nterbank lending rates eased to 9.25 per cent on average yesterday, indicating a 0.75 percentage points lower than the 10 per cent where it closed last Friday. The slide in the lending rates was sequel to Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, repaid matured treasury bills to investors. Traders said that the apex bank injected about N124 billion in matured open market operation notes into the banking system, boosting liquidity in the market and helping to push

Business News

Friday, July 17, 2015

down borrowing costs among banks. Available figures quoted by Reuters indicated that overnight placement had hit 15 per cent on Wednesday after the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, recalled a portion of its deposits from banks to the CBN’s account. “The NNPC recalled over N100 billion from the system this week, with some banks scrambling for funds to cover their position. The pressure has reduced today with the inflow of matured treasury bills funds into the system,” a dealer told Reuters.

Traders hinted that the lenders’ balance with the CBN reduced to N118 billion in credit, compared with N201 billion a week ago, while secured Open Buy Back (OBB) rate fell to nine per cent from 10 per cent last week, four percentage points lower than the CBN’s lending rate of 13 per cent. It was also gathered that overnight placement declined to 9.5 per cent from 10.5 per cent last week, just as traders projected that rates should ease further next week as a portion of budgetary allocations for the month of June is expect to hit the system.

EU agrees to offer Greece 7bn bridge loan

uro-area finance ministers agreed in principle to extend a 7 billion-euro ($7.6 billion) bridge loan to Greece, according to an official familiar with the decision. The loan is due to be announced on Friday once national parliaments have voted on the bailout deal that Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras signed up to on Monday, the official said, asking not to be named because the conversations were private. The funding bailout will come from the European Financial Stabilisation Mechanism, the European Union’s rescue fund, the official said. The loan should help Greece clear a 3.5 billion-euro payment due to the European Central Bank on Monday, and keep the country afloat while Tsipras negotiates the details of a three-year bailout

of as much as 86 billion euros. Euro-zone officials are trying to find a way to make the rescue program work after the bloc’s leaders thrashed out a deal during 17 hours of talks. Tsipras cleared his first hurdle when he won support in the Greek parliament for a new round of austerity in a vote in the early hours of yesterday. “Once adopted the funds could be disbursed rapidly,” Breidthardt said in reference to the bridge financing. Euro-zone officials are trying to find a way to make the rescue program work after the bloc’s leaders thrashed out a deal during 17 hours of talks. Tsipras cleared his first hurdle when he won support in the Greek parliament for a new round of austerity in a vote in the early hours of yesterday.

EBay sells Enterprise unit for $925m DaviD auDu

Bay has announced the sale of its Enterprise business for $925 million. The Enterprise unit, which develops online shopping sites for physical stores, retains clients such as Sports Authority, L Brands, Ascena Retail Group, PetSmart and Ikea. Talks of a sale have been circulating since January, the Associated Press reported. And earlier this month, one of the company’s biggest e-commerce clients, Toys R Us, announced that it would move its

Traders scrambling for items during the CBN ‘Financial Fair’ to enlighten citizens on the Bank’s various interventions, in Abakaliki yesterday.

Lafarge Africa completes $40bn merger with LafargeHolcim Johnson okanlawon

afargeHolcim yesterday launched its new group globally and announced key elements of its ambitions for the future. Following the successful completion of the merger between Lafarge Group of France and Swiss company Holcim, the new group will now work towards creating the highest performing company in the building materials industry. Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, the outgoing Country Chief Executive Officer for Nigeria, Mr. Guillaume Roux, said that the merger would impact positively on the on-going consolidation of the Nigeria operations under Lafarge Africa Plc as United Cement Company of Nigeria (UniCem), a

JV between Lafarge and Holcim in Cross Rivers, would now join the other operations. Others that will join the operations are AshakaCem in Gombe, Atlas Terminal in Rivers, WAPCO in Ewekoro, Ogun State , as well as its Aggregates and Readymix sites across the country as a member of LafargeHolcim in Nigeria. The Area Manager, Nigeria and West Africa, Mr. Peter Hoddinott, who assumed leadership of Lafarge Africa Plc pointed out that the union of the world’s two biggest building materials companies marked a milestone in the company’s commitment to providing the best cement, concrete and aggregates products to Nigerians. He explained that the company which will still be known in Nigeria as Lafarge Africa Plc, would

continue to play a key role in the economic development of Nigeria by leveraging on LafargeHolcim Group’s combined technical excellence and years of operation for the continuous production of building solutions that are best in quality, innovative, available and affordable. Hoddinott said: “We aim to be the best in our sector through excellence in Health and Safety, which is our overarching value, quality, customer service, community relations and overall enhanced value to our stakeholders. “We will create a stronger company that is able to make more solid investment in Nigeria and be better able to assist in delivering more affordable housing as well as support for socio-economic progress through CSR activities.”

online shopping site in-house next year. The announcement also comes just days before eBay plans to spin off its PayPal unit. The sale was made by a group of private equity firms led by Permira and Sterling Partners. EBay’s quarterly income was $83 million and revenue was $4.38 billion. The divisions acquired include Magento Commerce Technologies, eBay Marketing Solutions, Enterprise Services and Operations. The deal is set to close in the second half of the year and is subject to regulatory approvals.

Why mobile ads deliver better value – Google’s chief DaviD auDu

oogle’s director of performance Matt Bush has revealed why mobile advertising is worth ten times the amount marketers think. He said it is because it drives more offline sales than marketers are able to measure. Marketers are underestimating the impact of mobile because its effect on offline sales is only just being realised, Bush said. Speaking at the Jellyfish Digital Journeys event in Brighton on Thursday, he discussed the findings of beta tests of its ‘Store Visits’ product which uses location to track where a user is. The tool then cross references the fact that someone is in a brand store with their behaviour over different devices to measure the impact of prior behaviour on a purchase offline.

According to Bush, marketers are underestimating the value of clicks on desktop by about four times and clicks on mobile by as much as ten times. “You can see if someone had clicked on an ad or visited store, we need to start thinking about the creative we put in place.” In terms of creativity, Google also put forward the argument for brands to invest more in mobile video, another area where it believes they are falling behind. “50 per cent of YouTube views are now on mobile. I don’t think brands are doing enough on mobile video, they are putting standard content on mobile. We’re seeing 400 per cent growth in mobile video views which means the audience is there and wants to be entertained. There is no reason brands can’t get the results that Zoella or someone else might,” he added.

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Farmers want agriculturist as next minister ABOLAJI ADEBAYO

group of Nigerian farmers have called for the appointment of a practicing farmer as the next Minister of Agriculture by the Buhari government in view of the

… Demand continuity of e-wallet scheme increasing need to advance the agric sector and ensure food security in the country. President of the Sorghum Association of Nigeria, Mr. Yusuf Adams, who made the call on behalf of other farmers, said the

agriculture sector had overtaken the oil sector due to the fall in oil price in the international market and if given deserving attention would ensure increased revenue for the nation. He commented on the need to

L-R: Vice President, Ikorodu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Engr. Hamed Olugbenga Babajide Lawal, President, Prince Jamiu Adio Saka and Director, Prof.Kunle Ade Wahab at the 6th Business Luncheon of the Chamber in Ikorodu recently.

Agric growth needs effective synergy –Report ABOALJI ADEBAYO

new report by the African Development Bank, AfDB, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, FAO, and the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS has projected growth for agriculture across the West Africa if the countries could combine their potential to form a synergy. It said t each of the West African countries has unprecedented opportunities for agricultural growth, adding that most of them will require more effective regional integration. The Report noted that to be competitive with large global actors, West African agriculture needs to capture some of the economies of scale that those countries enjoy in the markets for fertilisers and seeds as well as in agricultural research and technology development. While important progress towards regional integration has been made over the past two decades, effective implementation at national level has remained a challenge, as evidenced by roadblocks and trade bans hindering intraregional trade, along with continued use of disparate na-

tional standards for seeds and fertilizers despite regionally agreed-upon common protocols. It stated: “West Africa’s population, now 300 million, is expected to grow to 490 million by 2030. The sub-region is already the most urbanised part of SubSaharan Africa, with nearly half the population living in urban centres, and the urban population is projected to continue to grow at a rate of 3.8 per cent per year between 2015 and 2030. “That, along with an expanding middle class, is catalysing greater diversity in consumer food demands, with convenience, nutritional quality, food safety and presentation gaining importance alongside affordability. Serving this growing demand provides great opportunities for value addition, job creation, economic integration and diversification and import substitution.” It explained that many West African countries have been increasingly relying on food imports to meet their burgeoning urban food markets, reflecting the inability of their domestic food value chains to meet the evolving consumer demand in terms of quality, volumes, prices and consistency of supply. The report also stated that a growing proportion of the West

African population is made up of net food buyers who spend large shares of their incomes on food. It declared that the only way to ensure these consumers’ access to low-priced food while simultaneously enhancing producers’ incomes is to raise productivity and efficiency throughout the Agrifood system. It further stated that achieving these gains in efficiency and productivity requires a more stable and predictable policy environment, refocusing of public investments on the critical building blocks for sustainable longterm growth, and stepping up implementation capacity. The report stressed that while increasing agricultural yields is essential, more attention needs to be placed on the downstream segment of the Agrifood system: assembly, storage, processing, wholesaling and retail. For example, it explained, domestic food processing companies often prefer to import raw materials such as fruit juice concentrate, wheat and vegetable oil rather than sourcing them domestically or developing substitutes based on local raw materials because local supply chains are too weak and fragmented to provide them reliably.

have a practicing farmer as Minister of Agriculture who would pilot affairs of the sector, thus making policies that would favour the farmers at large. “We need a seasoned farmer this time around as minister. That is why we are calling on the new administration that is yet to appoint its cabinet” he said. Adams also advised the present administration to continue with the Agricultural Transformation Agenda in the sector. He called for expansion of the Growth Enhancement Support, GES, Scheme to include more agricultural input. Also President, Etche Farmers Cooperative Union, Mr. Godwin Akandu, said Nigerian farmers and agric stakeholders would appreciate the Federal Government if it retains the e-Wallet system for input distribution as operated under the past administration in a bid to enhance food security in the country. Akandu disclosed that the system enabled farmers to get direct access to agro-products at subsi-

dised rate, noting that beneficiaries were allowed to pay only 50 per cent on agro-products, while the State and Federal Government covered the balance. He said: “Federal Government had always made efforts to boost agricultural outputs in the country but these efforts had not been directly channelled to the right beneficiaries – farmers, until the introduction of the e-wallet system, which allowed every farmer to register as cooperative unions to benefit from the fertiliser distribution scheme. Akandu noted that the e-wallet fertilizer distribution process had improved agricultural output as fertilizers were no longer diverted or sold at high rates to the local farmers. He, therefore, called on the Federal Government to sustain the e-wallet fertiliser distribution process, which was introduced by the immediate past Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and the President-elect of African Development Bank, AfDB, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina to enable agriculture thrive in the country.

FOREIGN BRIEFS

Agri SA: Mandela day, a time to reflect

“A

pproaching Mandela day on 18 July, one is again reminded of the phenomenal leadership he displayed and the extent to which this was recognised throughout the world,” says Johannes Möller president of Agri SA. “Given the prevailing situation of widespread poverty and unemployment in our country we are also reminded that Mandela stood for “the right to live”. This right encompasses basic human rights that are lauded throughout the world. “Approaching the commemoration of Mandela day, we should not dwell on the many structural and governance problems our country are facing, rather we should by way of introspection and, even if for only 67 minutes, make a tangible contribution to alleviate the plight of the less privileged and to demonstrate compassion towards our fellow citizens,” Möller said. According to Möller, Agri

SA has also along with similar organisations endorsed a Jobs Pledge mainly aimed at employment creation in our sector and also to enhance the quality of existing jobs. “I’m grateful to companies like Investment Solutions having taken the initiative in this regard” he said. Möller said that his organisation has been involved in related matters like a social compact with other stakeholders for quite some time whilst he made mention of specific upliftment projects in the organisation, its affiliates, and individual farmers are involved in. “I call on all farmers to, in especially the coming week, make a positive contribution in this regard, not only to allay the many negative reflections in relation to the labour dispensation in the agricultural sector but simply because it is the right thing to do.” “In Agri SA we honour the legacy of Nelson Mandela, we learn from it and implement it wherever we can,” Möller concluded.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Friday, July 17, 2015

Index gains 0.3% on blue chips returns’ prospects Johnson okanlawon

rading in equities closed on a positive note on the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday, as some investors took position on stocks with good earnings, particularly the highly capitalised companies. The All Share Index appreciated 0.25 per cent to close at 31,729.26 points, compared to the decline of 0.28 per cent recorded the preceding

day to close at 30,970.51 points. Market capitalization gained N49 billion to close at N10.6 trillion, compared to the drop of N138 billion recorded the preceding day to close at N10.5 trillion. Eco Bank Transnational Incorporation Plc led the gainers’ table with N1.66 or 8.16 per cent to close at N22.00 per share, followed by Access Bank Plc with 23 kobo or 4.79 per cent to close at N5.03 per share.

Unity Bank Plc rose 11 kobo or 4.72 per cent to close at N2.44 per share, while Ikeja Hotel Plc appreciated 16 kobo or 4.18 per cent to close at N3.99 per share. Oando Plc increased to N12.60 per share, gaining 50 kobo or 4.13 per cent. On the flip side, Cement Company of Northern Nigeria Plc depreciated N1.08 kobo or 9.39 per cent to close at N10.42 per share, while Transnational Express Plc

dropped 11 kobo or 9.02 per cent to close at N1.11 per share. FCMB Plc was down 15 kobo or five per cent to close at N2.85 per share, while May and Baker Plc shed eight kobo or five per cent to close at N1.52 per share. Unilever Plc lost N1.99 or 4.99 per cent to close at N37.91 per share. A total of 222.2 million shares valued at N2.84 billion were exchanged in 3,694 deals.

Johnson okanlawon

adbury Nigeria has reported a loss before tax of N250.7 million for the half year ended June 30, 2015, compared to a profit of N1.79 billion recorded in the same period of 2014. According to the result presented to the Nigerian Stock Exchange, revenues at the food and confectionery maker declined eight per cent to N14.14 billion. The chocolate and beverage company has been facing revenue decline in the last four quarters and can’t seem to stop the

pre-tax profits for the 2014 financial year as top-line and bottom- line earnings showed considerable decline with gross earnings equally down by 15 per cent. Key extracts of the audited report and accounts of the bank for the year ended December 31, 2014 showed drop in growths in key performance indices, damping strong performance outlook of one of the leading consumer goods companies in the country. Consequently, profit before tax fell by 80 per cent to N1.467 billion from N7.421 billion recorded in

2013, while profit after tax also decreased by 75 per cent to N1.512 billion during the period under review as against N6.023 billion recorded in 2013. Revenue was also down by 15 per cent during the year-end from N35.760 billion in 2013 to N30.518 billion in 2014. The company’s dwindling fortune began with the first quarter of 2014 as earnings were compressed by weak sales leading to a dip in Pre-tax profit by 31.31 per cent relative to the reduction in gross profit to N1.15 billion in March 2014 from N1.68 billion in March 2013.

Sturdy earnings reports, Greece hopes lift markets

he Greek parliament’s approval of a third bailout program for the debt-stricken country boosted world stock markets, with Wall Street also buoyed by robust corporate earnings, while the U.S. dollar rose on expectations of higher interest rates. Strong quarterly reports from U.S. blue chip companies helped U.S. shares, while European markets cheered news that the European Central Bank was pressing ahead with its economic stimulus program, had agreed to more funding for Greek banks, and promised further action if needed. European shares hit a more than six-week high after the parliament in Athens approved austerity measures demanded by its lenders to open talks on

the new bailout. The Greek parliament’s vote left the government without a majority. While the political climate in Greece remained fragile, with the International Monetary Fund saying this week that the country’s debt was unsustainable, investors were willing to give a cautious thumbs-up to the Greek parliament’s approval of the bailout plan. “The deal has accomplished the objectives of the ECB and the IMF, which is to take Greece off the crisis burner and put it into the slow cooker,” said John Rutledge, chief investment strategist at Safanad in New York. “The remaining issue is whether Greece will live up to what they agree to do.” MSCI’s all-country world equity index , which

tracks shares in 45 nations, was last up 0.64 percent at 431.74. On Wall Street, the Nasdaq climbed to a threeweek high and the S&P 500 was within 1 percent of its record peak as bellwether companies such as Citigroup (C.N), eBay and Netflix reported strong results. The Dow Jones industrial average was last up 0.24 percent at 18094.16. The S&P 500 was up 0.65 percent at 2121.10, and the Nasdaq Composite was last up 1 percent at 5149.118. The FTSEurofirst 300 index of top regional shares closed up 1.4 percent at 1,608.71, near a more than six-week high of 1,613.61 hit earlier. The dollar index , which measures the greenback against a basket of six major currencies, rallied to a more than seven-week high

Inter-Bank Rate Naira

US Dollar

N196.95 Market indicators All-Share Index 31,768.23 points Market capitalisation 10.84trn

Stock Updates GAINERS

Cadbury posts half-year N251m loss slide. The company recorded a loss after tax of N304 million for first quarter ended March 31, 2015 compared to a gain of N1.15 billion declared a year earlier. Similarly, the beverage maker said profit before tax posted a loss of the same margin of 126 per cent to N304 million from N1.15 billion reported in the same period of 2014. Revenue also dipped slightly by three per cent to N6.73 billion from N6.92 billion in the first quarter of 2014. Meanwhile, it had reported 80 per cent drop in

Source: NSE

of 97.756 after Fed Chair Janet Yellen said on Wednesday a rate hike is likely this year. Yellen is due to testify to the Senate Banking Committee on Thursday. Rate (%) Inflation

8.2

MPR

Crude oil price

$58.96

COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

IKEJAHOTEL

3.83

4.10

0.27

7.05

NAHCO

5.02

5.24

0.22

4.38

CAVERTON

3.25

3.39

0.14

4.31

DANGFLOUR

3.29

3.42

0.13

3.95

UBA

4.10

4.25

0.15

3.66

TRANSEXPR

1.39

1.44

0.05

3.60

MAYBAKER

1.55

1.60

0.05

3.23

CCNN

11.18

11.49

0.31

2.77

OANDO

14.31

14.69

0.38

2.66

PORTPAINT

4.90

5.00

0.10

2.04

CHANGE

% CHANGE

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

COSTAIN

0.80

0.76

-0.04

-5.00

FLOURMILL

34.00

32.30

-1.70

-5.00

194.98

185.24

-9.74

-5.00

GUINNESS

146.24

138.93

-7.31

-5.00

ACCESS

5.45

5.18

-0.27

-4.95

CHAMPION

5.90

5.61

-0.29

-4.92

MCNICHOLS

1.50

1.43

-0.07

-4.67

VONO

1.36

1.30

-0.06

-4.41

EVANSMED

0.91

0.87

-0.04

-4.40

TRANSCORP

2.67

2.56

-0.11

-4.12

FGN Bonds

Offer

Bid

Description

Price

Yield

Price

Yield

13.05 16-AUG-2016

1.11

98.63

14.39

98.78

14.24

15.10 27-APR-2017

1.80

100.41

14.79

100.56

14.69

16.00 29-JUN-2019

3.98

102.83

15.03

103.13

14.92

15.54 13-FEB-2020

4.60

101.68

15.01

101.98

14.92

16.39 27-JAN-2022

6.56

105.52

15.03

105.82

14.96

14.20 14-MAR-2024

8.68

96.15

14.99

96.45

14.93

Closing Market Prices of July 8, 2015

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

Exchange

Rates (N)

01-Oct-15

12.75

13.14

WAUA

270

USD

196.95

07-Jan-16

12.58

13.42

EURO

214

02-Jun-16

12.71

14.36

CFA

0.32

YEN

1.64

Tenor

Rate (%)

SWISS FRANC

202

O/N

5.3350

POUNDS STERLING

293

13.0677

15.0944

SDR

273

16.1675

NIBOR

The Fixings of July 9, 2015

Friday, July 17, 2015

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National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Community Mirror Housing is not only for those who earn salaries. Those who are not working also need to own houses, therefore the developers should look for ways of providing less expensive houses for those who are not earning salaries. Governor of Katsina State – Aminu Masari

Homosexual suspect in police net Dare akogun

agos State Police Command revealed that it has apprehended an alleged homosexual simply known as Alhaji Tunji in Temidire, Alagbado area of the state. This was sequel to a petition received by the command on Wednesday from landlords in Temidire, Alagbado area of Lagos State, following an attack on them by a suspected homosexual in the area. In the petition, it was stated that residents’ lives were in danger as the suspect constantly attacks them with thugs. The petition was submitted to the Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, by the complainants, who were led by the Baale, Alhaji Najimu Abioye.

According to them, “The suspect, identified as Alhaji Tunji, has raped many young men in the area, and usually moved with thugs to collect money from traders and the people building houses in the community, adding that Tunji has continued to “buy his way out, and molest them with hoodlums, taking possession of people’s lands, boasting that he is untouchable.” He also revealed that the suspect was taking over people’s plots of land and selling them. “He has thugs who work for him, causing havoc every now and then. That is why we have run to the police to help us tame him and save us the troubles. One Olufemi, who worked as a plumber, revealed that about two weeks ago, one of his friends informed him that there was work

to do at the Alhaji’s house. It was when he went to Alhaji’s residence to work that the suspect lured him to a room, asking him to undress and attempted to touch his body. “I stood confused for a moment and wondering why a fellow man will be asking me to undress. The moment I realized he was up to something bad, I made my way out of his house as fast as I could”, he added.

However Alhaji Tunji upon interrogation by the police, said: “There is no truth in what they are saying. Have you seen any land agent that does not have co-workers? I am a land agent. I don’t have thugs. I have co-workers. When I visit the landed property under my supervision and some people try to fight us, there is no wrong in fighting them back. “I am a complete man and I

am not insane. How can I make an attempt to lure my fellow man to bed? I am not a homosexual and everything I do as regards land and property are legitimate. “I am innocent of these charges officer”, he added. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Kenneth Nwosu, has however promised that the command will further investigate the issue to get to the root of the matter.

Landlords warned to equip houses with modern toilet facilities aliuna goDwin ABAKALIKI

andlords in Ebonyi State yesterday were warned to equip their houses with modern toilet facilities or face the wrath of government.

Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ogodo-Ali Nome, made this known while briefing journalists in Abakaliki, threatened to sanction landlords in the state capital, who fail to comply with government directives of equipping their houses with modern toilet facilities. Mr. Ogodo-Ali stated that the government was determined to ensure healthy and safe environment for residents of the state, adding that the Wednesday deadline given to the landlords after two weeks warning still stands. “We believe that between now and Wednesday those who do not have their WCs must have completed them because that is the only way people contract cholera and other diseases”, he said. The commissioner further disclosed that the first phase of waste clearance in the state has been concluded just as he noted that the second phase has also commenced, adding that no waste dump will be allowed to last for 24 hours in and around the state.

He revealed that there are waste dumps in the state which have not been cleared for seven years and the ministry has deployed trucks to ensure the waste is cleared. According to him, the activities of the ministry will not be limited to urban region alone but will be extended to areas close to the state capital and senatorial zones. “I believe no refuse dumps will last more than 24 hours in the capital city. We have cleared the first mess in Abakaliki. “There are some refuse dumps which have lasted for more than seven years and the second phase has started. We are using thirteen trucks in the capital city. By tomorrow, we will move to Ezzangbo, one of the near towns and by Tuesday we will move ten trucks to Afikpo area to clear all refuse dumps in the area. “I must tell you that the present administration is determined to make Abakaliki one of the cleanest city in the country. “Our next targets are the traders clustering the meat market road. The government has repaired the roads and they are in good condition now. When I visited the place this morning, I discovered that people are still trading on the roads, so by tomorrow, we will deploy our men to the market to start enforcing the law”, he concluded.

A man selling herbal concoction (Jedi) with motocycle on Isheri-Ijegun road, Jakande Estate, Isolo, Lagos. PHOTO: ABIOLA ABDULHAMMED

Ondo community cries out over NDDC road project ojo oyewamiDe

esidents of Akinrinwa/ Mapamile community in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State have cried out over the havoc wreaked by the abandoned Niger-Delta Development Commission (NDDC) road project in the area. The residents, who said the project was awarded by NDDC in 2011, lamented that it had become a problem in the area because of its abandonment. A statement issued yesterday by their spokesman, Adegoke Adewinle, said many landlords had been forced to park their cars in neighbouring streets due to the deplor-

able condition of the road, while other residents could not have easy access to their homes. Though Adewinle expressed satisfaction with the level of work done by the contractor handling the project, but expressed worry over the deteriorating and deplorable condition of the road project. He said landlords in the area had met with the contractor on several occasions but that he attributed the delay to lack of fund to complete the project. The statement appealed to the Managing Director of the commission, Dan Abia, to personally look into the

matter and ensure that the contractor is urgently mobilized to return to site. Ondo State representative on the governing council of NDDC, Barrister Amuwa Benson, attributed the delay in some of the commission’s projects to the ongoing compilation of abandoned projects by the commission. Amuwa said the commission had embarked on the compilation of the commission’s projects to know their number and what to do with them. He appealed to the people to exercise patience, assuring them that work would commence on the project as soon as the exercise is completed.

Transition

Friday, July 17, 2015

Joshua Adeyanju T

he death has been announced of Elder Prince Joshua Adeleke Adeyanju, aged 71 years. Adeyanju a crown prince was born into the popular Adeyanju Olofinkinmilehin family of AreEkiti, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government area of Ekiti State. In a release by the Apo Olajubiti family, the funeral arrangements will be kickstarted by a homage at No14 Akinsola Street, Ore-Ofe quarters Ekiti University road, Ado-Ekiti on Friday July 24, 2015 from 10:00 am prompt. This will be immediately followed by a Christian wake keep at No 20, by Rock of Ages

Guest House, off Ado-Ekiti Road, Are-Ekiti by 5:00pm prompt. Burial service and interment will take place on Saturday July 25, 2015 at his residence No 20, by Rock of Ages Guest House, off AdoEkiti Road, Are-Ekiti starting from 11:00 am. Outing service will be held in his honour at the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke-Irapada District Headquarters, Odo-Ode Street, Are-Ekiti. Reception follows immediately after outing service at Saint Andrew Primary School Playing ground. He is survived by wife, children and grand children.

he Alarape Family of Iwoland, Osun State has announced the death of their patriarch; Alhaji Chief Akibu Akanmu Alarape aged 113. He was buried the same day according to Islamic rites. He was hail and agile and actually started the Ramadan fasting with his children but could not continue after the sixth day. The 8th day Fidau prayer and final outing for the patriarch will hold on Saturday, July 18, 2015 in Iwoland, Osun State. Three weeks to his final exit, Baba Alarape was still active and went to his produce store, located at 77, Oyo Road where he always resumed duty from 8a.m till 6p.m on daily basis. Until his death, he was the President-General (Baale), Produce Buyers Association of Iwo, Aiyedire and Ola-Oluwa local government areas. He was head, Council of Alhajis and Alhajas of Iwoland and Mogaji Odofin Family of Iwo. Pa Alarape was survived by 19 children and a wife. Three of wives had passed away while one was divorced. Among his children was a retired Sales Manager at

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Akibu Alarape

UTC Nigeria, Engineer Dipo Alarape; an electrical contractor, Mr Rasheed Alarape; an Assistant News Editor of the Sun Publishing Company, Alhaji Akeeb Dauda Alarape; an

official of Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Mr. Sikiru Alarape, and a senior lecturer at the Department of Computer Sciences, Federal Polytechnic, Bida.

News

88 miscreants jailed in Kano over disturbance AbdulgAfAr OAldimeji KANO

ano State police command has disclosed that 88 miscreants that unleashed terror on residents during Ramadan in various parts of the state have been arrested and convicted. Spokesman of the command, ASP Magaji Musa Majia, disclosed that over 100 offenders were arrested in connection with street gang-

ster activities, adding that they were prosecuted according to provisions of the law. He noted that it came to the notice of the command that there was an escalation of street gang fight among the urchins in various parts of the state, on commencement of the holy month of Ramadan, adding that the police went into action, culminating in the arrest of 100 suspects, adding that various shapes and sizes of dangerous weapons were confis-

cated from the hoodlums. According to him, the hoodlums known in local parlance as Yandaba unleashed terror on residents in diverse parts of the city, adding that they vandalized living and non living properties. In his words “The recent activities of Yandaba that caused injuries, killing, theft, damaging of public and private properties the command had launched a clampdown on them within

Kano metropolis. He revealed that, the special operations to rid Kano metropolis of the urchins were carried out at Filin EidI, Gabari, Zage, Kofa Wambai, Dala , Gwale ,Kofar Mata and Zango Qtrs . Majia paraded three persons suspected to have a student of Federal College of Education, Kano, noting that the trio was members of the notorious gang that kept terrorizing Gandun Albasa quarters within the metropolis.

Masari expands committee on farmers, herdsmen cooperation jAmes dAnjumA KATSINA

overnor Aminu Bello Masari of Katsina State has expanded a standing committee on cooperation between farmers and herdsmen in the state. The initia-11-man committee has been expanded to 20, with district heads of communities

often affected by the farmersherdsmen problem included. The state, like several others in the North, has often been faced with farmers-herdsmen clash that led to loss of lives, cattle and property. The governor, while speaking to the committee members, charged them to be diligent in carrying out their assignment. Part of the expanded com-

mittee’s terms of reference is to engage in reconciliation and settlement of disputes as and when they arise. Others are to undertake public enlightenment of farmers and herdsmen towards community living; to assemble, feed and maintain recovered animals. To identify owners of recovered animals and make sub-

sequent release to confirmed rightful owners. Masari had at the occasion, also set up two other committees’ one on assessing sale of government-owned properties under past administration. The other was on assessing the findings of the transitional committee that ushered in the current state government, and coming up with a white paper.

“At about 2300hrs on July 9th 2015, while Bashir Shehu a 27 years -old of FUEK , was on group discussion inside the classroom at Rumfa College Kano, a gang of notorious Yandaba jointly from Albasa, Dan-Agundi and Tukuntawa areas suddenly invaded the classroom and attacked them with cutlass, knife clubs and other dangerous weapons. “They inflicted various degrees of injuries on his head, chest and all over his body adding they also broke his legs and abandoned him in his pool of blood. “On receipt of the information the police moved to Rumfa College and removed the victim to the hospital where he was confir med dead,” Majia said. The police said it was on the trail of 13 members of the enlisted with the various gangs, who flee during the operations to apprehend all those associated with the activities of the criminal groups in the state.

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

World News

China prepares for high-level talks with Japan

We would not have agreed to the deal unless we were sure we had robust measures in place to deliver effective oversight of Iran’s nuclear programme.

–BRITISH FOREIGN SECRETARY, PHILIP HAMMOND

Rights experts urge UN intervention in Burundi Paul arhewe, WITH AGENCY REPORTS

he United Nations Security Council must intervene in Burundi to prevent mass atrocities and the risk of a regional conflict, seven independent U.N. human rights investigators said yesterday. Looming presidential elections, at the heart of a political crisis in the east African country, were likely to trigger major instability and clashes, which could spread across its borders, the experts said in a statement. Opposition politicians have accused Burundi’s President Pierre Nkurunziza of violating the constitution by running for a third term and are boycotting the vote due on July 21. Dozens of people have already died in protests in the world’s third poorest country which emerged from civil war in 2005. Hundreds of thousands have fled to other states with a history of ethnic conflict including neighbouring Rwanda. “The international community must not simply stand by and wait for mass atrocities to unfold, thereby risking a major conflict of regional proportions before it finally decides to act,” they said. The Security Council must “take immediate action to prevent Burundi from sliding back

Protesters who are against Burundi President Pierre Nkurunziza and his bid for a third term march towards the town of Ijenda, Burundi, recently

into conflict,” they added, without going into detail on what action they wanted it to take. Nkurunziza and his ruling party cite a constitutional court ruling allowing him to stand again. The government did not immediately respond to the statement but has said the vote will be fair and dismissed rights groups’ accusations it is arming the Imbonerakure youth militia to crack down on dissent. The president has resisted

calls from Washington and other major donors not to stand and regional powers have asked Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni to mediate. The experts said there had been efforts to coerce the judiciary, some of whom had fled the world’s third poorest country saying their lives were at risk, while armed militias were using violence against civilians. “This is a crisis that is eminently preventable – everyone

can see the risks,” said the seven who each hold a mandate from the U.N. Human Rights Council to investigate different areas of human rights. “This can escalate into major conflict through the use of outright repression against, and intimidation of, the population at large, the instrumentalisation of the police, the closure of independent media, as well as the detention of the opposition and other civic leaders,” they added.

‘Egypt to revise anti-terror media law’

gypt agreed to revise a controversial article of its touted anti-terror law threatening journalists with jail for reporting anything but the official line on jihadist attacks, state media reported. The planned law sparked a backlash from Egyptian media after it included an article threatening at least two years in prison for publishing “false information on terrorist attacks that contradict official statements”. The bill is part of tough measures demanded by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi as part of a crackdown on militants who have bedevilled the country since the army’s ouster of his

Islamist predecessor Mohamed Morsi in 2013. Egypt’s cabinet on Wednesday agreed to remove the threat

Egyptian president Abdel Fattah al-Sisi

of jail under Article 33 of the law, but replaced it with a heavy fine, the MENA news agency reported.

“The cabinet has agreed... to remove the prison sentence under Article 33 and replace it by strengthening the fine, which can range from 200,000 to 500,000 Egyptian pounds (between 23,000 and 58,000 euros, $25,500 to $64,000),” MENA said, quoting government spokesman Hossam al-Qawish. But an official from the Egyptian Journalists Syndicate, Khaled al-Balchi, said the revision just created “another type of imprisonment” as the fine would still be far beyond the means of most journalists. He also denounced the “totalitarian logic of the law, which aims to silence all opposition voices within the country”.

AFRICAN BULLETIN

Tutu fights infection in hospital –Daughter Veteran South African antiapartheid campaigner Desmond Tutu will remain in hospital for several more days to fight a persistent infection that is not related to his prostate cancer, his daughter Mpho said yesterday. Tutu, 83, who has been living with prostate cancer for 18 years, has been placed on a stronger course of intravenous antibiotics since being hospitalized in Cape Town on Tuesday, she added. “We are confident that he will recover well from treatment and his doctors are also quite satisfied that his cancer remains dormant and well under control,” Mpho told reporters. The former Anglican archbishop of Cape Town often used the pulpit to criticize the oppressive apartheid regime. He officially retired from public life in 2010, but has kept speaking out in a wide range of issues, from Israel’s Palestinian policies to corruption among South Africa’s political elite.

Zambian president gives death row inmates life jail Zambia’s President Edgar Lungu yesterday reduced the sentence of 332 prisoners awaiting death by hanging to life imprisonment to ease maximum security prison congestion. Crimes that could be punishable by death include murder, treason and robbery with a deadly weapon, although Zambia has not executed any prisoners since 1997. During a visit to Mukobeko Maximum Security prison, about 180 km north of Lusaka, Lungu said it was unacceptable for a prison with a capacity of 51 inmates to house hundreds. “It goes without saying that this is an affront to basic human dignity apart from the health and sanitation challenges that it has created,” Lungu said.

Explosion destroys vehicle in militant stronghold in Somalia A drone strike in south-central Somalia, a strategic stronghold of the Islamist group al Shabaab, destroyed a vehicle belonging to the militants in the early hours of Thursday, residents and officials said. The car, which was believed to be carrying militants, was hit just outside the town of Bardere, which al Shabaab captured from government forces in 2009 and has controlled ever since. Somali forces and the African Union-led peacekeeping force, known as AMISOM, have been advancing on the area over the past three days, officials say.

World News

WORLD BULLETIN

Netanyahu, British FM bicker over Iran nuclear deal Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the visiting British foreign secretary sparred publicly yesterday over the international nuclear deal with Iran, veering off prepared comments to exchange sharply different positions toward the agreement. Netanyahu and Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond each read from their notes before engaging in an awkward back-and-forth that extended what is usually a standard, brief public appearance with visiting officials into a spirited debate. The spat reflected how Israel, which has long lobbied against the deal, stands at odds with the world powers over the agreement, especially because it doesn’t require Iran to temper its hostility toward Israel or rein in support for some of Israel’s enemies, including the Lebanese Hezbollah militant group.

Merkel mocked online over refugee girl’s tears German Chancellor Angela Merkel drew mockery online yesterday for stroking the back of a Palestinian girl facing possible deportation after she had reduced her to tears by explaining her policy on asylum and adding that “sometimes politics is hard”. One participant defended her, saying he respected her attempt to explain the situation where other colleagues might “talk around it”. The hashtag #merkelstreichelt (merkelstrokes) and video clip of Merkel’s exchange with a roughly 10-year old girl went viral. The girl, identified as Reem, from Lebanon has lived in Germany for four years but her family may be forced to leave. During a discussion forum in the northern city of Rostock organized by the chancellor’s office, Reem told Merkel in good German she wanted to study in Germany. It was unpleasant that she could not share the enjoyment of life experienced by her peers because of uncertainty over whether she will be able to stay, she said.

Ukraine initiates move to give rebels self-rule Ukraine’s parliament took the first step yesterday toward granting temporary self-rule to proRussian rebels under a change to the constitution the West hopes can end one of Europe’s deadliest wars in recent years. The divisive issue came to the floor on the day lawmakers also backed several belt-tightening measures needed for the quick release of a $5-billion (4.6-billioneuro) IMF payment that could spare cash-strapped Kiev from slipping into default. The sudden flurry of activity led visiting US Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland to call Thursday “yet another historic day” in a war-torn country that has seen 6,500 people killed since the overthrow of its Russian-backed leadership in February 2014. Nuland will meet Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko later on Thursday to reassure him of Washington’s backing and continued focus on the government’s 15-month fight against separatists in the shattered industrial east.

Friday, July 17, 2015

hina is preparing for “high-level political dialogue” with Japan, China’s top diplomat told the head of Japan’s National Security Council yesterday, fuelling speculation of a leaders’ summit as early as September. Sino-Japanese ties, long bedeviled by China’s memories of Japan’s wartime aggression and disputed islands in the East China Sea, have improved since Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe met Chinese President Xi Jinping at an Asia-Pacific summit in Beijing in November. The two met for a second minisummit in April at an Asia-Africa leaders’ gathering in Jakarta and Japan wants to keep the thaw on track, while ensuring China realizes the risks of an increasingly assertive maritime military policy. “China attaches great importance to your trip and is preparing for high-level political dialogue between the two countries,” State Councillor Yang Jiechi, who outranks the foreign minister, told visiting Japanese National Security Council head Shotaro Yachi, according to a pool report. Yachi, who is a close ally of Abe’s, told Yang the bilateral relationship was improving and their meeting would be an im-

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

China prepares for high-level talks with Japan

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Ufa, Russia, recently.

portant channel. Over the weekend, Chinese state media quoted China’s Vice Foreign Minister Cheng Guoping as saying Xi had already invited Abe to attend events to mark the end of the World War

Two. Japanese government sources have said another Xi-Abe meeting could well take place this year, although some said China probably first wants to see a planned statement by Abe mark-

ing the 70th anniversary of the end of the war. Abe’s critics worry he wants to dilute past government apologies for Japan’s wartime behavior, though he has said he will uphold them.

Europe agrees to restore Greece bailout funding

urope moved to re-open funding to Greece’s stricken economy yesterday; hours after a fractious Greek parliament approved a tough bailout program in a vote that left the government without a majority and looking to new elections within months. Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras won the backing of parliament in the early hours of Thursday for the stringent re-

Tsipras

form measures demanded by Greece’s creditors led by Germany, but was left weakened by a revolt in his left-wing Syriza party. His Interior Minister, Nikos Voutsis, said that a snap election could be held in September or October, “depending on developments”. The move by the Greek parliament was enough to persuade the European Central Bank to re-open vital funds for the Greek

banking system under its Emergency Liquidity Assistance (ELA) program, after euro zone finance ministers signalled they would unlock 7 billion euros ($7.6 billion) in bridge loans. “Things have changed now,” ECB President Mario Draghi told a news conference in Frankfurt. “We had a series of news with the approval of the bridge financing package, with the votes, various votes in various

parliaments, which have now restored the conditions for a raise in ELA.” Draghi said the ECB would increase ELA funding by 900 million euros. But he added that it was difficult to make decisions on Greece given the constraints of a program which was never meant to provide unlimited and unconditional support. Finnish and Lithuanian lawmakers gave their approval to begin negotiations, a day before the German parliament is due to vote on the issue, while the European Commission said it believed an agreement on providing short-term bridge financing to Greece could come shortly. However, German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble underlined the risks still surrounding the negotiations that will need to be conducted over the next few weeks, saying a temporary Greek “timeout” from the euro may still be a better option. After a warning from the International Monetary Fund this week that Greece’s massive public debt could not be managed without a significant writedown, Schaeuble said that a debt “haircut” was incompatible with euro membership and would mean Greece would have to leave the euro, at least temporarily.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

North

Friday, July 17, 2015

National grid transmission records 4,656mw new peak –TCN

anagement of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) said the national grid transmission has recorded a new peak of 4,656 megawatts. This was contained in a statement signed by Mrs. Seun Olagunju, General Manager (Public Affairs) of TCN, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Abuja yesterday. According to the statement, this peak was reached a few days after the last record of 4,545 megawatts was attained on July 13. It reported that the new peak was attained at 10pm on Wednesday, July 15. The statement said the

previous peak of power transmission was 4,517 megawatts, which was attained on December 23, 2012. It added that power generation and transmission had been above 4,000 megawatts due to improvement in gas supply to the generating stations. The statement also said that improvement in equipment/infra-structure upgrade and enhanced human capacity of system operators contributed to the progress. The management of TCN assured its customers that it would continue to work to enhance the capacity to transmit more quality power to the distribution companies.

L-R: Principal, Government Girls Secondary School, Dutse, Mrs Habiba Mamud-Kula; Chairman on the occasion, Mr Huzi Mshelia and Director-General, National Agency for the Great Green Wall, Mr Goni Ahmed, at the launch of the Great Green Wall School Club and Tree Planting in Abuja, recently.

Abba Aji defects to APC

Insurgency: MNJTF hq’ll be functional …says Jonathan messed up PDP soon –Buratai

hief of Army Staff, Maj-Gen. Tukuru Buratai, has said efforts are in top gear to make the command headquarters of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, LCBC, Multi-National Joint Task Force, MNJTF, functional. He said this shortly after he met with President Muhammadu Buhari at Aso Rock Villa yesterday. “We are working hard in collaboration with the Multi-National Joint Task Force to ensure it comes into full operation,” he said. The Army Chief did not disclose the content of his discussion with the President on his new posting. He, however, told State House correspondents that events in the nation’s Army command would be unfold-

ed soon. “I know you people are dynamic and want everything out at once. Let’s wait,” he said, adding that correspondents were trying to force him to talk, but “I am just few hours on this seat; I will give you news as the time unfolds.” He said he was moving to Damaturu, Yobe State, to celebrate the Sallah with the troops there. News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that Buratai was among the new service chiefs appointed by Buhari on July 13. Buratai, who hails from Borno State, was until his new appointment the commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force which has its headquarters in Ndjamena.

More ex-govs’ll be prosecuted – Lamido ABDULGAFAR OLADIMEJI KANO

ormer Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, has warned former state executives in the country to be ready for jail, saying that he harboured no grudge over his remand and his two sons and associate in prison custody.

Lamido said it was disheartening to charge him alongside his family members with the intent to humiliate and destroy his hard-earned reputation.

“I have no grudges. In my own case, for the last 30 years I have been very loud; it can be offensive; it can be too irritating. That is what it is to me; I bear no grudge against anybody. Those who see me as a thief have their own opinion; those who see me as innocent have their own opinion. But what I am saying is that this is part of the hazards; to me, the bail is more important; it was based on my own personal recognition.

INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

ormer senator representing Borno Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly, who is also Special Adviser on National Assembly Matters during the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua administration, Dr. Mohammed Abba Aji, yesterday blamed former President Goodluck Jonathan for his defeat by the All Progressives Congress, APC. He insisted that it was Jonathan who “messed up the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.” Senator Abba Aji spoke with journalists at

A ZA MSUE KADUNA

aduna State government yesterday said the recent retirement of 20 permanent secretaries in the state’s public service does not indicate there would be widespread sack of civil servants, as it continues restructuring of the service. A statement signed by Governor Nasir el-Rufai’s Special Assistant, Media and Publicity, Samuel Aruwan, said the government would rather produce a more efficient civil service, and employ significant numbers of high quality “teachers, doctors, nurses, traffic and environmental officers and other

his Maiduguri residence soon after he defected from the PDP to the ruling APC. It would be recalled that Abba Aji alongside hundreds of his supporters, on Tuesday, shifted their loyalty to the APC and were received by the state’s secretary of his new party, Hon. Bello Ayuba, at the APC campaign office amid tight security. Dr. Abba Aji said he joined the APC because the PDP was dead, not only in Borno State, but also in the entire country, pointing out that “former President Jonathan, who was major benefactor of the PDP, chose to kill the

party for his selfish interest.” He maintained that during the tenure of President Jonathan as leader of the PDP, he encouraged indiscipline, corruption and lack of patriotism not only among members of the party, but among government officials and political appointees. He said as a result, Nigerians lost hope and decided to not to give their votes to the PDP at the national level, but to massively vote President Muhammad Buhari, which according to him, Nigerians would never regret voting. He said he has not been active in politics because of the injustice, selfish interest and lack of focus

that characterised the PDP- led government during Jonathan’s administration. However, he said people have been putting more pressure on him to join the ruling APC and contest the bye -election of the Borno Central Senatorial slot following the death of Senator Ahmed Zannah. He emphasised that he is contesting the vacant position in order to contribute his quota to the development of the state, and to see how government would create jobs for the teaming unemployed, alleviate poverty among his people and nip the problem of insurgency that is ravaging the state in the bud.

No plan to retrench workers –El-Rufai essential staff.” The statement added that in creating a more efficient civil service that is capable of better delivery of public services, government has a dual duty of eliminating redundancy and duplication as well as fill glaring shortages with available manpower by employing persons in the education and health sectors. “Thus, workers diligently doing their jobs have nothing to fear,” the statement said. The statement reads: “The retirement of 20 permanent secretaries does not mean the government has plans to sack any civil

servant. Whereas permanent secretaries are political appointees that serve at the pleasure of the governor, the appointment, promotion and discipline of civil servants like directors and below are governed by clear rules under the control of State Civil Service Commission. These extant rules and procedures will be fully respected by the state government. “Therefore the recent steps taken with regards to permanent secretaries have no bearing on the job security of civil servants. Permanent secretaries are political appointees, and are therefore subject to the con-

ditions pertaining to such appointees. The new government inherited 35 permanent secretaries, and it was logical that the number had to reduce as the government is restructured. “As a result of the restructuring, the public service now has fewer ministries and departments. The number of permanent secretaries has accordingly being reduced to 18. “Five of the retirements announced are voluntary, involving permanent secretaries who were due to retire in the next few months but who have willingly fast-tracked their departure.”

Friday, July 17, 2015

CHANGE OF NAME

MRS. EBERECHUKWU: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogbonna Precious Nnenna, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Eberechukwu Precious Nnenna. All documents remain the same. NYSC and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Rukky Iyabo Mustapha, now wish to be known an addressed as Eunice Praise Mustapha. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that Sheidu Amos Otaru is the same one person as Sumonu Abdul Otaru, that henceforth wish to be called and addressed as Sumonu Abdul Otaru. All former documents remain valid, GTB Bank and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Igyuse Joy Franca, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Daniel Joy Franca. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Mr. Obamwonyi Omogiate Paul, now wish to be known an addressed as Mr. Synergeo Marvel Synergeo. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Eunice Praise Mustapha, now wish to be known an addressed as Mrs. Eunice Praise Synergeo. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

1 X 1 CLASSIFIED ADVERT SPACE FOR SALE

UYOR: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Agochi Uyor Benedicta, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Egede Benedicta Uyor. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Beatrice Oluwabusayomi Adekunle, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Beatrice Oluwabusayomi Ige. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

AKACHUKWU: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Akanuo, Akachukwu Victoria Chukwudiebere, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Chukwuemeka Victoria Chidiebere. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ZEOWA: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss. Ifeanyinwa Juliet Zeowa, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ikwueze Juliet Ifeanyinwa. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ATUANYA: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Mary Ifeoma Atuanya, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Odiaka Mary Ifeoma. All former documents remain document valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

IYINDU: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Iyindu Ozioma Esther, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Esther Ozioma Nwokolo. All former documents remain document general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

ABUMERE : Formerly known and addressed as Miss Abumere Itohan Maria, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Obazele Itohan Maria. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ODANWU: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Odanwu Peace Chinazu, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Achigbo Peace Chinazu. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ADIRIKA: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss. Adirika Chinee Fidelia Nkemdilim, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Obi Chinee Fidelia Nkemdilim. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Adedoyin Wuraola Oluwakemi, now wish to be known and addressed as Bankole Wuraola Oluwakemi. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Sulaimon Oluwatosin Mojisola, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Salvador Oluwatosin Mojisola. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

NWAERO: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Blessing Nwanyinna Nwaero, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ejiekpe Blessing Nwanyinna. All document(s) remain valid, the general public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as Mr Olatunde Damilola Philip, now wish to be known and addressed as Mr Akinbode Damilola Olatunde.All former document remain valid. G T B and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ALADESAE: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Aladesae Adekemi Victoria, now wish ‎to be known and addressed as Mrs. AkoduSola Adekemi Victoria. All former documents remain valid. Grace and Mercy Household Improvement Initiative Ibadan and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ijeoma Vivian Chukwujekwu, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ijeoma Vivian Ibeneme. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OKORIE: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss. Okorie Josephine Nkechi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Cyril Chigozie Josephine Nkechi. All former documents remain valid. Abia State Universal Basic Education Board, Umunneochi Local Government Education Authority and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Mr. Sangodare Ayobami John, now wish to be known and addressed as Mr. Oluwadare Ayobami John. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

This is to notify the general public that the Original Letter of Allocation with Ref. No LU/2008/AYOBO/BLK/PL issued by Land Use and Allocation Committee, Lands Bureau Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State belonging to Boniface Akadonye is missing. The general public and Lands Bureau, Alausa, please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Nwachukwu Ukachi Ebere Christiana, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Agianbekong Ukachi Ebere Christiana. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ann Okafor now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ann Uzodimma. All former documents remain valid. University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), Nigeria Police Force and the general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

AKERELE: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Akerele Mayowa Oluwaseun, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Oluwatosin Mayowa Oluwaseun. All former documents remain valid. IITA and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Apantaku Omotola Omowumi, now wish to be known and called as Mrs Adewale Omotola Omowumi. All former documents remain valid, Bureau of Public Service Pension Commission and general public should please take note .

I, Jamal Hojeij, Nigerian citizen, formerly called and spelt as Jammal Hajaig now wish to be called and my name spelt as Jamal Hojeij. All former documents remain valid.General public should please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ajayi Adebola Omolola, now wish to be addressed as Mrs. Oluborode Adebola Omolola. All former documents remain valid, General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Mrs. Ogunyankin Folasade Racheal (Nee Afolabi), now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Omoyele Folasade Racheal. All former documents remain valid. First Bank and General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Fadipe Basirat Olajumoke, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ajadi Basirat Olajumoke. All former documents remain valid. Ogun state Local Government Service Commission and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ale Abiodun Florence, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Aturamu Abiodun Florence. All former document remain valid. Local Government Service Commission and general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

ADEWEMIMO: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Adewemimo Olufunmilayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adeoye-temitayo Olufunmilayo Faith. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as Akinsola Esther Oluwafunmilola, henceforth wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Uyi Esther Oluwafunmilola. All former documents remain valid. General public, please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ABOR: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss. Abor Nneka Benedette, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ugwu Nneka Benedette. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Opakunle Oluwafunmilayo Dorcas, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adegboyega Oluwafunmilayo Dorcas. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note

Any objection to the above registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Aﬀairs Commission, Plot 420 Trigis Crescent, oﬀ Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: MR PETER NWANKWO CHAIRMAN.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Osasona Titilayo Abiodun, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Akinlusi Titilayo Abiodun. All former document remain valid. Ekiti State University and general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Lucy Ezinne Nwanchukwu, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Lucy Ezinne Ekwunno. All former documents remain valid. N.Y.S.C and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Olawale Kehinde Olufemi Joseph, now wish to be known and addressed as Oluwafemi Joseph Kehinde Olamide. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Osakwe Maryann Nnenna, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ikechukwu Osakwe Maryann Nnenna. All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Adelusi Titilayo Agnes, now wish to be know and addressed as Mrs Abiodun Titilayo Agnes. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Durotoye Titilope Olajumoke, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Babatunde Titilope Olajumoke. All other documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Aina Folasade Omagbemi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Olaoye Folashade Omagbemi. All other documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OZOALI: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss. Maria Ebere Ozoali, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ozoali Ebere Maria. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note.

NWEKENTA: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Nwekenta Odira Fortune, now wish to be known and addressed as Okoro Odira Fortune. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to inform the general public that I, Mrs Ibe Chinwe Adaobi is the same person as Mrs. Ibe Adaobi Eunice Chinwe. All former documents remain valid. First Bank of Nig. and general public should please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Samuel Bolanle Janet, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Bolanle Janet OlatunbosunOyebode. All former documents remain valid. The Polytechnic Ibadan and general public should take note

IKOTUN ARABIC AND ISLAMIC CENTRE

DIVINE DESTINY SALVATION MINISTRY.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Lookman Olanrewaju Animashaun Sogbesan Asanat Taiwo Ambali Ismail Yahya Yaqub Olayiwola Bankole Muneer Alade Adebowale Bankole Faosat Olaide Balogun Lateef Olarewaju Ogundijo Taofiq Olawale Obalanlege Qozeem Ogunnubi Musa Ishola

- Chairman - Secretary

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

1. To propagate Islam. 2. To spread the knowledge of Arabic Language on the basis of Quran and Sunnah. 3. To inculcate the morality in the students of the centre.

This is to inform the general public that the above named body has applied to the Corporate Aﬀairs Commission for registration under the part C of the Company and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:

1. Destiny Okechukwu 2) Pastor Kelechi Ajalmark 3 Rev Esther Okechukwu.

To preach salvation and the gospel of Christ to all Nation. Any objection to the above registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Aﬀairs Commission, Plot 420 Trigis Crescent, oﬀ Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: DESTINY OKECHUKWU GENERAL OVERSEER.

SIGNED: BARRISTER ABDULLAHI ADAM AL ILORY TEL: 07056754358

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Ezugwu Chigozie Benjamin - Chairman 2. Chukwuemeka Ifeanyi Madu. 3. Nwaite Onyeka John

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To promote and achieve a better future. 2. To foster brotherly love. Any objection to the above registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Aﬀairs Commission, Plot 420 Trigis Crescent, oﬀ Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days ofthis publication.

SIGNED: EZUGWU CHIGOZIE BENJAMIN CHAIRMAN

- General Overseer.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

Any objection to the registration of the above named Church should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Aﬀairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, oﬀ Aguiyi Ironsi Street, P.M.B 198, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Corporate Aﬀairs Commission for registration under the part C of the Company and Allied Matters Act 1990.

To promote unity and peace among the association.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Oyedele Christianah Opeoluwa, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Oluwadara Christianah Opeoluwa. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

This is to inform the general public that the above named Arabic Centre has applied with the Corporate Aﬀairs Commission, under the Part ‘C’ of Companies and Allied Matters of 1994.

Corporate Aﬀairs Commission for registration under thepart C of the Company and Allied Matters Act 1990.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Mrs. Omotayo Ganiat Nejo, now wish to be known and addressed as Barr. Miss Omotayo Ganiat. Akapo. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Fagbuaro Kemi Comfort, now wish to be addressed as Mrs. Gbeleye Kemi Comfort. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IFESINACHI PROGRESSIVE ASSOCIATION ANAMBRA. This is to inform the general public that the above named body has applied to the 1. Mr Peter Nwankwo - Chairman 2. Mr Okechukwu Okanya - Secretary 3. Mr Peter Nwafor - Financial Secretary. 4. Mr Peter Nwankwo Osinachi -Treasurer. 5. Mr Linus Igboke Okenya - Patron. 6. Mr Sunday Akam Anyigbor.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Adelakun Folasade Esther, now to be addressed as Mrs. Agunbiade Folasade Esther. All former documents remain valid. Ekiti State University; NYSC and general public take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

OGANIRU UMUNNE BROTHERS FRIENDS CLUB OF NIGERIA. This is to inform the general public that the above named body has applied to the

THE TRUSTEES ARE:

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

PUBLIC NOTICE

NDOKWA PEACE INITIATIVE.

This is to inform the general public that the above named body has applied to the Corporate Aﬀairs Commission for registration under the part C of the Company and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Mr Ockiya Sydney Amaechi Mr. Onaemo Stanley. Mr. Aniogwu Chinedu Hon. Godstime Egworabor. Mr. Onuwa Prince. Paul Oghenero Egworaobor, Esq.

1 Chairman

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: To promote unity and peace among members. Any objection to the above registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Aﬀairs Commission, Plot 420 Trigis Crescent, oﬀ Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: MR OCKIYA SYDNEY AMAECHI CHAIRMAN

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, July 17, 2015

Islanders, Warriors dominate Atlantic Playoffs

I would not bar the club from selling players. But I can only plead caution in the selling exercise

Sport

–Real Madrid striker, Cristiano Ronaldo

AFN appeals to Cross River to hold trials

Siasia’s U-23 Team

Africa U-23 tie: Congo delegation arrives in PH today Dennis naku

PORT HARCOURT

delegation of U-23 national team of Congo will arrive in the country today, for Sunday’s Africa U-23 Championship qualification match against Samson Siasia’s team in Port Harcourt. The Congolese Football Federation simply announced on Wednesday that its U-23 squad would be in Port Harcourt on Friday (today) evening, without giving further details. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) said yesterday that the skeletal information that has been provided came only after its competitions department wrote to FIFA and CAF to complain about being kept in the dark by the opponents. Congo’s U-23 boys will face their Nigerian opponents in a

…as LOC assures on security final round, first leg qualifier for the 2nd African U-23 Championship, coming up in Senegal in December this year. Africa’s three flagbearers for the Men’s Football Tournament of next year’s Olympics will emerge at the tournament in Senegal, with a fourth to playoff against a team from Asia. Siasia’s wards also expect a tough match against Congo, which eliminated Ghana’s Black Meteors in the last round and is coached by experienced Frenchman, Claude LeRoy. Meanwhile, the Rivers State Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the match has assured the U-23 Team, fans and the Congolese maximum security before, during and after the Sunday game.

Chairman of the LOC, Hon. Boma Iyaye, who gave the assurance at a press briefing in Part Harcourt, said the Rivers State Government in its usual traditional style is determined to give its best to ensure a memorable match with all the associated drama, passion and wonderful atmosphere obtainable anywhere in the world. Iyaye explained that adequate security and logistics have been put in place for a hitch-free match and called on all football fans to come out en masse to cheer the Dream Team to victory. The match which is billed to be played at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium on Sunday, will be watched by fans free of charge.

he Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and Cross River All Nigeria Athletics Championship may not hold this year, according to indications by AFN. The championship would serve as Team Nigeria’s track and field trials ahead of two major international events. AFN said the 69th edition in series was to serve as trials for the Beijing 2015 IAAF World Championships and Brazzaville 2015 All Africa Games (AAG). The federation said that sponsors of the championship, the Cross River State Government had yet to meet its financial commitment to AFN, less than two weeks to the event. It added that the government signed a five-year deal with AFN. “They have been faithful in the last four editions, but doubts still surround this edition, which is the last edition.” According to AFN calendar, the championship is to hold from July 30 to August1. Spokesman of the AFN, Olukayode Thomas, said in a statement that the federation contacted the

CRSG on many occasions, without getting a positive response. “Last week, we sent a board member to Calabar, they promised to give us a definite answer by July 15. When we contacted them on the agreed date, they were still evasive on readiness of the state to meet its contractual obligation,” the statement said. The AFN appealed to the CRSG not to breach a legal agreement. “Even if they don’t want to renew the contract, let them honour the five-year deal they signed with us.” “Failure of Cross River to honour this agreement, will not only affect our preparation for the World Championships and the All Africa Games, it will also affect the careers many atho f l e t e s . We theref o r e appeal to the government to toe the path of honour.”

Blessin g

Sports

Olympics qualifiier:

Friday, July 17, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Super Falcons striker Desire Oparanozie

‘Falcons battle ready’

Mercy Jacob

uper Falcons captain, Evelyn Nwabuoku, says her team mates are set to crush Equatorial Guinea tomorrow in Abuja National Stadium for the Olympics qualifying match. Nwabuoke said the team was ready to make up for Nigeria’s absence at the London 2012 Olympics. “Hearing the Equatorial Guineans say they know us does not make us fear because we also know them,” the captain said yesterday. “I want to tell Nigerians that victory is sure because we will make them smile on Saturday,” she added. About 29 players of Super Falcons are in the Abuja camp where they train twice daily ahead of the crucial match.

They have also played two friendly games, winning one and drawing the other. Falcons Coach, Christopher Danjuma, said training had been reduced to once-a-day as the team rounds off preparation today. Players in camp: Evelyn Nwabuoku, Josephine Chukwunonye, Precious Dede, Tochukwu Oluehi, Ngozi Okobi, Ibubeleye Whyte, Osarenoma Igbinovia, Charity John, Mercy Amanze, Chisom Henry, Ngozi Ebere, Onyinyechi Ohadugha, Desire Oparanozie, Osinachi Ohale, Joy Jegede, Cecilia Nku, Gladys Akpa, Alheri Jummai Ayuba, Ginika Ikeh, Blessing Edoho, Mariam Ibrahim, Sherifat Sahid, Winifred Eyobhoria, Francisca Ordega , Halimat Ayinde, Ebere Okoye, Amarachi Okoronkwo, Loveth Ayila and Chioma Wogu.

…Team loses Media Officer Mercy Jacob

edia Officer of the Super Falcons, Gracious Akujobi, passed on yesterday morning after a brief illness. Reports said doctors confirmed Akujobi dead on arrival at the General Hospital, Maitama, Abuja at about 7am after she took ill at the team’s Parkview Hotel in the city. A camp source said that the deceased looked very ill and appeared to have struggled hard to open the door to her room when some persons noticed her, upon which the team doctor and physiotherapist and other officials moved quickly to give her first aid

prior to rushing her to the hospital. “This is a very tragic occurrence,” NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, mourned yesterday. “Gracious was such an energetic, hard working officer and her death has come as a terrible shock. Her commitment to the job was never in doubt. “The NFF is in deep mourning with her family over this tragedy.” A native of Owerri, Imo State, Akujobi was born on October 26, 1977. She first served as media officer of the Falcons in 2011 before she was moved to the U-17 Women National Team in 2012. She was re-instated to the senior team in 2013 and was with the team at the recently 7th FIFA Women’s World Cup finals in Canada.

Caption: L-R: Globacom’s Chief Commercial Director, Mr. Ajay Mathur; Globacom’s Coordinator, Business Solution, Mr. Ike Oraekwuotu; Super Eagles Chief Coach, Sunday Oliseh and President, Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Pinnick at the formal presentation of Oliseh to Globacom Board & Management in Lagos yesterday

NFF hails Adenuga’s Africa impact …presents Oliseh to Globacom

resident of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mr. Amaju Pinnick, has described Chairman of Globacom, Dr. Mike Adenuga, as the pride of Africa, even as he also describes Globacom as an African brand that has made Nigeria proud. Pinnick made the remark at the presentation of Super Eagles Chief Coach, Sunday Oliseh, to the Globacom board at the corporation’s Headquarters in Lagos, commended the telecoms company’s effort at developing football in Nigeria. “I want to assure Globacom that the company’s investment in Nigerian football will not go vain,” Pinnick said. Coordinator Business Solutions of Globacom, Mr. Ike Oraekwuotu, said Adenuga had supported the choice of Oliseh as

coach, adding the chairman believed the new gaffer was eminently qualified for the post. “We are proud of Oliseh’s pedigree and wish him the very best in his determined effort to re-position Nigerian football and restore its honour and glory,” Adenuga said in a speech delivered on his behalf at the ceremony. “We also wish to assure you all that Globacom will do more for the development of Nigerian football,” he added. Responding, Oliseh said: “Globacom as a global brand has done a lot to improve Nigerian football. “I promise to build the capacity of Nigerian coaches, referees and club owners through intensive trainings that will help to produce football stars for the country.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sports

Friday, July 17, 2015

MANDATE

Islanders, Warriors dominate Atlantic Playoffs Paul ErEwuba

agos Islanders who were top on the Atlantic Conference during the regular season continued their dominance in the Playoffs, racing to three wins from three at the ongoing Conference six Playoffs in Lagos. The Islanders beat Lagos rivals Union Bank 70-53 in their 3rd game of the series, having defeated Dodan Warriors 53-51 courtesy of Hillary Aigbokhaionde’s last gap 3-pointer and a 60-54 victory against Customs. Second-placed Dodan Warriors showed the spark that kept them as fans’ favorites during the regular season, as they recovered from Tuesday’s loss to Islanders to beat struggling Kwara Falcons who are seeking for 1st win in the playoffs. Union Bank won their first 2 games before falling to the Islanders 53- 70. The Nigerian Customs came from behind to run over Oluyole Warriors 58-61 to earn their first win of the playoffs.

The Ibadan Boys have managed just one win so far in the playoffs while Kwara Falcons will meet Customs in a mustwin encounter today. The concluding fixtures will see Union Bank challenging Dodan Warriors, while Kwara Falcons will face Customs as Lagos Islanders meet Oluyole Warriors. Kwara Falcons will take on Lagos Islanders on Sunday as Dodan Warriors face Customs and Union Bank meet Oluyole Warriors in the last game.

Late Awojobi

AAG: Judo body set for screening IfEanyI Eduzor

he Nigeria Judo Federation is staging a final screening for judokas in Abuja on July 21 and July 22 as preparations for the 11th All Africa Games gather momentum. Over 50 judokas from across the country have been invited for the screening which will end a selection process that began with the National trials on July 4 at the NSCDC Academy in Sauka, Abuja. The date for arrival in Abuja is July 21 while the screening is July 22 while the velodrome at the Abuja National Stadium will

host the event. Technical Director of the NJF, Dr. Musa Oshodi, told National Mirror that the final screening would ensure quality representation for Nigeria at the All Africa Games. “Only the very best will be good enough for us as Nigeria cannot play second fiddle at the Games,” Oshodi said. “The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Alhassan Yakmut, has tasked us to make Nigeria proud in Congo and we will not disappoint,” he added, stressing, “Camping of judokas who survive the final screening would commence immediately.”

Lagos SWAN ready for tourney IfEanyI Eduzor

agos State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has announced that 17 media houses will participate in the 2015 SWAN Cup slated July from 24 to 31. Chairman of the Local Organising Committee of the championship tagged “Winners Golden Bet Lagos SWAN Cup”, Debo Oshundun, told National Mirror that the championship would kick off with a novelty match between sports veterans and ex-

internationals while the preliminary matches will be played on July 27 and 28 July respectively. “A seminar a seminar will hold on July 29 with lectures titled: “Globalizing Nigerian Sports: Challenges for Nigeria Media”, to be delivered by the Director General of National Sports Commission, Alhassan Yakmut, and the President of Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick,” Oshundun added, stressing, “A health talk to be delivered by a health professional will also be followed by a medical checkup for association members.

THE

SylveSter Ikuejamoye

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

Safe flight, Oliseh

have followed with keen interest the permutation, interest, analysis and other submissions generated on the appointment of the new Super Eagles Coach, Sunday Oliseh, who was formally unveiled in Abuja on Wednesday by the Nigeria Football Federation. My position is still the same and that is the timing of the appointment as a result of the sudden sack of the former chief coach Stephen Keshi. I have said before now that an employer reserves the right to hire and fire. No one can question that, but that right must be exercised with a proven level of courtesy, integrity, decorum and decency. The implication of such an action must first be fully analyzed and weighed against any possible backlash. We have travelled through this similar road before but with a little difference. Former coach Shaibu Amodu qualified Nigeria for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and another coach took the Eagles there and of course the outcome was awful.Pinnick In this case, we are still in the early stages of the qualifying matches. To imagine that we have crucial matches to play to be at both the 2017 Nations Cup and the 2018 World Cup is enough challenge, not to talk of going to the ‘battle field’ with a divided house. With what is coming out from some strategic stake holders, like the National Sports Commission, who was reported to be unaware of Oliseh’s contract and its contents means that all is not well with the approach and the methodology applied in engaging the new coach. I would want to believe that the board should know better that the NFF is a government institution that enjoys budgetary allocation from the federal government and as a result cannot pretend to be financially autonomous. He who pays the piper dictates the tune. So, the news going rounds that an unnamed company is picking the Oliseh’s salary package cannot hold water for obvious reasons. The running and the administration of NFF is beyond the salary package of the chief coach and other technical members. Nigerians should know that if anything should happen midstream between the purported paying company, the coach and the board of the NFF as we have seen repeatedly in the past, it is

Nigeria’s interest that will be in jeopardy and the country’s name possibly dragged in the mud. Agreed, that Oliseh is a Nigerian but the NSC should be privy to all contract documents entered into between the coach and the NFF. Should the NFF and its paying agents fail to meet their obligations to the coach, Nigeria will definitely come to the rescue. It is apparent that Oliseh is taking over at a very auspiciously difficult and challenging time, par-

Oliseh

ticularly under a board whose actions thus far has not fully depict foresightedness, focus and above all administrative competence. I recall that when the sacked Keshi was appointed as successor to Samson Siasia, I wrote an article titled “This Keshi Self”. In it, l had warned Keshi to be careful not to be frustrated and possibly humiliated out of the job as a result of various inter-play of interests that were partly responsible for the Siasia’s team that performed woefully at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Unfortunately, my prediction was right on target with Keshi’s cross heavier and more burdensome than that of his predecessor. I hope and pray that Oliseh will not suffer the same fate. Two among various opinions and submissions made by football experts attracted my attention and is worthy of mention. I want to believe and strongly too that they were not quoted out of context. Chief Adegboye Onigbinde and Clemence Westerhof have both served as chief coaches for the Eagles at different times. Onigbinde is a CAF and FIFA instructor and one of the most experienced coaches we have in Nigeria and indeed in Africa. Please, kindly note the choice of my words. I said “one

of the most experienced” and “not the most successful”. Both are two different things. In their reported reactions to Olise’s appointment as ‘Eagles’ Chief Coach, they are in agreement that it was a managerial error on the part of the NFF board to appoint a beginner to the otherwise lofty post. They reckon that the fact that Oliseh was a good player does translate to him being a good coach. Onigbinde particularly gave examples in the persons of Jose Mourinho who is not known to have played any high level football anywhere in the world but is today one of the most celebrated coaches in the world. He also drew the Diego Maradona analogy, saying the hugely talented Argentine hero was known to be one of the greatest footballer in world history but has failed to attain success in his coaching career after decades of coaching. One cannot but agree that to be a successful player is fundamentally different from being a successful coach. The truth is that Oliseh is not known to have coached a significant team except for a brief stint with Vervietos, a third division football team in Belgium. Though being a FIFA agent or member of FIFA Technical Study Group is no doubt an achievement for selfdevelopment that should be appreciated. It would have been better for Oliseh to be appointed to work under a coach of immense wealth of experience in order to understudy the latter. It is also on record that Oliseh has issues with his temperament and his behavior and attitude as a player or as a team captain cannot be the same as a coach who is a manager, a father and a mentor on and off the field. Without mincing words, I doubt if Oliseh can work with the entire board of the NFF hitch-free, taken into cognizance his temperament and the attitudinal deficit of the board. Both seem to lack the required managerial competence to complement each other. My appeal is that now that the deed is done and sealed, they must learn to tolerate and understand themselves for our collective interest. The journey ahead looks stormy with possible cloudy weather and bumps but I pray the flight is in safe hands. Oliseh, I wish you safe flight.

Hard but the bitter truth Anything divinely deposited in you by God can never be compared with what you can acquire. The naked fact is that, it is either in you or not in you. You can never offer what you don’t have. Rebelling against the ordained is rebelling to self-extinction. Hard But The Bitter Truth. Until next week Friday, stay out of trouble and God bless Nigeria.

WORLD RECORD

Fastest rugby league hat-trick

Vol. 05 No. 1158

Friday, July 10, 2015

N150

The fastest hat-trick of tries scored from the start of a match is 6 min 54 sec by Chris Thorman (UK) playing the semi-final of the Buddies National League Cup at Doncaster, South Yorkshire, UK on 19 May 2002.

Once upon National Security Advisers

ajor General Babagana Monguno (retired), the new National Security Adviser (NSA) appointed by the Presidency early in the week must have been congratulated by many. But he needs not be envied by anyone, based on the depressing stories of NSAs in Nigeria’s contemporary history, especially beginning from 2009 till date when Boko Haram insurgency has attracted to itself a larger-thanlife image of grisly cruelty and goriness. Once holding court in the precincts of power as NSA was an Army General, by name Andrew Owoeye Azazi (retired). He is now late. If you may recall, he died about the middle of December 2012 in a tragic helicopter crash that also cut short the lives of former Kaduna State Governor, the late Patrick Yakowa and some others, mostly aides and crew members at Nembe-Okoroba area of Bayelsa State. The chopper was conveying personalities who attended the

ritish boxer, Amir Khan, says poundfor-pound pugilist, Floyd Mayweather, is bad for the sport, even as he remains hopeful of facing the unbeaten welterweight champion. The world awaits Mayweather to confirm his

FRIDAY WITH Dozie Okebalama

dozieokeama@yahoo.co.uk 08164966858 (SMS only) burial of the father of Mr. Oronto Douglas (who died not too long ago too), then ex-President Goodluck Jonathan’s Special Adviser on Research and Documentation, from Bayelsa State to Port Harcourt, the Rivers State, when it suddenly went down between 3.30 pm and 4 pm on the ill-fated Saturday. The harsh truth Azazi unleashed on the nation on the most probable reason insurgency became intensified in some parts of the North cost him his NSA job. About the first quarter of 2012, Azazi found himself in the eye of the storm following the statement he made at the South-South Economic Summit held in Asaba, the Delta State capital. On that occasion, he stated with the kind of bluntness many never associated with him, that internal power tussle by the leadership of the then ruling PDP was a major causative factor in the upsurge of terrorist incidents in the country. The PDP top brass chastised him with vicious verbal attacks and saw to it that Jonathan booted him out of office even before his sudden death in the last quarter of that year. But to his credit, Azazi promised the nation no magical solution to the insurgency albatross. But even in death, the late NSA was vindicated by no less a person than his prominent Ijaw brother and leader, Chief Edwin Clark, an elder statesman and former federal information commissioner, who few

CAN MONGUNO MAKE A DIFFERENCE? THE ANSWER IS YES AND NO! YES IF HE APPROACHES HIS ASSIGNMENT WITH ALL SINCERITY… weeks to the last general elections, stated that the imposition of people that did not win party primary elections as candidates would haunt the PDP at the polls and at all levels. Today, PDP has lost control of governance. It is now an opposition party gasping for breath and battling for survival. The NSA that took over from Azazi, Sambo Dasuki, a retired Colonel was marketed as the key to winning the anti-terrorism war. A Sokoto prince and ADC to former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida (retired), Dasuki was polished by those who sold him to Jonathan as the choice of the North; and that his working closely with Jonathan would not just pacify the North, but would culminate ultimately in the cessation of hostilities by Boko Haram insurgents since he (Dasuki) was one of their own. It is now clear, however, that the hood does not make the monk. When compared with the performance of Azazi as NSA, it would seem Dasuki posted a huge failure in the battle against insurgency, es-

pecially when the credentials touted about him, his blue-blood background, unfounded hopes on his capacity to stem Boko Haram insurgency, and government’s heavy spending in fighting the scourge under his ‘NSAship’ are taken into consideration. Many would be more comfortable referring to the Dasuki era as a time when national security suffered the most. Indeed, reports agog in the social media before President Buhari announced his replacement with Monguno claimed Mr. President initially rejected his resignation letter for sundry unsavoury reasons. Nigerians may never cease to wonder about the alleged involvement of Dasuki’s office in scandalous, failed cease-fire deals with Boko Haram that allegedly gulped hundreds of millions of dollars; illegal and suspicious procurement of weapons and other military equipment via the black market, as was buttressed by the $9.3m botched South African arms deal about the period Jonathan sought and secured approval from the Senate to borrow $1 billion (about N168 billion last year) to fight insurgency and address other security-related exigencies; cavalier attitude to spending and record keeping amid claims of delay (in late 2013) in the release of funds appropriated to NSA’s office; to mention just a few. Perhaps more importantly, Dasuki left the nation at Boko Haram crossroads up to the last minute of his stay in office, with reports indicating that between May 30 and July 7 this year alone, the insurgent group despatched a total of 444 people to their early graves. Can Monguno make a difference? The answer is yes and no! Yes if he approaches his assignment with all sincerity and tells his boss, Buhari, the whole truth he needs to know about the predicament without the fear of being vilified or thrown out of office like the late Azazi; and no if he chooses to play to the gallery, with his eyes fixed on the trappings of office and crooked benefits from the national misfortune of Boko Haram insurgency.

Sport Extra Boxing: Khan taunts Mayweather to fight opponent for the scheduled September 12 bout but despite reports suggesting it will be Andre Berto, Khan is not giving up on trying to taunt Mayweather into springing a surprise.

“I’ve always asked, why finish your career on a low note? People want to see him finish his career on a high, fighting the guys people want to see him fight,” Khan said yesterday.

“The fans all want to see him fight against me. Does he really want to end his career by fighting someone he knows he’s going to beat and beat convincingly? “Knowing Floyd he

might just announce me, knowing I’ve been in Ramadan and not in training, but not knowing I’m in shape. But I will not allow him to catch me off guard for sure!”

Khan

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