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Fake appointments, promotions rock NIMC ...406 employees detected

ISAIAH ERHIAWARIEN AND OJO OYEWAMIDE Chris Onyemenam, DG

Vol. 5 N0. 1111

bout 406 staff of the National Identity Management Com-

mission, NIMC, who were alleged to have secured fake CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

Police Council confirms Arase as IG P.6

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Constitution Amendment:

Senate reconvenes, dares Supreme Court ....action suspended due to lack of quorum

N150 GEORGE OJI ABUJA

enators appear set for a decisive action as they reconvene today for deliberations over the constitution amendment in defiance of the Supreme Court order. The inability of the Senate to form the quorum yesterday compelled the lawmakers to defer further action on the constitution process till today. The matter was listed in the order paper of the Senate for first reading. However, when it came CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

L-R: Former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar; former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida; former President, Alhaji Shehu Shagari; former President Olusegun Obasanjo; President Goodluck Jonathan; former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon; former Head of State and President-elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari and former Head of Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, after the National Council of State meeting in Abuja, yesterday.

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Again, health workers set for nationwide strike

P.2 ...protest death of colleague Bickering not in PDP interest â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Muâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;azu P.6

May 29: Council of State approves transition programme

P.4

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Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Senate reconvenes, dares Supreme Court CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

up for consideration, the Deputy Senate president and chairman of Senate Committee on Constitutional amendment, Ike Ekweremadu, who presided at yesterday’s sitting, knowing that the Senate did not form the required quorum, adjourned consideration on the matter till today. In adjourning the matter, Ekweremadu appealed to his colleagues to ensure that they turn up in large number to enable them fashion out the best line of action to take on the matter. He stated that the Senate would go into an executive (closed-door) session today to deliberate on the best approach to adopt to tackle President Goodluck Jonathan who has refused to assent to the alteration bill.

“I request all of us to make ourselves available tomorrow to discuss the amendments to the Constitution and respond appropriately to the development. “Please, let those who are not available know that we will have a closed session tomorrow to discuss this item so that we will be able to fashion out the way forward,” Ekweremadu disclosed. The lawmakers on Monday gazetted the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Fourth Alteration) Act 2015 as the first step to overriding the President’s veto on the bill. President Jonathan had last month written the Senate and the House of Representatives, stating his decision not to sign the Fourth Constitution Alteration Act,

citing among other reasons that the National Assembly did not comply with constitutional procedure for the amendment with respect to the constitutional requirement of 4/5 quorum of all the elected members of the National Assembly. The President alleged that the Hansard showed that the lawmakers relied on voice vote, instead of the constitutionally required absolute majority to pass the amendment. He also alleged that the amendments by the lawmakers were geared towards whittling down the powers of the President as guaranteed by the Constitution. In addition, President Jonathan faulted 45 out of the 70 amendments proposed by the lawmakers for

the 1999 Constitution. In the letter to the Senate president signifying his veto to the constitution amendment, President Jonathan said he would be returning the document back to the lawmakers. Incidentally, Jonathan did not return the document as promised. This prompted the lawmakers to write the President, insisting that he lives up to his promise on the matter. By insisting that the President returns the original document submitted to him, including the signature page, the senators said they had it on good authority that the President signed the original bill sent to him, but was compelled to withdraw that signature based on the advice of the Attorney Gen-

eral and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke. In response, the President dragged the National Assembly to the Supreme Court, seeking that the legislative body be compelled to stop further action on altering the constitution. Last Thursday, the apex court, during an interlocutory ruling, asked the National Assembly to maintain the status quo until June 18 when hearing in the suit is to resume. By that time, however, the tenure of the incumbent President and the life of the present National Assembly would have expired. Meanwhile, the Senate on Sunday rejected the court ruling, saying the Supreme Court could not under any circumstance prevent it as an independent arm of gov-

L-R: President, Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Ayuba Wabba; President, National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, Alhaji Abdulrafiu Adeniji and Minister of State for Health, Engr. Fidelis Nwankwo, during 2015 International Nurses Week in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

Again, health workers set for nationwide strike KEMI OLAITAN AND FEMI OYEWESO

he nation’s health sector may be in for another crisis as an imminent nationwide strike looms in government hospitals following Federal Government’s failure to address the demands of the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals, NUAHP, before May 17. The union which members include all health workers except nurses and doctors, has issued a sevenday ultimatum to the government, stating that after

suspending the last strike on February 2, this year, government has refused to address the agreement it had with the health workers. It will be recalled that the strike lasted for about four months with hospitals unable to offer medical services to the public. The latest position of the health workers was adopted after the union’s 6th triennial delegates’ conference held between May 5 and May 8, 2015 at the Nigeria Labour Congress Secretariat Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. At a press conference in Ibadan, yesterday, to inform the Federal Government of

its decision to go on strike again, the newly elected president of the union, Mr. Obinna Ogbonna and the out-going president, Mr. Felix Faniran, said the last strike was suspended after an appeal by President Goodluck Jonathan and an agreement that soon after the last elections, their demands would be looked into. Ogbonna said the health workers have been patient but felt deceived by the Federal Government, saying, “there will be a nationwide strike by our members if the government refuses to meet our demands. Part of the issues in contention since 2009 are the

urgent need to release a circular to implement an agreement on the adjusted salaries of all health professionals as done for the Nigeria Medical Association members in January 2014. We are also demanding the payment of arrears on skipping of CONHESS 10 since 2010 in compliance with a court judgement. “We are also demanding the promotion of our members who have spent 15 years on CONHESS 14 and designate the most senior one as a director or head of department. We want our members to be appointed chief medical directors of various tertiary hospitals

rather than skewing the position in favour of medical practitioners only. We also want immediate circular from the government to seal the agreement reached in 2012 on the extension of retirement age from 60 to 65 or 70 years,” he said. The health workers, among other demands, are also calling on the Federal Government to issue a circular amending the extant circular for medical laboratory science interns to include post- National Youth Service Corps placement on grade level 09. Faniran, while speaking CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

ernment from proceeding with its constitutionally assigned duties. Senate spokesman, Enyinnaya Abaribe, in a text message from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where he is currently on vacation said: “The Supreme Court is wrong. The law does not allow one arm of the government to stop another arm of government from performing its duties.” According to him, “the Supreme Court cannot stop us from legislating and if they say that the Supreme Court is stopping us from making laws, it is misleading and it amounts to misreading the powers of the Supreme Court.” It is doubtful if the Senate, albeit the National Assembly, will be able to override the President on this matter, especially going by the constitutional requirement of 4/5 quorum. Already, lawmakers from the All Progressive Congress, APC, are said to be opposed to the move by the National Assembly to override the President’s veto on the matter because if the lawmakers succeeds, the new constitution will bind the powers of the incoming President Muhammadu Buhari. Besides most of the lawmakers who lost their bids to return to the National Assembly have lost interest in the goings-on in the parliament and hardly attend plenary any longer. There is no clear approach to go about the proposed veto of the President on the matter as there is no laid down precedence on the matter. This is the first time in the history of the country that the parliament is seeking to veto the President on Constitution amendment. Even in the instant case where the Senate has chosen to commence the process by first gazetting the bill and starting the process afresh, it will at the end of the day be subject to judicial review by the Supreme Court. It is certain that what the lawmakers are trying to do is to avoid a situation where they would at the end of the day face the public who may insist that the lawmakers explain how they wasted N4 billion tax payers’ money on an exercise that did not yield any result.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Photo News

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

L-R: Financial Director, Julius Berger Nig. Plc, Mr. Wolfgang Kollermann; Secretary, Mrs. Cecilia Madueke, and Engr. M.D. Detlev Lubasch, during a stakeholders’ meeting in Ikoyi, Lagos, yesterday.

L-R: President, Miners Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Sani Shehu; representative of Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Mr. Samuel Oluwole and Minister, Mr. Musa Sada, during a stakeholders’ forum on review of Draft Explosives Act and Regulations in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: Past President, Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), Mr. Adebayo A. Adenubi, Enim, Cnim; Executive Director, Market Operations and Technology, Mr Ade Bajomo; President and Chairman of Council, Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), Dr. Nelson U. O. Uwaga, Mni, Fnim, and Past President, NIM, Mrs. Margaret R. A. Adeleke, Fnim, Cnim at the Closing Gong Ceremony of Nigerian Stock Exchange, yesterday.

L-R: Head, ENR, SAP West Africa, Mr. Mike Okwechime; SAP Lead, Accenture, Mr. Tunde Adebola and Field Services Director, SAP West Africa, Kehinde Awe, during SAP Forum Africa in PHOTO: ADEYANJU OLOWOJOBA Lagos.

National News

May 29: Council of State approves transition programme

…To conduct Buhari, Osinbajo round Presidential Villa ROTIMI FADEYI ABUJA

ational Council of State yesterday approved the transition programme in which President Goodluck Jonathan is to present handover notes and documents to President-elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, on May 28, while the inauguration ceremony holds on May 29. This was one of the decisions of the Council at the valedictory meeting held at the Presidential Villa presided by Jonathan. Niger State Governor, Babangida Aliyu, who briefed State House Correspondents after the meeting, said officially the government would be handed over on May 28 and Jonathan would also conduct

Buhari and Vice Presidentelect, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, round the Presidential Villa. Aliyu said every ministry, department and agency of government would put together documents that would be handed over to the incoming government. According to him, Jonathan would officially handover government on May 28. Aliyu said every ministry, department and agency that has worked for government, including all funds that have been collected, how they have been utilise d and the assets and liabilities will all be put together in documents and handed over to the incoming government. He disclosed that the joint transition committee had concluded arrange-

ments for the inauguration ceremony on May 29, adding that a lunch and a gala night had also been slated for that day. Aliyu said as part of events lined up for the inauguration ceremony, a Jumat service would hold on Friday, May 22, while Church service would hold on Sunday, May 24. Also at the briefing, Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam, said the council decided that henceforth there has to be a template, which transition would follow. According to him, it would be the first time a template for transition would be developed in order to avoid speculations. “This is the first time one is going to be developed so that there is no speculation as to what needs to be

done as everything would be in a template. If there is a transition, whether it is from the same party to the same party or from one party to another it is the same template. “You will recall that we have never had a template to follow and how we go about our transition, but what is going to happen this time around is going to be permanent,” Suswam said. He also disclosed that the National Security Adviser, NSA, briefed the council on the security situation in the country as well as the successes recorded against insurgents. The NSA, he said, assured Nigerians that insurgency would soon be a thing of the past, adding that Sambisa forest enclave of the insurgents

would be properly combed before May 29. Yesterday’s meeting had in attendance former leaders, including Gen. Yakubu Gowon, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, Chief Ernest Shonekan and Gen. Abdusalami Abubakar. Former Chief Justices of Nigeria present were Muhammadu Lawal Uwais, Alfa Belgore and Idris Legbo Kutigi. Vice President Namadi Sambo, Senate President, David Mark, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, National Security Adviser, NSA, Col. Sambo Dasuki and the Attorney General of the Federation,

AGF, Mohmammed Adoke were also at the meeting. Governors in attendance include Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa); Mukhtar Yero (Kaduna); Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo); Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun); Martin Elechi (Ebonyi); Tanko Al-Makura (Nassarawa); Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers); Bala Ngilari (Adamawa) and Aliyu Wammako (Sokoto). Others were Gabriel Suswam (Benue); Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom); Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara); Jonah Jang (Plateau); Liyel Imoke (Cross River); Babangida Aliyu (Niger) and Acting Governor of Taraba State Alhaji Sani Abubakar Danladi Governors of Oyo, Kogi, Yobe and Kano states were represented by their deputies.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Fake appointments, promotions rock NIMC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

appointment, promotion, conversion and upgrading letters from the commission have been uncovered. The affected workers who have been benefiting financially from the commission based on their fraudulent rankings, were discovered during a staff audit and verification exercise to absorb and integrate about 1,000 staff of the Department of National Civil Registration, DNCR, and the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) seconded to the NIMC. The audit was part of the background checks regularly conducted by the NIMC on its staff, to avoid compromising the National Identity Database, NIDB, as well as efforts by the commission

to ensure that the National Identity Management System, NIMS, project is not in any way endangered. It was gathered at the initial stage that the audit turned up some fake and unverifiable appointments, promotions and conversion letters belonging to some staff of the defunct DNCR. Confirming the incident, the general manager, Corporate Communications of the commission, Abdulhamid Umar, disclosed that the affected staff had been queried appropriately. According to him, a number of persons were cleared after a rigorous process that involved a sustained background checks and confirmation of tendered documents as response to the queries, while some others

were subjected to further investigation through a disciplinary committee set up to determine the veracity of their claims. He stated that the discovery was the result of due processes and a right to fair hearing conducted by the NIMC, adding that after the process the 406 staff were discovered to have obtained fake conversion, upgrading, appointment and promotion letters. Umar said the NIMC remains committed to a zero-tolerance policy on corruption and fraud-related offenses, adding that it would not be seen to slack in its effort to maintain its integrity. He added that some of the affected staff who had been sacked would be handed over to the relevant se-

curity agencies to deal with the criminal aspects, stressing that “no individual, union or group under any guise will be allowed to compromise or undermine the nine years of the country’s investment and efforts in achieving identity management system.” Meanwhile, some aggrieved workers yesterday in Akure picketed the office of the commission over the ongoing retrenchment. The protesters were led by leaders of the Ondo State chapters of the Trade Union Congress, TUC, and the Association of Civil Servants. They blocked the gates to the commission’s office, carrying various placards with inscriptions such as “we say no to retrenchment of workers,” “we demand

Chairman of Police Service Commission, former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Chief Mike Okiro and new IGP Solomon Arase, after his confirmation at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Again, health workers set for nationwide strike CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

on the alleged unfavourable government position to NUAHP demands and the ultimatum issued by the union, said the looming strike is meant to address the rights of health workers. “We are not being insensitive in our demands; it is the workers’ rights we are demanding. If we go on strike, we will make arrangement for palliative measure so that patients will not suffer. It will be unethical to confront Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) with a strike. That is why President Jonathan must address this before he goes, but if Buhari inherits it, we are certain that we can have a better audience with him,” he said. In another development, members of the Medical Health Workers Union in Ijebu-Ode General Hospital

yesterday staged a protest over an alleged unfavourable and inhuman policy of the management of the hospital against its personnel. The protest, which paralysed activities at the hospital for several hours was said to be in continuation of the solidarity protest started last Friday as a result of the death of one of their members, Olusegun Ososan, who was allegedly denied treatment following his inability to pay the N3, 500 bill charged by the hospital. The protesters also carried placards bearing various inscriptions such as “staff are not slaves; give us our rights,” “Dr. (Mrs.) Adetola Ajoke should go,” “we don’t want obnoxious decrees,” “the ancestors of this hospital reject you,” among others, to registered

their grievances. The protesters expressed displeasure over the inhuman treatment which they were subjected to by the hospital management under the leadership of the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Dr. Seyi Adetola, of the hospital, whom they accused of being responsible for the death of the their colleague. The union leaders accused the hospital’s CMD of high-handedness, not being accessible and always turning the staff down. National Mirror gathered that the management of the hospital denied the late Ososan who until his death, was a security officer at the hospital, access to hospital treatment despite his pleas that he would pay the hospital bill after he might have regained his health.

Some of the protesters alleged that the deceased staff died “because he could not afford the N3, 500 required for hospital cards and some other sundry expenses.” The development, it was further gathered, forced the late Ososan to be admitted in another hospital where he eventually died. The alleged discriminatory policy of the CMD against the junior staff of the hospital, however, allegedly forced other personnel of the hospital to stage the solidarity protest. The protest also resulted in a delegation from the Ogun State Hospital Management Board, led by one Dr. Isaiah Aiyegoro to hold a closed-door meeting which lasted for about three hours with the protesting workers within the hospital.

justice,” “NIMC is dying,” “Onyeama must go.” TUC chairman in the state, Soladoye Ekundayo, accused the NIMC director general of using a verification exercise to retrench workers of the commission while employing his own people. He added that three workers had just resumed at the Akure office of the commission to replace those to be sacked. He said the national leadership of the union met 14 times with the NIMC management over the issue to no avail and advised the director general to obey a court judgment which ordered him to carry along the workers’ union in the verification exercise. Chairman of the commission’s state chapter of the Association of Senior Civil Servants, Gbenga Abileko, said 33 workers would be affected by the retrenchment exercise and vowed that they would do everything to fight back. It would be recalled that last October, a similarly effort to determine genuine workers in the commission did not go down well with labour unions as they raised alarm that the affected staff were about to be sacked. The aggrieved staff took their case to the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, ASCSN, which later raised alarm over plans by the management of the commission to sack about 1,000 workers, using rationalisation as excuse as against the current development where the workers were said to have fake promotion documents in their possession. Satisfied with the findings of its audit, the commission eventually sacked about 5,000 workers, using rationalisation as excuse and later retrenched 1,000 senior employees, adding that it has about 600 workers with fake letters of conversion on its payroll. Just like the latest, the NIMC said the discovery came during a staff audit jointly conducted by the office of the Head of Service and the NIMC. However, the ASCSN, in a statement, described the commission’s claim as untrue, adding that it is a ploy to sack about 1,000 senior employees it had penciled down for rationalisation. The association added that for inexplicable rea-

sons, the NIMC management started a phased retrenchment of many of its staff “which had so far led to the weeding out of 5,000 junior workers from the commission.” Last year’s development resulted in the labour union dragging the commission to court to defend the rights of the aggrieved staff of the NIMC. In a statement issued then by the organisation representing the workers, which is ASCSN, it stated that “after the sacking of about 5,000 junior workers, the NIMC management decided to also retrench 1,000 senior employees who are our members.” According to ASCSN, “it was at that point that we intervened but since the NIMC management shunned all efforts by us to resolve the dispute amicably; we took the matter to the National Industrial Court for adjudication.” The labour unions cried out that the NIMC wanted to throw 1,000 senior employees into the job market in order to replace them with their relations and friends as they did after sacking the junior workers. The ASCSN faulted the claim of the NIMC that the workers lacked requisite skills, asking “how can the staff who have served the nation diligently for 20-33 years be said not to be fit to work in the commission?” The court granted an injunction “restraining the respondent, its officers, servants, agents, privies or whosoever from commencing disciplinary process, constituting disciplinary panel, suspending the claimants, issuing any further queries or taking further steps/actions against the workers pending the determination of the suit before the court.” However, the NIMC removed the 1,000 senior employees from its payroll. The affected workers were largely those inherited from the defunct Department of Civil Registration, DNCR, the precursor to the NIMC. The commission’s spokesperson has called on all registered applicants of the National e-ID Card scheme to proceed to their enrolment centres to collect their e-ID whenever they receive SMS from the NIMC.

News

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

CBN fines five banks N312m over infractions TOLA AKINMUTIMI

entral Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has imposed fines of about N312 million on five Deposit Money Banks, DMBs, last year for various regulatory infractions, particularly those bordering on contraventions of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act, BOFIA. Available information sourced by National Mirror from an online source yesterday indicated that Zenith Bank, GT Bank, First City Monument Bank, FCMB, Access Bank and Sterling Bank were affected. Of the lot, Access Bank was the worst hit by the

penalties, paying a fine of N184 million for various contraventions of BOFIA provisions during the year under review. Specifically, the bank paid the fine for failure to obtain the apex bank’s approval for additions to investment in properties totaling N5.15 billion as well as non-compliance to implementation of recommendations of a financial services provider, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). In addition, the bank was also sanctioned for contravening foreign exchange manual and weaknesses noticed in its internal control and know-your-customer procedures. Other infraction for which the bank was penalised was its contra-

vention of the minimum documentation in credit file and reporting of public sector deposit. Sterling Bank paid a total fine of N50 million for under-reporting of public sector deposits as at August 29, 2014, while Zenith Bank Plc was made to pay a fine of N48 million for nondisclosure of date of last lodgment on credit print out, incomplete reporting of all transactions of politically exposed persons and appointment of a Deputy General Manager. Similarly, the bank was also found wanting for incomplete reporting of international funds transfer, incomplete reporting of currency transactions and misclassification of

some public sector deposit, among others. The fourth bank in the order of sanctions was GT Bank which coughed out N24 million as fine for the appointment of some top management staff without the monetary authorities’ approval; as well as infraction arising from anti-money laundering/combating the financing of terrorism spot checks, among others. The FCMB Group was penalised N6 million for not implementing prior year’s external auditors recommendations and failure to comply with ATM operation standards, amongst others Reacting to the sanctions on the banks which he considered as shareholders’

losses in real terms, the President of Renaissance Shareholders Association, Ambassador Olufemi Timothy, described the development as ugly in terms of the depleting effects on shareholders’ funds in the banks as well as the nation’s financial system stability. Timothy, during a telephone chat with our correspondent yesterday said shareholders had been worried over various fines being imposed by the CBN, describing some of them as not necessary. However, he was particularly concerned about the banks managements’ need to comply with regulatory guidelines as the apex bank would not close its eyes to infractions whenever they are perpetrated by any of the banks. Speaking in a similar tone, the National Coordinator of Pragmatic Shareholders Association, Mrs Bisi Bakare, believed that the CBN should caution the banks with queries some-

times, rather than imposing fines that tend to continue to erode shareholders’ funds. While agreeing on the need for proper regulation of the banks, Bakare explained that the banks’ managements also had it as corporate responsibility to obey the regulatory guidelines in order to ensure financial system stability. Citing instances when some other banks had been fined with huge sums in the recent past to justify her stance, the Pragmatic Shareholders’ leader noted that it had become more imperative for the banks to avoid any dealings or acts that could undermine their investors’ expectations. An industry analyst, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that it was practically difficult for any of the banks without paying one fine of the other in a financial year as they tend to always want to cut the corners to make more profit.

Bickering not in PDP interest, says Muazu GEORGE OJI ABUJA

N Traffic logjam due to activities of trailers and tankers on Eko Bridge in Lagos, yesterday.

PHOTO: ADEMOLA AKINLABI

Police Council confirms Arase as IGP ROTIMI FADEYI ABUJA

hree weeks after Solomon Arase was appointed Acting Inspector-General of Police, the Police Council presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday confirmed him as Inspector General of Police. Arase was appointed Acting Inspector-General of Police on April 21 following the sack of Suleiman Abba as Inspector-General of Police. Until his appointment in April, Arase was Head of the Force Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department. While giving insight on what Nigerians should ex-

pect from him as InspectorGeneral of Police, Arase told State House Correspondents after his confirmation that no Nigerian would suffer any injustice by his action or inaction. On the issue of welfare of the police, Arase said welfare of police officers would be top on his agenda, adding that it would motivate the police to put in their best in the discharge of their constitutional duties. He restated that his order banning road blocks was still in force, saying that 16 teams have moved out across the country to ensure there is strict compliance. Arase said his appointment as Inspector General of Police did not come at a time the country was facing

serious security challenges. He stated that though the nation was facing security challenges, it was not as bad as the public perceived it. While stressing that no society was free of crime, Arase said the police force would ensure that the situation was brought under tolerable level. Also speaking with State House Correspondents, former Inspector General of Police and Chairman, Police Service Commission, Mike Okiro said the president told the council that Abba was sacked as Inspector General of Police because a lot of indiscipline was noticed among the rank and file of the police. While responding to why Abba was removed, Okiro

said: “I may not attempt to answer that question because I am not part of the presidency that removed him, so I cannot give adequate answer” “Though at the meeting there he (President) tried to explain to members, based on the question raised by one of the governors that Nigerians may want to know why the former IGP was removed” “The president in very brief way said during the period of the former IGP, a lot of indiscipline was noticed among the rank and file of the police and as such, he felt that a new IG should come and try his luck. That is what he said, though I cannot give details of that,” Okiro added.

ational Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Ahmadu Adamu Muazu, has appealed to all members of the party and stakeholders across the country to put behind them the disappointment of the defeat suffered by the party in the 2015 general elections and put the survival and stability of the party ahead of other considerations. Muazu in a statement in Abuja yesterday, while describing the party’s defeat in the last general elections as painful, urged members to key into the intervention of President Goodluck Jonathan and not allow the situation to further divide the party. According to the chairman, “The national leadership of the PDP has noted the various reactions that trailed the unfortunate loss of our great party in the last general elections. “In the last few weeks, the media has been feasting on these reactions with a section even blowing it out

of proportion to a level that has become a threat to our oneness as a family. “As the national chairman and a key stakeholder in this party in the last 16 years, I quite understand and appreciate the concern, pain and frustrations of our members regarding our defeat. “I am also deeply worried about the division the development has generated within the PDP family, especially regarding whether or not the national leadership should be dissolved as a direct consequence of our collective challenge. “In the course of events, there have been reactions and counter-reactions among party members; mistakes have been made, some of them avoidable, but this is the time to put all of them behind us and move ahead as our party and its interest remain paramount and overriding. “Expectedly, our party has had a share of media bashing and misrepresentations, which contributed immensely to the misunderstanding we are facing in our fold.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News 7

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

NEMA registers 11,449 Nigerian returnees from Niger UBONG UKPONG ABUJA

ational Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, yesterday said it has so far registered 11,449 Nigerian returnees from Niger Re-

public at the transit camp in Geidam, Yobe State. The agency in a statement in Abuja, through its press officer, Manzo Ezekiel, disclosed that it has also transported about 7,000 of them to their various states as at yesterday.

It said transportation of the returnees was continuing as it has engaged more high capacity buses and vehicles for the exercise. The agency further assured that it was also continuing with the provision of basic support at the

transit camp. “Director General of NEMA, Muhammad Sani Sidi, said the agency was fully committed to the transportation of the returnees to their states and affirmed that the staff would remain at the tran-

sit camp until the last person leaves. He said more relief supports have also been deployed to support them while at the camp. “From the registration, the returnees are identified to be Nigeri-

ans from Borno, Taraba, Jigawa, Kano, Benue, Bauchi, Sokoto, Niger, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, Yobe, Gombe, Adamawa, Nasarawa, Imo and Delta states,” the statement disclosed.

Fuel scarcity bites harder, litre now N160, queues persist Man’s 3 children drown in well

nd to the lingering fuel scarcity appears not in sight as prolonged queues persist nationwide, even as motorists now pay between N140 and N180 per litre for the product. Surveys carried out by our correspondents confirmed the worsening situation in Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kaduna, Kano, Ibadan, Onitsha, Owerri, Benin and other cities as product hoarders, as well as major and independent marketers continued to cash in on the helplessness of motorists to sell petrol at exploitative prices. In all the filling stations visited in Lagos, marketers were selling petrol at between N130 and N160 per litre. Some of the outlets no longer open their stations during the day, as they only sell to middle men in kegs and other containers in what classically characterises a black market regime. Similarly, in Abuja, the prevailing scarcity assumed more worrisome dimension with many filling stations now selling

between N140 and N150 per litre. Investigations revealed that some stations, which engaged in unwholesome sharp practices of inflating pump price, still displayed N87 per litre for fear of prosecution by the authorities. Scores of motorists decried the development, lamenting that the fuel situation was negatively impacting on all aspects of national life. At the black market, which has been thriving since the scarcity started, 10 litres of fuel sold at between N2,000 and N2,500 depending on the area of purchase. Motorists called for concerted efforts by all stakeholders to end the scarcity of fuel. Although more filling stations are now open for business, queues are still long, forcing motorists to spend several hours waiting to refill. NNPC and its downstream subsidiary, the Pipelines and Products Marketing Company, PPMC, had said it has 1.2 billion litres

of petrol in stock. Ogun State Task Force on Enforcement and Compliance set up by the state Ministry of Commerce And Industry yesterday sealed off one of the filling stations in Abeokuta metropolis for dispensing adulterated product to consumers. Arolat Petroleum was shut by the task force set up to sanction outlets selling above the approved official pump price of N87. The task force also arrested the manager of the filling station whose named could not be ascertained at the time of filing this report, and was taken into custody by the police attached to the team. The arrest of the manager was triggered by the complaint of one of the victims of the adulterated product with registration number (Lagos) FST 345 XP, who claimed the product damaged the engine of his vehicle. The task force team also monitored sales of the product in major filling stations within Abeokuta metropolis to ensure strict

Scam jobs: APC wants impersonators found, prosecuted OLAJIDE OMOJOLOMOJU

ll Progressives Congress, APC, has challenged security agencies and the telecommunications service providers to fish out those seeking to defraud Nigerians by asking them to apply for federal appointments under the incoming APC Federal Government through a non-existent APC screening committee. APC in a statement issued in Abuja yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Lai Mohammed, said the call became necessary again because the

scammers had persisted in their fraudulent ways, despite previous warnings by the party to desist. Mohammed said: “These ‘419ners’ have a telephone number, 08107400745, an email address (apcscreeningcommittee@gmail.com) and a front (Dr. Favour Idiodie), who is supposedly the Screening Committee Secretary. It should therefore, not be difficult for the security agencies, working with the service providers, to fish them out and make them face the full wrath of the law.” Repeating its earlier warning, contained in

a statement it issued on April 21 to Nigerians to beware of such fraudulent claims, APC restated that it had no such committee to which Nigerians should submit their CVs for screening and possible federal appointments. It said: “As we wrote in our earlier statement, even when it is obvious that those behind this appointment scam are merely seeking to swindle innocent Nigerians, some desperate and gullible persons may still fall prey to their evil machinations, hence we have decided to once again alert Nigerians.”

compliance with the official pump price. At a filling station in Ita-Eko area of the metropolis, MAAN, where the attendants were selling at N120 per litre, the manager insisted he also bought at very high price. When the manager could not substantiate the claim by producing the way bill, he was ordered to choose between reverting to the official pump price of N87 or have his filling station sealed. Other filling stations such as Crystal and FATGBEMS were also ordered to revert to official price, as they were selling at N150 and N140, respectively.

EZEKIEL TITUS BAUCHI

ragedy struck yesterday as three children of one Mallam Alkassim Abdullahi drowned in a well in an uncompleted building at Tudun Salmanu, Bauchi State. The incident occurred about 1pm behind Danga security outfit in the town. The children were reportedly playing near the uncompleted building. However, the reporter could not confirm whether parents of the victims were at home at the time of the incident. Police Public Relations

Officer in the state, Mohammed Haruna, in a press statement gave names of the children as Abdallahi Alkassim, aged 3 years, his younger brother, Huzaifa, 2, and Hauwa Alkassim, 2. “The scene was visited by police detectives attached to Tafawa Balewa Housing Estate Division and victims rushed to ATBU Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, and were all certified dead by a medical doctor,” the statement said. The statement added that the corpses have been deposited at the hospital mortuary for postmortem examination after which they would be released to the family for burial.

South West

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Seven doctors get kidnap notices in Ekiti ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

alpable fear has enveloped medical and health workers in Ekiti State following threat of kidnap messages sent to no fewer than seven medical doctors in

the state yesterday. Chairman of Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, in the state, Dr John Akinbote, said no fewer than seven of his members got the threat text messages yesterday. The messages heightened fear of insecurity

of lives of health workers following attacks and kidnap of their members and families. A nurse with the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido Ekiti, Mrs Margaret Aladenika, was kidnapped on May 3, while her husband was beaten

by the assailants. Also, a former Chief Medical Director of Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, EKSUTH, Dr Patrick Adegun, and his wife, Kikelomo, were kidnapped on May 7. This was as the Academic Union of Univer-

L-R: Chairman on the occasion, Dr. Tunji Olaopa; Director-General, National Productivity Centre, Mr. Paul Bdliya; Director-General, Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research, Prof. Olufemi Taiwo and Guest Speaker, Alhaji Jibril Yelwa, during a seminar on computing productivity in the Nigerian economy in Ibadan, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Court stops fresh case against Babalakin WALE IGBINTADE

Federal High Court in Lagos has restrained the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, from instituting a fresh criminal case against Chairman of Bi-Courtney Limited., Dr. Wale Babalakin (SAN). After two years in court, an Ikeja High Court had discharged and acquitted Babalakin and four others over alleged N4.7bn fraud preferred against them by the EFCC. The judge had ruled that there was no basis for the charges and consequently struck out the case. But, Babalakin approached the Federal High Court following reports that the EFCC was planning to institute the same charges against him on the same subject matter and on the same provisions of the law. In his application, Babalakin has accused the ant-graft agency of making desperate efforts to prosecute him maliciously. Babalakin, who is seek-

ing a judicial review of the actions of the AGF and EFCC, had on February 23, 2015, been discharged by Justice Lateef Lawal-Akapo of a Lagos High Court, along with Alex Okoh, Stabilini Visinoni Limited., Bi-Courtney Limited, and Renix Nigeria Limited. They were prosecuted by the EFCC for alleged laundering of N4.7 billion. Ruling on the application, Justice James Tsoho on April 29, 2015, granted a restraining order against EFCC prohibiting the agency from proceeding with the action pending the determination of the suit. Amongst the issues raised by Babalakin in the affidavit filed on his behalf is that EFCC had continued to act in breach of all rules of prosecution in his pursuit. Babalakin stated that he was declared wanted by EFCC, barely 30 minutes after he spoke to its officials, in a bid to embarrass him as there was no basis for the declaration. He also alleged that after he had been charged to court, EFCC summoned

him to take further statements which showed clearly that it had no case against him as at the time of filing the charges and was only out to implicate him at all cost irrespective of evidence. It would be recalled that the criminal charges were filed against Babalakin a day after the Federal Gov-

ernment terminated the Lagos-Ibadan Express Way concession which is being handled by his company. The coincidence raises a lot of questions, as it appears the charges were filed to gag and prevent him from challenging the termination of the Public Private Partnership, PPP, project.

sities, ASUU, yesterday appealed for unconditional release of Dr and Mrs Adegun, Aladenika and a lecturer at the Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile Ife, Dr Olufemi Omisore, who was kidnapped on his way to Oye Ekiti en route Ido Ekiti on May 8. The union spoke yesterday at a joint press conference in Ado Ekiti addressed by its Akure and Ibadan zones, calling for overhaul of security agencies in the state, including the police and State Security Services, SSS, over their inability to curb the wave of kidnappings. ASUU Chairman, Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA, Dr Bola Oniya, who delivered the statement on behalf of ASUU, Akure Zone, appealed to Ekiti

We didn’t receive $330,000 legal fee from Ajudua –Witness MATTHEW IRINOYE

ead of Ibadan Chambers of Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), Mr. Adebayo Adenipekun (SAN), yesterday refuted claim that the chamber received a sum of $330,000, from Fred Ajudua as legal fee on behalf of General Ishaya Bamaiyi while the retired General was in Kirikiri Prisons. Economic and Financial

Waste to power: Fashola commissions N1.3bn facility FRANCIS SUBERU

he move to generate stable power supply through waste in Lagos State kicked off yesterday with the commission by Governor Babatunde Fashola of the first waste material recovery facility to generate gas from bio-degradable waste and land fill conversion. Speaking shortly before the commission, Governor Fashola said the N1.3bn facility was funded by the West Africa Energy. He added that the company was expected to pay an average of 5 per cent of the accruable revenue for the period of the agreement and on expiration of

the project. According to Fashola, the waste recovery facility will operate on Build, Operate, Manage and Transfer, BOMT, partnership for a12-year tenure. He said the state government’s equity contribution was provision of land for the construction of the facility; adding that the state government had aimed at ensuring waste segregation and provision of easy access for waste disposal. The governor said the facility would provide raw materials for plastic paper and metal manufacturers throughout Lagos and beyond in commercial quantities. Governor Fashola, who

State Governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose, to do all things possible to get rid of these hoodlums in our state. It urged the Federal Government to, as a matter of urgency, overhaul the entire police force and other relevant agencies saddled with the responsibility of keeping peace in the state and more importantly, the removal or relocation of both service heads who find it difficult to unravel the root cause of the present predicament. Dr Caleb Aborisade, ASUU Chairman, Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, who spoke on behalf of the OAU branch, lamented the callous act of kidnapping the OAU lecturer, killing his driver and throwing the university into mourning.

also handed over Olokun Primary School II, in Ilasamaja of Isolo Local Council Development Area, added that the facility would create jobs for 350 residents, assuring that the facility would continue to support the area technically, educationally and financially as industrialists and students could visit and learn more about MRFs. Commending the state government for the opportunity to invest in the land fill business in the state, the Chief Executive Officer, West Africa Energy, Paul O’Collaghan, also promised to pay part of the revenue generated in the facility into the state government’s coffers.

Crimes Commission, EFCC, had alleged that Ajudua, who met Bamaiyi in prison, conspired with Rosulu Oluronke, the then Registrar of Justice Olubunmi Oyewole of an Ikeja High Court, to defraud Bamaiyi by collecting the said amount from Bamaiyi on the pretext that it would serve as legal fee to help him (Bamaiyi) secure the services of Chief Afe Babalola. During his testimony, Adenipekun told the court presided by Justice Lawal Akapo, that the chamber did not receive any money or brief from Ajudua on behalf of Bamaiyi. “I have been with the firm since 1991. I started as an associate and was later in-charge of the administration since 2000. I became head of the chamber in 2006 and later Managing Partner in 2011,” he told the court. He added: “Fred Ajudua did not brief our chamber to represent General Ishaya Bamaiyi. At no time did Ajudua brief us. As the head of administration at the time, we didn’t receive any fee from Ajudua in respect of Bamaiyi. “We were never briefed to represent Bamaiyi and we did not receive any money from Ajudua,” Adenipekun said.

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South West

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

EFCC re-arraigns oil marketers over N4.5bn subsidy fraud MATTHEW IRINOYE

L-R: Lagos Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye; Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire; Governor Babatunde Fashola; former State Chief Judge, Justice Samuel Ilori and Lagos Chief Judge, Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade, during inauguration of Samuel Ilori Court House

Timely dispensation of justice necessary to avoid violence –Fashola FRANCIS SUBERU

overnor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State yesterday said timely and accurate dispensation of justice was a sure way to end violence in any society. Governor Fashola said this at the commissioning of Justice Samuel Ilori Court House at Ogba, Lagos. He noted that when justice was dispensed in a civilised way, people would not need to resort to arms to resolve disputes. He said a society that

is able to dispense justice would achieve many things, adding that in doing so the society would be orderly and controlled towards development. Governor Fashola said for any nation to develop, it has to ensure that adequate attention is given to law and order, adding that the single most important agenda of any government was the maintenance of law and order. According to the governor, no matter how expensive or beautiful the infrastructure in place, if law and order were neglected,

there cannot be progress. In her address on the occasion, Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Olufunmilayo Atilade, said the state’s judiciary would ever remain grateful to Governor Fashola for the beautiful edifice, adding that it would help speedy dispensation of justice. She said the goal of Lagos judiciary was to significantly decongest the prisons and complete cases pending in the courts with vigour. Attorney General of Lagos State and Commissioner for Justice, Ade

Ipaye, had earlier in his address said the Court House named after a retired Chief Judge of the state, Samuel Ilori, has 22 courtrooms and chambers, reading rooms and library, 53 toilets, generator house and other facilities. Retired Justice Ilori, who was present on the occasion, expressed gratitude to the government for naming the Court House after him, saying he believed he was reaping from the little seed he sowed while serving the state.

ASUU berates FG over sack of varsities’ council bosses KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

cademic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, the University of Ibadan, UI, chapter, has come hard on the Federal Government, describing the sack of federal universities’ council chairmen as illegal and flagrant abuse of the autonomy of universities. It called on President Goodluck Jonathan to rescind the removal and recall chairman of the council of UI, Major General Adeyinka Adebayo (rtd), and others if only to absolve his administration of flouting the rule of law towards the end of its tenure. The union in a release

signed by its chairman, Prof. Olusegun Ajiboye, said the sack of chairmen of the governing councils of federal universities was done in bad faith and against the hallowed tradition and sanctity of the principle of university autonomy/academic freedom and agreement reached with the union to respect same. He said: “The Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Act 1993, as amended by the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Act 2003, 2007, Act No 1 Section 2A, clearly states the tenure of the council thus: ‘The council so constituted shall have a tenure of four

years from the date of its inauguration, provided that where a council is found to be incompetent and corrupt, it shall be dissolved by the Visitor and a new council shall be immediately constituted for the effective function of the university’.” Ajiboye said that council chairmanship as well as the entire council was a creation of statute and to that extent cannot be tampered with except in the event of a proven case of maladministration, physical impairment or recorded cases of loss of life. He insisted that the only condition on which the chairman could be removed was proven incompetence and corrup-

tion, which had not been alleged nor established in this case, and even in such cases, there are procedures and channels to follow. According to the ASUU boss, the current pronouncement of the Federal Government in removing the chairman of council, University of Ibadan, calls for worry, noting that even under a supposed civilian administration, the rule of law, ethics and good conscience could be so easily assaulted. He added that the union would continue to fight for the repositioning of Nigerian public universities and ensure that no gains of its previous struggles were undermined by any government.

conomic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, yesterday re-arraigned Mamman, son of former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Ahmadu Ali, and two others for alleged complicity in a N4.5 billion fuel subsidy fraud. Ali was re-arraigned alongside another oil marketer, Christian Taylor, and his company, Nasaman Oil Services Ltd., before Justice Adeniyi Onigbanjo of Lagos State High Court, Ikeja. It would be recalled that the defendants had been arraigned on July 26, 2012, and their trial had commenced before their co-defendant, Oluwaseun Ogunbambo, absconded. This necessitated the EFCC amending the charge against the defendants, which led to the re-arraignment. In the amended charge, the counts of conspiracy, obtaining money by false pretences, forgery and use of false documents were increased from nine to 49. Counsel to EFCC, Mr. Seidu Atteh, told the court that the defendants had fraudulently obtained N4.5

billion from the Federal Government between January 2011 and April 2012. Atteh added that the money was for subsidy payments from the Petroleum Support Fund for the purported importation of 30.5 million litres of premium motor spirit. The defendants were also alleged to have forged a bill of lading and other documents, which they used in facilitating the fraud. The alleged offences, according to the anti-graft agency, contravene Sections 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other related offences Act of 2006. The offences also violated Sections 363(a) and 364 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011. The defendants again pleaded not guilty to the charge. Following the arraignment, the judge allowed Ali and Taylor to continue to enjoy the N20 million bail he had earlier granted them after their initial arraignment on July 26. Atteh told the court that the prosecution was ready to continue with the trial following its inability to apprehend Ogunbambo. The matter was, however, adjourned till June 30 for trial.

Unpaid salaries: LAUTECH doctors stage peaceful protest BOLADALE BAMIGBOLA OSOGBO

esident doctors working at the Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, yesterday staged a peaceful protest against non-payment of their six months’ salary by Osun State government at the premises of the House of Assembly on Gbongan Road, Osogbo. The doctors, who told journalists that living had become difficult for them in the last six months due to the situation, carried placards with different inscriptions, demanding immediate payment of their salaries. Throughout the protest, they prevented vehicular movement in and out of the assembly complex. Speaking with news-

men, President, Association of Resident Doctors, LAUTECH chapter, Dr. Olalekan Ajayi, said non-payment of their salaries has put them in a state of devastation. He noted that workers in the state, including doctors, were suffering despite their commitment to duty. He therefore, called on the government to pay the outstanding salaries to save their families from further starvation and also in the interest of industrial harmony. Addressing the protesters, Deputy Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Mr. Akintunde Adegboye, appealed to them to exercise patience with government, assuring that steps were being taken to address the issue.

South East

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

APC plotting to upturn A’Ibom, Rivers, Delta polls —PDP George Oji ABUJA

eoples Democratic Party, PDP, has alleged that the All Progressives Congress, APC, is working round the clock to ensure it upturns the mandate of citizens of the three states freely given to PDP during the last polls through the judiciary. This move, according to PDP, is aimed at ensuring APC takes over some of the states and legislative seats PDP won, to ensure it foists a one party state on the country, and whittle down opposition when (APC) eventually assumes power this month end. The PDP raised the alarm in a statement issued yesterday by its National Publicity officer in Abuja, Olisah Metuh. The PDP spokesman said, “We are aware of the clandestine moves by APC to procure and compromise some stakeholders in the elections, including INEC and security personnel to bear false witness and doctor electoral

materials against PDP at the tribunal.” Metuh warned that PDP will not accept any attempt by anybody, especially APC to manipulate the process and rob PDP of its clear victories in the three states or any other state. It said: “APC must not in anyway take our civility driven by patriotic zeal for peace, unity and harmony in the country for granted. “We want to state categorically that our members across the country are able, willing and ready to defend our mandate in these states using all available instruments within the ambit of the law.” The PDP spokesman stated that as a party that has made history by nurturing democracy for 16 years, and elevating it to a standard appreciated by the democratic community world over, PDP cannot fold its hands and watch while the gains are being undermined by the APC and its agents. According to PDP, while the party notes that APC should be held responsible should there be any breakdown of law and order in Rivers, Delta and Akwa-Ibom states.

A’Ibom COE denies 27 senior lecturers 2 years salaries

…wants staff retirement pegged at 65 years

kwa Ibom College of Education chapter of Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union, COEASU, has alleged that 27 senior lecturers of the institution have been denied salaries for two years. This allegation is contained in an open letter signed by the union’s chairman, Mrs Gloria Inyang, and her secretary, Mr Iboro Ukpong, to Governor Godswill Akpabio’s government. In the letter, the union said the 27 academic staffs include chief, principal and senior lecturers, whose names had been removed from voucher of the college without justification. The union stated that these senior lecturers were pillars for the success of the next round of accreditation of courses in the institution. “They have neither been served retirement letters nor paid salaries for almost two years though, they are still performing their duties creditably. “The premature disengagement of this calibre of

staff from the classroom will spell a lot of consequences for the college,” the union stated. The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN reports that the letter was titled, ‘Complete your transformation of College of Education, Afaha Nsit and bequeath a legacy: Approve 65 years retirement age.’ The union argued that the 65 years retirement age was approved since 1999, published in the 2008 edition of Public Service Rules and again carried in government’s circular in 2010. “We pray sir, that you authorise the formalisation of retirement age of Academic Staff of the College of Education, Afaha Nsit at 65 years,” the union pleaded. The union urged that the affected staff, who have not been paid salaries for two years, be accommodated in this gesture. The union stated that the college, which was at the verge of becoming a degree awarding institution, could not afford to lose the services of such high calibre staff.

Sector Commander of FRSC in Anambra State, Mr. Sunday Ajayi (middle) flanked by Rev. Fr. Patrick Okafor and Rev. Fr. Cajetan Obiekezie and other officials of FRSC after a thanksgiving-mass to end the United Nations Decade of Action, at St. Matthew Catholic Church, Amawbia, Awka. PHOTO: NAN

S’East, S’South youths back Onu for SGF …seek appointments in Buhari’s govt Chris Njoku OWERRI

ouths from the South East and South-South states under the aegis of the South East-South South Progressive Youths Front, SE-SSPYF, yesterday appealed to President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, to appoint former Abia State governor, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, as Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, to compensate the South East for losing out in the race for t Senate presidency and speakership of the House of Representatives. The youths, who spoke

during an emergency meeting in Owerri, Imo State capital, also appealed to the president-elect to consider the youths in appointive positions to enable them contribute their quota to building a new Nigeria. National president of the group, Godstime Samuel; National secretary, Ugochukwu Victor; Director of Information, Oghwere Henry and vice president Alao Odion Ahmed, who were in attendance, urged Buhari to reserve the position of Minister of Youths and Sports Development for a youth that would effectively galvanise and impact positively

on youths under the Ministry. In a motion moved by Director of Information (Oghwere) and seconded by the vice president (Ahmed), the youth body passed a vote of confidence on Onu as a detribalised Nigerian, who had contributed immensely to the unity of the nation. According to the group, the support for Onu as the next SGF was influenced by his visible contributions to the development of the nation’s democracy, adding that his style of politics is a source of inspiration for Nigerian youths. In a communiqué issued

at the end of the meeting, the youths drawn from the all the local government areas of the South East and South-South states, expressed willingness to work with the in-coming administration, especially in the area of checking youth restiveness.

Onu

Admission scam: Nursing school principal denies allegations Chris Njoku OWERRI

rincipal of School of Nursing, Umulogho in Imo State, Rev. Sister Ifeanyichukwu Nwachukwu, yesterday denied involvement in admission scam, saying her detractors were desperate to remove her from office. Chatting with newsmen in Owerri, the state capital, Sister Nwachukwu blamed some staff of the school for sowing seeds of discord in the school, having been stopped from defrauding the institution. “When I assumed office

Okorocha

in 2008, the school was in a total mess but I decided to plug all leaking holes used as conduit pipe for siphoning money from the school. And those affected felt I had come to remove food from their

mouth,” she said. Some students of the school had earlier complained of continuous extortion by the school’s management. However, Nwachukwu denied collecting or imposing levies on students other than the fees recommended by the school’s management. “No such extortion is going on in the school and no student was admitted through the backdoor as alleged.” She said the only levy being collected is for the purchase of a coaster bus that would assist to convey students for course work and excursion vis-

its, adding that the school management decided to embark on the project for the safety of the students. She urged her detractors to desist from instigating students against the school authority, adding that the management would not take it kindly with any staff found to be involved. Nwachukwu also lauded the traditional ruler of the community, Eze Ngozi Uwalaka, who she said led the host community to support the institution in carrying out a number of projects to uplift the school to its present enviable standard.

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South South

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Delta uncovers 40 ghost workers on payroll

elta State government yesterday revealed it has discovered 40 retired fire servicemen’s names on its workers’ payroll. Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan disclosed this when the Transition Committee

for the incoming administration in the state visited him in Asaba. He described the development as “shocking” and appealed to the committee not to put undue pressure on the incoming government in the area of funds and ap-

pointments. He also urged the committee to assist the governorelect in addressing issues of rising wage bill, given the drop in revenue accruing to the state government. Uduaghan recommended biometric and automated

system in screening workers in the state “to check rising wage bill.” He disclosed that the state had procured tractors, vehicles and mobile clinic boats to be handed over to his successor. He also cautioned com-

mittee members not to be divided over who takes particular position in the incoming government, but to work hard and make sacrifices to deepen democracy in the state. Earlier, Chairman of the committee, Prof. Sam Oy-

ovbaire, thanked the governor for supporting the committee in its assignment. He said the committee had also received the cooperation of all Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, in the discharge of its assignment.

Rivers Assembly threatens to arrest commissioners, others …over failure to honour summons DENNIS NAKU

PORT HARCOURT

ivers State House of Assembly has said it would not hesitate to issue warrant of arrest against any government official, including commissioners, who fail to honour its summons. While warning the appointees not to test the commitment of the 6th Assembly, it frowned on the excuses given by most commissioners who were summoned to the House yesterday. It would be recalled that the House at its sitting on Monday, presided over by Deputy Speaker Leyii Kwanee, had summoned nine commissioners and four board chairmen over the state’s economy. Kwanee, while speaking during yesterday’s sitting, when three of the nine commissioners summoned appeared, said the House was out to serve people of the state and not to witch-hunt anyone. The lawmakers had rigorously debated whether or not to question the three commissioners or adjourn till Thursday when other commissioners promised to be available. The commissioners present were George Tolofari (Transport), Austine Wokocha (Power), and Tamuno Gogo (Budget and Planning), as well as Chairman, Rivers State Assembly Service Commission, Ombo Princewill. But as the House adjourned till Thursday, Kwanee said, “Whatever I need to do to strengthen our democracy and put smiles on the faces of our people, I will do. We will be

remembered for what we did as lawmakers. “Nobody should attempt to try the will of the House… No matter how short the days are, we will continue to make laws until May 29, and nobody can intimidate this House. “At the next sitting, the House would like to get all those invited to be present. We will not tolerate any excuses.” Kwanee, however, disclosed that three commissioners, including that of Finance, had informed him they would be unable to appear before the House, an explanation that forced the House Leader, Chidi Lloyd, to move for an adjournment on Thursday, explaining that some commissioners were on special assignment. But Deputy House Leader, Nname Ewor, who originally moved the motion for suspension of the three council bosses and summoning the commissioners, wondered what kind of assignment that would prevent them from honoring the invitation of the House. He said: “I took pains to present these issues yesterday (Monday); there were salient issues I raised. If we want to screen people for positions and appointments, even if they are in America, they would rush down here. “What special assignments are other commissioners doing now? We should take on those that are present. We should ask them one or two questions instead of asking them to leave. The ones that are not here should come and explain to Rivers people,” he said.

L-R: Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Lady Valerie Ebe; wife of Vice President-elect, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo and Lagos State Deputy Governor, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire after collecting their award for African Women of Worth, at the 7th edition of African Women in Leadership Conference 2015 in Lagos.

Rivers APC chairman escapes assassination DENNIS NAKU

PORT HARCOURT

ivers State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Dr. Davies Ikanya, on Monday night escaped assassination in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital. It was gathered that unidentified gunmen stormed

Ikanya’s residence at Herbert Macaulay Street, Amadi Flat, Old GRA, and opened fire at security men at the chairman’s residence about 8:45pm. However, the security men were able to repel the attack and forced the attackers to flee. At the time of filing this report, it was not clear

whether the attackers were assassins or kidnappers, even as several calls and text messages to Ikanya were not answered. When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Ahmad Mohammad, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, DSP, confirmed the attack, but said he did not have details of the incident.

In a separate development, Deputy Governor Tele Ikuru has debunked allegation that he ordered the kidnap and assassination of his former acting press secretary, Godswill Jumbo. The denial was contained in a press statement signed by Ednah Alete, acting press secretary to the deputy governor.

Uduaghan seeks seamless transition in governance

elta State governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, has called for seamless transition process in governance to enhance growth and development in the country. Uduaghan, who made the call yesterday in Asaba while hosting the Transition Committee set up by the Governor-elect, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, said transition from one government to another was supposed to be a smooth and frictionless process between the outgoing and incoming governments so as to ensure continuous growth since governance is a continuum. He decried the rancour in the transition process

• Rallies support for successor at the federal level and in some states, saying the harmony in transition process in Delta State was a shining example for the rest of the country to follow. He said, “Delta State can showcase to the world what transition should be, it has been going on very smoothly; it can be done without friction and rancour. It should be emulated by everybody throughout the country.” The governor advised the committee chaired by Prof Sam Oyovbaire to devise ways of reducing the huge wage bill vis-à-vis dwindling resources, explaining that the issue of

ghost workers still persists despite efforts to check it. “As you are aware, the revenue of the country is dwindling with a lot of states unable to pay salaries; you need to devise ways to ensure the wage bill is authentic and manageable. We have been trying to deal with the issue of ghost workers in the state. Currently, we are doing both biometric and payroll automation system to check not only ghost workers but absentee workers. This, I believe, will help reduce the wage bill.’’ Uduaghan added, “I want to also bring to your attention some new trac-

tors we just bought for the Ministry of Agriculture, and vehicles for Environmental Marshals in the Ministry of Environment and other vehicles. I have told the commissioners that the Ministries should properly document and hand over these equipment intact to the incoming government. Please, ensure you take note of this equipment in the course of your documentation.” The governor commended members of the committee for the work they have been doing and urged the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, members to be patient with the governor-elect in the process of appointment, adding:

North

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

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FG shirks commitment for 2016 census –NPC ADEOLA TUKURU ABUJA

ational Population Commission, NPC, has raised the alarm over Federal Government’s lack of commitment

towards achieving a successful 2016 census. Director of Census in the commission, Mr. Innocent Allihonwu, yesterday in Abuja, during an overview of a workshop on finalisation of the 2016 census strategy and implementa-

tion plan, explained that it took the commission three years to plan the census, but the Federal Government is showing no commitment towards success of the exercise. According to him, the aim of the workshop is to

create a forum for the Nigerian government and other funding agencies to consider and agree on a strategy document that could deliver the 2016 census in line with international best practice. He said the commission, on its part, has drafted the 2016

census strategy document, covering crucial phases of the census, namely: census mapping and GIS, advocacy and publicity, staff capacity building, procurement, logistics support and quality assurance. Others include census enumeration, ICT and data processing, monitoring and evaluation and budget for the census project. The director said the document also contains the census budget with detailed justification of expenditure. He explained that the 2016 strategy and implementation plan contains well-articulated strategies and work plan for the 2016 census, adding that the output, linkages with activities

and management structure to be adopted to achieve the goals of the census project were equally in place. “As practiced world-wide in accordance with UN principles and recommendation for census, proper articulation of the activities required at each stage of a census process and plans to achieve them, together with the budgets are always documented to serve as guide. “This workshop is intended to bring some key stakeholders together to properly examine the document with a view to ensuring that the technology, methodology, strategy and cost are properly linked and are achievable within the time frame,” he said.

New Bauchi govt to streamline civil service

L-R: Managing Director, Nigeria Film Corporation and Chairman, National Film Institute, Dr. Danjuma Dadu; Minister of Information, Mrs. Patricia Akwashiki and Vice Chancellor, University of Jos, Prof. Hayward Mafuyai, during the matriculation of National Film Institute in Jos, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Street children rise to 2m in North –NAS ADEOLA TUKURU ABUJA

ice President, National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Mr. Frank Okafor, has regretted that insurgency has increased the number of street children in the northern part of the country to over two million. He said that over 10 million Nigerian children were not educated even though it doesn’t cost much to send them to school. Speaking yesterday in Abuja during the Abuja Literary Society, ALS, NAS

evening of performance for the street child on the theme, ‘Louder Together,’ NAS Abuja President, Joachim Okudo, noted that individual commitment to training out-of-school children would make the world a better place for everybody, stressing that everything must not be left for government alone to tackle. He also called the attention of Nigerians to the rising number of street children, saying it was everyone’s responsibility to cater for them. “NAS, in collaboration with ALS, is sensitising the

world against turning deaf ears to the plight of street children as well as drawing more attention from the side of government and well-meaning people towards needy children,” he said. According to him, women and children are most vulnerable, especially in some parts of Nigeria where insurgency has placed them in difficulties. He stated that children from poor parents suffer more than the adults, even as they grow up into adults and begin to cause societal problems due to lack of education.

“Our target is to get children off the streets as well as catch them young because we need to deal with these issues now so they can grow into responsible citizens of the country. At the moment we have hundreds of children under NAS’ care who we support through organisations that do children’s charity work,” he said. Meanwhile, the national head of media and publicity for the association, Mr. John Okey, said NAS has two levels of intervention for street children which are, through education, and legislative watch.

ncoming administration in Bauchi State is to streamline the state’s civil service to reduce cost of governance and close other sources of revenue leakages, Deputy Governor-elect, Engr Nuhu Gidado, has said. Gidado told the News Agency of Nigeria in Bauchi yesterday that the measure became necessary in view of financial challenges of the state. “Today, we have 52 permanent secretaries, who are indolent. “Those who do not have work to do, and are at the top layer of government, we will definitely sit down and discuss with them. “Those unjustly promoted, like they are doing now haphazardly, we will revisit their promotions. “A lot of people are being made permanent

secretaries and so on, for sure, we are going to call them and show them the rule on how to become a permanent secretary,” Gidado said, adding that various teams would be put in place to assist the new administration in beefing up the state’s internally generated revenue to reduce dependence on the Federal Allocation. The deputy governorelect explained that it was not a healthy development for any government to spend more than 80 per cent of its revenue on recurrent expenditure, adding that leakages constituted a substantial percentage of such expenses. “We will work to bring down the level of recurrent expenditure, which I know is over-bloated, to enable us have some little savings to do some work,” he said.

El-Rufai to target looters of Kaduna treasury

aduna State governor-elect and former Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Malam Nasir el-Rufai, yesterday said politicians should get ready to refund all ill-gotten money after May 29 handover. El-Rufai said the incoming administration would politely ask politicians, both at the state and federal levels, to refund money illegally got, for development to take place, adding that those politicians with

clean hands have no cause to fear. He said there was no doubt that the incoming administration of General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) would inherit huge debt piled up by President Goodluck Jonathan’s government. The governor-elect, who spoke to executive members of the National Union of Textile Garments and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria, NUTGTWN, who were on a courtesy visit to him

in Kaduna, said the measure became imperative because the All Progressives Congress, APC, government, after taking over power on May 29 would inherit a bad situation. He noted that it was based on the sad situation that APC government would ask politicians who stole government money to return it. “We will politely ask those who stole government money to return the funds.

“This is because people who are in government now are there to work for themselves, but the APC government is made up of people who are ready to work for the masses and betterment of the country,” el-Rufai said. The former minister, who lamented the current employment figure of 1,600 employees in the textile sector, said it was unacceptable because the industries in Kaduna used to employ about 33,000 workers.

He said APC government would revive the textile industries since the sector will generate employment and impact on the lives of the people. President of the union, Oladele Hunsu, had earlier in his remarks congratulated the governor-elect on his electoral victory. Oladele recalled el-Rufai’s feat as Minister of the FCT which he described as “indelible,” urging him to take steps towards reviving the textile industry.

El-Rufai

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

SUPER TUESDAY Why Dogara would emerge House Speaker –Hon. Okwu

Williams Attah GOMBE

ortheast Youth Amalgamated Forum, NYAF, has called on the leadership the All Progressives Congress, APC, to zone the position of the Speaker of the House of Representative to the NorthEast. In a communique issued after its meeting in Gombe yesterday, NYAF said tit came up with the stand and request that the zone be given special recognition by the incoming governing party because of the role the North-East played in ensur-

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Politics

Buhari should probe Jonathan’s administration –Onabis

Youth group wants House Speaker zoned to N’East ing its victory at the polls. The communique stated further that having the most number of ethnic nationalities and minority tribes, the North-East zone has been described as the most disadvantaged zone in the country and also the most backward in terms of infrastructure and human development despite its contributions to the unity of the country. The group, under the

leadership of Comrade Yamaha Saleh, stated that most problems faced by the region, particularly, unemployment, are associated with the youth and which gave birth to many more problems including the lingering insecurity. Part of the statement reads: “Having considered the gravity and closeness of the seats of the Senate President and Speakership of the

House of Representative, we hereby desire a position so vibrant in the North-East and we call on the leadership of the APC to zone the position of the Speaker of the House of representatives to the youth of this region in line with the principle of affirmative action. This will foster growth and further bridge the gap between our ethnic nationalities.” Condemning the use of

god-fatherism, religion, and sectionalism in the choice of national leaders, NYAF added that “we implore and solicit the support of the entire members-elect from the zone to endorse and support this course of our struggles for good representation of the North-East in the country, having considered merit and national importance.” It also condemned the Boko Haram insurgency

in the subregion, calling on the Federal Government to adequately compensate victims of the insurgency and rebuild the area in other to give the people a sense of belonging and further cement the unity of the country. Earlier, NYAF chairman, Comrade Saleh stated that the forum, as a representative of various youth groups in the North-East, was organised with a view to foster progress and ensure unity in the sub region, adding that the forum is particularly concerned with issues relating to youth and women in the region.

Amosun aide assures him of Ijebu’s continuous support Ayo Esan

L-R: President, National Union of Textile Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria, NUTGTWN, Comrade Oladele Hunsu; Kaduna State Governor-elect, Malam Nasir El-Rufai and General-Secretary of the union, Comrade Issa Aremu, during the union’s visit to the governor-elect in Kaduna, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Lagos PDP to discipline those involved in purported removal of its state chairman Ebere Ndukwu

agos State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, yesterday at its headquarters in Lagos said it had set off disciplinary actions on those involved in the purported removal of its chairman, Chief Tunji Shelle Addressing newsmen after an emergency meeting of the state PDP executive council, Shelle said that necessary disciplinary action will be taken against those involved. He said: “We have reported the matter to our Nation-

al Executive Committee, NEC, for advice in accordance with the provisions of PDP constitution. They went too far. They even went as far as storming the party’s state headquarters and dragging away secretariat staff from office. “They are out to sabotage the efforts of the party. Their plans were mooted long before the Lagos PDP primaries. We tried to accommodate their excesses so that their actions will not affect us during the elections.” Shelle said the aim of those involved in the shameful act was noth-

ing but to divide the party along personality lines, promising that they will be sent back to their sponsors. He fingered the emergence of Mr Jimi Agbaje as the party’s flag bearer as one of the reasons the group involved in the alleged removal did what they did, saying: “They were disappointed and have not stopped looking for ways to fight back. “We have no regrets to have presented Agbaje and given another opportunity, I will do the same. We gave the All Progressives Congress, APC, a good fight yet this group did not relent,

they want to hijack the party structure.” Arguing that the election result in the 2015 election in Lagos was the best PDP has had in the state in the last 16 years, the state chairman debunked allegations bothering on campaign funds, saying that candidates of the party in the elections were mobilised directly and not through him. He said he had no plans to contest in the party’s state elective convention billed for 2016, promising to remain focused and hold the party together until next year when a new exco will emerge.

pecial Adviser to Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun on General Duties, Hon. Osinowo Ibrahim, has assured the governor of continuous support of the people of Ijebu-Ode and Ogun-East senatorial district in general despite what happened in the last general elections. In a release issued and signed by Ibrahim yesterday, he said the people of IjebuOde and the people of Ogun East know that Amosun remains the best choice ever in the history of governance in Ogun State in terms of delivering developmental projects and love for the people. He assured Amosun that he is loved by the good people of Ijebu Ode, Ogun East and Ogun State in general, adding: “I am very sure they love him and his government, but some unfaithful elements that are working for the Social Democratic Party, SDP, and Peoples Democratic party, PDP, have portrayed the people of the area as ungrateful elements and betrayed Mr Governor by selling our candidacy to hoodlums for cash.” Lamenting that in the last gubernatorial, National and state Assemblies elections in Ogun-East and Ijebu Ode Local Government Area portrayed the people as ungrate-

ful to have ignored all the efforts and developments the government and Governor Amosun brought to OgunEast and Ijebu Ode, he said: “Our poor performance in the last National Assembly, gubernatorial and state House of Assembly elections in Ogun-East senatorial district shows that we didn’t appreciate the governor and his effort. I call on all the party leaders that sabotage and worked for PDP, especially those that worked for Kashamu Buruji and Wale Alausa’s group to prepare to reap from their ungrateful attitude to Amosun and the All Progressives Congress, APC. “We have facts and figures of some self-acclaimed APC leaders that collaborated with Kashamu/PDP to deny our party the victory at the senatorial polls, likewise the gubernatorial and state Assembly election, despite the strong support the governor has shown to our district and local government.” He said the time has come for a new dawn and promised that Governor Amosun will intensify his effort and bring more developmental projects to Ogun-East and Ijebu Ode during his second term in office; calling on people of Ogun East and Ogun State in general to remain calm “as we progress into the new face of our developmental project and keep believing in Amosun and keep supporting his administration.”

Politics

his is the second time you are coming to the House, people are now jostling for new leadership, what role will you and your party play in the emergence of the new leadership? I want say that I have been in the National Assembly since 1999, as a staff and later a special assistant to two Senate Presidents and in 2011, I contested under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and came to the House. If you remember, there was struggle for leadership then and now the circumstances are different since we are in the minority. But I want to say it clearly that as minority, we still have our numbers. We are about 142 members out of 360 and as minority, we are going to determine the leadership of the House of Representatives, especially the Speaker. We are determined to do that and we want to do it in such a way that we will choose leaders that will have support across party lines and will also look out for the interest of the country and members. It is no longer about All Progressives Congress, APC or PDP, it is about the House of Representatives and what is happening is not a different thing. By the time the 8th House is inaugurated, we are going to elect a Speaker of our choice. The APC has not yet zoned the positions, does that mean that PDP members-elect will also abide by the APC zoning formula? Well, let me say this, let no one make a mistake, the House has a precedence and a scenario that happened in the House since 1999. The PDP then in 1999 wanted Salisu Buhari to become the Speaker, but he didn’t last because he was not the choice of the members, he lasted only two months and Ghali Na’Abba was elected. The same scenario played itself in 2003 the party wanted Hon. Matazu, who was even a returning member, but the members didn’t want him and they elected Hon. Aminu Bello Masari as Speaker. Similar thing happened in 2007 when Hon. Patricia Etteh was imposed on members, they accepted her but after four months, they forced her out and Dimeji Bankole was elected. The same scenario or even more worse than the previous ones happened in 2011, when PDP tried to impose Hon. Mulikat Adeola-Akande and we didn’t want her. So we brought Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal as our Speaker. If the party in power is thinking that things have changed, they will surely be proved wrong. It is not about the party, it is the attitude of the House of Representatives to always go its own way in choosing its leadership. If APC is thinking that members will abide by its zoning arrangement, the same scenario will play because we are all the same members and nothing has changed. It is not about party but about the people. All along, it is the House that has been playing progressive roles that Nigerians are happy with. We are going to do same thing, we will bring a Speaker that we want. We are not undermining any party, but House of Representatives members will do what they want. Nobody should be deceived that the 2011 scenario won’t play itself again, it is a lie. Those who want to go and play cheaply to the gallery will do so but I am telling you today that members of the 8th Assembly will choose the Speaker of their choice irrespective of the zoning. But some members have gone to the media to say that the Tambuwal’s scenario won’t be repeated… That is why I said that nobody should deceive Nigerians because it will be repeated. This is not the first time and it won’t be the last. I have given you the scenarios and examples of what happened since 1999, that whenever the government anoints somebody, members always go their own way. It will even happen now because when you decide to zone the Speakership to a zone for the purpose of one individual, the House will determine who will become the Speaker. Are you saying that the PDP caucus will team up some of your colleagues in the APC as Tambuwal did four years ago? The House Rules has not changed. It is not about political party, it is about who will have the control of the House and lead us right and protect the interest of Nigerians and not that of his godfather. If the party anoints someone we

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

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Why Dogara would emerge House Speaker –Hon. Okwu Hon. Samson Okwu, representing Oju/Obi federal constituency of Benue State under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, says despite the All Progressives Congress, APC, zoning arrangement, lawmakers, specifically the now minority 142-member strength, PDP caucus in the House of Representatives will ultimately decide who emerges Speaker in the incoming 8th Assembly. Okwu tells OMEIZA AJAYI why many new and returning House members back the candidacy of Hon. Yakubu Dogara. relationship between the executive and the legislature. We don’t want somebody who will be a rubber stamp. We don’t want somebody that will be controlled by a godfather. This is a federal House and not a state House of Assembly. We cannot allow anybody like that to emerge as Speaker. The APC leadership should be cautious of this fact because anything the party does to undermine Nigerians we will reject it. Apart from your candidate, there are so many contenders for the post, don’t you think members may not be able to come together to do what you are advocating? Members already know who is the right person and they are just waiting for the right time. That is why you are seeing a lot of endorsements for Dogara from different caucuses across the country. All of us who endorsed Dogara have voting rights in June and it cut across all political parties. But we in the PDP in particular will deliver bloc vote to Dogara.

Okwu

don’t like, we won’t abide by their zoning, more so that we have the number to determine that. The way Nigerians chose General Muhammadu Buhari to become the president, we will also do that. Who then are you supporting for the Speakership? We are solidly behind Hon. Yakubu Dogara as Speaker. And we are determined to deliver him comes June. What are your reasons for supporting Dogara? We want somebody who will rally all members behind him, Dogara is that person who will protect the interest of members and all Nigerians. He does not answer to any godfather. He doesn’t take weekly briefings from a godfather, who lives hundreds of kilometers from Abuja like a puppet. Dogara sees the 359 constituencies as his own constituency. Invariably we are transferring the demands of our constituents to him and we know he is capable of shouldering the responsibilities of the office of the Speaker. We want somebody who will be a team a player as a Speaker and know what to do to protect and maintain the

I will advise the APC to listen carefully to the voice of members-elect

and the present members in the

House. They should

take a lesson from what happened from

date...

1999 to

They should allow

members to choose the

Speaker of their chose.

Are you saying that the 142 PDP members will put their votes in one place? Yes, we will vote as a bloc for one person that we want. The person who we have confidence in and even the likeminds in the APC, irrespective of the party’s zoning arrangement, we are on the same pace with them. Interest of Nigerians is above every personal interest and they too will vote in the same way. So anybody who tells Nigerians that what played out in 2011 won’t happen again he/she is not being sincere. What call do you have to the APC as a party? I will advise the APC to listen carefully to the voice of members-elect and the present members in the House. They should take a lesson from what happened from 1999 to date. Most importantly, when you allow members to choose their own Speaker, peace will rein and that person has a duty to respect the party and to also respect the government in power. They should allow members to choose the Speaker of their chose. You are one of the members of North Central caucus who endorsed Dogara few days back and some of your members published advertorial in some national dailies contradicting it. What actually happened? Some people who will not be in the chamber in the next Assembly are said to have endorsed somebody, but it is useless because they don’t have voting rights. We are the ones that will vote and not the outgoing members. Those who came out to condemn the endorsement are not members of 8th Assembly. They are not members of our caucus. Look at the list; they are outgoing members of the House, but the in-coming members have done their endorsement and they are the ones who have the voting right. What advise do you have for your colleagues? Well, I advise them that they should do what we use to do, we should live up to our responsibility to choose a Speaker that will see to the collective interest of the House and collective interest of Nigerians; a Speaker that will lead us very well as we have seen in Hon. Tambuwal’s leadership. So we want somebody who will follow his footstep. We should not be tribalistic about this matter because we are building a Nigeria that will be one.

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From The Civil Service Ekiti verifies workers to save N500m monthly

P.42

Salary delay: National Assembly staff groan WOLE OLADIMEJI ABUJA

L-R: Minister of Information, Sen. Patricia Akwashiki; Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mr. Sam Worlu and Director of Engineering, Mr. Jerimoth Canice, during the minister’s familiarisation tour of VON in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

NPC commences Nigeria Education Data Survey ADEOLA TUKURU ABUJA

he Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Chief Eze Duruiheoma, has commenced on the field work for the 2015 Nigeria Education Data Survey (NEDS), stating that the plan is to collect information from 30,000 eligible households, that is, households with at least one child from age 4-16, at the time of the 2015 NEDS. According to him, the sum of N400million was disbursed by the Federal Government to conduct the Nigeria Education Data Survey (NEDS) in the country, adding that the money will be distributed

in three interviewers in the period of 3months for allowances and other exigencies. According to him, the survey is expected to interview a total of at least 30,000 parents/ guardians in order to collect data on more than 45,000 children aged 4-16. He said the interview will focus on reasons for not attending school and for dropping out of school, the frequency of pupil absenteeism and reasons for missing schools, the costs of schooling and other issues. “The information will provide insights into the behaviours and attitudes of parents and guardians in the country. The conducts of NEDS marks

NIPOST boosts staff welfare with two buses P.41

another major step by the NPC to respond to the national imperative of providing adequate and relevant data for national planning,” he said. He said the commission conducts and disseminates demographic data collected from censuses; it is believed that effective planning requires more specialized and regular data in order to achieve concrete improvements in the living standards of the people. To ensure that the 2015 NEDS meets its lofty objective of providing he much needed data for educational planning, Duruiheoma , said the commission has adopted a meticulous and scientific approach at every stage of the survey. He further explained

that the survey is designed to generate information on the educational status of the Nigeria population and expectedly, the interviewers will ask a wide range of questions. The NPC, boss urged the respondent to be patient with the interviewers and provide truthful answers to questions asked, noting that information provided will be treated with absolute confidentiality. “As we move towards the conduct of the census in 2016, we solicit for the support of all Nigerians for every segment in our programmes and projects. Census is an economic exercise in which the data generated are used for planning purposes”, he said.

FCT minister gets vote of no confidence P.42

ard times await the civil servants in the National Assembly over the budget slashed from N150 billion to N120billion in the 2015 budget recently passed by both the senate and the House of Representatives. Although the slash was not from the lawmakers but this was contained in what the presidency forward to them to work upon. Since 1999 to now, National Assembly has always being given N150 billion for the senate, the House of Representatives, the National Assembly management and the National Assembly Commission to run their activities. In the present circumstances, National Assembly management was not allow to run the account of either the House nor that of the senate so they are not responsible to the day to day running of the two chambers. It is from the money that all the departments pay salaries and other allowance which some of the top management staff considered to be grossly inadequate, but now this has even be reduced to N120 billion. This reduction is given civil servants in the National Assembly serious headache as they said that this would affect the payment of the monthly salaries and other entitlements. Before now, there were serious corruption going in the system thereby af-

fecting the payment of other allowances and entitlement of staff. This made the workers protested recently over non payment of their entitlement. The. Legislative aides too have many ugly stories to say about non payment of the allowances and severance allowances which made them to sue the National Assembly commission. Presently the case is before the industrial arbitration court in Abuja. They went to court to seek for the full payment of severance, payment of salary arrears, payment of pension and payments of National Health Insurance Scheme. The case was adjourned to 14th of May. The legislative aides at the expiration of each assembly, they are entitled to severance allowances lije the lawmakers but unfortunately, the National Assembly always used their discretion to pay the allowance against the lay down policy for the payment. In the outgoing 7th assembly little or nothing was done to improve the legislation for the good governance because there was no money to fund the committees to perform uptimally, reasons being that the management in connivance with the leadership of both chamber mopped up the money meant for the committees. The senate is even better, in the House of Representatives, it is a sorry case, a situation whereby the clerk of the House would give directive that the money meant to run the committees is cut indiscriminately.

Customs boss explains revenue boost from Seme border P.16

Dikko

Civil Service

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

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Customs boss explains revenue boost from Seme border CHIDI UGWU

WITH AGENCY REPORT

n experimental arrangement between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and its neighbouring counterparts last year, not only gave Nigeria a firmer control of its borders, but also doubled the country’s earnings from Seme land border. The Comptroller Gener-

al of Customs (CGC), Alhaji Dikko Inde Abdullahi disclosed this in Abuja, pointing out that the message of the just concluded Regional Conference of the World Customs Organization (WCO), of West and Central Africa, was to demonstrate that “If we work together, we’ll win, together”. “We had a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with our neighbouring countries first of all; and it

Nurses assert roles in health care deliveries MARCUS FATUNMOLE ABUJA

igerian nurses, under the auspices of National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, NANNM, yesterday restated their significance to guaranteeing effective health care services in the country. This is even as the nurses harped on the need for stakeholders, especially government, to carry them along on issues affecting the sector. The group stated these in Abuja while commemorating this year’s International Nurses Day with the theme “Nurses: A force for Change, Care Effective – Cost Effective.” Speaking through its National President, Adbulrafiu Adeniji, the association said the 2015 International Nurses Day afforded its members another opportunity to renew their commitments to providing care with resilience and versatility as well as become fully involved in health care policy development and decision making. Adeniji reminded the Federal Government to ensure full implementation of the Yayale-Ahmed committee recommendation on human resource for health in the country. The association said while it would give its best to promoting health services in the country, government must always honour whatever agreement it has with the union to foster harmony and productivity in the sector. NANNM urged government to expedite action at

resolving the outstanding demands of the union, which it said prompted its members to embark on strike earlier this year. Nevertheless, the association said irrespective of challenges bedeviling the sector, some successes had been recorded, especially on maternal and child care, while efforts on the Millennium Development Goals, MDGs had yielded only minimal results. “Available data from the last three National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS 2003, 2008, 2013) suggest that some improvement in overall disease burden with 36% improvement in under-five mortality, 37% in maternal mortality while newborn mortality gained a marginal 23% drop. “However, in relation to achieving the MDGs targets, progress is slow and is of grave concern particularly with only 38% coverage by skill birth attendants, 17% who observe exclusive breast feeding, 15% with access to contraceptives and neonatal cases of under-five deaths expanding from 29% in 2010 to33% in 2013 chiefly resulting from preventable causes namely complications during child birth, newborn infections and complications from prematurity (Lancet, May 20, 2014) Hence, it is obvious that the onus is on all health stakeholders and care providers to rise to the challenge to ensure better health outcome,” it stressed. The nurses said also warned of allegedly unhealthy developments in public health facilities in the country.

was sort of experimental to see how it was going to work, if we had put in an agreement”, the CGC stated, noting that it worked. “You can see our neighbouring countries have lived up to expectation of that agreement, whereby goods were exported to our (land) borders by (their) Customs and handed over to us. “It was a very remarkable achievement and we have seen the way the revenue in Seme border skyrocketed, from N500 million to slightly over a billion Naira”, he indicated, stress-

ing that beyond the issue of increased revenue, it also provided the nation with a stronger platform to monitor and control its borders. “They are very much aware of import prohibitions in Nigeria; so they will not allow any deviations to materialize. It is an agreement and understanding on this issue, that whatever is good for Nigeria, would be good for Benin (Republic)”, the Customs arrowhead explained further. The Maritime First observed that the Abuja Conference, which was attended by 23 countries was essen-

tially targeted at tackling three major issues: boosting trade facilitation, effective control of diseases like Ebola Virus and reinforcing platforms for curbing terrorism or insurgency. Zeroing on these, Dr. Dikko Abdullahi said the Nigeria Customs has a lot to do, adding that the officers and men would now be further trained and equipped to increase the surveillance, patrol and screenings within their commands, being polite and professional, while networking with their counterparts from other government’s security agencies,

not only to make arrests, but also to ensure timely handover of suspects who should be further investigated by other agencies. “So, once we arrest a man with arms and ammunition, we should timely hand him over to the appropriate agency. “Customs are stationed at the borders. Customs are stationed at the seaports. So, wherever they are, they would be further equipped to professionally and more effectively perform the job, while networking with other agencies.

L-R: Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Mike Omeri; Consultant Gynaecologist, NORDICA Fertility Centre, Dr. Dipen Prajapati and Assistant Director, Medical/Humanities, NOA, Dr. Abiodun Ayoola, addressing participants at NOA Health Sensitisation programme on Fertility in Abuja, yesterday.

Don’t destabilise NLC, Wabba urges nurses, midwives MARCUS FATUNMOLE ABUJA

resident of Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, Comrade Ayuba Wabba, yesterday urged nurses and midwives in the country not to allow themselves to be used to destabilize the union. Wabba, who emerged President of the NLC from his headship of the nation’s health workforce, except doctors, stated this in Abuja at an event to commemorate this year’s International Nurses Day. Wabba’s victory at the recently conducted NLC leadership polls in Abuja is being challenged by a factional leader of the move-

ment, Joe Ajaero. The NLC President lauded the nurses, including midwives, across the country for their commitments towards ensuring effective health service delivery in the country and charged them on professionalism. He accused the factional group of the union of disrupting the processes that brought him to leading the NLC. He also fingered the immediate past InspectorGeneral of Police, Abba Suleiman, and the Abuja command of the nation’s police of aiding the commotion that characterized the exercise. While seeking the support of the nurses and midwives, Wabba said: “It is unfortunate that some people

have used themselves as agents of destabilization. I want to make this point, because I am aware that nursing union was represented at the last conference by 120 delegates, which is unprecedented. I want to salute your courage for supporting the cause... “You cannot be used as agents of destabilization. This is a movement that belongs to all of us. Therefore, you should resist any attempt by any force to disrupt this movement because we stand to gain a lot if we work as a team and we are there to represent only the interest of workers whom we are privileged to represent,” he added. He also called for probe of privatization of the

country’s power sector, even as he alleged that his rival’s (Ajaero) team illicitly used part of the monies realized from the privatization to fund his election. He accused his Ajaero for using the money to undermine and monetize the union’s election. He also condemned state of electricity in the country. His words: “For the past eight years, over $40 million dollars has actually been committed into the power sector. The evil there was even the privatization of it. From 4000 megawatts, the output is now hovering around not higher than 2000 megawatts. Despite the resources we are putting in, look at what we are getting.

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Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Looking at the bigger picture of our new democracy A KINTOKUNBO A. A DEJUMO

ver independence in 1960, Nigeria seems to have been living on the edge; living dangerously, like the adrenalin-junkies of the extreme sports scene, so to speak, tottering on the edge of the precipice, and generally courting one political disaster or the other, and surviving, incredibly. She has been an amalgam of comedy of errors and journeys into fear and desperation, so much so that several western countries, especially the United States, in exasperation, had often predicted her break-up in anarchic and possibly traumatic fashion. Yet, every time - 1965 post-election violence in the Western Region, the pogroms that led to the civil war (1967-1970); countless unsuccessful and successful coup d’état; ethnoreligious conflicts; kidnappings and terrorisms; vicious dictatorships and electoral violence, massive looting and corruption of leaders, etc - Nigeria just about manages to be pulled off the edge by some unseen hand in the nick of time, and goes on as if nothing has happened, its citizens happy to continue with their sedate and contented ways of life, and the leaders live to fight again, while the whole watching world heaves another sigh of relief and shake their heads in awe at the resilience of these peo-

ple called Nigerians. It is an incredible phenomenon. Yet another proof of this uniquely Nigerian phenomenon was voiced by ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo recently in Washington DC when he said: “Countries across the African continent are happy over the outcome of the presidential election in Nigeria, which saw the defeat of incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan… President Goodluck Jonathan was a moving train who was providentially stopped from collapsing Nigeria”. The former president described Nigeria as a country that obsessively plays “a dangerous game of moving close to the precipice…. The country came close to disintegration in the run-up to the 2015 elections, but switched swiftly to the path of redemption after the polls”. Obasanjo observed that Nigeria’s tendency to flirt with near-death experiences stretches back to the colonial times when it almost cost the country the chance of gaining political independence from Britain. “I hope we will not fall over one of these days,” he added. So do I. So I consider it rather unfortunate that some short-sighted, aggrieved and selfish unpatriotic politicians and their followers are taking the unprecedented defeat of an incumbent president, and therefore, the defeat of the ruling PDP to an opposition party as personal political and mate-

Football is a game, respect is not ODEYELE AYODEJI FOLAYELE

oo often, we tend to base our judgement on what we think or what we understand, and not on what happened. Even with a total level of dignity, we tend to celebrate those who achieve success through dubious manners, making victims speechless and helpless. It was the evening of July 9, 2006. This was the world cup final between France and Italy. More than 750 millions football fans were ready to watch the match and also to see off one of the best footballers to grace the game. The stage was set for Zinedine Zidane to make his exist. He scored a well taken penalty and after the scoreline level to 1-1. That was when one of the most funny and heartbreaking scenario occurred. The English commentator said: “I can’t believe this, Zidane’s career is in disgrace’’ because he head butted Marco Materazzi. Many took it personal because they couldn’t understand why a footballer of such calibre would do that on the game’s highest stage. With his action, Zidane’s name was dragged to the mud and not until after the match was won by Italy. Many did not care about what really happened between Marco and Zidane. Marco must have said something really offensive, because while Zidane was leaving the pitch he showed no sense of remorse at all. Marco Materazzi became a national hero after the 2006 world cup for Italy and Zidane became Judas, who betrayed his

TOO OFTEN, WE

TEND TO BASE OUR JUDGEMENT ON WHAT WE THINK OR WHAT WE UNDERSTAND,

AND NOT ON WHAT HAPPENED nation due to what many considered “protection of his own honour” over national honour. There are many stories attached to what really happened, many said Marco insulted Zidane’s mother, while many said Marco insulted Zidane’s sister. But according to a documentary titled, 50 Most Shocking Moments In World Cup History, one of the commentators said there was a rumour about Zidane that while was playing for Juventus FC under coach Lippo, he did something crazy with some merchants, and that Lippo, the Italian coach in the final against France, had earlier told Marco to mention this to Zidane just to see what the reaction would be. We all saw his reaction. Zidane himself narrated his part on this issue and, of course, tendered his apology to the children who shouldn’t see him do the head, especially on a world stage like that. But he refused to apologise to Marco. In his words; “Things happen on the pitch. It’s hap-

DISCERNING NIGERIANS SHOULD BE RELIEVED THAT A

CHANGE HAS

COME OVER OUR PEOPLE rial loss, rather than exercising and expanding their brains and look at the bigger picture for the benefit of the common good. Such people are devoid of any progressive and development interest of Nigeria, Nigerians and the larger African continent. I have always posited that Nigeria Elections 2015 has never been about Jonathan or Buhari, or PDP and APC or any other political party or candidates. I believe well-meaning, sincere and truly patriotic Nigerians should be looking at the procedures and outcome of these elections as a maturing experience in the democratic process that we have embraced. Discerning Nigerians should be relieved that a CHANGE has come over our people – that even the grassroot people are now gradually recognising what democracy is about, are embracing it, and most importantly are exercising their rights as a people and citizens of this world. They are finally realising that their votes will always count, unlike before where unscrupulous, evil, greedy and selfish politicians hijack the people’s expressed electoral will. My people are now gradually realising and happy in the knowledge that

pened to me many times. But I could not stand it there. It is not an excuse. But my mother was ill. She was in hospital. This people did not know. But it was a bad time. More than once they insulted my mother and I never responded. And [then] it happened again. To apologise for this? No. “If it was Kaká, a regular guy, a good guy, of course I would have apologised. But not to this one. If I ask him for forgiveness, I lack respect for myself and for all those I hold dear with all my heart. I apologise to football, to the fans, to the team. After the game, I went into the dressing room and told them: ‘Forgive me. This doesn’t change anything. But sorry, everyone. But to him I cannot. Never, never. It would be to dishonour me. I’d rather die”. Marco said he insulted Zidane’s sister and not the mother. He said that when Zidane offered to give him his France jersey after the final whistle, in response persistent shirt-tugging by the Italian, he had replied: “I would prefer your sister.” Materazzi insisted, however, that he should not be blamed for sparking the incident. “I did not cause it,” he told Gazzetta. “I answered verbally with a provocation to defend myself.”Yes, I was tugging his shirt, but when he said to me scornfully ‘If you want my shirt so much I’ll give it to you afterwards’, is that not a provocation? I answered that I’d prefer his sister, it’s true. “It’s not a particularly nice thing to say, I recognize that. But loads of

they are the architects of their own lives, and that they are embracing a system of government and electing their own government, which allows them to determine their own destiny and reap the benefits derived from the vast wealth and resources of their own country. Yes, this development is good for Nigerians, it is good for Africa and it is indeed good for the world. Put in the proper perspective, the new reality is such that Nigerians should not see CHANGE that has come over the country as a defeat for President Jonathan and victory for Buhari, rather it is a defeat to visionless and corrupt leadership and mismanagement of our country’s vast resources; it is a triumph of democracy in Africa. We are now assured in the knowledge and praxis that in four years’ time, barring any attempt to scupper our gains, our vote will count again, and we can vote Buhari and his APC government out (as well as any wayward state governors, senators, representatives, assembly members, councillors and local government chairpersons) if they are not doing what we elected them to do; or what we want and expect them to do. That is the sweetness of democracy. It is sweet if we do it right. It is beneficial if we do it right. Adejumo wrote from London via akinadejum@aol.com

players say worse things ... I didn’t even know he had a sister before all this happened,” added Materazzi. All said and done, the question this writer tends to answer is simple but very logic because in a scene like this many tend to blame Zidane far more than Materazzi, who was the architect of this disturbing issue. Was Materazzi right to insult Zidane’s sister, at least which was what he said? And was Zidane right to head butt Marco? Zidane was wrong and his actions aren’t justifiable, but Materazzi deserves to be well punished for his utterances whether it was against Zidane’s mother or sister; what is wrong is wrong and nothing justifies what is wrong. His club and country took no action on his utterances, making him to be justified, the French society took it serious and many still hold Zidane responsible for the loss for protecting his mother or sister has the case maybe. If Marco had been punished, it would have been a good signal to the rest of the world that football is just a game, but respect is not. Odeyele works at the National Universities Commission, Abuja. 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.

Editorial

Wednesday, May 13, 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 SEYI FASUGBA DAILY EDITOR GBEMI OLUJOBI SATURDAY EDITOR AYO OLESIN SUNDAY EDITOR BEN MEMULETIWON GENERAL EDITOR DOZIE OKEBALAMA COORDINATOR, EDITORIAL BOARD CALLISTUS OKE EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR ISE-OLUWA IGE ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF AUGUSTUS IMEKAN ACTING HEAD, GRAPHICS

Police and protection of citizens

hat several Nigerians are drawing attention to the need to grow the personnel strength and equipment of the Nigeria Police Force did not come as a surprise. What with growing insecurity and related crimes – violent robbery, ritual killing, rape, kidnapping, fraud and massive economic crimes, insurgency and even terrorism! Indeed, a couple of days ago, a national daily (not National Mirror) credited some experts as saying that kidnappings will continue for as long as 370,000 policemen are protecting 174 million Nigerians! Last January, the chairman, Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Paulinus Nwagwu Igwe, complained that the nation was grossly under-policed and that the Nigeria Police was not properly equipped to effectively carry out its functions. “The truth is that our borders are very porous. We have thousands of border areas that are not adequately manned or policed. This is why insurgents can take over several local council areas and mount flags”, he stated. He said that Ghana, a fellow West African country with far less population, had more police personnel than Nigeria. “It makes intelligence gathering look like a child’s play…We are still lagging behind in World Policing Index…

…GHANA, A FELLOW WEST AFRICAN COUNTRY WITH FAR LESS POPULATION, HAD MORE

POLICE PERSONNEL THAN

NIGERIA

We want to make sure that the Police are friendly, civilized with improved living standards in order to make it acceptable…”, Igwe said. Cognizance must also be taken of the fact that frustrating security problems and the lacklustre manner the nation’s centralised police respond to them are at the root of endless agitations for state police by some sections of the country. The United Nations’ recommendation is that a minimum police strength/ratio of 222 per 100,000 or 1: 450 of every population is imperative for the effective protection of citizens, globally. Documented figures, however, indicated that as at 2012, the total numerical strength of the Nigeria Police Force was 350,000, distributed at a ratio of 205 policemen to every 100,000 of the estimated entire population of 168.8 million at the time. A recent report, however, said with a population of 173.6 million people (World Bank 2013 estimate), the country is being se-

cured by about 370,000 policemen, giving at a ratio of one policeman to 467 Nigerians. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo made efforts to bridge the shortfall, when in 2000 he approved the recruitment of 4,000 personnel per year over the next five years. Two years after, however, the recruitment drive was scuttled as a result of irregularities and corruption. We recall that at a time, Obasanjo lamented that common criminals were being recruited into the Nigeria Police. We agree that the nation is underpoliced, and that it may do better in the management of its security challenges if the additional personnel, modern weaponry and equipment, as well as improved remuneration and motivation needs of the police are sufficiently addressed. But the use to which the government and police high command put the small number of available police personnel at their disposal leaves much to be desired. In a country that is so under-policed, as has been rightly pointed out, a very large number of policemen are, for instance, assigned to protect top government functionaries and business moguls, even when whole communities lack police protection. Countless escort vehicles that could be used by the police to secure the majority are usurped by the privileged, sometimes vainglori-

ON THIS DAY May 13, 2006 A major rebellion occurred in several prisons in Brazil. The violence began after 40 Sao Paulo police officers were killed by gang violence. Subsequently, police officers sought to find the gang members behind the criminal acts. In the process, violence erupted, leading to clashes between law enforcement officials and criminals, involving the deaths of over 150 people. It was the worst violence recorded in Brazilian history.

May 13, 2011

Two bombs exploded in the Charsadda District of Pakistan resulting in the deaths of 98 people, with 140 others injured. The explosions occurred while cadets were getting into buses for a ten-day leave after a training course. It was the deadliest attack in Pakistan since the death of al-Qaeda founder, Osama bin Laden. Speculations had it that it was a retaliatory attack on Pakistan over her supposed link with Bin Laden’s death.

ously, to the detriment of the larger population. Indeed, the police in the country are so abused by officialdom that most critics view them as constituted strictly to protect the interest of the government of the day and those running it; and oppress the people. Even with their scant number and equipment, the police in Nigeria would have been more effective than is the case at present, with prudent deployment and management. In addition, the nation’s gargantuan security challenges underscores the wisdom in surrendering the nation’s police to the central government. It is baffling that the Federal Government is not only reluctant to concede state and local government police, considering how vast the nation is, but has failed to encourage community policing, to make intelligence gathering, identification and apprehension of criminals easier; nor has the government invested sufficient commitment to the installation of Closed Circuit Television Cameras even in Abuja, the nation’s capital; or Lagos, the country’s economic hub, to assist in fighting crime. Therefore, any step taken to improve the performance of the Nigeria Police is welcome. But such a step should necessarily start with the firm resolve of the authorities not to subject the police to further abuse.

May 13, 2014 An explosion at an underground coal mine in southwestern Turkey killed 301 miners. But some politicians claimed that the number dead were more than 340. The mine, operated by coal producer, Soma Komur Isletmeleri A. S., suffered an explosion, the cause of which was still under investigation. The fire occurred at the mine’s shift change; and 787 workers were underground at the time of the explosion.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Health & Wellbeing Early detection, only cure for breast cancer —Salako 22

EU approves new lung cancer drug 21

Nigerians walk for asthma FRANKA OSAKWE

ven with current statistics showing that no fewer than 6 million Nigerians, mostly children, have asthma or symptoms suggestive of the chronic condition, the nation joined the rest of the world to mark the World Asthma day last Tuesday amidst assurance by experts that asthmatics can achieve full control of the disease with appropriate control measures Organized worldwide by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), this year’s edition with the theme, “You Can Control Your Asthma” has been designed to emphasize recent developments showing that effective asthma treatments exist and with proper diagnosis, education, and treatment, the great majority of asthma patients can achieve and maintain control of their disease condition. When asthma is under control, patients can live full and active lives. GINA estimates that more than 300 million people around the world have asthma with over 250,000 deaths recorded annually. The disease also imposes a heavy burden on individuals, families, and societies. In Nigeria, a major highlight of the activities marking this year’s event was a walk and symposium organised by multinational pharmaceutical company, GlaxoSmithKline, the world’s biggest manufacturers of medications for asthma control in collaboration with the Elias Nelson Oyedokun Foundation (ENOF), Speaking at the symposium, Dr. Omolabake Okunubi, Medical Science Liaison, GSK Nigeria, described asthma as a long-ter m lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. According to her, the condition causes recurring periods of wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe), chest tightness, shortness of breath and cough. She disclosed that the condition represents 1% of the total global disease burden while it accounts for an estimated 250,000 death every year worldwide. Dr. Okunubi however noted that asthmatics can achieve total control of their condition, to the extent that asthma will not have to limit their lives any longer. Unfortunate-

•You can control it, experts tell asthmatics

Cross session of Volunteers at the 2015 World Asthma Day walk sponsored by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in collaboration with Elias Nelson Oyedokun Foundation (ENOF) held in Lagos last week.

ly, she disclosed, data have shown that a majority of patients in Nigeria and most parts of the world are still uncontrolled despite frequent visits to their doctors or phar macists. She described uncontrolled asthma as a serious concern because it causes patients to experience symptoms such as shortness of breath and disturbed sleep. Also, she said, uncontrolled asthma patients use more healthcare resources and because they overestimate their control and under-report their symptoms, it makes it difficult for doctors to assess asthma control correctly. According to the GINA Global

EXPERTS SAY THE INCIDENCE OF ASTHM ASTHMA IS ON THE INCREASE IN NIGERIA ALONG

WITH ITS ATTENDIN ATTENDING MORTALITY Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention (2007), asthma control means that a person with asthma has: • No (or minimal) asthma symptoms. • No waking at night due to asthma.

• No (or minimal) need to use “reliever” medication. • The ability to do normal physical activity and exercise. • Normal (or near-normal) lung function test results (PEF and FEV1). • No (or very infrequent) asthma attacks. Experts say the incidence of asthma is on the increase in Nigeria along with its attending mortality. Majority of asthma patients are under - diagnosed and those diagnosed are not receiving adequate management. Also, there is a general low level of awareness about the disease, especially its chronic nature and various strategies for its treatment.

Health & Wellbeing

Nutrition for Health chizobanwobu@yahoo.com 08120807588 (sms only)

sually, people gaining more weight as a result of increased consumption of junk foods, sugary drinks, sodas, high fat diets, processed foods, etc. To burn off these calories therefore, I recommend you follow these steps: Dispose off all junk foods like burgers, french fries, cakes, sweets, etc; increase intake of fiber because this will help clean out pounds of “toxic junk” from the digestive system and help you feel fuller. High-fiber foods include: legumes, nuts and seeds, whole-grain products, fruits and vegetables. Stay away from sugar intake that is artificial sweeteners and other sugar substitutes including soft drinks, sodas, ice cream, chewing gum, baked foods, biscuits, candy/sweets and fruit juice. Sugar lowers one’s immune system and this is highly addictive. Excessive consumption of sugars has been linked with several metabolic abnormalities

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

What to do to shed calories

and adverse health conditions, as well as shortfalls of essential nutrients. Drinking lots of water everyday is vital because this would help flush the system and improve one’s natural calorie-burning metabolism. Water suppresses hunger and aids digestion. If you are not properly hydrated you would not burn calories as fast as you could. It is also vital to indulge in a juice fast once a week. With a juice diet, you can supply your body with enough nutrients that are easily digested, a oneday juice diet can ease digestive burden and enhance ongoing detoxification to some degree. It is a concentrated period of rest for the digestive organs, and an opportunity for the organs that are responsible for ongoing detoxification that is the liver, kidneys, skin, and lungs, to do a little extra health-promoting work. Drinking just one freshly pressed juice each day is also a reliable way of infusing the body with a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that can protect the cells

Chizoba Benson

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

against premature aging and disease. But if one is diabetic and blood sugar level is high, it is necessary to use a blood sugar monitor to determine the quantity of fruits and vegetables consumed. However, to experience a truly effective period of intense cleansing, exposing oneself to much fresh air; getting as much physical and emotional rest as possible; staying hydrated with water-rich foods and liquids and minimizing exposures to external and internal toxins is vital. Bear in mind that the positive effects of an intense period of cleansing will last only as long as one’s dietary and lifestyle choices support health. Full body cleansing never stops, it is always happening at the pace that your daily choices allow. If you want to experience your best health, your job is to support your body’s self-cleansing mechanisms every day. Physical exercise twice a day for 30 to 45 minutes a session is another vital factor. Exercise is associated with the loss of body fat in both obese and normal weight persons. A regular

program of exercise is an important component of any plan to help individuals lose, gain or maintain their weight. The best way to control weight is a combination of regular exercise programme and increasing the amount of physical activity in the daily routine. Adopting an active lifestyle such as recre-

ational pursuits like gardening on weekends, family outings, walking to the neighbourhood grocery store instead of using a car, walking up the stairs instead of using the elevator, etc. These little bits of actions when added together results in a sizeable amount of energy used over the course of the day.

Sexual solutions and love products for adults

ello all. Today we will be discussing new novelties that can help us get the best out of their love lives. But first I have a question for those of us in long term relationships. Do you sometimes fantasize about being with another man or woman, just to feel something different? Of course you do. Unfortunately, it is against marriage and dating rules but guess what? There are ways we can drive up the excitement in our relationships without cheating. Adult movies for couples is the perfect vehicle for achieving this, because they enable couples temporarily pretend they are with someone else. And that is exactly what you get from the following new films: One Wild and Crazy Night, Billionaire, Public Service, The Last Rose and Nurse’s Diary. We also have new educational adult movies with tutors that teach specific love making skills. Some of them are Adam & Eve’s Legendary Sex Positions, The Revised Guide to Kinky Sex and Guide to Bondage. We also have new toys for men and women. For women, we have the Latin American Wooper Strap – On, a toy for women that is closer to our skin color than all the others. And for fans of anal play, we have the Anal Pleaser Vibrating Butt Plug and the Anal Fantasy Power Beads. And here is a toy that many men will be excited about. It is small and cheap but works wonders. It is the Misha Vibrating Cockring. Have you ever wished you could last longer in bed? Do you occasionally lose your erection before or during intercourse? If the answer is yes, then the Misha Vibrating Cockring is perfect for you. Just wear this small rubberlike device at the base of an erect penis during intercourse and you will last for up to twenty five minutes

in bed. Even if you ejaculate after two or three minutes, you will remain erect for an additional twenty minutes or more. This gives you enough time to get some work done on your woman and make your ancestors proud. It is important that couples keep enlightening themselves on how to pleasure each other and keep their marriages together. To achieve this, men and women everywhere can certainly benefit from the following two new books. They are Nancy Armstrong’s Big Bad Ass Book of Sex and Lisa Sussman’s Orgasm: Over 100 Truly Explosive Tips. And last for today is a new product that can help men gain the sexual energy and stamina with which to perform. It is the Libido Power Gum. You chew it just like chewing gum and it fills you with energy especially for men who complain about being too tired to have more than one session of intercourse. But for those who lack erection completely, you can always fall back on Rhino 5 or X Again Platinum supplement. These two products are not new but they are back in stock and remain our best products for a solid erection, an enlarged penis and to stop premature ejaculation too. Let us now take a question from one of our readers. My doctor diagnosed me with low genital arousal after I complained to him that I have lost interest in sex, no matter how my husband touches me. But so far, the hospital has not told me how this can be solved – Chiamaka Dear Chiamaka, hospitals specialise in treating diseases. That is why they cannot help you because you don’t have a disease. This is our area. As women and men get older, their sexual capabilities begin to wither. This is normal but fixable. I recom-

mend the following four products to help stimulate and revive your sexual responsiveness. First, you need the supplement Kangaroo for Her. It is a wonderful and powerful aphrodisiac for women and it helps increase sexual desire, vaginal lubrication and sensitivity to stimulation. Kangaroo for Her is all natural and one capsule of it works for up to three days. So be ready for three days of intense sexual desire each time you take it. Secondly, get the Encounter Orgasm Gel and the Diamond Heart Rabbit Vibrator. These two products will stimulate you from the outside to great effect. And the fourth product will provide visual stimulation for you. It is an adult movie and I recommend the movie Two. Use these products as directed and your love life will be transformed beyond your wildest dreams – Uche And that is it for today. Adults in need of the above novelties

and treatments can call us on 08027901621 or 08051924159 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www. zeevirtualmedia.com. We deliver to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries email us at custserv@zeevirtualmedia. com - Uche Edochie, MD/CEO, Zee Virtual Media.

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Health & Wellbeing

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

EU approves new lung cancer drug

ultinational pharmaceutical company, Novartis has announced the approval by the European Commission of its lung cancer drug, Zykadia for the treatment of adult patients with positive advanced

non-small cell lung cancer known as anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) in medical parlance. This approval provides patients with advanced ALK+ NSCLC previously treated with crizotinib, a new treatment option that specifi-

cally targets the genetic makeup of their cancer. “Molecular testing for genetic drivers in lung cancer plays a critical role as patients and physicians determine how to proceed with therapies, especially after

they have experienced disease progression following initial treatment,” said Stefania Vallone, international relations, Women Against Lung Cancer in Europe and board member, Lung Cancer Europe (LuCE). “Patients with resistant

ALK+ NSCLC have had very few treatment options available that specifically target the genetic makeup of their disease. The approval of Zykadia brings new hope to the lung cancer community as we continue to advocate for innovative therapies.” Each year, there are 1.6 million people diagnosed worldwide with lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer death. The most common type of lung cancer is NSCLC, accounting for 85-90% of all cases. Of those, 2-7% are driven by a rearrangement of the ALK gene, which increases the growth of cancer cells and can be identified by a molecular test of the cancer tumor. Despite significant

treatment advances for patients with ALK+ NSCLC, disease progression is often inevitable and more treatment options are needed. The EU approval of Zykadia is based on data from two global, multicenter, open-label, single-arm studies [Study A (also known as ASCEND-1) and Study B (also known as ASCEND-2)]. Data from Study A demonstrated patients with ALK+ NSCLC who received Zykadia 750 mg daily after previous treatment with chemotherapy followed by an ALK inhibitor experienced an overall response rate (ORR) of 56.4%[1]. Detailed results from Study B will be presented at an upcoming medical congress.

Nurses partner Unilever on child healthcare FRANKA OSAKWE L-R: Brand Building Director, Unilever Nigeria, Nsima Ogedi-Alakwe; Senior Lecturer, Department of Human Nutrition, University of Ibadan, Dr Folake Samuel and Vice President, Brand Building for Unilever, Robbert de Vreede, during a press conference on the Impact of Iron Deficiency Anaemia organised by Unilever Nigeria in partnership with the Nutrition Society of Nigeria in Lagos, recently.

Prosecuting doctors for maternal death will not reduce rate –SOGON FRANKA OSAKWE

doctor’s act of negligence or lack of care for women during pregnancy or child birth can result in maternal death. However, prosecuting the medical officer will not prevent or reduce reoccurrence of maternal mortality, said The First National Vice President, Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Dr. Ireti Akintola, while delivering a lecture on Maternal Death Review (MDR). In his key note address at the forum on MDR, by Development Communications, Dr. Akintola explained MDR, as a kind of medical audit. “In medical audit, you look at the actions that were taken, and then you juxtapose it with what should have been done so as to find out what the short comings are. This will help you take appropriate action to forestall future reoccurrence. For instance, if you find out a patient died because there is no blood, you make arrangement for blood to be available so that next time such death will be prevented”, he said. While noting that MDR can be an effective tool for the

reduction of maternal death, he said it can only make impact when the intention is not to punish the medical officer. “If you want to get it right in MDR, the emphasis should not be on punishing the medical doctor but on reduction of maternal death. I think it’s better for mothers not to die than finding out who made them die” he added. Explaining about the challenges of maternal health in Lagos Primary Health Centres (PHC’s), Dr Fawsat Sanni Director of Medical Services Lagos State Primary Health Board, said there is still no effective referral system between the PHC’s and the secondary health institutions. “I have followed a patient in an ambulance, from the PHC to a general hospital for an emergency situation, only for us to reach there and discover that there is no bed space so she cannot be admitted. Then again, the ambulance services at the PHC’s are not sufficiently coordinated for effective referrals”, she said. She stated other factors militating against quality maternal care at the PHC’s such as; Ignorance, Poverty, inaccessibility and

affordability of medical services,inadequate manpower especially doctors and midwives at the primary, secondary and tertiary level of care, inadequate blood transfusion services at the secondary and tertiary centres, Prevalence of traditional birth attendants at the community level, the 3 delays: delay in decision making, delay in transportation and delay in the facility at accessing services. However, in order to maintain safe delivery, Dr. Sanni disclosed that the outcome of labour depends on the preparedness of the health care personnel to respond to all

emergency situation. In addition, she said the Traditional Birth Attendants remains a critical source of care for pregnant women particularly in hard to reach communities. “There should be increased access to skilled birth attendant operating 24/7 with laid out shift for staff, the PHC’s should be equipped with Basic Emergency obstetric care (BEOC) and must have link with facilities for Comprehensive Emergency obstetric care (CEOC). There should be adequate personnel, a designated ambulance with 3 drivers to work shifts should also be on ground”, she added.

urses, under the aegis of National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, NANNM have entered a partnership agreement with Unilever Nigeria to help deliver the right level of healthcare services to children and child-bearing mothers across the country. Speaking at the occasion, the National President of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, Comrade Adeniji Abdurafiu Alani said the partnership is aimed at taking healthcare services to families and children down to the grass root level through them. “We are doing this to empower our people and you know with health, wealth will come easily focus is to cater for nurses and make

their services more valuable to the public. “We believe that with our collaboration, people who are most vulnerable like women of child bearing age and children of school age will benefit a lot. And without them being cared for, the health indices of the country will be nose diving as children are so vulnerable because they are prone to certain preventable diseases which include worm infestation, malaria and any form of endemic diseases that are predominant in Afric.” he said. Also, the Brand Building Director, Unilever Nigeria, Mr. David Okeme explained that the collaboration was part of effort to make health information available to parents, adding that such information could be effectively disseminated through the help of nurses.

Avon partners SNEPCo on health insurance SEKINAH LAWAL

ealth Insurance Company, Avon Healthcare Ltd (Avon HMO), has partnered with Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) to provide qualitative and affordable healthcare at Iyi-Enu Mission Hospital for communities in Idemili LGA and its environs. Speaking on the partnership, Adesimbo Ukiri, MD/ CEO of Avon HMO said:

“When we met with the key leaders, it was clear that the health of their community was paramount and nonnegotiable. This communitybased health insurance plan provides an ideal opportunity for the people of Idemili to take control of their health.” The Idemili Community Health Insurance Plan kicked off earlier this year and is fast gaining traction. Following subscription, members are able to enjoy access to primary health services and selected second-

ary health services at the recently refurbished Iyi-Enu Hospital, the sole designated healthcare Provider. Free from the burden of outof-pocket payment, all the member has to do to access care is simply present their ID card at the Hospital. The Iyi-Enu Hospital lies in the heart of the community and was refurbished by SNEPCo in 2014. Ukiri commended SNEPCo for improving quality and efficiency of health service delivery in the area. She also

praised the Anambra State government for its support in making the project possible. Reverend Nwoye has a health plan for his entire family. He said that subscription had made accessing care easy, convenient and affordable. “No one I have spoken to has complained about paying the premium as they know that if they fall sick, even once in a year, the money they will spend on treatment and drugs at the hospital will be much more.”

Health & Wellbeing

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Early detection, only cure for breast cancer â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Salako Why these much focus on breast cancer? Breast cancer is currently the most common cancer in Nigeria. Right now, there is no sufficient knowledge on the causes of breast cancer therefore early detection remains the cornerstone of breast cancer control. When breast cancer is detected early, and if adequate diagnosis and treatment are available, there is a good chance that breast cancer can be cured. If detected late, however, curative treatment is no longer an option. In such case, palliative care to relief the suffering of patients and their families is needed. Every year, majority of women in Nigeria are diagnosed with breast cancer, majority of these people present late at the advanced stage which is incurable. If more women present at early stages, we would have more breast cancer survivors. How can a woman carry out breast self-examination? Breast self-examination is a conscious effort to examine, (touch and look) at your breast for any abnormal changes. This should be done every 5-7 days after the menstrual flow. Menopausal and breast feeding mothers without menstral flow can pick a date out of every month to carry out their breast check. You can examine your breast while standing or lying down. To examine your breast while standing before the mirror; look at your breasts with your arms beside you and with your hands on your head. Look for any changes in the shape, size, and contour of each breast, skin appearance and nipple. It is normal to find one breast is slightly bigger than the other. Again, use your right hand to examine left breast and your left hand for right breast. Using the pads of your three middle fingers, apply firm pressure to your breast. Start at the outer edge and work around your breast in circles getting closer to your nipple with each circle. Gently squeeze each nipple between your index fingers and thumb to check for discharge or blood. During breast self examination, what are the signs to look out for? Consult your doctor immediately if you detect a lump or thickening in the breast, a change in skin texture such as dimpling, orange peel appearance, redness or a rash on the breast skin around the nipple, a change in the size and shape of the breast, constant pain in the breast or armpit. You should also consult your doctor for clinical assessment if you notice swelling in the armpit or collarbone and nipple discharge.

Last year, a non-governmental organisation on breast cancer, Sebeccly Cancer Care, emerged, having frontline such as Nollywood actress, Chioma Akpota, and First Lady of Lagos State, Dame Abimbola Fashola, championing the course. In a rugged campaign on breast cancer last year, the organisation illuminated the national stadium all pink for seven days and decorated four public parks. Speaking with journalists in Lagos recently, the founder, Dr. Omolola Salako, said the organisation will carry out more cancer eradication and awareness programmes coming October. Franka Osakwe was there. Excerpt. There are many reasons why changes may occur in your breast, most are harmless but still, there is a need to check out every breast change just to be sure of what is causing the changes. Breast cancer screening detects unsuspected breast cancer at an early stage so that early treatment can improve survival. Sebeccly Cancer Care and support centre recommends regular breast self examination from age 20, clinical breast cancer examination from 20 years, and mammogram every year from age 45 years. What is Sebeccly cancer care all about? Sebeccly cancer is an organization committed to improving cancer survival rates in women. It is an organization that has over the years supported cancer patients with resources, services, grants, aid. It is dedicated to professional development of cancer specialists, it also has a robust cancer information service that promotes breast awareness. All of these are for women to present early rather than late, so that they can have the true chance of surviving breast cancer. Last year, the initiative launched the Sebeccly mastectomy cancer initiative at General Hospital Lagos, which is to support 50 breast cancer patients. The Sebeccly chemotherapy and radiotherapy access initiative in Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) is supporting about 10 patients right now and will continue to support. We have a cap figure of about 100 patients. Tell us about your â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Light Lagos Pinkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; project? The purpose of light Lagos pink 2015, is to support more cancer patients, last year we were able to support 100, but this year we are looking at quadrupling thing number. At the last edition of the light Lagos pink, we engaged and educated over 2 million people through our cancer information booths, social media platform and community events. Women were thought how to do the breast self-examination, we conducted clinical breast examinations, gave a call to action to at-

Salako

tend mammogram screening. This year promises to be even bigger. We intend to illuminate and decorate over 100 buildings and parks, set up over 150 information booths to create awareness on early detection of breast cancer. We also intend to engage 10,000 individuals who will wear pink in support of the campaign and have at least 6 million people creating awareness through social media. We also will be building the first cancer survivorship center in Nigeria. Cancer Survivorship center is that place that helps women who are recently diagnosed with cancer to come to terms with it to learn how to cope with the disease. It is a center that promotes survivorship information and access to cancer care. Aside the awareness campaign, is the organization engaged in other cancer eradication activities?

Yes, we have our access to cancer aid initiatives. For women to survive cancer, they need to access care. There are some women who cannot afford to access care so we come to their aid through our access to cancer aid initiative. We believe that indigent patients are found in the teaching hospitals, because these are the people who are not able to afford the private hospital fees. At General Hospital, Lagos, we have the Sebeccly mastectomy cancer initiative which is for women who cannot afford to do surgery and need assistant and the Sebeccley chemotherapy at LUTH. These initiatives have a strict process for people to benefit; they have to go through the medical social workers department who will confirm that the patients are indigent before they can access the treatment. We already have treatment centers so why the cancer survivor-

ship center? For a woman to survive cancer, first knowledge is very important. Although hospitals are equipped with man power, treatment centers and equipment, but the patients need more than that. They need information from survivors, they need to understand the role of diet, exercise, treatment for their entire wellbeing. The survivorship center encompasses all these; it generally guides the patients from the beginning and gives them a better chance of survivor. What is your expectation from the incoming government regarding cancer care in Nigeria? A new government is coming and we are all heralding change. But one thing I want is for government to include and implement cancer care in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) so that 80 per cent of cancer patients can stop paying out of pocket. We are not saying the government should take care of the entire bill but we are saying they should take care of some of the bills; if the patient pays for surgery, the government should pay for radiotherapy, it should be a shared formula. In that way, more women will access care and they will have a better chance of survival. How can people contribute in this initiative? People can contribute in a lot of ways. It is a collaborative thing. We need people to come out and donate, participate and support the cause. People can join us online through our social media platforms; facebook, twitter. They can also refer people with breast abnormalities to us. We have light Lagos Pink Friday coming up, where we expect about 20,000 women to wear pink, we are expecting about 100 building to be lighted pink so if you give us approval, we can light your building pink. Starting from the 10th of October, about12, 000 women will form a ribbon. We need people to come out en mass as teams, my theme is theme Omolara, there is team Sebeccly. What is your message to women? Love yourself. The rate at which women are dying from breast cancer is unacceptable so if you notice any lump pleased be proactive, see your doctor, do the right thing. Women who are already living with cancer should understand that there are people trained to manage the disease, they should be positive. My advice to all women, whether affected by breast cancer or not, we all have a mandate to support the fight against breast cancer so I will encourage every woman to please join us.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Arts Lounge I intend working with young artistes in Nigeria 25 –Chris Partlow

Enwezor redefines Venice Biennale 2015

Nudity in Nigerian music videos By the day, music video directors are getting superexpressive and are coming up with explicit sexual contents. Shouldn’t this worrisome trend be curbed? OLAWALE OLUWADAHUNSI Olamide

igerian music videos are no longer for minors. Gone are the days when a director would show a close up of two pairs of legs entangled to indicate sex was going on. Directors are now giving us full lip action, side boob glory, butt cracks and all the obscene details that raise moral questions. Rather than music videos being a celebration of the quality in conceptualisation and development; attention is aimed at the seemingly blatant manner in which indecent exposure and vulgarity is promoted rather than controlled. Sly Ojigbede, On Air Personality/Morning Show Host, discloses to Art Lounge that the situation has gotten worse to the extent that most vulgarised and nude music videos are now aired on daytime television nowadays as compared to the past when it was only aired at night. “I do not aim to challenge the rights to ‘freedom of expression’ possessed by every individual, but to understand the basis for permitting offensive language, semi nudity and violence to be aired on “daytime television” as seen on various music channels on satellite TV. Recollecting teenage years when the ‘foreign’ influence in the media material exposed to individuals had received a major boost with the introduction of the very popular ‘Cable TV’, such ‘music videos’ with explicit content, whether violence, nudity or strong language were mostly aired at night. To me this gesture was certainly positive, even though not ‘100% full proof ’, as the stubborn nature of teenagers would lead to late night ‘SNEAK TV’. Nowadays, such a gesture doesn’t really seem to hold water anymore, and even though sometimes, attempts are made at blurring out a few really indecent material such as naked breasts, the foul language involved is simply untouched, which seems like a ‘half baked’ approach but to say the least. In another opinion by music journalist and writer, Osayimwen Osahon George, he agreed with Mr Ojigbede’s comment, adding that music videos in Nigeria have become a subtle instrument for seduction. “Watching Nigerian music videos is the easiest and unconscious way of turning yourself on. Several ladies are paraded in a semi-nude state mostly in skin-tight clothes

WATCHING

Peters

without pants. They are directed to shake their future husband’s treasures shamefully before the camera for money while the artiste flaunts his wealth like a supreme King around them. Nigerian artistes portray ladies as sex slave or toys that could be controlled at will with a key or remote device called money. A study of artistes like Olamide, Reminisce, Dbanj, Lil Kesh, Timaya, Flavour, Banky W, Wizkid, Davido, Phyno (his Yayo video is a case in hand) and others will convince doubters about my claim. Money has become the goal rather than the usage of music as a tool to fix the society. All songs are linked to sex either directly or indirectly. All we get is the same old and common dance beats with different lame lyrics to lace them up. In a recent interview with movie thespian, Taiwo Ajayi Lycett, she revealed to Art Lounge that the impacts of these videos have been highly detrimental to morality in the society. “Ladies rely on these videos flaunted on agents of mass media for the latest fashion trends. Most ladies can’t distinguish between costumes used on set for a cinematographic idea from a normal wear. This has promoted the madness of indecent dressing among ladies. The resultant effect is an increase in the rate of sexual abuses and subsequent rape. Rape is an offence and there is no excuse for it but you will not blame a man that keeps fried pieces of fish in the custody of a cat. “Nigerian music has lost the golden representation given by music greats in the class of Chief Ebenezer Obey, King Sunny Ade, Victor Uwaifo, the late Fatai Rolling Dollar, Christy Essien Igbokwe, Onyeka Onwenu, Chief Dr. Oliver De Coque Nigeria’s

NIGERIAN MUSIC VIDEOS IS THE EASIEST AND UNCONSCIOUS WAY OF TURNING YOURSELF ON King of Guitar, Osita Osadebe and a host of others who passed words of wisdom to the audience in a melodious style. Through their super sounds, the socialization process was enhanced. “Back in the days, music videos used to be so entertaining with a drama interplay that improves knowledge and wisdom. Though the society then wasn’t perfect but it was saner than what we experience today. Much value and respect was given to African women. Those days portrayed women as highly exalted creatures, the treasure of every successful man, home-builders and the backbone of men. The recent trends of music videos have altered everything negatively” The showcasing of nude ladies is a mindcontrolling technique used to get the attention of innocent listeners. A vivid case as when British prolific singer Adele Laurie Blue Adkins popularly known as Adele was set to drop her album in 2011, her manager instructed her to hit the gym and shed some weight. Adele knowing her onions and understanding what he was driving at bluntly responded that she was singing for the ears and not the eyes. Music artistes are exploiting the loopholes of a man. It is medically proven that a man’s brain performs below optimum level when he is sexually aroused. Such a man is bound to make poor decisions and becomes highly vulnerable. Dur-

Phyno

ing this process, the man ignores the poor lyrical quality of the songs, the artiste’s vocal prowess and gets lost in his own world of fantasies and imaginations. While people complain about the trend, talented artiste, May D, whose music video, Soundtrack was banned by the NBC in 2012 refers to the trend as art and creativity “I’d say its creativity and art basically. Art has no limits. We are doing this to sell our music to the world. When you do music, you do it for the world. If some parts of Africa don’t accept it, leave it like that but there are other places that it’s accepted” Erstwhile director, Adasa Cookey on the other hand reveals why nudity is prevalent in today’s Nigerian Music videos. “I will attribute the use of nudity in videos as laziness on the part of the director and the artiste. Artistes and directors tend to shoot obscene videos because they want to hit it big fast. It also boils down to the fact that directors are not thinking outside the box, the artistes and the audience keep demanding for it. These directors want to be noticed quickly and they also lose the attention quickly. I have executed some videos that had absolute zero nudity. There is a lot of nudity in Nigerian music video these days and it’s very wrong. Truth is, Nigerians are disgusted by vulgar but appreciate sexy- that involves less skin. Sexual content can get the attention because sex sells but it may not make the impression you deserve” Sly Ojigbede, reveals further that the most likely ‘counter-argument’ would be the ability to activate the ‘parental control’ sequence available to pay/satellite TV subscribers but explains that the measure is certainly losing its power, while calling on the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation to stop the menace.

Arts Lounge

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

VOICES

Music, culture, entertainment as tools for new Africa RITA RAY

hese are exciting times – Over the past couple of decades I have watched and experienced the way music culture and entertainment is helping to shape a new Africa. I’ve witnessed the growing confidence in African artistes right across the arts spectrum. From Nollywood, which galvanised film making in the motherland, to fashion, literature and of course music. . I don’t have empirical evidence -just examples of what I have observed in the recent development of African music. Increasingly African musicians are taking inspiration from what they know, what is affecting them and their fellow citizens. They are making music for themselves and it’s not all about bling and ‘pop champagne’ (after all, aspiration has its place), These musicians have something to say and are saying it in their own languages and or Pidgin to get their message across, creating music that knows where it’s coming from, not aping western trends, but rather finding ways to bring in traditional textures whether through the use of instruments or sampling to produce unique sounds of the 21st century. Indeed, African artists like Nigeria’s D’Banj continue to dominate across Africa and to make inroads into western markets and music charts with his brand of Afro Beats, a music forged in Africa from the foundations of Azonto music and dance, which like Afro house from Southern Africa is finding its place on the world stage. More and more they look to their own culture, they look at their fellow Africans on the continent and in the Diaspora for inspiration, collaboration and solidarity. I recently met Algerian bands that look south for their musical growth and exploration – not north. One of the bands, Djimawi Africa had travelled over 24 hours to get from Algeria to Tanzania – but they were happy because it was an opportunity for them to connect with and perform alongside African artists and in front African audiences. Simultaneously more and more western musicians are looking to Africa for inspiration – Vampire Weekend adopted the distinctive southern African KwasaKwasa guitar style and sold big. Damon Albarn of Blur was so switched on when he heard the likes of kora genius Toumani Diabate, the golden voice of Salifkeita that he went

to the source, he e came to Africa to make his Malii Music album, work with Afro o beat legend Tony Allen and founded Africa Express. International ational record companies – crate rate diggers are unearthing vintage African music and selling them at a premium. The he west has always had an interest in African music and where the world music gatekeepers, mainly promoted moted the music with traditional aditional sounds, now there ere is a spread of interest est from traditional to contemporary. More re and more collaborations ations between African n and Northern artistss the results of which h are owned, controlled olled and released by non African comompanies. The Diaspora ra artistes are now w making themmselves heard, re-affirming their African identity and connecting with the he motherland to make music, like award winners Laurette LaPerle with herr modern twist on Congolese Rumba and Azonto zonto specialist Fuse ODG. ODG They are coming home to make business like Senegalese superstar rapper Akon, setting up record labels and signing new talent on the continent. Some like M.anifest the ace wordsmith from Ghana are coming home to continue and deepen their creativity.

THIS SURGE OF CREATIVITY FLOUNDERS IF THERE ISN’T AN INDUSTRY TO SUPPORT THE BUSINESS SIDE OF ARTS AND CULTURE

This surge of creativity flounders if there isn’t an industry to support the business side of arts and culture. AFRIMA has a huge role in facilitating the growth and development of the infrastructure required to build and take ownership - of production, distribution, publishing and intellectual property. In using music and culture and entertainment as tools for a new Africa AFRIMA can amplify and strengthen this creative confidence in our musical and cultural heritage. The awards high light the cream of musicians and artists around the continent, turning the spot light on the new voices making waves and pioneering the future, the legends that have paved the way with outstanding and enduring creativity during and after the euphoria of independence. AFRIMA brings together talent take for example the meeting and subsequent collaboration of Wiyaala, the exciting new voice from Ghana and Morrocan star Ahmed Soultan, two of

Memorable Reads Which literary works have fascinated you and by which author? Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Adichie and Americanah by the same author Why do you find the book fascinating? Her books are creative and touch on facts of reality. She gives readers hope and proposes ways of making life meaningful.

Grace Ama

Actress

How often do you visit bookshops and how much do you spend on books per month? I visit bookshops once in a month Do you hope to write any book? If yes, what are you going to write about? Yes, I have written a book on my life in the Nollywood and I hope to present it soonest

who got together as the 2014 award winners w AFRIMA, to record “This Is Who a result of AFRIM I Am” w which will be the first single taken from Ahmed’s new album MHNB (Music s Has No Boundaries) Ahmed knows he is getting something different ti and exciting and Wiyaala an will be introduced to a whole wil new market that might have taken her years to reach. take AFRIMA engages with the A African audience, galvanizing Afric us to take part make a differand use our vote, our voice ence a push forward our favourites, to pus artists we draw inspiration the art The process of promoting, from. T documenting our culture and docume internally and across the music in stimulates conversation and globe, sti storytelling amongst ourselves and storytellin importantly between Africa and the important rest of the world. The AU and AFRIpartnership has a role to facilitate MA partne ownership of these narratives so the owners voices are heard, and we, tell that our voi stories in order to shape and our own stor we are perceived by the rest change how w of the world. the Diaspora with African Reaching th stories told by Africans is crucial. The confidence in African culture also new confidenc means there is a confidence in expressing identity; they no longer pretheir African ide tend to be West IIndian because of negative press and media coverage. When D’Banj’s Oliva Twist stormed into the UK top 10 suddenly it seemed that every black person in London was a Nigerian! Our brothers and sisters in the Diaspora are ready to come and experience Africa for themselves. Providing and promoting music culture and entertainment can be the pathway to lead them and others to experience Africa. Many reasons why this renaissance is occurring including the accessibility of recording equipment and software, the internet, iTunes and pioneering hardworking independent record companies, artistes and producers. Then there is the amazing work that festivals in Africa are doing. *Rita Ray is a member of the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, jury and she represents the Diaspora (Europe) on the jury.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Arts Lounge

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

ARTISTE UNCENSORED

I intend working with young artistes in Nigeria –Chris Partlow

From his studio in the United States, something omething keeps drawing his attention to the African can continent. It is the hit songs coming out of Nigeria. Meet Chris Partlow, an American music producer, also called DJ 456. ISIGUZO DESTINY AND IMOLEAYO FATUNNASE

ost Nigerians may not appreciate their own or the talent in the Nigerian music industry but Chris Partlow popularly known as DJ456, an American disk jockey and professional music producer who specialises in hip/hop, soul, RnB and Jazz music does. He has featured various artists in USA, Europe and now, he iss looking forward to working with artists in Nigeria. ia. He is mostly passionate about Nigeria’s upcoming artists. DJ456 is a music artist who started dreaming and d working towards being a musician at the age of 10. “I have ave been interested in music since I was like 10 years old, I would listen to my mom and dad’s old rock, soul and pop records. I’m sure I danced to Michael Jackson once or twice. ice. Hip hop is my favourite music, but I appreciate all genres enres of music and artistry. I have a varied amount of Vinyl records mainly jazz, soul, hip hop, rock etc. I grew up listening to hip hop, the first song I ever heard was LL Cool J ‘Around the way girl’ and was hooked ever since. Chris Partlow was arrested by his love for music and describes himself as a great fan of music. His passion for music made him strive to be a musician as he started singing and following musicians whose musical arts and talent impress greatly on

him. He realised that ways there are a lot of to express oneself in music using different aspects of sounds production. He realised a great world in the haven of digital production of sounds and became a DJ at about the time he was either 15 or 16 years old. “I got into music production 5 years ago and started learning the ropes in audio/sound engineering”. Though Chris Partlow was born and raised in Nottingham, England, he followed his passion to Ipswich, outside London when he was 16 and that’s when he started to get deep into hispassion as a hip hop music DJ. Describing his exploits and experiences as a DJ, Chris Partlow ex-

THOUGH DJ456 IS ALWAYS BUSY

WITH MUSIC, HE IS ALSO A SPORTS PERSON AND LOVES With friends

MIDWEEK JUMP

AND GOING TO GYM

2015 ANA Prize accepting entries

Sharpband Music and Comedy Performance

here will be a comedy show and music performance at SS Lounge, as Sharpband will be giving you a melodious dose of live music. There is also live comedy to spice up the melodious music performance and make you laugh and begin the weekend on a light note. The event will hold on Thursdays

FOOTBALL, GOLF

plained that: “I “ became a music DJ when I moved to Ipswich in i 1996 through a friend and it went from there. ther I brought my own turntables and would mix m my parents old records on them. Then I started to practice as a DJ at house parties and got paid for my performancpart es later on. I ended up doing late night l radio on ICR 107.5 FM in Ipswich for ra about four years which was a great exab perience and fun. Now I’m more into pe producing, mixing and mastering. I pr just ju released and produced an EP with a rapper from New Jersey, USA. Asked about his love and interest in African musicians especially NigeriA an artistes, he responded thus:“I love Nigeria music, I have listened to Nikki Ni Laoye, Ice Prince, Jessie Jagz, D Banj Lao songs song and so many others and I’m also hoping hopin to work with African artistes in the future futu especially, artistes from Nigeria”. He also signified interest in working with Nis gerians arts art saying that he believes so much in their brand of music. He disclosed that the most interesting part of his h career is his discovery that music creates a forum for him h to meet new people from around the globe, definitely being able to create new sounds, the b opportunity to be diverse and creative. “But the most indiv teresting part to me is that I get to go at my own pace and get to put my own unique stamp on my brand of music.I open to work with anyone including artistes in Nigeria, it means making great music and reaching out to more people. I intend to look for more upcoming artistes who I can work with, because everyone deserves a chance to do what they love. I really love to see upcoming artistes who are determined and ready to work. If I have ever have the opportunity to visit any country as soon as possible even if it wasn’t isn’t about music, that country will definitely be Nigeria and South Africa”. Though DJ456 is always busy with music, he is also a sports person and loves football, golf and going to gym. He believes that all work and no play makes DJ456 a dull boy and often escapes from his music passion to engage in sports in order to be mentally and physically fit. DJ456 loves and admires other artistes and he is inspired by them and conspicuously among them are Nigerian artists Nikki Laoye, Ice Prince, Jessie Jagz, D Banj. His best hip hop vocalist artiste is Kurt Elling and also enjoys hip hop artists like Nas. He describes his best song lyricist to be LL Cool J “Around the way girl”. Chris Partlow has worked with Mo the General, Halo (UK), Lifetime, Phoenix da Icefire (uk), Ricta (UK), Empuls, Domingo and Fressstyle Professors. He has plans to work with a group in South Africa on an upcoming project and also, members of the Wu Tang Clan in their upcoming music production.

14th of May 2015 at SS Lounge, Victoria Island, Lagos State.

he Association of Nigerian Authors [ANA] hereby announces a range of prizes for its 2015 literary competitions. These are: 1. ANA Prize for Poetry (published & unpublished) – N 100,000. 2. ANA Prize for Prose Fiction (published & unpublished) – N 100,000. 3. ANA Prize for Drama (published & unpublished) – N 100,000. 4. ANA Prize for Literary Journalism – N 100,000 (Deadline: August 30, 2015).

5. ANA\NECO Teen Author Prize (prose) N 100,000.00 (published & unpublished works). 6. ANA\Mazariyya Teen Authors Prize (poetry) N 50,000.00 (published & unpublished works).

Arts Lounge

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FAR AND NEAR

Asiegbu as SOTU ambassador E jike Asiegbu has been appointed Champion for the National Campaign of the State of the Union (SOTU) Project in Nigeria by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC). In a letter signed by Auwal Ibrahim Musa and dated May 5, the actor’s appointment as Ambassador of the body is part of moves aimed at mobilising “citizens’ participation in the entire governance process in pushing for accountability in governance.” The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) in its commitment towards building a Nigeria where citizens’ are at the heart of governance and ensuring participation and increased inclusivity in the development, implementation and monitoring of laws and policies has in the last three years been implementing the State of the Union (SOTU) project. SOTU is a coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) working across various government thematic areas on the African continent that advocate for the ratification, domestication and implementation of key African Union (AU) conventions and legal instruments. These AU Instruments range

Asiegbu

from governance, political, social and economic rights, to peace and security and development. Fourteen of them–10 legal instruments, four policy standards–if implemented have tremendous promise for the lives of millions of Africans, Musa said. The coordinator said while the project has witnessed increased visibility and acceptability within government spheres, it has also become a major reference point for policymakers at the

continental level with the AU and national governments advocating for stronger partnership ties with the coalition. The Campaign will be launched on the May 14 in the nation’s Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Asiegbu as the Champion for the Campaign in Nigeria “My African Union, My Future” (Be The Voice for Africa) is expected to attend the May 14 where he will be officially unveiled. The official launch of the campaign, Musa said, is “expected to be a groundbreaking event that will signal the commencement of the rebirth of the AU in Nigeria and sensitization of Nigerian citizens on not just the kinship as a member of the AU but also the mobilisation of citizens’ participation in the entire governance process in pushing for accountability in governance.” The Nollywood actor in a statement said he was delighted to serve in the capacity of Champion for the National Campaign of the State of the Union (SOTU) Project in Nigeria which according to him is his own means of contributing to nation building as well as ensuring peace reigns in the African continent.. Asiegbu was former president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN.

Preparing for ‘Most Beautiful Girl in Eko 2015’

he second edition of The Most Beautiful Girl in Eko Cultural pageant is taking place at Bamboo Event Hall, Omole, Ojodu Lagos on Friday September 18, 2015. The event, initially, was to take place at the Royal Event Hall, but had to change due to political expediencies. According to the general manager of Ereon Pageantry, Taiwo Samson who is also the chairperson of 2015 planning committee the change of venue became very

Taiwo

necessary for optimum result being the second edition. She further stated that popular and star comedians Klint Da Drunk, Mr Melody and popular artiste Zule Zoo of Africa among others would perform at Bamboo event Hall. “Expected at the event would be personalities cutting across government, fashion, movies, and the music world. There would be music, dance, comedy, and cultural extravaganza.” The Most Beautiful Girl in Eko Cultural pageant is supported by the Lagos State Government, The Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Power Horse energy drink, kissmix drink, Bamboo Event Hall, JCB Inn and Hall, Pepsi Cola, Lacasera, Tender brooks premier drinks, Oak fashion designs and among others. The general manager stated further that this year 2015 edition two of MBGE Beauty Pageant, has been reloaded and upgraded, with a new websitewww.mbge. com.ng. with new innovations and four winners to emerged as beauty ambassadors in Lagos stated namely Most Beautiful Girl In Eko (MBGE) as overall winner; MBGE Tourism (new) MBGE Entertainment (new), and MBGE Environ-

ment. The four beauty queens would be attached with chaperons in their official duties and functions till the end of their tenure. When asked about two new beauty queens Miss Taiwo said “We now have two new queens namely MBGE Tourism and MBGE Entertainment. Also retained is MBGE Environment which are all under the trade mark of the number one Queen of this brand The Most Beautiful Girl in Eko. Miss Hospitality is no longer in the league of our queens,” according to a release signed by the Executive Director of Ereon pageantry Fumi Bolatiwa Quadri. The Most Beautiful Girl in Eko Cultural pageant is the onlytrade name that bears this brand in Lagos state under the trade mark laws in Nigeria. Meanwhile, Ereon Pageantry, the organiser of the Most Beautiful Girl in Eko beauty pageant has just floated the first pageantry online TV blogspot,www.ereonpageantrytv.blogspot.com. The site which is for all ages is to promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness. The blogsite is owned by Scherey Momoh, an online publisher, veteran journalist and entrepreneur.

Art exhibition at Venice Biennale

Enwezor redefines Venice Biennale 2015

he Venice Biennale, the grandest, most prestigious, most influential fixture in the art world calendar, has a sharper political edge this year. Okwui Enwezor, the Nigerian– born artistic director for the 56th edition, has set out his ideological stall by organising a daily reading of Karl Marx’s “Das Kapital” in the exhibition’s Central Pavilion, for however long it takes to recite the entire text of the 1867 magnum opus, including footnotes. “Capital is the great drama of our age,” said Mr. Enwezor, director of the Haus der Kunst in Munich, in his trenchant introduction to this year’s Biennale. “Today nothing looms larger in every sphere of experience, from the predations of the political economy to the rapacity of the financial industry.” The Biennale is trying to remind the billionaire collectors who park their yachts in Venice, and anyone else paying attention, that there is more to the world than the relentless market cycle of top-end art fairs, dealer shows and auctions. The organisers’ new schedule in itself points to a wider circumference. By opening to the public on May 9, the Biennale is now timed to coincide with the Expo 2015 fair in Milan. That’s a full month ahead of its traditional position as a curtain-raiser for the capitalist splurges of the Art

Okwui Enwezor

Basel fair in Switzerland and the June auctions in London. Mr. Enwezor has exhorted participating artists to examine and articulate “the current disquiet of our time,” and they have responded with a number of imaginative projects. Christoph Büchel, representing Iceland, has, for instance, turned the medieval church of Santa Maria della Misericordia into a mosque. The Brazilian artist Vik Muniz, satirizing nearby superyachts, has moored a 45 foot-long “paper” boat made out Italian newspapers reporting the deaths of migrants in the Mediterranean. “In New York, everyone is distracted by the art market and the auction houses,” said the American artist, Patricia Cronin, whose installation, “Shrine for Girls,” is on view in the deconsecrated church of San Gallo, near the San Marco square. “Once you get into the international art world, political art is important.” Ms. Cronin’s installation poignantly uses piles of clothes to commemorate three groups of what she calls “secular martyrs” — students kidnapped by Boko Haram in Africa, girls raped and lynched in India, and “fallen” women exploited by the Magdalene Laundries in the United States, Britain and Ireland — on the altars of Venice’s smallest church. But, as ever at the Biennale, there are commercial considerations that flow unseen around the art like the tides that sway the foundations of Venice’s historic palaces. For Ms. Cronin, who isn’t represented by a dealer, it is a way to pay for the project — as well as to make some money. She said “Shrine for Girls” cost about $200,000 in all to realize, including a $78,000 church rental fee and a $22,000 charge from the Biennale for mounting a “collateral” project. About 65 percent of this sum has already been provided by the New York collectors Glenn and Amanda Fuhrman, and 19 other private donors, but further contributions are gratefully received.

Business Wednesday, May 13, 2015

BRISIN ‘ll support Nigeria’s holistic transformation if effectively implemented –Uwa 28

Illegal Chambers of Commerce permeate Nigeria’s business landscape –Investigation

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Inconsistent regulatory policies hamper marketers’ investments in refineries

NCC links telcos’ poor services to power supply ISAIAH ERHIAWARIEN

these will provide the critical success factors in finally eradicating quality of service challenges. He recalled that at the public hearing held by the National Assembly in 2008, power was considered to have contributed more than 40 percent to QoS issues noting that telecommunications companies depend on power 24/7 to deliver quality services. Juwah also noted that just as Nigerians generate their own power telecommunications services now generate much of the power they utilise stressing that the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria, ATCON, has

put the estimated cost of running two generators in each of the over 25,000 base stations sites in Nigeria today at about N5 billion monthly. According to him, ATCON said while Nigeria’s service provider spends 80 percent OPEX (operating expenses) on power generation, in Malawi, it is just some 5 percent adding that the service providers would have been in a position to channel more resources to tackling the issues of QoS if not for the power problem. Juwah said: “We have a very nagging issue of regulations and taxes awaiting the telecom operators at different levels of govern-

ment. Some of these regulations are made outside of the purview of the telecom regulator.” This is just as he disclosed that there were states and local governments where telecom infrastructure is seen as fertile ground for improving internally generated revenue as these infrastructure must be available to make services possible. He said that in some areas, state governments, local governments, or even some federal government agencies have had to force a close down of base stations with the implication of disconnecting many localities from the network thereby adding to the QoS challenge.

he persistent electricity power failure in the country, which government has been unable to address should the blamed for the poor quality of telecoms services subscribers are experiencing across the entire network. The industry regulator, Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, said that irregular electricity power supply is just one of the recurring challenges that have bedeviled the growing telecommunications sector and is the monster behind the poor quality of service in Nigeria. Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Eugene Juwah said that other challenges included, multiple taxation and regulations, vandalism of telecom infrastructure, right of way challenges, and infrastructure deficit, amongst others. Juwah who made the disclosure in a paper presented at the second yearly stakeholders’ conference of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR in Lagos admitted that the quality of service currently being experienced is not acceptable but having gone through the rigours of several meetings with operators, it is proper to let the public know that the regulator is not complacent. The NCC boss, who was represented by the Director, Public Affairs, Mr. Tony Ojobo said that only L-R: Managing Director, Nestle Nigeria PLC, Mr. Dhamesh Gordhon; Chairman, Mr. David Ifezulike, and Company the elimination of some or all of Secretary, Mr. Bode Ayeku, during the 46th Annual General Meeting of Nestle Nigeria PLC, in Lagos, yesterday.

Climate change: AfDB approves €4.73m for Africa SYLVA EMEKA-OKEREKE

orried by the inability of African countries to access the climate finances for climate smart developments, the African Development Bank, AfDB, has approved fresh funds to stem the tide. Launched last year with EUR 4.725 million contributions from Germany, the African Development Bank-sponsored Africa Climate Change Fund, ACCF, was

targeted at ameliorating the effects of the scourge. According to the ACCF, the goal of the Fund was to support regional member countries in transiting to climate resilient as well as low carbon developments through technical assistance, which would help in the efficient management of the funds. The funds would also be used to track climate finance flows, implement climate resilient, building resource efficiency and resilience as well as developing

relevant investment plans and projects. In the medium-term, the Fund will also co-finance sector-related projects, serve as a knowledge bank, and provide relevant capacity building. Speaking on the Fund, the AfDB Manager for Environment and Climate Change, Kurt Lonsway said, in July 2014, the first call for proposals dedicated to climate finance readiness projects was launched. Following the screening and

pre-selection of the 362 proposals received by the ACCF Secretariat, the pool was narrowed down to 22 proposals based on a variety of factors, including alignment with ACCF and Bank objectives. “This first ACCF call for proposals was a great success and demonstrates the need for additional resources to be made available to African countries in their quest to transition towards climate smart development,” the ACCF Coordinator, Florence Richard said

AIRLINES’ FLIGHT SCHEDULES Dana Air Abuja-Lagos 9am, 1pm, 5.28pm daily Lagos-Abuja 7am, 11am, 1.23pm,3.30pm daily Lagos-PH: 7.20AM, Ph-Abuja9.54am, Abuja-ph: 3.30pm and Ph-Lagos: 5.28pm daily Lagos-Uyo: 9.20am, Uyo-Abuja: 11.07am, Abuja-Uyo 1.05pm, Uyo-Lagos: 3pm daily Weekends Lagos-Abuja: 7.02am, 9am, 3.30pm Abuja-Lagos: 9am, 2.20pm and 5.28pm Lagos -Phc: 11.07am Phc-Lagos: 1.05pm Phc-Abuja: 12.51pm Abuja-Phc: 10.50am Lagos-Uyo: 9.18am Uyo-LOS -3.03pm Uyo-Abuja: 11.07am Abuja-Uyo: 1.05pm

Aero Contractors Lag-Abj: 06.50, 13.30, 16.30, 19.45 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun), 12.30 (Sun) 16.45 (Sat) Abj-Los: 07.30, 13.00, 19.00 (Mon-Fri/Sat, 10.30, 14.30, 19.30 (Sun, 18.30 Sat) Lag-Benin: 07.45, 11.00, 15.30 (Mon-Fri/Sat/ Sun) 12.30 (Sun 15.30 (Sat) Ben-Lag: 09.15, 12.30, 17.00 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun) 17.00 (Sat) 14.00 (Sun)Lag-Owe: 7.45am, 2pm daily

Med-View Airline Lagos- Abuja (Mon-Fri): 07.00, 08.50, 12.00, 16.30. Abuja- Lagos (Mon-Fri): 09.00, 14.00, 15.00, 18.30. Lagos-Yola (Mon-Fri): 8.50am. Yola-Lagos (Mon-Fri): 13.00. Lagos- PHC (Mon-Fri): 17.00. PHC-Lagos: 19.00. Abuja-Yola: 11.00. Yola-Abuja: 13.00. Lagos-Abuja (Sat): 08.00, 08.50. Abuja-Lagos (Sat): 10.00, 15.00. Lagos-PHC (Sat): 17.00. PHC-Lagos (Sat): 19.00. Lagos-Yola (Sat): 08.50. Yola-Lagos (Sat): 13.00

Executive Discourse

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

BRISIN ‘ll support Nigeria’s transforma Dr Anthony Uwa is the Head of Basic Registry and Information System In Nigeria (BRISIN) implementation and also the Managing Director of Dermo Impex Nigeria Ltd. He believes that there is urgent need for the General Muhammadu Buhari-led incoming administration to leverage on BRISIN’s implementation, if he must fight corruption, and insecurity, takle unemployment, set up a social security system and develop Nigeria’s economy. ADEOLA TUKURU captures his views in this interview. Excerpts:

How would you describe the relevance of the Basic Registry and Information System in Nigeria to the development of the planned national identity database in the country? Basic Registry and Information System in Nigeria (BRISIN) is the best national integrated data and information infrastructure intended to provide a solid foundation for planning and socioeconomic growth in Nigeria. It is an innovative and all encompassing approach to developing the nation. How would Nigerians benefit from that initiative? Like I said, BRISN is an all encompassing, innovative initiative. A solid solution that will give every citizen a clear view of what economic development is, in the system you can find our social being that makes us clear citizens of Nigeria and eventually define the economic strategy. Without BRISN you can’t plan effectively. It is when you have such a structure that one can plan. BRISIN provides the clues to efficient management of the environment, trade and industry development, immigration, population and election management. Because it is all-embracing, it is a catalyst for job-creation by promoting economic activities and investments in all sectors. It provides accurate data and information required by foreign and local investors. BRISIN is an infrastructure for information generation. It will immediately provide demographic data required for issuance of personal identity cards, travel passports, elections and voting certificates, among others. It will generate reliable economic data useful for economic planning, fiscal and revenue development and management, job creation or employment. It will also assist in producing social data necessary for social justice, welfare and pensions, among others.

Uwa

to one state in each geo-political zone. When is the implementation commencing? The implementation has already taken off but the inauguration is expected to take place soon. A contract was signed between the Federal Government, represented by the National Planning Commission and Dermo Impex of Italy together with Dermo Impex Nig. Ltd. In 2010, President Jonathan approved the extension of the pilot phase

Does this cut cover the whole country? It cuts across the whole country which starts from the grassroots, then to the wards to the local government, to the state and also the Federal. It is a data and information system without which you can’t know who is a Nigerian or what our economy is. It also permits the Federal Government, the States and Local governments to have value added

SO, THE INCOMING GOVERNMENT IN ACTUAL FACT WOULD LEVERAGE ON IT AS A PRIORITY PROJECT, IF THEY MUST FIGHT CORRUPTION, IF THEY MUST FIGHT INSECURITY, IF THEY

MUST FIGHT UNEMPLOYMENT, IF THEY MUST SET UP A SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM AND

IF THEY MUST BUILD A VIABLE ECONOMY.

BRISIN IS THE FOUNDATION FOR THEM TO FUNCTION WELL, WITHOUT BRISN THERE WON’T BE ANY GOOD GOVERNMENT

instruments for re-basing of Gross Domestic Product, (GDP) and at same time promote local content development and industrialization, which will improve the value of the Naira against all other currencies. How do you think this initiative can help in creating the socio-economic changes the citizenry has been clamouring for in the country, particularly with the incoming of a new government just a few days from now? There can’t be any change without a clear vision of what you want to do, how to do it and the success you get from it. So, the incoming government in actual fact would leverage on it as a priority project, if they must fight corruption, if they must fight insecurity, if they must fight unemployment, if they must set up a social security system and if they must build a viable economy. BRISIN is the foundation for them to function well, without BRISN there won’t be any good government because the government need to have clear picture of the people who are in the economy and plan for them. Our wealth is enormous but we don’t know how to distribute it and because we don’t have information

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Executive Discourse

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

ation if effectively implemented –Uwa of those who are poor and rich. There is also the possibility that development partners and donor agencies will be willing to support the realisation of the project that is sure to move Nigeria on the fast lane of sustainable development. How would Nigerians in Diaspora explore the opportunities availed by this project to contribute to national development and also benefit from the initiative? When you leave this country to developed countries like Europe, USA, Japan and the rest the first thing you see is development and they all will wish to come back for their country to have the same plan of development as those countries. Today, we have more than 25 million Nigerians in Diaspora and we thought of the remittance by Nigerians in Diaspora at about $25 million. One thing is, we don’t know who these people are, how many they are and where they are. We don’t know their identities. So, the Nigerians in Diaspora mostly because they want to vote, you can’t ask someone you don’t know to vote. For us to allow Nigerians out there to vote, we must identify them in the country they are and then give them an identification system and a social security number that will give them the possibility of recognising them to vote just like the developed countries do. BRISIN is the answer to keeping a proper record of our citizens in the Diaspora and tap the infinite skills they have acquired just like the Japanese, Chinese, Indians and Brazilians did. For example, a child from America born in Nigeria today within one week is known in America. For now, a Nigerian can be born outside without being known as a Nigerian. These are the differences and that’s why BRISIN is very important by giving them a sense of belonging in the society.

Uwa

ALSO, CONSIDERING THE IMPORTANCE OF BRISIN, ITS FUNDING CANNOT BE LEFT TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ALONE. FUNDING BY FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS THROUGH DIRECT FUNDING FROM THE EXCESS CRUDE ACCOUNT IS DESIRABLE. IT IS ALSO NECESSARY TO CONSIDER FUNDING FROM SURE-P, PTDF AND MDG ACCOUNTS. THIS IS BECAUSE BRISIN IS THE FOUNDATION FOR THEM TO FUNCTION WELL Are you in partnership with National Identity Management Commission (NIMC)? BRISIN is a national integration data and information infrastructure which NIMC will leverage on. Without BRISIN, NIMC cannot know who they are giving identity cards to. BRISIN is a Federal Government project; we are only the solution providers. NIMC will leverage on BRISIN just like other agencies will leverage on it to achieve the success of their mandates. So, they will be invited to play a vital role in the implementation so that they can do better. How would you access the National Identity Card project so far? For now, I wouldn’t want to say anything as if am challenging anybody. We have not built a system or an institution. BRISIN is the system or solution until such is done we now say whatever we do is correct. For now all we do is speculation because we meet someone on the road and get information you don’t

even know how to identify the information, you can’t verify the information or even know who gives the information, the same thing with the national passport so foreigners leverage on that. So, BRISIN is a national integrated data and information infrastructure. It does not only deal on population, it deals on economy, it deals on security, it deals on social being of the citizens. How would this project curb insecurity in the country? When we talk of insecurity the heart of intelligence is in information. How do you fight insecurity without information that tells you the whole story, BRISIN is the heart of intelligence, it is the only means one can use to fight insecurity and fight fraud just like you can use it for any other social vices. Without it, we have not started and we will be working on speculations. So, until we have it then we will know we are going somewhere. Mind you, the benefits of this project are not limited. It will enhance the capacity of all tiers

of government to control, monitor and transmit immigration/emigration and security information from the grassroots; control and monitor demographic data and information of local population and monitor, control and transmit economic indices from the rural areas. It will give clear picture of investment opportunities and local raw materials; permit innovate youths to express themselves directly from their rural areas; protect the rights of the citizen without any distinction; promote social equality and economic development of women and create the solidarity to overcome economic imbalances with special concern for situations of marginalization, inconvenience and disability. What are your major challenges in the implementation? Yes, the challenges have been the delay which right now we have overcome because the project has kicked off .The National Planning Commission has taken up their responsibilities to move this country forward .In every country, national planning or national economic planning is the heart of the economy. Of course, if they don’t plan with correct data and information then the results will not match the expectations. That is why they are insisting on implementing BRISIN because with that they can now define the status of the Nigerian economy and plan the economy and also allow foreigners take advantage of all wealth we have and then chart the course of the economy in the right direction. Also, considering the importance of BRISIN, its funding cannot be left to the Federal Government alone. Funding by Federal, State and Local Governments through direct funding from the Excess Crude Account is desirable. It is also necessary to consider funding from SURE-P, PTDF and MDG accounts. This is because BRISIN is the foundation for them to function well. There is also the possibility that development partners and donor agencies will be willing to support the realisation of the project that is sure to move Nigeria on the fast lane of sustainable development. The rural problems of inaccessibility is seen by analysts as a major challenge in electronic projects like this. How do you intend to surmount this obstacle? BRISIN is a citizen-oriented. Of cause that is the major challenge we see in this country because we take things from up and not the grass roots. In developed countries they take things from up to down. They know where the citizen lives, they can plan for him, they can arrange for him, he can vote. They record their growth, their age , when they are supposed to be identified as grown up citizens so that they can be allowed to vote and make sure they have the right documents at the right time not when election is coming you start registering people. So, as I have said, BRISIN is a project that will impact on all facets of our national life and serve as information hub for sustainable development of the country.

Business News

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

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Premium Pension boss cautions against unplanned retirement MESHACK IDEHEN

ny retirement that is not preceded by a proper planning may be an invitation to disaster for both the retiree and the society. The Managing Director of Premium Pension Limited, Mr. Wilson Ideva, in a statement on Monday, pointed out that enjoying a hitch-free retirement was beyond receiving a lump-sum and regular programmed withdrawal from one’s Retirement Savings Account. The statement signed by the Head, Corporate Communications of the company, Mr Paddy Ezeala, quoted Ideva as saying there is need for stakeholders to continually work towards sus-

taining stronger relations between state and local government bureaux of pensions and Pension Fund Administration in the country. According to him, enjoying a hitch free retirement also requires an in-depth planning and a profound mental and psychological conditioning of the retiring worker to equip him to seamlessly adjust to a different kind of life after decades of service to the society. Explaining further, Ideva noted that a retirement illprepared for could give the Contributory Pension Scheme a bad name and erode the initial gains already made, adding that the onus therefore was on the pension fund management operators to run preparatory

UBA launches “Pay Attitude” solution DAVID AUDU

he Nigerian payment industry is making strides in e-payment solutions as United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, in conjunction with Unified Payment Systems Limited, has introduced “Pay Attitude” “Speaking on the bank’s initiative, Yinka Adedeji, Divisional Head for e-Banking explained that the new payment solution makes it possible for a customer to make payments for goods and services with an adhesive payment tag attachable to mobile phones or flat surfaces. It is as easy as tapping the phone against a PoS terminal. Highly convenient for retail transactions, it perfectly suits the lifestyle of mobile phone users. A major benefit of the new payment solution is that all payments are always 100 per cent successful with or without network connectivity, thereby eliminating the issue of “declined” payments on POS terminals, thereby guaranteeing subscribers the confidence and comfort of always being able to pay for goods and services at merchant locations at all times notwithstanding network challenges. This payment solution is coming after UBA recently upgraded its IT system to a more efficient, secure and faster banking platform enhancing the speed of the bank’s e-platforms including;

internet banking, mobile banking and also greatly improving the up-time and availability of its e-Channels like the POS machines and ATMs. It also synchronises perfectly with the bank’s upgraded banking platform delivering superior banking experience to UBA customers across Africa as well as with advanced security and compliance framework which will result in significant improvement in productivity and improved response to security and regulatory issues. Experts describes Pay Attitude as a Near Field Communication (NFC) tag, with an internal chip which works on NFC-enabled POS terminals at designated partner locations across Nigeria.

programmes for workers, especially those on the verge of retirement. He also noted that expanding the CPS to the informal sector of the economy as permitted

by the recently passed Pension Reform Act 2014 would require some measure of creativity and professionalism on the part of key actors to actualise. “The CPS is one of the most

successful government initiatives that still harbour even greater potential, it requires therefore, ingenious and concerted approaches to lift it to the next level,” Ideva stated.

MTN offers free downloads of Nigerian apps ISAIAH ERHIAWARIEN

s part of its effort to encourage the developing of local applications, MTN Nigeria has promised to make available for free download all Nigerian apps on its network. The company said that it was offering Nigerians a full month of free downloads for all Nigerian apps under the auspices of a movement, tagged as APPtitude, adding that the gesture is aimed at helping Nigerians embrace mobile applications as a shortcut to navigating the internet in an easy, faster and more efficient

manner. The APPtitude campaign, which runs this month, offers Nigerians the chance to download their favourite apps for free by texting APP to 131. As part of the benefits of the movement, an APPtitude portal has been created on the MTN website, which curates a host of local apps in the market under different categories that include sports, entertainment, lifestyle, health/fitness, business as well as religion. The apps can be downloaded by everyone FREE of charge for 30 days. Chief Marketing Officer of the company , Bayo Adekanmbi

told journalists at the unveiling of the initiative that the apps provided a better, and alternative way of engaging users, irrespective of social class as their functionality is defined by the user’s ability to interact with icons and images. He explained that the movement was a continuation of the BetterMe journey and its core aim is to democratise access to the internet adding that the APPtitude movement is borne out of the need to educate its customers on the value, which can be derived from making use of mobile application in their everyday business.

L-R: ; CEO, MTN Group, Mr. Sifiso Dabengwa; Chairman, MTN Nigeria, Dr. Paschal Dozie; President elect Gen. Muhammadu Buhari; Chairman, MTN Group, Mr. Phuthuma Nhlekho; Director, MTN Nigeria, Col Sani Bello (Rtd;) CEO, MTN Nigeria, Mr. Michael Ikpoki, and Director, MTN Nigeria, Mr. Gbenga Oyebode, during a visit to President elect at the Defence House in Abuja, recently.

Population Commission spends N400m on Education Data Survey ADEOLA TUKURU ABUJA

he Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Chief Eze Duruiheoma, has disclosed that N400million was disbursed by the Federal Government to conduct the Nigeria Education Data Survey (NEDS) in the country. Duruiheoma, also added that the money will be distributed in three interviewers in the period of three months for allowances and other exigencies. He noted this during a media briefing in Abuja on the com-

mencement of the field work for the 2015 Nigeria Education Data Survey (NEDS), adding that the plan is to collect information from 30,000 eligible households, that is, households with at least one child from age 4-16, at the time of the 2015 NEDS. According to him, the survey is expected to interview a total of at least 30,000 parents/ guardians in order to collect data on more than 45,000 children aged 4-16. He said the interview will focus on reasons for not attending school and for dropping out of school, the frequency of pupil absenteeism and reasons for miss-

ing schools, the costs of schooling and other issues. “The information will provide insights into the behaviours and attitudes of parents and guardians in the country. The conducts of NEDS marks another major step by the NPC to respond to the national imperative of providing adequate and relevant data for national planning,” he said. The NPC boss explained further that the commission conducted and disseminated demographic data collected from censuses; it is believed that effective planning requires more specialized and regular data in

order to achieve concrete improvements in the living standards of the people. To ensure that the 2015 NEDS meets its lofty objective of providing he much needed data for educational planning, Duruiheoma , said the commission has adopted a meticulous and scientific approach at every stage of the survey. He further explained that the survey is designed to generate information on the educational status of the Nigeria population and expectedly, the interviewers will ask a wide range of questions.

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Business News

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Expert seeks cut in Presidential fleet, scrapping of Aviation Ministry OLUSEGUN KOIKI

he incoming administration has been advised to ensure drastic reduction in the number of Presidential Air Fleet, PAF, saying that the fleet is too large for a financially constrained country, particularly following the recent low crude oil revenue. The Head of Research, Zenith Travel and Consults, Mr. Olumide Ohunayo who gave the advice during a chat with National Mirror, also urged the government to consider the option of scrapping the Ministry of Aviation and discontinuing political appointments in the ministry with a view to having enough funds to grow the industry. Ohunayo advised the government to sell off the aircraft or use them as the bedrock for a new aircraft leasing company and not to start a national carrier. As at date, there are no fewer 30 aircraft in Presidential fleet comprising of different brands of aircraft. He canvassed: “The remaining aircraft should either be sold off or used as the bedrock for a new aircraft leasing company

not to start a national carrier. Gray market popularly called illegal charter flights are operated by civil and military aircraft. This hydra headed monster remains unresolved in spite of the rhetoric on the matter. “Military participation in civil charter is illegal and detrimental to commercial charter operators, and also encourages romance with politicians, which will affect security and professionalism. The incoming government must show leadership, while the regulator needs to educate end users about the dangers of the gray market. Illegal flights put insurance coverage in jeopardy, create unfair competition and hinder the growth of legitimate operators”, Ohunayo added He insisted that the Ministry and the SSAs to President had increased the cost of service delivery, bureaucracy and processing time in the sector, adding that they had over-burdened the agencies with personnel and bills to the detriment of efficiency, safety and profitability. The industry top shot also advised the incoming government to take a look at the Steven Oransanye Committee Report on the industry for the improvement of the industry just as he

lauded government on the recent luxury tax introduced recently for charter and private operations by the Ministry of Finance, but feared the policy might not be implemented by the government. He noted that the practice in other climes was that non-aeronautical services and general aviation revenues were used

to oil the wheels of operations and improved profitability, stressing that on this basis, the incoming government should devise new strategies that would effectively capture and increase revenue from these sources by increasing the deployment of IT facilities and removing all waivers and sub-

sidies granted to non-schedule operators. While canvassing a regulated fleet consolidation process, which he said should be initiated immediately to strengthen the nation’s carriers, improve safety and attract partners, Ohunayo proposed a minimum of five schedule commercial

L-R; Publisher, Today’s Woman Magazine, Adesuuwa Onyenokwe; CEO, Tiffany Amber Fashion, Folake Folarin-Coker; Global Strategist, JSP Communications, Dr. Phil Osagie, and Communications Manager, Ariel Sub-Saharan Africa, Jeanne du Plessis during an interactive session at the grand launch of Ariel automatic washing machine powder in Lagos recently.

ICAN President, others join CIS Council TOLA AKINMUTIMI

ine chartered stockbrokers have been elected to the Council of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) as part of the ongoing transformation of the institute into a world class professional body. The new Council members who had earlier gone through rigorous screening and whose election was endorsed after the Institute’s recent Annual General Meeting, AGM, are President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Mr Chidi Ajaegbu; Managing Director, Ashakacem Plc, Mr Kwairanga Umaru, and Managing Director, Arthur Steven Asset Management Ltd., Mr Olatunde Amolegbe, Others are, Managing Director, Network Capital Ltd., Mr Oluropo Dada, Managing Director, Vetiva Capital Management Ltd., Mr Chukuka Eseka; Chairman, Investigating Panel of the CIS, Mr Muiz Kareem, General

Manager, Stambic IBTC Bank Plc, Mr Yusufu Modibo, Deputy Managing Director, Fund Ouest Financial Services Ltd., Mr Olabisi Oni and the Institute’s Chairman, Professional Development Committee, Mr Oyewole Oyeniyi. Ajaegbu, the ICAN’s golden jubilee President is the founder and CEO of Mutual Alliance Market Ltd, a fellow of ICAN and CIS, among others. He holds Masters Degree in Banking and Finance from University of Lagos. Ajaegbu currently runs Chidi Ajaegbu Educational Foundation which awards scholarship annually. Kwairanga is a consummate banker and veteran stockbroker. He holds an MBA from Liverpool John Moores University, UK and M Sc in Corporate Governance. He has served in various capacities in the financial and real sector of the economy. He was the institute’s Chairman, 1995 Local Organising Committee in Bauchi State. Amolegbe holds an MBA and M Sc in Corporate Finance from

University of Ilorin and RusselList University in the United Kingdom. He has been instrumental to development and implementation of investment policy strategy over the years. Dada holds M Sc in corporate governance from Leeds Beckett University in the UK. His working experience covers banking, finance, stock broking, issuing houses activities, investment advisory, general administration etc. Eseka is a frontline investment banker and securities strategist. He is a chartered accountant and chartered stockbroker with over 23 years industry experience. Kareem, an Economist holds an MBA from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife and Kensington University Glendale, USA respectively. He qualified as an Authorised Dealing Clerk in 1985 and became a fellow in 1993. Modibo holds both Master’s in Banking and Business Administration. He has been into the capital market and banking ooerations since 1984. Oni holds

M.Sc in Economics. He was the best graduating student in both Associateship examinations of the Chartered Institute of Bankers in 1997 and CIS in 2004 respectively. Oyeniyi holds an MBA from

Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife. He is an Associate member of Certified Pension Institute of Nigeria among others. He was the institute’s Chairman, Awards and Dinner Committee from 2012 to 2013.

Citigroup ‘may plead guilty’ over FX probe

itigroup said it may plead guilty amid a US Department of Justice probe into its foreign exchange business. “A resolution with the Department of Justice could include a guilty plea on an antitrust charge,” it said. The bank in a statement indicated that the regulator will not prosecute the bank relating to its Libor dealings. Citigroup is among six large banks being probed by global authorities for allegedly trying to manipulate exchange rates in currency markets. The lender reported it was being sued by Argentina and that some employees could face criminal charges there as the country does legal battle with US hedge funds.

Sanctions and “business restrictions” could result, Citigroup said: “The situation could also expose Citi and Citi Argentina to further litigation and penalties.” US hedge funds NML Capital and Aurelius Capital Management are seeking $1.3bn (£834m) after refusing to accept a restructuring deal on Argentine debt. Argentina’s move comes after US District Judge Thomas Griesa’s ruling in March that Citigroup cannot process interest payments by Argentina on some bonds issued under that country’s law. Mr Griesa ruled last year that other holders of Argentina’s debt - many of whom agreed to Argentina’s restructure - should not receive payments until the hedge funds are paid.

Business News

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Illegal Chambers of Commerce permeate Banks, others need improved Nigeria’s business landscape –Investigation supply-chain security – US Report SYLVA EMEKA-OKEREKE

llegal bilateral chambers of commerce have been operating in the country, without due registration from appropriate authorities in the country. Investigations by National Mirror revealed that over six local chambers and bilateral business councils are evading registrations. Further investigation confirmed that those associations were not duly registered, raising serious concerns among operators. Some of the registered chambers of commerce, National Mirror learnt include Nigerian-Hungarian Chamber of Commerce & Industry; Nigerian-Chinese Chamber of commerce & Industry, Nigerian-Israeli Chamber of Commerce & Industry; NigerianCanadian Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce and In-

dustry and Nigerian-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Others are Nigerian-Belgium Chamber of Commerce; Nigerian-Asean Chamber of Commerce & Industry; Nigerian American Chamber of Commerce as well as the Franco-Nigerian Chamber of Commerce & Industry among others. Reacting on the development, the Public Relations Manager, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, NACCIMA, Rosemary Agweven, told National Mirror that the leadership of NACCIMA was disturbed by the proliferation of such illegalchambers, urging Nigerian business community to be wary of such groups. She disclosed that before any chamber operates in the country, it must be registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC, after due diligence by the Federal

Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment as well as the NACCIMA, ‘’All genuine bilateral chambers of commerce, business councils and associations that are yet unknown to NACCIMA are encouraged to register their existence for proper coordination’’, she stated The essence of the chambers, she noted, is to complement trade and investment promotions of the federal government, adding that it is for illegal activities and visa racketeering. Globally, chambers of commerce are non-racial, religious or political organization, but an advocacy group, striving for the interest of business community as well as the economy. In Nigeria, it is a voluntary private sector initiative, which complements the efforts of the government for conducive business environment, economic growth and wealth creation.

recent report into the security practices of 40 Wall Street banks and other financial institutions conducted by the New York Department of Financial Services found a strong need for improved supply-chain security. One-third of surveyed banks do not require third-party vendors to alert them about information security breaches or cybersecurity intrusions, nearly half do not conduct on-site assessments of third-party vendors, and onethird do not require third-party vendors to mandate similar cyber security requirements. Alan Calder, the founder and executive chairman of international information security provider, IT Governance advises that financial institutions are not alone in needing to establish the security of their supply chains. “An organization’s security is only as good as that of its suppliers. A number of high-profile breaches, such as the one that hit Target in late 2013, were caused by lax third-party security. As a consequence of such occurrences, we are beginning to see clients demanding that their vendors put more stringent cyber security controls in place, such as those set out in the international standard ISO 27001.” ISO 27001 sets out the requirements of an

enterprise-wide information security management system (ISMS), a risk-based approach to information security that encompasses people, processes, and technology, enabling organizations of all sizes, sectors, and locations to implement and maintain security controls to mitigate the specific threats they face. Accredited registration to the Standard enables organizations to demonstrate that they are following a best-practice approach to information security, and many ISO 27001-registered organizations also require their suppliers to implement the Standard in order to guarantee the security of the supply chain from top to bottom. ISO 27001 registration allows organizations to win more business because of this very fact, which is one of the reasons ISO 27001 registration in the US is increasing. Thanks to IT Governance’s fixed-price ISO 27001 Packaged Solutions, US organizations can now take advantage of expert ISO 27001 consultancy to implement the Standard for as little as $15,030. With their unique combination of standards, books, toolkits, software, training, and online consultancy, IT Governance’s packages provide US organizations with all they need to implement the Standard and ensure their cyber security.

$900bn influx wreaking havoc in US Bills

F L-R: MD, HarvestField Industries Limited, Mr. Martins Awofisayo; Manager – Anglophone West Africa, Bayer Environmental Science, Mrs. Adjo Mfodwo; Country Group Manager – Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Sylvestre Jobic, and President, Pest Control Association of Nigeria (PECAN), Mr. Ayo Ogunyadeka, at a stakeholders training and seminar on pest control in Lagos, yesterday.

Investors jittery over Onitsha Port privatization process FRANCIS EZEM

trong indications emerged that the process of privatisation of the Onitsha River Port may have been stalled following the outcome of the 2015 general elections. The National Inland Waterways Authority NIWA and the Infrastructure Concession and Regulatory Commission ICRC, and other relevant agencies that were working towards the pre-qualification of the would-be investor had set the end of first quarter, 2015 deadline for the completion of the process. The facilitators of the project had also projected that that the actual concessionaires would

emerge before the end of the second quarter of 2015, which appears unattainable giving the current realities on ground. A source close to the ICRC, however said that the major actors in the privatization process were concluding processes that would lead to the pre-qualification of the investors, which had already made huge investments to get to that level in the privatisation process. According to him, with the outcome of the presidential election, many of the government agencies handling the privatization processes developed cold feet as to what might be the fate of the process at the end of the current regime, which winds down in few weeks. “We are watching and waiting

and in fact, we have not been able to pre-qualify the concessionaires because we do not want to do a thing that would be reversed tomorrow”, he argued. He also said that most government agencies were waiting to know the direction of the new government after May 29, 2015, when it is supposed to be inaugurated officially, insisting that before then, not much might be done because everybody will be waiting for further directives. “Why would anyone expect us to continue with the process when we are sure that the current Minister of Transport, who signed many of the documents and did many of the approvals would leave office in about two weeks?”, he questioned rhetorically.

or all the anxiety over the global selloff in bonds, the big worry in money markets is the havoc being created by a dearth of U.S. Treasury bills. The magnitude of the problem was on display last week, when not even the Treasury Department’s surprise announcement to boost sales could do much to lift bill rates. Over the past two weeks, some of those rates have turned negative, reaching levels last seen during the financial crisis. With supply at multi-decade lows, investors are signaling alarm as regulations intended to shore up banks and prevent a run on money-market funds exacerbate the bill shortfall. JPMorgan Chase & Co. expects an extra $900 billion of demand for government securities during the next 18 months, putting pressure on a sizable chunk of the $1.4 trillion bill market. “You have all this money that wants to be in liquid, safe assets that is overwhelming the supply,” said Alex Roever, the Chicagobased head of U.S. interest-rate strategy at JPMorgan. The consequences extend well beyond the fixed-income market as depressed rates in the $2.5 tril-

lion money-market fund industry stand to deprive savers of income long after the Federal Reserve starts raising interest rates. The mismatch between supply and demand has been so acute that four-week bill rates fell to minus 0.0304 percent on April 29, the lowest on a closing basis since December 2008. Yields on threemonth bills also turned negative. The Treasury responded by saying at its quarterly refunding announcement on May 6 it would increase issuance to meet growing demand. It didn’t provide any details on how soon it would start selling more bills or much it would auction. “It is clear that that demand is large and is growing,” Seth Carpenter, acting assistant secretary for financial markets, said in the press conference in Washington. “We are improving market functioning in the Treasury bill market by increasing the supply.” While some short-term rates increased after the Treasury’s announcement, it didn’t last long. By Friday, the rate on the four-week bill had fallen back to zero. It was 0.0051 percent as of 12:15 p.m. in New York.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

EnergyWeek Baker Hughes puts April rig counts at 1,202 35

10mw Katsina wind farm is 98% complete –Igali 37

Kano Disco tasks police on equipment protection 38

Inconsistent regulatory policies hamper marketers’ investments in refineries Despite their long record of involvement in the oil and gas industry, many oil marketers have not taken decisive steps to invest in the construction of new refineries. UDEME AKPAN reports that inconsistent government policies, lack of legislation and harsh environment have over the years discouraged them from investing in refineries.

PortHarcourt refinery

ith estimated 40 million liters of daily national demand for petrol alone, the marketing of petroleum products appears to be very attractive in the nation. This, coupled with a huge population of about 170 people also makes investing in petroleum products very attractive. Investigations showed that operators, including major and independent marketers have moved from major cities to semi-rural areas to establish new retail outlets in order to bring their products and services nearer to co consumers.

AT THAT TIME, THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT WAS NOT INTERESTED IN ESTABLISHING REFINERIES IN

THE NATION. IT WAS SEEN AS THE BUSINESS OF OIL COMPANIES THAT ALSO MADE HUGE INVESTMENTS IN THE UPSTREAM SECTOR Surprisingly, the operators have not yet indicated strong interest in establishing new refineries for some reasons.

Investigations showed that the oil marketing companies have not been pleased with inconsistent government policies.

The Chairman of International Energy Services Limited, Dr. Diran Fawibe said such inconsistent policies played out in the establishment of the old Port Harcourt refinery. Fawibe indicated that prior to 1970s; it was government policy to leave downstream investments for private investors. He recalled that it was based on that policy that Shell BP accepted the challenge to construct the nation’s oldest refinery in the 1960s. “At that time, the Federal GovernCONTINUED ON PAGE 34

Energy Week

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Inconsistent regulatory policies hamper marketers’ investments in refineries CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33 ment was not interested in establishing refineries in the nation. It was seen as the business of oil companies that also made huge investments in the upstream sector, involving exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas. The foreign companies, including Shell saw investing in refinery construction as a good way of expanding their operations. The company did not envisage many problems, particularly as it was leading in crude oil production,” he said. The Chairman remarked that the situation changed in the 1970s when the Federal Government backpedalled on the policy through the acquisition of the plant before going ahead to establish new refineries in Port Harcourt, Rivers state, Warri, Delta State and Kaduna, Kaduna state. He maintained that although the successive governments have not been opposed to private investors staking their resources in the sector, they did not create suitable environment to attract and retain serious investors. Fawibe maintained that the situation gave impression that the sector was reserved for the government through the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. Another source who preferred not to be named said, “In 1965 Shell/BP built Port Harcourt I as a topping and reforming refinery with a distillation capacity of 3 million mt/yr (60,000 bpd). In 1977 the Nigerian Government partially nationalised the oil industry, taking a 60per cent interest in all operations including the refinery.” “Port Harcourt II was built as a complex refinery with a distillation capacity of 7.5 million mt/yr (150,000 bpd). It came on stream in 1989. It ran well until 1993 when frequent utility plant failures caused regular shutdowns that resulted in equipment damage. The situation deteriorated rapidly from 1994 when the military government cut NNPC’s “take” from the domestic sales price of oil products from 84per cent to 22per cent, causing a cash crisis, and a virtual halt to most maintenance work. Crude supply to both refineries is 100per cent Bonny Light, supplied by pipeline from the Shell operated Bonny field,” he maintained. Besides, lack of legislation constitutes another factor. Investigations showed that although past and present governments have at various times called on private investors to establish new refineries, existing legislations and practices did not encourage investments in the sector. For instance, He said the government and other stakeholders did not guarantee such investors sustainable crude oil supplies. As he puts it, “No investor and promoter of new plants can take Final Investment Decision, FID on the construction of new refineries without considering major issues, especially regular source of crude oil. There are some potential investors who abandoned their dreams because some oil

Jonathan

Alison-Madueke

THE ESTABLISHMENT OF REFINERIES SHOULD NOT BE LEFT FOR THOSE THAT ARE BLESSED WITH COMMERCIAL CRUDE OIL; IT SHOULD BE

MADE ATTRACTIVE TO ALL INTERESTED PLAYERS IN

NIGERIA

AND OVERSEAS Dawha

operators did not guarantee them adequate supply on a sustainable basis. This and other challenges also prevented financial institutions from accepting to funds such investments. Despite these and other challenges, including inadequate funding, some investors, especially those involved in crude oil exploration and production have taken bold steps to invest in refineries. One of them is the Niger Delta Exploration Plc, NDEP that has already established a mini refinery at Ogbele, Delta State with the capacity to process 1,000bpd and generating revenues of US1m per month mainly because it depends on its crude oil. The Managing Director, Dr. Laye Fatona remarked that the company was the first private refinery in Nigeria to receive an operating licence by the Federal Government and has the sole right to sell surplus diesel fuel to the local market. “The refinery is not complex; however, it does produce a range of refined products including diesel, kerosene and marine diesel. The company is planning, as part of a two – five year plan to expand capacity fivefold to 5,000bpd which, if we assumed a 60per cent operational efficiency rate, equates to revenues greater than US$3m per month,

or US$36m per annum. This would require capex of US12m to achieve, with a payback of around 6 months.” “We have valued the refinery using EV/EBITDA multiples which assume a 50per cent EBITDA margin on revenues, 30per cent corporate tax rate and a 6x EV/EBITDA multiple which is typical for a global refinery, to arrive at our NAV value of US$32m,” he maintained. Another company that would soon join the league is Seplat Petroleum Development Co. plc. The Company which has been consistent in supplying crude oil to Warri refinery has indicated interest to raise funds in the capital and purchase at least one of the nation’s refineries. The Managing Director of the company, Mr. Austin Avuru maintained that priority would be given to the project as part of its expansion programme. But a Port Harcourt-based energy analyst, Mr. Bala Zaka pointed out that these and other companies would not make much progress without the force of the law. “These and other challenges which scare investors should be tackled in order to pave way for the establishment of new refineries, especially now that Dangote Industries Limited has disclosed its plans to construct a new refinery in the country,” he said.

The analyst remarked that Dangote’s moves should be encouraged as the company plans to invest up to $8bn to build a Nigerian oil refinery with a capacity of around 400,000 barrels a day by late 2016. He noted that this plant would have the capacity to meet local demand and as well as export to other economies. He however called on the General Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to pass the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB into law. “The establishment of refineries should not be left for those that are blessed with commercial crude oil; it should be made attractive to all interested players in Nigeria and overseas. There is a great need to pass the petroleum Industry Bill, PIB into law. This is a comprehensive legislation that would remove all hurdles that stare investors in the face,” he remarked. Zaka maintained that the passage of PIB into law would enable investors to meet the fuel needs of the nation and even export to generate additional foreign exchange for the nation. This supports the position of the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), Mr. Dakuku Peterside who had earlier maintained that, “The other one is even the funding environment, it is stifled. In terms of security, you know the challenges we are having every day. Pipelines are being destroyed and so even when you bring in a vessel, piracy is still on. So many things are going on in terms of security. We are not getting it right yet,” he added. He had added, “Not very many persons will want to invest in the real downstream assets in this kind of environment. The environment is heavily regulated. It is not like deregulation will solve all our problems, but it is very critical. The regulatory environment will stifle any investment and so I don’t see anybody investing to build refineries until we address those fundamental issues.” Indeed, the new administration should give priority to the sector in order to reduce or completely eliminate the suffering of Nigerians.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Energy Week

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Baker Hughes puts April rig counts at 1,202 UDEME AKPAN

il exploration and production may drop considerably as Baker Hughes Incorporated has announced that the international rig count for April 2015 was 1,202, down 49 from the 1,251 counted in March 2015, and down 147 from the 1,349 counted in April 2014. This means that petroleum exploration and production have fallen drastically in many parts of the world. Specifically, the international offshore rig count for April 2015 was 300, down 16 from the 316 counted in March 2015, and down 29 from the 329 counted in April 2014. The average U.S. rig count for April 2015 was 976, down 134 from the 1,110 counted in March 2015, and down 859 from the 1,835 counted in April 2014. The average Canadian rig count for April 2015 was 90, down 106 from the 196 counted in March 2015, and down 114 from the 204 counted in April 2014. The worldwide rig count for April 2015 was 2,268, down 289 from the 2,557 counted in March 2015, and down 1,120 from the 3,388 counted in April 2014. The Baker Hughes Rotary Rig Counts are counts of the number of drilling rigs actively exploring for or developing oil or natural gas in the United States, Canada and international markets. Baker Hughes has issued the rotary rig counts as a service to the petroleum industry since 1944, when Hughes Tool Company began weekly counts of US and Canadian drilling activity. Baker Hughes initiated the monthly international rig count in 1975. North American rig count data is scheduled to be released at noon central time on the last working day of each week. The international rig count is scheduled to be released on the 5th working day of the month. Baker Hughes is a leading supplier of

Oil rig

oilfield services, products, technology and systems to the worldwide oil and natural gas industry. The company’s 53,000-plus employees work in more than 80 countries helping customers find, evaluate, drill, produce, transport and process hydrocarbon resources. The company maintained that it recorded 20per cent decline in revenue compared to the first quarter of 2014 attributed to unfavorable market conditions. “GAAP net loss per diluted share of $1.35 for the quarter includes $557 million, or $1.28 per diluted share in adjustments for restructuring charges, inventory adjustments, and merger-related costs, and $133 million, or $0.30 per share, for other significant market-driven charges, it maintained. It indicated that the company recorded over $700 million in estimated annualized savings as a result of actions initiated during the quarter. Martin Craighead, Baker Hughes Chairman and Chief Executive Officer said, “Our first quarter results are a reflection of the extreme market forces faced by our industry since late December. Consistent

with past downturns, many of our customers have curtailed or canceled projects. The reduction in activity can clearly be seen in the North America rig count, which has been cut in half, dropping by more than 1,000 rigs so far this year. Similarly, international activity has begun falling, including significant rig count declines in Colombia, Mexico, Continental Europe, and Australia.” “In addition to lower activity levels, strained capital budgets have prompted customers to decrease their spending per well including a reduced appetite for premium services. As day rates for drilling rigs have fallen sharply, so has the demand for high technology products, which are engineered to reduce the time to drill and complete a well. In the United States, some customers are electing to defer completions altogether, and we estimate that as many as 20% of the recent wells being drilled have been placed in inventory to be completed at a later date. Although we believe this customer reaction is transitory, the reduced consumption per well has contributed to the oversupply of our industry leading to an unfavorable pricing environment,” it added.

Petrol scarcity caused by subsidy fears – Agency

uel shortages are set to worsen in Nigeria as international traders and local marketers back away from imports over fears that the cashstrapped new government will halt costly subsidy payments. Reuters said already, lines at petrol stations in the major cities are blocking traffic as Africa’s largest crude oil exporter runs out of domestic fuels. The shortage in some rural areas is even more acute due to a payment battle between independent retailers and the government. “We have exhausted our stocks,” said Stanley Yakubu, a worker at the Forte Filling Station in the Maitama neighborhood of Abuja. “We thought government and marketers have resolved their issues but supply is very slow in coming.” Traders said new bookings for vital

tanker imports of transport fuel into Nigeria have slowed to a trickle, and some cargoes offshore are being redirected to other regions. Efforts by outgoing president Goodluck Jonathan in 2012 to end expensive subsidies, which would have doubled gasoline prices, led to riots in the street. The steep drop in world oil prices would have cushioned consumers from any withdrawal of subsidies, but gasoline prices would still jump by roughly 30 percent if the current capped price of 87 naira per litre is allowed to move closer to the 115 it would cost without the government support. Additionally, as subsidies cover the difference between the capped price and the cost to buy the fuel on the international market, marketers worry Nigeria

could end the payments without letting capped prices rise, leaving them to shoulder the potentially sizeable price difference. Nigeria relies on oil exports for 80 percent of its revenue and has already burned through half of its borrowing allowance this year. It could follow Angola and Indonesia in cutting expensive subsidies, but with crude prices now edging back up after last year’s slump, the most ideal moment may well have passed. “The time to cut was January/February, when oil prices were so low,” said Stanislas Drochon, director of Africa oil and gas with IHS. “That was really a missed opportunity, but it’s not too late.” Though Nigeria exports around two million barrels per day of crude, it is almost

Commodity

Units

Price

Change

% Change

Time(ET)

Crude Oil (WTI)

USD/bbl.

59.20

-0.19

-0.32%

14:22:19

Crude Oil (Brent)

USD/bbl.

64.96

-0.43

-0.66%

14:22:32

TOCOM Crude Oil

JPY/kl

48,920.00

-330.00

-0.67%

14:22:44

NYMEX Natural Gas

USD/MMBtu

2.80

-0.08

-2.67%

14:22:54

Source: Bloomberg as at May 4, 2015

wholly reliant on imports for the 40 million litres per day of gasoline it consumes, due to inadequate refineries. The effort is expensive, accounting for an average of 2.5 percent its gross domestic product from 2006-2012, according to the IMF. The government set aside 914 billion naira ($4.6 billion) for it in 2014. Critics say the subsidies are not only inefficient but open to abuse by corrupt operators. Imports that have arrived so far this year total at least 300 billion naira, according to pan-African lender Ecobank, a bill that would come due after incoming President Muhammadu Buhari’s May 29 inauguration. “The new regime will be the one who pays the bills,” said Dolapo Oni, a Lagos-based energy analyst with Ecobank. “And no one wants to wait for the new government.” Buhari has not made clear his plans for subsidies, which are paid by the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA).

Energy Week

NERC urges stakeholders on review of tariffs UDEME AKPAN

he Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC has summoned stakeholders to assist in reviewing charges and tariffs for electricity generation, transmission and distribution in the nation. It maintained that in exercise of the powers conferred upon it by section 76(6) of the Electric Power Sector Reform Act 2005 and all other powers enabling it in that behalf, NERC adopted the Multi Year Tariff Order (MYTO) methodology for electricity pricing in Nigeria, which sets out the basis and pricing principles and procedures for effecting minor and major reviews. “The MYTO provides 15-Year tariff path for the electricity industry, with minor reviews biannually in the light of changes in a limited number of parameters (specifically inflation, US Dollar exchange rate to Naira, natural gas price, available generation capacity and collection losses) and major reviews every five years, when all other inputs are reviewed with stakeholders.” “Pursuant to Sections 7 of the three separate Tariff Orders (Generation, Transmission and Distribution), the Commission has commenced the process of bi-annual minor review of the tariff,” it maintained. It added, “The process involves the collection of data from National Bureau of Statistics, Central Bank of Nigeria and the System Operations Division of Transmission Company of Nigeria. The Distribution Companies are to provide evidence of the status of their respective collection losses.” The Commission indicated that in Carrying out the minor review NERC will adopt measures such as placing notice in Newspaper: Publication of intention to carry out a minor review on MYTO 2 in three national Newspapers and review of public response to notice of intention: The Commission will collate and analyze the responses to the publication. “Gather data from Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and System Operations Division of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). The inflation and exchange rates data will be based on average of last six (6) months ending 30th March 2015. Also, the System Operator is to inform the Commission on the average available generation capacity for the last six (6) months.”

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Seven Energy begins gas delivery to Calabar NIPP UDEME AKPAN

even Energy International Limited, the indigenous Nigerian integrated gas Company has commenced the supply of gas to the 560 MW Calabar National Integrated Power Project. The commercial delivery of gas to Calabar NIPP commenced in March 2015, and is being executed through Accugas, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Seven Energy. When operating at full capacity Calabar NIPP will increase national power generation by over 10per cent. Gas is being supplied to the power plant from Seven Energy’s Uquo gas processing facility in Akwa Ibom State through the Seven Energy pipeline network. The gas supply will enable the power plant to complete commissioning and start delivering electricity into the national grid. Commenting on the

achievement, Phillip Ihenacho, Chief Executive Officer, Seven Energy, said; “Delivering a cost effective and reliable gas supply is critical to providing sustainable power supply into the national grid to meet the government’s reform objectives and to facilitate industrial development.” “I am delighted that our ability to deliver an indigenous gas solution, from end to end is now being recognised by a broad range of industrial and power sector customers. Not only will the gas we supply drive enhanced power generation, but when combined with improvements in transmission and distribution it will also facilitate industrial and commercial developments which will have a far reaching impact throughout the community, stimulating industry and generating employment as a result,” he maintained. Steve Tierney, Managing Director, Accugas said “The Calabar NIPP is a major power plant in Calabar and a further

endorsement of the quality and reliability of our services. Our strong capability across the region with ownership of gas reserves and pipeline infrastructure has enabled us to commercialise our gas assets, delivering a solution that the market has been demanding for many years. We are ready and look forward to adding more customers to our network across the south east of Nigeria, bringing affordable and reliable gas to a wider audience.” Seven Energy has continued to champion an industrial gas revolution through the development and production of natural gas, and, critically, its commercialisation through investment in processing and distribution infrastructure, where the Company has invested over $1 billion in the south east region of the Niger Delta in the last 5 years. With significant capacity built into its distribution infrastructure, the Company is capable of providing a long-term

Ihenacho

supply of gas to additional off takers for power generation and for local industry. Since the commissioning of the Uquo gas processing facility in 2014, Seven Energy has begun the supply of gas to other off-takers such as the Ibom Power Company, Notore Chemical Industries Limited and the United Cement Company of Nigeria, also in Calabar.

Chinese firm, EMSL parley on metering certification CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

he management of SKYRUN International, Chinese electricity firm has approached the Electricity Management Services Limited (EMSL) to get proper certification of pre-paid meters. EMSL’s General Manager Public Affairs, Uche Aneke in a statement said the company which was led by the Nigerian Ambassador to China, his Excellency Sola Onadipe, ex-

Meter

pressed interest to invest in the Nigerian electricity sector especially in the area of meter production. Ambassador Onadipe, while assuring the Management Staff of EMSL of the company’s integrity and ability, stated that SKYRUN was in Nigeria to make positive interventions in the power sector with particular regard to providing metering services and power generation. He stated that the com-

pany has been consulting with the relevant stakeholders, especially the Ministry of Power, the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the Electricity Management Services Limited (EMSL) to obtain the right advice and certification for their take off operations in Nigeria. According to him, “the SKYRUN group has been partnering with the Nigerian economy for the past twelve years with the production of home appliances, and they’ve also employed over 500 Nigerians”. In his own remarks, the Chairman of SKYRUN, Mr. Xie Shao, expressed deep interest in establishing partnership with EMSL in the area of meter testing and technological transfer. ‘we want to establish our big cooperation with your organization in this metering area so sometime maybe we can work together in this testing area and we can send your engineers from Nigeria back to China to visit some of our facilities’ he concluded. He further solicited for the cooperation of EMSL in taking adequate steps to ensure that their Smart Meters are of the right type and quality. Accord-

ing to him, once his company obtains the necessary certification and endorsement to operate, they would deliver on their promises. He continued, ‘already some Smart Meters that were produced by them have been submitted to the National Meter Test Station in Oshodi for testing and certification by the EMSL staff ’ While assuring Skyrun’s Management of his agency’s support, the Managing Director of EMSL Engineer Peter Ewesor, said that the testing and certification of Meters is a standard procedure which is not punitive but to ensure that whatever meter that is produced, uniquely meets the country’s requirements. Engineer Ewesor described meter business as a big issue in the country, in terms of enhancement of revenue generation, as well as determination of collection losses. The National Coordinator of the Nigeria China Business Council, Chief Mathew Uwaekwe, and the General Manager SKYRUN, Mr. David Shi, were also part of the delegation to the EMSL Corporate office in Abuja

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Energy Week

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

10mw Katsina wind farm is 98% completed – Igali CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

he Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Power, Amb. Godknows Igali, has disclosed that the 10MW Katsina wind farm is currently at 98per cent completion. He said that of the thirtyseven turbines, test running of the facility has since begun with the five already successfully test-run. He also confirmed that the transmission line for the execution of the power to be produced is ready through the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), the officials have confirmed this development. Amb. Igali also disclosed

that Government is committed to ensuring smooth running of this pilot scheme, and it plans to replicate it in the entire Northern region, where wind velocity is high, stressing that the harnessing of wind resource is an integral part of the newly approved National Policy on sustainable Energy and Energy Efficiency. In a statement, the Deputy Director of Press in the ministry, Timothy Oyedeji, recalled that the delay experienced in the completion of the Katsina Wind-Power Project was occasioned by the ugly incident of kidnapping of French National who was in-charge of the project and the need to subsequently engage on another French Company to complete the project.

He explained that the windfarm was only one component of the renewable energy programme of the Federal Government. This he said is being boosted with the approval on Wednesday by the Federal Executive Council, of the first-ever National Policy on Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency. The Permanent Secretary enumerated other renewable energy projects to include Small, Medium, Large Hydros as well a Solar-Power Projects and Bio-mass He also said that Government has put in place, measures to check the menace of power infrastructure vandalism, he however appealed to communities and new owners of power facilities to collabo-

rate with Government by being vigilant in exposing the activities of vandals hence they would be protecting their assets and also provide electricity to the people, thus they would make more money.

Houston Texas, USA. He maintained that the Corporation was having a lot of issues that are interlinked with the power sector; for the past two months, Ige remarked that one leg of the Escravos-Lagos pipeline between Escravos and Ojidi and Warri has been down after vandalism. “It has taken us this long to repair the pipeline because, the elections meant that the JTF could not provide security for our people to go in there and access the terrain. So it was only now that the elections are over that the people can now go-in there and access the location. At the moment, work is on-going right now to effect that repair,” he remarked. He indicated that in addition, the transforcados pipeline which was attacked about four weeks has not been put back on stream because of new cases of vandalism along the same line. Ige said the NNPC is losing gas supply from Obein, Sapele and from NPDC, which has a huge capacity. He said there has also been problem with evacuation, even as the corporation has been able to supply gas to Okpai power plant, the power sector evacuation challenges has made it practically impossible to release power. ‘‘So Okpai sometimes is not been able to operate at full capacity. We are able to supply

to Ibom power but Ibom power has been operating at about 50 per cent capacity for quite a few months now. Although the gas is there, the power plant is not working at full capacity. We are able to supply gas to Alaoji but the Alaoji power plant is not able to evacuate power because when Alaoji is on, you cannot evacuate Alaoji and Calabar,” he said. “It is a combination of issues, there was a time that the hydro generation is at its lowest; we have lost 300MW from Shiroro as a result of hydro going down. So, bringing all these together is almost like a perfect storm for a much reduced generation,’’ he maintained. Ige remarked that over the next couple of weeks, as repair work begins and the rainy season draws nearer; there would be improvement in power supply because all the problems are actually short-term induced problems. He said gas price should not be an issue for producers and consumers because gas price has been increased to export parity in Nigeria, adding that the challenge today is not that of pricing. He explained that mounting gas debts also remained a challenge in Nigeria is the mounting gas debts because gas price is not being paid by consumers at the rate at which it is supposed to be paid. Ige said in the last couple of months, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has put a pro-

gramme in place to extinguish some of the legacy debts, adding that, government will make sure that the new volume that are being supplied are actually being paid by end consumers through the power operators back to the gas suppliers. He maintained that, “I think the issue is not the price; it is more about the collection and payment of that price. Otherwise I see no reason why anybody should complain, our price right now is pretty much at par with reasonable standard. So our domestic gas price is basically competitive.” “Overall, there might be a miscommunication about pricing; pricing is at the optimum or close to the optimum now. More importantly there is willing buyers willing sellers’ arrangement anyway, so the market is free but it is just for the market itself to stabilise to a level where people pay for what they take,” he said. He added, “Those who have entered into an agreement before this arrangement will also be accommodated. This is because once the Minister announces the new price for gas it definitely reflects on all gas supply agreement. So any gas agreement right now is supposed to reflect the gas pricing for the volume that are within the base load. With this, anybody who is doing a new transaction must do on willing buyer willing seller agreement, so nobody is cut off in this arrangement.”

Igali

Electricity supply drops to 2,836mw – PTFP

ower supply has dropped from over 3,000 megawatts, mw to 2,838.03mw because of a significant fall in gas delivery to Electricity Generation Companies, GENCOs. Of the 2,913.52mw generated, 2,838.03mw was distributed to consumers while the balance was kept to stabilise the system. The Presidential Task Force on Power which disclosed this over the weekend indicated that this is by far below the nation’s 12,800.00mw peak demand forecast. A survey showed that power supply has worsen, especially as the nation is said to be losing about 150 million standard cubic feet of gas daily due to pipeline vandalism and other challenges. The Group Executive Director, Gas and Power, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Dr. David Ige said at the opening ceremony of the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) which commenced in

Nebo

Consumers lament poor power supply

onsumers have complained about the continued poor electricity in the nation. The consumers who spoke with National Mirror over the weekend said they had been compelled to go into private generation of electricity at higher cost. One of them who preferred not to be named said, “We have been using our generator to generate power for several weeks. The government and others should make efforts to restore constant supply.” But the Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Dr. Sam Amadi, at an interactive session with members of civil society organisations, representatives of industrial, commercial and residential electricity consumers to consider a concept note on consumer advocacy network in Abuja on Monday, April 27, 2015. Amadi noted that information asymmetry was not in the interest of electricity market even as he recommends that geographical or occupational clusters of knowledgeable consumer advocates need to be galvanised to promote accessibility and reliability of service in the market. He, however, cautioned that efforts at establishing a virile consumer advocacy groups should be based on rational economic decisions rather than an attempt at instigating the consumers against the operators. According to him, “there is a noticeable under-representation of consumer voice, with superficial and adversarial tendency that lacks impact. “This is in sharp contrast to the powerful position of the service providers, who though few in number, have the fund and negotiating power to push their demands, thus, a deficit in the democracy of the electricity market.” ‘’A deficit occurs when the ordinary processes of governance of an institution creates and reinforces is empowerment of critical stakeholders of an institution. In this case, the system is the Nigerian electricity market and the critical stakeholder that is dis empowered is the consumer’’ Amadi said. The concept note on the formation of an advocacy network is to be fine tuned by a 15-man committee of the various advocacy groups present at the interactive session and would be presented to a reconvened session at a later date. The network will be expected to develop and implement a robust work plan to educate electricity consumers on their rights and privileges about critical electricity issues, conduct regular studies aimed at market issues on a sustainable basis.

Energy Week

DNV GL wins new contract

NV GL Korea, the technical advisor to the oil and gas industry, has been awarded a technology qualification (TQ) contract with Korea Gas Corporation, KOGAS for a FEED Package for a 5MTPA onshore LNG liquefaction plant based on the innovative KSMR liquefaction process. KSMR is a new natural gas liquefaction process and is for LNG plants and floating LNG due to its compactness. A pilot KSMR LNG liquefaction plant of 100 tonnes per day is being constructed by KOGAS to verify the operability and the efficiency at the Incheon LNG receiving terminal in Korea. KOGAS has invited DNV GL to perform a TQ in line with DNV GL’s Recommended Practice DNV-RPA203. This will provide assistance on the identification and mitigation of areas of uncertainties alongside quantification of the risks associated with application of this novel technology for onshore application. “Korea is a major oil importing nation and is driving forward plans to increase the share of natural gas in their energy mix, mainly through LNG import,” said Rolf Benjamin Johansen, DNV GL’s Regional Manager for Korea and Japan. “Our experience in the complete lifecycle of LNG production allows us to develop customer-specific solutions from risk management to effective asset operation. Our methodology quantifies and mitigates risks from the earliest project stages.” In addition to the TQ process, DNV GL will also review the process simulation report of the KSMRTM LNG liquefaction process involving natural gas liquid recovery, liquefaction, end flash and refrigeration, in line with KOGAS design specification. “As a technical advisor, we deliver a world class systematic process for TQ through the Recommended Practice (RP) DNV-RP-A203,” added Johansen. “The RP describes definite steps to ensure that the new product meets the requirements initially set. Successful completion of the TQ project will enable KOGAS to have a solid reference to secure the FEED package for LNG FPSO topside process based on this new KSMRTM liquefaction process.” DNV GL has supported KOGAS to set the Qualification Basis which is the initial stage of the TQ process, which is likely to continue into 2016. As part of the Technology Assessment, a first workshop has been held for the technology categorization and identification of the main challenges and uncertainties related to the novel technology aspects of the KSMRTM process. The workshop was attended by a multi-discipline team of specialists from KOGAS, Dong Hwa Entec (heat exchanger) and Samsung Techwin (compressor).

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Oil prices fall to $65 per barrel

rude oil prices have fallen from almost $70 to $65 per barrel in the global market as a result of low demand and increased supply. For instance, the price of Brent stood at $65.39 while the price of WTI hovered at $59.39 over on Monday, this week. Also, the price of Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC basket of 12 crudes hovered at $62.44 per barrel. The price of OPEC basket of 12 crudes stood at $62.44 per barrel, compared with $63.98 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The new OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Oriente (Ecuador), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela). Already, the prolonged low crude oil prices have been attributed to speculation and over estimation of the capacity of United States and others to flood to the volatile market. OPEC maintained that oil sup-

Oil vessel

ply and demand don’t fully justify the 60 percent drop in prices between June and January, this year. A rise in supply from outside the OPEC at a time when demand for oil was weak was the main reason for the drop, OPEC said in its monthly bulletin on Monday. Brent oil, benchmark for more than half of the world’s crude, tumbled from mid-June to a sixyear low in January as U.S. output climbed to the highest level in more than four decades and OPEC members pumped more barrels. “There was one other important factor that contributed to the

downturn, especially as the price decline gained momentum,” OPEC said. “That was speculation.” Brent for June delivery rose 0.8 percent to $66.96 a barrel on ICE Futures Europe in Dubai on Monday. Prices have rebounded from the low of $45.19 in January. The premium that speculators add to oil prices ranges from $10 to $30 a barrel, OPEC said. The 12-member OPEC left its production target unchanged at a November meeting, prompting speculation that it would let crude slide low enough to curb shale de-

velopment in the U.S. OPEC’s interest is different from that of traders in the market as hedge funds and speculators need prices to fluctuate to make profits, OPEC said. “The stability that OPEC and other energy stakeholders seek is of no help to them and severely limits their scope for gain,” OPEC said. OPEC oil production was little changed in April near the highest level since November 2012 as Saudi Arabia pumped 10 million barrels a day, according to a Bloomberg survey of oil companies, producers and analysts.

According to the Communications Coordinator of KEDCO, Mohammed Kandi this effort was brought to fore recently in Kano, when a team of experts from KEDCO paid a courtesy visit to the Assistant InspectorGeneral of police in-charge of Zone One, comprising Kano, Katsina and Jigawa states, AIG Tambari Yabo.

Kabir Umar Gano, KEDCO’s Ag. Chief Admin Officer who led the team on the visit expressed his satisfaction with the level of enthusiasm the police have always displayed watching over KEDCO facilities in the zone. Gano also stressed the need for additional security personnel to be deployed around KEDCO property assuring that, the management was working assiduously to tackle myriad of challenges that are militating against improved power supply. He said: “Really, we are battling with a couple of challenges including vandalism, theft of cables, and transformer oil amongst others.” Responding, AIG Tambari Yabo thanked the management team from KEDCO and pledged that the police would do its best in protecting KEDCO possessions from any threat. He further informed that his men would achieve the objectives via “information sharing, proper investigation and prosecution of vandals within the three states of its operation.”

KEDCO assured its consumers of enhanced service delivery by the rehabilitation of its service facilities. The Chairman Board of Directors of KEDCO, Alhaji Tajudeen Aminu Dantata, gave the assurance at recent stakeholders’ workshop said the main goal of the company was to enhance service delivery. “KEDCO is fully committed to the rehabilitation of its service facilities for improved power supply,” he said. He added that new prepaid meters would be installed to check complaints associated with estimated billing system. Dantata also noted that the regular electricity supply would also provide job opportunities for the teeming populace, while helping to solve the many problems that are affecting Nigerians. The chairman therefore urged consumers in Kano, Jigawa and Katsina states to endeavour to carry out their obligations to enable the company forge ahead with its initiative of enhancing uninterrupted power supply.

Kano Disco tasks Police on equipment protection CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

n a bid to ensure safety of property and lives of its staff, the Kano Electricity Distribution Plc (KEDCO) is seeking a more pragmatic acquaintance and support from officers of the Nigerian Police Force.

Power vandalism

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Industry & SMEs

MFBs face challenges in fulfilling mandate – Experts

Micro finance banks, MFBs, exist to render financial and other capacity-building advisory services to micro, small and medium enterprises with a view to growing them for socio-economic benefits of every economy. In Nigeria, experience with the MFBs over the years indicates their inability to fulfil their mandate in the face of daunting challenges. ABOLAJI ADEBAYO in this report analyses the performance of the micro finance institutions from experts’ perspectives.

n Nigeria, access to credit is seen generally as an essential tool for promoting Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, MSMEs development in view of the fact that about 70 per cent of the population is engaged in the informal sector or in agricultural production. Both the federal and state governments as well as economic development experts see the roles of the MSMEs as crucial and therefore agree that if appropriate strategies are adopted and the latent entrepreneurial capabilities of this large segment of the people is sufficiently stimulated and sustained, the positive multiplier effects would be felt across the broad spectrum of the economy. To give effect to these aspirations various policies have been instituted over time by the Federal Government to improve rural and urban enterprise production capabilities. Despite their invaluable roles in national development, particularly in terms of job creation and entrepreneurship in the country, which are key to improving the living standards of the people in the grassroots, majority of the micro business entrepreneurs lack the necessary financial services, especially credit from the commercial banks. This, as some experts have noted, is not unconnected with their lack of capacity to guarantee credit repayment, amongst other managerial constraints. Consequently they depended on families, friends and other sources to raise funds for their businesses. Successive governments have come up with special programmes, whose principal targets are the overall empowerment

Microfinance bank building

Aganga

CBN Gov, Godwin Emefiele

IT IS INTERESTING TO KNOW THAT THE CBN DOES NOT REGULATE INTEREST RATES CHARGED BY MICROFINANCE BANKS; SO WITH HUGE AMOUNT TIED UP IN THE CBN’S VAULTS AS LEGAL RESERVE RATIO, HIGH COST OF INCORPORATION OF BUSINESS VENTURES; TAXES, APPROVALS, RENTS, SALARIES, ETC., THE OPERATORS HARDLY HAVE ENOUGH LEFT TO COMMENCE OPERATIONS of low income earners in urban centers. These programmes range from Agricultural Development Projects, ADPs, the establishment of Agricultural Credit Banks to Better Life Programme for Rural Women and the like. Unfortunately most of the programmes failed to achieve the desired result. That led to the emergence of microfinance banks which aimed at extending credits to micro enterprises and

encouraging entrepreneurship. In the face of high rate of unemployment, most people depend on micro and small-scale farming and off-farm enterprises for their livelihood. In this situation, the need for micro finance support cannot be over emphasis. Their entrepreneurial contributions are strategic to the Nigerian economic development and growth has great potential to contribute to income generation and poverty alleviation. Despite its relevance to the development of SMEs, experts believed that microfinance banks have been making insignificant impact on the growth and development of SMEs. According to a Micro finance bank Manager, Mr.Olumide Ojo, one of the challenges of micro financing in Nigeria at present was that Micro Finance Institutions were not able to reach a greater number of small scale business entrepreneurs. He said the existing micro finance banks in Nigeria served less than 15 per cent of potential people that needed the service. He said the banks were not given good empowerment support by the government, making the banks’ contribution of aggregate micro credit facilities of total credit to the economy. He maintained that the effect of not appropriately addressing this situation would further accentuate poverty and slow down growth and development of SMEs in the country. He further explained that the micro fi-

nance banks were caught in the throes of an inefficient Nigerian economic system. He said the laudable concept of micro finance had been hijacked by money bags; it had been caught by bureaucracy of the Nigerian politics and economics. “The CBN’s requirements has taken the microfinance industry out of the reach of the people it was intended to serve; the very poor. While at the same time prospective investors are discouraged because they think their funds are not sufficiently secured. “It is interesting to know that the CBN does not regulate interest rates charged by microfinance banks; so with huge amount tied up in the CBN’s vaults as legal reserve ratio, high cost of incorporation of business ventures; taxes, approvals, rents, salaries, etc., the operators hardly have enough left to commence operations. Mrs. Funmilayo Adenuga, a small business owner at Fagba, Agege Lagos State could not categorically tell the per cent charged whenever she got loan from micro finance bank. She said the charge was not specific and it amount charged depended on the size of the loan. She said the maximum she had got as loan was N100,000 which had to be paid back within six months. Another micro finance customer, Mrs. Lateefat Shittu said she only got the loan of about N70,000 whenever she was running at loss in her red oil and groundnut oil market. Meanwhile, the Director of Membership and Public Relations, Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, NASME, Nerus Ekezie said the banks have been deviating from their purpose by competing with commercial banks. “Having failed to capture its target market, Microfinance banks in the country are now trying to compete with full fledged banks but are grossly lacking in the most important aspect of its operations; that is raising funds from depositors and getting prospective clients to shed their phobia for bank loans for fear of exorbitant interest rates charged and hidden bank charges.” According to Ekezie, operators of microfinance banks believed it was a short cut to owning a bank without going through the rigours of procuring a banking license or paying the over N250m CBN deposit required to start a banking business. He said a microfinance bank would fail at Adeola Odeku or Ikoyi while its target market is at Okokomaiko, Mile 2, or all other places where it can find an akara, plantain (boli) seller, recharge card seller, okada rider, etc. He said instead, micro finance banks have been competing for corporate accounts, trying to have salary accounts for government parastatal, or finance.

Cocktail

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Black bear chases Yellowstone tourists away from cubs

group of tourists visiting Yellowstone National Park near Gardiner, Mont., have learned firsthand not upset a mama bear. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has released video of a black bear chasing a group of Yellowstone visitors away from her three 13-monthold cubs. “It serves as a reminder that wildlife can be unpredictable,” the agency said in a Facebook post. “For

your safety and theirs, respect wildlife and give them room to roam.” Bob Gibson, the agency’s communication and education program manager, told NBC News that the tourists were “absolutely in danger.” Gibson said the mother would have been more protective of her cubs if they were younger. The National Park Service warns visitors to stay away from bears, especially bears and their cubs.

Elderly man with prostitute under bed loses housing subsidy

uthorities say a man living in a suburban Philadelphia assisted-living facility has lost his housing subsidy after officials found a prostitute underneath his bed. Uri Monson tells The Intelligencer in Doylestown the man, believed to be in his 70s, paid prostitutes using profits earned from peddling alcohol to fellow residents. Monson said the man

was a “more mobile gentleman” who went on booze runs for his neighbours. The incident was reported Thursday after county commissioners authorized contract extensions with private facilities housing former residents of the closed county-owned assisted living facility. The county paid more than $1 million to subsidize assisted living care for 21 seniors last year.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Oddities

Bus company apologises for ‘ride me all day’ topless model ads

Welsh bus company said it is pulling ads featuring scantily-clad models holding signs reading, “ride me all day for £3,” after a wave of social media criticism. New Adventure Travel, based on Cardiff, said the ads featuring models -- several of them wearing nothing on their upper torsos other than the signs -- was designed to “make catching the bus attractive to the younger generation.” However, the ads reading, “ride me all day for £3” -- the $4.68 price of bus fare -- were widely decried as sexist on social media. “I guess you could use the ‘it’s just a laugh’ argument, but in 2015 does a bus journey really need to be sexualized to market itself ?” asked Hannah Johnson, part of the team behind the local We Are

Cardiff blog. The company’s featuring of a male model in one version of the ad did not ward off the critics. “The slogan of ‘ride me all day for £3’ whilst being a little tongue in cheek

was in no way intended to cause offense to either men or women and, if the advert has done so, then we apologize unreservedly. There has certainly been no intention to objectify either men or wom-

The company’s bus showing the ‘controversial’ advert

en,” the company said in a statement. “Given the volume of negativity received we have decided to remove the pictures from the back of the buses within the next 24 hours.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Civil Service 41

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

NIPOST boosts staff welfare with two buses REGINA OTOKPA

s part of activities to mark 2015 workers day, the Senior Staff Association of Communication/Information Union, Nipost chapter, has made a donation of two brand new 15-seater Toyota buses to its members. President of the Union, Mr. Imafidom Gabriel, who made the donation, said the vehicles were procured to relieve its members of the transportation challenges they had been facing since

their welfare was a top priority to the union. The union leader, who condemned confrontation approach by workers in engaging government and their management, said the gesture was the Union’s May Day gift to its members and contribution to the ongoing transformation and revitalization of Nipost so as to encourage the staff put in their best in the service. Gabriel said: ‘‘I am confident that these buses would not only reduce the sufferings of our

members on the road but increase productivity in the organization. He went ahead to advise the members saying, ‘‘Rather than engage on confrontation, we think that dialogue remains the best way to address any industrial disputes because many workers have staged protests in the past and after starved to death without getting anything. ‘‘This Union believes that we should not be more interested about what we will eat today and forget tomorrow. So,

the first thing is to ensure that the organization is there tomorrow to ensure continuity. ‘‘When the organization is always there, people will always be working there and the issue of unemployment will reduce, if you sack some workers that will add to the number of the unemployed, and that will not be helping anybody; some of them may not even get their benefits till death. The first thing is let us put in our best in the respective places we work, so that the organi-

zation will be there and it is when it is there that you can talk about union. ‘‘Our Senior Staff Association of Communication/information, is committed and will not be like Nitel staff that roaming the street or Nigerian airways, railway staff, it will continue to grow. We have just started, we are going to work with the organization to make it strong and when it gets strong, we feel proud that we worked at Nipost. It is not the job of someone aside, it is the job for you and, we have to increase the productivity though enhancement of staff welfare, we have to let our hands be on deck, put in our best and God will crown anyone of us. We promise to do better in the coming year and be progressive,’’ he added. Earlier in his address, the Post Master General of Nipost, Mallam Mori Baba, said he had always pressed for the welfare of the staff of Nipost considering the resultant effect on the productivity

of the organization. Baba who charged his staff to shun confrontation in resolving disputes for the interest of the organization said, ‘‘Within and outside Nipost, staff have always agitate for one thing or the other, for us, they don’t always need to agitate to get what they want. ‘‘I know the efforts that have been put in for this staff welfare enhancement. When we look at the way people lead unions, we have realized that one of the reasons problem usually emanate is because it is either they are fraudulent in the way they manage fund or not but this is not the issue here. For them to provide two vehicles for the welfare of the staff, it is really something that is commendable, it is something that people in corporate societies should learn from this. If you are in charge of association, it is not an avenue to enrich yourselves but to create welfare for the common staff in the organization,’’ he said.

12 Perm Secs resign in Katsina JAMES DANJUMA KATSINA

Emeritus Professors at the special Senate meeting for former Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, the late Emeritus Prof. Tekena Tamuno, by the University of Ibadan Senate on Monday.

NAC unveils national automotive repository portal REGINA OTOKPA

he National Automotive Council (NAC) has launched its new website, www.narp.gov.ng. to facilitate easy production of vehicles and components of international standard at a competitive price, and to enhance data exchange among government agencies. The portal would offer a single online point of reference for all manufactured and imported vehicles globally and provide basic and detailed Vehicle history report to show details such as basic Vehicle information, past ownership, vehicle maintenance, title history blemishes, accident history and car title check.

Speaking during the launch in Abuja, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr Olusegun Aganga, described the portal as a major step forward for the country and the Nigerian automotive industry. He explained that automotive repository portal had a unique design to capture stores and also to collate relevant information on all vehicles including details from the manufacturer, registration details such as ownership, Vehicle maintenance record, incident or accident related record, crime information and vehicle disposal information. According to him, this information was processed and used to generate holistic information called Ve-

hicle history report. The minister pointed out that the new portal would enhance exchange of data among relevant government agencies system such as the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO), Department of State Security (DSS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and other major stakeholders and would keep an up-todate database information of Vehicle identification number (VIN). Earlier, the director general of National Automotive council (NAC) Engr. Aminu Jalal, explained that the provision of the portal in this era was part of the Automotive Policy which was to ensure the survival, growth and development of

the Nigerian automotive industry, using local human and material resources. The idea he said was to bridge existing gaps in the sector and to enhance the industry’s contribution to the national economy in areas of employment generation and majorly technology acquisition. The CEO West Blue Consulting, an innovative business and IT-consulting company, Valentina Mintah, while giving an insight into how the National Automotive Repository Portal, described it as the first of its kind in Africa and would strongly assist in combating Vehicle related crime by tracking and tracing a vehicle from the factory to the vehicle owner in Nigeria.

welve permanent secretaries working in various ministries in Katsina State may have tendered their resignation letters to the State Government. A government source who spoke on the issue yesterday, identified two possible reasons for the sizable number of resignations. He said the development may have been triggered by their “active involvement in partisan politics during the general elections.” Because of the political party in power, many of the permanent secretaries had openly campaigned for Peoples Democratic Party, PDP’s gubernatorial candidate, Engr. Musa Nashuni. The election outcome however saw former Speaker, House of Representatives, Aminu Bello Masari of the All Progressive Congress, APC, emerge as governor-elect. “Some of the permanent secretaries are afraid that when Masari becomes

governor, he may get at some senior civil servants that supported the PDP,” the source said. He said incumbent governor, Ibrahim Shema had allegedly demoted two permanent secretaries to directors in 2011 for supporting the opposition during then general elections. Secondly, the source said a law which limited tenure of directors and permanent secretaries may have been responsible for the number of resignations. He said tenure some of the permanent secretaries would be ending when the present state government would be handing over power on May 29. “Some of them that resigned may want to enjoy their benefits and not want to face unfriendly policies that may come up under the incoming administration,” he added. When contacted, the state’s Head of Service, Lawal Aliyu said he was in Lagos for and event and would respond at a later time. Aliyu was however yet to respond on the issue as at time of filing this report.

Civil Service

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

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Ekiti verifies workers to save N500m monthly ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

Bauchi State Commissioner for Health, Mr. Sani Malami, presenting an award to Chairperson, Katagum Traditional Birth Attendant, Hajia Kuwa Adamu, during Bauchi State Mamaye launch and performance award presentation, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

FCT minister gets vote of no confidence ADEOLA TUKURU ABUJA

inister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Senator Bala Mohammed, has been given a vote of no confidence by Kpaduma indigenes alleging that they are been maltreated and subjected to endless fears and torment by the FCT Administration, through its land policy that has almost turned them to strangers in their ancestral homes. The indigenes during a peaceful protest in Abuja, led by one of the leaders of the community, Hon Bala Iyah, who expressed dismay, said the minister has not been respecting the court order restraining further

demolition of houses in their communities and continuous harassment from allotees. According to him, they have been living in constant fears of waking to find bacons on our plots of land, with strangers claiming their houses as theirs. “We are peace loving people and we believe in peaceful ways of settling issues, we decided to take our fears and worries to the law court, in order to find a lasting solution to our plight, up till now, as I am talking to you, people from the FCTA and allotees are still disturbing us, they are still threatening our lives. “The minister promised us that pending the determination of our case in court, there will not be demolition

in our communities, but they are still disturbing our peace with endless threat of demolition” “We don’t trust his methods of allocating plots of land to people in the FCT. There is no sincerity in what he is doing to us as indigenes of the FCT, because all his policies are anti-indigenes, his policies do not favour us at all. We are treated like strangers in our own land by this present administration. Iyah, however appealed to the incoming administration of Gen Muhammadu Buhari, to consider the interest of the indigenes of the FCT, when appointing the FCT minister and the indigenes should be carried along on policies that would concern the people of

Abuja. He further called on in the incoming administration to initiate better integration plan for indigenes of Abuja. On the present Bala-led administration, Kpaduma indigenes urged adequate compensation indigenes for their farm produces that were destroyed when their farmlands were forcefully taken away from them. “He has completely acquired all our farmlands in the FCT, without compensation. As it is known, our people are mainly farmers but because of the way the minister has collected our farmlands, our people no longer know what to do to make ends meets, since there are no more plots of land for us to farm on,” he said.

kiti State Government said it had begun moves to block the loopholes through which the state lost about N500 million through the e-payment system monthly. It said the weeklong verification of 48,977 workers in the Ekiti State public service billed which began recently was to ascertain authentic workers of the state government and as well block the channel of drain. The Deputy Governor, Dr Kolapo Olusola, who made the disclosure at an enlarged stakeholders’ meeting in Ado Ekiti at the weekend, assured workers that the Governor Ayodele Fayose administration would continue to give their welfare top priority despite the protracted economic hardship the state was currently undergoing. The Deputy Governor, Dr. Kolapo Olusola expressed the government concern over the plight of workers who had been enjoying regular salary since the inception of the present administration in the state, explained that the present allocation from the federation account could no longer support the expenditure profile of the state while the internally generated revenue was too low to supplement. This was as the Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Communications, Lere Olayinka, assured workers in the state that payment of their April salary would begin on Wednesday.

Olayinka said in a statement in Ado Ekiti yesterday that “the verification exercise was aimed at blocking close to N500 million being lost to ghost workers monthly through the e-payment system contracted to a private company by the immediate past administration in the state. He said April salary “will be paid as workers are verified. Those insinuating that the verification exercise was meant to delay payment of April salary are just playing cheap politics because the arrangement is such that; the moment verification is concluded on daily basis, salary of those cleared will be paid. The statement added that verification of council staff would be done at the various council headquarters, those under LGEA (SUBEB) will be verified at their respective LGEA headquarters while secondary school teachers will assemble at designated schools in their respective local governments for the exercise. The Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Chief Toyin Ojo, appealed to all stakeholders to support the government at boosting the IGR base of the state which was just about N50 million monthly. In their contributions, the Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Kayode Akosile and the acting Chairman of the Trade Congress Union, Comrade Ladeji Ayodeji, urged the government to give the workers’ salaries priority since it was the major way the economy got to the grassroots.

Labour Minister seeks stakeholders’ support for workplace safety OLUFEMI ADEOSUN ABUJA

inister of Labour and Productivity, Senator Joel Ikenya, has raised concerns over the increasing spate of work-related accidents, lamenting that such hazards have led to the death of more people worldwide than malaria, HIV/AIDS and wars. The minister who was epresented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Clement Illoh, disclosed this in Abuja recently while declaring open a Symposium to commemorate the 2015

World Day for Safety and Health at Work. He called for coordinated multi-stakeholders and multi-sectoral cooperation in developing a preventive approach and safety culture critical to achieving sustainable improvements in safety and health standards in the workplace. The minister also stressed that in the nation’s bids for employment generation, there must be assurance of decent work as spelt out in the Harmonised National Policy on Occupational Safety and Health. According to him, “with the alarming statistics of

one work-related death occurring every 15 seconds and six thousand deaths every day, it is obvious that work kills more people across the globe than malaria, HIV and AIDS, wars and other global parameters.” Senator Ikenya indicated that there were associated injuries, mutations and sicknesses, many of which could have been prevented, adding that,“These are happening not by fate, but through sheer negligence and non-compliance with laws and regulations as well as lack of preventive measures”.

He however noted that government was doing much to boost the promotion of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) awareness among employers and workers as preventive measures of curbing workplace accidents and deaths. Speaking further, the minister stated that the Federal Government was among the signatories to the Seoul Declaration on Safety and Health at Work adopted by a Safety and Health Summit in June 2008 during the XVIII World Congress on Safety and Health at Work. The Seoul Declaration,

he noted, recognised safety and health at work as a fundamental human right stipulated in Article 23 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. He added that the Declaration also called for building and maintaining a preventive safety and health culture which required the contribution of all members of society. According to him, the Transformation Agenda of the present administration has prioritised awareness of occupational safety and health issues and promoted the nation as the largest economy in Africa.

“We are committed now more than ever before to promote a national occupational safety and health culture in which the right to a safe and healthy working environment is respected at all levels, where government, employers and workers actively participate in securing a safe and healthy working environment through a system of defined rights, responsibilities and duties, and where the highest priority is accorded the principle of prevention,” he stated, adding, “Preventive strategies should cover all workers”.

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hat lessons did you derive from the emergence of General Buhari as President elect in the last election? The lessons are much, back in the days, it has always been the cabals, the godfathers who dictate where the election will swing, who will be voted for and who will not be voted for, but now the masses have woken up, I believe that the election of the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, will now pave way for other people, even though they don’t have money, but have genuine interest to serve the people. If they have ideas to improve the lives of the populace, they will want to try it out at the poll, it won’t be like before when you spend a lot of money or because you have federal might behind you, its automatic victory at the poll. Now, democracy has come to stay in Nigeria, the incoming government will seat tight, because they know if they don’t perform, they will lose the next election, so the party that lost the election now will go back to the drawing board and check where they have lost the election and re-draw. So who is the winner? It is the masses, the people have voted for the All Progressives Congress, APC, because since 16 years, it has been the same party and it has failed the people; it was relaxed, thinking it would be rigging as usual, they forgot that power belongs to the voters and not whom they have voted for. So, the emergence of Buhari has deepened democratic culture in Nigeria. The expectation of Nigerians from the incoming government is very high, do you think Nigerians will see changes as promised them? If you look at the President-elect, General Buhari, you will see he is a man of his words, he is not just there to rule Nigeria, it is because he has unfinished business with Nigeria, this is the first time he is democratically elected as a leader. Back in the days, he was a military Head of State, that twenty months he stayed, I was in Lagos then and was working with Bata at Ojota, there was discipline, you don’t jump the queues, then people don’t even throw thrash on the streets, he strengthened the institutions and we had good economy. I strongly believe Nigerians will enjoy under General Buhari, he will make good every promise he made during the electioneering campaign, but Nigerians must exercise patience, because it will take time to clean the mess of the past 16 years. He will need to build a disciplined citizenry that will complement his anti-corruption stand. The bane of Nigeria is indiscipline. We Nigerians are indisciplined. It will be a good idea if he re-established his War Against Indiscipline, WAI, because building a new Nigeria is a huge task that must involve all. Do you support the incoming government spending time on probing past governments’ activities? I am happy the General has said he will probe the missing $20 billion in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Nigerians must be made accountable for what has happened. It will be a huge task for him to move beyond the wall of President Goodluck Jonathan’s regime but from Jonathan’s regime, also its wise for Nigerians to know what happened under Jonathan, the cases of corruption we heard under him should not go unchecked, it will

Olajide Omojolomoju

ll Progressives Congress, APC, has challenged security agencies and the telecommunications service providers to help fish out those who have being seeking to defraud Nigerians by asking them to apply for federal appointments under the incoming APC-led Federal Government through a non-existent APC Screening Committee. APC, in a statement issued in Abuja yesterday

Politics

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Buhari should probe Jonathan’s administration –Onabis Francis Onabis is a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC in Esan area of Edo State. In this interview, he explains why General Muhammadu Buhari should probe the activities of the outgoing President Goodluck Jonathan administration. DEBORAH DIDI brings excerpts.

It will be a huge task for him to move beyond

President Goodluck Jonathan’s

the wall of

regime but from

Jonathan’s regime, also its wise for Nigerians to know what happened under

Jonathan, the cases

of corruption we heard under him should not go unchecked

Onabis

not be easy to probe the 16 years of PDP rule because some records would have been missing but Nigerians want to know what actually happened in the last six years. The APC is now the new bride of all politicians, don’t you think defections into the party could have negative effect on the party You see, I did not anticipate this cross-carpeting from politicians to the incoming ruling party, because in 1999 when parties were formed, the conservatives and the progressives all mixed together to form a party, so along the way I expected each of them to go their separate ways and that is what is happening now. If we are able to get the progressives on one side and the conservatives on the other side, you see, if we ended up having two party system, which is good for the country, after some years, this cross carpeting will stop, because if you want to join politics afresh, you will know which party suit your ideology. But the APC should also be careful, because many of these people jumping ship want to protect their interests. There are many people with ill-gotten wealth, looking for avenues to protect their stolen wealth. But there are still some genuine people who are progressives but found them-

APC to security agencies, service providers: Fish out fraudsters using our name to defraud Nigerians by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said the call has become necessary again because the scammers have persisted in their fraudulent ways, despite previous warnings by the party for them to desist. Mohammed said: “These ‘419ners’ have a telephone number, 08107400745, an email address (apcscreeningcommittee@gmail.com) and a front (Dr. Favour Idiodie), who is supposedly

the Screening Committee Secretary. It should therefore not be difficult for the security agencies, working with the service providers, to fish them out and make them face the full wrath of the law.” Repeating its earlier warning, contained in a statement it issued on April 21 to Nigerians to beware of such fraudulent claims, APC restated that it has not set up any committee to which Nigerians

should submit their CVs for screening and possible federal appointments. It said: “As we wrote in our earlier statement, even when it is obvious that those behind this appointment scam are merely seeking to swindle innocent Nigerians, some desperate and gullible persons may still fall prey to their evil machinations, hence we have decided to once again alert Nigerians.”

selves on the other side, so that is the kind of movement you are seeing right now, you are still going to see something like this in the next four years or eight years and we will now have the progressives on one side and the conservatives on the other side. This is expected in democracy. Won’t this affects the APC? If only they are able to define what they stand for, if they are unable to do that, they can make mistake of the PDP, they can come out to say this is what we stand for, we are progressives, we want to do things differently, they will be able to set up that foundation, i don’t see how they are going to make mistakes but if they will want to do it like they are competing with the other party, then we don’t know where we belong to; we don’t know what we stand for, if they say we are progressives, progressives are people who do things differently in a positive manner, it will be difficult to make mistakes. The APC lost Edo Central senatorial district to the PDP in the last election despite being an APC stronghold, what went wrong? Some people hijacked the party in the district, after the governorship election, they became the boss of the party, because they have access to the governor, so a lot of people were left behind, most of our electorate and party members became aggrieved, some party leaders were angry because they weren’t recognised and some of them moved to the other party. So in a situation like that, we are expected to lose the election. It wasn’t the same structure we used in winning the governorship election that we used in the last election. The Esan people voted massively for Adams Oshimole, but unfortunately we didn’t maintain that structure for the general election. But as a party leader in Edo Central, we’ve already set the ball rolling to correct the mistakes, by bringing the aggrieved parties together to try and rectify these mistakes. We know what they are and we have started working on it, we won’t allow the PDP take over the zone, it remains a stronghold of APC, in the governorship election we will not lose the senatorial district to PDP, so as leaders of the party, we will all come together to sit down and find solutions to all these problems. We are calling on other APC leaders in the zone not to be weakened by the situation but come together and entrenched the ideology of progressivism in the zone.

Politics

Kemi Olaitan IBADAN

member of Oyo State House of Assembly representing Ibadan North state constituency II, Hon. Segun Olaleye, has said his plan to become the next Speaker of the state House of Assembly, is to consolidate on the good performance of the outgoing Seventh Assembly.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

I’m the best for Oyo Speaker –Olaleye He also said the office of Speaker is for exposed, experienced and competent law maker rather than dwelling on zoning. Speaking with journalists in Ibadan, Olaleye said he is ready for the job and his selling point is competence and capability to deliver the five major func-

tions of the legislative arm of government. According to him, he is among the members who maintained stability in the House during the outgoing administration, stating that his contributions and interventions to normalise abnormality in the House cannot be over-emphasised.

He said: “I am contesting for the post of the Speaker of the House because I believe there is a need for us to consolidate on the good work we have started. There is the need to better our good and best our better. Having being in the Seventh Assembly as one of the key players who

Members of the North-East Political Youths, Arewa Youths and Women Coalition for Good Governance during a rally in support of member-elect Dogara Yakubu’s bid for the position of the Speaker, House of Representatives in Bauchi, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

have track record of ensuring stability in the House, I think I am capable to be the Speaker. “To a large extent, I have seen it all and I know areas where we should improve. This include improvement on representation, alignment with members, robust debate and deliberation from members without any prejudice or favouritism. I have also promised to give them opportunity to do more in their respective oversight functions and also help to strengthen governance. “That is when they can help the executive arm of government to function well. That is when they can also help the governor to identify some loopholes in implementation of his policy direction and policy drives. “It is also important for the House to come out strong in playing the role of check and balances which is its primary function and obligation. When I say check and balances, I am not saying we are go-

Niger Speaker asks police to vacate Assembly Priscilla Dennis MINNA

iger State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Isah Kawu, directed the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Emmanuel Amore, to order his officers and men to vacate the Assembly complex to enable members perform their legislative function. It would be recalled the police have taken over the complex, since Tuesday, last week and prevented the lawmakers from entering into their offices. He also urged his predecessor, Hon Adamu Usman, to stop parading himself as the Speaker of the House having being impeached, saying the House may be forced to take undisclosed action against the Police boss and the immediate former Speaker. Kawu who stated this in Minna, while speaking with journalists berated the police command for its continued occupation of the House, saying it was a breach of the right

of the lawmakers to gather and do their work. He said: “Though the Police yesterday relaxed the siege on the House by allowing only Assembly staff into the complex, the legislators are still barred from assessing the Assembly to carry out their constitutional duties.” Describing the continued occupation of the Assembly complex by the police as a gag on the legislators, Kawu said: “It is unacceptable, unconstitutional and a violation of the right of the lawmakers.” Asking the Police Commissioner to order his men out of the Assembly complex, Kawu stressed that Police presence at the gate of the Assembly was an eye sore to democracy and a disgrace to the state. Asked what the lawmakers will do should the Police boss refuses to withdraw his men, K”awu said: “We have many options which I may not want to disclose now. He (Commissioner) should know that we can sit anywhere but that is not

in the good image of the state that law enforcement agents are at the gate of the Assembly blocking members in a peace time.” Warning his predecessor, Usman, to desist forthwith from parading himself as Speaker, Kawu recalled that 20 of the 25

members of the House in a duly constituted sitting, impeached him and elected new leader, saying: “If he (Usman) failed to stop parading himself as Speaker, he will incur the wrath of the law. I shall report to the House to deliberate on action to

be taken on him.” But, when contacted on phone, the Police Commissioner, Mr. Amore stated that his men are still in the House in obedience to a court order, while efforts to get the impeached speaker on his telephone for his comment failed.

ing to compete with the executive but ability to slow it down when we discover it is in wrong lane. We are talking about our ability to call its attention when we discover a certain policy is not driving in the way it was initiated. To a large extent, we are going to engage it in consultative partnership. “As the Chairman of All progressives Congress, APC caucus in the House and the chairman, House Committee on Public Account, Finance and Appropriation, I have garnered enough experience to lead the House. I learned the job from the out going Madam Speaker. “However, some people said I am from the same senatorial district with the governor, but let me tell you, politics is not static and we have to follow its dynamism. In Oyo State today, all the five ranking members are from the same senatorial district and one of us must emerge as speaker. “We have to give competence, capability and experience premium over zoning. All of us that are ranking members are from Oyo South senatorial district with the governor and according to the standing order of the House, whoever that wants to become the speaker must have cognitive experience which means he must be a ranking member. So I think I am more qualified than others.”

Senate Presidency: S’West senators divided over Lawan Adeola Tukuru ABUJA

ays after it was revealed that Senator Ahmed Lawan has received the backing of the All Progressives Congress, APC, national leader and former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, to clinch the Senate Presidency, some senators from the South-West have kicked against such arrangement, saying it does not represent the wishes of the zone. Most of the senators said that they were not consulted before such decision was taken and therefore should not be

expected to be railroaded into such political arrangements. Amid the uncertainty as regards where the Senate Presidency is zoned, there are three front runners from two zones: Senators Bukola Saraki and George Akume from Kwara and Benue states in the North central and Lawan from Yobe State in the North-East. According to a SouthWest senator, who spoke under condition of anonymity, “our challenge is that while we heard all these stories about our leader, Tinubu supporting Lawan and all that, none of us from the South-West could say

that even he as a senator, he was put in the picture of what was going on. “We all waited patiently for this long because no one was talking to us on the matter, so when we met last week on this media reports of support for Lawan from South -West senators, we agreed that yes, wherever the leadership of the party zones the Senate Presidency to, we will support, we were never unanimous at the meeting that we supported Lawan, there was a division among us and that made us to defer further discussions on the matter. “I can say that out of the 18 senators from the

South-West, two from Ondo are not for Lawan, the three from Ekiti are not for him, one from Lagos is not for him, two from Ogun are not supporting him, one from Osun also does not support Lawan while another one from Oyo also does not support. “So if one may ask, where did the media get the story from that SouthWest senators have all endorsed Lawan? It is not true because we are yet to agree on the matter, so even if the position is zoned to the North-East, I can assure you that we can’t be unanimous on this matter of Lawan.”

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Petrol price crisis drags index 0.7% down

JOHNSON OKANLAWON

quity trading may be reaching lower lows in the weeks ahead as the current trend is not showing any sign of abating. It extended its losing streak to seven days yesterday, as more investors sold off their holdings despite consistent efforts by the regulatos to bring back retail investors. Specifically, the All Share Index lost 0.66 per cent to close at 34,115.49 points, compared to the decline of 0.13 per cent to close at 34,341.88 points. Market capitalisation was down N77 billion to close at N11.58trillion, higher than the decrease of N16 billion recorded the preceding day to close at N11.66trillion. Investment analysts at

Capital Market

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Meristem Securities Limited attributed the persistent decline of the lead indicator to lack of positive news flow to drive the market out of the current bearish mood. “We, however, believe the entrance of the new government and subsequent policy actions by same may provide the needed stimuli for the market,” the firm said. Another analysts at DLM Securities Limited noted that with earnings season coming to a close, the market remained devoid of positive triggers resulting in investors remaining on the side-lines. Based on trading figures from the Nigeria Stock Exchange for the month of March, foreign portfolio investors were net sellers as they offloaded shares worth

N52.41billion compared to net inflow of N50.15billion. “The oil and gas sector led the underperformers with the sector’s index declining by 1.98 per cent, as investors’ continued to sell down on their oil & gas positions given the soft oil prices and uncertainties regarding near-tomedium term outlook of the sector,” the firm said in a note to investors. Berger Paints Plc led the gainers’ table with 48 kobo or 5.04 per cent to close at N10.00 per share, followed by Conoil Plc with N1.90 or five per cent to close at N39.92 per share. Fidelity Bank Plc appreciated nine kobo or five per cent to close at N1.89 per share, while University Press Limited Plc gained 27 kobo or 4.93 per cent to close at N5.75 per

share. Mansard Insurance Plc added 14 kobo or 4.68 per cent to close at N3.13 per share. Conversely, Ecobank Transnational Incorporation Plc lost N2.26 or 9.71 per cent to close at N21.01 per share, while Portland Paints Plc shed 19 kobo or 4.96 per cent to close at N3.64 per share. RT Briscoe Plc dropped five kobo or 4.95 per cent to close at 96 kobo per share, while Total Plc fell N8.10 or 4.91 per cent to close at N156.90 per share. Costain West Africa Plc depreciated four kobo or 4.88 per cent to close at 78 kobo per share. A total of 525.9 million shares valued at N3.29 billion were exchanged in 4,364 deals.

Unilever links profit slide to Naira, oil prices JOHNSON OKANLAWON

nilever Nigeria yesterday said the company’s top line and bottom line dropped due to devaluation of naira and collapse of crude oil prices. Speaking at the company’s Annual General Meeting in Lagos, the Chairman, Mr. Nnaemeka Achebe, who is also the Obi of Onisha, noted that business environment will be more daunting in the current financial year if the collapse of crude oil prices, high foreign exchange rate and overall political environment, are anything to go by. But having taking sig-

nificant learnings from 2014, he said, the company will be more aggressive about driving down costs and actively finding savings throughout all facet of its value chain. According to him, the company’s ambition is to continue to deliver value to all shareholders and positively affect its commitment by leveraging on sustainable living plan. He said, “The company exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from various currencies exposures, primarily with respect to the Euro. Foreign exchange risk arises from future commercial transactions, recognised assets and liabilities.

“The company managed the risk mainly by hedging foreign exchange currency contracts. At December 31, 2014, the unhedged financial assets and financial liabilities amounted to N1.2 billion, compared to N3.9 billion in the same period of 2013.” He explained that as at December 2014, if the Naira had weakened or strengthened by five per cent against key currencies (Euro and Dollar)to which the company is exposed to, with all other variables held constant, post tax profit for the year would have been N71 million higher or lower. Achebe also said that as at December 2014, if the Naira

had weakened or strengthened by five per cent against key currencies (GBP and ZAR) to which the company is exposed to, with all other variables held constant, post tax profit for the year would have been N2.6 million higher or lower. Analysis of the result showed that its revenue stood at N55.8 billion, from N60.0 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2013. The company’s profit for the year fell 48.9 per cent to N2.42 billion in the review period, from N4.72 billion posted in the corresponding period of 2013.

Bond market blues hammer stocks, drive euro higher

overnment bonds sold off again yesterday, driving down stocks and helping push the euro sharply higher against the dollar. Traders struggled to explain fully the latest lurch higher in yields, which drove those on benchmark 10-year US Treasuries to their highest since mid-November. German 10-year yields rose even more strongly, adding 14 basis points to 0.73 per cent. Volatility in the bond markets weighed on stocks, adding to existing investor anxiety over the perilous state of Greece’s finances. Shares in Europe and Asia fell and Wall Street was expected to follow, with index futures down 0.7 per cent.

“When any particular asset class goes through periods of extreme volatility in a short space of time, people feel the pressure to take their risk exposure lower,” Ian Richards, global head of equities strategy at Exane BNP Paribas, said. Less than a month ago, German 10-year yields hit a record low of 0.05 per cent, driven down by a 1-trillioneuro European Central Bank bond-purchase scheme intended to kick-start inflation. Traders have blamed the surge on a rise in inflation expectations, higher oil prices, and restricted liquidity, caused by ECB purchases, as investors sought to exit a crowded trade. “It’s clear that the market hasn’t stabilised. Before the

sell-off started the common Elevated US yields mean perception was one of low vol- higher corporate borrowing atility. Now investors are more costs, which could hit shares cautious, asking for a pre- across the world. mium for the volatility we’ve Rate (%) seen recently,” said Jan von Gerich, chief fixed income Inflation 8.2 analyst at Nordea. MPR 13 Higher German yields Crude oil price $58.96 lifted the euro one per cent to $1.1265, having fallen close to Monday’s low of $1.1131 in Exchange Rates (N) Asian trade. It was last up 0.7 WAUA 270 per cent at $1.1230. USD 197 The dollar index, which measures the US currency EURO 214 against a basket of major CFA 0.32 peers, fell 0.6 per cent. The yen YEN 1.64 was 0.1 per cent higher at 120 per dollar. SWISS 202 FRANC The US 10-year yields, which have been driven highPOUNDS 293 er in recent weeks by German STERLING Bunds, last stood at 2.35 per SDR 273 cent, up eight basis points.

Source: NSE

Inter-Bank Rate Naira

US Dollar

N197 Market indicators All-Share Index 34,115.49 points Market capitalisation 11.59trn

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

BERGER

9.52

10.00

0.48

5.04

CONOIL

38.02

39.92

1.90

5.00

FIDELITYBK

1.80

1.89

0.09

5.00

UPL

5.48

5.75

0.27

4.93

MANSARD

2.99

3.13

0.14

4.68

ABCTRANS

0.55

0.57

0.02

3.64

28.00

28.98

0.98

3.50

CONTINSURE

0.95

0.98

0.03

3.16

SKYEBANK

2.38

2.45

0.07

2.94

UNILEVER

43.00

44.00

1.00

2.33

CHANGE

% CHANGE

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

ETI

23.27

21.01

-2.26

-9.71

PORTPAINT

3.83

3.64

-0.19

-4.96

RTBRISCOE

1.01

0.96

-0.05

-4.95

TOTAL

165.00

156.90

-8.10

-4.91

COSTAIN

0.82

0.78

-0.04

-4.88

MAYBAKER

1.87

1.78

-0.09

-4.81

LIVESTOCK

2.52

2.40

-0.12

-4.76

UNITYBNK

2.37

2.26

-0.11

-4.64

OANDO

18.10

17.30

-0.80

-4.42

NASCON

8.70

8.35

-0.35

-4.02

FGN Bonds

Offer

Bid

Description

Price

Yield

Price

Yield

13.05 16-AUG-2016

1.26

99.08

13.82

99.23

13.69

15.10 27-APR-2017

1.96

102.14

13.81

102.29

13.72

16.00 29-JUN-2019

4.13

106.81

13.77

107.11

13.68

16.39 27-JAN-2022

6.71

111.34

13.73

111.64

13.67

14.20 14-MAR-2024

8.84

102.84

13.63

103.14

13.57

10.00 23-JUL-2030

15.20 68.06

15.52

68.36

15.45

Closing Market Prices of May 12, 2015

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

13-Aug-15

10.46

10.75

03-Dec-15

12.97

13.99

05-May-16

13.16

15.11

NIBOR Tenor

Rate (%)

O/N

10.9583

13.9014

15.2007

16.2730 The Fixings of May 5, 2015

Capital Market

Friday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Stock exchange daily equities summary Equities as at May 12, 2015 1st Tier Securities

1st Tier Securities Sector

Company name

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Sector

Company name

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Community Mirror “Government cannot provide services for people who will remain anonymous and the national ID card helps government in doing many things in terms of planning” Governor of Lagos State – Babatunde Fashola

Court acquits suspected rapist ABDULGAFAR OLADIMEJI KANO

25-years old man Ibrahim Ladan, resident of Kwanar Hudu quarters, in Kano metropolis standing trial over the alleged rape of a 13 years- old school girl, yesterday regained his freedom, after being discharged and ac-

quitted by a Kano High court. The police in its first information report told the court that the freed man had canal knowledge of a minor (name withheld at Kwanar Hudu quarters) adding that, he forcefully dragged his victim into a room where commit the act. Ibrahim however denied the allegation levied

against him before the court, stating that, the police arrested him in June 2011 in connection with rape; he alleged that the police held him under custody for 23 days before being charged to court. Barrister M I. Jubrin from Kano state ministry of justice brought three witnesses including the police officer who investigated the matter at

Kwana Hudu police station to testify before the court. In her judgment yesterday, Justice Dije Aboki said the medical report tendered clearly indicate that the girl allegedly defiled was not dis-virgined within 48 hours of the occurrence of the incidence, she further noted that, the prosecution could not prove its case

beyond reasonable doubt. Justice Dije said the victim failed to convince the court that she was raped by the accused person, adding that, the Investigating police officer and her friend who was said to be at the scene, when she was raped did not corroborate the allegation. The court said, the 13 years-old alleged rape

victim was not a witness of truth, adding that the degree of evidence before the court was weak, stating that this formed the basis of the decision of the court to determine the matter in favour of the 25 years old man, the court then pronounced Ibrahim Ladan as discharged and acquitted. Counsel to the freed man, barrister Rabiu Sani hailed the judgment describing the verdict of the court a judicious an wise.

Man, girlfriend charged with assault

Scavenger at Ago-Century road, Festac, Lagos.

PHOTO: ABIOLA ABDULHAMMED

Police arrest kidnap suspects in Kogi WALE IBRAHIM LOJOKA

ogi State Police Command has arrested three suspected kidnappers, Muhammed Mayaki, Abdulaziz Sani, and Usman Abdulrahaman for allegedly kidnapping a Chinese working with a Ceramic industry in Ajaokuta Local Government. While parading the suspects at Police Headquarters yesterday in Lokoja, the state Commissioner of Police, Adeyemi Ogunjemilusi said the suspects including one Nda at large on April 27 kid-

napped the Chinese national and collected N5 million ransoms from the company to before releasing him from their custody. He explained that despite the ransom paid and the release of the victims, the police still continue their investigation, add that the investigation paid off with the arrest of the perpetrators at the weekend. The police command also paraded one Amao Gbadebo, for allegedly threatening to kidnap the management of ECOWAS hospital in Egbe in Yagba East council and in the process collected ransom from them.

He said the suspect after collecting the money ran to Osun state where he was arrested by the police. “In related issue, on Saturday the police also foiled an attempt by some hoodlums to again kidnap another Chinese national working with Dangote Cement Company at Obajana. One of the officer who was seriously injured in the process is receiving treatment at the hospital,” he said He blamed relations of kidnapped victims for the increasing spate of kidnapping in the state as they always hide issue of ransom from the police after report-

ing. “The reason for the increase was that the family of the victims does not want the police to be fully involved in the negotiation with the kidnappers because they are afraid that the kidnapper would kill the victims. We are calling on them to always allowed security agencies to take control of the situation,” he said The commissioner however urged medical doctors to report any patient who come to the hospital for bullet wound treatment to determine whether they are robbers or not, as any one cut would be prosecuted.

mechanic, Rasaq Adeshire, 21, and his girlfriend, Yemisi Alayonde, 19, a tailor, who allegedly bit a neighbor’s breast were arraigned in Oshodi Magistrate’s Court in Lagos on Tuesday. Adeshire and Alayonde, who reside at No. 38 Eyin Street, Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos, are being tried for breach of peace, conspiracy and assault. The Prosecutor, Cpl. Kehinde Olatunde, told the court that the accused committed the offences on May 10 at their residence. He said the accused conspired to assault one Miss Ogechukwu Okwaza by beating and biting her on the breast. The prosecutor said ``the accused, who are living together as couple jointly beat the complainant mercilessly; they also bite her on her breast, thereby inflicting injury on her.’’ Olatunde said that the complainant was in the kitchen baking cake when the duo approached her and commanded her to remove the cakes from their table. ``They ordered the complainant to leave the table she was using to bake her cake but as she was preparing another place to put the cakes, they just poured kerosene on the cakes. ``The complainant then insulted them for pouring kerosene on her cakes and the accused just descended on her, beat her up and bite her breast. ``The accused also tore Okwaza’s clothes but when she could not take the beating, after hitting Alayonde with a frying pan, the complainant shouted for help and two other neighbours came to her rescue.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Community Mirror

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Woman, 91, gives Fashola ultimatum to return school WALE IGBINTADE

91-year-old woman, Madam Roseline Ololo has given the Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola a seven-day ultimatum to return Metropolitan College and Isolo Secondary School to her family. Madam Ololo, in a statement issued yesterday by her lawyer, Malcolm Omirhobo, threatened to permanently occupy the governor’s office until her demands are met. Madam Ololo and her late husband, Chief Michael Ololo had, through their company, Akaix West Africa Limited, established Metropolitan College in 1955 with the first batch of 19 students in Surulere area of Lagos. For expansion purposes and to move away from the thickly populated residential area of Surulere, the

owners acquired the present site at Ire-Akari, Isolo in 1966 and eventually moved there in 1974. In 1976, via the Education (Private Secondary Institutions Special Provisions) Law, the Military Government of Lagos State took over 48 Private Secondary Schools from their owners, including Metropolitan College. In the process, Isolo Secondary School was carved out of Metropolitan College on the same expanse of land hosting the college. However, in 2001, the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu repealed the law and returned the said 48 private schools to their owners, but Metropolitan College was curiously not returned, a development that brought about a law suit. In the suit, Akaix West Africa had sued the state government before the Lagos High Court to chal-

lenge the refusal of government to hand over the school to it. The government, however, indicated willingness to amicable settle the dispute, a development which led to the matter being referred to the Lagos MultiDoor Courthouse (LMDC) for arbitration. However, Lagos State Ministry of Education insisted that it would retain the Isolo Secondary School. Akaix West Africa had contended that the retention of part of the school

was against government’s restructuring of the educational system of divesting and allowing the private sector to invest in the educational system so as to provide the conditions in which students can learn to the highest standard and prepare themselves to meet their future needs. Omirhobo had earlier written a letter to Fashola urging speedup the exercise of the return of the school by ensuring that the case is presented and deliberated at the next La-

gos State Executive Council Meeting so that the matter could be put to an end on or before May 29. However, the lawyer explained that since the governor had failed to speedily act on the letter, his client (Mama Ololo) decided to take her destiny in her own hands by lawfully occupy the governor’s office in protest against the undue delay in the return of her school. “My client desperately wants her school to be given to her in her lifetime because the school is the

family legacy. Mama and her late husband worked hard to build the school and they cannot sit back and watch when the other schools have since been returned to their owners. “We don’t have any problem in terms of running the school effectively and efficiently. We are capable and we have agreed that we should be sanctioned if we don’t run the school properly. So, there is really no reason for the delay in returning everything to us,” the lawyer stressed.

Cleric tasks Nigerians on peace, tolerance

ssociate Parish Priest of St Molumba and David Catholic Church, Lawanson, Rev Father Cajethan Odoh, on Sunday called for tolerance among Nigerians and prayed for peace in the country. Odoh, while delivering a sermon at a church service in Lagos, urged Nigerians, irrespective of their faith, to work together for peace and stability of the nation. “`You must be prepared to give up ideologies, abstain from the desires of self indulgence and give up hatred, strife, self seeking, condemnation and hypocrisy.

“If you shun selfishness and embrace selflessness, you will surely become one with God,” Odoh said. The cleric, who prayed for peace in the country, urged Nigerians to always show love to one another. “No nation can prosper and develop without love, tolerance and peace among its people. “Nigerians should uphold the teachings of God and desist from committing evil acts that could incur the wrath of God,” he said. Odoh called on Nigerians in position of authority to remember that power is given to them by God and it is temporary.

Ponmo ready for sale in Lagos market.

Ekiti women urged to access CBN empowerment fund ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

omen in Ekiti State have been urged to access

the N220 billion special fund set aside by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, to better their socio-economic status. Under the scheme, the CBN is allocating 60 per

Badore community appoints Baale

adore fishermen community in Badore Ajah area of Lagos State has appointed Chief Lati Adeoye as Baale to oversee the affairs of the community and to act as link between the community and government. According to Chief Saasi, a High Chief in Lagos who is also the Chairman of the Fishermen community of La-

gos while presenting the Baale to the community, said he is an hardworking, courageous and honest man and that he should be given all necessary support for the betterment and development of the community. Present at the presentation are the General Secretary, Treasurer and Chairman of the community Chief Saasi, representative from both Lang-

PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

basa and Badore town, the neighboring communities. The fishermen community was the fishermen dislodge from Ijeh in Obalende, Ilubirin, Isale Eko and Oju Olobun all in Lagos Island by the military administration of Brigadier Buba Mauwa of Lagos State in 1996 and resettled at their present abode in Ijoyin-Badore, Ajah, Lagos.

In his response, the new Baale, Chief Adeoye said he was over whelmed by the gesture and promise not to disappoint the trust repose on him. The Baale recall how they were dislodged and resettled at Badore with promises of accommodation, fishing jetty, cold room, school and other amenities, but regrets that till date none of the promises were fulfilled.

cent of the fund to women to invest in small scale businesses. The National President of Quintessential Business Women Association, QBWA, Mrs. Shimite Katung, urged women in the state to key into it for their breakthrough. Katung spoke at Ikere Ekiti yesterday while inaugurating the executive of the Ekiti State chapter of the association, led by Mrs. Oluyinka Olumilua. Katung, who said Kwara and Akwa Ibom states had been able to access the loan, said the association had signed Memorandum of Understanding with banks in 29 states. According to her, four of the six states in the North

East had been approved for the loan. Katung who said the loan attracted nine per cent interest rate per annum, without collateral, warned would-be beneficiaries against default, saying so far no beneficiaries of the scheme in benefiting states had defaulted repayment at the CBN. House of Representatives member, Hon Opeyemi Bamidele, who chaired the occasion, urged women in the state to key in into the scheme and cautioned them against seeing the money as their own share of the national cake. Bamidele, who stressed the need for peace in the state, said “any state that wishes peace should first give peace to women.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

World News

Third secular blogger hacked to death in Bangladesh

The adoption of this (anti-migrant smuggling) law aims essentially to protect the frontiers of our country.

50 Paul Arhewe

WITH AGENCY REPORTS

second powerful earthquake in less than three weeks spread panic in Nepal on Tuesday, bringing down buildings weakened by the first disaster and killing at least 66 people, including 17 in neighbouring India and one in Chinese Tibet. Most of the reported fatalities were in villages and towns east of Kathmandu, only just beginning to pick up the pieces from the April 25 quake that left more than 8,000 dead. The U.S. military’s Pacific Command said a Marine Corps helicopter involved in disaster relief had gone missing, with six U.S. Marines and two Nepalese soldiers aboard. The new 7.3 magnitude quake was centred 76 km (47 miles) east of the capital in a hilly area close to the border with Tibet, according to coordinates provided by the U.S. Geological Survey, and unleashed landslides in Himalayan valleys near Mount Everest. Villagers who watched their homes collapse said they only survived because they were already living in tents. Aid workers reported serious damage to some villages in the worst-affected Charikot area and

–Niger’s Justice Minister Amadou Marou

Another earthquake hits Nepal, India, 66 killed

Local residents evacuate from a shop during an earthquake in central Kathmandu, Nepal, yesterday

said some people were still trapped under rubble. Witnesses said rocks and mud came crashing down remote hillsides lined with roads and small hamlets. “We still don’t have a clear view of the scale of the problem,” said Dan Sermand, emergency coordinator at medical NGO Medecins

Sans Frontieres, which surveyed the area by air and saw multiple landslides. The United Nations has only raised 13 percent of the $423 million it said was needed to help Nepal recover from the April quake, which measured 7.8. Relief workers said they were already suffer-

One more protester killed in Burundi

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

ne more demonstrator was killed in Burundi bringing the death toll to 15 in continuing protests in the capital over President Pierre Nkurunziza’s bid for a third term in office, an official said yesterday. A policewoman was among those injured in the violence said government administrator Pauline Ruratotoye. More than 220 have been injured in the protests, which are now in their third week. In the Musaga area south of the capital, police fired into the

crowd with live bullets, injuring four people, said protester Jean Vyukuri. In Ngagara in the capital, protesters burned two vehicles including a bus and a stateowned car. The latest violence comes on the eve of an East African Community summit in Tanzania to discuss Burundi’s violence. The top U.S. diplomat for Africa, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, has travelled to Tanzania’s largest city, Dar es Salaam, to contribute to the emergency meeting, according to a statement from the

Demonstrators smash windows of a bus before burning it in Ngagara district of Bujumbura, Burundi

State Department. Thomas-Greenfield will express U.S. concern about the situation in Burundi as well as U.S. support for the Arusha Agreement and political dialogue among all parties to ensure peaceful, credible and inclusive elections in Burundi, the statement said. Many see Nkurunziza’s decision to run again as a violation of the Arusha Agreements that ended Burundi’s civil war in which more than 250,000 people were killed. Nkurunziza’s government on Saturday forbid any further protests and ordered all state officials report back to work and all schools to reopen on Monday. But the street demonstrations have continued. The protests started on April 25 after the ruling party nominated Nkurunziza to run for re-election in elections set for June. More than 50,000 Burundians have fled to neighbouring countries fearing violence ahead of the elections, according to the U.N. refugee agency.

ing a lack of material before the new quake. “Why are (internally displaced people) sleeping on our office floor? Where are our tents? Where are our tarpaulins? Where are our hygiene kits?” said Brian Kelly of the International Organization for Migration, at a large relief camp in the hill-top town of Chautara, hard-hit by both quakes.

French president makes rare visit to Haiti Francois Hollande yesterday became only the second sitting president of France to ever visit the once prized possession of Haiti, where bountiful resources and brutal plantation slavery made it the European nation’s most profitable colony some 250 years ago. For Haiti’s government and business community, the visit is a welcome opportunity to encourage more investment and highlight progress made since a devastating 2010 earthquake obliterated much of Port-auPrince and surrounding areas. Over the last week, the French leader has been touring the region, stopping in French Caribbean islands and Cuba, where he said his country would be a “faithful ally” as Havana reforms its centrally planned economy.

WORLD BULLETIN

Three al-Shabaab recruits plead guilty to US terror charges Three Somalia-born men pleaded guilty yesterday to U.S. charges they were members of the al-Qaida offshoot that has claimed responsibility for a series of deadly attacks in East Africa, including those on an upscale shopping mall and college in Kenya. Ali Yasin Ahmed, Madhi Hashi and Mohamed Yusuf pleaded guilty to conspiracy to support terrorism as jury selection was to begin for a trial set to begin next month. Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn had called the defendants as “dangerous and influential” members of the al-Shabaab militant group. They described Hashi as a close associate of Omar Hammami’s — an American who became one of the region’s most visible Islamic State group rebels before his death in 2013 — and claimed Yusuf was featured in an al-Shabaab propaganda video titled “Inspire the Believers.”

Niger passes law to tackle migrant smuggling Niger has approved a law against the smuggling of migrants in an effort to stem the deadly flow of vulnerable Africans across its vast desert north, many of them headed toward Libya and on to Europe. The law, approved unanimously by parliament late on Monday, translates onto Niger’s statutes a United Nations protocol against the smuggling of migrants, allowing judges and police to take action. Niger’s desert town of Agadez is one of the main transit points in the Sahara for migrants leaving poor West African nations en route for north Africa and Europe. Up to 4,000 migrants without travel papers can pass through Agadez every week, according to the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). A spike in the numbers of immigrants attempting the dangerous sea crossing from Libya has sparked alarm in Europe, particularly after some 800 people drowned in a Mediterranean shipwreck last month. Authorities in Niger promised a crackdown after at least 92 migrants from Niger died of hunger and thirst in the desert in October 2013 after being abandoned by traffickers who were taking them to Algeria.

World News

WORLD BULLETIN

Bangladesh rescues Malaysia-bound illegal migrants A Bangladesh coastguard and navy team rescued 116 Malaysiabound migrants yesterday, including several children, from a boat that had been abandoned by its crew in the Bay of Bengal, the coastguard said. Coastguard Station Commander Dickson Chowdhury said the migrants were taken into police custody after the Thai-owned boat was discovered near St Martin’s Island, off the coast of Myanmar. Twenty-two of those on board were Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar, and the rest were Bangladeshis. Malaysia, one of Southeast Asia’s wealthier economies, has long been a magnet for illegal immigrants. Together with Indonesia, it is experiencing a huge surge in boat people from Bangladesh and Myanmar after Thailand, usually the destination of choice for peoplesmugglers, announced a crackdown on trafficking. Separately, Bangladeshi authorities said police killed an alleged trafficker in a gunfight on Tuesday in the south-eastern city of Cox’s Bazar, and seized illegal firearms and ammunition. Two police officers were wounded. Including that incident, police have shot dead five traffickers in the coastal city in the last five days, and arrested at least seven in Cox’s Bazar and Chittagong. About 12,000 of the mostly stateless Rohingya have left the western Myanmar state of Rakhine since Oct. 15, said Chris Lewa of the Arakan Project, which tracks migration across the Bay of Bengal.

Arab media forum opens in Dubai The Arab Media Forum, the largest annual gathering of its kind, opened yesterday in Dubai with lively debate on the future of the industry amid upheaval in the Middle East. Attended by around 1,500 people, the forum began with Organisation of Islamic Cooperation chief Iyad Madani addressing the image of Muslims in the world, tarnished by a wave of extremist violence. Madani pointed out that science and technology offered Muslims “new hope” and ensured “we should not fall under the illusion that we are disabled or incapable of doing anything”. Debate focused on the political changes in the Middle East, in particular the impact of the Saudi-led military campaign against Iran-backed Shiite Huthi rebels in Yemen. Discussions also centred on the prospects of a final agreement being reached between world powers and Iran on its controversial nuclear programme, which its Gulf Arab neighbours fear.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Third secular blogger hacked to death in Bangladesh A masked gang wielding machetes hacked a secular blogger to death yesterday in north-eastern Bangladesh in the third such deadly attack by suspected Islamists since February. Police said Ananta Bijoy Das was murdered in broad daylight as he headed to work at a local bank in the city of Sylhet, an attack that fellow writers said highlighted a culture of impunity. Kamrul Hasan, commissioner of Sylhet police, said a group of around four masked men had attacked Das with machetes at around 8.30am on a busy street in Bangladesh’s fifth largest city. “They chased him down the street and first attacked his head with their machetes and then attacked him all over his body,” Hasan told a news agency. After the attackers fled into the crowds, Das was rushed to hospital but declared dead on arrival, police and medics said. Police commissioner Hasan would not comment on the motive for the attack but fellow writers said Das had been on a hit-list drawn up by militants who were behind the recent killing of blogger Avijit Roy. Imran Sarker, head of a Bangladeshi bloggers’ association,

Bangladesh forensics police investigating the site where blogger Ananta Bijoy Das was hacked to death in Sylhet, yesterday

confirmed to AFP that Das was an atheist who regularly blogged for Mukto-Mona. The website used to be moderated by Roy, a Bangladeshiborn US citizen who was hacked to death in the capital Dhaka in February. “We condemn this heinous killing. It once again confirms our fear that there is a culture of impunity in Bangladesh. Anyone can now get away with killing a progressive free thinker,” Sarker said. Police chief Hasan said

they were investigating an announcement by an unknown group that Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) was behind the killing. AQIS has already claimed responsibility for the deadly attack on Roy on February 26 in which his wife was badly injured. An Islamist has been arrested over his murder. A group called Ansar Al-Islam said on Twitter that AQIS was responsible for Das’s murder and warned of more to come.

Greece raids emergency account to repay IMF debt

reece admitted yesterday it was scraping the bottom of the barrel for cash as another huge debt repayment loomed, adding pressure to reach a rescue deal with its EU-IMF creditors to avoid default and crashing out of the eurozone. Athens only managed to repay 750 million euros ($845 million) due Tuesday to the International Monetary Fund after tapping into an emergency

account, a central bank source told AFP as alarm grew over Greece’s dire finances. But billions more in loan repayments are due over the next three months, and Greece’s Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis warned that his country risked running out of cash within two weeks if no deal was reached by then with its international creditors to unlock the last tranche of aid funds. The crisis sent European

Greek Finance Minister, Yanis Varoufakis

stocks sinking Tuesday, mirroring sentiments across Asia and on Wall Street. “The liquidity issue is a terribly urgent issue. It’s common knowledge, let’s not beat around the bush,” Varoufakis said on Monday after talks with his Eurogroup counterparts in Brussels. “From the perspective (of timing), we are talking about the next couple of weeks.” Athens has been locked in negotiations with the European Union, the European Central Bank and the IMF, seeking to unlock 7.2 billion euros worth of remaining bailout funds that the creditors are refusing to release unless Greece signs up to certain economic reforms. With the two sides standing firm on their positions and Tuesday’s payment to the IMF due, the government was informed last week by Greece’s central bank chief Yannis Stournaras that it could draw 660 million euros from a special account held at the IMF, like all member states.

Air strikes hit Yemen capital, UN envoy arrives hours before truce

audi-led air strikes pounded the rebel-held Yemeni capital Sanaa yesterday just hours before a five-day humanitarian ceasefire was set to begin. Looking to prepare for the truce and jumpstart stalled political talks among Yemen’s civil war factions, the new U.N. envoy to the country arrived in Sanaa, saying fighting would not resolve a conflict that crosses ethnic and religious faultlines. “We are convinced there is no solution to Yemen’s problem except through a dialogue, which must be Yemeni,” the envoy, Mauritanian diplomat Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, was quoted as saying by the local Saba news agency. Seeking to restore exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, an alliance of Gulf Arab nations has since March 26 been bombing the Iranian-backed Houthi militia and allied army units that control much of Yemen. Backed by Washington, top oil exporter Saudi Arabia worries that the Shi’ite Muslim Houthi rebels are a proxy for what they see as moves by archrival Iran to expand its sway in their backyard. Saudi-led air strikes on a rocket base in Sanaa on Monday killed 90 people and wounded 300, a local official was quoted as telling Saba. If confirmed, the death toll would be among the highest in a single bombing incident throughout Yemen’s war.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

North

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Katsina varsity gets new VC JAMES DANJUMA KATSINA

L-R: Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Jibril Aku; Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi; Zonal Business Head, Public Sector, North West, Ecobank Nigeria,Sani Shuaibu Adamu, when Ecobank Nigeria Management paid a courtesy visit to the Emir in Kano, recently.

Plateau killings: Jang imposes curfew in 7 LGAs JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

lateau State government yesterday said it has restricted movement in seven local government areas of the state from 10pm to 5am. The governor, who gave the directive in a statement signed by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Chirtip Bello, and made available to journalists in Jos yesterday, said the restriction

order was meant to forestall further loss of lives and properties in the state. National Mirror recalls that there has been renewed violence in different parts of the state, which led to the killing of several people and properties worth millions of naira destroyed. According to the statement, the local government areas affected by the restriction order include Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Jos East, Mangu, Wase, Lang-

tang North and Langtang South. The statement, which also directed the State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, to provide relief materials to Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, as a result of the renewed violence and to take records of those affected, reads in part: “Security agencies in the state have been directed to enforce the order on restriction of movements and to set up surveillance

across the state. “These urgent and drastic actions taken by government have become necessary in order to end the recent crisis and wanton loss of lives and properties in the affected areas. “As people go about their legitimate businesses, we call on citizens to always be security conscious and to report any suspicious movement of persons to security personnel.”

Kwankwaso, contractors tango over unpaid debt ABDULGAFAR OLADIMEJI KANO

ano chapter of the Nigerian Indigenous Contractors Association, NICA, are engaged in a tango with the outgoing Governor of Kano State, Engr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, over non-payment of over N60 billion debt owed indigenous contractors by the state government. Chairman, Kano State chapter of NICA, Alhaji Auduwa Abdulsalam Maitangaran, has embarked on a ceaseless media campaign to compel Governor Kwankwaso to pay the debt before vacating office. In his words: “At this critical point of Kwankwaso’s administration, we found it expedient to appeal to him as a matter of urgency to pay us our dues, to save us from the embarrassment of day-today challenges of life. “We have a case of emergency that should be treat-

ed with dispatch to save life and ties, as at now we have unpaid contract sum of more than N60 billion, and most of it were funded through bank loans. “We are appealing to the state governor to, as a matter of urgency, save us from the embarrassment we are receiving from our banks, business partners, families and other critical business partners,” Maitagaran said. He predicted that it would be disastrous for their wellbeing and dangerous for the economy of the state if Governor Kwankwaso opts to the neglect their plea. In his reaction, Kwankwaso admonished the contractors, noting that they ought to know that government is all about continuity. The incoming administration will offset the debt left behind by his administration. Kwankwaso revealed that his government in 2011 inherited N700 billion and

$200 million debt, “We have paid a substantial amount of that amount,” he said. “People should come to understand that as we are working we are paying. And as we are paying contractors we are also work-

ing. So, I don’t care how much is left, government is a continuous process. The debt profile would be indicated in our handover note to the incoming administration,” Kwankwaso stated.

fter an intense selection process, a new vice chancellor has emerged for the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua University, UMYU, in Katsina State. The new vice chancellor is Professor Idris Isa Funtua. The institution was named after the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who was the state governor from 1999 to 2007. Twelve professors had applied for the position some weeks ago and went through intense selection process by the Governing Council of the institution.

Taraba IDPs get relief materials JUSTIN TYOPUUSU JALINGO

residential Initiative for North East, PINE, in collaboration with National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, yesterday distributed relief materials worth millions of naira to internally displaced persons, IDPs, in Taraba State. Speaking during the distribution, Chairman of PINE, Professor Soji Adelaja, who also chairs the Special Committee on Resettlement and Rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, said the ongoing distribution of relief materials was a deliberate measure to re-

Rotary Club laments decay in Kaduna public schools A ZA MSUE KADUNA

otary Club of Kaduna Metropolitan yesterday lamented the decay in public primary schools in Kaduna State, just as it donated hundreds of desks and uniforms to pupils for free. Speaking during the donation at the Local Education Authority, LEA, Primary Schools, Tudun Wada and Sabon Yelwa, Kaduna metropolis, President of the club, Victor Majek, called on the incoming administration to urgently tackle the challenges facing the educa-

tion sector in the state. Majek noted that some primary schools were in deplorable conditions as many pupils sit on the floor. “It is quite unfortunate that government does not value life. We went to some primary schools and we discovered terrible conditions facing the schools. In this era, some school pupils are still sitting on the floor during lessons. Can our leaders allow their children to attend these schools? The answer is no. “We, Rotary Club, Kaduna Metropolitan, in collaboration with Rotary International District

The selection process had been dubbed ‘brain war of the professors’ by university dons within and outside the institution due to the rigorous intellectual process involved. In a statement issued to newsmen by Senior Special Adviser on Press Affairs to the Governor, Lawal Matazu; the appointment of Funtua has been approved by Governor Ibrahim Shema. According to the statement, the appointment was for a period of five years, and the appointment takes immediate effect. The new vice chancellor replaces Professor Mu’uta Ibrahim whose tenure expired recently.

9125 Nigeria, decided to donate 100 desks and 200 uniforms for free to Kaduna school pupils. Because some of them don’t even have uniforms,” he said, adding that the distribution of educational items was in line with one of the cardinal objectives of Rotary International to assist the less privileged in the society. Earlier, representative of Kaduna State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, Ibrahim Abdullahi, while commending Rotary Club for its selfless service to humanity, called on the beneficiaries to maintain the items donated to them.

duce the suffering of IDPs. Adelaja, represented by Communication Officer of the PINE, Odutayo Oluseyi, said the Federal Government has developed a comprehensive redevelopment plan for the North East region to bring succour to people ravaged by years of insurgency. According to him, items being distributed across the region are for an estimated 16,000 households and about 112,000 individuals in IDPs host and home communities. He noted that PINE in collaboration with NEMA, Red Cross and other partners had put in place a monitoring and evaluation mechanism that would ensure the relief materials reach the right people. The chairman urged private organisations, the international community and others to support the Federal Government in its efforts to strengthen the North East region of the country. Cross section of the beneficiaries commended the government for the gesture and appealed for further supports in areas of rehabilitation and resettlement, saying they have lost their homes and livelihood to insurgency. Items distributed included rice, maize, beans, vegetable oil, spaghetti, detergent, bucket and blankets, among others.

52 CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Ifeyinwa Obianuju Ibezim, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ifeyinwa Obianuju Obi-Okafor. All former documents remain valid. Paramount Trading and Industries Limited and general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

OJUKWU: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Ifeoma Maria Uchelue now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ifeoma Maria Uchelue Ojukwu. All documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NJIDEKA: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Racheal Njideka Isife, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Racheal Njideka Udeh. All documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NWEJIE: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Nwejie Chidinma Fine, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Okeafor Chidinma Fine. All former documents remain valid. Niger Delta University Amassoma Bayelsa State, NYSC and general public please take note.

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UWAKWE: I, formerly known and addressed as Uwakwe Eucharia Nene, now wish to be known and addressed as Mgbolu Eucharia Nene. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note

CHANGE OF NAME

UMEH: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Umeh Obiageli Melvina, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Oguegbe Obiageli Melvina. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NWAFOR: I formerly known and addressed as Miss. Nwafor Ebele Josephine, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ani Ebele Josephine. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Mr Abanise Aremu Julius now wish to be known and addressed as Mr Abanise Olufemi.All former documents remain valid. Policemen and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ajayi Opeyemi Mojisola, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Omotoso Opeyemi Mojisola. All former document remain valid, Federal Teaching hospital Ido-Ekiti and general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Wednesday, May 13, 2015 CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Ojuri Adebimpe Temitope, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Salami Adebimpe Temitope. All former documents remain valid.The general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

YUSUF: Formerly known and addressed as Hadiza Ekpekhose Yusuf, now wish to be known address as Hadiza Ekpekhose Oshiomah. All former document remains valid. General public take note.

1 X 1 CLASSIFIED ADVERT SPACE FOR SALE

Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Ejighionwu Ugo Uko, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ugbaja Ugo Uko. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Anaeto Chinenye Maryann, now wishes to be known and addressed as Silva Chinenye Maryann. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OLUKA: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Oluka Nkechi Imelda, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Eli Nkechi Imelda. All former documents remain valid.NYSC and The general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ASANIYAN : Formerly known and addressed as Miss Asaniyan Bosede Mercy, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ibitoye Bosede Mercy. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NWANNE: I formerly known and addressed as Miss. Nwanne Ozioma Patricia, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ifeanyi Ozioma Patricia. All former documents remain valid. Federal College of Agriculture Ishiagu, and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

UGWU: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ugwu Callista Chinyere, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Onunze Callista Chinyere. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NWANKWO: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Nwankwo Chinenye Theresa, now wish to be known as Mrs. Emena Chinenye Theresa ..All former documents remain valid. The general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to notify the general public that Nwankwo Obianuji Sopuluchukwu and Ege Obianuju Sopuluchi refers as one and same person Now wish to be known as Ege Obianuju Sopuluchukwu All former documents remain valid. General public take note

MOTOMORI: Formerly known as Shobanjo Oluremi Motomori and now wish to be known and addressed as Williams Oluremi Motomori. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to inform the public that Ogba Chidinma Kalu and Kalu Chidinma Precious refer as one person but now wish to be known as Ogba Kalu Chidinma Precious. All former documents remain valid. Abia Poly. General public take note.

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OGOCHUKWU: I formerly known and addressed as Ogochukwu Lorrita Olieh, now wish to be known and addressed as Nkechi Gertrude Olieh. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

UFONDU : Formerly known as Miss Olive Oluchukwu Ufondu now wish to be known and address as Mrs. Olive Oluchukwu Ezelu. All former documents remains valid. Public note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OLOFINJANA: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Olofinjana Onaopemipo Oluoseun now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ofoegbu Oluoseun Onaopemipo. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Ogundero Theresa Oluwatosin, now wish to be known and addressed as Shoyoye Theresa Oluwatosin. All former documents remain valid General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME: I, Ezechukwu, Charles Okechukwu also used to be known as Ezechukwu Prince Chuks, now wish to remain known and addressed as Ezechukwu, Charles Okechukwu. General public take note.

AKINTIBU: I formerly known as Miss Akintibu Atinuke, now wish to be known as Mrs Atinuke .A. Lawrence ..All former documents remain valid. NYSC and The general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Olaifa Waliat Olamide now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Rabiu Waliat Olamide. All former documents remain valid. Federal Ministry of Interior and general public take note. CONFIRMATION OF NAME.

This is to confirm that Odugwe Francis Nweke is the same person as Odinigwe Francis Nweke. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogunyale Adebowale Yetunde, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Oke Yetunde Adebowale. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME.

This is to inform the general public that in my May/June WAEC 2012 with exam no. 4281109074, my name was written as Ashiru mojisola Oluwatimilehin and in my may/ June WAEC 2014 with exam no 4280388035 my name was written as Ashiru mojisola Fadhilat. For record purposes am the same person bearing the two names and sat for the exam.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known as Miss. Omikunle Ayoola Tolulope, now wishes to be known and addressed as Mrs. Falode Ayoola Tolulope. All former documents remain valid. OSBC management and the general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

EZEMA: I formerly known and addressed as Miss. Ezema Modester Ukamaka, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Onamah Modester Ukamaka. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Emeziem Esther Chidimma, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Opara Esther Chidinma. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Banjo Adeola Felicia now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Elegbede Adeola Felicia. All former documents remain valid TASUESS and general public take note .

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Owokomoenikan Lukmon Oladimeji, now wish to be known and addressed as Jolaosho Lukumon Oladimeji. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Abimbola Olaide Margret, now wish to be known and addressed as Ladipo Olaide Margret. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Dukuye Medjjevabo Emmanuel, now wish to be known and addressed as Duke Emmanuel Vabo. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note. Formerly known as Miss Ajibade Funmilayo Veronica, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Babalola Funmilayo Veronica. All former documents remain valid. Holy Child Catholic Secondary School and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Owokomoenikan Sofiat Abiodun, now wish to be known and addressed as Jolaosho Sofiat Abiodun. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Faith Erezi Omobo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Faith Erezioghene Omuabor. All documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

‎OBIYAN: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Obiyan Lydia Onome, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Lydia Onome Julius Amo. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

LETTER OF ADMINISTRATION This is to Inform the General Public that we want to obtain letter of administration belonging to Emeka Anthony Emmanuel Okeke and Ngozi Doris Okeke. All residing at No 19 Oraifite Street Ogui New Layout, Enugu where the land is situated. They inherited the land from their Late parents Mr. & Mrs Emmanuel Agodi Okeke Family and public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME.

This is to confirm that I, Ugende Joy Oluwayemisi, is the same person registered as Yemisi Ugende Joy for NECO, June/July 2010, and as Ugende Joy Oluwayemis for NECO, June/July 2013. Henceforth, I wish to be known as Ugende Joy Oluwayemisi. The two results remain valid. NECO, OSPOLY and the general public should take note

CHANGE OF NAME

ONUKWUBE: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Onukwube Victoria Ijeoma, now wish to be known and addressed as Miss Nwankwo Victoria Ijeoma.All former documents remain valid.Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board and general public please take note.

ARO : Formerly known and addressed as Miss Aro Lizzy Olubunmi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Olanrewaju Lizzy Olubunmi. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OKONKWO: I formerly known and addressed as Miss. Okonkwo Ebele Pauline, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Amadi Ebele Pauline. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Nora Onakafeme Isiakpere, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Nora Emmanuel Marcus. All former documents remain valid. All concerned authorities and the general public to note.

CHANGE OF NAME

GBADEBO: I formerly known and addressed as Miss. Gbadebo Aminat Abidemi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Rabiu Aminat Abidemi. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

OSEGHALE : ‎Formerly known and addressed as Miss Suzie Oseghale, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Suzie Unuabona. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OGBANUFE: I formerly known and addressed as Miss. Ogbanufe Nkemakonam Chinemerem, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Anusiem Nkemakonam Chinemerem. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

IMAGBUDU: Formerly Known And Addressed As Miss Naomi Ese Imagbudu, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Naomi Ese Babalola. All Former Documents Remain valid. General Public Take Note

CHANGE OF NAME

ISIMEMEH: Formerly known and addressed as Bose Isimemeh Aihielu, now wish to be known addressed as Bose Aihielu Ogidan. All former document remains valid. General public take note.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Funmilayo Cecilia Orekoya now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Funmilayo Cecilia Adeyemi. All former documents remain valid. NYSC, TASUED IJAGUN and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NZOM: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Nzom Nchedo Vivian, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Mbachu Nchedo Vivian. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

EMMANUEL: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Emmanuel Ogedengbe Victoria, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Oboh Victoria Emmanuel. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ANI: I formerly known and addressed as Ani Ifeoma Patience, now wish to be known and addressed as Ogbodo Ifeoma Patience. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

IKEANYIONWU : Formerly known as Miss Edith Onyinye Ikeanyionwu now wish to be known and address as Mrs. Edith Onyinye Okoye. All former documents remains valid. Fed poly Oko and public note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OYANIYI: Formerly known and addressed as Oyaniyi Sunday Victor, now wish to be known and addressed as Olabiyi Sunday Victor.All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Dan Ajmal Abiodun, now wish to be known and addressed as Danmole Ajmal Abiodun . All former documents remain valid General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Patience M. Omonzejele now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Gideon Patience Maria. All former documents remain valid NYSC and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Lasisi Toyin Wakilat now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Abdulateef Toyin Wakilat. All former documents remain valid Ogun Local Government Service Commission Abeokuta and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OBINNA: I Formerly known and addressed as Miss Obinna Mercy Ada, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Njoku Mercy Ada. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

This is to inform the general public that the original copy of the certificate of occupancy No. BNB4544 dated 17th April, 2012 issued in favour of MONDAY MORGAN, over property situate at old GRA Makurdi, consisting of an area of 0.1822 square meter is missing. All effort to trace same proved abortive. If found please contact the nearest police station or Elvis J. Adah & Co on this phone number 08053776659.

CHANGE OF NAME

UCHENDU: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Uchendu Ujunwa, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Udegbunam Ujunwa Chinaza. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OGBODO: I formerly known and addressed as Miss. Ogbodo Ijeoma Esther, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. John Akujuobi Ijeoma Esther. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

EZE : Formerly known as Miss Eze Hope Chigazu, now wish to be known and address as Mrs. Ezeh Hope Chigazu. All former documents remains valid. NYSC and Public note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Awoniyi Oluwakemi Mary now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Omotoso Oluwakemi Mary.All former document remain valid, Federal Teaching Hospital Ido- Ekiti, Ekiti State and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Adebanjo Olayinka Funke, now wish to be called and addressed as Adekoya Adeyinka Christiana. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Ibhagbemien Obehi Gloria now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Imuezerua Obehi Gloria. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Oteyowo Folasade Racheal, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Oni Folasade Racheal. All former documents remain valid general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Mrs Ohaju Glory Chioma, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Obioma Glory Udo. All former documents remain valid. General Public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NWANKWO: I formerly known and addressed as Miss. Obianuju Christiana Nwankwo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Obianuju Christiana Igwe. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ONYEJIEKWE: I formerly known and addressed as Miss. Onyejiekwe Blessing Oluchukwu, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ani Blessing Oluchukwu. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

AKOMOLEDE: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Akomolede Tolulope Olufunke, now wish to be called and addressed as Mrs. Baderinwa Tolulope Olufunke. All former documents remain valid. Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State and general public to take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Edith Iyoha Aituyemwangbon Aimienoho, now wish to be called and addressed as Mrs. Edith Felix Adeniran Alabi. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Igoh Rose Ana, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Rose Ana Ifeoma Ifeanyi. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Iloanya Pascaline Ogechi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Onyejakor Pascaline Ogechi. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

LOSS OF DOCUMENT This is to inform the general public that the Original Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) in respect of plot number 1422 with Reg. No 1915 W-6241 Z-57 edr- 1197 c-10 belonging to Bassam Hassan Boukkaroum, ‘m’ of No. 3 Hassan Dantata Estate, kano is missing. All effort made to recover it has proved abortive. If found, please return to the nearest police station. The general public and authorities concern should please take note.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

Rodriguez expects ‘charged atmosphere’ 54

There is no iota of truth in the stories of my return to Manchester United. I like it here and that is it –Inter Milan defender, Nemanja Vidic

Dike

Oshoala

Canada 2015:

Oshoala, Dike hit Falcons camp

uper Falcons invitees, Courtney Dike and Liverpool striker, Asisat Oshoala, have both arrived in camp of the senior national female team ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup kicking off in Canada next month. Dike arrived in Abuja 4am yesterday morning,

while Oshoala had earlier landed Monday night. Dike, who plays for Oklahoma State University, was part of the silverwinning U-20 Falconets to the FIFA U-20 World Cup in same Canada last year. An excited Dike said after her arrival, “I feel super excited to be here because it’s been a while

since I’ve been with these girls. I have grown a lot as a player, especially from the last U-20 World Cup, so I am excited to bring my skills here and hopefully, help the team. “It’s a huge honour being in the Super Falcons. The U-20 experience was great; some of the players are still here and I am ex-

cited to play with them. I am equally excited to meet the new players as well and learn from the ones that are more experienced than I am. I also relish the fact that I will be playing against the United States where I live.” Oshoala is also full of expectations of going back to Canada to excel with the

Super Falcons. “It’s good to be back with the team. I look forward to the World Cup in Canada to excel with my team. It feels really good,” Oshoala said. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Women Football League has concluded arrangements to partner the KC Gaming Network, proponents of the Bet9ja, as the

title sponsors of the league. Revealing this after meeting with the management of the company in Lagos, Chairman of the Nigeria Women Football League Chief (Mrs.) Dilichukwu Onyedinma, said all the arrangements had been concluded for signing of the memoranda of understanding.

NFF: Onigbinde advocates functional tech dept Joel Ajayi ABUJA

ormer Super Eagles Coach, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, has called on the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to, with immediate effect, set up a more functional technical department, saying without such a unit growth and development will be far from Nigerian football.

Onigbinde made the call in Abuja at the ongoing CAF CLicense Coaching Course for Nigerian coaches inside the National Stadium, Abuja. According to him, the technical department that presently exists at the NFF is grossly inadequate to spearhead the country’s football development. He said, “The technical department in place now is just a name; it’s not one quarter functional as its supposed to be.

“No matter how good you are as an administrator, if the results are not coming, people will call for your sack and it’s the technical department that will give you these results. “But we are not empowering the technical department thereby relegating it to the background, so you can’t get anywhere, you will not have consistent results.” Onigbinde regretted that the trio of Shaibu Amodu, Kashi-

mawo Laloko and James Peters has yet to assume duty as NFF Technical Director and Assistant Technical Directors, one month after receiving their appointment letters. The former FIFA and CAF technical committees member and instructor urged the country’s football administrators to ensure that the game is constantly improved upon, as that is the first objective in the FIFA statutes.

Onigbinde

Sports

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

UEFA Champions League…

Rodriguez expects ‘charged atmosphere’ R

eal Madrid playmaker, James Rodriguez, says the club must rise to the big challenge tonight as the defending champion hosts Juventus with the aim overturning a first leg 2-1 defeat to make the June 6 final billed for Berlin. “Juventus played well in the first leg but we have a brilliant challenge to reach the final,” the 23-year-old Colombia international, who has made eight UEFA Champions League appearances this season, said yesterday as the Spanish team rounded off training. Rodriguez said it would be foolhardy to expect Juventus to let the feet of the pedal after gaining home advantage. “We have to play an intense game because

Today’s fixtures

Real Madrid vs Juventus Rodriguez

we know they will come here to defend and we must be focused and try to score when we have a chance,” he added, stressing, “But I think we also have to be patient as we have the players who can score goals.” On the unsettled attacking midfielder Gareth Bale, Rodriguez said: “We want Gareth and all the players in the squad to be involved. This is a team and we have to be united. We have to be fully focused on this epic match.” On his personal development, however, he submitted: “Everything has gone so fast for me this season. Now I dream of playing in the Champions League final and hope to win it.”

Pirlo

Heineken serves Champions League cocktail Afolabi Gambari

uests at the Heineken House, Lagos have enjoyed a mix of football entertainment and a unique cocktail blend. From last week when two giant clubs of European football, Barcelona and Bayern Munich, clashed in the UEFA Champions League semi final first leg match, producing moments of jawdropping brilliance from Lionel Messi, to yesterday when both sides clashed again to determine who got the final ticket, there was no dull moment at the House. Comments as “Messi’s out of this planet!” rang out from the guests intermit-

tently as the matches progressed. “You can’t leave Messi one-on-one with anybody,” a Real Madrid fan, Alao Akinbare, exclaimed. In this ninth consecutive year of Heineken’s sponsorship of the world’s best club football tournament, Heineken House Lagos is open to Heineken fans to watch matches on every UEFA match night in the company of entertainment celebrities and the occasional global football superstars. The theme for this year’s campaign, ‘Champion the Match’ is born out of the insight that men know that UEFA Champions League match nights are worth a little more effort to make it

memorable. “This is the ideal place to watch UEFA Champions League matches. It’s very secure, I love the beautiful ambience and the type of people that you interact and network with here,” an oil company business development executive, Ms. Bisi Olajude, enthused. The fans will troop en masse to the House tonight as the Santiago Bernabeu hosts Real Madrid and Juventus in a game where the visitors will aim to stop the defending champions from progressing to the final scheduled for June 6 in Berlin. Organisers believe the fun expected would befit the season that is now fast approaching its climax.

eyes final ticket

uventus inspirational midfielder, Andrea Pirlo, yesterday said he will do all within his power to ensure that the Turin club hold down host Real Madrid today to book a place in the final. Pirlo drove Juve’s resolve in the first leg to run away 2-1 winner. “The aim is to avoid defeat and do all we can to achieve it,” the Italy international said. “It is such a big game against Real Madrid. “We know we are now good enough to be winning European

Cups again, the quality and maturity is there. “The reality is that it is half time and both teams will still feel they can rightly win the game. It is going to take a big performance from us, but there is real belief that we can do it. “To win the Champions League with Juventus would be a dream, and to do it in Berlin where I won the World Cup in 2006 would be so special. “Whatever I plan to do after this season must wait ass this is the most important match for me.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sports

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

‘How Keshi can succeed again’ Coach Keshi

Mercy Jacob

ormer Super Eagles goalkeeper trainer, Joe Erico, has advised returnee Coach Stephen Keshi to avoid his past mistakes in the quest to return the national team to reckoning. Erico told National Mirror in Lagos yesterday that Keshi should explore the surge of youth potential in the country to re-launch the Eagles as the AFCON 2017 qualifiers draws near. “Keshi getting to the top is no problem but he has to take off the sand in his shoes,” the former Julius Berger gaffer reckoned. “I think I would dispute the reports that pur-

ported Keshi saying the Europe-based players are tired. “I don’t want to believe he is going to rely heavily on the Europe-based despite what happened in the past. He needs to learn from his pass mistakes in other to get it right. “The young players who are still bubbling with strength will do the dirty job for him while the experienced players will put the finishing touches. “He needs to look inward because there are so many good players among the local lads who can give him result. “Keshi should not make the mistake of ignoring these otherwise hungry boys if he hopes to win back Nigerians.”

Ajunwa, AFN differ on Okagbare

Okpekpe 2015: Top stars arrive tomorrow Afolabi Gambari

ll the invited foreign athletes confirmed for the 3rd Okpekpe 10km Road Race in Okpekpe, Auchi, Edo State are due in Nigeria tomorrow, according to the organisers. Coordinator of the race, Yusuf Alli, said all the athletes expected to start arriving from the early hours of tomorrow and they include Foimi Justilin of Cameroun and Morocco’s Lahbabi Aziz. “The Ethiopian trio of Abebe Dinkesa, Hunegaw Yismaw and Genet Yalew are also expected,” Alli disclosed, even

as he assured that Saturday’s race would be different from the precious editions due to its international recognition. “We are also going to ensure the specified number of doping tests is carried out after the race while in the area of prize money, the gender equality rule is also followed such that what the male winner earns is also what the opposite sex will get,” he further said. The race is run over hills and sandy path and it starts in Apama Road and ends in Okpekpe, a town in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, located about 25km North East of Auchi.

Attuquayefio passes on

elebrated Ghanaian coach, Sir Cecil Jones Attuquayefio, died yesterday morning in Accra after a prolonged

Late Attuquayfio

battle with illness. The 70-year-old died after battling years of illness at the KorleBu Teaching Hospital. Attuquayefio is best remembered for leading Hearts of Oak successive domestic league titles, capping it with an historic treble including the 2000 CAF Champions League and Super Cup titles and 2004 CAF Confederation Cup. Regarded as one of the finest coaches to have been produced on the African continent, Attuquayefio is among the few coaches who have won all continental titles in club football in Africa having achieved huge successes with Hearts of Oak.

Ogba

Mercy Jacob

igeria’s first Olympic gold medalist, Chioma Ajunwa Opara, has reacted to statement credited to star athlete Blessing Okagbare on the

way forward, saying Okagbare is “on point”. Ajunwa, who is currently the Ogudu Divisional Police Office (DPO) told National Mirror yesterday that the Athletic Federation of Nigeria (AFN) should weigh in on Okagbare’s outburst with a view to reaching truce with her soonest. Okagabre accused the AFN of registering foreignbased athletes for major competitions while neglecting the athletes based at home while also alleging that the federation paid little attention to grassroots development. Meanwhile, AFN has faulted Okagbare’s claims of neglect for grassroots development, insisting that

the federation has done more than enough. Spokesman of the AFN, Olukayode Thomas, dismissed the claims as baseless. “Okagbare did not get some of her facts right,” Thomas said. “The AFN has attended about five inter national competitions which the home based participated in this year alone. “We have also organised four competitions within the country, a record that no order federation in Nigeria has measured up to. “Contrary to some insinuations, however, the AFN has not queried her. But if there is any need for that we would invite her.”

Tandoh heads Forum committee

irector of Sports (DOS), Lagos State, Dr. Kweku Tandoh, has been appointed as Chairman of the Marketing and Sponsorship Committee of States Directors of Sports Forum. The seven-man committee is saddled with the responsibility of sourcing for funds to organise capacity building training and programmes regularly for all the states’ directors of sports in the country.

Tandoh, who was the secretary of the Local Organising Committee of the Eko 2012 National Sports Festival, described his appointment as a call to duty, adding that the committee would justify the confidence reposed on the members. Meanwhile, the Executive Committee of the State Directors of Sports Forum has paid a courtesy call on the Acting Director General of National Sports Commission (NSC) Mr. Alhassan Yak-

mut in his office in Abuja. The Forum charged Yakmut, who was until his appointment the director of Grassroots Sports Development Department in the NSC, to use his wealth of experience to take Nigeria’s sports to enviable height. Director of Sports, Kwara State, Mr. Tunde Kazeem, led the delegation that included Elder Kayode Adewunmi, Dr. Tandoh, Dr. Alim Musa, Usman Ladan and G.L. Dapar.

WORLD RECORD

Most consecutive days running an ultra marathon Vol. 05 No. 1111

N150

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

The most consecutive days running an ultra marathon is 21 and was achieved by JC Santa Teresa (USA) from 10-31 December 2014.

A nation still on the edge

he just concluded general elections were projected as the tinder box that politicians would ignite to put the nation on the path to disintegration. Thank God, it was not to be. elder statesmen like Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General; former United Nations Secretary-General, Koffi Annan; former Head-of-State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, and Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah, echoed the voice of Fresh Democratic Party, FRESH’s chairman, Rev. Chris Okotie, in suing for peace before the elections, to short-circuit the rising political violence face-off. Yet, there were still pockets of violence in many parts of the country where elections were stalled because of ballot box snatching and technical hitches. If the scale of violence in flash points like Riv-

Guest Columnist

George

Adimora

ers, Ekiti and Akwa Ibom states was so staggering, what would have happened if there was no peace engagement? Even three states - Abia, Imo and Taraba had to undergo a critical rerun of polls in some wards where elections were either disrupted, or didn’t hold at all. Following Nigeria’s miraculous escape from the brink after the last round of the elections, we imagined that the political class would have read the handwriting on the wall and turned their backs on provocative actions like impulsive impeachments and manipulating the system to secure a back door ascent to office. Instead, there appears to be a gradual return to the status quo. We wonder if the sigh of relief we heaved and peaceful utopia were not a mirage. The impeachment of the Ondo State Deputy-Governor, Mr. Ali Olanusi, and threats of the sack of Ekiti State governor, Ayo Fayose, and Enugu State governor, Sylvanus Chime, are the fallouts of the general elections and attempts to sidetrack the electorate’s decisions for political advantage. These are timeworn tactics which we have become accustomed to, etching sad memories and lingering effects of their turn-out vividly in our memories. It shows clearly that we must continue to sue for peace, until normalcy returns to the polity. But to squelch this recurring vice of political violence and inter-party wrangling to unseat opponents, which more often than not, lead to underhand political maneuverings aimed at twisting the

REV. OKOTIE HAS OFTEN SAID THAT TO

ENGENDER ANY CHANGE, ONE MOTIVATING AND INSPIRING LEADER IS ALL YOU NEED TO GIVE THE TEMPLATE TO MAKE ANY IMPACT machinery of governance, violence and even assassinations, the questions to ask is this; why do Nigerians accept this foundation of mediocrity, and why have we so far resisted the urgent need to break from a trend that is intrinsically tied to our failure to develop as a nation? With our bottom league status in all of the global development indicators, we must change the governance paradigm like Rev. Okotie has been canvassing. Otherwise, we will again end up with mere cosmetic changes; a case of old wine in a new bottle, which adds nothing to our image, except to further project us as a nation whose leadership lacks the will to tackle head-on our development deficits. This time, the ruling class has no excuse, after riding to power on the wind of change. Nigerians have spoken against the recurring decimals of corruption, incompetence and an apparent lack of capacity to move the country forward. If politicians are to be voted-in strictly

on their record, only a handful of the current office holders deserve a chance to renew their mandates because majority of them underperformed. Also, if contestants kick out an incumbent, yet, cannot deliver on programmes, then they are not the elixir we need in our march towards economic prosperity. Politicians, who are not making a difference, must ask themselves why people like Professor Dora Akunyili, who rose from obscurity to head the National Drug and Food Administration and Control, NAFDAC, turning the organisation into the most effective government agency during her glorious tenure, succeeded. She fought the fake drug lords to a standstill, putting her precious life on the line; earning global respect and accolades. Yet, Akunyili served in the same government where a middle ranked female civil servant stashed away N8 billion in her private account, and a pension thief stole billions of retirees’ monies and kept same in his house. Rev. Okotie has often said that to engender any change, one motivating and inspiring leader is all you need to give the template to make any impact. That is why nations like Singapore wield more enormous clout than Nigeria in the global arena. The difference is the path the leadership followed. This systemic failure has to be addressed, and 2015 is another opportunity to make that difference by infusing a new lease of life into Nigeria. Incoming leaders must politick with integrity. This is the message for the polity and governments top down. If decisive actions are not taken to curb the incessant heating up of the polity for selfish interests and ominous party agenda, then this fifth democratic experiment will be another wasted opportunity as politicians will have shown clearly that they have not learnt, and are obviously too immature and lack the capacity to handle the demands of leadership. George Adimora wrote from Lagos.

Sport Extra

Swimming: Coventry eyes more Olympic medals

imbabwean swimmer, Kirsty Coventry, says she is still eager to win more laurels for her country. Coventry is on the way to her fifth Olympic Games appearance in Rio next year and is working tirelessly un-

der the guidance of David Marsh at SwimMac, Carolina, USA to land her eighth medal at the quadrennial event. “I’m always motivated by an internal drive to be the best that I can be,” Coventry

said yesterday. “I am very competitive, so I am constantly challenging myself. “I am currently tied with Krisztina Egerszegi for the most individual Olympic swimming medals won out

of all females in the history of the Olympic Games. “My goal is to become the most decorated female swimmer with the most individual medals won in the history of the Olympic Games.” Coventry has competed

in the 100 backstroke and 200 backstroke, along with the 200 individual medley and 400 individual medley, is undoubtedly a major reason why her career has been marked by success at every stop.

Coventry

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