Binder1 by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

Army shake-up:

Olukolade, Buzugbe, other generals face retirement P.2

Olukolade

Vol. 5 N0. 1168

Reps urge Buhari to unearth killers of Dele Giwa, Bola Ige, others

Ooni: Aregbesola, Ife Royal Traditional Council meet

P.5

Friday, July 31, 2015

P.4

National Mirror Online

N150

@NationalMirror

How ex-Heads of State crippled military –Badeh ...made survival deals with foreign countries

Says soldiers lack equipment, motivation to fight B’Haram

OMEIZA AJAYI AND UBONG UKPONG

ormer Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, Air Chief Marshal Alex

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

Nigeria loses N585bn to waivers on rice, others –Senate P..6

LEFT: Troops of 21 Brigade and Elements of Nigerian Army Engineers with troops of 151 Task Force Battalion, during the clearing of notorious terrorists camp of Boko Haram at Chuogori, Shantumari, Kashingeri, Wale and Kushingari, in Borno State, yesterday. RIGHT: Some of the 59 abducted persons rescued by the Nigerian Troops after Wednesday’s operation in suspected Boko Haram camps in Kashimbiri and Warmure communities, Konduga LGA of Borno State, yesterday.

FLIGHT SCHEDULE

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, FRIDAYS

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

VL2111

1320

1430

B737

FLT NO

DEP

ARR

STOPS

A/C

YOLA TO ABUJA

VL2103

1300

1410

B737

DESTINATION

FLT NO

DEP

ARR

STOPS

A/C

ABUJA TO LAGOS

VL2101

0900

1015

B737

YOLA TO LAGOS

VL2103

1300

1615

B737

VL2101

0900

1015

B737

VL2105

1400

1515

B737

ABUJA TO LAGOS

VL2105

1400

1515

B737

VL2103

1500

1615

B737

VL2103

1500

1615

VL2109

1630

1745

B737

DESTINATION

FLT NO

DEP

ARR

STOPS

A/C

VL2119

1630

1745

B737

ABUJA TO LAGOS

VL2101

0900

1015

B737

VL2109

1230

1345

B737

VL2107

1830

VL2105

1400

1515

B737

ABUJA TO YOLA

VL2102

VL2103

1500

1615

B737

ACCRA TO LAGOS

VL2107

1830

1945

B737

VL2107 ABUJA TO MAIDUGURI

VL2108

1830 1230

1945 1345

0 0

B737

P.4 P4

SUNDAYS

SATURDAYS

THURSDAYS

PHC TO LAGOS

DESTINATION

FLT NO

DEP

ARR

STOPS

A/C

ABUJA TO LAGOS

VL2101

1230

1845

B737

VL2109

1500

1615

B737

VL2103

1730

1845

B737

VL2107

1830

1945

B737

1200

B737

ABUJA TO YOLA

VL2102

1355

1505

B737

ACCRA TO LAGOS

VL0204

0800

1000

B737

0800

1000

B737

ENUGU TO LAGOS

VL2117

1620

1730

B737

VL2117

1420

1530

B737

LAGOS TO ABUJA

VL2108

0900

1015

B737

VL2100

0800

0915

B737

VL2100

1030

1145

B737

VL2102

0850

1005

B737

VL2102

1200

1315

B737

VL2106

1630

1745

B737

VL2104

1200

1315

B737

LAGOS TO ACCRA

VL0203

0715

B737

LAGOS TO ACCRA

VL0203

0715

B737

LAGOS TO ENUGU

VL2116

1430

1540

B737

LAGOS TO ENUGU

VL2116

1230

1340

B737

LAGOS TO MAIDUGURI

VL2108

0900

1215

B737

DESTINATION

FLT NO

DEP

ARR

STOPS

A/C

ABUJA TO LAGOS

VL2101

1000

1115

B737

VL2105

1400

1515

B737

VL2103

1500

1615

1945

B737

ABUJA TO YOLA

VL2102

1050

1200

B737

ACCRA TO LAGOS

VL0204

0800

1000

B737

VL0204

ENUGU TO LAGOS

VL2117

1720

1840

B737

ENUGU TO LAGOS

LAGOS TO ABUJA

VL2100

0700

0815

B737

LAGOS TO ABUJA

VL2102

0850

1005

TUESDAYS

FG blames depot owners, marketers for high fuel prices

ABUJA TO YOLA

VL2102

1050

1200

B737

ACCRA TO LAGOS

VL0204

0800

1000

B737

ENUGU TO LAGOS

VL2117

1720

1830

B737

ABUJA TO YOLA

VL2102

1050

1200

VL2100

0700

0815

B737

ACCRA TO LAGOS

VL0204

0800

1000

B737

ENUGU TO LAGOS

VL2117

1720

1840

B737

LAGOS TO ABUJA

VL2100

0700

815

B737

VL2104

1200

1315

B737

VL2102

0850

1005

B737

VL2118

1430

1545

B737

VL2108

1030

1145

B737

VL2106

1630

1745

B737

VL2104

1200

1315

B737

LAGOS TO ACCRA

VL2106

1630

1745

B737

VL0203

0715

B737

LAGOS TO PHC

VL2110

1130

1240

B737

LAGOS TO ENUGU

VL2116

1530

1640

B737

LAGOS TO PHC

VL2110

1130

1240

B737

LAGOS TO YOLA

VL2102

1200

1505

B737

LAGOS TO YOLA

VL2102

0850

1200

B737

MAIDUGURI TO ABUJA

VL2109

1300

1415

B737

PHC TO LAGOS

VL2111

1320

1430

B737

MAIDUGURI TO LAGOS

VL2109

1300

1615

B737

PHC TO LAGOS

VL2111

1320

1430

B737

YOLA TO ABUJA

VL2103

1545

1655

B737

YOLA TO LAGOS

VL2103

1545

1845

B737

LAGOS TO ABUJA

VL2102 VL2108 VL2104 VL2106

0850 1030 1200 1630

1005 1145 1315 1745

0 0 0 0

B737 B737 B737

LAGOS TO ACCRA

VL0203

0715

B737

LAGOS TO ENUGU

VL2116

1530

1640

LAGOS TO MAIDUGURI

LAGOS TO PHC

VL2108

VL2110

1030

1130

1345

1240

1 0

B737

LAGOS TO ACCRA

VL0203

0715

B737

LAGOS TO ENUGU

VL2116

1530

1640

B737

LAGOS TO PHC

VL2110

1130

1240

B737

LAGOS TO PHC

VL2110

1130

1240

B737

LAGOS TO YOLA

VL2102

0850

1200

B737

LAGOS TO YOLA

VL2102

0850

1200

B737

PHC TO LAGOS

VL2111

1320

1430

B737

1320

1430

B737

PHC TO LAGOS

VL2111

YOLA TO ABUJA

VL2103

1300

1410

B737

YOLA TO ABUJA

VL2103

1300

1410

B737

YOLA TO LAGOS

VL2103

1300

1615

B737

YOLA TO LAGOS

VL2103

1300

1615

B737

LAGOS TO YOLA

VL2102

0850

1200

B737

MAIDUGURI TO ABUJA

VL2109

1430

1545

B737

MAIDUGURI TO LAGOS

VL2109

1430

1745

B737

YOLA TO ABUJA

VL2103

1300

1410

B737

YOLA TO LAGOS

VL2103

1300

1615

B737

News

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

How ex-Heads of State crippled military –Badeh CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Badeh, rtd, yesterday, alleged that certain former Heads of State entered into unholy alliances with foreign countries that grounded the Nigerian military, but ensured the survival of their regimes. Badeh, who spoke vehemently during his pull-out ceremony at the Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja, revealed that the unholy acts were responsible for the present inability of the armed forces to win the ongoing war against Boko Haram. He therefore advised President Muhammadu Buhari to carry out an overhaul of the military structure. The General regretted that the Heads of State sold the country’s dignity and military’s negotiation pow-

er, turning the country into a beggar before foreign nations. He added that he headed a military that lacked the relevant equipment and motivation to fight an enemy that was invisible and embedded with the local populace. His words: “There is no gainsaying the fact that no nation can exercise freedom of action in meeting its security aspirations while totally dependent on foreign sources of supply for its arms and equipment. “Permit me to also add here that nations militaries are equipped and trained in peace time, for the conflicts they expect to confront in the future. Unfortunately, that has not been our experience as a nation. “Over the years, the military was neglected and

under-equipped to ensure the survival of certain regimes, while other regimes, based on advice from some foreign nations, deliberately reduced the size of the military and underfunded it. “Unfortunately, our past leaders accepted such recommendations without appreciating our peculiarities as a third world military, which does not have the technological advantage that could serve as force multipliers and compensate for reduced strength. “Accordingly, when faced with the crises in the North East and other parts of the country, the military was overstretched and had to embark on emergency recruitments and trainings, which were not adequate to prepare troops for the kind of situation we found ourselves in.

“It is important therefore for the government to decide on the kind of military force it needs, by carrying out a comprehensive review of the nation’s military force structure to determine the size, capability and equipment holding required to effectively defend the nation and provide needed security.” Badeh, who said that it would be very impossible for the country to achieve its full security potentials by totally depending on other nations for its defence needs, added that the lessons of the civil war and the ongoing war against terror where certain countries frustrated Nigeria’s attempts to procure much needed weapons were very instructive. The former Defence Chief, stressing the need for the country to retain its

dignity as a nation in order to have freedom of action in international affairs, urged government to give priority attention to mobilise the huge human and material resources towards the development of a vibrant Defence Industrial Complex that would contribute to meeting the critical arms and equipment needs, to reduce total dependence on foreign sources of supply for critically needed arms. He urged everyone to support the military in the ongoing war against terrorism, saying that when a nation is at war, it is not the military alone that is involved. In another development, President Buhari has asked neighbouring countries in the sub-region to join Nigeria in her renewed onslaught against the Boko

L-R: Inspector General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase; Director-General, State Security Services, Mr. Lawal Daura; Head of Civil Service, Mr. Danladi Kifasi; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and President Muhammadu Buhari, on his arrival from Cameroun at the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

Army shake-up: Olukolade, Buzugbe, other generals face retirement UBONG UKPONG ABUJA

rstwhile Director of Defence Information, DDI, Maj. Gen. Chris Olukolade, outgoing Chief of Policy and Plans, COPP, Army, Maj. Gen. Ugo Buzugbe, are among several other Generals, slated for immediate retirement by the Nigerian Army. Their imminent retirements, a military source told our correspondent in Abuja, would be announced in a few days, following their

being relieved of duties without any other appointment by the Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Maj. Gen. Tukur Buratai. The source said the Generals have already been put on notice of retirement by the Service, which was also planning to pull them out honourably. The COAS had on Wednesday, approved the redeployment and appointment of 334 of its officers, with some of the affected Generals not reappointed. In the statement issued

through the Director of Army Public Relations, DAPR, Col. Sani Usman, conveying the exercise, Principal Staff Officers at Defence and Army Headquarters, Corps Commanders and General Officers Commanding as well as other commanders were affected. In all, 37 Major Generals, 57 Brigadier Generals, 128 Colonels, several Lieutenants Colonels amongst others were affected. Some of those affected according to Usman were

the General Officers Commanding 1, 2, 3, 81 and 82 Divisions, Operations Pulo Shield and Safe Haven of Niger Delta and Plateau state. Although some of the Generals, who would retire shortly still have more time to serve, sources, however, said they had to go as the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari does not need them around, to enable him achieve needed results in the military. Confirming this, Olukolade told a meeting of the Forum of Spokespersons

of Security and Response Agencies, FOSSRA, in Abuja, that he was retiring from service. The former DDI, who was chairman of the Forum made the declaration during its meeting where he tendered his resignation. Official media handlers of the Forum, PR Nigeria, disclosed that he has handed over the leadership of the Forum to the Nigerian Navy Director of Information, DINFO, Commodore Kabir Aliyu.

Haram terrorist sect, saying the country could not, on its own, defeat terror. He said Nigeria and her neighbours must stand together to defeat and degrade Boko Haram terrorists in the sub-region. Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, who disclosed this in a statement yesterday said Mr. Buhari made the remarks late Wednesday at a state dinner at the Unity Palace in Yaounde, during his twoday working visit to Cameroon. President Buhari said countries in the sub-region could not afford to falter in their resolve to get rid of the evils of terrorists. “We recognise that none of us can succeed alone. In order to win this war we need the collective efforts of each one of us, standing together as a formidable force for good, to defeat and end these acts of terror against our people,’’ he said. Buhari told guests at the dinner hosted by President Paul Biya that the security situation in the region presented an opportunity for Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Benin to synergise for their common security, peace and socio-economic advancement. “Let me assure all of my relentless pursuit of all possible means to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity, protect the lives and property of our citizens as well as my commitment to continue to collaborate with Cameroon and our neighbours, within the framework of the Lake Chad Basin Commission. “The Federal Government of Nigeria is committed to respecting international norms to resolve this matter and to restore normalcy in all the affected areas as soon as possible,’’ he said. The president had earlier, on his arrival on Wednesday, held a closed-door session with his host, thanking Biya for providing refuge to Nigerians who had fled their homes because of the insurgents. He also commended Cameroon for its support to Nigerian military and security personnel in the fight against terrorism and offered his condolences to the families of the victims of CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, July 31, 2015

%& ! ( "$!" $& %

' "$!" $& % !$ %

0>.=4;?4:9 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0

-0/=::8 8,9>4:9 B4?3 >4??492 =: =::8> -0/=::8 2@0>? .3,70? =::8> -:D> <@,=?0=> >B488492 ;::7 -,=-0.@0 3@? ,9/ 2,?0 3:@>0 &* ,95@8, >:6:=: -@5, -

0/=::8 /0?,.30/ 3:@>0 B4?3 # 070.?=4. 2,?0 -:=03:70 >;,.0 1:= >B488492 ;::7 A,.,9? >?,?0 /4=0.?7D :;;:>4?0 2,80> A477,20> -@5, 8 17::=> :114.0 .:8;70C B4?3 , -,96492 3,77 -@47/492 >4??492 :9 ><8 09?=,7 @>490>> 4>?=4.? -@5, - ,>6492 $0>4/09?4,7 7,9/ 80,>@=492 ><8 6,?,8;0 -@5, 8 0/=::8 /0?,.30/ /@;70C :9

><8 -=,348 -/@77,34 =0>.09? :11 %:B0848: >:6:=: -@5, 8 ,>6492 0/=::8 /@;70C B4?3 ,77 =::8> 09>@4?0 >4??492 =::8> ,9/ -0/=::8 # ,9/ , 2090=,?:= 3:@>0 )@>0 -@5,

8 -0/=::8 -@92,7:B B4?3 >4??492 =::8> ,77 =::8> 09>@4?0 , 2,?0 3:@>0 ,9/ , .,= ;:=.3 >4??492 :9 ><8 )@>0 E:90 -@5, 8 ,>6492

@94?> :1 0/=::8 17,? >4??492 :9 8 7:92 @-B, 0C;=0>> -@5, 8 ,>6492 -0/=::8 /0?,.30/ 3:@>0 B4?3 >;,.4:@> 74A492 =::8> B077 1494>30/ >B488492 ;::7 &( >@=A0477,9.0 .,80=, 0?. ?3 A09@0 B,=48;, -@5, 8 9:> :1 -0/=8 17,?> 9: 7:.6 9:> ,?0 :@>0 :9 ><8 )@>0 -@5, 8

/849

0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 =0>0=A:4= :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0

!% "$!" $& % !$ %

0>.=4;?4:9 B,=03:@>0 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0

-0/=::8 1@77D /0?,.30/ /@;70C B4?3 ,77 =::8> 09>@4?0 ,9/ 2::/ >0.@=4?D >D>?08 4?D >.,;0 0>?,?0 )@8-, 4>?=4.? -@5, 8 ,>6492 -0/=::8 1@77D /0?,.30/ /@;70C B4?3 ,77 =::8> 09>@4?0 >B488492 ;::7 =::8 # ,9/ , ;09? 3:@>0 4?D >.,;0 0>?,?0 )@8-, 4>?=4.? -@5, 8 ,>6492 @94?> :1 -0/=::8 /@;70C0> B4?3 :90 =::8 # 0,.3 , ;=4A,?0 49-@47? 2,=,20 1:= .,=> >B488492 ;::7 6( 2090=,?:= ,9/ 6( 1:= -,.6 @; ,9/ , 7? B,?0= ;: -@5, 8 ;0= @94?

><8 $0>4/09?4,7 7,9/ B4?3 ! >:6:=: -@5, 8

9/@>?=4,7 B,=0 3:@>0> -,D> ,?,4 ?0=0 ),D @>349 !9 $0<@0>? -0/=::8> -@92,7:B >8,47 >?,?0 ,=D7,9/ !9 $0<@0>? 7:.6 :1 7@C@=D 17,?> -0/=::8> -0/=::8>

9/ A0 :B:9 >?,?0 ;,5, !9 $0<@0>?

-0/=::8 -@92,7:B >4??492 :9 ><8 -05@ 0664

8 0B7D =09:A,?0/ -0/=::8 /0?,.30/ 3:@>0 B4?3 # >4??492 :9 ><8 7,9/ ,;;, >?,?0 ,=D7,9/ 8 ,>6492

"!$& $ !'$& "$!" $& % !$ %

0>.=4;?4:9 :9 , ;7:? :1 7,9/ :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0 0>.=4;?4:9 :.,?4:9 "=4.0

-0/=::8 /@;70C =::8 < =:,/ .3,=70D :D ,=0, B,=48;, -@5, !9 $0<@0>? ><8 7,9/ 0349/ %30=,?:9 :?07 -@5, 8 ,>6492 ?,>?01@77D 1494>30/ 7@849@8 .@=?,49 B,770/ ,9/ >0=A4.0/ ;@=;:>0/ -@47? :114.0 .:8;70C >4??492 :9 8 E:90 )@>0 -@5, -

>?:=0D -@47/492 ,9/ ,

-@92,7:B

B4?3 :1 ! -, =:,/ -D >4:6;: >?=00? $@8@:8,>4 8 ,>6492

;7:?> :1 7,9/ B4?3 :1 ! =?4770=D @9.?4:9 -, =:,/

8 ,>6492 ;7:?> :1 7,9/ B4?3 :1 ! 0>4/0 4/074?D ,96 -D =?4770=D @> >?:; -, =:,/ 8 ,>6492

( $ !'% ! %" % &! & $ $ %'$ ' ABUJAâ&#x20AC;Ś

! " + &$ '% %% $ ' =:,/ >?=00? ,2:>

,=49, ,2:> ,?30/=,7 =4A0 9@2@

9:> :1 -0/=8 17,?> 9:

-0/=::8 17,? ;09?1::= 9:> -0/=::8 17,? -,>0809? 9:> -0/=::8 >4??492 :9 ><8 ,=64 =0, -@5, 8 '9/0A07:;0/ 7,9/ ;7:?> 80,>@=492 ><8 @>?4.0 'B,4> >:6:=: -@5, B,4> >:6:=: -@5, 8

' "%%' ' $(*' $ * " $ ' ') *" , + , *!

# " $ %$&'%& ') (") # " %# +++ $ %$&'%& ') (" # ) %# $

Photo News

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: CEO, Oando Plc, Wale Tinubu; CEO, Forte Oil, Femi Otedola; MD/CEO UBA Plc, Mr. Phillips Oduoza; American billionaire and founder of America Online, Steve Case; Chairman, Heirs Holdings, Mr. Tony Elumelu and President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, during a gathering of Nigerian business leaders hosted by Mr. Elumelu to discuss entrepreneurship and investment opportunities in Nigeria with Steve Case, at Heirs Place in Lagos, recently.

L-R: Director General, Energy Commission of Nigeria, Prof. Eli Bala (left), Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BoI), Rasheed Olaoluwa; Country Director, United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, Dr. Pa Lamin Beyail and Executive Director, Large Enterprises, BoI, Mohammed Alkali, during the BoI and UNDP solar energy programme project board meeting in Abuja, yesterday.

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Mrs. Sola David-Borha; Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr. Yinka Sanni, during a courtesy visit to the governor at Lagos House, Ikeja, on Wednesday.

L-R: President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Alhaji Remi Bello; Professor of International Law, University of Lagos, Prof. Akin Oyebode; Secretary to Lagos State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello and former Minister of Industry, Chief Nike Akande, during a dialogue on Nigeria’s Foreign Policy and International Trade Relations in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

National News Boladale Bamigbola OSOGBO

embers of Ife Royal Traditional Council, RTC, umbrella body for all traditional title holders from Ile-Ife, yesterday met Osun State Governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, behind closed doors. The meeting, which was held at Osun State Government House, OkeFia, Osogbo, lasted for about 10 minutes. RTC was led to the meeting by Lowa of Ife, Oba Joseph Ijaodola, while the Secretary of the body, Chief Adetoye Odewole, was also in attendance. Also present were top officials of the state government that are indigenes of Ile Ife, led by Chairman, Senate Committee on Rules and Business, Senator Babajide Omoworare. Others are former member of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Adetilewa Sijuade, former commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Home Affairs, Mr. Sikiru Ayedun, and former Special Adviser to the governor on Youth and Sports, Mr. Biyi Odunlade. There have been insinu-

Ooni: Aregbesola, Ife Royal Traditional Council meet ations earlier in the day that the chiefs would be visiting the governor to formally break the news of the monarch’s death, but at the first meeting held in the presence of newsmen, Oba Ijaodola, who is next in rank to Oba Sijuade, maintained their previous stand that Ooni is alive and in good state of health. Oba Ijaodola told Areg-

besola that they were in his residence to update him about happenings around Oba Sijuade and regretted that Ooni was often a target of negative publicity with the press declaring him dead several times in the past. The monarch said: We were all shocked when we heard the rumour. If at all such an incident had occurred, the traditional

council would be the first to know and equally break the news to the entire public. “Sixteen of us are his chiefs and when he was travelling out, he didn’t look like he was going to die and should that have happened to him, we would have been informed even before anyone would hear about it. We pray that Ooni Sijuade will live long in good health.”

Responding, Governor Aregbesola commended the chiefs for holding forth while Ooni was away and prayed for his sound health and long life. The governor and the chiefs later proceeded to another room within the Governor’s Lodge. When leaving the premises, the chiefs did not respond to questions by newsmen.

Meanwhile, an atmosphere of uncertainty yesterday continues to pervade Ife town, as many residents were seen discussing the likely implications death of Oba Sijaude may have on the town. Though markets and shops opened for business in the town, Ile Oodua, the palace of Ooni however appeared deserted, even with the gate wide open.

FG blames depot owners, marketers for high fuel prices Udeme Akpan

ederal Government yesterday blamed depot owners and marketers for illegal sale of petrol and kerosene in excess of approved prices. The government through the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR, maintained that petrol and kerosene should sell at N87 and N50 per litre, respectively. But DPR indicated that

as a result of unpatriotic acts of the operators, the prices of petrol and kerosene are in excess of N100 and N150 per litre. DPR maintained in a statement that preliminary investigations revealed that the prevailing hike in retail prices of the two products across the country is as a result of the unscrupulous activities of some depot owners and major marketers. DPR indicated that in order to check the unprin-

cipled activities of depot owners and major marketers and to prevent further imposition of hardship on the public, it has embarked on immediate suspension of direct sales of petrol and kerosene by the affected depot owners and major marketers. Consequently, the Department said it has resolved to take immediate steps to directly supervise the sale of petrol and kerosene from the affected depots in order to ensure

that appropriate pricing is strictly adhered to. A special task force, DPR said, has been established to undertake the sale of products from the depots. The task force shall liaise with the PPMC, PPPRA and law enforcement agencies. A few weeks ago, the Petroleum Dealers and Owners Association in Ondo and Ekiti states had said it would not be able to sell fuel at N87 per litre due

to non-availability of the product. IPMAN-fuel pump Chairman of the association, Mr. Jimi Oladapo, had said at a news conference in Akure that petrol was not available at the NNPC depots, adding that members had been sourcing products through other means at exorbitant cost. Some filling stations in the areas were recently sealed by DPR for selling above the recommended price.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Friday, July 31, 2015

Reps urge Buhari to unearth killers of Dele Giwa, Bola Ige, others TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

ouse of Representatives yesterday called for a dredge up of unresolved highprofile murder cases in the country. The lawmakers also want a review of cases of extrajudicial killings by the police. In its resolution at plenary on a motion brought by Kingsley Chinda on the need to undertake further investigation into such cases, the House, presided by Speaker, Yakubu Dogara also mandated its committees on Police Affairs, and Public Safety and National Security (when constituted), to monitor the investigations of the cases, and present a report to it within four weeks. Chinda, representing Obio/Akpor federal constituency, Rivers State, recalled some of the cases to include; the killing of some traders at Apo in Abuja, popularly known as the ‘Apo Six’, invasion and killings by mobile policemen and soldiers in Ogoni land, invasion of Odi community in Bayelsa State, the killings in Obiaruku in Delta State, killings

in Zaki Biam, Benue State, and the cold blood murder of veteran journalist, Dele Giwa. Others he said, were the killing of Pa Alfred Rewane, Chief Bola Ige, Funso Williams, Dr. Ayo Daramola, Chukwuma Ogbueli, Chief Marshal Harry, Chief A. K. Dikibo and Hon. Monday Ndor amongst others. He expressed concern that there have been several cases of extrajudicial killings, sometimes by policemen and other security agencies, as well those committed by unknown gunmen. The lawmaker said efforts by successive administrations in tackling the problem of extrajudicial and other high profile killings have largely been ineffectual and short of people’s expectations, as the same have continued unabated as a result of which, many people now live in fear and despair. Besides, the House yesterday called for the construction of temporary schools in the camps being used by Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, in the North East states affected by the activities of the Boko Haram sect,

EFCC begins probe of NIMASA FRANCIS EZEM

trong indications have emerged that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has commenced a probe of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA. This is in line with the ongoing probe of major institutions under the administration of immediate past President Goodluck Jonathan. It is sequel to the sack of the Director General of the agency, Dr. Ziakede Akpobolokemi on the orders of President Muhammandu Buhari penultimate week. A competent source disclosed that the agency has in the last one week played host to operatives of EFCC, who are currently combing strategic departments. It was also gathered that EFCC has invited Akpobolokemi for questioning and is expected to appear on Tuesday, August 4.

Our correspondent learnt that departments, such as finance and procurement particularly have been combed by EFCC operatives, who resume in the morning and close in the evening. Akpobolokemi had hand over to the Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, Mr. Calistus-Nwabueze on the directive of the Presidency and was promptly issued with a letter of appointment on acting capacity by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Transport, Mallam Mohammed Bashar. However a mild drama ensured when the former Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Mr. Haruna Jauro surfaced three days letter with another letter from the Head of Service of the Federation appointing him as the new acting DG. It is now becoming tradition for past directors general of the agency to appear before EFCC.

to enable children of the displaced get education. A member, Asabe Vilita Bashir had in a motion, sought a resolution of the House to the effect that the IDPs currently occupying schools be re-settled to other places, so that the schools which have been closed to

pupils for over a year can reopen, where security permits. “There is an urgent need for the Federal Government to assist the Borno State government in rebuilding and rehabilitating schools destroyed to enable them reopen,” She said

Other prayers of the motion adopted included that the Federal Government create an agency akin to the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, to help in rebuilding communities devastated by the activities of the insurgents, and commenda-

tions for the governors of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states, National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, the Red Cross, individuals and charitable organisations for the appreciable level of interventions extended to the IDPs.

L-R: Hon. Gbenga Makanjuola; Mr. Lanre Idowu; Chairman on the occasion, Aremo Olusegun Osoba; celebrant/Publisher, Vanguard Newspaper, Mr. Sam Amuka; Chief Philip Asiodu and Prince Tony Momoh, during the launch of a book in honour of Uncle Sam Amuka in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

How ex-Heads of State crippled military –Badeh terror in both countries. President Buhari used CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

the occasion to announce Nigeria’s willingness to expand economic partnerships with Cameroon, through increased joint ventures in infrastructure development, transport and commerce, among others. In his remarks, Biya congratulated President Buhari for a successful inauguration into office, saying his electoral victory has provided an opportunity for him to preside over the “destiny of Nigeria.” “Mr. President, a dark

cloud is looming over our countries even as we welcome you; we are facing the same threat, which may rock the foundation of our two nations. “This danger bears the name of Boko Haram, its atrocities and crimes are jeopardising peace around Lake Chad and especially in our two countries. “The number of dead and victims are rising, economic activities have been crippled in affected areas, the number of refugees and displaced persons are ever increasing. “We cannot allow this cancer to spread, we must pool our

resources and forces and share our experiences,’’ he said. Meanwhile, troops of the Nigerian Army have again, killed scores of Boko Haram insurgents and cleared notorious camps in Borno State. Army Headquarters, AHQ, in a statement yesterday, through the Director of Army Public Relations, DAPR, Colonel Sani Usman, said troops of 21 Brigade and elements of Nigerian Army Engineers cleared the terrorists camp at Chuogori and Shantumari, Borno State. Colonel Usman also disclosed that civilians were

also safely rescued from the camp by the troops. During the offensive operations, the fleeing terrorists left underground silos. In addition, troops of 151 Task Force Battalion conducted operations on Kashingeri, Wale and Kushingari camps of the insurgents. “During the raids, quite a number of the terrorists were killed; a Landrover vehicle and a Tipper were recovered. “The troops also rescued 59 civilians that were held captive by the terrorists and cleared the

Immigration arrests Pastor for child trafficking PATIENCE OGBO

Lagos based pastor, identified as Uzonna Gacenine of New World Assembly Church, Ajegunle, Lagos, has been nabbed over allegation of child trafficking for prostitution. Pastor Uzonna was arrested by Immigration officers attached to the Lagos State Command, following allegation that she helped a 24 years old woman, Benedicta Ele-ojo Okolo to process an e-passport with false identity. It was learnt that Benedicta and Pastor Uzonna visited the Alausa passport office,

where the officer in charge, Mr. Joshua Ajisafe first discovered the discrepancy in Okolo’s bio-data. NIS Lagos Commander, Mrs. Justina Aladi Ahmadu, at a press briefing, stated that vigilant Immigration officers suspected that Okolo was lying about her bio-data during the capturing process and went on to investigate her. “Benedicta is a victim of a human trafficking ring but our eagle eye officers noticed the discrepancies in her biodata and decided to drill her. “She lied to the passport officers that her name is Miss Karem Rachel but our investigation shows that her

real name is Beneicta Elejo Okolo. “Following her confession, we arrested her facilitator one Pastor Gacenine Uzonna and we have handed the suspects to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Person, NAPTIP,” she said. Narrating how Okolo became a victim of child trafficking, Mrs Ahmadu said: “Okolo said she met one Mr. Charles Arinze and his sister on social media. Arinze and the sister claimed they reside in Dubai and following their interaction on social media, Okolo was invited to Lagos where she met one Agnes Chinyere, who later took

her to a herbalist where her hair from her private part, armpit, head and her blood were taken by the herbalist. “They took her the next day to the airport with a proxy passport where she was refused departure. She was thereafter asked to meet Pastor Uzonna of the World Assembly Church, Ajegunle, Lagos, who on July 9th, 2015, took her to the passport office at Alausa, Ikeja, to process an e-passport with false name and date of birth. “The false name was Miss Karem Rachel Taiwo, 35, but our investigation shows that her original names are Benectiat Elejo Okolo 24.”

News

Friday July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Nigeria, Cameroun to complete border demarcation soon Omeiza Ajayi

resident Muhammadu Buhari and his Camerounian counterpart, President Paul Biya, have agreed to work towards completion of the demarcation of all land borders between Nigeria and Cameroun before end of this year. The resolution was contained in a communique issued yesterday at the

end of President Buhari’s official visit to Yaounde, capital of Cameroun. Announcing this in a statement yesterday, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, said both leaders welcomed the progress made so far in the exercise, which is being undertaken under the prompting of the United Nations. “The two Heads of State took note of the sat-

isfaction expressed by the United Nations SecretaryGeneral in his most recent report on the work of the United Nations Office for West Africa from January to June 2015, regarding progress in the demarcation of the land boundary between Cameroun and Nigeria. “They agreed to endorse the recommendation of the United Nations Secretary-General on the completion before end

of 2015, of the land border demarcation work, in order to concentrate on enhancing cross-border cooperation,” the communiqué read. Both leaders also endorsed the commitments made at the Extraordinary Summit of the Lake Chad Basin and Benin Republic held last month in Abuja. They also agreed to strengthen security collaboration along their

common border under the auspices of the NigeriaCameroun Trans-Border Security Committee and within the framework of implementation of the concept of strategic operations approved at the Abuja Summit. The two leaders also reaffirmed their determination to strengthen cooperation with other neighbouring countries for the rapid elimination of terrorism and other security threats. “The two Presidents thanked the United Nations, the African Union,

ECOWAS, the Economic Community of Central African States and other bilateral and multilateral partners for their active solidarity in the war against Boko Haram. “They also reaffirmed their support for the implementation of the Lake Chad Basin Commission’s Five-Year Investment Programme (2013-2017), which seeks to save Lake Chad, restore its ecosystem and promote the socio-economic development of the people living within the basin.

Insecurity: IGP orders clampdown on unregistered vehicles Omeiza Ajayi ABUJA

A Former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh and his wife Mary, being pulled out in Abuja, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Nigeria loses N585bn to waivers on rice, others –Senate George Oji ABUJA

igeria has lost a whopping sum of N585 billion to import waivers in the last four years, the Senate revealed yesterday. The waivers were mainly from agricultural products, particularly rice and vegetable oil. Senator Ibrahim Gobir (Sokoto South) made this disclosure yesterday while contributing to debate on a motion entitled, “Indiscriminate use and abuse of waivers for rice importation.” The motion was sponsored by Senator Adebayo Rafiu Ibrahim (Kwara South). This was also as the Senate yesterday, urged the Federal Government to halt the policy of granting waivers to importers, as well as resolved to set up an ad-hoc committee to look into the policy with a view to carrying out holistic review of it.

The committee, which is to be chaired by Senator Adamu Aliero (APC Kebbi Central), was mandated to look into all issues relating to the grant of waivers, concessions and grants by the Federal Government with a view to determining full implications on government revenue of the policy. Gobir, while contributing to the debate on the motion, stated that findings on waivers had shown that N585 billion worth of waivers were granted by the Federal Government between 2011 and 2015. He argued that if this sum was shared among the 36 states of the federation, each of the three senatorial districts in a state will have N5.3 billion which he said was enough to provide 5,000 jobs in the various states. Adebayo Ibrahim in his lead debate said the flagrant abuse of waiver scheme has severely eroded Federal Government’s rice production policy by allowing importation of

huge quantities of the commodity in excess of their approved quota. He noted that a recent Senate interaction with CBN revealed how importers have overshot their quota and consequently owing the Federal Government import duties running into billions of naira. According to the lawmaker, instead of importers paying as huge as 70 per cent duties and levies to the Federal Government, they are granted waivers and thereby denying Nigerians legitimate revenues. He regretted that instead of punishing defaulting importers, the immediate past administration rewarded them with fresh waivers to import more in its twilight. Ibrahim also disclosed that the Federal Government loses as much as N71 billion on duty waivers to importers of rice, palm oil, energy equipment, steel and vegetable oil annually, recalling how the Federal Government gave import

duty waivers to 10 rice and palm oil importers which amounted to N150 billion in 2011 alone. He regretted that the Nigeria Customs Service which ought to enforce compliance with duty policy at the borders has failed to live up to its responsibility.

s part of measures to boost security in the nation’s federal capital territory, Abuja, the Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase, has ordered clampdown on all unregistered vehicles in the territory. The order will take effect two weeks from today. Addressing national and state executives of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, yesterday, in Abuja, Arase said the prevalence of unregistered vehicles in the FCT has become worrisome. “I am giving a grace of two weeks. After two weeks we will start clamping down on all vehicles that ply FCT roads without

proper registration,” he said. The IGP also solicited the support of the union in policing the country, saying the police alone cannot be everywhere all the time. “We require the partnership and cooperation of Nigerians and the body that has that extensive reach is the NURTW. I urge you all, especially state executives to ensure that your members register their vehicles and renew their particulars as at when due. “In abuja we have a very serious challenge. There are so many taxis. There must be a way that we can ascertain those vehicles that are registered with your union; either you paint them in a particular colour or you give them stickers for easy identification,” he said.

UNODC asks govts to protect human trafficking victims Sam Eferaro

nited Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes, UNODC, has urged governments across the globe to effectively implement the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and its Protocol on Trafficking, to protect trafficked victims and ensure that traffickers, wherever they are, were brought to justice.

In a press statement to commemorate this year’s World Day against Trafficking in Persons, UNODC Executive Director, Yury Fedotov, disclosed that millions of vulnerable women, men and children were being cruelly exploited and coerced into working in factories, fields and brothels or begging in the streets, pushed into armed combat or forced marriages, trafficked so that their organs can be harvested and sold.

“We are living in an era of many crises and troubles, as United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon has said. Record numbers of people are fleeing war and persecution, and the international community is grappling with acute migration challenges in the Mediterranean, the Balkans, in the Andrian Sea, Latin America and Africa. For traffickers, these hardships represent business opportunities.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Friday, July 31, 2015

Trailer accidents: FRSC impounds 453 vehicles Patience Ogbo

ederal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, has impounded 453 articulated vehicles following a special operation to rid the country of the menace of incessant trailer accidents. Corps Marshal, Boboye

Oyeyemi, gave the figure yesterday after inspecting the arrest of trailer drivers in Lagos. Oyeyemi added that 209 erring drivers were charged to court in the last one week since the agency embarked on ‘Operation Scorpion’ to check the menace of trailer accidents on

Police arrest 5 robbery, 4 kidnap suspects in Ondo

the roads. “We have engaged all stakeholders to ensure there is safety on our roads. This special operation started on Monday and will end on Friday. It is not meant as a punitive measure, but a reminder that trailer owners and drivers should take precautionary measures to ensure they prevent accidents. “They must ensure their

trailers are secured properly from the ports, and drivers must have valid driver’s licence and steer road-worthy vehicles. We have arrested 453 erring drivers and prosecuted 209 of them. “The arrest is not aimed at collecting fines, but to serve as warning to others to take all precautionary measures to ensure safety on our roads. “This exercise will be

sustained and we believe that with the support of the stakeholders, there will be drastic reduction in accidents caused by articulated vehicles.” Reacting to the arrest of trailer drivers and the impounding of articulated vehicles, the Association of Maritime Truck Owners, MTO president, Remi Ogungbemi, urged government to fix bad roads across

the country. “We support FRSC in sanitising road usage, but we appeal to government to rehabilitate the bad roads across the country. The blame for accidents on our roads should not be placed entirely on the doorstep of truck drivers and its owners. Bad roads also contribute to accidents and put our drivers and other road users lives in danger.”

• Amosun declares war on cultists over students’ deaths Femi Oyeweso and Ojo Oyewamide

ndo State Commissioner of Police, Isaac Eke, yesterday said no fewer than 37 people were arrested for various offences, including armed robbery, kidnapping and cult activities this month. Eke spoke during this month’s press briefing at police headquarters in Akure. He said five persons were arrested for armed robbery, four for kidnapping, 25 for cult activities and one for fraud in the state. According to him, the sum of N50,000, master keys, sharp objects and two unregistered motorcycles were recovered from the suspected armed robbers. The police boss added that while one Toyota Camry car was recovered from the kidnappers, N55,000, two small clay pots, two pieces of white cloth were seized from the fraudster. Eke assured people of the state of their safety, saying officers and men of the command were ever more committed to maintaining law and order in the state. Meanwhile, following the death of four students of the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY) in cult violence in Ogun State last week, Governor Ibikunle Amosun yesterday vowed to wage full-scale war against perpetrators of cultism and other vices in the state. Amosun, who spoke during the environmental sensitisation tour he made to Ijebu-Ode and Sagamu areas of the state, declared that Ogun will no longer be a comfort zone for not only men of the underworld, but also perpetrators of cultism in all the higher institutions across the state.

The governor disclosed that he was ready to personally lead the operation to fish out cultists and get them off all the campuses of higher learning in Ogun, stressing that provision of law and order was his first priority as the governor. “I’ve been informed about the upsurge in cultism; I will not allow that. I will personally lead the war from school to school and one area to another to arrest them. “We are ready for them: this will not be a comfort zone for cultists, kidnappers and armed robbers. This is a warning signal. Whoever you are, once you are caught to be a cultist, you are going to face the wrath of the law. The provision of law and order is my number one priority as the governor.” It would be recalled that two MAPOLY undergraduates: ND II Computer Engineering student, Muraina Ibrahim popularly called Elebe, and ND II student of Mass Communication, Demola and two unidentified others were reportedly killed.

L-R: Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, Mr. Linus Awute and Director, Public Health, Dr. B. Okoeguale, during a news conference and official launch of the National Policy on Viral Hepatitis, as part of activities commemorating the 2015 World Hepatitis Day in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Glo to honour Soyinka, Sefi Atta, others

obel laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka and three young Nigerian writers are to be honoured this month by telecom giant, Globacom. The three young writers are Sefi Atta, Tope Folarin and E.C.

Osondu. The company said the event is organised to celebrate the literary stars for their immense contributions to the study of literature and for putting Nigeria on the literary world map.

NCAA issues debtor airlines two weeks ultimatum Olusegun Koiki

igerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, has issued a 14-day ultimatum to debtor airlines, who have constantly refused to remit the five per cent Ticket Sales Charge, TSC, and Cargo Sales Charge, CSC, collected from air passengers to the agency. The agency also threatened to publish names of the defaulters at the end of the ultimatum. Media statement by General Manager, Public Affairs, NCAA, Mr. Fan Ndubuoke, stated that the ultimatum would be the last the agency

would issue to the debtor carriers before enforcing the provisions of section 27(3) of the Civil Aviation Act. Ndubuoke explained that the five per cent TSC and CSC represented charges collected at source from the travelling public by airlines on behalf of the civil aviation agencies and wondered why the money would not be remitted to the appropriate agencies immediately. He declared that its nonremittance as at when due was tantamount to a breach of trust and a violation of the civil aviation provision by the airlines. Ndubuoke said that after the date, it would take all

measures contained therein to enforce the collection of the debts, stressing that after the 14 days ultimatum, the names of the debtor airlines and amount owed would be published in at least five national dailies. He added that the names of the promoters of these airlines, directors and other related parties would also be included in the publication. He said that the measures would be taken in furtherance to the Federal Government’s directives on recovery of public debt and noted that that the offending airlines had failed to offset the accumulated debts despite several appeals, reconciliation meetings.

Globacom stated that the event, tagged ‘A Night with Wole Soyinka and Nigeria’s Young Literary Stars,’ would also provide a platform for lovers of literature, the media and guests to interact with Soyinka and the others being honoured. The evening will also showcase a documentary on the achievements of the Nobel laureate as well as a reading of his works by the three young writers. Globacom will also use the event to launch a special prize in Literature for undergraduate students across the country tagged ‘The Glo Literature Prize for Undergraduate Students.’ Atta was born in Lagos in 1964. She has won several awards including the 2009 Noma Award for Publishing in Africa, 2006 Wole Soyinka Prize for Literature in Africa, 2005 PEN International David TK Wong Prize and 2003 Red Hen Press Short Story Award. Folarin, who is based

in Washington DC, United States, won the 2013 Caine Prize for African Writing, described as Africa’s leading literary award, for his short story entitled ‘Miracle from Transition. Osondu won the Caine Prize in 2009 for his story ‘Waiting.’ He has also won the Allen and Nirelle Galso Prize for Fiction, and his story, ‘A Letter from Home,’ was judged one of The Top Ten Stories on the Internet in 2006. His debut short story collection Voice of America was published by Harper Collins in 2010 and Granta Books in 2011. The writers will in addition share their personal perspective on African literature and the contributions of Soyinka in an interactive exchange. Globacom added that arrangements were being conducted to ensure an evening of intellectual stimulation and magnificent entertainment.

South West

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ekiti seals off five hospitals ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

L-R: Lowa of Ile-Ife, High Chief Joseph Olasoji Ijaodola; Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola and Senator Babajide Omoworare, during Ife Traditional Council’s visit to the governor over the rumoured death of the Ooni of Ife at Government House, Osogbo, yesterday.

Rented offices: Lagos gives 7-day ultimatum to agencies FRANCIS SUBERU

o reduce the cost of governance in Lagos State, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has given a 7-day ultimatum to heads of government agencies currently occupying rented apartments all over the state to vacate and relocate to their main ministries. The order to vacate rented apartments is contained in circular Number 072 dated July 24, 2015, signed by Head of Service, Mrs Folasade Jaji, and directed to all heads of ministries and

government agencies. Investigations revealed that about 20 government agencies currently occupy rented apartments, thereby raising cost administering the agencies, which is telling on the overall cost of governance in the state. Among affected agencies are Motor Vehicle Administration Agency, MVAA, situated at Lateef Jakande Road; Lagos Water Regulatory Commission, Allen Junction; Law Reform Commission, Ikeja; Lagos State Safety Commission, Magodo; Lagos State Film and Video

Censors Board, Ikeja. Others are Audit Service Commission, Ogba; State Valuation Office, Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Board, Ikeja; Lagos State Planning and Environmental Monitoring Office, Ikeja; Audit Service Commission, among others. The circular, which has as subject, “Re-alignment of office accommodation of ministries, departments and agencies,” reads in part: “Sequel to the HOS circular Ref. NO: CIR/ HOS/15/Vol.1/065 on creation, abolition and realignment of ministries, departments and agen-

cies of government in Lagos State, it is hereby notified for general information that His Excellency, the Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode has directed that all affected MDAs are to commence relocation to their new offices with immediate effect from 27th July to 3rd August, 2015”. The affected agencies are to be integrated into the mainstream ministries. We gathered that the agencies have already been allocated offices in each of the existing parent ministries which the state government uses to drive policy statement.

Three kidnap suspects arrested in Ekiti ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

ecurity agencies in Ekiti State have arrested three other suspected kidnappers in the state. This came three days after the Directorate of Security Services and the police command in the state paraded 13 suspects arrested recently. The suspects were said to have made useful confessions on alleged culpability in the series of kidnap cases witnessed in the state. The state governor, who made the disclosure during the swearing in

of Pastor Samuel Agbede as Chairman of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, RTEAN, in Ado Ekiti, yesterday, cautioned transport workers against allowing themselves to be used by kidnappers to perpetrate evil. He said available information revealed that commercial transporters were being used by kidnappers to abduct innocent people with the intention of receiving ransom from them. The governor, who harped on the need for everybody to live within the ambit of the law, cau-

tioned RTEAN members that whoever flouted the law would be arrested and prosecuted. While cautioning against reckless driving, which he said had been causing unwarranted killing of innocent Nigerians, the governor also advised them against drunk-driving. The governor assured that his government would continue to promote driver unions in the state and create enabling environment for them to practice their trade. Earlier at the 2015 Annual Conference of the Institute of Strategic

Management, the governor had appealed to political leaders to focus attention on how to banish poverty, which had been threatening the potential of many Nigerians. Speaking on the theme: ‘Strategies for Poverty Alleviation,’ the governor said: “In tackling poverty, the first thing to do is to empower the people. But before empowerment, you must make them look healthy through provision of food. Let them get access to you as a leader, this will give them sense of belonging and relieve.

kiti State Ministry of Health has sealed off five private hospitals in the state for not complying with government’s operational guidelines. Two of the affected hospitals are in Ado Ekiti, two at Emure Ekiti, while one is at Ise Ekiti. Director, Hospital Services and Training, Dr. Kola Adu, said the facilities were sealed for offences including operating in an unhygienic environment, using unqualified and inadequate personnel as well as non-registration of their health facilities and failure to renew their operational licenses. Adu, who led the ministry’s monitoring team on the inspection tour of private hospitals that culminated in the closure of the health facilities, stressed that any hospital found wanting

would be made to face the law. He cautioned patients against patronising unlicensed private clinics in view of their safety. The medical practitioner charged other private health facilities in the state to properly register and renew their operational licences, saying that the state government would not hesitate invoke the full weight of the law on erring proprietors. He added that the state Ministry of Health commenced an aggressive monitoring and inspection of all private health institutions to maintain a reasonable standard in the health care sector in order to further reduce mortality and morbidity rate in the state. According to him, proprietors of the sealed hospitals have been directed to report to the supervisory ministry, adding that anyone that failed to comply would be further sanctioned.

Osun NLC orders workers back to work BOLADALE BAMIGBOLA OSOGBO

hairman, Osun State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has directed workers in the state to go back to their duty posts. The suspension of strike was announced by Chairman of NLC, Osun council, Mr. Jacob Adekomi, Wednesday evening, after entering into a new agreement with the state government. In the MoU jointly signed by labour leaders and t representatives of the state government, workers in the state were to expect payment for 2015 February salary arrears, starting from Monday. Adekomi said the decision to suspend the industrial action was taken in the interest of the state workforce and the state government with a vow to resume the strike if the agreements were not honoured on Monday. While directing workers to resume with immediate effect, the NLC chairman maintained that the state government had renewed its commit-

ment to full employment and not retrenchment of workers. Also speaking, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, who said government had never reneged on its agreement, adding that the industrial action was due to shortfall in federal allocation, which is not peculiar to the state alone. He appreciated the workers for their understanding; and assured that all their remaining salary arrears would be paid immediately funds are available through the various means being explored by the government. Workers in the state had refused to resume work citing inability of the government to pay February salaries as part of an earlier agreement reached with the government. However, the government had insited that the payment that was effected was based on the available funds and the urgent need to cater to the needs of all strata of workers in the state instead of paying only a few sections and leaving out others.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South West

Friday, July 31, 2015

Group faults Lagos PDP’s stance on N39bn World Bank loan

ommittee for the Protection of Peoples Mandate, CPPM, yesterday berated the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Lagos chapter, over its stance on the N39.4 billion World Bank loan purportedly obtained by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s administration. CPPM in a statement signed by its Executive Chairman, Nelson Ekujumi, said the opposition party in the state did not do enough to crosscheck its claims before going public. It would be recalled that Lagos PDP had criticised Ambode for hastily obtaining N39.4bn loan from the World Bank, advising the governor to rescind the decision pending the book check on all previously obtained loans in the state, especially by his predecessor. But facts emerged earlier in the week suggesting that the said loan was initiated and finalised by former Governor Babatunde Fashola and not the current administration as claimed by PDP. Thus, Ekujumi said the PDP failed to do its homework before coming out with the claims. “In light of the seriousness that issues of governance deserves, we expect the opposition party to have been properly schooled in the tenets of democracy based on due process and rule of law, bearing in mind that no government can obtain loan,

talk less of a foreign loan, a World Bank loan for that matter, without the approval of the legislature and other relevant bodies at the federal level. Since assuming office on May 29, one is unaware of Akinwunmi Ambode’s government approaching the Lagos House of Assembly in this regard. “Also, we would have expected that a serious and focused opposition party which is desirous of being alive to its democratic responsibility of keeping the government in power on its toes and portraying itself as a serious and virile opposition to have done its home work properly before exposing itself to public ridicule by its claim which is damaging to our democracy.” Ekujumi also urged civil society organisations, labour bodies, the media, and other professional groups not to leave the task of being societal watchdogs to only political parties, which he said seem to be deficient in performing such role for now. “Therefore, we at CPPM find it imperative to admonish the opposition party at this point in time, to update its knowledge on issues and redirect focus to the seriousness which governance deserves rather than the penchant for infantile tantrums, if our democracy is not to be impaired by the absence of constructive, focused, serious and virile opposition,” he said.

OLUSEGUNKOIKI

Fire guts NAHCO complex, victims groan

section of the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company, NAHCO Plc, at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, MMIA, Ikeja, Lagos, was early Wednesday morning engulfed by fire, gutting offices of airlines and other tenants in the complex. A cargo agent, who owns an office in the complex and was close to the scene of the fire incident, told National Mirror that the entire building would

have been gutted but for the quick intervention of Fire Service men of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, who mobilised frantically to curtail spread of the inferno to other buildings within the complex. Later, our correspondent gathered that the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, joined the team to put out the fire. Manager, Communications and Corporate Services, NAHCO, Tayo

L-R: West Africa Executive, Game Discount World Nigeria (Walmart), Mr. Sylvester John; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro; President/CEO, Walmart - Europe, Middle East, Africa and Canada, Mrs. Shelly Broader; Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode; Chief Executive Officer, Massmart Holdings Limited (Walmart), Mr. Guy Hayward; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Olukunle Ojo and Store Operations Director, Massdiscounters Head Office (Walmart), Mr. Richard Fuller, during Walmart Group meeting with Governor Ambode at Lagos House, Ikeja, yesterday.

Economy: Nigeria can leverage on Buhari’s reputation –Lemo SAIDATALAUSA

ormer Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Tunde Lemo, has said that Nigeria can leverage on President Muhammadu Buhari’s reputation, particularly following his recent visit to the United States of America. He spoke yesterday at the book launch and presentation of Biography of Chief Oyekunle AlexDuduyemi in Lagos. The book launch was part of activities to mark Alex-Duduyemi’s 80th birthday. According to the financial expert, no foreign investor can embrace a country with reputation for lawlessness, impunity

Ajakaye, confirmed the incident in an electronic mail to our correspondent. The fire, we gathered, started at about 1:30am and could not be put out for several hours. The source told our correspondent that offices of airlines that occupy the complex for business activities were affected by the fire. Majorly affected were the offices of British Airways and an agent of Air France/KLM, Mazzbim Ventures, whose offices

and corruption, adding that leveraging on the integrity and honesty of the president can restore the nation’s former good image. “The new administration has started well by addressing head-on the battered image of Nigeria, but we need to let the international community know that there are many ‘Buharis’ in the government and in the private sector,” he said. He also said that with the recent rebasing exercise, the Nigerian Gross Domestic Product now valued at $573 billion, makes it the highest in Africa with over 170 million well-educated and youthful population. Lemo, however, added that for business activities to thrive in the country, poverty, infra-

were completely razed. The entire office equipment of the affected companies like paper documents, files, computers and several others were completely consumed, according to information gathered by our correspondent. Our investigation further revealed that the inferno might have been caused by poor electrical fittings in the offices. The affected companies, our correspondent gathered, have been relocated

structure, climate, multiple-taxation, market integration, stable foreign exchange and other challenges must be addressed. The financial expert explained that attempts have been made in the last decade to alleviate poverty, but it was insufficient. He also said there was need to improve investment climate in the country. The tax regime, according to him, must be streamlined; the challenge of integrating the Nigerian economy into the global market should be examined and most importantly stable foreign exchange. Lemo said with the biography of Alex-Duduyemi, younger generation of serious minded investors can emerge.

to other vacant spaces in the one-storey building complex while the damages caused by the inferno are yet to be restored. Ajakaye, in an e-mail statement to our correspondent, stated that security staff on duty noticed the fire outbreak. He explained that the fire commenced at about 1.25am, but was brought under control by the combined team of the FAAN Fire Service and LASEMA, which he said responded swiftly to the distress call

Chairman on the occasion and former head of interim government, Ernest Shonekan, said the book was an invaluable resource material for the young ones, “particularly those who intend to stay in the private sector as entrepreneurs.” Describing the celebrant as a focused, disciplined, diligent and upright gentleman, who is always very determined to excel, he said young generations should imbibe his qualities, which can help them soar in life. The event had in attendance the Awujale of Egbaland, Oba Sikiru Adetona; paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gabdebo; founder and chairman of Honeywell Group, Oba Otudeko, among others.

of the security staff. He said about three administrative offices of airlines and cargo agents were affected by the fire, adding that the affected companies had been relocated to enable them continue with their normal business activities. The statement added, “There was no loss of life during the incident, which was quickly put out. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Federal and state authorities are investigating to ascertain the source.”

South East

Two die after eating ‘forbidden’ fish in Ebonyi Aliuna Godwin ABAKALIKI

wo men were yesterday reported to have died in Ezillo community, Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, after eating fresh ‘forbidden’ fish. One other person was said to have gone dumb after eating the fish. It was gathered that the victims were labourers, who were hired by one Mr. Alieze to work at his construction site, but after the work, decided to catch the said fish. A source resident in the community, who gave his name as Odoh Onyinyechi, told our correspondent that the victims were working and decided to observe some rest when they went to a near-by stream where they harvested the fish said to be ‘forbidden’ by the community. He said: “A man from our community went to town and brought people to work for him. The people later went to the stream to fetch water and came back with some fish. “We told them that these fishes were forbidden in our

area because we don’t consume them and if you must eat it, you must remove the scale, but I don’t think they listened to our advice. “Before we knew it, two of the labourers died and one of them could not speak anymore. We don’t eat this particular fish species for any reason and we always tell anyone found with it to prepare it properly if you must eat it,” he said. Another resident of the area, who preferred anonymity, said he saw the victims harvesting the fish in the stream and warned them not to eat it. “Those people were busy harvesting the fish in our stream and I went closer to them and saw the fish. I told them not to eat one of the species, which were among the ones they harvested. I told them to ensure they remove the scale before preparing it because the scale is very dangerous,” he said. When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer, Chris Anyanwu, said he was out of town for official engagement, after a visit to his office and promised to confirm the incident.

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Imo govt cautions students against cultism Chris Njoku OWERRI

mo State government has admonished Nigerian students not to allow student politics to interfere with their studies and academic development so as not to jeopardise their future. Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Engr Kingsley Uju, who gave the charge while receiving executive members of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, led by its National President, Tijani Yusuf Shehu, on behalf of Chief of Staff at Government House, Owerri, equally advised them to shun cultism and crime. Uju, who condemned

a situation where some greedy politicians engage the services of students in tertiary institutions as political thugs to achieve their selfish aims, also urged them to shun cultism, radicalism and crime as these vices were detrimental to their progress. He commended NANS executive for their peaceful disposition as depicted in their preference for dialogue and peaceful resolution of issues other than engaging in violence. The deputy chief of staff explained that Governor Rochas Okorocha has a high regard for the development and welfare of youths, which he said prompted him to introduce free education from primary to tertiary level,

the first of its kind in the country. He assured of the state government’s desire to assist the association achieve its noble objectives stating, however, that the current administration has a policy of not interfering in student union activities. Uju also assured the association of government’s assistance in the promotion of activities and traditions that will ensure the orderly development and welfare of students like their project on the eradication of cultism and other vices in institutions of higher learning in the country. Earlier in his speech, the union president, Shehu, thanked Governor

Rochas Okorocha, for the assistance he had rendered to the association which includes the donation of new buses to them recently. Shehu described the state governor as youthfriendly and bastion of education in Nigeria and requested for his assistance in the election of their member, Comrade Obinwa Nonye, who is vying for the speakership of the Nigerian Youth Parliament National Assembly, Abuja. He also thanked the Chief of Staff, Chief Uche Nwosu and the Deputy Chief of Staff, for their assistance to the association and their commitment towards its progress.

Ebonyi, Abia urged to settle boundary dispute

ouse of Representatives on Thursday urged the governments of Ebonyi and Abia states to quickly resolve their boundary dispute currently affecting socio-economic activities in the states. This followed a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Nkeiruka Onyejeocha (Abia-PDP), representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, which was unanimously adopted by the house. Onyejeocha noted with dismay the adverse effect of the dispute on the people of Ishiagu in Ebonyi and Lokpanta in Abia. According to her, peace in the communities has been jeopardised as a result of the persistent boundary dispute. She stressed the need for the House to mount pressure on both states for speedy resolution of the dispute.

The lawmaker alleged that the dispute had resulted in the proliferation of small arms in both communities and this had affected exploration of natural resources in the areas. “This situation has continued to threaten the lives of people in the areas who no longer go to the farms. “The degree of restiveness in the communities is still alarming and if urgent action is not taken to address it, it may escalate,’’ Onyejeocha said. She also urged the House to mandate the Surveyor-General of the Federation to ensure proper demarcation of the boundary of the communities. The Speaker of the House, Yakubu Dogara, referred the matter to the House Committee on Special Duties, when constituted, for further legislative actions

L-R: Deputy President, Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), Mrs. Mercy Iyortyer; President, Alhaji Murtala Aliyu and representative of Enugu State Government, Mr. Godwin Ajah, during NIQS training workshop in Enugu, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

PTAD to eliminate ghost pensioners —DG Chris Njoku OWERRI

i r e c t o r- G e n e r a l of Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate, PTAD, Mrs. Nellie Mayshak, said the three days nationwide verification exercise for prisons, customs and immigration retirees would eliminate ghost pensioners and create solid database for pensioners in the country. Speaking with newsmen in Owerri on Thursday during the verification exercise, the director-general stated that the verification will equally address some

anomalies such as overpayment and under-payment of pensioners. Mayshak said after the verification, a credible and authentic database would be created for all pensioners under the Defined Benefit Scheme, DBS, where records of next of kin of such pensioners would be updated regularly. According to the director general, beneficiaries of the verification exercise are pensioners who did not transit to the Contributory Pension Scheme, CPS. She advised that all sick and infirm pensioners should contact the desig-

nated telephone numbers or upload their credentials to PTAD through their email for verification. The director general said PTAD was established in August 2013 with the responsibility of pension management under the Defined Benefit Scheme, DBS, for pensioners who did not transit to Contributory Pension Scheme, CPS. Some of the pensioners, who spoke during the verification, commended Federal Government for introducing PTAD. A retired customs officer, Mr. Nkemdirim Solomon, said the verification

has so far recorded huge success within the limited days. He said the verification was necessary because it would help PTAD to identify ghost pensioners and also help to regularise the system. Also Mr. Jude Anozie said many of those who did not transit to the CPS since retirement, have continued to experience ugly situation with payment of their pensions. He said with the emergence of the PTAD and the commencement of the verification exercise, there will be a great improvement in the system.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South South

Friday, July 31, 2015

Fresh cholera outbreak in Delta community …6 dead, 72 hospitalised Theophilus Onojeghen WARRI

ix persons are feared dead and about a hundred others hospitalised in a new case of cholera in Aladja community, Udu Local Government Area of Delta State. National Mirror gathered that the incident occurred last week, affecting a few persons. But by the

weekend, death toll had increased to at least six persons when the disease became more pronounced. Community sources told National Mirror that about hundred persons are hospitalised in different hospitals and health centres within Udu council area, while those with severe cases are receiving treatment at Central Hospital, Warri. Our sources added that when the disease started,

residents thought it was a calamity resulting from unprecedented evil, but later tests showed it was cholera. They told our correspondent during a visit to the community that most sources of drinking water had been contaminated. Though the cause of the outbreak has not been ascertained at press time, the World Health Organisation, WHO, describes cholera as an acute diar-

rhoeal infection caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The agency said researchers estimate that every year, there are roughly 1.4 to 4.3 million cases, and 28,000 to 142,000 deaths worldwide due to cholera. The short incubation period of between two hours and five days is one factor that triggers the poten-

tially explosive pattern of outbreaks. Udu council chairman, Solomon Kpomah, when contacted confirmed the incident, saying the council swiftly deployed a team of medical personnel to the community to check its spread. According to him, the state government has also sent its medical team to the area to test and treat those affected.

“We will continue to carry out sensitisation campaigns. There is need for a holistic approach by all parties towards curtailing the disease.” He urged residents of the community to maintain good hygiene and cleaner environment by disposing their wastes properly. “They should also be cautious of the water they drink and food they eat,” Kpomah stated.

C’River rehabilitates 67 street children

ross River State government through its Ministry of Social Welfare and Community Development has so far rehabilitated 67 street children in Calabar. Director of Social Welfare, Isaac Ebuara, said the exercise, which started in June followed a directive by Governor Benedict Ayade. Ebuara said the affected children were now at a transit home at Destiny Child Centre, Calabar, adding that the children were being rehabilitated pending reunification with their families. He said investigation had shown that 90 per cent of the children, who opted to be on the streets for no just cause, were from neighbouring states.

According to him, their parents were willing to receive them back to their homes and give them quality education. He also said the effect of the anti-social behaviour acquired by children on the streets had created negative impact on the society. Ebuara said the ministry was putting effort to inculcate moral values on those children and encourage them to enhance their education or engage in vocational skills to improve their livelihood. He said the ministry had also advised the children to remain with their parents and go back to school because “education is the basic foundation for their future development.”

L-R: Senior Public Specialist, World Bank, Dr. Atul Deshpande; Statistician-General of the Federation, Dr. Yemi Kale and Secretary, National Planning Commission, Mr. Bassey Akpanyung, during the National Stakeholders Validation Workshop on the Informal Sector Study Draft Report, of the 4 Sector States of Bayelsa, Delta, Edo and Rivers, in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

Mixed reactions trail new Amnesty boss’ appointment • Itsekiri leader rejects Boroh

Theophilus Onojeghen WARRI

ixed reactions have continued to trail Tuesday’s appointment of BrigadierGeneral Peter Boroh (rtd) as new head and coordinator of the Amnesty programme for repentant Niger Delta militants by President Muhammadu Buhari. Our correspondent, who spoke with some stakeholders and youth leaders in the region yesterday, reports that while some welcomed the appointment, others say they are not comfortable with it.

Niger Delta activist and former Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the chairman of DESOPADEC, Prince Monday Whiskey, described the appointment as deserving and a big relief to the region. Stressing that the appointment has helped to calm frayed nerves, especially among ex-agitators, Whiskey urged Boroh to urgently remedy what he described as “an almost bad situation.” He charged the new amnesty coordinator to be firm, fair and show greater commitment by ensuring that equity returns to the programme and that those who merit benefits

Boroh (rtd)

of the programme are carried along. He canvassed the need for urgent meeting of critical stakeholders to chart the way forward for genuine ex-agitators, who were allegedly deliberately schemed out by the powers-that-be in the for-

mer administration of the programme. But Itsekiri leader, Joseph Tenumah, expressed contrary view. According to him, appointing another Ijaw to head the amnesty programme was mere confirmation of fears that Niger Delta was being gradually turned into an Ijaw enclave. A furious Tenumah posited, “The appointment of retired Brig-Gen. Peter Boroh is only a confirmation of the long-held view that the Niger Delta is only for the Ijaws, while the other ethnic nationalities that constitute the region are seen and treated as second class citizens.

“We have over 25 ethnic nationalities that constitute the Niger Delta and who have in one way or the other contributed meaningfully to the Niger Delta struggle and selfdetermination dream of the region. In all these, when it comes to sharing the dividends of the struggle, they are usually hijacked by only the Ijaws and in most cases every other ethnic nationality are seen as mere followers. This should not be if justice, fairness and equity as contained in the Nigerian constitution are anything to go by. “It is on record that from 1996 till date, the Itsekiri people, especially

my kin and kinsmen of Ugborodo have not only contributed to the internationalisation of the Niger Delta struggle but have in our own small way played our role when the need arises,” he maintained. But an Ijaw group, Iduwini Volunteer Force, IVF, described the appointment as a show of solidarity by President Buhari to the Ijaw nation. A statement issued and made available to National Mirror by IVF’s Acting Commander and Unit Leader, ‘General’ Don Kalar and Commander Jerry Gole promised to support the current administration.

North

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Governance: El-Rufai cuts overhead by 60% …admits state is broke, cancels pilgrims sponsorship

overnor Nasir elRufa’i of Kaduna State says his administration has cut down overhead cost by 60 per cent as part of measures to rescue the state from its precarious financial situation. El-Rufa’i in a broadcast to people of the state on Wednesday night said the

state was broke and had a debt burden of more than N74.297 billion, comprising N28.840 billion domestic and N45.44 billion foreign debts. The governor said the administration had taken radical steps to reduce cost of governance, shore up its internal revenue and block all revenue leakages.

The governor said the reduction of ministries from 19 to 13 and the 50 per cent salary cut for himself and the deputy governor were also targeted at reducing cost of governance. He emphasised that the administration would no longer spend money on gifts, feeding and pilgrimages.

According to him, N120 million was saved from salaries paid to ghost workers after the biometric verification of civil servants conducted by the administration, adding that those involved in the fraud would be prosecuted. The governor said henceforth, the administration would adopt zero-based

budgeting system. On tax reforms, el-Rufa’i said the government was studying all options to improve its internally generated revenue and reduce dependence on federal al-

DSS DG not our card-carrying member –APC OLAJIDE OMOJOLOMOJU

L-R: Former military president, Ibrahim Babangida; Managing Director, Bank of Industry, Mr. Rasheed Olaoluwa and Executive Director, Mr. Waheed Olagunju, during a visit to the former president at his residence in Minna, yesterday.

Benue killings: Tsav seeks Arase’s intervention

ormer Police Commissioner, Abubakar Tsav, has appealed to Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase, to intervene by drafting a special police squad to curb the incessant killings in Benue State. Speaking with News

Agency of Nigeria, NAN, yesterday in Makurdi, Tsav regretted that the state had become so insecure that residents were living in perpetual fear of attacks. He lamented that in the last one month, more than 20 people had been killed by unknown gunmen in the Katsina-Ala/ Ukum axis,

claiming that those killed were mostly members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. Tsav said intervention of the IGP was imperative owing to inability of the police command to track down the killers and guarantee safety of lives and property in the state.

He traced the history of illegal acquisition of arms in the state to 1999 when thuggery was emboldened by politicians to suppress opposition parties in the state. According to him, the amnesty programme being proposed by Governor Samuel Ortom is just a ruse

UITH in first successful open heart surgery WOLE ADEDEJI ILORIN

niversity of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, UITH, has successfully carried out its first heart surgery in partnership with Apollo Children Hospital of India. Two girls aged seven and 16 were the lucky patients. They were the children of Mohammed Jubril and Olarewaju Balogun. They were the two picked out of five trimmed down from 20 because of exigencies, while others would come up at a later date. Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Prof.

Abdulwaheed Olatinwo, while briefing the press yesterday said the decision of UITH to move into the field of open heart surgery “was premised on its recognition of cardiovascular diseases as the number one cause of non-communicable deaths worldwide.” Olatinwo said common indication for Open Heart Surgery such as congenital heart diseases were common in Nigeria, occurring in about one in 100,000 live births and when left untreated causes early childhood deaths or disability. He pointed out that many of the affected

children were from poor families and cannot afford the huge cost of treatment outside the country. He acknowledged support given to the university by some individuals in Kwara State such as Engineer and Dr. Oyeleke, Chief Raimi Oladimeji (Jagunmolu of Igbaja) and Pastor Oladokun, the Managing Director of SEAP, an Ilorin-based microfinance organisation. The CMD said it will require N108 million for UITH to kick-off the project and another N50 million to fix the equipments. A patient, he added, would require N1.8 million for

open heart surgery which the hospital is subsidising by 75 percent. He said this was one of the major reasons of partnering the Indian Apollo Hospital for offering free open heart surgery worldwide to children. Leader of the Indian medical team, Dr. Nevile Solomon, who floated the free services under a foundation known as ‘Solomon Foundation’, explained he was bound by the principle of becoming a success, sustaining the success recorded and then be able to give back to the society what God had been kind to let him achieve.

locations. He said the target was to generate IGR exceeding what the government would receive monthly from the Federation Account.

ll Progressives Congress, APC, has denied allegation by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, that Director-General of Directorate of State Security, DSS, Lawal Daura, is its card-carrying member, describing the allegation as absurd and frivolous. In a statement issued in Lagos yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Lai Mohammed, APC challenged PDP to publish any evidence it may have to confirm the allegation, adding: “After all, it is trite that he who alleges must prove.” Mohammed said: “In the absence of that, PDP must

call another press conference to publicly apologise to all Nigerians for engaging in barefaced lies.” Expressing shock that PDP has started exhibiting all the symptoms of hallucination so soon after its gravy train derailed, APC said it was obvious that the party has begun to hear voices. It said: “We know that the psyche of PDP has been badly affected by its loss of power at the centre. Even the party itself has admitted that much. That situation has now been compounded by the fact that the party is broke. It is therefore not a surprise that it is no longer able to think straight. The reality of its new situation is just beginning to dawn on it.

Gowon backs fight against hepatitis MARCUS FATUNMOLE ABUJA

ormer military Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, yesterday pledged to join the fight against hepatitis in the country. Gowon, whose foundation, Yakubu Gowon Centre, has been involved in several health and other programmes in the country, promised to help government eliminate the disease through the support of his centre. He made the pledge in Abuja at the commemoration of 2015 World Hepatitis Day and launch of National Policy for the control of Viral Hepatitis by the Federal Ministry of Health. He said Nigeria was faced with various forms of diseases in the past, which were overcome through concerted efforts of stakeholders. Defeating hepatitis, he stated, would not be an exception. The youngest and longest-serving military leader in the country also commended all tiers of

government for sustaining the fight against polio. “For the past one year, there has been no record of polio in the country, and in the next two years, the nation shall be declared free of polio,” he said. He informed that Nigeria had the greatest number of hepatitis, “whether it is A, B, C, D or E. I will like to promise that Yakubu Gowon Centre, which I lead, and the Carter Centre as I am involved with them can assist even in other conditions such as river blindness. I hope I will be able to rope them in, so that we can deal with this disease and any other diseases that is a problem in Nigeria.” He stressed advocacy as a veritable means of defeating the ailment. “Advocacy for them to know about this disease and test them (the public) for whether they have it or not,” he said, adding that “the Ministry of Health has set up a policy on what do to achieve the result. And, with that one, I am sure, working together, the country would defeat the disease in the foreseeable future.”

Friday, July 31, 2015

ow do you see the new administration of the All Progressives Congress, APC, under President Muhammadu Buhari? Well, everybody from the other party is an interloper; they don’t see anything good in any other people. I don’t know whether they are looking for power or relevance. But they are not even prepared for the job. They feel being in power is just about tea party, but you have to work hard; you have to understand yourself; you have to understand the job; you have to understand the system; you have to understand the feelings of the people. Everybody has benefited one time or the other from the benevolence of Nigeria and Nigerians and many politicians have taken Nigerians for granted; you feel you can go to the soap box and deceive the people? Definitely, you are wrong. Nigerian will continue to ask questions. Nigeria is a blessed country; you can see water, you can see vast land and resources, not only petroleum which all of us depend on. Gas is in abundance; granite is in abundance; bitumen is all over. Some are yet to be tapped, but where are we going? Oil is a rubber economy; it will dry up; the price can fall and once in a while it can rise. But the world powers that depend on oil are now looking for other sources of energy so we should know how to manage what we have now. I want to thank God for still keeping Nigeria united; it’s not by power; it’s not by might, but God in His infinite mercy has intervened in our affairs and that is why we are still together; a lot of things have gone wrong. The Boko Haram issue in the North is not palatable, and some people think it is something you can easily combat. Military oppressions are different from guerilla warfare; guerilla warfare can be part and parcel of military oppressions but where suicide bombers are involved; people who have no respect for live; not even their own lives, you begin to ask; how did we find ourselves in this kind of situation? The North-East became veritable platform for incursion because the politicians there were bringing people from Niger, Cameroun, Chad and other places to come and vote in Nigeria; they thought it was a good thing to do then in whatever party they belonged; there were a lot inter-boarder marriages; people were coming in and by the time you want to stop them, some people would be questioning you; that they are part of that part of the country; for whatever; maybe they wanted to swell the population or to attract more revenue from the national purse; that is one of the reasons we have Boko Haram. Immigration was denied its main role of checking who comes in and out of Nigeria. Who are the people denying the Immigration its role? The typical Northerner in that part of the country; they want to fight the Immigration for trying to prevent the illegal entry of persons into the country; when somebody brings out a dagger, you’ll try to be careful. You said that APC is not sure of whether it just wants power or to govern. But it said it was cleaning up the mess left by your party, PDP. What is your reaction? Who are the people in the party today? APC is not a party; it’s a conglomeration of strange bed fellows. You have PDP which is even a majority in that party, Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN is there, All Nigeria Peoples Party, ANPP, Congress for Progressive Congress, CPC and part of All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA are all there. Are these people clean? What’s happening in Osun State? Is that a good example? You don’t just come to Lagos, see bridges, high buildings and you feel you can go and do that in Osun or Ogun State, and then you go and borrow money to service those projects you cannot sustain; you go and build edifices that are just white elephant projects; you go and build schools that you

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

APC is a confused party with no road map –Shelle Tunji Shelle, Lagos State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chairman, in this interview with journalists in Lagos describes All Progressives Congress, APC, as a confused party with no road map, insisting that Jimi Agbaje will claim back his mandate in Lagos. EBERE NDUKWU brings excerpts: ernment did not issue licenses to people to build refineries, but are Nigerians ready to pay economic price for the price of petroleum products; petrol, kerosene? They are not. People who got the licenses were reluctant. Another government is in power so let them try their best. But if any positive thing happens in the oil industry today, it is still the handwork of the PDP government; if anything positive happens in the power sector today or in the next one, two, three years; it is what PDP had built. Many people have forgotten you don’t sow a seed and you get instant result. And that’s why somebody is saying today; give me time; I am slow; I may be slow; I want to clean up; clean what? Let people see the direction you are going.

Shelle

cannot furnish; you go and award contracts at escalated prices. All these things are the causes of our problem in this country. Osun doesn’t need a Shoprite, and somebody removed a school from where it had been standing for 70 years to build Shoprite; may be, somebody introduced the idea from Lagos; that’s not a priority project for Osun State; bridges are not a priority for Ogun State, and who are the ones ruling these states? APC. What are they calling mess? What you find in Osun State, where services have broken down; is that not a mess? So it’s not limited to PDP; PDP must have learnt its lesson; maybe we lost focus; we thought we were the ruling party. If PDP had been given another chance, definitely, things would have been moving on and they would have built on the services they had rendered before a new government came in. Look at the oil sector for instance, a lot of development has taken place there; that the refineries have not taken off is not that the gov-

If PDP had been given another chance, definitely, things would have been moving on and they would have built on the services they had rendered before a new government came in.

PDP has been accused of having stayed at the centre for 16 years just as APC through its metamorphosis has also stayed the same period in Lagos. What is the future of PDP in Lagos? As for the future of PDP in Lagos State, I will tell you that we are still going to pick more seats in the House of Assembly; at the tribunal I want to believe we are going to get our mandates back in some House of Representatives seats and possibly, a seat in the Senate. I’m sure with the facts and evidence available; our governorship candidate will claim back his mandate. I only want to be silent on it because I don’t want to give the impression that it’s just a power struggle; it’s not; it’s a reality, but some people want to forget what happened yesterday; yes, we can forget but let’s set the record straight. Since we are at the tribunal, let’s wait for the outcome as that will determine the direction. But we know we have built new PDP in Lagos; we are much stronger than what we were before. We are ensuring that more disciplined, decent, qualified and competent people are coming into PDP. The most important thing now is to build on what we did during the last election; put our house in order; get a new exco; I am not interested in becoming the chairman. I will be talking to you the way I am now; offering advice; I will be called to Abuja to do one thing or the other that will make the party grow. I can call for meetings in my neighbourhood; we stat charting the way forward. What precisely is the kind of government that APC has shown? It has not even shown anybody because it doesn’t have a road map, it is confused. The leadership is going in one direction while the followers are going in another. If we don’t have a National Assembly that is stable, then we don’t have a government. It has not shown leadership; it has not shown it is focused and ready to provide good governance. People are seeing PDP as a better organised party now. And members of the PDP in the National Assembly now are ready to give a very good account of themselves. PDP generally, is ready to show that it has what it takes to come back to power in 2019.

Politics

Friday, July 31, 2015

We’re taking over Edo, Kogi, Bayelsa –APGA chair Adeola Tukuru ABUJA

ll Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, National Chairman, Dr Victor Ike Oye, yesterday said the party is putting in place strategies towards aggressive membership drive across the country in readiness for forthcoming elections, particularly in Edo, Kogi and Bayelsa states where gubernatorial elections will hold on November 21 and December 5. Oye said this at APGA’s national retreat for its National Working Committee, NWC, members, its six zonal and 36 state chairmen in Abuja, adding that two parties in Edo State has already collapsed its structure to join APGA, while thousands members are decamping into the party on daily basis. He said other parts of their strategy was to embark on tour of the various states to see for themselves the state of the party on ground and provide strategies on how to make it stronger. He said: “Already, we are in constant touch with the leadership of the party in Edo State, particularly in Igarra in Edo North, where our party is breaking new grounds. The prospects in other states of the federation are also very promising. “We hope to galvanise these promises into practical political gains for

our party.” He said that there could not have been a better time to hold the retreat than now, when all eyes are on APGA and expectations from it are very high. According to him, the NWC is not unmindful of the multifarious crises that had beset the party in the immediate past and surprisingly still linger. He said: “This crises had diverse impacts on the party and stunted its rapid growth and advancement. “We are therefore challenged at this retreat to eschew bickering, malignant and tendentious outbursts, bad blood, festering animosity and nagging. We must see one another as brother’s and sister’s keepers ever ready to put the past behind us and look forward to a more promising future. “As a way of practically leveraging on our ingenuities and experience, we have done a few things we thought would take the party to the next level. First, was to engage strategic stakeholders in robust dialogues and discourses; second, was to set in motion machinery for revalidation of existing membership and registration of new ones.” The National Chairman said the political situation of the country today points to a greater chance for APGA to make its presence felt in every nook and cranny of the nation.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Don warns of crack in Niger APC ... accuses gov, party of nepotism, marginalisation

Priscilla Dennis, MINNA

lecturer at tBowen University, Iwo, Osun State, Dr Yusuf Larry Ayuba, has warned that a serious crack may soon appear in Niger State All Progressives Congress, APC, unless the state governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello and the APC address the imbalance in appointments in the state.

Accusing the governor and APC of nepotism, ethnicity and marginalisation in a press statement, Ayuba argued that the staggering vote for change given by the people of the state must not be turned into family imposition at the expense of fairness, justice and equity. He also decried the attempt by the governor and the party to suppress the truth in a statement issued by the APC recently

in response to the issue raised by Senator David Umaru. APC had through its Publicity Secretary; Mr. Jonathan Vatsa, had condemned Senator Umaru, representing Niger East senatorial district for allegedly claiming that his constituency was short-changed in the appointments made by the governor and the need to correct the injustice. Accusing the party of bias in handling the complaints from zone B of the state on the issue, Ayuba said: “We all voted overwhelmingly for change and not family imposition. So we expect our leaders to be fair and objective over perceived injustices. The APC as a party does not belong to a family. I personally perceive marginalization in the light of what the senator said as Zone B should have produced the SSG, at

least to show fairness, equity and acceptance that change has come.” The university don continued: “Simply because Senator Umaru has voiced his mind and observed the imbalances in the appointments of officials so far done by the Governor Bello administration does not mean he is alone in feeling that way. Many of us currently in the Diaspora and even those in Niger State with close watch over government activities share the senator’s position on the marginalisation of zone B.” Noting that the office of the governor, his deputy and SSG were key positions that should have been seriously considered based on zoning, Ayuba said there was no fairness when in the face of the existence of diverse ethnicity and socio-religious presence, the governor

and the SSG will come from the same ward as if there are no other competent persons from other zones. He said: “This is democracy; things must be done according to the rule of law. A government flaunting change should be seen exhibiting such in its appointments. I am of the view that true change goes beyond nepotism, sectionalism and inconsideration for others. “We cannot fan the embers of nepotism and expect that people will not talk. Government must take everyone along and listens to every opinion so as to create balance and impartiality in the polity.” He therefore urged Niger APC to learn from what is happening at the federal level and how President Muhammadu Buhari sees everyone as his and him belonging to nobody.

PDP NWC directs state chairmen to enforce discipline in chapters

... Recognises Idowu Faleye-led Exco in Ekiti Obiora Ifoh ABUJA

eoples Democratic Party, PDP, National Working Committee, NWC, has warned its state chairmen of the need to enforce discipline in the party even as it restated its recognition of the Ekiti State executive led by Chief Idowu Faleye. PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, in a statement yesterday described as illegal, the activities of any person or group of persons parading themselves as the executive of the party in the state, adding that the national leadership will no longer condone such. The NWC said it would not hesitate to apply strict

measures to enforce discipline within the party and charged any member with a complaint against the state executive to channel such to it for appropriate action instead of engaging in acts capable of destabilising the party. Noting that the Ekiti State governor, Ayo Fayose is a hard working and performing governor and should not be distracted from his focus of delivering on his mandate to the people of the state, Metuh said: “The national leadership therefore directed the Ekiti State chairman, Chief Faleye as well as other state chairmen to enforce discipline in their chapters, but process must be transparent, fair and just.”

Senate President Abubakar Bukola Saraki (left) and Chairman, Senate Ad hoc Committee on Ethics and Privileges, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, during the inauguration of the committee in Abuja, yesterday.

Ortom’s media adviser raps Tsav Henry Iyorkase MAKURDI

he Special Adviser to Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom on Media and Information and Communication Technology, ICT, Mr. Tahav Agerdzua, has tongue lashed retired former Commissioner of Police for Lagos State, Alhaji Abubakar Tsav, over his unguarded statements against the Ortom-led administration. Mr. Agerdzua, who was reacting yesterday in Makurdi to the barrage of unfounded claims credited to Alhaji Tsav on efforts

of the Benue State government to stem the tide of insecurity, by asking those in possession of weapons to submit them for cash rewards. He decried the lukewarm attitude of the former police boss who often cast aspersions and denigrate every credible moves by his selected perceived enemies, while ignoring wrong doings right under his nose. He said for anyone worth his salt, such a person should rather than vilify the efforts of the present administration in its quest to curtail arms proliferation, commend govern-

ment’s efforts. Mr. Agerdzua wondered aloud why in the eight years reign of the immediate past Governor Gabriel Suswam, despite glaring cases of maladministration, Alhaji Tsav never found it explicit to criticise the actions and policies of the erstwhile administration, expressing regrets that the present administration which is barely two months in office is being castigated for the conscious efforts it is making to curtail insecurity plaguing in the state. The former Chief Press Secretary, CPS, to former

Governor George Akume lamented that during Suswam’s tenure in the state, assassination of perceived opponents thrived, noting that that the Dean of the Faculty of Law of Benue State University, Barr. Gabriel Gwa Jande was allegedly murdered as well as Pastor Adoor among others in cold blood. He said: “As far as we are concerned, the likes of Tsav and his cohorts describing the efforts of Governor Ortom in an attempt to get rid of weapons in the hands of wrong people as jamboree is most unfortunate.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Livinus Menedi YOLA

damawa State National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal yesterday ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to produce the smart card readers, SCRs, used in the House of Representatives elections for Madagali/Michika federal constituency.

The Justice Anthony Onovo-led three-member tribunal issued the or-

Politics

Friday, July 31, 2015

Tribunal orders INEC to produce SCRs used in Adamawa poll der at its resumed hearing in a petition filed by the All Progressives Congress, APC, challenging the election of Hon. Adamu Kamale of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. The tribunal sitting in Kado, Abuja stressed that its earlier order directing INEC to produce election materials used for the election in the

constituency covered card rea-ers. The tribunal had on July 23 subpoenaed INEC to produce materials used for the elections in evidence for the determination of the case. INEC, in obeying the order, had produced ballot boxes and ballot papers used in the election but left out the card readers.

The APC and its candidate in the election, Mr Umar Duhu, had filed the petition against Kamale and PDP seeking nullification of the election. The petitioners are alleging that the election was marred with irregularities and Kamale was not qualified to contest the election. Speaking after the sitting, PDP counsel,

Mr John Eguowo said: “Today, the official from INEC produced those documents; mainly ballot papers that were used in the election. “The nature of the subpoena did not require him to give evidence but to only tender document, so no question was asked with regards to the ballot papers. “Because the witness

failed to produce all the evidence required, the court adjourned to August 6 to enable INEC produce the rest of the documents. “When required documents are produced, all the parties will close their cases and submit written addresses which will be adopted by the court and a date set for judgment.”

House leadership: APC Rep laments exclusion of South-East from slots Tordue Salem ABUJA

member of the House of Represntatives on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, from Imo State, Hon. Chikere Okafor, has regretted the exclusion of the SouthEast from recent appointments of majority leaders of the House, urging his party to go beyond the rhetoric of change in running the Legislature and the country at large. Protesting his zone’s alleged exclusion in the allotments, Okafor, representing Ehime Mbano/Ihitte Uboma/Onowo federal constituency yesterday wondered why the SouthEast geopolitical zone is always made to suffer and left out when political considerations are made in the country. He recalled that in 2011, the South-East states under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, recorded an average of one million votes per state which largely turned the table in favour of former President Goodluck Jonathan, but recalled that in the last election, the PDP in the South-East states only managed to get a million votes of the APC members in Imo State.

At a press briefing yesterday, Okafor stressed that the APC pulled through by sheer courage, doggedness and grit even at the risk of their lives, only to be shoved aside in the House’s power-sharing game. He dismissed the impression that the APC had electoral thrashing in the South East, insisting that the members of the party in the zone fought hard to establish the party in the area. Urging the hierarchy of his party to desist from relegating the South-East zone to the background, he said that “as far as the Nigerian project is concerned, every region must count if we must get it right.” He also pleaded with the leadership of the APC to review its definition of inclusiveness and rethink its perception and treatment of the South-East zone,” Recall the South East APC had nominated Okafor for the Deputy Majority Whip, and was duly accepted by the presiding officers of the House. But when the Speaker, Yakubu Dogara named the leadership positions last Tuesday, the South-East caucus was excluded from the appointments.

Newly appointed caretaker committee chairmen of local government councils in Plateau State taking oath of office during their inauguration by Governor Simon Lalong in Jos, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Ex-Rep cautions Osun Assembly on petition to impeach Aregbesola former member of the House of Representatives, who represented Ife federal constituency of Osun State in the seventh National Assembly, Rotimi Makinde, has faulted the handling of the petition by Justice Folahanmi Oloyede, calling for the impeachment of Governor Rauf Aregbesola, by the Osun State House of Assembly. Oloyede, a serving judge in Osun State judiciary

recently petitioned the state Assembly to impeach Governor Aregbesola and his Deputy, Mrs. Titilayo Olaoye-Tomori, for alleged financial recklessness. In statement issued in Lagos, Makinde said the decision of the Assembly to set up a seven-man ad hoc committee to investigate the petition is faulty and unparliamentarily in nature. He said: “It is morally wrong for the House to entertain that petition. Are we saying that anybody can just pick paper and send petition to the House and

preferred candidate and it will prepare a level playing ground for every aspirant.” He therefore urged the aspirant to give an undertaken that he will abide and play by the rule of the law in supporting any candidate that emerges. Gashua certified that Bello paid N5.5 million to the party’s bank account, hence he was qualified

to obtain a nomination form and expression of interest form for N5 million and N500,000 respectively. He therefore told Bello to go and canvass for votes from party delegates, noting that mere purchase of the forms was not enough as it expected of him and his supporters to conduct themselves in orderly manner with an under-

Ebere Ndukwu

the Assembly will just constitute a panel and it will continue like that? I feel uncomfortable that the House entertained that petition in the first instance. Is it because it is coming from a judge or what? “They are laying a very bad precedent because before you put a petition before a legislative House, you have to pass through the members whose job is to read it on the floor and the Speaker will refer it to the appropriate committee of the House who will in turn investigate it. But first,

it must be read in the floor and presented. “The mode of the operation of the House raised doubts and I think if they continue like this, they may not have time to do any other legislative duties. They ought to have ignored such because it is an unnecessary alarm. The petitioner is not fit to be on the bench because she is part of government. We categorise judges as next to God and for her to do such job is curious, she should have follow the path of honor by resigning.”

taking to accept the outcome of the party primaries. Responding, Bello said he was on a historic rescue mission to salvage the Confluence State from the grip of a few cabal who have underdeveloped the state. He said: “Today, we are commencing an historic journey, a journey to liberate ourselves.” He promised to run a

rancour-free campaign and uphold the rule of law and abide by the provisions of the party’s constitution regarding the gubernatorial contest. Recall that August 29 has been fixed for the primary election by the party ahead of the gubernatorial election slated for November by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

Kogi guber: APC has no preferred candidate …as Bello picks forms Obiora Ifoh ABUJA

ll Progressives Congress, APC, has declared that it has no preferred candidate for the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Kogi State, even as one of the aspirants yesterday picked the expressions of interest and nomination forms to contest the pri-

maries. APC’s Organising Secretary, who was represented by the director of administrations in the party’s headquarters, Abdullahi Yusuf Gashua, disclosed this during the presentation of the forms to the gubernatorial aspirants, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, in Abuja yesterday. He said: “APC stands for change and has no

Editorial

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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

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

Inhuman treatment claims against Chinese firm

acked workers of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCEC), few days back, assembled at the Alausa, Ikeja office of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State to protest alleged inhuman treatment they suffered while working for the firm. The Chinese construction company is currently working on the Lagos Light Rail Project. The angry workers’ grouse is that many of their colleagues had either lost their lives or were maimed with no tangible compensation in return, owing to the absence of insurance cover and other safety measures in the work-place. Among the unfortunate workers was one Okila Mark, who said he lost his right arm when it was trapped inside a machine. “The unfortunate incident occurred on January 5, 2013, about 4:30pm, when I was to work with the ‘Winch Machine’. The machine initially developed a fault and we were in the process of repairing it when it suddenly started working… My right arm was trapped inside the machine and in the process, the arm was finally chopped off”, he said. His colleague, Fidelis Aodowase, also related how he lost one of his eyes while working with CCEC. “I lost my right eye to the machine on the 26th of April 2015. The cutting machine broke and the broken fragment of the machine entered my eye. They took me to

the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), where I was told my eye can no longer see. The company promised to compensate me, but never did so until they sacked me and other 499 workers on the Light Rail project. The incident happened at Suru Alaba Terminal”. The workers alleged that while working, their Chinese employers would be smoking and loitering, calling them all sorts of unprintable names; and that whenever they made moves to defend their rights, the company would relieve them of their jobs. Quite unpredictable, however, is how serious Governor Ambode and his government would handle the investigation of the claims to determine their veracity or otherwise, as well as what follows next. It is, nonetheless, common knowledge that some Nigerian workers are experiencing hell in the hands of their expatriate employers, though some local employers of labour are as vicious, too. Early last year, the story of how a Lebanese, Mr. Kaveh Noine, allegedly brutalised a woman that was six months pregnant, Mrs. Alexandria Ossai, was widely reported. Ossai was said to have been assaulted by her boss over what many felt was a minor workplace mistake. A furious Noine reportedly turned the pregnant woman to a punching bag, unleashing cruel

FOR DONKEY’S YEARS, NIGERIAN AUTHORITIES HAVE BEEN

TOLERATING WORKPLACE IMPUNITIES PERPETRATED BY FOREIGN COMPANIES IN THE COUNTRY blows on her and kicking her in the stomach. The beating resulted in complications for Ossai and an emergency surgery, during which process her foetus which was damaged, was removed. Another chilling instance was the tragic Ikorodu factory fire of 2002. Reports had it that about 20 workers of a Chinese factory locked inside a factory that had no provision for emergency exit were roasted alive. Pathetically, too, the workers reportedly worked for 12 compulsory hours and earned less than one dollar per day. That massive unemployment, under-employment, poverty and destitution, among other privations, are ravaging the majority of Nigerians is one fact that transcends dispute. It is likewise no surprise that citizens scramble for all manner of jobs, which hardly assist them make ends meet, just for survival. Under the prevailing circumstance, therefore, we see

ON THIS DAY July 31, 1991 The United States and Soviet Union jointly signed the START-I (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty - I) to reduce both countries’ stockpiles. The treaty was a bilateral agreement between the US and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR or Soviet Union) on the Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms. Though signed on July 31, 1991, the treaty entered into force on December 5, 1994.

Letters tothe theEditor Editor Letters to

July 31, 1992 China General Aviation Flight 7552 from Nanjing Dajiaochang Airport to Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport crashed after takeoff, killing 108 of the 116 people aboard. The flight crashed into a pond past the runway after taking off. Eight of the 10 crew members and 100 of the 116 passengers died. The number of fatalities was reported as 107 by the Chinese media, but most international media reported 108 fatalities.

nothing wrong with Nigerians working for foreign firms operating in their country. But everything is wrong when expatriate employers latch on the job offers they availed Nigerians to infract the rights of their local workers and diminish their dignity and integrity, as appears the case in some of the instances cited and more. Indeed, considering the lean wage some foreign companies pay their local workers and the beastly exploitation the workers are subjected to, there is no basis for the Nigerian government at any level to entertain further dehumanisation and humiliation of Nigerian citizens working in such outfits. For donkey’s years, Nigerian authorities have been tolerating workplace impunities perpetrated by foreign companies in the country, whereas the firms would not dare such in their home countries without attracting to themselves very stiff penalties from the relevant authorities. The police, organised labour, federal and state governments, as well as national and state lawmakers, should team up and be insistent on the enforcement of Nigerian labour laws to ensure workers’ rights are respected by both Nigerian companies and their foreign counterparts. This is a shame that ought to prick the conscience of Nigerian authorities.

x July 31, 2012 Michael Phelps broke the record set in 1964 by Larisa Latynina for the greatest number of medals won at the Olympics. Phelps II (born June 30, 1985) is a retired American swimmer and the most decorated Olympian of all time, with a total of 22 medals. The swimmer also holds the all-time records for Olympic gold medals (18 double the second highest record holders), among others.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Views

Friday, July 31 2015

Boko Haram, suicide bombers and the way forward Counter-terrorism Tips With

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

n recent time questions are increasingly being asked on why a person should sacrifice his/her life for Boko Haram cause. The simple answer is suicide bombing represents a low cost, low tech and low risk weapon that is readily available, requires little training and strikes fear into the general population. Statistically, (using the records of attacks carried out since 2009) suicide bombings might have produced about 10 percent of total attacks, but produced nearly 35 percent of recorded casualties. There is no terrorist organisation that can create an individual’s basic readiness to die; the task of recruiters is not to produce but rather to identify this predisposition in candidates and to reinforce them. The recruiters of suicide bombers exploit the faith of would be bombers that they will receive a reward in paradise in order to strengthen and solidify pre-existing sacrificial motives, such as hatred of the enemy or profound sense of victimization. While some are motivated by the belief that their God sent them on a mission, many are primarily motivated by the promise of a happy afterlife. The BH leaders purportedly use concepts of benevolence and martyrdom to spread the idea

that suicide bombing is a noble and godly act. Unfortunately this is a brain washing strategy adopted by the leaders of the sect. As a counterterrorism expert and consultant, it is necessary to add that suicide bombing is almost always the last link in a long organisational chain that is comprised of many actors. Once the decision to launch a suicide attack has been concluded, its implementation requires several distinct operational procedures. Although, selected operational mode sometime depends on the capability and reach of the organisation in question. Some of the processes include planning, wider target selection, information gathering/surveillance, specific target selection, recruitment, physical training, spiritual training, preparation of explosives, rehearsals, attacking stage and transportation of the suicide bombers to the target areas to die. Realistically, profiling suicide bombers is a fascinating challenge, it is less relevant in the real world struggle against them than understanding the mindsets of their leaders, who would never consider killing themselves, but opt for suicide bombers as a result of cold reasoning and cowardice. While it may be extremely cumbersome to apprehend would-be suicide bombers on the act, it is usually easier to strike against the commanders and field officers who recruit and train the assailants because executors disguise in different ways and forms like we have been experiencing lately. Attacks can be carried out by male, female children, mid age, women carrying babies and pregnant women. The BH leaders may in the future kit their assailants

MOST OF THE SUICIDE BOMBERS OR TERRORISTS IN GENERAL ARE USUALLY YOUNG WITH AGE RANGING BETWEEN NINE AND 45

in a priestly costume, archbishop, imams, costumes, uniforms of pilots, security guards, senior police or military officers as well as any other profession distinguished by uniforms, even animals such as camels, cows, rams etc, can be used. Change of strategy is associated with the modus operandi of any desperate and under pressure terrorist organisation like we face at the moment. It should also be noted that no study has developed a composite picture of a suicide bomber because no such picture exists. This is because suicide bombers fluctuate over time and their profile changes with circumstances. Most of the suicide bombers or terrorists in general are usually young with age ranging between nine and 45 in most cases; and their actions and psychological makeup vary according to social and cultural conditions. The BH suicide bombers are drawn from the economically disadvantaged or from the religiously zealous members; and social networks of friends and family are primary means of recruitment. One of the motives of suicide bomber is to transcend human mortality, although there

exists another practical incentive such as financial compensation for the families of suicide martyrs. Imitation is another cause of increase in suicide bombing in Nigeria today. Recruiters of suicide bombers see their role as a process, not an act and usually begins with a recruiter seeking out potential candidates at mosques, displaced camps, schools and funeral of people killed during combats. On the way forward, we can utilize a variety of operative and punitive measures to reduce or control suicide bombing, but with a goal of striking at the heart of Boko Haram infrastructure and thus undermine its morale. Such measures include inflicting damages to its squads, removing financial means, disrupting communications, food supply and petrol, arresting leaders and operatives alive, among others. We must also penetrate the communities from the highly affected areas to learn how to minimize the receptivity of ordinary people to being recruited. We must utilize highly sophisticated modern technology in checkpoints at entrances to shopping centres, churches, motor parks, airports, schools and other public areas. There should be public awareness campaign to educate citizens against offering their children or members of their families to be used for financial gains. Most importantly, long lines outside of buildings and other potential high-casualty areas should be discouraged. However, peace process via dialogue produces the best result for a long term solution.

Nnamani’s asset forfeiture and misplaced justice SUNDAY ONYEMAECHI EZE

he Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was once a fire brand anti-graft agency and thus the nemesis of corrupt politicians and 419 fraudsters in Nigeria. The fear of EFCC, one may say, was then the beginning of wisdom. For too long a time, the agency has been a huge joke of some sort. Precisely after the ousting of Nuhu Ribadu, the first agency’s first chairman, in controversial circumstances, it has been a shadow of itself. Since then, mix reactions have been trailing the performance of the Commission in the prosecution of high profile cases. However, the slumbering Commission has suddenly woken up to its fundamental responsibilities of fighting graft. It is firing from both cylinders. In one single swoop, it has accomplished some feats it could not in six years or more. A popular saying has it that every day is for the thief but one day is for the owner of the house. Those who with deliberate impunity dipped their hands into our national till must be ready to face the consequences of their actions. The agency took the bull by the horn as it recently arraigned four political bigwigs in the personalities of Sule Lamido and sons, Ikedi Ohakim, Timipriye Sylva and Murtala Nyako and sons. The com-

WHAT NIGERIANS EARNESTLY WANT IS TO SEE MORE OF THESE ARRAIGNED POLITICIANS PUT BEHIND REAL BARS mission also secured a rare conviction against former governor of Enugu State, Chimaroke Nnamani. After many years of legal fireworks, the arraignment of the former governor of Enugu State, Chimaroke Nnamani, like others accused of dipping their hands into states’ coffers has finally yielded a positive result. The long awaited arm of justice has finally caught up with the former governor. In a Lagos Federal High Court judgment delivered recently, Nnamani, cronies and companies linked to him were ordered to forfeit stolen Enugu State funds and multibillion naira assets to the Federal Government. The question is who should be entitled to Nnamani’s forfeited assets? Was it right in the eyes of the law for the court to rule that diverted funds belonging to some local government areas in Enugu State, namely Aninri, Enugu South, Agwu, Igbo- Etiti and Isi-Uzo, and assets procured with the funds should be forfeited to the Federal Government? The

court is the last hope of the common man. Therefore, the Federal High Court, Lagos, should have done the needful justice it was established for. This follows the fact that a prima facie case has been established that part of the money laundered and transferred into Nnamani’s account in the United States from the Excess Crude Account (ECA) were allocations meant for the above local governments in Enugu State. In my humble view the honourable court erred in law by ordering the former governor to forfeit these assets and funds to the Federal Government instead of the original owners - the above local government areas. Enugu State government, the affected local government councils and concerned individuals should note that they are obligated through lawful means to demand that these assets and funds be returned to the rightful owners. It has become a puzzle that none of the political officeholders accused of financial recklessness from 2003 till date were honestly convicted. Pundits have also queried the weak and shoddy legal approach adopted by the EFCC in prosecution of cases. The agency has always been a perennial victim of ill- preparations. So many cases had been thrown out for lack of diligent prosecution. In view of this, we must ensure cautious optimism as regards the way EFCC han-

dles these highly publicised swoops. If the accused politicians who steal big have the financial war chest to frustrate judicial process, the court and EFCC are equally complicit. The commission and the courts have been at each other’s throat over who is culpable on this issue. Why will Nigerians not be skeptical of the genuine intentions of both EFCC and even the courts in diligent prosecution of the accused politicians? A lot have pending corrupt cases against them; but they have been able to procure political offices for cover and the Senate seems to be the safest haven for most of them. For now, it is only in the court of public opinion that these people were found guilty. What Nigerians earnestly want is to see more of these arraigned politicians put behind real bars. But it must be through due and diligent judicial processes because the accused is equally entitled to a right of fair hearing and trial. Eze is of Kaduna Electric and can be reached via sunnyeze02@yahoo. com or 08060901201 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.

Mail Mirror

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Plaque of child witch-hunt in Nigeria

C NASS, wake up

he nation under President Muhammadu Buhari may enjoy the best handling in our recent history. The discredit politicians, especially those from the South West region of the country that have been fanning the embers of disunity through their campaigns of nepotism against Mr. President are selfish and their motives self serving. President Buhari should resist being stampeded; he should continue to make national interest his watchword. Genuine Yoruba leaders like Dr. Fredrick Faseun are satisfied with the style of piloting the nation by the new administration. Honesty, according to the Holy Book, exalts a nation; PMB’s honesty is one of his strongest points. On the 8th National Assembly, I dare say there is no difference from what we have had. Our democracy might flounder if people like Dr.Alex Anozie, Eze Ndigbo Ibadan, Ambassador Farounbi, Dr. Faseun are not members of NASS. Nigeria does not need federal legislators who cannot leave indelible marks in the nation’s drive for development. Many of them in NASS constitute clog in the wheel of progress of the country by stoking crises and creating several; some are interested in self aggrandizement. Let the federal lawmakers wake up and serve the people purposefully to promote good governance. Comrade Femi Dada, Ibadan (09094552368)

AEDC at it again

he residents of Mpape, a suburb of Abuja, have not been given electricity for many days now. But Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), very efficient in forcing electricity consumers in the community to pay for electricity not consumed, is unperturbed. Is that fair? Let the management of AEDC know that we cannot continue to allow them to take us for granted, and we cannot continue paying for the services not rendered. I call on the Federal Government to quickly intervene to stop the duping activities of AEDC and other electricity distribution companies across the country. Awunah Pius Terwase, Mpape, Abuja (08179289948)

Letters to the Editor

hildren in Nigeria suffer brutality in so many horrendous ways. They include child trafficking, childlabour, child-assault and so on. One infamous means of brutality against children is the shameful child-witch parade. The presence of children labelled as “child witches” is known to a lot

of people across the nation and practised nation-wide. These labeled witches or wizards are shamed, humiliated, tortured and blamed for life’s problems like sicknesses, untimely death, loss of job, poverty and so on. These children are draped in ugly togas of witchcraft accusation and made to suffer horren-

Dignity of being a mother.

dous violations. The children are taken to shrines, churches and traditionalists, who employ means such as prayers, sacrifices, flogging and so on in the shameful acts of exorcism. It is, however, worrisome that the primary perpetrators of these evils are the family members of these children who feel a need to rid

Photo:ademola akinlabi

On Buhari’s recent visit to the USA

resident Muhammadu Buhari and his United States counterpart, Mr. Barack Obama, on Monday July 20 discussed the importance of their two countries cooperating on some issues, including the threat posed by Boko Haram and pervasive corruption to Nigeria. The importance President Obama attaches to the US-Nigeria relations is underscored the state visit of Buhari, only eight weeks after he took over power. The U.S president confirmed Buhari has “a very clear agenda in defeating Boko Haram and extremists of all sorts inside of his country”, and hoped that Nigeria “ends up being not only an anchor of prosperity and stability in the eastern part of Africa, but can also be an outstanding role

model for developing countries around the world”. The United States-Nigeria relations soured over the failure by the Dr. Goodluck Jonathan-led Federal Government to locate 219 Chibok schoolgirls, most of them Christians, abducted by Boko Haram in April 2014. The abduction led to international uproar, and a global #BringBackOurGirls# campaign, even endorsed by Obama’s wife, Michelle, ensued. Former President Jonathan, angered by the U.S refusal to sell helicopter gunships to his government, retaliated by halting a Unites State military training programme for the nation’s military. The icy relationship between the two countries has now thawed. The recent sale of Anchor helicopters to Nigeria is also

a sign of trust, support and good relationship existing between the countries. Back home, Buhari is under fire for being slow to form a cabinet. He has yet to name any ministers, saying he would fix some of the nation’s challenges before naming his ministers next September. Recently, he fired the entire top echelon of the military, which he accused of corruption, a development he attributed inability of Africa’s once mightiest armed force to curb the Boko Haram-induced insurgency in the nation’s northeast region. The six year old insurgency has killed about 20,000 people and driven another 1.5 million from their homes. Ibrahim Salisu Na’inna, Dambatta, Kano.

Ogun State’s enemies of progress

hat the Senator Ibikunle Amosun-led Ogun State government could unveil a plan to rebuild the state’s ageing roads and aggressively pursue it delights the heart. Today, however, heaps of refuse and waste mounted on the newly constructed road medians across the state have constituted an eyesore. I find it embarrassing that even as visitors to

cities in the state admire the newly improved road network and flyover bridges, they also wonder why residents in the state should indiscriminately deface the roads with anthills and mountains of refuse. The state government nevertheless recently announced that it would no longer tolerate this deplorable act. It revealed that Environmental Marshals would be on 24 hours surveil-

lance of highways to enforce compliance to government’s new stance. I hereby use this opportunity to commend the government for such move and urge that as it maintains zero tolerance to indiscriminate dumping of refuse in the state, alternative means of waste disposal are equally made available for the populace. Goke Gbadamosi, Abeokuta (08033682267)

these children of the supposed ‘evil spirits.’ Other gross remedies employed include beating, chaining, sawing, tying up, starving and nails driven into the head. These superstitious and unfounded beliefs have become a fertile ground for churches, shrines and traditionalists who now claim to possess power to effect exorcism and deliverance on these hapless children in exchange for cash and other material benefits. These children are driven of homes by parents, ostracised by the community, and end up on the streets eating from garbage if they are lucky enough. They may even progress to societal vices like drug abuse, pick pocketing and robbery for sustenance. The children suffer the risk of being trafficked out of the country or to far flung parts of the country. There is also a high rate of teenage pregnancy amongst the girls after being sexually abused due to their vulnerability. The extreme stigma they are faced with deprives them of any social support network from their schools, mosques, families, communities and churches. They are called names at school and suffer both physical and verbal attacks. They, therefore, go through untold physical and psychological trauma. All these and many more characterize the violation of the right to dignity of children in Nigeria through the child witch-hunt, which is a prevalent practice in many states of the country. It is worrisome that these happen in spite of the various legislations protecting the rights of the child in the country. One lesson we can take away from that is the fact that legislations are nothing but mere words if there is no resolve to make positive changes by the stakeholders involved. It therefore behooves on everybody to fight this unwholesome practice by doing everything to alleviate the plight of these children and report all cases of abuse to the relevant law enforcement agents. These children are all around us in street parks, uncompleted buildings, markets and so on. The change we all desire begins with us as no law protecting the rights of children can be stronger than the strong resolve of a people to protect these little ones. Emmanuel Ayoola, is an Abuja-based lawyer and child rights activist

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

Your

FRIDAY

Flavour

Friday, July 31, 2015

here is yet another reason to celebrate by the African literary scene as a book, The Fishermen, by one of Nigeria’s budding writer, Chigozie Obioma, is among the 13 novels shortlisted for the 2015 Man Booker Prize for fiction written in English, Friday Flavour has gathered. The list was published on Wednesday, 29th July, 2015 and also features the first Jamaican author in contention for the 50,000-pound ($78,000) prize. The Fishermen is the story of an unforgettable childhood in 1990s Nigeria. When their father has to travel to a distant city for work, the brothers take advantage of his extended absence to skip school and go fishing. At the forbidden nearby river they encounter a madman, who predicts that one of the brothers, the eldest, would be killed by “a fisherman,” which he assumes to be one of his own brothers. Thus, an extraordinary tension is created and an almost mythic chain of events- both tragic and redemptive- is set into motion that will transform the lives and imaginations of the novel’s characters and its readers. Obioma was born in Nigeria and he is in his twenties. He has lived in Cyprus, Turkey and now the United States where he is a professor of Literature and Creative Writing at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He is fascinated by the works of Amos Tutuola, especially the first African novel in English, The Palm Wine Drinkard. “Since Nigeria was once a British child, I had relative easy access to the works of Brit-

Chigozie Obioma yond Britain and the Commonwealth. Last year’s winning novel, “The Narrow Road to the Deep North” by Richard Flanagan, sold almost 800,000 copies worldwide. The Fishermen is Obioma‘s first novel and has enjoyed rave reviews on BBC and New York Times. Fiammetta Rocco of the The New York Times writes that Obioma truly is the heir to ¬Chinua Achebe. “In his exploration of the mysterious and the murderous, of the terrors that can take hold of the human mind, of the colors of life in Africa, with its vibrant fabrics and its trees laden with fruit, and most of

all in his ability to create dramatic tension in this most human of African stories, ¬Chigozie Obioma truly is the heir to ¬Chinua Achebe.” Helon Habila, Nigerian novelist and winner for the 2001 Caine Prize for African Writing also opines thus. ‘It is from a simple, almost mythological conceit that Chigozie Obioma’s debut novel grows, gaining complexity and power as it rises to its heartbreaking climax… grounded in the Aristotelian concept of tragedy… it is the detailed, painstakingly built images and descriptions that give the novel its unique power’

The list was published on Wednesday, 29th July, 2015 and also features the first Jamaican author in contention for the 50,000-pound ($78,000) prize.

WEEKEND STARTERS

Friday Night at MVP Lounge

very Friday night is always fun galore at the MVP Lounge. The evening starts with sensational ladies that make the Friday night an unforgettable experience at the MVP Lounge located at Bisola Durosinmi, off Admiralty, Lekki Phase1 every Friday. Foods, cocktails and form of entertainment are enjoyed by visitors. Looking for best place to relax, chill.

MVP Lounge

Entries extended by AFRIMA

he International Committee of All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, in partnership with the African Union Commission, AUC, has yielded to appeals from the music industry of Africa for an extension of the call for entries for the 2015 awards to Friday, July 31, 2015. Artistes, music producer, songwriter, music video director or any other eligible music professional of African origin, now have till July 31 to enter your valid works for consideration for AFRIMA 2015 nomination. Guidelines for submission, eligibility and the entry form are av a i l a b l e on www. afrima.org (English) and www.afrima.org/fr (French). AFRIMA crew

Inside FCT P. 24-25

Olawale Oluwadahunsi

ish masters like Shakespeare, Milton, John Bunyan, and many others whom I loved. But amongst this gallery of faces, I found extreme delight in Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the d’Urbervilles, which, even now, I still regard as the masterwork of 19th-century literature. But most of all, I found a stronger affinity with the works of African writers, and these writers had strong impressions on me as a child: Chinua Achebe, for Arrow of God, a harrowing, sweeping novel; Wole Soyinka, for The Trials of Brother Jero; Cyprian Ekwensi, for An African Night’s Entertainment; Camara Laye, for The African Child, and D.O.Fagunwa, for Ògbójú dnínú Igbó Irúnmal, which I read in its original Yoruba version.” Friday Flavour’s findings reveal five judges shortlisted the 13 books after considering 156 books for this year’s prize. The other twelve Bill Clegg’s Did You Ever Have a Family (US), Anne Enright’s The Green Road (Ireland), Marlon James’ A Brief History of Seven Killings (Jamaica), Laila Lalami’s The Moor’s Account (US), Tom McCarthy Satin Island (UK), and Andrew O’Hagan’s The Illumination (UK). Others are Lila by Marilynne Robinson (US), Sleeping on Jupiter by Anuradha Roy (India), The Year of the Runaways by Sunjeev Sahota (UK), The Chimes by Anna Smaill (New Zealand), A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler (US) and A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara (US). Marlon James is nominated for his third novel, A Brief History of Seven Killings, the story of the attempted assassination of reggae singer Bob Marley and its aftermath in the Jamaica of the 1970s and early 80s while Anne Enright is the winner of the 2007 edition. The list will be whittled down to six on September 15th, 2015 and the winner will be announced on October 13, 2015 in London’s Guildhall. First awarded in 1969, the prize’s list of previous winners features many of the literary giants of the last four decades, from Salman Rushdie and Hilary Mantel to Iris Murdoch and Ian McEwan. The rules of the prize changed in 2013 to open it to writers be-

Critics P. 22-23

This year’s most promising African newcomer in the world literary scene may well prove to be Chigozie Obioma as his book, The Fishermen, was recently shortlisted on the longlist of the 2015 Man Booker Prize.

Arty

Nigerian makes Man Booker Prize’s longlist

News P. 32, 33

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

‘I Love Nigeria’ photo contest opens

he 2015 Etisalat Photography Competition is here again. This year the theme for the photography competition is ‘I love Nigeria‘ and intending participants can submit photographs that showcase unique places, people, fashion and food in our beloved country, Nigeria. Top three winners have emerged in the ‘Places‘ category, which ended last week and now it’s time for the ‘People‘ category leg of the competition. From July 28 to August 6, Etisalat is inviting everybody to capture and share amazing pictures of cool and exciting people in 9ja to stand

chance of winning a Nokia Lumia 630.

Mirror Mongers P. 26

Artman In The House

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

My trademark is still Koffi Idowu-Nuel may not be the best comedian, actor or musician. But he is unique in the sense that he is a total package, having an appreciable dose of all the fine attributes that makes a consummate artiste. Known for his spontaneity in creating jokes, he shared some rare experiences about his life and work with OLAWALE OLUWADAHUNSI and VICTOR UDOH.Excerpts:

offi, what’s been going on with you lately?

I just released an album, my 10th album. It’s called Metamopho. If you have been fortunate enough, you will see the new video, Jam for me, it’s a dancehall swing. The new video is going to come out very soon, it’s called ‘Do me so’, it’s a highlife swing. Previously, we have had ‘Jabele’ and ‘Pen ati paper’ videos to push the album. Asides the music side of me, the movie side of me was rekindled with a new movie called ‘Kaboki and Mungo’, a low budget flick for grass root audiences to carry them along and not say that we have left them behind because we have gone to some greater heights. I had to involve comedians because everyone is looking for a platform to express themselves and it’s not like there is an event everyday for the numerous talents that abound. So that’s another way of encouraging them. It features myself, CY, Gbenga Adeyinka, Helen Paul and a couple of other young comedians like Papa B, Danny B, BabaDe Baba, Ominee, Makati, Josh2funny, a whole lot of young budding talents just to give them an opportunity to show their faces as well. Then by November 8, my usual comedy concert, ‘Koffi Out of Control Live’, will be holding at the MUSON centre. Last year, we kicked off with veterans, Ras Kimono, Ayuba, Shina Peters, Sunny Nneji. This year we are working with other veterans as well; Beautiful Nubia, Sola Allynson, vis a vis, there are other young crop of artistes that we are also working with. We are in the middle of talks with 2face, Tony One Week has also given us his green light, Yemi Alade is going to be there too. We are thinking of working with Falz the Bahd guy and a couple of other young budding talents. As regards comedians for the day, last year was more of than the established comedians while we also gave room for more up and coming comedians. That was their first major platform in life and the audiences were ‘wowed’ and they performed extremely well. So this year, we don’t want to tow the same line. We want to have a mix. We are bringing some veterans, some on my level and some

younger ones. So Ali Baba, Okey Bakassi, Bovi are the likes that are going to be part of the event this year. You have been consistent for so many years. What is your staying power? I don’t think it has been me, it’s been God because everything that we have is God; the talent, the strength, wherewithal, and the grace. M o s t i m p o r t a n t l y, i t ’ s the grace to be h e re. People have been celebrating ten years on stage, fifteen years on stage but I don’t care about that. I will rather concentrate on what I’m doing. If I start marking my years on stage myself, my audiences think am done. Some people are just getting to know me. If I go to a place and someone says ‘I have never seen you before’, I become very proud of that. It means the opportunity to work more and showcase myself. Some people come to meet me they usually see me on television when they were in primary school and they tell me they are doing the same thing now. I only tell them that we are colleagues now; we are now on the same level. Its more encouraging that way than to feel like a Don. I don’t do it that way. I have been here for like eighteen years but most people don’t know. People know of fifteen years, that when they started watching me on T.V but before then, I have been on my own doing things. So, I don’t need to make that noise but for me, it is the grace of God and the wherewithal. What are you doing to checkmate the issue of comedians pirating each other? To be frank with you, I took up the fight some years ago and I became like a torn in their flesh, so I let it go. This is 2015, in 2013, most of the jokes that you hear in the system, half of it were my jokes. But I didn’t come out in the public to shout or scream about it. I go to most of the shows; half of the comedians there would have performed like half of my materials. Some knew, some didn’t know. In fact, there was an AY Live event at Federal Pal-

Young Koffi with Owen Gee

I was allowed my expressions. When I was in school, I was known as ‘Ekiberebere’, the class clown

With Tolu Ajayi ace some years back, that a comedian was on stage performing my jokes. He had done a third sequence of my jokes. Somebody switched off the microphone and he saw me and was venting. Someone whispered to him that ‘how far?’ and he replied that nobody should not try to say anything that he knew what he was doing. The man asked him, ‘the joke you are saying, from where did you hear it? He said ‘I hear am from Bash and Yaw’. And they replied him that both Bash and Yaw heard it from Koffi. I just understand that when new comedians are coming up, they usually need other people materials to establish themselves. The problem I have is when they now go around with other people’s materials with so much candour and confidence like it is theirs. Yesterday, we were at one event and one of these boys came on stage and did a whole sequence of De Don’s jokes and the crowd there were laughing and cheering. If De Don, was supposed to perform at the same event, he would have looked stupid performing the same set of jokes. This is a very serious problem we have. If I go to a private event and I perform a related material, it is not a problem. It is like you are artiste that goes to a solo function and gives a Bob Marley rendition, it is allowed. But when we are both at the same event and we were both given a time frame of say five to ten minutes, and you still come to that platform to tell my own jokes and perhaps that the only thing I have to sell my market. For me, that is robbery. But we will just keep hoping and praying that the audience will understand because they are our only way out now. They are the only ones that can shun anyone who steals a joke. It is controllable if one person is doing it but when so many people are doing it, it becomes the norm. I was telling my wife some time ago that ‘it seems me too I will start doing copy and paste comedy’ but when I look at it, I am too creative for that. Instead, I will just concentrate on my drama or music or something else. A lot of comedians are being endorsed now by corporate bodies; did you see it coming like five years ago? I have been doing ambassadorial duties for different bodies. It’s not until someone makes a lot of noise about it. I have been an ambassador for the Federal Road Safety Corps for years; I have been for Kidney Rejoice, and for Mirabel Centre against Rape and a lot of other ones that you don’t hear so much about. But if you look at the status quo, the only time

you hear ambassadorship is when the telecom companies take up an ambassador. For me all the noise is not needed. You have worked, and somebody needs your platform to sell their market. It happens every day, every time. I don’t think it’s enough for you to start comparing. If you check, they do more of musicians and ‘Nollywoodians’. They hardly do comedians but now they decided to use comedians. Basketmouth has been with Glo for like forever, Bovi too joined him and AY got signed up. It doesn’t mean the others are not doing well. It is just the way they feel about branding certain brands. First things first, you must identify that comedians are seen as solo brands. We are seen as solo entities. Musicians carry a lot of candour, they have the make-up artiste, the producer, publicist and all that. So there is a lot of movement with the musician. It takes a lot. I don’t have a manager. God is my manager. Some have more than one. There is a lot in music so also movies. It carries a lot of panache and entourage. And then of course if you check the strata of entertainment, it is music, sports and then you come to the other ones involved. So it is expected that they get more of the endorsements. I even sometimes feel about being an ambassador for a telecom because when you are stuck, you are stuck and there is one thing about Nigerian entertainment. If a brand drops you, people feel you are no longer doing well. All the people Glo or MTN dropped years ago, nobody is picking them up. Except you are powerful in some certain areas, that is when another telecoms company will sign you again, not because you are that fantastic. And they do it to spite their competitor. For example, Etisalat and MTN. MTN did it to spite Etisalat, not because Saka was exactly fantastic. I would rather do some multiple of little brands than do one brand that everybody says ‘he has arrived’ and then you find out that it’s not commiserate. They call you to be available when you are not available, and you find out that the money you actually have is not really the overview; it’s not what people see from the outside. So for me, it takes a lot. I don’t think I am really ready for that actually. But if somebody calls me and I look at the options and its flexible enough, why not? I am ready to work for anybody. Ambassadorship doesn’t actually mean the money you get; it is being responsible to the brand. I found out that a lot of people are ambassadors for two or three companies and

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Artman In The House

Friday, July 31, 2015

entertainment –Koffi

they get it mixed up. They really don’t represent the brand. Madam Kofo for instance anywhere she goes, she is wearing the Glo brand everywhere. She is representing it. But I have colleagues that are ambassadors for like two to three brands and then they go to a gathering and you don’t know who they represent. Do you think we will get to that level when we won’t see comedians that are also into movies and music as people that are desperate for money? Well things are changing though and people are waking up to the realities on ground. You must be talented first and it doesn’t matter in which areas you are talented. You can decide to want to make money in this area and then show us your talent in other areas. Charly Boy is a typical example, a vey huge

everywhere. Why is Dangote selling so many products? People must see that there is more to you than what they know you for. Today, you can decide to hear a more spiritual side of Koffi and not his humorous side because it’s the spiritual side of me that affects you most. It is the drama Michael Jackson puts into his music videos that makes him greater than his peers. I know where I want to end up. I am a great writer, I can write anything; music, movies, anything. At what point do we say a joke has gone too far? Going too far for me is when you pick on your audience or abuse people. If I am performing here now and someone throws a

Koffi

With Bunmi Ado example. People might say I am a ‘jack of all trades’, but I am not. I am not selling tomatoes by the roadside or plying any other trade. My trademark is still entertainment. Whether I do comedy, or music or drama, I am still entertaining my audience. Will Smith for me is a typical example, Kevin Hart follows and a lot of other people. The thing is that America understands that. Most of the biggest music brand in America became big because they went into the movies. From Mariah Carey to Janet Jackson to even Michael Jackson; they all took the movie route. Whitney Houston was not considered a superstar until she did the movie ‘Body guard’ in 1993 and that was when she did ‘I would always love you’ and that helped her make it for life. The song was a remix of Dolly Parton’s. Life is not about you being so original. Its all about you being able to know the next level. The next level is usually when you are able to go into other areas of entertainment to explore and show you are versatile. Jamie Fox, Chris Brown, LL Cool J are all good examples. Back home here, Gbenga Adeboye did a lot of that but because he was on one side of the world people did not see it. I picked up that idea years ago and I produced my first movie in 2005. ‘Two Black Birds’ was

jibe at me, I will rather walk over it stylishly than abusing the person. During the campaigns, some comedians went as far as abusing Buhari, saying that he will soon die and so on. Those are extremes. First, you need to put yourself in that person’s shoes. You have to know the pain and the gain of this job you are doing. As an entertainer, nobody cares whether you have eaten or you are sad. What they want is for you to make them happy. So, if someone throws a jibe at you, you should know that it is part of the pains of being an entertainer. All you need to do is to walk away stylishly. How was your growing up? I grew up in a very modest way. When we were young, I didn’t even know that we were not rich. Yes, they made everything available. I am very sorry; I find it very hard to crack ‘when we were poor jokes’. I didn’t even notice it. I took everything every rich kid took. I woke up to good music; Jim Reeves and others. There was a time when my mum had to take an apartment in a very rash area but because of the upbringing, I walked over it. my foundation was very solid. My parents sacrificed so much that I got the best of everything. We grew up in Maroko, but I didn’t even real-

ize that we were in a ghetto. We left to live in Bariga and we lived in a very huge three bedroom apartment. I went to a boarding school and I then lived in Ijebu Ode and Ibadan. I was allowed to express my free, naughty, comic attitude. Everything I could do as a kid, there was no restriction. At what time did you decide to be an entertainer? I didn’t decide. Like I said, I was allowed my naughtiness. I was allowed to play. I was allowed my expressions. When I was in school, I was known as ‘Ekiberebere’, the class clown, even my dad at one time came to suggest the name to me without knowing that I was bearing the name in school. it was when I was in the University of Lagos that it now blossomed. I was doing work-study during the holiday and I was just exhibiting my comic character normally and my friends suggested that I join Theater 15. I have never heard of it. The first

During the campaigns, some comedians went as far as abusing Buhari, saying that he will soon die and so on. Those are extremes

E Wyclef and Lord of Ajasa With

time I went, I wasn’t allowed. I went the second time and I was allowed to join because I said ‘I just wanted to be part of the family’. I started as a thespian on stage, then the stand-up comedian got a much larger room to express himself and then everything followed. You have lived a scandal free life. How has that been possible? I will say I have a very understanding wife. We don’t care about the vanities of life. What’s reigning, what’s trending, no we don’t care. We live a very normal, regular life. We just want the basic things that a normal family will have. For us, it is go and work and come back home. We started the hustle together and we have a lot to discuss among ourselves than gossiping about people. We don’t care. I live a family-man life. When I was young, my ambition is to be a family man and not even an entertainer. Even if I was a vulcanizer, I would have been a very successful one.

Critics

BOOK

Friday, July 31, 2015

Baron of Broad Street Author of the best-selling ‘Nine Lives’ and winner of Ana-Jacarranda Prize for Prose, El Nukoya, has penned a new book titled ‘Baron of Broad Street’. Olutayo Irantiola

he book chronicles the polarized worlds of the Lagos impoverished and the affluent, living side-by-side, yet a world apart. It captures the limited prospect for mobility in an often negligent society, and the determination of a select crop of youths to take it upon themselves and change this seemingly rigid equation, by all means necessary. Disun Falodun and his bosom friend Ige are young boys growing up within the squeeze and squalor of Makoko. As they sit on the banks of the Lagos Lagoon, they contemplate life on the other side of town, the exclusive district of the Metropolis covering Ikoyi, Victoria Island, and, Broad

BOB-STREET Front Cover

FILM

Street that mysterious area, so distant, yet so close. Disun is the optimistic of the duo, resolute in his faith in a fair chance at success in Lagos, his ordinary background notwithstanding. Ige, on the other hand held by a vibrant, radical mind reasoning that the expectation of a fair chance was utopian, entrenches himself in the firm belief that the only reliable choices open to them were illicit. The road to realising this ambition is lined with real dangers. Would they prevail? And if indeed they would, what prices are there to be paid...and, perhaps, more importantly, of what texture would their residual soul be? Perhaps the author’s upbringing may have come to bear in the work. As a young man in the quiet sub-¬¬urban Ibadan, El Nukoya found solace in writing. Moving to Lagos afterwards brought him into contact with the hitherto obscure, often bizarre realities of living in Nigeria, thus supplying him with a compelling subject. The prevailing socio-¬¬political climate in the country gave added impetus to his compulsion to w r i t e. Sixteen years later, he made his debut. El Nukoya dwells on the social contradictions endemic in the Nigerian society ─ a society where abject poverty permeates abundant wealth; where blinding ignorance triumphs over real intellectualism; where a progressively non-¬-descript culture trumps an hitherto entrenched heritage; where

Endorsements and Nollywood

Nollywood is impressive to many brand managers. How can the industry maximise her potential in this area? Isaac Anyaogu

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

ow much is Monalisa Chinda’s smile worth? According to industry sources, Vita500, a new energy drink from South Korea shelled out N30 million for her face on the energy drink. She was also the face of the Rivers state cultural fiesta and Glo sweated millions it has been reported, to have her as their ambassador. Monalisa’s face is every photographer’s dream and her smile conjures the memory of spring. Monalisa should insure her face. Perhaps, no corporate entity has demonstrated proven commitment to Nollywood in terms of endorsement than Globacom Nigeria Limited. The telecommunication giant at the last count has appointed close to a dozen Nollywood A-list thespians as ambassadors according to information on their website. In an industry long abandoned by corporate Nigeria, Globacom serves as a refreshing alternative. The rave seemed to have caught on. MTN Nigeria, the company with some of the most creative advertisements in Nigeria, in the past treated Nollywood with courteous indifference. But recently, Nkem Owoh and Patience Ozokwor have featured in the company’s advertisements. Perhaps the days of the cold shoulder are over. The use of film stars in the marketing of products is not the exclusive preserve of Nigeria. If anything, we seemed to

have taken a page out Hollywood’s playbook. Gwyneth Paltrow has been tapped to be the latest ambassador for Swiss watch brand Baume & Mercier. Natalia Portman will also be the new face of the Miss Dior Cherie. Sylvester Stallone has been chosen as the brand ambassador for luxury pen manufacturer Montegrappa and popular martial arts film star Jet Li has been announced by Swiss Hublot timepieces as their newest brand ambassador. The use of famous faces as brand ambassadors is not just limited to the use of actors and actresses. Corporations have been known to appoint as brand ambassadors sports men and women who have proven their mettle in the field. Rafal Nadal is a brand ambassador for Georgio Armani. The use of artistes as brand ambassadors by corporations is with the objective of linking their product to a winning athlete or personality to enhance their image and boost sales revenue. Corporations use these popular artistes as validation for their products and hope to transfer their goodwill and star power so as to influence the fortune of their offerings. Most endorsement deals are designed to offer mutual benefits to both the star

Most endorsement deals are designed to offer mutual benefits to both the star and the corporation

Nollywood films and the corporation. Nevertheless, there have been some endorsement deals that went south. At the height of his fame, Tiger Woods was the world’s highest earning golfer and corporations were falling over themselves to have his face on their products until some recent misdemeanors came to light. Ambassadors of countries usually represent the values of such nations. Hence their personalities are expected to be demure, their actions reasoned and their lifestyles lofty. Similar standards are also expected of brand ambassadors. So beyond the hype and the effect on the bank balance, brand ambassadors must live the values represented by the products they endorse. O.J. Simpson was fired as brand ambassador of Hertz when he was charged with double murder. It is also pertinent that celebrities who sign the dotted lines in endorsement deals study the content of the contractual agreements and look out for clauses in small print. Most of the deals are

worded in such a way that the contract forbids them from other deals or restrict their use of close substitutes to the product they are endorsing. Release terms and other conditionality should be negotiated properly to avoid a conflict of interest. It also makes good sense to seek legal opinion When effectively utilized, these endorsement deals can benefit both the artiste and the industry at large. On a personal level, it provides a source of income and boosts the popularity of such artistes especially when the terms include billboards and advertisement in the broadcast media. Endorsement deals like the Glo ambassador provides an avenue to network with those who call the shots in other industries and can be a platform to push innovative ideas for film sponsorship especially those that require a huge budget. When properly harnessed, this could help foster a good relationship between Nollywood and other industries. •Anyaogu, writes and edits feature film scripts.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

El Nukoya found solace in writing. Moving to Lagos afterwards brought him into contact with the

hitherto obscure, often bizarre realities of living in

Critics

Friday, July 31, 2015

Nigeria, thus

supplying him with a compelling subject.

blatant mediocrity precedes a parade of token certificates. Prominently, El Nukoya explores the despair of otherwise gifted youths, failed by the society’s insulation to the need to create credible avenues for social mobility – a society’s failure to facilitate a fair c h a n c e . El Nukoya maiden novel ─ Nine Lives─ which won the ANA-¬¬ Jaccaranda Prize for Prose has been described as a “riveting page turner!”, “that rare thing: an authentic Nigerian blockbuster!” El Nukoya says he is flattered by the praise of his first novel, Nine Lives, pointing to his boyhood heroes as his inspiration to write a novel that conveys the message that society has a responsibility to create opportunities and, inherently, hope. The idea to put his thoughts on paper came in 1990 when he moved with his family to a quiet suburban neighborhood in Ibadan, Nigeria. “We had very few neighbours and our house was surrounded by a deep, green forest,” he said. “In my solitude, great musical lyricists such as Seal, U2, Sting, Bono and Tupac Amaru Shakur brought me companionship. Fela—of course— was always present too; and so was Marley. Inspired by their talent, I felt an urge to create something that was universal and timeless. The prevailing socio- ¬¬political situation in Nigeria provided me with virile subject. It was six years before I could pause.” El Nukoya did his first degree in Lagos, and graduate studies in North America. He currently lives and works in Lagos. He debut novel, Nine Lives ─ which was dedicated to Bono (Paul Hewsen) of the U2 rock band and to the memories of departed Nigerian heroes, Obafemi Awolowo and MKO Abiola ─ won the ANA- -Jacaranda Prize for Prose. Baron of Broad Street— and a collection of essays, poetry and short stories is slated for public presentation on August 2 in Lagos. It will be available or can be ordered at bookstores, online or directly from the publisher by then. •Irantiola, is a Lagos-based writer and PR consultant.

MUSIC

Niyola’s wedding anthem Most ladies fantasise about marriage, and nicely Niyola has offered something to make the mood simmer. Imoleayo Fatunase

mpire Mates Entertainment singer and song writer Niyola released a rhythmic tune, titled Last Bus Stop, the song audio which was released in October 2014 which made the official fifth single the gorgeous singer has with the Empire Mates Entertainment. The Pop friendly wedding anthem was produced by Oscar Heman- Ackah. The video officially came out June 2015, the video which has massive airplay and rave reviews was directed by the award winning renowned Nigeria director Kemi Adetiba who has also directed two of Niyola’s singles Video, ‘Tob bad’ and ‘Love to Love you’. The song expresses the joy and excitement of every girl on the wedding day, the video director went extra mile to make the story well explanatory. To be candid, wedding day is the most expected and a day that every girl dreams and hopes to see. Single girls are always overwhelmed when it comes to marriage and wedding day fantasy, The gorgeous bride, groom, bridal train, n a t ive attires { A s o Ebi}, w e d d i n g c o s t u m e s, make u p s , g rooving and trendy a n d s o o n on are majorly w h a t every single ladies dream about, in which was well analyzed in the video. This video can be refer red to as ‘story well told’; kudos to the director. The s o n g d r a w s its influe n c e s from the

Highlife and Pop music genres, It can be best described as wedding Anthem, it focuses mainly on when you find a right a person in the pursuit of love and the joy to be joined together and forever, it can be described as a tale of two lovers who cling on each other right from the beginning and the excitement of being joined together officially in presence of multitude. The singer and songwriter Niyola can be viewed to have picked her style of songs from single ladies love life tale, her single ‘Toh bad’ was also an expression of been in love and to inform people that ‘Love is sweet and worth fighting for’ and her ‘love to love you’ shows the special mood to love that special someone in your life. The director does well by telling the story with her best visuals, the scenes were all explained in good form with a clearer good graphics, Kemi Adetiba never disappoints when it comes to message delivery in music videos directed by her, the video portrays a story well told. Though the backup was low, it is very important that she works on her backup singers; there is need for more vocalists to backup the song. The lyrics of the song should have been in English, it could have been a wow if all lyrics were written in English, and the sensual

The director does well by telling

the story with best visuals; the scenes were explained in good form singer should work on writing her song lyrics in English in order to make new songs unique and different from the former singles. The costume was perfect, Niyola makes a gorgeous bride, hairdo by Karkafi Hair, The wedding dress was nice, bridal train! Awesome. The men were in Rhobes clothing and styled by Beauty Cook Studios. The location was a great idea, the environment was very beautiful and attractive, is a type of environment where every single lady will pray for their wedding to hold, the venue is Morning Side Hotel and Muri Okunola Park Victoria Island decorated by IJP Bespoke Events. The song video features the sexy singer Niyola, Banky W, Ali Baba, Ope Olusanya, Vixen, Dija, Vina, Beverly Osu, Ezinne, Gideon Okeke, Iceberg Slim, Emmanuel- Mr Nigeria 2014, Tolu Fame, Dominic and Funsho Adeolu.

Flavor

Inside FCT

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

House of Empress visits Bako community Regina Otokpa

ouse of Empress Foundation (HoEF), never gets tired of giving back to society but bent on making life meaningful for all. It is at it again. This time, it has expanded its charity network to establishing schools for kids. Recently, the people of Bako community under Kwali Area Council, have been counting their blessings following the establishment of a block of six classrooms to help not only the children of Good Shepherd Orphanage Home, a not too old entry to the House of Empress Foundation network, but also children from homes where they find it difficult paying their ward’s school fees. Speaking to Inside FCT, Empress Njamah, seasoned actress and founder of the foundation, maintained that it was her desire to see her kids grow into responsible men and women who would impact positively on society and as such, no amount was too much to part with in ensuring they get qualitative education and grow up in relatively conducive environments and conditions that would help them remain focused in achieving their goals. The screen diva maintained that “I did not want people knowing I had a hand in the establishment of these schools but somehow, the cat was let out of the bag. It is one of the many projects which I am embarking on. “Presently, I am establishing three different schools in three different loca-

tions within the federal capital territory. The work is slow though and its usually a block of classrooms for now but that is because of financial constraint because all the expenses are from my own pocket and I do not want finance to deter me from what I want to do for these kids and so many others out here whose lives I can touch with the little resources I can muster,” she added. During the graduation ceremony of the school, Reverend Sister Rita Igbokwe, the nanny in charge of the children of Good Orphanage Home, noted that the school named after and ran by the home, was a charity school and the only money collected from students was lesson fees to assist in running the school effectively. According to her, the initiative was a welcome development to help erase the financial stress of sending all 14 children in the house to school. She told Inside FCT that the home “is still facing a lot of challenges because it is still in a rented place and financially we are not stable that is why the home decided it would be better to own a school instead of putting all the children in a public school which will equally be a problem.” The reverend sister revealed that as at the end of the academic session, the school had 55 students and was willing to admit more in the next academic session which was due to kick off in September. Emmanuel Okwudili, father of the orphanage explained that the school

Visiting Bako community

was not established to run the profit making schools operating within the community down, but to provide an opportunity for all children within Bako community especially those from poor homes have a shot at western education.

He stressed that the orphanage home “is not Catholic-owned or sponsored, it is owned by reverend sisters of the Good Shepherd congregation, even though the convent is an integral part of the Catholic Church but they do not own or run.”

The people of Bako community under Kwali Area Council, have been counting their blessings following the establishment of a block of six classrooms

Mararaba residents bemoan abandoned road projects Joel Ajayi

t was a concrete cloud of agony, gnashing of teeth and tears in December 2013, when the residents of Mararaba in Nasarawa State helplessly watched their houses and shops bowing to the demolition bulldozers of Governor Tanko Al-Makura. Incident that turned many residents homeless, making the joy of Christmas to taste sour in their mouth; some lost their jobs because the shop or place where they manage to eke their living had been demolished, leaving them at the mercy of benevolence in the neighborhood. The exercise carried out by the Nasarawa State Urban Development Board (NUDB) during Christmas celebration, according to the government, was to give space for the construction of a modern tarred road to be constructed from the Aso Road, Mararaba Market Junction down to Calvary Road to Kabayi Junction popularly known as Sharp Corner. The project, no doubt generated mixed feelings among the populace, as some in spite of the agony still lend credence to the project, owing to the sorry stage of the road before the demolition. When Inside FCT visited the project site, many residents who spoke described the road project as the beginning of another long suffering, saying Al-Makura just wanted to create an impression that his was working, a campaign strategy to get peoples’ vote for another four years.

Some people lost their lives, while some became handicap due to the construction exercise that was kicked off without providing alternative route for people to ply. Narrating their ordeal, a trader in KabiyiAso road in Mararaba, simply identified as kayode Sani, who was one of the traders whose shops were demolished said the Mararaba- Aso road has become a torn in the flesh. “I don’t know how to express it. Only God knows what I will say because of what I am passing through as a result of the rehabilitation of this road. My business is crippled. All my shop is empty. You can see empty hangers, no more clothes. “I sell one, and eat it. I eat the profit; I eat the capital because I didn’t sell again. All our customers have run away from this road. It is dry now- then dust. If it rains now, it is ‘potopoto’ and water.” He groaned. We are passing through hell here is song in the mouth of Mr. Jerry Agada and indigene of Kabayi area in Mararaba. This place has becomes hell on earth. “There is no compensation so far. Many houses destroyed, when they wanted to do the road, they narrowed it the more than how it was. Two vehicles hardly pass this road now. We rebuilt our structures, they didn’t pay one kobo. This is hell on earth ”

Road in FCT’s border towns On the level of work on the road so far, Agada explained further that “the last time the construction workers came, they only constructed the sewage, and the water is not even flowing. We have complained no response. All they do is to collect revenue.” “We are begging them to just complete the road for us. This road has rendered us useless business-wise. We can start building things up

We are begging them to just complete the road for us. This road has rendered us useless business-wise

gradually. Let them give us the access road,” they appealed. Sandra Okonkwo from Anambra said: “This is my shop here. There are no sales as such. It is selling one and eating the profit. Since this road in front of my shop was being under construction two years ago, no sales. All the customers have ran away because when it rains, the fog and log of water affect the shops around. Also without rain, the dust remains another problem.” It was on this backdrop, the resident therefore, called on the Nasarawa state governor, Alhaji Tanko Al-Makura to help them complete the road which has been started two years ago.

Abuja

Friday, July 31, 2015 15 Shawwal, 1436

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Call to Worship

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

Biggest problem in National Assembly Sanusi L amido Sanusi

he biggest problem in National Assembly of Nigeria, NASS, is not the salaries or allowances. It is a very big item in the NASS budget called overheads. What they do is pack that item in the appropriation bill and then “collapse” it according to a pre-agreed formula. A certain percentage is shared among the leadership. Another portion is given to the management to cover genuine overheads. The rest is shared among members. I believe early in Obasanjo’s term, the overhead budget of NASS was like N10 billion. By 2011, when I raised an alarm, it was N126 billion and 25% of the entire overhead budget of the Federal Government. When I drew attention of the country to this, many people did not understand why NASS was angry. It is because, they were sharing the money that was not spent on NASS overheads, and they have a perfect system now for “retiring” it.

There is an entire structure within NASS whose job is preparing receipts vouchers etc to cover this item. If ever there was a proper investigation, people can go to jail for this.

When I was suspended, the Senate leadership which is supposed to protect the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, did not lift a finger because, I had done this to them earlier. The Chairman of the Finance Committee, Ahmed Muhammed Makarfi, who was investigating my missing $20 billion (US Dollars) allegation, was the same Chairman under who this happened and one of those who brought me for a public hearing and made me swear by the Qur’an (as in a Court of Law), and tried to get me to recant; an old routine of politicians, when caught with their hand in the cookie jar. Everything is coming out now, and people forget what was said about my revelations at that time. There will be more and more. Nigerians have seen nothing yet. Take my word.

Patience is half of faith

mong the quality commendable both for leaders and others is patience: know that pa-

Daring almighty Creator with gay rights 26

tience is the halter of all the other good qualities. God has said: ‘Surely the patient will be paid their wages in full without reckoning.’ Again: ‘And perfectly was fulfilled the most fair Word of their Lord up the Children of Israel, for that they endured patiently’. Again: ‘But if you are patient and god-fearing – surely that is true constancy.’ Again: ‘O believers, be patient and outdo all other in patience.’ Again: ‘seek you help in patience and prayer’. And again ‘Surely, God is with the patient.’ There are numerous examples of this in

the Qu’ran. The Messenger of God said, ‘Patience is half of faith (especially) patience in the face of the first blow.’ Patience is of two types: patience with what God has commended and patience (to resist) what God had forbidden’. Among the qualities commendable both the leaders and others is gratitude. God has said: ‘Few are those that are thankful among my servants’. Gratitude is of the three degree. Gratitude from the heart, from the tongue and from the bodily members. The first is to recognize that blessing comes from God alone. On this subject there is God’s word: ‘Whatsoever blessing you have, it comes from God’. The second, which is gratitude from the tongue, is to talk about that, as in God’s Word: ‘And as for your Lord’s blessing, declare it’. The essence of it is to praise the Be-

Our expectations from 2015 Jalsa is great –Fashola 28

Quran 65:2-5

neficent for His beneficence. The third, which is gratitude from the bodily members and to worship Him with all of them. On this subject there is God’s Word: ‘Labour, O House of David, in thankfulness. Among the qualities commendable both for leaders and other is leniency and avoidance of harshness. God has said, ‘And lower your wing (in kindness) to those believers who follow you’. Again: had you been hard and harsh of heart, they would have scattered from about you’. Quoted from: Principles of Leadership According to the Founding Fathers of the Sokoto Caliphate Collated and edited by Hamid Bobboyi with the Compliments of His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad

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

MMPN, NACOMYO, AMJN, others task new NUJ President 31

Call to Worship

15 Shawwal, 1436 Friday, July 31, 2015

Daring almighty Creator with gay rights

nd they are so comfortable and confused that they do not know what to do next than to be going against the laws of almighty Creator of all creations. They have forgotten what befell the people of Sodom and Gomorrah. Allah, the Most-High, says in the glorious Qur’an that we should not engage in homosexuality (29:29) and here we are today with some people campaigning for that. It is our prayer that Allah will not visit us with His anger and punishment, Aamin. And if we truly follow all the instructions of the almighty Creator as stipulated in the noble Qur’an, this world will be a better place for all. We are urged not to be rude in speech in Qur’an chapter 3: verse 159 and to estrain anger 3:134. Come to think of it, if we are truly good to others as requested of us in Qur’an 4:36 and

tefused to be arrogant as stated in 7:13, being ready to always forgive others for their mistakes (7:199) and speak to people with respect by lowering our voice (31:19), there will be mutual respect and love. We are also expected to be dutiful to our parents and not say a word of disrespect to them. Unfortunately, this is not the situation in most homes today. Another very important points we need to note is the fact that many Muslims are guilty of these; consumption of interest, engaging in bribery, breaking promises, not keeping trusts, lying, not standing firmly for justice as well as following anyone blindly. The Qur’an specifically warned us against all these. The same goes for sharing inheritance, debt repayment Many of our men are still in the habit of maltreating their wives, using and dumping wom-

en and other vices which are unislamic but many people who are not very conversant with Islamic rulings would just conclude that that is Islam. Unfortunately, the innocent children are always the victims in most cases. Also, let us avoid suspicion for we do not know why somebody is behaving the way he or she does. We should not spy and backbite. Though Ramadan is over, we need to keep feeding the poor and help those in need. There is still room for us to observe the six days of fasting in this month of Shawwal for those who are yet to do so. Ramadan is over and many are back into fornication and adultery when Allah SWT says we should not even approach unlawful sexual intercourse (17:32). If we can obey Allah’s rule of not being miserly (4:37), not keeping envy (4:54), not killing each oth-

Lagos NAWOJ begins Family Week

igeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Lagos Chapter, will begin her 2015 Family Week on Sunday 2nd of August, 2015 with a thanksgiving Church service at the Light Chapel, AlausaIkeja, Lagos and ends with a

thanksgiving Jumat service at Alausa Central Mosque, Lagos State Secretariat, Alausa-Lagos on Friday, August 7th, 2015. Other activities slated for the week-long event include Health Walk on Monday morning from Ikeja Local Government Secretariat to the state secretariat in Alausa starting from 7am while there will be NAWOJ symposium and friendly tug of war sport among Ogun, Oyo and Lagos states holding at the national stadium, Surulere-Lagos on Tuesday starting from 10am. Wednesday 5th of August will be the day for seminar/ breast feeding competition and Health Talk at the LTV Combo Hall, Agidingbi-Lagos. NAWOJ’s Awards, Beauty Pageant and Gala Night will take place on Thursday, 6th of August, 2015 at the LTV Combo Hall starting from 6pm.

Place your adverts here for optimal reach

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

THE PLATFORM with

Sekinah Lawal t: 08055102994 e: sakinah207@yahoo.com

They have forgotten what befell the people of Sodom and Gomorrah

er (4:92), not cooperating in sin and aggression but in righteousness (5:2); avoiding intoxicants, alcohol, gamble (5:90), not reducing weight or measure to cheat people (6:152) We have chosen our rulers by their merit as instructed in Qur’an 2:247 and we all should be enjoining right and forbidding evils rather than castigating the new leadership for prosecuting past corrupt officials.

As we have always been saying, Islam wants us to treat nonMuslims in a kind and fair manner as clearly stated in Qur’an 60:8. Terrorism is not part of Islam. It is our prayer that those using religion to cover up to perpetrate evil will be conquered very soon. May Allah continue to guide us and count us among His Chosen servants to inherit Al-Jannah Fridaus, Aamin.

‘Our Contact Centre Resolves Complaints Within Five Minutes’ –Ukiri, AVON HMO

Ukiri

ndividuals who have subscribed to a health plan from Avon Healthcare Ltd (Avon HMO) have been experiencing proactive and responsive customer service. Complaints made to the Avon HMO 24-hour Contact Centre are resolved within five minutes and this turnaround time has exceeded the expectations of many clients. Ms. Adesimbo Ukiri, MD/ CEO of Avon HMO, recently made this known following a recent customer satisfaction survey carried out by the organisation. These results, together with customer testimonials, showed how Avon HMO’s dedication to customer care has resonated with their members and helped develop long-lasting, positive relationships. She said

‘Our members are at the centre of all we do. Our promise has always been one of responsiveness; when our members contact us, it is often at a time of need. We know that a quick response is wanted so we set ourselves a target of five minutes for complaint resolution. I am pleased that 95% of concerns are addressed and resolved within this time”. According to Ukiri, Avon HMO has been able to achieve this through the adoption of a wholly customer-centric approach. This included a continuous process of logging, reviewing and understanding the types of queries received. Once it was clear what the common issues were, Avon HMO put themselves in the shoes of their members to develop a complaints resolution procedure that would specifically address each query. Supported by the expansion of its customer service department, these efforts paid off as there was not only a reduction in turnaround time but also a notable change in the way members’ concerns were resolved and the feedback received. ’Our team worked tirelessly to ensure that each concern received was resolved to a close out. For us, our enrolees

are the ultimate judge of our performance so the file is still open until our members confirm that their complaint has been satisfactorily addressed.” Ukiri said. In addition, she explained that Avon HMO utilises multiple channels of phone, text, email, mobile messaging and social media to ensure that their members can reach them at any time of the day or night. Ms. Ukiri stated that while exceptional cases may take up to 24 hours before being closed out, these often relate to events at a hospital and require investigation. To facilitate this, Avon HMO has fostered strong partnerships with the hospitals on their Provider Network. “These are partnerships of collaboration and have ultimately helped us in fulfilling our mission which is to empower our members to live healthier, fuller lives.” Ukiri added. Avon HMO has a wide network of hospitals and clinics spread across the 36 states and major LGAs in Nigeria. It offers private health plans to individuals and families, as well as a full array of plans to communities, groups, companies and Governments across all states and regions.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Frequently asked questions (3) What is the ruling on buying or eating frozen chicken, turkey and canned beef? On health ground, it may not be okay to consume imported meat. The importation and transportation of which are often shrouded with perilous health hazards. Eating of imported meat is lawful only if these two conditions are satisfied: to be of the one permitted by Allah (SWT) and only if killed in the Islamic manner. Otherwise, it will be unlawful. While quoting Sharbiyani (of the Al-Shafii school), Sabiq said: If a sinful (Muslim) or a people of the Book informs, for example, that this goat has been slaughtered; it is lawful to eat it; because he is among the people whose slaughtering is (legally) allowed. If it happens that there are Magians or polytheists and Muslims, and thus ignorant of whom the slaughterer is, it is not lawful to eat it due to doubt as regard the killing of what is allowed...but if it happens that the Muslims are in majority as in an Islamic country, it is worth making it lawful...” (Sayyid Sabiq, Fiqh us-Sunnah Vol III, p.459). Some Islamic Scholars have also suggested that if the imported meat carries a

All that lives in water is lawful as food without

necessarily slaughtering it...

Our society is so rotten that

people have no living morality for them to be truthful

label of having been Islamically killed, then one can eat it. This opinion has, however, been proven unsafe based on the reality of the day and the conspiracy of the enemies of the Muslims who seize the opportunity to label their packaged chicken as having been Islamically slaughtered to the extent of inscribing such statements as halal even on packaged fish. Then where is the truth? Whereas an average Muslim knows clearly that all that lives in water is lawful as food without necessarily slaughtering it. It has also been discussed that some frozen chicken being sold are dead ones which the poultry owners dispose of secretly by selling them

at give-away price so as not to suffer the loss of whatever eventually they might have suffered. If that holds, then the problem of health comes to focus. Who knows whether the chicken or the turkey died of a deadly disease? Fundamentally, Islam prohibits the eating of dead animal or bird which dies itself. How does one distinguish between the dead one and the one which is improperly slaughtered? Our society is so rotten that people have no living morality for them to be truthful. Furthermore, there are also authentic reports that these imported frozen chicken and turkey,”…are preserved with nitrites mixed

AMJN flags off activities for centenary celebration ...Elders Forum holds Medical Camp, Convention

Sekinah L awal

he Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Nigeria, AMJN, has flagged of activities for the celebration of its centenary anniversary with the groundbreaking/ foundation laying of a two-flat Guest House for the world leader of the Islamic organisation, Hazrat Masroor Ahmad Khalifatul Masih, 5th, at the headquarters in Ojokoro Lagos. In a release signed by Qasim.Akinreti, National Secretary Publications and

Call to Worship

Friday, July 31, 2015 15 Shawwal, 1436

Media Relations, he made it known that this will be used for the official visit of the world leader next year. According to the Amir, AMJN, Dr Mashuud Fashola, the building will be one of the landmarks of the programmes next year. Also, the Elders group, Majlis Ansarullah of the Jama’at’s 2015 Medical Camp will come up at Maternity Center Oke Eletu, Ijede, Lagos Southwest Nigeria on Wednesday 5th and 6th , while the annual Islamic convention, Ijtema is slated for the 7th and 9th August in Ikorodu, Lagos state with the

theme; “Good Governance and Nation Building.” The 3-day event will take place at the Government College, Owutu, Ikorodu under the chairmanship of the Amir, AMJN, Dr. Mashuud Fashola and the Head, Sadr of the Elders Group, Alhaji M. B. Odukoya. According to a statement from the chairman organizing committee, Engr. Abdul Waheed Adeoye, the conference will feature series of activities such as lectures, Qur’an and quiz competitions, sports and speech contest on topical issues on Islam.

IN HIS LIGHT with

USTAZ

A. ZAFARAN e-mail: zatabumuneeb@yahoo.com with ascorbic acid to reduce the harmful effects of the former on the body. Even then, the nitrite still remains injurious to the body.” More so, nobody knows when they

were preserved and for how long they had stayed in the cold room before they were brought into the country. (Tell Magazine, No.38, Sept. 23, 2002)

How to build Taqwa

1. Soul purification by curing the diseases of the hearts and by seeking forgiveness. 2. Learn Islam and always reflect on the meanings of the Qurán. 3. Reflect deeply on the meanings of the Names and attributes of Allah. 4. Keep good company. 5. Do your Salat attentively and meticulously. 6. Avoid distractions [e.g., obsession with social media and partying]. 7. Visit graveyards to remember death and hospitals to remember Allah’s favours to you. 8. Ponder on the nature. 9. Have silent time for meditation. 10. Constantly remember Allah, paradise and Hellfire. 11. Make Dua for increase in Taqwa.

FOMWAN holds Family Day

he Federation of Mulim Women’s Associations in Nigeria, FOMWAN, Lagos Chapter, will tomorrow hold its annual Family Day celebration at the National Stadium, Surulere-Lagos starting from 10am. According to the state Ami-

rah, Dr. Sariyu Ashiru, the programme is the biggest annual event of FOMWAN to mark the end of Ramadan fasting period and celebration of Eid-ul Fitr which features activities such as lecture, kiddies funfair, mini tradefair, empowerment programmes among others.

Zakat Is 2.5% Of Your Total Wealth, Known As Nisab. After Having Fulfilled All obligations, pay your zakat

Call to Worship

15 Shawwal, 1436 Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Our expectations from 2015 Jalsa is great –Fashola Dr. Mashuud Adenrele Fashola, the Amir of Ahmadiyyah Muslim Jamaat Nigeria in this interview with Sekinah Lawal speaks on topical national issues and the preparations for the 2015 Jalsa Salana in the United Kingdom. Excerpts;

What are your expectations from this year`s UK jalsa? Our expectation from this year’s Jalsa Salana is quite great. It is our hope that through greater understanding, more people will get to know Islam has a religion preaching peace as propagated by Jama’at Ahmadiyyah. There should be greater publicity on mercy and peace all over the world as many have been fed with wrong teachings of Islam. We are hoping that the true message of Islam will be well-spread. What is going on in the Middle East, BokoHaram in Nigeria and other terrorized nations, is pure politics because many people are exploiting religion for selfish reasons. Islam has nothing to do with terrorism, violence and the ongoing hostilities in the world. However, it is very unfortunate that some people resulted to terrorism because of materialism and ambition for power. Islam is totally against violence and wickedness and essentially for peace, charity and unity of humanity. What advice do you have for members who are going and those who cannot make it? Our members who are going should have clear objective and pure intention of going to serve Allah. At the Jalsa Salana, we are going to be exposed to a lot of soulinspiring lectures among other spiritual activities. We should be pre-occupied with gaining deeper knowledge of the teachings of Islam from this conference. I will also call on our brothers and sisters to focus their attention on how to build greater harmony and brotherhood. We should not be selfish or be preoccupied with tribalism and other mundane issues. We should have the aim to benefit maximally from the Jalsa by having adequate moral, physical and spiritual preparedness. While at the Jalsa, we will also use the opportunity of being together with people of diverse culture and status to pray for our government. Members going should be ready to learn new things, gain deeper knowledge of the deen and interact with others not only for business purposes. We also look forward to adequate moral and spiritual development while also using the opportunity to pray for the nation as people of various races gather to worship Allah. Sincerely speaking, it is a great thing to use the nearness to God almighty to pray for the nation because we have people of various classes, races and nationalities together, that is when prayers are most accepted by God almighty according to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw). It is our responsibility to pray for Nigeria and humanity at large. In addition, those that will be going should put up their best conduct in such a gathering, we need perseverance and tolerance. We should not quarrel at all as there would be cases of some kind of clashes of interest or conflicts. I want delegates to know that when you have large gathering, there will be some little quarrel here and there, but they should not quarrel at all but need to put up their best conduct and tolerance for fellow brothers and sisters that will meet at Jalsa. For instance, sometimes, we might need to embark on a vehicle that carry people from one point to the other with many people waiting for the vehicle; people should not push or force themselves into the bus. That is what Islam teaches; selflessness. We must all exhibit the mor-

Fashola

We also look forward to adequate moral and spiritual development

while also using the opportunity to pray for the nation

al teachings of selflessness while those who are not going should be praying for the success of the Jalsa.

What are your words of wisdom to Muslims on lives after Ramadan? Ramadan has come to train us on what we are expected to do in the remaining eleven months of the year. It is a training ground and we have to abide and live by all we have learnt during Ramadan. Our Solat should remain constant and intact, Zakat and Sadaqat must continue, feeding of the poor is an ongoing thing and being very close to Allah through His remembrance and all acts of Ibadah we normally do in Ramadan must also continue. Ramadan bring self-retrain and more piety; hence, we must keep studying the glorious Qur’an, keep obeying Allah SWT and developing self dignity to attain nearness to God even after Ramadan. Moreover, it is very important for us to sustain the developed Taqwa in Ramadan even after Ramadan. It is the pleasure of God that will bring us happiness. We must keep on showing consideration to all irrespective of class or colour. Thus, let us remain obedient servants even after Ramadan. What are those things the Nigerian Jamaat has achieved

in the last one year and how prepared is the jamaat for this jalsa? The conference would bear good fruits for the whole world. Those who will not be opportune to be at the Jalsa ground physically will be able to watch all proceedings on MTA and MITV in Nigeria among other channels. We have done many child dedications, carried out various free medical screenings, had the 2014 Nigerian Jalsa which was adjudged to be far better than any other Jalsa we have organized in Nigeria so far, there was improvement in terms of accommodation, feeding among others and we intend to improve on all services and organization next time. The Nigerian Jama’at also distributed books and other literature on world peace. We had a peace conference too with many religious groups in attendance and a lot of these other religious groups appreciated our efforts. We made them to realize the fact that religion should unite all humanity. The Nigerian Jama’at is fully prepared for this year UK Jalsa. General comments on state of the nation, the world, insecurity and ensuring world peace in general? Gay marriage will affect procreation and it is against God’s laws. Apart from resulting into diseases and infections, it is a denigration of humanity. We should not encourage such acts; On the issue of insecurity and terrorism, those perpetrating the evil could not have succeeded without some covet support from the mighty and powerful. It should not be difficult to track them down with the support of United State of America and other world powers. With the age of technology, there are satellites to see what is happening all over the world. It is our hope that this will come to reality very soon. Those who are powerful and own satellites should help the poor nations to solve the problem. Humanity is one; the world can stop terrorism if there is commitment. In addition, leaders all over the world must allow justice to reign all over. Our national assembly should stop being self-centered and put the nation’s interest first.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Call to Worship

Friday, July 31, 2015 15 Shawwal, 1436

What is the essence of this Jalsa Salana? The primary purpose of this Convention is to enable every sincere individual to personally experience religious benefits; Those who are attending and those who will be opportune to watch the live broadcast across the globe will be able to enhance their knowledge as well as being blessed and enabled by Allah the Most-High. What should be expected at the Jalsa? People are expected to listen to lecture, learning how to achieve the love of a loyalty God with people from other religions too in attendance. They usually come as observers, guests and they are always surprised witnessing true teachings of Islam with wonderful experiences. It is a thing of delight watching the Huzuur’s progressive steps and every Jalsa used to be more successful than the previous ones. Many will want to witness it live but cannot afford to, while many have the means but will not go, what is your message to such people? It is very essential for all those who can afford to undertake the journey to do so because attending this Convention embodies many blessed objectives. They should disregard minor inconveniences in the cause of Allah and His Prophet (peace be upon him.). Almighty Allah rewards the sincere persons at every step of their way, and no labour and hardship, undertaken in His way, ever goes to waste. We are advised not to rank this convention in the same league as other, ordinary, human assemblies. This is a phenomenon that is based purely on the Divine Help, for propagation of Islam. We have been prayed for that everyone who attends this Convention for the sake of Allah the Exalted, be rewarded in abundant measure; mercy on him, ease up for his circumstances of hardship and anxiety, freedom from every single hardship and open ways of achieving cherished goals How did it all start? The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, under the lead-

Every Jalsa is more successful than previous ones Missionary In-charge, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria; Maulana Abdul Khalque Nayyar, in this interview with Sekinah Lawal speaks on the essence of the Jalsa Salana and its significance. ership of its holy founder, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, held its first convention on December 27, 1891 in Qadian, India. Approximately 75 people attended the event. For over a century since then, the community has held its annual Convention, or Jalsa Salana, in numerous countries around the world. Tens of thousands of community members gather at these conventions at various times throughout the year. The principal aims of the Convention are to facilitate greater spiritual awareness among community members, strengthen community ties and promote peace. Mirza Ahmad emphasised the vital importance of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Annual Convention thus: “You must not rank this convention in the same league as other ordinary human assemblies.” The Annual Convention of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK attracts thousands of members and hundreds of community leaders and media representatives from across the country. The weekend event includes religious discourses, inter-faith sessions, and special community initiatives.

You must not rank this convention in the same league as other ordinary human assemblies Nayyar

Between piety and poverty

llah is present but unseen Allah says ‘We are never absent,’ Q 7:7. ‘We are never unaware of the creations,’ Q 23:17 In this world, Allah is not visible in essence but visible in signs. Every made object is a proof of its maker. Our marvellous world and the wonderful and intricate composition of man and animals are a proof of the creative might and infinite wisdom of our Maker: Allah. Allah says, “Everything in the heavens and earth glorifies Allah – He is the Almighty, the Wise. Control of the heavens and earth belongs to Him; He gives life and death; He has power over all things. He is the First (without beginning) and the Last (without an end); the Manifest (in signs) and the Hidden (in essence); He has knowledge of all things. It was He who created the heavens and earth in six Days and then established Himself on the throne. He knows what enters the earth and what comes out of it, and what descends from the sky and what ascends to it. He is with you wherever you are; He sees all that you do. Control of the heavens and earth belongs to Him. Everything will be brought back to Him. He makes night merge into day and day into night. He knows what is in every heart.”Q57:1-6 “Do you not see that Allah knows everything in the heavens and earth? There

is no secret conversation between three people where He is not the fourth, or between five where He is not the sixth, or between less or more than that without Him being with them, wherever they may be. On the Day of Resurrection He will show them what they have done: Allah truly has full knowledge of everything,” Q58:7. Hence, Allah is never absent or missing. It is rather our consciousness and awareness that may be absent or missing. When you tune in to Him, awaken your soul, you will experience His manifestations in your life.Taqwa is to be connected with Allah always. In a Hadith Qudsi (a divine inspiration to the Prophet Muhammad), Allah says, “O My servants, I have prohibited injustice to Myself and I have made it a prohibition among you, therefore, do not oppress one another. O My servants, you are all astray except for those that I guide, therefore, seek for My guidance and I will guide you. O My servants, you are all hungry except for those I feed; therefore, seek for my feeding and I will feed you. O My servants, you are all naked [i.e., vulnerable] except for those that I clothe, therefore, seek for My clothing and I will clothe you. O My servants, you all commit sins night and day, but I forgive all sins, therefore, seek for My forgiveness and I will

forgive you. O My servants, you can neither harm nor benefit Me. O My servants, if the first of you and the last, and the mankind and the Jinns were to have a pious heart like one man among you, that does not add anything to My Kingdom. O My servants, if the first of you and the last, and the mankind and the Jinns were to have a wicked heart like one man among you, that does not take away anything from My Dominion. O My servants, if the first of you and the last, and the mankind and the Jinns were to stand on a plain and make your request and I grant each of you their request, that does not take away anything from My Dominion except what a needle can take away from the sea. O My servants, I indeed take account of your deeds and I will reward you accordingly. So whoever receives good should thank Allah, and whoever gets other than that should blame only himself.” Benefits of Taqwa Allah stresses the importance of Taqwa in all parts of His Book because it is the only means to attain prosperity on earth and Hereafter. All commanded and recommended acts of piety are the same deeds that will proper us individually and collectively, here and hereafter. All instructions of Allah and His prohibitions

as contained in the Islamic law are aimed at realising five objectives: protection of the Deen, life, property, intellect and progeny – without which life is meaningless. Zina [fornication and adultery] has been prohibited because it is injustice and inhumanity. It breaks marriages and destroys families. It causes the spread of diseases and animalises humans. It wastes money. It corrupts morals and soils honour. It makes bleak the future of children born out of wedlock and corrupts lineage. It causes punishment in the grave and earns one the wrath of Allah. Allah says, ‘Believers have prospered... And those who preserve their chastity...’ Q 23:1-11. Allah has warned, “And do not go anywhere near Zina (adultery and fornication); it is an abomination and an evil way,’ Q17/32. The Prophet said, “Whenever sexual permissiveness spreads among the people until it becomes declared, infections and killing diseases, as well as illnesses not previously found in their ancestors will also spread among them,” (Recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah and Al-Bayhaqi).

By RidwanJamiu, LL.B, LL.M, (Chief Imam, Lekki Central Mosque, Lekki Scheme l, Lagos).

Call to Worship

15 Shawwal, 1436 Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

‘Infertility management is a race against age’ When we talk about fertility issues, many people usually suspect Fibroid, is there any causal relationship between the two? Fibroid, which is a benign growth of smooth muscle, is an infrequent cause of infertility. It causes infertility either by mechanical obstruction, distortion of uterine cavity and interference with implantation. When a mechanical obstruction of fallopian tubes, cervical canal or endometrial cavity is present and no other causes of infertility or miscarriages can be identified, fibroid removal is usually followed by achievement of pregnancy in high percentage of patient within the first year of surgery. Small submucous fibroid ( fiboid within the uterine cavity: either wholly situated within the cavity or with 50% projection into the cavity from the uterine muscle), are best treated by Hysteroscopy removal. Those with less than 50% projection into the cavity are usually left alone, since studies have shown that they have no effect on infertility. Large fibroid situated inside the uterus are better removed by open Myomectomy while leaving behind adhesion prevention barriers. What are the major causes of infertility and what are the various options available to people now? Current causes of infertility in a typical Assisted Reproductive Technology Program can be divided into male problems which constitutes 35%, and female problems of about 55% which can be further divided into: Tubal and Pelvic pathology which is 35%, Ovulatory dysfunction 15%, Unusual problems 5%. Others include unexplained infertility of about 10%. The scope and trend of modern infertility evaluation has shifted focus from making specific diagnosis to using efficient and cost effective tests. The focus of treatment has also shifted from systematic correction of each identified factor to applying the most efficient, cost effective therapy which often is Assisted Reproductive Technology. Methods of treatment, readily available at Continental Specialists Clinic; include IVF (In -Vitro fertilization), ICSI (Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection), IMSI ( Intracytoplasmic Morphologically selected Sperm Injection), FET (Frozen Embryo Transfer), PICSI (Physiological Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), LAH (Laser-Assisted Hatching), and PGD (Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis); which is to prevent transmission of genetically-inherited diseases to the unborn child and selection of sex. Others include counseling, blastocyst transfer, surrogacy, donation program among others. Many are of the opinion that assisted reproduction methods are too expense, what is your take on this? How affordable is assisted reproductive methods in Nigeria? Assisted-conception is capital intensive. To set up a state-of-the-art Assisted Conception Program involves a lot of capital. The training and equipments involve a lot of capital and that is why it seems very costly. Electricity has to be provided all the time, imagine in Nigeria where electricity from national grid is poor, that means, one has to use alternative source of electricity. The hormonal drugs are expensive too. ART is expensive all over the world. What advice do you have for people on Endometriosis, any relationship between Endometriosis and infertility and how enlightened are reproductive health specialists on this? Evaluation should be offered to all couples who have failed to conceive after a year or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse but a year of infertility is not a prerequisite for evaluation. Earlier evaluation is justi-

Dr. AbdulGaniy Yahaya is the Medical Director, Continental Specialist Clinic. In this interview with Sekinah Lawal, he speaks on assisted conception and other issues concerning infertility

Dr. Yahaya

fied for women with irregular or infrequent menses, history of pelvic infection or endometriosis or having a male partner with known or suspected poor semen quality and six months of unsuccessful efforts for women above 35 years of age, because as women age, the eggs also age. When is CSC rolling out its services to Nigerians and how soon should we expect its official commissioning? At Continental Specialist Clinic, we are made up of experts in infertility. The Clinic is headed by a Reproductive Physician who received training both locally and abroad. We do not only take care of medical, scientific problems of our patients but the wider emotional, psychological and family problems. We understand their emotional trauma. We give support from the point of registration and throughout the treatment. We turn hope into happiness, trust into treasure and longing into belonging. We are always there for our patients because we know fertility treatment can be a challenge for them. This expertise is back up with state-of-the-art modern equipments. My vision for Continental Clinic is to remain the flagship of fertility management in safe and environmental-friendly manners to our numerous clients. We want to be the best Assisted Reproductive Technology provider in Africa. We have what it takes to get there. We are well enlightened on all issues affecting reproduction. The message for all patients suffering from Endometriosis is that we have empathy for them and they should get across to us as soon as possible for treatment,

Earlier evaluation is justified for women with irregular or infrequent

menses, history of pelvic infection or endometriosis or having a male partner with known or suspected poor semen quality and six months of unsuccessful efforts for women above

35 years of age, because as women age, the eggs also age because we know what they are going through. Infertility management is a race against age; age is a limiting factor especially, a woman’s age. Modern infertility treatment like ART should be seen as a first option not a last resort. Very soon, we will commission Continental Specialist Clinic.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, July 31, 2015 15 Shawwal, 1436

Call to Worship

MMPN, NACOMYO, AMJN, others task new NUJ President

ational Council of Muslim Youth Organizations, NACOMYO, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Nigeria, AMJN, the Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, have tasked the new President, Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Alhaji Abdul-Waheed Odusile to work towards re-orientation of members of the fourth estate of realm in order to take Nigerian Journalists to the next level. Congratulating Odusile, they prayed for Allah’s guidance and wisdom for the NUJ President and enjoined him to work towards lifting the status of the Nigerian media to enviable positions in the country and the world at large.

Noting that an in-depth investigative and developmental journalism, aided by unhindered freedom of information (FOI) will fasttrack good governance and development, they advised his team to let the welfare of Nigeria Journalists be their priority. MMPN believed that the profession was too noble to be without a workable control mechanism, insisting that the new leadership must address the challenge. Alhaji Kamal’ddin Akintunde, National President, NACOMYO urged the media to focus developmental issues such as justice, equity, patriotism, participatory democracy and good governance, peaceful coexistence and rule of law.

Former NUJ President and new Kano Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Garba Muhammed and the New President Alhaji Waheed Odusile

L-R: Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, Mr. Fatai Owoseni; Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu; Baba Adinni of Lagos, Sheikh Abdul Hafiz Abou and Alhaji Femi Okunnu, during the Eid El-Fitr at the Dodan Barracks in Lagos . PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

L-R: Vice Chairman, Lagos Island Club, Asiwaju Adeyinka Sogunle; the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; Chairman, Lagos Island Club, Mr Oladipo Okpeseyi (SAN); and the Deputy Speaker, Lagos House of Assembly, Hon Wasiu Eshinlokun-Sanni when the club members visited the Speaker in his office on Tuesday.

Clerics must be steadfast –Salimon

he Chief Imam of Offa, Sheikh Muyideen Salimon has warned Islamic clerics against praising politicians who do not deserve it. The Imam who was the guest lecturer at the 10th year anniversary jumat service, 30th year anniversary of quranic school and award ceremony of Olomowewe Olajumoke Central Mosque, Akute, Ogun state delivered a lecture on steadfastness in the course of Allah. Citing the Chief Imam of Ololomowewe Central Mosque, Sheikh Muhammed Mustapha Awwal as a role model, he also admonished Muslims not to maltreat their Imams

in terms of welfare package so that Imams would be firm based on Allah’s dictates and sunnah of the holy Prophet Muhammed (SAW). He encouraged all and sundries to spend money especially in building of mosques. Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief Imam thanked the Baale of Olajumoke Town, Alhaji AbdulRasheed Olajumoke for the creation of an enabling environment that has led to peaceful co-existence among all religions in the area. Many prominent Muslims were later given awards for their contribution to Islamic development in and around the area.

(L-R) Chief Imam of Ololomowewe Central Mosque, Sheikh Mohammed Mustapha Moh’d Awwal and Chief Imam of Offa, Sheikh Muyideen Salimon

Call to Worship

15 Shawwal, 1436 Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Every Friday with

Khalifatul

Ahmadiyya

Khalifatul Masih II: Pearls of Wisdom

azrat Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) writes that in early 1908 Hafiz Ahmad Sahib sought marriage proposals for his two daughter Zainab and Kalsoom. There were two proposalss for Zainab and the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) did not like the proposal from a Misri Sahib but as was his way he did not emphasise on the matter too much. It is during these days the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) received the revelation: Do not kill Zainab. Hafiz Sahib understood this revelation to mean that he should get his daughter married to Misri Sahib assuming the revelation had overridden earlier advice of the Promised Messiah. He had his daughter married to Misri Sahib. The revelation is dated 9 February whereas his daughter’s nikah took place on 19 February. The date of the nikah was chronicled as it took place with a couple of other nikahs including that of Hazrat Nawab Mubaraka Begum Sahiba. God had clearly forewarned about Zainab’s marriage, inferring that there would be trouble, but her father presumed it to mean the opposite. Proof exists that the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) advised against this marriage because when Misri Sahib separated from the Jama’at someone said that the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) had indeed advised against this marriage to him. The narrator said he did not like it when the marriage went ahead and submitted to the Promised Messiah that he was commissioned by God and God commands to listen to those commissioned by him but Hafiz Sahib had not done so. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) replied that this was indeed so, but added that he did not interfere in such matters. Hazrat Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) writes that although he had no doubt about this tradition when it came before him but he thought of seeking a concreate proof. The very next day he received a letter in the post in which someone had written that when he was in Qadian he learned the Holy Qur’an from Hafiz Ahmad Sahib who once told him that the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) had asked him to marry his daughter elsewhere but he misunderstood his revelation and thought his earlier advice was not correct and married his daughter to Misri Sahib. He said Misri Sahib was very harsh with his daughter and he felt it was a consequence of him not abiding by what the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) had said. Hazrat Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) writes that he remembers Misri Sahib beating up his father-in-law in the middle of town following which Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I (may Allah be pleased with him) was very displeased with him and Hazrat

Musleh Maud had pleaded with him to forgive Misri Sahib. Sheikh Abdul Rahman Misri Sahib is part of history of the Jama’at. He was an educated man who took bai’at in the lifetime of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace). The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) and Hazrat Zafrulla Khan Sahib sponsored him to go to Egypt. It was owing to his trip to Egypt that he was given the title of ‘Misri’ (Misr being the Arabic name for Egypt). A time came that he highly opposed Hazrat Musleh Maud and said much against him and tried to create discord in the Jama’at. God protected the Jama’at against his ploys and some people were shown dreams exposing his ploys. He had so much respect and standing in the Jama’at that when he left someone wrote to Hazrat Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) from Africa that Misri Sahib’s separation from the Jama’at was highly worrisome because if such important and significant people lost their faith what was to be said of the faith of ordinary people like the letter-writer. Hazrat Musleh Maud wrote back saying it was for God to decide who was important and significant and not for the letter-writer, adding that God had made Misri Sahib lose his way which proved that the letter-writer was important and significant and not Misri Sahib. After his disagreement and leaving the Jama’at Misri Sahib tried to show his importance by associating himself with the revelation but after Hazrat Musleh Maud exposed the reality behind it all, he complained why was his wife dragged into it all. Hazrat Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) remarked at the tremendous prophecy ‘Do not kill Zainab’ and said Misri Sahib himself drew attention to it at the latter stage. He said this was like Arabs cite a story about a man who took out a knife to slaughter a goat but then forgot about it. In their play his children someone push the knife in the dust on the ground. While he looked for the ‘lost’ knife the goat dragged its feet on the dust and exposed the knife. When someone causes their own ruination Arabs say he has exposed the knife like the goat did. Had he abided by what the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) advised him his faith would not have been wasted. Believers should listen to those sent by God. Maulawi Muhammad Ahsan Sahib had a hasty nature. Once out for a walk with the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) he misheard the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) when he said there is a difference between word of God and word of man and said this is a revelation of mine compared to revelation of Hariri (an academic). Ahsan Sahib remarked how frivolous it was but as soon as he realised his mistake he instantly said what fine words they were.

L – R: Naib Amir South West Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria; Alhaji Abdul Azeez Alatoye, Naib Amir and Missionary In-charge Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria; Maulana Abdul Khalque Nayyar, Amir Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria; Alhaji Dr. Mashuud Adenrele Fashola, and Naib Amir Special duties Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria; Alhaji Engr. Hamed Al-Hassan at a Feast to mark the end of Ramada 2015 held Ojokoro recently

L – R: Secretary Jaidad Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria; Buider Bashirudeen Towolawi, Chairman Jalsa Planing Committee Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria; Alhaji Engr. Mufaddil Bankole and Rishtanata Secretary (Marital Matters)Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria; Bro. Bashirudeen Oyetunji at the event.

At the middle Sadr Lajna Imaa’ullah Ahmadiyya Mulim Jama’at Nigeria; Dr. Mrs Basirat Kikelomo Dikko with the Women wing of Ahmadiyya Mulim Jama’at Nigeria at the event

Ahmadiyyah Lagos State blood donation

hmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Youth Association Nigeria donated blood in Lagos to mark the world blood donation day. Consequently the lagos state ministry of health have applauded the kind gestures of

the ahmadiyya Youth. A letter of appreciation was sent to the head of the Muslim Youth organisation. The letter urged other Youth organisation s in nigeria to emulate the initiative of ahmadiyya youth association as role model.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, July 31, 2015

L-R: Mrs Bola Obasanjo: Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa; the celebrant/his Royal Majesty Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Chike Joseph Edozien, and his wife, Agu Nwanyi Modupe, during the 90th birthday celebration of his Royal Majesty, in Asaba.

Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode (middle), Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello (3rd left), Chairman, Island Club of Nigeria, Mr. OladipoOkpeseyi (3rd right), his Vice, Mr. Adeyinka Sogunle (2nd right), General Secretary of the Club, Mr. OladipoAkerele (right), Treasurer, Mr. Femi Onanuga (left) and others during the club’s visit and investiture of the governor as Patron, at the Lagos House, Ikeja, Lagos.

L-R: Vice President, International Inner Wheel , Mrs. Yemisi Alatise; new Chairman, IWM Olayinka Adijat Ayanwale and Immediate past chairman, Inner wheel District 911, Nigeria, IWM Joe Nkinika Ebo, during the Installation ceremony in Ikeja, Lagos.

Overall best student in Physical Health Education, Babcock University High School, Miss Naomi Joshua (3rf left); her father and Director, Marketing and Communication, Babcock University, Mr Joshua Suleiman(left); sister, Ruth; brother, David and mother, Mrs Nwandi Suleiman, during Babcock University High School’s 20th graduation ceremony, in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State.

People In The Mirror

L-R: Chief Prof. Epiphany Azinge; Archbishop Emmanuel Chukwumah and Mr. Sylver Oforgu during the 90th birthday celebration of his Royal Majesty, Asagba of Asaba, in Asaba, Delta State Capital.

L-R: Prince (Dr.) Babatunde Onafowokan; Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye and MD, WAPCO Operations, Adepeju Adebajo, at the celebration of 25 years on the throne of Oba Michael Adeniyi Sonariwo, Akarigbo of Remo.

L-R: Host, Lagosstartupweek, Olumide Olayinka; Head of Pulse, Rixhard Tanksley; Guest Speaker, Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa; Special Guest, Professor Pat Utomi, and MD, Nielsen West Africa, Lampe Omoyele, at the opening ceremony of Lagosstartupweek, a week with Africa’s Most Promising Entrepreneurs and Innovators, in Lagos.

L-R: AFRIMA 2014 Best Male Artiste in Northern Africa, Ahmed Soultan; Minister of Culture, Kingdom of Morocco, Mohammed Amine; President/Executive Producer, AFRIMA, Mike Dada and Head of Culture Division, Department of Social Affairs, AUC, Angela Martins, during a strategic meeting between AFRIMA and the Ministry of Culture, in Rabat, Morocco, at the weekend.

Arty News

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

AiM Film Festival woos young filmmakers Olawale Oluwadahunsi

frica in Motion (AiM) Film Festival, one of the largest and most successful African film festivals in Europe, is offering two young Nollywood filmmakers a chance to win an all-expensepaid trip to the United Kingdom, and the opportunity to show their latest film to audiences in Scotland. This year’s festival is set to take place from 23rd October to 1st November, and as part of the lineup of events they are hosting a Nigerian-Scottish Film Odyssey, supported by the British Council NGUK Seasons. The events in this programme will explore the similarities and differences between independent filmmaking in both Scotland and Nigeria, with a view to creating lasting partnerships between the two industries. According to AiM, “We are

inviting young Nollywood film directors between the ages of 18 and 35 to submit their films to Africa in Motion, along with an application explaining how the filmmaker can contribute to discussions in Scotland, and why their film should be shown to audiences in the UK. A member of the Africa in Motion team alongside a jury of high profile film practitioners based in the UK will select the Nollywood filmmakers who will take part. The winning participants will be invited to attend Africa in Motion 2015, and the festival will cover the costs of their international travel, visas, accommodation and hospitality during their time in Scotland.” The chosen Nollywood filmmakers will have the opportunity to showcase their films to audiences in Scotland, meet leading industry professionals in the Scottish Film Industry, take part in roundtable discussions about independent filmmaking, and be introduced to young Scottish filmmakers.

KSA unveils ‘M&C’ FM station

Award ceremony

Awards for Fashanu, Bakam Regina Otokpa

or their sustained efforts in humanitarian services, the trio of UN and Sports Ambassador, John Fashanu, TV goddess, Rachel Bakam and the chief executive officer of Femaz Micro-Finance Bank, Sandra Nwugo, have received recognition in the United Kingdom and South Africa respectively. Celebrating 10 years of promotion, advertisement, connection and empowerment at the Kensington Close Hotel London, Paceworking, an international business network based

in London, recently made John Fashanu International Ambassador of Down syndrome while honouring Rachel Bakam with an Award of Excellence in Media, Leadership. This is in recognition of her pioneering project, the Nigerian Water Ski and Wakeboard Federation. Both television personalities have stood out in their projects of talent exploration, empowerment and entertainment through Globetrotting Expeditions known as Fash Football Challenge, Rachel The Piper. Also, honoured with an Award of Excellence in Business and Support of Community Project

for engagement in humanitarian projects and Human Capital Development is the owner of Esther Zion Orphanage and C.E.O Femaz Microfinance Bank, Mrs. Sandra Nwugo. Receiving the award from Fashanu in Abuja, she noted that her desire to give back to society, sprouted from the lack of hygiene and adequate medical care associated with most orphanage homes in the country. The three of them also got recognized about two weeks later at the prestigious African Achievers Award which held at the Santon Convention Centre Johannesburg South Africa.

Tourism: Osun-Osogbo Festival re-strategises Ngozi Emedolibe

O King Sunny Ade

Imoleayo Fatunase

usic veteran, King Sunny Ade who has been at the fore front of Nigerian music industry for decades is set to unveil his new radio station to the delight of the broadcasting community in his home state, Ondo. The project which has commenced for long will begin operation before the end

of the year. The music radio as being touted is the first native and cultural radio station in the country; it is named the M&C [Music and Culture] Fm. The license for the station had been applied for since 2006 and it would come on air as soon as the technical details are perfected. Already, the station is head-hunting good engineers and broadcasters that would take the project to great heights.

ne of Nigeria’s oldest and most formidable tourism destinations, the Osun-Osogbo Festival is taking a refreshing posture aimed at harnessing the full potential of the annual event reputed to have

existed for six centuries. The consultant of the cultural fiesta, Ayo Olumoko, confirmed that plans were underway to list the event on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). Olumoko said this while addressing the media at the formal unveiling of the 2015 edition of the festival in, Ikoyi, Lagos. “Osun-

‘Prince and Princess of Nollywood’ pageant Ebere Ndukwu

ssociation of Movie Producers (AMP), is set to organise its beauty pageant, ‘Prince and Princess of Nollywood’ aimed at developing the talents of young people, promoting African cultural heritage as well as engaging the youths. The pageant which targets young people ages 17 to 25, will be drawn from the South-South (Uyo), South East (Enugu), South West (Ibadan), Central

zone (Lagos) and the North (Abuja). Disclosing this at a press conference in Lagos recently, the Managing Director Heritage International Ltd and founder of the pageant, Mr. Tanko Ebute, said the pageant is aimed at protecting the art, culture and tourism activities as well as showcasing the potentials in all the state of the federation and Nigeria at large through entertainment. He said, “We want to engage and create employment opportunities for our teaming youths across the country which is paramount looking at the un-

employment situation in the country and this will be achieved through setting up of different offices across the country, thereby increasing the commercial activities of all the hosting zones and Nigeria at large”. Noting that a skill acquisition centre for entrepreneurship training for youth and women empowerment programmes would be established, as well as educational support programmes, he called on interested youths to make enquiries on the internet to find out At beauty pegeant more on how to be part of the show.

Osogbo Festival is globally recognised; therefore, there is need for its inclusion and recognition by the NSE. The festival has been recognised by UNESCO due to its long years of celebration, cultural relevance and also for attracting influx of tourists. It is the most consistent festival in the country having been celebrated every year for more than 600 years.” He said that the festival has helped to boost the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Osun State, as well as the nation’s economy. The Ataoja of Osogboland, Oba Oyetunji Olanipekun, assured all visitors to this year’s event that it would be a thrilling experience. According to him, lots of traditional games have been prepared for visitors to make their trip to Osun Osogbo, worthwhile.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Arty News

Friday, July 31, 2015

There’re better artistes without opportunities –Hafeez

to a lot of local Hausa musicians and it helps me improve my own Hausa as well. It is not like my Hausa speaking is very ‘conk’ but the little things I know, I input them together and people accept them.

Hafeez, is a traditional Hausa hip hop artiste out to make an impact with his art. Back from the United Kingdom, he is not just out to thrill his fans, but determined to change the perception of society towards Hausa musicians. He talks about his work and aspirations in this interview with REGINA OTOKPA. Excerpts: Tell us how you started off in the music industry? I go by the name Hafeez, I am an artiste, I am originally from Kaduna state, I grew up there, attended my primary school there then I moved to Abuja. I went to Nigerian Turkish International College where I had my secondary education. I started doing music when I was in secondary school, in JSS 2, I had a group called young Phinos, we were a group of four. After I graduated from secondary school I moved to the UK to study Business Information System. By that time I put my music on hold, right now I am back on it. When I was in secondary school I used to rap in English now I am back into the music industry and I am doing it in Hausa to represent my culture. Why the choice of Hausa when most people who have lived abroad would always like to come back and do it the European way? Everybody is doing the same thing; the same Pidgin English, English and some other people they do their culture like Olamide and Phyno. Although I have heard a lot of people representing Hausa culture but they are not really out there and I decided to pick it as well to do it because I have a lot of contacts and friends in the industry that I can do features with. It is an opportunity that I used. What is the basic message you are trying to pass across with your style of music? They always think that Hausa people cannot really do anything, they only involve themselves in politics, farming and music is prohibited. There were musicians, we had people like Mamman Shata and Dan Maraya Jos, and those people were singing it is just that right now we are westernizing it, there is a bit of swag to it. You have about four tracks now? Yes, I have four tracks. My first track is called Waye Baban Ka which was featuring Morell, my second single was Takarawa featuring Davido, my third single which I didn’t promote that music is called Talk About, is basically talking about the insurgency and I have Minty which is the most recent single I just dropped and three of them have videos and I am about to shoot talk about video

You are having a programme soon, what is it all about? Basically it is like a premiere for the new video featuring Davido, Takarawa and obviously for Minty as well. I invited some local artistes as well. The local artistes, are they in Abuja? Yes, they are within Abuja. Where do you see your kind of music in the next two years? Just the way Afro beat is going places right now, it is same way I think Hausa northern inspiration of music will get somewhere. Whatever I am doing I am inspiring other young acts. There are other artistes out there as well it is just that they do not have the opportunity of bringing themselves out for people to know them but along the line as I am growing up too I am picking up people as well . I am going to sign some artistes. So far so good, I have heard some people that are better than me, it is just that they don’t have the opportunity but I am watching them very closely. Whatever level I get to, I will start picking them and we will start sailing on the same ship.

Hafeez

People always have this perception about northerners that we do not have swag, we only know how to kill people; but we know how to have fun too

and I have more tracks coming up. What inspired the song Minty? With this whole Hausa thing that I am doing, I catch certain phrases that Hausa people like to use. Waye baban ka is a phrase a lot of people Hausa people like to use and Minty is like brand new money since everybody is all about their money these days. I just decided to use Minty, it is a very catchy phrase as well. Are you launching an album soon? I am not working on an album yet; I am working on singles and dropping videos. I want Hafeez to be a house hold name, let it circulate and drop in other parts of the north so that people will know me then I can start working on an album. There is this notion that the only way to break out as an artiste is to go to Lagos? I have been to Lagos, it is tough out there, I am originally from Kaduna but I grew up in Abuja as well so I don’t really believe Lagos is the in thing especially

if they do not recognize northerners up there, I rather be where I am recognised. Muma Sharta and Dan Maraya Jos did not go to Lagos. People gave me the idea it has to be Lagos, if Lagos doesn’t have your track on their system that means you are not going to blow. I am going to change that perception. Abuja is a place, there are radio stations here, and there are radio stations in the north as well so I am going to focus on the northern side. That is the same thing Flavour did. Flavour was in the East and the West started bumping to him, so I am going to start from where I am from. How are people receiving your songs? So far so good, I am happy with the reception I am getting right now, I could do better and I am working to do better. Do you have a mentor from the north that inspired your songs? Like Minty, it was Dan Ibro. He did a song called Bani Naira that was where I captured Minty from. I am still listening

How did you decide on your producer and video director? The producer of all my tracks is Platinum Toxx of Studio Magic; we grew up together here in Abuja. He has been in the production industry here for a while but we were doing English music rapping, hip hop and all that. We sat together and he said I should venture into the Hausa aspect of music which I decided I would do fully. I met the video director in the U.K and it was my producer who introduced me to him. My first video was Waye Baban ka, we explained what we wanted and the work was really nice. We brought it back to Nigeria and started airing; a lot of people were like wow! This is wicked, this is crazy, it was something different from what they have seen it is just that the video didn’t really circulate to other TV stations because invariably all the TV stations are practically in Lagos and everybody is about sorting out so it was a bit difficult for me and I could only get it on few channels but trust me, my videos deserve awards. What is your message to fans especially your northern fans? Basically they should have hope in me, believe in my work, I promise I will deliver and I will not disappoint them. I am here to represent them and anywhere we stand as one. We don’t want people to look down on us. People always have this perception about northerners that we do not have swag, we only know how to kill people but we know how to have fun too.

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Mixed reactions trail FG’s vehicular emission control implementation With the National Vehicle Emission Control Programme (NVECP) aimed at checking air pollution from automobile engines set to take off from next month, mixed reactions have started trailing the exercise as stakeholders have examined its implications on vehicle owners who may have to pay extra charges. Adejuwon Osunnuyi reports. sign measures to control it and also compel motor manufacturers to meet increasing¬ly stringent pollution control standards. Part of the control standards on the part of the government is the NVECP, which requires that centers are set up across the country, where vehicles are examined and certified fit for use on Nigerian roads. While about 50 centers are earmarked for the pilot phase in Abuja, investigation revealed that a centre requires N1 million to procure equipment for testing diesel engine and another for petrol engine vehicles. Other equipment required include a laptop and a bar code reader. It was learnt that the NVECP would be jointly enforced by four agencies of the Federal Government namely: the Nigeria Police, Vehicle Inspection Office, Federal Road Safety Corps and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency. NESREA, which is the main agency behind the initiative, stated that the programme would help address the concern of vehicular emission caused by the increasing number of old automobiles that ply Nigerian roads. The Director-General/Chief Executive Officer, NESREA, Dr. Lawrence Anukum, said the agency would spearhead the programme and noted that the Federal Government promulgated the National Environmental Control of Vehicular Emission Regulation of 2011 with the aim of controlling air pollution. Anukum explained that the programme was part of the implementation of NESREA’s regulation on vehicular emission and this was based on the

‘

Let’s not forget that any idea

however noble will not be allowed to work due to corruption. This

would just be another avenue for the monitoring authorities to squeeze “egunje” from motorists Federal Government’s directive. He noted that the first set of vehicular emission testing stations would start operating in the Federal Capital Territory within the next one month, adding that the programme would soon spread to other parts of the country. The DG said, “Fifty testing stations will be involved in the initial run. But we need a critical mass before we start the pilot phase. The launch is coming up soon and when I say soon, it is maybe within the next one month. “We have sent letters to those who have paid for the testing equipment. There is an equipment for testing diesel engine, another for testing petrol engine and the computer systems to work with them; a bar code is ready and a few other gadgets. We have involved the private sector in it. Many interest groups came with different proposals but we want the programme to be standardised.” He noted that the agency had ensured that there was uniformity in the equipment used for the testing of vehicles, adding that NESREA had held meetings with the Police, VIO and FRSC officials. Meanwhile, some experts have observed that despite the health hazards associated with

‘

re you an owner of a car whose exhaust fumes dangerously on the road? Starting from next month, you might either have to park such car at home or risk being arrested and charged by law enforcement agents. After almost a year after that the National Vehicle Emission Control Programme (NVECP) aimed at protecting Nigeria’s populace and environment from damage by motor vehicle fumes was launched, indications have emerged that the enforcement is set to begin next month, August. With this, Nigeria is set to join the League of Nations that require vehicle manufacturers to meet certain pollution control standards. The Vehicle Emission Programme is aimed at reducing air pollution from carbon monooxide fumes emanating from motor vehicles by removing cars and trucks which are not road worthy from the country’s highways. The programme is also meant to identify and repair such vehicles, to significantly reduce toxic air emissions and improve the quality of oxygen in the environment. Scientists have ascertained over the years that carbon mono-oxide from auto vehicles is a significant cause of damage to the oxone layer, which causes the global warming phenomenon. The emissions have also been established to cause respiratory and heart disease, as well as cancer in humans and other lifeforms. Environmental pollution, much of which is caused by vehicle emissions has constituted a health risk, forcing governments all over the world to de-

Automobile pollution

the fumes arising from the millions of poorly maintained cars across the country, the programme might not have a smooth sail. According to them, apart from the fact that the programme would impose more financial cost on vehicle owners, its implementation smack of double standards. They stated that if government is sincere in addressing the issue of air pollution in Nigeria, it should first address The National Vehicular Emission Control Programme, which is being implemented in line with the National Environmental Control of Vehicular Emissions from Petrol and Diesel Engines,( National Environmental Standards Regulations and Enforcement Agency (NESREA) Regulations 2011,” aimed at reducing air pollution from vehicles and removing of cars that are not road worthy from the Nigerian roads. Speaking with National Mirror, Austin Okon, a driver, charged the government to first fix the bad roads across the country and then consider the re certification of drivers especially commercial drivers before the commencement of the exercise. “To me, these are core issues of concern and not this so called emission stuff when the country is still using the quality of PMS as we have at the moment.” He

said. To Ibukun Ogunlesi, a motorist based in Lagos, while the exercise is a good idea, he noted that the government is already creating more problems for the people especially in terms of the number of agency that are expected to carry out the enforcement. “Why do we need four agencies to enforce it? It is obvious that this is an avenue to start harassing the people on the roads.” Another respondent who spoke with our correspondent but who wanted to remain anonymous said; “This is another elephant project in the making. In a country where electricity generation is mainly carried out by plants and generators, how does the FGN plan to execute this? This is like putting the cart before the horse; they have been struggling with constant power supply, which implies less dependence on generators that contributes to 99 per cent of air pollution in Nigeria. “The same FGN promised to place total ban on sales of “Pure Water” in January 2015 in order to clean up our environment. the promises are in vain. CCTV camera installation project promised by same FGN along Ikorodu road of Lagos has been abandoned, FRSC speed limit tracker is just a wish. We have been having government of inconsistent policy statements over the years. When will Nigeria get a sincere government that will say” We have just accomplished this project and we are commissioning it?” Babatunde Oderinde noted, “Let’s not forget that any idea however noble will not be allowed to work due to corruption. This would just be another avenue for the monitoring authorities to squeeze “egunje” from motorists. If only the weighbridge at the Lagos-Ibadan expressway was allowed to function properly, perhaps the road would have lasted much longer than it did. Tackle corruption first and then any good initiatives would be have a good chance to be succesfully implemented.” “This is real misplaced priority. What the government needs to do is enforce strict annual MOT testing of all vehicles. If they test only the level of gas emission, what then happens to the myriad of vehicles on our roads apparently without one or more essential accessories like break light, head light, signal light, fuel gauge, alignment, speedometer and those with worn out tyres?

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, July 31, 2015

Ambode lauds PAN’s commitment to local car assembly initiative

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (right) being shown the engine compartment of a Peugeot car by the Showroom Manager, Auto Nation, Mr. Mishra Navendu (2nd left) during the visit by representatives of Peugeot Automobile Nigeria to the Governor at the Lagos House, Ikeja, recently

of patronage (of cars) and in training the youths on vocational and technical skills to reduce unemployment; and therefore required that a blueprint of training from PAN Learning Center, be sent to him for consideration. Earlier in his speech, the Managing Director, PAN Nigeria Limited, Mr. Ibrahim Boyi expressed gratitude to the Governor for the warm reception accorded his team.He explained that the visit was to congratulate the governor for his welldeserved victory at the polls and hailed the good people of Lagos State for making a wise and informed choice in electing a loyal, focused and thoughtful personality as their governor. “We have listened to the governor and we are happy of his

promises. He is a great man and we as a team expect positiveoutcome of this visit to the governor and we are taking him by his word.” Mr. Boyi who also took time to reel out the history of PAN, its status then and now in the Nigeria’s auto market, stated that it was painful to see the company that was thriving as the leading indigenous auto company both in terms of sales and employment opportunities, now strives to make regain its position. The implication of which according to the him, led to privatization and so many job cuts from the initial over 4,000 workforce in the early 80s, to about three hundred now in its payroll. Vehicles displayed at the governor’s office included Peugeot 508, 3008, 301 and 4008.

FRSC, Elizade Motors task motorists on safety consciousness

n order to avert crashes that can claim lives and cause injuries to people, motorists have been advised to always be cautious and not to struggle with other road users while driving. This piece of advice was given at a recent one-day seminar organised by Elizade Nigeria Limited for drivers of Toyota vehicles in Lagos. While motorists were enjoined to keep to the maintenance schedule of the vehicles as specified by the automakers to safe fuel, money and avert major repair cost, drivers of sport utility vehicles were also warned to stop competing with cars on the road in terms of speed as higher vehicles have lower stability than small vehicles. The Deputy Route Commander, the Federal Road Safety Corps, Mr. Oluwaseun Alogun, who was one of the resource persons at the seminar spoke on techniques of defensive driving. According to him, although drivers are enjoined to give way

Sixt Nigeria marks two years of ‘car rental’ business

he Lagos state Governor, AkinwumiAmbode has lauded the initiatives of PAN Nigeria Limited, saying it was a delight to see Peugeot vehicles back in the race again after so many years of dormancy. Ambode made these assertions when a delegation of PAN’s management, headed by the Managing Director, Ibrahim Boyi paid a courtesy call to the governor at Government House, Alausa ,Ikeja. The Governor, who expressed gratitude to the delegation for the visit, said the new automotive policy introduced last year by the federal government seemed to be gaining traction as PAN seemed to have keyed into its vision, belief and optimism of the new order and is breaking new marketing grounds with the new face of Peugeot assembled locally and on parade at the governor’s office. “It is a sign of good and exciting things to come to Nigerians and the company that has been inactive for a while. I really appreciate your patriotic zeal in resuscitating the moribund assembly plant, which I learnt is the only comprehensive car assembling plant for now in Nigeria.” He assured of his administration’s readiness to partner PAN Nigeria Limited in terms

megacrown1@yahoo.com 08025237926

to the traffic on a major road or on the left as stipulated by the traffic law, defensive drivers do not claim any right. He said a good driver would drive carefully and protect not only his life and those in his vehicle but also avert any act that could affect the lives of other road users. “When there is a conflict between practice and principle, principle take precedent; because that is what is document-

Ade-Ojo

ed,” Alogun said. He stressed the need for all motorists to be conscious of everything around them while driving and urged them to avoid things that could distract them such as idle talk with other passengers, making or receiving telephone call, eating and drinking. The Managing Director, Elizade Nigeria, Mr. Ademola Ade-Ojo, who was represented at the event by the company’s Finance Director, Mr. Abel Ajayi, urged owners and drivers of Toyota vehicles to always maintain their vehicles in order to serve them well. He said they should use approved service workshops and stick to the stipulated maintenance schedule to save cost and avert stress. Elizade gave the maintenance schedule of Toyota vehicles as 5,000km for lubrication and cleaning; 10,000km for lubrication and adjustment; 20,000km for lubrication and replacement; and 40,000km, combining all the first three stages.

oscharis Mobility Ltd, franchise owner of Sixt Nigeria has marked two years of car rental innovation in Nigeria. Speaking on the success achieved so far in the last two years, the President and Chief Executive Officer, Coscharis Group, Dr. Cosmas L-R: Head, Training & Development of FranMaduka, Sixt ‘rent chise Countries, Sixt, Mr. Karsten Jaensch; Int’l a car’s second com- Junior Franchise Manager, Sixt, Mr. Sebastian Szautner; , President/CEO Coscharis Group, ing has shown that Dr. Cosmas Maduka CON and GM/CEO CosNigeria is endowed charis Mobility Ltd – Sixt Nigeria, Mr. Christian with lots of busi- Chigbundu, during an event to mark the 2nd ness opportunities. anniversary of Sixt Nigeria. “It’s been a great “Our standard cars are for partnership for Coscharis to you; our premium cars are have partnered with Sixt. Sixt is about over a century year ready for people of your class. organisation based in Munich No other company offers preand they generate over $2 bil- mium cars for rent. If you lion in car rental service, which can’t buy that Range Rover! we took their franchise to oper- That Jaguar! That BMW, you ate in Nigeria.” Maduka stated. can now rent it, enjoy and have According to him, “Before fun.” Maduka also said the comnow, they made some attempt that didn’t last to this moment. pany’s branch network would Basically, what we do with be key to the delivery of optiBMW is what we planned to mum services being craved for replicate with Sixt. Sixt is a in the sector, since Coscharis is famous European car rental located in all zones of the councompany, and they have dis- try. “Our company is always tinguished themselves among ready to promote the image of their competitors. “For us at Coscharis, who the country by providing outalways want to want to seek standing services that meet initself apart from its peers, we ternational standard. Earlier, as part of actividecided to go for Sixt franchise to continue to build on the ties marking the second ansame kind of kind of thing we niversary, Coscharis Mobility do in mobility. If you notice, Ltd – Sixt Nigeria, visited the you will see the uniform of the Compassionate Orphanage, in staff, which is the same kind Lagos, which is in line with the of quality you see, is the same foundation instituted by the kind of service you get from us. wife of the President of Sixt It has been a great two years of company, Regine Sixt. Known as Drying Away Litrelationship. We believe it is going to be even much greater tle Tears, an affiliate of Regine Sixt Children aAid Foundaas time progresses.” Maduka said Nigeria has tion, Sixt Nigeria in line with once again showed to the its corporate social responsiworld that it is the ideal des- bility commissioned the retination and hub for foreign roofing of the orphanage based investors and explained how at Egbeda, Lagos. Speaking at the official the company could not perform well in its first outing dedication of the roofing, Mr. in 2011 as it could not keep to Christian Chigbundu, GM/ the brand’s corporate identity CEO Coscharis Mobility Ltd – Sixt Nigeria, accompanied by standard. According to him, “as our Mr. Karsten Jaensch, Head, testimonies speak for us, we Training & Development of are known for excellence in Franchise Countries and Mr. any service we venture into Sebastian Szautner, Internaand this will not be an exceptional Junior Franchise Mantion as we have all what it ager, Sixt commended the actakes to make your trip plea- tivities of the orphanage while surable and fun. We are now a promising to help convey its one-stop shop for all your mo- message to the company in Germany. bility solutions.

Cocktail

Friday, July 31, 2015

Plane nearly overturns in strong wind during landing

ough weather in the Netherlands made for a rough landing that nearly turned disastrous for a KLM plane being pushed around by the wind. The KLM Boeing 777 was coming in for a landing Saturday during rough weather at the Schiphol airport in Amsterdam when the rough winds pushed the plane back and forth and nearly turned the

jet onto its side just before its landing gear touched down. A video posted to YouTube by user 17splinter shows the pilot was able to make a last-second correction for a relatively smooth landing. Recent storms in the Netherlands have been blamed for at least one death, but the KLM pilot was able to prevent any of the jet’s passengers from being added to the toll.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Oddities Oddities

Sleeping passenger awakened by chainsaw prank

Norwegian prankster road tripping to Sweden with a friend awoke his sleeping companion by holding a running chainsaw to his throat. Tom Daniel Hansen Sylte, who shared the video on Facebook, was taking a road trip to Sweden with friend Marius Hostland

Strom when Strom fell asleep in the passenger seat. Sylte planted a camera on the dashboard and set about waking his friend up with an unusual alarm

clock -- a running chainsaw. The prankster held the running tool to Strom’s throat and the sleeping passenger quickly awoke in a panic and fled out the other side of the car. Sylte

Black ring moves through sky over England

YouTube user shared video of a mysterious “huge black ring” flying over his house in Nottinghamshire, England. The video, posted to YouTube by Pierce Smith, shows a black ring moving through the sky Thursday above Smith’s home in Nottinghamshire. “Huge black ring just

drifted over my village,” Smith wrote in the description of the video, which was titled, “Something weird flew over my house today.” Smith shared the video of the “ominous” ring on Reddit, where users commented it may have resulted from an electricity transformer catching fire. “This is usually caused

by a large transformer frying. I remember a similar video posted a while ago,” Redditor Anonymoose98 wrote. Other Redditors explained the ring may have kept its shape due to a phenomenon known as “laminar flow,” which is also responsible for the slow dissipation of exhaust trails from jet engines.

The prankster holding the running chainsaw to his friend’s throat

then revealed the chainsaw had been rendered harmless by removing the chain. “A prank! I took the chain off !” Sylte says through laughter.

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business Maritime

Tackling foreigners’ domination of cargo clearing business in Nigeria The domination of Nigeria’s shipping industry is fast assuming a frightening dimension. This is more so given the increasing influx of Lebanese, Indians, Chinese and South Africans in the business of cargo clearing across the Customs Processing Centre, which elsewhere is exclusively reserved for citizens even among developed economies, who champion the course of globalisation. FRANCIS EZEM examines the security and economic implications of this trend in the country.

everal years after the passage of the Coastal and Inland Shipping Cabotage Act 2003 and the Nigerian Content Act 2010, designed to increase indigenous participation in the shipping industry and the oil and gas sector, foreigners still dominate business activities in these two critical segments of the nation’s economy. Both legislations are protectionist in nature in line with Federal Government’s policy of growing local industry. For instance, section five of the Cabotage Act provides that vessels to be deployed in the coastal and inland region, which covers mainly the carriage of mainly refined petroleum products must be built and registered locally, owned and manned by Nigerians. Regrettably, statistics released by the Nigeria Shipowners Association NISA showed that foreigners control more than 95 per cent of over 3,000 vessels operating within the coastal and inland region in the country, which ordinarily should have been exclusively reserved for Nigerians, which is a replica of the United States Jones Act 1920. President of the association, Captain Niyi Labinjo, who spoke in a recent interview, had decried the total foreign domination of coastal and inland shipping business in the country more than 10 years after the coming on stream of the Cabotage policy, which is expected to have reversed or at least checkmate this trend. It was gathered that some officials of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation NNPC in connivance with their cronies among the International Oil Companies

Dikko

Shittu

IOCs have hidden under the flimsy excuse that the ships owned by the Nigerian ship owners are classless and might therefore pose great danger in terms of polluting the marine environment with the attendant danger posed to aqua life. It was probably in reaction to this that the indigenous ship owners have entered into partnership with Greek ship owners, who would supply them with about 40 tanker vessels under special arrangements, which would become theirs after two years. Similarly, in terms of deep sea shipping, which cover the carriage of containerised, bulk comprising both dry and liquid bulk, which covers lifting of crude oil, out of an estimated total of 5, 000 vessels that call at the nation’s shores annually, less than one per cent is owned by Nigerians. This situation is not different in the freight forwarding and cargo clearing business, as foreign nationals shuch as South Africans, Indians, Chinese and Lebanese, among several others have practically taken over the business to the detriment of the indigenous operators. National President of Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, ANLCA, Alhaji Olayiwola Shittu, who spoke in a recent interview, lamented the takeover of

cargo clearing business in Nigeria by foreign operators, as many Nigerian freight forwarders and customs brokerage agents are at the verge of being thrown out of business due to the influx of foreigners into the business. According to him, moves by the association to checkmate this rather ugly development by sponsoring a bill that would make the trade an exclusive preserve for Nigerians met a brick wall, as members of the National Assembly allegedly asked for N600 million as a precondition for the sponsorship of the bill. “We are going through tough times because foreigners now get the juiciest jobs while the Nigerian operators scramble for the crumbs and we approached the National Assembly for a bill to check this ugly development and we were asked to bring N600 million and since we do not have such money, we gave up the idea”, he lamented. He noted that it was a great mistake on the part of the government to have left out the business of freight forwarding and customs brokerage while working on the Cabotage Act 2003 and the Nigerian Content Act, 2010 both of which are protectionist in nature. Shittu therefore called on the Federal

WE ARE GOING THROUGH TOUGH TIMES BECAUSE FOREIGNERS NOW GET THE JUICIEST JOBS WHILE THE

NIGERIAN OPERATORS SCRAMBLE FOR THE CRUMBS AND WE APPROACHED THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY FOR A BILL TO CHECK THIS UGLY DEVELOPMENT AND WE WERE ASKED TO BRING N600 MILLION AND SINCE WE DO NOT HAVE SUCH MONEY, WE GAVE UP THE IDEA

Government to take urgent steps to curtail the influx of foreigners into the clearing and forwarding jobs, a development that has made Nigerian operators uncompetitive, given that the foreigners are better funded. It was gathered that these foreign nationals throng the Customs Processing Centre (Long Room) to process their entries, which many believe constitutes a security risk. Investigations showed that in the Republic of Benin for instance, where many Nigerians practice clearing and forwarding business, no foreigner, including Nigerians are allowed to undertake certain jobs considered exclusive preserve for indigenes, even as foreigners are not allowed to enter the CPC, which is a security zone. President of Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria ARFFN, Dr. Frank Ukor, who corroborated this fact, said in an interview that foreigners are not allowed into the CPC at the Cotonou Ports, where many Nigerians do business of clearing. “I practiced freight forwarding business at the Seme Border for over 25 years and for one day I was not allowed into the Customs Processing Centre of the Cotonou Port and as a matter of policy, no foreigner is allowed into the place”, he said emphatically. Ukor also disclosed that what happens is that when you get clearing jobs, most of which come from Nigerians, you do all the necessary documentations but when it comes to the point where you need to access the CPC area, you contract an indigene, who does it for you for a fee, which is also a way of creating jobs for them. This uncontrolled influx of foreigners into the CPC at various ports and border stations no doubt constitutes a major security and economic risk to the country. For instance, as a bonafide licensed customs agent, the service issues with a password, with which you access the Automated System for Customs Data ASYCUDA, which allows the dealer to make his or her entry online real time. The security risk is becoming even more grave with the full automation of the clearing process in Nigeria with the coming on stream of the Nigerian Trade Hub, also called the Ruling Centre facilitated by Customs. Little wonder there have rampant cases of hacking into the Customs’ automated system with the stealing of passwords through which goods worth several billions of naira have been released from the CPC without payment of duty, through which the government has lost huge sums on import revenue. It is therefore high time the government took a second look at the policy of allowing every Dick, Tom and Harry access into the nation’s security zones as critical as her import and export portal, especially given the security situation in the country.

Business Maritime

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Group slams NNPC over crude oil carriage on FOB terms STORIES: FRANCIS EZEM

ndigenous operators under the aegis of Nigeria Shipowners Association NISA at the weekend took a swipe at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation NNPC over the continued carriage of the nation’s crude on the basis of Free On Board FOB while the nation’s imports are carried on the basis of Cost, Insurance and Freight CIF. FOB, is a trade term requiring the seller to deliver goods on board a vessel designated by the buyer. So in international trade terms, the word ‘free’ means that the seller has an obligation to deliver goods to a named place for transfer to a carrier designated by the buyer, which simply means that buyers of the nation’s crude oil export determine the vessel used for the shipment. On the other hand, CIF is a trade term in which the seller determines the vessel for the shipment of the consignment even though it is the duty of the buyer to pay for the shipment. Under this term, the seller arranges for the carriage of goods by sea to a

Tanker vessel

port of destination and provides the buyer with the documents (Bill of laden) necessary to obtain the goods from the liner or carrier. Director General of NISA, Engr. Oliver Ogbuagu, who spoke in an interview, alleged that it was in a bid for the NNPC to perpetrate fraud that it connives with International Oil Companies IOCs to ensure that the nation’s crude oil shipments ate lifted on the basis of FOB, which excludes indigenous shiping companies. He argued that the Nigerian

nation would continue to grapple with high level of unemployment, especially among graduates so long the government does not muster enough political will to adopt some policies that would affect certain critical sectors of the economy, especially shipping and oil and gas. “It is due to the lack of political will, fuelled by corruption that successive governments in the country have failed to reverse this imbalance in the carriage of the nation’s main export product, which has over the years impacted

negatively on her economy”, he said. “It is not humanly possible even among developed economies that the government would provide all the jobs needed rather what the government does elsewhere is to create the right environment through the right policies that would enable the private sector to create jobs”, Ogbuagu, a Marine Engineer said. According to him, allowing indigenous ship owners to participate in the lifting of crude oil would create a minimum of 5, 000

direct jobs annually, which would help reduce the high rate of youth unemployment in the country and the attendant increasing crime wave. It is estimated that at the 2.7 million barrels of crude oil export per day at the cost of $2.5 per barrel, Nigeria loses over N2.2 trillion annually in terms of shipments of her crude oil export, which if ploughed back into the economy would create a lot of jobs for the teeming youth population. Experts also believe that at an output of 2.7 million barrels per day being a member of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries OPEC at the cost of $2.5 per barrel of the product, which is the benchmark charged by the foreign shipping companies to freight the product, Nigeria would curtail the worsening cases of capital flight occasioned by the carriage of the product exclusively by foreign shipping firms. Former President Goodluck Jonathan had in 2013 made some moves towards reversing the policy, which were stalled by claims in some quarters that such reversal would lead to a delay in payment of government’s crude oil sale funds by over 40 days.

Stop operating fee collection, Scorpio bulkers plunge deeper into red group begs Buhari

xpectations that the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria CRFFN would commence the collection of the professional operating fee POF, may not be realistic. This is because National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents NCMDLCA, a freight forwarding group has petitioned President Mohammandu Buhari, asking him to stop the fee. Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transport, Mallam Mohammed Bashar had recently convened a peace meeting with representatives of all the freight forwarding associations where it was agreed that the collection of the fee would commence in earnest to enable the CRFFN meet its financial obligations to staff and other stakeholders. In a letter signed on behalf of the group by its president, Mr. Lucky Amiwero dated July 24, 2015 urged the president to prevail on the CRFFN to stop the proposed collection of the fee. “We hereby draw the attention of your Excellency to the illegal approval by the Ministry of Transport for the collection of practitioners’ operating fees that is not covered under any existing law in the country. “The fee is illegal as it is not one

of the fees allowed to be collected by the CRFFN Act 2007. The only recognised fees to be collected is the annual practicing fees as contained in the enabling act and not practitioners operating fee”, the letter stated. The group in the letter also told the president that tenure of the governing council of the CRFFN, the highest decision making body, a development that makes it illegal for the management to take decisions on its behalf. The letter also claimed that the collection of the fees had been previously cancelled at the port by the Federal Government as part of measures to reduce cost of operating at the nation’s seaports, which might have dire consequences on the national economy. The letter said: “We here by request for the total stoppage and cancellation of the illegal fee, which negate the rule of law that is the cardinal policy of the present administration”. Founder of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders NAGAFF, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, one of the operators that have spoke on the controversy surrounding the collection of the fee, said it was a shame that freight forwarders could not put their house in order and speak with one voice.

corpio Bulkers Inc. posted a net loss of USD 138.6 million, or USD 0.71 basic and diluted loss per share, for the three months ended June 30, 2015, increasing its net loss of USD 15 million from the same period last year. This loss includes the write down on assets held for sale of USD 119.6 million, a write off of USD 2.4 million of a portion of deferred financing costs accumulated on two credit facilities, and the noncash amortization of stock-based compensation of USD 6.1 million. For the six months ended June 30, 2015, the company’s net loss reached USD 190.7 million, or USD 1.03 basic and diluted loss per share, against a net loss of USD 25.7 million in the same period last year. Scorpio said that this loss includes the write down on assets

held for sale of USD 151.4 million, a write off of USD 6 million of a portion of deferred financing costs accumulated on three credit facilities for which the commitments were reduced pursuant to the removal from the facilities of certain vessels that have been classified as held for sale, and the noncash amortization of stock-based compensation of USD 12.2 million. In order to cut its losses in what has been characterized as devastating bulk shipping market, overall, the Nasdaq-listed bulker owner and operator has agreed to sell 20 new building construction contracts, consisting of eight Capesize, two Aframax tanker newbuilding contracts, two Kamsarmax, one Ultramax, four LR2 product tanker and three LR1 product tanker new building contracts. Out of that number, 16 new-

building vessels have been sold, with three Capesizes and one Kamsarmax left. Scorpio expects these sales to result in approximately USD 197 million of aggregate cash proceeds, including refunds of deposits previously made, and an approximately USD 673.2 million reduction of its capital expenditure obligations. The company’s newbuilding program consists of contracts for the construction of 60 dry bulk vessels, comprised of 28 Ultramax, 21 Kamsarmax and 11 Capesize newbuildings. Of this total, through July 27, 2015, Scorpio took delivery of three Capesize, three Kamsarmax and six Ultramax vessels. The total construction price for the remaining 48 drybulk vessels is USD 1,621.4 million, with USD 994.3 million yet to be paid.

US activists detain Shell icebreaker in Portland

reenpeace US activists have suspended themselves from St. Johns Bridge in Portland, Oregon to block the Shell ‘s icebreaking vessel MSV Fennica from leaving the port of Portland for Alaskan waters. Greenpeace says that the

climbers have enough supplies to last several days, and are prepared to stay in Shell’s way as long as possible. Shell’s Arctic icebreaker Fennica was drydocked in Portland earlier this month after an uncharted shoal breached its hull. The vessel was supposed to

head for the Arctic on July 3rd, loaded with a capping stack that would be used to seal a well in case of a blowout. However, a leak was detected in Fennica’s ballast tank shortly after the vessel departed from the Dutch Harbor, Alaska forcing the crew to go back.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Nigeria, 19 others to raise $850m for development

wenty African countries and the African Development Bank yesterday subscribed for an initial aggregate amount of USD 830 million in share capital to improve the quality of infrastructure across their economies. The countries include, Benin, Cameroon, Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Madagascar, Malawi and Mali. Others are, Mauritania, Morocco, Nigeria, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sudan, the Gambia and Togo. The decision to pool the fund for development was taken at the Constitutive General Assembly of Africa50, the new and innovative infrastructure investment platform promoted by the African Development Bank held at Casablanca, Morocco. According to the subscribing countries and the AfDB, while this first closing would be available only to African countries, it is anticipated that the second and subsequent closings will be available not only to African countries that are yet to invest in Africa50, but also non-sovereign investors both in Africa and outside Africa. The second closing is expected before the end of 2015. Speaking at the event, the outgoing President of African Development Bank, Dr. Donald Kaberuka, and current Chairman of the Boards of Directors of Africa50, said that “the large presence of African States and their financial

Business News

Friday, July 31, 2015

commitments are a testimony to a shared vision to find new ways to accelerate the provision of infrastructure. Africa50 will be a step change for infrastructure financing and development in Africa”. Africa50’s reason for the initiative is to mobilize long-term savings within and outside Africa for the financing of commercially viable infrastructure projects across Africa. “Through an integrated approach, Africa50 will invest in African infrastructure projects at scale along the entire project finance value chain leveraging its innovative Project Finance and Project Development windows. “The strong expression of commitment today by the African countries is a necessary first step towards attracting institutional investors, including sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, insurance companies and other sources of long-term finance around the world. “Africa50’s medium term capitalization is projected to reach USD 3 billion. During the Constitutive General Meeting, Africa50’s founding members signed the articles of incorporation, which enshrine the highest standards of corporate governance. An agreement was signed with the Kingdom of Morocco that confers upon Africa50 a range of privileges and immunities similar to those enjoyed by the African Development Bank.

EFCC begins probe of NIMASA FRANCIS EZEM

trong indications emerged that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has commenced a full probe of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, in line with the ongoing investigation of major institutions under the administration of immediate past President Goodluck Jonathan. This is sequel to the sack of the Director General of the Agency, Dr. Ziakede Patrick Akpobolokemi on the orders of President Muhammadu Buhari. A competent source at the agency told National Mirror that the agency has in the last one week, played host to the operatives

of the anti-graft agency, currently combing strategic departments of the agency. It was also gathered that the EFCC has also invited the immediate past DG for questioning, as he is expected to appear before it on Tuesday, August 2, 2015. The source also disclosed that some departments like finance and procurement have been combed by the EFCC operatives, who resume in the morning at NIMASA and close in the evening. The source said, “NIMASA has following last week’s appointment of Mr. Haruna Jauro as acting Director General, who was until then Executive Director Finance and Administration played host to operatives of the EFCC and I can assure you that they were there at the close of work yesterday, Thurs-

day. Those, whose hands are clean, need not fear any accusation’’ Immediate past DG had hand over to the Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, Barrister CalistusNwabueze on the directive of the Presidency and was promptly issued with a letter of appointment on acting capacity by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Transport, Mallam Mohammed Bashar. However a mild drama ensured when the former Executive Director in charge of Finance and Administration, Mr. Jauro and current acting DG resurfaced three days later with another letter from the Head of Service of the Federation appointing him as the new Acting DG of the Agency.

L-R: Executive Commissioner, Legal and Enforcement, Securities and Exchange Commission, (SEC), Sa’adatu Bello; Director General, SEC, Nigeria, Mounir Gwarzo and Executive Commissioner Corporate Services, SEC, Hon. Zakawanu Garuba during the 2nd Quarter Capital Market Committee, CMC meeting in Lagos, recently.

Lafarge merges with Holcim SYLVA EMEKA-OKEREKE

afarge Africa Plc has merged with a French firm, Holcim to form LafargeHolcim Group, aimed at transforming global construction industry. Announcing the merger, the Managing Director of WNT Capitas, Investor Relations Conferences Consulting firm for the

group, Mr Abimbola Agboluaje said the business will continue to be known as Lafarge Africa Plc in the country. According to him, the vision is to be most trusted and preferred partner of construction professionals as well as home builders by delivering cement, concrete, aggregates and other building solutions that are environmentally sustainable while being available nationwide at

an affordable cost. He said, ‘’LafargeHolcim is located in 90 countries, including 73 emerging markets, spread across the five continents. The company has over 2, 500 operations and 115,000 employees, including 1, 100 Research and Development experts. LafargeHolcim is set to transform the global construction industry’’. Lafarge as one of the leading building Solutions Company in

Africa is a member of the group, formed this year as a result of the successful merger between two global cement giants. With the world’s biggest materials testing laboratory, LafargeHolcim is the most advanced building materials company in the world, offering an unprecedented range of products and services to answer the changing demands of the construction industry as well as

challenges of increasing urbanization. It is also an industry leader in terms of innovation, sales and manufacturing capacity and jointly chaired by Wolfgang Reitzle, the former Board Chairman of Holcim and Bruno Lafront, the former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge while Eric Olsen is the Chief Executive Officer.

Low crude oil prices affecting investments –Stakeholders UDEME AKPAN

he prolonged low crude oil prices in the global market have constrained operators from funding major investments in Nigeria and other nations. Stakeholders have indicated that the hardest hit are countries, whose economies depend heavily

on oil for significant percentage of their foreign exchange earnings such as Venezuela, Angola, Azerbaijan and Nigeria amongst others. An energy expert, Mr. Kazeem Bello said, the fluctuation in the oil market, following discovery of crude oil in many parts of the world as well as the new wave of alternative energy sources, particularly shale oil, have had ad-

verse effects on the nation. He said the nation’s failure to take cushioning measures against volatility risks by implementing fiscal buffers and hedging mechanisms, has left her at the mercy of the crisis. Bello remarked that the trio of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates have over $2 trillion dollars in their Sovereign Wealth Fund, SWF, accounts;

one of their numerous fiscal buffers, hence the oil crisis has so far had very little impact on their respective economies. Chairman of the Nigeria Natural Resource Charter, NNRC, and former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mr. Odein Ajumogobia has noted that crude oil prices have fluctuated over the years, thus underscoring the importance of planning.

Speaking at a policy dialogue entitled ‘Implications of the Falling Oil Price for Policy in Nigeria’, organised by the Centre for Public Policy Alternatives, the Lagos-based think-tank, Ajumogobia commented on the need for a hedging mechanism, saying, “because we don’t have a hedging mechanism, we are completely left at the mercy of the oil price.”

Business News

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Experts urge FG to embrace e-Governance to tackle corruption ISAIAH ERHIAWARIEN

xperts in electronic payment have urged the Federal Government to embrace e-Governance to put an end to the growing corruption in the country. Experts, who gave the advice at the 2015 e-Government Summit in Abuja, said holistic adoption of e-Governance strategies in all levels of government would end corrupt tendencies in the country. While calling for strict compliance on e-Governance at the Summit, organised by the E-Payment Providers Association of Nigeria, E-PPAN, in collaboration with the Financial Services Strategy, FSS 2020 and the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, the experts said such move would help to curb financial frauds in government circles. Anambra State Governor, Dr. Willie Obiano, who was the Special Guest at the event in his opening remark, said the adoption of e-Governance in the state, especially in tax collection, saying it has raised the InternallyGenerated Revenue, IGR, of the state from less than N1 billion to

its current N1.1 billion monthly. Obiano, who disclosed that the state intends to use the principles of e-Governance to increase its IGR target to N3 billion monthly, noting that the state is aggressively pursuing its vision and mission strategies through efficient use of ICT, resulting to an inflow of investment worth N2.4 billion in the past one year. He said: “The whole idea is to use government machinery to channel private sector interest to the advantages of the citizens by making the environment conduc-

tive through efficient use of ICT to achieve this.” In his presentation, the Deputy Governor, Operations, Central Bank Nigeria, CBN, Mr. Suleiman Barau, said the introduction of electronic transaction policies was meant to ensure efficiency in financial transactions while curbing financial corruption in the system. According to him, the Federal Government and its agents have also embraced a number of ICTrelated initiatives in recent past in their services with the resul-

tant cost-saving and ability to plug leakages in its financial dealings, adding that “there is an urgent need to embrace e-governance in all ramifications.” Barau noted that with the passage of three major bills relating to electronic transactions by the sixth National Assembly, the road appears clear for e-payment landscape, aimed at increasing sanity in the country. Head, Programme Office, FSS2020, Mr. Oluwatoyin Joko, said the FSS2020 is passionate about how it could re-organise the

financial markets, insurance, pension, mortgage and agriculture as well as Small and Medium Enterprises, SMEs, using e-governance as a strategy. E-PPAN President, Mr. Macaulay Atase, said the forum was organised to facilitate dialogues that would result in evaluation of infusion of ICT into service delivery by government at all levels, resulting in increased transparency, efficiency and accountability, especially in financial management.

Govt to harmonise scientific efforts for national development REGINA OTOKPA

he Federal Ministry of Science and Technology has expressed its determination to harmonize the efforts and inputs of all relevant stakeholders geared towards achieving national development. The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Winifred Oyo – Ita, disclosed this during the inauguration of the committee

set up to ensure a smooth alliance between all parties involved in Abuja. She noted that collaboration and linkages were viable means to develop science, technology and innovation. According to her, the move would further strengthen the existing bond between the ministry, critical stakeholders, especially the University of Abuja, towards achieving a common goal of national development through sci-

ence and technology. Oyo-Ita said that the inauguration of the steering committee was coming on the heels of an earlier visit by the management team of the University of Abuja led by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor M.U. Adikwu to the ministry. She explained that the during the visit, the team had requested “for collaboration with the ministry and its agencies in two strategic areas namely: provision of

power using solar energy infrastructure and the ongoing hydro electric project of the university, and staff exchange programme, especially in engineering and natural sciences.” The Permanent Secretary commended the institution for undertaking laudable initiatives geared towards socioeconomic development, capacity building, creativity, and the improvement of the living standard of Nigerians.

FG committed to informal sector revival for inclusive growth –NPC Scribe

Participants at the 28th induction and award of Town Planners Registration Council of Nigeria in Abuja yesterday.

Berger Paints’ boss proposes consumer advocacy for higher turnover

he Managing Director and Chief Executive officer of a quoted company, Berger Paints Nigeria Plc, Mr Peter Folikwe has appraised the Nigeria’s operating environment and proposed operation of consumer advocacy as a strategy to promote culture of quality products among manufacturers. Besides, Folikwe urged the Federal Government to address the issues of exchange rate of the Naira to foreign currencies, infrastruc-

tural deficit, multiple taxation and enforcement of enabling rules by the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) in order to create the much-needed enabling environment for businesses to thrive. Prompted by media enquiry, Folikwe explained that quality products were a necessary condition for competitiveness in the global market and it enhances consumers’ loyalty and higher turnover. According to him Nigeria would compete more favourably in the

global market if we leverage on consumer advocacy approach whereby consumers of products are enlightened that while inferior products appear cheap, they are actually more expensive than quality products in the area of durability and utilitarian value. “The real sector is the major sector that can drive economic growth and development. But in Nigeria, the sector has consistently suffered a setback in the scheme of things.

ecretary to the National Planning Commission, NPC, Bassey Akpanyung has said, the Federal Government is committed to rejuvenate and improve operations of the informal sector at all levels, including the Niger- Delta Region to speed up economic growth. Akpanyung gave the assurance yesterday at the opening of a national stakeholders’ validation workshop on the report of the informal sector study conducted in four SEEFOR participating states of Niger Delta. ‘‘Let me assure you that the current administration is fully committed to rejuvenating and improving the operations of the informal sector at the national and sub- national levels, including the Niger Delta Region’’, Akpanyung stated. President Muhammad Buhari had indicated his administration’s favourable disposition to invigorating the informal sector for job creation and sustained growth as well as development of the country. He disclosed that the federal government is also introducing measures, aimed at curbing leakages in the nation’s econo-

my and also strengthening the non-oil revenue receipts, taking cognisance of the potential of the vibrant informal sector, as well as insisting that the federal government is equally fine-tuning incentives and strategies for effective credit delivery and other financial services to the sector. The Commission’s Secretary stated that the informal sector remains very critical to the success of any nation, especially in terms of its contribution to employment, growth and development. He also stated that available information from various studies globally revealed that the informal sector contributes 50 to 55 percent to the Gross Domestic Product, GDP, in Africa and Sub-Sahara Africa Countries, and has also contributed 50 to 80 percent to employment generation in those countries. State Employment and Expenditure for Results, SEEFOR, project is a World Bank funded project with a concessionary free interest loan of $200 million, designed for four Niger Delta States of Bayelsa, Delta, Edo and Rivers.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business News

Friday, July 31, 2015

FG blames depot owners, marketers for high fuel prices UDEME AKPAN

he Federal Government has blamed depot owners and marketers of petroleum products for illegal sale of petrol and kerosene in excess of approved prices. The government through the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR maintained that petrol and kerosene supposed to be sold at N87 and N50 per litre respectively. But the Department indicated that as a result of unpatriotic acts of these operators the prices of petrol and kerosene is in excess of N100 and N150 per litre respectively. The DPR maintained in a statement that preliminary investigations revealed that the prevailing hike in retail prices of PMS & DPK across the country is as a result of the unscrupulous activities of some depot owners and major marketers who are engaged in selling PMS & DPK to various retailers at prices higher than the official ex-depot price of N77.66k &

N34.51K respectively It indicated that in order to check the unprincipled activities of these Depot Owners and Major Marketers in this regard and to prevent the further imposition of hardship on the general public, the DPR is resolved to take immediate steps to directly supervise the sale of PMS & DPK from these affected depots in order to ensure that appropriate pricing is strictly adhered to. The DPR maintained that it has embarked on immediate suspension of direct sales of PMS and DPK from the affected Depot Owners and Major Marketers. It disclosed that it has established a special DPR task force on supervision and monitoring of product sales from the affected depots with powers to undertake the sale of products from these depots. The DPR explained that the task force shall liaise with the PPMC, PPPRA and the Law enforcement agencies. “The DPR special task force shall issue directives and guidelines to the

general public on the procedure for the enforcement of the supervised sales throughout the period of this exercise until normalcy returns to the sector.” “We hereby reiterate our directive to all Depots, Marketers and Operators in the sector to abide by the official pricing regime to avoid DPR sanctions which may include the activation of all conditions that may lead to the denial of any marketer from further participation in the PSF scheme and the withdrawal of licenses of a facility.” “Resulting from a meeting held on Wednesday 29th July, 2015 in Lagos between the Department of Petroleum Resources and all stakeholders in the downstream sector of the petroleum industry including; PPMC, PPPRA, MOMAN, DAPPMAN & IPMAN which was summoned to convey Government’s displeasure at the illegal sale of petrol above the stipulated pump price and the ever lengthening of vehicular queues at the filling stations, the DPR hereby issues the following statement and directives,” it added.

L-R: FCT Chairman, National Association of Nigeria Traders (NANT), Mr Edozie Ugwu; Representative, Chairman, Kwali Area Council, Dr Alhassan Maji; Representative, Director General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN), Dr Friday Opara and NANTS, Secretary General, Mr Nick Alumona, at the opening of SMEDAN two days Training and capacity building for. Farmers in FCT in Abuja yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

Dangote flour to become Tiger Branded Consumer Goods Plc UDO ONYEKA

angote Flour Plc shareholders may this morning approve the change of the company’s name to Tiger Branded Consumer Goods Plc, if the proposal by the Board is approved at today’s Annual General Meeting, holding in Calabar, Cross River state. The planned change of the company’s name is part of the recommendations of the Chairman of the Company, Alhaji Aliko Dangote to shareholders.

He noted that the proposed change of name HAS become necessary, following the purchase of majority shares of the company by Tiger Brands Limited. He said: “In line with the purchase of majority shares in your company by Tiger Brands Limited, your company proposes to change its name from Dangote Flour Mills Plc to Tiger Branded Consumer Goods Plc. “A resolution to that effect will be presented for your approval at this Annual General Meeting”, Dangote stated.

Meanwhile, the Group’s trading performance for the 2014 financial year showed that the turnover rose to N41.3 billion, representing 3.3 per cent higher than the value recorded in the previous year. This is just as its operating loss before abnormal items dropped to N4.8 billion. According to the Chairman, the abnormal items totalling N1.6 billion represented the impairment of excess production capacity in Apapa, Ikorodu and Calabar.

Airtel emerges Telecoms Company of the Year ISAIAH ERHIAWARIEN

or its contributions to the nation’s telecoms industry, Airtel Nigeria has emerged as ‘Africa’s Telecommunications Company of the Year.’ The award conferred on the company at the 6th African Business Leadership Forum and Awards 2015, held at Hilton London Metropole, United Kingdom was also honoured with a Special Commendation Award from the US Georgia Legislative Black Caucus. The Organisers, African Leadership Magazine said Airtel emerged Telecommunications Company of the Year due to its “immense contribution to the growth of the sector in the coun-

try and beyond. “In arriving at the choice of Airtel Nigeria for the award, the magazine had conducted a survey of over 480,000 readers, comprising 180,000 fans on Facebook and several thousand on other platforms, including our registered subscribers. In the opinion poll, we asked for their choice of outstanding business leaders and institutions in Africa, who should be rewarded for excellence, dedication and business acumen and our different polls nomination shows that you ranked tops in the Telecommunication Category,” the Managing Director of African Leadership Magazine, Mr. Ken Giami said while presenting the award to Airtel.

NBC grows economy by N33bn DAVID AUDU

igerian Bottling Company, NBC, has said, it contributed over N33.5 billion in taxes between 2008 and 2014, saying it will double its production capacity by the year 2020. Nigeria’s growing market of sugar-based product is in contrast with health concerns, being raised in some countries of the world, leading to poor sales. Already, in North American, market sales of diet soda dimmed by 7 percent last quarter, according to the global leader in soft drink category of the carbonated water industry. Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, the Head of Public Affairs, NBC’, Mr. Uzo Odenigbo said, the

NBC has contributed to Nigeria’s economic growth over the years, adding that it will do more in the years ahead. He said the company provides livelihood for over 15 million Nigerians and employs over 4, 000 and 16 million directly and indirectly, adding that out of 900,000 distribution partners; about 70 percent entrepreneurs are women. Odenigbo also harped on safety standard of the NBC, saying that as consumer products manufacturer, they have over the years, adhered strictly to hygienic standards in line with global best practices in accordance with NBC global standards. He said NBC with over 12 plants and 50 deports across the country strives to maintain safety records in all their operations.

SCOR’s premium up EUR6.49bn in half-year 2015

COR delivers strong half year results, thanks to the rigorous implementation of its strategic plan “Optimal Dynamics” and the profitable development of its franchise driven by both its Life and P&C business engines. SCOR is on track to achieve the targets set out in its plan. Gross written premiums reach EUR 6,493 million, up 19.6% at current exchange rates compared to H1 2014 (+5.3% at constant exchange rates). This significant growth is driven by the contribution of the two business engines: SCOR Global P&C gross written premiums increase by 19.1% at current exchange rates (+5.9% at constant exchange rates) to EUR 2,859 million;

The company’s Global Life gross written premiums reach EUR 3,634 million, up by 20.1% at current exchange rates (+4.9% at constant exchange rates). This is just as its Global P&C delivers excellent H1 2015 technical profitability with a net combined ratio of 90.9%, stable compared to H1 2014, in an environment of low natural catastrophe losses but with an unusually high number of major industrial losses. SCOR Global Life’s technical margin stands at 7.2% for the first six months of 2015, stable compared to the same period in 2014. SCOR Global Investments achieves a 3.4% return on invested assets thanks to its active portfolio management.

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Nigeria to save $50bn yearly from Import policy enforcement –NACCIMA ABOLAJI ADEBAYO

he Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, NACCIMA, has said that over $50 billion would be saved annually if local production was protected through enforcement of policies restricting importation of agricultural products that could be produced locally. NACCIMA, in a communiqué issued during its 55th Annual General Meeting tagged: “Policy Consistency in Agricultural Value Chain: A Key to Socio Economic Development,” explained that there is a need for the Federal Government to provide incentives for large scale mechanised farming to create employment, achieve increased productivity and self-sufficiency in food production for local consumption and export. According to the Association, this will save the scarce foreign exchange expended on importation of food, estimated at over $50 billion annually. There should also be a deliberate policy for the protection of local investors against dumping. It stressed that despite the involvement of over 60 per cent, agriculture in Nigeria still focused largely on food crops for the domestic market. “Nigeria however, remains a net importer of food largely because of the small scale nature of agricultural operations, with limited innovation regarding in-

Edem

puts, harvesting, processing, distribution and access to markets.” According to Association, Nigeria’s over dependence on petroleum is a major hindrance to agriculture and agribusiness development, stating that 95 per cent of the country’s exports are dominated by petroleum and related products thereby shifting focus from agriculture and resulting in severe underinvestment in the sector. It also noted that the country has a substantial base to build upon which includes its natural assets including land (39.6m hectares of arable land, of which 60 per cent is under cultivation), climate and rainfall, its coastal areas, and its history as an agrarian economy. The communiqué recommend-

ed that government should take agriculture as a key business sector, stating that – like other sectors, agriculture requires the engagement of the Organised Private Sector, OPS, across critical value chains by way of provision of easy and cheap financing and support systems, including equipment, processing, transportation, distribution and marketing support. Outlining the need for effective collaboration between the private and public sectors by way of Public Private Partnerships, PPPs, in agricultural development, the Association stressed that all stakeholders, the OPS, which includes members of NACCIMA, Development part-

ners, Civil Society Organisations, CSO, and National governments should take advantage of the PPP strategy in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural and agribusiness landscape where the country’s growth and development is anchored. The operating environment as mentioned in the communiqué is the major constraint inhibiting agricultural development, urging government to take deliberate steps to drive improvement in the operating environment in terms of provision and/or facilitation of access to security, power, finance, processing, storage and marketing facilities. Recommendations made included the need for a multi-stake-

holder approach to policy formulation with government investing more in policy formulation and secure the active involvement of the private sector in policy formulation and implementation to ensure continuity of agricultural programmes beyond the tenure of the government that initiated the policies/programmes. Also the need for the government to encourage complimentary investments in the various aspects of the agricultural value-chain, such as land clearing, seed production, fertilizer distribution, storage, processing and marketing, saying that this way, there will be economies of scale, increase in production capacity and low cost of production.

FOREIGN BRIEFS

SA 2015 maize output unchanged at 9.75-million tons

A’s maize output is expected to be 9.75-million tons in 2015, unchanged from last month’s estimate, the crop estimates committee said in its sixth production estimate report for this year. Forecasts for white and yellow maize output were left unchanged respectively, as were the area planted to these two crops. The committee said the area

planted to wheat for 2015 was likely to be 478,300 hectares, up 0.4% from 2014. The expected plantings to wheat are the second-smallest on record. Meanwhile, the SA citrus industry has decided to proactively suspend exports of organic lemons to the EU. This was after the EU notified the agriculture department that three consignments of organic lemons contained citrus black

spot-infected fruit. The decision to ring-fence the commodity, thus removing any possible risk stemming from it was not an easy one, said Deon Joubert, special envoy of Market Access and EU Matters for the Citrus Growers Association (CGA) in a statement. “Moreover, it comes with a hefty price tag and financial loss for organic lemon grow-

ers. The South African industry commends these growers for demonstrating this sort of responsible behaviour and leadership.” SA citrus experts are in Europe to inspect the procedures used to identify citrus black spot (CBS), and to understand how they are applied. “The SA citrus industry has gone to great lengths and

enormous cost to ensure compliance with the EU’s requirements. These include new testing regimes, as well as a comprehensive CBS risk management programme,” said Joubert. He said that the underlying issue was that agreement on the risk of CBS being transmitted by fruit to citrus orchards in the EU had yet to be reached.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Friday, July 31, 2015

Investors stake N203bn shares in June Stories: Johnson Okanlawon

hares transactions on the Nigerian Stock Exchange increased to N203.45 billion in June 2015, up 39.9 per cent from May 2015. Also, Foreign Portfolio Investment, FPI, transactions dropped to N69.65 billion, down 12.7 per cent from May 2015, while domestic transactions increased to N133.80 billion in the same period, representing an upward movement of 103.7 per cent. Data from the NSE’s website showed that foreign investors conceded about 31.5

per cent of trading to domestic investors as FPI transactions decreased from 54.8 per cent of the total transactions in May to 34.2 per cent in June while domestic transactions increased from 45. 2 per cent to 65.8 per cent over the same period. Analysis showed that foreign portfolio investors’ inflows accounted for 20.9 per cent of total transactions, while the outflows accounted for 13.3 per cent of the total transactions in June 2015. In comparison to the same period in 2014, total FPI transactions decreased by 40.9 per cent, whilst the

total domestic transactions increased by 24.5 per cent. FPI inflows outpaced outflows which was consistent with the same period in 2014. Overall, there was a 9.78 per cent decrease in total transactions in comparison to the same period in 2014. Between January and June, 2015, domestic transactions increased by 47.7 per cent from January to June 2015. The institutional composition of the domestic market which was about 33.7 per cent at the end of January increased to 80.9 per cent at the end of June, whilst the retail composition de-

creased from 66.3 per cent to 19.1 per cent in the same period. Total FPI transactions of N616billion which accounted for 14.8 per cent of total transactions in 2007 increased over the years to N1.54 billion representing 57.5 per cent of total transactions in 2014, an increase of 42.7 per cent over the 7 year period. Domestic transactions on the other hand started at N3. 56billion is representing 85.2 per cent in 2007, but decreased significantly to N1.14 billion representing 42.5 per cent of total transactions in 2014.

Fidson Healthcare posts N324m profit in six months …Index sheds 0.3%

idson Healthcare has announced a profit after tax of N324.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2015, an increase of four per cent when compared to N310.3 million recorded in the same period of 2014. However, health sector industry revenue declined 11.8 per cent to N4.034 billion, from N4.57 billion recorded in the same period of 2014. Distribution and administrative expenses and cost of goods sold declined by 19.7 per cent and 13.7 per cent respectively to emphasize good profitability strategy.

The significant growth in financial charges of 62.5 per cent was responsible for the slight growth in net income of 4.49 per cent, while earnings per share rose 4.76 per cent, from 21 kobo to 22 kobo per share. Meanwhile, trading in equities continued on a negative note on the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday, as investors’ appetite on stocks dropped further. Specifically, the All Share Index depreciated 0.25 per cent to close at 30,436.18 points, compared to the depreciation of 0.34 per cent recorded the preceding day to close

at 30,510.95 points. Market capitalization lost N25 billion to close at N10.43 trillion, compared to the decline of N36 billion recorded the preceding day to close at N10.45 trillion. Transnational Express Plc led the gainers’ table with five kobo or 4.76 per cent to close at N1.10 per share, followed by 7UP Plc with N8.00 or 4.40 per cent to close at N190.00 per share. Cement Company of Northern Nigeria Plc added 37 kobo or 4.22 per cent to close at N9.14 per share, while WAPCO Plc gained N4.09 or 4.13 per cent to close at N103.09 per share. E Tranzact Plc appreciated 12 kobo or 3.60 per

cent to close at N3.45 per share. Conversely, Pharma Deko Plc dropped 11 kobo or 4.89 per cent to close at N2.14 per share, while Livestock Plc depreciated nine kobo or 4.86 per cent to close at N1.76 per share. Portland Paints Plc shed 20 kobo or 4.81 per cent to close at N3.96 per share, while Unity Bank Plc fell 10 kobo or 4.76 per cent to close at N2.00 per share. Air Service Plc was down nine kobo or 4.76 per cent to close at N1.80 per share. A total of 154.3 million shares valued at N4.21 billion were exchanged in 3,154 deals.

Moody’s rates Access Bank Ba3, stable outlook

oody’s, a rating agency, has assigned first-time foreign currency issuer and local currency deposit ratings of Ba3 with stable outlooks. The agency also assigned the bank a Counterparty Risk Assessment, CRA, of Ba3 (cr)/ Not Prime (cr). A statement from the bank yesterday said the ratings are underpinned by a b2 Baseline Credit Assessment, BCA, which measure an issuer’s standalone financial strength. According to the agency, the bank’s b2 standalone profile reflects a solid asset quality metrics,

underpinned by tangible improvements in loan underwriting standards and risk management in recent years. It added that the rating also reflects a robust capital and liquidity buffers, supported by sustainable internal capital generation and a stable liability structure predominantly funded with deposits. The agency further stated that these strengths are balanced against the country’s challenging operating environment, which takes into account the strong growth potential of the system and institutional and structural weaknesses.

It explained that other premises include the concentration risks on the bank’s books, including to the oil and gas industry. However, the agency noted that the bank is very well positioned to weather the macroeconomic challenges and they expect its standalone credit profile to remain resilient. It added that the longterm deposit and issuer ratings of Ba3reflects the bank’s systematically important bank status. The Ba3 rating assigned to the bank is at the same level as the country’s sovereign rating, which is the highest

any local bank in Nigeria can attain. Rate (%) Inflation

8.2

MPR

Crude oil price

$58.96

Source: NSE

Inter-Bank Rate Naira

US Dollar

N197 Market indicators All-Share Index 30,436.18 points Market capitalisation 10.43trn

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

TRANSEXPR

1.05

1.10

0.05

4.76

7UP

182.00

190.00

8.00

4.40

CCNN

8.77

9.14

0.37

4.22

WAPCO

99.00

103.09

4.09

4.13

ETRANZACT

3.33

3.45

0.12

3.60

MAYBAKER

1.27

1.31

0.04

3.15

COURTVILLE

0.50

0.51

0.01

2.00

SKYEBANK

2.02

2.06

0.04

1.98

184.50

188.00

3.50

1.90

ACCESS

4.91

4.98

0.07

1.43

CHANGE

% CHANGE

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

PHARMDEKO

2.25

2.14

-0.11

-4.89

LIVESTOCK

1.85

1.76

-0.09

-4.86

PORTPAINT

4.16

3.96

-0.20

-4.81

UNITYBNK

2.10

2.00

-0.10

-4.76

AIRSERVICE

1.89

1.80

-0.09

-4.76

MANSARD

2.53

2.41

-0.12

-4.74

PAINTCOM

1.27

1.21

-0.06

-4.72

NPFMCRFBK

1.10

1.05

-0.05

-4.55

THOMASWY

0.67

0.64

-0.03

-4.48

COSTAIN

0.68

0.65

-0.03

-4.41

FGN Bonds

Offer

Bid

Description

Price

Yield

Price

Yield

13.05 16-AUG-2016

1.05

98.19

14.95

98.34

14.79

15.10 27-APR-2017

1.74

100.42

14.77

100.57

14.67

16.00 29-JUN-2019

3.92

103.59

14.75

103.89

14.65

15.54 13-FEB-2020

4.54

103.41

14.48

103.71

14.39

16.39 27-JAN-2022

6.50

106.74

14.74

107.04

14.67

14.20 14-MAR-2024

8.62

97.56

14.70

97.86

14.64

Closing Market Prices of July 30, 2015

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

Exchange

Rates (N)

29-Oct-15

13.35

13.81

WAUA

270

USD

197

28-Jan-16

13.63

14.62

EURO

214

02-Jun-16

12.91

14.49

CFA

0.32

YEN

1.64

Tenor

Rate (%)

SWISS FRANC

202

O/N

5.9583

POUNDS STERLING

293

13.1711

15.9565

SDR

273

16.6520

NIBOR

The Fixings of July 30, 2015

Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015 Printed 30/07/2015 14:32:19.019

Capital Market

National Mirror Daily 2015 Summary (Equities) Friday, July 31, www.nationalmirroronline.net Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Stock exchange daily equities summary FINANCIAL SERVICES Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services UNION HOMES SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC. Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FBN HOLDINGS PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. ROYAL EXCHANGE PLC. STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC UBA CAPITAL PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals

Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015 Printed 30/07/2015 14:32:19.019

Equities as at July 30, 2015

Daily Summary (Bonds)

1st Tier Securities Company name

Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015 HEALTHCARE Printed 30/07/2015 14:32:19.019 Healthcare Providers

1st Tier Securities

Daily Summary (Equities)

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY AGRICULTURE Crop Production OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals Livestock/Animal Specialties LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC. Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals AGRICULTURE Totals Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015 Printed 30/07/2015 14:32:19.019 CONGLOMERATES Diversified Industries A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals Activity Summary on Board EQTY CONGLOMERATES Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Building Structure/Completion/Other COSTAIN (W A) PLC. Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals

Symbol OKOMUOIL PRESCO

No. of Deals 10 9 19

Current Price 26.00 31.19

Quantity Traded 40,949 31,361 72,310

Value Traded 1,050,246.12 975,979.59 2,026,225.71

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 46 46

Current Price 1.76

Quantity Traded 2,225,252 2,225,252

Value Traded 4,093,228.70 4,093,228.70

2,297,562

6,119,454.41

Symbol AGLEVENT Daily Summary TRANSCORP UACN

No. of Deals 3 (Equities) 81 41 125

Current Price 1.10 2.10 40.00

125 No. of Deals 4 4

Current Price 0.65

Symbol JBERGER

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 47.97

Real Estate Development UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 34 34

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) UPDC REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Totals

Symbol UPDCREIT

No. of Deals 2 2

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals

Symbol COSTAIN

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals

Quantity Traded 13,339 8,313,174 264,066 8,590,579

Value Traded 14,685.75 17,518,987.07 10,566,691.52 28,100,364.34

8,590,579

28,100,364.34

Quantity Traded 61,000 61,000 Page Quantity Traded 2 2

Value Traded 39,650.00 39,650.00 12 1 of Value Traded 91.16 91.16

Current Price 9.55

Quantity Traded 270,706 270,706

Value Traded 2,605,157.96 2,605,157.96

Current Price 10.00

Quantity Traded 1,030 1,030

Value Traded 10,300.00 10,300.00

332,738

2,655,199.12

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 20,500 20,500

Value Traded 10,250.00 10,250.00 Value Traded 28,560.00 18,090,907.51 7,008,073.50

Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015

CONSUMER GOODS Printed 30/07/2015 14:32:19.019 Automobiles/Auto Parts DN TYRE & RUBBER PLC Automobiles/Auto Parts Totals Beverages--Brewers/Distillers CHAMPION BREW. PLC. Activity Summary onPLC Board EQTY GUINNESS NIG INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © JOS INT. BREWERIES PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals

Symbol DUNLOP

No. of Deals 1 1

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol CHAMPION GUINNESS INTBREW

No. of Deals 4 50 17

Current Price 5.36 131.68 18.24

Quantity Traded 5,600 136,869 387,000

Symbol JOSBREW NB

No. of Deals 5 143 219

Current Price 1.58 121.00

Quantity Traded Page 180,775 21,649,873 22,360,117

12 2Value Traded of 272,970.25 2,619,497,286.42 2,644,897,797.68

Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals

Symbol 7UP

No. of Deals 17 17

Current Price 190.00

Quantity Traded 143,579 143,579

Value Traded 27,197,192.79 27,197,192.79

Food Products DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NASCON ALLIED INDUSTRIES PLC N NIG. FLOUR MILLS PLC. Food Products Totals

Symbol DANGFLOUR DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR NASCON NNFM

No. of Deals 23 47 90 10 26 1 197

Current Price 3.20 6.00 29.00 3.10 6.35 16.30

Quantity Traded 345,675 1,966,831 1,188,787 79,606 357,263 269 3,938,431

Value Traded 1,105,473.98 11,752,250.30 34,500,933.38 234,837.70 2,282,453.83 4,166.81 49,880,116.00

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

No. of Deals 7 51 58

Current Price 35.05 850.02

Quantity Traded 20,693 553,947 574,640

Value Traded 689,076.90 470,855,541.56 471,544,618.46

Symbol VITAFOAM

No. of Deals 27 27

Current Price 5.65

Quantity Traded 318,833 318,833

Value Traded 1,642,214.70 1,642,214.70

Symbol PZ UNILEVER

No. of Deals 35 27 62

Current Price 28.01 37.00

Page Quantity Traded 300,888 170,012 470,900

12 3Value Traded of 8,456,491.94 5,992,121.29 14,448,613.23

Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015

Food Products--Diversified Printed 30/07/2015 14:32:19.019 CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY Household Durables Totals CONSUMER GOODS Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange Personal/Household Products © P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals

Daily Summary (Equities)

CONSUMER GOODS Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015 GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. Printed 30/07/2015 14:32:19.019 SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC UNION BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC. INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC ActivityZENITH Summary on Board EQTY Banking Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES InsuranceCarriers, Carriers,Brokers Brokersand andServices Services Insurance

AFRICAN ALLIANCE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC AIICO INSURANCE PLC. CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC Published byEQUITY The Nigerian Stock Exchange ASSURANCE PLC. © GUINEA INSURANCE PLC. CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INSURANCE COMPANY PLC LINKAGE ASSURANCE PLC AXAMANSARD INSURANCE PLC MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC. N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. REGENCY ALLIANCE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC SOVEREIGN TRUST INSURANCE PLC STANDARD ALLIANCE INSURANCE PLC. Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015 UNIVERSAL INSURANCE COMPANY PLC Printed 30/07/2015 WAPIC14:32:19.019 INSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Micro-Finance Banks NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services ASO SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC FINANCIAL SERVICES Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © UNION HOMES SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC. Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FBN HOLDINGS PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. ROYAL EXCHANGE PLC. STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC UBA CAPITAL PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals

581

Symbol No. of Deals ACCESS 122 DIAMONDBNK 10 ETI 26 FIDELITYBK 25 GUARANTY 268 SKYEBANK 99 STERLNBANK 27 UBA 122 UBN 29 DailyUNITYBNK Summary (Equities) 23 WEMABANK 14 ZENITHBANK 290 1,055

Pharmaceuticals EVANS MEDICAL PLC. FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Current Price 4.98 3.81 19.50 1.52 23.80 2.06 2.14 4.27 7.75 2.00 0.90 16.36

27,827,000

3,209,620,802.86

Quantity Traded 5,406,849 604,213 537,478 815,861 11,030,371 6,554,565 5,493,127 18,309,664 566,600 4,131,901 403,242 7,724,702 61,578,573

Value Traded 26,971,662.00 2,305,766.22 10,615,774.71 1,244,096.55 262,639,609.72 13,637,284.07 11,327,307.84 77,054,458.95 4,395,236.50 8,272,402.00 353,620.54 126,995,278.04 545,812,497.14

Current Price 5.50

Quantity Traded 225 525

Value Traded 1,176.75 1,326.75

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FBNH FCMB ROYALEX STANBIC UBCAP

No. of Deals 76 9 267 48 1 40 74 515

Current Price 2.87 4.00 7.22 2.79 0.50 21.76 1.33

Quantity Traded 3,832,164 441,118 6,270,892 8,618,777 7,600 1,904,652 2,430,160 23,505,363

Value Traded 11,101,409.73 1,764,522.00 45,815,168.25 23,302,357.94 3,800.00 41,456,985.22 3,263,222.20 126,707,465.34

89,680,745

677,142,368.38

Quantity Traded

Value Traded

Symbol

No. of Deals 3 3

Current Price 1.05

Quantity Traded 50,900 50,900

Value Traded 53,445.00 53,445.00

Symbol ASOSAVINGS

No. of Deals 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 300

Value Traded 150.00

Symbol UNHOMES

No. of Deals 2 3

Current Price 5.50

Quantity Traded Page 225 525

Traded 12 5Value of 1,176.75 1,326.75

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FBNH FCMB ROYALEX STANBIC UBCAP

No. of Deals 76 9 267 48 1 40 74 515

Current Price 2.87 4.00 7.22 2.79 0.50 21.76 1.33

Quantity Traded 3,832,164 441,118 6,270,892 8,618,777 7,600 1,904,652 2,430,160 23,505,363

Value Traded 11,101,409.73 1,764,522.00 45,815,168.25 23,302,357.94 3,800.00 41,456,985.22 3,263,222.20 126,707,465.34

89,680,745

677,142,368.38

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 31,200 31,200

Value Traded 15,600.00 15,600.00

Symbol EVANSMED FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER

No. of Deals 42 5 23 15

Current Price 0.54 3.30 40.00 1.31

Quantity Traded 4,722,076 43,200 600,646 224,294

Value Traded 2,667,264.32 143,446.00 23,969,181.88 296,803.52

Page

Symbol UNIONDAC

No Of Deals

No. of Deals

ICT Computer Based Systems COURTEVILLE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS PLC Computer Based Systems Totals Processing Systems CHAMS PLC Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015 E-TRANZACT INTERNATIONAL PLC Printed 30/07/2015 14:32:19.019 Processing Systems Totals

Electronic and Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. Electronic and Electrical Products Totals Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015 Packaging/Containers Printed 30/07/2015 BETA14:32:19.019 GLASS CO PLC. GREIF NIGERIA PLC Packaging/Containers Totals Tools and Machinery NIGERIAN ROPES PLC Tools and Machinery Totals Activity Summary on Board EQTY INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals NATURAL RESOURCES Metals ALUMINIUM MANUFACTURING COMPANY PLC Metals Totals Paper/Forest Published by The NigerianProducts Stock Exchange © THOMAS WYATT NIG. PLC. Paper/Forest Products Totals

EVANSMED FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER Symbol NEIMETH PHARMDEKO

Integrated Oil and Gas Services Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015 OANDO PLC Printed 30/07/2015 14:32:19.019 Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors BECO PETROLEUM PRODUCT PLC CONOIL PLC ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC. OIL AND GAS Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors NIGERIA PLC. Published by TOTAL The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals

15,600.00

Value Traded 2,667,264.32 143,446.00 23,969,181.88 296,803.52 Value Traded 6 79,170.00 of 12 180,006.20 27,335,871.92

5,759,946

27,351,471.92

Symbol COURTVILLE

No. of Deals 20 20

Current Price 0.51

Quantity Traded 2,720,053 2,720,053

Value Traded 1,367,337.50 1,367,337.50

Symbol CHAMS ETRANZACT

No. of Deals 1 9 10

Current Price 0.50 3.45

Quantity Traded 2,000 198,100 200,100

Value Traded 1,000.00 664,405.00 665,405.00

2,920,153

2,032,742.50

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER CAP Symbol CCNN DANGCEM FIRSTALUM PAINTCOM PORTPAINT WAPCO

No. of Deals 11 16 6 No. of Deals 11 23 1 1 3 90 162

Current Price 21.00 9.80 37.95 Current Price 9.14 170.52 0.50 1.21 3.96 103.09

Quantity Traded 231,511 2,004,434 3,821 Quantity Traded 158,800 34,870 20,000 Page 1,000,000 155,000 1,131,485 4,739,921

Symbol CUTIX

No. of Deals 5 5

Current Price 1.50

Quantity Traded 35,400 35,400

Value Traded 55,578.00 55,578.00

Symbol BETAGLAS VANLEER

No. of Deals 1 3 4

Current Price 41.47 11.48

Quantity Traded 700 2,590 3,290

Value Traded 29,029.00 28,256.90 57,285.90

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

Quantity Traded 120 120

Value Traded 850.80 850.80

NIGROPES

1 1

7.46

172

Value Traded 4,868,481.80 19,656,242.20 138,005.56 Value Traded 1,446,056.00 5,960,387.12 10,000.00 7 of 12 1,210,000.00 614,000.00 116,642,135.34 150,545,308.02

4,778,731

150,659,022.72

Symbol ALUMACO

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 7.75

Quantity Traded 23 23

Value Traded 169.51 169.51

Symbol THOMASWY

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.64

Quantity TradedPage 58,100 58,100

Value Traded 12 8 of 37,184.00 37,184.00

58,123

37,353.51

Symbol JAPAULOIL

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 19,661 19,661

Value Traded 9,830.50 9,830.50

Symbol OANDO

No. of Deals 222 222

Current Price 12.50

Quantity Traded 5,837,433 5,837,433

Value Traded 72,714,295.07 72,714,295.07

Symbol BECOPETRO

No. of Deals 1 2 2 42 13 1

Current Price 0.50 40.85 2.34 188.00 155.98 49.66

Quantity Traded 6,500 2,005 22,500 85,052 14,146 70

Value Traded 3,250.00 77,814.05 50,175.00 15,673,010.90 2,224,595.00 3,302.60

Symbol TOTAL

No. of Deals 5 66

Current Price 163.00

Quantity Traded 233Page 130,506

12 9 36,348.01 of 18,068,495.56

Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 12 12

Current Price 315.00

Quantity Traded 7,763 7,763

Value Traded 2,343,059.56 2,343,059.56

5,995,363

93,135,680.69

CONOIL Daily Summary (Equities) ETERNA FO MOBIL MRS

301

Value Traded

Symbol AFROMEDIA

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 500 500

Value Traded 250.00 250.00

Symbol REDSTAREX TRANSEXPR

No. of Deals 18 5 23

Current Price 5.00 1.10

Quantity Traded 282,227 300,000 582,227

Value Traded 1,391,530.78 310,450.00 1,701,980.78

Symbol CILEASING

No. of Deals 19 19

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 2,901,600 2,901,600

Value Traded 1,450,800.00 1,450,800.00

Symbol TRANSCOHOT

No. of Deals 2

Current Price 7.86

Quantity Traded 4,150

Value Traded 31,000.50

Symbol

No. of Deals 2

Current Price

Quantity Traded Page 4,150

Media/Entertainment DAAR COMMUNICATIONS PLC Media/Entertainment Totals

Symbol DAARCOMM

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 22,000 22,000

Value Traded 11,000.00 11,000.00

Printing/Publishing ACADEMY PRESS PLC. UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC. Printing/Publishing Totals

Symbol ACADEMY UPL

No. of Deals 3 1 4

Current Price 0.95 6.03

Quantity Traded 10,060 200 10,260

Value Traded 9,959.40 1,146.00 11,105.40

Symbol ABCTRANS

No. of Deals 4 4

Current Price 0.51

Quantity Traded 325,100 325,100

Value Traded 166,303.00 166,303.00

Symbol AIRSERVICE

No. of Deals 5 50 55

Current Price 1.80 4.73

Quantity Traded 214,100 2,034,059 2,248,159

Value Traded 385,389.00 9,753,302.28 10,138,691.28

Symbol CAVERTON

No. of Deals 1 3,1541

Current Price 4.03

Quantity Traded 300 154,335,236 300

4,210,366,740.41 1,149.00

3,154 111

154,335,236 6,094,296

4,210,366,740.41 13,512,279.96

3,154

154,335,236 12 Page 4,210,366,740.41 11 of

Employment Solutions C & I LEASING PLC. Employment Solutions Totals Hotels/Lodging Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Road Transportation Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015 ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC Printed 30/07/2015 14:32:19.019 Totals Road Transportation Transport-Related Services AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015 NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Printed 30/07/2015 14:32:19.019 Transport-Related Services Totals

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Support and Logistics CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC

EQTY Boardand Totals Support Logistics Totals

Daily Summary (Equities)

Daily Summary (Equities) NAHCO

Daily Summary (Equities)

Equity Activity Totalson Board EQTY SERVICES Totals Activity Summary EQTY Board Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Daily Summary (ETP)

Equity Activity Traded Totals Fund Exchange Name LOTUS HALAL EQUITY ETF NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF Exchange Traded Fund Exchange Traded Fund Totals Name LOTUS HALAL EQUITY ETF ETF Board Totals NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF ETPExchange Activity Totals Traded Fund Totals

31,200

Quantity Traded 4,722,076 43,200 600,646 224,294 Quantity Traded 54,600Page 83,930 5,728,746

42 0.54 5 3.30 23 40.00 15 1.31 No. of Deals Current Price 7 1.52 3 2.14 95

NATURAL RESOURCES Totals OIL AND GAS Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals

31,200 15,600.00 Quantity Traded Value of Shares(N)

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

ICT Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEMon PLC Activity Summary Board EQTY BERGER PAINTS PLC INDUSTRIAL CAP PLCGOODS Building Materials CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC DANGOTE CEMENT PLC FIRST ALUMINIUM NIGERIA PLC Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © PAINTS AND COATINGS MANUFACTURES PLC PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Building Materials Totals

Current Price 0.50

1 Quotation(N)

HEALTHCARE Totals

Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STAR EXPRESS PLC Daily Summary as of 30/07/2015 TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC. Printed 30/07/2015 14:32:19.019 Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals

100.00 125.00 3,354.00 16,592.50 971,970.00 1,000.00 26,505.00 450.00 12,600.00 33,592.00 100.00 5,000.00 3,066.50 4,567,634.15

Symbol UNIONDAC

Pharmaceuticals EVANS MEDICAL PLC. FIDSON HEALTHCARE Activity Summary on Board PLC EQTY GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. HEALTHCARE MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. Pharmaceuticals INTERNATIONAL PLC Published by NEIMETH The Nigerian Stock ExchangePHARMACEUTICALS © PHARMA-DEKO PLC. Pharmaceuticals Totals

SERVICES Advertising AFROMEDIA PLC Advertising Totals

ValueTraded Traded Value 250.00 3,444,129.15 40,900.00 12 4 of 7,900.00

1,630

UNION DIAGNOSTIC & CLINICAL SERVICES PLC Company name Healthcare Providers Totals

1,630

OIL AND GAS Totals

No.ofofDeals Deals Current CurrentPrice Price Quantity QuantityTraded Traded No. 1 0.50 500 17 0.87 3,883,124 3 0.83 48,000 2 0.50 15,800Page 1 0.50 200 1 0.50 250 2 0.50 6,708 3 0.50 33,185 6 2.41 403,000 1 0.50 2,000 7 0.60 43,000 1 0.50 900 2 0.50 25,200 2 0.50 67,184 1 0.50 200 1 0.50 10,000 3 0.50 6,133 54 4,545,384

Daily Summary (Equities) NPFMCRFBK

Sector

Exploration and Production SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Exploration and Production Totals

Symbol Symbol AFRINSURE AIICO CONTINSURE EQUITYASUR GUINEAINS HMARKINS INTENEGINS LINKASSURE MANSARD MBENEFIT NEM NIGERINS REGALINS SOVRENINS STDINSURE UNIVINSURE WAPIC

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals HEALTHCARE Healthcare Providers UNION DIAGNOSTIC & CLINICAL SERVICES PLC Healthcare Providers Totals

No. of Deals 2 3

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals

No Debt Trading Activity

Sector

Symbol UNHOMES

3,154

Value Traded 1,149.00

154,335,236

Symbol LOTUSHAL15 Daily Summary NEWGOLD VETGRIF30

No. of Deals Current Price 1 10.21 (ETP) 1 2,085.00 1 13.80 3 Symbol No. of Deals Current Price LOTUSHAL15 1 10.21 3 NEWGOLD 1 2,085.00 VETGRIF30 1 13.80 33

Value Traded 10 31,000.50 of 12

4,210,366,740.41

Quantity Traded 1 50 3 54 Quantity Traded 1 54 50 3 54 54

Value Traded 10.21 104,250.00 41.40 104,301.61 Value Traded 10.21 104,301.61 104,250.00 41.40 104,301.61 104,301.61

ETF Board Totals

104,301.61

ETP Activity Totals

104,301.61

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, July 31, 2015

Community Mirror Since Nigeria allow the Bakassi Peninsula matter to go to court and we lost, we have to abide by it. President Muhammadu Buhari DARE A KOGUN

Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has ordered the Nigeria Police to produce one Afam Nriezedi arrested by Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, Ikeja, in court. Afam Nriezedi, a Lagos resident, was arrested in Lagos on Friday, January 17, 2015, by officers from the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS), Ikeja, Lagos, and detained incommunicado since then. It would be recalled that Network on Police Reform in Nigeria, NOPRIN, is a network of civil society organizations throughout Nigeria, committed to reform and transparency in policing institutions, petitioned Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) Solomon Arase, on the indefinite and secret detention of Afam Nriezedi since January 17, 2015. According to the petition signed by Okechukwu Nwanguma, the national coordinator of NOPRIN, Nriezedi with four other suspects, Kelvin Igah, 39, Ogechi Igah, 32, Victor Igah 35, and Chukwuma Kingsley, 43, were arrested by SARS operatives over a kidnap allegation, but efforts by Nriezdi’s family to see him and legal representation was turned down according to the NOPRIN letter. “More than three months after the arrest of Afam Nriezedi, it is disturbing that the Police have continued to unlawfully detain him incommu-

Police ordered to produce citizen ‘Nriezedi’ in court

Ikeja Rotary donates to Lagos communities

Nigeria Prisons Service staff bus broke down in a flood on Nyanya-Keffi road Maraba, recently.

nicado, denied him access to family, and not accorded him his right to appear in court for trial in accordance with the due process.” The petition further stated that efforts by NOPRIN to inquire about the whereabouts of Afam from the Police proved abortive as they (police) allegedly refused to declare his whereabouts. NOPRIN had approached the court on behalf of the sus-

pect and among other thing prayed the court to compel the police to grant access to the suspect and the enforcement of his fundamental human rights, to fair trial. The trial Judge Justice M. Yunusa in his ruling granted the prayers and subsequently ordered the Police to produce the suspect in court on the next adjournment date. According to the judge “After hearing Chinedu Nneka Esq.

PHOTO: NAN

with Franklin Ihedoro Esq. for the applicant move in terms of the application, it is hereby ordered as follows; That the applicant be produced before the court on the 6th day of August, 2015. “That and order abridging the term of hearing of the application for enforcement of applicants fundamental rights is granted,” Yunusa ruled. The matter was subsequently adjourned to August 6, 2015 for substantive application.

3,000 contractors jostle for Rivers sanitation job DENNIS NAKU

PORT HARCOURT

o fewer than 3,000 contractors are currently jostling for refuse disposal contract at the Rivers State Waste Management Agency, RIWAMA. Sole Administrator of RIWAMA, Felix Obuah, disclosed this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Wednesday and signed by his media aide, Jerry Needam. Obuah further said no fewer than 16 contractors were relieved of their jobs due to non-

performance. He debunked claims in some quarters that the sacked contractors were being witch-hunted for political reasons. The RIWAMA boss explained that successful applicants would be engaged to replace over 60 contractors whose services have been terminated by the agency for non performance. “As a matter of fact, this is a regular exercise and I am not here to look at anybody’s face. Irrespective of political affiliations, I am here to do the job which the Executive Governor

has mandated me to do. “If you are doing your work we will retain you but if you think it is going to be business as usual, we will relieve you of the job and give it to people who are capable and willing to do the job” he stated. In a related development, the RIWAMA sole administrator has attributed the success recorded in last weekend’s sanitation to the team work and patriotism from the 22 Caretaker Committee Chairmen in the state. Obuah thanked the state governor, Chief Nyesom Wike

whom he said initiated the team work through his New Rivers Vision project. He said the cards were laid on the table on assumption of office when the governor declared that one of his top priorities was to clean up Rivers State from the ‘mess’ foisted on it by the immediate past administration. This team work, according to the Sole Administrator saw the full participation of all the Council Chairmen and residents as well as massive involvement of the Ministry of Environment.

otary club of Ikeja in conjunction with Nigeria Air-Force Officers’ Wives Association, NAFOWA, Lagos, has distributed materials worth millions of naira to various categories of poor people to alleviate poverty and meet the first target of the Millennium Development Goals, MDGs, which is eradication of extreme poverty and hunger. People of NAFOWA, Agidingbi and Ikorodu communities were beneficiaries of the items that included sewing machines, hair dryers, camera and camp gas. Making the presentation in Ikeja, the DG, Rtn Bola Onabadejo, said the exercise, which has been going on for years, is one of the ways Rotary puts smiles on faces and improves living condition of people in the communities. He commended the charity club’s partners including NAFOWA and enjoined the beneficiaries of the various items to make good use of them to improve their quality of life. President of the Ikeja club and host of the event, Tosin Kadiri, said various needs in the communities spurred the donations. He said the club was carrying out various other programmes to meet developmental needs such as free eye tests at Ikeja High School, sponsorship of people to study Conflict Resolution at University of Lagos “to educate and create awareness that will inevitably lead to ending conflicts around the globe” and Feed the Poor, among others. NAFOWA representatives, Flt.Lt Temitope Akinduyite and Ms. Olufunmi Thanni, who commended the initiative, however called for more support to ensure greater number of people benefit.

AVM Abubakar

Transition

Friday, July 31, 2015

Avul Jainulabdeen

vul Pakir Jainulabdeen (15 October 1931 – 27 July 2015) was the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. A career scientist[clarification needed] turned reluctant politician, Kalam was born and raised in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu and studied physics and aerospace engineering. He spent the next four decades as a scientist and science administrator, mainly at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and was intimately involved in India’s civilian space program and military missile development efforts.[2] He thus came to be known as the Missile Man of India for his work on the development of ballistic missile and launch vehicle technology. [3][4][5] He also played a pivotal organizational, technical and political role in India’s Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, the first since the original nuclear test by India in 1974.[6] Kalam was elected President of India in 2002 with the support of both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the opposition Indian National Congress. After serving a term of five years, he returned to his civilian life of education, writing and public service. He was a recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was born on 15 October 1931 to a Tamil Muslim family in Rameswaram in the State of Tamil Nadu. His father’s name was Jainulabudeen, a boat owner, and his mother Ashiamma, a housewife.[7][8][9][10] His father owned a ferry that took Hindu pilgrims back and forth between Rameswaram and the now-extinct Dhanushkodi.[11][12] Kalam was the youngest of

four brothers and one sister in his family.[13][14][15] He came from a poor background and started working at an early age to supplement his family’s income.[16] After completing school, K a lam distrib-

newscontribute to his

father’s

uted papers to income.[16]

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

[17] In his school years he had average grades but was described as a bright and hardworking student who had a strong desire to learn and spend hours on his studies, especially mathematics.[17] After completing his education at the Ramanathapuram Schwartz Matriculation School, Kalam went on to attend Saint Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli, then affiliated with the University of Madras, from where he graduated in physics in 1954.[18] He moved to Madras in 1955 to study aerospace engineering in Madras Institute of Technology. While Kalam was working on a senior class project, the Dean was dissatisfied with his lack of progress and threatened to revoke his scholarship unless the project was finished within the next three days. Kalam met the deadline, impressing the Dean, who later said to him, “I was putting you under stress and asking you to meet a difficult deadline”.[19] He narrowly missed achieving his dream of becoming a fighter pilot, as he placed ninth in qualifiers, and only eight positions were available in the. Kalam served as the 11th President of India, succeeding K. R. Narayanan. He won the 2002 presidential election with an electoral vote of 922,884, surpassing the 107,366 votes won by Lakshmi Sahgal. His term lasted from 25 July 2002 to 25 July 2007.[34] On 10 June 2002, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) which was in power at the time, expressed that they would nominate Kalam for the post of President,[35][36] and both the Samajwadi Party and the Nationalist Congress Party backed his candidacy.[37][38] After the Samajwadi Party announced its support for Kalam, Narayanan chose not to seek a second term in office, leaving the field clear.[39] Kalam said of the announcement of his candidature.

News

Plots to oust Uvwie council Chairman thickens Theophilus Onojeghen WARRI

he lingering leadership crisis in Uvwie Public Motor Park Management of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW worsened as palpable tension gripped Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State following the ousting of the current leadership by a group suspected to be loyal to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. There has been cold war between the council chairman, Hon. Henry Baro and the member representing Uvwie/Okpe and Sapele Federal Con-

stituency at the House of Representatives, Hon. Evelyn Oboro, who is a strong supporter of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa over the outcome of the last general elections. Our correspondent gathered that the lingering feud between the duos began when it was alleged that the council chairman worked against Oboro’s candidate during the House of Assembly election the council. Since then, all have not been well in the council. There were sporadic shootings in several parts of the council by youths loyal to the ousted and new leadership. The de-

velopment led to closure of business activities in the council as store owner shut to scamper for safety. National Mirror learned that trouble started when the new management led by Mr Francis Ariyor which the support of Governor Okowa and Hon. Evelyn Oboro has stormed the park with police escort to dethrone the one led by Napoleon Adibo. The situation immediately ignited youths of both factions in gun duel for several hours in the presence of the police deployed to the area in the early hours of Wednesday. The ousted leadership

led by Napoleon Adibu is learnt to be loyalists of the council chairman. Sources told our correspondent that the new development is part of plot to remove the council chairman who is at loggerhead with the House of Representatives member and close ally of Okowa. The sources added that in no distance time Hon. Baro would be removed as the council chair. But, in a statement by the Uvwie Council signed by the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Uvwie Emete Julius called on residents of the council to remain calm and go about their lawful duties

as the council chairman was already handling the situation. “The attention of Uvwie Local Government Authority has been drawn to the incursion of some persons into the Uvwie Central Motor Park this morning. “For the avoidance of doubt, the Nigerian Constitution in schedule four section one and sub-section E vested the powers to establish and manage motor parks in Nigeria on the Local Government Councils. Consequently, the chairman, Hon. Henry Baro on the 20th March 2015 established the Uvwie Public Motor

Management Committee vides a letter with reference number UVLG/645/ TIS/2015. “The headship and/ or chairmanship of the aforementioned committee was placed on Comrade Napoleon Adibu. He is still recognized as such.” Responding to the development, spokesperson of the Delta State Police Command, DSP Celestina Kalu, said the police acted on intelligence report that hoodlums were plotting to shut down the council. She added that some hoodlums have already been arrested in connection with the shooting.

Friday, July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

World News

Debris from missing Malaysian Boeing 777 found

Paul Arhewe,

WITH AGENCY REPORTS

uthorities in Sierra Leone said yesterday they had quarantined 500 people after a man died from Ebola in an area where the deadly virus had been gone for months, in another setback for the fight against the disease. Hassan Abdul Sesay, a member of parliament from the region, said that the victim had contracted Ebola in the capital, Freetown, and then travelled to his home village to mark the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Northern Tonkolili District had not had a single case of Ebola in five months, and the World Health Organization said earlier this week that the lowest number of new cases in a year had been reported in West Africa. The new case shows, however, how just one sick person can change that. The man was treated for fever at a local hospital but authorities did not call the Ebola emergency number. Ebola’s main symptom is fever, which is also found in more common illnesses such as malaria and typhoid. Now the 30 nurses who treated him and his entire home village are being quarantined.

This (U.S. award) cannot fail to shock and, for Kyrgyzstan, this means ethnic instability and an attempt to create chaos. –KYRGYZ PRESIDENT ALMAZBEK ATAMBAYEV

Ebola: 500 under quarantine in Sierra Leone

Botswana tackles worst drought in 30 years Botswana has allocated emergency funds in response to the worst drought conditions in 30 years with agricultural land badly hit by the lack of irrigation, the government said yesterday. A special budget of about $44 million (40 million euros) was passed by parliament on Wednesday after President Ian Khama declared a general countrywide drought, the first since 1984. “In general it is a bad year. That is why we can not categorise the drought by each village and town like we have in the past,” deputy agriculture minister Fidelis Molao told AFP. The relief funds will be used to support livestock farmers, who have been encouraged to reduce their animal numbers due to lack of grassland.

Burundi’s opposition leader elected deputy speaker Medical team seen inside an Ebola quarantine camp in Sierra Leone.

Authorities are also concerned because the man’s father is a taxi driver who brought his son to at least two hospitals. His family and friends buried him without following the special procedures required for Ebola victims to avoid spreading the disease after

death. Authorities still expressed optimism that the disease would soon be contained. “Sierra Leone is on the last lap to get to zero number of cases, and we are bringing in the Sierra Leone police and military to enforce the Ebola

by-laws and get people to comply with the restrictions,” said retired Maj. Alfred Palo Conteh, head of the Ebola response center. Ebola has killed more than 11,000 people worldwide with nearly all deaths in Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia.

UN urges efforts to tackle illicit wildlife poaching he United Nations General Assembly yesterday called on all countries to step up their efforts to tackle illicit poaching and trafficking in wildlife amid global uproar over the unlawful killing of “Cecil” the lion in Zimbabwe. The 193-member General Assembly adopted its first resolution on the issue following a two-year campaign by Germany and Gabon. “Like most people in the world we are outraged at what happened to this poor lion,” Germany’s U.N. Ambassador Harald Braun told reporters after the resolution was adopted. “Hunting activities are partly legal, partly illegal and it is this resolution which fights all the illegal aspects of it.” A Zimbabwean court on Wednesday charged a professional hunter with failing to prevent an American from

AFRICAN BULLETIN

unlawfully killing “Cecil,” in a case that has triggered widespread revulsion at trophy

hunting. Braun said the animals most threatened by wildlife poach-

Protesters hold signs during a rally outside River Bluff Dental clinic against the killing of a famous lion in Zimbabwe, in Bloomington, Minnesota, on Wednesday.

ing are elephants and rhinos and that the money from the trade is one of the key sources of finance for terrorism. He said every day in Africa some 100 elephants are killed by poachers. “There is a black market for rhino horn, and a pound of rhino horn today yields more than a pound of gold in this market,” he said, adding that the value of ivory from poached elephant tusks was only a fraction of the value that a living elephant could provide to a country’s economy through tourism. A global ivory trade ban went into effect in 1989 after Africa’s elephant population plunged from 1.2 million to 600,000. But illegal trade continues, with demand strong in China, other Asian states and places like the United States.

Burundi’s opposition leader Agathon Rwasa has been elected as a deputy speaker of parliament, despite strident criticism of recent legislative and presidential polls. There has been a political crisis since President Pierre Nkurunziza announced he would run for a third term. Rwasa withdrew from this month’s presidential election and described Mr Nkurunziza’s victory as “a joke”. He now says he will “play the game” to bring peace, a news agency reports. Rwasa supported the protests, that began in April, against Nkurunziza’s third-term bid in which more than 70 people have died in clashes with the police.

Calais migrants undaunted amid extra French riot police

Migrants massed around the entrance to the Channel Tunnel said yesterday they would keep trying to sneak across to Britain, undaunted by the arrival of 120 extra riot police on the French side. A police officer said the number of migrants trying to enter Britain eased slightly overnight compared to earlier in the week, with about 800 migrants around the site and some 300 intercepted by police. That compared to an estimated 1,500 attempts by migrants to enter the tunnel on Tuesday night and 2,000 on Monday. Some were probably repeat attempts by the same people. Some 3,000 migrants live around the tunnel entrance in a makeshift camp known as “The Jungle”, making the northern French port one of the frontlines in Europe’s wider migrant crisis alongside Italian and Greek islands used as entry point for those crossing the Mediterranean from Africa.

World News WORLD BULLETIN

‘18 dead in ISIS attack in Syria’ At least 18 people were killed Thursday when Islamic State group jihadists attacked a town in northern Syria recently captured by Kurdish forces, a monitor said. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said several IS fighters infiltrated Sarrin, in Aleppo province, and attacked a school being used as a base by the Kurds. A first attacker blew himself up with the rest then opening fire, the Britain-based monitor said. At least 10 Kurdish fighters were killed in the blast and subsequent gun battle, along with eight IS members, including the bomber, the Observatory said. Kurdish forces captured Sarrin on Monday, after several weeks of intense clashes with IS. The town lies along the M4 highway, which IS uses to transport fighters and supplies between Aleppo province and the group’s de facto Syrian capital of Raqa in the east.

Russia reassures Israel over Iran nuclear deal

Russian President Vladimir Putin told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu yesterday that the deal on Iran’s nuclear program would improve security in the Middle East and guaranteed that Tehran would not acquire nuclear arms. Israel plans to lobby the U.S. Congress not to approve the agreement clinched between Iran and world powers in Vienna earlier this month after more than a decade of negotiations. Under the deal, the United States, European Union and United Nations will lift sanctions against Iran in exchange for Tehran agreeing to long-term curbs on its nuclear program that the West and Israel have feared was aimed at creating a nuclear bomb. Putin told Netanyahu the deal included “solid guarantees that the Iranian nuclear program will be exclusively peaceful” and that implementing it would “positively impact the security and stability of the Middle East”, according to a Kremlin statement.

Drone kills four suspected militants in Yemen An attack by an unmanned aircraft on a car in southern Yemen overnight killed four suspected al Qaeda militants, residents and local officials said yesterday. Those killed in the strike by a suspected U.S. drone in al-Mahfad in Abyan province included a man described by the residents as a mid-ranking local leader, Ahmed al-Kazimi. The occupants of the vehicle were suspected members of Ansar al-Sharia, a part of al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), one of the most active branches of the al Qaeda network. The United States, which fears turmoil in Yemen will strengthen AQAP, acknowledges using drones in Yemen but does not comment publicly on the practice. The group’s new leader Qassim al-Raymi, appointed after his predecessor was killed in a U.S. drone strike in June, called for attacks on the United States in a taped speech released on July 9.

Friday, July 31, 2015

alaysia is “almost certain” plane debris washed up on the Indian Ocean island of Reunion is part of a Boeing 777, its deputy transport minister said, heightening the possibility it could be wreckage from missing Flight MH370. The object, which appears to be part of a wing, was being sent to a French military laboratory near Toulouse to verify if it is indeed the first trace of the lost plane to be found, police sources said. Malaysian air investigators are due in Reunion on Friday. National carrier Malaysia Airlines was operating a Boeing 777 on the ill-fated flight, which vanished in March last year en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing in one of the most baffling mysteries in aviation history. It was carrying 239 passengers and crew. Search efforts led by Australia have focused on a broad expanse of the southern Indian Ocean off Australia. Reunion Island, where the debris was found washed up on Wednesday, is a French overseas department roughly 3,700 km (2,300 miles) away, “The location is consistent with the drift analysis provided to the Malaysian investigation team, which showed a route from the southern Indian Ocean to Africa,” Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak said in a statement. There have been four serious accidents involving 777s in the 20 years since the widebody jet came into service. Only MH370 is thought to have crashed south of the equator. “No hypothesis can be ruled out, including that it would come from a Boeing 777,” the

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Debris from missing Malaysian plane 777 found

French gendarmes and police inspect a large piece of plane debris which was found on beach in Saint-Andre, on French Indian Ocean island of La Reunion, on Wednesday.

Reunion prefecture and the French Justice Ministry said in a joint statement. Reunion, a volcanic island of just 850,000 people 600 km (370 miles) east of Madagascar, has seldom known such attention. “It’s incredible,” said MarieNoelle Le Nivet, a 49-year-old management consultant. “Our lovely beautiful little island and the whole world is watching. It’s amazing.” Aviation experts who have seen widely circulated pictures of the debris said it may be a moving wing surface known as a flaperon, situated close to the fuselage. “It is almost certain that the flaperon is from a Boeing 777

aircraft. Our chief investigator here told me this,” Malaysian Deputy Transport Minister Abdul Aziz Kaprawi told Reuters. Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss said a number stamped on the 2-2.5 meters (6.5-8 ft) chunk of debris might speed up its verification. “This kind of work is obviously going to take some time although the number may help to identify the aircraft parts, assuming that’s what they are, much more quickly than might otherwise be the case,” he said. Investigators believe someone deliberately switched off MH370’s transponder before diverting it thousands of miles off course. Most of the passen-

gers were Chinese. Beijing said it was following developments closely. For the families of those on board, lingering uncertainty surrounding the fate of the plane has been agony. “Even if we find out that this piece of debris belongs to MH370, there is no way to prove that our people were with that plane,” said Jiang Hui, 41, whose father was on the flight. Zhang Qihuai, a lawyer representing some of the passengers’ families, said a group of around 30 relatives had agreed they would proceed with a lawsuit against the airline if the debris was confirmed to be from MH370.

Erdogan taking Turkey to war to avenge Kurdish gains –Opposition

he leader of Turkey’s pro-Kurdish opposition accused President Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday of launching air strikes in Syria and Iraq to prevent Kurdish territorial and political gains, and of using the war against Islamic State as a cover. Turkey launched near-simultaneous air strikes on Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) camps in northern Iraq and Islamic State fighters in Syria last Friday, in what Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu has called a “synchronized fight against terror”. Western allies, including NATO and the United States, have voiced political support for Turkey’s actions but several nations have also urged it not to use excessive force or to let years of peace efforts with Kurdish militants collapse. In an interview with Reuters, Selahattin Demirtas, leader of Turkey’s pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), said the

main aim of the campaign was not to combat Islamist jihadists but to prevent Kurds from unifying areas they control in Syria. “Turkey carried out a couple of air strikes against Islamic State just for show, without caus-

ing serious damage to it, nor is Islamic State feeling serious pressure from Turkey,” he said. “Turkey’s operations do not aim at taking measures against Islamic State. The main objective is to prevent the formation

Turkey’s pro-Kurdish opposition party leader Selahattin Demirtas

of a Kurdish entity in northern Syria.” Demirtas, a charismatic former human rights lawyer, led the HDP into a parliamentary election in June at which it seized enough seats to deprive the AK Party, founded by Erdogan, of a working majority for the first time in more than a decade. The left-wing HDP gained traction after Demirtas campaigned on a progressive platform that took the party beyond its origins in Kurdish nationalism, appealing to a broader range of minorities and opponents of the Islamist-rooted AKP. Erdogan was taking Turkey to war in revenge, Demirtas said, seeking to discredit the Kurdish movement ahead of a possible repeat election. The AKP is in talks to find a junior coalition partner, but should it fail, Erdogan could call a fresh vote at which he hopes the AKP would win back its majority.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

North

Friday, July 31, 2015

Police kill kidnap suspect, arrest others in Kogi WALE IBRAHIM LOKOJA

ogi State Police Command has disclosed that it has killed one Aliyu Isa (aka Osama), leader of a notorious criminal gang that kidnapped a high court judge, Justice Samuel

Obayomi, recently and arrested other members of the gang. It also assured people of state that the police command were currently on red alert to rid the state of violent crimes. Commissioner of Police, Mr. Samuel Adeyemi Ogunjemilusi, who dis-

closed this while parading 13 other suspected criminals at the Police Command headquarters in Lokoja, stated that the battle to free Kogi State from criminal activities was a battle of no retreat, no surrender. Ogunjemilusi explained that the deceased, who

died during a gun duel with the police, was on vengeance mission and recruited other gang members to carry out the elimination of his targets. He pointed out that the late suspect and gang members had attacked an independent marketer and his workers at a filling station,

Bags of fertilizers for sales at the official launch and sale of fertilizer to farmers in Misau LGA, Bauchi State, on Wednesday.

FG orders transfer of randy principal JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

ederal Government has ordered immediate transfer of the Principal of Federal Government College, Jos, Mr Mohammed Manko, for alleged immoral acts, it was learnt yesterday. Manko was said to have been transferred to FCT Zonal Inspectorate Service, Abuja, as jubilation reportedly greeted the development within and outside the college community. A reliable source, who

spoke with our correspondent in Jos yesterday, disclosed that one Mrs. Dinatu Asani, of the Federal Zonal Inspectorate Service, Jos, has been posted to replace him. The embattled principal was widely reported in the media of recent to have impregnated one of his students, a 17-year-old final year student, as a result of his alleged immoral act. According to the source, Manko’s transfer was sequel to a petition written to the Education Ministry by the Parents Teachers Asso-

ciation, PTA, of the college. The parents had in the petition signed by Barrister Jonathan Mawiyau, chairman, Investigation Panel of the PTA, and addressed to the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, threatened to pull out their wards if the randy principal was not removed from the college. Contacted, Mr. Habila Mutla, the college PTA chairman, confirmed the transfer of the principal, which he described as “right step at the right time.”

Some teachers of the college, who spoke with our correspondent, expressed satisfaction with the decision of the ministry. To one Solomon Jeth, the transfer of the principal was a blessing to the students, teachers and the entire college community. Another teacher, who spoke in anonymity said; ‘‘this is indeed the handiwork of God, who has heard our cries and answered us at this crucial moment; we are so grateful to Mr. President the Federal Ministry of Education

Kano, Czech Republic sign MoU on light rail project ABDULGAFAR OLADIMEJI KANO

ano State government has sealed a deal with Czech Republic on provision of light rail system within Kano metropolis. The train would be powered by electricity generated from Challawa-GojeTiga dams Independent Power Project, IPP. Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and the

Czech Republic Ambassador to Nigeria, Pavel Mikes, yesterday signed the Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, at Kano Governor’s Lodge, Aminu Kano House, Asokoro, Abuja. According to a press statement issued by Press Secretary to the State Government, Amin Yasser, the MoU included the designing, manufacturing and assembling lowflow trams, electric loco-

motives, subway train units, trolley buses and construction of standard gauge tracks within Kano metropolitan He disclosed that the agreement further engaged Czech Republic on developing and management of data base of all passengers entering and exiting the trains, couple with movement of the trains: their servicing, repairs and supply of spare parts.

Also, a comprehensive light rail master plan for Kano would be developed, which would provide the basis for detailed terms of the contract. He added that while Kano State Government will finance the project in different phases as identified and agreed upon, the Czech Republic Embassy and agencies will provide the services and materials also as identified and agreed upon.

killed the manager and one other staff, stressing that on swift action of the police there was a gun duel with the gang members. The police had superior firepower and was knocked down alongside one of the gang members, he was suspected to be involved in the kidnap of Obayemi The commissioner stated that the Beretta pistol found on him belonged to the late orderly of the judge that was kidnapped, stressing that he had been on wanted list of the police for quite some time. The police boss added that late Osama was one of those who escaped during a jailbreak last year, where he was serving terms for between 10 to15 years to run concurrently. “The deceased manager of the filing stations and the orderly of the judge before he was assigned to the judge were key witness and

Investigation Police Officer (IPO) respectively in case that led to the imprisonment of the late suspect,” he stressed. Ogunjemilusi said the kidnapped judge presided over the judgement that sent the suspect to jail. Also paraded is one Bolaji Agaje Williams, who was employed as security guard at the cave where the high court judge was kept for over three weeks. Agbaje Williams confessed that he joined the gang recently and was detailed to watch over the kidnapped judge. The commissioner also paraded a gang of Fulani herdsmen who specialised in kidnapping of fellow Fulani kinsmen. The suspects are Idris Mohammed Jafaru, Shehu Haruna and Yunusa Ahmadu who admitted to have made over N1.5m from their illegal activities.

Plateau swears in LGAs caretaker committees JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

aretaker committee members recently appointed to take charge of affairs in the 17 local government areas of Plateau State were yesterday sworn in by the governor, with a call on them to work for the interest of the people. Governor Lalong, who performed the ceremony at Rayfıeld Government House in Jos, also justified dissolution of the former elected council executives and their replacement with new ones, saying the decision to sack them was arrived at after an assessment of their operations within the provision of the law, which leaves much to be desired in government’s expectation of leadership at that level. “We are gathered here today to witness the swearing-in of Management Committee Chairmen as well as the formal inauguration of Management Councils for the 17 local government areas in the state. “It became a matter of necessity for the government to dissolve the local government executive and

legislative arms after an assessment of operations of the councils within the provision of the law, which leaves much to be desired in government’s expectation of leadership at that level. “As a responsible government committed to reducing the sufferings of our people, we have satisfied in our estimation the requirement of the law, conscience and the expectations of the people of Plateau in our actions. “Our government for the purpose of emphasis will not fold her hands and watch those who are called to the highest threshold of accountability in leadership become unaccountable in public service to the mandate given to them. “As a new government, we are confronted with the challenge of paucity of funds in the midst of security concerns, myriad of social welfare and developmental challenges needing immediate attention, for which we are resolute on delivering on them in our quest, to restore Plateau State to her glorious days and position of pride in the comity of states,” he said.

Friday July 31, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Brussels clashes with UK over migrant plan

he European Union clashed with Britain yesterday over a plan to save thousands of migrants trying to cross the Mediterranean, which includes controversial resettlement quotas for refugees. British interior minister Theresa May called for economic migrants to be sent back, saying the EU’s manner of dealing with asylum claims of people rescued at sea encouraged more to risk their lives by attempting the journey. The most controversial elements of the plan are a mandatory redistribution of asylum seekers across CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Obafemi Ruth Morounkeji, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Luja Ruth Morounkeji. Allformer documents remain valid general public should please take note CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that Olayemi Fatai is the same one person as Olayemi Fatai Oyeleye, that henceforth wish to be called and addressed as Olayemi Fatai Oyeleye. All former documents remain valid, WAEC and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Fabunmi Idowu Olugbenga, now wish to be known and addressed as Albert Idowu. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Raji Fatimah Olawunmi, now wants to be addressed as Mrs. Abidoye Fatimah Olawunmi. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

SANSANI: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Christiana Sansani now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Christiana Malachy. All former documents remain valid . General Public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

EKWUEME: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ekwueme Chinyere Nneamaka, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Okoli Chinyere Nneamaka. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ANEKE: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Aneke Kaodichinma Agnes, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Peter-Onyeka Kaodichinma Agnes. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Ojo Recheal Folake, now wish to be known and addressed as Adedokun Racheal Folake. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Akinyera Shakirat Modupeoluwa Olufunke, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Yisa Shakirat Modupeoluwa Olufunke . All former documents remain valid. Adekunle Ajasin University , Akungba Akoko,(AAUA), Ondo State and the entire public should take note.

the 28-member bloc and the use of European military force against smugglers in Libyan waters. Britain, Ireland and Denmark have the ability to opt out of the plan, which comes amid an unprecedented wave of migrants fleeing conflict and poverty in North Africa and the Middle East. “I wonder how anyone could maintain that this could make the situation worse,” European Commission First Vice President Frans Timmermans told a press conference in response to May’s comments. “If we then do nothing, we make the situation worse for people in trouble CHANGE OF NAME OKEBUGWU: I, formerly known and addressed as Joy Abigail Okebugwu, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Joy Abigail Njoku Chukwu. I equally declare that my date of birth was 9th of June, 1986. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Babalola Mayowa Mary, now wish to be known and called as Mrs Olapade Mayowa Mary. All former documents remain valid, Ilesha Grammar School Ilesa and general public should please take note .

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Oke Abiodun Tokunbo, now wish to be known and addressed as Josiah Abiodun Tokunbo. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Raji Fatimah Olawunmi, now wants to be addressed as Mrs. Abidoye Fatimah Olawunmi. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

BILKIS: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Mohammed Bilkis Ohunene, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Abe Bilkis Ohunene. All former documents remain valid. NTDC, Babcock University and general Public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NWODO: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Nwodo Chinonye Ifeoma, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ireye Chinonye Ifeoma. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

UGWU: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ugwu Onyinyeychi Rosemary, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ogbodo Onyinyechi Rosemary. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known as Miss Adebanjo Mojisola Hannah Ibiyemi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Kehinde Mojisola Hannah. All former documents remain valid. general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Oluokun Abimbola, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Mrs Almat Olufunke Akinola. All former document remain valid. First Bank and general public should please take note

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

This is to confirm that I Oluwapelumi Oluwatoyin Badewole is also the same person as Angel Oluwapelumi Oluwatoyin Badewole . All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

This is to confirm that I Oluwakemi Oladipupo Badewole is also the same person as Oladipo Kemi Badewole . All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

and lose credibility in the eyes of our citizens who have demanded that we do something about the tragedies in the Mediterranean.” Timmermans, the righthand man to European Commission chief JeanClaude Juncker, called on EU states to show “solidarity” with countries such as Italy, Greece and Malta, which bear the burden of most migrant arrivals. More than 5,000 migrants, many escaping civil war in Syria, have died over the past 18 months while trying to cross the Mediterranean, often on flimsy rubber dinghies or fishing boats. CHANGE OF NAME

JOSEPH: I, formerly known and addressed as Joseph Emem Peace, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Benjamin-Dyke Peace. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly addressed and known as Miss Folorunsho Kafilat Banke, now wish to be called and addressed as Mrs Arowosere Kafilat Banke. All former documents remain valid. LAUTECH Teaching Hospital Osogbo and general public should please take.ote.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Adesiji Stella Modupe, now wish to be known and addressed as Miss Fabunmi Stella Modupe. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Onwuagbaizu Eucharia Chinwe, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Orie Eucharia Chinwe.All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

EZEKIEL: Formerly known and addresess Miss Hannah Ezekiel, now wishes to be known and addressed as Mrs Hannah Sunday Ireyi. FEDPOLY, Idah, NYSC, Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria IPAN and general public to take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ARIWODO: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ariwodo Chinenyenwa Jessica, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs ObinnaAnyi Chinenyenwa Jessica. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OFFIAH: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Offiah Nkechinyelu Benedette, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ani Nkechinyelu Benedette. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Sokunbi Temitope Rukayat, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Opanuga Temitope Rukayat. All former documents remain valid. GTB and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Omatseye Clarkson Okoh, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Omatseye Clarkson Julius Garba. All former document documents remain valid.General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Ajongbo Olujimi Joshua, now wish to be known and addressed as Olufemi Olujimi Joshua. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Writing in The Times newspaper, May confirmed that Britain would take no part in the Commission’s quota plan and said the EU should be pushing back economic migrants. “I disagree with the suggestion by the EU’s high representative, Federica Mogherini, that ‘no migrants’ intercepted at sea should be ‘sent back against their will’,” she wrote. “Such an approach CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Oluchi Esther Achara, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Oluchi Esther Akunne-Nduka. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OSENI: I, formerly known and addressed as Oseni Sadiat Aderayo, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Ajibola Sadiat Aderayo. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ojo Ifeoluwa Ruth, now wish to be addressed as Mrs. Adeosun Ifeoluwa Ruth. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Bilikisu Mutiu, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Abigael Omowunmi Olaleye. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Agbachomere Jennifer, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Obels Jennifer. All former documents remain valid. State Universal Basic Education Board Asaba, United Bank Of Africa and general public should please take note..

FAMILY CHANGE OF NAME

NWAGADA : We the family formerly known and address as Nwagada now wish to be known and address as Agada. All former documents bearing Nwagada remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

UGWUOKE: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ugwuoke Joy Nkechi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ugwu Joy Nkechi. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Hakeem Fahm , now wish to be known and addressed as Toyin Fahm. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Mrs Onasanya Mariam Adedoyin, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Oladele Mary Adedoyin. All former documents remain valid. Ogun TRACE AND general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ADEGUN: Formerly known and addressed as Adegun Toluwalope Feyisayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Orunmuyi Toluwalope Feyisayo. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Akpan Enobong Ruth, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Olufemi Enobong Ruth. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

would only act as an increased pull factor across the Mediterranean and encourage more people to put their lives at risk.” May’s comments also underscore the clashes to come between newly re-elected British Prime Minister David Cameron and his European partners as he pushes for reform on migration and other issues ahead of a referendum on Britain’s EU membership. If Britain, Ireland and CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Adeyeye Yemi Oluwabunmi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Odunlami Yemi Oluwabunmi. All former documents remain valid. N.Y.S.C and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ADEDIRAN: I, formerly known and addressed as Adediran Iyanda Mumeen, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Adediran Bashiru Adeniji. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ola Funmilola Olusola, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ogunlana Funmilola Olusola. All former documents remain. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Mrs Okereafor Mary Oluwabisi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Akinola-okereafor Mary Oluwabisi.All former documents remain valid. Ogun State Civil Service Commission and General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Mrs Shodipo Modinat Bolanle, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Bakare Sidikat Bolanle.All former documents remain valid.General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

OGBODO : Formerly known and address as Miss Ogbodo Chinonyelum Amara, now wish to be known and address as Mrs Obieze Chinonyelum Amara. All former documents remain valid. Public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ONYENWE: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss. Hope Ifeoma Onyenwe, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Hope Ifeoma Ezeokoli. All former documents remain valid. National Orthopaedic Hospital, NHIS and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Akin- Adarijo Excel Eniola, now wish to be known and addressed as Oladele Excel Eniola. All former documents remain valid. Airforce Secondary School Ikeja and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Oyewale Oluwafunmilola Ayomide now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ogunsanwo Oluwafunmilola Ayomide. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Manuel Alunomoh Arcoven, now wish to be known and addressed as Sheu Lucky Arcoven. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I Mrs Ogunrinde Ruth Olufunmilayo, am the same person as Ogunrinde Ruth Oluwafunmilayo henceforth wish to be addressed as Mrs Ogunrinde Ruth Olufunmilayo. All former documents remain valid.Oyo SUBEB Ibadan North L.G.U.B.EA and all Authorities concerned take note.

Denmark opt out then the other 25 EU states can still pass the plan, which is set to go before European leaders at a summit at the end of June. But that could spark anger from other countries, especially as immigration is such a sensitive political issue for many member states. Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban -- whose country has no opt-out -last week called the quota plan “mad and unfair”. CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Kotun Sulaimon Olawale, now wish to be known and addressed as Babajide Mudashiru Adewale. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Blessing Peibuluere Ogu, henceforth wish to be called Mrs Blessing Peibuluere Samuel. All former documents remain valid.General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Joy Kaka Yisa now wish to be known and addressed as Dr. Mrs. Joy Kaka Tsado.All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Balogun Fasilat Oluremi Yetunde, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Okedara Fasilat Oluremi Yetunde. All former documents remain valid and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Ogunsuada Eunice Abosede, now wish to be known and addressed as Deaconess Josiah Eunice Abosede Folasade. All former documents remain valid and general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Sholaja Taiwo Rafiat, now wish to be known and addressed as Ayinde Taiwo Rafiat. All former documents remain valid.General public to take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

EZEILOEGBUNAM: I, formerly known and addressed as Mr. Francis Obunikem Ezeiloegbunam now wish to be known and addressed as Mr. Francis Obunikem Ezeokoli. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Alo Deborah Oluwayinka, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Olonade Deborah Oluwayinka. All Documents and certificates bearing my former names remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ajiboye Temitayo Ajoke, now wish to be known and addressed as Fashola Temitayo Ajoke. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Alexander Seraphina Okuakaghinwa, now wish to be known and addressed as Miss Agudosi Joy Okuakaghinwa. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OKEKE: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Okeke Chinwe Ruth, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Anyanwu Chinwe Ruth. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, July 31, 2015

Trials: Okagbare, Okoro get AFN’s exemption

The Gunners can compete for titles this season. But they have to consider signing more quality players

Sport

–Arsenal legend, Thierry Henry

Taiwo Awoniyi will lead Nigeria’s attack in Congo

Pointe Noire clash:

I love big battles –Siasia Everest Onyewuchi

igeria U-23 team’s Coach, Samson Siasia, has expressed confidence that his players will come out of the cauldron of Pointe Noire triumphant after Sunday’s potentially explosive 2015 African U-23 Championship final qualifying match. A slim 2-1 advantage from the first leg in Port Harcourt

...Le Roys vows to ruin Nigeria on artificial turf

means a battle is imminent, in a Congo-Brazzaville reputed for all manner of tactics and mind games against visiting teams. Yet, Siasia is unfazed as he declared before the team’s departure yesterday that he gives his best in big games. “I love big games, and I’m not shy to say so. This is with every sense of modesty. Pointe Noire is another tough session,

but I look forward to it.” Siasia was in charge of the Nigeria U-23 team that also had to negotiate tough runs to the Men’s Football Tournament of the Beijing 2008 Olympics. On November 16, 2007, the team needed at least a draw against Ghana in Accra to be in good stead for the ticket, and duly played out a goalless draw. Siasia’s boys completed the job

with a 3-0 win over South Africa in Abuja in March 2008 and went ahead to win silver medal in Beijing. But even as Nigeria talks tough, hosts Congo say Siasia is only huffing and puffing. “We were lucky to only lose 2-1 in Nigeria,” admits the bespectacled 67-year-old Coach Claude Le Roy, “But it is going to be far more difficult for Nigeria

on an artificial pitch in PointeNoire.” Moise Nkounkou grabbed a precious away goal after Junior Ajayi struck twice within seven minutes soon after half-time and Le Roy, whose success-filled career with numerous African countries does not include an Olympics appearance, believes his ‘Devils’ can claim another notable victim.

Pinnick charges Falcons, Dream Team to shed blood

igeria Football Federation ( NFF) President, Amaju Pinnick, has charged the Super Falcons and the U-23 boys to shed their blood if possible and do the nation proud as both teams negotiate tough bends in the race to next year’s Olympics. Pinnick was at the Murtala Muhammed International

Airport, Lagos early yesterday to receive the Falcons as they arrived in Lagos, on their way to Bata, where they clash with their Equatorial Guinean counterparts on Sunday. “The whole country is proud of what you have done in the past, winning seven African Women Championship titles out of nine so far, and qualifying for

the Olympics in 2000, 2004 and 2008. “Your superiority on the African continent has never been in doubt. What is left is for us to take that capability to the global stage. The entire nation has faith in you to overcome in Equatorial Guinea and eventually qualify for the Olympics,” he told the players.

The Falcons have a battle on their hands, having only drawn the first leg at home 1-1 against the only other substantial rival they have on the African continent. Pinnick also sent a message to the U-23 boys, who were led out of the country yesterday afternoon by NFF 1st Vice President, Seyi Akinwunmi.

“We are fully aware of the fact that we are fighting two battles in one day. But they say that when the going gets tough, the tough gets going. “Samson Siasia has been in this kind of situation several times and he has come out victorious. We believe in him and the team that he is taking to Pointe Noire.”

Sports

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, July 31, 2015

NBA Africa: Aminu, others eye SA glory Paul Erewuba

ortland Trail Blazer forward, AlFarouq Aminu, Giannis Antetokounmpo (Adetokumbo) will lead other African NBA stars for an exhibition match scheduled for tomorrow at the Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg, South Africa. The match, to be broadcast live on SS6 HD, in support of various charity organisations across the continent, will pit Team Africa against Team World. Team Africa, captained by two-time NBA All Star Luol Deng of the Miami Heat, promises to be a homecoming of sorts for Team Africa players as they were born on the continent while some are second generation Africans. The team features Al-Farouq Aminu (Portland Trail Blazers; US; parents from Nigeria), Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks; Greece; parents from Nigeria), Nicolas Batum (Charlotte Hornets; France; parents from Cameroon), Bismack Biyombo (Toronto Raptors; Democratic Republic of Congo), Boris Diaw (San Antonio Spurs; France; parents from Senegal), Gorgui Dieng (Minnesota Timberwolves; Senegal), Festus Ezeli (Golden State Warriors; Nigeria), Serge Ibaka (Oklahoma City Thunder; Congo) and Luc Mbah a Moute (Sacramento Kings; Cameroon). Team World comprises players from the rest of the world and will be captained by eight-time NBA All Star Chris Paul (Los Angeles Clippers; US), Bradley Beal (Washington Wizards; US), Kenneth Faried (Denver Nuggets; US), Marc Gasol (Memphis Grizzlies; Spain), Pau Gasol (Chicago Bulls; Spain), Jeff Green (Memphis Grizzlies; US), Marcus Smart (Boston Celtics; US), Evan Turner (Boston Celtics; US) and Nikola Vucevic (Orlando Magic; Montenegro).

Ibe

Reds boss banks on Ibe L

iverpool Manager, Brendan Rodgers, says teenage winger Jordon Ibe will be given time to develop into what he calls top-class performer. The 19-year-old, who has been at Anfield since December 2011, has been used sparingly in the first team since his debut in a 1-0 home victory over QPR in May 2013. After making only 12 Premier League appearances over the past three years, the England U20 international, who was loaned out to Birmingham City and Derby County, was handed a new longterm contract at the end of last season. “We must not forget that Jordon is only 19,” Rod-

gers said yesterday. Ibe featured prominently on Liverpool’s pre-season tour of Asia and Australia, the highlight a stunning equaliser in the 1-1 draw with a Malaysia XI in Kuala Lumpur last week. The Reds boss acknowledged the Nigerian-born player still far from the finished article but expected him to continue his development in the coming seasons. “He still has a lot of potential and work to do but he is one that will certainly feature heavily this year,” he added.

Olympics qualifier:

Ebi rues Bata Battle miss Mercy Jacob Ebi

uper Falcons defender, Onome Ebi, has expressed sadness at missing out of the crucial game between the Falcons and their Equatorial Guinea counterparts in Bata on

Sunday. Ebi, who was stopped by club engagement in Europe, however said the team would prevail over the host without her. “I believe my absence will not be felt because we have a strong team that can make Nigeria proud,” she

said.” “All they need is to believe and will come out victorious. “I also want Nigerians to support the Falcons until the final whistle while the players adhere strictly to the coach’s instruction.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sports

Friday, July 31, 2015

Trials: Okagbare, Okoro get AFN’s exemption Mercy Jacob

he Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has granted the request of Blessing Okagbare and Chinwe Okoro to be exempted from the All Nigeria Athletics Championships which started at the Warri City Stadium yesterday. The two-day championship serves as trial for the Beijing 2015 1AAF Athletics Championship and Brazzaville 2015 All Africa Games. Okagbare’s medical and sports science team in a letter to the board through it medical commit-

tee headed by Professor Ken Anugweje, pleaded with federation to excuse the athlete to enable her treat a knee injury and abdominal problem. The team stressed the need to treat the injury to make Okagbare fully fit for the World Championships in Beinjig next month. Okoro also said the trials coincided with her Master’s degree examination. The technical department of the federation argued that the athletes’ exemption would enable more slots at the World Championships since both had qualified automatically as the Area Champions.

Okagbare

AAG: No-tour policy unsettles badminton players Joel Ajayi ABUJA

arley six weeks to this year’s All Africa Games, the Nigerian badminton team has raised the alarm over the NSC’s stand not to approve foreign tours for athletes prior to the quadrennial event to be staged on Cong Brazzaville. Badminton won one gold silver and bronze medals at the last games held in Maputo, Mozambique. “Is not proper to just train and enter a tournament such

as All Africa Games and play without any pre-tournament,” one of the players, who pleaded anonymity, said. “As a player, if you go for pretournament, it will help to put you in proper shape whether you win or lose. “How will they expect us to give our best at the tournament proper? Team captain, Olaoluwa Fagbemi, however applauded the feeding and accommodation arrangement in the camp, saying the athletes were mentally ready for the challenge ahead.

NWPL: Confluence Queens target Robo points Afolabi Gambari

echnical Adviser of Confluence Queens FC of Lokoja, Musa Baba-Anini Amorley, says his side will bounce back from the home draw against Delta Queens on Wednesday as the Wada Queens take on FC Robo in a Week 10 game in Lagos tomorrow. Missed chances robbed the Lokoja club of victory against Delta, but Amorley says the players have realized their mis-

takes and are ready to make amends. “We played better and deserved to win the game but were too too wasteful in front of goal,” the coach said yesterday. “We are forced to try and get at least a draw in Lagos and then return home to consolidate. “I believe we can also get a win because we are more determined than ever not to allow any slips anymore.” Confluence Queens have garnered eight points from the last six matches.

MANDATE

THE

Sylvester Ikuejamoye

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

AAG: We can better our best

t is an incontrovertible fact that all countries participating in a contest are aiming toward the same goal of making commendable impact. The target in most cases is to be victorious. It is my personal view that to become an over-all winner in sports championships like All Africa Games, Commonwealth Games or Olympic Games may not have much to do with size or population of a country. It may not also have much to do with how rich or wealthy a country may be. It is all about how to effectively manage the resources at ones disposal, no matter how little and also the capacity to develop and encourage identified talents on a steady and sustainable growth. Any country without steady and sustainable roadmap for developmental talent hunt will always face difficulties in the replacement of old athletes which ultimately lead to draught and stagnation. Decline in the sporting fortunes of any country is a sign of very serious defect in the sporting strategy of the nation. There is no doubt that Nigeria is sufficiently blessed to make consistent and comfortable appearance on the medals table in any global competition. In the history of the All Africa Games since 1965, Nigeria has only topped the medal table once and this was at the 8th edition held in Nigeria, tagged COJA 2003. The record of our participation in the Games further showed that at the inception of the Games in Brazzaville, Congo, Nigeria came 2nd with 9 gold, 6 silver and 4 bronze medals. At the 1973 Games held in Lagos, Nigeria, we came 2nd again with 18 gold, 25 silver and 20 bronze medals. Algiers, Al-

geria hosted the 1978 edition and Nigeria also came 2nd with 18 gold 10 silver and 15 bronze medals. The 1987 edition was held in the city of Nairobi, Kenya. Again, Nigeria came 2nd with 23 gold, 16 silver and 21 bronze medals. It was the turn of the city of Cairo, Egypt to host the 1991 edition of the Games and Nigeria came 3rd with 43 gold, 51 silver and 53 bronze med-

President Buhari

als. The city of Harare, Zimbabwe hosted the 1995 Games and Nigeria again came 2nd with 36 gold, 31 silver medals. The 1999 edition was held in Johannesburg, South Africa where Nigeria again came 2nd with 64 gold, 28 silver and 37 bronze medals. Nigeria came 1st at the Games in 2003 held in the city of Abuja with 85 gold, 85 silver and 48 bronze medals. At the 2007 Algiers, Algeria Games, Nigeria came 4th with 51 gold, 53 silver and 56 bronze medals. The last edition held in Maputo, Mozambique, in 2011 saw Nigeria come 3rd with 29 gold, 29 silver and 42 bronze medals. It does not add up in any way to imagine that Nigeria with her potential can only struggle to top

FCT set for Junior Cricket Joel Ajayi ABUJA

he Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) yesterday disclosed that the 2nd U-15 Boys Cricket Championship will kick off this weekend in Abuja. Public Relations Officer of the federation, Musa Ehizoje, said in Abuja that the tournament aimed to revive the sport’s grassroots development with a view to

institutionalizing it. “Our administration believes that junior and age grade tournaments are the pathways to ensuring sustainable cricket development in Nigeria,” Ehizoje said. Winner of the maiden edition, South West, will be joined by the other four geo-political zones excluding North-East zone that is currently experience insecurity.

the medal table of the Games once, and that was the last time Nigeria hosted the Games in 2003. Our participation in the last two editions were particularly dismal to the extent of only managing to secure 3rd or 4th position. There is the urgent need to work extremely hard to better in flying colours the best we have attained thus far in the history of the Games. We must better our best in medal haulage in order to enhance our position on medals table. Nigeria should be the team to beat, especially in Africa in any major international championships in view of the potential available in the country. It is also a fact that cannot be disputed that we have had issues with succession in the replacement index of old athletes in the country which had contributed significantly to the dwindling fortune in our quest for better results at global meets. The challenges before various sports federations are enormous in ensuring quality representation and participation at major championships. This they can only do with very clear roadmap but more importantly with adequate funding. It is essential to note that every level of preparation and participation in any competition entails funding. The capacity to provide the required facilities is also money consuming. The timely release of funds for every segment of preparations for quality participation is fundamental and central to the over-all development and growth of sports in the country. Once again, I have no doubt that if the needful is done, Nigeria can better her best record at major competitions, particularly at the Africa Games. Everybody has roles to play in this regard, from the athletes through technical officials to the administrators. It is a deal that must be accomplished with commitment and determination by all right thinking stakeholders in the industry. I feel confident that we can better our best.

Hard but the bitter truth The Almighty God is the only perfect one. Your trust in Him is perfect. To rely on Him is perfect. To hold on to Him is perfect. Man is an embodiment of deceit and pretence of the highest order. It is in man’s character to pretend to give you honey when he is in actual fact giving you bitter pill. It is in the character of man to dig a very deep grave ahead of you but pretend to be clearing the way for your smooth movement. Man remains the serpent that cannot be ignored and cannot be embraced. Man is the only man’s problem that must be contended with. Hard but the bitter truth. Until next week Friday stay out of trouble and God bless Nigeria.

WORLD RECORD

Highest fall survived without parachute

Vol. 05 No. 1169

Friday, July 31, 2015

N150

Vesna Vulovic (Yugoslavia) was 23 working as a Jugoslavenski Aerotransport hostess when she survived a fall from 10,160 m (33,333 ft) over Srbsk, Kamenice, Czechoslovakia (now Czech Republic), on 26 January 1972

Airport humiliation of Mrs. Patience Jonathan

ame Patience Jonathan, wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan and Nigeria’s immediate past ‘First Lady’, remains one exciting reference spectacle deserving of discourse. It doesn’t matter that her husband exited power last May 29, roughly two months and two days today. Her public character traits are also not difficult to deconstruct, though many reason otherwise. She has courage, which she perhaps mustered over time with her husband’s rise through the rungs of power. She is vocal and has no qualms passing on messages that won her emotion with whatever manner of language she believes can truly communicate her innermost feelings. She is straight-forward, but with the caveat: “except when it comes to scheming for power and how to corner and retain it”. She likes flaunting power, public recognition; and so forth, too. Her comments can sometimes be denigrating and provocative; and

BF Welterweight champion, Kell Brook, believes he could be just one fight away from a long-awaited British battle with Amir Khan at Wembley. Both men could finally settle their rivalry next summer after Khan re-

FRIDAY WITH Dozie Okebalama

dozieokeama@yahoo.co.uk 08164966858 (SMS only) she can challenge sensibilities, no matter how intimidating, et cetera. These easily qualify her as the ‘Most Controversial Nigeria’s First Lady’ in contemporary history. Some of her resonating controversies would include the suspect Permanent Secretary (without portfolio) job Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa (her husband’s home state), gave her while she was First Lady; Abuja land dispute between her and former First Lady, Turai Yar’Adua; acceptance of an honorary doctorate degree from Hansei University, South Korea, at a time when public universities in Nigeria were shut under her husband’s watch; and conducting her public engagements as First Lady, an office not recognised by the country’s Constitution, from platforms adorned with Nigeria’s Coat of Arms and National Flag, which desecrated the nation’s Constitution, sovereignty and respect for Nigerians. Her bitter feud with former Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State; alleged trivialisation of ‘Chibok Girls’ saga, hate campaign against the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its presidential candidate, now President Muhammadu Buhari, before the last general election, are also there, among others. Now out of power, Mrs. Jonathan insists on enjoying exceptional privileges. ‘Overzealous’ security operatives led by one Ambassador Hussein were lately accused

IT DOES SEEM ONE JOB AIRPORT SECURITY OPERATIVES APPEARED TO HAVE LEFT UNDONE AS YET IS DEBRIEFING PERSONALITIES LIKE

JONATHAN’S WIFE ON THE LIMITATIONS OF THEIR PRIVILEGES ONCE THEIR HUSBANDS QUIT OFFICE of denying her access to the VIP lounge at the Port Harcourt Airport; and the ex-First Lady, in return, lodged a very strong remonstrance with Hussein’s bosses at the Foreign Affairs Ministry. Fireworks between her loyalists and foot-soldiers of the ruling party are also raging. From Jonathan’s wife’s camp was the claim that on her way to the burial of one of her slain aides recently, Hussein threatened she would be dealt with her if seen again around the Protocol Lounge of the Port Harcourt Airport. The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) cried blue murder and described the incident as ‘organised public humiliation’; while the APC said she deserved the alleged insult because of the rabid hatred

and contempt the Jonathans harboured for Rivers State and her people, buttressed by the purported abandonment of Port Harcourt Airport when other airports in the country were rehabilitated under Jonathan’s government; as well as the ex-First Family’s rancour with former Governor Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi of Rivers State. Some days ago, a Niger Delta activist, Asu Beks, was on ‘Kaakaki’, an early morning programme anchored by the African Independent Television (AIT), to contest Dame Jonathan’s alleged trouncing at the airport. He, unfortunately, failed to do justice to the contentious assignment. Beks was woefully floored by the submissions of the APC female ex-Senator paired with him during the AIT outing, who seemed to have a better grasp of what truly transpired between Dame Jonathan and Port Harcourt airport security operatives. The female senator said Mrs. Jonathan was barred from using the security gate and VIP lounge reserved strictly for the President and his wife; or the Vice President and his wife; and their priced local and international guests; but that the former First Lady was not denied access to the popular VIP lounge open to other important dignitaries. Mr. Femi Adesina, President Buhari’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, had earlier denied his boss’ or FG’s complicity in the purported humiliation smears on Jonathan’s wife. But it does seem one job airport security operatives appeared to have left undone as yet is debriefing personalities like Jonathan’s wife on the limitations of their privileges once their husbands quit office. Had they taken this aspect of their brief seriously, they would have saved Dame Jonathan the alleged humiliation; and the nation the raging controversy and embarrassment. The Buhari Presidency would be adjudged as out on a revenge mission and trifling with its integrity when it descends to the absurd line-out of denying a Mrs. Jonathan access to the popular VIP lounge of any airport in the country.

Sport Extra Boxing: Khan nears ‘all-British’ Brook bout vealed he had held talks with Brook’s promoter Eddie Hearn about a blockbuster domestic showdown. Brook has welcomed news of the negotiations and is confident the fight

can replicate the success of Carl Froch-George Groves II, which drew a crowd of around 80, 000 to the national stadium. But Brook must firstly defend his IBF welterweight in a bout planned for

October, while Khan is also due to take one more bout before the end of the year, and the Sheffield man is determined to stay on course for the bumper clash. “I know that talks are on the way. It looks like

British fans might finally get the fight that is well overdue,” Brook, whose long-running feud with Khan dates back to sparring sessions in the amateur ranks, said yesterday.

Khan

Printed and Published by Global Media Mirror Ltd: Head Office: Mirror House, 155/161 Broad Street, Lagos Tel: 07027107407, Abuja Office: NICON Insurance House, Second Floor, Central Business District Area, Abuja Tel: 08070428249, Advert hotline: 01-8446073, Port-Harcourt Office: Suite 115, NICON Hotel, 6, Benjamin Opara Street, Off Olusegun Obasanjo Rd, GRA Phaze 3, Phone: 07032323254 Email: mail@nationalmirroronline.net. Acting Editor: BEN MEMULETIWON. All correspondence to PMB 10001, Marina, Lagos. Printed simultaneously in Lagos, Abuja and Akure. ISSN 0794-232X.