Wednesday, 5th of September, 2012 by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

Air Nigeria suspends all operations Jimoh Ibrahim

Vol. 2 N0. 441

...sacks staff

P.5

Sets up 50-man committee to restart within 12 months

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

First Lady’s return T date uncertain ...she’s in stable condition –Presidency

N150

AYODELE OJO, ISE-OLUWA IGE ROTIMI FADEYI

AND

he controversy surrounding the nature of illness and whereabouts of the wife of President Goodluck Jonathan, Dame Patience, deepened yesterday even as the Presidency kept mum on the likely date of her return CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

Adesina

Prices of bread, confectionaries rise by 25% Gunmen kill Ekiti varsity lecturer in Borno P.12,31

Horst Schmidt Klinik, Wiesbaden, Germany, the hospital where Dame Jonathan (inset) is believed to be on admission. (The same hospital where the late President Umaru Yar’Adua was treated in 2009).

FG insists on N5,000 note, as group protests Electricity generation hits 4,800 megawatts

P.2 P.6

Alison-Madueke

Oil marketers to resume importation soon P.7

News

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FG insists on N5,000 note, as group protests TOLA AKINMUTIMI, ROTIMI FADEYI AND OLUFEMI ADEOSUN

espite mounting opposition, the Economic Management Team, EMT, presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday approved the introduction of the N5,000 note announced last month by the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. While announcing the introduction of the new bank note, Sanusi also said that the CBN would adopt the coinage of N5, N10 and N20 notes. Speaking with State House correspondents yesterday after the meeting

held at the Presidential Villa, the Minister of National Planning, Shamsudeen Usman, said the discussion at the meeting was to endorse the policy. Usman said: “The discussion today was basically to endorse. “Mr. President had already approved. That is the only requirement by law. The CBN is to propose and Mr. President is to approve. And since Mr. President has approved really, what is important is to just explain.” Though Usman said that he had some reservations about the introduction of coins into the economy, he stated that the explanation from the CBN Governor had clarified all the concerns about the issue.

“The coins are being introduced on an introductory basis so that if people accept them and are using them, then gradually they will withdraw the notes but they will run concurrently with the notes. “Those were my concerns initially because you remember during my time in the CBN, we introduced the one naira and two naira coins, unfortunately they were not utilised at all. Part of that is really the value of one naira and two naira today, what can you buy? So, because they are higher denomination they may be accepted. “I think even that aspect didn’t come out well in the communication and so the CBN is going to communicate to Nigerians that the

Vehicles queuing for petrol on Olusegun Obasanjo Way, Central Business District, Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

coins will run concurrently with the note. They are like testing the waters. If they get accepted and are being utilised, only then will they take subsequent actions,” he said. Usman stressed that the introduction of the N5,000 note was not at variance with the cashless policy of the Federal Government He said: “It is not in variance. In most of the economies you look at, the Euro has the 500 euro note, if you go to the countries where Euro is in use, you will not get the 500 euro note in normal circulation. But it is used by the banks and a few other heavy cash users to store higher value. I have been in parts of the United States where you draw the $100 bill and give it to somebody and they start looking at it as if it is something strange, they probably have not seen it. “The higher denominations are there to create higher value, they will not be in the widest of circulation but other countries usually have this higher denominations and I think what is important is that there is no link between it and inflation.” On whether the N5,000 note would encourage looting and corruption, especially by politicians, Usman said: “This is an area that I obviously know nothing about. I think people alleged that corruption is being done in dollars, a $100

bill is N16,000, N5,000 note cost of printing bills. “If I were the CBN Govwill be $30, so which one is bigger to carry if you en- ernor, I will prefer to print N10,000 notes. Last year, Nigage in corruption? “So, I don’t think it is nec- geria spent N47bn to print essarily going to increase these small, small notes. “If we were printing bigthe level of corruption.” Also speaking on the ger denominations, we will matter, President of Dan- print fewer number and gote Group, Alhaji Aliko you make a phenomenal Dangote, said that it had savings. “Secondly, money is a nothing to do with inflation, stressing that it would store of value, all these thieves, rogues and vagaalso protect the economy. “The cost of printing is bonds running around in not anything different from various states and all over the amount they are using the country, when they steal in printing any other note. money, they will want to It is the same cost. The only keep it outside the banking difference is the design and system,” he said The Managing Directhe figure printed on them. Sometimes minting the tor of Access Bank, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, coins can even help. “If I have a product also supported the views of which I am selling for N5 Dangote and Peterside, sayand I want to raise the price ing that the introduction to N6, I won’t be able to do of the new note was not that. It is either I swallow strange and would not lead the bullet and take it to N10 to higher inflation Meanwhile, a civil socior I don’t increase at all,” he ety organisation, the Antisaid. He said that a lot of man- Corruption Network, yesufacturing companies had terday stormed the CBN, not been able to increase protesting the proposed restructuring their prices even though currency exercise, particularly the they were losing money. “People are saying that introduction of the N5, 000 Central Bank is going to note in the country. The group asked the Fedspend N40bn on the new note, of course, last year eral Government and the when you look at the bud- regulatory banking instiget, they spent N47bn to tution to stop the planned print currencies, so it is not exercise in view of what it different at all,” Dangote termed the likely negative socio-economic impact on added. Speaking in the same ordinary Nigerians. Leading about 300 youths vein, the Chairman of IBTC Bank, Atedo Peterside, said in the protest, which was the N5,000 would reduce the CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

mation on the health status of the First Lady by the Presidency is akin to how information on the nature of ailment of the late President Yar’Adua and his whereabouts were treated. Oshinlu said Nigerian media should not rely on online mediums known for peddling falsehood, stressing that “I can tell you authoritatively that the First Lady was not lifted by any air ambulance to anywhere. All those things are lies.” An impeccable source told National Mirror that the wife of the President successfully undergone surgery for appendicitis in HSK last week. Appendicitis, according to Wikipedia, is a condition characterized

by inflammation of the appendix. It is classified as a medical emergency and many cases require removal of the inflamed appendix, either by laparotomy or laparoscopy. Untreated, mortality is high, mainly because of the risk of rupture leading to peritonitis and shock. Narrating what exactly happened before Mrs. Jonathan was flown out of the country, the Presidency source, who did not want his name mentioned, said Dame Patience actually complained about her health condition and that the Presidency’s health team came quickly to her aid to stabilise her. The source added that when the efforts proved

First Lady’s return date uncertain

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

to the country. Mrs. Jonathan’s return date remains uncertain, as the German doctors are not willing to discharge her until full recovery. The President’s wife was treated for food poisoning for days in Nigeria without any improvement in her condition until she was transferred to the German hospital, where she was diagnosed for appendicitis and subsequently undergone surgery. Sources close to the Presidency told National Mirror that there was no cause for anxiety over her health, saying that she would soon return to the country. When contacted yes-

terday, her Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Ayo Oshinlu, said: “I don’t have fresh information and nobody is going to put a gun on my head and force me to talk.” On when the First Lady would return to the country, Oshinlu said: “I don’t know, I don’t have any information on that. You don’t expect me to call her and ask her; when are you returning? “Ours is to ensure everything is in order to receive her once her return is made known to us. I do not have fresh information on that.” Sources told National Mirror that Mrs. Jonathan contracted food poisoning in Dubai while another source said she suffered ruptured appen-

dix. While there are divergent views on the nature of her ill-health, Presidency sources confirmed that she had been receiving treatment in a German hospital, Horst Schmidt Klinik, in Wiesbaden. The late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua was treated for kidney ailment at the Horst Schmidt Klinik. “The First Lady is in stable health and not in any medical danger,” a Presidency source told National Mirror yesterday. “The First Lady had severe appendicitis and she had undergone surgery. She is in a stable condition.” The handling of infor-

fruitless, the office of the National Security Adviser, Dansuki Sambo, was immediately contacted on Friday, August 24 to make emergency arrangement for a flight to Italy where she was expected to be treated at a specialist hospital. The source also disclosed that though conscious efforts were made to airlift the First Lady, getting permit to fly European skies was said to have frustrated the move until sometime around midnight when a positive response was obtained from the German authorities. The source, however, told National Mirror yesterday that immediately after the green-light, a CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

PAGE

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Midweek Interview The newly elected National Chairman of the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Mallam Shitu Mohammed in an interview with OBIORA IFOH, lambasts chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega over his insistence on deregistering political parties. Excerpts:

INEC has no power to de-register parties – IPAC chairman portant because aii over the world, political parties are not formed only for elections. Why do you think United States or Japan is world leader in technology? It simply because they have ideologically-based political parties whose interest is mainly to achieve technological dominance of the country. There are also political parties that are confined to only a county or local government; they dominate the place and no party however strong or dominant can push them out of that cocoon. For instance, my party, the Republican Party of Nigeria has an ideological party that the real solution to Nigeria’s problem is lack of electricity because with efficient power, Nigeria will turn to be one of the most industrialised nations in the world. I know that Prof. Jega is a political scientist and I am sure he knows exactly the point I am making. So, it baffles me where he got that idea of deregistering political parties. United States have over 76 recognised political parties and not just Democrats and Republicans. Some of these parties are not even known by Americans but they exist. In Niger Republic, we have over 78 political parties, ditto, Chad and some of our neighbouring countries. Did you see the number of political parties that contested election in Iraq? So, as IPAC chairman, I will advise him appropriately.

You were recently elected as the chairman of IPAC, what does that portend for party politics in Nigeria? My election as the chairman of IPAC has brought unity amongst political parties in the sense that all the major parties came together for my election. I believe it is going to be a new era where we will have to teach ourselves that we don’t have any other country than Nigeria and as political parties, we should be in the forefront of the effort to make Nigeria return to her greatness and ensuring that peace returns to the nation. IPAC will no longer be a divided house or unnecessarily opposition. We will explore ideas, what will be useful to majority of Nigerians and work towards them. I will remove every sense of bias and information to parties will no longer be selective as was the case in the past. Most Nigerians believe that electoral laws need to be tinkered with; what do you think can be done between now and 2015 to ensure a credible election? I am a proponent of proportional representation. This is a system whereby if any political party contests election and scores above 25 per cent of total votes cast, such party should be proportionally awarded seats at the legislature. As such, the approach will fast-track political processes where proper participation will be achieved. But what is obtainable today is where someone contests election and losses with as little as one vote, such one loses all. This is why cross-carpeting has become rampant and politicians are scarcely faithful to their parties. A scenario where I contest a governorship election and lose by a little margin but because of my performance at the polls, a percentage of seats are ceded to my party, will make my supporters to stand by me and the party. They will be there to work even harder to ensure that the party wins in the next election, since they have not lost out completely. One advantage of this system is that the nation will see an ideologically-based politics where the level of political consciousness will be very high. It will also trigger competition among the parties based on what you have for the people and campaign promises. It will also give value to campaign funds rather than a situation where you lose all your investment after losing election. Are there instances of this kind of political practice that we can learn from? For us in this part of the world, we have to look at the system on the offer and choose which suits our polity. We should not always follow other methods from other climes; sometimes we should define our own system and let other nations copy from us. Recently, President Goodluck Jonathan said that he is the most criticised of all the presidents in the world. Do you agree with that? It is certain because when he came into power, he met a lot of problems and issues which include power problem, which is a government programme that has attracted a lot of backlash from the public. Nigerians have expected that with the amount of resources committed into such project by the past government, they ought to have been reaping the benefits by now. There are numerous of such dividends which Nigerians have expected, which have not been delivered by successive administrations, but he has said that by the time he leaves office in 2015, Nigerians would have been satisfied by what he would have de-

Mohammed

livered, that his achievement would speak for him then. I therefore think that Nigerians should give the President the benefit of doubt; let’s wait and see by 2015 how the government will turn out to be. Zoning is still a contentious issue in the politics of Nigeria and 2015 is very close. As IPAC chairman, do you think that the dust always raised by this issue is necessary? IPAC has no problem with zoning. Any party be it Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) may decide where they want their candidates to come from. It is really no issue so long as it does not flout the constitution of both the party and the country. The only role IPAC has in all these is to ensure that elections are conducted in a free and fair manner, so that whoever wins should be seen as a product of transparent and credible election. IPAC cannot dabble into intra party issues such as internal politics of emergence of candidates. INEC has not withdrawn its threat of weeding off some political parties that didn’t measure up in the last election; will the new leadership of IPAC call INEC to order? IPAC will not go into any confrontation with INEC over deregistration of parties, rather as an advisory body we will give our advise which they must accept. This is im-

INDIVIDUALS AND NOT JUST POLITICAL PARTIES ARE

FUNDED FOR ELECTIONS. IT IS NOT TOO DIFFICULT TO

DECIPHER THAT, IT IS BECAUSE OF FUNDING THAT

JEGA IS

INSISTING ON DEREGISTRATION

So, do you subscribe to registration of more political parties? If we have closed our doors, we wouldn’t have had parties like CPC and ACN. My take is that registration of more political parties should be a continuous process; it should not be discontinued but there should be a guide. A stringent policy that is better and stronger than what we have, so as to enable only genuine parties to be registered. INEC has really not been friendly with parties over the issue of funding and it is on record that parties are not funded by the electoral body, what will your executive do about this? It is only in Nigeria that you can witness such absurdity. Even in the advanced countries, individuals and not just political parties are funded for elections. It is not too difficult to decipher that, it is because of funding that Jega is insisting on deregistration. His actions amount to throwing away the baby with the bath water, instead of sitting down and think of what to do, he is caught with keeping the funds and watching the parties grow out of control, and funding the parties and putting adequate measure and controls on the parties. You can only control political parties when you are funding them but if not, what rights do you have over them? They also have the option of funding individuals that are contesting elections, whichever way, not funding parties by INEC will certainly create enormous damage to the political development of this country. Taking cognizance of all the vagaries and nuances that have shaped our present politics including marginalisation scare, do you think President Jonathan should contest 2015 election? If I say to you as IPAC chairman that President Jonathan should not contest election in 2015, I am infringing on his fundamental human rights. He has the moral right to know what is good or bad for him. My concern here is the credibility of any election be it presidential or otherwise. Whoever wins is really not the point. In any case, who is not marginalised in Nigeria? Take for instance, if SouthSouth Nigeria becomes a country, the Urhobo will say that the Ijaw is marginalising them and in the same SouthSouth, the Ijaws will say that the Isoko is marginalising them and so on. So, who is not marginalised? How we conduct ourselves matters a lot.

Photo News

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

L-R: President, Nigerian Society of Engineers, Mr. Balarabe Shehu; Director-General, Bureau of Public Procurement, Mr. Emeka Ezeh; Minister of Works, Mr. Mike Onolememen; President, Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Mr. Ibikunle Ogunbayo and Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam, at the 21st COREN Engineering Assembly in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

L-R: President, National Association of Female Teachers, Lady Chikanele Asuru; Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Zainab Maina and Minister of State for Education, Mr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, unveiling the female teachers’ journals during the 5th Annual Conference of the association in Abuja, yesterday.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Minister of State for Defence, Erelu Olusola Obada (left) and President of Ecowas Commission, Amb. Kadre Ouedraogo, during a visit to Obada in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

L-R: Programme Officer, West Africa Health Organisation, Mrs. Sybil Ossei-Agyeman Yeboah; Chairman, Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Mr. Bunmi Olaopo and Director General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Dr. Paul Orhii, during a meeting with chief executive inspectors and registrars of medicine from West Africa on quality management system in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

National News

Jonathan, Mark, Fashola, Amosun, Anyaoku mourn Ola Vincent SAM OLUWALANA AND ROTIMI FADEYI

resident Goodluck Jonathan has sympathised with the family of former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Ola Vincent, who passed away on September 3, 2012. In a statement issued yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the President said he joined members of the Vincent family, his friends, associates and all who knew him in mourning the passage of the illustrious economist and banker who served Nigeria meritoriously in several capacities during his long public service career. The statement read: “As they mourn him however, the President urges them to give thanks to God Almighty for Mr. Vincent’s very successful and fulfilled life of service to his family, community and the nation.” It was, however, a gathering of the heavy weights at the Balarabe Musa, Victoria Island residence of the late Vincent, as Governor

Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State and other eminent Nigerians, like the former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, called to sympathise with family of the renowned Economist and banker of note. Fashola said that he heard a lot about the late administrator when he was growing up, recounting how in his primary school days, he was asked many times to provide the name of the then Governor of Central Bank. He rued the fact that the great banker died when he is governor of the state. Fashola wrote in the condolence register that Vincent would be missed by all. “Papa Vincent will be surely missed, but we will remember with pleasant and fond memories, his selfless services to the country and the leadership that his generation provided at the very critical times. He truly served and we remain inspired by such virtues of patriotism,” the governor said. Chief Emeka Anyaoku described Vincent as a “national hero.”

Anyaoku said that Nigeria had lost an illustrious son. “I say goodbye to my true friend and outstanding governor of CBN. You were a great human being and Nigeria will surely miss you,” he said. Mr. Joseph Sanusi, who was also a former CBN governor, described the late Vincent as a role model and a hardworking professional. Sanusi said: “Oga Vincent was a unique professional, a central banker to the core. He was a mentor, a role model and a true icon. We shall miss him.” Doyen of Accountancy in Nigeria, Akintola Williams, and the Chairman/Chief Executive of First City Merchant Bank (FCMB) were also part of the callers at the Vincent’s residence. Senate President David Mark described Vincent’s death as a huge loss to the nation. Mark lamented that the late Vincent died at a time his wealth of experience was needed by the nation to navigate through the socio-political and economic challenges.

Mark, in a condolence message to the government and people of Lagos State, noted that the former CBN helmsman was a quintessential economist, banker and industrialist with very high moral standing and integrity. He remarked that the late Vincent was among the pioneer economists and foremost bankers who laid the foundation for today’s Nigeria apex bank. Mark said: “Ola Vincent was a patriotic Nigerian, a philanthropist, a very diligent and meticulous banker who stood to be counted when it mattered. “We shall miss his humility; we shall miss his sense of humour. We shall miss his knowledge, intelligence and wise counsel. We shall miss his kind gesture”. The Senate President urged the bereaved family, the government and people of Lagos State as well as the banking sector to take solace in the fact that the late Vincent lived an exemplary and accomplished life worthy of emulation. In his condolence message, Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun mourned

the death of Vincent. Amosun also condoled with President Goodluck Jonathan and the government of Lagos State on the demise of the former CBN governor. In a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Mrs. Funmi Wakama, Amosun described the late Ola Vincent as “a foremost economist, academic, banker and administrator extraordinaire, who played a pivotal role in the stability of the CBN between 1977 and 1982.” Amosun described the period of the headship of the apex bank by Ola Vincent as part of the golden era of the institution in Nigeria. “The deceased also distinguished himself as a Senior Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Finance between 1959 and 1961 and as Vice-President of the African Development Bank between 1966 and 1973,” the governor said. While praying for the eternal repose of his soul, Amosun urged members of the family of Vincent to take solace in the fact that he led an exemplary life

and his footprints are endured on the sands of time. Meanwhile, a daughter of the deceased, Mrs. Taiwo Bali, has described her father as a hardworking and caring person. She said in Lagos yesterday that the family was saddened by the death of their father. “My father was a wonderful, hardworking, loving and caring person. We will forever remain grateful to him. We will forever miss him,” she said. The Chairman, Court of Governors, College of Medicine, Idi-Araba, Lagos, Mr. Obafemi Olopade, said Vincent’s ideals about the economy should be pursued. Olopade said the late former CBN governor was a simple, humble and an upright man as well as an embodiment of integrity. “Let it be known that Nigeria has lost a gem of high moral value,” he said. Vincent died at about 12.30 pm on September 3, 2012 at St Nicholas Hospital, Lagos, after a brief illness. According to family sources, funeral service would hold on September 6 at the African Cathedral Bethel.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

First Lady’s return date uncertain CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

presidential jet departed Abuja on Saturday, August 25 to Frankfurt with the wife of the President and a few aides who were believed to be very loyal. The source added that upon arrival at Frankfurt, the ailing First Lady was taken to Wiesbaden where she was admitted. He said: “I am aware that she contacted food poisoning in Dubai. We really can’t say exactly what she ate in Dubai which resulted in the ailment. “But as soon as it was becoming difficult to get her stabilised here, we were advised to fly her to Bologna, Italy, where a particular hospital is said to be good in handling such matters. “Because it was an emergency case and there was no assurance that a permit would be granted for the team to fly European skies that night, we were still thinking of an alternative until word came from the German authorities that we could fly in the next day. “Calls were made to those asked to be on the alert for a journey to Italy that they would now be flying to Germany. The team left for Frankfurt the next day, Saturday, August 25 and Madam was then taken to Wiesbaden where she is currently undergoing treatment.” Asked why there was no official statement on the matter, another source said:”I really can’t say but there is no truth in the rumour that ‘she underwent any operation. Before she left, the medical team was sure it was food poisoning which came out of what she probably ate in Dubai. I am not in the media team of the First Lady and therefore would not know why a statement was not issued. “All I know is that the First Lady is recuperating and even shook hands with some of the aides that followed her to Germany before she was admitted. She never flew out in an air ambulance but in an official Presidential jet. “ Another Presidency

News

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

source though confirmed to National Mirror yesterday that Dame Patience is not in any medical danger, he however denied the food poisoning story emphatically. His words: “She is on vacation and if somebody is on vacation and she decides to see her doctor, I don’t think there is anything wrong in that decision. “The First Lady is in stable health and not in any medical danger, she has been working all this while and now taking time to rest,” the source added. However, the source would not disclose where Dame Jonathan is taking time to rest during the said vacation or when she is likely to return to the country. “All the stories that she was airlifted in air ambulance and that she is critical ill are not true. She walked into the aircraft by herself unaided,” the source said. “How will somebody who people say is in very critical health condition or be able to board an aircraft all by herself ?” the source said. There has not been any official statement from the office of the First Lady over the issue since the story broke out during the weekend. But her Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Ayo Oshilu had last Sunday said that Mrs. Jonathan’s foreign trip was just a vacation to take time off to rest and not for any medical treatment. Horst Schmidt Klinik specialises in the following medical fields: General and Visceral Surgery; Gastroenterology; Ear, Nose and Throat Medicine, Head and Neck Surgery; Cardiology Neurosurgery; Thoracic Surgery; Trauma, Hand and Orthopaedic Surgery. The hospital has 21 specialist clinics, four institutes and 1027 beds. It offers its patients a very sophisticated and high quality range of treatments for the necessary care. HSK prides itself as a world class hospital based in Wiesbaden, Germany.

Air Nigeria suspends all operations SAM OLUWALANA

ir Nigeria has announced the suspension of all its operations – local, regional and international – with effect from Monday, September10, 2012. The suspension, according to the management of the frontline airline, is largely due to staff disloyalty and environmental tension, “which are not conducive for business in the aviation sector.’’ The airline expressed regrets for any inconve-

niences caused to passengers on all the routes and advise passengers to contact agents from whom they have purchased tickets for refunds. Reacting to the development, the Chairman of the airline, Barrister Jimoh Ibrahim, OFR, said it is difficult to continue further investment in the airline, with the high level of staff disloyalty and weak business environment. “But we are strongly committed to ensuring that Air Nigeria survives,” he stated. He said 50 loyal staff

from various departments of the airline have been selected with a mandate to recommence business within 12 months while other staff have been relieved of their employment effective from the last day of work on their various routes, be it local, regional or international. Ibrahim thanked stakeholders for their massive support in the last two years of the operation of Air Nigeria under the new management. The corporate turnaround expert explained that the suspension of all

the operations of Air Nigeria is not unusual. According to him, “Corporations are like individuals who naturally will get sick and the usual thing to do is to admit them to hospitals either for corporate surgery or for treatment, as the case may be. During such period, it is not likely that they will work in full capacity, depending on the nature of the illness.” The airline’s suspension of operations, he added, is not due to load factor, but largely to staff disloyalty and weak business environment.

Former member of the House of Representatives, Mr. Dino Melaye, (in white) leading other protesters over the proposed introduction of the N5000 note at the Central Bank of Nigeria headquarters, Abuja, yesterday.

FG insists on N5,000 note, as group protests CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

closely monitored by security agents at the premises of CBN headquarters, Abuja, a former lawmaker and Executive Secretary of the group, Mr. Dino Melaye, described the proposed measure as a proof of government’s insensitivity to the plight of millions of poor Nigerians. He said his group was prepared to mobilise millions of Nigerians to frustrate the plan, adding that the masses had been overburdened economically as a result of the partial withdrawal of fuel subsidy in January this year. Melaye said the protest was organised to show to the CBN authorities and government that sovereignty resides with the people and that it was regrettable that despite the

National Assembly’s directive that the apex bank should suspend the plan, the CBN governor was bent on carrying it out. The ex-lawmaker noted that the planned introduction of the N5, 000 note contradicted the policy of the apex bank on cashless and electronic banking. He added that the plan would further devalue the national currency with its attendant negative implications for ongoing efforts at making the economy growth. Melaye said: “We want to say that the CBN governor and indeed the Federal Government has proven that it is not a responsive government. “This government is not only sick but it is also suffering from what I call a dreadful continental ab-

normality. “Our point is rather than the government tackle this issue and fight, arrest and prosecute those who are stealing our commonwealth, they want to inflict further pains and injury on Nigerians that are already suffering from perilous times of opprobrium. “What I am saying in essence is that the AntiCorruption Network is mobilising Nigerians to say no to this plan to introduce N5,000 note. We are still praying to God to conquer Boko Haram, but Sanusi Lamido Sanusi is introducing N5,000 note. We will reject, we will renounce, we will rebuke, we will pray it out of order,” Melaye said. While receiving the protest letter from the leader

of the group, the Deputy Governor, CBN, Mr. Tunde Lemo, said the proposed restructuring of the currency is part of the apex bank’s strategies to control inflation. He also debunked widespread speculations that the bank intended to spend N40bn on the restructuring exercise, saying that printing of notes is a recurring exercise, which the bank carries out from time to time. On the alleged anti-people policy thrust charge, Lemo said the restructuring is in the interest of the masses. He said, “I assure you that we have respect for the masses of Nigeria, without them, there can never be a CBN, and as such we will not do anything that will adversely affect them.”

National News

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Peace parley: NLC seeks solution to Nigeria’s problems – Omar OLUFEMI ADEOSUN ABUJA

L-R: Deputy President, Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Promise Adewusi; President, Comrade Abdulwahed Omar and Vice President, Comrade Issa Aremu, at a news conference on the union’s forthcoming peace rally and summit in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Electricity generation hits record high of 4,800mw UDEME AKPAN

lectricity generation in the country has hit a peak capacity of 4,800 megawatts (mw), the highest in history. The feat showed an increase of 500mw against an average of 4,300mw recorded in recent times. The supply, excluding spinning reserves, has culminated in improved supply to consumers nationwide. Authoritative data from the Ministry of Power yesterday showed that 4,550mw are dedicated to transmission while 250mw constituted the nation’s reserves, which are not always for transmission and distribution. A breakdown showed that while the older stations of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, including Egbin, apparently the biggest in the country, accounted for over 3,000mw, the newly constructed plants under the Integrated Power Scheme accounted for 1,000mw. The Head of Press in the Ministry of Power, Mr. Greyne Anosike, who confirmed the development, said the power output was achieved as a result of increased investment in generating plants and other infrastructure located in different parts of the country. He said the improvement was not accidental as the government had in the past few years made enormous

investments in the sector. These, he said, had helped to build the country’s capacity to generate substantial megawatts of electricity. Anosike said there had also been improvement in transmission and distribution facilities nationwide. These are targeted at ensuring that electricity gets to every part of the nation, including the rural areas. He said: “The former Minister of Power, Prof. Bart Nnaji, and others assisted in many ways to put in place the right structures. Consequently, power supply will continue to improve not withstanding who occupies one office or another.” The spokesman for the Niger Delta Power Holding Company, NDPHC, Mr. Yakubu Lawal, who also confirmed the increased investments in the sector, said the firm had commissioned 11 power injector sub-stations in Lagos alone. He said each of the 11 sub-station was 1x15 MVA with the capacity of generating power for about 10,000 residents in Agbowa-Ikosi, Ipakodo, Ijede, Agbara, Ajangbadi, Orile-Coker, Fowler, Alagbon, Bekley, Apapa Road and Tincan. Lawal said the firm also commissioned 500 transformers of 50KVA each to boost power supply. He assured the residents of Lagos and other parts of the country that the projects would boost electricity supply, promising that supply would continue to improve as new plants and

facilities come on stream. Incidentally, many consumers have started feeling the impact of improved supply. For instance, the Union Bank spokesman, Mr. Francis Barde, said in a telephone interview that: “We can confirm that there has been an improvement in power supply in recent times. In the past, we used to have about two hours of public power supply, which compelled us to over-depend on our plants located in every branch to run our operations. But in the past few weeks, we have about 10 hours of public power supply. “This improvement has enabled us to depend more on PHCN for supply. We only switch over to our plants whenever PHCN fails to deliver. This has enabled us to reduce high cost of operations.” Consumers, who seemed to be heaving a sigh of relief, however, wished the situation would last. A source in the Ministry of Power said the appointment of Manitoba of Canada as the new manager of Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, would assist to boost power transmission in the country. He said: “The new managing contractor of the TCN, Manitoba Hydro International of Canada, has started developing and implementing measures aimed at turning the stateowned enterprise into a commercial and efficientlyoperated private outfit for

eventual privatisation.” Investigations showed that the measures would likely affect the present structure and staffing of the organisation whose personnel have taken up arms against the Federal Government over the engagement of the contractor. The transmission company presently performs the functions of Market Operator, MO, System Operator, SO, and Transmission Service Provider, TSP. But the contractor is expected to prepare it to perform slightly different roles in the coming months.

orried by the seeming helplessness of the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan to address the challenges of insecurity facing the country, the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, said it would soon organise a peace talk. The NLC President, Comrade Abdulwahed Omar, who disclosed this while speaking with journalists in Abuja yesterday, said the peace summit would provide an avenue for people from various walks of life, including people in the corridors of power, to come up with implementable solutions. Omar said the only way out of the present logjam threatening the corporate existence of the country was for visionary people to come together and talk. “It is apparently clear today that the nation needs the vision and drive of nationalistic individuals and institutions to pull the polity away from the brink of disaster and hopelessness,” he said. The NLC president said the decision to convene the peace talk was taken by the National Executive Council of the union in view of the worsening security lapses in the country and the attendant repercus-

SURE-P contractors get N25bn, says FG TOLA AKINMUTIMI ABUJA

he Federal Government said yesterday that it had paid N25bn to contractors handling the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme, SURE-P, projects. The contractors include Dantata & Sawoe Construction Nigeria Limited, which is handling Abuja Abaji - Lokoja Road (Abuja - Sheda Junction) and the 510-km Kano - Maiduguri (Kano – Wudil -Shuarin) Road dualisation scheme; China Civil Engineering Construction Company, CCECC, handling railway projects on Idu - Kaduna and Jebba -Kano rail line rehabilitation. Other companies, ac-

cording to a statement by the Programme’s Office in Abuja, are Messrs Reynold Construction Company for work on East - West Road section 3 (Port Harcourt - Eket) and Benin - Ore -Sagamu section 1; Esser West Africa for the Eastern rail line projects from Port Harcourt to Makurdi; Niger Construction Limited for Enugu - Onitsha Road dualisation; Costain West Africa for the railway rehabilitation from Jebba to Kano and Gitto Construzioni for work on Abuja - Lokoja Road. The statement also disclosed that the SURE-P Committee had approved the appointment of workers supporting the programme on maternal and child health in some states.

sions on the people’s wellbeing and survival. He said: “This resolution was informed by the deteriorating security situation in spite of the measures taken by the government: the assassinations, armed robberies, bombings, cyclical communal and sectarian violence which have led to painful loss of lives, massive displacements, and injurious interruption of productive activities with prospect of acute food shortages, destruction of properties estimated at billions of Naira and capital flight. “But much more worrisome are general panic in the land and calls for the dismemberment of the country largely due to concern about government’s capacity to deal with these challenges. “Deeply saddening is the growing perception of tacit or complicit support for some of these horrendous crimes by some of our elders who have suddenly found comfort in reduced space. To our horror, some have made bold to offer in the open, ideology, philosophy and justification for these misadventures.” Omar added that NLC had always risen up at critical times in the life of the country and would not hesitate to be part of the peace efforts, now that other solutions to the security challenges besieging the nation, seemed to have failed. He said: “One of the few surviving pan-Nigerian institutions today is the Nigeria Labour Congress. From the struggle for independence till date, it has played a leading role at critical moments in Nigeria’s history. “We believe history beckons on it once again. Accordingly, it feels obliged once more to throw its weight on the side of efforts at finding solution to the current challenges facing the nation, hence this rally and summit.”

Jonathan

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News

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Oil marketers to resume fuel importation soon AYO OLESIN AND TOLA AKINMUTIMI

ndications emerged yesterday that oil marketers would soon resume importation of petroleum products following the payment of some outstanding subsidy claims that have been verified by the Federal Government. Feelers from the indus-

try showed that marketers welcomed the development and have already initiated processes of opening letters of credit to fund fuel imports, which had been suspended for several weeks after banks closed credit lines to fuel marketers due to the lingering dispute over subsidy claims. Marketers had resorted to buying products from the NNPC, which is effectively the sole importer

of products at present. The situation has affected both the sales volumes and profit margins of marketers as they are forced to buy products at a premium from the NNPC. Reports said ex-depot price of petrol had risen to between N92.50 and N94 per litre, as against N87.66 recommended officially by the Petroleum Products Pricing and Regulatory Agency.

The six major marketers and NIPCO Plc received products from two vessels laden with 30 million litres of petrol that was imported by the NNPC last week but supplies remained tight. A senior industry executive told National Mirror last night that it would take about 21 days to process Letters of Credit but that actual importation would not be problematic as there were

Deportees: Rep commends police intervention TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

ouse of Representatives, Diaspora Committee Chairman, Hon. Abike DabiriErewa, yesterday hailed the Nigeria Police for their speedy intervention to exonerate 14 out of 27 deported Nigerians from Spain for alleged criminal activities. In a statement issued in Abuja yesterday, the lawmaker said the intervention of the police, contributed immensely in clearing some of the deportees of allegations of criminality. She commended the police for handling the case with dispatch to prove the innocence of the Nigerians. The police have said that 14 out of 27 Nigerians that were deported from Madrid, Spain in August did not offend any law. The Nigeria Police Force, on August 10, 2012, at the international wing of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, received 27 Nigerians deported from Madrid, Spain, for various criminal offences, including armed robbery, drug trafficking, forgery and illegal migration. After a thorough investigation, the Nigeria Police released on bail 14 out of the 27 deportees. A statement signed by the Deputy Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba, had said that the 14 were set free after they were screened and found not culpable of any crime. He said the other 13 deportees, who were incriminated had been handed-over to relevant agencies, based on the nature of their alleged criminal involvement.

many fuel-laden vessels that were in the coastal waters just waiting for customers. The government had paid N259.3bn last week as subsidy for 2012 and the arrears of 2011 claims, the Ministry of Finance announced Monday. The ministry, in a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Mr. Paul Nwabuikwu, said that contrary to the impression given by some marketers, the Federal Government, which has budgeted N888bn for fuel subsidy, has continued to pay marketers whose claims had been duly verified. Among the oil marketers that the ministry listed Monday as having received

payment, are: Integrated Oil and Gas Limited; Masters Energy Oil and Gas Limited; Mobil Oil Nigeria Plc; MRS Oil and Gas Limited; NIPCO Plc; Oando Plc; and Total Nigeria Plc. They are some of the 24 companies that were paid a total of N78.9bn as their 2012 subsidy claims. Capital Oil and Gas Limited; Ceoti Limited; Eterna Oil and Gas Plc; Forte Oil Plc; Heyden Petroleum Limited; Integrated Oil and Gas Limited; MRS Oil and Gas Company Limited; MRS Oil Nigeria Plc and Pinnacle Contractors Limited are among the 79 companies that were paid arrears of 2011 subsidy claims in 2012. The statement did not

Independence anniversary’ll be low-keyed –FG OMEIZA AJAYI L-R: Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola; widow of the deceased, Adenike; Mrs. Bunmi Craig and son of the deceased, Mr. Bamidele Vincent, during the governor’s condolence visit to the family of late former Central Bank Governor, Ola Vincent, in Lagos, yesterday.

L-R: Former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku; Mrs. Felicia Fetuga; Mrs. Ghaniat Gbangbala and widow of the late Vincent, Adenike. PHOTOS: OLUFEMI AJASA

ABUJA

etermined to avoid a repeat of the backlash which trailed its failure to commemorate last year’s independence anniversary at its usual venue, the Eagle Square, the Federal Government yesterday announced that this year’s celebration will also be lowkeyed in recognition of the mood of the nation which it said has to be respected. The wave of terrorists’ attacks across the country and the reported threat by the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) to commemorate its 2010 Independence Day blast in Abuja last year saw

Shell, Chevron workers raise the alarm over impending sack CHINEDUM EMEANA PORT HARCOURT

ontract workers in Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) have sent a Save-Our-Soul (SOS) message to the Federal Government over alleged impending sack of 8, 000 of them without severance packages. The workers raised the alarm that Shell has perfected plans to dump 8, 000 contract workers, while Chevron plans to lay off 3, 000 workers. In a statement issued in Port Harcourt and made available to National Mirror yesterday by the workers’ forum on

the platform of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), the workers bemoaned the “demeaning human labour” conditions that they are subjected to. The workers also complained that about 5, 000 of them are about to be laid off by Shell Petroleum Development Company for being contract staff. The statement, signed on behalf of the forum by its Chairman, Comrade Amoshuka Daniel and Secretary, Comrade Cajetan Akpan, they wondered whether it was fair for a Nigerian worker to “work for years only to be laid off abruptly without

severance package but to depart with just a meagre N20, 000 as take home after about 10 years of rigorous service in the oil and gas industry.” However, the group said the oil giants are not alone in maltreating them, alleging that they have their counterparts in the NNPC and NAPIMS. “This is done in connivance with some wellplaced officers in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), who are party to these plans to replace these contractors partnering with CNL since the Gulf years.”

Furthermore, the forum also alleged that one of the main reasons for sacking these contract staff was “to replace them with newly-created service contracts thereby sacking the workers only to be rehired if qualified by the company’s standards with drastically reduced remuneration packages”. Moreover, they added that contracts are bided clandestinely by top shot in the oil firms and the industry’s regulators. “These contracts are awarded to privately owned companies of these managers in proxy both in CNL and NNPC in a bid to enrich themselves further while impoverishing the workforce.”

the government shifting the venue of the celebration to the Presidential Villa. Although, the government had claimed that it was not forced to shift the venue of the event, it failed to announce the change before the terrorists’ threat. Also at a media parley yesterday, Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro, said the security situation in the country and the need to continue to pursue the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan, made the government to cancel the usual fun fare associated with the event. According to him, the present administration believes that a proper foundation for national development should be laid before any celebration could be held. He added that President Goodluck Jonathan’s transformation agenda has taken off, describing it as an athletic race which should not be celebrated until it is won. “The world today is troubled; there are cries of infrastructure decay in Nigeria and insecurity. Rather than commit money into celebration, we will rather use it for the development of the country.” It will be too immature to embark on flamboyant activities while there are a large number of unemployed youths in the country”, he said. He said the Jonathan administration is still at its infancy and would organise a bigger centenary celebration in 2014.

South West

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Retract publication or face litigation, Fayemi tells NULGE, newspaper ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

kiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has given the Nigeria Union of Local Governments Employees (NULGE) and a newspaper outfit a seven-day ultimatum to retract a news item published on August 25, or face legal action.

The governor, through his counsel, Mr. Rafiu Balogun of R.O. Balogun and Co; who described it as “tendentious and irresponsible publications,” threatened to slam a N10bn suit on the newspaper outfit if it failed, within the period, to tender a public apology, given equal prominence as the publication. Balogun also demanded public apology from

NULGE, pasted in local governments across the state, advertised in three major newspapers and broadcast for seven days in electronic media in the state or be sued for “aggravated damages running into several billions of naira to compensate our client for the damage done to his integrity.” In the publication entitled; “Help! Fayemi is

deducting N1bn from councils monthly - NULGE,” the union had accused the governor of deducting the said amount monthly from the allocations to the local governments in the state. In the letter dated September 4, to the newspaper outfit, Fayemi regretted that the newspaper fabricated and concocted stories, falling short of ethics and standard

practice of journalism as they were published without hearing his own side of the story. He said the publication in question portrayed him as “a very corrupt public officer who illegally and in a brazen manner, deducted and continued to deduct a whopping sum of N1bn from the allocation of local government councils in Ekiti State on monthly basis.”

The governor is also aggrieved that the newspaper portrayed him as an irresponsible governor, who siphoned public funds and travelled out with a colleague to bribe the Chief Justice of Nigeria and other Supreme Court justices on vacation abroad and put undue pressure on them on account of an appeal purportedly pending before them.

Police arrest masquerade, four others for robbery ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

L–R: Department Chief of Staff, 81 Division, Nigeria Army, Col. V. O. Ezegwu; Ogun State Head of Service, Mrs. Modupe Adekunle; General Officer Commanding, 81 Division, Nigeria Army, Maj.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah; Governor Ibikunle Amosun; Brigade Commander, 32 Field Artillery Brigade, Alamala, Brig.-Gen J. O. Osuji and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Ambassador Ademola Ogunnaike, during a courtesy visit to the governor in Abeokuta, yesterday.

FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

gun State government yesterday dismissed speculations that it has initiated plans to access a 100bn bond loan. State Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, while addressing journalists at a press briefing in Abeokuta yesterday, said the bond instrument was not the appropriate option for the state in the present circumstance. The commissioner, who explained that the Amosun led administration was still in the process of re-building the state and paying off debts inherited, also stressed that the state must have a project with which to use the bond for, should it access a N100bn bond, adding that; “we don’t have that in our plan.” Adeosun’s claim was coming against the backdrop of speculations that Governor Amosun had forwarded an executive bill to the state assembly, seeking approval to raise bond from the capital market. But, the commissioner explained that the executive had only forwarded a bill seeking to set up a legal framework to be followed before any government in the state could access loan,

Ogun govt clears air on N100bn bond

•Says Amosun’s financial recovery process on course which she said will serve as an instrument for financial discipline that will be binding on both the present and successive administrations, if eventually passed into law. Emphasising that the debt profile inherited from previous administrations in the state still stands at about N60bn, she said for any government to access such bond, previous year’s revenue as well as its current debt profile had to be considered by the appropriate regulatory bodies before any bond could be accessed. “We are not running away from accessing a loan bond, we are not scared of the approval process, we simply don’t think that a bond loan is the only option at the moment and we don’t think it is an appropriate option at the moment. “We are actually on a financial recovery process and what we are doing presently is to reduce the inherited loan significantly while improving on our revenue generation drive.” The commissioner further said that for the state to access such bond, it would take a long process which will include applying and

getting approval from the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) as well as the Federal Ministry of Finance after the approval of the state House of Assembly. “With the bond, you have to issue what is called an ISPO. With an ISPO, your

money in return is deducted directly from the Federation Account. “Before the money even gets to you, the Federal Ministry of Finance deducts at source and pay into the trustees so, that’s why a bond requires so much processing. The process that it will go through is so long”.

NURTW chairman: Court seeks police assistance to reinstate Tokyo KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

n end may not be in sight to the crisis rocking the Oyo State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), as the Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, has ordered the state police command to reinstate Alhaji Lateef Akinsola (a. k. a. Tokyo), as the chairman of the union in compliance with the judgement of the court. In a letter dated 3rd September, 2012 and signed by the Deputy Chief Registrar of the court, A. A. Tahir, it urged the police to implement the court judgement delivered by Justice Johnson Shakarho on 25th May, 2012.

The letter, which was addressed to the state Commissioner of Police and copied to the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Zone 11, titled; “Application for Police Assistance in respect of the execution of court order in suit number FHC/IB/ CS/30/2012”, stated; “ kindly avail the bailiff of this honourable court with police assistant in executing the court judgement delivered by this honourable court on 25th May 2012.” It will be recalled that Justice Shakarho, in a judgement delivered on the 25th May, 2012, declared that the proscription of the National Union Road Transport Workers in Oyo State was a violation of Tokyo’s fundamental human rights.

olice authorities in Ekiti State said they have arrested five suspected armed robbers in Ado Ekiti, the state capital. One of those arrested was a masquerade. But, the leader of the seven-man gang, Odunayo Kolawole, 24, was unfortunate as he was shot dead by the police during a shootout in Ado Ekiti, at the weekend. The masquerade, 24-yearold Osalusi Sunday, of Ijigbo Quarters in Ado-Ekiti, who went on an armed robbery expedition donning the garb of his family’s masquerade, ‘Sinrinminyin’ and four others were arrested by the police. The four other suspects are Deji Owolabi, Ayodeji Obamoyegun, Peter Akinwale and Oluwatosin Adefemi. Parading the suspects

at the Ekiti State Police Command yesterday, state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Olu Victor Babayemi, said two other members of the gang, Danjuma Saheed and Oguntayo Saheed escaped arrest. His words: “While the gang members were dispossessing their victims of their valuables, a police woman sent a distress call to the police and men from nearby stations and the Special Anti-Robbery Squad descended on them”.

Abubakar

Court strikes out suit against Oyo govt KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

n Ibadan High Court presided over by Justice O. I. Aiki, has struck out the suit filed by the Railway Property Management Company Limited against Oyo State government for want of diligent prosecution. The Railway Property Management Company Limited had dragged the Oyo State government before the court to challenge its revocation of all lands hitherto vested in the Nigerian Railway Corporation (except those being used for rail track and railway staff quarters) in the overall interest of the public. But, the judge struck out the case on the ground that the action of the plaintiff fell short of prosecuting the matter with due diligence deserving of a suit being heard as a matter of

urgency during the court’s vacation. He then struck out the suit for what he called “indolent prosecution” on the part of the Railway Property Company Limited. In the meantime, the state government has given what it called a final notice to all persons “be it natural, corporate or incorporate, whose root of titles are derived from the Nigerian Railway Corporation and Railway Property Management Company Limited.” In a notice issued by the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Bayo Ojo, to those concerned, he said the notice on the property became imperative in view of the revocation. The notice enjoined anyone whose title had become voided to contact the state Ministry of Land, Housing and Surveys in respect of such void titles forthwith.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

PDP’ll use Ondo guber poll as inroad into S’West –Kuku HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE

L-R: Osun State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori; Governor Rauf Aregbesola and Ambassador of Japan to Nigeria, Mr. Ryuichi Shoji, during the visit of the ambassador and his team to Aregbesola in Osogbo, yesterday.

Urban renewal: Osun needs $1.4bn, says Aregbesola WALE FOLARIN OSOGBO

overnor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State said his administration would need over $1.4bn to execute its urban renewal project. He said the amount was needed to carry out the separation and rebuilding of houses in the cities listed for the programme. Aregbesola made the disclosure at the UN-Habitat World Urban Forum, WUF, 6 Mayors’ Roundtable at Naples, Italy. According to a statement issued by the Director of Communication and Strategy, Office of the Governor, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, the governor said his administration

discovered that more than 38,000 buildings had either become dilapidated or were deteriorating. Aregbesola, who spoke through the Commissioner for Lands, Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Olumuyiwa Ige, said when the administration came into office in November 2010, it undertook an assessment of the condition of urban centres in the state and discovered that not only could they not sustain their present populations, they were in no shape to accommodate the future. The governor added that it was also discovered that a significant shift in the economic pattern affected the cities negatively, saying that the cities were

built with wealth realised from exported cash crops and when the commodities economy collapsed, the houses and structures built from this wealth suffered neglect and were either decaying or collapsing. He said: “This situation, therefore, requires leadership and exceptional governance capabilities. The urgent task before us is to renew the urban centres, upgrade the slums and build future cities, while ensuring good governance. “Our first response was to put in place a committee of seasoned professionals and academics in urban and regional planning who are working assiduously to develop a modern urban outlook for our nu-

merous towns and cities. “In the first phase of this project, one kilometre radius of the urban core of nine cities will be renewed – with roads, drainages, infrastructure, and full municipal services. Through this programme, we intend to transform the urban centres into modern ones, and ensure their sustainability.” Thanking UN-HABITAT for collaborating with the state on Structure Plan for nine cities, out of the 17 in his administration’s programme, Aregbesola said the most rewarding aspect of the collaboration was the participatory governance strategy which would be brought to bear in developing the structure plans.

he Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, said it would use the October 20 governorship election in Ondo State to re-launch itself in the South-West region. The Special Adviser to the president on Niger Delta Affairs and the Chairman of the Amnesty Programme, Kingsley Kuku, disclosed this during a rally organised to support the governorship candidate of the party, Chief Olusola Oke, in Arogbo Kingdom in EseOdo Local Government Area of Ondo State. He also declared President Goodluck Jonathan’s support for Oke, saying it was not true that the President was supporting Governor Olusegun Mimiko for the poll. Kuku explained that the President would not leave his party to support a candidate from another party. He said: “I can say authoritatively that the President is not in support of Mimiko and he cannot leave his party and the party’s candidate and support another party’s candidate. “I am the second top political office holder from this state after the minister. If the President has any different plan on the election, he would have told me. He is in full support of our party winning the state on October 20.

“The PDP is repositioning itself to win back the South-West region of the country and we are going to use Ondo State to get an inroad into the region.” Kuku pointed out that the Labour Party in the state had done nothing to develop the Southern Senatorial District, especially the coastal areas. He said the last development witnessed in the area was during the administration of former Governor Olusegun Agagu. The President’s aide said most of the projects initiated by Agagu in the area had been abandoned by Mimiko’s administration. He said despite the senatorial district being an oil-producing area, the state government had no positive impact on the people. Kuku called on the people to support the party in the election by voting for Oke to usher in the needed development in the area.

Oke

Involve governors or forget constitution review –Fagbemi

Trans-border robbery: I’ve no case to answer –Hamani Tidjani

KEMI OLAITAN

WALE IGBINTADE AND CAROLINE CHUKWUKA

IBADAN

Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, said the constitution amendment which would serve the interest of the generality of the people would not see the light of the day unless Nigerians begged the governors of the 36 states. He said this in Ibadan yesterday, while delivering a lecture entitled: “Essence of political leadership, the Nigeria situation,” during the inauguration of the new executive members of the NTA Ibadan chapel

of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ. The event was held at the NTA Ibadan network centre. Fagbemi said the country would not achieve the necessary growth and development with the leadership traits exhibited by the present crop of leaders. “It is we Nigerians that are the impediments to meaningful constitution review in the country,” he said. The legal luminary said the state governors constituted a major stumbling block to the much-needed constitution review, considering their hold on the state

Houses of Assembly. Fagbemi said for now there was nothing on ground to guarantee the much-talked about constitution amendment, adding that there had been about three or more attempts to review the constitution. He said: “If we want to have a genuine amendment in our constitution, there are some people we have to consider before doing so. There is no way the governors can allow a perfect amendment in the country. If actually we need a better constitution for the country, I think we should plead with our governors.”

cross-border robbery suspect, Hamani Tidjani, has asked a Lagos High Court to discharge and acquit him for lack of diligent prosecution, saying that his nine- year-old trial had shown that he had no case to answer. The suspect, who said this in a seven-page “No Case Submission,’’ filed by his lawyer, J. H. Bashir, also prayed the court to exercise its discretion in his favour and set him free. Tidjani is standing trial before Justice Sybil Nwaka on a three-count charge

of conspiracy to commit armed robbery, armed robbery and receiving stolen goods. The offence is contrary to Sections 403A, 402 (2) (a) and 427 of the Criminal Code Cap C17 Laws of Lagos State 2003. But Tidjani, in his application, reminded the court that out of the six witnesses listed, the prosecution was only able to call one Sergeant Banjoko Oluwemimo seven years ago, adding that no other witness testified in support of the prosecution. He is asking the court to determine whether the prosecution has established a prima facie case of conspiracy to commit

robbery as contained in Section 403A of the Criminal Code Law of Lagos State and whether the testimony of the prosecution’s witness was enough for him to answer the allegation of armed robbery. In his legal argument, his lawyer submitted that for an offence of conspiracy to exist, there must be evidence before the court that the defendant was directly involved, adding that mere suspicion was not an offence in law. He said: “My Lord, it takes two to conspire. One person cannot be made to answer to a charge of conspiracy where there is no other person standing alongside the defendant.’’

South East

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Police arrest gang leader, recover cache of arms, ammunition CHARLES OKEKE AWKA

olice in Anambra State yesterday announced the arrest of one Ifejika, the alleged leader of the gang responsible for a series of high profile kidnappings, armed robberies and murder. The gang was also responsible for the kidnap-

ping of Igwe Ihembosi in 2010 and the recent abduction of Igwe Robert Eze, the paramount ruler of Ukpo in Dunukofia Local Government. The state Commissioner of Police, Bala Nasarawa, made the announcement at a press briefing at the Command Headquarters in Awka. He said some high cali-

bre guns and ammunition were recovered from an underground armoury found in the house of the suspect. The commissioner also announced the arrest of an unnamed associate of the gang leader. Nasarawa said Ifejika was arrested at Ifite, Orafite in Ekwusigo Local Government on Septem-

ber 3, when a combined team of the InspectorGeneral of Police Special Task Force on Heinous Crime and men of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, raided his hideout and home. The commissioner said the gang was also responsible for the killing of five policemen at Okija on June 22, the murder of three

policemen at Ozubulu on April 2, and the attack on Amichi and Ukpor Police Divisions on April 4. He listed the arms and ammunition discovered at the suspect’s house to include 27 AK47 rifles, one K2 rifle, two type-06 rifles, one general purpose machine gun, one rocket launcher, 17 rockets, six pump action guns, three dane guns, one

Barretta pistol, 13 rocket grenades, 12,800 rounds of AK47 live ammunition, 530 rounds of LAR live ammunition, 1,000 rounds of K2 live ammunition and 143 magazines. Nasarawa disclosed that some of the arms were those stolen at Ukpor and Amichi police stations when they were attacked by gunmen.

Defection: ACN sues two Anambra legislators CHARLES OKEKE AWKA

L-R: Abia State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Eze Chikamnayo; Governor Theodore Orji and the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ugochukwu Emezuo, at a press conference in Umuahia, on Monday.

Assassins kill female doctor, as businessman escapes death

Presidency plotting Okorocha’s impeachment –APGA

CHRIS NJOKU

OWERRI

n electronics dealer, Dr. Williams Ude, in Owerri, Imo State, narrowly escaped death on Monday but a female medical doctor, who was with him at the time of the attack, was shot dead. The whereabouts of the owner of the popular Udekings and Sons Electronics were unknown at press time, but the body of the doctor had been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Owerri. Williams, who hailed from Obibiezena in Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State, was reportedly trailed from a bank to his hotel on Aba -Owerri Road. But rather than drive into the hotel, he diverted to the road which leads to his village where he abandoned his car and ran into the bush.

CHRIS NJOKU OWERRI

he All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, has alerted the public to the plot by the Presidency to sponsor the impeachment of Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State. The state Chairman of APGA, Prince Okoroafor Anyanwu, levelled the allegation against the Presidency in a statement issued in Owerri yesterday. He said the attention of the party had been drawn to “a reckless comment credited to the Special Adviser to the President of the Federal Gov-

ernment of Nigeria on Political Matters, Ahmed Guliak, calling for the impeachment of the duly elected Governor of Imo State, Owelle Rochas Anayo Okorocha”. Anyanwu said that it was now cleared that the statement credited to Ikedi Ohakim and others that they had the backing of the Presidency to remove Okorocha had been further strengthened by Guliak’s widely reported statement. He said: “It should also be noted that the state Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chairman had earlier revealed that Ikedi Ohakim

and others declared that they contributed N25bn to the PDP for the presidential campaign. “The PDP officials also boasted to have used their connections within the Presidency to influence the police to assist the former chairmen to invade and take over the local government areas by force.” APGA, therefore, called on President Goodluck Jonathan to call Guliak to order and sanction him for bringing the office of the President to disrepute “if indeed he is not playing out a script authored within the Presidency”.

he Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, has filed a suit against two members of the Anambra State House of Assembly for dumping the party for the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, without resigning from their legislative positions. The two legislators are Hon. Jideofor Okoye (representing Anambra West constituency) and Mrs. Rita Maduagwu (representing Nnewi South 1 constituency). This is contained in a statement entitled; “Turncoat lawmakers: Legal fireworks begin, ACN cautions members,” which was issued by the Anambra State spokesman of the party, Okelo Madukife, in Awka yesterday. The suit filed at the Federal High Court, Awka, followed the lawmakers’ recent announcement of their defection at an elaborate ceremony. The former ACN members cited the developmental strides of Governor Peter Obi as their major reason for joining APGA. Madukife, who urged the public to note the pendency of the suit, also implored the two lawmakers to stop holding meetings with ACN members in their re-

spective constituencies. He said: “It is needless to remind our membership at all levels in the country who have been appropriately informed through the right channels, as well as the general public that our great party has initiated a judicial action against Mr. Victor Jideofor Okoye, in the time being, an unlawful custodian of a sacred mandate conferred on the ACN to represent the Anambra West state constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly. “Mr. Okoye, ostensibly defected to APGA, without resigning his seat in the House moments after he was sworn in on the platform of our party.” Madukife also said that before filing the suit, the party had issued a mandatory 21-day ultimatum to the state House of Assembly to declare the affected seats vacant.

Obi

Umeh knocks FG over 2nd Niger Bridge, erosion control DENNIS AGBO ENUGU

he All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, has faulted statements made by President Goodluck Jonathan and the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala, that the second Niger Bridge in Onitsha

and erosion menace in the South-East region would be financed through concessional agreement and loans. The party said by planning to construct the Onitsha Bridge through concession, it showed that the Federal Government had not made any financial commitment to the

project, more so when the concessioner was expected to recover the money through tollgates which would be erected at entry points of Onisha and Asaba cities. The APGA National Chairman, Chief Victor Umeh, who spoke on the issues yesterday, shortly after his arrival at the

Akanu Ibiam Airport Enugu from London, said he was out of the country when Jonathan visited the state last week where the President disclosed that the Second Niger Bridge would be constructed through concession. He said with such arrangement, the President had not redeemed his

campaign pledge to Ndigbo, since the people using the bridge would pay for the construction through toll fees. Umeh also recalled a similar statement by Dr. Okonjo-Iweala that the Federal Government would remedy the different erosion sites in the zone through a $450m loan.

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South South

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Bomb scare in Delta Government House AMOUR UDEMUDE ASABA

here was pandemonium yesterday as workers resumed at about 8:am and found a sealed canton suspected to contain bombs at the entrance gate of the Delta State Head of Service.

The Office of the Head of Service is less than a minute drive from the Government House and the police headquarters in Asaba, the state capital. It was learnt that the alarm raised by the workers attracted men of the anti-bomb squad to the scene and carried the can-

ton away for analysis. The incident occurred when the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 5, Hashimu Argungun, was being received at the Government House by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan. Addressing journal-

ists over the incident at the Government House, Uduaghan dismissed the bomb scare, describing it as a mere “juju scare” a fetish sacrifice which may have been dumped there by those he called “juju men.” The governor, however, displayed the substance

at the state’s Executive Council Chamber. He said that the state had strengthened its intelligent gathering and therefore advised workers and residents to go about their lawful duties without fear. Uduaghan said: “From the anti-bomb squad’s reports, there is no way this could have exploded

because there is no explosion inside. The wrist watch is not connected to any power source.” To the state’s Commissioner of Police, Mr Ikechukwu Aduba, the substance, which was fashioned like a rocket launcher, was a deliberate effort by mischief-makers to portray the state as insecure.”

Youths petition CDS, allege JTF’s invasion, intimidation •Allegation not true –JTF SOLA ADEBAYO WARRI

embers of the Ugborodo Youth Development Council (UYDC) yesterday alleged that the Joint Task Force (JTF) in the Niger Delta, Operation Pulo Shield, carried out unwarranted invasion on their communities and intimidated residents. In a petition sent to the Chief of Defence of Staff, Air Marshal Oluseyi Petinrin, the youths alleged that the invasions were carried out by the Delta Sector Command of the JTF, led by the Commanding Officer, 3rd Batallion, Nigerian Army, Effurun, Delta State, LtCol. Ifeanyi Otu. They asked Petinrin, who supervises JTF, to call the command to order and stop the raid on their communities forthwith. They also demanded the release of youths in the custody of JTF. The UYDC, in the petition signed yesterday by its President, Julius Atete and Financial Secretary,

Mr. Eyiengho Besidione, alleged that last Saturday’s invasion of Ajudaibo community and yesterday’s attack on Arunton community by the troops of JTF was “premeditated and unwarranted.” Specifically, the group accused the JTF of dabbling into local politics. The youths alleged that the troops were being used by some self-seeking youth leaders to distabilise Ugborodo communities and their leadership, adding that the JTF was economical with the truth by its claim that it was pursuing illegal oil operators in the area. They said bunkering no longer existed in the areas, having being eliminated by the Oil Pipeline and Surveillance Team set up by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). The youths said the troops were being used by a faction of the Ugborodo communities to overthrow the legally constituted leadership of the areas. But Lt-Col Otu, in a telephone interview, de-

Delta State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ikechukwu Aduba (left), displaying the purported explosive at the state’s Executive Council Chamber in Asaba, yesterday.

scribed the allegations as “unfounded.” Otu said: “It is not true that. That is not what happened. The only thing I can say is that we acted on a tip-off that there were some illegal activities, especially buying of arms and illegal oil refineries going on in the areas. And we recovered some magazines and ammunition from some boys we arrested during the operation.”

Bakassi: Appealing ICJ verdict not necessary –Ita Giwa TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE

ormer Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly Matters, Senator Florence ItaGiwa, yesterday flayed those clamouring for the secession of Bakassi from Nigeria. She also decried the call by some people prevailing on the Federal Government to appeal the judgment of the International Court of Justice, after 10 years of ceding Bakassi to Cameroon. Speaking at a press conference yesterday in Lagos yesterday, Senator Ita Giwa affirmed the Bakassi people affinity with the Efik Kingdom in Cross River State, who are original owners of

the Bakassi Peninsula. She said rather than wasting resources in appealing the ICJ judgment, the government should address issues relating to resettlement of Bakassi people in their place of choice, Days Spring 1 and 2 and Kwa Islands, as promised by Federal Government in 2006. Ita Giwa said: “As painful as it may be, we will refrain from condemning the Federal Government’s decision not to revisit or belatedly appeal the 2002 ICJ judgment ceding the bulk of our homeland to Cameroon. If good sense had prevailed 10 years ago we may not have found ourselves in this quagmire. As a peace-loving people, we have chosen

to cut out losses and move as sacrifice for the peace and stability of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, our fatherland. “We do not subscribe to futile efforts aimed at securing resources that were not used to develop our people in the past nor is it likely that it will be used for that purpose in the future; Bakassi has been used as a conduit for far too long. “We abhor violence and reject any attempt to militarize our agitation. It is our contention that resources could be put to better use for the development of infrastructure in our chosen new abode as well as the development of vital human capacity of our industrious people.”

PDP shuns Airhiavbere’s petition as tribunal strikes out name SEBASTINE EBHUOMHAN BENIN

he Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal yesterday struck out the name of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the petition filed by the party’s candidate, Maj-Gen. Charles Ehigie Airhiavbere, against the election of Governor Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

The inaugural sitting of the three-man tribunal chaired by Hon. Justice Suleman Ambrusa was shunned by the leaders and members of the PDP as well as Airhiavbere himself. With the striking out of the PDP’s name, the party seizes to be the second petitioner. The PDP had disowned Airhiavbere’s petition after it directed him immediately after the July 14 governorship election not to protest poll.

However, sitting at the tribunal began at exactly 9.10am yesterday. The sitting was witnessed by the state deputy governor, Dr. Pius Egberanwen Odubu, and seven Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) leading 30 other lawyers, represented different parties in the petition. In his welcome address, Justice Ambrusa promised to abide by the oath of his office and solicited the cooperation of all parties in the petition.

Senate blames prison congestion on DPPs SEBASTINE EBHUOMHAN BENIN

he Senate yesterday blamed Directors of Public Prosecution (DPPs) in states for prison congestion. Laying the blame at the door-step of the DPPs during an official assessment of Oko Medium Security Prison in Benin, the Edo State capital, the Senate Chairman on Interior, Alhaji Abubakar Bagudu, said there were over 900 awaiting trial

detainees at the 608-bed capacity prison facility that was built in 1988. Commending the Nigerian Prison Service (NPS) personnel, Bagudu said: “We are concerned about the security situation which has led to perennial jail breaks in prisons across the country. “So, we want to see what we can do to beef up security such that innocent lives and property are not lost. We noticed that the issue of ATP (Awaiting Trial Prisoners) in this prison as in

other prisons is a problem. “There are over 900 awaiting trial detainees here and we have learnt among other factors that the late issuance of advice from the Director of Public Prosecution delayed the cases. “We are using this opportunity to appeal to all the DPPs across the country to kindly beef up and intensify the issuance of advice so that they can expedite the delivery of justice as it affects those awaiting trials.”

North

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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Terrorists kill Ekiti varsity lecturer, LG secretary in Borno ABIODUN NEJO AND INUSA NDAHI

uspected terrorists on Monday night shot dead the Secretary of Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, Muhammed Salisu. The terrorists also killed Salisu’s friend, Mr. Abubakar Muhammed Sani, a university lecturer.

The incident occurred barely 48 hours after six people were reportedly killed by terrorists in Sulimanti Ward of Maiduguri, the state capital. Salisu and his friend were killed near NNPC depot in Maiduguri. Their bodies were later evacuated by the police to Biu Local Government Area for burial, where the victims both hailed from. Residents have, how-

ever, vacated their houses for fear of another attack. The Borno State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Abdullalahi Yuguda, confirmed the incident. Yuguda said that Salisu and Sani, a lecturer in the Department of Law, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, were shot dead on Monday night by suspected terrorists. A source, who did not want his name mentioned,

said the late university lecturer was in Maiduguri to enroll his 12-year-old son in one of the colleges in the city before the terrorists attacked him. The source said: “Sani came on Monday and insisted on sleeping in the house of his best friend, the local government secretary. He was supposed to attend an important programme in Abuja today. “The bodies of the two

friends have been buried in Biu.” Meanwhile, Ekiti State University (EKSU) community was thrown into mourning yesterday as the news of Sani’s killing was broken. The university’s spokesman, Mr. Olubunmi Ajibade, told journalists that the university community received the sad news with shock, describing the death as unfortunate.

He said immediately the university confirmed the incident, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Patrick Aina, paid a condolence visit to the Dean of the Faculty of Law and the deceased family. He said: “Sani was a brilliant guy in the university and he always insisted that the school recruits brilliant brains to teach in the university. It is unfortunate that the he died in such a gruesome way”.

N500m property lost to flood in Niger –Agency PRISCILLA DENNIS MINNA

irector General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), Alhaji Mohammed Shaba, has said that property worth N500m were destroyed recently by flood across the state. According to the NSEMA, the property include farmlands and houses. Shaba said that Chanchaga, Bosso, Bida, Borgu, Shiroro, Mokwa, Lavun, Wushishi, Edati and Munyan local government areas were affected by the flood. Addressing journalists on the incident, he said no fewer than seven lives were lost to flood in Bosso, Wushishi and Chanchaga local government areas. Due to the incident, according to him, the state government set up three Internal Displaced Camps (IDC) in Borgu, Shiroro and Mokwa local government areas to cater for the flood victims He said to properly ad-

dress the disaster issue, the state emergency management agency would require the sum of N50m to enable it purchase relief materials for victims. Shaba lamented that the funds allocated to NSEMA was not enough to handle all disaster-related issues in the state, adding that when disaster occur, official procedures make it hard to access funds to assist victims, hence the need for the state government to have “Standing Funds” set aside for prompt disaster management. He some parts of the state were flooded due to the release of water from the 3 hydro dams as well as building by people on drainages and water ways. The NSEMA Director General, however, urged the Federal Government to stop politicisation of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and ensure quick response to disaster, adding: “Politicisation is now the bane of NEMA in the country.”

Borno urges contractors to sit up INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

he Borno State Government has threatened to sanction any contractor who compromised standard in the renovation of eight schools in the state. The state Commissioner for Education, Hon. Inuwa Kubo, issued the threat yesterday at the Musa Usman Secretariat in Maiduguri. It will be recalled that a few months ago, the state government awarded contracts to renovate secondary schools in Miringa, Gajigana, Marama, Lassa, Baga, Kumshe, Maiduguri and Yerwa.

Kubo said the administration of Governor Kashim Shettima embarked on the projects in order to regain the lost glory of public schools in the state. He said: “Education is a right to all citizens and that the state government will do everything possible within its limited resources to ensure that quality education is achieved.” The commissioner, however, praised the level of work done in the Government Day Secondary School, Marama, which is to be converted to a Boarding School and Miringa Government Girls Secondary School.

L-R: General Manager of Skill ‘G’ Nig. Ltd, Mr. Meir Dagan; Kwara State Deputy Governor, Elder Peter Kisra; Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Alhaji Saka Onimago, at the commissioning of the State Education Resource Centre in Ilorin, yesterday.

Taraba Assembly moves to impeach deputy governor

he Taraba State House of Assembly has issued an impeachment notice to the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Danladi, over allegations of gross misconduct, sharp practices and abuse of office. This is contained in a statement signed by 19 of the 24 members of the Assembly and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday in Jalingo. The lawmakers said they were relying on the powers conferred on them by Section 188 (2) of the Constitu-

tion to act against such alleged offences. Danladi was particularly accused of using his office to divert MDGs facilities meant for the state, such as MDG ICT centre, a Motorised borehole and solar street light project to a private School, Yagai Academy, purportedly built by him while in office as the deputy governor. The legislators alleged that Danladi used his office to acquire a large parcel of land in Jalingo on which he built Yagai Academy with multi-million naira business ventures.

Such ventures included Yagai Water, Yagai Printing Press and Yagai Restaurant, adding that his total emolument as deputy governor could not justify the ventures. According to the statement, Yagai Academy was incorporated at the Corporate Affairs Commission with NO RC860774 in 2009 with a share capital of N2million only and Danladi’s declared assets at a time he came to office was not more than N56 million. The lawmakers wondered how the institution allegedly now worth more

than a billion naira. The statement added that Danladi had demonstrated lack of capacity or refusal to properly discharge the functions of his office which resulted to disaffection and disharmony among others amounting to total disregard for the oath of office he took. The deputy governor, according to the statement, has 14 days to give satisfactory response to the allegations or face impeachment. Meanwhile, the Assembly has proceeded on a recess to resume on October 21, 2012.

Yuguda warns council chiefs against corruption, indolence

overnor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State yesterday warned that his administration has no room for corrupt, indolent and incompetent people. Yuguda gave the warning in Bauchi while swearing-in Sole Administrators for the 20 Local Government Areas in the state. He warned that any of

them found wanting in the discharge of his or her duty, would be dealt with in accordance with the law. Yuguda expressed confidence in the ability of the appointees to deliver quality service to the people, noting that as seasoned administrators they would have little difficulty in dealing with all shades of interests in their respective councils.

The governor advised them to carry the people along in the discharge of their duties. Yuguda described local governments as the closest tier of government to the grassroots with a major stake in the provision of social services to the people. He urged them to perform their fundamental duties as enshrined in the Fourth

Schedule of the 1999 Constitution. The governor also enjoined them to be judicious in handling the finances of the councils, and to be fair in dealing with all categories of people. The governor however warned the local council administrators to stay away from people he described “as bootlickers and rumour mongers.”

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Ondo: Season of accusations and denials

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Politics

Dankwambo’s pragmaticc empowerment agendaa

Electronic voting possible in 2015 polls, says Jega T he Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega, yesterday said electronic voting would be possible in 2015 if the National Assembly include it in the current constitutional amendment. Jega said this in Nsukka at the 2012 Annual National Conference of the Institute of Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, with the theme: “Development and Entrepreneurial Education.” According to him, unless there is a constitutional amendment, electronic voting cannot be adopted for the 2015 general elections. He said: “INEC is a lawabiding commission and will not do anything that is not recognised by the constitution. The commission will sensitise the citizens on its usage as soon as it has been included in the constitution. INEC will continue to use modern technology to reduce electoral frauds during elections. “Voters’ card in 2015 has been computerised so that machine card readers will be used to authenticate voter card ownership during election.” Jega said that entrepre-

neurial education would play a vital role in reducing unemployment as well as make graduates job-creators instead of job seekers. “The introduction of entrepreneurship in the country’s education curriculum is a welcome development. To achieve the objective, there must be training and retraining of teachers so that the desired objective will be achieved. “Entrepreneurial education will be meaningless if those who acquire the skill are not patriotic and disciplined in their chosen careers. Staff of educational institutions must show seriousness in the discharge of their duties if the education transformation will be achieved.” He added that government should ensure adequate funding of the education sector and meet the welfare of stakeholders. In his remark, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Bartho Okolo, represented by Prof. Isaac Asuzu, said that entrepreneurial education, if effectively implemented would make graduates self reliant. “It has become imperative to include entrepreneurial education in the curriculum so as to reduce the magnitude of unem-

Kebbi: Tribunal throws out CPC’s petition against Dakingari

he Kebbi Elections Petition Tribunal on Tuesday struck out the petition filed by the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) challenging the election of Governor Saidu Dakingari on April. The chairman of the tribunal, Justice Dallami Sambo, said the tribunal lacked jurisdiction over the matter. “The points raised by the petitioner were on the nomination, substitution and sponsorship of candidates. These are pre-election matters and the tribu-

nal lacks the jurisdiction to entertain the matter,” Sambo said. The tribunal chairman said that the CPC failed to comply with the provisions of Section 35 of the Electoral Act. He said the tribunal upheld that the CPC candidate, Abubakar Mallam, and his deputy failed to legally and validly withdraw their interest to contest the election. The CPC challenged the declaration by INEC of the results of the election held on April 3.

ployment in the country. I urge the conference participants to come out with a framework on how to successfully implement entrepreneurial education,” he said. Also in a remark, Prof.

Musa Balarabe of the Faculty of Education, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, appreciated the inclusion of entrepreneurial education in the system but said that the education sector must be well-funded.

“Government and stakeholders in education must show sincerity of purpose and commitment for entrepreneurship to yield the required result.” Earlier in his remark, the director of the in-

stitute, Prof. Nkadi Onyegegbu, said the institute decided to choose Jega as keynote speaker to enable participants tap from his wealth of experience as a don and INEC national chairman.

L-R: Bauchi State governor, Isa Yuguda; Speaker, Bauchi State House of Assembly, Yahaya Miya and Secretary to the State Government, Ahmed Ibrahim Dandija, during oath-taking of the newly sworn in caretaker committee chairmen in Bauchi, yesterday.

ACN substitutes Ondo deputy governorship candidate • Advises PDP to forget Offa LG HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE.

he Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Ondo State yesterday finally announced the choice of Dr. Paul Akintelure as its deputy governorship candidate for the October 20 election in the state. According to an ACN source, the choice of Akintelure as Rotimi Akeredolu’s running mate was decided by the leadership of the party after a meeting in Ila Orangun, Osun State yesterday. National Mirror learnt that Akintelure had submitted his nomination forms to the Ondo State office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Akure on Monday.

But the Head of Public Affairs of INEC in the state, Mrs. Celina Beckley, could not confirm the development, saying she was yet to be informed of the development when National Mirror called her on the phone. The latest development has indicated that the state secretary of the ACN, Olutope Adedipe, who had earlier been picked as Akeredolu’s running mate had been withdrawn and substituted with Akintelure. But, the Director of Publicity and Media Relations of the Akeredolu Campaign Organisation, Mr. Idowu Ajanaku, neither confirmed nor denied the development when National Mirror contacted him on the telephone. Ajanaku said: “Akintelure is qualified to be the

deputy governor of Ondo State. He is a successful medical practitioner who had paid his dues as a committed member of the ACN in the state. “He is well respected by the people of Ikale, where he holds the chieftaincy title of Otunba of Ikale land.” Meanwhile, the ACN has advised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to banish from its thoughts the hope of ever regaining political control of Offa Local Government Area in Kwara State, no matter the level of its political shenanigans, intimidation or hallucination. In a statement issued in Osogbo yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the ACN urged its members and the entire peace loving, but politically sophisticated people

of Offa to ignore the empty threats, grandstanding and intimidation of the PDP-led government of Kwara State and continue to do what the community for ages has been renowned for – trouncing and humiliating at the polls clueless and visionless political parties such as the PDP. It added that when almost the entire Northern Nigeria was under the stranglehold of the defunct Northern Peoples Congress (NPC), the people of Offa dared to be different and cast their lot with the defunct Action Group. It said: “It is the sons and daughters of these worthy people”, mindful of their political heritage and place in history that humiliated the PDP at the last council elections and will continue to do so.”

Politics

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ondo: Season of accusations and denials Ahead of the October 20 governorship election in Ondo State, political parties have been trading accusations over the poll, thereby heating up the polity. HAKEEM GBADAMOSI writes on the development.

he October 20 governorship election in Ondo State promises to be an interesting one. Already, stakeholders have been raising various alarms which might affect the conduct of the allimportant poll. For the parties, it has been a season of accusations and counter-accusations. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently raised alarm over compilation of fake voters’ register by a particular political party in the state. The commission, which made this known through its Head of Public Affairs, Mrs Celina Beckley, however declined to mention the political party involved in the dubious act in order not to heat up the polity. INEC condemned the act, saying the exercise was illegal and contravened the Electoral Act of 2010 (as amended) and warned the political party involved to desist from such act. Beckley said: “Our attention has been drawn to an ongoing house-to-house compilation of particulars of voters being carried out by a political party in Ondo State. INEC will not condone any act that contravenes the nation’s electoral law and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The security agencies are on high alert and anyone caught carrying out this exercise will be dealt with accordingly.” The commission called on members of the public to be vigilant and avoid trading their voters’ cards in order to allow them to vote in the forthcoming governorship election Before INEC raised the alarm, there has been accusations and counter-accusations from political parties in the state as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had earlier went to town alleging that the ruling Labour Party (LP) and INEC are conniving to rig the election through illegal registration of voters, which the party claimed was masterminded by the state government and some functionaries of the commission. The PDP chairman in the state, Hon. Ebenezer Alabi, who disclosed this at a press conference alleged that the state government had imported about 20 Secured fingerprint scanners, from India with the aim of training the local personnel on the use of the machines and raised the alarm that registrations exercises are ongoing in the state in some strategic locations which are hidden from the public. He made available some clips from the illegal exercises as evidence to support the party’s claims. Alabi argued that some of the details required by those registering the people are not for capturing of ordinary bio data of the state workers but for voters’ registration. He said: “We were reliably informed that those involved in the conspiracy include some functionaries of the INEC in Ondo State, top officials of the LP and the

Mimiko

Akeredolu

Oke

Jega

Ondo State government. The ultimate goal of which is to violate and bastardise the INEC voters’ register for Ondo State through a method known as elimination by substitution. “The intention was to use the exercise to delete the names of genuine voters and replace them with fake voters being secretly registered now. It is instructive to note that we have scenes from the hidden registration centres in pictures both motion and still.” The PDP therefore called on the people of the state to resist any attempt to shortchange them, urging law enforcement agencies to act on the information to guard against the ugly situation. “We hereby earnestly call on the Inspector General of Police to urgently carry out an investigation, arrest this ugly and dangerous trend and ensure that the perpetrators and collaborators are brought to book,” he said. But the state Information Commissioner, Kayode Akinmade, said that LP does not need to embark on rigging before winning the governorship election because of its popularity in the state and denied the procurement of the said machines while he described the allegation as the “figment of imagination of the party” Akinmade said the LP-led government in the state has done more than enough to be trusted with the people’s mandate for

another term than to take to unscrupulous, corrupt and crooked ways to win election. “The Labour Party accusers are chronic liars and whistle blowers who will always peddle rumour in want of what to say to be relevant,” the commissioner stated. The state Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mr. Akin Orebiyi also denied that the commission was conniving with LP in carrying out illegal voters’ registration, describing the allegation as false. “I wish to say here and now that the allegation is not true. It is false and malicious. No voters’ registration exercise of any kind is being carried out by the INEC staff or that involves INEC functionary. Besides, nobody including INEC staff knows the software to access the voters’ register in this state,” Orebiyi said. Also, the State Civil Commission clarified the issue, absolving the state government from the registration exercise. The state Head of Service, Ajose Kudehinbu, explained that the recent biometric registration exercise by the commission has nothing to do with the voters’ registration but a regular routine which is aimed at fishing out ghost workers in the state. In the series of accusation, the Mimiko Campaign Organisation raised the alarm over massive purchase of voters’ cards by the opposition from unsuspecting people in the state.

The organisation through its Director of Publicity, Kola Olabisi, condemned the development. “The Olusegun Mimiko Campaign Organisation has uncovered massive mop up of voters’ cards by the opposition from unsuspecting members of the populace who are now being lured with financial inducement of between N5, 000 and N10, 000 in the desperation to win the forthcoming election at all cost when it has become crystal clear that they could not win in a free and fair election. “This is another of their plan, part of which is to visit on the state an unprecedented level of violence as they did recently in several areas of the state. When they realised that this would not work owing to the vigilance of the law enforcement agencies and our resolve not to be drawn into their orgy of violence which was obviously meant to provoke us into retaliation, they have resorted to buying of voters’ cards from the electorate.” But the PDP described the allegation as false. The party’s Director of Publicity, Ayo Fadaka, said members of the party in the state have every reason to believe that the people of the state will not sell their voters’ card. He said the people of the state have been enlightened on the need to protect their franchise and use same to remove “indolent administration.” However, the recent statement credited to the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega, confirmed the earlier alarm raised by the parties in the states. The INEC chairman said illegal voters’ registration is being perpetrated by some people in the state. Jega failed to mention the party involved in the illegal exercise while all the political parties are calling for the head of the offender. The Ondo State chapter of PDP called on Jega to name the parties fingered in the illegal registration of voters in the state. “We had alerted the nation that illegal registration was being conducted in the Government House and some few headquarters of some agencies of government. The manner of the prosecution of this action was shrouded in utmost secrecy which underscores the fact that it was designed to achieve some despicable purpose,” Fadaka stated on behalf of the PDP. The Akeredolu Campaign Organisation (ACO), speaking through its Director of Media, Publicity and Strategy, Idowu Ajanaku, asked the INEC boss “to go a step further by naming the party or parties involved in the illegal exercise.” He said: “For us in ACO, we want to state the fact that all the political parties including the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) have the official registration of voters in Ondo State as given out earlier by INEC. Anything outside this official one will not be accepted by the ACN for the election in Ondo State, especially now that the INEC chairman has confirmed that the commission is not involved in any form of registration going on in Ondo State. “We also call on the security agents to heed the call of the INEC boss by arresting and prosecuting the individuals involved in this criminal act across Ondo State.” The latest accusation also came from the Mimiko Campaign Organisation, accusing Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola of CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

MANSUR ISMAIL

t is as certain as daylight that the youths of today are the leaders of tomorrow. But how individuals fit into this maxim is a function of upbringing and the environment in which they are raised as managed by the government of the day, most especially. The 2006 population census figures reveal that youths constitute the largest chunk of the country’s population. Thus, a failure in proper governance spells doom for the society. It is in view of this that successive administrations across the country have made frantic efforts to better the socio-economic well-being of the youths. But the strides so far taken by the Gombe State governor, Ibrahim Dankwambo, in this direction over the last 15 months in office stands out. Guided by his campaign resolve to govern youths that will be celebrated by their parents and society, the governor since taking over the reins of power has never looked back in rolling out different youths development programmes to the joy of the populace. Speaking with newsmen during one of his triumphant entries into Gombe in the electioneering period, precisely the day he visited the state to obtain his ticket for the race, Dankwambo, then the AccountantGeneral of the Federation recalled with bitterness how a certain young man in celebration of that homecoming ran side-byside with his car all the way from Gombe Airport to the state capital (about 35 kilometres). It was there and then that he vowed to give his best towards brightening the future of youths in the state. “How would it sound that after four years I did not do anything that will give people like that young man a hope for tomorrow? I am who I am today because someone gave me a chance by providing the necessary atmosphere,” said the governor. Therefore, in consonance with the recommendations of the committee he constituted to look into the issue of youth empowerment and poverty alleviation earlier, Dankwambo immediately set up four vocational training centres across the three senatorial districts of the state where 320 youths were enrolled into seven different trades. They have since graduated and were resettled with the tools of their trades and an interest-free loan of N200,000 to enable them stand on their own. In the same vein, government has planned to scale up the programme so that it can train 520 beneficiaries on 13 trades. Similarly, as part of the efforts to boost

Dankwambo’s pragmatic empowerment agenda THIS ADMINISTRATION SHALL CONTINUE WITH THIS PROGRAMME...

OUR COMMITMENT SHALL NOT WAVER BECAUSE WE ARE

AWARE THAT HUMAN DEVELOPMENT IS THE FOUNDATION OF ALL DEVELOPMENT

Dankwambo

agriculture in Gombe State as well as key into the Millennium Development Goal (MGD) on food sufficiency, the state government has designed a programme for the training of 1,100 youths on various agricultural activities. Government, under the programme plans to source 1,100 hectares of arable land to facilitate the venture, especially as it affects crop production. “Graduands would be resettled with implements and a soft loan to enable them take-off on their own with a strong monitoring team to ensure that the purpose is not defeated,” said the state Commissioner of Youth Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mijinyawa Sani Labaran. Recently, 110 tertiary institution graduates went through intensive training on renewable energy. The intention is to resettle them with tools of the trade after training with a proposal for a take-off grant loan of N200,000 in the pipeline. And before the present general security situation in the country and the installation of Dankwambo’s administration was the yan kalare horror, a form of security challenge known to Gombe alone. The violent nature of this group knew no bounds. But their reign of terror was brought to an abrupt end with a proscription by the present administration. But with the realisation of the need to

meaningfully engage them comes big and ground breaking programme tagged ‘Talba Youths Reorientation and Rehabilitation Programme’. Under the programme, 1,200 youths were camped at the NYSC Orientation Camp for a three-week rehabilitation and reorientation exercise. There they were grouped into Ward Marshals, Traffic Marshals and Environmental Marshals, put on salary and have been working appropriately. Their responsibility is to complement the efforts of the existing structures in the areas of security, crowd/traffic management and sanitary issues among other things. But as a precursor to the take-off of the programme was the dreaded Kalare boys’ response to government call for submission of weapons and repentance. However, the 1,200 rehabilitated youths were actually a blend of the targeted kalare group and decent but unemployed youths who saw the scheme as a window of employment. “This administration shall continue with this programme, skills acquisition training and many more that will come into operation until we are able to reduce restiveness, unemployment and poverty in our midst. Our commitment shall not waver because we are aware that human development is the foundation of all development,” said Dankwambo while answering questions on whether the programme would be continuous or window dressing as obtained in the past. Interestingly, the Talba youths empowerment programme is not only directly

Season of accusations and denials in Ondo

CONTINUED FROM 14 importing and sponsoring an Islamic cleric to cause chaos in the state before the election. Specifically, the organisation alleged that Aregbesola had contacted an Iwo-born Moslem cleric to train Muslims herdsmen in Osun State to carry out several nocturnal sacrifices in Ondo, Owo, Ikare, Akure and Okitipupa with a view to turning the hearts of the people of the state against Governor Mimiko spiritually. Olabisi said: “We are abreast of all that they have been planning against the good people of Ondo State, rather than embark on campaigns of issues and lay bare their

manifestoes before the people, they want to import voodoo and thugs into Ondo State to win at all cost.” But the ACN said the allegation was a diversionary tactics employed by the LP to distract the people from noticing most of the atrocities of the present government. The PDP also pointed accusing fingers at the LP for destroying its secretariat in Owo in the wake of the governor’s declaration. But Mimiko said four of the thugs arrested who carried out the action were sponsored by the ACN. With various accusation and counteraccusations coming from different quarters, it is crystal clear that plans are being

hatched by the political parties to emerge as winner in the forthcoming election. The security agencies have a lot to do in this regard to check the atrocities of politicians for the peaceful conduct of the governorship election. This may be one of the reasons why the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Mr. Abdurahman Akano, charged politicians in the state to play the game according to the rules with an assurance to the people of the state that lives and property would be secured before, during and after the election. Akano urged politicians to shun violence and should not see the contest as a do-or-die affair.

geared towards enhancing the well-being of those without formal education, but allencompassing. In this regard, this piece will be incomplete without the mention of the collaboration with University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) to mop-up the teeming youths whose academic pursuit are at the verge of being truncated by their inability to obtain the required number of credit pass for tertiary education or the inability to score the required cut-off mark in the Joint Matriculation Examination (UME). Under this arrangement, candidates are admitted into the university system but take remedial lectures at the Education Resource Centre in Gombe under the guidance of UNIMAID staff and electronically take the same entrance examination as their colleagues on campus. So far, 1,000 candidates have written the UNIMAID remedial examinations and forms have been sold for another set. “It is one of the youth programmes that we have introduced and will sustain till anytime when the pressure of solving the problem of this category of youths is reduced,” Dankwambo said about the sustainability of the programme. To further strengthen the remediation process, Gombe State University’s School of Basic and Remedial Studies has been expanded and split into two campuses located at Kumo and Dukku towns in Akko and Dukku local government areas. Akko campus has already taken-off in earnest and it is designed to cater for 4,500 students in three years, which is 1,500 per session. The school has now been repackaged to remediate Senior Secondary School graduates in preparation for a tertiary education as well remediate the Junior Secondary School graduates and then do a full remedial for them in readiness for entry into a university or polytechnic. The School of Basic and Remedial Studies has also been designed in such a way that students who may not want to proceed with education will undergo training on trade, business, profession or a vocation in the school. In the same vein, sporting facilities are also provided in the institution so that students who are not inclined to academics or trade can go into sports. In furtherance of the Talba youth empowerment programme through education, the governor in his usual good judgement has begun the process of establishing a state-owned College of Education at Billiri in Billiri Local Government Area of the state with the ultimate aim of breeding qualified teachers and putting an end to the perennial dearth of qualified teachers in the state. Like in every other sector, Dankwambo’s activities in the area of education are innumerable. But the joy of it all is that he still keep them coming in. Yet “it is still like we have not started,” said the governor. “It is not the amount of money a state gets that matters, but how well it is managed and used for the betterment of the people and state.” Ismail, a public commentator, writes from Gombe.

Editorial

Wednesday,September 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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

STEVE AYORINDE

MD/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

YELE AKINROLABU

ED OPERATIONS

SEYI FASUGBA

DAILY EDITOR

BOLAJI TUNJI

SUNDAY EDITOR

GBEMI OLUJOBI

SATURDAY EDITOR

LANRE OYETADE

GENERAL EDITOR

DOZIE OKEBALAMA

COORDINATOR, EDITORIAL BOARD

ADESOYE ADEKOYA

CONTROLLER, PRODUCTION

CALLISTUS OKE

EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR

ISE-OLUWA IGE

ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF

KAYODE BALOGUN JNR

SM, STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT

FRANK OBOH

HEAD, GRAPHICS

he recent visit to Nigeria of America’s Secretary of State, Mrs. Hilary Clinton has offered the opportunity to review Nigeria’s relations with the United States at the economic, political, diplomatic and security levels since 1999. It has likewise opened the window for the examination of the bi-national commission between the two countries. It is noteworthy that Nigeria is US’ largest trading partner in sub-Saharan-Africa, largely as a result of America’s petroleum imports from the country. About eight (8) per cent of America’s oil supply is from Nigeria; which explains why Nigeria is ranked as the fifth largest exporter of oil to the US. In 2010, the two-way trade was valued at more than $34 billion, a 51 percent increase over the 2009 figure of $19.022 million following improved crude price. The US’ exports to Nigeria for the corresponding period were valued at about $4 billion. America’s trade deficit with Nigeria in 2010 was $21 billion and Nigeria was the 13th largest trading partner for the country during the period. While the trade balance largely favours Nigeria, a large percentage of US exports to Nigeria are scarcely properly captured by official statistics due to the sharp practices of some importers in their bids to avoid high tariffs and related stringent regulations. We recall that the US-African military high command was activated in an elaborate ceremony at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia on October 1, 2008, as the sixth unified geographic command within

Nigeria, US relations

the US Department of Defense with part of its duties being to secure oil routes through Nigeria, Gabon and Angola. Some energy experts, however, argue that the premium placed on crude oil in the two countries’ relations had declined in the light of recent developments of alternative sources of energy. Real earth resources are viewed as becoming more strategic in America’s relations with African states, Nigeria inclusive; especially in the context of fossil fuel technology and electronically powered vehicles. Consequently, it would seem the challenge is for Nigeria to restructure its economy and reduce its vulnerability in the international crude oil market. Again, the US is the largest foreign investor in Nigeria. The stock of US foreign direct investment (FDI) in the country as at 2010 was estimated at $5.2 billion, slightly down from $5.4 billion in 2009. The FDI, however, is largely concentrated on the petroleum/mining and wholesale trade sectors. Exxon Mobil and Chevron are the two largest US corporate players in Nigeria’s offshore oil and gas production, for example. This development appears the major headache of observers of the Nigerian economy who feel that with conscious efforts to reduce the country’s FDI dependence, develop indigenous capital and endogenize oil production, the country should be in a better position to reduce the ‘rentier’, neocolonial status of its political economy. It goes without saying that the intimidating foreign presence in Nigeria’s oil sector is antithetical to the country’s eco-

THE INTIMIDATING FOREIGN PRESENCE IN

NIGERIA’S OIL SECTOR IS ANTITHETICAL TO THE COUNTRY’S ECONOMIC AUTONOMY AND CAPACITY TO DEVELOP LOCAL CAPITAL nomic autonomy and capacity to develop local capital. In March 2009, the US and Nigeria met within the scope of the existing Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) with a view to strengthening the work programme and discuss improvement in Nigeria’s trade policies and market access. Some of the issues discussed were cooperation in the World Trade Organization (WTO), market access, export diversification, intellectual property protection and enforcement, commercial issues, trade capacity building and technical assistance, as well as infrastructure and investment. The structure and policy framework of the WTO has, however, been against exports from developing countries amid protectionist policies in the core capitalist states. The US assistance to Nigeria includes equipment and training for Nigerian peacekeeping forces in Africa. The country provides fund to develop the capacity of government institutions and civil society

to prevent, manage and mitigate conflict. The US programme builds Nigeria’s capacity to address maritime insecurity, narcotics trafficking, human rights and public trust in the security services. America relates with civil society groups and assists in developing their abilities. Also of note is America’s collaboration with Nigeria on the African Growth and Competitiveness programme, the initiative to end hunger in Africa, while the is country very much interested in extractive industries transparency as well. It seems the Nigerian Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (NEITI) counts most in this context. The suspicion and fear, however, are that US’ ideological interests are often camouflaged in the country’s worldwide policy on democratization. Consequently, the FG should exploit its cordial relations with the US and join in pressuring it to reconcile its foreign policy to respond to and reflect the preferences of developing countries and exploited peoples to help promote a just and equitable international political/economic order. Perhaps more importantly, however, is the America-Nigeria collaboration on the Trans-Sahel counter-terrorism programme. The nation is at the crossroads and the Federal Government seems overwhelmed by the Boko Haram insurgency. Considering the US wealth of experience in tackling terrorism, the FG should exploit all opportunities offered by the counter terrorism initiative in its bid to contain the dark cloud of terrorism in the land.

ON THIS DAY September 5, 2005 Mandala Airlines Flight 091 crashed into the heavily populated residential area of Sumatra, Indonesia, killing 104 people on board and at least 39 persons on ground. On September 5, 2005 (10:06 a.m. UTC+7), a Jakarta-bound Boeing 737-200 jetliner operated by Mandala Airlines crashed into a heavily-populated residential area seconds after taking off from Polonia International Airport in Medan, Indonesia. There were 153 fatalities.

September 5, 1984 Western Australia became the last Australian state to abolish capital punishment. Capital punishment or the death penalty is a legal process whereby a person is put to death by the state as a punishment for a crime. The judicial decree that someone be punished in this manner is a death sentence, while the actual process of killing the person is an execution. Crimes that can result in a death penalty are known as capital crimes or capital offences.

September 5, 1975 Sacramento, California: Lynette Fromme attempted to assassinate former United States President, Gerald Ford. Lynette Alice “Squeaky” Fromme (born October 22, 1948) is an American member of the Manson Family. She was sentenced to life imprisonment for the assassination attempt on Ford in 1975. After serving the 34 years jail term, she was released from prison on August 14, 2009.

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Views

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

A case for unicameral legislature PUBLIC DOMAIN

DELE

SETEOLU

deleseteolu@nationalmirroronline.net (08033137577 SMS only)

he cost of governance in Nigeria is generally acknowledged to be heavy and this is at the expense of socioeconomic development. The presidential system of government largely attracts huge bureaucracy at each level of government. In our own experience, we have a bi-cameral National Assembly while at the state and local council levels, it is unicameral legislature. The Presidency in Nigeria is huge with several ministers and ministers of state. There is also a large retinue of special advisers, senior special assistants and special assistants. Sustaining the different layers of government structures is heavy amidst social infrastructure deficit, food crisis, security deficit, poverty crisis and pervasive under-development. There has been proliferation of government structures to accommodate political cronies without significant increase in the efficiency of state actors and government institutions. Against this backdrop, there is the growing call to abolish the bi-cameral legislature at the centre, which is made up of the Senate and House of Representatives. The cost implication of a bi-cameral legislature is

heavy and requires a review. A unicameral legislature for Nigeria would substantially help to reduce the cost of government, enhance law making efficiency and divert funds for pressing social issues. We should note that the members of Senate and House of Representatives are elected on full-time basis, earn salaries and allowances. The two legislative houses are also served by full bureaucracies and committees, and this increases the cost of government. Meanwhile, it has been problematic to measure the social impact of the National Assembly on the state and economy. The National Assembly, in several instances, fails to identify with the Nigerian people and often adopts resolutions that are non-reflective of popular preferences and aspirations. The proposed legislation to limit the capacity of organized labour for industrial action is a case in point. It is noteworthy that Senegal is proposing to abolish its Senate and divert the accruing funds to combat flood in the country. It may be argued that the historical specificity of Senegal differs; but the contemporary challenge of development in Nigeria makes it imperative to review the cost of governance. In theory, a unicameral legislature is not inconsistent with the presidential system. The country has the option to re-define its political system to reflect its economic strength and political realities. Besides, the legislative business should be converted into part-time to discourage intense struggle for power, reduce the attraction of political office, and attract quality and committed minds to the parliament.

THE NATIONAL

ASSEMBLY IN SEVERAL INSTANCES FAILS TO IDENTIFY WITH THE

NIGERIAN PEOPLE

The foregoing suggests that the country has not resolved its minimum political questions; but these are germane for its political survival and economic viability.

Yahaya Jameh’s despotic rule in the Gambia President Yahaya Jameh of the Gambia has executed nine political prisoners and placed more than 35 others on death row. The government has been repressive and less tolerant of opposition. The previous elections have been devoid of competitive politics and are merely ratificatory in nature. The core opposition leaders are either in exile or detention. The Gambian president thrives on neo-patrimonial politics, personalization of state power, and privatization of state resources. He has become the ‘state’ and exercises absolute powers. It is noteworthy that he became military leader after the overthrow of former President Dauda Jawara. He organized a sham political transition to transmute into civilian leader. He became bold overtime to the point of executing opposition leaders. The political events in the Gambia are detestable and should be halted by the

Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and African Union (AU). Co-incidentally, the Amnesty International has drawn attention to the human rights situation in that country. The Gambia experience typifies the dedemocratization shifts in Africa. These are characterized by the repression of political opposition, media and civil society. It also features civilian dictatorship, subversion of human rights and political pluralism. Similarly, the political situations in Togo, Zimbabwe, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Uganda, Cameroon, Congo Democratic Republic and Mali are worrisome; they signpost the erosion of the gains of the democratization process that began in the 1990s. The challenges are to redemocratize the region; recreate civil society; nurture ideology based politics as concrete political alternative; implement the African peer review process on democratization; increase the capacity of African Union to impose sanctions on violating countries; and concretise military interventions when required to restore political pluralism and democracy. The principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of nation-states has become jaded. The Gambian President should note that his tenure is not permanent; he should prepare his mind to face the international criminal court for genocide. It is ironic that Jameh has not learnt from ex- President Charles Taylor of Liberia. His day of reckoning is very near and other despots in the region should bear this in mind.

Nigeria’s basic education on the ascendancy SIMEON NWAKAUDU

THE PERCENTAGE

IMPROVEMENT IN

n recent years, the results of the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (SSCE), conducted by the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and National Examination Council (NECO), were always greeted by outrage from education stakeholders because of high percentage failure. The percentage of candidates who score five credits, including English Language and Mathematics, has become a general measure of success in public examinations in the country, and by extension, the standard of education in the country. Last year, Nigerians naturally expressed their displeasure with the low percentage pass in the May/June SCCE results. For that year, the percentage pass of students with five credits, including English Language and Mathematics, stood at 31 percent. It was after the release of the results that the Minister of State for Education, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, invited WAEC Head of National Office, Dr Iyi Uwadiae to explain why two different sets of results were released. The inquiry was conducted in the public. The issues were resolved in favour of Nigerian education system. The moral take-away from that inquiry is that nobody would be spared if our public examination architecture is compromised. The four WAEC staff found to be complicit in that error faced commensurate disciplinary measures. The 2012 May/June SSCE results have been released. Though it is not yet celebration time, there has been a marked improvement in the percentage of success, which stands at 38.81. Several perceptive public

SSCE PASSES WOULD CONTINUE DUE TO THE RELATED POSITIVE DEVELOPMENT IN TEACHING AND LEARNING ACROSS THE COUNTRY commentators and stakeholders have commended this percentage growth. Announcing the release, Dr. Uwadaie said the results showed a marked improvement in candidates’ performance over 2010 and 2011 figures. This marked improvement is the fruit of series of investments by FG in the basic education sub-sector. These investments have been supported by dedicated supervision by all the agencies and parastatals running the nation’s basic education sub-sector and coordinated by the Minister of State for Education, Barr Wike. Commenting on the improvement witnessed in 2012, Barr Wike observed that the nation would, in the coming years, witness more improvement in the sector. He said that the benefits of the programmes and projects being implemented by the Jonathan administration would be manifesting progressively. The minister said though the nation was yet to get to the Promised Land,

it was surely on the path of recovery. He noted that the percentage improvement in SSCE passes would continue due to the related positive development in teaching and learning across the country. It is imperative to point out some of these programmes and projects that have impacted positively on the basic education sub-sector. In the last one year, the Federal Ministry of Education with its agencies and in collaboration state ministries of education and other agencies, trained more than 500,000 teachers in public primary and secondary schools and basic education managers across the country. The cost implication on FG was N11 billion, and only between 2011 and 2012. The funds were handed over directly to the state agencies while officials of the Federal Government monitored their implementation. Through the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), self help projects programme and infrastructure in basic education institutions have improved in all the states of the federation in the last one year. Remarkably improved investment in Mathematics, one of the core subjects relevant for the development of science and technical education, is already yielding results. Nigerian teachers have been trained in Mathematics and Science teaching techniques under the Strengthening Mathematics and Science Education (SMASE) programme the Federal and Japanese governments entered into. This programme had suffered a setback until the intervention of the Minister of State for Education. Another training programme with the Korean government has led to the training of education administrators in the basic education sub-sector in the last one year to

improve service delivery across these institutions. There is a sustainable distribution of books to pupils and students in basic education institutions across the country and this will bear fruits for several years to come. Closely tied to this is the Bring Back the Book programme, an initiative of President Jonathan. Barr Wike has personally taken up the challenge of improving the reading culture amongst Nigerian youths. Since last year, he has engaged in several Read Campaign programmes to encourage Nigerian children to read. The National Read Campaign Committee has been strengthened at the ministerial level to carry out this assignment. It is true that attaining 38.81 percent five credits pass level, including English language and Mathematics among SSCE candidates is below the overall national expectation, the current growth is an encouraging sign. The coordinated approach to tackling the setbacks in the basic education sub-sector will certainly translate into sustainable growth for the nation. Beyond doubt, the nation’s basic education sub-sector is on the path of ascendancy and this is a fact that cannot be faulted. Nwakaudu is Special Assistant (Media) to Minister of State for Education 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

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

ACN and wasteful spending

am a supporter of the Action Congress of Nigeria and I am proud of the party’s exploits and delivery of

dividends of democracy in the states being controlled by the party, but I found it difficult to reconcile the jamboree

travelling of wives of our honourables in Oyo State. No matter the amount of press releases by the government,

that trip can never be justified. Therefore, I urge Governor Abiola Ajimobi to be mindful of future occurrences

read the story where the former Sultan tagged as injustice the killing of the Boko Haram leader by the police. In as much as ex-judiciary killing is injustice, how will Dasuki explain the innocent souls killed by the late Boko Haram leader? What evil did those innocent souls commit against him? Is that not a worse injustice? Northern leaders are not ready to speak the truth. Tell the truth, for it is only through truth that this menace will be halted.

was reading the above stated claim by one of the president’s special advisers and could not understand why the Presidency always allows its stamp on propositions that have not passed through due process. This is the same way a university was renamed and pronounced, when due process was not observed. All these actions connote either ignorance or arrogance. The Presidency should realize that once beaten, twice shy. Since the present CBN governor has made public, his proposed N5000 bill policy, I have listened to several economists and other financial analysts condemning the policy, based on the expected adverse effects it would have on our economy and people. But Sanusi and his team, who are not up to one percent of these experts, continue to justify the policy as being the best for the country now. Well, I will advise the CBN governor to tap into other professionals’ expertise on this policy, even if he is the first and only genius and first class product in the field. Nobody is an island of knowledge.

Jacob (Gmail)

***********

Why are the northern leaders myopic? Before the Boko haram leader was killed, he had killed many people and destroyed public properties. Did Yusuf kill those he killed JUDICIALLY? Warri,

Delta

Textbooks for Ogun pupils?

n opinion piece in the Nigerian Tribune of August 17, 2012, written by the Special Assistant to the Ogun State governor, Mr Soyombo about the textbooks given to pupils in government primary and secondary schools in Ogun State last term was not the truth. Many pupils in these schools got just five or six textbooks instead of ten or twelve claimed by the SA; even most of the pupils that got English textbooks did not get Mathematics textbooks. Please, investigate my claim and you will discover this is the real truth. Ola, Ago Oko, Abeokuta

Paul Ayotunde Agbolade, Lagos

CUSTOMER CARE? A BRT ticket inspector (right) in a duel with an intending passenger, Mrs. Fatimo Olatunji at Ojota bus stop in Lagos PHOTO: YINKA ADEPARUSI recently.

Nigeria not ripe for state police

lease, permit me to air my views on the issue of state police. Majority of the present generation did not witness what the state police was in the First Republic, otherwise they should not be clamouring for it. If truth must be told, we are not ripe as a nation for state police. An example was a situation

in one of the ACN states where a state official beat one victim to death and when the official was arrested for the crime, the governor directed the Commissioner of Police to release the suspect immediately. And the CP pronto complied. I thought the human rights group would take up the case, but over four

Letters to the EdiGov. Amosu

Oyedeji Sanjo, Ore, Ondo State

N5000 notes: CBN has Presidency’s backing?

Dasuki‘s myopic comment on Boko Haram

Kingsley, State

of this kind of wasteful venture in order not to damage the good support ACN is enjoying presently.

months now, nothing has been heard of that case. Another case in point is where a sitting governor of a political party ordered a Commissioner of Police to arrest an ex-governor of another political party for no just cause. The Commissioner of Police refused this unlawful order. This happened just before the

2011 election. One can go on to cite many examples. The politics of bitterness does not justify this. As for the argument of crime control, the sophistication of crime in Nigeria is overwhelmingly high and no miracle should be expected from state police, except for political expression. Adigun Ayoola, Ilorin, Kwara State

More of Pa Yekini, please

our story on the 73-year old graduate of adult literacy class was inspiring and an interesting read. But I want to point out that it is not only Pa Yekini that should go to adult literacy class as an aged person. Most aged persons in Lagos and adults too cannot express themselves in simple English. Davidson, Iganmu, Lagos

Orile

Send your letters or mails to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mirrorlagos@yahoo.com and info@nationalmirroronline.net or, 07033375481, 08035640907 (SMS only). The Editor reserves the right to edit and reject letters or photographs. Psuedonyms may be used, but must be clearly marked as such.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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Health & Wellbeing African Traditional Medicine Day: Still discordant tunes over regulation

How to protect your adolescent girls from HIV

Asthma: Ignorance, hostile environment killing Nigerians! SAM EFERARO

he Vanguard newspaper family was thrown into mourning last Wednesday following the sudden death of Ogbonaya Amadi, the paper’s lively and jocular entertainment editor as a result of asthma attack. He reportedly had an attack in the office and was being rushed to the hospital when he gave up. Ogbonaya was not careless with his health. He was actually reported to have tried subduing the attack with his inhaler, but this failed. The Lagos chaotic traffic ensured he could not get to the hospital for any form of resuscitation. Now, asthma is back in the news. Indeed, experts have warned that the condition, which reportedly affects about 15-20 million people in the country is on the increase worldwide. At a World Asthma Day lecture sometime ago, renowned consultant respiratory physician at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Cyril Chukwu disclosed that while asthma control can be achieved, data have shown that a majority of patients are still uncontrolled despite frequent visits to their doctors or pharmacists. Chukwu described uncontrolled asthma as a serious concern as it causes patients to experience symptoms such as shortness of breath and disturbed sleep. Also, he said, uncontrolled asthma patients use more healthcare resources and because they overestimate their con-

Late Amadi

trol and under-report their symptoms, it makes it difficult for doctors to assess asthma control correctly. A recent survey has also revealed that very few Nigerians could be said to be in control of the dreaded condition. According to the GINA Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention (2007), asthma control means that a person with asthma has: • No (or minimal) asthma symptoms. • No waking at night due to asthma. • No (or minimal) need to use “reliever” medication. • The ability to do normal physical activity and exercise.

• Normal (or near-normal) lung function test results (PEF and FEV1). • No (or very infrequent) asthma attacks. For instance, experts say majority of asthma patients in Nigeria are underdiagnosed and those diagnosed are not receiving adequate management. Also, there is a general low level of awareness about the disease, especially its chronic nature and various strategies for its treatment, even among medical personnel. Not only that, very few asthmatics in Nigeria know their peak flow. Yet, experts say a peak flow meter remains the key to determining how an individual could tell the exact state of his asthma to be able to prevent an attack. If peak flow numbers are declining, it indicates that the condition is is getting worse and the asthmatic must then act quickly to prevent an attack. Most Nigerian asthmatics have never seen a peak flow meter, acknowledged as a very important part of asthma care plan. “With the level of asthma care available to Nigerians, it is surprising that the nation does not record very high emergency cases of asthma,” said a general medical practitioner who pleaded anonymity. There are several reasons to agree with him. Apart from ignorance on the part of both the asthmatics and their doctors on how to manage the condition and stay free of attack, many doctors will not consider referring patients to special-

ists even when their patients no longer respond to basic treatments. But Dr. Chukwu says asthma needs not result in death in most cases. This is because guideline-defined asthma control incorporates a number of parameters, including not waking at night and not using reliever medication more than twice per week, which should make the individual asthmatic live a relatively healthy life. “ It is important to assess asthma control to prevent exacerbations. With the right treatment approach, asthma care can be improved,” Dr. Chukwu says.

Experts’ recommendations on asthma control pg 21

Dr. Chukwu

Health & Wellbeing

How to protect your adolescent girls from HIV

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Wednesday, September 5, 2012

The Health Beat Sam Eferaro

eferaro@yahoo.co.uk 08094082123 (sms only)

hildren need a healthy, balanced diet under any circumstances, but when they receive HIV treatment, ensuring proper nutrition is especially important. HIV or opportunistic infections may cause reduced food intake due to decreased appetite, difficulty swallowing or poor absorption. Therefore extra attention should be given to the nutrition of children who are HIV-positive to make sure they receive high-quality, easily digestible foods. Without proper nutrition, their growth and development can be hindered. This could lead to more opportunistic infections that further deplete children’s energy and increase their nutritional needs. Once children who are HIV-positive are old enough to understand, they need to be involved in decisions about their medical care and support. They also should be made aware of the importance of prompt care and treatment of infections. This is a critical part of developing their ability to make healthy decisions in the future. 5. Parents or other caregivers should talk with their daughters and sons about relationships, sex and their vulnerability to HIV infection. Girls and young women are especially vulnerable to HIV infection. Girls and boys need to learn how to avoid, reject or defend themselves against sexual harassment, violence and peer pressure. They need to understand the importance of equality and respect in relationships. While children need to know the biological facts about sex, they also need to understand that sexual relationships involve caring and responsibility. Discussing and stressing the emotional aspect of a sexual relationship with children can help them make healthy decisions and resist peer pressure as they grow and develop. It is important to talk about sex in a way that fits the child’s age and stage of development, and conveys values. Everyone needs to be aware of the fact that adolescent girls and young women are especially vulnerable to HIV infection. Adolescent girls and young women need support to protect themselves from unwanted and unsafe sex. In many countries, HIV rates are higher among adolescent girls than adolescent boys. Adolescent girls are more susceptible to HIV infection because: They may not have a choice about when to have sex or whether a condom is used Their vaginal membranes are thinner than those of mature women and thus susceptible to lesions from sexual activity that can allow HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to enter They sometimes are targeted by and engage in relationships with older men who may be infected They are vulnerable to being sexually exploited and trafficked, which puts them in high-risk situations.

Above the law! F Teenage girls should be taught about their vulnerability to HIV infection

Girls and women have the right to refuse unwanted and unprotected sex. They also have the right to learn skills on how to avoid, reject or defend themselves against unwanted sexual advances. Girls and women need to know what to do and where to go if they have been victims of sexual assault. They should seek the support of a trained health worker or go to a health facility for medical attention and counselling. Health-care providers and social workers should be trained to be understanding of girls and women in these situations. This information also applies to cases involving boys. To effectively address violence, boys and men need to be actively engaged in finding solutions. Their full engagement with girls and women is needed to work on preventing violence and sexual harassment, resisting peer pressure and achieving gender equality. This should include an understanding of gender stereotypes and inequalities. Discussions at home, in school and in the community between children and adolescents and their parents, teachers, community leaders and other role models can help develop healthy attitudes and behaviours. They can contribute to: respect for girls and women and their rights equality in decision-making and relationships skills development on how to confront peer pressure, sexual harassment, violence and stereotypes. 6. Parents, teachers, peer leaders and other role models should provide adolescents with a safe environment and a range of life skills that can help them make healthy choices and practice healthy behaviour. It is important for children to learn about HIV at an early age. When children become adolescents, they need accurate and full information on making and negotiating healthy life choices. This will help them avoid becoming infected with HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

ew years ago, I asked some experts why Nigerians don’t seem to live long and why we have the lowest life expectancy rate even in the West African region. I got to know that in addition to both the communicable and non-communicable diseases, which we have not been able to control like the developed countries, too many Nigerians die in their prime from other causes apart from diseases. Road accidents and robbery attacks rank very high in that list. That is not surprising. As I write this, our own indefatigable Alhaja Sekinah Lawal escaped death by the whiskers on Monday, a victim of a hit and run Danfo, the Lagos commercial bus. We are still rejoicing that she lived to tell the story. She was crossing the road somewhere in Agege when the ubiquitous Danfo sped by against the traffic and knocked her down. Vivacious Ogbonaya Amadi was not so lucky. He was being rushed to the hospital for an emergency treatment for an asthma attack but the vehicle got stuck in the usual Lagos traffic. I don’t have to be there to conclude that the Danfo buses and fuel tankers were likely behind the traffic build-up. In Ketu where I live, the Danfos have taken over one side of the very busy Demurin road, sometimes almost closing it. You must queue behind them as they pick passengers in turn otherwise a detour to the left side could see you entering the BRT lane and there are policemen waiting to collect a toll for that. They seem to have dashed the lane to the Danfos so that they can get more BRT lane offenders! The instances are endless. Danfo buses are above the law in Lagos. They can maim, kill and damage your vehicle at will and nothing will happen. If a Danfo hits your vehicle, don’t bother calling the police or trying to get the driver to repair it. All you will get, if you are lucky or it is obvious the Danfo is at fault, is for the driver to come down and prostrate before you. With that, he expects that you will simply shake his hand and thank him for damaging your vehicle. Doing otherwise will earn you some verbal assault and something like “Afterall, we dey beg God and he dey hear, how much more a human being like you.” The Danfo driver has no slight

ADDRESS THE MENACE OF THE DANFOS AND YOU WOULD HAVE SOLVED OVER

50% OF THE

LAGOS TRAFFIC PROBLEMS

regard or respect for the police and other law enforcement agents. He believes they all have their price anyway and never hesitates to let you know he can always settle them whenever he willfully breaks the law. This is why I’m eagerly waiting for the new Lagos traffic law, inspite of its arbitrariness. Just how will the law deter the Danfo driver from driving on the “tarmac” (side walk, culverts etc) and the BRT lane etc? How will the law stop the unwarranted loss of lives on our roads? If you ask me I think the law has now raised the stake for the police, LASTMA and other agencies. The law has raised their bargaining power. They don’t have to run after your N20 or N50 anymore. They will simply tell you how much the law stipulates for your offence so you have to negotiate to pay less. Oh I pray that the new law will help keep deaths off the Lagos road for other states to emulate. I even pray that the law will be so successful that the Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi will shut the Okada ward for other uses. But I can’t help the feeling that the law will, as usual, not deter the almighty Danfo drivers. Have you noticed that inspite of the government’s “Shakara” some Danfo drivers still find it more convenient taking the BRT lane, whether the other lanes are free or not? If they are not above the law, how come the psychiatric hospital is not filled to the brim by now? How come Lagos is not recruiting more psychiatrists to help manage the Danfo traffic offenders? I think the Lagos traffic law poses a great challenge on the state government’s ability to match its words with action. Address the menace of the Danfos and you would have solved over 50% of the Lagos traffic problems. Will the new traffic law tame the Danfo drivers? I wonder.

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Wednesday, September 5, 2012

CONTINUED FROM PG 19 Here are some recommendations by experts on effective asthma control. In case of an attack • Stay calm and relaxed • Stay away from obvious triggers • Administer reliever medication as prescribed • Sometimes drinking warm liquids may help Attack becomes an emergency when: • Symptoms are not responding to the reliever medication • You have to use the reliever medication more often than every four hours • Breathing becomes more and more difficult and/or the skin between the ribs and neck is being pulled in with each breath • A child turn blue • You are unable to talk • You ate not fully conscious This is the time to seek urgent medical attention. Every effort should be made to get to the hospital.

Facts you should know:

Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing, which vary in severity and frequency from person to person. Symptoms may occur several times in a day or week in affected individuals, and for some people become worse during physical activity or at night. During an asthma attack, the lining of the bronchial tubes swell, causing the airways to

Health & Wellbeing

Experts’ recommendations on asthma control narrow and reducing the flow of air into and out of the lungs. Recurrent asthma symptoms frequently cause sleeplessness, daytime fatigue, reduced activity levels and school and work absenteeism. Asthma has a relatively low fatality rate compared to other chronic diseases. Symptoms: These may include Coughing, especially at night, wheezing, shortness of breath Chest tightness, pain, or pressure Causes According to WHO, the fundamental causes of asthma are not completely understood. The strongest risk factors for developing asthma are a combination of genetic predisposition with environmental exposure to inhaled substances and particles that may provoke allergic reactions or irritate the airways, such as: • indoor allergens (for example, house dust mites in bedding, carpets and stuffed furniture, pollution and pet dander) • outdoor allergens (such as pollens and moulds) • tobacco smoke • chemical irritants in the workplace • air pollution. Other triggers can include cold air, extreme emotional arousal such as anger or

fear, and physical exercise. Even certain medications can trigger asthma: aspirin and other non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, and beta-blockers (which are used to treat high blood pressure, heart conditions and migraine). Urbanization has been associated with an increase in asthma. But the exact nature of this relationship is unclear. Warning signs for an attach: A drop in peal expiratory flow rate (if you have a peak flow metre); increased cough, wheezing, chest tightness, some difficulty performing normal daily activities and individual factors you notice over time that indicate worsening asthma or an asthma attack. Know Your Medications: Understanding the purpose of each medication in the treatment of asthma is very important because some medications are designed for the acute relief of asthma symptoms and an asthma attack and some for the long term control of asthma. Taking a long-term beta agonist control medication during an acute asthma attack can actually lead to worsening of asthma. Asthma medication can be divided into two categories: 1. Quick relief or rescue asthma medication for the treatment of acute asthma

symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, cough. 2. Controller asthma medication which attempts to prevent these same symptoms. Have and asthma care plan: This should be worked out with your doctor. The asthma care plan will outline which specific medications to take depending on peak flow and other symptoms. Identify Indications For Emergency Care: One of the most important skills as a patient or parent of a child with asthma is to know when you need to call your doctor or just head straight to the emergency department. All of the following symptoms are indications that you or your child needs to seek a healthcare provider for emergency care immediately: • Wheezing that occurs while breathing both in and out • Coughing that has become continuous • Difficulty breathing • Tachypnea or breathing very fast • Retractions where your skin is pulled in as you breath • Shortness of breath • Difficulty talking in complete sentences • Becoming pale • Becoming anxious • Blue lips or fingernails called cyanosis (Courtesy WeMD)

African Traditional Medicine Day: Still discordant tunes over regulation

his year’s celebration of African Traditional Medicine Day in Abuja provided another platform for stakeholders, including the Federal and states governments to proffer solutions to myriads of problems besetting the practice of traditional medicine in Nigeria. Health Correspondent, Abuja MARCUS FATUNMOLE examines the current state of herbal medicine practice in Nigeria. Ideally, no one would doubt the efficacy of herbs in treating diseases; especially on African soil. It is believed that many of our progenitors lived by herbal medicine practice and handed same to their descendants. Herbal medicine remains relevant today in all facets of medical services, especially in complex cases such as bone-setting and trauma treatment. It also remains one of the nation’s untapped potentials that could increase her earnings. But, the manner in which the trade is being practiced in the country today seems to be impeding any prospects of all activities encompassing it to move beyond the shores of the country. While other nations such as China and India have penetrated the world and rake in huge revenues through the sale of exported herbal medicines from their territories, Nigeria is still dawdling and confused on how it would drive its vast herbal endowments. No doubt, the business of herbal medicine is for all comers and it seems government remains helpless in regulating it. In Nigerian villages, towns and cities, many innocent citizens have fallen victims to fallacious claims by hawkers of

L-R: Renowned herbal medicine practitioner, Prof. Omo Olaebiele and Dr. Wapada Balami at the event

herbal medicines. There have been reported deaths, with many lucky victims getting worse diseases than what they were trying to treat after taking herbal preparations. Of a particular note was a case of a couple, in Itaogbolu, Ondo state, who died as a result of concoction prepared for them by an herbalist, last year. The couple, Mr. and Mrs. Ogbolu, had reportedly died mysteriously after drinking local concoction allegedly prepared by the herbalist for the treatment of rheumatism. The nation’s airwaves are continually flooded with adverts on herbal medicines. The potency of most of these medicines is usually hampered by some factors which are yet to be addressed such as the specification for use; lack of

production and expiry dates which arise from improper or lack of registration by the National Agency for Food, Drugs Administration and Control, (NAFDAC) and lack of sincerity on the exact ailment each preparation can heal. For the practitioners, according to the Minister, represented by Director of Hospital Services in the Ministry, Dr Wapada Balami, while speaking at the 2012 Symposium, regularization among members remains a bane in the quest to bring herbal medicine practice in Nigeria to the global stage. Each practitioner seems to engage in needless competition to outdo others; hence the falcons hardly hear the falconets among them. Nigerian markets and major public places remain platforms for many practitioners to market their products. This

is primitive and smacks of stagnation in what should be a progressive move to raise the banner of the trade in Nigeria to the world. The Federal Government, however, has said herbal medicine education in the country would be included in the curriculum of the nation’s tertiary education. This was contained in an address delivered by Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu at a Press Briefing that marked this year’s celebration of African Traditional Medicine Day in Abuja, yesterday. Speaking on the need to ensure the integration of herbal medicine into the nation’s health care delivery system and also realize its economic benefits, the Minister, represented by Director of Food and Drugs in the Ministry, Phar. Mary Okpeseyi, said the Federal Government would inaugurate two committees this month to “develop the capacity of the private sector of the economy, working with relevant agencies of government such as the universities and research institutions, to develop and produce herbal medicinal products for both local and international markets; and, to advise government on steps for development of a curriculum for the training on herbal medicine at tertiary levels.” The objective of this, the Minister said, was to produce skilled personnel for the practice of herbal medicine in some of the nation’s hospitals. At the Symposium for herbal medicine, during the 2012 African Traditional Medicine Day, President, National CONTINUED ON PAGE PG 55

Health & Wellbeing

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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Pharmacists raise alarm over casualties of drugs misuse MARCUS FATUNMOLE ABUJA

he Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has raised an alarm over the toll of avoidable deaths and ailments arising from drug abuse in Nigeria. The group raised the fear in Abuja, Monday, at a media chat preparatory to this year’s Pharmacists’ Week in Nigeria. According to the Chairman of PSN, Abuja branch, Mr. Atumen Odejoto, it was difficult at the moment for anyone to give statistics

of deaths arising from drug misuse in Nigeria as a result of lack of political will to contain the practice of public sale of drugs and other illicit activities related to drugs peddling and abuse. Atumen further said that Nigeria “is the only country in West African where drugs are sold in public places without the political will to check the highly negative effects such practice has on the people.” Consequently, he stressed, death rate of victims of drug misuse in the country remained increasing and immeasurable as a result of PSN’s inability to control drug ad-

ministration in the country. He used the medium to emphasize public need to buy drugs from licensed pharmacists and demand the name of drugs being given to them. Atumen also spoke on the need to avoid self-medication, drug abuse and follow prescriptions given on every drug. Earlier in his remark, the Publicity Chairman of the branch’s PSN, Mr. Chima Okoli had cautioned parents and guardians on the use of some drugs including paracetamol, which he said was injurious to the stomach. He noted that given the rising profile

of unavoidable deaths and diseases abuse of drugs causes the citizenry, PSN would step up its enlightenment campaigns on the need to safeguard the lives of the public through the patronage of only qualified pharmacists and administration of drugs in required manners that would make medical services achieve their objectives. Okoli declared that pharmacists had graduated from the traditional role of a pharmacist which include distribution and dispensing of drugs and medicines to advising patients and

healthcare providers on the selections, dosages, interactions and side effects of medication. Fielding questions from journalists on the pharmacist arraigned with the suspected killers of Cynthia Osokogu in Lagos, Atumeh said: “we not have information at present whether those boys bought those drugs on prescription or whether they actually met the pharmacist and bought those drugs from the pharmacist. However, there is no licensed pharmacist that can just give out a drug without any concrete prescription.”

Enugu urges mothers to imbibe exclusive breastfeeding DENNIS AGBO ENUGU

he government of Enugu State has stressed the need for nursing mothers in both rural and urban areas in the state to imbibe the culture of exclusive breast feeding, especially for a period of six months after delivery. Briefing newsmen on the activities of Breast Feeding Support Groups (BFSGs) in all the local government areas of the state, the Commissioner of Health in the state, Dr Fidelia Akpa lamented that some women were afraid to embrace the initiative on the ground that their breast would fall. Akpa, who spoke through the permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health in the state, Dr Moses Otiji explained that the ongoing Exclusive Breast Feeding Campaigns organized by the govern-

ment was initiated“ to toe along the line of the international agenda on breast feeding”. The commissioner expressed satisfaction that the campaign was already yielding the desired result, adding that many rural women have embraced the new system of breast feeding. According to her, women were not expected to give their child anything, including water within the period of Exclusive Breast Feeding. She averred that exclusive breast feeding helps to prevent infections during the early stage of the child, adding that breast milk contains all the anti bodies that fight infections. While expressing satisfaction that working class women were already imbibing the culture, she disclosed that the campaigns were taken to rural areas during the last August Meeting.

Fashola advocates unity among herbal medicine practitioners MOJEED ALABI

he Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) recently decried the disunity among the traditional medicine practitioners; the development he said is contributing to the slow pace at which the sector is progressing in the efforts to standardising herbal medicine to achieve global recognition. Fashola made this observation during the 2012 edition of the annual African Traditional Medicine Day, which is aimed at reviewing the success or otherwise of efforts towards promoting traditional medicine, as advocated by the African Union in its decision on the decade of African Traditional Medicine in 2001. AU had in 2001 at a meeting of

member states held in Lusaka, Zambian capital, declared 2001 to 2011 as the first phase of Africa’s dedication and commitment to the growth and development of African medicine in line with World Health Organisation’s observation about Africa and Asia being rich in traditional medicine but yet untapped. The governor, who was represented at the event by his Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Yewande Adeshina, pledged the commitment of his administration for the support of every reasonable effort to promote good use and development of traditional medicine.She disclosed that the state, being the first to set up a traditional medicine board in 1980, has recently introduced the botanical garden of medicinal plants cultivation, as parts of efforts to improve the quality and control of traditional medicine.

L-R: Representative of Lagos State First Lady, Mrs, Arinola Sodipo; Managing Director, Nestle Nigeria, Mr. Martin Woolnough and Category Brand Manager, Mr. Adewale Arikawe, during the official presentation of enriched Golden Morn in Lagos. PHOTO: OLUFEMI AJASA.

Micro-nutrients highly deficient in Nigeria TOBORE OVUORIE

call has been made to mothers to pay particular attention to the quality of foods they serve their families, particularly children. This is following recent study results by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that micro-nutrients such as Vitamin A, Iodine and Zinc required for a healthy population are highly deficient in Nigeria. Stressing the importance of adequate nutrient consumption in families for healthy growth, the Category Business Manager, Dairy, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Mr. Adewale Arikawe revealed this during the official launch of the newly fortified golden morn in Lagos recently. According to him, although mothers are now conscious about nutritional benefits associated with foods given to their families, there is still need for more attention to be given to children’s meals. “The World Health Organisa-

tion in a recent study disclosed that micro-nutrients such as Vitamin A, Iodine and Zinc required for a healthy population are highly deficient in Nigeria consequently, in a bid to boost the iron intake and increase quality nutrition in children and adult through meals, Nestle Nigeria Plc has introduced iron-fortified golden morn into the Nigerian market. The newly enriched golden morn serves as a route to help avert issues that could result from deficiencies of Vitamin A and Iron especially in children”. The firm’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Martin Woolnough, however disclosed that the company would continue to implement relevant innovations while specifically targeting the needs of low income earners who often suffer from micro-nutrient deficiencies. According to him, in order to improve the nutrition foundation across its portfolio, the company had reduced the nutrients that have negative effects on

health when consumed in excess, adding that “food components and nutrients were required to maintaining good health”. He noted that fortifying foods with vitamins and minerals played a key role in the prevention of micro-nutrient deficiencies, also known as silent hunger. Speaking on “Micronutrient deficiencies in Nigeria: The role of food fortification”, Professor Isaac Akinyele, Head, Department of Human Nutrition, University of Ibadan, said that food fortification is the safest way to deliver necessary amounts of micro-nutrients to the majority of a population in an effective manner. He also disclosed that food may also be fortified to ensure nutrition levels are similar to another food they may replace. He gave instance of soya milk being fortified with calcium and vitamin D to approximate the nutrients found in cow’s milk, while margarine is fortified with vitamins A and D, as these nutrients are found in butter.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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M Musically, we are th thinking outside tthe box –Pelli th

NTDC launches pictorial book on Nigeria

CCTV-CAMERA AND CYNTHIA OSOKOGU’S MURDER:

What fate for the hospitality industry? Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe recently directed all hoteliers across Nigeria to provide Closed-Circuit Television cameras (CCTVs) both within and outside their premises to help curtail or track any criminal acts amongst patrons of the hotels. This order is being greeted with nods and condemnations by the public as reported by MARCUS FATUNMOLE.

ecent events in the hospitality industry have called for a comprehensive review of the industry. The latest came with the gruesome killing of Miss Cynthia Osokogu, a 24-year old post-graduate student of Nasarawa state University, who was reportedly killed in a Lagos hotel in July this year. Cynthia, the daughter of a retired Army General, had reportedly left Abuja in late July to meet her Facebook ‘friends’ who had been exchanging communications with her. The student and clothes retailer, who was said to have travelled to the nation’s commercial hub to purchase goods for her boutique in Keffi, seemed to nurse no fear in meeting her ‘friend’. There were suggestions her male friends, (who claim to be university undergraduates) paid for her flight ticket and secured her hotel accommodation in Festac, a bustling suburb of Lagos. Unfortunately, after Cynthia flew to Lagos, there was proof her friends received her at the local airport in Lagos and subsequently checked her into hotel accommodation in Festac. There, the trail ended on this young lady, until her corpse was eventually found at a mortuary in Lagos last month, nearly a month after she arrived in Lagos. The mystery surrounding her death was later unveiled to the investigating police officers after the suspected murderers were tracked down. The suspects, namely Echezona Nwabufor, 33, and Ezekiel Nnechuwu Olisa Eloka, 23, had subtly invited her to come to Lagos to buy goods at cheaper prices. Two pharmacists are being charged alongside the aforementioned for dispensing the prescription drug used to sedate Cynthia in her Cosmilla Hotel room. One of them narrated how it happened: “When she got to Lagos, we took

Runsewe

Cynthia

An installed CCTV camera

her to a hotel in Festac. We thought she had a lot of money, but she said she didn’t have any money. We gave her Reflon (Rophpynol) tablet in her Ribena drink. After this, we slept with her for 12 hours in that hotel”. “We discovered that the tablet did not work quickly on her. We then attacked her, tied her up and used cellophane tape to cover her mouth. After that, we beat her up to tell us where she kept the money. When we didn’t get any money from her, we tied her mouth and strangled her and then we abandoned her in the hotel and fled”. When the suspected killers strangled Cynthia in the hotel room, they made away with all her personal identification items and made it virtually impossible for hospital administrators or the police to have a positive identity of the remains while it lay un-

claimed in the mortuary. In an alarming revelation of sub-standard hospitality practices in some hotels around the country, the management of Cosmilla Hotel sacked all the staff of the hotel that were on duty, the day of the murder. The hotel, which is located at Lake View Estate, Amuwo Odofin in Lagos State, is said to have a tradition of ‘proper screening’ of its guests at the point of checking-in, by demanding valid identification of prospective guests. The hotel rules demand that guests must present their identity cards or passport before being given a room in the hotel. The front-desk officer was said to have breached the established procedure, paving way for difficulty in identifying the body of the deceased, since her attackers had taken away all items that could assist in identifying her. The fake identi-

ties presented by the suspects had made it difficult for the police at Area ‘F’ Command to quickly solve the murder riddle. Briefing journalists on how the suspects were captured, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Umar Abubakar Manko, said detectives made use of the CCTV camera at the hotel where the crime was committed to identify them. The Area Commander, Area ‘E’ Police Command, ACP Okoro added that the suspects were nabbed through the call logs of the telephone conversations they had with the late Cynthia. It was this unfortunate scenario that led to the directive issued by Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), calling on hoteliers to ensure adequate security on their premises by providing, amongst others, CCTV cameras in the interest of their businesses and patrons/guests. Speaking with journalists in Abuja, last week, Runsewe said the call became necessary in view of the gruesome murder of Cynthia by her Facebook “friends”. “But for the CCTV, it would most probably be difficult to trace the suspects who are now being held by the police”, Runsewe stated. The NTDC boss reminded hoteliers to register their premises with the Corporation in accordance with the law, revealing that from the NTDC investigations, only four of the five hotels (names withheld) patronised by the alleged killers are registered by NTDC. He added that registration of hotels is important as it would enable the Corporation keep data on each hotel for proper supervision. “We put all registered hotels in a database and on our website for prospective guests to know the credible ones available”, he said. The NTDC, he said, would work with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to get details of the profile of hotels, other hospitality outfits and their owners. Consequent upon the growing security challenges in the country, with the belief that some persons might take shield in Nigerian hotels to perpetrate crimes, Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, had earlier directed that “for the purpose of effective monitoring, hotels would now be required to give daily returns to the Nigerian Police Force of the names and particulars of their guests, as well as their nationalities, purpose of visit and final destinations of the guests. All foreigners lodging in CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

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Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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What fate for the hospitality industry? CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23 hotels will be required to be documented with their international passports and other travelling documents and reports of such documentation are submitted to relevant security agencies”. Abubakar noted that tourism facilities such as hotels, guest houses, parks and recreational centres had become sources of security concerns as they have become targets of attacks with the possibility of also being misused by unscrupulous elements and hostile interests for espionage, subversive, terrorists and other unwholesome activities. It did not stop there, Senate President, David Mark, recently advocated clamping down on social media in the country. He made the call at a two-day retreat for Senate Press corps in Umuahia, Abia State, saying the check became necessary as people used the media to demean their leaders. He added that there was no opportunity for retraction of information in such media. Mark would have been vindicated by now, if he had not limited his comments to criticism on government alone. He was widely attacked by users of the social media in the country. Many citizens had perceived his comments as a declaration of war on the Nigerian websites, hence, barring them from using the cheapest and most

accessible means of sharing views on the activities of government. Runsewe’s call is currently generating public nods and outcries. Given the current milieu, this call could not be said to have come at a wrong time. But, in a nation with diverse immoral behaviours, many people are worried the CCTV camera directive would be abused by mischievous persons working in hotels to spy on guests and invade their privacy. These untoward persons might likewise exploit the opportunity to blackmail public figures and other guests of the hotels. Mr. James Onaseye, who spoke with Arts Lounge at NICON Luxury Hotel in Abuja, said he would not subscribe to that type of idea. He based his argument on the fact that “the essence of an accommodation is to provide shelter and privacy. If any of these two is missing, then, there is no difference between living in the hotels and lodging among the crowd”. “If it becomes very imperative that government issues such directive, there is nothing wrong with it, given the chain of events that often accompany evil deeds successfully carried out in the country”, said Mr. Bolaji Ajiboye at Chelsea Hotel in Abuja, while speaking with our reporter on the policy. However, trends and patterns of crisis management in Nigeria has shown that government only rushes to “be on top of

IN A NATION WITH DIVERSE IMMORAL

BEHAVIOURS, MANY PEOPLE ARE WORRIED THE

DIRECTIVE WOULD BE ABUSED a situation” after the country has been caught in the web of shame. Regulation of all activities of Nigerian hotels falls within the ambit of the NTDC. Unlike other sectors of the country, however, the Corporation has been working tirelessly to ensure all hotels operating in the country comply with regulations set for their operations by the government. Many of these operators slip through the standard criteria for operating, either because of ‘connections to powerful government officials’ or cleverly putting up dummies to beat the regulators’ radar during inspections. Some of the hotels operating in the country completely bypass the NTDC. According to Runsewe, “Some try to go CAC only, but they should know they cannot start their businesses without the NTDC. It is a must (to register and

MEMORABLE READS

FEMI ODUGBEMI Award-winning filmmaker, photographer

MUSINGS In the fictional genre, the most interesting I read lately will be Under the Brown Rusted Roofs by Bimbo Adelakun. I absolutely loved the detail of her narrative and utter vividness of her passages. Now that’s a book that turned out to be an “experience”; very three-dimensional with characters that were larger than life. Who’s you favourite author? That’s easy -anybody that knows me knows it is Seffi Atta. She is a genius; easy with her narratives and consistent in her dramatic explications. Who are you reading currently? The book on my bedside now is Lillian Agbeyegbe’s Speaking my Daughter’s Mind. A bit slim, but lots of fun to read; it is like blog entries which I find interesting in terms of how self-conversations go.

Which of the books you’ve read left the most impression on you? It has to be two: non-fiction and fiction. For non-fiction it is Game Change by Mark Halperin and John Heilemann, a behind the scene narrative of Barack Obama’s election campaign in 2008. I find it extremely inspirational and illuminating in terms of the mountain of obstacles that Obama faced and the sheer impossibility of his election as the first Black man to be President of the USA. The question of the impact of race on global politics; the idea that in the end black and white are just political barriers that can be overcome on the strength of a powerful vision. The relentless optimism that it took that skinny guy to believe it was even a worthwhile journey. There are so many levels to the narrative that I find useful as life lessons that I can’t seem to remove the impressions of the passages from my mind!

CCTV CAMERA

comply with the NTDC guidelines), but we are working with CAC along this line”, he said. He noted that some hoteliers have been found to be doing other illegal businesses, using the hotels as a front. He warned that such hoteliers would soon be exposed, vowing that their identities would be forwarded to the appropriate security agencies. The introduction of CCTV camera in Nigerian hotels carries more significant benefits for the hospitality industry than otherwise. As Nigeria goes into the New Year with aggression to command an appreciable share of the global tourism market, the spotlight would be on the industry and the comforts, security and amenities it provides for the travelsavvy visitor. Does the government have the political will to enforce the CCTV policy? To what extent will the right to privacy of hotels’ users be guaranteed? What measures will be put in place to checkmate its abuse or utilisation for criminal manipulations by fraudulent elements? What is the fate of pleasure seekers who see the hotel as reliable accommodation? What impacts will the policy have on the Nigerian tourism industry? These are some of the numerous questions the NTDC and indeed all tiers of government will be compelled to address as time passes by.

Annual budget on books? How extensive is your library? Ah! I have an iPad now, so I just buy digital books and it’s a fairly extensive collection given the ease of purchase and storage. I can’t give an exact figure of my spendings so far because I just pay with my card (and they deduct). But it should be sizeable, certainly much more than when I had to go to Quintessence or Jazzhole (book retailers) to buy a book. If you were to write a book, what would be the theme? It would probably address the migration of cultures... the fact that cultures are really in clear and present danger in a globalised world and how a new imperialism is fostered culturally on the economically under-privileged communities of the world. It seems clear that Western culture is on a swing of global domination on the platform of the digital/Internet interfaces.

An Avowal A bombshell. Silence. Icy. Decision? Dicey Tremulous trepidation In my heart’s eye Looking at you. Silence. An exchange. Handover. Rhythmic heartbeatAll self to you You? A come between the one who paid for my lines… And me. You? A committed heartbeat possessor And yours...? Trepidation Looking at you In my heart’s eye Surety. All self and heart Handed to you never will be. An avowal, looking at you. ...for the Chief Thief See through the lines… An Avowal. Tobore Ovuorie 2002

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ARTISTE UNCENSORED

Alliance Française hosts Wura Samba

enowned Nigerian percussionist, Wura Samba would be the showcase musician at the third edition of Alliance Française Unplugged, a musical concept by the French Cultural Centre to promote live music and indigenous artistes. The open house event comes up on Friday, September 7 at the Alliance Française Yaba-Lagos office by 4.30 p.m. Samba has worked with artistes such as Nneka, Ade

For Pelli, an emerging artiste, his passion for music meant putting away the Political Science degree earned from the university –albeit temporarily. Pelli unequivocally declares that the knowledge gained as an undergraduate will motivate him to foray into politics later in life. Presently, though, the only thought on the young talent’s mind is leaving his mark on the music industry.

Bantu, Siji, Tony Allen, Keziah Jones and other international acts. His repertoire of works also includes a 12-track album titled Ajo. The percussionist’s remodelled drum, the sambabe, is an arrangement of eight samba drums tuned on a major scale. He describes his music as ‘fresh orchestration of traditional music’ because of the recouped drum. The performance on Friday promises to be a journey into the art of traditional music.

Art, fashion at Ayetoro’s album launch

ADENRELE NIYI AND ADEBIMPE OLATUJA is birth name is Chike Uffundu, but among friends, peers and old schoolmates, he is known as Chycopelli (Pelli for short), an upstart singer with enormous confidence in his skills which has taken the artiste through various talent discovery phases. As the singer recalls, music had been a part of his life from childhood. “I had always loved singing; I would freestyle with family members’ names. In my sisters’ case, I would make a caricature of them all, just for fun at that time. But at some point, I had to take music up as a career”. Pelli started off miming to his favourite music bands, then enrolling for Mr. Heartland (Imo State) Pageant where he emerged ‘First Runner-Up’ on account of his physique and fresh good looks. A few years later, the graduate of Imo State University took a leap of faith relocating to Lagos, the entertainment capital of Nigeria; there Pelli started to actively write new songs and record. Shortly after, he entered for the first edition of Do Your Thing, a talent hunt and came out tops, beating other contestants. With that success in the kitty, Pelli’s music career began to take a clear direction when Rainbow Music signed him on in 2011 and in April 2012, the label released his first single, Turn Her on, quickly followed by another single, Dance. Both tracks are enjoying airplay on radio stations. “It’s been a period of mixed blessings –I’m glad to be getting such amazing support for my career and I’m hum-

MIDWEEK JUMP

Musically, we are thinking outside the box –Pelli

Arts Lounge

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Pelli

WITH ALL I HAVE SEEN... I THINK I CAN MAKE A CHANGE IN THIS COUNTRY AND THE ONLY WAY IS GOING INTO POLITICS bled by the growth I’ve recorded since the release of Dance, he says. However, for such a versatile act, pinning him down to one style might be a tough deal; Pelli explains this way: “I’m not sure I can categorise my style yet. Some people call it Afropop, but I always like to play safe and say I do RnB and Pop music. I am actually very diverse in my music and these days, Pelli is that artiste that you can’t predict because I bring it all”. Pelli appears ready to take his share of the urban music scene with a blend of everything and his fresh energy. Moreso, three of Nigeria’s award-winning artistes stand out like beacons of hope to the young act –2face Idibia, Sound Sultan and Asa. “I respect 2face, Sound Sultan and Asa. However, my inspiration also comes from my state of mind, what I see around me and the beat”. Pelli gives a lot of kudos to the management of his record label who spotted and nurtured the talent in him. “In life, it is always best to be around people who believe in you, Raindrop Music found me and believed in me. Plus they have real love for music, not about money only... Like my boss would say ‘Pelli, we do music for the love’,” he reveals. Pelli states that musically, he and his team “are thinking outside the box. That will reflect in everything you see Pelli involved in from songs to videos and performance”. Speaking on his long term goals, Pelli says it is to always stay relevant –in music and politics. Also, the philanthropist in him wants to give back by setting up an avenue where true talents in the country would be heard. “I am going to continue making music that will appeal to all age groups and also touch almost every genre of music. With all I have seen in public officers, I think I can make a change in this country and the only way is going into politics”.

joke Music and AfricaRelated present the latest album by the internationally acclaimed Afrobeat/Jazz band, Ayetoro. The long-awaited EP Asoju Oba will be officially launched on Saturday, September 8, at Ember Creek, Ikoyi, Lagos. According to the brilliant band leader, pianist Funsho Ogundipe, the event will host about 150 guests, including media and is expected to be graced by the Lagos State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Disun Holloway. The programme includes a live music performance by Ayetoro and a few invited guest artistes, formal launch of the album, merchandising and the after-party (DJ Music). “The programme will give us the opportunity to present our mission to our admirers and the public at large. Our new logo, designed by famed

artist, Ghariokwu Lemi, will be unveiled as well as prototypes of our new T-Shirt series. I have always believed in the conjunction between all the arts, and now with this album, we are set to bring that into play”, Ogundipe says. Asoju Oba which translates to ‘the king’s eye or representative, is the band’s fifth studio album. It pays homage to the deep cultural ties between Bahia in Brazil and the Yorubas in Nigeria, Benin, Togo and Ghana. It features three tracks which showcase the band expanding its musical base to cover contemporary Neo-soul and Hip Hop while retaining its jazz core. This latest effort solidifies the band’s posterity with working with outstanding artists, great instrumentalists and jazz musicians worldwide, and sets the stage for a well-deserved local and international recognition.

A.J. Green’s ‘world’ under scrutiny

he Centre for Contemporary Arts, CCA, Lagos hosts another of its Art-iculate lecture titled “The Two Worlds of Nigerian Artist/Photographer J. A. Green”, centred around Nigeria’s first professional photographer, Jonathan Adagogo Green (1873 – 1905) The paper will be delivered by Lisa Aronson, Associate Professor Art History, Skidmore College, New York, USA during the event holding at CCA’s office, 9 McEwen Street, Sabo, Yaba starting by 2.00 p.m. As a pioneer photographer, J. A. Green is seen as an important voice for Nigeria’s early modernist art movement. Moreover, his photographic work reveals that he was straddling two worlds– one, his own as an Ibani Ijo young man born into an elite trading family and the other, as

Green

the chief photographer for the British as they lay the foundation for the newly formed colony of Nigeria. This talk looks at Green’s photographs from these two perspectives. Lisa Aronson’s scholarship has focused on African textiles and trade, issues of gender in African art and most recently, contemporary African art and African photography. Her work on Green, funded through a Getty Collaborative Research Grant, will lead to a jointly authored book on the subject.

Arts Lounge

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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FAR AND NEAR

NTDC launches pictorial book on Nigeria IJEOMA EZEIKE ABUJA

he Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, NTDC, has launched a book capturing Nigeria’s cultural festivals, destinations, arts and craft, historical monuments and national heroes all in delightful photography. The Director-General of the NTDC, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe introduced the book to the media in the tourism village in Abuja at an epoch-making event last Thursday. The book, which is first of its kind, is a riveting photographic documentation of the history, culture and people of Nigeria and a visual delight of sorts that makes for enjoyable reading. Speaking at the event, Otunba Runsewe observed that the book titled Nigeria, is a compilation aimed at promoting and mar-

keting Nigeria in line with international best practice. Re-echoing this position in his foreword to the book, the NTDC helmsman observed that, “This document is an attempt to give expression –in symbolic form– to the various phases of the socio political evolution of Nigeria. The beautiful photographs and historical landmarks in the book serve as representative samples of Nigerian history and portray the distinguishing characteristics of the diverse landscape, culture, tradition, history, economy and government of Nigeria”. Speaking further, Runsewe stated that the initiative was an effort of Public Private Partnership (PPP), saying the expectation is to create more awareness for tourism with a view to generating employment in the sector. He also introduced to the media, two city guides on Abuja and Lagos which include such content as business, economy, agriculture,

Desmond Tutu on MTV Meets today

outh African peace activist, Nobel Prize winner and South African national treasure, Archbishop Desmond Tutu is sure to strike a chord with African youth with his appearance on MTV Base Meets…with MTN today MTV Base Meets Archbishop Desmond Tutu with MTN will follow the youthful and irrepressible Archbishop as he meets with four passionate young panellists from across Africa for a candid discussion on a wide range of subjects including peace, tolerance, activism and faith. The panellists are undergraduate Zaphia Ovia (20, Nigeria); undergraduate novelist, Andy Petersen (19, South Africa); entrepreneur and business student Makafui Ayimey (24, Ghana) and African studies student, Tatenda Muranda (24, Zimbabwe). Tutu’s meeting, taped in Cape Town, South Africa, premieres on MTV Base (DStv Channel 322) this evening. The programme, in its second season, is presented by MTV VJ Sizwe Dhlomo. It will also air on terrestrial channels in Nigeria, Cameroun, Ghana, Rwanda, Swaziland, Zambia and Uganda. Speaking about the young people he met through his involvement on the youth mentoring platform, Tutu said, “I was very deeply impressed with my young interviewers. In fact, I should say they made me glow

Tutu

with pride and to feel our world is in good hands (their hands)”. Tutu was the first black Archbishop of Cape Town and primate of the Church of the Province of Southern Africa (now the Anglican Church of Southern Africa). The famous straight-talker and powerful orator rose to worldwide fame during the 1980s as a fearless and vocal critic of apartheid. In 1984, he won the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts. He was subsequently awarded the Albert Schweitzer Prize for Humanitarianism (1986); the Pacem in Terris Award (1987); the Sydney Peace Prize (1999), the Gandhi Peace Prize in 2005 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2009). In his 81st year, “The Arch” remains a jovial, irrepressible and influential force both in South Africa and on the global political stage. Further thought leaders participating in season two include Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former president of Nigeria, Togolese international striker Emmanuel Adebayor and Sudanese supermodel Alek Wek.

The book

finance, entertainment, amongst others. “The book, which is first of its kind in the history of the country, speaks volume about us; it can be dropped anywhere and would speak for the country. The back represents the six geo-political zones of our country”, Runsuwe said. Already, the Corporation has distributed the book and city guides to all ministers, governors, senators, newspaper editors, captains of industry and other top

public office holders in a bid to drive the market and market Nigeria as a viable destination to the international community. According to Runsewe, this will translate to direct foreign exchange and a major boost for the local economy with the hope of reducing crime and insecurity. The book will also feature on the NTDC portal, highlighting the role of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in tourism promotion and development.

$200M INTERVENTION FUND:

Jonathan asked to bear down on fund managers

resident Goodluck Jonathan has been called on to give immediate marching orders to organisations and individuals managing the entertainment industry Intervention Fund to ensure the fund begins to have impact on the employment situation in the creative industries in Nigeria. The Nigerian Music Industry Coalition (NMIC) made this known in an address titled, ‘The State of the Nigerian Music Industry’ delivered as part of events for “No Music Day 2012”, marked on Saturday, September 1. The theme of this year’s No Music Day celebration, “A World without Music”, is aimed at engaging the Nigerian people and the various governments on the unsung contributions of Nigerian music to the socio-economic development of the nation. Chairman, Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), Chief Tony Okoroji, who read the address, stated that failure to feel an appreciable impact of the fund on the creative is like a case of ‘the more you look, the less you see’. “There is growing disappointment that both the Growth in Employment in

States Fund (GEMS) and the Entertainment Industry Intervention Fund announced by President Goodluck Jonathan two years ago, which created so much initial buzz, will end up as another big disappointment and sad political gimmick. As we mark ‘No Music Day’ today, we call on President Jonathan to order the Bank of Industries (BOI), the Nigerian Export and Import Bank (NEXIM), the Federal Ministry of Commerce and Investments, and everyone connected with the funds, to do what is necessary such that they begin to have impact on the industry and help create the badly needed employment”, Okoroji stated. Okoroji lamented that the fund managers do not appear to fully understand the fund is meant to solve specific problems and targeted at people who cannot ordinarily access finance from the traditional financial institutions. According to him, requirements, conditions and bottlenecks placed by the fund managers are such that only a very tiny fraction of true sector practitioners can ever dream of having access to the fund. “Sadly, the money will end up not with those for whom

the money was meant and in a few years, our industry will be blamed for improper use of the ’help’ offered by the government”. In the address, the NMIC also called on FG to provide required resources to the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) to ensure a very robust onslaught on the recent menace of digital piracy plaguing the industry. According to the coalition, if the digital piracy across the nation is not quickly addressed, more jobs will be lost in the sector and new investments will not come in. In the same vein, the coalition drew attention to the need to update the nation’s laws to deal with digital piracy especially, the many illegal websites offering Nigerian music either free of charge or for a fee. The fourth “No Music Day” was celebrated with documentaries, debates and discussions on the intellectual property rights of musicians on several media platforms in the country. Several radio and television stations, in solidarity with the NMIC, did not broadcast any music between the hours of 8.00 a.m. and 10.00 a.m. on September 1.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

I overcame cold to win gold–Obiji

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Sport

I am focused on the future ahead of me and don’t feel disturbed by the present predicament

- DISGRACED CYCLIST, LANCE ARMSTRONG

Falconets face Japan for W/Cup bronze

igeria’s Falconets will meet host Japan in the classification match after failing yesterday to qualify for the final of the ongoing FIFA 2012 U-20 Women’s World Cup. Two-time champions, USA beat the Nigerian girls 2-0 at the Tokyo National Stadium in their semi-finals game. Goals from Morgan Brian and Kealia Ohai halted the ambition of the Nigerian side, who were runners-up at the last edition, two years ago in Germany, and had appeared destined for the 2012 edition’s final match. The Falconets domi-

‘Rangers still on course for NPL title’

angers International FC of Enugu coach, Okey Emordi, said yesterdaythat he was hopeful of winning the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) title, in spite of their current position on the competition’s table. News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Rangers are currently third on the league table, with 61 points, with one outstanding match before the season ends on Sept. 7. Kano Pillars and Lobi Stars FC are first and second with 64 and 63 points, respectively. The coach is perhaps hinging his hopes on the fact that Pillars and Lobi Stars have tough away matches, while Rangers will be playing at home and hopes to win. ``There is still hope, anything can happen, which is why we are not ruling out our chances. We believe we can still win, despite sitting third on the log. ``We are trailing the two teams, but it doesn’t mean there’s nothing at stake. We have our eyes set on winning and we believe God will see us through,” he said. Emordi added that Rangers’ plan was to stay focused on winning their final match and avoiding distractions from results elsewhere.

nated the game in terms of possession, always keeping the U.S on the retreat, but the failure to take their chances as a result of poor shooting did them in. News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the U.S., who will now be going into a third final appearance, will face Germany who trounced host Japan 3-0 in the second semi-finals game. The match will hold on Saturday at the Tokyo National Stadium, some hours after Nigeria would have played its Third-place match with host Japan. Nigeria had a bright and hopeful start to the game, with Francisca Ordega’s seventh minute effort going wide, off the post. But Brian scored the allimportant opening goal after 22 minutes, perfectly directing a header over goalkeeper Ibubeleye Whyte, from Mollie Pathman’s cross from the left. After the goal, the U.S. dominated play and created several scoring chances in the closing stages of the half, with Nigeria held back, in spite of having dominating overall possession during the opening period. Desire Oparanozie’s effort was ruled out for offside in the early part of the second half, only for the U.S. to deal a fatal blow on African hopes midway into the half. Substitute Samantha Mewis pushed a short defence-splitting pass through for Ohai to get the better of her opponent and scored, thus handing the Americans the opportunity to win their third title in Saturday’s final.

Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo (in green shirt) cannot afford to fall to Lone Star on Saturday.

We won’t underrate Liberia – Keshi EVEREST ONYEWUCHI

uper Eagles’ coach, Stephen Keshi, has described the Liberian senior national team, the Lone Star, as formidable, saying Nigeria will not underrate them on Saturday in the 2013 final Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Monrovia. Keshi said yesterday at the Eagles training in Abuja that the Lone Star play robust football and would be backed by massive fans and supporters

Minister dissolves NASCOM board

he Minister of Sports and Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, yesterday in Abuja announced the dissolution of the Board of the Nigeria Academicals Sports Committee (NASCOM). Abdullahi said the measure was geared towards repositioning the body

for greater efficiency in the discovery and nurturing of grassroots talents especially through school sports. He thanked members of the previous board, especially the Chairman, Chief Segun Odegbami, for their various contributions and efforts towards achieving the mandate of NASCOM. A new board will be announced soon.

during the game. Specifically, the Nigerian manager told new Chelsea striker, Victor Moses, to be ready to prove himself during the game. “I read what you said about us winning next year’s Nations Cup and for you to also lead our attack to do well at the World Cup in Brazil. You must start proving that in Monrovia, when we tackle Liberia by showing them that you are Africa’s best,” Keshi said at yesterday’s evening training. Moses smiled away at his boss’ comment and assured that he would prove just why Chelsea prised him away from Wigan Athletico. Meanwhile, 14 home-based stars and 10 foreignbased players trained yesterday, including captain Joseph Yobo. Sporting Braga of Portugal star, Elderson Echiejile, said the Eagles would triumph on Saturday. “This match is fight to finish and anyone telling you that it will be easy for us in Liberia, does not know football,” said Echiejile, who joined the Eagles training camp in Abuja yesterday’s morning.

Sport

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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Podolski tips Gunners

xperienced Arsenal forward, Lukas Podolski, has declared the Gunners title contenders. The Germany international, who was impressive for victory at Liverpool on Sunday, said the club had begun to enjoy a rich vein of form. “If we can play like we did at Liverpool, then we will fight for the title,” Podolski said yesterday. “We are happy with the way we played. But it must be the start for us. The Premier League is very hard to win. It is not like Spain, where you have only Real Madrid and Barcelona fighting for La Liga. “In the Premier League, you have five or six teams who want the title. We are one of

those teams and we must fight for it. “We can be in the top four for sure if we play like this.”

Kompany

City will compete in Champs League – Kompany M anchester City captain, Vincent Kompany, is convinced the English champion will be ready for the tough assignment awaiting them in Europe’s elite competition. City has been drawn alongside Real Madrid, Ajax and Borussia Dortmund, the champions of Spain, the Netherlands and Germany respectively, in the group stage of the UEFA Champions League. Roberto Mancini’s men failed to progress beyond the first round last season after coming up against Bayern Munich, Napoli and Villarreal, and the task could be even harder this time.

“That is why you are in the Champions League. I thought it couldn’t get much more difficult than last season, but here you go. It is a great challenge,” Kompany said yesterday. “I do think we are the kind of team that gets better as the challenges are greater. That is perfect for us. There won’t be any moments where we will be surprised,” the Belgium international added. “The motivation will always be sky-high. The atmosphere will be great in each of the six games we have in the group. I couldn’t think of a better way to play the Champions League.”

Podolski

Ronaldo gives stay condition

nhappy Cristiano Ronaldo is prepared to stay at Real Madrid, only if the club hands him a new contract worth a staggering £25ma-year. Ronaldo, 27, is on £9.6m a year but, because of Spain’s easygoing tax regime, takes home £7.2m, according to reports. He is now demanding takehome pay of £12m a year. Even under existing tax rules, that would mean £14.5m a year gross. The problem for Madrid is that, in two years’ time, Ronaldo’s tax rate will jump from 24 to 52 per cent and it means that in order for him to get £12m after tax the club will have to

cough up almost £25m a year at £480,000 a week. Madrid chiefs have baulked at the figures he has been discussing, especially with UEFA’S new financial fair play rules due to start in two years’ time too. The Portuguese star has a massive £791m buyout clause in his contract but by revealing his “sadness” after his brace in Sunday’s 3-0 win over Granada, he has opened the door to a possible move next summer. Meanwhile, Manchester United Manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, wants to buy back Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid, with reports saying the Scot gaffer is willing to cash in on Wayne Rooney.

PSG won’t compete for unsettled Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo, according to Sporting Directror, Leonardo. Ronaldo is attracting new enquiries from Manchester United and Manchester City this week after admitting he was unhappy at Madrid. “We have never even thought about making a move for Cristiano Ronaldo,” Leonardo said yesterday, stressing, “PSG have not been in touch with anyone from Real Madrid.

Beckham

Ronaldo

right away in Jamaica if he’s really in a good physical condition and feeling really fine,” Klinsmann said yesterday. “There will never be a game where we have everybody 100 per cent on board. It’s just the way soccer works.” “First of all, we are happy that this whole thing was finalized,” the German tactician added. “We’ll test his fitness level right away when he comes in. Based on all that information we can see how we play him in those two very, very important World Cup qualifiers.”

Tit bits...

Leonardo

David Beckham admits he is surprised by his recent goal scoring run for LA Galaxy. The veteran English midfielder netted his sixth goal in his last nine outings for the club with an 80th minute free-kick in the 2-0 win over Vancouver Whitecaps on the weekend. “I knew if I put it in the corner, the ‘keeper wasn’t getting there, simple as that,” Beckham said.

IFEANYI E

Dempsey gets USA role SA Coach, Jurgen Klinsmann, says he is prepared to put new Tottenham Hotspur forward, Clint Dempsey, into the firing line for his side’s upcoming World Cup qualifying double-header with Jamaica. The USA meets the Reggae Boyz in Kingston on Friday before the return bout in Columbus four days later with Klinsmann calling on Dempsey despite the Spurs signing hardly playing at all over summer. “We are absolutely open to throwing him in the water

Lago Body

Falcao

Chelsea is pushing to land Atletico Madrid star Radamel Falcao in January. Talk in Colombia is already of a pre-contract having been agreed between Chelsea and the player’s camp, something his dad refused to deny on the weekend. Atletico wants to increase it to £65m and will also assure Falcao that it will build a team around him capable of winning the Champions League.

Nani Zenit St Petersburg’s buying spree is far from over with Manchester United star Nani in its latest list after the bank-busting double swoop for Porto striker Hulk and Benfica midfielder Axel Witsel. Zenit officials were cool yesterday when pressed about bidding for the United winger, but intermediaries are convinced the Premier League giants will sell for £25m if the Russians make formal their interest.

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NSF: N I FEANYI

ve fr gu medals d Festival State ha ranging and CD bronze m the state Comm ment, A made th state ath would en sent Nig Festival “We w letes and geted hei also cont sports.” Meanw their pos league in state’s U eted trop ship held year.

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Sport

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

os ready for ybuilders

YFSON descends on age cheats I FEANYI E DUZOR

EDUZOR

angements have been conuded for the successful hostg of the 2nd Mr. Flex Nigeria ding Championship billed igerian Institute for Sports gos Gymnasium on October

izers told National Mirror yesterday that a seminar National Power Sport FitConditioning for Athletes ment” will take place at the morrow aimed at sensitizthletes on the need to build ies. ent, Steco Productions, Steolie-Odene, whose company d the event, said nutritionrts resource persons, lawrts managers and trainers Sydney Olympian, Enofiok , among others, would deers on how athletes could rom dieting and managexcel. nal champions, African ns, and world champions cted at the competition,” dene said. championship will attract ize money will be in the ight, light heavy weight dleweight categories,” he

-Odene, who described ding as the ladder to cellence, commended ChalSeven-Up and Healthy Life of Gluconade energy drink orting the event.

Marathoners at a recent event in Lagos

resident of Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON), Nasiru Gawuna, says that the federation will take the issue of age cheats seriously at the ongoing Governor Ibrahim Shehu Shema Cup for U-17 boys. The championship kicks off today at the Katsina Township Stadium with 25 teams competing for honours in the week-long championship. According to him, YSFON has over the years been in the vanguard of youth development and will not hesitate to disqualify any team that fields over-aged players in the competition even as he advised players and officials to be of good conduct throughout the championship. “The Deputy Governor, Alhaji Abdullahi Garuba Fakari, at the Medical Association, the civil society opening ceremony was a testiand the entertainment industry to mony to the importance Katsina State attaches to youth football make the marathon successful. “RLG Communications will spon- and I would like other state govsor the event while Crystal Commu- ernors to emulate Katsina by nications Limited will serve as the sponsoring more YSFON chammedia and marketing consultant,” pionships. “We are grateful to Katsina he further said. State Government for sponsorThe marathon will feature a three ing the championship for the seckilometer race along the Lagos coastond year,” he said. line from Alpha to Lekki Beach.

CAP plans Independence Marathon AFOLABI GAMBARI

Non Governmental Organisation, Community Agenda for Peace (CAP), is planning to celebrate Nigeria’s Independence with a Beach Marathon in Lagos. Organizers said yesterday that the event, which was the first ever Beach Marathon in the world, would be staged on September 29 at the Alpha– Lekki Beach. Spokesperson Phillips Obuesi said that the event aimed to celebrate Nigeria’s 52nd independence anniversary as well as explore it to draw

attention to the challenges of ocean erosion along the Lagos shoreline while promoting beach marathon as tourism sport. “We have tagged this year’s event “Green Independence” as a demand for freedom for biodiversity and improved relations between the Nigerian and his immediate socio-political, cultural and economic environment,” Obuesi said, adding “We believe it is high time Nigerian began to set their ecosystem free from abuse and neglect.” Obuesi explained that CAP would partner Nigeria Police, Actors Guild of Nigeria, Guild of Editors, Nigeria

Nigeria rewards state reps Administrator laments Olympic woe E DUZOR

er 75 sports men and women om Niger State who distinuished themselves by winning during the last National Sports held in Port Harcourt, Rivers ave been rewarded with items from motorcycles, televisions players for gold, silver and medalists worth over N1.5m by government. issioner for Sports DevelopAlhaji Hassan Abdullahi, who e presentation of gifts to the letes in Minna, said the gesture ncourage the athletes to repreger well at the National Sports in Lagos in November. ill continue to motivate her athd drive them to achieve their taright,” he said, adding, “We will tinue to build on achievement in

while, Niger Potters retained sition in the national premier n the Savanna Conference as the - 18 handball team won the covphy at the national championd in Sokoto State earlier in the

NWABUEZE OKONKWO ONITSHA

hairman of Nigeria Professional Wrestling Federation, Anambra State chapter, Patrick Chukwuemeka Ofolemah, has blamed Nigeria’s poor performance at the London 2012 Olympic Games on poor selection of athletes, lack of infrastructure and poor sports development programmes in the country. Ofolomah, who is Nigeria’s former heavyweight wrestling champion, told National Mirror in Onitsha yesterday that the prevailing situation would not encourage success at future games. “Nigeria has comparative advantage to win medals in such sporting events as athletics, boxing, taekwondo, swimming but failed because of systemic decay in the country,” Ofolomah said. He lamented what he called dearth of sports administrators, saying the officials have carried on as politicians masquerading as technocrats. “Many countries in London saw their mistakes in past Olympics

Abdullahi

and corrected it. It was not same with Nigeria,” he further said. In a related development, Proprietor of Rojenny Games Village, Oba, Anambra State, Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka, has advised the government to encourage the catch-them-young system to improve the country’s sporting fortune.

Lagos to host British boxers I FEANYI E DUZOR

ver 75 sports men and women from Niger State who distinguished themselves by winning medals during the last National Sports Festival held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State have been rewarded with items ranging from motorcycles, televisions and CD players for gold, silver and bronze medalists worth over N1.5m by the state government. Commissioner for Sports Development, Alhaji Hassan Abdullahi, who made the presentation of gifts to the state athletes in Minna, said the gesture would encourage the athletes to represent Niger well at the National Sports Festival in Lagos in November. “We will continue to motivate her athletes and drive them to achieve their targeted height,” he said, adding, “We will also

continue to build on achievement in sports.” Meanwhile, Niger Potters retained their position in the national premier league in the Savanna Conference as the state’s U- 18 handball team won the coveted trophy at the national championship held in Sokoto State earlier in the year.

Olawale Edun

Foreign players besiege Frenage

s the Ibadan-based Frenage Progression International Soccer Academy (FPISA) prepares to present its first set of graduates, players from Gambia, Kenya and Zimbabwe have reached the academy with requests. According to the FPISA Manager,

Mobolaji Kayode, aspiring footballers from many African Nations have flooded the FPISA’s website inquiring on how to enrolled in the school. “We will have many players coming from outside Nigeria in our next session that will commence soon after we graduated the first batch of play-

ers this weekend,” Kayode said yesterday. “We have gotten many applicants from east, west and southern Africa inquiring on the process of admission and we are making efforts at seeing that they are adequately taken care of.”

Sport

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

LONDON 2012 PARALYMPICS…

Doping: Mexican raises Nigerian alarm

Ulonnam makes cash plea

Loveline Obiji celebrating after winning gold yesterday

I overcame cold to win gold–Obiji

igeria’s gold medal tally was taken to five after Loveline Obiji won the women’s -82.50kg in Powerlifting as the ongoing Paralympic Games in London entered Day 6 yesterday. The lifter, who is making her debut to the Paralympics, overcame her Egyptian and Chinese rivals to win gold with a lift of 145kg which was 10kg short of the world record. Obiji captured the title with her first attempt as she failed in her second and third attempts to lift 149kg and the success overwhelmed her as she rolled on the floor to express her happiness. Randa Mahmoud claimed silver with 135kg having failed in her last attempt to lift 140kg while Yanmei Xiu of China finished in third place with 125kg. “I didn’t want to get discouraged because of the cold weather so I had to bath with very hot water and put on my jacket because I said the gold medal cannot elude me because of the cold weather,” Obiji, who has a body weight of 81.03kg, told National Mirror. “I said I must take it by force and I did. I was not scared when the other girl attempted 140kg because I had already told God my heart’s desire and he

honoured me by giving it to me. I am inspired to train more than ever before by winning the gold in my first Paralympics outing,” she added. Nigeria currently occupies twelfth position (five gold, five silver and a bronze medal) on the medals table overall while China is still on top with 48 gold, 33 silver and 38 bronze medal. Great Britain maintained second position with 20 gold, 28 silver and 21 bronze medals while Russia is third with 17 gold, 20 silver and 14 bronze medals.

aralympics silver medallist, Anthony Ulonnam, believes that the feat accomplished by Team Nigeria at the ongoing games in London should elicit monetary reward from the Federal Government. “I expect our government to give us a special welcome in appreciation for our efforts. I also expect them to give us money because everything about sports involves money. We will also expect the country to make us proud too by helping us in so many ways,” he said. “We as physically challenged athletes are limited in terms of options as far as getting jobs is concerned but we are doing very well in sports. We want to be appreciated in a big way so that we can continue the good work. We have athletes who want to change nationality and compete for other countries because athletes’ welfare in Nigeria is not a priority.” Ulonnam is making his first appearance at the Paralympics and is thrilled to have won a medal at the London 2012 games. “Of course, I am very happy. I started this sport in April 2008 and I can remember when we went for the Commonwealth Games in 2010 where I also won a silver medal. You can see that it is by God’s grace, not by my power. I tried my best to win the gold medal but it wasn’t meant to be. Nevertheless I am glad that I’m not returning home empty handed. It is not easy to compete at the Paralympics. It took my time, money and everything I have to ensure that I would be a part of the games. “Winning a silver medal is a great achievement for Nigeria as a whole though I’m not the only one who has won a medal. We have gold, silver and bronze medallists in our team and this has been a good moment for us. It was very tough for our Olympians to win even a bronze medal but right now we have 10 medals; which shows that there is indeed ability in disability.”

Ulonnam

Silver ‘saddens’ Oluwafemiayo

igeria’s Folashade Oluwafemiayo who lost out to China’s Taoying Fu in the women’s -75kg category in Powerlifting is rueing her gold medal loss on Monday, saying she deserved the gold. Oluwafemiayo set a new Paralympic Record of 143kg in her second attempt and a world record of 146kg in her final attempt, but her Chinese opponent thereafter lifted 146kg in her final attempt and was awarded the gold medal. Fu also lifted 147kg after the competition which was a new World Record but the Nigerian bettered the record with a lift of 148kg. “I was robbed of my gold medal. The Chinese

opponent was supposed to go out before me but I was asked to come out before her for the final lift. I was the one who first broke the world record and Paralympics but I was surprised that the gold was awarded to her,” Oluwafemiayo told National Mirror yesterday. “I was bitter yesterday. It wasn’t the fault of our coaches because she had booked 145kg as her last lift while I booked 146kg. But her coach ran to the juries to change it at the last minute and the screen inside was switched off so we didn’t know what was happening until I came out to compete. I went further to 148kg at the end of the competition but the damage had already been done.”

exico’s athlete, Catalina Diaz Vilchis, has raised eyebrows over the performance of Nigerian powerlifters at the ongoing Paralympic Games in London. Vilchis, who competed alongside Nigeria’s Loveline Obiji in the women’s -82.50kg, finished in fourth place but is suspicious about the Nigerian team lifters who have been outstanding in the event. “I would like the Nigerian team to be more closely checked. It’s the first time they’ve competed in the Games and I think they should go through anti-doping because they are doing extraordinarily well,” the Mexican contended.

Yusuf upbeat in defeat

heelchair tennis player, Wasiu Yusuf, has expressed gladness over participating in the 2012 Paralympic Games despite losing out in the second round of the competition. The national champion, who was unranked before the games, says his participation has earned him a spot in the next rankings which would be obtained by the end of the games. He lost out to World No.3, Maikel Schaffers 6-2, 6-1 on Sunday but observed that his performance was slightly better than what he obtained in Beijing four years ago. “Things would have been much better if we had the right kind of wheelchairs, which gave our opponents an edge over us,” Yusuf said, adding, “We also need the right equipment such as racquets to help us. We have only tried our best but were limited by a lot of things. “Nevertheless our participation has garnered us enough points which will help in our world rankings.” Wheelchair tennis players in the country are yet to feature in a domestic tournament for more than two years due to lack of sponsorship from corporate organizations. The New Era Open Wheelchair Tennis championship sponsored by Senator Oluremi Tinubu, planned as an annual tournament, has been stalled since 2010 after the sponsor got elected to the Senate.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business & Finance Osun will become a preﬀered investor destination Osun State Commissioner for Finance, Economic Planning and Budget, Wale Bolorunduro

Marketing is not the problem of Nigerian businesses, but government’s inability to formulate policies that would attract foreign investment GMD, VERDANT ZEAL, TUNJI OLUGBODI

42-43

Prices of bread, confectionaries rise by 25% .Cassava flour utilisation low MESHACK IDEHEN

here are indications that master bakers and millers are not in full support of the Federal Government’s initiative targeted at the utilisation of 40 per cent cassava flour in bread and confectionaries production, as continued reliance on wheat flour has forced a 25 per cent rise in the price of bread. The price hike is linked to the recent 200 per cent rise in tariff on imported wheat from five per cent to 15 per cent which took effect in July. The price of an average loaf of bread hitherto sold for N100 is now between N120 and N150. Other sizes of bread, based on a market survey conducted by our correspondent on Tuesday, revealed that loaves that sold for N200 now goes for between N240 and N260, while large family sizes that sold for N280 is now selling for N300 and N320. In the same vein, the prices of confectionaries

like biscuits and cakes have also gone up, with the average sized biscuits that sold for N5 now selling for N10 and above. The same applies for an average sized cake that has also become smaller in size even if it now sells for between N70 and N100. Attributing the price increase to the insistence

on the use of wheat as against cassava flour which the Federal Government is harping upon, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, said the increase in wheat tariff will remain and that the 40 per cent cassava flour policy will become more accepted by bakers and millers.

The minister, who spoke through his Special Assistant on Media, Dr. Kayode Oyeleye, based on enquiries by National Mirror, added that information is filtering to the government about individuals and organisations that are out to scuttle the cassava bread policy of the government. According to Oyeleye, Nigeria spends N635billion annually on the importation of wheat, say-

ing also that in the not too distant future, the benefits of the policy will become more visible to all. Nevertheless, the Association of Master Bakers and Caterers of Nigeria, on their part, said they are not out to scuttle the government’s cassava bread policy, and that the noticed increase in the price of bread and confectionaries was due to market forces.

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Arik Air Los-Abj: 07:15, 09:15, 10:20, 15:20, 16:20, 16:50, 18:45 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun) Abj-Los: 07:15, 09:40, 10:20, 12:15, 15:15, 16:15, 17:10, (Mon-Fri/Sat); 12:15, 15:15, 16:15 (Sun) Los-PH: 07:15, 11:40, 14:00, 16:10, 17:15, (Mon-Fri) 07:30, 11:40, 15:50 (Sat) 11:50, 3:50, 17:05 (Sun) Abj-PH: 07:15, 11:20, 15:30 (Mon-Fri) 07:15, 16:00 (Sat) 13:10, 16:00, (Sun) PH-Abj: 08:45, 12:50, 17:00 (Mon-Fri) 08:45, 17:30 (Sat) 14:40, 17:30 (Sun) Abj-Ben: 08:00, 12:10 (Mon-Fri/Sat) 08:55, 12:10 (Sun) Ben-Abj: 09:55, 13:30 (Mon-Fri/Sat) 10:50, 13:30 (Sun)

Aero Contractors

Chairperson, National Conference Organising Committee, Mrs. Banwo Adeosun, President/Chairman of Council, Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, Mr. Abiola Popoola and Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Sunday Adeyemi, during a press briefing in Lagos, yesterday.

Naira falls at interbank on strong dollar demand

he naira weakened against the United States dollar on the interbank market yesterday on strong dollar buying by some importers unable to obtain funds at the bi-weekly foreign ex-

FLIGHT SCHEDULE

change auction, and thin dollar supply from oil companies. The naira closed at N158.40 to the dollar on the interbank market, weaker than Friday’s close of N158.20 to the dollar. “Strong dollar demand by some importers toward the end of trading pushed down the naira,” one dealer said.

The Central Bank of Nigeria sold $200million at N155.80 to the dollar on its bi-weekly auction, compared with $180million sold at the same rate at the last auction On Wednesday. The regulator did not disclose the amount demanded at the auction. Dealers said the upsurge in dollar demand

Maritime workers threaten strike over industry state

toward the end of trading was driven by importers losing their bids at the auction and diverting to the interbank. “We see the naira hovering within the present level or strengthening a little on expected dollar inflows from offshore investors participating at the treasury bills auction this week,” another dealer said.

The Federal Government plans to issue N142.97billion in treasury bills ranging from three-month to one-year maturities at its regular twice-monthly auction on September 6. Meanwhile the nation’s foreign reserves continued to climb to year high reaching $38.8bn as at August 31.

Los-Abj: 06:50, 13:30, 16:30, 19:45 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun) 12:30 (Sun) 16:45 (Sat). Abj-Los: 07:30, 13:00, 19:00 (Mon-Fri/ Sat) 10:30, 14:30, 19:30 (Sun) 18.30 (Sat) Los-Ben: 07:45, 11:00, 15:30, (Mon-Fri/Sat/ Sun) 12:30 (Sun) 15:30 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun) Ben-Los: 09:15, 12:30, 17:00 (Mon-Fri/ Sat/Sun) 17:00 (Sat), 14:00 (Sun) EXCHANGE RATES WAUA

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Oduah blames officialdom delay in Nigeria, Namibia air link

Nigeria’s gas supply cut threatens electricity in Ghana, others

Business Finance

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Maritime workers threaten strike over industry conditions MESHACK IDEHEN

orkers in the maritime sector have said they are ready to shut down port operations across the country if unfair labour practices and illegality in port operations are not tamed by the Federal Government. The maritime workers said they are also raising the alarm on the abuse of expatriate quota by multinational companies operating in the nation’s maritime sector. The President General of Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Mr. Nted Anthony, who issued the strike threat on Tuesday in Lagos, said some multinational companies which bring vessels into the country deliberately evade payment both to the government and their workers. Nted said most multinational companies that off-load vessels in the country were contravening the Nigerian Maritime Ad-

Product Manager, Mouka Ltd, Mr. Stepehen Uwazota (left) and one of the winners of the “I Love My Mouka” online competition, Mr. Morakinyo Tobi, at the prize presentation in Lagos, yesterday.

ministration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Act, 2007 which provides that any vessel that enters the Nigerian territorial waters must make statutory payment to the Federal Government.

FG to begin coastal rail project FRANCIS EZEM

arring any last minute change of mind, the Federal Government is putting finishing touches to plans designed to commence the contraction of fast rail lines linking the nation’s coastal states as part of measured to open them up to other parts of the country. This is sequel to the recent approval by the Federal Executive Council for the construction of the Lagos-Ibadan Standard Gauge Rail Double Track with Double Formation valued at $1.5bn and awarded in favour of China Civil Engineering Construction Company Nigeria. Minister of Transport, Mallam Idris Umar, who made the disclosure, said that in order to show the commitment of the government to the development of the region, the contract for the award of the contract for the feasibility study of the coastal rail lines will soon be awarded, adding that the contract is currently undergoing due processes. According to the minister, who played host to Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State during a visit in Abuja at the weekend, also informed that feasibility studies will be carried out on other areas in Nigeria for high speed rail linkage as some investors have already shown in-

terest in investing in the rail system modernization project. The minister had also informed the visiting governor that his office has already dispatched a letter to him requesting for the detailed report of the feasibility study of the proposed Calabar North East rail linkages. On the lingering dredging contract for the Calabar Port channels, the minister assured the businessmen in the Calabar and environs that all the issues surrounding the dredging of the channels will soon be sorted out. He informed that government was not only going to dredge the channel but is also looking for a channel manager that will manage channels after the capital dredging just like the Lagos and Onne channels. Imoke had solicited the assistance of the minister on the request of the Calabar Port community for the granting of special concessions on port charges. The governor had disclosed that the operators of the Calabar Port were willing to make some concessions and discounts especially on pilotage fees if the port management would do the same as well as making a case for the granting of a free port status to the Calabar Port, arguing that this will make the ports more user-friendly.

He said Nigeria was losing huge revenue from this illegality, stressing that the country maritime authorities including the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) and the Nigeria Mari-

time Administration and Safety Agency, ( NIMASA) are aware of the situation, and have failed to stand up to their responsibilities. He warned that workers in

the sector would be left with no other option than to shut down port operations across the country in order to draw government’s attention to illegalities in port operations. “We are worried about the illegalities in port operations. Most multinational companies that bring in vessels into the country evade payment thereby contravening the NIMASA Act 2007. What we are witnessing is a situation where by multinational companies bring in goods into the country, offload the goods and run away without recourse to statutory payment. “We have made this known to the transport minister and have also drawn the attention of NPA and NIMASA to the situation in the port but they have not been able to stand up to their responsibilities. Should this continue, we will shut down port operations across the country to draw government’s attention to illegalities in port operations,” Nted said.

Aircraft engineers blast AON over expatriate recruitment OLUSEGUN KOIKI

he Society of Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers of Nigeria (SLAMEN) has criticised the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) over its call for the recruitment of foreign aircraft engineers to take over the inspection unit of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The president of the society, Mr. Chukwuka Iloeje, in an interview with journalists agreed with AON that there is a dearth of qualified and experienced airworthiness inspectors in NCAA, but disagreed that the

solution lies in employing foreign inspectors. Iloeje insisted that there are enormous Nigerian licensed aircraft engineers with vast experience in the country and are available in the industry to carry out these functions effectively. The president emphasized that he was aware that there were many applications by some of these engineers awaiting attention at NCAA for several years now and urged NCAA to commence the recruitment of inspectors from among these Nigerians, rather than looking for foreigners to take over the job of indigenous engineers. He said, “It is necessary to

acknowledge that some qualified and experienced Nigerian Inspectors in NCAA have been acquitting themselves creditably as airworthiness inspectors, but they are not enough in number. “I want to encourage the airline operators to train young Nigerians at the Nigerian College of Technology (NCAT), Zaria. They should also give their aircraft engineers quality recurrent training to enable them beef up their knowledge, experience and confidence so that they can grow to become future inspectors of repute, rather than employing foreign engineers and demanding for foreign inspectors.

GES: FG urged on better rapport with agro-dealers KUNLE A ZEEZ

armers who have participated in the Growth Enhancement Support scheme of the Federal Government have called for improved relations between officials and agents implementing the scheme and agro-dealers. The farmers, who expressed satisfaction with the innovative ways that they have received fertilizers and other agricultural inputs provided by the scheme, said the relationship needed to be strengthened especially in the area of giving detailed information to the farmers on the scheme

execution. The farmers noted that the officials in charge often do not have all needed information on the scheme and cannot fully meet their requests for information. They spoke in a statement made available to National Mirror, noting that many of the farmers are particularly impressed with the ease with which government subsidy has been incorporated into the GES programme. They also called for greater access to funds to expand their businesses According to a cassava and yam farmer in Umuahia North, Abia State, Aaron Ikemefule, expressed great satisfaction with how he got

fertilizers during the inauguration of the scheme in Abia State without having to go through a long process as was the case in the past. “I am extremely happy with this scheme. During the launch of the programme, I received fertilizers easily once I got the electronic signal on my phone. This has never happened before and I just want it to continue,” he said. Another farmer, Ojo Badusi, who farms maize in Akure, Ondo state noted that the GES scheme is a welcome development as it has made access to farm inputs very easy for him.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Business Finance

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Oduah blames bureaucracy for Nigeria, Namibia air link OLUSEGUN KOIKI

he Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah, has blamed bureaucracy for the delay in linking Namibia and Nigeria directly by air. The minister said this yesterday in her welcome address at the 18th Aviation and Allied Business Leadership Conference with the theme: ‘Rethinking Africa’s Air Transport Strategy’ organised by Landover Company in Windhoek, Namibia. Oduah, who was represented at the event by the DirectorGeneral of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Dr. Harold Demuren, said while Nigeria was still delaying the

process, Ghana cashed in on the situation and opened direct flights between Accra to Windhoek. She said, “We have been on it for long. We started it before Ghana. We were the first to make the move, but there have been bureaucratic delays. Everybody must take blame in government; NCAA, the two countries’ ministries of aviation and foreign affairs.” The minister who lamented that Nigeria and other delegates to the meeting had to go through either Accra or South Africa to get to Namibia, however assured that by next year direct flights between Nigeria and Namibia would be possible. Thereafter, she said while Nigeria was pursuing improve-

ment in terminal building and consumer protection, safety, security and manpower development are the invisible infrastructure that should not be ignored. The minister maintained that aviation cannot improve without addressing the security, safety and manpower elements. On their part, she encouraged the airlines to be of the International Air Transport Association Operational Safety Audit-(IOSA) compliant. The minister called on African states not only to give full autonomy to civil aviation authorities as prescribed by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), but to also ensure that African CAA’s are well funded.

L-R: Organiser, Elite Model Look Nigeria, Elizabeth Elohor Aisen; Head, High Value Segment, Etisalat Nigeria, Ebi Atawodi and celebrity stylist, Veronica Ebie-Odeka, at the Elite Model Look Nigeria press conference in Lagos, recently.

Osun needs $1.4bn for urban development – Gov

he Governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has said that the state will require over $1.4 billion to separate and to rebuild houses in other to achieve his administration’s urban renewal programme. The governor, while speaking at the UN-Habitat World Urban Forum (WUF) 6 Mayors’ Roundtable at Naples, Italy, stressed that his administration discovered that more than 38,000 buildings have either become dilapidated or are deteriorating. Aregbesola who was represented by the state Commissioner for Lands, Physical Planning and Urban Development, Arch. Olumuyiwa Ige held that when the administration came into office in November 2010, it undertook an assessment of the condition of urban centres in the state and discovered that not only can they not sustain

their present populations, they are in no shape to accommodate the future. He added that it was also discovered that a significant shift in the economic pattern affected cities negatively, stating that cities were built with wealth realised from exported cash crops which when the commodities economy collapsed, the houses and structures built from this wealth suffered neglect and were either decaying or collapsing. According to the governor, “This situation, therefore, requires leadership and exceptional governance capabilities. The urgent task before us is to renew the urban centres, upgrade the slums and build future cities, while ensuring good governance. “Our first response was to put in place a committee of seasoned professionals and

academics in urban and regional planning who are working assiduously to develop a modern urban outlook for our numerous towns and cities. In the first phase of this project, one kilometre radius of the urban core of nine cities will be renewed – with roads, drainages, infrastructure and full municipal services. Through this programme, we intend to transform the urban centres into modern ones, and ensure their sustainability.” Aregbesola held. The governor while thanking UN-HABITAT for collaborating with the state on Structure Plan for nine cities, out of the 17 in their programme, said, the most rewarding aspect of the collaboration is the Participatory Governance Strategy that will be brought to bear in developing the Structure Plans.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NIPOST retirees protest over unpaid pension MESHACK IDEHEN

he National President of the Nigeria Postal Service, (NIPOST) Retirees, 2000 to 2006 set, Mr. Braimah Alezi Oboiriere, has said the decision by the retirees to picket the Lafiaji, Obalende head office of the NIPOST, was because of death of 435 of the retires who died while still awaiting their pension. He said picketing the NIPOST office was the last resort in order to get the attention of the general public and the government to their plight, adding 435 retirees of the NIPOST have died in the last 73 months in the cause of

waiting to collect their retirement benefits. Speaking with our correspondent on telephone on Tuesday following the weekend picketing of NIPOST, Oboiriere added that over 9,433 NIPOST retirees have relocated to the headquarters of the post office at Obalende, Lagos, in anticipation that their accumulated N4billion benefits will be paid. He, however, decried the intimidation by men of Nigeria Police Force hired by NIPOST to check their picketing; saying the decision by the management of NIPOST to bring in policemen to forestall the breakdown of law and order in the premises was not justifiable.

‘Win Big with Ecobank’ promo unveiled

cobank Nigeria has unveiled a promotion to reward its existing and new customers who actively operate their Ecobank current and savings accounts. Starting this September through December 2012, the “Win Big with Ecobank” promo gives each customer the opportunity to own new cars at each of four monthly draws and a grand prize of a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) at the grand draw. According to a ststement issued yesterday, new customers who open an account with a minimum of N20,000 will be entitled to an instant gift and also qualify for the monthly draw if they maintain the deposit for a 30 day period. Existing customers who increase their balance by N20,000 qualify for the draw

and multiples of N20,000 give the customer more chance of winning. To be eligible for the grand prize a customer is expected to maintain a minimum balance of N20,000 for 4 months to give a total of N80,000; multiple entries of N80,000 is permissible. Announcing the promotion in Lagos, the bank’s Executive Director, Domestic Bank, Lagos and South West, Mr. Kingsley Aigbokhaevbo said Ecobank is poised to reward it loyal customers, even as it offers them the best of banking services. “Ecobank will continue to contribute significantly to the growth of the Nigerian economy by providing our retail and wholesale customers with convenient, accessible and reliable financial products and services,” he said.

Ndukwe, Fayemi to speak at telecoms forum KUNLE A ZEEZ

ormer Executive Vice Chairman, Nigerian Communications, Mr. Ernest Ndukwe and the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi are to deliver lectures at this year’s edition of the annual Nigerian Telecoms Awards. Ndukwe, who is the Chairman, Open Media Group, is regarded as African foremost telecom specialist, having successfully implemented the liberalisation of telecoms sector in 2001. Ndukwe, who headed the NCC to auction Global System for Mobile Communications licences and managed the booming sector for 10 years, is expected to deliver the Keynote address titled, ‘The Media and ICT in Nigeria.’

Fayemi, who has demonstrated commitment in his state towards deploying Information and Communication Technology to drive service delivery in government, will speak on a topic ‘Towards the efforts to Digitise Nigeria.’ Speaking, the Secretary General of Nigerian Telecom Awards, Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, said the topic chosen for Ndukwe was to further drive home the point that the media may have been undervalued in this whole affair of ICT emergence. “You will agree with me the need for this media role in ICT growth to be addressed. The media should serve a purpose more than just a tool in the hands of the stakeholders but a good partner in progress, with whom both parties can grow and develop,” he said.

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Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Energy Week

udemea@rocketmail.com 07031546994

West Africa gas pipeline

Nigeria’s gas supply cut threatens electricity in Ghana, others W

ith the restoration of gas supply towards the end of last year to Ghana, Benin and Togo, officials of the West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAPCo), did not expect disruption at least for a reason. First, its engineers did not notice any serious threat to operations. Second, safety and security measures were adopted to ensure the product is supplied to ENGAZ for onward delivery to users without much difficulty. Unfortunately, the supply was disrupted last weekend. The reason for the development is not yet known even though naval officials in Lome suspect that a ship might have damaged the facility since it is located offshore. Their suspicion is based on the feeling that it would be impossible for vandals to have easy access to the pipeline at the location. However, the management of WAPCo who do not believe in guess work has embarked on a detailed investigation aimed at ascertaining the real cause or causes of the situation. While investigation goes on, consumers of the product have to live without gas, and by extension, electricity supply as the delivery of the contractual 132 million standard cubic of feet (SCF) of gas per day to the countries have been scuttled. Investigations showed that the situation may worsen in the coming weeks, particularly as it may take a little lon-

Less than a year after gas supply from the West African Gas pipeline to Ghana, Togo and Republic of Benin was disrupted, the countries have suffered another disruption that now threatens stable electricity supply. UDEME AKPAN who has been monitoring the development reports. ger to solve the problem problem. For instance instance, WAPCo, operator of the facility has not yet gotten to the roots of the problem; though naval officials in Lome suspect that a ship might have caused the damage as the important facility is located offshore. The General Manager, Corporate Affairs of WAPCo, Mrs. Harriet Wereko-Brobby who confirmed the development in a telephone interview said: “We are still investigating the incident. We do not want to guess. The investigation is important to enable us ascertain what really happened to the pipeline. It is when we locate the place and ascertain the cause of the problem that it will be possible to embark on repairs aimed at putting the pipeline back to work properly. All these cannot happen in one day. We are not happy about the development.”

Wereko-Brobby Wereko Brobby made it emphatic that: “We do know that ENGAS who gets the gas from us for distribution to users is not happy as well. In fact, no one is happy about it. But we need the understanding and cooperation of consumers and other people and organisations while working hard to fix the problem.” Indeed, many stakeholders may have some reasons to show understanding, particularly as the development is deliberate. But investigations showed that this incident has occurred several times contrary to the expectation of the project initiators. Desirous to consume Nigeria’s gas, Ghana and other West African nations had signed necessary documents, including gas sales/purchase agreements to guarantee sustainable supply from the nation. The countries, includ-

THE MANAGEMENT OF

WAPCO WHO DO

NOT BELIEVE IN GUESS WORK HAS EMBARKED ON A DETAILED INVESTIGATION AIMED AT ASCERTAINING THE REAL CAUSE OR CAUSES OF THE SITUATION

ing Togo, Togo Republic of Benin and other stakeholders also established essential facilities to receive the product. Incidentally, supply to Ghana and others has not been efficient and stable because of many challenges. These included pipeline vandalism, technical hitches and mining activities, particularly along the pipeline routes despite the Right of way (ROW) secured in advance to pave way for the success of the project. For instance, encroachments on ROW and sand mining at Paako beach, Ajido, threatened operations and posed a serious environmental challenge to the people of IworoAjido-Badagry. The Managing Director of WAPCo, Mr. Charles Adeniji, who confirmed the seriousness of the issue, remarked in Lagos that mining activities constitute a major problem which stare the firm in the face, particularly as a result of increased reliance on pipeline. The 678 kilometer pipeline links into the existing Escravos-Lagos pipeline at the Nigeria Gas Company’s Itoki Natural Gas Export Terminal and proceeds to a beachhead in Lagos. From there it moves offshore to Takoradi, in Ghana, with gas delivery laterals from the main CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

Energy Week

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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Nigeria’s gas supply cut threatens electricity in Ghana, others

Jonathan

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35 line extending to Cotonou (Benin), Lome (Togo) and Tema (Ghana). The Escravos-Lagos pipeline system has a capacity of 800 MMscfd, and the WAPCo system will initially carry a volume of 170MMscfd and peak over time at a capacity of 460MMscfd. The main offshore pipeline runs East to West at an average water depth of 35 metres though some sections such as the south east of Ghana, south of Lome and the Benin Nigerian frontier ranges between 50 to 70 meters. Its range from the coast is as varied as the depth. South of Cape St. Paul in Ghana, it is as close as 3.5 nautical miles (6.5 kilometres) while at its widest section south of Winneba also in Ghana, it is 17.5 nautical miles (32.5 kilometres). The main pipeline is 20 inches in diameter. Cotonou and Lome laterals are eight inches respectively while the Tema lateral is 18 inches.

Adeniji

Yakubu

THE COMING ON STREAM OF THE PLANT WAS A GREAT DELIGHT, PARTICULARLY BECAUSE OF THE PROMISE TO STIMULATE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN

WEST AFRICA THROUGH

INCREASED APPLICATION OF NATURAL GAS FOR POWER GENERATION AND OTHER APPLICATIONS The termination point at Takoradi (Aboadzi) forms part of the main pipeline. WAGP transports purified natural gas free of heavy hydrocarbons, liquids and water, ideally suited as fuel for power plants and industrial applications. Eighty-five per cent of the gas is for power generation and the remaining for Industrial Applications. The Volta River Authority’s Takoradi Thermal Power Plant in Ghana, CEB of Benin and Togo are WAPCo’s foundation customers.

NPDC boosts output in OML 26

he Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), has boosted production in Oil Mining Lease 26 from below 10, 000 barrels per day (bpd) to 11,000 bpd, as of August, this year. This increase is as result of new investments made in recent times to boost production of the firm as well as enable it to become a major player in the nation’s petroleum industry. An authoritative report documented that: “The compressors have been refurbished and new ones supplied, so gas lifting operations have commenced. Officials at the Department of Petroleum Resources, the country’s regulatory agency say that the decline was exacerbated by the closure of the Trans Forcados Pipeline, the export line, for 24 days, between February and March, 2012.” It stated that: “Even so, the challenges of an inefficient state hydrocarbon company trying to be an operator continues to dog the operations: Local firm First Hydrocarbon Nigeria (FHN) Limited bought over the 45per cent JV equity belonging to Shell, Agip and TOTAL in OML 26 in 2011, but NPDC, the government company insisted on pursuing ‘the rights of the first refusal’ clause contained in the Joint Operating Agreement.” The NPDC is a subsidiary of the Ni-

gerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). NPDC was set up in 1988 to engage in Oil and Gas Exploration and Production. Its vision is to become Nigeria’s largest Exploration &Producing Company, creating significant value through a strong performance culture, making us the partner and employer of choice across Africa and beyond while its mission is to become a commercial Oil and Gas E&P flagship Company, operating responsibly and applying the best industry practices and technologies. NPDC has a Board of Directors, a Managing Director and five Executive Directors in charge of the five divisions (Operations, Joint Ventures, Services, Finance & Accounts and Engineering & Technical Services). Confirming its accomplishments, the firm stated that it has acquired eight additional Oil Blocks (OMLs 4, 26, 30, 34, 38, 40, 41 and 42), thus, increasing daily production capacity to 120,000 bpd. It remarked that, “Since 1988, NPDC has been operating from several rented buildings in Benin-City. But by March 2012 the FEC approved the construction of the Company’s Corporate Headquarters to give it the desired status of an IOC. The Sixth NPDC Board of Directors was inaugurated on the 31st October, 2011 to drive the company’s transformation programmes.”

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), got the vision to facilitate the West African Gas Pipeline in 1982, mainly to promote regional integration and economic development in West Africa. Stakeholders who keyed into the ideals of the project did so in anticipation that it would lead to the fast realisation of socio-economic transformation of the region. With commercial reserves of its natural gas estimated at 187 trillion standard cubic feet, Nigeria is well positioned to meet local demand and provide adequate supplies to many nations on a continuous basis. But not much was done in the past to achieve that ambition because of some challenges, especially low local demand, inappropriate pricing, unfavourable legislations and inadequate basic infrastructure. Stakeholders, including the Federal Government, oil firms and others did not turn their backs against the adventure forever. With increased commitment, fuelled by the making of new finds, building of additional reserves and introduction of attractive policies and incentives, investors were gradually enticed to design and execute new gas projects in the country. Of the several, the West African Pipeline Project stood out for a combination of reasons. First, the project, endorsed by many parties, including the ECOWAS was the first bold step taken to stimulate the socio-economic development in the region. Second, it was the first major initiatives targeted at fostering corporate and institutional cooperation of countries in the sub region. Moreover, it was also the first and biggest project to be jointly designed and executed by many stakeholders in the region.

Olorunishola

Despite the early challenges such as change of leaderships and lack of funds that affected the successful takeoff of the project, many observers were delighted when the project came on stream in 2010. The observers were also delighted when the first delivery of the product was made to Ghana, the biggest consumer who needs the product to boost its power generation, transmission and marketing to consumers, and by extension economic development of the country. As the firm puts it, “VRA commenced firing one of the Aboadze turbines on gas. The volume of gas flowing is approximately 30 million standard cubic feet per day, which is enough to generate 110 megawatts. Similar volumes were flowing in April and May of last year until flow was suspended due to vandalism of supply lines upstream of the WAGP interconnection point in Nigeria. The resulting gas supply crisis in Nigeria also had a major impact on WAGP. The pipeline was able to transport small volumes intermittently in order to supply enough gas for VRA to commission their second turbine. The main supply lines have now been repaired and the gas supply crisis has eased.” Indeed, the coming on stream of the plant was a great delight, particularly because of the promise to stimulate economic development in West Africa through increased application of natural gas for power generation and other applications. The plant also promises to create employment opportunities and other multiplier effects, including technological advancement and capacity building in the region. From all indications, the major challenge is how to safeguard the pipelines from the various attacks it has encountered in the past few years. This great task is not for stakeholders alone. Every person and institution, including hunters and fishermen in host communities and others can assist in one way or another towards ensuring that the nation does not only produce gas but that the product gets to consuming nations.

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Wednesday, September 5, 2012

OPEC daily basket price stabilises at $111.17 per barrel Low trading volumes are expected throughout Monday, with US financial markets closed for the Labor Day public holiday.” “As the week gets underway, oil prices are again shedding some of the gains they achieved on Friday in the wake of disappointing economic data from China,” said Commerzbank analyst Carsten Fritsch. China’s manufacturing activity fell to its lowest level in more than three years in August as the global economic slowdown continues to weigh on the world’s largest exporter, HSBC said Monday. The final reading of the British banking giant’s closely-watched purchasing managers’ index (PMI), which gauges nationwide manufacturing activity, slid to 47.6 last month from 49.3 in July, HSBC said in a statement. This was the lowest since March 2009 and marked the tenth consecutive monthly fall, the bank said. It chimed with the official PMI figure released Saturday, which hit a ninemonth low of 49.2 from 50.1 in July. A PMI reading above 50 indicates expansion, while one below 50 points to contraction. Fritsch meanwhile predicted that the oil market would bounce back later this week on hopes of central bank stimulus measures. “Speculation about stimulus measures to be taken by central banks should cause prices to rise during the course of the week despite gloomier economic prospects.”

UDEME AKPAN WITH AGENCY REPORT

he price of Organisation of petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) basket of 12 crudes stood at $111.17 per barrel over the weekend, compared with a previous record of $110.66, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The new OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Oriente (Ecuador), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela). This showed an excess of about $39 per barrel against the budget reference price of $72 per barrel, thus raising hope that the nation would be in a position to generate sufficient foreign exchange for the implementation of the 2012 budget. The nation’s N4, 877, 209,156,933 budget which is N229 billion higher than the revised budget of N4.648 trillion sent to the National Assembly aimed at stimulating developments in critical sectors of the economy, including power and agriculture. The budget is benchmarked at the daily production of 2.48 million bpd, which was the same as the executive’s proposal; Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rate at 7.2 per cent: Inflation rate at 9.5 per cent and exchange rate at N155. Since the passage of the budget,

Alison Madueke

crude oil prices have remained relatively high at the oil market. Market watchers expect the prices to remain stable throughout the year. A source said, “Global oil prices held steady on Monday as traders worried that contracting Chinese manufacturing activity could hit global demand for crude. Brent North Sea crude for delivery in October added nine cents to $114.66 a barrel just after midday.” It maintained that: “New York’s main contract, light sweet crude for October dropped 15 cents to $96.32 per barrel.

West Africa crude-October overhang hits light, sweet grades

large overhang of West African cargoes for loading in October increased the pressure on differentials for light, sweet crude oil from Nigeria and Angola on Friday, despite several Asian tenders that could absorb some barrels. Around 40 of the 72 Nigerian crude cargoes due to be exported in October were still unplaced, traders said, and up to 18 of the 55 Angolan cargoes for October were also unsold. “It is not yet critical, but there is no shortage of West African crude,” said a trader with a large Western refiner. “We see perhaps twice as many cargoes on offer now than we would expect at this time of the month. Angolan usually goes quickly.” “October cargoes are moving steadily

but slowly,” said another. The situation is most acute for light, sweet crudes as the traditional U.S. customers for these grades are buying less due to rising domestic U.S. production and Hurricane Isaac also closed most U.S. Gulf refiners, removing any marginal buying. Heavy, sour crudes are in more demand due to the embargo on Iranian oil. India’s Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals (MRPL), Iran’s key Indian oil client, is seeking 1.2 million barrels of high sulphur crude for lifting at the end of October and in early November, largely to replace imports from Iran. Three crude oil buying tenders - two Indian and one Indonesian - for oil arriving in October and November could support light,

sweet grades if they are all filled by West African barrels, traders said. Qua Iboe: Six of the 12 Qua Iboe cargoes loading in October were still unsold by equity holders, traders said, and some of the remaining cargoes are being held for possible delivery into India. Trafigura sold two cargoes to Shell, traders said, while Exxon was reported to have placed two cargoes and Glencore and a Nigerian trader were both reported to have committed stems. Qua Iboe was said to have been last sold fob at around dated Brent plus $2.00 and at closer to the equivalent of dated plus $2.20 into tenders. Current spot values were at or below dated plus $2.00, one trader said, though another assessed differentials around 20 cents above that level. Source: Bloomberg

Energy & Oil Prices OIL ($/bbl) Nymex Crude Future Dated Brent Spot WTI Cushing Spot

PRICE*

CHANGE

% CHANGE

TIME

96.94 116.28 96.47

0.47 0.51 1.85

0.49% 0.44% 1.96%

07:50 08:00 08/31

PRICE*

CHANGE

% CHANGE

TIME

320.55 299.61

2.53 2.33

0.80% 0.78%

07:49 07:49

PRICE*

CHANGE

% CHANGE

TIME

2.77 2.74 2.82

-0.03 0.01 -0.11

-1.00% 0.37% -3.75%

07:50 08/31 08/31

PRICE*

CHANGE

% CHANGE

TIME

27.16 30.71 36.25

4.00 3.56 3.62

17.27% 13.11% 11.09%

08/31 08/31 08/28

OIL (¢/gal) Nymex Heating Oil Future Nymex RBOB Gasoline Future

NATURAL GAS ($/MMBtu) Nymex Henry Hub Future Henry Hub Spot New York City Gate Spot

ELECTRICITY ($/megawatt hour) Mid-Columbia, firm on-peak, spot Palo Verde, firm on-peak, spot BLOOMBERG, FIRM ON-PEAK, DAY AHEAD SPOT/ERCOT HOUSTON

Source: Oilprice.com

FG pledges support for indigenous oil operators The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke, has pledged government’s support for indigenous oil companies that are willing to invest in every area of the value chain of the oil and gas sector. Alison-Madueke disclosed this at Aguleri-Otu during the inauguration of Orient Petroleum Plc’s Anambra River Production Facility in Anambra State, the first oil production from an inland basin in Nigeria. The minister said President Goodluck Jonathan has directed the Ministry of Petroleum and the Ministry of Finance to set up an inter-ministerial committee to fashion out modalities for raising financial support for indigenous oil companies like Orient who are ready to invest not only in production but also in refining to add value to the crude oil and gas locally before exporting in order to generate employment for the the youth and more money for the country.

Energy Week

NDDC, SPDC empower Niger Delta women

total of 1,620 rural women from the Niger Delta region have been presented with starter packs under the NDDC/SPDC skills training programme, just as they are to benefit from rent support to enable them acquire shops. The starter packs include sewing and industrial machines, hairdryers, decoration kits, generators, gas cookers/cylinders, weaving machines/weavon and hair attachments. Others are wash hand basins, stretchers, special make up bags, manicure bags, facial steamers, message machines, photo printers, cyber shot cameras as well as video cameras. Presenting the packs, NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Christian Oboh explained that the training programme was in line with the commission ’s cardinal principle of creating wealth and tackling the problem of unemployment among youths and women in the region. In his words, “the Niger Delta Development Commission considers the huge investment made on the programme as a critical step towards the qualitative empowerment of women in the Niger Delta ”. Represented by the Director, Admin. and Human Resources, Dr. Henrietta Ogan, the NDDC boss charged beneficiaries to utilise the skills acquired by putting the starter packs into good use to improve their lives and families. On his part, Managing Director, SPDC, Mr. Mutiu Sunmunu stated that the partnership with NDDC on skills acquisition falls within the company ’s philosophy of contributing to the economic empowerment of youths in the Niger Delta, and commended the NDDC for being a worthy partner.

Wednesday, September, 2012

NERC charges power rms to provide STORIES: UDEME AKPAN

he Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has tasked service providers in the power sector to strive to meet the needs of consumers as they are important stakeholders in the sector. The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NERC, Dr. Sam Amadi Commission who made the call at the recently held Power Consumer Assembly in Umuahia, the Abia State capital and in Keffi, Nasarawa State respectively said consumers have certain expectations. Amadi assured that NERC was determined to achieve adequate, reliable, safe and affordable electricity in line with international best practice in electricity service delivery. He emphasised that the forum remains an avenue for the Commission to inform, enlighten, but more importantly, to listen to consumers for the purpose of policy formulation. “We want to both talk and listen to consumers of electricity, that way, the Commission comes up with policy formulations that would further enhance the NERC ’s mandate to the consumer ”, Amadi said. At the Keffi event, the Commissioner, Government and Consumer Affairs, Dr. Abba Ibrahim was live on Nasarawa State Broadcasting Service, where he assured that NERC is poised to ensure that the electricity market functions efficiently. According to him, the consumer Assembly is a journey to reform the sector. Meanwhile, NERC has charged electricity providers to stop the practice of disconnecting customers without proper notification. This charge was given by Ibrahim at the consultative meeting between electricity consumers, stakeholders and the NERC, tagged, ‘Power Consumer

Guarantee competence of electricity contractors –FG tells China

he Nigeria Government has tasked China to assist in ensuring that competent contractors are engaged to execute projects in the nation ’s power sector. The government observed with concern the progress of work on the 3500mw, Mambilla Hydro Power Project and the 700mw Zungeru Hydro Power being handled by SINO Hydro and CGGC respectively. The Minister of State for Power, Mr. Darius Ishaku, who had a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador, Mr. Beng Boqing at the weekend, over the concern of the government on the two companies said, “the guarantee became important as a result of the importance the government places on the two dams in shoring up power supply ”. Ishaku informed the Chinese authorities that the two projects were too large that no single company can execute each of them alone and deliver at a stipulated timeline, “that is why we are worried ” he said. Government, he revealed, intends to pair or subcontract parts of the project “so that the objectives for the investment is realised within the expected time frame ”. He said the Federal Government is not comfortable with the companies and has reasons to doubt the abilities of these companies to successfully handle these projects of these magnitudes. He hinted that the Federal Government had directed CGGC to pair with SINO Hydro to achieve the targets set for various projects. In answer to a question from the Chinese Ambassador, Mr. Beng Boqing, the Minister of State agreed that Nigeria cancelled the agreement it entered into with CGGC when it became obvious that company could not go it alone and that the Federal Government had since called on CGGC to pair with SINO among other companies to speed up work on the Mambilla Hydro Power Project. Earlier, , Mr. Boqing had vouched for his country ’s entities and emphasised that these companies were as famous in China as they are in Nigeria in areas of hydro power technology. He said, “Chinese government appreciates the central role stability in electric power will portend for Ni-

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Ishaku

geria in her quest to be a leading nation and Chinese expertise in hydro power construction is only one of the Chinese entities working in various sectors of the Nigeria economy ” to consolidate China- Nigeria 40 years of friendship . “Chinese Hydro Power Companies, especially CGGC and SINO are competent, popular and competitive in China and had played eminent roles in the industrial development of Nigeria ”, the ambassador noted. He said it was wrong for the country to work out on an agreement without consulting her partners or other parties. “Agreement is an agreement and it sanctity involved be sacred ”, the Ambassador advised.

Assembly (PCA), in Ilorin, Kwara State. Abba ’s pronouncement borders on consumers distrust on the activities of the electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) whom participants claimed are hardly transparent. “You cannot be disconnected without being served notice because distribution companies are service providers ” he said. Also, following speculations that the ongoing power consumer assembly (PCA) was likely propaganda for tariff increase, he told the gathering that NERC was committed to the provision of better service delivery. He explained that power consumer assembly is a platform to educate the electricity consumer on electricity adequacy, safety, affordability and reliability. He lauded the readiness of electricity consumers to pay for electricity supplied and consumed, nonetheless, called for understanding on the need for private investors in the scheme of things. “We must allow private investment if we are to achieve reliable, available and affordable electricity. Issues pertaining to the metering system were equally laid bare as some participants claimed they had applied and paid for meters that were never delivered, although participants concern was more on the inadequate supply. In which case, the Chief Executive Officer of Ibadan Electricity distribution zone, disclosed, as a matter of fact that “supply of electricity depends on what the Discos get from the Gencos ” Discos is acronym for Electricity Distribution companies while Gencos means Electricity Generation companies. Specifically, he urged people who had paid for prepaid meters to present their receipts and demand for the meters from the station managers. The PCA was well attended by a cross section of the

Nigeria ’s crude oil, NGL output declined

he nation ’s crude output, including condensates and natural gas liquids dropped by 3.2 percent in the second quarter. Production fell to 2.12 million barrels a day, or 193 million barrels, from 2.19 million barrels a day, or 199 million barrels, a year earlier, the Abuja-based Central Bank of Nigeria said in an August 29 report on its website. It didn ’t give a reason for the drop in output. Total oil exports in the same period declined 4 percent to 1.67 million barrels a day from 1.74 million. Nigeria, Africa ’s most populous nation with more than 160 million people, depends on oil exports for more than 80 percent of its revenue and 95 percent of foreign-exchange income. The West African nation earned $196 billion from oil and gas sales in the four years through 2010, according to the statistics office. The price of Brent crude has climbed 8 percent this year and was trading at $116.34 a barrel today on the ICE Futures Europe exchange in London. Total crude and condensate output in the nation reached a record 2.7 million barrels a day, the state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said on Aug. 2 after security improved in the southern oil-producing Niger River delta region. Energy companies in Nigeria have stepped up production as attacks on installations in the oil-rich Niger River delta declined following a 2009 amnesty for militants in the region fighting for a greater share of oil resources. Attacks by armed groups in the Niger delta region, home to Nigeria ’s oil and gas industry, cut more than 28 percent of the country ’s output from 2006 to 2009, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. At least 90 percent of the country ’s crude is pumped by Royal Dutch Shell Plc, Exxon Mobil, Chevron, Total SA and Eni SpA in joint ventures with the NNPC NNPC upstream operations are in joint partnerships with the major oil companies. These multi-national E & P companies are operating predominantly in the on-shore Niger Delta, coastal offshore areas and lately in the deepwaters. As with many other developing countries, the multinationals in Nigeria had been operating under what is called a concession system, with NNPC being the concessionaire, while the companies are the operators. NNPC also is responsible for the management of the exploration bidding rounds for oil and gas. The multinational oil companies operate in partnership with NNPC under Joint Operating Agreements (JOAs) or Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs). Others,

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Energy Week

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

better services

SPDC receives new locally-made steel pipes UDEME AKPAN

Power plant

people including government functionaries, various unions, members of the press and the general public. The high point of the event was slide presentations focused on the Rights of customers, health and safety issues, energy conservation and the much anticipated multi-year tariff order 2 among others.

3.2% in second quarter especially the indigenous oil companies, operate in partnership with international companies under sole risk or as independents. Nigeria’s petroleum industry is well grounded in successful exploration, beginning with the first commercially viable discovery at Oloibiri in the Niger Delta in 1956, with a modest production rate of 5,100 barrels per day. Reserves of crude oil stand at 28.2 billion barrels. Natural gas reserves total 165 trillion standard cubic feet (scf), including 75.4 trillion scf of nonassociated gas. An important ingredient in NNPC’s exploration success is the Integrated Data Services Ltd (IDSL), a subsidiary of NNPC. IDSL is one of the largest and most advanced earth science facilities in Africa. Field data is sent to IDSL for analysis using advanced computer systems, giving the company the critical edge in its upstream operations. IDSL processes and interprets in 3-D configurations data from the hydrocarbon reservoirs. This technological capability is instrumental in developing reservoir management strategies, which provide optimum recovery rates over the life of a field. With a maximum crude oil production capacity of 2.5 million barrels per day, Nigeria ranks has Africa’s largest producer of oil and the sixth largest oil producing country in the world. Nigeria appears to have a greater potential for gas than oil. Nigeria’s gas production in the year 2000 was approximately 1,681.66 billion scf, 1,3715 billion scf was associated gas and the rest 310.16 billion was nonassociated gas.

Oil vessel

he Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC)’s Local Content initiative has recorded another major success. The first set of carbon steel pipes manufactured in Nigeria for SPDC’s Trans Niger Pipeline is now ready for application. “This is a perfect example of promoting the use of locally manufactured goods and Nigerian service companies in production operations, projects and well engineering,” said Igo Weli, General Manager, Nigerian Content Development, SPDC. He said, “And it supports the Federal Government’s drive to increase Nigerian participation in the oil and gas industry.” In accordance with SPDC’s safety guidelines, the line pipes have successfully passed quality assurance and control tests. The original line pipe contract for $37 million was agreed with Nigerian manufacturer SCC Nigeria Limited in the third quarter of 2011, and work began immediately. The manufacturing facility was established, contractor staff trained and the first batch of line pipe delivered within 12 months of the contract award. Acknowledging SPDC’s contribution, Ernest Nwapa, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board said: “SPDC has continued to demonstrate its support for Nigerian content development. This is an example we wish to see replicated across the Nigerian oil and gas industry.” Shell companies in Nigeria are also supporting the Nigerian Institute of Welding (NIW) to establish a world-class testing centre in Benin, Edo State, with the objective of training welders who will provide the workforce needed in the industry. They have facilitated meetings between Nigerian entrepreneurs and their counterparts in Britain and China to explore partnership opportunities. In 2007, SPDC started the Community Content Initiative to address the needs of communities and community vendors in search of opportunities to render goods and services to the oil and gas industry. Shell companies in Nigeria have won three awards this

Sunmonu

year in recognition of their local content performance. They won the Excellence in Local Content - 2011 award at the Nigeria Oil and Gas (NOG) Conference in February, while the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) presented the Leadership in Local Content award to the Country Chair of Shell Companies in Nigeria, Mr. Mutiu Sunmonu at the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston in May. Also, the National Association of Energy Correspondents (NAEC) at their annual conference in Lagos on 30th August, conferred on Shell Companies in Nigeria, Local Content Empowerment Company of the year.

Nipco steps up safety campaign for truck operators

The M.D observed that with all modesty, the organization ipco Plc has stepped up its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives with an awareness cam- has remained over the years a highly safety reliant company paign for truck drivers on the recently promul- that is well rated above its peers in the downstream sector. Venkatapathy noted that the campaign which also attractgated Lagos Traffic Law aimed at instilling sanity on the ed about 40 fleet drivers in the employ of the company is also roads. aimed at complementing government efforts at ensuring The campaign which took place at the company premises with the theme, “Promoting Safety on Wheels by safety on our roads especially in relation with the recently Drivers” attracted over 200 fuel transporters and officials signed Lagos Traffic Law. ”We are of the view that public education is very crucial of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) under the aegis to the success of any good initiative of government as it enof National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas (NUables the citizenry to be carried along in the overall interest PENG). The one day event flagged off by the Managing Direc- of the nation”’, he declared. He asserted that the economic impact of heavy traffic tor, Nipco, Mr. Venkataraman Venkatapathy through the which millions of Lagosians are exposed to on a daily basis company Admin Manager, Bonaventure Ehiem was organised in collaboration with officials of the public edu- is awesome with its negative effects on the productivity of cation unit of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the workforce. Representatives of all the regulatory agencies later took Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Alausa, Ikeja. turn in educating participants on the need for change in Though primarily aimed at improving the safety awareness instincts of tanker drivers through whose ef- their lifestyle stressing that most of the road crashes are as forts petroleum products are conveyed across the nooks a result of flouting of traffic regulation by motorists. and crannies of the country, the campaign could have meaningful effect on fuel haulage across the nation. In his address MD Nipco affirm that the programme is another major flank of the company’s resolve to continuously empower stakeholders in the sector stressing that truck drivers represent a crucial element in the operations of the downstream firms. According to him, the safety awareness initiative with the technical support of key government agencies in charge of maintaining sanity on our roads is also in keeping the United Nations decade of action on road safety by reducing road traffic crashes and fatality by the year 2020. “Since we started operations in 2004, we have exhibited high level of zero tolerance to any unsafe acts within and outside our operational base, a feat that has earned us many accolades and awards for the unwavering commitment to safety consciousness”, he declared. Fuel tanker

Energy Week

Shell investigates shut crude oil pipeline Royal Dutch Shell has started investigations to uncover what factors contributed to the damage of its major crude oil pipeline. The firm said it plans to investigate the cause of a leak that closed the pipeline leading to the Nembe Creek-2 flow station in the nation. Spokesman of the company, Mr. Precious Okolobo said “A joint investigation visit is planned to determine the cause of the leak, preparatory to repairs.” The oil pipeline, leading to a flow station was shut after a leak was discovered. The firms stated that: “A leak was observed on a line from Well-39s flowing to Nembe Creek-2 flow station on 29th August.” Shell who confirmed the development in a statement stated that the “The line was shut in, and booms were quickly deployed to stop spread of any spilled oil.” Bonny Light is one of nation’s larger crude streams and is scheduled to ship around 140,000 barrels per day (bpd) in September. It maintained that: “The spilled oil is contained within the flowline right-of-way and there is no impact on the environment.” Shell said a joint investigation team was due to visit to determine the case of the leak. The company did not give any information as to whether production was affected. Investigations showed that importers were worried about the shutdown of the facility; particularly coming at the time demand for Bonny Light is scheduled to peak this month. For instance, Indian Oil Corp (IOC) has issued a tender to buy light sweet crude for September loading from Nigeria and Angola. A reliable market source said “IOC, India’s largest oil refiner, is looking to buy West African crude from such countries as Nigeria and Angola. Sellers can also offer cargoes to be loading in the second half of August. IOC issues tenders several times every month to buy light crude.” He said, “Even though the company is looking to buy September loading cargoes, the loading schedules for Nigerian and Angolan crude the month have not been released and many July and Au-gust cargoes of Nigerian crude have remained unsold due to slack demand from U.S. and European buyers.” About sixth - eight cargoes of Qua Iboe crude July loading cargoes have not been sold. Indian Oil Corporation has issued a tender to buy light sweet crude for September loading, traders said on Friday. Grade and price offers should be submitted on Tuesday and Thursday. Offers will remain valid until Thursday. Sellers can also offer cargoes to be loaded in the second half of August. A trader said IOC is issuing tenders less often and taking less volume. He said “In the previous two tenders, IOC bought Nigerian Agbami and Angolan Hungo and Dalia for late-July and early August loading. India’s Mangalore Petrochemicals Ltd surprised the market buy-ing Gabonese Rabi Light for the first time.” Brent crude’s rebound to more than $100 a barrel is “sustainable” given China’s record-high import demand and Saudi Arabia’s reductions in export volumes, according to Mirae Asset Securities.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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Firm sells interest in oil mining lease UDEME AKPAN

oyal Dutch Shell has completed assignment of 30per cent interest in oil mining lease (OML) 40 in the Niger Delta to Elcrest. Total cash proceeds for Shell amount to some $102million. Having pulled through initial challenges that had almost crippled the divestment of 45 per cent interest in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 40 by Shell and other partners and with the Federal Government’s approval of the stake assignment to Elcrest Exploration and Production Company, parties to the oil block finally signed all necessary documents to legalise the divestment deal. Elcrest, a joint venture vehicle, belonging to Starcrest Energy, a subsidiary of Emeka Offor’s Chrome Group and Eland Oil & Gas, applied for consent of the Minister of Petroleum, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke for the 45 per cent participating interest in OML 40. The transaction between Shell and Elcrest would have remained illegal and Elcrest also stood the risk of forfeiting 10 percent of the bid price, which was escrowed with JP Morgan in the United Kingdom. The delay in getting Federal Government’s approval was occasioned by controversy over the operatorship of the block,

Oil rig

as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) had insisted that it would not transfer its rights to operate the oil blocks to the new buyers. The NNPC had persisted that the Joint Operating Agreement (JOA) between it and joint venture partners allows it the right to reclaim operatorship of any oil block sold by any of the partners, hence its insistence on assuming operatorship of OML 40 through its exploration and production arm; the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC). With the settlement, all parties to the deal; Total, Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC), Total E&P, NNPC/NPDC and Elcrest, signed documents that include amendments to the JOA between NNPC and SPDC JV, JOA between NPDC and Elcrest as well as the deed of novation agreement between parties to the oil asset.

OML 40, located at SPDC’s Western Operating Division in Niger Delta is reported to have proven and probable reserves (2P) of 225.7 million barrels of oil equivalent and historically produced at less than 5,000 barrels per day before it was capped; the block also has the potential to produce 10,000 barrels per day. The formal completion of the transaction was conducted in the presence of representatives of the parties; the Group Managing Director of NNPC, Mr. Andrew Yakubu for NNPC/NPDC, Emeka Offor for Elcrest, Managing Director and country Chairman of Shell, Mutiu Sunmonu for his company, Deputy Managing Director of NAOC, Mrs. Funmi Goka for NAOC as well as Executive Director Total E&P, Mr. Olubunmi Obembe for his company at the NNPC Towers. With the signing of the MoU,

Shell and its JV partners have effectively ceded their 45 percent stake in the OML 40 to Elcrest while, the NNPC will retain its 55 percent stake and at the same time assume operatorship of the oil field through NPDC. Yakubu said: “Like I have always said, when you look at our performance in the upstream, indigenous performance have been very poor and we are hardly up to 10 per cent production in the upstream but with this step, it is an opportunity for us to grow our incountry capacity. Sunmonu said: “I will like to thank every member of the teams that have worked very hard to achieve this closure; this has been a very tough task for you and I like to thank you because this is also one of such rare things when we sign documents, there are some little things are to be done. I also remember that Chief Emeka Offor made a promise to improve the asset and we hope that you will abide by your promise and will not let us down.” Offor pledge to put the asset in good use, adding that the partnership will continually call for support whenever it needed one from established industry players. Elcrest had in a competitive bid met the technical and commercial criteria set by Shell to emerge the preferred bidder for OML 40; accordingly, an existing criterion that an indigenous oil firm must emerge as its preferred bidder added to help it clinch the asset.

Oil should lead to the transformation of Anambra, say Ngige, Etiaba, Soludo

s Anambra joins the list of oil producing states, two former governors of Anambra State, Senator Chris Ngige, Dame Virgy Etiaba and the former Governor of the Central Bank, Professor Chukwuma Soludo have said that the commencement of activities by Orient Petroleum Resources should lead to a turnaround in the development of the state. Senator Ngigewho described the commissioning last week by President Goodluck Jonathan as a , “ milestone in the anals of our dear Anambra State because at last our state has officially been confirmed as an oil producing state” said with the epoch, Anambra must witness rapid dvelopment. “While I was here as governor my administration invited investors from far and wide when we made public the shares of Orient Petroleum and it was chaired by Chief Emeka Anyaoku at Tourist Garden Hotel Awka. On that day we made a draft of N100 million and promised to make available substantial amount of money

when all the paper works have been concluded” “So I congratulate Orient Petroleum and the entire people of Anambra State for this great achievement. But I must add that the revenue accruing from oil should be put to use judiciously and provide social security for the people of Anambra State and cost communities. Professor Soludo said that with Orient Petroleum the state is going through transformation in the area of economy and social development. “I call it wonderful. It is a great day for Anambra State and the beginning of a long journey towards transformation of our state. Oil can be a blessing and can also be a cause. But let it be only blessing to our dear state. “Anambra should utilize such great achievement effectively such that in the next six to eight years it will not need a kobo to run the recurrent expenditure of the State”. “Soludo noted that it would jump start aggressive and strategic socio economic development of the state adding that;

Obi

“I pray that the production of oil would also create a friendly environment in our state and I urge those involved in this to see it as a challenge in liberating the economic status of the state from what it sis now to higher level. That is why I say it is wonderful”. Etiaba pointed out that Anam-

bra state was going to be an oil producing state with a difference as it began with pioneering the first wholly indigenous and private oil prospecting and refining company. That she during her stint as the governor of the state did well to ensure the realization of the epoch making event of the day.

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Executive Discourse

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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‘Osun will become a preferred Commissioner for Finance, Economic Planning and Budget, Osun State, Dr. Wale Bolorunduro, is a key member of the state’s Economic Management Team that has been responsible for some of the initiatives geared towards rejuvenating the state’s industrial base and preparing the grounds for transforming Osun State into an investors’ paradise. He spoke with a select group of senior financial journalists on the sidelines of the Nigerian Diaspora Investment Summit held recently in Oshogbo. AYO OLESIN was there. Excerpts: What has been the profile of the state’s internally generated revenue especially since Governor Aregbesola took over? I handle three portfolios in one. I handle the economic planning, budget and finance. That gives me a helicopter view of where we are, where we are going and how we are navigating. Yes, when the governor came in, the IGR of this state was slightly above N300million. It was hovering between N300million and N320million. The first thing he did was to automate the whole process of IGR. When you talk of IGR, it is a gamut of processes. We have the collection side, you have the processing of it and then you have the banking of it. So what he has done is appoint a consultant to do similar things that was done in Lagos and some other states and they couldn’t just pull off the ground until the commissioner came in and in November we actually went live in terms of automation and we insisted that tax payers must pay directly to the bank, and what happened was that the revenue jumped from N320million to over N600million. That you could actually say is heavy lifting because you are moving from N300 and doubling. But that is not where it should stop in terms of ensuring that you improve your IGR. So, we are now at the second phase. This phase is more difficult because that’s where we are going to do bootstrapping and begin to look at leakages and ensure that revenues from agric produce and forestry are not frittered away and then you begin to look at the informal formal sector, you look beyond PAYE. You will be surprised that since the creation of this state, the government has never gone to audit books of businesses and enterprises that are deducting taxes from their employees and are supposed to remitting to government. All these are areas of improvement that Mr. Governor had to come in. And you will be surprised that the current Internal Revenue Service that we have is not poised to improve the revenue collection because they are not autonomous, they are still subject to bureaucracy; if they need N500,000 for operations they have to go through the bureaucracy. So, Mr Governor has come up with a law that is currently in the House of Assembly on revenue administration. What the revenue administration does is to re-orientate your internal revenue service and refocus them and actually challenge them too and put their career in their hands in terms of training, re-orientation, operational flows to run their operations. Basically, that law is being expected from the house. The executive has approved it and we expect that it comes out mid September. In terms of federally collected revenue, you must have read that that is being delayed now. We are not the only state that is facing that. It is a national issue. Yes, the money gets delayed but it still comes. At times, it gets delayed for one month, two months at times. What it means

is that you cannot wait for the federal government to pay you that part of your revenue, which means you need your own IGR and you need your savings and other sources of revenue to be able to meet your social obligations. And that we have been doing very well. Yes, Mr Governor actually saved some funds before the commissioners came in. What we have done with those funds to leverage it. In financing, we call it capacity. The Chinese have a saying that if you want to come to the table you must come with muscle. So, we can say ‘look we have our own N10bn, we need N20billion from you’. We haven’t done that yet because we are also looking at a sustainable way of doing it. And that is why we are also reinventing the wheel and say look we can rush to the bank to borrow but why not look for a cheaper source of funding which is the capital market or the bond market that we are trying to approach. Let’s go in there. It’s more tedious. I have been going there since I resumed and I am still pulling it through. It is unlike going to the banks but it comes with its own advantage in that your interest rate is known with certainty, it’s not going to change. You might have heard that interest rate went as high as 24 to 25 per cent in the last three weeks. If I borrow N20bn, that’s huge in terms of impact on my interest obligation. Can you be specific as to how far has this process gone? We are currently at the regulatory level where we are expecting the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Federal Ministry of Finance approval. Once we are able to have that we will be raising N30billion. We believe if we have N30billion we can do the developmental projects and what it does for us is that even if we will need any other borrowing; we will the bond to benchmark because the bond will be long term. It will be seven years and like I said the interest rate will be fixed. We have already created a favourable market to make that bond successful. Apart from Lagos State we are the only state that has pension clearance. What it means that pension fund administrators actually invest in our bond and it makes it cheaper for us. So, it is the sustainable financing path that Mr. Governor is laying and we are helping him ensure that things are done the proper way. So, I think Osun State is well poised to achieve the set goals. My colleague, the DG OADP talks about the long-term plan of Mr. Governor, which have called the sixintegral Action plan. The plan a long-term but we need to help him to elevate it say 50ft above the ground so that everybody can see it and then dissolve it into a medium term expenditure plan and strategy. The five year medium term strategy actually tells us where we are coming from as I told you earlier. You will be surprised that our IGR penetration ratio is at the initial N300billion was below the national average but at N600million we are slightly above the national average of IGR penetration. Our plan in the medium term lets say 2015, 2016, is to be at the IGR penetration ratio of Lagos. We are eager to use our fiscal strategy to improve the economy of the state and improved the lives of the people. You talk about the medium term, don’t you think it may be politically inexpedient not also to strategise on the short term knowing full well that people can be impatient? When I say medium term, it doesn’t necessarily mean it must be three to five years. It also means short term. Medium term is where we are now what will take us to the long-term. If you look at our short to medium term, we have started fulfilling it. You talk about ORIP which Dr. Akinola is the programme coordinator. ORIP is basically an Agricultural programme because the governor said he is going to reactivate the economy of Osun through agriculture and commerce, so that is a short-term. If you also look at our educational infrastructure programmes, it is broken into short and medium term, medium terms in the sense that we are now in the second year and going into the third year. And so, what are the programmes that were carried over from first year, to the second year and the third year? Those were

Bolorunduro

WE BELIEVE IF WE HAVE N30BILLION WE CAN DO THE DEVELOPMENTAL PROJECTS AND WHAT IT DOES FOR US IS THAT EVEN IF WE WILL NEED ANY OTHER BORROWING; WE WILL USE THE BOND TO BENCHMARK BECAUSE THE BOND WILL BE LONG TERM the medium terms and that is where we have most of our social service programmes. I have talked about the ORIP; we have the school-feeding programmes. The school-feeding programme is the acclaimed now. We are working with some foreign institutions. They are providing capacity in terms of how we monitor that programme and it delivered the desired social services. What it does is to feed the primary 1 to 4 pupils because that is when they need a lot protein. And what it does is that it makes your primary school enrolment at that level to go up. In the last two years, if you look at what we have spent, we have doubled that. So, when we say free education what we have in Osun is free education. Do you have any incentives in place to encourage compliance and what is the ratio of current capital spending? We discovered that we have a lot of high net worth individuals, who have a country home here and come around on weekends. What we have done is talk to them, encourage

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Wednesday, September 5, 2012

investor destination’ OSOGBO USED TO BE A VIABLE COMMERCIAL CENTRE, BUT WHEN THE RAILWAY COLLAPSED EVERYTHING DISAPPEARED AND GOVERNMENT DIDN’T MAKE ANY EFFORT TO BRING IT BACK. steel manufacturing so that in terms of local participation, we have people using input from Osun State, we are talking to WAPCO so that they bring cement here.

them and try to also sensitise them and let them also know the programmes of the governor in terms of development. We believe with that we will have some of them walking in voluntarily to pay their taxes. At least since I became commissioner for finance I have seen more than 10 people, high net worth individuals, that have walked in to say ‘I am citizen of Osun, I earn dividend income, revenues and I want to pay my taxes.’ So, our plan is to celebrate them when we want to launch our electronic tax card, which enables you to carry, your tax payment like a wallet. So, you must have read in the news that we were not going to tax people unnecessarily. Prior to this administration, we discovered that the people of Osun State have been practically abandoned. There were no social overhead capital expenditure; there is no emergency projects and programmes in the key sectors of the state economy. So, we knew if we start taxing them from day one, it would be unnecessary burden for the Osun people. That is why the government came up with intervention scheme like ORIP, OYES. In ORIP, we have farmers that we provide micro credit, we give them land. They pay credit to the land owners through a trustee scheme. They pay the land owners and part of that is actually ploughed back by the government. There are ingenious and indirect ways of taxation to ensure that these individuals that benefit from government intervention also pay back by fulfilling their civic responsibilities. So, that is being worked on and for those of them that are in cooperatives, we engage them at that level rather than running around the street in Gestapo or uncivilised manner. Basically, that is what we have been doing to improve the revenue. We say yes, you benefit from government, you benefit by being a food vendor, you pay tax. We have sewing uniforms for our pupils and at the end of the day, we have given 3,000 tailors jobs. We have other scheme for fish farmers. We have employed a Korean firm to train them and provide local capacity enhancement. We don’t want to drive the revenue in isolation, we are driving the economy. We are the first state to say that there must be local participation. We are trying to work with local industries that are into

What is the ratio of the recurrent and capital spending? You know the federal government is doing 70 recurrent to 30 capital but we here in Osun we are doing 56 capital and 44 recurrent but intend to do 70 capital and 30 recurrent. We are trying to push our recurrent expenditure down in what is called financial concurrent checklist to monitor it. So, in terms of bond, why are we doing bonds? You will agree with me that bond is what we should use for developmental programme. Our developmental programmes are roads. We are not happy with roads that lead to our capital city. We are not just building roads, all our roads on capital projects are what we call back-able documents which tell you about the socialeconomic importance of that road. It tells you about the visibility of that road. Osogbo-Iwo road you will be surprised that that is the most economically viable corridor. We must do that road too and we also talk about our flagship investment project which is the OUP, a logistics centre we are trying to build. It not just a logistic centre but a commercial centre where you have commercial activities and exchange of good and values, and that will be an exchange point for our farm produce for our goods going to Lagos via rail. That will also be an exchange point for finished goods coming to Osogbo. While I was growing here, I actually grew up here, Osogbo used to be a viable commercial centre but when the railway collapsed everything disappeared and government didn’t make any effort to bring it back. We believe if we can reactivate it through that flagship investment activity, we will be better off. Fortunately, the Federal Government has renovated the railway lines which are working now and we have signed a MoU with them which will translate into a full-fledged private-public partnership arrangement. We are already talking to investors in the Middle East that are bringing in funds into OUP, like I said it is PPP investment. We will provide the physical infrastructure but they will provide the commercial infrastructure and they will run it. In order to do that we must build roads, we have awarded a dual carriage way to that centre and

Executive Discourse

some of the funding is going to come from the bond. I will not do commercial loan for such a huge capital project I will rather do bond. We are also looking for concessionary loan that are long term from the World Bank, China EXIM Bank and others but the fact remains that borrowing from a foreign market brings the risk of unstable foreign exchange. That is why we have chosen to go to the capital market. We are currently with the SEC and in a matter of weeks it will be concluded. At what level of budget implementation is Osun? We are above 60 per cent for 2012 budget. You know in government it is cash-based accounting. What is the debt profile of the state? There is so much talk about N18.3bn. It was actually N21billion. N18.3billion was a single loan that was drawn in a very dramatic manner in the sense that; was supposed to be for a project. The construction period for that project was three months and 24 months. So, you expect a phase draw down. Banks will give you an availability period which is supposed to be at least equal to the project period which means the loan will be available for drawing in phases but the former governor Oyinlola just drew it once. That is why the N18. billion is so popular because the purpose was so wrong. Why borrow on a short-term of two to three years to six build stadia at the same time, if you consider a stadia as a social capital expenditure. It can be qualified as such but you are not going to get the benefit in two three to three years. So, in terms of match your fund, that is a wrong match and why borrowing out at the twilight of your tenure? Even with the Court of Appeal judgement, they would have left in six months, and you are even leaving problem for the coming administration. So, what Mr Governor did was to extinguish some of the short-term loan and brought it down to N8.6bn. How did the governor reduce the dest? Because they had not fully utilised the whole amount of N18billion. They withdrew the whole N18.3billion at once. They spent above N8billion and Mr Governor paid the N10bn back. But if you look at N10billion from N21billion, it is still not payment. So, there was an actual payment. We actually paid back from the treasury out of the the initial savings the governor made. So bringing it down to N8.6billion that we currently have as a commercial loan was as a result of paying back that N10billion, which means we must have paid N13billion from a N21billion. First Bank later structured the remaining N8.6billion into a long term facility. What are the specific incentives being offered to investors in the state? Some were mentioned during the investment summit. We talked about availability of electricity in Osun because of the regional control centre that we have. Currently there are Federal Government projects to improve electricity that we are already talking to the federal government that they should let us fund it to make it quicker. We know they will refund it. Two key projects of the FG that we have approached are the Osogbo/Ede transmission line. It is supposed to be sub-station but funding of it have been slow but we can fund it hoping for a refund from the FG, that will make electricity available to feed our Export Free Trade Zone which the former administration said they spent N1.5billion yet we could not find any structure on it. That will be a key industrial centre. We also promise our investor water and Mr Governor has said he will go beyond that by providing the road. We are not just saying we wanted to do investment summit. We are going to define our comparative advantage. You have been talking about enabling business investment, how long will it take investors to get Certificate of Occupancy? The old ways is out. Our policy is a one stop shop even in the ministry of land. The whole idea is that we need to make land buying easier. Ideally, we should be able to crack it out within 90 days but in fast tracking, as the owner you must have all your documents ready submitted to the surveyor-general’s office. In fast-tracking, it comes with extra cost. Every property owner will shortly have title and every private land and properties will be captured through a programme. For an Agricultural land, there is an innovation that we want to pride our self as pioneering. A bill is before the National Assembly that will look into ways to ensure investors get lands without having problem with the community.

Global Business

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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China plans boosting export-tax rebates on some goods

hina may expand exporters’ tax rebates to help them cope with a slump in trade growth, according to three people with direct knowledge of the plan, deploying a stimulus tool used during the global credit crunch. The government may give a full rebate of the 17 percent value-added tax on products including furniture, shoes and toys, up from the current range of 13 percent to 15 percent, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the discussions are private. The policy may be rolled out as soon as this month, depending on whether trade remains weak, they said. Premier Wen Jiabao has pledged policy “fine tuning” to cope with a deepening slowdown in the world’s second-largest economy that saw export gains slump to an annual 1 percent pace in July from 11 percent in June. The deterioration in trade escalated the risk that Wen will miss his full-year economic expansion target for the first time since he took office in 2003. “The tax rebates cover mainly laborintensive products, and it reflects the

Wen Jiabao

government’s concern about rising unemployment pressures,” said Joy Yang, chief Greater China economist for Mirae Asset Securities (HK) Ltd. in Hong Kong. The policy change is unlikely to increase exports, said Yang, who formerly worked for the International Monetary Fund. “The biggest problem for Chinese exports now is the weak demand from

RBA holds key rate as economy withstands global slowdown

Glenn Stevens

ustralia maintained the highest benchmark interest rate among major developed economies as domestic demand weathers a global slowdown that’s driving down the price of iron ore, the nation’s biggest commodity

export. Reserve Bank of Australia Governor Glenn Stevens and his board left the overnight cash-rate target at 3.5 percent, according to a statement yesterday in Sydney. While domestic consumption was “quite firm” in the first half of the year, commodity prices have fallen “sharply” in recent months and China’s growth outlook is more uncertain, he said. In Australia, “growth has been running close to trend, led by very large increases in capital spending in the resources sector,” Stevens said. “Labor market data have shown moderate employment growth, even with job shedding in some industries, and the rate of unemployment has thus far remained low.” The currency rebounded from near a six-week low after the decision as investors pared bets on rate reductions. While Europe’s fiscal crisis is weighing on global growth and Chinese demand, Stevens’s 75 basis points of cuts in May and June helped spur domestic spending and stabilize the housing market in an economy that’s avoided a recession for 21 years.

Spanish unemployment to swell as public jobs vanish

erez de La Frontera, a Spanish town of 214,000 in southern Andalusia, is negotiating with unions to fire 13 percent of the 2,000 government workers who absorb 80 percent of its budget. “It’s not easy because these are people and families,” said deputy mayor Antonio Saldana. With a quarter of Spain’s workforce already jobless, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy’s efforts to retain investor confidence by shaving more than twothirds off the nation’s budget deficit by 2014 will worsen the highest unemployment rate in the European Union. Tenyear yields at 6.86 percent mean “we can’t finance ourselves,” Rajoy said on September 1. “There’s going to be less hiring and

more firing for the spending cuts to be made,” said Ricardo Santos, an economist at BNP Paribas SA in London who sees unemployment climbing to 27 percent next year from 24.6 percent currently. “The more unemployment persists, the more difficult it’ll be for the government to meet budget goals and implement reforms.” Television stations, airports, hospitals, schools, fire brigades and social services from Spain’s southernmost tip to the Balearic islands in the east are reducing headcount as Rajoy tasks regions and municipalities with shouldering 60 percent of the cuts needed to reduce the budget shortfall to 2.8 percent of gross domestic product in the next two years.

overseas markets, and tax rebates won’t help much in boosting demand.” Dai Bohua, a spokesman for the Ministry of Finance, which oversees tax policy, didn’t answer the phone when Bloomberg News attempted to reach him three times today. The ministry didn’t immediately respond to faxed questions from Bloomberg News.

China used the tool in 2008 and 2009 to help the economy when exports plunged during the global financial crisis, at one point raising tax rebates on 553 products including motorcycles and sewing machines. The nation’s exports fell 16 percent in 2009 from 2008. Shipments abroad of products covered by the tax change totaled at least $130 billion in 2011, or about 6.8 percent of China’s overseas sales, based on data compiled by Bloomberg News. China’s customs administration is scheduled to publish August trade data on September 10, and the September figures on October 13. The nation’s gross domestic product expanded 7.6 percent in the second quarter from a year earlier, the slowest pace in three years. Wen set a 2012 goal of 7.5 percent in March. “Further policy loosening is needed to prevent a further slowdown in production growth,” Sun Mingchun and Sun Chi, Hong Kong-based economists at Daiwa Securities Group Inc., wrote in a note today. “Export growth should remain weak.”

Merkel, Monti step up diplomacy as ECB comes in focus

uropean leaders are stepping up shuttle diplomacy this week as details of a bond-buying plan emerged from the central bank, fueling gains in the euro and a surge in some Spanish and Italian debt. European Union President Herman Van Rompuy traveled to Berlin for talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel as Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti hosts French President Francois Hollande in Rome. They were given a hint about what may be in store when European Central Bank President Mario Draghi said Monday he would be comfortable buying three-year government bonds to aid nations struggling to fund themselves. The stewards of the single currency, who have sparred as borrowing costs diverged in the 17 nation-euro area, have a chance to fall in line behind Draghi. Merkel, whose country shoulders the largest cost of bailing out weaker governments, has indicated she would back a more active crisis-fighting role at the ECB and Monday told a crowd of beer drinkers in Bavaria that Germany must show solidarity with Europe. “I think there is broad agreement among these people,” said Luca Jellinek, head of European interest-rate strategy at Credit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank in London. “Many people are realizing that monetary policy is broken in Europe, badly broken.” The euro traded near a two-month high against the dollar yesterday, gaining 0.1 percent and adding 0.4 percent against the yen in Rome. Italian and Spanish twoyear yields dropped the most in about a month. In both countries, the two-year yield fell to the least on record relative to 10-year bonds. Leaders are back from summer va-

cation and facing what Merkel called a “very ambitious agenda” this month to quell what has been a three-year sovereign debt crisis. Talks haven’t always gone smoothly, as Merkel and Monti clashed last week in Berlin over details while agreeing on the broad principles of collective action. Monti has pushed for flexibility on market intervention, while Merkel has focused on budget rigor. “We have to press for reforms in other countries even if they sometimes say we’re hard-line,” Merkel said to a packed beer tent in the town of Abensberg, northeast of Munich. “It’s not enough just to keep muddling through. But I also say that in such a difficult phase these countries deserve our solidarity and that we root for them to overcome their difficulties.”

Merkel

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Global Business

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

ussia’s inflation accelerated in August to near the upper limit of the central bank’s target as food prices grew after a three-month drought seared millions of hectares of cropland and pasture. Consumer prices rose 5.9 percent from a year earlier, the highest level since December, from 5.6 percent in July, the Federal Statistics Service in Moscow said yesterday in an e-mailed statement. The median estimate of 14 economists in a Bloomberg survey was for 6 percent. Prices grew 0.1 percent from a month earlier, less than the 0.2 forecast in a separate poll. Breaching the inflation target may force the hand of policy makers in Russia, the last major emerging economy to keep borrowing costs unchanged this year. A drought since May has curbed production and affected 5.99 million hectares (14.8 million acres) of plantings in 22 of Russia’s 83 regions, with 20 of them declaring an emergency. “Breaking through the 6 percent threshold is only a matter of time,” Dmitry Polevoy, chief economist at ING Groep NV, said by e-mail before the release. “Everyone but

Russian inflation accelerates to 5.9% in August, below estimates

Russian President, Putin

the central bank has already said making 6 percent inflation this year isn’t realistic, including the Economy Ministry. The sooner it does that and explains its position to the market, the better.”

The ruble is the fourth-worst performer of 25 emerging- market currencies tracked by Bloomberg over the past six months. The ruble strengthened 0.6 percent to 32.1825 per dollar in Moscow. Non-deliv-

erable forwards, which provide a guide to expectations of currency movements, showed the ruble at 32.6419 per dollar in three months. Russia, the world’s third-largest wheat exporter last season, cut its grain crop estimate August 31 to between 70 million and 75 million metric tons, down from 94.2 million tons in 2011. Deputy Prime Minister Arkady Dvorkovich said the government won’t restrict grain exports this year. Food costs, with a 38 percent weighting in the Russian consumer-price basket, may stoke inflation further by adding 2 percentage points in the September-March period, Julia Tsepliaeva, head of research at BNP Paribas in Moscow, said in an e-mailed note. Wheat futures have climbed more than 30 percent this year on concern dry weather in Russia and the worst U.S. drought since 1956 will curb global grain supplies.

Japan fiscal impasse threatens stimulus Slowing polish economy may force to spur growth tusk to ease budget cuts

apan’s political gridlock threatens to curtail the government’s ability to apply fiscal stimulus as a rebound falters in the world’s third-largest economy. Opposition parties in the upper house of parliament stymied legislation approved in the lower house Aug. 28 that enables the issuance of 38.3 trillion yen ($490 billion) of deficit- financing bonds, seeking to force Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda into an early election. The government could hit a spending ceiling as soon as October, according to the Finance Ministry. The freeze may suspend outlays from this year’s budget for the first time, according to Goldman Sachs Group Inc., and limits Noda from proceeding with the supplementary spending package he mooted in July. With economists increasingly seeing an economic contraction this quarter, the deadlock adds to risks facing global expansion that include a so-called fiscal cliff of spending cuts and tax increases in the U.S. at year-end. “The impasse on deficit-covering bonds may delay the compilation of a stimulus package and would be a drag for the economy,” said Taro Saito, Tokyo-based director of economic research at NLI Research Institute and a past winner of a Japan Center for Economic Research award for accuracy in forecasting. “This is not as severe as the U.S. fiscal cliff but could be said to be Japan’s fiscal slope.” Japanese stocks headed for a fourth day of declines, the longest losing streak in more than a month, on pessimism about the global expansion. The Nikkei 225 Stock Average was down 0.4 percent yesterday . in Tokyo. The yen was at 78.37 per dollar, about 4 percent from its postwar high, underscoring the threat to exporters of a strong currency. Besides exchange-rate appreciation, Japan’s manufacturers are facing diminishing demand abroad, hurt by the European crisis, China’s slowdown and stunted

Yoshihiko Noda

American growth. A government report yesterday showed capital spending rose 6.6 percent in the second quarter from a year before, less than the 7.8 percent median estimate in a Bloomberg News survey. Yesterday’s report spurred economists to cut forecasts for Japan’s second-quarter gross domestic product, initially reported at an annualized 1.4 percent gain. Officials may pare that calculation to 0.9 percent on Sept. 10, according to the median of seven projections in a Bloomberg survey.

oland’s slowing economy is putting pressure on Prime Minister Donald Tusk to ease deficit cuts to avoid the fate of other European Union nations where austerity measures to tackle the debt crisis helped suffocate growth. Tusk’s Cabinet will meet in Warsaw today to discuss a revised 2013 budget after the economy expanded at the slowest pace in 11 quarters in the three months through June. While Poland will stick to a plan to cut the 2012 budget gap within the EU’s limit of 3 percent of output, the slowdown means its “ambitious goal for a 2.2 percent deficit next year is out of the question,” Maja Goettig, a member of Tusk’s Council of Economic Advisers, said by phone on August 31. “Everyone, including markets, would understand and maybe even appreciate it, if the government avoided excessively harsh austerity for the sake of growth, which is now key to financial stability,” said Goettig, who’s also a Warsaw-based strategist at KBC Securities. Tusk, the first Polish premier to serve a second term since communism ended in 1989, must weigh EU deficit demands

against concerns that further spending cuts may damp growth in the nation of 38 million people, whose GDP-per-capita is 40 percent below the 27-nation bloc’s average. While his Cabinet still enjoys broad support in polls, governments across Europe have collapsed after protests against austerity policies that helped plunge economies from Romania to Spain into recession.

Donald Tusk

Manufacturing in U.S. probably stagnated amid global slowdown

anufacturing probably teetered between growth and contraction in August, a sign the pillar of the recovery is now struggling, according economists surveyed before a report yesterday. The Institute for Supply Management’s factory index was little changed at 50 compared with 49.8 in July, according to the median estimate of 70 economists surveyed by Bloomberg. A reading of 50 is the dividing line between shrinking and expanding. Spending on construction projects probably rose in July, other figures may show. The possibility that taxes will rise and government outlays will fall if U.S.

lawmakers don’t act by January may shake confidence and cause consumers and businesses to curb spending. The European debt crisis represents another stumbling block that threatens to limit orders to American factories. “Domestic uncertainty and global weakness are both restraining growth in manufacturing,” said Yelena Shulyatyeva, an economist at BNP Paribas in New York. “It’s a weak sector of the economy right now. We don’t expect a lot of pickup in investment activity this year.” Estimates ranged from 48.7 to 51.5. The group has said that an index reading above 42.5, while signaling contraction in manufacturing, is generally consis-

tent with an expanding overall economy. The gauge averaged 55.2 in 2011 and 57.3 in 2010. Other reports show manufacturing, which accounts for about 12 percent of the U.S. economy, weakened last month. Factory activity in the New York region contracted in August for the first time in 10 months, and production in the Philadelphia-area shrank for a fourth month, Federal Reserve reports showed. The Institute for Supply ManagementChicago Inc.’s business barometer also fell in August, indicating manufacturer’s pace of expansion was slowing and that companies may hold the line on production until sales pick up.

Capital Market

ASI rises to year high JOHNSON OKANLAWON

he value of equities improved further on the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday, lifting the All Share Index to a new psychological barrier of 24, 000, this year. The index has gained 3,281.94 points or 15.8 per cent when compared to 20,730.63 points at which it opened the year. The benchmark index increased by 0.62 per cent to close at 24,012.57 points, compared to the increase by 0.48 per cent recorded

the preceding day to close at 23,864.05 points. Market capitalisation appreciated by N47bn to close at N7.64trn, higher than the rise by N36bn recorded the preceding day to close at N7.50trn. The banking index gained 1.17 per cent to close at 1,125.15 points, followed by the oil and gas index with 1.12 per cent to close at 165.87 points. The NSE-30 index and consumer goods index rose by 0.64 per cent to close at 1,125.15 points and 2,044.11 points respectively. The Lotus Islamic index gained 0.31 per cent to close at 1,410.51

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

points. But the insurance index lost 1.08 per cent to close at 123.21 points. Julius Berger Plc led the gainers’ table with N1.40 or five per cent to close at N29.40 per share, followed by International Breweries Plc with 44 kobo or five per cent to close at N9.24 per share. Okomu Oil Plc gained N1.62 or 4.98 per cent to close at N34.12 per share, while Cadbury Nigeria Plc appreciated by 93 kobo or 4.96 per cent to close at N19.67 per share. Union Bank of Nigeria Plc increased by 26 kobo or 4.78 per cent to close at N5.61 per share.

On the flip side, Arbico Plc shed 60 kobo or 4.96 per cent to close at N11.50 per share, while Morison Plc lost 33 kobo or 4.94 per cent to close at N6.35 per share. Transcorp Plc dropped by four kobo or 4.49 per cent to close at 85 kobo per share, while Cutix Plc dipped by six kobo or 4.38 per cent to close at N1.31 per share. UTC Plc fell three kobo or 4.17 per cent to close at 69 kobo per share. Transaction volume in equities increased by 1733.7 per cent, as a total of 2.44 billion shares worth N14.6bn were exchanged in 4,598 deals, compared to 133.57 million shares valued at N1.24bn traded in 3,561 deals the preceding day.

Source: NSE Source: NSE NIBOR QUOTES 3 SEPTEMBER & 4 SEPTEMBER 2012 25.00 24.00 23.00 22.00 21.00 20.00 19.00 18.00 17.00 16.00 15.00 14.00 13.00 12.00 11.00 10.00

Investors stake N12.7bn on Union Bank shares

Cornerstone, Linkage insurance propose merger JOHNSON OKANALWON

he Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria may begin to divest from the Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, considering the volume of shares traded in the bank on the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday. The bank’s shares value and volume of transaction rose by 87 per cent and 93 per cent respectively, as investors exchanged 2.27 million shares valued at N12.7bn in 99 deals. The bank closed at N5.61 per share, up by 26 kobo or 4.86 per cent. The bank had on June 27 announced that Union Global Partners Limited, its core investors has increased their stake in the

bank. A turnover of about 4.33 billion shares valued at N15.8bn was exchanged in 55 deals by AMCON to consummate the deal. Union Bank had notified the NSE that it would do a Rights Issue of 1,407,291,667 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N6.81 per share in the ratio of five new ordinary shares for nine nine ordinary shares held. The bank had said the Rights would enable it raise about N9.5bn which would give effect to the scheme between the shareholders, AMCON and Union Global Partners Limited. Meanwhile, indication emerged that Conerstone Insurance Plc and Linkage Insurance Plc are proposing to merge. The firms are currently

at nominal value of 50 kobo per share on the Exchange. In a notice to the Exchange yesterday, the firms said the merger will result in the transfer of all assets, liabilities and undertakings, including real properties and intellectual property rights of Linkage Insurance to Cornerstone Insurance and the cancellation of the issued shares of Linkage Insurance Plc. The notice said, “In consideration of the transfer of all assets, liabilities and undertakings, as well as real property and intellectual property rights of Linkage Insurance Plc to Cornerstone Insurance Plc. “The shareholders of the scheme shares of Linkage Insurance Plc so can-

US stocks fall on manufacturing contraction

nited States stocks fell yesterday, following a two- week decline in the Standard and Poor’s 500 Index, as a private report showed American manufacturing industries contracted in August, fueling concern the economic recovery is slowing. Netflix Incorporation slumped 10 per cent, the most in the S&P 500, after Amazon.com Incorporation reached a deal with pay-television channel Epix. Peabody Energy Corporation lost 4.9 per cent as Dahlman Rose and Company cut its recom-

mendation on the company’s stock, while Morgan Stanley rose 2.6 per cent after CLSA Limited recommended buying the shares. Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Incorporation rallied 15 per cent after agreeing to buy Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation for $2.6bn. Medicis surged 38 per cent. The S&P 500 declined 0.5 per cent to 1,399.91 points. The Dow Jones Industrial Average retreated 69.84 points, or 0.5 per cent, to 13,021 points. The US market was closed on Monday for a holiday.

Trading in S&P 500 companies was down 7.9 per cent from the 30-day average. “People are coming back from a long weekend and trying to get their minds wrapped around the market again,” said Tom Wirth, who helps manage $1.6bn as senior investment officer for Chemung Canal Trust Company, in Elmira, New York. “The latest economic numbers have shown a bit of a pick-up. Yet it’s nothing to shout about. We continue in this slow growth area.” Equities fell as the Institute for Supply Man-

celled will be entitled to 30 per cent shareholding (approximately, 74 per cent of the current shareholding in Linkage) of post-merger Cornerstone Insurance Plc.” Cornerstone Insurance recorded a loss of N232.9m for the financial year ended December 31, 2011. The insurance firm recorded profit after tax of N166.5m in 2011, from N399.4m recorded in the same period of 2010, while profit before tax declined from N482.681m in 2010 to N109.5m in 2011. The firm gross premium written stood at N4.270bn in 2011, from N4.02bn in 2010, an increase by 6.17 per cent. Earnings per share also stood at two kobo in 2011 from five kobo it was in 2010. However, Linkage Insurance is one of the firms the Exchange rated below listing standard agement’s US factory index dropped to 49.6 in August from 49.8 a month earlier. Economists in a Bloomberg survey projected an August reading of 50, which is the dividing line between expansion and contraction. The S&P 500 rose two per cent in August, capping its longest monthly rally since March, amid expectations global central banks would stimulate the economy. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke said on August 31 at an annual forum in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, that he wouldn’t rule out steps to lower a jobless rate he described as a grave concern.

3-Sep-12

4-Sep-12

Market indicators Market indicators

All-Share Index 7,342,308 points All-Share Index 22,191.14 points Market capitalisation 23,066.74 trillion Market capitalisation 7,084 trillion

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

JBERGER

28.00

29.40

1.40

5.00

INTBREW

8.80

9.24

0.44

5.00

OKOMUOIL

32.50

34.12

1.62

4.98

CADBURY

18.74

19.67

0.93

4.96

UBN

5.35

5.61

0.26

4.86

ETERNA

2.30

2.41

0.11

4.78

NPFMCRFBK

1.05

1.10

0.05

4.76

BAGCO

1.50

1.57

0.07

4.67

10.47

10.95

0.48

4.58

MAYBAKER

1.39

1.45

0.06

4.32

CHANGE

% CHANGE

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

ARBICO

12.10

11.50

0.60

-4.96

MORISON

6.68

6.35

0.33

-4.94

TRANSCORP

0.89

0.85

0.04

-4.49

CUTIX

1.37

1.31

0.06

-4.38

UTC

0.72

0.69

0.03

-4.17

CUSTODYINS

1.19

1.15

0.04

-3.36

RTBRISCOE

1.80

1.74

0.06

-3.33

CONTINSURE

0.63

0.61

0.02

-3.17

GLAXOSMITH

31.80

30.80

1.00

-3.14

UAC-PROP

10.00

9.70

0.30

-3.00

Primary Market Auction TENOR

AMOUNT (N’mn)

RATE (%)

DATE

91-Day

32.970.71

14.10

6-Sep-12

182-Day

50,000.00

15.49

5-Sep-12

364 -Day

60,000.00

9.05

6-Sep-12

Open Market Operations TENOR

AMOUNT (N’mn)

RATE (%)

DATE

48Days

7,302.20

14.39

13-Sep-12

118-Day

50,282.86

14.08

23-Aug-12

Wholesale Dutch Auction System AMOUNT OFFERED

MARKET DEMAND

AMOUNT SOLD

DATE

$200m

N/A

$200m

3-Sep-12

$180m

N/A

$180m

29-Aug-12

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Stock exchange daily equities summary Equities as at September 4, 2012 1st Tier Securities

1st Tier Securities Sector

Company name

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Sector

Company name

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Cocktail

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Oddities

Couple wed via Twitter in Turkey

n official in Istanbul, Turkey on Monday officiated an Internet-based wedding believed to be the first ceremony conducted via Twitter. Mustafa Kara, mayor of Istanbul’s Uskudar district, conducted the wedding between Cengizhan Celik, social media editor of news portal ensonhaber.com, and Candan Canik by

asking the couple to respond to the ceremony’s questions on Twitter, Today’s Zaman reported Monday. Hurriyet Daily News reported the couple’s witnesses also conducted their roles via Twitter. The online ceremony culminated in Kara handing the couple a marriage certificate in person.

Dad-to-be experiences pregnancy symptoms

omen often complain that men cannot understand what it’s like to be pregnant – but a rare syndrome means one dad-tobe knows exactly how it feels. Mike Dowdall, 25, suffers from morning sickness, food cravings, hot flushes and even a swollen belly - just like pregnant girlfriend Amanda Bennett. The phantom pregnancy is the result of Couvade syndrome, a rare

condition which causes men to experience some of the same symptoms as expectant mums. Mum-to-be Amanda, 25, thought her boyfriend of three years was taking the mickey out of her until his symptoms became increasingly severe, the Sun reported. After weeks of suffering from morning sickness on a daily basis, tattooist Mike consulted his doctor who diagnosed an extreme case of Couvade syndrome.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Jealous woman slices cheating boyfriend’s penis

fuming girlfriend hacked off her partner’s penis with a kitchen knife after she discovered his cheating ways. Huaman Julia Muñoz hatched a plan to end the philandering of Ramon

Arias Apayco, 46, in the most gruesome way possible after becoming enraged by his act of betrayal, The New Age website reported. The 41-year-old allegedly decided to carry out the savage retribution as her

boyfriend slept at a hostel in Brena, Peru. After grabbing a knife from the kitchen, Muñoz sliced off the offending body part and flushed it down the toilet so it couldn’t be sewn back on. She then tried to flee

the bloody scene of the crime but was stopped by staff at the hostel. Mr Apayco was rushed to intensive care while Muñoz admitted to police that she had acted out of revenge after learning of her lover’s behaviour.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Community Mirror Hoodlums surrender weapons in Rivers

“It was a collective decision that all the governors will support the issue of state police.”

Controversy over oil deposits ADEMU IDAKWO LOKOJA

s controversy surrounding the discovery of oil deposits in Odeke, Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State rages on due to dispute with the Aguleri community in Anambra State over claim of ownership, the member representing Ibaji in the state House of Assembly, Hon. Atule Christopher Okoche, said he will sponsor a motion to compel the Federal Government to list Kogi as an oil producing state. Okoche who stated this in Lokoja, said the recent commissioning of the Orient Petroleum Company in Anambra State has nothing to do with oil deposits in Ibaji as being speculated. He admitted that, though there were several attempts by some powerful forces in Anambra to use the advantage of the boundary with Ibaji, which he claimed has the oil wells, but woefully failed. The lawmaker, who appealed to the host community not to take to violence, equally enjoined their Anambra counterpart to desist from further action that could degenerate to violence, pending resolution of the issue by the Federal Government. “We are not known for violence and so both parties should restrain further action in this tussle to avoid breakdown of order,”he stated The legislator, who further disclosed that the area has abundant mineral deposit, said there are large oil deposits in Ogbogbo/Orugu valley in Ibaji and Igala-mela/Odolu Local Government, which, according to him, has great potentials to generate more revenue for the country if properly harnessed. He called on the authorities to wade into the matter in order to bring an end to rising tension in the two states over ownership of the oil wells. However, tension has heightened in Ibaji over attempt to encroach on the zone by Anambra State, following the commissioning of the private oil firm, allegedly said to be owned by the state government and some entrepreneurs.

ABIA STATE GOVERNOR; THEODORE ORJI

Kidnapped monarch freed FRANCIS SUBERU

WITH AGENCY REPORT

70-year-old paramount ruler of Okordia clan in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, King Richard Seiba, has regained freedom from his captors after eight days in their den. Investigation found that a boat driver, who sighted the monarch where he was abandoned in the creeks, took him to Amassoma mainland.

He was later taken to the police headquarters in Yenagoa, where he was received by the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Kingsley Omire, relations and well wishers. Narrating his ordeal, the monarch said his captors beat and threatened to kill him, if he was unable to pay a ransom of $150 million. “I was forcefully taken away from my home to an unknown location close to the sea. They told me I must say how much I was going to pay or else they would kill

me. They flogged and beat me with tree branches and even used torchlight to hit my head”, he said. Frightened about his safety, he told them he was willing to part with N10 million, a proposal they turned down. Seiba, said the kidnappers told him they were offered N50 million by some persons in Okordia community to eliminate him. He said as his ordeal continued, he resorted to fasting, a development that angered his kidnappers who subjected him to further torture.

It was at this juncture, he added, that they asked him to trace his way back to his kingdom, without payment of any ransom. He thanked God for delivering him, adding that if not for the divine intervention, they would have killed him. Receiving the King, Omire noted that pressure from security operatives on the trail of the kidnappers may have forced them to abandon the monarch, saying they had launched a manhunt for the suspects.

A hide meat (ponmo) seller patiently awaiting the arrival of customers at Mile 12 Market, Lagos.

PHOTO:OLUFEMI AJASA

Hotelier, others arraigned for kidnapping NWABUEZE OKONKWO ONITSHA

he Anambra State police command has arraigned the proprietor of Arthur Garden Hotels Limited, Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Mr. Christopher Arthur Udoh before an Ogidi Magistrate’s Court, on four count charge of conspiracy, kidnap, robbery and extortion. Udoh was arraigned together with another suspect, Chinedu, in defiance of a High Court order asking that he be released on bail. An Otuocha High Court, presided over by Justice J. I. Nweze, lastweek, granted an application for bail brought before it by Udoh’s legal counsel, M. C. Ilon-

du, under fundamental human rights enforcement procedure. Justice Nweze, however granted the bail application in the sum of N5 million with three sureties in the like sum and Udoh’s statement of bank account. But when the case was mentioned at the Ogidi Magistrate’s Court, police prosecutor, C.A. Oribaba told the court that he had two policemen, Sgts.Okpokwe and Emmeso Samuel attached to Ogidi Police Station and one Emeka Anyaegbunam, a Zenith Bank staff among the kidnap victims as witnesses. He told the court that the accused persons had, on August 3, this year, committed the offence on the old Onitsha-Enugu Road near the St. Charles

Borromeo Roundabout, adding that their offences ranged from conspiracy, kidnapping, robbery with guns, demanding for N2 million and a receipt for N560,000 from their victim, Emeka Anyaegbunam for his release. The defence team, led by Frank Molokwu and Mrs. M.C. Ilondu, told the court that it was a judicial harassment to bring the hotelier to court when he had already been granted bail by a High Court sitting in Onitsha and Otuocha. Chinedu’s counsel, M.C. Nwora, told the court that his client is presumed to be innocent, until proved otherwise by the prosecution and, as such, should be granted bail. In her ruling, the presiding

Magistrate, Mrs. Pauline Chinwuba, ordered that the accused persons be remanded in prison custody till September 19, adding that she is not competent to entertain the case or to even grant bail. She, therefore, ordered that the police forward all the case files to the state Director of Public Prosecutions, DPP, for onward transmission to the state Attorney-General to initiate trial at the appropriate High Court. Addressing a mammoth crowd of relations, friends and wellwishers of the hotelier who had thronged the court premises to hear the trial, Emeka Anyaegbunam, the kidnap victim said that he did not know the hotelier, adding that the he was not among the people that kidnapped him.

Community Mirror

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Hoodlums surrender weapons in Rivers CHINEDUM EMEANA PORT HARCOURT

oodlums comprising kidnappers, cultists, armed robbers and militants in Egbeda, Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, have surrendered their dangerous weapons, while denouncing membership of various gangs in the state. Chief Allen Nma, chairman of the LGA, who praised their courage, advised them to always maintain peace and

be of good behaviour rather than indulging in blackmail, emphasising that those who refused to surrender their weapons and accept the amnesty will be declared wanted. The chairman, who reiterated his administration’s resolve to restore peace in the area, described the rformer hoodlums as fortunate,as he assured them of protection, but warned that law enforcement agencies will hunt down those perpetrating further crime after surrender of their

arms. He also warned that any stranger committing crime in the area would be arrested and reported to the police for further prosecution. “If it is not kidnapping it will be armed robber happening here, but today the storm is over”, the chairman declared. To beef up security in the area, the Emohua chairman has requested for land to build a police station in

the next two weeks. Reacting to the development, the traditional ruler of Egbeda/Ubimini, HRH, Christopher Didia, expressed joy and gratitude to God for their action, stressing that it is the first of its kind in the history of the community. He enjoined them to refrain from further illicit acts and embrace the government amnesty in good faith, while requesting the government to empower

the youths in meaningful ventures to forestall crimes. JTF Commander in the zone, M.B. Shehu, lauded the chairman for his practicable approach towards restoring peace, noting that he suggested the LG boss disarm the hoodlums, even as he thanked him for acting accordingly, and called on the government to train them in various skills. One of the ex-hoodlums

said he felt relieved and satisfied to have gained freedom and promised not to go back to crime, even as he said that poverty and unemployment lured him into the activities. It would be recalled that two months ago, the highways in Elele-Omoku were dangerous due to criminal activities of kidnappers and armed robbers, but the situation is likely to abate with the hoodlums surrendering their arms.

Court cautions against standing as surety FRANCIS SUBERU

Magistrate, Mrs F.O. Botoku, has warned Nigerians to be circumspect and avoid standing as guarantors to unknown persons. Botoku gave the warning at an Igbosere Magistrate’s Court in Lagos, during the trial of Emmanuel Onele, 25, who stood as guarantor for a church member, one Gabriel. The magistrate told the defendant: “You have not shown enough concern over the matter; the person you introduced is alleged to have stolen items worth N750, 000 and you don’t know his whereabouts. “I want to urge anyone who usually stands as guarantor to somebody they are not familiar with, or well known to, to desist from such in other to avoid trouble,’’ she said. Community Mirror learnt that Onele was charged with conspiracy and stealing, following the disappearance of Gabriel from his work place where valuables worth N750, 000 were allegedly stolen. The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge. The prosecutor, ASP Julius Oyakhiome, told the court that on July 24, some shop items valued at N750, 000, property of one Mrs Sophia Okobi, were stolen. Oyakhiome said the offence was committed at No. 29, Bello St., off Oke-

Ira Kekere in Ajah. He said that Okobi reported the case to the police when Gabriel, the person that Onele stood guarantor for could not be found. Items stolen from Okobi’s shop included one gold necklace, camera, electronics, shoes and clothes. The prosecutor said that the offence contravened Section 409 and 285 (7) (9) (B) of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State 2011. However, the accused told the court that he only introduced Gabriel, a member of his church to Okobi. The magistrate granted the accused bail in the sum of N100, 000 and two sureties in like sum.

A man lost in thoughts on Eko Bridge in Lagos.

Speaker debunks crisis in legislature HENRY IYORKASE MAKURDI

he Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Dr. Steven Onmenje, has debunked insinuations of any political cracks, saying the rumour of moves to replace the Speaker; Hon. Dave Iorhemba was calculated to cause disaffection among lawmakers. The Deputy Speaker representing Ado under platform of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, had at the House, denounced those making the claims of being economical with the truth, saying the lawmakers are united in their responsibility of legislating qual-

ity bills, towards improving the well being of the citizens. Speaking with Community Mirror, Dr. Onmenje, dismissed the rumours that they there were at ezach other’s throat, saying whoever has been spear heading the falsehood is doing so at his own peril and should be ignored by the people. He expressed surprise that such insinuation is coming from those who want to cause disunity, noting that some people preferred anarchy and division so as to benefit from crises. Onmenje expressed the desire of Assembly members at sustaining the good work of the 7th Assembly, even

as he craved the support of the people to enable them succeed in the onerous task of bringing dividends of democracy to Benue State. Commenting on the recent feud between Ojantele and Ijegwu that left four persons dead, the lawmaker enjoined the traditional rulers of affected communities to hasten action and come up with a lasting solution to the crisis. He revealed that Governor Gabriel Suswam, has waded into the dispute to find a lasting solution to the protracted conflict, while urging the warring communities to be patient with those working at resolution of the conflict.

PHOTO: YINKA ADEPARUSI

FACM holds general conference

he First African Church Mission, FACM, has elected a new executive for the church at St. Peters Cathedral Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. The new officers who will be running affairs of the mission for the next three years include: Elder Bro Ezekiel Segun Sulola, Lay President; Amb Bro Gospel Accra-Jaja, Deputy Lay President; Bro Chief Taiwo A Oniwinde, Financial Secretary; Bro Emmanuel E Ola Campbell, Publicity Secretary; Bro Sir Eze Onwusani, Treasurer; Bro Chief Olusegun Ogunkoya, Recording Secretary; Sis Funmilola Shofoluwe, Asst. Recording Secretary. Others are: Bro Innocent Nwachukwu Asonye,

Gen Secretary; Barr Olufemi Abayomi Songonuga, Chancellor; Director Hua Maduenyi, Registrar; Bro Innocent Abali and Bro E Olajide Fashola are to serve in the office of the General Secretary as Under-Secretary. The election described as very free and fair, was conducted by the primate of the church, His Eminence, Dr. Emmanuel Olabode Koya JP, and assisted by Bishop Folorunso Olabiyi. In a related development, the 121 Annual Conference of the church has been slated for September 5, to September 10, 2012 at Ebenezer Parish Okitipupa Ondo State. The conference is entitled “The Estate of the Wicked and the Righteous”.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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World News

“When Israel threatens to destroy Lebanon, it is our duty to stand in its face and say: This era is over”

Syria refugees reached record levels in August, says UN

– Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah

Mubarak sons, others face criminal trial TOBORE OVUORIE

WITH AGENCY REPORTS

he sons of former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, Gamal and Alaa, and other officials in Mubarak’s regime will be tried in criminal court, officials have revealed. Besides the two Mubarak

sons, former Egyptian Prime Minister Ahmed Shafiq and the former chief of the Cooperative Housing Association for Military Pilots, Gen. Nabil Farid Shokry, will face corruption charges, al-Masry al-Youm reported yesterday. The men are accused of illegally appropriating land in the 1990s.

Shokry allegedly pleaded guilty to charges that included profiteering and facilitating the seizure of the public funds and forging official documents in collaboration with Shafiq, sources told al-Masry al-Youm. A judge ordered Shokry, who said he was coerced by Shafiq, to be jailed. Shafiq, who lost the recent

election to President Mohamed Morsi, is accused of squandering public funds by selling land owned by Cooperative Housing Association of Air Force officers at below-market rates to Gamal Mubarak and Alaa Mubarak. Shafiq was an Air Force commander in Chief when the transaction occurred, the newspaper said.

Kenya’s navy shells Kismayo in Somalia

he Kenyan navy has shelled Kismayo, the main Somali city controlled by militant Islamist group alShabab, a military spokesman revealed yesterday. Colonel Cyrus Oguna said the attack was part of a push by an African Union (AU) force to capture the city. According to BBC reports, residents had raised alarm that al-Shabab was reinforcing its positions in the city and people had started to flee. AU forces have vowed to capture Kismayo - a port city that is key to financing and arming the al-Qaeda affiliate. The move on Kismayo comes as Somali MPs prepare to choose a new president under a UN-brokered peace plan. The election is due on 10 September. Kismayo residents said the port area was shelled twice and the airport three times. Al-Shabab was testing its weapons and mounting guns on battle wagons, the residents said. Some residents were fleeing, either towards the capital, Mogadishu, or the border with Kenya, amidst fears that a big battle could take place, they added. Last month, al-Shabab lost control of Merca, the third biggest port city after Mogadishu and Kismayo, to AU and pro-Somali government forces. In June, Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga appealed to the US and EU to give financial aid for a “final onslaught” on Kismayo. Kenya sent troops to Somalia last year, saying that it wanted al-Shabab defeated because the militants threatened its security.

Mubarak brothers to be back in court soonest for fresh charges.

PHOTOS: REUTERS

42 killed in Morocco’s worst-ever bus crash

bus plunged into a ravine in the Atlas mountains of southern Morocco early on yesterday killing no fewer than 42 people. According to a security official, it is the worst accident ever recorded in the kingdom. All the victims were Moroccan, a local official disclosed. “But we are still in the process of identifying the bodies, as well as the injured,” he said. The accident took place at

around 2:00 am (0100 GMT) when the vehicle fell off a main road in Haouz province, around 100 kilometres (60 miles) south of Marrakesh, one of Morocco’s top tourist destinations. The crash also left some 25 people injured, who were taken to different hospitals in the region, according to the local official. The official MAP news agency, which said the bus fell 150 metres (165 yards) gave the same death

Some rescue workers at the scene of the accident evacuating corpses. PHOTOS: TELEGRAPH

toll of 42, saying that five of the victims died in hospital, and that 24 people were injured in the crash, four of them critically. King Mohammed VI expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, in a palace statement, and announced that he would pay for their transport, funeral and burial costs. The cause of the accident was not immediately clear. But the bus, with 67 people on board, was evidently overloaded, a source at the ministry of transport said, with the largest bus category in Morocco authorised to carry 54 people. An official in Haouz province said an inquiry had been launched and a crisis group set up. The provincial governor Younes El Bathaoui arrived at the site of the crash to supervise the rescue operation, according to MAP. The tragedy occurred as the bus was heading towards Marrakesh, after crossing the Tizi-nTichka pass, the highest in Morocco.

WORLD BULLETIN Salafis attack Tunisia hotel for serving alcohol Dozens of hardline Salafi Muslims attacked a hotel in Sidi Bouzid, birthplace of Tunisia’s revolution, because it was serving alcohol, the hotel’s owner said on Tuesday. It was believed to be the first such attack on a hotel in the North African country, which relies heavily on tourism. “About 100 Salafis attacked the hotel on Monday night and smashed all its contents. They entered the rooms and damaged furniture and smashed bottles of alcohol,” Jamil Horcheni, the owner of the hotel, told Reuters. He said ultra-conservative Islamists had threatened to attack his hotel in May if he did not stop selling alcohol. Tunisia, whose authoritarian president, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, was overthrown by a popular uprising last year, now has an elected Islamist-led government. There have been several attacks on cultural and tourist sites since the revolt. In May, Salafis staged an antialcohol protest in Sidi Bouzid, 300 km (186 miles) west of the capital Tunis, demanding that hotels and bars be relocated outside the city.

Mozambique kills suspected abduction ring kingpin Mozambican police have killed the suspected kingpin of a kidnapping ring that has targeted wealthy Muslims in Maputo during a raid in which six were also arrested, they said Tuesday. The arrests came after powerful Islamic groups threatened to hold country-wide protests and shut down Asian-run business if the crimes were not solved. “Last Friday during a police operation six people were arrested, four men and two women,” Police Superintendent Raul Freia disclosed. The suspected leader of the abduction cell, named as Orquilio Nhassengo, died on the way to hospital after he “offered up some resistance to police and tried to reach for his gun,” Freia said. All suspects in police custody are Mozambican. The kidnappings began last December, targetting mainly wealthy businessmen of Pakistani origin, but also members of the Hindu community. These latest arrests bring to “roughly 15” the numbers of suspects police have in custody, said Freia, including those netted in a previous police raid in June. However, the crimes appeared to continue unabated with several attempted kidnappings reported in the local media.

World News

WORLD BULLETIN Clinton condemns US consulate attack Secretary of State Hillary Clinton condemned the suicide car bomb attack targeting a U.S. consulate vehicle in Peshawar, Pakistan, calling it a “cowardly act.” Speaking to reporters in Jakarta, Indonesia, where she arrived on her Asia-Pacific tour, Clinton said she condemned “the attack on our consulate personnel in Peshawar” and prayed for the “safe recovery of both American and Pakistani victims.” She said she deplored “the cowardly act of suicide bombing and terrorism that has affected so many people around the world, and which we all must stand against,” a State Department transcript said. The attack Monday was carried out by a suicide bomber who rammed his explosives-laden vehicle into a U.S. Consulate sport utility vehicle in the northwestern Pakistani city. There have been differing official reports on casualties.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

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Syrian refugees reached record levels in August, says UN M ore than 100,000 Syrians fled their country in August, the UN says - the highest monthly figure since the conflict began in March 2011. This almost doubled the total number of refugees to 235,300 in the space of a month, the UN refugee agency says. The figures emerged as the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Peter Maurer, met President Bashar al-Assad in Syria. The ICRC said Mr Maurer had asked for better access for aid workers in Syria. August was arguably Syria’s

most violent month yet, with the pro-opposition Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reporting more than 5,000 deaths. The UN children’s fund estimates that 1,600 people died last week alone. The escalating fighting has led to what the chief spokeswoman for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Melissa Fleming, described as “an astonishing number” of refugees. “It points to a significant escalation in refugee movement and people seeking asylum, and probably points to a very precarious and violent situation inside the

country,” she said. The UNHCR says the total number of refugees from Syria who have either been registered or are awaiting registration now stands at 235,300, with 103,416 people seeking asylum in August alone. The UN says the situation is precarious, with aid agencies struggling to prepare camps and distribute resources. The ICRC described Mr Maurer’s brief meeting with Mr Assad in Damascus as “positive”, but warned that the humanitarian situation was deteriorating. “There is a huge need for the organisation to be able to provide this humanitarian assistance to more people,” spokeswoman Ceci-

Britian gives Russia assurance over ‘Magnitsky blacklist’ The British government has assured Moscow it has not imposed a blanket ban on entry to Britain for Russian officials with alleged ties to lawyer Sergei Magnitsky’s death in jail, Russia’s Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday. But Britain, which has made clear that such ties would be a factor in decisions on individual visa applications, said it was seriously concerned about Magnitsky’s death and urged Russia to bring those responsible to justice. Britain’s Sunday Times newspaper reported that Home Secretary Theresa May had sent a list of 60 Russians, including judges, prosecutors and investigators, to the British embassy in Moscow and they could be banned from entering Britain. Magnitsky, 37, a lawyer for an equity fund, died in detention in 2009 a year after he was held on charges of tax evasion and fraud. Former colleagues say the charges were fabricated by police investigators he had accused of stealing $230 million from the Russian state through fraudulent tax refunds. The Kremlin’s rights council has said Magnitsky was probably beaten to death.

Iran monitoring U.S. movements in gulf An Iranian naval commander said Tuesday that national intelligence services were monitoring the movements of U.S. warships in the Persian Gulf. The U.S. military has deployed assets to the Persian Gulf region to protect key shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz. In August, U.S. officials said Washington was examining its missile defense in the region given recent tensions with Iran. A missile defense system planned for Eastern Europe was touted by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton as vital to Iranian deterrence. Iran’s navy commander Rear Adm. Habibollah Sayyari said U.S. military activity in the Persian Gulf was under close observation.

The increasing refugee flow is putting pressure on Syria’s neighbours, including Jordan.

PHOTOS: REUTERS

lia Goin told the BBC. “The meeting between President Bashar al-Assad and President Maurer was in that sense positive, so we believe that we will be able to provide help to many more people in the next weeks.” Ms Goin said the organisation was planning to “scale up its distribution” of food parcels and other aid across Syria, but that it was still not possible to reach people in areas where fighting is taking place. Syrian state television said President Assad supported the ICRC’s humanitarian work in Syria as long as it remained “independent and impartial”. Outside the gates of the camp near the Syria border, small crowds of people press against the main entrance. They ask guards to let them in to see family members. On top of the camp’s walls, blue plastic bags are caught on rolls of barbed wire. From a small hilltop you can see the rows of white tents inside the camp. The Turkish government doesn’t let outsiders into the camp. So we approach a group of Syrian refugees sitting under a shelter. Fatih Nour al-Sellou, 59, is a construction worker. He fled from northern Syria two-and-a-half months ago with his family. “They were shelling next to the houses, shelling the mountains - that’s what made us leave,” he says. “Six or seven thousand people came here - we ran away from all the shelling. The whole mountain migrated.”

China warns U.S. against taking sides in sea disputes

akarta/Beijing China warned the United States not to get involved in South China Sea territorial disputes on Tuesday as U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrived in Beijing pledging to pass on a strong message on the need to calm regional tension. U.S. officials say Clinton will stress the importance of cooperation and partnership on the visit, an important chance to compare notes during a year of political transition in both countries. But her visit has been overshadowed by disputes over tiny islets and craggy outcrops in oil- and gas-rich areas of the South and East Chi-

na Seas that have set China against U.S. regional allies such as the Philippines and Japan. Clinton arrived in Beijing from Jakarta late

on Tuesday, huddling with U.S. officials on board her plane before heading off to meetings with Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi followed

by a dinner. In their brief public remarks, both Clinton and Yang stressed a constructive tone, with Clinton

calling the U.S.-China relationship key to the Obama administration’s “pivot” to more engagement with the Asia-Pacific.

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Wednesday, September 5, 2012

A Tibetan exile shouting slogans while taking part in a peace march to mark the 52nd anniversary of Tibetan Democracy Day, in the northern Indian city of Chandigarh.

World in pix

Spectators taking pictures as demonstrators shout slogans during the Coalition to March on Wall Street South protest in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Democratic National Convention opens in Charlotte this week.

Belgium’s Crown Princess Mathilde (L) helps Crown Prince Philippe walk on a cable during the 20th anniversary of the Queen Paola Foundation, at the royal estate in Laeken, Brussels recently.

Jewish settler youths pour soft drink on Israeli police trying to remove them from atop a structure in the illegal outpost of Migron, near West Bank city of Ramallah after eviction orders were handed over to the residents.

A tyre is seen near Ferrari Formula One driver Fernando Alonso of Spain after he was involoved in a crash at the start of the Belgian F1 Grand Prix in Spa Francorchamps September 2, 2012.

Some Ethiopians in a procession while paying their last respect during the funeral of the country’s late Prime Minister; Meles Zenawi.

Tibetans take part in a ritual at a function to mark the 52nd anniversary of Tibetan Democracy Day at Tibetan Refugee Welfare Office in Kathmandu, recently.

Brazil’s Terezinha Guilhermina (L) celebrates winning the Women’s 400m T12 classification final with her guide during the London 2012 Paralympic Games at the Olympic Stadium September 2, 2012. This classification is for athletes with a visual impairment.

North

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Residents condemn renewed violence in Plateau communities JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

esidents of Jos, the Plateau State capital, yesterday condemned renewed hostilities in some communities in the state even as they asked security operatives in the state to halt the trend before it escalates. Since the past few months, there have been pockets of attacks by gunmen on innocent citizens, especially in Riyom and Barki Ladi Local Government Areas of the state resulting in several deaths. Many have also sustained varying degrees of inju-

ries due to the attacks by gunmen. Reports said only a couple of days ago, a man identified as Danjuma Adamu, was found dead near his farm, with his body riddled with bullets and machete cuts. The incident occurred few days after he was declared missing in Ruku village, Barki Ladi LGA of the state. Also, four people travelling to one of the villages in the locality were shot dead recently by yet to be identified gunmen. National Mirror learnt that the situation has forced villagers in the affected areas to abandon

their farmland because of fear of being killed by gunmen. Also, motorists who ply the roads in the affected local government areas now do so with fear. Some residents of Jos, Barki Ladi and Riyom, who spoke with our correspondent in Jos yesterday expressed concern over the development and urged those responsible for the killings and attacks to desist from such acts and give peace a chance. They also urged the security men to fish out the perpetrators of the evil acts. A resident, Mr. George Agbo, expressed worry

that the attacks have persisted despite the presence of security men and the renewed commitment by stakeholders to embrace peace. He said there was no way peace can be achieved in the state if people continued to seek revenge against their perceived enemies by laying ambush on their way. Mrs. Grace Shut said what the people should do is to take advantage of the ongoing dialogue initiative among various communities by President Goodluck Jonathan and reconcile every known differences.

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Katsina spends N36m monthly on 17, 000 almajiris JAMES DANJUMA KATSINA

atsina State government yesterday said that the administration has been spending N36 million monthly for the feeding and training of 17, 000 Almajiri children across the 34 local government areas of the state. Speaking in an interview yesterday, Senior Special Assistant on Almajiri Affairs, Lawal Mani Gambarawa, said the training and feeding is being carried out in 70 Quranic schools and would soon be extended to other schools. Gambarawa said the measure was part of efforts to accommodate and generate employment for the almajiris and that government had “selected 70 schools out of the 8, 000

Quranic schools to serve as pilot for the programme.” He said since the takeoff of the programme about a month ago, the state government had maintained the feeding and training of almajiris and that provision has been made for food, clothing and equipment for the training of almajiri children in the next six months. Gambarawa said the state government would soon launch an appeal fund for community participation in the feeding and training of the almajiris as a way of sustaining the programme. He said local government councils would also be involved in the process and appealed to heads of Quranic schools to cooperate with government for the success of the programme.

‘Opposition ready to dislodge PDP in 2015’ ADEMU IDAKWO LOKOJA

T Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima (4th right) and Sheikh Adam Asil (center) leading funeral prayers for the late Borno State Head of Service, Alhaji Abba Ashigar, in Maiduguri on Monday.

Group faults Kaduna SIECOM’s election fees A ZA M SUE KADUNA

socio-political group, Kaduna State Coalition of Political Parties (KCPP) has faulted what it described as exorbitant local government council election fees been charged by the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIECOM). Chairman of the group, Alhaji Inuwa Ahmed, in a statement yesterday in Kaduna, said the sum of N200, 000 and N50, 000 to contest for the office of chairman and councilor respectively, was not only outrageous, but was meant to hijack the process in favour of money-bag politicians. The coalition, which

says it has 46 registered political parties under its umbrella, called on the state’s electoral body to reduce the fees to allow grass root politicians participate, adding that the money charged would not make for free and fair election. The group further advised SIECOM to cooperate with political stakeholders in the 23 local council areas to increase voters’ awareness and education, while calling for a level playground for all political party candidates. The Kaduna State Independent Electoral Commission (SIECOM) had last week fixed December 1, 2012, for the conduct of local government election in the state.

The local governments have been without elected representatives for about five years and were being run by caretaker committees appointed by the governor. Chairman of

SIECOM, Dr. Hannatu Biniyat, said the commission has prepared an election time-table and guidelines which would be issued to all political parties and stakeholders.

he North Central Vice-Chairman of Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), Alhaji Abu Onaji, has said that opposition parties in the country have shown some considerable interest in the merger arrangement to dislodge the ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 general elections. Onaji, who stated this yesterday in Lokoja in a press statement made available to journalists said the aim of the merger is to precisely marshal strength and support to face the PDP in the presidential election. He disclosed that the leaders of the various oppo-

sition parties in the country have decided to surmount the odds that led to the collapse of merger talk in the 2011 elections. “A lot of sacrifices have been made by various leaders to pave the way for conscious arrangement in the battle ahead and we will come out successfully,” he stated. He further disclosed that some party chieftains have been suspended for antiparty activities which led to the woeful performance of the party in the last election. Onaji, a veteran journalist, who said the details of the arrangement will soon be made known, alleged that the PDP has already started shivering and has embarked on dubious strategies to frustrate the plan.

Yuguda inaugurates new LG caretaker committees E ZEKIEL TITUS BAUCHI

auchi State governor, Mallam Isa Yuguda, has charged the newly inaugurated 20 LGAs’ caretaker committees to cooperate with security agencies, traditional and religious leaders in the state to ensure peaceful co-existence among the various groups in their respective council areas. The governor said this in Bauchi at the inaugu-

ration of the councils’ caretaker committees following the dissolution of the former committees with a charge to them to ensure decorum as they will be judged by their service delivery. Yuguda said his administration is committed to accountability and transparency, warning them to strictly adhere to due process in governance and in the judicious handling of the finances of their respective council areas.

Gov. Yuguda

The administration, he added, has no hiding place for corrupt officers, indolent and incompetent hands and is determined to consoli-

date on the gains of democracy. Government, according to Governor Yuguda, will decisively deal with any corrupt officer found wanting, according to the law. According to him, the new appointees should consider their appointment as a challenge, informed by their track records, dedication, commitment and a high sense of responsibility and that society expects a high performance from them.

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Health & Wellbeing

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

African Traditional Medicine Day: Still discordant tunes over regulation CONTINUED FROM PG 21 Association of Nigeria Traditional Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP), Prof. Omon Olaebhiele described the country’s rich and diverse herbal resources as goldmines with potentials to surpass that of crude oil, if exploited. According to him, nations such as China, India, Cuba, and Malaysia generate huge revenues through the scientific development of their herbs and provision of legal support that empowers their herbal medicines practice. The influxes of these drugs among others into Nigeria, he said, served as eye opener which boosts the quest for development of traditional medicine by his members in Nigeria. He noted that “when African traditional medicine is packaged very well, many people will look for it. This is because the potentials of tradition medicine are greater than that of crude oil, in terms of employment, provision and promotion of health and export potentials for Nigeria. What we need most is the passing of the Traditional Medicine Bill, now lying down on the floor of the National Assembly into law. This will give the practice

legal right to enable the people enjoy its spark.” Relating the development of herbal medicine in both Nigeria and Ghana, one of the participants at this year’s African Traditional Medicine Day in Abuja, HRH Togbe Aloka Dabra VI remarked that Ghana had integrated herbal medicine education into its education curriculum, while the country had integrated graduates of herbal related disciplines into the conventional hospitals. According to him, citizens could decide the type of doctors that attend to them. That is, they are at liberty choose either orthodox or traditional doctors for their treatment. How does NAFDAC address the problems arising from the practice of herbal medicine in Nigeria? Dr. Hashim Yusuf, NAFDAC’s Director, Narcotic and Controlled Substance and Chairman Federal Taskforce on Counterfeit Medicines declared: “The way the traditional medicine is done in Nigeria, I think we have progressed. But, with the products, the medicines themselves, there are lot more to be done. “What NAFDAC does today is that they

do what is called a “listing” of medicines. They don’t give these herbal medicines full registration. They do a listing because many of them, their safety profiles are not determined fully. We take them; we run tests to check toxicological components of their products and also contaminants or other substances that can cause contamination to the users such as bacteria or other organisms that can infect consumers of such products. “So, we try to remove contaminants and the toxic substances. When we are through with this process, we give a listing for the product. Listing means we put the product on supervision for two years; we will be looking at it as it is being used by the public. Are they complaining? Is it giving unfavourable reactions? What is expected to be remedied? Then, the report is put together. If there is no further harm, then, we put it together; but, we will not give it full registration. “Even if the owner wants to do full registration, they have to do what is called clinical trial. That is when they have to do proper safety check on it. Once you do a clinical trial and it is satisfactory, then, we

give you full registration,” he stressed. He also shed light on how NAFDAC regulate the multi-functional claims of the products of the practitioners: “The truth is that one product can contain many active ingredients; therefore, it can have the potential to treat many things. It is true. The problem is that in what quantity? How will it not harm consumers? This is what we call standardization, which our practitioners do not have knowledge about. We have to do something about that. That is why we are now building capacity in them; calling them, we train them, talk to them to go to the Institute of Pharmaceutical Research and Development to learn more,” he remarked. To this end, the way forward remains that the National Agency for Food Administration and Control (NAFDAC,) National Association of Nigerian Traditional Medicine (NANTMP) and The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPDR) work together to fashion out ways through which these ubiquitous resources in the country will be exploited for citizens and national benefits.

56 doctors for residency training MARCUS FATUNMOLE ABUJA

he Minister of Health, Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu, has said that about 56 resident doctors would be sent for overseas training programme this year. He made the disclosure in Abuja, Monday at the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Federal Ministry of Health and Nigerian Health Professional in Diaspora; Dissemination of Report of the undergraduate medical/dental curriculum/review committee stakeholders meeting to develop the National Standard and Guidelines for Medical and Foreign Health missions to Nigeria. This, the Minister said,

SEKINAH L AWAL

he African Herbal Medical practitioners has called on federal government through the ministry of health to embrace and explore alternative medicine by establishing mutual trust with scientific researcher, Traditional medicine manufacturers, practitioners as well as physicians. While speaking at the 6th PAX Herbal National Congress which took place in Benin, Edo State recently,

followed the re-introduction of the overseas component of the Residency Training Programme by the federal government. The Minister therefore called on Medical Directors across the country to speed up efforts in the selection process of the beneficiaries, so as to implement it with this year’s budget. He maintained that the federal government was considering taking health to the private sector; hence the development of a blueprint for private-public initiative for health. The Minister used the occasion to call on the private sector to come in and establish world-class hospitals as one of the ways to curbing medical tourism among Nigerians.

L-R: Chief Information Officer of the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Mr. Ayodeji Bobade; Director of Clinical Services, Dr. Abiodun Otegbayo and the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Temitope Alonge at a media briefing in UCH Ibadan-Oyo State, recently.

FG needs collaboration with herb practitioners with the theme “African Herbal Medicine: Bringing Health Closer to the People” Rev. Father Anselm Adodo observed that medicine, whether western or traditional, has the same goal of providing quality healthcare to the people. “Traditional medicine in some countries; including Nigeria has tended to stagnate because we are not exploiting the rapid discoveries of science and technology for its own develop-

ment”, he said. The director of Pax Herbals, a Catholic center for the development and promotion of African Medicine is convinced that the healthcare model of the developed and industrialized countries of Europe and America is not suitable or practicable in Africa. “Has importation of sophisticated machines into our hospitals translated into more efficient healthcare and treatment? Does bigger

spending really translate into better health services? In villages where there are no roads, no electricity, no hospital, what forms of healthcare should government put in place?” he asks. The guest speaker at the occasion, an Associate Professor of Oncologist at the Howard University, Washington D.C Gladys Onojobi wondered why the orthodox look forward to only between 30 percent to 35 percent success rate for the efficacy of

drugs and they celebrate it, yet they expect a 100 percent efficacy success rate for traditional medicine. She revealed that 40 percent of patients who take ginger while undergoing chemotherapy in a recent study in the US have less side effects of symptoms associated with taking chemotherapy. She also disclosed that taking lime in water or licking it after meals is good for flatulence and constipation. She advised the

management of PAX to keep records of all the data of treatment so that outsiders can learn from it. The Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Aaron Ojule, the Chief Medical Director, University of Port-Harcourt Teaching hospital, expressed his pleasant surprise when he visited the Paxherbals in Ewu, where the PAX products are manufactured; he commended PAX for her pioneering effort in making way for a modern and scientific manufacturing model for herbal medicines in Nigeria.

WORLD RECORD

Largest speeding fine

Vol. 02 No. 441

“

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Now that Nnaji is gone

here comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must do it because Conscience tells him it is right.” This saying by the great American Civil Rights leader, Martin Luther King (Jnr), aptly captures the exit of the former Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji from the cabinet of President Goodluck Jonathan. His sudden resignation was not only a surprise, it manifested an admix of controversy and élan, reminiscent of his appointment to wrench the power sector from the fiendish hands of labour union ghouls and other vested interests, who for years have suffocated Nigerians with monumental ineptitude and petty politicking. This set of mandarins for long had been feeding fat from the miseries of fellow citizens and would do everything to protect their turfs, while hounding anyone that tries to clean the Augean stable of their malfeasance.

N150

The largest speeding fine is a reported $290,000 (£180,000) ticket given to an anonymous Swiss motorist who was caught driving 137 km/h (85 mph) in a 80 km/h (50 mph) zone in a village near St. Gallen, Switzerland, in January 2010.

ngland defender, John Terry, yesterday appeared to have won his race to be fit for the upcoming World Cup qualifying doubleheader against Moldova and Ukraine. Terry, who is Chelsea’s captain, played a full part

Okay Osuji (okayosuji@nationalmirroronline.net) 08034729256 (sms only)

Definitely, many people had expected the tenure of Barth Nnaji to be rough and tempestuous, given his technical know and competence in this all important sector. He was the chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Geometric Power Limited, which currently generates 140 MW of electricity to the national power grid. Before now, not many are aware that his company remains a major provider of electricity to Aso Rock, the country’s seat of power, and currently building a gigantic independent power station in Aba, Abia State, which on completion, would supply the city with uninterrupted electricity for benefits of the residents and business community. Professor Nnaji is a world renowned robotics engineer, whose intimidating credentials and acumen will make him a much sought after expert in the rarified field of space and computer technology. With that in mind, the Olusegun Obasanjo administration invited him from the United States of America, to come and advise the government on ways of resuscitating the dinosaur known then as National Electricity Power Authority (NEPA), now rechristened Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN). And because of his antecedents and grasp of the interminable problems besetting the sector, President Goodluck Jonathan recruited him with an assignment to bring back light to Nigeria. Since then, agents of darkness have gone to town spoiling for murder and mayhem. They even swore

MANY PEOPLE HAD EXPECTED THE TENURE OF BARTH NNAJI

TO BE ROUGH AND TEMPESTUOUS never to rest until this sector and all appurtenances return to its former benighted state. This they are doing through all forms of propaganda, misinformation, subterfuge, blackmail, coercion, threats, intimidation and chicanery. When not calling out their members on nationwide strike, they are demanding that the government sell the country and hand over all proceeds as pensions and gratuities to them, before they will release their fatal grips on the nation’s jugular. Their argument is that the country must pay a steep price for demanding that they and generator importing cabal leave the stage, so that Nigeria can return to the path of sanity and civilization. For more than 25 years, the country has remained a byword for darkness and it took a Prof. Barth Nnaji, a year to improve power supply from 2800MW to 4,300MW. Yet, it never mattered to all the nattering nabobs, to spare a thought to the fact that, the interest of their members who are mainly fodders, would be better served

if there is enough power to improve the country’s productive capacity. All these pale into significance, when it is understood that what matters to them is the fleeting pecuniary interest, which informs the do-or die disposition in protecting their enclaves. Even more curious was the position of the presidency in the entire shenanigans, and for hurriedly abandoning ship at the mere warning of impending gale. What really was amiss? Report has it that Prof. Nnaji sinned because he was associated with O&M Solutions; a Pakistani based company that is interested in acquiring majority shares of the Afam power station in Rivers State. His traducers claimed it was a conflict of interest. As Minister for Power, he was not supposed to know or be acquainted with any institution bidding for the privatization of PHCN. It will be recalled that the same company worked as contractor for Geometric Power and so there is reason to believe that Nnaji could influence outcome of the bidding process. But these people have never told Nigerians that Nnaji had earlier informed the National Council on Privatizations (NCP) that even when he has an interest in Geometric Power he resigned from its board in 2010 and transferred his shares to a blind trust and in furtherance to this, refused to be part of the team considering the technical bids. It was proper the minister showed that in a country suffused with crooks, fraudsters and incorrigible union officials to prove there are still some persons of honour. Interestingly, Nnaji was the only official to do so while in government, yet those bent on perpetuating darkness in Nigeria had seen no reason to applaud this civilized initiative. At the end of the day, the administration would be judged by the volume of electricity it made available to the people and not the politics that led to the resignation of the former minister. Until Nigeria slays the dragons guarding all the temples of darkness, there is probability that come 2015, the country will still be running round in circles.

Sport Extra

Brazil 2014: Terry boosts England’s chances

in training at England’s London Colney base on Monday afternoon, untroubled by his recent neck injury as he headed several balls during the session of more than an hour.

“I think the stiffness seems very relieved now and I can only look forward to greater fitness in the days ahead,” the inspirational player who had torrid time with the judiciary and England FA

recently, said. Meanwhile, Terry’s Chelsea team-mate, Ashley Cole, is battling to recover for the latter qualifier after being ruled out of Friday’s match in Chisinau with an ankle injury.

Cole, who earlier became the second player to withdraw from what had been a 24-man squad for Friday’s Group H opener, is two matches away from a century having been capped 88 times.

John Terry

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