February 12, 2016

Oshiomhole, labour oppose naira devaluation

Tola Akinmutimi

G Oshiomhole

Vol. 5 N0. 1306

overnor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State and Deputy President, Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Comrade

Issa Aremu, and other analysts yesterday lent their voice against growing clamour by some financial and economic experts for devaluation of the national currency, saying do-

ing so will not benefit the economy.

Making his position clear on the raging controversy on whether or not the Naira should be offiContinued on Page 2>>

Lassa fever spreads to 20 states, kills 108 –FG

...alerts on possible outbreak of Zika virus

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Odewole

National Mirror Online @NationalMirror Friday, February 12, 2016

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Budget office repeats 2015 budget for IST H

George Opara and Ubong Ukpong

•Reps fume over non-remittance of IGR by NCAA

ouse of Representatives Committee on Capital Market has disclosed that the Budget Office reproduced the 2015 appropriation of Investment and Securities Tribunal, IST, as the agency’s 2016 budget estimate.

Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Tajudeen Yusuf, said: “We expected this morning (yesterday) to take the budget defence of the IST, but we realised that the budget provision Continued on Page 2>>

Germany signifies interest in Nigeria’s LNG

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General Overseer, Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye (left), with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, during the clergy’s courtesy visit to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

FG uncovers another 23,000 ghost workers

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Friday, February 12, 2016

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Budget office repeated 2015 budget for IST CONTINUED FROM Page 1

for IST in the 2016 budget proposal is just a copy, exact copy for the 2015 appropriation.

“It is word for word, figure for figure. And items that were dealt with and completed in 2015 were just repeated.”

It was disclosed by the committee that the Senate was as well aware of the budget repetition.

Consequently, the budget defence session was stood down as the committee resolved that any continuation would amount to an exercise in futility.

Asked further whether the 2015 budget for the agency was implemented, Yusuf who blamed the Budget Office for the bizarre development said: “We looked into the budget about two weeks ago and, apart from the issue of personnel that the agency treated late in 2015, the 2015 budget for IST was ok.”

When asked for comments by journalists, Ngozi Chianakwalam, the apparently dazed Chairman of the IST, declined to speak.

However, Yusuf said there would be tripartite meeting involving the House, Senate and the Ministry of Finance to sort out “this peculiar and abnormal development in the history of the presentation of annual budget proposal.”

In another development, the Committee on Aviation yesterday expressed displeasure over non-remittance of Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, to the Federal Government by Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA. This was as NCAA told the committee that it was getting revenues generated internally outside the amount given to it in Federal Government budget, but it was discovered that it was not remitting same.

The Nkiruka Onyejeocha-led committee, which received NCAA for its budget defence, said the mentality of collecting money from the Federal Government and not remitting IGR was highly unacceptable and must change henceforth.

The committee chairman, after listening to the presentation of the 2015 budget performance by NCAA Director General, Usman Muhtar, expressed concerns that there were irregularities in budget handling by the authority.

She questioned the

N600m budget for staff training, which she pointed out, had been fully utilised, amidst complains that staff performance was low.

The committee pointed out that there were complaints by staff over lopsided training sponsorship, as many of the staff were sidelined.

She also questioned the nonpayment of Insurance Premium by the agency, but Muhtar said they trained people based on needs.

“If there is no need for staff to travel abroad for training they remain in the country”, said, even as he denied that training personnel was selective.

Muhtah said Insurance Premium was not paid because there were no accidents recorded.

But the committee frowned at his action, saying it was an irrelevant risk, saying the agency would have been at the receiving end if there had been an accident.

Further interrogation by the committee led to request for the submission of NCAA’s Bilateral Air Service Agreement, BASA document for detailed clarification.

While presenting the N32bn proposed budget, the committee directed that the audit of 22 airports in the country be stepped down, considering the dwindling state of the economy.

Meanwhile the Committee on Basic Education and Services, yesterday, refused to debate the budget of National Teachers’ Institute, NTI, over its presentation, which was considered to be offensive.

The Zakare Mohammedled committee also ordered the Director General of the Institute, Dr Aminu Ladan Sharehu, to remove the offensive page from the budget document as it adjourned its session with the Institute indefinitely.

Sharehu had led a team

to defend its budget before the committee, which was fully prepared to entertain them.

However, upon introducing the budget performance for 2015 and the proposal for 2016, the committee quickly picked holes in the document, which they dismissed as faulty.

The director general had told the committee that his Institute was a tertiary institution but was “erroneously” classified under Basic Education.

He said in view of this

classification, it has been sidelined from accessing the Tertiary Education Fund, TETFUND. Irked by his presentation, the committee queried why he appeared in the first place, knowing that the Institute was not supposed to be under the committee.

Although there was call to grant him the opportunity to explain, it was rejected on the ground that the statement in the document was superior to any other explanations.

The committee said it was only appropriate for the Institute to propose an amendment to its Act, if it were uncomfortable with its placement and not to ridicule what was lawfully done by calling it erroneous.

In view of other discrepancies noticed in the document, the committee said it could not further entertain the presentation, as it hastily adjourned and abandoned the director general and his team in the hall.

L-R: Chairman, Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu; German Consul General, Herbert Ingo and President of the Federal Republic of Germany, Joachim Gauck, at a business lunch with representatives of German and Nigerian businessmen, in Lagos.

Oshiomhole, labour, oppose naira devaluation CONTINUED FROM Page 2

cially devalued at the Cable Colloquium with the theme “The Naira on Trial: To Devalue or Not?” held in Lagos, Governor Oshiomhole, in his keynote address took a historical analysis of Nigeria’s exchange rate regimes over the decades, noting that available statistics showed clearly that devaluation had never benefited the nation’s economy.

The governor therefore urged the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, to continue with its current foreign exchange policy thrusts since when assessed against other options, they remain the most feasible to adopt to stimulate growth in the economy and achieve macroeconomic stability and socio-economic benefits for workers and other stakeholders.

According to him, past experiences on the foreign exchange market indicated

that speculators and other non-economic agents had been taking advantage of the liberalised forex regime to feather their nests to the detriment of patriotic Nigerians, an ugly development which, he said, should not be allowed to continue.

In his remarks, the NLC leader also spoke against naira devaluation since such a monetary policy measure may not necessarily translate to national economic advantage.

He said there was need for all stakeholders to work and transform Nigeria into net exporter of goods and services rather than being a net-importer of foreign products.

Aremu argued that over the years, devaluation had not in any way translated to economic gains of workers and that if the naira is further devalued, then it would hurt workers as

their purchasing power would be negatively impacted if there is no corresponding increase in their wages.

An economic analyst and Chief Executive Officer, Financial Derivatives Limited, Mr. Bismark Rewane, pointed out that the issue of whether or not the currency should be devalued should not bother Nigerians since they are primarily determined by economic factors.

Rather, he said, what should concern Nigerians and which should be the focus of the fiscal and monetary authorities is having a national foreign exchange policy.

He said devaluation was not as non-political as people are making it seem, adding that one of the major challenges of the Nigerian foreign exchange market is that it had been abused with many getting

forex for the purposes of round-tripping without adding any value to the economy.

He specifically canvassed the need for CBN and the fiscal authorities to come up with a foreign exchange policy as a strategic option of achieving naira exchange stability.

In his comments, Director, CBN Monetary Policy Department, Mr. Moses Tule, defended the policy stance of the apex bank with illustrative statistical figures, saying that contrary to the erroneous believe of some analysts that the economy thrives on parallel market supply of foreign currencies, genuine manufacturers and other productive agents still source their forex from the official windows.

He therefore maintained that CBN would continue to pursue monetary policy drives that will impact pos-

itively on the economy in terms of productive capacities of companies, job creation and macroeconomic stability.

Representative of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, while acknowledging that the OPS group and monetary authorities had been engaging in discussions on how best to mitigate the impact of some of the measures by CBN on the real sector, insisted that the ban place on importation of 41 excluded items from official forex window should still be reviewed.

In his opening comments, Mr. Simon Kolawole, the founder and CEO of Cable Newspaper Ltd and organisers of the colloquium said it intended “to offer Nigerians a better understanding of the challenges facing the country and allow a decent debate on the way forward.”

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Friday, February 12, 2016

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Friday, February 12, 2016

L-R: Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Adewale Sotobi; Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu; Permannent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Waterfront and Infrastructure Development, Nurudeen Salami; Commissioner for Waterfront and Infrastructure, Mr Adewale Akinsanya and Chairman, Lagos House Committee on Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Mr Gbolahan Ishau, at a Stakeholders Forum on Water, in Lagos, yesterday.

Chairman, HS Media Group Taye Ige (left) with some Sports Editors during a tour of the Group’s headquarters in Lagos yesterday.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Representative of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Akinyemi Bolaji (right), presenting an Award to Nigeria’s former High Commissioner to the Gambia, Amb. Esther Audu, in recognition of building a robust bilateral relations between Nigeria and Gambia, during the first edition of Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN)’s Diplomatic Awards Night in Abuja on Wednesday, with them is the envoy’s spouse, Mr John Audu.

L-R; Director, Monetary Policy Department, Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN), Moses Tule; CEO, The Cable, Simon Kolawole; Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole; Deputy National President,Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Issa Aremu; Director, Research and Advocacy, Lagos Chamber of commerce and Industry, Vincent Nwani and Founder/Publisher BusinessDay Newspaper Frank Aigbogun, during the Cable Colloquium in Lagos, yesterday.

National News

Buhari resumes from vacation, writes NASS

•says B’Haram not holding any part of Nigeria Rotimi Fadeyi Abuja

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resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday resumed work at the Presidential Villa after a sixday vacation.

A statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, said in compliance with Section 145 (1) of the constitution, Buhari has sent a formal notice of his resumption to the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Buhari arrived in the country on Wednesday night from London where he had been on vacation since last Friday.

He was received on arrival by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who acted as President during the period he was on vacation.

Adesina had last Fri-

day in a three-paragraph statement announced that Buhari was proceeding on vacation.

The statement said during Buhari’s vacation Osinbajo would perform the functions of the President.

It would be recalled that shortly before his vacation, Buhari had embarked on a trip to France and Britain.

While in Strasbourg, France, Buhari addressed a special session of the European Union Parliament, which was attended by members of the executive and legislative arms of the union.

The address focused on terrorism, violent extremism, corruption, Nigeria and Africa’s current security, economic and developmental challenges as well as the need for greater support from the European Union and advanced nations for their rapid resolution. Bu-

hari later left France for London to join other world leaders at the Supporting Syria and The Region Conference, which opened last Thursday.

He used the opportunity of his participation in the conference co-hosted by Britain, Germany, Norway, Kuwait and the United Nations to continue his push for more global understanding, collaboration and support for Nigeria and other countries in the frontlines of the war against terrorism, who are striving to overcome its very adverse effects on affected populations.

Meanwhile, President Buhari yesterday restated that the Boko Haram sect was not holding any local government area in the country.

He spoke while hosting German President, Joachim Gauck, at the Pres-

idential Villa.

The President’s assertion came following a claim

by Senator Baba Kaka Gabai, representing Borno Central that the Boko Haram sect is still holding half of Borno State.

While speaking yesterday, Buhari said the Boko Haram sect which was in control of 14 out of the 774 local governments in the country when he took over power in May last year have been degraded by the military.

“I have attempted to explain in so many fora that Boko Haram is not what it used to be. While they are firmly holding 14 out of 774 local governments when we came in, they are not holding any local government now.

“What they have resorted to is using improvised explosive devices to cause maximum casualties on soft targets as they did yesterday, doing what they are

capable of doing now.

“But for them to organise conventional attacks on military, police installations and take hold towns, I think they are not able to do that.

They send groups to go and kill vulnerable targets,” Buhari said.

According to him, his administration has redoubled efforts to make sure that the people in Internally Displaced Camps, IDCs, especially children are rehabilitated.

He explained that more than 60 per cent of the two million people in IDPs are women and children while more than 60 per cent of them are children and more than 60 per cent of the children are orphaned.

“Some of them don’t know where they are from; they don’t know their parents. This is a pathetic situation the leadership of this government is facing because the least we should do is to quickly resettle those

children, and if possible try and identify their neighborhoods,” the President said.

Buhari commended the German government for its assistance and support to ensure the success of the last election in the country.

Speaking through an interpreter, the German President condoled with Nigeria for the recent terror attacks in the country.

While commending Buhari for his approach in the fight again Boko Haram, he pledged more support of his country towards defeating the terrorists.

Gauck announced that the European Union countries would support African nations’ Multinational Task Force with $50 million in the effort to defeat the terrorists.

He called for renewal of trust and upholding the rule of law in the country, saying that Nigeria is playing an important role in the African continent.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Friday, February 12, 2016

Lassa fever spreads to 20 states, kills 108 –FG Marcus Fatunmole, Abuja

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assa fever has spread to 20 states and killed 108 people, the Federal Government confirmed yesterday.

Deadlier outbreak of the disease is possible as weather becomes hotter in coming weeks in most part of the country, the government said.

Government has also alerted that Zika virus, currently spreading across Latin American and the Caribbean could hit Nigeria, if necessary measures are not taken by people and all tiers of government.

Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, made the disclosures in Abuja, while briefing journalists on the state of both ailments.

He noted that resurgence of Zika virus, which was first discovered in the western part of the country in 1954, is possible because of presence of mosquito that transmits the disease in the country.

Statistics given by the minister showed that almost two out of three persons who have been infected by Lassa fever in the country had died.

“Nigeria has recorded 176 cases with 108 deaths given a case fatality rate of 61.4 per cent. Out of this, 78 are confirmed cases and 49 deaths given a specific case fatality rate of 62.8 per cent.

“The total cases reported (suspected, probable and confirmed): 176; Total deaths (suspected, probable and confirmed): 108 (CFR: 61.4 per cent).

Total confirmed cases: 78; Deaths in confirmed cases: 49 (CFR: 62.8 per cent).

“As at today, 20 states are currently following up contacts, or have suspected or probable cases with laboratory results pending or laboratory confirmed cases,” the minister said.

He added: “The outbreak is under control as evidenced by decline in new suspected cases; new laboratory confirmed cases and newly reported cases.

“Despite this achievement however, you will agree with me that it will be dangerous if we go

complacent at this stage, as we could record another flare-up and a second wave deep in the dry season.

“I have instructed the NCDC to work closely with the Lassa Fever Eradication Committee and other partners to develop a Lassa Fever Control strategy that will withstand the test of time.”

Adewole reiterated his earlier advice that Nigerians should exercise caution in travelling to Latin American countries and the Caribbean; even though the disease has been reported in United Kingdom, China and United States, including Brazil and Columbia – two countries the minister said had been the most affected with an estimated cases ranging between 600,000 and 1,700,000.

The minister argued that until the time of the briefing, in Africa and Nigeria, Zika virus was not causing any serious illness; and those so far infected individually recovered fully with no serious complications.

Forty percent of adults and 25 percent of Nigerian children have had antibodies to the virus, according to the minister.

He noted that the dimension which the disease was taking in 44 countries already affected called for serious preparedness against it.

He listed the efforts to include collective killing of mosquitoes, preventing them from breeding, including sleeping inside mosquito nets at night and preventing them from gaining entry into homes and offices.

He directed all states in the country to immediately embark on health education campaigns to empower communities take actions to protect themselves from the virus as well as other mosquitoborne diseases.

Zika virus is associated with a steep increase in the birth of babies with abnormally small heads, named scientifically as Microcephalia.

It is also associated with increase in cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a poorly understood condition in which the immune system at-

tacks the nervous system, sometimes resulting in paralysis. The clinical presentation of Zika is similar to many other tropical diseases such as malaria, typhoid fever common cold or another mosquitoborne disease.

This usually makes its

diagnosis often difficult.

There is as of now, no known specific treatment for Zika virus disease, the minister said.

“Zika virus belongs to the flavivirus group of viruses to which Yellow fever and Dengue viruses also belong. It was first

discovered in Zika forest in Uganda in the year 1947.

“It is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of infected mosquitoes of Aedes species among which are Aedes aegypti, Aedes Luteocephalus and A. albopictus.

“These are the same

mosquitoes that spread yellow fever, dengue and chikungunya fevers.

“These mosquitoes exist in Nigeria and with the exception of Aedes albopictus, have been found to be transmitting yellow fever and dengue viruses,” Adewole added.

L-R: Senator Grace Folashade Bent; Chairman, Governing Council, Jewel of Africa, Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora and Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, during a courtesy visit to the Vice President at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: STATE HOUSE

Reduction in diplomatic missions affecting Nigeria –Minister George Opara, Abuja

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inister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Geoffrey Onyeama said the reduction of Nigerian diplomatic mission by President Muhammadu Buhari had affected the country’s foreign policy goals and objectives.

In a recent circular issued by its Permanent Secretary Ambassador Bulus Lolo, the Foreign Affairs Ministry announced the reduction in the country’s foreign mission from 290 to 219, a major policy decision taken by the President.

But the minister, while defending the performance of the 2015 budget and 2016 proposal of his ministry to the House of

Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs said the reduction had affected the foreign policy goals of Nigeria.

He told the committee that the presidential directive did send a wrong signal to the international community over Nigeria’s quest to secure a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council.

The minister also said the smooth conduct of last year’s general elections engendered a lot of goodwill to the country, adding that this goodwill enabled President Buhari to garner support during some of his official visits abroad.

He further said the ministry has a tripod operational structure: its headquarters, five agen-

cies and the 219 foreign missions, adding that a lot of countries look up to Nigeria as role model in the comity of nations.

Onyeama, while rolling out figures on the performance of the ministry’s 2015 budget, explained that a lot of funds go as rent for Nigerian diplomats abroad.

He said that the ministry received N48bn in 2015, which covered capital, overhead and personnel expenditure of its tripod structure, adding that the budget is sensitive to exchange rate fluctuations.

He said the ministry budgeted N50bn in 2016.

According to him, N24bn is for personnel cost, N16bn for overhead and N8bn for capital expenditure an amount slightly

above the 2015 budget of the ministry.

But the committee queried the pattern of the funding of the foreign missions by the ministry and the N751m extrabudgetary expenditure discovered in the 2015 budget.

Chairperson of the Committee, Nnenna Elendu Ukeje, expressed concern that such huge figure was not accounted for and insisted that the ministry must be more meticulous in its spending.

Another member of the committee, Mark Gbillah, said the ministry failed to include its mission in Washington DC USA in the 2016 budget and asked its officials to avoid such omissions in preparation of its budget.

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Friday, February 12, 2016

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Japan grants Nigeria $11m for electricity upgrade Chidi Ugwu Abuja

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overnment of Japan has extended the aid of JPY 1.317 billion (about $11 million) to the Federal Government of Nigeria for emergency improvement of electricity supply facilities in Abuja.

At yesterday’s grantsigning ceremony at the headquarters of the Ministry of Budget and National Planning, Abuja, Japan’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Sadanobu Kusaoke, said the project was targeted at assisting Nigeria’s economic development by helping to attract more investments by improving the power sector.

Kusaoke explained that the grant was to be used in the upgrade of two substations in the Federal Capital Territory and Nasarawa State.

“We aim to prevent voltage drop, reduce power loss and stabilise power supply to approximately 7,000 households in Abuja. The project will make Abuja more attractive for investors as well as residents,” the ambassador said.

He stated further, “Power sector has long been one of the priority areas in Japan’s development cooperation in Nigeria. As early as the 1970’s, Japan helped finance the strengthening

of the capacity of Kainji Hydro Power station.

“Japan also partnered Nigeria to electrify rural areas mainly in the North.

In future, more ambitious power sector projects will follow.”

The Japanese Ambassador further disclosed that at the Fifth Tokyo International conference on African Development, TICAD V, in 2013, the Japanese government declared its commitment to promoting inclusive growth in Africa through support to the power sector, adding that the current $11 million power project embodies the spirit of that 2013 declaration.

Responding, Minister of Budget and National Planning Senator, Udo Udoma, while appreciating the Japanese government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency, JICA, for the grant, reiterated the federal government’s readiness to ensure effective management and sustainability of the project through the power ministry.

Revealing more details about the project, Udoma stated: “The project aims to install capacitor banks in Apo and Keffi substations in FCT and Nassarawa State respectively, adding that “it will contribute to stable power supply, decrease transmission loss and improve system reliability.”

L-R: Minister of Defence, retired Brig.-Gen. Mansur Muhammad Dan-Ali; Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Nikolay Udovichenko and Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari, at the inauguration of the new Russian Embassy Complex in Abuja, yesterday.

FG uncovers another 23,000 ghost workers George Oji Abuja

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inister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, yesterday said the Federal Government uncovered another batch of 23,000 ghost workers on its payroll.

The discovery, according to the minister, was made through the Integrated Payment and Personnel Information System, IPPIS, and Bank Verification Number, BVN. The minister, who appeared before the Finance

committee of the Senate to defend the 2016 budget appropriation of her ministry, threatened to punish banks found to have illegally increased wage bill by conniving with ghost workers to open salary accounts for them.

She said government would not only recover all it lost to the scam, but would also hand over the ghost workers to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for prosecution.

The minister said whereas only 295,000 civil servants were captured through IPPIS in

NAF redeploys 22 AVMs, 44 other officers Ubong Ukpong Abuja

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igerian Air Force, NAF, yesterday announced the redeployment of 66 of its officers, including 22 Air Vice Marshals, AVMs. A statement through Director of Public Relations and Information, DOPRI, Group Capt. Ayodele Famuyiwa, disclosed that 34 Air Commodores, seven Group Captains, and three Wing Commanders were among those redeployed.

He said those affected by the new deployment include two branch chiefs, two Air Officers Commanding, AOCs, and one commandant.

Famuyiwa said the newly appointed branch

chiefs are AVM Adebola Jekennu, formerly Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) at the Tactical Air Command, Makurdi, now Chief of Administration (COA) at Headquarters of Nigeria Air Force (HQ, NAF); and Air Cdre Clement Ogbeche, who is now Chief of Accounts and Budget, HQ, NAF. The new AOCs, he said, are AVMs Emmanuel Akogu and Emmanuel Agwungwu, who now head Mobility Command, Yenagoa, and Tactical Air Command, Makurdi, respectively.

Until his appointment, AVM Akogu was Director of Evaluation at HQ, NAF, while AVM Agwungwu was Director of Training, HQ, NAF. Similarly, DOPRI said

AVM Christopher Gudi, former Director of Air Traffic Services at HQ NAF now replaces AVM Mike Iloenyosi as Commandant, Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, Oshodi.

“Furthermore, AVM Lawal Alao has been moved from Defence Headquarters, where he was Chief of Defence Communication, to head the Nigerian Air Force Holding Company (NAFHC) as Group Managing Director.

“Others affected by the new deployment include AVM Isiaka Amao, formerly Deputy Theatre Commander of ‘Operation Lafiya Dole’ and now Director of Policy at HQ NAF; former Commander Nigerian Air Defence Corps (NADC), AVM Bernard Chiobi now

the Chairman Air Expo & International Liaison Secretariat; AVM Bashir Saidu, former Director of Policy at HQ NAF now moved to DHQ as Chief of Policy and Plans; AVM Muktar Magaji now redeployed as Chief of Defence Communication at DHQ. Furthermore, AVM Emmanuel Anebi has been moved from Training Command to DHQ as Director of Production while AVM Ibrahim Umaru moves to DHQ as the Director of Space Operations. Likewise, AVM Charles Otegbade, formerly the Director of Search and Rescue at the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) moves to HQ NAF as the Director of Air Traffic Services.

five years, the application of BVN to the system had captured as many as 320,000 workers in just three months.

According to her, the continuous discovery of ghost workers in the civil service would save the nation huge sums of money, even as she assured that

by June this year, all ghost workers would have been wiped out and every worker made IPPIS compliant.

“The IPPIS programme funded by World Bank started about five years ago and what it required was for every officer to come physically for biometric data capture. Over the five years, unfortunately, we had only been able to capture about 295,000 federal civil servants which represent less than 20 per cent of the total personnel on the federal payroll. We realised that if we can get more people on IPPIS, our salary costs will come down and so, we needed to get more people on IPPIS. “So, I looked critically at it with the Director of IPPIS and we decided to change the strategy.

Rather than getting the person to come physically which has always been the problem, we will take the payroll that we have and the bank account of everybody who is being paid. So, from that bank account, we will get the BVN; from the BVN, we can get the biometric data

so that had considerably accelerated the process of getting people unto IPPIS. “I can tell you that within the last two months that we have been on this programme, we have been able to enroll 320,000 onto IPPIS using BVN, compared to 295,000 in five years. We are very confident with our programme that we will now be able to get every federally paid civil servant onto IPPIS by June. We are aggressively chasing after June,” she said.

Adeosun stated that the combination of BVN with IPPIS had brought about mind boggling revelations including the multiple appearances of some persons on federal government’s payroll.

She threatened that anyone discovered by the applications would immediately have his or name expunged from the payroll and investigation into his personal details taking off immediately. While promising that all the sums paid to the person so far would be recovered, she added that investigation of suspects would be concluded within 30 days.

The initiative was commended by the committee chairman who also advised the minister to ensure that the ministry does not only recover the money but to as well ensure that culprits are handed to anti-graft agencies for punishment.

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Friday, February 12, 2016

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Budget 2016: Don’t change our plan, Fashola appeals to Senate

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L-R: Chief Representative, Japan Cooperation Agency (JICA) Mr Nakamura Hirotaka; Ambassador of Japan to Nigeria, Mr. Sadanobu Kusaoke; Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Lious Olaniyi and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Mede Fatimoh, during the signing ceremony of the Project for Emergency Improvements of Electricity Supply Facilities in FCT and Nasarawa in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

Germany signals interest in Nigeria’s Liquefied Natural Gas Chidi Ugwu Abuja

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igeria’s quest to expand its Liquefied Natural Gas, LNG, market to Europe received a major boost yesterday as a visiting German trade delegation indicated interest in the country’s gas supply.

According to a statement

by Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Ohi Alegbe, Germany’s Vice Minister for Economic Affairs & Energy and Member of the German Parliament, Mr. Uwe Beckmeyer, said his country was seeking development of business relationship to accelerate the supply of LNG, especially for her ship building industry.

Beckmeyer gave the hint when he led a contingent of German business concerns on a visit to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu,

at the NNPC Towers.

According to Beckmeyer, Nigeria’s LNG would come in handy as the country and other European industrial powers seek to cut down drastically on carbon dioxide (Co2) emissions arising from heavy industrial operations since gas is far friendlier to the environment.

“We have a lot of interest in LNG and I think this is one special thing we should develop in the next few years. I think there is increasing demand in Europe, especially as we seek to reduce emissions. It is useful for both sides to develop this special business relationship,” the German Vice-Minister stated.

Welcoming the delegation, Dr. Kachikwu said the oil and gas industry was ready to embrace the interest for improved business relationship expressed by the German trade delegation, noting that the Federal

Government is working assiduously with other relevant stakeholders to ensure activation of LNG Trains 7, which would help accommodate potential off-takers from new markets.

Meanwhile state governors under the aegis of the Nigerian Governors Forum have expressed satisfaction with the performance of the minister.

Speaking on behalf of the forum, Zamfara State Governor and Chairman of NGF, Mallam Abdulaziz Yari, who led a team of governors to NNPC Towers yesterday, expressed confidence in the ability of Dr. Kachikwu to lead NNPC and the oil and gas industry to the desired levels.

Expressing delight in the ongoing reforms in the NNPC, Mallam Yari stated that the visit of the governors was indicative of the level of confidence NGF has in Dr. Kachikwu.

“What we are seeing is not NNPC of yesterday, you can see for yourself the change we are talking about. In the last eight years you have not seen a group of governors coming to NNPC to find out what is going on as critical stakeholders. So you can see the change we are talking about,’’ he said.

On the ongoing plans by the Corporation to build new mega fuel stations in every senatorial district across the country, the NGF chairman pledged the readiness of members to support the retail expansion drive in their respective states.

“We are happy with his performance, in fact when he made a presentation to the forum earlier, we told him we are going to support him as a forum and also take him to Mr. President to campaign for him to be given any support he needs to succeed,” he said.

Duke, others decry cancer deaths in women

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he Chairman, Child Survival and Development Organisation of Nigeria, Mrs. Onari Duke, has decried the number of Nigerian women and children dying of cancer.

Duke, who spoke at a dinner organised by CS-DON, as part of activities to mark the World Cancer Day in Lagos, urged stakeholders to take col-

lective responsibility towards creating awareness and providing support for cancer patients.

She called on the Federal Government to invest more in its cancer screening and intervention programmes, saying that many Nigerian patients were too poor to pay for their treatment.

According to Duke, the

foundation has provided free cervical screening and cryotherapy treatment for cancer patients in Lagos and Calabar.

In his address, a Professor of Radiology Therapy and Oncology at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, Francis DurosimiEtti, condemned the state of cancer care facilities in the nation’s public hospitals.

According to DurosimiEtti, the personnel and equipment needed to adequately treat and diagnose patients are lacking in many of the hospitals.

He also urged medics to endeavour to specialise in oncology in order to address the shortage of specialists in the field.

inister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, has appealed to the National Assembly to ensure the focus and plan of the ministry be retained in order to achieve the much desired change and positive objectives of its budget.

Fashola stated this on Wednesday when he led management team of his Ministry at the 2016 budget defence session of the Senate Committee on Works.

The minister in his presentation of the main thrust of the Medium Term Sector Strategy 2016 – 2018 budget proposals of his ministry, explained that the objective was to ensure that ongoing projects in the six geopolitical zones of the country were completed within the shortest possible time as distinct from the past, where inadequate budgetary provision was spread thin over so many projects without much being completed.

According to Fashola, economic roads that would ensure connectivity between hubs of commerce and generate employment; roads bearing the heaviest traffic and those nearing completion are being given priority over the next three budget cycles.

He urged the senate to trust him and the ministry to deliver the desired objectives by not changing the proposed plans.

From the proposals, the first priority projects envisaged for

the 2016 budget are those on arterial highways and major river crossings, which carry high volume of traffic and are critical to the economic well-being of the country with a total length of 2,192.76 km, distributed across the various zones.

“Some members of the committee, have of course, pointed out that they wanted to see a plan. There is a plan before you and it is a plan that l appeal that you should kindly look at in more detail.

“It is perhaps different from what has been done before, and if we have done this budget method where we put X Naira in the budget and every constituency takes a part of it in that budget year and it doesn’t lead us to the conclusion of a project, I think the time has come to try something new,” he said.

Continuing, the minister explained the essence of the new approach thus: “I am proposing something new, but we are not inflexible about what we are proposing and as l have said in my previous meetings with the chairman and the vice chairman, give us a chance, to change the way things have been done, then hold us responsible to the plan that we mutually agree with.

“But as parliament, when it comes to budgetary appropriation matters, clearly you have the yam and you have the knives and you can choose to cut as you wish.

FG to use private sector fund for turnaround maintenance of refineries –Kachikwu

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inister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Ibe Kachikwu, has said the turnaround maintenance of the nation’s refineries will be done with finances generated from the private sector.

Kachikwu made the information known while fielding questions from newsmen in Abuja yesterday.

“We are planning to begin to do well-targeted repairs and turnaround maintenance of some of the refineries.

“Ultimately, we are trying to do it with private capital because we have to begin to steer a lot in the oil sector away from so much government participation and control.

“We are using private capital to repair it and they will help us to manage it,’’ he said.

According to him, when

the refineries start working efficiently, the president will decide if it will go on full privatisation.

He said at the interim, shipment of barrels of crude into the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries had begun, adding that this would keep the refineries going until their full take-off in one week.

He noted that the Port Harcourt and Kaduna refineries were producing before the explosion occurred.

“We have problem, like you know, we had bomb blast in the pipeline, Escravos to Warri, which is the primary source.

“I think what they are doing right now is flushing water and we are expecting that in a week, probably, we have the crude pipe back and we begin to test the crude,” he said.

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Checkpoints not effective in crime control –IGP WOLE ADEDEJI ILORIN

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nspector General of Police, Solomon Arase, has again come down on the mounting of road checkpoints by his men and officers across the country, saying it is not an effective crime prevention strategy.

Speaking with officers and men of Kwara State police command during an official visit to the command headquarters in Ilorin yesterday, the IGP warned that the practice must stop.

He directed Commissioners of Police, Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to intensify efforts at regular supervision and monitoring of the checkpoints with a view to arresting officers caught mounting road checkpoints.

Meanwhile, the police chief disclosed that a total number of 37,000 men and officers had been promoted this year, while another list of those due for promotion had been forwarded to the Police Service Commission, PSC, for action.

Arase lamented that of late his monitoring team had arrested guilty officers on daily basis, adding that officers so caught in the act would soon be

discouraged when regular and effective monitoring is in place.

H,e however, said that road checkpoints could be unavoidable in some cases, pointing out that police could mount them to detect and arrest car thieves in certain locations during reported snatching of vehicles.

The police boss also promised that he would soon embark on regular meetings with stakeholders in a town-hall format, as a means of crime prevention and control.

Also, Kwara Police Commissioner, Sam Okaula, said the state command was in urgent need of six Armoured Personnel Carrier, adding that the command could not boast of one at present.

The commissioner, who requested the supply of adequate riot equipment like tear-gas canisters, said the command had always been faced with the problems of inadequate serviceable patrol vehicles, arms and ammunition.

Okaula also said there is manpower shortfall in the state command, adding that with strength of 4,467 of the needed 7,560, there was a deficit of 3,093.

He stressed that the shortfall was mostly within the rank and file cadre.

Man nabbed for blackmailing pastors in Ondo OJO OYEWAMIDE AKURE

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ndo State police command has arrested one Festus Balogun, 44, who specialises in blackmailing prominent pastors and other men of God. Balogun was reportedly arrested on January 28, alongside other suspects.

Police Commissioner Mike Ogbodu, who revealed this at a press briefing yesterday, noted that the suspect had been on police watch-list for some time.

He said Balogun released a video compact disc in which he accused 12 pastors of involvement in ritual killings and other fetish acts.

“The suspect alleged in the video that Pastor Samson Oluwamodede of Prayer Centre Church of

God, Idanre Road, Akure, and Pastor Samuel Kayode Abiara, General Evangelist of Christ Apostolic Church Worldwide, and 10 others engaged him to kill for them to gain spiritual power,” the police boss said.

He, however, stated that the suspect later denied all the claims made in the video clip during the course of investigation.

According to him, Balogun confessed that he was pushed into the crime for pecuniary purposes.

Speaking with journalists, Balogun confessed to the crime, saying he was convicted for cultism and imprisoned in Kirikiri Maximum Prisons in the past.

The suspect, who said he had never been in contact with any of the men of God indicted in the video, added that he had never killed in his life.

L-R: Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Michael Adeyemo; Governor Abiola Ajimobi and eldest son of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Prof. Femi Lana, at the lying-in-state of the monarch, organised by the state government at the Parliament Building, Ibadan, yesterday.

Ajimobi, Adeyemi, others eulogise Olubadan KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

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yo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, yesterday extolled the virtues of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Samuel Odulana, Odugade I, describing him as a quintessential patriot and nationalist, who changed the history of the city through his numerous contributions.

Ajimobi in his funeral oration delivered at the lying-in-state of the monarch at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan, said the monarch served meritoriously and with dignity in all the positions he was privileged to attain in his lifetime.

The lying-in-state was part of week-long activities organised by the state government in conjunction with the family and other stakeholders to cel-

ebrate Odulana, the 40th Olubadan of Ibadanland, who joined his ancestors on January 19 at the age of 101 years.

Apart from children of the royal father, also on hand to bid him farewell was Speaker, Oyo House of Assembly, Michael Adeyemo, and other colleagues in the House.

At the event also were members of the Olubadan-in-Council, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, CCII, Ibadan elders, representatives of the political class and prominent indigenes of Ibadan.

The governor described the life of the respected monarch as one of discipline and commitment, stressing that his reign as Olubadan was untainted, noble, eventful and peaceful.

The governor recalled

Oba Odulana’s sojourn in the military during the Second World War at the end of which he was decorated with the Exemplary Character Award of the Fourth Brigade.

He noted how the late royal father’s service in the Inspectorate Division of the colonial Ministry of Education led to the establishment of several schools and colleges in the old Western Region and the provision of scholarships to indigent and brilliant students throughout the region.

He added that Oba Odulana’s active participation in the politics of the time and his undying love for Ibadan was instrumental to the creation of the 14 local governments that now make up the Ibadan-Ibarapa division of the state.

The governor also

recalled how Kabiyesi supported his administration’s urban renewal programme as well as its efforts at improving on the beautification of Ibadan in particular and Oyo State in general.

Ajimobi described the deceased as a great pathfinder, a shining example of good and great leadership in military service, politics, public service and education, adding, “He has proven to be an influential beacon, a strong lighthouse to his country, his city and his subjects.”

Former Secretary to the State Government, who also served as the chairman of the burial committee, Ismael Olalekan Alli, also lauded the contributions of the late monarch to the development of Oyo State as a whole and Ibadan city in particular.

We’ll introduce technology at borders –Danbazau FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

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pparently worried by the influx of illegal immigrants coupled with the attendant proliferation of small arms, the Federal Government yesterday declared that it was working towards ensuring that all Nigerian borders were manned with electronic devices.

Minister of Interior, Lt. Gen. Abdul-Rahman Bello Danbazau (retd), disclosed this yesterday while speaking with journalists during a tour of

the facilities put in place by all security agencies in Ogun State towards ensuring safety and security of the country.

Danbazau explained that most of the internal security problems confronting Nigeria had always bordered on “accessibility and availability of weapons and drugs,” which he said were aided by the porosity of our borders.

The minister, who visited facilities at the Nigeria Prison Services, Immigration Service, as well as the Fire Service, among others, also as-

sured that the Federal Government was ready to relocate Ibara Prison in Abeokuta to a more spacious location to enable the inmates acquire skills that will make them independent after completing their respective terms of sentence.

Earlier in the day when the Minister paid a courtesy visit on the state governor, Ibikunle Amosun called for a better land border security.

Specifically mentioning the land borders transversing the three local government areas in Ipokia, Yewa North and

Imeko - Afon of the state, Amosun charged the minister to ensure that Ministry of Interior budgets more resources for the numerous borders in its 2016 Fiscal year.

The governor said Ogun deserves special attention because it has the highest number of land borders in Nigeria.

Amosun stressed that his administration was already doing its utmost in developing these border communities through provision of infrastructural facilities which included good road network.

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Friday, February 12, 2016

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Man jailed 7 years over counterfeit money WALE IGBINTADE

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Federal High Court in Lagos, yesterday, sentenced a fake currency counterfeiter, James Onwuso, to seven years’ imprisonment.

The convict, a resident of 29, Sosanya Street, Gbagada, Lagos, was charged before the court presided over by Justice Ibrahim Nasir Buba, by the Attorney-General of the Federation on a threecount charge bordering on false production of different denominations of the naira, forgery of bank notes and possession of different counterfeit denominations of the naira.

The prosecution, led

by Mrs. Kehinde BodeAyeni, had informed the court that the offences were punishable under sections 1(1), 2 and 5(1) of the Counterfeit Currency (Special Provisions) Act Cap. C35 laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

Bode-Ayeni also informed the court that during the arrest of the convict on November 15, 2011, he was found in possession of fake N1000, N50, and N200 notes.

She also informed the court that the convict unlawfully possessed machines, utensils and mate-

rials he used in forging the Nigerian currency.

The convict, who had no legal representation, was first arraigned before the court sometime in 2012.

During his trial, the prosecution had tendered an evidence of a warrant of arrest that was issued against him where he gave a confessional statement to superior officers, stating how he served in the Nigerian Army, and that upon retirement he had the printing machines, which he had been using to produce N200, N500 and N1000 notes; with the help of a supplier who brings printing papers to him.

The judge said with the evidence before the court, it was not difficult for him to arrive at the verdict as the prosecution had proved the case beyond reasonable doubts and accused was therefore convicted on all the charges.

Pronouncing his judgement, Justice Buba said: “In view of your plea and the facts before me, you are hereby sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment on count one and another seven years for counts one and two, to run concurrently, beginning from the time of arrest; the counterfeit notes and machines are to be forwarded to Central Bank of Nigeria for destruction.”

OAU students demand VC’s probe BOLADALE BAMIGBOLA OSOGBO

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group of Nigerian students under the aegis of Alliance of Nigerian Students Against Neo-Liberal Attacks, yesterday demanded the probe of Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Prof. ‘Tale Omole, over alleged financial mismanagement.

The students, who held a peaceful protest in Osogbo, Osun State capital, also demanded immediate reinstatement of some students suspended for seeking the welfare of their colleagues.

Speaking on behalf of others, Wole Olubanji, who led the protest, said there is enough evidence to back allegations against the vice chancellor.

“We are calling on President Muhammadu Buhari,

the National Assembly, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Offences Commission and the Code of Conduct Bureau to probe Prof. Bamitale Omole’s administration.

“Prof. Omole’s administration has earned over N30 billion from subventions, more than N1.5 billion from school fees, billions of naira from core-degree programmes besides funds received from special agencies such as the World Bank, TETFUND, etc., and money from internal sources, including donations from corporate bodies,” Olubanji said.

Reacting, Public Relations Officer of the university, Mr. Abiodun Olanrewaju, cleared the vice chancellor of any wrongdoing, saying Prof. Omole runs an open system.

L-R: Controller General, Nigeria Immigration Service, Mr. Martins Abeshi; Minister of Interior, Lt. Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd.); Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode; Controller General, Federal Prisons, Dr. Peter Ekpendu; Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Seye Oladejo and State Attorney General, Mr. Adeniji Kazeem, during a courtesy visit to the governor at the Lagos House, Ikeja, on Wednesday.

Alumni condemn ABUAD protest, correct misrepresentations ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

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lumni Association of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, ABUAD, has condemned the violent protest by some students of the institution on Sunday night, where valuables belonging to the school and some individuals were destroyed.

ABUAD Alunmi Association President, Miss Tope Sobajo, who debunked allegations making the rounds about the cause of the violence, said the crisis, which

started mid-way into the first semester examinations “was carried out by students with very poor grades, ranging from 1.0 to 1.5 CGPA, who ordinarily should no longer be in the university. Many of them have many carryovers.”

Sobajo told journalists at ABUAD yesterday that such students, who ought to have been shown the way out but for the magnanimity of ABUAD, which is determined to make great men and women out of its students through encouraging and spurring them

on to improve on their grades, appeared to have repaid the university in bad coins.

An Ado Ekiti Chief Magistrate’s Court will today begin further hearing in the case of the students suspected to be behind the protest. The 19 students remanded at Ado Ekiti Prisons have been charged with alleged involvement in violent protest and arson in the institution.

Sobajo said, “We, the alumni association, condemn in very strong terms the act of burglary, stealing, deliberate and

willful damage to the university’s property as well as attempts to kill with a knife and inflicting bodily injuries on policemen and other security agents in the course of their lawful duties.

“We equally condemn in strong terms the breaking into the vice chancellor’s office, cafeteria and many other offices as well as the boutique and souvenir shop where the rampaging students carted away valuables worth millions of naira, some of which were later found in their possession.”

Ekiti monarch sends SOS to FG …Govt denies allegations

ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

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rotest erupted in parts of Ikere Ekiti community in Ekiti State on Wednesday night and early hours of yesterday over the destruction of billboard of a traditional ruler, the Olukere of Ikere Ekiti, Oba Ganiyu Obasoyin.

Oba Obasoyin, who said the billboard in the heart of the town, was personally destroyed by the governor on Wednesday evening, appealed to the Federal Government and other wellmeaning Nigerians to save him and the community from the governor.

Obasoyin said during a press conference in Ado Ekiti yesterday where he

displayed photographs of the governor during the act, “My life is not safe. I told the world three weeks ago that the governor wanted to push Ikere into war. If the governor, who came in a convoy with mobile policemen, could personally destroy my billboard, what would have happened if I were there at the time?

“The governor should be prevailed upon to leave Ikere Ekiti alone. He is bent on setting the town on fire for personal reasons.

The governor intentionally wants to burn down Ikere Ekiti. But I will not allow that in my time.

“My people are warriors. Nobody can take away our land from us.

The governor cannot take

it. The Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu, cannot take it. We will protect our land,” the monarch said.

But chief press secretary to the governor, Mr. Idowu Adelusi, who said the governor did not destroy the Olukere’s billboard, added: “The Olukere is only ventilating his anger when he alleged that the governor destroyed or sent people to destroy his posters. The allegation is unfounded.

“Fayose is not from Ikere-Ekiti. He is not interested in who rules Ikere. How can he nurse animosity against the Olukere? That this administration gave recognition to the Ogoga, the governor was simply following the law, particularly on the Ikere issue.

“None of the past administrations gave recognition

to Olukere to rule over Ikereland. Does Olukere expect the governor to do otherwise and cause crisis in the ancient town,” he queried.

It would be recalled that the Olukere and the Ogoga stools had been having running battles in the community over superiority.

While the state government recognises Ogoga as the only monarch in the town, Obasoyin, who traced the source of the Olukere stool to Ile Ife, said Ogoga was never a crown prince but a subject of the Olukere.

Obasoyin, who alleged that the Ogoga was instigating the crisis through the deputy governor, Dr. Kolapo Olusola, a native of the community, told the Ogoga to toe the line of peace.

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Abia NDLEA to deploy officers in hinterlands

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ommander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, in Abia State, Bamidele Akingbade, has announced plans to send narcotic officers to local governments to check drug prevalence in communities.

Akingbade yesterday told the News Agency

of Nigeria in Aba, Abia State, that the presence of NDLEA operatives in the areas would improve information gathering and boost plans against drug prevalence in the region.

He emphasised the need for the agency’s desk officers to work with local government personnel and communities to plan

activities aimed at reducing drug circulation in the state.

“We want to ensure we send narcotic officers to all the local governments just like the Immigration, DSS and others have representatives at the local governments.

“Once this is approved by the state government,

we intend to see that we have a desk in all the local governments where the narcotic officers can interface with the council chairmen and communities on the command’s anti-drug activities,’’ he said.

Akingbade said the agency was very concerned about enlightening the populace on the

dangers of hard drugs and checking young people to deter them from going into such vices.

“The people using these drugs are the leaders of tomorrow, the youths, and because the drugs affect the central nervous system, it tends to be very addictive because of the kind of immediate pleasure they get

from taking them.

“These drugs are mindaltering drugs that can change the behaviour of our wards. So we need to do more apart from arresting drug offenders and keeping them behind bars.

“We need to look at how to keep the public abreast of the dangers inherent in drug abuse,’’ he said.

Minister demands satisfactory job on Owerri-Elele road

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inister of Niger Delta Affairs, Usani Uguru Usani, has said he will not sign any certificate of payment in regard to the OwerriElele road construction until a satisfactory job was done.

Usani spoke yesterday in Owerri during a visit to the project’s site to assess work done by Arab Contractors, the firm handling the project.

Usani said certificates of payment would be signed only when projects meet the ministry’s job specification and quality as stipulated in the contractual agreement.

He therefore, urged the contractors to ensure that work done on the 35.75-km road was commensurate with the amount they collected.

According to him, 15-km of the dual carriageway had so far been completed.

He said each carriageway had 1.5 metres and 2.75 metres shoulders from Owerri to Omerelu, both in Imo State.

He explained that the pavement had total thickness of 500mm, consisting of 200mm lateritic

sub-base material, 200mm crushed stone base course, 60mm asphaltic concrete binder course and 40mm asphaltic concrete wearing course.

The minister said the road project involved earthwork and construction of underground water drainage within Owerri Township.

He said it would also include trapezoidal drains at specified sections within other built-up areas along the road, adding that the ministry had also constructed more than 23 culverts designed for the road.

While charging the contractor to maintain high quality work, the minister said he would get road technicians to evaluate the work done when he next inspects the road.

Meanwhile, site engineer of Arab Contractors, Mr Mohammed Eledarous, identified challenges hindering the smooth execution of the road project to include short dry season in the region and funding.

It would be recalled that the construction of Owerri-Elele road was awarded at the cost of N21.5 billion in 2009.

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Nigeria’s teledensity increases by 8.48% —NCC

igeria’s teledensity rose by 8.48 per cent within one year up to December 2015, according to a publication of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC. Teledensity, or level of telephone penetration, measures the percentage of a country’s population with access to telephone services, as determined by the active subscriber base.

It has a direct relationship with the number of mobile subscriptions on telecommunications networks and as it grows, so does the subscriber base and vice versa.

The NCC announced the increase in its Monthly Subscriber/Teledensity Data released in Lagos yesterday.

The document said the teledensity, which stood at 99.39 per cent at the end of December 2014, got to 107.87 per cent by end of December 2015, an increase of 8.48 per cent.

According to the publication, the country’s telephone penetration as of December 2014 has 139,143,610 active lines or phone numbers on the operators’ networks.

The data also showed

L-R: President-General, Nigeria Union of Railway Workers (NURW), Comrade Saidu Garba; President-General, African Railway Workers Union, Comrade Raphael Okoro, and Vice President of NURW, Comrade Orji Kalu, during NURW, Eastern District’s thanksgiving service in Enugu, yesterday

Court frees man after 9 years in prison

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n Enugu High Court, presided over by Justice Catherine Nwobodo, on Monday freed one Kingsley Udenu, who spent nine years in prison awaiting trial.

Udenu was freed for what the judge called discrepancies in witnesses’ testimonies.

The suspect was arraigned for armed robbery and illegal possession of firearms in September 2007 and remanded at Enugu Prisons.

that as at December 2015, active telephone users stood at 151,017,244, indicating an increase of 11,873,634 telecoms users during the period.

The data explains that teledensity is calculated based on the population estimate of 126 million up till December 2005, and from December 2006, it was based on a population estimate of 140 million.

It says that from December 2001 to December 2006, teledensity was based on connected subscribers.

However, it adds that teledensity from 2007 was based

The victims claimed the suspect and his gang robbed them of their phones, money, shirts, fez cap and other valuables, adding that it was when the suspect was arrested that a live cartridge fell from his pocket.

One of the victims in his testimony told the court that a gang of four men attacked them at 20B, Umunebo Street, Ogui, in Enugu around 2am, and robbed them of their belongings.

He also claimed that the

on active subscriptions on mobile networks.

The data shows that the teledensity which stood at 100.59 per cent as of January 2015, increased by 1.26 per cent to reach 101.85 per cent

by February 2015.

It moved from 101.85 to 102.81 per cent in March, as the figure increased by 0.96 per cent.

From the March figure, the teledensity moved by 1.10 per cent to 103.91 per cent as at the end of April 2015.

With an increase of 0.78 per cent, the country’s tele-

suspect was arrested in the morning and handed over to a traditional ruler, while the stolen items were recovered from him.

Another victim also said the suspect was among the three-man robbery gang that attacked him on the same day and carted away their belongings.

He alleged that the accused was traced to his house and arrested by the police.

The judge held that given

phone penetration moved from April’s 103.91 per cent to 104.69 per cent in May. It moved from 104.69 per cent as at the end of May to 106.27 per cent in June, hence, increasing by 1.58 per cent.

The figure rose from June’s 106.27 per cent to 107.67 per cent at the end of July, indicating an increase of 1.40 per cent.

It also shows that the teledensity increased from 107.67 per cent in July to 107.87 per cent in August, indicating an increase of 0.20

the conflicting evidence by the witnesses, one could not ascertain if the suspect was among the people that robbed the plaintiffs.

Justice Nwobodo therefore discharged the suspect for want of evidence.

Reacting to the judgment Udenu thanked God for seeing him through the traumatic experience.

He said he was preparing to go for his mandatory one year youth corps service when he was arrested.

per cent.

From the August figure, the teledensity moved downward to 107.61 per cent in September, showing a decrease of 0.26 per cent.

It likewise reduced by 0.04 per cent from September to 107.57 per cent in October.

From the October teledensity, it moved upward by 0.09 per cent to attain 107.66 per cent in November.

The teledensity also increased to 107.87 per cent in December, as it added 0.21 per cent to the November record.

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Thursday, February 12, 2016

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Okowa completes road projects in Delta North Amour Udemude, Asaba

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n its determination to keep to his prosperity for all Deltans’ promise, Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration has completed several road projects in Delta

North district of the state.

The completed roads, according to Commissioner for Works, Mr. James Augoye, include the 1.037km Ikokogbe Idumizormor Road, the 1.11km palace loop road, the 5.88km middle section of the Ali-

simie- Ozanogogo Road, the 9.4km dualisation of old Lagos-Asaba Road, the 1.25km Upper Imudia/Dr. White Street, the 1.209 metres Orikeze Street with spur to Orukeze Close and the 523 metres Idumu Ugbo Street to Alice Ohu-

magholem Close.

Mr. Augoye, who was on an inspection tour of field offices of the ministry and ongoing road projects in the state, yesterday, revealed that the present administration has so far completed four new roads,

namely: 0.6km Onyeacholem Street with spur to Onyeacholem Close and 0.805km Edwin Ikechukwu Road in Ika North East Local Government Area of the state.

At the project sites of roads in Oshimili North Local Government Area, the works commissioner frowned at the slow pace of work on the Okpanam Road dualisation project, saying he has scheduled a meeting with the contractor, Traxtrix Nigeria Limited, to discuss how to expedite work so as to complete it before the rainy season.

The commissioner also inspected roads in Oshimili South Local Govern-

ment Area where he told the contracting firm handling the 838 meters Usonia Street to ensure that the drains are properly constructed and channeled to curb the waterlog problem usually experienced by residents during rainy season.

Mr. Augoye commended the pace and quality of work of contractors handling the 1.710 meters Cable Road dualisation, the 120 meters access road to Christ Embassy church, the 420 meters Esenwa Street, and the 530 meters access road to the orthopedic and general surgical wards and doctors quarters of the Federal Medical Center, Asaba.

Police arrest man over alleged killing of his father

A A scene of an accident caused by a driver who allegedly beat the Traffic Light at Ekeki area in Yenagoa yesterday.

Edo Assembly passes N116.6bn budget for 2016

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do House of Assembly yesterday passed the state’s 2016 Appropriation Bill of N116.6 billion, with an increase of N5 billion.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole on December 14, 2015, presented a budget of N111.5 billion, made up of N58.9 billion as capital expenditure and N52.6 billion for recurrent expenditure.

The N5 billion added to the figure presented by the governor was spread across all sectors of the economy.

Majority Leader of the House, Foly Ogendegbe (APC Owan East), moved a motion for the House to dissolve into a ‘Committee of Supply’ for the purpose of considering the budget report presented by the Appropriation Committee.

The motion was seconded by the chairman, Appropriation and Project Monitoring Committee, Damian Lawani (APC Etsako Central).

Debating the motion, Lawani said the budget reflected the views of the people of the state and was designed to complete all ongoing projects.

He said in the revised

EFCC crucial in military’s efforts on oil theft –Army

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igerian Army said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, remains pivotal in the military’s efforts to check oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the country.

A statement issued by EFCC’s head of media and publicity, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, in Abuja yesterday, during the visit of Brig-Gen. Stevenson Olabanji, Commander, 2 Brigade, Nigerian Army, to the commission’s zonal office in Port Harcourt, disclosed this.

In the statement, Olabanji noted that oil theft contributes to the sabotage of the Nigerian economy and pledged the army’s support

to the EFCC in carrying out the onerous task of sanitising the oil industry.

The statement said Olabanji promised that the Nigerian Army would assist the EFCC in the area of information gathering.

“There should be a synergy of government agencies in Port Harcourt, particularly the South South zone, so that we can find a lasting solution to the issue of oil theft, and tackle the issue of vandalism,” he said.

On his part, EFCC’s zonal head, Ishaq Salihu, commended Olabanji for his offer.

Said he, “Your presence will go a long way in not only solidifying an already

existing relationship between the EFCC and the Nigerian Army, but also in the joint fight against oil theft and bunkering.’’

kwa Ibom State police command has arrested a 25-yearold man, Mfreke Archibong, for allegedly killing his father, Mr. Aniefiok Archibong.

budget, N59.5 billion was allocated for capital expenditure, while N57.2 billion was for recurrent expenditure.

Breakdown of the bill showed that the recurrent expenditure comprised N15.6 billion for administrative cost, N4.9 billion for the economic sector, N2 billion for law and justice and N17.8 billion for the social sector.

In the capital expenditure profile, N1.7 billion, N22.3 billion, N208 million, N35.2 billion were for administrative, economic sector, law and justice and social sector, respectively.

Akwa Ibom State Police Commissioner, Murtala Mani, told journalists yesterday in Uyo that the accused person committed the offence on Monday, February 8.

The commissioner said the accused person used a log of wood to hit his father on the head, which led to his death.

Mani said Mfreke, who hails from Ikot Udo Nkan in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area of the state confessed to committing the offence.

“This young man murdered his father by using a log of wood to hit him on the head; the young man will be charged to court

men yesterday in Abuja at the end of a two-day meeting of the group.

The communiqué described the appointment of Mrs. Esther NnamdiOgbue as ‘well-deserved’.

It noted that women are still under-represented in the Buhari administration and stressed the need for it to consider more qualified women for appointment into stra-

tegic offices.

The communiqué said CHRINET was committed to fostering the Federal Government’s change agenda in its respective communities and organisations.

“The integrity and transparency being employed in the effort to reposition PPMC provide a stellar example of what capable and empowered

after investigation,” the commissioner said.

Confessing to the crime, the suspect said he came back from work and met his parents quarreling and asked what happened.

According to him, his father, on hearing his voice came out of the room, threw a bottle on his face and used a log of wood to hit him.

The suspect explained that in anger, he collected the log of wood and hit his father in the hand and wondered why he should die because of that.

News Agency of Nigeria reports that the police commissioner also unveiled the new police uniform for Special AntiRobbery Squad, SARS. He said the rebranding of SARS is the initiative of the Inspector-General of Police.

Women group hails Buhari on first female PPMC MD

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n advocacy group, Children and Women’s Rights Network, CHRINET, has commended President Muhammadu Buhari for appointing the first female managing director of the Pipelines and Products Marketing Company, PPMC.

The commendation was contained in a communiqué issued to news-

women can do in leadership positions,” it said.

The group appealed to the media to improve on its coverage of women activities.

“Through deliberate and inadvertent means, the mass media, cultural, religious, economic and political forces seem to mount perpetual conspiracy to hold back women in the society,” the group lamented.

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North

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Ex-senator calls for probe in power sector Chidi Ugwu Abuja

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former lawmaker, Alhaji Mohammed Jubril, has called on the National Assembly to investigate

electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) and other relevant agencies in the industry.

Jubril, who represented Kaduna Central District in the Senate from 2007 to 2011, made the call during an interview with

Supreme Court affirms Taraba gov’s election Doosuur Iwambe Abuja

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upreme Court of Nigeria yesterday affirmed the election of Mr. Darius Ishiaku as validly elected governor of Taraba State under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. Seven-man panel of the apex court presided over

by Justice Suleiman Galadima, in a unanimous decision, dismissed the petition filed by the All Progressives Congress, APC, and its governorship candidate, Hajia Aisha Jumai Al-Hassan, on grounds that it was lacking in merit.

In the lead judgement delivered by Justice BodeRhode Vivour, the apex court held that the appeal lacks merit and substance and was consequently dismissed.

“I am firmly of the view that there is no merit in this appeal and it is hereby refused.

“The judgement of the Court of Appeal is affirmed and the return of the first respondent as governor of Taraba is affirmed,” he said.

The court further held that the APC and its governorship candidate have no legal right to question the nomination of Mr. Ishiaku on the platform of the PDP, saying the nomination of the party’s candidate is purely the party’s business.

The court, however, said it would give reason for its judgement on February 22, 2016.

Earlier in his argument, counsel to APC and its candidate, Abiodun Owonikoko, had told the panel to uphold the verdict of the tribunal.

He based his argument on ground that the primary election that brought Mr. Isiaku into office was not validly conducted since it was done in Abuja instead of Taraba State.

Opposing the application, counsel to Ishiaku, Kanu Agabi, told the court that the Appeal Court had in its ruling stated that the APC and its candidate were bound by their pleas.

He said the appellants had admitted in the third paragraphs of their applications that Mr. Ishiaku was a member of the PDP and a candidate of the party in the April 11 election in the state.

“The second respondent is a duly registered party and ‘sponsored’ the first respondent,” he stated, citing a quote from the appellant’s brief.

Mr. Agabi further said the appellants repeatedly fielded the first respondent as being sponsored by the PDP. He further told the court that they had presented 51 witnesses before the tribunal, who were not reviewed.

Also in his address, counsel to the PDP, Solo Ahmed, said the party had never denied sponsoring Mr. Ishiaku, stressing that the appellants had submitted that there was no primary election, but went ahead to state that it (the primaries) was conducted in Abuja.

He further told the court that the previous judgements cited by Mr. Owonikoko had indicated that issues relating to the conduct of primaries in an election were pre-election matters that could only be contested by members of the party in question or the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. On his part, counsel to INEC, Joseph Daudu, reiterated the point made by Mr. Ahmed, regarding the position of the APC on the conduct of primaries by the PDP saying that “the APC’s claim that there was no primary election was premised on the contention that the primaries was conducted in Abuja.”

journalists in Abuja.

He said, “NASS should find out who are the owners of these DISCOs, investigate them and ask them the infrastructure they put in the sector since they took up management of the sector.

“It should also find out what they have done to improve the industry and if they find them wanting, take away these companies from them and give them to people that can manage them well.”

Jubril urged members of NASS to effectively use their oversight responsibility to expose all the dirt

in the sector.

He called on President Muhammadu Buhari to extend the probe by his administration to the power sector, stressing that Nigeria could not develop if institutional corruption persists.

He expressed concern over the new electricity tariff increase by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, considering the fact that the national minimum wage remains N18,000 and the citizens would not be able to pay the tariff.

He said instead of increasing the tariff, DIS-

COs should increase power generation, noting that many Nigerians are paying more for light they do not consume.

Jubril advised the Federal Government to stabilise the sector before imposing a new tariff.

He said it is sad that Nigeria as the giant of Africa has not been able to generate above 6,000mw while a country like South Africa generated 40,000mw.

“I agree that the law allows NERC to increase or decrease electricity tariff from time to time and the bill was passed into law by the former administra-

tion.

“Laws are made by man and if things change we must not stick to the law.

“So, the NERC should go back to NASS to inform them that the law is no more tenable,’’ he said.

Jubril advised government to order NERC to revert to the former tariff regime and should not allow the protest by the Nigeria Labour Congress on the new tariff to continue in the interest of the economy.

He called on government to invest more in the agricultural sector in the light of the glut in the crude oil market.

L-R: Chairman, Kaduna State Football Association (FA), Alhaji Abdulkadir Kapaka; General Secretary, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Dr Mohammed Sanusi; Director of Facilities, National Sports Commission, Mr Shehu Ibrahim, and Manager, Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Mr Malo Gidion, during an inspection tour of the pitch of Ahmadu Bello Stadium ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifire, In Kaduna, yesterday.

Benue South re-run: Mark wants APC candidate cautioned

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enator David Mark’s campaign organisation for the February 20, 2016, Benue South re-run election has told the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, to call the party’s candidate, Daniel Onjeh, and his campaign team to order.

The campaign organisation said in Otukpo, Benue State, that the continued inflammatory statements, innuendos, abuse and poor conduct of Onjeh and his campaign team ahead of the rerun

election was clearly unbecoming of someone aspiring to lead.

Said the organization, “The APC, through a certain Ogenyi Okpokwu alleged that our principal imported some armed men into Otukpo ahead of the election.”

A statement issued by Mark’s campaign organisation’s director of media and publicity, Dr. Adakole Elijah, stated: “We believe very strongly that this is another APC plot to cover its antics. We cannot fall for it. We cannot be part of this crude mentality.

We demand an immediate retraction and unreserved apology forthwith.”

The statement warned that the organisation would employ all legal and legitimate means to bring Onjeh and his team to justice.

“We make bold to state unequivocally that we have maintained the highest level of decorum and restraint in spite of the unwarranted provocation since the campaign started.

“It is therefore instructive to remind Chief Oyegun that as a man who

comes from the great Benin kingdom the custodian of African rich cultural heritage where respect for elders is a grand norm, he cannot be indulging Onjeh’s ceaseless insult on our principal.

“The APC does not need to attack our principal.

This is election. All they need do is tell the people what they have done or want to do. Senator Mark cannot be the APC agenda. We have an array of what we have done for the people. We cannot join issues with them,” the statement added.

Friday, February 12, 2016

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Politics

Lack of good leadership, Nigeria’s major problem —Ize-Iyamu 14 Justin Tyopuusu JALINGO

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ubilation yesterday greeted the ruling of the Supreme Court which uphold the election of Governor Darius Ishaku of Taraba state who was elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. As the news filtered in at about 2:05pm that the Supreme Court has affirmed the election of Governor Darius Ishaku, celebration broke out in Jalingo, Takum and Wukari.

A long motorcade mounted with loud speakers sing-

Jubilation in Taraba as Supreme Court upholds Ishaku’s election

...APC in Taraba accepts verdict ing “Taraba Sai Darius,” DDI no shaking” Masu gudu su gudu (Those running should run) rented the air even as the motorcade blocked major streets in Jalingo in celebration.

Crowd of supporters kept swelling the streets of Jalingo and the governor’s home town Takum as the

Budget: Oko commends Civil Societies Olubunmi Omoogun

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he Chairman Senate Committee on Diaspora and Civil Societies, Senator Rose Oko representing Cross River North has commended the Civil Societies for their robust contributions at the maiden edition of the National Assembly interactive session with the Civil Society Organisations on 2016 budget.

Oko said “I think you will agree with me that we have had a good interaction. As I listened to various Civil Societies speak on various issues, I feel the issues you raised are salient and the interaction should continue”.

The interaction session which held at the conference

Robert Awokuse

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igerian Human Rights Community, NHRC has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to probe the NigerDelta Development Commission, NDDC from its inception 16 years ago when it was established by the administration of former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.

In a statement jointly signed by its Coordinator and the Secretary, Wereinipre Buokobiri and Sola

room of the Senate accorded many Civil Societies the opportunity to contribute and align ideas with that of the National Assembly in passing an inclusive 2016 budget for all Nigerians.

The Senator said “your views should be heard. As National Assembly we have raised the issues with all the MDAs. We all need to save our country. Going forward, the CSOs should be made a part and parcel of the budget collation as we have observed, budget should be based on actual needs.

“We are painstaking to ensure that the proper things are done. You have come at a strategic point so you can still make inputs in the budget process and there’s a need to institutionalize this partnership”.

news spread.

The story was the same in Zing, Kurmi, Sardauna and Donga local government areas.

Reacting to the ruling, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Hassan Mijinyawa hailed the judgment describing it as victory for the people.

He noted that the judgment was a confirmation of the people’s wish and mandate they gave the governor.

He called on the support-

ers of the governor to be joyous, but moderate in their celebration so as not to cause security breach in the state.

Mijinyawa called on the opposition in the state not to give up hope in democracy but persevere and wait for God’s time.

He also urged them to join hands with the governor to move the state forward.

Former Commissioner for Information and Strategy in the state, Emmanuel

Bello in his reaction said the victory is an indication that the Supreme Court has the interest of the country at heart.

He enjoined Governor Ishaku to embrace all as a father and get everyone’s input in moving the state forward.

“Ishaku must work towards uniting the people of Taraba to achieve the goals of the rescue mission,” he said.

APC Chairman in Tara-

ba State, Alhaji Hassan Ardo Jika commenting on the ruling said they have accepted the verdict of the apex court of the land in good faith, but they will still remain in APC despite the lost at the Supreme Court.

“The Supreme Court has a final say in this matter and we accept the verdict.

I thank all who in one way or the other assist us in the judicial journey. Our supporters should be calm and be law abiding,” he said.

L-R: Chairman House Committee on Capital Market and Institutions, Hon. Tajudeen Yusuf; Committee Clerk , Mr. Delupe Suraj and Hon. Linus Okorie during Budget defence of Nigerian Commodity Exchange before House committee on Capital Market and Institutions at National National Assembly, Abuja, yesterday.

NHRC urges Buhari to probe NDDC Ademuwagun respectively, NHRC said the probe was necessary to recover billion of funds allegedly siphoned by successive leadership of the commission.

It said it supports the campaign to ensure equity by appointing an indigene of Ondo State to manage the affairs of the commission, stressing that such individual must be prepared to probe the commission with the aim of recovering funds believed to have been

looted by the commission in the past 16 years.

“The NDDC is the richest agency ever set up by the federal government. Over 800 billion naira has been pumped into the institution since its creation 16 years ago. We are convinced that probing of NDDC will reveal a lot of scam.”

The group which is a coalition of 135 civil rights groups said the government has the ability to recover billions of naira tied

to corruption in the NDDC. According to NHRC, NDDC became a tool for political patronage of the ousted Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the 16 year period.

“We have received petitions from several community-based groups in the Niger-Delta calling for the probe of NDDC. These communities lament the lack of projects in their domain even though billions of naira has been allocated by

the NDDC leadership and in fact became the courier for the shady deals of the former PDP leadership.”

NHRC cautioned Buhari against appointing politicians to manage the affairs of the commission, adding that people with political ambitions that have managed the commission in the past ended up working solely for parochial political interests instead of serving the people.

“We advise the presi-

dent to pick a technocrat, perhaps a civil servant, who is vast in the art of governance to provide the needed paradigm shift that will address poverty, environmental degradation and who is honest”, NHRC said.

It noted that one of the major causes of violence in the region is the inability of the commission to spend the allocated funds judiciously and in a transparent manner.

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Politics

Rev David Esosa IzeIyamu is the General Overseer of Jesus Evangelical Assembly, JEA. He spoke with some journalists on the state of the nation.

ROBERT AWOKSE brings the excerpts The former Secretary to the Edo State Government, Hon. Ize-iyamu who incidentally is your brother in an interview recently said Nigerians may soon regret voting for President Muhammadu Buhari. Do you share this same view?

Well, my position is that of a father as a General Overseer. In my church we have members of APC,PDP and other political parties and in as much as we may not be politicians, every General Overseer has the right to support any candidate of his choice, because it’s possible for party A to be getting it right where party B is missing it, and where they are getting it right, you may want to wish them well and extend your goodwill to them and where they are not getting it right you use your office as a pastor to call their attention to it.

The election has come and gone, our principal mandate is to continue to pray for everyone that is in the leadership position, when it comes to interview like this, there is no need to make reference to what a brother or sister have said, he is speaking from a different platform entirely.

We are still being faced with a lot of challenges today. We have security issue, we have economic challenges, unemployment, and of course infrastructure, unfortunately, the principal reason for these challenges is due to the leadership problem, leadership is very very key to the transformation of this country. If we get it right with leadership, the kind that would have a firm grip of the governmental structure to the extent that the other arms of the government will not be able to frustrate him, then, we can achieve a great feat.

In your own opinion do you think the present leadership has the political will to lead this country out of the wood and live up to the change mantra promised?.

With my experience, I will not want to commit myself to making a categorical statement. What I found wiser particularly for people in our position as men of God is to continue to pray and give good advice ,we cannot vouch for a lot of these people. Some started well and eventually deviated, so from experience when you have a ministry like ours you have to be careful the kind of comment you make.

Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) that suppose to be the voice of the Christian community in Nigeria have not been vocal enough lately about national issues, why the silence?

CAN and PFN have not gone to sleep. You know 2015 was a very crucial year for Nigeria, give or take, we should be grateful to God, though it takes a spiritual person to understand whatever that is happening today. Majority of Nigerians are having it rough financially, but looking back to 2015,we should be grateful to God that the nation is still together,

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Lack of good leadership, Nigeria’s major problem —Ize-Iyamu very shameful that certain politicians who because their own presidential candidate could not get the support of these Christian leaders, chosen rather to do a dirty job by cooking up slanderous allegations against these Christian leaders . With the passage of time, I know that it will be clear to everyone that those allegations were cooked up for political reasons to smear the credibility of the leadership of CAN

Ize-Iyamu

We have security issue, we have economic challenges, unemployment, and of course infrastructure, unfortunately, the principal reason for these challenges is due to the

leadership problem, leadership is very very key to the transformation of this country.

the prediction of the American Intelligence Agency that Nigeria was going to break up last year, was a very competent prediction by all parameters, which has proven to be accurate in some other countries, but it took the singular intervention by the Almighty God to prevent that from happening. So looking at CAN, don’t forget CAN played some major roles in the pre-election, someone said recently that the president has never made any negative comment about the Christians in the nation so far, who could tell maybe this is as a result of the allegation leveled against him then that he has anti-Christian agenda that made him change his mind. So I think CAN for some strategic reasons have chosen

to be less vocal after the election and this is necessary for security reason, so that it is not perceived in a bad light especially when we have a non-Christian as the President.

With the unfolding political shenanigans in the country, given the role some religious leaders played in the last elections, don’t you think when they tug more in the cluster plant’s root, other trees in the forest, including Pastor Ayo Oritsajafor of CAN may get dragged along?

I don’t see that happening ,there was a lot of propaganda going on then and we are privy to some of that. It was quite shameful,

Some pastors are not displaying excellence in what they are doing . What do you think is responsible?

Our God is a God of excellence, the ultimate goal of all Christians is to make heaven and there is nothing short of excellence in heaven. The church is supposed to be a place of grooming God’s people to fulfill their destiny. Majority of church people are supposed to be men and women that God has raised to operate in circular world. Symbolically out of all twelve tribes of Israel you know just one tribe was considered to lead as the priest while the other eleven were expected to focus on other needs of the nation, so in that light, the church is not supposed to be a place where we preach about salvation and sanctification alone, those are foundational.

In addition to these foundational teachings, we need to teach our members how to communicate with people, how to raise our families in a Godly way, how to relate in marriage and how to excel in different areas of life that God has called us into. Fortunately, excellence is something that can be taught, so it is the prerogative of the church to imbibe the spirit of excellence. Another thing about excellence is that we need to become world class expert in the area where we are endowed or every area we feel that God has called us into, Christians need to strive to become authority in their chosen field, not a mediocre, christianity is not an excuse for mediocrity. We as Christians need to excel in all areas including in government, Christians are supposed to be in government, in elective offices, as civil servant and so on.

Looking back in the last 17 years, if you have the opportunity to go over it again, what would you like to do better?

Well, certainly I have no regret, one of the initiative God gave me which I intend to put into a book coming up this year is the “top ten principle”, it’s a powerful revelation. Following this principle we can easily excel in any endeavor in life including ministry, the top ten principle simply means for anything you chose to achieve, look for the best ten existing anywhere in the world in that field, carry out a close examination about them, what are their processes, their practices, what are their strategies, what are the resources they are using. The kind of training they are exposed to that has help them to be among the top ten, once you can do that then you will see the same result. So it’s also applicable in ministry even though one has to follow the leading of the Holy spirit. One can look for the top ten excelling ministries in the same line of your specialised area, you study their structure, strategies, resources and so on when you do this, what it takes them 10 years to achieve you can achieve within few years.

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Politics

Friday, February 12, 2016

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Ashafa assures completion of Lagos-Kano rail Ayo Esan

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he Chairman Senate Committee on Land Transport, Senator Gbenga Ashafa has stressed that the actualisation of the rehabilitation of the Lagos to Kano and rail line from single

gauge to standard gauge is very imperative.

Senator Ashafa spoke while leading other members of the Senate and House Committee’s on Land Transport on an oversight visit to the Headquarters of Nigerian Railway Corporation in Lagos.

He said the task of mov-

Industrialist joins Ondo guber race Ojo Oyewamide AKURE

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he number of people jostling for the All Progressives Congress, APC governorship ticket in Ondo state increased yesterday as an industrialist, Foluso Mayowa Adefemi formally joined the race.

Adefemi, who made his intention known at a press conference in Akure, the state capital, promised to industrialise the state if elected.

He said his ambition was motivated by his desire to serve and free the people of Ondo State from bondage.

The governorship aspirant, however, declared that he would go back to his business if he fails to realize his

aspiration, adding that politics should not be seen as a do-or-die affair.

Adefemi said it was the turn of Akoko North -East to produce the next governor of the state.

He said: “We are all living witnesses to the decay that has encumbered our state such as unemployment, infrastructural neglect, educational slide, inaccessibility to modern health care facilities, insecurity and its attendant vices.

“As a self-motivated and private sector person, I offer myself for service to our state to help correct these imbalances and position the state in its rightful place in the comity of states in the South West in particular and Nigeria in general.”

ing from a dispensation of single track rail lines to the standard gauge for a start and then towards exploring the possibilities of electronic rail system depends on all stakeholders.

The Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial district also tasked the Railway Corporation to provide more rolling stock on the successfully rehabilitated and functional rail lines.

Ashafa said the senators are totally committed to the actualisation of President Buhari’s change agenda.

He said the change must be felt in the area of land transport, with particular focus on our rail transport sector.

“We are equally fully

aware that for this change to be actualised, there would be a need to properly scrutinise and apportion the budgetary provision for the Ministry of Transportation towards maximising the accruable benefits that can be derived from the total sum of N215, 797, 393, 980 enveloped for the Ministry of Transport. Every Kobo spent must achieve its maximum value,” Senator Ashafa said.

Senator Ashafa wondered what the amount earmarked by the ministry for capital expenditure of the corporation can do with its N5.2bn debt profile.

“Whereas a total sum of N4.75 Billion was earmarked for the Nigerian

Railway Corporation and the agencies under it, out of this sum, the sum of N4,253,528,989 is to take care of the corporation’s personnel. There is also an overhead cost of about N99,629,503, hence what is left for capital for the Corporation is about N399 Million.”

He noted that the visit is to have an on the spot assessment of all the paperwork submitted and defended during the budget defense before the committee on the 3rd and 4th of February, 2016 as regards the level of work done/ the budgetary performance of the 2015 appropriation Act. He urges the Ministry to reorganise its priorities, so

that adequate funds would be made available to the corporation to enable it conclude some of its outstanding projects that will translate to the dividends of sustaining a functional rail transport regime.

The other National Assembly members on the oversight visit include Senator Phillip AdudaVice Chairman, Senator Ali Wakili (Mni), Senator Olanrewaju Tejuoso, Hon. Aminu Isa (Chairman House Committee), Hon. Adekoya Adeosun, Hon. Abayomi Ayeola, Hon. Adaji Ezekiel, Hon. Yusuf Bala, Hon. Aliyu Danladi, Hon. Abdulraham Shuaibu and Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim.

Civil right group faults PDP member over VC’s appointment

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non - governmental Organization, Education for All and Rights Advocacy Centre, EARAC has faulted plans to abuse the inexperience of the Acting Chairman who is not an academician but a politician to hoist the seat of Vice Chancellor in Federal University Wukari, even without any proper interview.

The group led by Country Representative, Dr Godwin Abayomi,while briefing newsmen alleged that there are rumours lingering around that the incoming Vice Chancellor will only be appointed on the basis of his membership of the then ruling Peoples Democratic Party , PDP, emphasising that competence should be the basis for the appointment of Vice Chancellors across the nation, while also warning that mediocrity will only further destroy the system.

According to EARAC, “we had noticed desperate moves by some unqualified, incompetent and ineligible

persons to form an unholy alliance with the Acting Council Chairman to undermine the existing University rules and regulations in the selection of a new Vice Chancellor for the University”.

They are also alleging that there is a plan to cash in on the naivety of the Acting Chairman, to write out results of a non- existent interview to the Minister of Education for onward transmission to President Muhammadu Buhari” He said, after various attempts at recruiting prominent indigenes of the host community had failed to yield results, there is also a plot to fake the endorsements of prominent nationalists like General T.Y .

Danjuma in a bid to deceive people within the corridors of power.

According to EARAC, the group after fruitless attempts at recruiting the pioneer Vice Chancellor, Professor Geoffrey Okogbaa into the scheme did not yield any results.

Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha receiving a copy of the signed agreement between Government and Labour from the National President of NLC, Comrade Ayuba Wabba at the government house in Owerri yesterday.

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youth political pressure group, Advocates for Collective Transformation, ACT, has called on Nigerian youths to key into ongoing anti- corruption campaign of the Federal Government.

ACT National President, Comrade Oluwatayo Fashogbon and National Secretary, Isaac Ifetoluwa Ajayi in a statement said if all youths shun corruption and its vices, President Muhammadu Buhari campaign for a corrupt- free country will be achieved.

The group said youths in the country must brace up to fight corruption in every sector they belong in the nation.

“We must begin to see the anti- corruption project as a forward to Nigeria’s predicament, today, Nigeria’s

Group urges youth to support Buhari’s anti-corruption crusade youths are the major victims of corruption, the Boko- Haram insurgency has killed more youths than ever, unemployment ravages us, our collective wealth have been stolen and mismanaged.

“Nigerian soldiers combating the Boko Haram insurgency daily with sweat and blood are youths; while these selfless soldiers sleeps in bushes and cold camps, some unpatriotic Nigerians were sharing billions of dollars met to equip our soldiers with sophisticated weapon”, the group said said..

ACT however appeal to young people in various arms of government and positions of authorities to

be a worthy role model to this generation.

“We are appealing to the youths to see anti-corruption crusade as a collective responsibility because our future is only secured if we grind corruption to a halt in our country.

“At every sector of the society, youths must be seen as anti corruption agents, engaging and promoting corruption and its vices will only endanger our brim future,” the group further said.

ACT also urges Nigerian youths to learn from President Buhari’s exemplary character of honesty and integrity in building up positive and profitable career in

their chosen profession.

“Youths must begin to shun illegal means of acquiring wealth and beginning to work on our values and moral codes, nothing pays like hard work.

“We should all learn to take justice with clean hands, while we fight hard to retrieve our national wealth from greedy politicians, we must try our best to make the country prove by remaining incorruptible too as Nigerian youths.

The group stressed that youths must shun the notion of cheating the system for selfish benefits, the task to build a greater Nigeria rest on the positive power of the youths.

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Editorial

Friday, February 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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

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

On rampaging Fulani herdsmen R ecurring criminal attacks by suspected Fulani herdsmen on communities they ply their cattle grazing trade across the country have become as alarming as the impotence of the Federal Government to curb the brazen impunity. Their latest victims were Tom-anyiin and Tom-ataan communities in Mbaya - Tombu in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State, where, according to recent reports, they killed no fewer than 12 people and injured about 25 others now hospitalized.

Buruku council chairman, Mr. Godwin Iorsue; Police Area Commander; and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Buruku, on an assessment visit to determine the extent of damage done to the communities, were also ambushed on their way back home and ferociously attacked by the rampaging herdsmen. “It was only God that saved us. If not, these people were over thirty and well armed; while we had only four armed police officers with us. Our cars were perforated with bullets”, Iorsue told the media.

Unknown to them, when the natives fled the communities following the attack, and the suspected herdsmen took over the entire community to wreak additional havoc.

A week earlier, reports from Girei Local Government Area of

Adamawa State said herdsmen fought the police and killed the DPO in charge of Vunokilang police division, Mr. Okezie Okorafor, alongside some of his men and about 60 villagers. Similar reports filter in almost on daily basis from virtually all parts of the country, including the North itself. Recently they killed two policemen that challenged them in Kaduna. About the middle of September last year, they viciously attacked and killed roughly 19 people, injured scores, and torched about 150 houses in Kadunung village, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Shortly before then, they also killed 30 people in four villages - Vat, Pandadi, Zakukpang and Dorong in the same state.

In July 2012, a senator from Plateau State, Gyang Dantong; and the Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly, Mr. Gyang Fulani, were among those killed while honouring the mass burial of about 50 victims of herdsmen’s attack on villages in Barkin Ladi and Riyom LGAs of the state. The killings came shortly after the discovery of the remains of over 50 persons, mostly women and children, burnt inside the residence of a local pastor, where they took refuge following an earlier attack on about 14 villages by suspected Fulani herdsmen. Dantong and Fulani were shot dead at Maseh village in Riyom LGA while the

THEY COURT TROUBLE WHEN THEY TREK HUNDREDS OF

KILOMETRES OUTSIDE THEIR TRADITIONAL BASES, DESTROYING

THE FARM PRODUCE OF OTHER CITIZENS over 50 victims were being interned.

Their atrocities have likewise been resonating in South-East, South-South and South-West states, from Ebonyi, Enugu and Delta, to Osun Oyo and Ondo, among others. The only environment that is free from their onslaughts is their traditional strongholds. Usually armed with dangerous weapons, including AK 47 rifles and swords, the common allegations are that they not only recklessly destroy farmlands along their grazing paths; they kill, maim and rape innocent victims in their farms.

It is puzzling that in the face of persistent criminal exploits, impunities and provocations

by Fulani herdsmen capable of igniting ethnic reprisals and conflagrations, the much the FG contemplates is the make-shift option of creating grazing reserves and routes for the herdsmen as

ON THIS DAY February 12, 1999 United States’ President Bill Clinton was acquitted by the country’s Senate in his impeachment trial. William Jefferson “Bill” Clinton (born August 19, 1946) is an American politician who served from 1993 to 2001 as the 42nd President of the US. Inaugurated at age 46, he was the third-youngest president. He took office at the end of the Cold War and was the first president from the ‘baby boomer generation’.

Letters tothe theEditor Editor Letters to

February 12, 2002 The trial of Slobodan Milosevic, for mer President of Yugoslavia, began at the United Nations Inter national Criminal Tribunal for the for mer Yugoslavia in The Hague, Netherlands. The trial included hundreds of witnesses and lasted until the death of Milosevic; who was found dead in his cell on March 11, 2006 in the UN war crimes tribunal’s detention center located in the Scheveningen section of The Hague.

the way out of the mess, instead of seeking a more lasting solution that will confine the nomads to their traditional territories. With the herdsmen’s scant regard for the sanctity of farmlands – the means of livelihood for their victims – as well as their ‘army of occupation’ mentality, the problems posed by itinerant Fulani herdsmen have clearly gone beyond what grazing reserves and paths can address.

It is high time the FG braced up to the realities. The government should compel cattle farmers to, within a specified time frame, embrace modern farming technologies that will enable them confine their animals and feed them in their traditional communities or farms. They court trouble when they trek hundreds of kilometers outside their traditional bases, destroying the farm produce of other citizens in search of pasturage for their cattle, on the one hand; and without restraint, unleash mayhem on communities that resist their impunities. This menace has persisted mainly because of the kid gloves treatment the vicious herdsmen get after committing their atrocities. The FG must not wait for other ethnic nationalities to take the laws into their hands before finding a permanent solution to the dangerous nuisance Fulani herdsman now constitute to the entire nation.

x February 12, 2009 Colgan Air Flight 3407 crashed into a house in Clarence Center, New York, United States after experiencing an aerodynamic stall, as against aerodynamic lift - the force that keeps the aircraft airborne. The flight was a Bombardier Dash-8 Q400, with registration number N200WQ, on a scheduled regional airline flight from Newark, New Jersey to Buffalo, New York. All 49 people on board were killed, along with one person in the house.

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Boko Haram and the effectiveness of deterrence Counter-terrorism Tips With

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

C

ombating Boko Haram menace has become the focus of security structures in Nigeria since the United Nation declared the sect a terrorist group. In Nigeria today, old methods have been revised in order to prepare us to meet the so-called new and existing threats confronting us from various angles. An apt approach towards the sect must consist of double balance. There must be a better balance between the focus on Boko Haram and other old or new threats, or a balance between ways and means.

Therefore, our security structures should not be allowed to dwell in the direction of BH alone, because we have about four more violent threats currently facing us and their prevalence may last long if not properly addressed by experts.

These threats must be dealt with in a way that is consistent with the fundamental values of our society. Security measures in our country have had a definite, and perhaps, negative effect on the personal freedoms and rights of Nigerians. The fact that there has been a huge and positive spillover ef-

fect is indisputable; more BH members are killed on a regular basis, but has it really made life more difficult for ambitious and resolute members of the sect? My answer remains no. To what extent this is an effective approach is still an open question. Finding the right balance between personal integrity as a central fundamental value and the necessary security arrangements is still an unresolved problem for us.

A deterrence policy may produce domestic political costs. The question is to what extent and for how long the citizens are prepared to support such a policy. After some time, our citizens become aware that the high costs of a deterrence policy displace other government expenditures from which they benefit more directly. By using force deterrence policy always runs the risk of resorting to repressive means. In the name of the war on BH, constitutional civil and human rights should not be undermined or completely suppressed.

One of the prime weapons of the weak is guerrilla warfare. The coercers are unable, or for political reasons, unwilling to escalate the forces used. In any case, the weaker party is sometimes better able to counter any escalation by terrorist actions as they are less hindered by domestic restrictions. Despite many claims as to its effectiveness, deterrence may even be counterproductive. There is a

THERE MUST BE A BETTER BALANCE BETWEEN THE

FOCUS ON BOKO HARAM AND OTHER OLD OR NEW THREATS widespread misconception that using terror to defeat terror will ultimately work. On the contrary, the evidence is that this strategy is absolutely counterproductive.

Most observers will agree with me that deterrence is not effective in changing our policy towards terrorism. But it does not follow that coercion should not be used to fight terrorism as long as there is no preferable alternative. It may be that the other options are even less effective. If this were the case deterrence policy would still be advisable if it is superior to doing nothing. A worthwhile evaluation must make an effort to compare the use of force against other anti-BH policies, but we are not paying attention to this counterterrorism principle because we have never made an effort to try other strategies except the offensive.

They must experience that there are other social bodies able to care for their sense of belonging. If that can be achieved the power of the leaders over its members will be reduced because they become aware that possibly preferable alternatives to ter-

rorism exist. This is possible because one of the most fundamental human motivations is the need to belong.

People want to form and maintain lasting positive and significant inter personal relationships. This also applies to the members of BH. As long as they belong to a terrorist group their sense of belonging is fulfilled.

In most cases, former relationships to the family, friends and acquaintances are completely severed when one joins a terrorist group. The isolation from other social entities gives strength to this group because it has become the only place where the sense of belonging is nurtured. An effective way to overcome the BH is to break up this isolation.

The members’ social isolation can be broken down by offering them a new sense of belonging. This is not easy to achieve as leaders try to make all social contacts not sanctioned by him impossible. In order for anti-BH policy to be successful the reigning principle must be whether the social isolation of the members can be broken and threats undermined. Breaking up this vicious circle of segregation and extremism can, therefore, be expected to lower BH’s inclination to participate in further violent activities. One thing for sure is, the greater the threat, the greater is the risk of inaction and the more compelling the case for taking anticipatory action to defend ourselves.

Litigation on medical negligence in Nigeria (11) VICTOR IFEDAYO ADEKEYE

CIVIL SUITS USUALLY END IN DAMAGES AND

Continued from last Friday

A

nother criminal charge that can be brought against a doctor whose negligent act causes death to the patient is culpable homicide not punishable with death - culpable homicide not punishable with death is the equivalent of manslaughter in the northern states of Nigeria using the Penal Code Law. Manslaughter is the negligent act of an individual, which results in the death of another, that is when the negligent act or omission of a medical practitioner leads to the death of a patient, such medical practitioner can be charged with manslaughter. Usually, the prosecutor will bring an action of culpable homicide punishable with death/ murder, but it is up to the accused person to prove that though the patient died, it was not his intention to kill or cause harm to him/her.

Finally, another criminal charge that can be brought against a negligent medical practitioner is the rash or negligent act under Section 343 of the Nigerian Criminal Code. This section obligates a medical practitioner to be careful not to be rash or negligent in ways that may endanger human life or to be likely to cause harm to the patient or any other person.

In its subsections (e) and (f), particular

DECLARATORY RELIEFS, BUT NEVER A JAIL TERM attention is paid by the section to medical or surgical treatments administered to patients and the dispensing, supplying, selling, giving away or administering of any medicine or poisonous or dangerous substance. When a medical practitioner is found negligent in any of these, he opens himself to a criminal liability punishable with a year imprisonment.

Civil proceedings against negligent medical practitioner are suits that are instituted by the patients or any other interested party against the medical practitioner or the medical centre for a negligent act of a medical practitioner that leads to the injury of a patient. Civil suits usually end in damages and declaratory reliefs, but never a jail term.

For a civil negligent suit to succeed against a medical practitioner, it is expedient that the party suing establish that the medical practitioner owes the patient a duty of care, which he failed to administer, and that the failure to administer same led to the injury of the patient. In civil medical litigation, the use of expert evidence is germane and important.

However, this is hard because it has been reasonably noticed that medical practitioners are unwilling to expose the loop-

holes in the practice of their colleagues in trials and this makes it relatively hard to prove negligence when experts are reluctant to help state the accepted practice so that the particular negligent act can be deduced.

In these civil suits, plaintiffs usually include the hospital/medical centre as a defendant in addition to the erring medical practitioner. The basis for joining the hospital is corporate negligence, that is holding the medical centre responsible for the negligent act of its staff.

Hospital and medical centres owe a duty to patients coming to them for medical care. A certain level of care is required and expected from medical centres, and this includes, the maintenance of a medically fit environment for the treatment of patients; absence of defective equipments and facilities; removal of dangerous equipment and facilities; careful selection of qualified and capable employees/medical staff and the supervision of these employees. In the event of the failure to do any of these and other reasonably expected duties, the centre/hospital opens itself to a negligence liability. Another reason for the inclusion of medical centres is the master-servant or principal-agent relationship in which the hospital can be held liable for the action of its staff while carrying out its official duties. This is also called vicarious liability.

In conclusion, medical negligence ac-

tions in Nigeria are not as common as they are in Europe and the United States and this boils down to the low awareness of the general public on their rights to proper and near-perfect medical treatment. Another problem encountered by medical negligence litigation is the unwillingness of experts to give evidence to the negligence of a fellow medical practitioner. This has been the clog in the wheel of justice for most medical negligence trials which have suffered for lack of apt and adequate evidence.

Another lacuna is the inexperienced nature of legal practitioners in Nigeria on medical law. Most legal practitioners are not versed in medical law; they conduct medical negligence trial solely on their knowledge of the tort law, which will reduce their proficiency in trial.

Medical law should form a germane part of the curriculum in Nigerian law faculties in order to have competent medical law practitioners, who can conduct an A-class trial in medical negligence suits.

Concluded Adekey is a Lagos-based medical law practitioner Send your views by mail or sms to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mail@ nationalmirroronline.net mirrorlagos@ yahoo.com or 08164966858 (SMS only). The Editor reserves the right to edit and reject views or photographs.

Pseudonyms may be used but must be clearly marked as such.

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Nigerian youths’ nightmare

U Parents, give children the necessary attention

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recently went for a burial in my hometown in Akure, Ondo State. The deceased was a very wealthy man, and while we were growing up, I was always envious of his children because they had everything. The family house was a two storey building and it was the best at that time. I always wondered what my father did differently. My father, though not wealthy, was able to send us to good schools with the little he had. We were four and he struggled for us. In the end, we all turned out well.

So, I was in Nigeria during the festive period, and that was when the burial of our wealthy family friend was held. The first thing I noticed when I got to the deceased’s residence was how dilapidated the building was. The deceased was a really nice man while he was alive, but I think he devoted more time to his businesses than his children. Today, his children had ruined all his businesses and he died a sad man. I wouldn’t want to say my father was a perfect man, but with the little he had, he spent on us. He was always monitoring our moves, and even when I was at the Obafemi Awolowo University, he would visit unannounced.

Throughout my stay in Nigeria, I was just ruminating on how some people would neglect their family just because of being busy with work.

Dr Biyi Olawale, Maryland, USA (mailwesco@ gmail.com)

nemployment in Nigeria today has become every youth’s nightmare. It is no longer about going to school and graduating or learning a trade, but about how to face the reality of graduating and joining the brigade of the unemployed with no hope of a better tomorrow.

Nigeria’s population is characterised with young people and

I

Letters to the Editor

credible proportional increase it has reached in the recent time.

Unemployment has promoted a ‘gangsterism culture’ among youths. Many of them now engage in violence, armed robbery, kidnapping, car snatching, illegal bunkering and fuel sales, and illegal importation of arms, most of which have reached alarming levels in several Nigerian cities.

In the South-South zone of the

A child selling fish take a rest off .PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

Ridding Benue State of illegal arms

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ecently, Atoza Hidan, a PDP chieftain in Benue State, was assassinated in Katsina-Ala. I understand the gangster was a well known person in Katsina-Ala and he is rumoured to be one of the hatchet men of some political figures in the state.

My sources told me that the late Hidan and other politicians within Katsina-Ala have armed many unemployed youths in the Katsina Ala Local Government Area and beyond, and periodically use them in pursuit of their selfish political interests. These armed youths are known to have wasted many

Ogun State’s clean environment drive

wish to commend the Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, for his robust clean environment drive in the state.

For quite some time now, the state has been experiencing clean-up of market areas, along the roads and residential areas. It is part of a holistic programme by the governor towards ensuring that the people of the state cultivate a positive disposition towards cleanliness and also ensuring a safe and healthy environment for human habitation.

over 50 percent of these youth are without jobs or stable economic income. But while developed countries are taking the threat seriously and restructuring their education and social security systems to suppress its growth and escape the high disastrous retrenchments, Nigerian leaders seem not to be doing enough.

The youth unemployment crisis is not new, what is new is the in-

In the 1990s, Ogun State was known among the leaders in environmental cleanliness, apart from the natural endowment of human resources. This current effort could only be sustained by being deploying the state’s environmental laws to deterring health habits, especially unhygienic waste disposal. Ogun State is ours, so we must maintain clean environment to be among the best.

Oladipupo Olabode S. Abeokuta, Ogun State (08166332292)

lives in the Katsina Ala axis.

The question is why the police in the Katsina Ala area in particular and Benue State in general turned blind eyes to the nefarious activities of these bandits? If I am to have my way, the police officers in Katsina Ala and other places in the state where political or crime motivated killings constantly take place would be transferred out of the state.

I wish to commend Governor Samuel Ortom for the efforts he has made so far in making sure that the armed youths in the state are dispossessed of their illegal arms. Having said this Governor Ortom should not stop at amnesty programme, he should go further to create jobs for these unemployed youths so as to keep them busy and thus prevent them from going back to their professional hit business. Benue youths were in the past known to be hard working and thus shunned crimes, but the desperate and self seeking politicians in the state have negatively influenced them. Governor Ortom should do his best to ensure that Benue youths are restored to their glorious past.

Awunah Pius Terwase,

Wrote from Mpape, Abuja.

08179289948

country especially, youths have formed different gangs engaged in kidnapping, oil pipelines vandalism, raping, oil bunkering and operation of illegal refineries, among other criminal activities.

Hundreds of jobless and poor youths have died from explosions trying to scoop petrol from broken oil pipelines or overturned oil tankers.

The role of the Nigerian government must include the formulation of policies and laws that could help improve the economic and social wellbeing of its citizens and wealth creation. There is a need to increase jobs through small enterprises and poverty alleviation schemes. Other solutions such as the provision of right skills to youths should be given adequate attention.

If factors that are responsible for youth unemployment in Nigeria are addressed, youths’ criminality would be reduced. I am, therefore, calling on President Muhammadu Buhari to work towards tackling youth unemployment in the country, as this is the only way we can reduce crime.

We cannot imagine well-educated young men and women doing nothing with their lives; they will either be contributing their quota positively or negatively to the development/destruction of the country.

Adeosun Aishat Nifemi, Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo.

Buhari and LG elections

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e are in a democracy, and elected public officials must represent the people at all levels of government. While we have been able to cement democracy at the Federal and state levels, we have not been able to do so at the local government level because of the governors, who just appoint council chairmen.

Many governors in the country have deliberately stopped conducting local government elections in their states, and this is encouraging corruption in the system, as the governors manipulate the funds meant for the council areas through their stooges who are appointed as chairmen. When the local government election is not conducted in a state, there will be no development because the chairman is not given the mandate by the people to serve them.

Here, the mandate is given by the governor, and the chairman must do his bidding. It has been revealed on several occasions

that governors mismanage funds meant for the local government administration, and this will continue if the people do not have a say in who rules over them at the council level.

This is part of the poor leadership system we are always talking about in this country, and it is the bane of our political development.

I am happy that the Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi has said he would soon conduct the local government election. The Ekiti State governor, Mr Ayo Fayose, had also made the same promise, and I hope the other governors will soon be mandated to conduct council elections.

I, therefore, want to charge President Muhammadu Buhari to order the state governors to conduct elections into their local government areas so that the people can truly have a say in who administers their affairs at that level.

Jimoh Mumin, Akobo, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Send your letters The Editor reserves thethe right letters or or mails mailsto toPMB PMB10001, 10001,Ikoyi, Ikoyi,or orour our Email: Email:mirrorlagos@yahoo.com mirrorlagos@yahoo.comand andinfo@nationalmirroronline.net info@nationalmirroronline.netoror08056180209, 08054103275,07033375481 07033375481(SMS (SMSonly). only).

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Friday , February 12, 2016

Wizkid

Don Jazzy

Mikel Obi

PADDY ADENUGA: He is the heir of the Mike Adenuga business empire, which includes stakes in telecoms, oil, estate and banking. Currently he sits on the board of Globacom as a director, and this makes him one of Nigeria’s youngest directors at that level. Besides his stakes in terms of cash, Paddy Adenuga is also exceedingly handsome, and generous. This part about him has warmed him into the hearts of many ladies.

JIM IYKE: Jim is still loveable in spite of all his ‘controversies’, which primarily stems from his temperament. Maturity is however making him sober lately, a factor that would melt the hearts of many women. He has been linked with some of the most glamorous women on the African continent, a factor that has tended to make him hot. Jim’s highpoint is his eloquence and assertiveness. Some women who have come across him feel he is confident, and can’t help getting associated with his character. Lately, he had a baby

boy with a Ukrainian model.

MIKEL OBI: Soccer star Mikel Obi, born in 1984 in Jos Plateau State is obviously one of Nigeria’s self-made millionaires in that age bracket. He came to prominence after he impressed talent scouts during a Pepsi Football Academy competition, since then his earnings have soared sporadically and Forbes Magazine has listed him as one of the richest sports personalities in Africa. What makes Mikel appealing may not be the weekly salary he earns playing for Chelsea FC in England. He is endowed with great looks as well as manners. He is one of the few Nigerian celebrities without scandal at such an exuberant age.

DAPO OYEBANJI: He is the popular musician called

His earnings have soared sporadically and Forbes Magazine has listed him as one of the richest sports personalities in

Africa

WEEKEND STARTERS

2Baba’s ‘Officially Blind’ at Valentine Tonto Dike’s ‘Share Love,

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ith Valentine’s Day around the corner, 2Baba releases a love song, ‘Officially Blind’.

Produced by Spellz, ‘Officially Blind’, is his second single of the year. The track follows the release, last week, of the video for ‘Coded Tinz’, his first single of 2016. With Officially Blind, 2Baba delivers yet another memorable song with his trademark style.

The just-over-3-minute track is a fitting tune in the month of love. Also, 2Baba has continued the weekly giveaways of ‘coded gifts’ to winners of the ongoing Coded Tinz Dedication Competition.

Not Rape’

T

he Tonto Dikeh Foundation cordially invites well-meaning Nigerians to its Valentine’s Day event with the theme: “Share Love, Not Rape” with friends at the orphanage home.

This is in line with the foundation’s goal of eradicating violence against women and raising public awareness on the travails of the female child. Venue is The Ijamido Children Home, 140, Ilo-Awela Road, Ota, Ogun State. Date is Sunday, 14th February 2016.

In the wake of this development, The Tonto Dikeh Foundation invites interested individuals and corporate bodies for the sponsorship of the event.

Arty News

Banky W

P.28. 29

H

Nonso Diobu

Inside FCT

COLLINS AJEREH: e is a showbiz mogul called Don Jazzy, the brain behind the Mo’Hits which metamorphosed to Mavins, which paraded the likes of D’Banj, Tiwa Savage, Wande Coal and Dr SID amongst others. Don Jazzy’s appeal stems from his drive which has yielded one of the most promising record labels in the history of Nigeria. While he is well-respected in the industry, he is seen as a talented music producer and song writer who has great eyes for younger talents. He is one of the showbiz personalities with inspiring life.

NONSO DIOBU: Movie actor, Nonso Diobu has climbed steadily through the ranks to get to his present status, as one of the leading male sweet hearts in Nollywood. Handsome and tall, he is one of the actors who were once signed on by Globacom as their ambassador in a deal running into millions of naira. Nonso has a lot going for him and he has remained scandal free, which women also find appealing.

DAVID ADELEKE: He is fondly called Davido, and has made a name for himself in the music industry in spite of his very privileged background. As one of the most recognisable voices out of the African continent as far as Afro hiphop is concerned, Davido is highly sought after by women. Only a few weeks ago, he had series of rows with the mother of his daughter which also attracted the attention of NAPTIP, a body empowered by law to forestall human trafficking in Nigeria.

P. 22. 27

Regina Otokpa

D’Banj. Extremely talented, D’Banj is one of those who is re-defining the music landscape of the nation with his great skills. Consequent upon his success in music, surplus cash has come his way as he is unarguably one of the richest and most-paid musicians in Nigeria. While D’Banj is blessed with great looks, he also has a corresponding good sense of commerce, which has been proven in the many concepts he has brought to bear in his showmanship.

BANKOLE WELLINGTON: He goes by the stage name Banky W, and has also selfstyled himself as Mr. Capable.

Talented, he is also one of the most educated personalities in showbiz, and has a good sense of dressing. Banky W, above all is handsome and reserved, carrying out his job with focus.

AYODEJI BALOGUN: He is currently rocking the music scene, and this is attributable to his great talent. His stage name is Wizkid. Women love this young man, who is still in his twenties, and started singing at an early age. The result of how badly women want him can be seen against the backdrop of a recent revelation that he would soon father a baby.

Critics

They are single and prosperous; reason why women want them for keeps.

P.20. 21

Male celebrities Nigerian women wish to hook

p. 26. 31

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

Art Man

VOL. 4 No. 827

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Artman In The House

Friday, February 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Challenges of being a biographer

Dr. Omolola Omoteso (nee Famuyiwa) publisher of Just Sharing by Taiwo Ajai-Lycett and event organiser of TAL’s Book Launch on her 75th Birthday is communicator and holds a BA (Philosophy), MA (International Affairs), MEd. (Cultural Studies), Masters in Biblical Counselling and Doctorate in Biblical Counselling. In this interview with ISIGUZO DESTINY, she talked about her relationship with Taiwo Ajai-Lycett, why TAL should be celebrated, and her career as a biographer.

Omolola Omoteso on her birthday

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n all you deserve commendation for pulling off such a star and media studded event. Kindly let me into what inspired you to publish the book?

Thanks for the interest. I have read a number of media reports about the event and only few cared to mention the publisher or event organiser. What played out on February 3 is a script that began in 2010. Just ahead of Mama TAL’s (that’s what I call Mrs. Taiwo Ajai-Lycett) 75th Birthday, I said to her, “You need to consider writing your biography”. To cut a long story short, she approved of the idea and approved me as biographer. I felt really honoured but somehow I felt it was a joke especially with all the top-rated people around her. But on second thought, I said why not me.

I knew and interacted with her since 2002; what started as a mentor-mentee relationship had grown into much more. It was indeed a pleasure to have her introduce me at her 70th birthday and at other commemorative events... “Have you met Anne?”

She would say, “Anne is my biographer!” Each time I heard that, it drove home the fact that I had a huge assignment on my hands. Christians say money is the vehicle of evangelism so naturally the next step was fundraising. For some reason all my conversations with Mama TAL about her bio, my frequent visits to get the story and draw up a list of those to speak to did not include finance. But, to do a quality bio for someone of her calibre money is key. Perhaps I was waiting for her to broach this topic. By 2011, I was done with interviewing her and get-

ting the story but I hit a wall each time we got to the issue of money. How do I quiz someone, who had become much more than a mentor, for money. I was researching about her online one day and I stumbled on her writings one after the other. So Mama TAL has been writing!

Initially I thought of getting her to write as a way of creating a book before the bio but with her busy schedule it became practically impossible. So, I spoke to her about compiling her writings to publish for the purpose of raising funds for the bio. It sounded good to her and she approved, so that was the genesis of Just Sharing by Taiwo AjaiLycett.

Publishing the book is one thing, pulling off an event that had guests like of Aremo Segun Osoba, Mr. Vincent Maduka, Prof. Pat Utomi, Mrs. Francesca Emanuel, Mr. Bayo Awala, Mr. Tunde Kelani, Mr. Taiwo Obileye, Mrs. Ireti Doyle is no small feat, what led you to think big?

Interestingly in all the years I was busy collecting her writings online, editing and coming up with the concept for the book, I never thought of organising the book launch. I was focused on publishing the book and working with a foremost public relations company or event organiser to launch the work so we can raise enough money for the bio. This was well ahead of my travel to obodo oyinbo; it just ap-

peared bigger than something I could handle. But by October when I returned to the country and I realised little was being said about Mama TAL’s 75th, I began encouraging her to consider a launch. Mind you, by 2014 she had read through the manuscript, made suggestions and corrections and approved the review copy of the book.

Unfortunately she took ill and my visits to set the ball rolling didn’t achieve much. After 3 visits and no headlight after which Mama TAL travelled, I gave up. If in 5 years I haven’t been able to raise a kobo, why bother.

About 3 weeks to the event, I visited my sister - Mrs. Motunrayo Alaka nee Famuyiwa, who is the centre coordinator at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) and just as I was about to leave I mentioned the complete manuscript and Mama’s upcoming birthday and she said, “Sister mi, you have to do something. If you don’t do it now, you will have to wait another 5 years!” A light bulb went up in my head and we quickly put an initial draft together. But before then something divine happened. My dad called me from the blues just as I was wondering whether to let myself off Motun’s hook and guess what my dad said, “Mama Lycett ni mo n’wo l’oju television yi (I am watching Mama Lycett on the television right now), your mentor is being interviewed on NTA. You should tune in.” As I narrated what my dad said to my sister, we both looked at each other and she said, “So what more conviction do you need?”

She said as I left, make sure you go and see her tonight, it is not a phone matter. I did exactly that, booked an appointment to see TAL that same evening. Of course she was sceptical about whether I could swing it but I assured her of the possibility.

Once she gave the go ahead, she called a few contacts including Prof. Bayo Williams right there and then to let them know they will be hearing from me. Then we began the journey through

her phones... By the time we were done we had over 100 names and numbers. So, 3 weeks to the 3rd of February, I had a date, the name of a thespian, an edited manuscript still in need of this and that and contacts of prospective guests! 2 weeks to the event, folks began to sign up to support the event but we still had not booked a hall. I initially wanted to use a free hall but those organising another event for TAL had been approved to use it free at a later date. I tried to pull strings to ensure we got at least a heavy discount. But by the time my team went to rake the proposed venue, they gave a NO. We are all about excellence; even though there was no cash down, quality of service and care of the subject and her guest matter.

Particularly I wish to thank Dame Abimbola Fashola, wife of the super minister! She is one person who did not question my integrity and that tells me a lot about her faith. She promptly sent in her comments about TAL for the book (I had only a 36-72 hour window for those I reached for comments!) and offered support in a way that gave me confidence. I thank my team at Cares Global Network (CGN) and I am deeply grateful for the logistic support from WSCIJ. Please tell me about the book and how you intend to draw the attention of Nigerians to the book and issues raised in the book?

The book has been planned as a series, Mama TAL’s is the

second in the series. I hope that someday we will have Just Sharing by Yemi Osinbajo, Just Sharing by Abimbola Fashola, Just Sharing by Pat Utomi, Just Sharing by Yusuf Grillo etc. The issues raised are everyday issues; inspirational issues that would transform the way we think and live. As Mr. Dele Adetiba said in his comment published in the book, “She has a point of view on any subject, which is always an indication of deep thought.” The book is her writing and her writing is her...

As you read page by page you would feel her speaking directly to you. While editing, I actually found myself mimicking her as I read some parts of the book. It comes alive as you read. Other things you will get to read in the book that are not directly written by TAL include comments by few people who know her and the vision that my team and I have for celebrating her! The Federal or State Government can actually partner with us to make the vision happen. Other parts of the book not directly written by her include a wellcrafted dedication to all those “reaching for the stars following a chance meeting with tall dreams”, glowing forward by quintessential Segun Sofowote, TAL’s profile and “Tribute to a Living Legend”. This is a short poetic adaptation by me of her yet to be published biography.

Some say it doesn’t belong in the book but it is my way of whetting the readers’ appetite.

But what was it about TAL that made you take interest

That someone is not a money bag does not mean the person should not be celebrated.

Dr Omolola with husband Adebola Omoteso

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Artman In The House

Friday, February 12, 2016

in Nigeria –Omolola Omoteso in such a big project?

My husband wondered why I was so passionate about celebrating Mama TAL. In 2002 following my success at an entrepreneurship course, Mama TAL who had only just recently met me as a stranger after being matched with her for mentoring, threw a party for me at her residence. The event was fully sponsored by her; all I did was to invite my family, friends and my toasters (laughs)! I have gone ahead to do a number of things with her including giving media publicity to her school and featuring her students in my television programmes but I always wanted to celebrate her in a special way. February 3, 2016 provided that opportunity and despite the challenge of inadequate funds, limited time frame and infightings targeted at cancelling the event, I am glad God made it possible. I must commend the readers - Mr. Dele Adetiba, Mr. Akin Fatunke and Mrs. Iretiola Doyle (they had to throw a dice to select what they would read as time was rather short to have them read the entire book just to figure out what to read). Despite the initial low response, the buzz created by our company and the media made the event almost became a jamboree.

Would you say the book launch was a success?

Are you kidding me? What do you think! Of course it was.

The media and guests added so much colour; reports are still coming in from the media and I am doing my best to capture and archive all... In terms of money not so well. We had a lot of promises but it would have worked better if those who chose to support did not lump their financial support with gifts to the author.

We bankrolled the event (excluding the cost of the hall) and I am still trusting that through donations, we would clear the

21

fgh

Omolola Omoteso, with the husbad and Vice President Yemi Osibanjo

bill incurred and get set to complete the biography. If success is measured in Naira then we haven’t made money yet but we ignited a historical celebration that would very well last a lifetime. We are expecting that those who did not get their copies of the book on the 3rd will attend the colloquium and celebration planned for Mama TAL on the 25th at LTV 8 Combo Hall to pick up their copies.

You haven’t made money?

(Laughs) Is it expected that I should? Friendship is based on convenience but every defined relationship is based on commitment and such commitment is bound to have associative benefits. The benefits of being associated with Mama TAL is what played out that day. It is why you are interviewing me now. The benefits of a mid-age global citizen celebrating an elderly international theatre icon is huge and immeasurable. We minimise the associative benefits when we seek to only measure it in terms of cash at hand and at bank. Celebrities may not have come for me but they came for her.

Tell me about your media house?

Destiny! Don’t let CAC come after me o. Though registered in Nigeria as a limited liability company and in the USA as charity, we have done more of charity events to inspire people to excel. Money will come... In the last 20 years, I have done more of building lives and it sure makes me sleep well every night; the spiritual and emotional reward is gratifying. We started as a magazine for young people but as we empowered lives, we grew. Today we have a number of initiatives. Our events arm, ACE Events organised Mama TAL’s Book Launch on her 75th Birthday while CGN Books published her writings in book form. Cares Global Network started as a media and youth development organisation that planned programmes for young people and published Willows Magazine quarterly but now we are into much more including counselling those who are hurting from relationships.

I really want to know if TAL is worth the attention you gave her because most times in Ni-

Omolola Omoteso

geria, only politicians and well known industrialists get such attention?

It is unfortunate but this line of thought has put me in trouble with some of her close associates questioning my intention.

It is truly sad. That someone is not a money bag does not mean the person should not be celebrated. Who has benefited from TAL? The public, her audience, her students, those she mentored; people like me. We need to change our mind-set that the government or some money bags should be responsible for things like this. What celebration is there in a politician bankrolling an event like this with questionable funds especially when it would be seen more as targeted at scoring political points? Not only have I been questioned for doing this, I have received far less support than I envisaged. A bank that had previously given her an award promised to support but

a day to the event, they called to say sorry we only intend to publicly present her a cake and give her a personal gift! So the event is only good enough as a publicity stunt! Individuals did the same. We would have had a bigger and better event if rather than query why, many who truly wish to celebrate this icon rose up to the occasion and supported the event.

Critics have often described biographies as equally fictitious, a selected tale that an author wants people to know because of his or her sense of achievement, and thus a biography shouldn’t be relied upon because it only presents the protagonist in a positive light, and may want to ignore the unpalatable aspects of the protagonist’s life. And again, they question the ability of the protagonist to remember accurately everything that has happened to him or her. What would you say to this?

We would have had a bigger and better event if rather than query why, many who truly wish

to celebrate this icon rose up to Omolola Omoteso, with Taiwo Ajai-Lycett at the 75th birthday of the later.

the occasion and supported the event.

Critics

MUSIC

22

Akinyemi Ayinoluwa

A

llegations of copyright infringement have been hurled in all directions. Many are incensed that a colleague, competitor or co-collaborator suddenly went rogue and profits from their works. They accuse them of using a composition and sound recording of their work without due authorization.

There is a growing list of the artistes who have raised eyebrows and have also raised tweet-brows against a colleague.

The likes of Black Face, DJ Spinal, Don Jazzy and Dammy Krane have raged online about this breach of their Intellectual Property. Deevee, Masterkraft, Shizzi and Vector had also vent similar outrage concerning the stealing of their works by counterparts in the industry. It is also fast becoming a fad in the industry, as the list of supposed offending artist include KSolo, Psquare, Ycee, Kaycee, Wande Coal and Olamide who have at different times been caught in this web of allegations.

From my experience and the reports garnered in the media, the infringement often alleged occurs:

BOOK

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Copyright infringements in Nigeria

In January 2016, the Nigerian blogosphere witnessed tweetstorms at the behest of prominent musicians over copyright issues.

(I). After a music artist visits a colleague’s studio or attends freestyle or full recording sessions and thereafter substantially replicates for his own benefits the music shared with him. (ii). When snippets of yet to be released songs are posted on social media and the producers track/beat is adapted or reproduced. (iii). After the commercial success of a particular kind of composition.

It appears Twitter is a perfect vehicle for venting frustration, exchanging expletives, casting aspertions and scoring cheap publicity for new content. But these musicians should know better. Perhaps they do not have enough financial capacity to pursue their right or do not have a full grasp of the implication for their craft in the future. They may be lacking knowledge in handling issues of copyrights violation.

Many might wonder why so much importance is attached to musical works.

To demonstrate the value of a song, I liken it to a piece of Real Estate. Its brick, mortar, material, foundation, structure, and overall architecture are elements in the mold of signature phrases. They are like riffs, horns, screams, vocal melodies and hooks. They contain the notes, verses, back-up vocals, drum patterns, bass melodies and adlibs. More so, a song can equally generate compensation for its creator just like a real estate would its owner.

As such, I ponder: what is a knowledgeable man’s reaction to a trespass on his property? Should he go on endless rants

Nigerian musical works

in the media and rain insults o n those he suspects of committing the wrong? Why has allegations of copyright infringement continually festered on the Nigerian music landscape? Are there more suitable avenues for addressing grievances predicated on copyrights infringement?

Nigeria’s Copyrights Law, governed by the Copyright Act Cap. C28 (LFN 2004) and other international conventions, recognizes and protects proprietary rights in a musical work and sound recording. It also mandates that owners of such works can, to the exclusion of others, exploit and earn rentals for a given number of years.

To this end, Copyright can be described as ‘Right to Copy’ musical works.

To be eligible for copyrights, a musician must be able to show that sufficient

Understanding Africa’s problems

There are many questions we ask ourselves about our Africa. This book, Barriers to Riches by John Isaac offers explanations.

T

Friday, February 12, 2016

he most common and probably the deepest is: why is Africa poor?

What is wrong with Africa? Why has wealth eluded Africa all these years? Why is Africa both socially and economically backward?

Why are there no globally outstanding Africans in industry and intellectual work? As the population of Africa is growing, so are poverty and backwardness growing. What does the future hold for Africa?

These and other similar questions led us to carry out a fundamental research on Africa. First, we thought that insufficient intelligence was the root cause of Africa’s problem. It could be, we supposed, that Africans are not naturally intelligent enough to handle the affairs of Africa. In the

course of our deliberations, we noticed that some African tribes outperformed other tribes in their own little ways.

We thought that if intelligence was the root course of African problems, we could probably find differences in natural intelligence between performing and nonperforming African tribes. We started by testing samples of African tribes to find out differences in intelligence. We did not find difference in intelligence between African tribes. Later we carried the project

overseas to find out differences in natural intelligence between whites and Africans.

After many years of work, we did not find any differences between whites and Africans in intelligence.

What then is the reason for African poverty and backwardness given that Africans are not naturally less intelligent than others? Why is there neither prosperity nor progress in Africa?

We decided to use an impersonal physical looking glass model to find out the problem with Africa. We based our model on a physical rendition of Aristotle’s model of the individual in society. Aristotle said that man is a social animal and that society always precedes the individual.

We drew this as a sphere with the “animal” as the nucleus. We found that the animal i.e. man can be modeled as a current-carrying conductor. Using the calculations of a current –carrying conductor, we found that the important parameter for individual performance is the social space for individual freedom available to the individual.

The greater the sphere of individual freedom, the more the individual can do.

We found real life examples that support our finding. We also found that the size of the sphere of individual freedom also af-

efforts have been expended to produce an original musical work or/and sound recording. It must be concretized in tangible form, that is, the musical work must be ORIGINAL and stored in a fixed format such as sheets, tapes, Mp3s, DVDs, and other formats.

The exclusive Right to Copy is automatically bestowed upon the fixation of an original piece of music. However, this exclusivity expires seventy years after the end of the year in which the musician dies.

During the pendency of the exclusivity of the right to copy, a musician – by Section 6 of the Copyright Act – retains the exclusive right to reproduce, publish, perform, adapt, distribute, sell and broadcast his music. This exclusive Right to Copy is the bedrock of all businesses dependent on copyrights, such as film, music, theatre, broadcast, book pub-

fected the hydrodynamics of society which in turn affects the governability of the nation. Lower sized spheres of individual freedom made societies hard or impossible to govern while higher sized spheres made societies easier to govern and lead.

We found that Africa is home to lower sized spheres of individual freedom because people live in tribal blocks rather than as individuals in the real sense of the word. The repulsion and hatred between tribes make individuals cling to their native tribes and tribal people so tightly that their spheres of individual freedom are consumed by their groups.

The average size of spheres of individual freedom in Africa is small, so the African societies and nations are not easily governed. There are governments, of course, but they are not usually able to administer the affairs of the nation very well; the major problem being low average size of spheres of individual freedom.

Our conclusion is that to find prosperity and progress in Africa we need to get rid of tribes and tongues so that the sphere of individual freedom of Africans will increase. African productivity and more importantly, governability will improve drastically so that prosperity and progress will come and dwell in Africa.

Our conclusion is that to find prosperity and progress in Africa we need to get rid of tribes

Friday, February 12, 2016

33 Rabi Al-Awwal, 1437A.H

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

23

Call to Worship

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

related by bukhari and muslim

Call for Hijab ban is politically-motivated –Mumuni Sekinah L awal

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enowned counter-terrorism expert, Ambassador Abayomi Nurain Mumuni has described the purported plot to make authorities ban the use of hijab in Nigeria, as a politically-motivated syndrome, saying the Muslim headscarf has nothing to do with the act of terrorism.

Mumuni, who is the author of “Global Terrorism and its Effects on Humanity”, made this revela-

tion while speaking on the release of his second book, entitled: “Demand by Terror”. According to him, the book will be launched in the United States of America in September in commemoration of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Centre Towers by terrorists.

The former governorship candidate of the defunct CPC in Lagos State said: “Hijab is not going to be banned. It is not just possible because Hijab has nothing to do with act of terrorism. Is like using or wearing military camouflage uni-

form to commit act of terrorism.

Just like you cannot ban military uniform, same reason you cannot ban Hijab. More so, Catholic nuns wear something similar to Hijab, and it can be used to perpetuate same act. So, it is not about banning Hijab”, he stated.

Mumuni called on world leaders to come up with better strategies of combating terrorism and stop futile effort of seeking Hijab ban.

“My next book, “Demand by Terror”, will be a good manual for federal government in the fight

against terrorism.”

He called on the anti-graft body, EFCC to commence a comprehensive investigation into the accounts of the traditional rulers who allegedly benefited from the looted public fund, massively stolen under President Goodluck Jonathan.

He said anyone found culpable among the traditional rulers should not only be ordered to refund the stolen money, but should also be compelled to face the full wrath of Law. Mumuni’s “Demand

by Terror” is the second in series after his first impressive outing with “Global Terrorism and its Effects on Humanity”, adjudged by Stakeholders to be one of the most incisive books on counter-terrorism in recent times.

Ma’adh bin Jabal (RU) narrates that the Messenger of Allah said: “When we are gathered on the Day of Judgment no one will be able to leave his place till he answers the following five questions: (1) How did he spend his lifetime?

(2) How did he spend his prime youth?

(3) How did he earn his living?

(4) How and where did he spend it?

(5) How much did he act upon his acquired knowledge? (Al Bahiqi)

L-R: Former Deputy President of The Muslim Congress, TMC, and University of Lagos Senior Lecturer, Dr. Ismail Ibrahim; Executive Director, Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation, ZSF, Imam Abdullahi Shuaib; Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; Dr. Tajudeen Yusuf of University of Lagos; CEO, Cyborg, Mr. Toibudeen Oduniyi and Amir and Yaba College of Technology, YABATECH’s Senior Lecturer, Dr. Luqman AbdurRaheem during a visit by TMC to the VP at Aso Villa, Abuja.

Place your adverts here for optimal reach Zakat Is 2.5% Of Your Total Wealth, Known As Nisab. After Having Fulfilled All obligations, pay your zakat

Thank God our lawmakers are now seeing discrepancies in budget 24

Fadl Omar holds inter-house Sports

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ne of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat private schools, Fadl Omar Schools, Shomolu , Lagos, held its annual inter house sports yesterday at the University of Lagos Sports Center.

Pupils of the school took part in sporting activities such as Taekwondo and track events with pupils, teachers and parents participating in match past.

The inter-house sports were part of the centenary celebrations for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat in Nigeria. The Jamaat pioneered both secular and Islamic education in Nigeria.

End of looters 24

Q; 17: 23-24)): {Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none but Him, and that ye be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them attain old age in thy life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them but address them in terms of honor. And, out of kindness, lower to them the wing of humility, and say: “My Lord! Bestow on them Mercy even as they cherished me in childhood.}

Pearls of wisdom III 25

Call to Worship

24

Friday, February 12, 2016

Thank God our lawmakers are now seeing discrepancies in budget Y es, alhamdulillahi! We truly need to thank the almighty Creator that our legislators are now seeing “discrepancies, errors and ambiguities” in budget proposal. And thanks to the Change Era too.

Even my 14year old girl can read between the lines of the new development coming from the national assembly when she asked; “Please mum, is it because the national assembly has realized that the current executive arm under Buhari will not give GhanaMust-Go so that budget can be passed that they are now look-

ing at the proposal seriously?”

My simple answer to my girl was; “Just let us thank God that the Change Era has made them to do some things right as it is no longer business as usual.”

National Assembly has said it is no longer feasible to pass the 2016 budget proposal on February 25 as earlier scheduled as a result of “discrepancies, errors and ambiguities” inherent in the budget proposal, the lawmakers said.

However, the National Assembly should not give us the excuse of not being able to guarantee any future date

This is not just starting

under this administration, all manners of question-

able headings and subhead with very huge and unreasonable amount

Healthy Corner with

Dr. Yahaya

Facts to note about recurrent early pregnancy loss (2)

T

esting for Genetic damage by karyotyping in abortus can explain the loss and trace the genetic damage to the parents and if normal can suggest non genetic cause, though a normal karyotype does not entirely exclude genetic causes for miscarriages. It can result from the contamination of the specimen. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) with Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis whereby genetically normal embryos or babies are transferred, is established treatment for couples with recurrent pregnancy losses when one partner has damaged genetic materials.

2. Anatomical factors: Inborn and acquired uterine abnormalities predispose to an increased risk of pregnancy loss and can be diagnosed by SonoHSG or traditional HSG (Hysterosalpingography)MRI (Magnetic resonance

imaging) may be required to differentiate septate uterus from bicornuate one. Septate is the most common inborn uterine abnormalty associated with recurrent pregnancy loss and the malformation most successfully corrected

by Hysteroscopic Septoplasty. Abdominal Metroplasty procedures are rarely indicated in women uterus didelphys or bicornuate uterus. Cervical cerclage Procedure may improve pregnancy outcome in bicornuate uteri, unicornuate uterus and didelphys uterus with history of previable delivery or in those who exhibit progressive cervical shortening during early pregnancy.

Uterine fibroid is common in women with recurrent pregnancy loss but only submucous and larger intramural fibroids distorting or encroaching upon the uterine cavity are relevant to treatment. Intrauterine adhesion very rare in the developed world but a common occurrence here is

for the passage of the budget.

They should be ready for more work and be willing to make the needed sacrifice to devote more time for the exercise at hand in collaboration with the executive arm of government to give Nigerians the best.

It is a very good idea that they need to do a “proper clean-up” of the budget. It is our hope that for future purposes, there will be sufficient time to pass a clean and realizable budget devoid of all manners of corruption.

Media reports and appearances by officials before different committees of the National Assembly showed that the budget contained fraudulent, controversial and embarrassing allocations. This is not just starting under this administration, all manners of questionable headings and subhead with very huge and unreasonable amount, but we still thank God that it is now coming to the open.

33 Rabi Al-Awwal, 1437A.H

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

THE PLATFORM with

Sekinah Lawal t: 08055102994 e: sakinah207@yahoo.com tees should please do that with all urgency in order for our Lawmakers to do what is necessary.

I see no reason why we should still be be allocating millions of naira for generators if we are really ready to solve the power supply palaver. The passage of the 2016 budget proposal on February 25 as earlier scheduled by our Lawmakers is still possible if all hands are on deck.

Of course, all those responsible for the discrepancies and ambiguities in the budget proposal, must be severely dealt with in order to serve as deterrent to others. Also, there is no point borrowing with huge in-

terest again when we can make those who looted the treasury to return their loot.

We need to really start raising a new breed of leaders who are not as greedy and wicked as many are today. We need to let them know that leadership is not an opportunity to inflate contracts and steal public funds.

Proper religious and moral training will make the young ones understand that their actions would ultimately cost them dearly.

We must put aside all ethnic and primordial interests as change agents and partake in the task of nation building without prejudices.

All those who need to look into the details of the budget and re-submit it to the commit-

an established cause of of recurrent pregnancy loss; pregnancy outcome is improved by Hysteroscopic lysis.

3. Immunologic factors Both auto immune and allo Immune mechanisms have been implicated as causes of recurrent pregnancy loss.

Auto Immune is a situation where immune response is directed against a specific part of host or self. Those diseases linked with recurrent pregnancy losses are Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and Anti-Phospholipid syndrome (APS). In Allo immune disorder abnormal maternal immune responses are directed against fetal (baby inside the uterus) and placental antigens. The risk of pregnancy loss associated with SLE is 20%. Excessive risk is found between 14 to to 26weeks and 27to 40 weeks of pregnancy (2nd and 3rd trimester). All fetal deaths occurring in patients with SLE are associated with APS, they are most sensitive indicators of fetal distress and death. APS is diagnosed by vascular thrombosis (blockage of blood vessels) and pregnancy losses and is a treatable cause of recurrent pregnancy loss.

Vice Chairman, Shariah Committee of Nigeria, Sheikh AbdulFatai Thanni (middle) assisted by ZSF official to presenting lap top to Hamzat Idris Olalekan (right), a visually impaired student from University of Lagos, department of Mass communication

Chief Executive Officer Safamaq Nig Ltd Architect Mutiu Adeboye presenting a set of computer system, a printer, scanner, and a binding machine to Oyebamiji Jamiu

To be continued •Dr. G. L. Yahaya is a Reproductive Physician and Medical Director of Continental Specialist Clinic. Phone Number 08075004277, 07081312295.

Secretary-General, International Muslim Women Union, IMWU, Dr. Afaf Hussein shaking hands with the Coordinator, Social Advocacy Project Hajia Sherifah Yusuf-Ajibade (left). With them are Head, Al-Mu`minaat Professional Wing, Dr. Monsurah Kadri (2nd left) and MSSN Lagos State Area Unit Amirah, Hajia Hafsah Badru at the IMWU Conference in Khartoum, Sudan.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, February 12, 2016

IN HIS LIGHT

with

USTAZ

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

End of looters

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he daily headlines make waves on the volumes of the looted funds which the looters fearfully return without shame. These loots are not in thousands but millions and billions which are enough to give the common men good roads, stable electricity, free sound education, free food, free health service and portable water. They return it not because they are convinced or remorseful. But where were these anti graft agencies when these evils were being perpetrated? Perhaps it was because it was the meat of the previous regime but poison for the present one. All these so-called anti-graft agents are human beings with resilient limitations. They can never get all the corrupt elements. Only God is perfectly positioned to do that.

There is however a point of urgent precaution and prayer. Do all that are called to join Buhari regime in his gradual war against corruption believe in the struggle?

Should Buhari decide not to contest in the next dispensation, will the next president move on from where he stops? Should God even decide that he returns to him, will his successors continue the war? Hope it will not be like the story of a skilled hunter who went on hunting, as he killed different animals, he kept keeping them on the road with the plan that when he finishes, he will pack all. Unknown to him unfortunately, another hunter on the same track who was coming behind him, kept collecting the animals!

We have been hearing of returned loots, has this government not been in place, would those returned peanuts have been recovered?

Has there been looted properties or land returned? But those stolen monies were used for other businesses, how about the returns or profits from such businesses? Are they not supposed to be returned, since they were not loans? Would it be enough to pardon the looters and tell them ‘go and sin no more’?

What deterrent will that serve the upcoming looters? Should another regime come and re-entrench corruption, what will be the fate and role of the citizens?

War on corruption will never end as long as the human minds think evil. Corruption has really become ubiquitous. There is yet to be any government establishment that could be said to be free of corruption. Its spirit is almost becoming irrevocable. Its baton is now being passed like a relay race. Religiousity appears not to fill the heart of men with the sense of accountability but discretion to abuse every given opportunity to serve the people.

A question one needs to ask is, why do those at the corridors of power always steal our monies? It is never theirs! One argument is that, most politicians spend a lot to get what they need, so as soon as they snatch the power, they want to refund. Another reason is status maintenance or sustenance. They will never want the rosy life they have been enjoying dwindle, so they need to steal as much as they could to keep them throughout life or at least enthrone somebody who will cover their tracks and keep the milk flowing.

It could also be temptation from the devil as it is a commonplace to attribute every error to it. Whereas devil will not make such people dip their hands inside fire or ask them not to eat for days. Some could just want to sustain the status quo by continuing the tradition of

33 Rabi Al-Awwal, 1437A.H

looting which their predecessors have started.

In all these situations, it is glaring that the drive to satisfy the human flesh was supreme. God was not in any way kept in the picture. Were they to think God from the beginning, He will surely assist and guide them. Were they to think deeply, they will realize that no man came to this world with any property; and so nobody will return with it to the grave? You alone will account for whatever you accumulate even if you do not spend it; whereas the heirs/spenders will only account for the spending. Were they to reason they will realize that the common man bears the brunt of their corruption, hunger kills and poverty strikes them. Were they to reason out, they would see that God watches over them and that there is no escapade from punishment. Were they to reason they will learn from others who did what they did, and suffer the nemesis. How would they go scot free on earth without paying for their unholy, ungodly, inhuman, irresponsible acts? Were they to reason, they will show mercy on the common men who brought them into power.

How about those who join the looters to savor the juice? Are they also culpable? Those who join their neighbor to drink poison, who will you say kill them? The consequence of corruption is terribly massive. And that is why it must be fought decisively. It is a big battle which must be fought by all. It must start from our hearts. We must be contented with the little that we have. We must hate all forms of corruption no matter the perpetrator. We must seek forgiveness for how we have been involved in it and completely turn a new leaf.

The worst corruptions are the ones that bother on spiritual and moral matters.

When you do not serve the right God, it is the mother of all corruptions. It means you do not acknowledge the one who created you on earth. This will make one behave and eat like animals. It will affect the way you think and relate with the universe. It will lead you into social debauchery. You will fornicate and engage in bribery. You will involve in examination misconducts because you do not trust God can pass you or that He is watching over your deeds. You will kill innocent lives by whatever means. You will tell lies and deceive people. You will hoard and inflict hardship on the society.

Thus, the root of all corruptions is the heart. When it is dead or desolate of the light of faith it has no boundary for evils it can perpetrate. To root out corruption, the need to purify out hearts and minds from materialism is fundamental. The communal condemnation of corrupt practices and people will restore integrity. All those found guilty of corruption should be publicly made to face the wrath of the law. There should a quick and effective window by which corruption in offices for admission, examinations, promotion, land documentation, etc are reported, tracked down and apprehended.

All looters, caught or uncaught, in public or private service, loots fully or partially returned or unreturned, must know that God will re-judge their cases. He may expose them in this world as some are presently; He will punish them with hell unless they fully repent by returning all their loots. If they escape the glare of men, they can never be saved from the wrath of God. They must know that the suffering they put the nation through is a curse on their head. Their eternal chastisement will be to the extent of their theft. They are all like the armed robbers who carry guns at night to cart people’ properties aways. These looters are day light robbers and they are worse than the armed robbers because they violate their covenant to fear God and serve the people; and their loot is also global as they steal what belongs to all.

Adeniyi O.Z. (PhD) omotopeadeniyi@gmail.com

Pearls of wisdom III W

hen he said he had been to Qadian and accepted the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace), MaulawiGhulam Ahmad was astonished and said that he was such a big scholar what good quality did he see in the Promised Messiah? Maulawi Khan Malik told him to mind his own business as he still did not know much. This riled his pupils but MaulawiGhulam Ahmad calmed them saying that Maulawi Khan Malik was right.

An Arab came to visit the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace). When he decided to return the Promised Messiah offered him something to meet his travel expenses but he declined and said he had come to Qadian because he had heard of the claim of the Promised Messiah and had not come to receive anything. Since no one from that region who had not been in need had visited Qadian before, this was a new situation, the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) asked him to stay on a few more days and appointed someone to do tabligh to him. However, the tabligh did not have any impact on him. It was said about him that he was a very passionate person quite unlike those in need and he was in search of the truth. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) was requested to pray for him. The Promised Messiah prayed for him and informed that he will be guided. The next morning the man took bai’at. Later, HazratMusleh Maud learned that the man had been to Hajj where he fervently did tabligh to people. Some people beat him up so much that he would faint but this did not deter him and he would start tabligh again.

In the times of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) an American named Alexander Russell Webb accepted Islam.

He had corresponded with the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) which had led to his acceptance of Islam. He went on to dedicate his life to the propagation of Islam. He visited India and wished to meet the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) but the maualwis deterred him by saying that if he met the Promised Messiah, Muslims would not make donations to him. He was tricked by this and left India without meeting the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) but also disappointed that he did not receive help and support. He wrote to the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) before the Promised Messiah’s passing and said that he had suffered a lot by not taking the Promised Messiah’s advice.

He wrote, you told me Muslims have no interest in serving faith but I did not listen to you and as a result failed to meet

Call to Worship

25

Every Friday with

Khalifatul Ahmadiyya you. HazratMusleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) said that [at the time] the Jama’at was progressing more in the USA as compared to Europe.

HazratMusleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) said that moral training of children should be done in a relaxed manner for example when they are playing. For small children this could be done through stories. These stories do not have to be unnecessarily untrue. He said during his childhood the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) used to tell stories of HazratYousuf, Nuh and Musa (peace be on them all) and for him as a child these true accounts were stories. The Promised Messiah also told an Arabian Nights tale.

There can be some stories which have a moral. When children are a little older their moral training can be done during games and sports.

HazratMusleh Maud said when the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) told them stories it relaxed them and sent them off to sleep and this meant the Promised Messiah could do his work.

Children do not realise the serious nature of their parents’ work so story-telling calms them down as they listen intently and fall asleep. Of course good, useful stories should be told.

The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) used to tell a story about a bear.

A man had a bear as a pet and they were good friends. This is a tale which is intended to convey a fact. Any tale which the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) told had a moral to it. Anyway, the mother of the man with the bear was ill and he once sat with her helping to shoo away the flies off her. Meanwhile, he had to go somewhere so he asked his friend, the bear, to sit with his mother and shoo away the flies. The bear started earnestly shooing the flies off his friend’s mother but they kept coming back. The bear felt this must be bothersome for the old lady, and shooing them off did not come naturally to him as it would to a human. So he decided to do something about it in a way he knew. He took a large stone and hit the flies with it but in the process he also crushed his friend’s mother. The moral of the story is that some foolish people make friends but do not know how to keep the friendship. They may do something for the friend as a well-wisher but end up causing harm.

To be continued

Naib Amir, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Nigeria, Eastern Region, Dr. Abdul Ganiy Enahoro; Barrister Rizwan Muhammad, National Secretary Tarrbiyya, Education Secretary, Maulvi Ilori, Benin circuit central missionary and others as Ahmadiyya opened a new mosque in Benin circuit.

26

Arty News

Friday, February 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Children thrill at Korean New Year festival Joel Ajayi

T

hough the 2016 Lunar New Year Festival was celebrated in faraway Asian countries, Korean children, students and youths who are residing in Nigeria were not left out of the celebration.

Lunar Day was celebrated in grand style in Abuja, Nigeria, on 9th February 2016, courtesy of Korean Cultural Centre.

It was excitement, fun, educational and interactive arts and crafts, games, musical and dance performances, and cultural activities for people of all ages.

Every February 8 marks the beginning of the Year of the Monkey for many families around the world including Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese.

New Year’s Day is also a family holiday, and the lunar New Year is a threeday event in Korea. Most people try to

return to their family homes to spend time with relatives and honor ancestors.

The event had the presence of a representative of the Ministry of Information and Culture, youth, children, women as well as culture enthusiasts.

It started off with the anthems of Nigeria and Korea serenading the hall, then a grand welcome offered by the director of who craved the indulgence of everyone to have fun, celebrate and rel-

ish the great culture of the Koreans.

For a better understanding of the culture or practice of the lunar New Year; a movie was played to help understand the general theme To the amusement and delight of all folk songs were performed by Korean language learners and the Korean cultural club members sang the Nigerian folk songs to show the synergy of both countries.

is already getting rave reviews online.

To unleash the musical part of his talent, he says he would go by the stage name ‘Big Slim’. In a phone interview about this new venture, he reiterated that music has been a part of his upbringing since his childhood days in Jos, Plateau State, and would in no way mean that he would abandon his calling in the art of filmmaking.

“How do I start to explain this?” he said. “Music has always been a part of me. Right from my days in Jos, people would tell you that they knew me first as the guy who sings. But I noticed that my filmmaking efforts have kind of swallowed my music talent and I do not want that to happen. My music is a summation of my cultural experiences from the north, south and west, where I have cultural and social affinities to. I am from the south east, was born in the north and have spent business years in the south west. So, it is a great experience to impart to fans through music” Ijele according to him reflects these

experiences and has been specifically composed to engender the spirit of values in Nigerian music. “So many stakeholders say our music has not been able to project our values as a people and this is what I am about to correct.

While it has tunes and melody someone can dance to, it is also filled with messages for the populace. For me, music is art and art is supposed to leave a legacy, while it mirrors the society”.

Onyeabor who is also a script writer and song writer, is the CEO of ‘Igo Motion Pictures. He has won many awards for filmmakaing, which includes: Best African Director (New York Film Festival) in 2000, ‘Best Art Director’ (AMAA), Best Overall Director ‘Golden Camel Award’ (Lagos International Film Festival) amongst others. He is known for successful movies like “Scout”, “New Jerusalem”, “James Town”. His music, Ijele, is coming under Alkebulan Records and premiers with a video featuring Funny Dawg. It was produced by Emcee Toosh Beat.

Making of BigSlim’s Ijele

Ngozi Emeolibe

F

ilm director and producer, Ifeanyi Onyeabor is set with a series of singles to thrill his fans in the entertainment industry. According to the Nkanu, Enugu State born filmmaker, the first of the series of singles, Ijele, was released a few days ago, and

End of rapper, DMX? I

n 1998, DMX was the hottest rapper alive. Earlier this week, police resuscitated him after a possible overdose in a Ramada Inn parking lot. How the Ruff Ryder lost his way.

DMX was found unresponsive at a Ramada Inn parking lot in his native Yonkers, New York, earlier this week after suffering a possible drug overdose. The growling rapper’s long history of addiction and arrests is as well-known as his music at this point—perhaps even more so—so it’s not hard to see why many would jump to those conclusions.

Varying reports claimed that cops gave him CPR and a medic injected him with Narcan, which is an anti-opioid used to reverse the effects of a heroin overdose.

It was reported that a witness at the

scene said DMX had taken a powdered drug before he collapsed.

“We’re told when cops arrived DMX was on the ground in the parking lot next to a park. Cops quickly determined he was lifeless, not breathing with no pulse and immediately began CPR.” For his part, the man formerly known as Earl Simmons claims that he did not take any powder or drugs, and says all he remembers is that he was experiencing trouble breathing after a recent bout of bronchitis and then collapsed, while a family member reportedly told TMZ that he’d requested his inhaler for his asthma before falling unconscious. Asthma attack or drug overdose, it’s hard to know what to believe. Given DMX’s history, both are equally likely to be true. But ev-

Not only that, the Korean K-POP dance was performed by students of JSS Gwagwalada and Pacific star of Nigeria who recently crowned the winner of 2015 K-POP in Korean.

The most interesting part of the event is the games for both young and old as many prizes were won.

In his earlier remarks, the Director of Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria KCCN, Mr. Kwon Yonk IK, explained: “in the last three years Korean Cultural Centre has become a comfortable, familiar place to many Nigerians, where cultural exchange program had provided more information on Korean culture to Nigeria.

“We have deepened mutual understanding and establish closer relations between the two countries.”

While highlighting the added programmes for the year the Director said: “This year, KCCN will provide Nigeria citizen with. Even more diverse culture experience programs to the cultural needs of Nigerian

Monalisa Chinda

Monalisa Chinda re-marries

A

DMX

ery time his name pops up in the headlines, with mentions of drugs and health and this ominous, lingering feeling of impending tragedy, we’re reminded of how far he’s fallen—and how upsetting it is that he can’t seem to stop the spiral.

ctress Monalisa Chinda is set to re-marry traditionally this February and the man in her life is Victor Coker who hails from the Niger Delta.

The actress who is presently engaged, had her introduction and bride price things in December 2015 and has picked February 20 as traditional wedding date and May 2016 as white wedding date.

White wedding will hold in Greece.

The traditional wedding will hold in her father’s compound in Port Harcourt and only a select few including her celebrity friends will receive her invite.

Monalisa was married to Segun Dejo Richard briefly and they had a daughter together before their marriage crashed years back on allegations of domestic violence.

Critics

Friday, February 12, 2016

In 2016, Nigeria remains the hotbed of Africa’s Afrobeat – an art form that mostly blends popular music genres with the Africa’s traditional sounds lishing, radio and television. This right sanctions the commercial exploitation of the works created.

According to Section 15(1) of the Copyright Act, when the rights contained in Section 6 are tampered with, the musician, owner, assignee or licensee of the right to copy is empowered to seek redress at the Federal High Court.

The Courts can grant reliefs by way of damages, injunctions, and accounts for profits whenever allegations of infringements are proven.

Perhaps, our current crop of ‘twitter fingers’ can draw inspiration from the recent decision in respect of the master’s rights and musical works of the legendary King Sunny Ade. The Court, sitting in Lagos, awarded him damages in the sum of N500,000,000 (Five Hundred Million Naira) after he satisfactorily proved his claims. To enforce his rights he didn’t resort to a media campaign, rather he got legal representation and presented his case in court. Another shining example can be found in the claims of heirs to the estate of Marvin Gaye against Robin Thicke, Pharell Willaims and T.I for infringement.

Upon conclusion of the trial, $7,000,000 was ordered as compensation. No amount of media-bashing could have resulted in this kind of favourable decisions.

In 2016, Nigeria remains the hotbed of Africa’s Afrobeats – an art form that mostly blends popular music genres with the Africa’s traditional sounds. Our music has gone global and music professionals, Investors and enthusiasts want more piece of the action. It is interesting to note that musicians are desperate to retain their spot atop the food chain, and many who shun collaboration with other creative people might get caught in the desperate act of appropriating other people’s work.

Therefore, while we deal with the scourge of piracy, there is an urgent need for musicians to live up to international best practices in preserving the sanctity of their copyrights. The concept affords enough protection for our burgeoning music industry. I am of the opinion that an infringement is a lazy and dishonest shortcut to wealth and it should be scandalised. More importantly, this flagrant disdain for other people’s musical works and disregard for the rules of engagement should be punished by the appropriate authorities.

If anyone has a reason to suspect that his rights are being tempered on, he should take the appropriate steps, instead of wailing on social media. *Ayinoluwa is a copyright lawyer in Lagos

THEATRE

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27

Conflict of identity

Typical stage play

Another look at why a stage play continues to thrill theatre audiences Ola Ibrahim

L

agos is now characterised by various theatrical performances for lovers of stage business to enjoy the fun embedded in the creative industry. It is glaring that the level of patronage that live theatre receives, is increasing geometrically on daily basis and the standard infused into stage performances, also taking a better leap.

This year is never an exception as both the Lagos Mainland and Island have got busy with various outstanding theatre productions, one of which is the ‘Belong’ performance.

Conflict of identity is a crucial phenomenon that has been battling with some individuals; identity of place, person and time. Some people have over the years rebuffed their origin, probably because development created an option for them in a preferred geographical setting.

These issues are being treated in the story ‘Belong’ written by Bola Agbaje, UK based Nigerian playwright, directed

by Tosan Ugbeye and produced by Shola Adenugba at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. Belong was first acted in London at the Royal Court Theatre in 2012.

It is a story that deals with situations of identity. Unlike some stage plays with upcoming faces dominating the stage, the producer of Belong assembled veterans in the Nigerian Live theatre to do justice to the play. Toyin Oshinaike who plays the character of Kayode and Dolapo Oni as Rita are both resident couple in London. Rita has got so glued to the British culture that she detests her native country. In solidifying their stay in Lon-

don, Kayode decides to take a giant stride to Parliament through election, but he fails, having sacrificed his career to misguided allegations about the racism of his equally black political opponent. To save the situation, Fola (Bimbo Akintola) appears in the picture. She is deeply into the Nigerian dream and would do anything to persuade émigrés to return home- Nigeria. Her convincing mannerism and ‘proposal’ gets into Kayode and he decides to take a thoughtful break to visit his mother (Taiwo Ajai-Lycett) in Nigeria. Mama had earlier adopted Kunle (OC Ukeje), a former “area boy”, with the intention of turning him into a Local Politician to juice out the best in him.

On the other hand, another desperate politician, Chief Olowolaye (Tunji Shotimirin) with the attitude of ‘Godfatherism’ is typical of a shady, wolfish and frantic leader. He grooms Kunle as his loyalist. Kayode’s visit to the country sprouts a conflicting interest between him and Chief Olowolaye. Kayode who never believes in the ideology of Chief Olowolaye tries to turn Kunle against him, after a clash. To frustrate the Chief and bring forth his political ideology of creating a positive change, he then picks up interest in contesting. As that ensues in Nigeria, Rita and Fola are busy tackling it out in London; Fola striving to change Rita’s mentality into conforming to her identity- Nigeria, while Rita has fully erased the Nigerian personality. In a nutshell, Kayode who initially wants to rule in a British way eventually changes his mind as he converses with the people

in a language that they understand thereby winning their hearts. Rita got convinced by Fola to come into Nigeria and see things for herself. On her arrival, she discovers Kayode’s political ambition in the country which shocks her. Kunle is made to turn against Chief Olowolaye.

Kayode is at the end left with the choice of either staying to fight the injustice in the country or retire to London with his wife. And the play ends leaving the audience to fix the end from their own perspective.

The full length piece tells of the challenges of being a ‘Diasporan’, deals with love, and explores the theme of gained and missed opportunities. Furthermore, it questions the notions of identity as many people go through life questioning where they truly belong. One area that the play also addresses is the fact that it is not the responsibility of those who have got soaked in the culture of another land to come and effect a change in Nigeria, rather, those at home should do that with all sincerity of purpose.

Expectedly, the setting so unusual as the play was presented in a Theatre-onthe-round stage, which gets the audience really closer to the performers. The characters inserted an unusual energy into the play. And the directorial style also assisted to aid the play. The question of where does every one belong and where do they want to truly attach their identity to, lingers in the play. In all, origin should not be forgotten! Without doubt, this is a production Nigerians would be willing to see again and again.

The full length piece tells of the challenges of being a ‘Diasporan’, deals with love, and explores the theme of gained and missed opportunities

28

Inside FCT

Friday, February 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Okada riders return to city centre Blessing Ukaegbu

T

he FCT authorities, owners as well as riders of commercial motorcycles and tricycles popularly known as Okada and Keke-NAPEP respectively) may be heading for a showdown considering the manner in which these commercial motorcycles and tricycles operators dare the authorities, The commercial motorcycle operators whose activities have been banned by the FCT authorities in the city centres have found their way back to the nooks and crannies of the city These operators seem to tell the authorities and anyone who cares to listen that, “The law is made for man and not man for the law” against the backdrop of recent directives by the authorities that commercial motorcycles and tricycles remain banned from operating within 250 square kilometers from the FCT city centre.

Driven by the need to make ends meet and provide themselves a means of daily survival in the midst of the cut-throat competition from other modes of transportation, these operators have continue to resist and flout the directive of FCT authorities as they ride their motorcycles and tricycles with reckless abandon in clearly restricted districts of Durumi, Garki, Lugbe, Kuje, Karu, Jahi, Dutse Alhaji, Kubwa, Zuba and Gwagwalada.

A resident of the FCT, Danladi Adamum told Inside FCT that the Okada riders have become a law unto themselves.

He said, “they do not obey traffic laws, they over speed, they do not obey the road signs and symbols, and then they drive against the flow of traffic, or what we call in the local parlance, one-way”.

Arome Ezekiel, who resides at Federal Housing Authority (FHA) estate, Lugbe, wondered if government ever took the safety and well-being of the citizenry seriously.

“How come these okada riders are allowed to get away with all their excesses like not having vehicle plate numbers and possibly no vehicle registration for easy identification in view of the high levels of insecurity occasioned by rampant kidnapping, armed robbery and similar vices usually perpetrated through motor bikes today?”, he querried.

Abayomi Obaje, who reside at Garki District narrated how his wife was recently robbed of her handbag and other valuables by a supposed Okada rider around the Durumi District of the FCT. “Many of those boys masquerading as Okada riders are something else. Recently my wife had a bitter experience in the hands of one of them who pretended to convey her to her destination from the Durumi axis of the Old Federal Secretariat.

“She virtually lost everything she had on her, her handbag, phone, money, and so on, at the threat of a dagger, and I asked her to forget about the experience as life was more precious than gold. And the police shouldn’t pretend they do not receive any complaints from the victims

Okada riders

of these vices which are committed in broad day light around that axis”, Obaje said.

A resident of the FCT who simply identified herslf as Merilyn and lives in Jahi area of the city described the Okada riders as “rude, reckless and accidents waiting to happen on our roads” considering the way they ride their bikes as well as the percentage of road accidents that they had caused.

She said that the authorities should take action by confiscating their motor-

cycles and imposing heavy fine on them.

“Most mob action that occur on our roads leading to loss of lives, cars and other property can be traced to these people.

“Once a reckless Okada rider is involved in an accident with a car, his colleagues will gather in their hundreds and descend heavily on the driver of the car whether it was his fault or not. And many innocent Nigerians have lost their lives and property just like that”, Merilyn said.

Babatope Ajakaiye had warned that commercial motorcycles (Okada) and tricycles (Keke-NAPEP) remained banned from operating within 250 square kilometers of the Federal Capital City

Ifeanyi Nwankwo, once an okada operator but now a federal civil servant expressed support on the scope of restriction placed on okada operations around the FCT. Although he said that the okada operators get to the hinterlands unlike their cab counterparts, Nwankwo said asked relevant authorities to ensure that they possess relevant vehicle registration, valid means of identification, professional driver training and licensing.

At a recent meeting with the Executive Officers of the sector unions of the Okada/Keke-NAPEP Owners and Riders in Abuja, the FCT Permanent Secretary, Dr. Babatope Ajakaiye had warned that commercial motorcycles (Okada) and tricycles (Keke-NAPEP) remained banned from operating within 250 square kilometers of the Federal Capital City, insisting that the Abuja Master Plan and the Abuja Transportation Master Plan did not make provision for Okada and Keke to ply the roads at the city centre.

He added that the FCT administration would ensure that the law was not flouted, observing that commercial motorcycle operators are not safety conscious enough to be allowed to operate in the city centre According to Ajakaiye, government has a duty to protect lives and property of all citizens and ensure a safe environment for the benefit of the people.

It was, however, resolved at the meeting that all motorcycles operating as okada and must have official vehicle registration number.

At the point of registration, evidence must be produced that the okada operator belonged to a union for easy identification and control considering the prevailing security situation in the country.

If this renewed resolve of the FCT authorities to enforce the directives is anything to go by, then the okada operators should better prepare to comply or face the wrath of the law.

Robbery soars on Abuja roads Adeola Tukuru

F

or most residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), “one chance” has become the general term used to refer to situations where unscrupulous elements operating in unpainted taxis or private vehicles dispossess unsuspecting passengers of valuable items.

Though there was a reduction in the incident few months back but in recent times because of the harsh economic conditions, there has been increase in the incident is gradually creeping back However, the perpetrators are now applying new and more deadly ways in their operations Narrating her ordeal to Inside FCT, Deborah Oche who came to Abuja to process her visa application at one of the

embassies, said when she arrived in the city, she flagged down a neat taxi to take her to where the embassy was located. identified a clean looking taxi with a seemingly responsible driver.

Oche said she had made up her mind to engage the driver of the taxi whom she assumed was responsible person to take her everywhere she had to go him during the period of her stay However, Oche said that unknown to her, the taxi driver had sinister plans to disrupt her movement and dispossess her of valuable items.

According to her, she was in utter confusion as she noticed that the driver took shot glances at her from the rear view mirror while his accomplices stripped her bare of everything she had including money, international passport, jewelries, phones and other personal effects.

A resident of the FCT who also fell victim to the antics of the perpetrators

of “one chance”, Ezeachi Ugona, said that the taxi driver dared to play a fast one on her “I chartered a taxi to take me from Maitama junction to Zuba. Just as we approached Ministers Hill, I noticed that the driver was going to take a swing at me.

“In a split second, I blocked it and held on to his hand as the object fell off. In confusion and he swerved off the road and

I dragged him out of the car and beat the living daylight out of

him.

Luckily, there

were policemen within sight

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Inside FCT

Friday, February 12, 2016

29

Residents bemoan high cost of meals Goodness Adaoyiche

F

ood, clothing and shelter represent the basic needs of man.

Little wonder why governments around the world give priority to issues regarding food production as a means of ensuring the health of her citizens and also keep them motivate to work.

Nutritionist have also advised that for an individual to remain healthy and also go about his daily activities actively, he must have a balanced diet which should comprise carbohydrate, protein, minerals, fats and oil, vitamins and water.

This has given rise to the establishment of restaurants, eateries and food spots around the world as a way of catering for this important need of man.

Recently, In the FCT, the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, allocated land to a company for the establishment of such facilities known as the Food Court.

Upon completion, the company gave out spaces at a particular rate to individuals who cook and sell at the court.

By establishment, the food courts located at Area 3 and Federal Secretariat are expected to meet the food needs of residents around such facilities mostly Civil servants and low income earners.

Inside FCT checks revealed that the price of meals in these food courts is relatively higher than what is obtained at other spots. A cross section of residents who spoke to our reported

A buffet

lamented this occurrence.

Mr Bassey Ekong, a civil servant with one of the ministries at the secretariat told ‘Inside FCT’ that the

Since this court was established, I have only eaten here once. Since then, I bring my food from home because I cannot spend half of my salary on meals

brought the car to a sudden stop. I just said to him, ‘we two go die here today,”, Ugoma added.

“I dragged him out of the car and beat the living daylight out of him. Luckily, there were policemen within sight but they made no move to stop me, they later came over and asked what really happened which I narrated my experience to them.

“I didn’t wait to see what happened next. I left the place. Such culprits should also take measures to protect themselves,” he said.

Although the Divisional Police Officer of Zuba police station, Yemi Surajudeen, in an interview said his men recently impounded 23 unpainted vehicles suspected to be used for “one chance” operation.

He explained that the arrest was made along Dei-Dei and Dankogi junction in Zuba, adding that the case will be taken to court.

Abuja highway

increase in the price of meals at the facility has affected the saving power him and his colleagues.

He said, “Before now, a plate of white soup and pounded yam was sold for N300. But since the establishment of this food court, the same plate of white soup with pounded yam, same measure and taste is now sold for N500. If I eat like this for one week, that would be N2, 500 for food alone.

“Apart from sachet water which is sold for the usual price of N10, table water and soft drinks are sold for N100 as against the normal price of N70 or even N80 in other places. If you calculate all these, a civil servant who eats in this place would spend nothing less than N12, 600 each month on lunch.

How much do we earn? How do we save? And we still have families that we need to cater for and we must also buy food in our homes,” he added.

Mrs. Mercy Bankole told our reporter that she brings her food from home daily since the new development as she could not cope with such expenditure.

“Since this court was established, I have only eaten here once. Since then, I bring my food from home because if I cannot spend half of my salary on meals in the afternoon. I have also advised my colleagues to do same because from all indications, this food court was not established for us but for bankers and those with good salaries.

A food vendor who did not want her name in print attributed the cost of meals to the rates paid in acquiring space at the court as well as the increase in general price of food stuff.

She said, “Let me tell you the truth, we did not get this space for free, everybody here paid for space. You should also know that the price of food stuff has continued to increase by the day. There is no one here that wants to do business and lose; we are all here to make gain because we also have families to take care of.

Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016 Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007

Capital Market

30

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, February 12, 2016

Daily Summary (Equities)

Stock exchange daily equities summary Activity Summary on Board EQTY

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

Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016

Daily Summary (Bonds) No Debt Trading Activity

Daily Summary (Equities) No Of Deals Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY AGRICULTURE Crop Production OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals Livestock/Animal Specialties LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC. Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals

Symbol OKOMUOIL PRESCO

No. of Deals 11 7 18

Current Price 29.00 34.00

Quantity Traded 307,432 25,145 332,577

Value Traded 8,931,913.41 867,314.70 9,799,228.11

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 5 5

Current Price 1.31

Quantity Traded 73,500 73,500

Value Traded 92,610.00 92,610.00

406,077

9,891,838.11

Current Price 0.75 1.15 19.86

Quantity Traded 25,080 6,933,870 133,756 7,092,706

Value Traded 19,538.40 7,875,407.58 2,656,346.74 10,551,292.72

7,092,706

10,551,292.72

AGRICULTURE Totals

23

Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016

No. of Deals 3 67 28 98

Symbol COSTAIN

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 970 970 Page

Value Traded 485.00 485.00 12 1 of

Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals

Symbol JBERGER

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 41.50

Quantity Traded 1,202 1,202

Value Traded 52,371.14 52,371.14

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

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 8 8

Current Price 5.40

Quantity Traded 23,717 23,717

Value Traded 123,819.72 123,819.72

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

Symbol UPDCREIT

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 10.00

Quantity Traded 10,000 10,000

Value Traded 100,000.00 100,000.00

35,889

276,675.86

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 48,000 48,000

Value Traded 24,000.00 24,000.00 Value Traded 122,847.00 40,835,852.50 1,634,520.00

Daily Summary (Equities)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

98

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals

Beverages--Brewers/Distillers CHAMPION BREW. PLC.

11

Symbol DUNLOP

No. of Deals 1 1

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol CHAMPION GUINNESS INTBREW

No. of Deals 3 22 4

Current Price 3.15 119.20 20.14

Quantity Traded 40,949 342,375 80,500

Symbol NB

No. of Deals 196 225

Current Price 98.00

Quantity Traded Page 7,732,705 8,196,529

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

Symbol 7UP

No. of Deals 8 8

Current Price 174.79

Quantity Traded 12,512 12,512

Value Traded 2,145,341.42 2,145,341.42

Food Products DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NASCON ALLIED INDUSTRIES PLC TIGER BRANDED CONSUMER GOODS PLC UNION DICON SALT PLC. Food Products Totals

Symbol DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR NASCON TIGERBRANDS UNIONDICON

No. of Deals 67 50 13 17 15 1 163

Current Price 5.70 19.50 1.43 7.05 1.20 11.84

Quantity Traded 3,678,251 428,457 452,000 315,770 783,631 100 5,658,209

Value Traded 21,109,552.29 8,412,973.12 656,830.00 2,229,119.50 937,190.52 1,125.00 33,346,790.43

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

No. of Deals 9 58 67

Current Price 17.80 700.00

Quantity Traded 71,009 61,787 132,796

Value Traded 1,321,972.69 42,829,574.15 44,151,546.84

No. of Deals 19 19

Current Price 4.54

Quantity Traded 388,387 388,387

Value Traded 1,714,417.37 1,714,417.37

Activity Summary onPLC Board EQTY GUINNESS NIG INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals

Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016

Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG Activity Summary onPLC. Board EQTY

Household Durables Totals CONSUMER GOODS Personal/Household Products P Z Nigerian CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC.© Published by The Stock Exchange UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol VITAFOAM

Symbol PZ UNILEVER

No. of Deals 25 19 44

CONSUMER GOODS Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016 UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 UNION BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC. Banking Totals Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services AIICO INSURANCE PLC. EQTY Activity Summary on Board

CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC FINANCIAL SERVICES Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services CORNERSTONE Published by The Nigerian StockINSURANCE Exchange © COMPANY PLC. EQUITY ASSURANCE PLC. LASACO ASSURANCE PLC. AXAMANSARD INSURANCE PLC MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC. N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. STANDARD ALLIANCE INSURANCE PLC. WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

Micro-Finance Banks NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016 Other Financial Institutions Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC UNITED CAPITAL PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals Activity Summary on Board EQTY FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals HEALTHCARE Healthcare Providers UNION DIAGNOSTIC & CLINICAL SERVICES PLC Healthcare Providers Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Symbol ACCESS DIAMONDBNK ETI FIDELITYBK GUARANTY SKYEBANK STERLNBANK UBA UBN UNITYBNK WEMABANK

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 1.73

Quantity Traded 290 290

Value Traded 478.50 478.50

Pharmaceuticals FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. Pharmaceuticals Totals

Symbol FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER

No. of Deals 1 19 27 47

Current Price 2.79 20.91 0.80

Quantity Traded 1,000 610,517 1,909,483 2,521,000

Value Traded 2,790.00 13,435,049.76 1,567,391.40 15,005,231.16

Quantity Traded 136,740 Page 99,135 235,875

Exploration and Production Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016 SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 Exploration and Production Totals Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016 AND GAS Totals Printed OIL 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007

Value Traded 22,204,569.30 5,852,937.50 19,260,490.24 5,660,723.02 1,044,333,650.60 1,316,245.98 2,120,407.07 23,221,203.30 362,231.87 227,198.40 194,540,165.68 1,319,099,822.96

Symbol AIICO CONTINSURE

No. of Deals 4 2

Current Price 0.85 1.00

Quantity Traded 500,000 14,000

Value Traded 425,693.41 13,860.00

Symbol CORNERST EQUITYASUR LASACO MANSARD MBENEFIT NEM STDINSURE WAPIC

No. of Deals 1 1 1 47 1 16 2 4 79

Current Price 0.50 0.50 0.50 2.15 0.50 0.72 0.50 0.50

Quantity Traded 100 Page 3,000 95,000 1,735,000 200 812,492 180,000 20,100 3,359,892

Symbol NPFMCRFBK

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.99

Quantity Traded 35,200 35,200

Value Traded 33,912.00 33,912.00

No. of Deals 32 12 148 (Equities) 12 34 238

Current Price 2.47 3.86 0.95 14.00 1.32

Quantity Traded 517,500 112,540 27,701,168 36,548 1,046,727 29,414,483

Value Traded 1,264,002.12 436,017.80 26,025,132.23 535,464.90 1,394,985.02 29,655,602.07

321,800,541

1,353,693,561.60

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 100 100 Page

Value Traded 50.00 50.00 12 5 of

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 1.73

Quantity Traded 290 290

Value Traded 478.50 478.50

No. of Deals 1 19 27 47

Current Price 2.79 20.91 0.80

Quantity Traded 1,000 610,517 1,909,483 2,521,000

Value Traded 2,790.00 13,435,049.76 1,567,391.40 15,005,231.16

2,521,390

15,005,759.66

Quantity Traded 63 63

Value Traded 101.43 101.43

63

101.43

Quantity Traded 49,096 10,396

Value Traded 1,209,853.84 96,682.80

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FCMB Daily Summary STANBIC UCAP

1,215 Symbol UNIONDAC

Symbol FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER

HEALTHCARE Totals

49

Symbol TRIPPLEG

ICT Totals

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 1.69

1

Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER

No. of Deals 12 3

Current Price 25.00 9.30

Page

Value Traded of 50.0012 1,500.00 47,500.00 3,730,750.00 100.00 584,721.16 90,000.00 10,050.00 4,904,224.57

6

of

SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD OILExploration AND GAS and Production Totals Energy Equipment and Services OIL AND GAS OIL Totals JAPAUL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals SERVICES Automobile/Auto Integrated Oil andPart GasRetailers Services R T BRISCOE OANDO PLC PLC. Automobile/Auto Integrated Oil andPart GasRetailers ServicesTotals Totals

ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals

Value Traded

4

Exploration andon Production Activity Summary Board EQTY

Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Published by The Nigerian CONOIL PLCStock Exchange ©

Quantity Traded 5,203,988 3,424,027 1,291,971 4,527,350 63,238,079 1,134,868 1,214,365 8,004,133 67,583 328,380 200,556,222 288,990,966

Daily Summary (Equities)

Packaging/Containers AVON CROWNCAPS & CONTAINERS BETA GLASS CO PLC. Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016 Totals Packaging/Containers Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals

Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016 CONOIL PLC Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals

3 2,986,865.68 of 12 3,140,219.20 6,127,084.88 888,526,688.60

Company name

ICT Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016 IT Services Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 TRIPPLE GEE AND COMPANY PLC. IT Services Totals

NATURAL RESOURCES Totals OIL AND GAS Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Integrated Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals

2Value Traded of 12 758,424,288.16 801,017,507.66

14,672,308

Sector

49

No Of Deals Symbol TRIPPLEG

SERVICES Automobile/Auto Part Retailers R TSummary BRISCOE on PLC. Activity Board EQTY Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals SERVICES Courier/Freight/Delivery Activity Summary on Board EQTY Published by The Stock Exchange REDNigerian STAR EXPRESS PLC © SERVICES Courier/Freight/Delivery TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC. Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals

No. of Deals 1 1

15,005,759.66

Quantity Traded

Current Price 1.69

Value of Shares(N)

Quantity Traded 63 63

Value Traded 101.43 101.43

63

101.43

1

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER

No. of Deals 12 3

Current Price 25.00 9.30

Quantity Traded 49,096 10,396

Value Traded 1,209,853.84 96,682.80

Symbol CAP CCNN PORTPAINT WAPCO

No. of Deals 2 1 4 31 53

Current Price 37.20 9.11 3.59 78.00

Quantity Traded Page 500 80 510,200 179,734 750,006

12 6Value Traded of 18,279.00 692.80 1,833,556.00 14,047,177.07 17,206,241.51

Symbol CUTIX

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 1.44

Quantity Traded 20,000 20,000

Value Traded 29,500.00 29,500.00

Symbol AVONCROWN BETAGLAS

No. of Deals 1 1 2

Current Price 1.45 50.00

Quantity Traded 387 500 887

Value Traded 534.06 24,500.00 25,034.06

770,893

17,260,775.57

Quantity Traded 100,000 100,000

Value Traded 50,000.00 50,000.00

57

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

2 2

0.50

2

100,000

50,000.00

Symbol JAPAULOIL

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Symbol OANDO

No. of Deals 159 159

Current Price 3.80

Symbol CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL TOTAL

No. of Deals 27 18 109 11 22 (Equities) 187

Current Price 18.33 1.83 326.00 159.60 140.00

Quantity Traded 166,164 1,512,365 457,235 6,638 48,001 2,190,403

Value Traded 3,047,588.32 2,859,889.18 144,102,805.61 1,021,950.59 6,656,387.61 157,688,621.31

Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 41 41 No. of Deals 388 1 1

Current Price 260.00

Quantity Traded 328,962 328,962 Quantity Traded 10,811,533 10,000 10,000

Value Traded 85,551,224.00 85,551,224.00 Value Traded 274,541,405.93 5,000.00 5,000.00 Value Traded 12,500.00 31,296,560.62 12,500.00 31,296,560.62

Daily Summary

Symbol JAPAULOIL

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 10,000 10,000 Page Quantity Traded 8,282,168 8,282,168

Value Traded 5,000.00 5,000.00 12 7 of Value Traded 31,296,560.62 31,296,560.62

Symbol RTBRISCOE OANDO

No. of Deals 2 159 2 159

Current Price 0.50 3.80

Quantity Traded 25,000 8,282,168 25,000 8,282,168

Symbol CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL TOTAL

No. of Deals 27 18 109 11 22 187

Current Price 18.33 1.83 326.00 159.60 140.00

Quantity Traded Page 166,164 1,512,365 457,235 6,638 48,001 2,190,403

Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 41 41

Current Price 260.00

Quantity Traded 328,962 328,962

Value Traded 85,551,224.00 85,551,224.00

10,811,533

274,541,405.93

388

Value Traded 12 8 of 3,047,588.32 2,859,889.18 144,102,805.61 1,021,950.59 6,656,387.61 157,688,621.31

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol RTBRISCOE

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 25,000 25,000

Value Traded 12,500.00 12,500.00

Symbol REDSTAREX

No. of Deals 2

Current Price 3.80

Quantity Traded Page 5,000

Value Traded 8 of 12 19,950.00

Symbol TRANSEXPR

No. of Deals 2 4

Current Price 1.21

Quantity Traded 8,611 13,611

Value Traded 10,935.97 30,885.97

Hotels/Lodging IKEJA HOTEL PLC Hotels/Lodging Totals

Symbol IKEJAHOTEL

No. of Deals 10 10

Current Price 2.99

Quantity Traded 454,000 454,000

Value Traded 1,312,110.00 1,312,110.00

Media/Entertainment DAAR COMMUNICATIONS PLC Media/Entertainment Totals Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016 Printing/Publishing Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 LEARN AFRICA PLC Printing/Publishing Totals

Symbol DAARCOMM

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 20,000 20,000

Value Traded 10,000.00 10,000.00

Symbol LEARNAFRCA

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.86

Quantity Traded 10,000 10,000

Value Traded 8,200.00 8,200.00

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

Quantity Traded 15,678 49,275 64,953

Value Traded 33,776.02 184,190.81 217,966.83

Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Daily Summary (Equities) 37

Quantity Traded Value Traded 688,664 1,777,472.80 101,000 185,760.00 100 50.00 358,900,064 2,571,575,572.28 101,100 185,810.00 Page 9 of 12

Transport-Related Services Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016 AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY Transport-Related Services Totals SERVICES Support and Logistics SERVICES Totals CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC C & I LEASING PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY EQTY Board Totals Support and Logistics Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © SERVICES SERVICES Totals

Daily Summary (Equities)

AIRSERVICE NAHCO

4 9 13

CAVERTON CILEASING

2.19 3.68

4 1 2,408 5

1.85 0.50

Daily Summary (Equities) 37

688,664 Page

Published

by TheSummary Nigerian Stock Exchange © Activity on Board PREMIUM

EQTY Board Totals

FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals on Board PREMIUM Activity Summary Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016 Other Financial Institutions FINANCIAL SERVICES Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 FBN HOLDINGS PLC Banking Other Financial Institutions Totals ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016 Banking Totals SERVICES Totals Printed FINANCIAL 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 Other Financial Institutions INDUSTRIAL GOODS FBN HOLDINGS PLC Building Materials Activity Summary on Board PREMIUM Other Financial Institutions Totals DANGOTE CEMENT PLC Building SERVICES Materials Totals FINANCIAL Totals

PREMIUM Board Totals

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Activity Summary onTotals Board PREMIUM INDUSTRIAL GOODS Equity Activity Totals

Building Materials DANGOTE PREMIUM BoardCEMENT Totals PLC Building Materials Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Equity Activity Totals

ZENITHBANK

Symbol FBNH Symbol ZENITHBANK

Name LOTUS HALAL EQUITY ETF NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © FUND (ETF) Exchange Traded Fund VETIVA BANKING ETF Name GRIFFIN 30 ETF VETIVA LOTUS HALAL ETF Exchange Traded EQUITY Fund Totals NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) BANKING ETF ETF VETIVA Board Totals VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals

ETP Activity Totals

446 446

12.60

No. of Deals 386 No. of Deals 386 446

Current Price 3.95 Current Price

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol FBNH Symbol DANGCEM

Daily Summary

12.60

Current Price 3.95 Current Price 145.00

2,571,575,572.28 Value Traded 385,021,032.44 385,021,032.44

Quantity Traded 22,987,173 Quantity Traded 22,987,173 30,719,215 30,719,215 53,706,388 Quantity Traded 22,987,173 Quantity Traded 22,987,173 1,739,610 1,739,610 53,706,388

Value Traded 90,598,567.87 Value Traded 90,598,567.87 244,237,082.43 244,237,082.43 475,619,600.31

140

Symbol DANGCEM

Daily Summary

No. of Deals 140 972 140 (ETP)

719,856,682.74

1,739,610

Current Price 145.00

3,380

244,237,082.43

414,346,062

3,291,432,255.02

414,346,062

3,291,432,255.02

Quantity Traded 1,739,610 55,445,998 1,739,610 Page

140

Symbol LOTUSHAL15 Daily Summary NEWGOLD VETBANK Symbol VETGRIF30 LOTUSHAL15 NEWGOLD VETBANK VETGRIF30

Value Traded 90,598,567.87 Value Traded 90,598,567.87 385,021,032.44 385,021,032.44 475,619,600.31

55,445,998

972

3,380

1,739,610

No. of Deals Current Price 1 7.98 (ETP) 2 4,216.00 1 2.36 No. of Deals Price 1 Current11.02 7.98 51 2 4,216.00 2.36 51 1 11.02 5

5

1,777,472.80 of 12

358,900,064

446 832

No. of Deals 386 No. of Deals 386 140 (Equities) 140 832

10

Quantity Traded 30,719,215 30,719,215

2,408

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

INDUSTRIAL Exchange GOODS TradedTotals Fund

12

2,521,390

Quotation(N)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Current Price 4.29 1.70 14.76 1.25 16.60 1.15 1.75 2.94 5.30 0.70 0.97

Pharmaceuticals FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. Pharmaceuticals Totals

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Symbol MORISON

NATURAL RESOURCES Mining Services MULTIVERSE MINING AND EXPLORATION PLC Mining Services Totals

No. of Deals 119 35 39 52 412 49 18 131 20 8 13 896

Symbol MORISON

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC

Current Price 21.90 31.76

527

Medical Supplies MORISON INDUSTRIES PLC. Medical Supplies Totals

ICT IT Services TRIPPLE GEE AND COMPANY PLC. IT Services Totals

Medical Supplies MORISON INDUSTRIES PLC. Medical Supplies Totals

Electronic and Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. Electronic and Electrical Products Totals

Daily Summary as of 11/02/2016

CONSUMER GOODS Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 Automobiles/Auto Parts DN TYRE & RUBBER PLC Automobiles/Auto Parts Totals

Value Traded 50.00 50.00

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

Symbol AGLEVENT TRANSCORP UACN

CONGLOMERATES Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Building Structure/Completion/Other COSTAIN (W A) PLC. Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Quantity Traded 100 100

ICT Totals

Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007 CONGLOMERATES Diversified Industries A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals

Current Price 0.50

1st Tier Securities HEALTHCARE Totals

1st Tier Securities

Company name

No. of Deals 1 1

Equities as at February 11, 2016

Printed 11/02/2016 14:36:07.007

Sector

Symbol UNIONDAC

Value Traded 244,237,082.43 719,856,682.74 244,237,082.43 11 of 12 244,237,082.43

Quantity Traded 5 14 Page 10 Quantity Traded 10 395 14 10 39 10 39

39

Value Traded 39.90 11 40,204.00 of 12 23.60 Value Traded 110.20 39.90 40,377.70 40,204.00 23.60 40,377.70 110.20 40,377.70

40,377.70

ETF Board Totals

5

39

40,377.70

ETP Activity Totals

5

39

40,377.70

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Page

12

of

12

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Arty News

Friday, February 12, 2016

29 31

Reggae music suffering in Nigeria –Lloyd Lloyd Tommy aka Ancient Stone recently launched a new album ‘Train the children’, a Sierra Leonean, he has spent almost four years in Nigeria. He talks about the dearth of Reggae music in Nigeria, effect of music without messages and the importance of his new album to the society in this interview with REGINA OTOKPA. Excerpts:

H

ow long have you been nursing the desire to launch this album ‘Train the Children ‘?

About six month ago. I have been working hard to make a mark and I am happy I am able to achieve something by launching another album ‘Train the Children’ and this album is very necessary for this generation. Before things can move forward, we need to think about the children, educate the children so e can build a better future, a better society because nowadays things are very difficult, that is why I decided to come out with this album.

Something must have motivated you?

We are in a time of trouble; poverty, injustice, killing of innocent people but we cannot sit down like this, we need to pass the message because this condition cannot easily change. Of course we all talk about change but this change is about consciousness and only consciousness can bring the change that we are looking for.

How many tracks do you have in this album?

Nine tracks Do you have any track on insurgency?

No, but I have a special song about Nigeria recalling her history because it seems as if people have forgotten about their history. I also have a song for the children and the youths.

Could you run us through some of the songs?

We have Train the Children which is the album title, Nuclear War, Respect for Everyone, Youths Rise Up and others.

Any collaboration with Nigerian artistes?

No, it’s purely me for now. Collaboration in a sense is not just about singing, it is about mentality because it is nice you collaborate with people you have the same mentality with, the same insight and you’re both pushing towards attaining the same goal. I used to collaborate but maybe at the end I would discontinue working with the artiste for one or two reasons so for now I rather stand alone and see how it goes.

What challenges did you encounter while trying to put up the album?

To put up an album is not easy. When you think about the instrumentals, the lyrics, you must bring something out that people will appreciate. The issue of studio is another great challenge but personally I took my time to do everything myself to get the output I want out from me. This is because for reggae music it is very difficult to get producers that will give you the root and that is what I am looking for and only reason why it cost

me so many sleepless nights trying and retrying till I got what I was looking for.

Are you satisfied with the quality of work you are launching today?

Nothing is perfect but we go with what we can afford. I must say that the work is good and people have been appreciating what they are hearing. I think that is what I hoped to hear by the end of the day.

What is your take about artistes losing concern about the content of their music?

There is a problem and it depends on our orientation. Artistes are coming from different orientation, from different mentality so it is what they have they can give out. We cannot expect someone to give out what he doesn’t have but we are calling upon them to consider. They need to check themselves to see if what is good for them is good for other people.

What you like for yourself you must like and share with the people. Most of the artistes think that once you sing about love you sing about women but that is not what love is all about it is for mankind and every other living thing What is your assessment of reggae music in Nigeria?

Reggae music is suffering in Nigeria because people are carried away with the new style of Naija type of music. People are running from the message, you can run but you cannot hide even if you run you will still meet the message in front of you but we are trying, it is not easy but we must continue, we must endeavour, we must endure because at the end it is endurance that is because it is not how fast you can go but how far you can endure but I know reggae is coming back because this is the time.

What are you putting out to ensure reggae music comes back alive especially in Nigeria?

We are trying to push out small shows because we don’t have sponsors but with what we have we are seriously thinking about organising snippet. The more the shows the more people get influenced, get the message and the greater chances of continuity. It is very difficult for a reggae artiste to get a sponsor.

Why is that?

That is because most people are looking for quick money, they will say people don’t easily buy reggae music because of the message, what people like now is music just to dance. A lot of persons have

Lloyd

even asked me to change my style of music to hip hop so I can make money but I refused. Everything is not about money but about dignity and life. You can get everything and lose everything.

Do you think reggae music passes out more messages than other genres of music?

Yes, because reggae music is revolutionary music, most of the other music sings more about love although reggae music also deals with love but it is revolution, we stand for revolution of the mind.

What do you hope to achieve with this album launch?

At least, the album can go out and people will digest the message therein You seem to be enjoying Nigeria?

Why not, I am an African and I stand for Africa because that is my aim. If I leave Nigeria today for Mali I become a Malian and no one can chase me because Africa is my home. As I am here I am a Nigerian and I can stand for Nigeria.

Does that mean you have a track in indigenous Nigerian language?

Not particularly, every song for now is in English because it is not only about Ni-

I am an African and I stand for Africa because that is my aim. If I leave Nigeria today for Mali I become a Malian

geria but also about Europe and America because I am not only thinking Africa.

Just as Bob Marley and Lucky Dube conquered the world I need to think further.

When you think for only a particular place you limit yourself and that is why many artistes are limited.

Do we see you settling finally in Nigeria?

I am a Nigerian already; I have families I am in certain organisation. Anywhere you meet a rasta family you automatically become a member of that family because there is no discrimination or tribalism.

Apart from the Rastafarian family, do you have any other family probably a wife or girlfriend?

I have someone whom I love so much What advice do you have for other artistes discouraged by the challenges of putting up an album?

We need to continue working. For you to leave it depends on your work and your message. Many artistes are coming and going but only those with messages can stay so to be a good artiste that will stand the test of time you must be original and have a message to pass unto the people just as the bible says ‘many are called but few are chosen’. It is not only about singing, people can sing and dance because most music now is just about instrumentals but for our generation it is time of change, we need to look to the future.

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Friday, February 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Volkswagen unveils tech-savvy 2016 Passat Stories by Adejuwon Osunnuyi

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he Volkswagen Centre has unveiled the much anticipated revolutionary tech-savvy eight-generation 2016 Volkswagen Passat. The mid-to-upscale Wolfsburg family sedan is a deservingly makeover of its Chattanooga-built predecessor that made a debut in 2012.

Positioned between Golf (Jetta) and Phaeton in the current Volkswagen line-up, the new Passat is significantly fitted with swank exterior, more aggressive features with exceptionally refined interior appointments.

In what could perhaps be an industry first, the new Passat’s exterior is characterized by sleek horizontal lines with uniquely shaped headlight units and LED headlamps that look strikingly different. This is in addition to short overhangs, long wheelbase, striking bonnet and shoulder lines with excellently shaped radiator grille and front bumper.

The LED headlights for instance have a far more prominent eye-catching chrome strips and unmistakably daytime driving light that carries over into the grille, and at the rear, the stylish taillights also lit by LED, change the graphics from horizontal to vertical when the brakes are applied.

Donning a sporty elegant design with top-class comfort and innovative technologies like modern infotainment and comprehensive connectivity, the new Passat is coveted as Europe ‘Carof-the-Year 2015.’

The design of the new Passat is no doubt a fusion of man and machine with its total weight reduced by 85 kilogram compared to its predecessor.

This weight reduction which compares to the average weight of man with a height of about 1.80 meters remarkably helps in lowering the average consumption and superior driving comfort of the car which is designed with innovative MQB platform and various lightweight construction measures.

These innovations make the car more agile and faster.

On the outside, Volkswagen has changed the body panel from the A-pillar forward, even though it isn’t quite noticeable, just about every exterior detail, including the trunk and the taillights have received razor-edge treatment, with the headlights becoming extensions of the sleeker grille.

The interior has similarly gone decidedly upscale with improved materials that include real stitching everywhere, including the armrests, while every button and knob moves with precision to provide perfect tactile feedback.

For instance, the standard instruments cluster now look classy and exclusive, with a standard 5.0-inch display screen similar to the one fitted in the new Audi TT. The steering wheel has also been redesigned, incorporating a switch to a frameless rear-view

mirror; broad air vents with three vanes and a centrally positioned analogue clock.

The Passat also gets a host of other features and safety attributes for the 2016 model year. They include easyopen keyless access to the trunk that only requires a moving foot near the back of the vehicle to open and Postcollision Braking System, which is now standard on all models across line-up.

This new system will apply the brakes after a primary collision is detected by airbag sensors, which helps to reduce residual kinetic energy and the possibility of additional damage.

Others are adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitor with rear traffic alert, lane departure warning, aerial view overhead camera and parking steering assist.

The biggest change inside, aside from the adjusted designs is the Volkswagen modular infotainment platform called the MIB II Standard on all models. The system uses a capacitive touch sensor like that of a Smartphone for gesture controls like pinch-zooming or swiping. This technology offers up shorter response times with the proximity sensor and the system can switch its display automatically for an easier selection of certain features.

The Stallion Motors Volkswagen Centre head of sales marketing Manish Daryanani said this much in Lagos at the product presentation of the 2016 Passat, remarking that the front seats of the car are nicely bolstered with 12way power adjustable front seats with active climate and are wide enough to not incarcerate the passengers.

And in the back, the Passat’s fullsize sedan dimensions would give even 6-footers ample room to stretch

out their legs just as the car’s trunk is large enough to accommodate 15.9 cubic feet of cargo, and you can haul bulkier items when the 60/40 rear seatbacks are folded down.

He said: “The quality of the VW Passat’s interior materials is among the best in the class. Its overall cabin design is decidedly upscale, while the layout of gauges and controls is refreshingly simple. The premium Fender audio system will please even hard-core audiophiles, and the new infotainment system is faster to respond to inputs and easier to use than the old unit. Smartphone and media players can now connect to the system via a USB port, rather than the previous MDI plug,” Mr. Daryanani affirmed.

The current generation of Volkswa-

gen Passat made its debut for 2012 and went on to be named Motor Trend’s 2012 Car-of-the-Year. With little changes, the model was refreshed, and the 2016 Passat appears to have addressed the needed updates.

Available in five main trim levels: S, R-Line, SE, SEL and SEL premium, The Stallion Motors Volkswagen Centre, official marketers and distributors of Volkswagen in Nigeria says only the SE and SEL trims will be on sale at her showrooms.

The SE, for instance is equipped with 17-inch wheels, a sliding armrest, rear air-conditioning vents, adaptive cruise control, HD and satellite radio. There’s also a second USB port and a collision mitigation system with automating braking.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, February 12, 2016

33

Ford to add four new SUVs

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ord is about to expand its SUV Ford Explorer, Escape, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator are about to get some company in Ford and Lincoln showrooms.

Ford said it would add four new nameplates to its global SUV lineup in the next four years in segments in which the company does not currently compete. It made the announcement on yesterday at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show.

Though the details, including the names of the vehicles, pricing and launch timing, were not disclosed, but the new SUVs will be aimed at Millennial and Baby Boomer buyers.

“It’s a demographic double whammy and it all points to one thing — more

SUVs for the foreseeable future,” said Mark LaNeve, Ford vice president of marketing, sales and service, in a statement.

The new nameplates are likely to include the return of the Ford Bronco in the form of a new midsize body-on-frame SUV to compete against the Jeep Wrangler SUV, perhaps as early as the 2018 model year.

Lincoln may also get a version of the next-generation Ford Explorer to replace a hole in the lineup left by the defunct Lincoln Aviator.

This new SUV would be a step below the Navigator in size and target premium SUVs, including the Acura MDX, Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90, according to analysts. This unnamed vehicle may debut

in 2019.

Also expected are two new SUVs that are smaller than the current Ford Escape.

They may be built off the next-generation Ford Focus sedan and arrive in showrooms in 2018 or 2019.

Possible targets are the Honda HR-V,

Jeep Renegade and Mazda CX-3.

“While low gas prices have contributed to the growth in SUVs in recent years, much improved fuel efficiency in the latest generation of utility vehicles leads Ford to believe a potential rise in gas prices wouldn’t push consumers back to passenger cars,” Ford said in a statement.

Boulos launches new Suzuki Hayate GE 110

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oulos Enterprises has continued its grip in motorcycle sales in Nigeria with a 30 per cent increase across its range of Haojue, Suzuki (Okada, passenger and power bikes), Robinson 200cc, Aprilia, Derbi and Moto Guzzi motor cycles.

In its bid in ensuring further growth and expansion in 2016, Boulos has announced the continuation of the 62 year partnership with the Japanese motor cycle company Suzuki, with the introduction of locally assembled new GE 110 Hayate motorcycle for taxi/okada market with the expectation of following up with personal use derivative t follow shortly.

According to Joseph Fayose, the National Corporate Manager for Boulos Enterprises, “The Suzuki Hayate is a high technology low maintenance motor cycle featuring Suzuki patented SAVT “Suzuki Air Valve Technology. This works by taking some of the waste gases from the engine and redirecting them into the combustion chamber, the technique enhances the air/fuel burn during combus-

tion resulting in a fuel saving of circa 30 per cent and increase in performance of up to 80 per cent.”

“This modern technology also has another massive benefit for the user as it means a major engine overhaul only being required every four to five years in a market where other bikes in this sector of the market typically need major engine overhauls every three to six

months. The Suzuki therefore saves the working Okada riders more money as they pay less for maintenance and less for petrol.” He said.

According to him, the bike is also fitted with electric starter and high strength light alloy wheels, which resist road impacts and are therefore much safer than the old fashioned wire wheels fitted to other bikes in this sector of the market.

Obiano pledges support for FRSC

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he Governor of Anambra state, Dr Willie Obiano has restated the commitment of the state government to issues of road safety, saying his administration is committed to supporting the FRSC to accomplish its goals of creating safer road environment in the country.

According to Bisi Kazeem, Head Media Relations and Strategy, the Governor stated this when he met with the Corps Marshal of FRSC, Boboye Oyeyemi at the Government House Awka recently.

Kazzem stated, “According to the Governor, his administration will continue to collaborate with the FRSC in its determination to rid the state of all practices that undermine safety of lives and property of people on the road, noting that with the establishment of the State Traffic Management Agency, the excesses of some motorists who are in the habit of violating traffic rules and regulations with impunity would be curtailed.

While commending the personnel of the FRSC in the state for their immense contributions to the enhancement of socioeconomic activities of the state through its safer roads campaigns, the Governor expressed dismay at the recent upsurge in the rate of road traffic crashes in the state capital, particularly at the Immigration junction where a fatal crash occurred recently claiming many lives.

“FRSC has been doing well in the state, and the state government will continue to support it to perform better through collaboration and provision of logistics,” he stated.

“That is why we have been sending the personnel of our Traffic Management Agency to the FRSC Academy at Udi to be trained. We would sustain the collaboration in other areas to ensure that every motorist in the state understands the laws and operates within the limits of the provisions, “ the Governor further stated.

On the fatal crashes occurring along the

Immigration junction in the state, Dr Willie urged the FRSC to take appropriate actions that could address the menace, noting that with the construction work going on in the state, especially at the state capital, there was the need for motorists to exercise caution while driving through the highways. He added that the state government will continue to take advantage of the FRSC Academy Udi to train other personnel of the state Traffic Management Agency for training on effective traffic management and administration in the state.

34

People In The Mirror

L-R: General Manager, West African Markets, British American Tobacco, Laurent Meffre; Chairman, BATN Foundation, Chief Kola Jamodu; Special Guest of Honour, His Excellency, former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Managing Director, British American Tobacco Nigeria, Chris McAllister, during the formal opening of BAT’s West Africa Head office in Ikoyi, Lagos.

L-R: Executive Director of Vodacom Business Nigeria, Solomon Ogufere; Managing Director, Vodacom Business Nigeria, Guy Clark; Chief Executive Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, Mathew Willsher and Chief Marketing Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, Francesco Angelone, during the partnership agreement between Vodacom and Etisalat in Lagos.

L-R: Bishop Opoko, Joshua Chukwuma Opoko and Mrs. Ezinne Alice Chioma Opoko at the graduation Ceremony of their son at Gregory University Uturu, Okigwe Imo State.

L-R: Deputy Governor, Corporate Services, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Adebayo Adelabu; Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mr Ibrahim Muazu and Oyo State Branch Controller of the CBN, Mr Musibau Olatinwo, at the 21st Seminar for Finance Correspondents and Business Editors in Ibadan.

Friday, February 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed (left), welcoming the Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption, Prof. Itse Sagay, during the visit of the Committee to the Minister in Abuja.

L-R: Prof Yemi Akinseye-George, SAN; his wife, Mrs. Laide Akinseye-George (parents of the bride); Vice President Prof Yemi Osinbajo; new couple, Mr/Mrs. Ayo Quadri and (parents of the groom), Mr/ Mrs. Quadri, during the couple’s wedding at New Covenant Church Games Village, Abuja.

L-R: Team Leader (Outreach), Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Obiageli Onuorah; Chairperson of Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), Mr. Fredrik Reinfeldt; Acting Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji and Deputy Head of EITI, Mr. Eddie Rich, during their visit to the Ministry of Budget and National Planning in Abuja.

L-R: Head of Monitoring and Evaluation, Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Mr Moshood Tijani; Group Managing Director of Accounts, NNPC, Mr Mike Balami and Acting Chairman of FRC, Mr Victor Muruako, during a stakeholders meeting between FRC and NNPC, in Abuja.

Friday, February12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business Maritime

35

Checkmating carnage on ports’ access roads through truck fleet regulations Recent information that over 7,000 trucks ply the port access roads in Lagos daily is definitely nothing to cheer about, especially when most of the trucks are not road worthy, and thereby contributing to high accident and carnage rates on the highways. In this analysis, FRANCIS EZEM reports that only strict regulation of truck standards and movement will curtail their menace to other road users.

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he increasing cases of avoidable deaths, which occur through accidents on Nigeria’s seaport access roads and environs, especially in Lagos State constitutes a serious cause for concern to stakeholders. It has become a common scene for containers to fall of the trucks. It is also on record that many have lost their lives in the process.

The accident on Ojuelegba bridge last year in which a container loaded on a truck fell off the truck, killing about four occupants of a Sports Utility Vehicle SUV on the road below the bridge represents a classical case of such avoidable carnage on the roads.

While it is a fact that that most of the port access roads are dilapidated and terrible state of disrepair, it is also undeniable that many of the trucks operating at the seaports are not road worthy.

For instance, the accident at Ojuelegba was because the container was not properly latched on the truck probably due to old age.

Till date, one still finds the old model of ‘Austin’ brand of trucks, which are over 50 years on the port access roads and more often than not, you see such trucks emitting hot water and steam from the engine, which compartment is always open while in motion.

This is a clear case of total absence of regulation and standards.

Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers Council NSC, the port economic regulator, Mr. Hassan Bello in a recent interview in Lagos, said that over 7,000 trucks access the two major seaports, Lagos Ports Complex and Tin Can Is-

land Ports in the state to either to pick or drop containers.

According to him, a study put together by the council also show that out of the 7, 000 trucks, only about 1, 700 have genuine business to pick or drop loaded import and export consignments or drop empty containers.

Investigations showed that in addition to worsening gridlock that characterises the port access roads, is an indication that there is no form of regulation, given that the port environment is a sensitive zone, which should not be accessed by every Tom, Dick and Harry.

The NSC-boss, who corroborated this, argued that there is not form of regulations for the trucks in terms of frequency of coming to the ports and standards or road worthiness of these trucks.

According to him, elsewhere, trucks are registered, certified and accredited to operate at the seaports to ensure the safety of the goods they carry.

It was further gathered that apart from being rickety and unworthy to ply the roads, many of them are not insured, a development that puts the consignments they carry at a great risk.

It was probably worried by the destruction of import or export consignments laden on these rickety trucks that the Nigerian

Ports Authority NPA recently hinted that it would commence the registration and regulation of trucks operating at the nation’s seaports.

Under the new regime, the Western Zone of the authority, which controls the LPC and TCIP, has put a surveillance team drawn from the personnel and safety department of the Western Ports.

Head of the surveillance team, Mr. David Adeola, who confirmed this development, said that the management of the Western Zone has renewed efforts to rid the nation’s seaports within the Lagos corridor of old and substandard trucks from entering the ports.

It was however gathered that the membership of the unit which is drawn from the LPC and TCIPC in addition to personnel from the zonal headquarters, have already commenced full physical inspection of trucks, to ensure that only trucks which comply with stipulated road worthiness safety standards are allowed entry into the ports within the Lagos area.

If the minimum standards of road worthiness are strictly enforced on all

trucks admitted for operations into the ports and the terminal operators also adhere

strictly to it, it will eventually eliminate cases of mishaps within and outside the port vicinity due to faulty and substandard trucks

Adeola also disclosed that the exercise has started yielding results as a number of trucks are daily prevented from entering the LPC due to their poor state and road unworthiness.

“If the minimum standards of road worthiness are strictly enforced on all trucks admitted for operations into the ports and the terminal operators also adhere strictly to it, it will eventually eliminate cases of mishaps within and outside the port vicinity due to faulty and substandard trucks”, he argued.

According to him, the minimum standards of road worthiness for trucks entering the ports stipulate specifications expected of a truck covering among others, the truck head, body, braking system, engine, battery, pointers, warning devices, twist locks and other fittings.

He therefore assured that the team would sustain the current tempo with a view of ridding the ports of rickety and substandard trucks, which in addition to the poor state of the roads worsen the gridlocks in Apapa.

Most port stakeholders are unanimous in their resolve to see a regulatory regime for trucks operating at the ports with a view to checkmating the increasing cases of carnage, breakdowns and the attendant gridlock that have become a major feature of the port environment.

Chairman of Association of

Maritime Transport Owners AMATO, Chief Remi Ogungbemi, could not agree less that it was high time the port system was rid of rickety trucks.

Ogungbemi, who spoke in an interview, said that the association was in full support of the surveillance duties of the Safety Department of NPA. He also argued that the enforcement of the safety standards had become necessary for all trucks in the nations seaports.

The AMARTO-boss however urged NPA to liaise with the relevant government agencies, especially the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing and its subsidiary, the Federal Road Maintenance Agency FERMA to upgrade the current state of the port access roads, which he argued are in a terrible state of disrepair.

He argued that though some trucks are actually very old and road unworthy, the poor state of the roads also contribute to the challenges faced by the truckers.

Ogungbemi argued that no matter how good a truck might be, if driven on rough roads such as the ones in Apapa, they would become rickety within a short time.

This is therefore a clarion call on NPA and other agencies of the government to work towards revamping and expanding the port access roads to facilitate easy movement of cargo in and out of the ports.

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Business Maritime

Friday, February 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Lack of jobs scuttles Nigeria-Greece $250m ship supply deal STORIES: FRANCIS EZEM

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trong indications have shown that the $250 million {N262.5billion) ship supply deal between Nigerian ship own-

Labinjo

ers and some Greek shipyards may have hit the rocks, owing to the failure of the indigenous shipping firms to secure jobs under the Coastal and Inland Shipping Cabotage regime.

Some members of Nigeria Shipowners Association NISA, had last year, signed a Memorandum of Understanding MoU with some Greek ship owners involving the supply of about 40 ships of

Jauro

We ‘ll rid Nigeria’s waterways of marine litters –NIMASA

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he Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA, has said that it was committed to ridding the Nigeria’s territorial waters of maritime litters.

The move is in line with the agency’s core mandate of ensuring a safe marine environment.

The Acting Director General of the agency, Mr. Haruna Jauro, gave this hint during a stakeholders forum on Marine Litter Management organised by the agency in Lagos in collaboration with the United Nations Environmental Programme Global Partnership Action (UNEP-GPA) and NIMASA. According to him, marine litters in the country have become a menace which must be tackled with all seriousness.

This development informed

the decision of the agency to partner the UNEP-GPA a body under the United Nations to tackle the scourge of marine litters.

Jauro, who was represented by the agency’s Director in charge of Maritime Labour Services, Mrs. Juliana Gunwa said that the management of the marine environment remains a critical component of ensuring safe and secure the shipping business, insisting that NIMASA will continue to implement relevant instruments of the International Maritime Organisation IMO, especially those that have to do directly with the core mandates of the agency.

The acting DG said: “We must ensure that our marine environment is pollution free, safe and secure for effective navigation” Meanwhile, President of the Waste Management Society of

Nigeria WAMASON, Professor Olaide Osinbajo, who also spoke during the event, observed that the major source of marine litters remains the land based sources, although shipping also contributes its own quota.

He however commended the management of NIMASA for tackling the menace head on and advised that the Agency should seek to collaborate with other Federal and State Government Agencies in order to effectively deal with the scourge.

NIMASA had recently signed an agreement with UNEP-GPA under the co-ordination of Dr. Felicia Mogo, an Assistant Director in the agency with a view to developing a mechanism for the implementation of the National Action Plan on management of marine litters for Nigeria’s shipping industry.

public of South Africa, publisher of Ports and Ships while Mr. George Sunguh from Kenya, who is Editor of Ports Magazine and Communication Executive for Port Management Association for Eastern and Southern Africa, was elected as General Secretary even as Grace Nana Esi Boateng, presenter of Maritime and Port News on Radio, Ghana emerged the treasurer.

IMO’s Media and Communications Officer, Natasha Brown, in a congratulatory message, thanked the promoters of the AMJA for drawing the attention

of the global maritime regulator of the formation of the premier African maritime journalist body..

According to her, the IMO will collaborate with the new association in order to advance the fortunes of the maritime industry in Africa.

She assured that her office would endeavour to keep the Association and its members, abreast of news and information related to IMO activities.

“Please let me know the best way for IMO to provide information to the journalists and how

various tonnages, which would be deployed into Nigeria’s Cabotage trade on a bareboat charter arrangement.

Under the contract, which is response to the allegation by some International Oil Companies IOCs that Nigerian ship owners’ vessels are classless, was also part of the measures boost indigenous fleet expansion and enhance their participation in the coastal trade, the 40 ships would be transferred to Nigerians after two years.

President of NISA, Captain Niyi Labinjo, who spoke in an exclusive interview, raised fears that the MOU has been threatened by the worsening state of lack of jobs for the indigenous ship owners.

According to him, many of the prospective beneficiaries of the Greece-Nigeria ship supply deal, have developed cold feet because of the prevailing situation in the industry whereby Nigerian ship owners are scheme out of jobs by their foreign counterparts more than 10 years after the Cabotage regime came on stream.

He argued that it does not make any business sense to bring in 40 ships that would be tied down because there are no jobs to engage them, with the attendant high

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He argued that if the relevant provisions of the legislations were strictly enforced, the IOCs and other stakeholders would have no choice than to enlist the indigenous shipping firms for jobs that are legitimately theirs as provided under the Cabotage Act 2003.

Worsening bankruptcies threaten dry-bulk market

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he global commodities bust has rocked the drybulk shipping industry, with a wave of bankruptcies washing across the sector and major players forced to restructure, divest or scrap assets.

On Jan. 5, the Shanghai International Shipping Institute issued a striking report after polling about 50 of the nation’s largest bulk shippers. The survey concluded that more than 60% of the firms it polled were struggling with long-term losses and about 40% faced liquidity problems.

“The market is extremely de-

IMO pledges support for African Maritime Journalists’ Association

he International Maritime Organisation IMO Media Office has thrown its weight behind the formation of the African Maritime Journalists Association AMJA, This is sequel to the election of a former president of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria MARAN, president of the new body, which was part of the fallouts of the recently concluded African Maritime Journalists Conference, which held in Accra, Ghana.

Also elected as Vice President was Mr. Terry Huston of the Re-

overhead cost of running them.

“If you offer me one million ships I will not accept them because there are no jobs to engage them gainfully and so you would still run hug over-head cost, which does not make any business sense”, he argued.

He also said: “Many of our members are in huge debts to the banks arising from this high overhead cost on ships that are tied to the anchor because there are no jobs to engage them and so many of our people are not willing to take such risks again, especially in the face of the current economic meltdown”.

Labinjo, who doubles as chairman/CEO of Al-Dawood, one of the surviving indigenous shipping companies however blamed this lack of jobs in the inability of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA to enforce the Cabotage Act.

we can help in ensuring you have the latest news from IMO. We are happy to add individual emails to our press briefing list, so they receive our press briefings in their inboxes”, she said.

Secretary General of the Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control for West and Central African Region (Abuja MoU), Mrs. Mfon Usoro, and Secretary General of the African Ship-owners’ Association, Ms. Funmi Folorunso, in separate messages described the formation of the association as a right step in the right direction.

pressed and these conditions are likely to continue in 2016, exacerbating dry bulk firms’ losses, increasing costs and creating obstacles to obtaining financing.

This will kick-start a wave of bankruptcies,” government-run SISI said in the report.

Already so far, more than half a dozen shipping companies from countries including Hong Kong, China, South Korea, Japan and the U.S. have filed for bankruptcy in the past two years. In 2015, bankruptcies gathered pace as orders dried up while new ships continued to enter the market.

Japan’s fifth largest dry-bulk shipping company, Daiichi Chuo Kisen and its wholly owned subsidiary, Star Bulk Carriers Co. filed for bankruptcy in September.

Prior to that, in the first quarter of 2015, privately owned Danish company Copenship, South Korea’s Daebo International Shipping Co., China’s Winland Ocean Shipping Corp. and Hong Kong-based Shagang Shipping filed for bankruptcy proceedings.

The bad news rolled on into 2016. Japan’s “Big Three” shipping companies — Mitsui O.S.K Lines, Nippon Yusen and Kawasaki Kisen (K Line) — all slashed their earnings outlooks drastically in January.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Aviation stakeholders caution FG on national carrier project Olusegun Koiki

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takeholders in the Nigerian aviation industry have cautioned the Federal Government against hasty re-establishment of national carrier for the country, 13 years after the liquidation of the former, Nigeria Airways.

Some of the analysts spoken with by our correspondent wanted the government to address some salient issues that led to the collapsed of the former before commencing another national carrier project.

The Managing Consultant, PTD Consulting, Mr. Taiwo Adenekan said that it was necessary all the outstanding issues relating the former national carrier was settled before the government comes up with another carrier, warning that if not, the proposed carrier would die like the former.

For instance, Adenekan said all the outstanding benefits of the workers of the defunct carrier

Business News

Friday, February 12, 2016

must first be settled.

He noted that any attempt not to pay off the former workers before the reestablishment of a new one would lead to labour crisis, which might not augur well for the country.

Adenekan however proposed that for the airline to succeed, the government should not hold more than 20 per cent equity shares in the carrier, emphasising that any attempt to hold a dominating share in the airline would lead to the failure of the past.

Also, advised that reputable foreign carriers should be encouraged by the government to partner the proposed carrier and opined that the government should utilise the over 102 Bilateral Air Services Agreements, BASA, it had with countries for the sector to grow and contribute meaningfully to the Gross Domestic Products, GDP. He decried that the absence of a national carrier for Nigeria had led to the carting away of $1.4bn annu-

ally from the country by foreign carriers while the county’s carriers are just observes in the system.

He said, “Do they still want to be giving the new carrier subsidies, subventions and start appointing Managing Directors that are not competent? Do they still want an airline that they can fly free as Federal Government officials?

“My suggestion is that the government should not hold more than 20 per cent equity and they should allow formidable airlines like Singapore that have expressed interest in the years past to partner. They should close their eyes to it and not do more than 20 per cent or lower and allow reputable airlines to emerge.”

Also, the Chief Executive Officer, CEO, Finum Aviation Services, Engr. Sheri Kyari said Nigeria required a national carrier that all stakeholders and professionals must put in their efforts to ensure its success.

Cross River partners UK on garment production Isaac Asabor

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he British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Paul Arkwright, has disclosed to Cross River state government that his country, United Kingdom, would partner with the state government towards the successful establishment of the garment factory in the state.

The High Commissioner made the partnership known on Monday at Governor Ben Ayade’s office in Calabar, Cross River State’s capital.

Arkwright assured that the project would pave the way for skill development and emergence of entrepreneurs in the state and to a large extent creates thousands of jobs.

The diplomat who paid a facility visit to the garment factory together with Governor Ayade in company of the entou-

Guinness partners NGOs on water supply to rural communities David Audu

G

uinness Nigeria Plc has restated resolve to deepen its corporate social responsibility, CSR, commitment in providing safe drinking water and sanitation for rural communities in five states in the country.

The Managing Director Mr Peter Ndegwa disclosed this yesterday during a press briefing to announce its partnership with three none governmental organizations, NGOs, Oxfam international, WaterAid Nigeria and Concern Universal.

He said the water projects would be located in Abi, Bekwarra, and Obanliku Local Government Areas, LGAs, in Cross River State, Tyowanye, Buruku LDAs in Benue State and Gwam community in Ningi LGA of Bauchi State.

Ndegwa said the collaboration was born out of research that about 63 million Nigerian lack access to safe drinking water and are at risk of water borne diseases such as cholera, adding that the project would deliver water to about 35, 000 Nigerians in those communities, adding that the NGOs, have proven track record in community needs assessment and project delivery in Nigeria over the years.

In his remarks on the project, Country Manager for WaterAid Nigeria, Dr Michael Ojo, noted that while they have been in Nigeria for over 20 years and have delivered safe drinking water to six states, the partnership with Guinness was importance since Guinness Diageo have had a tract record in water as its core area of intervention in its CSR efforts.

He added that with the mission is to transform the lives of the poorest and most marginalised people by improving access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene, the partnership would help alleviate the sufferings of Nigerians rural poor.

Similarly, the Programme Officer, Oxfam, Eyong Sunday, said Oxfam’s intervention in the past two years had benefitted about 22,500 people in Benue State and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja including teachers & students.

While explaining Concern Universal partnership with Guinness, it Country Director, Mr. Tim Cornel, said that the Safe Water and Improved Sanitation and

Hygiene, SWISH II, project will construct at least twenty, 20, boreholes in rural communities in Cross River State.

rage of both parties to appreciate the level of work done spoke encouragingly on the project, particularly on the level of work done by the contractors, promised to bring in British expertise that would help to realize the goals of the project purposely for skill and vocational development which would in turn improve business opportunities in Cross River state.

Governor Ayade in appreciation of Arkwright’s commendations and promises expressed gratitude towards the partnership, which to him, would be a dream come true.

He added that the partnership between the two countries would translate into creating thousands of jobs for the unemployed youths in the state while projecting that the project would be commissioned in April this year.

Anxiety drags down US and European stock markets

T

L-R: FirstBank GMD/CEO, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan; Inspector General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase, and FirstBank Executive Director, Public Sector, Mr. Dauda Lawal, during a courtesy visit by FirstBank Executives to the Inspector General of the Police Force, yesterday.

37

he index of London’s leading shares has fallen 2.4%, while US and European markets have also posted sharp declines amid continued anxiety about the state of the global economy.

The FTSE 100 closed down 124 points at 5,549 points.

Markets in Frankfurt and Paris were down 2.9% and 4.1% respectively.

Wall Street has also opened lower, with the S&P 500 down nearly 2% and the Dow Jones falling by 2.3%.

Analysts said US Federal Reserve chair Janet Yellen’s gloomy economic assessment on Wednesday had added to investors’ worries.

In testimony to Congress, she said that financial conditions in the US had become “less support-

ive” of growth and warned of the “increased volatility” in global financial markets.

Rabobank European strategist Emile Cardon said the worst could still lie ahead: “The bad news in now coming from everywhere China, Portugal, the US, the commodity sector, the banking sector.

It’s like several smaller crises could combine into one big crisis.”

Analysis: The great sell off continues. Why? It’s a mix - part economic fundamentals; part market emotion, as herding investors follow each other down a negative spiral, fearful of being left beached as the tide goes out; and part brute market

forces, the major trading houses looking to make a profitable turn on share prices which they bet are not going up any time soon

Google defends UK tax arrangements

G

oogle’s UK chief has defended the search giant’s tax arrangements in a hearing before MPs on the Commons Public Accounts Committee.

Matt Brittin said he understood public anger about the amount of tax it paid.

However, he said Google was paying 20% tax on its UK profits, not the 3% figure cited in some reports.

The £130m in UK tax it paid for the 10 years from 2005 was reached following a “six-year rigorous, independent tax audit” by HMRC, Mr Brittin said.

Tom Hutchinson, Google’s global tax chief, told MPs that the company did not negotiate

its tax settlement with HMRC. He told the committee that the tax authorities did not “throw out a number - it’s not a negotiation”, adding: “There was no top-line figure; that’s not how the process works.”

The £130m payment included £18m in interest, Mr Hutchinson told MPs, but no penalties or payments under the government’s diverted profits tax also known as the “Google tax”.

Today’s Public Accounts Committee hearing was interesting less for Google’s explanation of its tax arrangements - we’ve heard much of that detail before - and more for HMRC’s defence of the settlement.

38

Business News

Friday, February 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ship owners seek involvement in N80bn CVFF disbursement … no disbursement from fund so far, says NIMASA

FRANCIS EZEM

T

he Nigerian Shipowners Association NISA, has said that the indigenous ship owners must be actively involved in the processes leading to the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund CVFF, created under the Coastal and Inland Shipping Act to enable Nigerian operators acquire vessels.

It was gathered that a total of

over $255 million (N77.8billion) has already accrued to the fund as at the end of December 2015.

The ship owners’ demand is against the backdrop of recent confirmation by the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA, the custodian of the fund, Mr. Haruna Jauro that the money is intact.

This is contrary to earlier speculations that the government of former President Good-

luck Jonathan may have spent the money on the 2015 political campaigns.

President of NISA, Captain Niyi Labinjo, who spoke in an exclusive interview, said it was heartwarming to hear that the fund is intact despite speculations to the contrary.

He however said that urgent measures should be put in place to resume the process of disbursement of the fund already commenced by the former man-

supervision of the Federal Ministry of Transport to disburse the fund more than 10 years after its creation, a development many believed has hindered the realisation of the core objectives of the Cabotage policy, one of which is to enhance indigenous participation in shipping activities in the country.

It was probably in line with this feeling that the former management, which engaged the services of three Primary Lending Institutions PLIs to mid-wife the disbursement process, which in turn shortlisted six indigenous shipping firms, who were presented by the agency to the ministry but regrettably never gave its nod, thus leading to all forms of speculations.

The NIMASA boss had while

agement of the agency, which could not be completed as a result of the 2015 general elections and the economic distortions that came with them.

According him, this time around, the indigenous ship owners should be made to actively participate in the processes that would culminate in the eventual disbursement of the fund.

“We should be involved in the processes leading to determining those that would benefit from the fund because all of us joined hands to contribute the money in the first place”, he said.

He argued that part of the objectives for the creation of the fund, which was derived from two per cent levy on every contract awarded under the Cabotage regime was not to leave it in the bank endlessly rather to put it into effective use.

Many stakeholders have also raised concerns over the inability of the agency under the

putting paid to these speculations, told members of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport who were on an oversight visit that the fund was still intact.

First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited, one of Nigeria’s leading financial services provider, has successfully upgraded its Service Delivery platform by deploying the Finacle Core Banking solution version 10 to enhance world-class service excellence and customer experience.

In a statement, the Bank explained that the new generation banking platform will also accelerate innovation and support its business growth in the rapidly changing business environment in which it operates.

With this development, the advanced service-oriented architecture (SOA) of Finacle 10 enables the bank optimise its processes, enhance system reliability, performance, scalability and security, among others. This ensures that transactions at the Bank’s branches and other touch points are now faster with rare occasions of service unavailability at its alternate channels, while offering more innovative products to customers.

While expressing gratitude to customers for their patience and understanding during the upgrade process, the Bank assured that it will continue to expand its platforms and further raise the bar in products and service offerings in line with its culture of excellence and values as a simple, reliable and helpful lender.

Commenting on the development, the Group Managing Director of First City Monument Bank, Mr. Ladi Balogun, said, the Bank is excited to have successfully con-

cluded the Finacle 10 service delivery platform upgrade.

He explained: ’We are conscious of the needs of our target market and the evolving dynamics of the society with an increasing technology savvy population. The new Finacle 10 solution provides us the flexibility required to create new pathways for enhanced offerings and service excellence using cutting edge technology. It has also placed us on a higher pedestal to sustain our rapid expansion drive and keep pace with market demands and trends”.

Also speaking, the Executive Director, Service Management and Technology of FCMB, Mr. Nath Ude, said: ‘’The pace of change in the financial services sector is unprecedented, driven by growth in disruptive technologies that are changing how we bank and conduct business. This new environment creates challenges, but more importantly, provides us with a unique opportunity to lead the sector and serve our customers as they embrace new technologies and seek secure, easier and more flexible ways to look after their daily banking needs “With the functionalities available in the new Finacle10, we are optimally positioned to help our customers realize their financial goals while delivering products and services in a targeted manner that takes into account, our customers unique needs and preferences.’’

FCMB’s deployment of the Finacle Core Banking solution version 10 is seen by analysts as the

FCMB upgrades service platform, enhances customer experience L-R: Operations Manager, South West, MultiChoice Nigeria, Fuad Kadiku; Public Relations Manager, GOtv Efe Obiomah, and MultiChoice Ikeja Branch Manager Segun Ogunsemewo, during the GOtv Customer Forum held at EL-Shaddai Event Centre, Cele Egbe, Ikotun, Lagos

NCC, GSMA to enhance telecom sector operators’ capacity Isaiah Erhiawarien

T

he Global System of Mobile Communications Association, GSMA, the umbrella body for all mobile operators, equipment manufacturers, vendors and the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, have entered into an agreement to provide capacity building for mobile network operators in the country.

The partnership, which was the result of a meeting between Director Africa Region for GSMA, Mr. Mortimer Hope and the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta is expected to accelerated growth in the mobile sector.

Speaking at the meeting with the NCC boss, Mortimer said the GSMA was keen about the capacity building of GSMA members and the essence of the capacity building on their expertise.

“We are available always for capacity building that will

boost mobile connectivity, improve data transmission, mobile money by breaking all the barriers inhibiting growth”, he said.

He said that Nigeria remained a very important market, hence the need for the report, Digital Inclusion and the role of Mobile in Nigeria, which he submitted to the EVC. According to him, the report was inspired by GSMA’s Digital Inclusion program which supports the connection of an additional two billion people to the mobile internet by 2020 the program focuses on working with mobile operators, development organisations and governments to address the barriers to mobile internet adoption through network infrastructure and policy, affordability and tax, digital literacy and local content.

The GSMA team however said that knotty issues like multiple taxation, Quality of Service, Right of Way, amongst others are still a drawback to the expected growth of the sector stressing that it bemoaned lack of spectrum for the mobile

companies to effectively reach those underserved and underserved areas of Nigeria.

Danbatta told the visiting GSMA team that the regulator is already abreast with mobile inclusion and all of these are captured in the five year strategic plan of the Commission 2015-2020 enshrined in the 8-point agenda “which we unveiled recently and this is in line with the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) strategy to increase mobile penetration through broadband”.

The NCC boss said that Nigeria is aware of the massive ICT divide and “we are striving to bridge this through the National Broadband Plan, 2015 – 2018, where penetration is likely to hit 30 percent from its current level of 10 percent” adding that the strategy includes but not limited to improvement of Quality of Service through massive deployment of broadband infrastructure especially in major cities to boost connectivity.

Friday, February 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

39

FG targets 30m farmers via e-wallet scheme Stories: ABOLAJI ADEBAYO

T

he Executive Director of the Farmers Online Market, FOM, Mr. Stephen Maduko, in a statement, revealed that about 30 million farmers were being target by the Federal government through its renewed e-wallet scheme.

According to him, the launching of a new e-wallet scheme for Nigerian farmers by the Federal Government over the weekend, with 14 million farmers already captured in the digital archives of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is laudable.

Maduko, who expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its support, decried what he called the absence of market and storage facilities for the locally produced farm produce.

He reiterated the capacity of the farmers online market to produce jobs and business opportunities for women and youths, thereby making them selfemployed and self-sustaining, and also creating jobs and wealth for all categories of unemployed people.

“With a target of creating over 2 million jobs directly and over 20 million jobs indirectly, we urge the Federal Government through its ministries, departments and agencies in the 36 states and 774 local government councils, and all relevant stakeholders in the agricultural sector to support us and offer their services through the DOM,” he said.

He regretted that there was no accurate data available on what farmers were growing in their fields, which changed often with the prevailing season.

He said they got to know about avail-

ability only after farmers harvest and got it to an auction place or wholesale market.

Maduko also explained that when farmers registered they would cap-

ture all their produce details, harvest periods, expected yields and expected price, then buyers would get all details and contact farmers directly through the mobile phone.

L-R: Director, Finance and Account, Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, Mr Salmanu Saminu Faskuri; Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Hajia Aisha Abubakar and Acting permanent secretary in the Ministry, Mr aliu Mamman, during the Budget Defence at the National Assembly in Abuja yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

Agricultural waste to be turned to feed –research C orn stover, orange peels and the likes can now be made useful. This has been made known by researchers at the University of Minnesota through their findings published in the journal, Nature Chemical Biology.

The researchers created a new synthetic biopathway that can more efficiently and cost-effectively turn agricultural waste, like corn stover and orange peel into a variety of useful products ranging from spandex to chicken feed.

For years, researchers have been looking

for more sustainable sources for the raw materials used to make the products we use every day.

Recently, biomass made from corn or sugarcane is used in manufacturing of a wide range of non-food products from plastics to fuel. However, use of food to make inedible products is controversial because it affects the food supply and can elevate food prices.

In this study, researchers looked at turning inedible biological byproducts, that scientists call lignocelluloslic biomass, to produce useful products to avoid the “food

to fight the disease. This is even as she pledged FAO’s continuous support for Nigeria.

Receiving the materials, the Minister of State, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, assured FAO that the items would be put into use judiciously to combat the spread of the virus.

Lokpobiri, further appealed for more and sustained support from other development agencies, saying that government would do everything possible to achieve self-sufficiency even in the livestock sector.

He expressed his sympathy to poultry farmers affected by Avian Influenza, noting that they must have lost huge resources as a result of the bird flu.

Also in her remarks at the ceremony, the Chief Veterinary Officer of the Federation and Director, Veterinary Services Department, at the ministry Dr. Egejuru Eze, explained that efforts

towards containing the current outbreaks of avian influenza have not been effective due to current economic down trend and the inability of the states to meet up with their statutory obligation to control and report disease.

Eze maintained the need for field officers to be empowered to conduct targeted disease surveillance and other major field activities timely and speedily.

She however expressed the determination of the Federal Government to control the disease, which has spread to 23 states and the FCT, assuring that the Avian Influenza would be controlled and eradicated in the shortest possible time.

Some of the materials donated to the ministry by FAO included diagnostic starter kits, protective clothing, disinfectants, laboratory supplies and a host of other items.

Poor bio-security enhances spread of avian influenza in Nigeria –FAO

F

ood and Agricultural Organisation, FAO, has stated that the lack of standard bio-security in poultry farms, movement of poultry and poultry products from infected farms remained the risks that favoured the spread of Avian Influenza (bird Flu) in Nigeria.

FAO Nigeria representative, Dr. Louise Setshwaelo, said this recently while donating some disease surveillance and containment materials to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development as part of its support in the ongoing efforts to control and curtail the spread of the disease.

Calling for continued and effective disease surveillance, detection and control systems in Nigeria, Setshwaelo emphasised the need to deploy sufficient resources to fight the current infection, saying more efforts were needed particularly by state governments

He added that this process had made it easier for the farmers to get market for their goods while the buyers were also at ease to locate availability of any farm produce wherever they might be.

versus chemical” purposes.

They specifically looked at the process to use lignocellulosic biomass to produce butanediol (BDO) that is used to produce more than 1 billion pounds of spandex each year used in clothing and home furnishings. In 2010, it was estimated that spandex was used in 80 per cent of all clothing.

To establish the platform pathway, researchers examined the gene sequences from bacteria and fungi that turn the biomass into tricarboxylic acid (TCA) intermediates.

The researchers call this new metabolism “nonphosphorylative metabolism,” which enables the production of useful products from TCA cycle with less than five steps, compared to previous 10 steps. Less steps in the process resulted in a 70 per cent higher yield in production and a process that is overall better for the environment.

What excited researchers the most was that this pathway could be used for more than just producing BDO for spandex. It can be used to produce a variety of useful products.

“We found that this new platform could be used to convert agricultural waste to chemicals that can be used for many other products ranging from chicken feed to flavor enhancers in food,” said the study’s lead researcher Kechun Zhang, a chemical engineering and materials science assistant professor in the University of Minnesota’s College of Science and Engineering.

“The pathway we developed was sustainable so it is better for the environment. This study is also one of the few examples of artificial metabolic pathways constructed so far,” Zhang added.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Friday, February 12, 2016

40

Oba of Lagos lauds SEC on e-dividend, mobilises market women Johnson Okanlawon

T

he Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, yesterday commended the Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, on the on-going e-dividend registration, promising to moblise market leaders on the need to take advantage of the exercise.

Akiolu, who stated this when the campaign train of SEC visited him in the palace, Lagos, noted that complying with the e-dividend registration will ensure returns on their investments in the capital market.

According to him, many Nigerians who invested in the capital market have suffered years of no returns due to the cumbersome nature of getting their dividends and urged them to register immediately to cor-

rect the anomaly.

The Oba also lamented the practice by some stock brokers who sell off shares without the knowledge of the owners and commended SEC for instilling discipline in the market.

“Many Nigerians have lost money in this market and that is why I am appealing to you to regulate well. Any operator that runs foul of the rules should be disciplined appropriately, and I know that with discipline and prayers we will get to the promised land” “I am also a victim of unclaimed dividends and I will do all I can to support SEC in this initiative. I will mobilise my people to ensure that everyone is aware of how to get their dividends electronically” he said.

Oba Akiolu commended

the DG and his team for the bold steps the commission is taking to restore confidence in the market adding that e-dividend will reduce incidence of fraud in the market.

The Director General of SEC, Mounir Gwarzo informed the Oba that the purpose of the visit was to receive Royal blessing on the e-dividend registration campaign and to solicit his support on the exercise.

He said the essence of the campaign is to enlighten Nigerians on the need to register electronically so that when dividends are declared by the various companies such can be transferred directly to the bank accounts of the shareholders.

“What we have experienced in the last 50 years is that peo-

ple have not been opportune to enjoy their dividends due to various issues. “e-dividend is very important because I believe it is going to be a major game changer, it is an issue we have had since the inception of this market whereby people buy shares and are unable to claim their dividend either because the warrant becomes stale, they change address or are living in an area that is quite far and it will take more than what the dividend warrant is worth and they will not want to go and collect it” he said.

Gwarzo emphasised the need for Nigerians to go out and register with their banks or registrars so as to eradicate the issue of unclaimed dividends.

Index up 2.19% on 2015 earnings expectation Johnson Okanlawon

T

rading in equities continued on a positive note on the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday, as the market continues on its short term recovery from the recent sell-off which dragged major tickers on the domestic bourse to the oversold region.

The positive trend was buoyed partly by expected 2015 financial results and improved sentiments from smart money investors and other big market players.

Specifically, the All Share Index improved by 529.49 points or 2.19 per cent to close trading for the day at 24,664.89 points, from 24,135.40 points

recorded Wednesday.

The Market Capitalisation also appreciated by N182 billion or 2.19 per cent to close at N8.482 trillion in contrast to N8.300 gain recorded on Wednesday.

Investment analysts at DLM Securities Limited noted that the sustainability of the current rally to the end of the first quarter largely depends on general market sentiments regarding corporate earnings.

Also, investment analysts at United Capital noted that judging from the market breadth, sentiment remains largely weak.

“Thus, we do not think the positive run will hold for long

even as we look to see profit taking in the sessions ahead,” the firm said.

Forte Oil Plc was the toast of investors as its share prices added N26.00 or 8.67 per cent to close at N326.00 per share.

It was trailed by Dangote Cement Plc with N9.01 or 6.63 per cent to close at N145.00 per share, while Nigerian Breweries Plc was up with 99 kobo or 1.02 percent to close at N98.00 per share.

Zenith Bank Plc gained 30 kobo or 2.44 per cent to close at N12.60 per share, while Access Bank Plc surged by 12 kobo or 2.88 per cent to close at N4.29 per share.

Conversely, West African Portland Cement Plc (WAP-

CO) led on the losers table with N2.05 or 2.56 per cent to close at N78.00 per share.

Glaxosmithkline Plc followed with N1.10 or five percent to close at N20.91 per share, while Conoil Plc shed 91 kobo or 4.73 per cent to close at 18.33 per share.

Okomu Oil Plc dipped by 40 kobo or 1.36 per cent to close at N29.00 per share, while International Breweries Plc came last in the five losers ranking, depreciating by 31 kobo or 1.52 per cent to close at N20.14 per share.

In all, investors traded 414.34 million shares valued at N3.29 billion exchanged in 3,380 deals.

Portland Paints to raise N1.9bn through rights issue

P

ortland Paints and Products Nigeria (PPPN) Plc is planning to raise about N1.98 billion from the existing investors through a Rights Issue.

The company, which is owned 51 per cent by UAC of Nigeria Plc has sent its application regarding the Right Issue to the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

Although the PPPN did not disclose when the issue would be made, the NSE notified stockbrokers that the company will issue 600 million ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N3.30 per share on the basis of three new shares for every two shares already held to shareholders.

“Dealing Members are hereby notified that PPPN has through its stockbroker, Stanbic IBTC Stockbrokers Limited, submitted an application to the NSE for approval and listing of a Rights Issue of 600 million ordinary shares of 50 Kobo each at N3.30 per share on the basis of three new ordinary shares for every two ordinary shares held,” the exchange said.

The Chairman of PPPN, Mr. Larry Ettah has last year given indication of the right issue when he told the shareholders at the company’s Annual General Meeting of the company that it would raise additional additional capital in pursuit of its plan to im-

prove returns and address the high leverage position of the company and other business expansion plans.

He had said the company would focus on innovation and seek opportunities to introduce new products into its array of brands as it pursues increased profitability.

PPPN recorded 159 per cent growth profit after tax in 2014 to N148 million, from N57.3 million in 2013. However, the company did not pay dividend.

“For strategic reasons, the board is not recommending the payment of dividend for the year. However, with the company’s improved performance, this may not be a chal-

lenge any more,” he said.

Rate (%) Inflation

8.2

MPR

13

Crude oil price

$58.96

Source: NSE

Inter-Bank Rate Naira

US Dollar

$1

N196.98 Market indicators All-Share Index 24,664.89 points Market capitalisation 8.48trn

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

FO

300.00

326.00

26.00

8.67

DANGCEM

135.99

145.00

9.01

6.63

IKEJAHOTEL

2.88

2.99

0.11

3.82

UBA

2.85

2.94

0.09

3.16

UNITYBNK

0.68

0.70

0.02

2.94

AFRIPRUD

2.40

2.47

0.07

2.92

ACCESS

4.17

4.29

0.12

2.88

ZENITHBANK

12.30

12.60

0.30

2.44

TRANSCORP

1.13

1.15

0.02

1.77

FBNH

3.91

3.95

0.04

1.02

CHANGE

% CHANGE

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

GLAXOSMITH

22.01

20.91

-1.10

-5.00

MANSARD

2.26

2.15

-0.11

-4.87

PORTPAINT

3.77

3.59

-0.18

-4.77

MAYBAKER

0.84

0.80

-0.04

-4.76

CONOIL

19.24

18.33

-0.91

-4.73

HONYFLOUR

1.50

1.43

-0.07

-4.67

WEMABANK

1.00

0.97

-0.03

-3.00

WAPCO

80.05

78.00

-2.05

-2.56

CUSTODYINS

3.96

3.86

-0.10

-2.53

UCAP

1.35

1.32

-0.03

-2.22

FGN Bonds

Offer

Bid

Description

Price

Yield

Price

Yield

15.10 27-APR-2017

1.21

105.22

10.35

106.22

9.49

16.00 29-JUN-2019

3.38

114.15

10.87

115.15

10.54

15.54 13-FEB-2020

4.00

110.94

12.02

111.94

11.72

16.39 27-JAN-2022

5.96

118.42

11.97

119.42

11.76

14.20 14-MAR-2024

8.09

110.92

12.04

111.92

11.86

10.00 23-JUL-2030

14.44 85.53

12.15

86.53

11.98

Closing Market Prices of February 11, 2016

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

Exchange

Rates (N)

05-May-16

3.31

3.33

WAUA

270

USD

196.98

11-Aug-16

7.08

7.33

EURO

214

02-Feb-17

8.51

9.28

CFA

0.32

YEN

1.64

Tenor

Rate (%)

SWISS FRANC

202

O/N

0.9917

POUNDS STERLING

293

1M

8.0424

3M

9.4238

SDR

273

6M

11.0243

NIBOR

CBN Clearing Rates of January 7, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Workers take Lafia varsity management hostage Igbawase Ukumba LAFIA

F

ederal University Lafia Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, SSANU, yesterday held the school’s management staff hostage over non-payment of January salary.

The workers had resolved that no management staff will leave their various offices until salaries were paid.

Consequently, the action of the senior staff, which was attributed to harsh managerial policies of the institution’s management, paralysed yesterday’s academic activities of the university.

SSANU chairman in the university, Abubakar Mamuda, told journalists that their action was to protest management’s insistence that staffers of the

North

Friday, February 12, 2016

institution must sign a consent form before 80 per cent of their January salary would be paid.

He said, “Management of the institution told us at a meeting that they would not be able to pay full salaries due to shortfall in allocation that accrued to the university.

“The management, however, informed us that only 80 per cent of our salaries would be paid for January, while the arrears would be paid in March, which we agreed, only for management to come this morning (yesterday) and asked staffers of the university to sign a consent form before receiving their salaries.”

He claimed that the consent form was a ploy by management to victimise some staff, adding that SSANU would resist such ploy outrightly.

41

PCN seals unregistered patent medicine stores in Bauchi Ezekiel Titus BAUCHI

P

harmacists Council of Nigeria, PCN, is set to seal all unregistered patent medicine stores in Bauchi State, it has been revealed.

Task Force Committee Chairman, Patent and Proprietors Vendors’ License Inspection Committee in Bauchi, Abdu Sule, a pharmacist, disclosed this

yesterday while inspecting premises and shops of patent medicine premises in the state.

He said, “We have over 2,000 medicine stores in Bauchi and only 30% are genuinely registered; meaning over 1,600 patent stores are not registered in Bauchi metropolis, not to talk of other local government areas.”

The committee chairman, who was represented by the PCN Bauchi chairman, Ji-

brin Aliyu Tafida, said drugs business should be orderly and regulated.

According to Sule, “nobody is allowed to operate if he is not registered. So, if we visit your premises and find that you are not registered, we seal your shop. You can see the number of shops visited and the number sealed; once we are done with the state capital, we will be going to the local government areas for the same inspec-

tion.”

He stressed that the exercise is a continuous process mainly to monitor and encourage the practitioners to do the right thing. He, however, stressed that serious offenders would be prosecuted.

Also, the PCN State officer, Bakwa Nenlep, explained that the team was on the inspection “to sensitise the vendors on how to run the business in the state.”

El-Rufai pledges to complete Zaria water project A za Msue KADUNA

F

inally, an end appears in sight for the lingering Zaria Greater Water Works project billed to supply 210 million litres of potable water to alleviate the suffering of residents in eight council areas of Kaduna State.

Governor Nasir el-Rufai, who yesterday declared that his administration would ensure completion of the project during inspection visit to three Zaria water project sites, said he inherited arrears in billions from the past government but had commenced monthly payment to contractors handling the project for speedy work.

El-Rufai added that with machinery already put in place, the project would be completed within the deadline as agreed by both parties.

The governor, while calling on contractors to put in their best on the water project, said his government will not ask any of them to give part of project’s funds back.

His words: “This administration will not and never will ask you to give anything back. The era of demanding money from contractors has gone. We are determined to

serve our people and nothing less. If anybody asks you for money, report such person to EFCC for prosecution.

“Our government will end the endless Zaria Greater Water Works to serve eight local government areas. Our people have suffered enough over potable water. We are impressed with the level of work and will continue to monitor it.

Even after office work, we can come here and supervise the work.”

He also assured stakeholders, particularly wouldbe beneficiaries of the water project being completed despite backlog of arrears to be paid contractors.

“We inherited billions of arrears on Zaria water project and we are paying contractors on monthly basis to clear the arrears.

With what is going on now, the project will be completed within the deadline. The foreign exchange affected our contractors but now more materials are on the way,” he stated.

Commissioner for Water Resources, Suleiman Aliyu Lere, explained that the governor’s visit was to assess the level of work, saying the Zaria water project will pump 210 million litres of water daily to residents when completed.

The new District Head of Bangram, Alhaji Umar Adamu (Shanka), acknowledging cheers after his Turbaning in Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, on Wednesday.

Sokoto, UNIDO partner on leather works

S

okoto government will partner with the United Nations Industrial Organisation, UNIDO, to develop the capacity of the state’s leather works industry to meet required standards and boost revenue generation, Governor Aminu Tambuwal has said.

The governor disclosed this on Thursday in Sokoto

while receiving Head of Investment and Technological Office of UNIDO in Nigeria, Mrs. Adebisi Olu Madimo.

Tambuwal said despite challenges confronting the leather industry in Nigeria, Sokoto has continued to produce quality works for local and national consumption.

He said along with other private investors, the state government will establish

a leather cluster that would boost the sector.

He also said that already arrangements have been concluded to send a committee to Italy to study the country’s leather works with a view to improving Sokoto’s standards.

In her remarks, Madimo said expanding small and medium scale industries will help governments move

away from reliance on oil.

She said UNIDO will join the partnership of the state government and the private investors to establish a leather cluster in the state.

She said the Sokoto leather works is one of the best in the Nigeria and has survived years of challenges largely due to the determination of the workers to continue production.

Enough of management courses in polytechnics, says NBTE Wole Adedeji ILORIN

E

xecutive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education, NBTE, Dr Adamu Kazaure, has stressed the need for polytechnics across the country to focus attention on science and technology programmes, rather than management courses.

The NBTE boss disclosed this at the valedictory cer-

emony for outgoing Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Dr. Muftau Olatinwo, whose two-term tenure of 10 years ends this February.

According to him, the country is in dire need of technological development to meet up with other nations of the world, stressing that the era of polytechnics running programmes in humanities and social sciences should be over.

Kazaure described the

rector as a level-headed fellow whose feat in office impressed the Board so well, and urged him not to let up in his good works in future endeavour.

“Concerted effort now should be shifted to the pursuing of various technical and technological courses in the nation’s polytechnics and technology, so as to advance the development and growth of technology in our country,” he stated.

According to the scribe, it is by doing so the demand for employment opportunities among the unemployed graduates and youths would be achieved.

Kazaure enjoined Olatinwo’s successor to take a cue from his indelible footprints that had not only brought about laudable physical developments to the school but also brought about peace to a once turmoil-riddled polytechnic.

42

Friday, February 12, 2016 CHANGE OF NAME

BADA: I formerly known and addressed as MISS OMOLOLU REBECCA BOSEDE.Now wish to be known and addressed as MRS BADA REBECCA BOSEDE. All former documents remain valid.Rufus Giwa Polytechnic,NYSC,Law Enforcement Agencies and general public should please take note

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Formerly known and addressed as Adeseun Ajoke Tunrayo is the same person known as Babatunde Oluwabukola Olabimpe now wish to be known and addressed as Babatunde Oluwabukola Olabimpe. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note

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MARKUS: FORMERLY known and addressed as AMOS MARKUS SABO NOW wish to be known and addressed as MARKUS JOHN TURAKI . All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE THE GREENPEACE DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE This is to inform the general public that the above name has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the companies and Allied Matters act, 1990.

The trustees are: 1. Rev. Ayuba Nandem Abraham -Chairman 5. Mr. Ijachi Emmanuel 2. Mr. Enokela Owoicho Isreal - Secretary 6. Mr. Adanyi Manasseh

Torkegh 3. Mr. Shange Terlumun Augustine 7. Mr. Yilbel David prince 4. Mr. Gbashi David 8. Mr. Panya Baba Musa AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To care, support, empower and develop the less privileged and vulnerable people in the society.

2. To train and develop youths in vocational skills e.g. carpentry, tailoring welding and fabrication etc.

3. To provide information on career choices through seminars, workshop and summits.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registration general, corporate Affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, of Aguiyi Ironsi Steet, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: TRUSTEES 07062625422

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I formerly known as Miss Enayewa Blessing . A now to be addressed as Miss. Friday Blessing Oghenejkpa. All former documents remain valid, first bank PLC and general public take note.

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Formerly known and addressed as Shoyemi David Olusegun now wish to be known and addressed as Mr Ogunnaike Olusesan Rasaq.

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Formerly known and addressed as TAIRU MARIAM, now wish to be known and addressed as MUNIRAT IBRAHIM. All former documents remain valid. authories concern and general public note

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National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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CONFIRMATION OF NAME

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This is to certified that Busari Taiwo Abayomi and Alade Taiwo Abayomi is the same one person as Alade Taiwo Busari, that henceforth wish to be known and called as Alade Taiwo Busari. All former documents remain valid, United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), First Bank of Nigeria Plc and general public should please take note .

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This is to certified that Nasiru Rasheed Adedayo is the same one person as Nasiru Adebayo Rasheed, that henceforth wish to be called and addressed as Nasiru Adebayo Rasheed. All former documents remain valid, general public should please take note.

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Formerly known and addressed as Miss Ayodele Deborah.

K. now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Adeniran Deborah.

K. All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Postal Service and General public take note

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CHANGE OF NAME Formerly Miss Ogunlola Kudirat Abiola now Mrs Akinwande Kudirat Abiola.

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Formerly KUMUYI TEMITOPE .B, and TEMITOPE ABIMBOLA KUMUYI now IKUMUYILO TEMITOPE ABIMBOLA. All former documents remain valid. FIRST BANK PLC, ZENITH BANK PLC and general public take note.

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CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as Emah Samson Augustine now wish to be addressed as Emmanuel Idofo Augustine.

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Formerly known and addressed as Miss Badmus Basirat Ajoke, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Kanisuru Basirat Ajoke.

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Formerly known and addressed as Chika Bliss Maduka now wish to be known and addressed as Onoyima Chika Bliss Okanya. All former documents remain valid. Bank and general public take note.

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Formerly known and addressed as Otunba Babatunde Salimon Akanji now which to be known and addressed as Adefajo Shittu Babatunde all former documents remain valid First bank and general public take note.

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Formerly known and addressed as CHIMUANYA FELIX NWANT, now wish to be known and addressed as EECHEZONE VICTOR NWANETI. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note CONFIRMATION OF NAME

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I FORMERLY KNOWN AS MISS AJAO ABOLAJI SUKURAT NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS MRS NASIRDEEN ABOLAJI SUKURAT. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE TAKE NOTE

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EKPETA: I, formerly known and addressed as EKPETA ELAINE MARY, now wish to be known, called and addressed as EKPETA BLESSING. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as Miss Adedeji Folasade Mary now Mrs Adelakun Folasade Mary All former documents remain valid General public note

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as Mr. Teniola Olalekan Alex now to be addressed as Mr. Obiteniola Olalekan samuel all former documents remain valid general public take note

This is to confirm that IRINOYE OLAIDE MATTHEW is also known as IRINOYE OLAIDE GBOTEMI all documents bearing the above names remain valid, publics take note, ECO Bank and Access Bank take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known as Miss. Sobayo suliat Eniola now wish to be addressed as Mrs. Wahab suliat Eniola all former documents remain valid NYSC and General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHIOMA: FORMERLY known and addressed as OKAFOR PRISCILLIA CHIOMA NOW wish to be known and addressed as OKAFOR CHIOMA . All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly Miss Nnamonu Joy Cynthia now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Somade Joy Cynthha All former documents remain valid NYSC and General public note

Formerly known as Miss.

Alabi Olaitan Abeni Now wish to be addressed as Mrs. Eweje Olaitan Abeni all former documents remain valid MAPOLY and General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS SALIU AJOKE MARIAM NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ALANI AJOKE MARIAM ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss FLORENCE CHIDIMMA OGBONNA. now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. FLORENCE CHIDIMMA EZEIKE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

43

Friday, February 12, 2016

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Aisha Asabe Abubakar, now wish to be known and addressed as Aisha Asebe Yahaya. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as ANIMASHAUN KAFAYAT OMOYEMI, now wish to be known and addressed as LADIPO-ANIMASHAUN KAFAYAT OMOYEMI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Adesida Oladoyin Victoria now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adeolu Oladoyin Victoria.

All former documents remain valid.

N.Y.S.C and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly Miss Adeyemi Blessing Adebanke now Mrs Akinsusi Blessing Adebanke. All former docuuments remain valid ,general public take note CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Edewor Eferire Susann now wish to be known and addressed as Edewor Eferire Ibitoroko. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as John Samuel Paiko now wish to be known and addressed as John Peter Paiko and my date of birth is 19th January, 1989. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as miss Isiaka Rukayat Olubusola now which to be known and addressed as Mrs Keshiro Rukayat Olubusola all former documents remain valid and general public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as miss Onanuga Aishat Oluwafunmilayo now which to be known and addressed as Mrs Ojo Aishat Oluwafunmilayo all former documents remain valid and general public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as miss Igun Zainab Temitope now which to be known and addressed as Mrs Sogbesan Modupe Omotoke all former documents remain valid and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

Abiodun Shakirudeen Shosanwo Wrongly written as Shakirudeen Shakirudeen Shosanwo now which to be known and addressed as Abiodun Shakirudeen Shosanwo all former documents remain valid and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

SUNDAY : Formerly known and addressed as MRS SUNDAY FUNMILAYO VICTORIA now wish to be known and addressed as MISS OBAYEMI SUNDAY FUNMILAYO. All former documents remain valid. First Bank PLC and General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

AIYEWUMI: I, formerly known and addressed as VICTORIA CHIOMA AIYEWUMI, now wish to be known, called and addressed as VICTORIA CHIOMA EMECHEBE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Ibrahim Sakiru Abolaji is same person as Ibraheem Sakiru Omobolaji all former documents remain valid banks and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OYINLADE : Formerly known and addressed as MISS OYINLADE CHRISTIANAH FOLA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OGUNRINDE CHRISTIANAH FOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHIOMA-EZEH: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS LINDA CHIOMAEZEH, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. HAPPINESS CHIOMA ENUJEKO. All former document remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS FOLASAYO IYABODE OLOKO, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN, CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS SERIFAT SUBAIR. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

TAIWO: I, formerly known and addressed as TAIWO OLUFUNKE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as JOSEPH OLUFUNKE ABOSEDE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

EDIALE: I, formerly known and addressed as EDIALE MARK EHIMARE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as PHILIPS KENNETH. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

BELLO: I, formerly known and addressed as BELLO ADENIYI AYODEJI, now wish to be known, called and addressed as BELLO ROLAND ADENIYI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

EMMANUEL: FORMERLY known and addressed as EMMANUEL UCHENNA OKEKE NOW wish to be known and addressed as EMMANUEL UCHENNA ALEX .

All former documents remain valid.

Authorities concerned and General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as AWOBUSUYI GBEMISOLA OLUFUNMILAYO Now wish to be known, called and addressed as GBEMISOLA SHOBUNBI AKINLOYE All documents and certificates bearing my former names remain valid. First Bank Nig Plc Ikorodu Branch, General public and Relevant authorities should please take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as OKECHUKWU AUGUSTINA EGONDU, now wish to be known and addressed as UKAECHU AUGUSTINA EGONDU . All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

That on some of my documents, my name appears as CALEB MONDAY OJO-UWUIGBE, while on my other documents, it appears as OJO MONDAY. That all the documents bearing these names remain mine and valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS IFEANYIN UZOMA MARK, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN, CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS ANUMNU DANIEL IFEANYI . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME

MARIA: FORMERLY known and addressed as ALAGBE MARIA REMILEKUN NOW wish to be known and addressed as ADEKUNLE MARIA REMILEKUN . All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as ODAMA JANE Now wish to be known, called and addressed as LAWAL JANE All documents and certificates bearing my former names remain valid. General public and Relevant authorities should please take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Okorafor Ugonnaya, now wish to be known and addressed as Nweke Ugonnaya. All former documents remain valid. Ecobank plc, GTbank and General public take note.

This is to inform that I am the same person bearing Oguniche David and Oche David all former documents remain valid banks and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Ojah Anthony Ukpu,now wish to be known and addressed as Emeka Simeon Ayah all former document remain valid general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OKPALA: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKPALA IJEOMA HELEN, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS HELEN IJEOMA OBIDIGBO. All former document remain valid.

General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known as COVENANT CHIKODI, LORITA now wish to be known and addressed as IWUAGWU CHIKODI, LORITA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

IHENYEN: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS IHENYEN AKHERE MARTHA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS NJOKU AKHERE MARTHA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS KAZEEM ADUFE OLAWALE, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN, CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS QOZEEM OYEDAPO OLAWALE . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME OKORO: Formerly known and addressed as OKORO ODIRA SAVIOUR now wish to be known anf addressed as OKORO JOHN ODIRA All former documents remain valid.

General public take note CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Agbara Ikechukwu Francis and Akpaoyibo Rapheal Anayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Uwakwe Francis Iweka. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Ibrahim Salisu Saidu, now wish to be known and addressed as Ibrahim Salisu Tolani. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

44

Friday, February 12, 2016

CHANGE OF NAME

OMIONAWELE: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OMIONAWELE ANGELA OMONYIE, now wish to be known and address as MRS. NOEL ANGELA OMONYIE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME CHARLIE: I, formerly known and addressed as EKAETTE SUNDAY CHARLIE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. EKAETTE FRIDAY UDOM. All former documents remain valid.

Postgraduate School, University of Ibadan, Force Education Headquarters, Nigeria Police, Abuja, Quality Assurance Department, Kam Salem House, Lagos and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SENCHI MUSA NOW DANJUMMA MUSA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ECO BANK AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

EZE: I, formerly known and addressed as EZE OBINNA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OSIGWE OBINNA RAYMOND. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

ODO: I, formerly known and addressed as ODO UCHENNA VITUS, now wish to be known and addressed as ODONU UCHENNA VITUS. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public should please take note.

OSEJI: I, formerly known and addressed as OSEJI FLORENCE OBIAGELI, now wish to be known, called and addressed as PESSU FLORENCE OBIAGELI. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

ADENIJI: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ADEBUKOLA OLAOLUWA ADENIJI, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. ADEBUKOLA OLAOLUWA OLAIYA. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

ESIMA: I, formerly known and addressed as ESIMA OGOCHUKWU ADAEZE, now wish to be known and addressed as EJIKE MIRACLE ADAUGO .

All former documents remain valid.

Banks and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ORJI: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ORJI CHINENYE FAVOUR, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS MARVELOUS CHINENYE FAVOUR. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHUKWU: I, formerly known and addressed as JACINTA NKECHINYERE CHUKWU, now wish to be known and addressed as JACINTA NJOKU. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OKAFOR: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKAFOR TESSY UKAMAKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ANI TESSY UKAMAKA OKAFOR. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OKOYE:I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKOYE OLUCHUKWU DOMINICA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ENWOROM DOMINICA OLUCHUKWU . All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

MUSA: I, formerly known and addressed as MUSA YAHAYA, now wish to be known and addressed as MUSA BABA YAHAYA. All former documents remain valid. First Banks and general public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ANIUGBO: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ANIUGBO HAPPINESS SANDRA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NNEJI HAPPINESS SANDRA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Folusho Oluwasanmi , now wish to be known and addressed as MRS FOLUSHO AKINRIMISI. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Miss SULAIMON RUKAYAT OLUWATOBI, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. FASANYA RUKAYAT OLUWATOBI. All former documents remain valid. NYSC Authority and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME FOWOWE: Formerly known and addressed as Fowowe Bukola Sunday now wish to be known and addressed as Fowowe Oluwabukola Elizabeth. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

ABDULRASHEED: Formerly known and addressed as ABDULRASHEED KEHINDE AYANNIYI now wish to be known and addressed as KUPONIYI MICHAEL BABATUNDE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

ANOILE: Formerly known and addressed as ANOILE STEPHEN UGOCHUKWU now wish to be known and addressed as ANOZIE STEPHEN UGOCHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME IFAKA:Formerly known and addressed as IFAKA ENDURANCE MORPHY now wish to be known and addressed as IFAKA ENDURANCE STEVO) All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME OLUSOLA: This is to inform the general public that OLUSOLA OLABISI HILGERT and OLUSOLA OLABISI FATOKI refer to one and the same person. All former documents remain valid. First Bank, Skye Bank, other financial institutions and general public take note.

GRACE: Formerly known and addressed as GRACE EKPENEGHO AJIRO now wish to be known and addressed as JAMES GRACE GIRE. All former documents remain valid. GTB, ACCESS & FIRST BANK and the general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS EZEKIEL LYNDA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OLOGUNAGBA LYNDA. All former documents remain valid, general public should please note.

Formerly known and addressed as YUSUF MUBARAK OLUWADAMILARE now WISH TO BE KNOWN and addressed as MUBARAK OLUWADAMILARE ADENIYI LYON. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE MAGISTRATE COURT OF ENUGU STATE OF NIGERIA IN THE ENUGU MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT HOLDEN AT ENUGU IN RE: LOSS OF DOCUMENTS (ORIGINAL COPY OF IRREVOCABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY AND CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY

Belonging to BENJAMIN EJIKE MBONU ESQ, that I am the bonafide owner of ORIGINAL COPY OF IRREVOCABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY AND CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY with plot No 282 which was registered at No. 100 at page 100 volume 1296 dated 12th day of January, 1990 by Christopher Odika Umeh Esq. who conveyed his power in respect of the said property to me Benjamin Ejike Mbonu Esq. by virtue of irrevocable power of attorney dated on 15th day of May, 2001 and registered at Enugu Lands registry as No. 7 at page 7 in volume 1479 after purchased it from Christopher Odika Umeh Esq. That the said ORIGINAL COPY OF IRREVOCABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY AND CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY was misplaced on 28th day of December, 2015 at Enugu, Enugu State. All effort made to trace same proved abortive. If found contact the Ministry of Lands and Urban Development Enugu.

ALHASSAM: I, formerly known and addressed as ALHASSAM SHUAIBU LAUYA, now wish to be known and addressed as RABIU SHAMSUDDEEN. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public should please take note.

ASADU: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ASADU JENNIFER CHINENYE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS UCHEGBUO JENNIFER CHINENYE. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

JAMES: I, formerly known and addressed as JAMES EMMANUEL, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEWOLE EMMANUEL OMOGBAI. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

1 BY 1 ADVERT SPACE FOR SALE CHANGE OF NAME

BROWN: Formerly known and addressed as BROWN UDUAK WILLIAMS now wish to be known and addressed as BLESSING BROWN IMOH All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as MUTAT BOLAJI IYAOLA , now wish to be known and addressed as IJAOLA BOLAJI MUTIAT. All former documents remain valid; management of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta, general public should please note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as ADEBOWALE MICHAEL ADESHOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEBOWALE MICHAEL OLUWASEGUN. All former documents remain valid; management of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta, general public should please note.

CHANGE OF NAME

This is to confirm that HABU KHAMA and HABU KHAMASON VICTOR refer to one and the same person, Now wish to be known and addressed as HABU KHAMASON VICTOR. All documents reflecting any of the stated names remain valid. General public to take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ALIYU ABUBAKAR NOW TURA TAFARKI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ECO BANK, FIRST BANK AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE

NGENE:I, formerly known and addressed as MISS NGENE NGOZI PHILOMINA, now wish to be known and addressed as OKEKE NGOZI PHILOMINA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHIAGOZIE: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS NKECHI FRANCESS CHIAGOZIE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NKECHI FRANCESS ONAH. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and general public should take note.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

OSITA : I, formerly known and addressed as OSITA UCHECHUKWU DORATHY, now wish to be known and addressed as NZEWI UCHECHUKWU DORATHY. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OJELABI: I, formerly known and addressed as OJELABI FEMI ADEYEMI, now wish to be known and addressed as SALAKO QUDUS TAIWO. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ELESIGWE: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Elesigwe Blessing Ada now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Chima Blessing Ada. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as ABDUS SALAM OLADIPUPO, now wish to be known and addressed as ABDUS SALAM AYOOLA BABATUNDE. All former documents remain valid;, First Bank Plc, general public should please note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OLUSESAN ELIZABETH OLUWAKEMI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. MAFE ELIZABETH OLUWAKEMI. All former documents remain valid; National Youths Service Corp (NYSC), general public should please note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OBAFEMI : Formerly known and addressed as MISS OBAFEMI OLUWASEUN HELEN now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OLAJUYIN OLUWASEUN HELEN . All former documents remain valid. Ekiti State Teaching Service Commission and General public take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

ACHIEVERS ROYAL MISSION INTERNATIONAL The general public is hereby notified that the above named Mission has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for Registration Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, 1990 BOARD OF TRUSTEES ARE: 1. HRH Igwe Apostle Chimereze Linus Pius 2. Pastor Samuel Nneji 3. Evang Victor Chimereze 4. Pastor Chris Chidiobi 5. Pastor (Mrs) Monica Chimereze THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach and spread the gospel of Jesus Christ 2. To print publish and distribute religious literatures 3. To heal, deliver and restore man from evil oppressions 4. To care and minister to the needs of the aged and the less privileged.

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

Signed HRH Igwe Apostle Chimereze Linus Pius

That on some of my documents my name appears as ABDULRAHAMAN ALHASSAN, while on my other documents, it appears as ABDULRAHAMAN HASSAN. That I am the same person bearing both names. All documents bearing both names are mine and valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

OYELADE: I, formerly known and addressed as AKIN OYELADE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as AKINLOYE OLADEJO OYELADE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS JIMOH ABIODUN AMINAT NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ASIMI ABIODUN AMINAT. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME

OKONGWU: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKONGWU JANE CHINWOKE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OKIGBO JANE CHINWOKE. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

ORJI: I, formerly known and addressed as ORJI AMAKA AMANDA, now wish to be known and addressed as ORJI AMAKA OBUMNEKE. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME PATRICK: I, formerly known and addressed as PATRICK GINIKA, now wish to be known and addressed as AGBO GINIKA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

ASOGWA: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ASOGWA CHIEMEZIE MARTHINA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS CHIKWENDU CHIEMEZIE MARTHINA. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

URAMA: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS URAMA JULIET UGOCHI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OBETA JULET UGOCHI. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, Formerly known as Miss OLUWASOLAPE ABOSEDE AKINYEMI now wish to be known and called Mrs NSORIBE SOLAPE ABOSEDE. All former documents remain valid, general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

OKEKE: Formerly known and addressed as OKEKE JOHN now wish to be known and addressed as OGUGUA JOHN LOUIS All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OLATUNBI BOSEDE STEPHANIE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OSUGO BOSEDE STEPHANIE. All former documents remain valid, general public should please note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as OLUWOLE SHOLA TAIWO, now wish to be known and addressed as OLUWOLE TAIWO OLUWATOSIN. All former documents remain valid; management of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta, general public should please note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OKEREKE : Formerly known and addressed as MISS OKEREKE ESTHER CHINYERE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ELENDU ESTHER CHINYERE .

All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as MISS. FASUNON YETUNDE OLUFUNKE. Now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. SHOBOWALE YETUNDE OLUFUNKE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Egbeyemi Taiwo Olamide, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Olaide Taiwo Olamide, All former documents remain valid, General public should please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm and certify that PIUS LINUS MADUBUDE, LINUS PIUS, ANIEKEH-OZOIGA LINUS UCHE and CHIMEREZE LINUS PIUS refers to one and same person but now wish to be known and addressed as CHIMEREZE LINUS PIUS. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHIGBO: I, formerly known and addressed as MR HENRY MADUABUCHI CHIGBO, now wish to be known and addressed as MR HENRY ABUCHI ONWUZU. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Okechukwu Adaeze Princess now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ugwuja Adaeze Princess. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Oretuyi=I formerly Miss Oretuyi Olamide Olayinka now wished to be known and addressed as Mrs Olajide Olamide Olayinka, all former document remain valid,Ecobank and the general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OWOLABI SARAT OMOTAYO OLAYINKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ASHAYE SARAT OMOTAYO OLAYINKA. All former documents remain valid, general public should please note.

CHANGE OF NAME kl

I, formerly known and addressed as ADEPOJU ABIODUN ADEBAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEPOJU WARIZ ABIODUN. All former documents remain valid; management of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta, general public should please note

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as MISS. OLOWOYO FOLAYEMI KAFAYAT. Now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OLATOKUN FOLAYEMI KAFAYAT. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

This is to confirm that ILESANMI MARIAM OMOLADE is the same person bearing ILESANMI MORIAMO ADEREMI and now wish to be known as ILESANMI MORIAMO ADEREMI. All former documents remain valid. Eco Bank Plc and general public take note.

ADDITION OF NAME

That I was formerly known and addressed as IROKO DESMOND that I now wish to add UMEZULIKE to my former name that I now wish to be known, called and addressed as IROKO DESMOND UMEZULIKE. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

BELONWU: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS BELONWU EBELE KENECHUKWU, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS IKEAGWUONU EBELE KENECHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. Federal Neuropsychiatric hospital, banks and general public should please take note.

Friday, February 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

45

Sport

Golf balls are attracted to water as unerringly as the eye of a middleaged man to a female bosom

Oliseh’s 47 witchcraft story

–Michael Green The Art of Coarse Golf (1967)

Chukwueze

Arsenal await Chukwueze’s arrival S

amuel Chukwueze is set to soon join fellow Nigeria U-17 star, Kelechi Nwakali, at EPL club, Arsenal, as he is now processing his entry visa to England.

The dashing forward is believed to have attended a visa interview in Abuja yesterday in this respect.

Arsenal have agreed to sign Chukwueze and Nwakali from Diamond Academy of Umuahia.

But while Nwakali has since arrived London, Chukwueze is only sorting out his travel papers after a plan to ship him out to Red Bull Salzburg of Austria crashed.

“The boy’s trip to Austria to discuss with Red Bull was what has delayed his moving to England now,” said a top source.

The thinking then was that he stood a better chance at Red Bull than Arsenal, but he eventually turned his back on the Austrian club’s offer be-

cause it fell far short of expectations.

Chukwueze was the third highest scorer at last year’s FIFA U17 World Cup in Chile, which Nigeria won.

He is a member of the quartet snapped up by UK’s biggest football agency, Stellar Group.

Apart from Nwakali and Chukwueze, the other two are David Enogena and Joel Osikel.

Kelechi Nwakali has already been linked with City, who signed his brother Chidiebere- now on loan in Spain -after the 2013 Under 17 World Cup. Stellar, founded by David Manasseh and Jonathan Barnett, employ their own scouts and have a brilliant track record for signing young players..

Stellar’s major clients include Gareth Bale, whose record-breaking £85million transfer to Real Madrid helped support a staff who look after 500 footballers worldwide.

Confed Cup: Nasarawa opponents storm Abuja today

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he Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has now received information from the Senegalese Football Federation to the effect that the delegation of AS Academie Generation Foot to a CAF Confederation Cup match in Abuja will arrive this morning for the Sunday match.

Generation Foot, a lower division team in Senegal that upset the formbook to win the country’s FA Cup, clash with Nigeria’s CAF Confederation Cup flagbearers, Nasarawa United, at the National Stadium, Abuja in a first round, first leg match.

The Senegalese Football Federation also confirmed that Generation Foot have elected the option of taking care of themselves while in Nigeria, with the implication that the Solid Miners will also take care of their stay in Dakar in the return leg.

While Generation Foot are campaigning on the continent for the first time, Nasara-

wa United played in the CAF Confederation Cup in 2007 after crashing out of the more lucrative CAF Champions League.

Yesterday, Nasarawa United FC chairman, Barr. Isaac Danladi, told thenff.com that his boys were in great shape to earn a heart-warming win that will stand them in good stead in the return leg.

“We are not taking this campaign with levity. The Government of Nasarawa State is very keen on the team doing the nation proud, so nothing is being left to chance.

“Our commitment is to take it one match at a time. We will fight for a handsome result in Abuja on Sunday and then go and play our hearts out in Senegal,” he said.

The winner of the fixture between Nasarawa United and Generation Foot will proceed to the second round, to battle it out with Club Sportif Constantinois of Algeria.

Sports

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Friday, February 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Quatari league needs Terry –Zola

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ohn Terry is a “big name” player who would attract interest from several club sides in Qatar, his former Chelsea teammate, Gianfranco Zola, said yesterday.

The Italian was speaking publicly for the first time since his current side – Al-Arabi – was linked to the Chelsea captain following Terry’s announcement last month that he would leave the English champions at the end of the season.

But Zola said it would not only be his team in the Gulf who would want to sign the potential free agent Terry.

“When we talk about John Terry, we are talking about a big player, big name and I believe a player of this stature is not of interest only for the team, but also for the whole league,” said Zola at a Doha press conference.

“I believe the Qatari league is a league that wants to grow bigger so I believe there might be interest not only from Al-Arabi but there might be interest from all the Qatari league.”

Terry, 35, announced at the end of January that he would leave the London club in the summer when his contract expires, claiming there would be no “fairytale ending”.

However, Chelsea have also held out some hope to the centre-half that they may offer him a new deal “in the coming months”.

Terry is just three games away from playing his 700th match for Chelsea in a career stretching back to October 1998 when he made his debut against Aston Villa.

Man United target £500m income despite poor form

‘Leicester remain ambitious’ M

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eicester City must ensure they maintain their rapid progress beyond the current campaign, manager Claudio Ranieri said yesterday, ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash against third-placed Arsenal.

Leicester, who were on the brink of relegation last season, continue to defy the odds this term and have opened up a fivepoint lead at the top of the table with a thumping 3-1 win over fellow title contenders Manchester City last Saturday.

“We’re doing well because the big teams haven’t found their rhythm, but our plans won’t change next year,” Ranieri told the Italian newspaper, Corriere dello Sport.

“We must continue to build to target, in the next three or four years, the top spots in the Premier League and fighting for (a place in) Europe.”

Ranieri

Ranieri hopes his players, who are in unfamiliar territory as they fight for the title, are able to cope with the pressure.

“I don’t know if we will feel the pressure over time.

I know there are so many points to win. I hope we

don’t feel this pressure,” the Italian said.

Leicester take on Arsene Wenger’s men at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, before home games to relegation-threatened Norwich City and 14th-placed West Bromwich Albion.

anchester United are on track to become the first British club to earn more than £500m in one year despite their lack of success on the pitch.

Second-quarter revenues rose by 26.6% to a record £133.8m, with commercial revenues up 42.5% to £66.1m.

Broadcast revenue rose 31.3% to £37.3m and sponsorship revenue rose by £1.6m, but matchday income was down 1.6%.

The Red Devils currently lie fifth in the Premier League table and have been knocked out of the Champions League.

“Our solid results off the pitch help contribute to what remains our number one priority - success on the pitch,” said executive vice-chairman, Ed Woodward.

United’s chances of qualification for next season’s Champions League hang in the balance after an inconsistent season under Louis van Gaal.

Majority owned by the American Glazer family, they are six points adrift of fourthplaced Manchester City.

The BBC understands Van Gaal’s position is precarious after learning that Jose Mourinho has held talks with the club about taking over in the summer.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

YSFON boss rates Ramat Cup high Ifeanyi Eduzor

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ational President of Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON), Yusuf Gawuna, has expressed satisfaction with the standard of football being displayed at the ongoing YSFON Ramat U-16 Cup. The weeklong Ramat Cup, one of the major championships in YSFON’s annual calendar kickedoff on Monday at the Mahaha Stadium, Kano and will be rounded off on Sunday.

According to Gawuna, the good football artistry displayed by teams from Lagos, Ogun, Katsina and Rivers State is an indication that the federation’s tournaments have been improving over the years, just as he charged national team coaches to always avail themselves the opportunity of visiting YSFON organised competitions to scout for talent that will represent the country in age

group competitions.

“I am highly impressed with what I saw at the match between Lagos and FCT which Lagos won by 3-1. I am also elated by the standard of football displayed by teams from Ogun, Katsina and Rivers states which goes to show that Nigeria boasts of good talents in football.

“It is important that national team coaches avail themselves of the opportunity of attending YSFON organised tournaments as that is the only way they can discover talents that will do the country proud in age group competitions”, noted Gawuna who also doubles as Kano State Commissioner for Agriculture.

Secretary of the Katsina Football Association, Alhaji. Sanni Tinau, noted that the quality of football displayed by the teams is an indication that YSFON is still the leading body in grassroots football development in the country.

Fans toast to Kanu’s global legend honour

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any Nigerians have said that former international, Nwankwo Kanu’s elevation to the top 48 football legends worldwide should be an encouragement to young African footballers.

The International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) had last Sunday named Kanu in its Hall Fame.

The sports aficionados told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that they were delighted to have a Nigerian listed in the said category, not that Kanu deserved it.

A banker and Chelsea FC of

Kanu

England fan, Sampson Okafor, said Nigerians always give their best in any sport they get involved in and deserved the best of awards when opportunities arose.

“We are recognised in sports all over the world because of our dedication and zeal to get the best out of it.

“I can mention other Nigerian footballers that are qualified for the same award but may be IFFHS requires one legend per country else the likes of Jay-Jay Austen Okocha should be included,” Okafor said.

A civil servant, Michael Ezechie, said the newly selected legends had created marks in the world of football and deserved to be honoured.

“Kanu is a legend for various reasons, including the fact that he is the most decorated Nigerian football player till date.

“He suffered a terrible heart condition between 1996 and 1997 but came out of it and played much more better than ever,” he said.

Hotsports host sports editors

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ports editors from major national news publications were taken on a media tour of HS Media Group studio facilities at its headquarters in Oregun, Lagos yesterday.

The tour which was conducted by the Chairman of HS Media Group, Taye Ige, was aimed at acquainting the senior sports journalists with the modern broadcast facilities acquired by the company to boost quality television production.

The tour took the editors round the five major ultra-modern studios and top grade post production video editing suites in the complex.

According to Ige, “This facility will provide services for five operational divisions of the

Sports

Friday, February 12, 2016

company namely: HS Production and Marketing for independent television production, HS Teleport Services for satellite broadcast and transmission, HS Sportsplus - a sports focused TV station, HS Studios for OB Vans and production equipment for live coverages and HS TV College - a TV and media training school.”

Ige also stated that with the state of the art equipment, the company is poise to maximum it’s target of churning out major television programmes that will highlight the Olympic Games, the EURO 2016 Championship in France the FIFA age-grade Women’s World Cup and a host of other major sports competitions this year.

MANDATE

THE

Sylvester Ikuejamoye

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

Oliseh’s witchcraft story

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had almost concluded on what to write for the week before the news of witchcraft within the Glass House was unveiled by the Super Eagles Coach, Sunday Oliseh, who was himself unveiled and unleashed on Nigerian football last year.

It was indeed an interesting story from Oliseh that there are witchcrafts within the NFF that are responsible for his dismal performance at the recent CHAN tournament in Rwanda as well as his unstable movement in and out of Nigeria.

No one needs to be told that his penchant for coaching from the Diaspora has eventually paid off in the quality of play and the result therefrom at the Rwanda outing.

I’m certainly not amazed or disappointed by Oliseh’s vituperation. I do also share the same view that the board of the NFF very much deserves the heavy punch from Oliseh, not minding the ‘round-about apology’ after the deadly blow on the leadership of NNF. Message well delivered as Oliseh’s missiles landed safely and on target too. The target in my humble view is the NFF leadership and the culprit crew members who ensured that Oliseh was foisted on Nigerian football despite all his overwhelming inadequacies.

Oliseh is not new to controversy and most genuine football followers are aware of this. In the candid opinion of most followers and the actors of football, his temperament is enough to disqualify him outright, more so that he was not known to have repented and rebranded himself as a new person from so many misdemeanours for which he was legendary.

The Mali 2002 Nations Cup debacle, when he was alleged to have practically walked out the late sports minister Ishaya Mark Aku from the Eagles’ camp, is still fresh in the minds of many. I am also sure that Chief Patrick Ekeji will not forget his encounter with Oliseh in a hurry. But more horrifying to many sane minds is the self-delusion o f

Oliseh

the coach who suddenly woke up to realise the existence and manipulations of witchcraft against him.

Oliseh was born here, and grew up to adulthood here as well. The witches and wizards allowed him to grow up here and also allowed him to play football to stardom as well as allowing him to prosper before relocating to Europe without inhibitions.

Haba, Coach Oliseh, your case is what the Yoruba describe as kokoro t’o nje efo, ara efo lowa, meaning, the insect that ravages the vegetable is obviously within it.

My sincere advice to Oliseh is that he should look inward and engage in thorough and honest self-examination. If he is honest about it, he will discover that there is no witchcraft anywhere working against him. He may simply discover that his attitude,

47

temperament, behaviour and managerial inadequacies are probably the areas he surely needs to work on.

It is not tenable in this modern age for anyone to blame every failure on imaginary witches and wizard.

Above all, he must be compelled to stay at his duty post.

Nobody forced him to take up the Super Eagles’ job. If he is no longer interested or the environment is not conducive enough for him to work, the best thing is for him to resign and look elsewhere.

There is no room for parttime coaching with the Super Eagles. If his instability is as a result of his alleged manipulations of witchcraft against him, then the better for him to throw in the towel.

Nigerians will be glad to see his exit if that is what the Eagles would require to perform better.

The task ahead is enormous for the Eagles as qualifying for the World Cup in Russia in 2018 is a task that must be done. Same for the Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon next year. The fear of witchcraft will not take us there but the timely provision of all that the coach and the team require would take us both tournaments. The NFF should be seen to be serious with our preparations for all our international engagements. The team and the coach must not be allowed to suffer any form of hardship while preparing for or participating in any competition. The coach may have his own inadequacies, but the onus is on the NFF not to further compound the situation.

Hard but the bitter truth Life’s journey is full of intricacies. No one should pretend to be the master of it all. The all- knowing God Almighty is the author and the only master that knows it all.

Those pretending are only engaging in self-deceit. Hard But The Bitter Truth.

Until next week Friday, stay out of trouble and God bless Nigeria.

WORLD RECORD

First use of marine mammals in defence

Vol. 05 No. 1306

Friday, February 12, 2016

N150

The earliest use of marine mammals in active military defence was during the Vietnam War between 1970–71, by US Navy bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)

Judiciary as Buhari’s nightmare (I)

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igerians have been making copious references to the recent judiciary corruption bust by Ghanaian investigative journalist, Mr. Anas Aremeyaw Anas, which has cost many judges implicated their jobs. ‘Wikipedia’s’ and others’ accounts of the judiciary failure, which is slightly edited here, tell the story better. On the 23rd of September 2015, Anas premiered before over 6500 people at the Accra International Conference Center an undercover film: “Ghana In The Eyes Of God: Epic Of Injustice”, which exposed widespread corruption within that country’s judiciary; and graphically showed court workers, like clerks and bailiffs, connive with a number of respected judges to influence court cases through bribes.

Thirty-four judges and magistrates were caught on a hidden camera receiving enticements of money, goats, sheep and even foodstuffs. As a result, presumed rob-

L

ionel Messi returned to training with Barcelona yesterday after receiving treatment for kidney stones which affected his participation in last December’s Club World Cup. The Argentine superstar

FRIDAY WITH Dozie Okebalama

dozieokeama@yahoo.co.uk 08164966858 (SMS only) bers, murderers, drug traffickers, rapists and litigants in land cases were set free.

The film effectively created deep and destabilizing crises of conscience in Ghanaian society. A disciplinary committee of the Judicial Council was set up to probe the allegations of bribery and extortion against the thirty-four judges and magistrates implicated. More than 100 members of staff of the Judicial Service were then investigated after Anas submitted a petition and videos showing the affected staff receiving bribes to compromise cases.

Anas asked for the dismissal of the affected culprits. The Judicial Council quickly commenced investigations and suspended the affected judges as a first step;and Anas was given protection from prosecution. By December 7, 2015, reports said 21 of the 32 judges involved had been sacked by the country’s Chief Justice.

Why did the leadership of the Ghanaian judiciary take the swift decision to give the boot to such a number of judges in one fell swoop? It is because Ghana’s essence as a nation and as a democracy is doomed with corrupt judges as the types caught by Anas on tape holding court.

One believes it is for the same reason President Muhammadu Buhari remarked at a town hall meeting he held with Nigerians living in Ethiopia, when he visited the country recently, that the Nigerian judiciary constituted a huge hindrance to his administration’s campaign against

COMMENTS OF THE TYPE BUHARI MADE IN ETHIOPIA SHOULD PRICK THE HEART OF THE BENCH IN AN EXCEPTIONAL WAY highbrow graft and its effervescence. “On the fight against corruption vis-à-vis the judiciary”, he stated, “Nigerians will be right to say that is my main headache for now…”, talking about the Nigerian judiciary.

Not veiled by Buhari’s remark is the exceptional delay in justice dispensation

by Nigerian courts, not necessarily for responsible purposes most times, but strictly to ambush and pervert the course of justice. ‘Justice delayed is justice denied’, goes a popular adage coined from past experience and knowledge. This wise saying applies not just to the seen or the visible, in this case - protracted litigation and the legal abracadabra canvassed in court by lawyers to buy time and delay the speed of justice. It also connotes the unseen and the invisible – corrupt manipulations of justice by dishonest judges, complicit lawyers and their go-betweens behind closed doors.

Should a referendum be conducted on the moral uprightness or infirmity of the Nige-

rian judiciary at this time, the most probable chances are that citizens will return a verdict that will generously vindicate Captain Daniel Omale in his recent piece: ‘The injustice of Nigeria’s judiciary’, published by an Abuja-based daily last October 17. Omale says: “Judges (in Nigeria) are corrupt, inept and lack the willpower to uphold the law, even after swearing to an oath. The ‘get rich quick syndrome’ that has plagued this country for over 25 years has destroyed the fabric of our society; and the judiciary has joined the bandwagon. Justice is for sale in Nigeria.

Ready-made judges are available for sale to the highest bidder. This is Nigeria’s reality”. The utterances of many past Chief Justices of Nigeria (CJNs) on corruption in the nation’s judiciary will merely seal the coffin of the public verdict.

Indeed, if corruption can be so evident in neighbouring Ghana presently, despite the bloody revolution of 1979 led by Jerry John Rawlings, then a Flight Lieutenant in Ghana’s Air Force, which led to the execution of three Generals - Fred Akufo; Ignatius Acheampong; and Akwasi Afrifa, all former heads of state – as well as scores of other military chiefs and Supreme Court justices docked for their roles in corruption-related acts, the height of the graft pyramid in Nigeria, a country whose prodigal political elites, whether military or civilian, give no thought to the lessons of history, can only be imagined.

Concerns about the degrading of the Nigerian judiciary affect all. But comments of the type Buhari made in Ethiopia should prick the heart of the bench in an exceptional way; particularly that section of it governed by good conscience, moral uprightness and principle. By its conservative nature, however, the bench is not traditionally given to media hypes, whether for good or for bad; except through its key heads. Therefore, the bench’s response to Buhari’s comment may not be immediate or direct, if it ever comes. (To be concluded)

Sport Extra

Messi returns, ready for Celta Vigo had tests “to assess the development of kidney stones,” Barca reported.

Messi missed Wednesday’s 1-1 Copa del Rey semifinal second-leg draw with Valencia, with the Catalan side prevailing 8-1 on aggregate.

The five-time World Player of the Year is due to start Sunday’s Liga clash with Celta Vigo at the Camp Nou where he needs only two goals to become the first player in the Spanish league to score 300 goals.

“With the renewed presence

of Leo Messi in training Barca is already focussing on the next Liga outing,” the club said.

Messi suffered renal colic, a problem commonly caused by kidney stones, in Japan in December forcing him to miss eventual winners Bar-

celona’s semifinal against China’s Guangzhou Evergrande.

He recovered in time to line up in the final where Barca beat Argentina’s River Plate 3-0 as he scored the opening goal.

Lionel Messi

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