Friday, October 12, 2012 by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

N56.7bn subsidy scam:

Capital Oil boss, Uba, six others arraigned, remanded A SAM OLUWALANA AND K AYODE KETEFE

Tinubu Magistrate’s Court, Lagos yesterday remanded the Managing Director of Capital Oil and

Vol. 2 N0. 468

Gas Ltd, Patrick Uba, in custody of the Police Special Fraud Unit, SFU, Lagos over alleged N43.291bn

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

Presidency, Mark, Tambuwal trade tackles over budget presentation

P.50

Jonathan

Friday, October 12, 2012

Flood: FG committee M to raise N100bn Don’t commit suicide, Jonathan tells victims

N150

ROTIMI FADEYI AND ADEMU IDAKWO embers of the National Committee on Flood Relief and Rehabilitation yesterday pledged to raise a minimum of N100bn to ameliorate the pains and losses of victims in the flood ravaged states. President Goodluck Jonathan, while inaugurating the committee at the State CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

Mukhtar

NJC queries Enugu CJ over conduct L-R: Gubernatorial candidates: Peoples Democratic Party, Olusola Oke; Labour Party, Olusegun Mimiko and Action Congress of Nigeria, Rotimi Akeredolu during Ondo State’s governorship debate in Akure, yesterday.

I’LL REMOVE POVERTY FROM THE

FACES OF THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE.

MONEY WILL BE SPENT ON LIFE-

CHANGING PROJECTS RATHER THAN ON PROPAGANDA

–Oke, PDP COUNTDOWN TO

ONDO GUBER POLL October 20, 2012

DAYS TO GO

I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO CREATE A BOND BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE GOVERNED AND

I WILL CONTINUE TO

THE STATE IS BLESSED, BUT IRONICALLY, IT IS UNDERDEVELOPED. I’M HERE TO TAKE THE STATE FROM THE QUAGMIRE AND LACK OF VISIONARY LEADERSHIP IT

WORK FOR YOU

–Mimiko, LP

HAS FOUND ITSELF

–Akeredolu, ACN

Guber candidates pledge integrated development ...as debate ends

27-year-old mother of twins jumps into river P.?

P.4 P.8

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Tanker drivers’ protest blocks Lagos-Ibadan Expressway P.8

Reps set up panel to probe N140.9bn Otedola, AMCON deal P.2

News

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Flood: FG committee to raise N100bn CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

House, Abuja, charged them to assist in raising money for the victims apart from funds already released to states and government agencies to manage the disaster. The President noted that Nigeria was facing its own unfair share of the global phenomenon of flooding. He said: “Let me again emphasise and express my empathy with victims of flood across our country. “We as a government feel terribly worried, we feel sad that this ravaging flood is really affecting so many of our people.” President Jonathan stressed that the Federal Government would not want people to live in camps, saying that they should be able to go back to their communities and settle down. “There are so many states that 50 to 70 per cent, including my state, are under water. “This is why in addition to measures we have taken in terms of releasing funds to government agencies and directly to state governments to assist in helping to manage this disaster, we feel compelled to set up this committee to generate funds to assist government in managing these people.” He noted that the committee’s key responsibilities were to assess the degree of the impact of the floods and raise funds to complement Federal Government’s effort to cushion the immediate effect of flooding and the resettlement and recovery of affected persons. According to him: “This is most critical because when people are under stress, they can endure a lot; but the flood will surely recedes. “We believe before the middle of November the flood will go, if it is the normal flood we have witnessed before. “After that, what happens to the people? That is even what disturbs me more than when people are under stress.” President Jonathan said when the committee would have raised the funds, government would rehabilitate the affected people for them to go back to their communities and settle down. He insisted that it would not be in the best interest of

the country for people to begin to live in camps. The President noted that members of the committee were selected based on their credentials. “All of you here are in one way or the other being involved in philanthropic duties because this is an assignment that you need people with empathy not people that will see it as a privilege of touring or getting allowance for travels, no. “But people that have the human feelings and kindness and, of course, the development partners are people who have been working with government to create wealth in poor communities. “This assignment will be carried to the letter and will be in honour to our fatherland. “When people face this kind of flood devastation, it is no longer a national issue, it is an international issue,” the President added. Responding, the CoChairman of the committee and President of Dangote Group, Dr. Aliko Dangote, pledged that the committee would do its best in the national assignment. He said that the committee was targeting to raise a minimum of N100bn to bring relief and rehabilitate the victims. “Government is doing their own but we as a private sector, we are very serious because we are donating our money out of our own goodwill and I believe Nigerians know that with the calibre of people that we have in the committee, these are people that have actually benefited from Nigeria; without Nigeria we wouldn’t have been where we are today. “So, if anybody donates his money, he wants to be reassured that his money will be judiciously spent; the people who are affected will get what they deserve. “There are things government needs to do in terms of providing channels and what have you. Why water is not really receding is because we have not done what we are supposed to have done earlier, if it was done, things might not have been this bad,” he added. Meanwhile, President Jonathan yesterday said more dam would be built by the Federal Government to avoid more flooding in the

nearest future. Speaking in Lokoja, Kogi State after inspecting places affected by the flood, the President stated that the impact of the flood was the greatest that had ever befallen the people of the country. He promised that government would provide more funds for the affected states, stressing that what was given initially was just to stabilise the affected people. He commended the victims for bearing the pains of the disaster, adding that the N500m released to the state governments on Tuesday was to take care

of their immediate needs, saying that more assistance was underway. “We are interested in what happened to you after the flood,” he told the displaced persons at St. Luke Primary School, Adankolo area in Lokoja. He advised those that collected loans from the banks affected by the flood, particularly farmers, not to commit suicide, saying government would assist them. President Jonathan, who had earlier visited Ibaji Local Government to assess the level of disaster, said he was disturbed that four farmers whose rice farms

were washed away, had committed suicide. He advised the victims against taking extreme decisions. “Please, don’t commit suicide. You have a government that will assist you. Even, if you borrow money from banks, don’t worry, when the flood is over, we will know how to deal with it. Be rest assured that the Federal Government and Kogi State will take care of the situation,’’ he said. President Jonathan added that his visit was to deliver the good messages of the Federal Government to the flood victims, add-

ing that he was impressed by the efforts of the state government, the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, and other agencies during and after the flooding. The President explained that the Dangote Committee was set up to raise money for the flood victims and expressed hope that it would surely succeed. He told the people that the federal and state governments would find a lasting solution to cushion the effect of the flood. The Kogi State Governor, Idris Wada, thanked CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

President Goodluck Jonathan (right) carrying a four-day old baby delivered by Mrs. Esther Omashi (left) during his visit to flood victims’ camp in Lokoja, Kogi State, yesterday. PHOTO: STATE HOUSE

Reps set up panel to probe N140.9bn Otedola, AMCON deal TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

he House of Representatives has set up an eightmember ad hoc committee to probe the payment of N140.9bn debt by oil mogul, Femi Otedola, to the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON. The House had alleged that the AMCON-Otedola deal was struck in secrecy. The committee is led by the House Minority Leader, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila. Other members are Sani Kalgo, Parry Iriase, Uzor Azubuike, Evelyn Ojakabor, Idris Wase, Jerry Manwe and Muraina Ajibola. The sponsor of a motion to probe the deal, Hon. Abimbola Daramola,

came under matters of urgent national importance. The Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal, directed the committee to submit its report to the House within one month. Daramola noted that the AMCON Act stipulated that its operations must be made transparent, published in the media and presented to the National Assembly, Ministry of Finance and Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN. This provision, the lawmakers insisted, was not followed in the N140.9bn debt settlement. “If the full extent and spectrum of the transaction is not looked at, it may be a harbinger of a catastrophic disaster worse than the nearcollapse witnessed in the stock market where

many Nigerians not only lost their investments but lives,” Daramola said. Earlier, the House spokesman, Hon. Zakari Mohammed, had said: “It is curious that AMCON, being a government establishment which is under the purview of the National Assembly, could do that without the knowledge of the House.” The CBN, in a circular dated September 17, barred Nigerian banks from extending further credit to companies belonging to Otedola and other debtors. The decision was hinged on reluctance by some of the debtors to pay back their loans despite the purchase of the debts at an agreed price by AMCON. The circular signed by CBN’s Director, Banking

Supervision, Mrs. A. O. Martins, which was accompanied by a detailed list of the blacklisted debtors, showed that Zenon Petroleum and Forte Oil Plc, owned by Otedola, were indebted to banks to the tune of N192.4bn. Subsequently, Otedola, to offset the debts, signed off some of his choice properties in Lagos and Abuja as well as shares in African Petroleum, AP. The properties include residential and commercial developments in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja as well as tank farms, jetties and petrol stations. Under the terms of the deal, Otedola was to handover some of the properties and an unspecified amount of cash to AMCON for full and final settlement of the debts.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

PAGE

Friday, October 12, 2012

Good Health

Lower your blood pressure with sex! SAM EFERARO

aving sex may be good for your heart. According to a study published in the journal, Biological Psychology sex could actually help lower blood pressure both in men and women. According to the report, while sexual intercourse may shoot up the blood pressure, this is momentary and does not affect the underlying basis of hypertension. In the study led by Stuart Brody, Ph.D., professor of psychology at the University of the West of Scotland at Paisley, study subjects, 24 women and 22 men, kept a diary of their sexual activity for two weeks. Then the researchers subjected them to stressful situations — such as speaking in public and doing verbal arithmetic — and noted their blood pressure response to stress. Those who had intercourse had better responses to stress than those who engaged in other sexual behaviours or abstained. The findings were supported by another study published in the same journal which found that diastolic blood pressure (the second number in a blood pressure test) tends to be lower in people who live together and often have sex. And yet another study found that women who get lots of hugs from their partner tend to have better blood pressure. Indeed, Brazil’s health minister Jose Temporao last year, declared sex a remedy for the nation’s high-bloodpressure problem. Launching the campaign against high blood pressure in the Brazilian capital of Brasilia the minister declared that sex is a form of exercise, adding that adults should be exercising more to help keep their blood pressure down. According to him, a good cardiovascular workout includes sex “always with protection, obviously.” There have been other studies showing that sex lowers blood pressure, and might even protect against strokes because of its stress-relieving ability. This is in fact supported by the American Heart Association in a release early this year stating that sexual activity is safe for most

BLOOD PRESSURE CHECK: Sex may be good for the heart

heart disease patients. The statement, published online in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association, contains recommendations by experts from various fields, including heart disease, exercise physiology and sexual counselling. If you have stable cardiovascular disease, it is more than likely that you can safely engage in sexual activity, according to an American Heart Association scientific statement. Decreased sexual activity and function — common in men and women with cardiovascular diseases — is often related to anxiety and depression. The absolute rate of cardiovascular events during sexual activity, such as heart attacks or chest pain caused by heart disease, is miniscule because sexual activity is usually for a short time. “Some patients will postpone sexual activity when it is actually relatively safe for them to engage in it,” said Levine, who is also director of the Cardiac Care Unit at the Michael E. DeBakey Medical Center in Houston. “On the other hand, there are some patients for whom it may be reasonable to defer sexual activity until they’re assessed and stabilized.” Over time, high blood pressure damages the lining of blood vessels and causes arteries to harden and narrow (atherosclerosis), limiting blood flow. This means less blood is able to flow to the penis. For some men, the decreased blood flow makes it difficult to achieve and maintain erections — often referred to as erectile dysfunction. The problem is fairly common, especially among men

who are not treating their high blood pressure. Even a single episode of erectile dysfunction can cause anxiety. Fears that it will happen again might lead men to avoid sex — and affect relationship with their sexual partner. High blood pressure can also interfere with ejaculation and reduce sexual desire. Sometimes the medications used to treat high blood pressure have similar effects. The American Heart Association however recommends the following guidelines to anyone with a cardiovascular problem who may still be wondering on how to go about sexual activity: • After a diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, it is reasonable for patients to be evaluated by their physician or healthcare provider before resuming sexual activity. • Cardiac rehabilitation and regular physical activity can reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications related to sexual activity in people who have had heart failure or a heart attack. • Women with cardiovascular disease should be counselled on the safety and advisability of contraceptive methods and pregnancy based on their patient profile. • Patients with severe heart disease who have symptoms with minimal activity or while at rest should not be sexually active until their cardiovascular disease symptoms are stabilized with appropriate treatment. • Patients should be assessed to see if their sexual dysfunction is related to underlying vascular or cardiac disease, anxiety, depression or other factors.

YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

High Vitamin-D Bread Could Help Solve Widespread Insufficiency Problem

cienceDaily (Feb. 24, 2011) — With most people unable to get enough vitamin D from sunlight or foods, scientists are suggesting

that a new vitamin D-fortified food -- bread made with highvitamin D yeast -- could fill that gap. Their study, confirming that the approach works in laboratory tests, appears in ACS’ Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. Connie Weaver and colleagues cite studies suggesting that up to 7 in 10 people in the United States may not get enough vitamin D, which

enables the body to absorb calcium. Far from just contributing to healthy bones, however, vitamin D seems to have bodywide beneficial effects. Vitamin D insufficiency has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, cancer, allergy in children, and other conditions. With few good natural sources of vitamin D, milk producers long have added it to milk. Weaver explains, however, that dairy products do not provide enough. ScienceDaily

How the body uses vitamin B to recognize bacterial infection

n Australian research team has discovered how specialised immune cells recognise products of vitamin B synthesis that are unique to bacteria and yeast, triggering the body to fight infection. The finding opens up potential targets to improve treatments or to develop a vaccine for tuberculosis.

The study, jointly led by the University of Melbourne and Monash University and published today in the journal Nature, has revealed for the first time that the highly abundant mucosal associated invariant T cells (MAIT cells), recognise products of vitamin B synthesis from bacteria and yeast in an early

step to activating the immune system. The research revealed how by-products of bacterial vitamin synthesis, including some derived from Folic acid or vitamin B9 and Riboflavin or vitamin B2, could be captured by the immune receptor MR1 thus finetuning the activity of MAIT cells.

PhotoNews

Friday, October 12, 2012

L-R: British Secretary of State Bureau on Skills and Investment, Rt. Hon. Vince Cable and Rivers state Governor Chibuike Amaechi, during a courtesy call on the governor in Port Harcourt, yesterday.

L-R: Managing Director, UAC of Nigeria Plc, Mr. Larry Ephraim Etta; Chairman and Honourary Consul of Japan at Lagos, Nigeria, Sen. Udo Udoma and Ambassador of Japan to Nigeria, Amb. Ryuichi Shoji, during a reception in honour of Udoma in Lagos, yesterday.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: Country Representative, Water Aid Nigeria, Dr. Michael Ojo; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources, Dr. Godknows Igali and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Initiative Ambassador, Engr. Ebele Okeke, during the launch of the Sustainable Total Sanitation Project in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

L-R: Dean, School of Post Graduate Studies, Nasarawa State University, Prof. Sam Smah; Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Mike Omeri and representative of the Managing Director, News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Olusegun Aribike, at a capacity building workshop for staff of NOA in Abuja on Wednesday. PHOTO: NAN

National News

Ondo governorship candidates pledge integrated development BIYI ADEGOROYE AND HAKEEM GBADAMOSI

he three prominent governorship candidates in the October 20 governorship election in Ondo State, Olusegun Mimiko of the Labour Party, LP; Olusola Oke of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and Rotimi Akeredolu of the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, yesterday rounded off their debate, each pledging integrated development to stem ruralurban drift. They also called for a decentralisation of the police to ensure safety of lives and property. Mimiko said the state government had procured 10 armoured personnel carriers, 200 patrol vehicles and body armours to safeguard lives and property. Oke, however, differed, calling for a constitutional amendment that would give governors relative power over commissioners of police in their respective states. He said the call for state police was contentious and could lead to anarchy and abuse by the state governors. The PDP candidate promised to introduce modern agricultural villages where infrastructure would be provided to attract young

graduates and farmers to mechanised farming and where access to loan would be guaranteed. The three candidates agreed on the establishment of villages, seaport and harbor, women empowerment, water and control of environmental pollution. Akeredolu said that with over N650bn that accrued to the state government in the last three years, the government had failed to create employment for the youth. Mimiko, in his reaction, said the state government had collected N278bn from the Federal Government and internally generated revenue in the last three and half years. He said the figure that had been bandied was misleading because the facts were in public domain. Akeredolu said that after going round the state, he had observed that the state lacked roads, infrastructure and expressed readiness to reverse the trend. “Having traversed the length and breadth of the state, I have discovered that a lot needs to be done in the areas of rural development, robust health structure, industrialisation and health.” He posed a question to the people: “Are you better now than you were four years ago? If so, continue to support the present government. But the fact is the state is begging for true de-

velopment. “The state is blessed, but ironically, it is underdeveloped. I am here to take the state from the quagmire and lack of visionary leadership it has found itself.” He alluded to his background as a Commissioner for Justice in the state and as an individual who had risen to the pinnacle of his professional career as the President of the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, “and a member of a political party that believes in regional integration for the development of the state.” “I am determined to serve the people of the state and not only to grab executive power for my selfish interest, but to help build and develop the state. “The state is in squalor. No meaningful development has come to such state except cosmetic projects. Transportation, agriculture, housing, road construction will receive attention. I am here to provide a transparent leadership,” Akeredolu said. Selling himself to the electorate, Oke, who was a former PDP legal adviser, said as much as he believed in regional integration where issues of common interest must be identified, he would only be part of it if it was “not a master-servant relationship. There must be mutual respect for one another.”

“I will remove poverty from the faces of the people of the state. Unemployment will be a thing of the past. Money will be spent on lifechanging projects, rather than on propaganda. “We will run a government that will have positive impact on the people of the state. We will provide loan to young graduates and run a transparent government that will be acceptable to the people of the state,” Oke said. In the area of the economy, he said: “We want to reconfigure the economy, generate income, employment, and reduce overdependence on federation account. “Industrialisation is going to be the centre-piece of my administration. The bitumen project will be developed. Ondo State has the second largest bitumen deposit in the whole world. We are going to develop the infrastructure as the basis for growth and industrialisation, and key into the President’s transformation agenda.” Oke said his antecedents while at the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, and the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, OSOPADEC, where he ensured the execution of various transformational projects speak for him, stating that upon becoming governor, he would encourage infor-

mation and technology education in schools. “This is a period when the state needs transformation, industrialisation and a new order. I am a believer in sustainable development. I believe that Ondo State must industrialise in order to reduce dependence on revenue from the national coffers. “And for the state to industrialise, we must open up our coastal and forest resources, so that all the abandoned projects in Ikare, Omotosho and Olokola can come up,” he added. Mimiko, on his part, said having been in the politics of Ondo State for the past 20 years during which he served twice as a commissioner and later as a minister, he has made his mark in the development of the state, and understands the needs of the masses and is qualified for reelection. “I have changed the face of the state. In 2008, Ondo State had the worst health facilities according to the UNICEF. But we have been able to revamp it. The Abiye Project, which is also described as Mother and Child, is the strategy through which we tackled maternal mortality, and I will continue to work for you,” he said. He said his government had created jobs through sports and had taken the state’s football club, the

Sunshine Stars, from relegation to be the only club representing the country in continental championship. Similarly, on agriculture, he said he had spent over N1bn encouraging new generation of farmers at three agricultural villages established by his administration. On water and the environment, he said his administration had carried out proactive channelisation of many parts of the state, thereby preventing flood, sensitised and motivated teachers and lifting embargo on promotion. Mimiko said: “I have been able to create a bond between the government and the governed and I will continue to work for you. I depend solely on the Almighty God for the wisdom to carry on. The PDP candidate depends on his principal, while that of the ACN depends on his Godfather.” Earlier, chairman of the Nigeria Election Debate Group, Chief Taiwo Alimi, said the debate was organised to deepen the electoral process by giving the candidates a platform to unfold their plans and strategies for implementing them to the state and the entire country. He urged them to be tolerant, constructive in their appraisal of issues for Ondo people to make informed decision in the election.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Friday, October 12, 2012

Capital Oil boss, Uba, six others arraigned, remanded CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

fuel subsidy scam. Also remanded was the Managing Director of Matrix Energy Ltd, AbdulKabir Aliu, who is being investigated over alleged N13.376bn fuel subsidy fraud. The charges against them included economic sabotage, obtaining money under false pretences, stealing billions of naira that belonged to the Federal Government, money laundering and forgery. Six other top managers of the two oil companies were also arraigned and remanded. The magistrate’s order was sequel to the application made by the police for remand of the eight persons in the custody of SFU. Chief Magistrate Martins Owumi based his decision on the grounds that the police authorities reason-

ably suspected them to have committed the offences of economic sabotage against Federal Republic of Nigeria. The eight suspects were docked before Magistrate Owumi in two separate batches. Uba, with four others, Nsikan Usoro (Head of Trading), Chibuzor Ogbuokiri (General Manager), Godfrey Okorie (Depot Manager) and Orji Anayo, Executive Director (Operations) all of Capital Oil and Gas were first docked. The case of Aliu, with two others, Yusuf Oyolola and Adewale Akinde followed shortly afterwards. In the first case, the request for remand dated October 11 and signed by Superintendent of Police of the SFU, Effiong Asuquo, alleged that the suspects “are reasonably suspected to have committed the of-

fences of economic sabotage, obtaining money by false pretences, stealing of N43.291bn, property of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, money laundering and forgery.” The police also alleged that “the suspects, while operating under the name and style of Capital Oil and Gas Industries Ltd, defrauded the Federal Government of Nigeria of a total of N43.291bn by falsely pretending that the company have imported and sold 538, 74 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) during the 2011 fiscal year through 26 transactions.”

The fraud was said to have been discovered by the Presidential Committee on the Verification and Reconciliation of Fuel Subsidy Payments Auditors and reported to the SFU, Ikoyi, Lagos, for investigation. The police prayed the court to give the order of remand on the grounds that the suspects would destroy most of the evidence against them and would probably escape out of the country if released from custody. In the second case that featured Aliu and others, the police alleged that the suspects “are reasonably suspected to have com-

mitted the offences of economic sabotage, obtaining money by false pretences, stealing of N13.376, 427,945.63 property of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, money laundering and forgery between February to December, 2011,” usingMatrix Energy Ltd. The facts of the second case are also similar to the first case. The arguments of both the counsel representing Uba and others, Joseph Nwobike (SAN) and Mr. Bode Olanipekun, representing Aliu and others in the second case that their clients should be granted

bail on oral applications were turned down by the magistrate. Owumi remanded Uba and others in custody for 14 days and Aliu and others in custody for 15 days. The magistrate, however, added that the suspects were entitled to bring applications for bail which would be heard on their merit before the next adjourned date, fixed for October 31, 2012. These eight suspects are the latest person to be brought to court in the burgeoning prosecution of oil marketers indicted in the oil subsidy scam.

Flood: FG committee to raise N100bn CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

the President for his quick response and intervention. He appealed to the President to allocate vacant Federal Government houses and some buildings at Ajaokuta Iron and Steel Company for the displaced persons. Meanwhile, a near-tragedy was averted in Lokoja yesterday as a team of medical personnel revived a 75-year-old man who slumped at the St. Luke Primary School relief camp for flood victims. The man, whose name was simply given as Pa David, by the medical attendants in the camp, is one of the victims of the flood disaster in the state. The incident happened barely 10 minutes to the arrival of President Jonathan to the camp. The medical attendants, however, said the man was now responding to treatment. Four babies delivered in the camp in the past six days were also brought out by their mothers. Responding on behalf of the flood victims, Mr. Dan Musa Bashir expressed gratitude to the president, as well as the state government, for caring. Bashir, however, said that the displaced victims longed to return home.

In another development, price of food items have increased astronomically in Yenagoa markets following the flood disaster that has cut off roads to neighbouring states. Checks by the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, showed that residents of Yenagoa are facing challenges of feeding their families. At the Swali Modern Market, a local measure of garri costs N1,700 against the previous price of N300, just as a 25kg bag of rice has risen from N9,500 to N15,000. The survey showed that a tuber of an average-size yam costs N800 instead of N350, while tomatoes and pepper have become scarce commodities with the prices ranging between N300 and N500 against N100 per measure. A foodstuff vendor, Mrs. Mabel Ughoro, told NAN that the price increase was due to the flood disaster that had made it difficult for traders to get supplies from neigbouring states of Delta and Rivers. Governor Seriake Dickson had directed the Ministry of Agriculture to establish three food storage sites in Yenagoa following the migration of thousands of food victims from communities worst hit by flood to the state capital.

L-R: Chairman, Senate Committee on Housing, Bukka Ibrahim; Senate President David Mark; Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Enyinnaya Abaribe and Chairman, Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Ike Ekweremadu, during the public hearing on the proposed amendment of the 1999 Constitution in Abuja, yesterday.

Devolution of powers dominates constitution review parley GEORGE OJI AND EMMANUEL ONANI

roups, organisations and individuals who made presentations at the two-day national public hearing organised by the Senate Committee on Constitution Review yesterday in Abuja favoured the devolution of powers from the centre to the regions. They said that the Federal Government should be stripped of most of its current constitutional responsibilities to the states and local governments. This, the protagonists said, would douse the tension and struggle for the acquisition of power at the centre as well as make for proper federal political system in the country. Prominent personalties who supported this view include Mr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN); former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudum Nwuche; Chairman, Forum of Speak-

ers of the State Houses of Assembly and Gombe State Speaker, Hon. Inua Garba; University of Jos lecturer, Prof. Bala Takaya; and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Mike Ozekhome. This was as the Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee and Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, explained that the zonal public hearings for the exercise would be held simultaneous in the six geo-political zones on November 15 and 17. Ekweremadu also disclosed that the committee had so far received 231 memoranda and 56 other memoranda proposing the creation of additional states. The memoranda, he said, mostly delved on the way forward for the country, particularly devolution of powers, state creation, constitutional recognition of six geo-political zones, local government system, fiscal federalism and residency and indigene. Ekweremadu also expressed satisfaction

at the level of optimism shown by many Nigerians in the exercise and assured that the National Assembly would not disappoint them on the assignment. He stated that the committee decided to embargo public presentation on the issue of state creation from the national public hearing, and reserved it for the zonal presentations. The Senate President, David Mark, reiterated his earlier views that the National Assembly would not allow the vocal minority to hijack the process. He, therefore, appealed for the participation, commitment and cooperation of other key stakeholders. The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, who was represented by Mr. David Akpour, a Chief Superintendent of Police in the legal department of the service, defended the current centralised police structure. He said that the current police arrangement was the

creation of Section 214 of the 1999 constitution, which he cautioned must not be tampered with. The IG noted that the only problem with the Nigerian Police Service was lack of proper funding, stressing that that was why the police often approached the states and local governments for financial support. He, however, called for military police instead of state police. Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba, who took him on the proposal, asked the police officer to tell Nigeria anywhere in the world where military police structure was in place. Akpour admitted that the proposal was not being practiced by any country, but added that he made the call following the unique structure of the Nigerian society. Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Okorie Affiah, appealed that the corps should be retained in the constitution.

News

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

N78m lost to illegal vehicle tracking business – Investigation KUNLE A ZEEZ

bout N78 million is being lost to the activities of vehicle tracking firms doing business in Nigeria without licences from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), National Mirror investigation has revealed. The development came as industry sources yesterday said that over 175 companies were said to be currently operating in Nigeria without recourse to the legal obligations to obtain operating licences from the NCC. The vehicle tracking business is a regulated sector of the telecommunications industry which falls under the purview of the regulatory activities of the NCC, as the vehicle tracking companies rely on satellite infrastructures to roll out their services. Though NCC is mandated to regulate the sector according to the provision of the Nigerian Communication Act, 2003, only 17 companies have been duly licensed by the NCC, with about 175 still playing ’hide and seek game’ with the regulator. The 17 licensed op-

•As 175 firms shun licensing obligations

erators, according to investigation information obtained by National Mirror, include X Net Security Technologies Limited, Midmane Investment Limited, Datatrak Nigeria Limited, GPSTECH Solutions (West Africa) Limited and Ameritech Global Concept Limited. Others are Cotek Integrated Technologies Limited, Cellstop Trackers Limited, Traktag Limited, Upland Consulting Nig Limited and Adata C

Track Limited, Catrac Limited, Matrixvtrack Nig Limited, Tycil Telecom Limited, Trackers Security Systems Limited, Proserv Nig Limited, Cartrack Nigeria Limited and Rheydolence Limited. But it was gathered that under the fee structure for the new licences which took effect in January 2007 and is currently in effect, the prospective operators are to pay N500, 000 to obtain operating licences from the NCC renewable

over a five-year period. However, it was learnt that given the 175 operators, industry sources say are operating in the country without the provisional licences of N500, 000, Nigeria government is losing about N78m to the unlicensed vehicle tracking operators. Experts say urgent action needed to be taken by the NCC to track the activities of the illegal operators, stressing their operations pose security

risks to the nation. Meanwhile, the Director, Legal and Regulatory Services, NCC, Ms Josephine Amuwa, has warned against illegal provision of vehicular tracking service in the country. She acknowledged that the commission had noted that some companies have been advertising the provision of vehicular tracking services using either or both satellite and terrestrial networks, without obtaining the requisite permit from the commission. “The provision of

Heavy traffic along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway as a result of blockage of the road by tanker drivers who are protesting Wednesday’s shooting of their tyres by policemen attached to a VIP, yesterday.

any communications service(s) by any person howsoever without the requisite authorisation by the commission is an offence punishable under S31 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003,” she said. She stated that only the 17 companies have been issued license by the commission to provide Vehicular Tracking Services. She also warned the general public not to transact business with illegal operators of the service. She noted that the commission has, on October 5, 2012, directed all persons providing vehicular tracking services without authorisation to apply to the Commission within 14 days. “Failing which the commission, shall without further notice invoke the requisite provision of the Act and the Enforcement Regulations to ensure compliance by such illegal operators,” she said. She urged the unlicensed operators to file licence application at the commission’s zonal offices located in Lagos, Ibadan, Port-Harcourt, Enugu and Kano.

Bakassi: Why ICJ will reject Nigeria’s appeal –US counsel ‘Boko Haram insurgence PAUL ARHEWE

he Federal Government’s decision to refrain from seeking a review and honouring the ruling of International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Bakassi Pennisula has attracted the commendation of The United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon. However, Eric Chang, a Special Counsel of the GIRARD GIBBS llp, a Californian based law firm, United States, threw more light on the brick wall Nigeria would have faced if it had gone headlong to appeal the ICJ’s decision. In a chat with National Mirror, Chang said that according to the ICJ’s Statute, judgements are final and without appeal (Article 60). According to him, Nigeria government could only contemplate on proceed-

ing with an appeal when it makes an application for revision under Article 61, where such application is based upon the discovery of some fact of such a nature as to be a decisive factor, which fact was, when the judgment was given, unknown to the Court and also to the party claiming revision, always provided that such ignorance was not due to negligence. Procedurally speaking, Article 61 is an extremely narrow avenue to challenge the ICJ’s 2002 judgment – many national legal systems (and private arbitration rules, for that matter) have similar limited provisions for revisions of judgments, and from experience it is typically very difficult to succeed with such requests for revision. There is no reason to think that the ICJ would not have been similarly very strict in its consideration of an

application for revision by Nigeria,” Mr. Chang elaborated. “From a substantive point of view, it would have taken a rather significant set of new facts to move the ICJ to grant a revision. As I understand it, the 2002 judgment was a lengthy and very carefully considered document, and the parties made very full and substantial factual submissions at that time. Now that the Nigerian legal team has declined to appeal, we can speculate that perhaps the underlying facts were not very favourable and that the application did not have sufficient merit to go forward.” Also the American counsel is of the view that Nigerian government was right to think very seriously about its chances of success and be satisfied that it had a very strong set of previously undiscovered facts

to present to the ICJ. “Otherwise, the application for revision would surely have been rejected by the ICJ and this would have reflected rather poorly on the government and its commitment to its treaty obligations; after all, Nigeria has agreed to compulsory application of ICJ’s jurisdiction by making a declaration to that effect – as has Cameroon.” On the issue of any compensation to Nigeria, peradventure there is a reversal to ICJ’s decision, Chang said “presumably, following any reversal of the 2002 ICJ judgment, and assuming such a reversal did not address any issues of compensation, Nigeria could have sought compensation by filing a new case against Cameroon before the ICJ. It would then have had to demonstrate and prove losses resulting from the 2002 judgment, which would be another very difficult task.”

is crime against humanity’

FRANCIS SUBERU

uman Rights Watch yesterday said that Boko Haram activities in Nigeria could likely amount to crimes against humanity. The rights group noted that the widespread and systematic murder, as well as persecution by the militant Islamist group in the northern Nigeria, has continued to grow from bad to worse. This position was contained in a 98-page report entitled: “Spiraling violence: Boko Haram attacks and security force abuses in Nigeria” compiled by the rights group. The report catalogues the atrocities for which Boko Haram has claimed responsibility since 2009. The report, which also

explores the role of Nigeria’s security forces, accused the nation’s security agents of abuse in contravention of the international human rights law which according to the organisation might also constitute crimes against humanity. The report reads: “The unlawful killing by both Boko Haram and Nigerian security forces only grows worse; both sides need to halt this downward spiral. Nigeria’s government should swiftly bring to justice the Boko Haram members and security agents who have committed these serious crimes.” The report, which includes a photo essay, is based on field research in Nigeria between July 2010 and July 2012, and the continuous monitoring of media reports of Boko Haram attacks and statements since 2009.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Friday, October 12, 2012

Monetary Policy Content not mentioned –Ibru

UDO ONYEKA AND STANLEY IHEDIGBO

he President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, Mr. Goodie Ibru, yesterday said that it would have been useful for President Goodluck Jonathan to highlight the thrust of the monetary policy content of the 2013 budget, which was presented to the National Assembly on Wednesday. Jonathan had proposed a N4.9trn budget to the joint session of the National Assembly for approval. Reacting to the budget proposal, Mr. Ibru regret-

ted that there was no monetary policy content in what Mr. President presented. He said: “The budget speech has no monetary policy content. It would have been useful for the President to highlight the thrust of monetary policy as this is critical to the realization of inclusive growth and fiscal consolidation. This is even more so at a time when businesses are facing severe challenges with regard to access and cost of credit. “The banking system currently has zero tolerance for risk and this is stifling private sector growth and the capacity of entrepreneurs to create jobs.

Collateral demands for loans are as high as 200 per cent.” Mr. Ibru said this is a negation of the objective of inclusive growth and a real threat to financial intermediation. Ibru also commended the choice of “Fiscal Consolidation with Inclusive Growth” as the theme of the budget. “The theme is laudable but the structure and content of the budget would have to be further attuned to reflect the theme,” he noted. According to him, there are two key dimensions to the concept of fiscal consolidation. The first is a

significant deficit reduction while the second is a drastic reduction in debt accumulation. Ibru said: “The budget prescribes a reduction of 2per cent in fiscal deficit which is not really significant; the proposed 3per cent reduction in domestic borrowing is also not profound enough.” Also speaking, the President of the Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria, PSAN, Mr. Boniface Okezie said he was yet to find out whether the budget would make provisions for that would encourage the private sector especially manufacturers.

Housing sector neglected -Stakeholders DAYO AYEYEMI

ousing stakeholders are not happy that nothing was allocated to the sector in the budget. They noted that in the budget estimates, education, defence and police got huge allocations, while work was allocated N183.5bn. Speaking to the National Mirror yesterday, Lagos based estate surveyor, and former President of the International Facilities Management of America, Nigeria chapter, Mr. Stephen Jagun, said he was not surprised about the budget estimates, saying that it has been the usual way of pushing housing to the background by governments. He lamented that despite the huge accommodation needs of Nigerians and the fact that shelter is next to

food after clothing, government has not been able to give precise direction to the provision of housing for the teeming population. He urged the Federal Government to take concrete steps to build affordable housing units in the country by creating an enabling environment for private investors. According to him, there should be a direct policy on funding of the sector, suggesting that pension contributions should be used to fund housing. Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Institute of Building, Mr. Kunle Awobodu, said by the time the N183.5bn allocated to works is appropriated, little amount will be left for housing, describing it as a far cry from what is required to provide houses to bridge the 18 million accommodation deficit in the country

Aviation stakeholders commend removal of duties on aircraft, spare parts OLUSEGUN KOIKI

S Members of the greater Gbagyi Development Initiative protesting over alleged non-compensation for their land acquired by Federal Government in Abuja, yesterday.

Energy sector stakeholders call for aggressive oil exploration UDEME AKPAN

takeholders, who reviewed President Goodluck Jonathan budget proposal, agreed that there is a great need for the country to embark on aggressive oil exploration targeted at building her oil reserves. They however said it was not the direct responsibility of the government to do so. For instance, the National President of the Oil and Gas Service Providers Association of Nigeria, OGSPAN, Mr. Colman Obasi said that it is the duty of the government to create the enabling environment for local and foreign investors to explore and produce oil in the nation. He said: “It is good to explore for oil, particularly as

it has the promise of leading to additional reserves. But this should not be the direct business of the Federal Government. “It is not the duty of the government to invest in the industry. I have read the budget proposal very well. There is no place it is stated that the task will be handled by private investors.” While addressing the National Assembly, President Jonathan had expressed the need to increase the country’s oil reserve to shore up revenue He said: “On Frontier Exploration, the government’s drive to build up the nation’s oil reserves through exploration of new frontiers for oil and gas production is beginning to yield results with news of the discovery of crude oil in some inland sedimentary basins in the country.

“These include the Chad Basin, Benue Trough, Yola Basin and Anambra Basin amongst others. We are determined to further develop on these findings and expand the scope of such explorations. To support this, we have raised the pro-

vision for frontier exploration services from N12bn in 2012 to N16bn in 2013.” The Niger Delta has traditionally been the bastion for oil exploration and production, which started as far back as 1956 through Shell.

takeholders and professionals in the aviation industry yesterday kept sealed lips on the budget proposal, saying that they won’t be able to comment until the appropriation for the sector is made known to the public. Those spoken to by National Mirror queried the utilisation of the current N49.23bn budget for the sector, but commended President Jonathan for the removal of customs duties on aircraft and spare parts imported into the country by air-

line operators. They concurred that the removal of the duties would go a long way in improving efficiency of the airlines. The Head, Research, Zenith Travels, Mr. Olumide Ohunayo said that the sector had experienced some growth in 2012, most especially on the remodeling of 11 airports by the Federal Government. He emphasised that the removal of customs duties on aircraft and spare parts would save the airlines some money, which could be diverted into training, acquisition of more aircraft and safety gadgets.

Former minister, dons, hail FG on high education vote

takeholders in the education on yesterday lauded President Goodluck Jonathan for giving the sector the highest budgetary allocation in the 2013 Appropriation Bill presented on Wednesday. The budget proposal allotted N426.5bn to education. A former Minister of Education, Mrs Chinwe Obaji, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on telephone that the move was “a right step in the

right direction.” “We are happy to see such a development coming to the education sector, depending on where the money will be applied to. “Having said this, we must also wait and see if the said amount will be released fully and the implementation carried out without a hitch. “I also hope that the bill will be speedily looked into and the funds quickly released to take care of capi-

tal projects in the sector. “My major worry, however, remains that of prudent management which has been a major challenge with public funds,” Obaji said. The former minister said it would benefit the economy more if the funds were judiciously used for what they were meant for. She, however, called for effective measures in monitoring the use of the funds. Also speaking, Prof.

Ukachukwu Awuzie, immediate past President, Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, expressed the hope that the education vote, if approved, would turn around the fortunes of the sector. “If actually the fund is released to the sector, it means that we have started seeing the need in getting our priorities right because the emphasis should be on human capital development.

South-West

Friday, October 12, 2012

27-year-old mother of twins jumps into river WALE FOLARIN OSOGBO

he ancient town of Ede in Osun State was on Wednesday thrown into a mournful mood as a 27-year-old mother of twins, Mrs. Shekinat Abdurazaq, jumped into the Osun River. Abdulrazaq, who was a native of the town and a

woman in pudah, was said to have been delivered of a set of twins about 11 days ago. National Mirror learnt that the tragedy happened at about 3.30 pm, when the woman got to the Oke Gada Bridge and gave out alms to some beggars before she committed suicide by jumping into the river. It was also gathered that

the deceased removed the veil on her face and prayed the Muslim way for about five minutes before she took a plunge into the river in the presence of passers-by. Efforts to rescue her proved abortive as she could not be seen immediately, while no one could explain the reason for her action. Moments after the ugly incident, a man suspected

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20 escape death as building collapses in Abeokuta FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

to be her husband was said to have rushed to the scene and attempted to jump into the river but was rescued by the timely arrival of policemen who took him to the Police “A” division in Ede. As at the time of filing this report concerned indigenes of the town were still searching for the body of the woman.

wenty persons, including a 60-year-old woman, narrowly escaped death in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, yesterday, when a storey building at Ake area located in front of the Abeokuta South Local Government Headquarters of the state, collapsed. The 20 persons were occupants of the building which was said to have been constructed over 50 years ago. Several property within the building, including local herbs and gin were trapped, while a food vendor, identified as Amudat Olowonyo, whose shop was beside the collapsed building, also lost all her wares to the incident

which had earlier gave signs of disrepair. National Mirror gathered that the building had been marked for demolition by the Ibikunle Amosun-led administration in the state as one of the buildings to pave way for road construction in the Ake area. All the wares of the 60-year-old woman, who sells local gin soaked in herbs in one of the shops at the ground floors, also went away in the incident. The Chairman of Abeokuta South Local Government, Lanre Edun, who spoke with journalists at the scene of the incident, blamed the collapse on the old age of the building as well as the heavy rain in the state recently.

GOC ordered to appear in court over contempt charges KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

A L-R: Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Alhaji Nuhu Ahmed; Minister of State for FCT, Chief Olajumoke Akinjide and Special Assistant to the President on Job Creation, Miss Josphine Washima, during a meeting in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

Tanker drivers’ protest blocks Lagos-Ibadan Expressway FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

undreds of commuters along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway were yesterday stranded for close to 13 hours following a protest from tanker drivers who barricaded the expressway in protest against the humiliation they suffered in the hands of a police escort. National Mirror gathered at the scene of the protest in Ogere-Remo, yesterday that a team of police officers attached to a Very Important Person (VIP) had shot at the tyres of a trailer laden with Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS) with registration number JIGAWA XC 405 DUT at about 11.00 pm Wednesday night. Three tyres of the Oando marked trailer, heading towards Ibadan that was said to be having a stopover at the Ogere trailer park, were seriously damaged, thereby preventing it from

moving and consequently blocked the road. In an attempt to show solidarity with the driver of the affected trailer, other trailers plying the road took to the other side of the expressway, barricaded it, which led to a serious traffic jam at the Ogere axis of the expressway. In an interview with journalists, the Police Public Relations Officer

(PPRO) of the Ogun State Command, Muyiwa Adejobi, who confirmed the incident, stressed that the police officers involved were not from his command. It, however, took the intervention of police officers from the Ogun State command, led by a Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Abdulkadir, to restore normalcy to the expressway as he was able to

engage the trailer drivers in negotiations before they agreed to take their tankers off the road to pave way for other commuters. As the tension created at the scene in Ogere-Remo was dousing, National Mirror gathered that the police authority had agreed to pay the N250, 000 cost of replacing the damaged tyres to pacify the protesting tanker drivers.

23 injured LASTMA officials get N2.5m lifeline MURITALA AYINLA

he Lagos State government yesterday disbursed N2.5 million as insurance claims to 23 officials of the Lagos Transport Management Authority (LASTMA) who were injured in the cause of carrying out their duties. Many of beneficiaries were victims of ‘hit and run’ drivers and those who sustained injuries following mob attack by social

miscreants also known as ‘Area boys’. Also among the beneficiaries, were those who lost their teeth and ankles in the series of attacks. Speaking during the presentation ceremony at the LASTMA head office in Oshodi, the Chairman of LASTMA, Mr. Young Arabamen, said the move was to demonstrate government’s recognition of the hazards associated with managing traffic in the state. Arabamen, who be-

moaned incessant attack on the officials, said that the job of managing traffic in the state is enormous. He said less than 3, 000 LASTMA officials are not enough to adequately manage the traffic of about 18 million population. His words: “We are grateful to God that these men survived the series of attacks while carrying out their duties on the roads. We have had much of our officers crushed to death while performing their duties.

Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, yesterday ordered the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Second Mechanized Division, Ibadan, Major-General Muhammed Abubakar, to appear before it on October 30 or risk being committed to prison for contempt infacie curiae (contempt committed in the face of the court). The Presiding Judge, Justice Agnes AdejumoObaseki, gave the order during what was meant to be the hearing of a contempt motion filed by Alhaji G. O. Fagbohun, on behalf of himself and the Olukola Oganla family. It will be recalled that the family had approached the court to press contempt charges following the refusal of the GOC to cause the release of the land as ordered by the court in an enrolled consent judgment delivered by the same court in 2005. The said land measures 8.572 hectares and forms part of the expanse of land used as old shooting range by the army at Letmauck Barracks in Ibadan. Counsel to the family, Mr. Abiodun Amole, had observed that it was an insult on the court for the contemnors, particularly the GOC, to send a

representative, Col. M. K. Mohammed, in a committal matter, adding that the GOC was proving to be above the court. He wondered what the interest of the GOC was in not releasing the land to the family, even after a former Chief of Army Staff had written to him to release same to the rightful owners. But counsel to the Nigerian Army, Col. Temil A.A; who said the army was never part of the suit on which the verdict was based, said his clients came to know about the matter through the contempt motion, a claim punctured by the plaintiff ’s counsel. And just as the judge was about asking for time to acquaint herself with the genesis of the matter as she was newly transferred to the court, a mild drama ensued in the court, leading to the judge dressing down Colonel Mohammed for saying that the GOC enjoyed immunity under the Armed Forces Act. The judge said, “The GOC does not have immunity in criminal matters. To whom does he have allegiance if not Nigeria? Although, this case was initially a civil matter, it has become a criminal matter since the GOC disobeyed a court judgment. To use the language you understand, it has become a guardroom affair.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

UNIPORT 4: Incident debases Nigeria’s dignity, says ACN SINA FADARE

he Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has condemned last weekend’s lynching of four students of the University of Port by some members of a vigilance group. The party said, “such a barbaric and inhuman act debases our humanity and strips us all of our dignity’’ In a statement issued yesterday in Lagos by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said all those who participated in the dastardly act should be brought to book. It said such an inhuman behaviour should not take place in a society governed by laws. ACN, however, regretted that “the situation in the country has deteriorated to such a level that human beings could be so cruelly treated, so mercilessly beaten, so senselessly hacked and so callously doused in petrol and set ablaze, a treatment that should not even be meted out to animals.” The party said: ‘’The implication of the incredible act of wickedness meted out to these young men is that many of our people are becoming numb to actions that should ordinarily jolt human sensibilities. “This is what happens in an environment of uncontrolled violence as we have across our country now, where mass killings are becoming the norm.”

Ogun awards contracts for 12 roads Introduces special allowance for teachers

he Ogun State Government has announced the award of the contract for the construction of 12 roads, including the popular IloAwela road in Ota. Also awarded is the Sango-Ijoko-Oke Aro-Ojodu Abiodun Road to link motorists directly from Sango-Ota in Ogun State to Ojodu Berger in Lagos. The state Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Olamilekan Adegbite, said that the gesture was to improve the existing infrastructure and enhance the urban development policy of

Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s administration. Adegbite, who was featuring on a television programme, said that N100 billion would be spent on the roads and that they would be completed between 18 and 24 months. Adegbite said that the roads to be reconstructed are Sagamu-Benin Express Junction, Oba Erinwole Junction, Ejirin Road, Oluwalogbon Junction both in Ijebu-Ode, Ilishan-Ago Iwoye Road and Ikangba-Ilese Road - all in Ogun East Senatorial District. The commissioner added that the government

also awarded Ilara-Ijohun Road, Lafenwa-Ayetoro Road and Ilo-Awela Road in Ota. According to Adegbite, the Ojere-Adatan Roundabout, OGTV-Brewery Junction and Moshood Abiola Way are some of the roads to be reconstructed in Ogun Central Senatorial District, while Muda Lawal-Moshood Abiola Way Link Road in Abeokuta was being constructed to ease traffic often experienced by motorists using the AseroObantoko Road. Meanwhile, the state government has intro-

duced special allowances for teachers. Known as the peculiarity allowance, the teachers are now to earn seven per cent of their salary as allowance for knowledge impartation. Teachers posted to schools in rural areas are equally to get additional seven per cent of their salary as rural allowance to serve as incentive. Governor Ibikunle Amosun, who announced the package, added that the running costs being given to schools are also to be increased. The governor, who advised the teachers to reciprocate the gesture by

being dedicated to their duties, expressed his administration’s determination to bequeath a functional education system for the state. He said that the government would continually appreciate the supportive role of the teachers in its quest to reposition the education sector for optimal performance. Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Ms Olubukunola Onabanjo, advised teachers to seek more knowledge and upgrade themselves particularly in the area of Information Communications Technology (ICT).

We ’re not responsible for education decline –Ekiti teachers ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

he National Union of Teachers (NUT) in Ekiti State disagreed yesterday with the government over the quality of its members, saying they are among the best in the country. The state NUT Chairman, Mr. Samuel Akosile, faulted the government’s position that the teachers were incompetent and responsible for the mass failure recorded by students in public examinations. But in a statement issued yesterday in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, Akosile said the teachers were not responsible for the falling standard of education in the state. He said stakeholders in the education sector, including the government should

be held responsible for the decline. According to him, the fact that four teachers from Ekiti won National Awards during the 2012 World Teachers’ Day in Abuja confirmed that Ekiti teachers remained among the best in the country. The NUT boss said the Teachers Development Needs Assessment (TDNA) test was a contraption that could not be the best way to assess teachers’ ability objectively. He said: “Asking teachers to write the same examination, not minding their years of experience and professions, is very wrong and this will not help the education sector in any way. “If education is in a sorry state, teachers are not the only cause. Even among the politicians who called themselves Awoists,

ANLCA threatens to ground port operations

oves by terminal operators for their facilities not to be used as warehouses for storage of cargoes have, again, met stiff opposition by members of the Association of Nigerian Customs Agents (ANLCA), who are threatening to shut down the ports. The threat was handed down at a meeting of the ANLCA National Executive Committee (NECOM), Board of Trustees (BOT) and chairmen and secretaries in its Western Zone chapters at the association’s National Headquarters in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos.

South West

Friday, October 12, 2012

It was learnt that ANLCA initiated the move to shut the ports after the Chairman of the Tin-Can chapter, Mr. Kayode Farinto, briefed the meeting on alleged arbitrary increases in terminal charges. Farinto said that it was the second time in a short period that terminal operators have allegedly increased charges without prior notice to stakeholders. Consequently, the meeting constituted a fivemember committee, comprising the ANLCA BOT Secretary, Prince Taiye Oyeniyi; Farinto; Apapa

1 chapter Chairman, Sir John Ofobike; Secretary of ANLCA National Awards Committee, Mr. Dayo Azeez; and Secretary of Presidential Compliance Committee, Chief Isidore Martins Agoha. The committee was mandated to write to the Chairperson of the Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Princess Dr Vicky Haastrup, giving STOAN 72 hours to dialogue with ANLCA leadership on how to resolve the issue or be faced with a complete shutdown of the ports nationwide.

there are some of them who don’t really practice the tenets of Awoism. “Decadence and declines are abound in every sector in Nigeria. We have it in education, judiciary, security and governance, so the teachers, as part of the Nigerian society cannot be an exemption.”

The NUT boss said the government should be blamed for the hard stance of the teachers on TDNA, saying government’s action against the principals, who had earlier written the competency test fuelled the teachers’ apprehension that they might be sacked, demoted or forcefully re-

tired, if they undertake the examination. He urged the government to always adhere strictly to order of seniority, as demanded by civil service rule in the promotion of teachers to sensitive positions, rather than resorting to certificates or examination.

South East

Friday, October 12, 2012

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APGA: NJC queries Enugu CJ’s conduct DENNIS AGBO ENUGU

he National Judicial Council (NJC) has queried the Chief Judge of Enugu State, Justice Innocent Umezulike, on his conduct in a suit between one Ichie Jude Okuli and the National Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Victor Umeh. Justice Umezulike was given one month to respond to the query dated October 4th 2012 and personally signed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and Chairman of

NJC, Justice Aloma Mariam Muktar. The query reads: “I forward herewith a petition dated 21st September 2012 by one Chief Sir Victor Umeh, KSJ, JP, APGA National Chairman, on the above subject matter. The petition is self explanatory. I shall be glad to have your comments within one month from the date of receipt of this letter, please.” The query was prompted by a petition Chief Umeh lodged to the NJC, complaining of the alleged gross abuse of due process of the law by the Chief Judge. Also yesterday, Umeh

submitted another petition to the NJC against the same Enugu Chief Judge on his conduct on Monday, October 8 in court, where he refused to disqualify himself from the case based on a motion for disqualification and proceeded to rule on the matter without representation from his counsel, as well as adjourned the matter for judgement after granting an injunction against him. He has equally appealed against the interlocutory injunction granted last Monday by Justice Umezulike restraining him from acting as the National Chairman of APGA,

pending the determination of the substantive suit before the court. Umeh, it was learnt, has also concluded plans to file a motion before the Court of Appeal, asking for a stay of execution of the injunction granted by the Enugu State High Court. The APGA boss petitioned the NJC that Justice Umezulike erred in his handling of the case, especially by refusing to rule on the preliminary objection which he brought before the court. Umeh told the NJC that the Chief Judge extended the life span of the ex-parte order he made against

him on July 25, 2012 by extra 48 days against the High Court Rule of Enugu State that says an ex parte order cannot last beyond 14 days. He explained that by the action of the Chief Judge, the ex-parte order, which ought not to last more than 14 days, was extended to 55 days without any request by any of the parties in the suit. Umeh said that by 31st July 2012, the Chief Judge took full arguments on notice of preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the case and adjourned the matter till September17, 2012. He said: “In adjourning the matter, the Chief Judge stated that ‘if this court accedes to the contentions of the defendants/ applicants on any of the above issues, this suit shall legitimately come to an end. In the event, I shall adjourn the case for a considered ruling on the merits. In the circumstances, the interim order of this court shall endure against the parties and against the convention of

Umeh

any APGA executive committee meeting as stated under the order until the court’s rendition of a ruling which I now fixed for the 20th day of September, 2012.” Umeh, however, regretted that on September 17, when the ruling ought to have been delivered, the Chief Judge, to the amazement of the people who gathered in court, declared that he had remanded his ruling and would instead hear the main suit and deliver judgement on the preliminary objection and the main suit together. The direction taken by the court, Umeh said, has exposed the Chief Judge as being desperate to get into the main matter and deliver judgement against him.

Imo oil producing communities demand own state State became imperative CHRIS NJOKU

L-R: Managing Director, SABmiller, Africa and Asia, Mr. Mark Bowman; Financial Director, Mr. Jonathan Kirby and Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, during the company’s road show on investment in Africa held in London, yesterday.

Abia varsity students protest ‘no-fees-no-examination’ directive GEORGE OPARA ABIA

cademic and social activities were on Wednesday disrupted at Abia State University, Uturu, following a protest by students against the management’s decision that debtors would not be allowed to take their examination unless they paid the first and second semester fees. The students said the “no-fee-no-examination” directive issued by the university management was “draconian” because of the country’s difficult economic situation. But the university immediately closed the institution and asked the students to vacate the campus before six o’clock that day to prevent the protest from degenerating into violence. The university authori-

ties had scheduled to start the second semester examination on Monday, but shifted it to next week to enable students pay up the fees. The protest was sparked off following the insistence by the university management on the students to completely pay up their first and second semester fees and the inability of most students to meet up with the directive before the scheduled examination. A source, who did not want his name mentioned, said: “The students were looking for the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Chibuzor Ogbuagu, to address them on why they must be made to pay their fees before taking the second semester examination. “But thank God they did not see him before security men intervened, otherwise we will be telling a different story now. The students

see the vice-chancellor as their major problem. “Here on campus, students openly condemn his administration. They believe that his tenure brought hardship because he increased the tuition

fees. So, they are not happy with him. “There was no damage done to the school’s property by the protesting students, due to the timely intervention of security personnel.”

Kehinde Idowu, 53, missing

man, Mr. Kehinde Idowu, 53, has been declared missing by his family. The father of five left his 261, Herbert Macaulay Street, Alagomeji, Yaba, Lagos on September 27, 2012 for his place of work at the Oko Baba Sawmill, Ebute Meta. He has not been seen since then. Idowu is about 5 feet tall and dack in complexion. He speaks Yoruba and hails from Iree, Osun State. Efforts to locate him by his family have proved abortive.

Any useful information about his whereabouts should be passed to his brother, Taiwo Idowu, Deputy Photo Editor of Newswatch magazine on 08055374410 or to the nearest police station.

Idowu

OWERRI

il producing communities in Imo State have demanded a separate state following the flood that displaced over 5000 people from Oguta and Ohaji/ Egbema local government areas of the state. The people re-echoed the call for the creation of Orashi State following the challenges they faced in the recent flood that submerged their houses and other personal effects. They said that there was a disconnect between the oil producing communities and the rest of the state, which they claimed was responsible for the government’s indifference to their plight. A member representing Oguta/Ohaji-Egbema Federal Constituency, Hon Gerald Irona, said the oil producing communities had been marginalised by successive administrations in the state, noting that the demand for Orashi

as the only way to benefit from their God-given wealth. Decrying the under development of the area, Irona faulted the composition of the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC), adding that the commission had failed in discharging its responsibility. He said: “We demand a homogeneous state with the same geographical and cultural expression since the fusion with other communities in Imo State is not working, we need to be on our own to fast-track the development of our area”. Meanwhile, investigations have revealed that most areas affected by the flood are still impassable and people likely to contact water borne diseases. The victims, who now use canopies as shelter wherever they could find space, have appealed to the government to come to their aid.

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South South

Friday, October 12, 2012

Flood threatens Bayelsa Govt House, says Dickson

•As anger, neglect trail relief camps EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA

ayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, yesterday raised fears that the rising flood in the state was threatening the location of Government House at Onopa, in the state capital, Yenagoa. While describing the flood as a tragedy of monumental and unimaginable proportion, Governor Dickson regretted that the state was the most ravaged in the country, stressing that residents have continued to suffer from the rising level of the flood in the last two weeks. The governor, who spoke yesterday in Yenagoa, during a visit by the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, attributed the magnitude of the flood in the state to its geographical location. According to him, the state was positioned below the sea level, just as major rivers and tributaries empty into the Atlantic Ocean through the state. His words: “The challenge ahead of government is enormous as the ravaging flood has created a crisis that has many dimensions, as communication facilities and other public structures have all collapsed. The temporary camps set up to ac-

commodate flood victims are being threatened by water. “In the next couple of days government would have no alternative, but to resettle them.” Governor Dickson said government was already dealing with the issue of security of lives and property coupled with shortage of food. “Prices of food stuffs have sky-rocketed due to the fact that parts of the East-West road have been submerged by water. An aftermath of the flood in the state is likely to be famine occasioned by the devastation.” Earlier, the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Allison-Madueke said her village, Yenaka and other communities were completely submerged by the flood when she flew over the area with a chopper. While describing the situation as a major tragedy, the minister lauded the state government for taking proactive measures to alleviate the plight of the victims. “The state was facing a major scourge as hygiene and health conditions of the people are beginning to deteriorate. There is the need for effective cooperation with the state government to tackle the situation,” the minister said. Meanwhile, no fewer than 5, 000 flood-displaced persons

at the various relief camps in Yenagoa, are lamenting the hunger and deprivation being suffered at the camps. Also, the displaced persons continued to complain of the mal-treatment suffered in the hands of officials of the camps even as the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Deziani Alison-Madueke, visited one of such camps yesterday. The camps located at Igbogene, Kpansia and Ovom in the state lacked water supply and toilet facilities, as majority of the inmates sleep on the bare floor. Officials in the camps could not comment on the poor state of the relief camps.

Non-indigenes displaced by the flood were directed to relocate to the Community Secondary School, Kpansia, while facilities are in a sorry state. The raging flood dislodged an underground fuel tank of a filling station located at Swali axis of Yenagoa, thereby disrupting the sale of fuel in the area. Allison-Madueke, who was accompanied by the state Deputy Governor, John Jonah and other government officials, was accosted by a displaced person and mother of four, Mrs. Preye James, who cried out that herself and her children, had not taken a meal for the past two days.

James’ words: “Madam no food, we have not eaten since two days, our children are dying, we are sleeping on the bare floor, no mattresses. “We are dying of hunger; Minister, please gives us food to eat, mosquitoes are biting us here, no bed, and no mattresses, not even electricity.” The frustrated mother regretted that they were only fed with one square meal of baked garri and tea, while their children were abandoned to suffer. The minister was reportedly disappointed to see pregnant mothers, aged persons and children complaining that they have not eaten for two days. Incidentally, the minis-

ter’s community, Yanaka, near Yenagoa, was displaced by the flood. Yanaka, a rustic setting, lacks electricity supply and access road from the state capital. Worried by the plights of the displaced persons, a popular eatery in the state capital, “Vincent Fast Food” had volunteered to feed 400 children of flood victims once daily to improve their health. Sales and Marketing Coordinator of the eatery, Dave Ogoude, described the situation of the five camps as pathetic, stressing that the outfit was only concentrating on the children and breast feeding mothers.

Delta State Governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan, addressing a cross section of persons displaced by flood at Oleh camp in Isoko South Local Government Area, yesterday.

Reps blast contractors over shoddy jobs in A’Ibom Uduaghan to set up committee on N500m flood grant TONY ANICHEBE UYO

he House of Representative Committee on Works visiting federal roads in Akwa Ibom State as part of its oversight functions has described as unacceptable the level of work done on some of the roads which contracts were awarded and funds released. Speaking after visiting the Calabar-Itu road from the Cross River end, Ikot Ekpene-Umuahia federal highway, some federal roads in Itu Local Government Area and others, the committee’s Chairman, Fort Dike, said; “Despite the amounts allocated to Akwa Ibom State in the 2011/2012 budget for roads construction and the fact that we have ensured timely release of these funds, it is unbelievable that these

roads are still in this shape. The contractors are certainly not doing well at all.” The Federal Controller of Works in Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Chukwudi Ojinna, said the Ministry of Works will not hesitate to revoke the contract of any erring contractor and engage another one that can work according to specification and schedule. He, however, urged contractors in the state to work sincerely and ensure funds received from the 2012 budget is utilised for road rehabilitation in the state. Federal roads in Akwa Ibom State are among some of the worst in Nigeria and this led to the rehabilitation of some of them including the Calabar-Itu highway (from Akwa Ibom end), among others, by Governor Godswill Akpabio. Meanwhile, youths of Oron nation have prevailed

on both the federal and state governments to kickstart the construction of Ibaka Deep Seaport Project and make it operational so as to address the problem of youth restiveness and unemployment in the area. Oron nation youths made their position known yesterday through the International President of Supreme Council of Oron Nation Youths, Apostle Etim Ante. Ante, a former council chairman of Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State decried the high rate of crime and violence in Oron urban spearheaded and masterminded by some idle and jobless youths, explaining that when the seaport project is completed and becomes operational, the youth restiveness will be relegated to the background.

he Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan is to set up a committee comprising of credible indigenes of the state to manage the N500 million flood disaster funds granted it by the Federal Government. The state governor, who announced this at a meeting with political appointees and House of Assembly members in Asaba, the state capital, yesterday, said that the committee, when functional, would decide how to utilise the fund to resettle flood victims in the state. He said he was already scouting for men of integrity in the state and would appoint them in no distant time. The governor, who promised that he would not interfere in the management of the funds, said his major concern was how to resettle the flood victims.

His words: “I will not meddle in the committees’ work. I will not disburse this money and definitely will not be part of what they shall do. Whatever decision they take on how to disburse the fund shall be well with me. Let members of the committee decide what to do with the money.” Governor Uduaghan called on Deltans to remain calm, peaceful and be united more than ever before in the face of the current flood challenges. He enjoined them not to create tension even as he cautioned against unnecessary agitation, bickering and quarrel. The governor, who reminded the people of the state that the state was currently going through trying times put it this way; “These are trying times and this is not the time to quarrel and create tension.

We should be our brothers’ keeper. People are going through trauma and need to be comforted.” In an answer to a question, the governor enjoined the people not to politicise the flood issue and promised to give even attention to all parts of the state affected by the flood. According to him, there are times for politics, but that the flood issue was not a political matter and should not be an instrument of politics. His words: “I have a short, middle and long term plans for the flood issue and we are very serious and not playing politics. When politics come we play it, but not with flood issue where our people are suffering.” The governor directed the flood control management committee not to allow for more than 800 flood victims in one camp.

North

Friday, October 12, 2012

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Again, four killed in Plateau fresh attack JAMES ABARAHAM JOS

o fewer than four people have been killed in a fresh attack on Bel Sho village in Barki Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State. The attack occurred despite the subsisting curfew in the area. The latest attack brings to 22 the number of people killed in the area in the

last four days. The development has also created tension in the area, prompting large number of security personnel to be drafted to the area to forestall complete breakdown of law and order. A resident, Mr. Mark Lipdo, told National Mirror in Jos that the attackers struck in the early hours of yesterday and opened fire on innocent persons.

It will be recalled that no fewer than 18 persons were recently killed in the area by unknown gunmen, prompting the local government authority to impose a curfew in the locality Meanwhile, residents have continued to live in fear following the fresh violence. Some of the villagers, who spoke with National Mirror, expressed worry over the development.

They blamed the security agents for not doing enough to protect the people. “The situation is worrisome because just when we thought that peace had returned to the state, some people decided to take laws into their hands, maiming and killing innocent people for no just cause. “Right now, the villagers cannot move about freely for fear of being

shot by gunmen. We do not know why they are killing our people,” said Mrs. Charity Gyang, who fled the village. She added: “What this means is some people have made up their minds to frustrate the peace efforts in the state. I think that government should not allow them to succeed. Security agents should redouble their efforts and apprehend those responsible for these killings.”

Jang lauds peaceful conduct of by-election JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

overnor Jonah Jang of Plateau State yesterday commended the peaceful conduct of last Saturday’s by-election. Jang urged winners not to betray the confidence reposed in them by the people. In a statement he personally signed in Jos, the governor also commended the people for their peaceful conduct during the poll. The statement reads: ‘’I particularly want to give glory to God for not only the success of the election, but more importantly for the peaceful conduct of the different political party candidates and their supporters. This maturity has demonstrated the oneness of the Plateau family and desires to sustain the peace. “I therefore wish to thank all the people of Plateau State and particularly those of the Northern Senatorial District for the peaceful conduct and for supporting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). “However, I must urge all party men and citizens to close ranks and work together for a more united and prosperous Plateau State.”

Jang

District Head of Malumfashi, retired Justice Mamman Nasir (middle) and Chairman, Malumfashi Local Government Caretaker Committee, Alhaji Mansur Rabi’u-Banki, during the presentation of micro credit loan to a youth beneficiary in Malumfashi, Katsina State, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Court sentences man to death for killing 16-year-old girl INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

Maiduguri High Court has sentenced one Musa Mohammed Bala to death by hanging for killing a 16-year-old girl.

The court heard that Bala in June, 2008, slashed the girl, Safiya Mohammed, on her throat with a kitchen knife. Bala was arraigned on a one count charge of culpable homicide punishable with death under Section

221(b) of the Penal Code law. When the convict was first arraigned in court, he pleaded not guilty to the charge, but witnesses testified that he used a knife to cut the throat of the deceased.

The presiding judge, Justice Wakkil Alkali Gana, said the prosecution proved his case beyond reasonable doubt that the accused committed an offence of culpable homicide. He thereafter sentenced him to death by hanging.

Borno to compensate victims of Gwange crisis INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

overnor Kashim Shettima of Borno State has instituted a committee to advise the government following last week’s violence in Gwange in which many people were killed and property worth several millions of naira destroyed. In a statement signed yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media and

Communication, Alhaji Isa Umar Gusau, the governor directed the committee to commence work immediately and submit findings and recommendations within one week. Shettima asked the committee to identify affected areas, victims, houses and vehicles affected and assess the extent of damages. He also directed the committee to evaluate costs of affected houses, vehicles and other valuables and

recommend appropriate intervention to be carried out by the government. The committee is headed by the Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Baba Kaka Bashir Garbai, while the Permanent Secretary at the Government House, Alhaji Zanna Garga, is to serve as the secretary. Other members of the committee are: Commissioner for Works and Transport, Ibrahim Mohammed

Bukar; Commissioner for the Environment, Hassan Mustapha Aminami; Acting Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Kaka Shehu Lawan; Commissioner for interGovernmental Affairs, Mr. Joshua Ishaku ; former Caretaker Chairman of Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Abdulkadir Rahis; Senior Special Assistant, Chiroma Usman; and Special Assistant, Usman Waziri, among others.

‘Nigeria can’t plunge into religious war’ CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

rof. Ibrahim Suleiman of the Centre for Islamic and Legal Studies, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, has dismissed a notion that Nigeria may soon plunge into religious war. Suleiman said that the country would not engage in a religious war, but would intensify efforts to promote unity and justice. He spoke yesterday in Abuja at the 2012 annual lecture entitled: “Religious tolerance and peaceful co-existence: Muslim and Christian perspectives” organised by the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN). Prof. Suleiman, who blamed the nation’s woes on the political class, contrary to the popular belief that the country is being plagued by religious crisis, urged politicians to support efforts aimed at promoting social justice. He said: “Politicians are the cause of our problems. They should sit down and dialogue on how to bring justice to the nation. There will not be any religious war, but there will be war to promote justice.” Also speaking on the occasion, the President of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr. Abdul Waheed Umar, accused politicians of using religion to pursue and achieve their selfish interest. He said: “There is high level of desecration of religion by politicians and money bags in the society.” Umar said that until such a time when religious leaders summoned courage to reject the money bags and their money and urge them to serve humanity in truth and equity, Nigeria’s problems would persist. “Religious leaders should go back to the drawing board, reject the money if need and preach genuine gospel of God,” he added. In his remarks, the Chairman of the House Representatives Committee on Information, Hon. Umar Jubril, said that none of the two major religions practiced in Nigeria preaches violence, but rather preach peace. According to him, Nigeria’s problems arose from the actions or inactions of the political class.

Friday, October 12, 2012

Folarin under fire over outbust

ONDO GUBER POLL October 20, 2012

DAYS TO GO

OJO OYEWAMIDE AKURE

he Akeredolu Campaign Organisation (ACO) has described the allegations by Governor Olusegun Mimiko that the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) was planning to use fake dollars to buy votes in the October 20 governorship election in Ondo State as an insult to the people of state. It said the claim of financial crises in the ACNcontrolled states was not only laughable but existed only in the imagination of the governor. In a statement by its Director of Media, Publicity and Strategy, Idowu Ajanaku, ACO said: “Only yesterday, Governor Kayode Fayemi, marking his 2nd year anniversary in office, was busy celebrating outstanding performance

AKURE

bout 832 professionals will be deploy to Ondo state as observers during the October 20 governorship election in the state. This was disclosed by the Project Manager of Project Swift Count, (PSC) a partnership of four major organisations in Nigeria, Mr. Victor Agbogun, during an interactive session with some Ondo State -based Civil Society Organisations at the state capital, Akure yesterday. Abogun said 800 of the observers will be deployed as stationery observers to 400 randomly sampled polling units while the remaining 432 will move from one place to another across the 18 local government areas

Politics

Putting FoI Act to test inn Katsinaa

ACN denies plan to buy votes with the people of Ekiti State, with the commissioning of roads and other infrastructural development. In fact, a memorandum of understanding was signed with Samsung to provide technological development and jobs for Ekiti people. “In Osun, Governor Rauf Aregbesola is busy transforming the state. The O’ Clean Operation is getting to a dimension comparable only to Lagos State. Oyo is busy constructing overhead bridges to decongest traffic. Lagos is busy with unprecedented developmental projects which has become a benchmark in sub Sahara Africa with the construction of a 10 lane dual carriage way. Where then does Mimiko government find its so called cash crunch?” The ACO said Mimiko had nothing to show for the N600 billion his government had received in the past three and a half years, adding that he had rather pauperised majority of the people of the state. ACO also accused the

PSC to deploy 832 observers HAKEEM GBADAMOSI

COUNTDOWN TO

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of the state on Election Day. He explained that PSC is in partnership with the Federation of Muslim Women’s Association in Nigeria; the Justice, Development, Peace/Caritas; Nigerian Bar Association; and the Transition Monitoring Group.

security agents and the judiciary in the state of plans to arrest and imprison members of the ACN, saying: “Many of our members have been arrested on flimsy charges which in most cases are orchestrated by the drowning Labour Party (LP).” “The latest of such is the arrest and eventual

remanding of Olusola Adenodi in prison by Magistrate J.O Kpemi of Okitipupa Magistrate Court till 28th of this month, despite the fact that the charge is bailable. Also arrested and remanded by this notorious magistrate are our members from Oniparaga ward, Odigbo Local Government Area, Ikoya,

he Ekiti State chapter of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has advised Ondo State governor, Olusegun Mimiko to accept the reality of his rejection by the electorate and prepare for an ignominious exit from the Alagbaka Government House.

concluded plans with the security agents to invade Ikale, Oshoro, Okitipupa to arrest our members because of the rising popularity of Dr. Paul Akintelure, the Deputy Governor candidate, who is from the area. We therefore want to call on the security agents to desist from colluding with the LP in the state.

L-R: Rauf Aregbesola; Bisi Akande; Segun Osoba; Titi Laoye-Tomori and Bola Tinubu at the governorship rally of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Ore, Ondo State recently.

Jonathan visits Ondo tomorrow HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE.

head the October 20 governorship election, President Goodluck Jonathan will tomorrow visit Ondo State to give solidarity support to the party’s candidate in the election, Olusola Oke. Disclosing this yesterday during a press briefing

in Akure, the National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) South-West, Engr. Segun Oni, stated that President Jonathan will lead other leaders of the party across the country to drum support for Oke. Oni said that the essence of the rally was to display the seriousness of the party in winning the

Mimiko’s house leaking, says ACN OLAJIDE OMOJOLOMOJU

Ilutitun among others. He is the one keeping contingents of thugs in government-owned hotels with taxpayers money. Mimiko is desperate but no amount of desperation on his part will hoodwink Ondo people to change their mind. They will vote him out on October 20.” “Besides, the LP has

The party, in a statement by the Ekiti State chairman, Olajide Awe, yesterday also warned Mimiko to stop unprovoked media attacks against its administrations in five states in the South-West, “which have restored good governance and bring dividends of democracy to the people,” adding that all the states controlled by the party have quality projects to

showcase in appreciation to the people’s mandate entrusted on it. Maintaining that the policies and projects carried out by the ACN-led states cannot be compared to the “cosmetic, superficial and outlandish projects” being carried out by Mimiko and “which are at various stages of abandonment.” Awe said: “We are once again constrained to re-

forthcoming election in the state and also to clear air on speculation that the national leadership of PDP will be supporting another party’s candidate against its own governorship standard bearer in the state. He condemned some members of the party in the state working against the candidature of Oke and urged them to settle

act to a flippant and insolent remark coming from a sinking Labour Party (LP) regime in Ondo State on the purported crises it claims are happening in the states under the control of our great party. This is yet another verbal faux pas coming from the drowning LP government, gripped with fear of an imminent and inevitable disgrace from the seat of power by the good people of Ondo State on October 20.

their differences to ensure victory for the party’s candidate. While urging them to put the past behind then, he said the party has woken from its slumber and has put its house in order to take its rightful place in the state. Oni said the party will not hesitate to punish any of its members found working against the party, saying “we are not going to take it lightly with any member that is working against us. This is a time for battle and this is our glorious moment and we should all stand to be counted. “If anyone believes that he is committed elsewhere and cannot work for us, I think the best thing for them is to travel out of the state before then instead of working against the interest of their party.”

Politics

KEMI OLAITAN writes on the outbursts that trailed the castigation of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN)-led administration of Governor Abiola Ajimobi by former Senate Leader and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Teslim Folarin.

Friday, October 12, 2012

Folarin under fire over outbust

hen the immediate past Senate Leader, Senator Teslim Folarin, featured on a programme aired by a private radio station in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, and berated the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) government, led by his uncle, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, little did the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain expected the barrage of expletives that would be thrown at him. Folarin, who is one of the political sons of the late strongman of Ibadan politics, Alhaji Lamidi Adedibu, in the stormy days of the crisis within the PDP in Oyo State, was accused of working for the ACN, to the extent that he was regarded as one of the arrowheads that funded the election of Governor Ajimobi. It was also believed that he had nominees in the cabinet of the present government in the state. But Folarin was to rubbish all these as he came hard on the ACN government on the radio programme, as he declared that the administration of Governor Ajimobi lacks human face over the ongoing sack of workers and the displacement of traders from some parts of Ibadan. According to him, it was immoral for an elected administration like that of Ajimobi to embark on programmes or moves capable of inflicting hardship on the masses, particularly the continuous displacement of market men and women from some areas in Ibadan under the guise of beautification. While emphasising that it was unfortunate that the administration of Ajimobi has completely failed at addressing the needs of the people of the state but only devoted its attention to those issues that are of no value to the masses, Folarin stressed that with the situation on ground in Oyo State, the PDP will in the coming elections chase out the ruling ACN going by the inhuman face of the Ajimobi administration. However, the Oyo State chapter of the ACN, rather than allow Folarin to go with his criticism, swiftly reacted and labelled him a good example of what a public official must not be. The party in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Dauda Kolawole, said it was the inglorious memories of his kind of Oyo State that the ACN-led government was trying to erase. It added that the likes of Folarin and the politics of compromise that his party, the PDP, foisted on the state for eight years cannot be continued by any sane administration that had in mind the transformation of the state. The ACN said: “There is no way Folarin would not see anything wrong in the ongoing reform in the state civil service and the aesthetics that the state is beginning to have. Until he parted ways with Adebayo Alao-Akala, they were both co-travellers in the rot boat of Oyo State, in consonance with the late self-styled strongman of Ibadan politics, Chief Lamidi Adedibu. Both literally and metaphorically, dirtied our state; they can never be happy with anyone who is fumigating their smelly

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Ajimobi

Folarin

FOLARIN’S EIGHT YEARS IN THE SENATE AS LEADER WAS THE QUINTESSENTIAL YEARS OF THE

LOCUSTS... FOLARIN PERFORMED SO WOEFULLY IN EIGHT YEARS THAT HE CANNOT PINPOINT A SINGLE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT HE BROUGHT TO OYO

CENTRAL SENATORIAL DISTRICT, NOT TO TALK OF OYO STATE past.” The party wondered why any rational person would be against a reform system that seeks to purge its ranks of those that had dragged down the hands of the state’s clock for decades, with the aim of replacing them with young vibrant graduates who roam the streets jobless, saying: “We demand that Folarin shows the whole world his academic credentials. Only forgers of certificates, those who profit from a system of forgery and those who live a life of misdemeanor would advocate that persons who defrauded the system should be kept a minute longer in the service. We are ashamed that a former senator could be a campaigner for the retention of the horrible system of the past.” The ACN explained further that in a sane system, having gone through a barren eight-year stint at the National Assembly, the former Senate Leader would be too ashamed to contribute to any developmental issues in society. The party said: “Folarin’s eight years in the Senate as leader was the quintessential years of the locusts. You will recall that Senator Olusola Saraki occupied same post in the Senate between 1979 and 1983. He was not known to have held any other elective national office but his leadership of the Senate, due to his robust contributions to his Kwara constituency, turned him into a folk hero till today in Kwara. “Folarin performed so woefully in eight years that he cannot pinpoint a single development project he brought to Oyo Central Senatorial District, not to talk of Oyo State. There were allegations that he traded off all that were coming the way of his state. To now have such a character attack an acknowledged performing government is a systemic wrong that we, as Nigerians, must fight.”

The ACN added that the beautification project of the Ajimobi government can only be compared with the revolution that Lagos State governor, Babatunde Fashola, did in Oshodi, stating that a state like Oyo, which had hitherto been classified as one of the dirtiest states in Africa, could not witness a turnaround, unless some entrenched structures were pulled down. It said: “What Ajimobi is doing in the beautification of Oyo State can be likened to the proverbial pain that accompanies traditional incision of tribal marks on a child. When the incision is done, it becomes an attraction of beauty. Only those who have sold their hearts to dirt and rot will see anything wrong in the government’s quest for us to move forward.” To the Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Hammed Abiodun Adigun, the outburst of Folarin could only be regarded as unfounded and reckless. The lawmaker, who represents Akinyele Constituency II and who hails from the same senatorial district with Folarin, insisted that it is a pity that the outburst could come from the mouth of a man that was rescued by the government of Ajimobi. Adigun said: “Why would a man, who cannot point to a tangible project as achievement when he was the number five citizen of the country, come out openly to criticise a performing government. He occupied the same position the incumbent governor, Ajimobi used to transform the lives of his constituents. At least, if the people were not important to him, what did he do for Ibadan where he is a high chief ? “For record purposes, Folarin, who claimed to be a political scientist wasted eight years as a senator without accountability. He alongside his party man and former governor, Otunba Alao-Akala, after squandering the collective resources of

the state through their Molete godfather, almost turned the state into a theatre of war. Comparatively, most of us at the state Assembly have tried our best as lawmakers more than the locust years of Senator Folarin. “The road to his house was tarred by the incumbent government, while the people of the 11 local governments in his senatorial district can never be proud of him, because instead of bringing succour to them, he elevated their problems before the present regime came on board to rescue them.” Adigun added that the Ibadan high chief is politically empty, morally bankrupt and intellectually disabled and should keep silent politically for the next 50 years, as the people will continue to reject him at the poll while charging the state government not to be distracted by the ranting of someone he called “a failed and frustrated politician, whose mouth is too large to be covered.“ Similarly, an interest group, Oyo Development Initiative (ODI), challenged Folarin to show to the world what his constituents benefitted through his representation throughout his eight-year stay in the upper chamber of the National Assembly. ODI, in a statement issued in Ibadan by its coordinator, Dr. Adesola Okanlawon, described the former Senate Leader as a liability to Oyo State, as his years in the Senate were years of the locusts. Okanlawon said: “It is on record that throughout his eight-year stay in the Senate, both as member for his first four years and Senate Leader for his second term, Folarin could not be identified with any particular project he facilitated to his senatorial district. “Even the tales of woes by his kinsmen in Ona Ara Local Government Area of Oyo State, are indications that Folarin has lost his steam and he is no more than a political neophyte amongst his people. “No wonder he was routed in his third attempt at going back to the upper chamber and treated with disdain in his political party.” ODI explained that for Folarin to have turned round to attack the government of Ajimobi showed him as an ingrate, saying: “At a time when Otunba Alao-Akala had parceled him for Agodi prisons for murder of Eleweomo, it was Ajimobi government that rescued him from the hands of his enemies. To now turn round and attack the man who saved his life was tantamount to political treachery.” Political analysts in the Pacesetter State however believed that these altercations could only point to the race towards who occupies the Agodi Government House in 2015. While Ajimobi has not said anything concerning a second term, it is alleged that Folarin has not hidden his intention of governing the state, as he was part of the PDP chieftains that kicked against the returning of the immediate past governor, AlaoAkala, for second time. The assumption then is that his vituperations against the ACN government are all about 2015, just to discredit the Ajimobi administration, so as to pave the way for his gubernatorial ambition. But whether this will pay off remains to be seen, especially in the wake of the expletives that had trailed his attack on the ACN and its government in Oyo State.

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Politics

Friday, October 12, 2012

JAMES DANJUMA writes on the attempt to put to test, the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act in Katsina State, where a former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mustapha Inuwa sought for information about the financial activities of the state government.

Putting FoI Act to test in Katsina

ne of the high points of Nigeria’s democratic practice in the last 13 years is perhaps the passage of the Freedom of Information Bill (FoI) 2011 by the National Assembly and its subsequent signing into law by President Goodluck Jonathan. The FoI Act provides Nigerians the right to “apply for records and information” from pubic organisations and private bodies that perform public functions, with such information expected to be released within a certain period of time. This is buttressed in Section 2(1), which establishes the right of every citizen of the country to “access or request information, whether or not contained in any written form, which is in the custody of any public official, agency or institution.” But the information being sought for must not be such that could be injurious to the conduct of “international affairs and the defence” of the country, among other breaches. Failure for requested information to be divulged gives the information seeker the

Shema

right to challenge the refusal in court, as Section 22 gives an applicant “justification to apply to a court for judicial review where he or she is denied access”. Despite being one high point in the nation’s democratic experiment, the FoI Act is not without its challenges, as there are

occasions where an individual or organisation, be it public or private, may delay or altogether refuse to divulge certain information to one seeking same. This is often in contradiction of Section 13 (1) (b), which states that notwithstanding anything contained in the section, “an application for information shall not be denied where the public interest in disclosing the information far outweighs whatever injury that disclosure would cause.” The FoI Act was of recent, made to pass the litmus test in Katsina State, when a former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Mustapha Inuwa, requested for certain information from the incumbent state administration. Inuwa applied to the state to divulge information about banks and account numbers, where monthly deposits from the Federation Account are made, as well as banks and account numbers where state government has fixed deposits. He requested the state government to also divulge details of all contract documents, both initial and possible reviews, in respect of ongoing construction of the multi-billion naira Government House in the state capital. In two application letters he had written and addressed to the state’s Commissioners

NASS won’t rubber-stamp 2013 Budget – Mark Senate President David Mark during the presentation of the 2013 Budget to a joint session of the National Assembly on Wednesday made the following remarks. Excerpts:

nation’s budget, in a broad sweep, encapsulates the administration’s economic and social vision and the practical means of attaining it. The duty which Your Excellency has come to perform this morning therefore carries profound social and economic implications for the nation. Our budgets, from my experience since 1999, have been dogged by three main areas of controversy. These are: the time of presentation of the estimates to the National Assembly; whether the National Assembly has the constitutional power to make inputs on the budget estimates; and implementation of the budget. On the first issue, it is gratifying to note that the 2013 Budget is being presented unprecedentedly in October 2012. Yet, Mr. President, a compelling case can still be made for a consistently earlier presentation. This will allow for a meticulous and exhaustive consideration and debate and ensure that we work towards passing it before the end of the year. As to whether the National Assembly has the power to make inputs to Appropriation Bills laid before it, our stand is that parliament is constitutionally empowered to make inputs. What the constitution enjoins Mr. President to lay before the Nation-

al Assembly are mere estimates, not immutable figures. And once the estimates are so laid, their consideration becomes subject to the constitutionally prescribed modes of exercising legislative power. Therefore, we do not think that the constitution intended to turn the National Assembly into a mere mechanical rubber-stamp that must robotically pass budget estimates as presented. However, in exercising this constitutional power, we will be mindful of the fact that the social and economic challenges currently besetting our nation are the severest in our contemporary history. The National Assembly is also conscious of the fact that urgent steps need to be taken to address our dire infrastructural challenges. The third issue is that of implementation. We believe that so long as our budgets are only partially implemented, the full benefits of your administration’s economic policies may not be accomplished. When the 2013 budget is passed and signed into law, the National Assembly will deploy its weapon of oversight, more than ever before, to ensure accountability, probity, transparency and full implementation. The need to ensure the efficient utilisation of public finance for the promotion of the public good will be our guiding principle. We will work to ensure that the lofty developmental goals embedded in the budget are fully realised. Furthermore, we must strive to make our economy conform to global best practices. Experience has shown that the most virile economies are private sector driven. We advise that we continue to follow this timetested economic philosophy. It is important to ensure that the 2013 budget appropriately

Mark

regulates the compass of the national economy and confronts our various economic, political and social challenges. Before I conclude, let me briefly make this point. Our budgets tend to incorporate every conceivable project, including even those that local governments are better positioned to execute. I advise that we depart from this practice and target projects that are realistically attainable with defined mechanisms for implementation and easy monitoring. Finally, I assure Your Excellency of the constructive collaboration of the National Assembly, within the context of the principle of separation of powers, as your administration continues to steer the ship of State towards the shores of national transformation.

of Finance, and Works and Housing, Inuwa said the requests were in line with the provisions of the FoI Act, 2011. Inuwa requested for the “bank(s) and account number(s)” where the state’s monthly allocations are deposited, as well as banks and account numbers where the state “operates/has fixed deposit account(s).” He also requested for the “agreement terms” between state government and whichever banks with which government operates or has fixed deposit accounts. Inuwa also asked for the “respective deposit amount” and interests received by government from such deposits which should be from when the state started operating such fixed deposit accounts to date. On the proposed Government House project, Inuwa requested for the “initial and possible reviews” of “all contract documents,” asking same for ongoing construction for the completion of the state’s Olympic-sized stadium. He also made similar request in respect of the ongoing construction of the state’s metropolitan Ring Road, “and equally all other road constructions within the metropolis.” The former SSG said his application was premised on Section 2(2) of the FoI Act which provides that: “An applicant herein need not demonstrate any specific interest in the information being applied for,” and that the information requested for had seven to 14 days response period in line with Sections 5 and 7 of same Act. Inuwa, a former Education Commissioner and SSG during the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s tenure as state governor, is a chieftain of the opposition Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). Following the reluctance of the state government to provide the requested information, Inuwa then dragged Governor Ibrahim Shema and four of his commissioners to court for alleged violation of the FoI Act. Shema was sued with the commissioners for Finance, Works, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and Justice. The respondents were accused of noncompliance with the FoI Act to provide some contracts’ documents, banks and account numbers as requested by Inuwa, in line with provisions of Section 20 and 21 of the Act. When the matter came up for hearing weeks back at the Katsina State High Court (4), counsel to the applicant, Barrister Sadau Garba applied for adjournment, saying such was necessary to enable the respondents prepare for response. Counsel to the first to the fourth respondents, Uyi Igunma and that of the 5th respondent, Falau Darma, supported the application and alligned themselves with the counsel to the complainant, Garba. In his ruling, the presiding judge, Justice Sanusi Tukur adjourned the case with the next date to be communicated to both parties. What political observers are debating is, will Inuwa succeed in making the state government divulge the information requested for in line with provisions of the FoI Act? Will the challenges faced by information seekers who want to exercise their right as provided for by the Act overtake the issue in consideration? This is a litmus test for the enforcement of the FoI Act. Will the issue, being first of its kind, pass the litmus test and make Katsina one of the first to accede to divulging such information that is often considered confidential in a country like Nigeria? Only time will tell.

Editorial

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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

STEVE AYORINDE

MD/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

YELE AKINROLABU

ED OPERATIONS

SEYI FASUGBA

DAILY EDITOR

BOLAJI TUNJI

SUNDAY EDITOR

GBEMI OLUJOBI

SATURDAY EDITOR

LANRE OYETADE

GENERAL EDITOR

DOZIE OKEBALAMA

COORDINATOR, EDITORIAL BOARD

ADESOYE ADEKOYA

CONTROLLER, PRODUCTION

CALLISTUS OKE

EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR

ISE-OLUWA IGE

ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF

KAYODE BALOGUN JNR

SM, STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT

FRANK OBOH

HEAD, GRAPHICS

Federal Government’s war against terrorism N T FG’ he security situation in the country is assuming more horrifying dimensions with the campaign of violence up North still soaring. Claims by the security agencies that they rattled the nests of the insurgents, killed or arrested some of their kingpins, have also not yielded any restraint. The Boko Haram, for instance, kept its promise of more violence instead of recoiling shortly after the hostilities by security operatives; with additional threat to hound politicians and members of their households. Clearly, but sadly, it may be said, the insurgents have outwitted the nation’s security operatives and have remained as vicious and determined as ever. The recent gun attacks on three tertiary institutions in Mubi, Adamawa State, leading to the deaths of scores of hapless students, with tens of others severely injured, testified to the relentlessness of the insurgents in disgracing and humiliating the nation and its leadership. Gunmen numbering about fifty, according to reports, invaded the offcampus hostels of students of the Federal Polytechnic; Adamawa State University; and the School of Health Technology; all in Mubi, where they perpetrated the mayhem. In

one of the accounts related, a resident said the gunmen spotting military uniform struck before midnight, forced the students out of their rooms and ordered that they identified themselves by name; on which basis some of them were shot dead and others stabbed with knives. Another report also relayed how tens of people were killed at the state low cost housing estate in Abaganaram Ward, Maiduguri, in the Borno State capital. President Goodluck Jonathan, unable to determine how to contain the violence and restore peace as yet, ordered the security agencies to immediately investigate the case and fish out the perpetrators, as usual. Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, also tried in reiterating the president’s sadness over the incident; especially when, according to him, the government was making considerable progress in tackling the insecurity challenges. The Mubi massacre likewise attracted comments from the Senate President, David Mark, who felt such cruelty and grievous harm could not just be attributed to unemployment; and must be tackled head on. This has been the familiar official reaction since

OTWITHSTANDING

THE

S IMPOTENCE

AND CONFUSION IN ITS BATTLE AGAINST TERRORISM, THE

LINGERING VIOLENCE PORTENDS DOOM

FOR THE NATION.

THEREFORE,

PERMITTING IT FOR TOO LONG IS UNACCEPTABLE terrorists plunged the nation into routine bloodshed, mental torture and shame. Yet, it must be acknowledged that the tremendous successes recorded so far by insurgents have dwarfed whatever grounds the FG flaunts as having been covered in tackling the grave setback. Many parts of the North are no-go areas and landmines. Notwithstanding the FG’s impotence and confusion in its battle against terrorism, the lingering violence portends doom for the nation. Therefore, permitting it for too long is unacceptable; while resigning to fate seems more dangerous. Consequently, the FG must

inject more energy and ingenuity in confronting the scourge. Among other options, it is important that the government studies the situation in other nations having similar challenges as the types in the land. The government should tap deeply into the United States-led Trans-Sahara Counterterrorism Partnership. It should, in addition, find out how other African countries, like Kenyan and Mali, co-operate and collaborate strategically to combat terrorism in the Horn of Africa. Multi-lateral intelligence gathering, harnessing and communication networking with immediate neighbours like Chad and Niger Republic, etc., suspected as possible breeding grounds for terrorists, seem to have become absolutely necessary. Making a success of the initiative will involve joint security patrol; and the FG should be ready to be more generous than other partners in funding such projects, among other sacrifices, for better results. For, insurgents have made enough mockery of the nation. The cost is justified, when it translates to arresting the confusion, fear, waste of human lives and valuable properties, and the eventual restoration of peace.

ON THIS DAY October 12, 2002 Terrorists detonated bombs in the Sari Club in Kuta, Bali in Indonesia killing 202 people and wounding over 300 others. The Sari Club was a nightclub in Kuta Beach. It was a popular club for tourists, especially from Australia. Kuta is administratively a district and sub-district/village in southern Bali, Indonesia. A former fishing village, it was one of the first towns in Bali to witness substantial tourist development; and as a beach resort, it has remained one of Indonesia’s major tourist destinations.

October 12, 1984 Brighton hotel bombing: The Provisional Irish Republican Army attempted to assassinate Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and members of her cabinet. Thatcher escaped but the bomb killed five people and wounded 31. The Brighton hotel bombing occurred on October 12, 1984 at the Grand Hotel in Brighton, England. The bomb was planted by Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) member, Patrick Magee, with the intention of assassinating Prime MinisterMargaretThatcherandhercabinetmembersatameeting.

October 12, 1983 Japan’s former Prime Minister, Tanaka Kakuei, was found guilty of taking a $2 million bribe from Lockheed and was sentenced to four years in jail. Kakuei (May 4, 1918 – December 16 1993) was a Japanese politician and the 64th and 65th Prime Minister of Japan from July 7, 1972 to December 22, 1972 and from December 22, 1972 to December9, 1974 respectively. He was also the most influential member of the then ruling Liberal Democratic Party until the mid-1980s, when he fell.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Friday, October 12, 2012

Achebe, there was a legend KAYODE

KETEFE

kketefe@nationalmirroronline.net 08032147720 (SMS only)

he globally respected literary icon, Professor Chinua Achebe, recently cast odium into the Yoruba’s sociocultural space by denigrating the Oodua legend, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, as a person so pathologically driven by lust for power that he recommended a policy that led to the annihilation of two million Igbo people. Prof. Achebe made this weighty assertion in his recently released book, “There was a country”. He wrote the following about the immortal Chief Awolowo: “It is my impression that Awolowo was driven by an overriding ambition for power, for himself and for his Yoruba people. There is, on the surface, at least, nothing wrong with those aspirations. However, Awolowo saw the dominant Igbo at the time as the obstacles to that goal, and when the opportunity arose – the Nigeria-Biafra War – his ambition drove him into a frenzy to go to every length to achieve his dreams. In the Biafran case, it meant hatching up a diabolical policy to reduce the numbers of

his enemies significantly through starvation – eliminating over two million people, mainly members of future generations.” It is true that Chief Awolowo, then as the Finance Minister, recommended to the General Yakubu Gowon military government that there should be total blockade to the Biafra territories as a strategy to bring the war to a quick end. But to say that he did that as a selfish ploy to liquidate the Igbo people whom he regarded as threat to his political ambition simply did not add up. This conclusion, in the mind of every objective analyst, untainted with biases, would appear essentially as an opinion, which by no logical inference could be described as a syllogistic emanation from the known facts. For example, If Papa Awo was fearful of the “dominant Igbo” and saw them as obstacle to his “selfish” ambition, does it not stand to reason he would see their secession from the federation as a development auspicious for his agenda? Secondly, who is to be blamed? If during a war your enemies devise a plot that would invariably reduce your people to hunger unless you surrender, is that not an avoidable development? Well, you may refuse to surrender (on time) if you are well committed to your cause. That is understandable, but would it not sound puerile to continue to blame the enemies for conceiving the plot to force your surrender? Chief Awolowo was a humanist, there is no way you would be a humanist and be

CHIEF AWOLOWO WAS VERY CONSISTENT IN HIS POLICY DURING

THE WAR.

HE DID ALL

HE COULD TO STOP THE WAR a tribalist. But people should know that the most detribalised person in the world must of necessity construe his primary enclave as a starting point of his worldview. Human’s concept of selflessness is simply selfishness tempered with wellintended consideration for others and kindness spawned by the prerogative of intelligence - as a thinking, sentient being. Chief Awolowo was very consistent in his policy during the war. He did all he could to stop the war; his efforts included holding peace meeting with the Biafran warlord, Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu. When the war could not be averted, he made strategic recommendation on how to bring the war to a quick end. At the stage when the now famous blockade policy was suggested and implemented, the war was becoming a ding dong affair with Federal and Biafran troops alternating major and minor victories while casualties kept escalating. Chief Awolowo was a pragmatist person. He could not understand why you would

be waging a maximum war and still allowed your enemies unfettered access to vital supplies. Using total blockade as a strategy of war dated back to the history of warfare itself and there is nothing original in that recommendation. Even during the Yoruba internecine wars we do read accounts chronicled by the worthy Reverend Samuel Johnson how traditional warriors laid siege to town and cities, cutting off all supplies to force the encircled territories to submission. Blockade is a strategy to force a surrender, not to cause a holocaust. To hold Chief Awolowo liable for the fate of the famished Igbos during the war would be tantamount to holding Biafran generals liable for the great casualties inflicted on the federal troops at Abagana, where the Nigerian side was absolutely vanquished! Did these Igbo generals not have the right to lay ambush for the unsuspecting Nigerian troops? The morals of war are different from the morals of everyday life. If you have anything that would put your enemy at a serious disadvantage during warfare, you would be stupid not to deploy it. In the final analysis, it is appropriate to state that all the problems that led to the civil war are, unfortunately, still here with us and it would be better for us to concentrate on how to tackle them to forestall the contingency of another tragic crisis instead of looking into the past for the solitary purpose of apportioning blame whether or not it is deserved.

Alison-Madueke and the PIB FRANCIS OTTAH AGBO

he first time I came across Mrs Diezani Alison- Madueke, the first woman to be so appointed Minister of Petroleum in Nigeria, was in 2007 and it was at a point on the Lagos- Ibadan Express Way. I was with The News magazine at the time and was travelling from Lagos to Akure, Ondo State capital to do a story on the governorship tussle between Governor Olusegun Mimiko and his predecessor, Dr. Olusegun Agagu. I suddenly saw Alison-Madueke, who was Minister of Transport at the time crying profusely. She had taken time out to do on the spot assessment of major roads in the country and the Lagos Ibadan road, which had become a death trap, was one of her port of calls. For me, the tears flowing from her eyes down her maxilla showed her connect with the ordinary Nigerians, who are common victims of road accidents, which regrettably have killed more Nigerians than all killer diseases put together. This encounter endeared me to this Amazon, who had carved a niche for herself in the oil and gas sector in Nigeria and beyond. Little wonder that she is the first woman ever to lead a Nigerian delegation to Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) meeting in Vienna, Austria in 2010 and the first Nigerian woman to be conferred with an honorary doctorate degree by the Nigeria Defence Academy

FOR ME, THE TEARS FLOWING FROM HER EYES DOWN HER MAXILLA SHOWED HER CONNECT WITH THE ORDINARY

NIGERIANS,

WHO ARE COMMON VICTIMS OF ROAD ACCIDENTS (NDA) Kaduna, for excelling in a field that is dominated by men. So I was not surprised that President Goodluck Jonathan retained her as Petroleum Minister, despite all the conspiracies to sack her. It is under her watch that the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) was eventually presented to the National Assembly. I see the development as another feather to the cap of Bayelsa born technocrat. She achieved this by rallying round all the stakeholders in oil and gas industry, including the malignant Oil Producing Companies (OICs) through dialogue, wide consultations with Nigerians across board and the engagements of the media and civil society groups. All the stakeholders had informed inputs into the new version of PIB, which in the words of the minister, “addresses the concerns of OICs and engenders a win, win situation for Nigeria, Nigerians and the OICs alike”. The Minister must be praised for secur-

ing the buy-in of the OICs in the new PIB. It will be recalled that the oil producing companies had surreptitiously frustrated the passage of the earlier bill in the defunct Sixth National Assembly on grounds that it was insensitive to their strategic interest. They, for example, claimed that the old PIB amongst other things compelled them to pay mind-boggling and unrealistic royalties and taxes to the federal government through the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and feared that if passed into law, it would freeze them from business. Some of them like Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Chevron, Mobil etc even threatened to vacate the shores of Nigeria for neighbouring countries like Ghana, Niger, Angola and so on that now have oil in commercial quantity. No responsible government would allow such strategic industry players to leave as that would cripple oil exploration, exploitation, refining capacity of the nation and seriously harm the revenue profile of Nigeria. So government was in dare need of solution to keep these companies in the country and a Diezani had to come to judgement by deploring her sterling leadership qualities and persuasive negotiating skills. The Minister quickly addressed the issues of royalties, taxes and licenses in such a manner that the interests of the OICs are protected in the new PIB. And before the skeptics and cynics could say Nigeria, the minister talked the oil producing companies into it and they flew with it! If the NASS passes the PIB into law as

quick as possible as promised by Senate President David Mark, the control and coordination of the nation’s oil and gas sector would become more transparent and accountable to the public, and the pricing of petroleum products in the downstream sector would be completely deregulated. This development might engender more indigenous participation. Deregulation will amongst other things create fair market value for petroleum products in the Nigerian economy, make enough products available by removing artificial scarcity and ultimately remove economic distortions. If critics thought the new PIB would be insensitive to the Niger Delta, the region that produces the golden eggs, then they were dead wrong. The Minister ensured that the PIB provides for the setting up of a Petroleum Host Community Fund, which compels oil companies to surrender 10 percent of their profits from upstream activities for the development of the oil producing communities as more and more Niger Deltans, especially the youths will be expected to be gainfully employed. To be continued Agbo, a journalist and public affairs analyst, wrote from Abuja Send your views by mail or sms to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mail@ nationalmirroronline.net mirrorlagos@ yahoo.com or 08164966858 (SMS only). The Editor reserves the right to edit and reject views or photographs. Pseudonyms may be used but must be clearly marked as such.

Mail Mirror

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wanted: Concerted action against Mimiko

I Discovering your purpose in life

eenagers have been advised to discover the purposes for their life’s to enable the real persons inside of them emerge. Pastor Fidelis Edoyebo gave this advice while teaching on the theme: Discovering your purpose for greater works at the First Zonal Convention of Agape Force, Asaba Zone1. He defined purpose as the original plan of the creator and added that when you discover the purpose of God for your life, you become a centre of attraction. Speaking further, he urged teenagers not to allow people judge them by what they see in them stressing that ‘’what is on the inside is greater than what is on the outside.’’ He challenged teenagers to have their eyes focused on their future and be shakers of tomorrow as well as be themselves to help release the real person in them.

n the Friday October 5, 2012 edition of this newspaper, I contributed a piece to the Mail Mirror column titled ‘Ondo people want Mimiko out’. Part of the article centred on the friends of the incumbent governor of our dear state. Specifically in paragraph

three of the said piece, I mentioned that Mimiko was not alone in the rape on the state, which was succinctly captured in the cover story of the February 20, 2012 edition of a sister publication, Newswatch magazine. In the piece in question, I raised some fundamental ques-

tions on who Mimiko’s friends are and how rich are they; what do they do for a living and how much tax do they pay? If his close friends are identified and thoroughly investigated, then we will come close to the 10 fingered thieving rats that have not only helped

Collins, Asaba, Delta State

Achebe’s sacrilege on Awo

xpectedly, the Nigerian media feasted on the excerpts from the new book by Chinua Achebe with the title, There was a country. The acknowledged author was reported to have attacked the late sage and foremost Nigerian statesman, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, accusing him of involvement in the murder of many Igbo during the 30 month Nigerian civil war (1979-70). While Achebe is free to write on any topic that suits his fancy, he has no right whatsoever to irresponsibly murder history by recklessly attacking a great Nigerian leader like Papa Awolowo. Nigerians should expect detailed, honest, factual and objective replies to Achebe sacrilegious assault on one of the nation’s forthright, principled and honest leaders, dead or alive after the content of the new book must have been perused. This is not the first time that Achebe would publish scathing attacks on Pa Awo. He did it 30 years ago in another of his book titled, The trouble with Nigeria. However, the battle this time against falsehood has started. Chief Ebenezer Babatope (OFR), Lagos

ALL IN A DAY’S WORK: A traffic warden taking a nap on Sanusi Fafunwa Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. PHOTO: OLUFEMI AJASA.

CBN and rotten currencies

t a time that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said it spent billions of naira to print new currency notes every year, I was shocked when the Zenith Bank near OjuOre, Ota LGA of Ogun State gave me N10,000 worth of N20 notes denominations last September. The wrapped and tied bundle were so dirty, mutilated, smelly with mould and fungus so much that I rejected them, but the official insisted that I had to collect them and that it was order from above. To avoid a scene in the

Letters to the Editor

banking hall, I went away hoping to return the battered notes, which I know would be rejected in Ota by traders and all. I could not wait in the bank to do the sorting, as this would waste my precious time. What amazed me most was that fuel stations rejected the notes; unlike before when I spent battered notes to buy fuel in the knowledge that the filling stations send such notes to banks in bulk. The notes carried all manner of plasters worse than that of disabled war victims. How did this

kind of rotten smelly notes get back into circulation when they ought to have been retrieved and packaged for burning by the CBN, as is done routinely? Is it possible that unscrupulous bank officials at Zenith or CBN might be smuggling out currencies destined for destruction and recirculating them illegally? What is the quality of these currencies when a N20 note produced in 2006 looks presentable while the one signed by Sanusi in 2010 is washed and wasted as security numbers become invisible and currency

Mimiko in plundering Ondo State, but also the faces of those sponsoring thugs to intimidate the innocent opposition members would be unmasked. It is therefore, mind gladdening to know that earlier in the week, high ranking police detectives were sent to the state by the Assistant Inspector General of Police from Zone 5, Benin City. The situation in the state now calls for this form of intervention. It is time for all indigenes of Ondo State, and not only members of the opposition parties, to assist the ongoing high profile police investigation with the necessary information that would help in cleaning up the state and in caging the trouble makers in our midst. It is a big relief that some of Mimiko’s friends and close associates have been identified by Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde and Saka Yussuf Ogunleye, both of the ACN. They include, Soji Bello, Kola Ademujimi, Ojo Adewole, Ayo Falaye, Jimoh Obabi, Funso Adu and the virulent Ige Akinji alias AKJ. If Mimiko enjoys immunity from being prosecuted while in office, he does not enjoy immunity from being investigated. If these friends and associates of his are thoroughly grilled, we may get to know more than we currently hear. The EFCC may need to do a job on these people because their do or die approach to politics is primed

rejected for transactions? Besides, of all banks, why is it the high profile Zenith Bank that should circulate such disease-prone currency and therefore worsening average unimpressive lifespan of Nigerians and insisting innocent and valuable customers either take it or leave it? Does Zenith and CBN reckon with the quarrels and fights in the market places engendered by arguments over rotten, washed and deceased currency notes, especially with Danfo drivers and fish sellers? Ehi Asuelimen Iyesi, Ota, Ogun State

to turn the state into the personal fiefdom of their paymaster, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko. I must commend the principled and professional stand of the IGP, Mohammed Abubakar on effective and efficient policing of the nation. Since assuming the high office of IGP, Alhaji Abubakar has embarked on a cleansing mission of police image, which had been terribly dented by unsolved assassinations, high profile robbery cases, kidnappings etc. Nigerians know he is doing a good job. Victor Adamolekun, Ikeja, Lagos

When did we become barbarians?

ivilisation has many faces. It is not only in edifices, infrastructures and structures. The greatest embodiment of a people’s civilization lies in intrinsic values. In Nigeria, we have billionaires, millionaires, great footballers, actors and actresses, renowned scholars and inventors; we have fine houses, many drive fine cars, and the most cosmopolitan of us live in many continents and thus are imbued with many cultural values. But it is in this same Nigeria that we have people who would descend on their fellow human beings and then beat them into pulp before making a bonfire of them! It recently happened in Aluu community where four innocent students of the University of Port Harcourt were killed and roasted while people, including children, watched on. It is in this Nigeria that 40 students were wasted in Mubi, Adamawa State and the police are still unable to fish out the perpetrators. When did we lose our sense of right and just, and when did we also lose the compassion for one another. We have a National Orientation Agency. I think it is a waste of public funds to sustain such grandiose institution because its impact is not felt. Our leaders should beware of how they run the country. They are more reactive than proactive. The sharp descent into Hobbesian state is not acceptable. Thomas Akor, Ketu, Lagos State.

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

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Friday, October 12, 2012

RUN TO THE PRESS WITH MISLEADING FACTS BUT THE LAW IS CLEAR ON THIS MATTER John Ugbe, M.D, Multichoice

said the ruling means that MCSN is competent and authorised to administer rights contrary to NCC’s stand that MCSN was operating illegally. Citing the Compact Disc Technology case with MCSN, he said: “It means that MCSN is authorised by law to administer rights in Nigeria since the Nigerian Copyright Commission got their judgement at the Appeal Court on the basis of the Compact Disc Technology versus MCSN matter. The Compact Disc judg-

ment was not applicable to the MultiChoice case due to the fact that the judgment was given when all necessary provisions of the Copyright Act and issues of laws were not considered. The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and several authorities of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court are clear that interests already acquired by and vested in an individual cannot be divested retroactively or retrospectively by any law. MCSN has ac-

WEEKEND STARTERS War and survival exhibition opens

Nigerian Idol hits FCT

oethe-Institut Nigeria presents the epic and intriguing works of Wolf Böwig`s report on West African Civil Wars in The Black Light Project exhibition. Organised in cooperation with the German Embassy and Lagos Photo Festival, it will officially open tomorrow at the Federal Government Press, Broad Street Lagos by 3.00 p.m. In this exhibition, 15 graphic storytelling artists from all over the world joined the project by merging writings and photographs with drawings -stories of

daily life and survival during the wars in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea Bissau and Ivory Coast. The result is a breath taking combination of photographs, literary texts and graphic novels.

eason 3 of Nigeria’s biggest music show, Nigerian Idol kicks off tomorrow with auditions in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Auditions which will take place at the Rockview Royal Hotel starting by 7.00 a.m.; lead

Burial rite for Miss Nigeria 1958 starts

IllRhymz, host of Nigerian Idol Season 3.

sponsors of Nigerian Idol; Etisalat would host a concert with leading acts at every audition city to excite and entertain contestants.

Own the night at emBARssy

or a fun Saturday night out this weekend, another edition of Own the Night with Knights Whisky, a soiree organised by Basketmouth’s club, emBARssy Bar and Lounge will take place.

The event will be hosted by comedian Buchi and expected in attendance are DJ Neptune and M.I amongst others. The venue is emBARssy, University Road, Akoka, Lagos and kick off time is 7.00 p.m.

Hennessey Club tour with M.I, Naeto C

he family of late Helen Nkechinyere Anyameluna (75), a beauty queen who won the Miss Nigeria Pageant in 1958, will hold a service of songs for her tomorrow at Ire Akari Estate, Isolo, a suburb of Lagos. The exMiss Nigeria died on July 28 at her residence in Ugbodu, Aniocha, LGA, Delta State, after a fulfilling life. ‘Madam Helenco’, as she was popu-

Helen as Miss Nigeria in 1958

ap stars M.I and Naeto C make their final Hennessy Artistry club appearance today at Octopus Reloaded in Yaba, Lagos. Joining the hip hop heavyweights for the party would be emerging acts, Rayce and Ms Jaie. Time is for the party 10.00 p.m.

larly called, was an astute business woman and philantrophist. The day’s programme starts between 12.00 noon and 6.00 p.m. would feature other attractions like cultural performances. Naeto C (L) and M.I.

Denrele’s Day P. 32-33

MCSN IS QUICK TO

Escape

Mayo Ayilaran, D.G, MCSN

Afam Ezekude, D.G, NCC

P. 31

Will MCSN win the battle against MultiChoice, NCC?

Mirror Mongers

he stage seems set for an intriguing legal battle as regards copyright administration in Nigeria. This follows the Monday, October 8, 2012 ruling by a Federal High Court in Lagos, presided over by Hon. Justice M. Idris in a suit filed by pay TV service provider, MultiChoice against the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria, MCSN. Although MultiChoice in the suit FHC/L/CS/1091/11 against MCSN had asked the court for a perpetual injunction stopping MCSN from asking or demanding them (MultiChoice) to obtain copyright licence for broadcast and communication to the public of musical works on the radio and television channels operated and distributed by MultiChoice within Nigeria ‘because MCSN was not licensed or approved by the Nigerian Copyright Commission as a collecting society’, the Federal High Court however set November 1 for hearing of the parties. This ruling, according to facts gathered by Friday Flavour, is capable of casting a new shade on the on-going legal battle between the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) and MCSN as regards the latter’s eligibility to administer rights in Nigeria. MultiChoice, who had earlier been sued by the MCSN for N5.2bn for rights of works broadcast between 2006 till date, had hinged its suit on a ruling by an Appeal Court in favour of NCC in the case between Compact Disc Technologies Ltd. and MCSN. While the interpretation of this ruling squarely rests on legal wits, the parties involved in the ongoing matter have been claiming victory in advance as regards their legal pursuits. In a telephone interview with Friday Flavour, Olumide Ekisola, the lawyer representing MCSN

quired most of its copyright (which is the subject matter in the case) before the enactment of the Copyright Act 2004 and the establishment of the Nigerian Copyright Commission” But Mr. Obi Ezeilo who heads the prosecution department of the NCC however describes MCSN’s claims as misleading. “That is my problem with these MCSN people. They are quick to run to the press with misleading facts but the law is clear on this matter. The Copyright Act gives NCC the right to determine who should be a collecting society in Nigeria. Our lawyer was in court on Monday when the ruling was given and incidentally the press statement being circulated by MCSN is a misleading representation of the situation. The interpretation is not that MCSN should go ahead and administer rights. MultiChoice had approached the court asking for a perpetual injunction but the court by that ruling is saying that the preliminary objection is premature. The meaning is that the court wants to hear all the parties beginning from November 1”. When Friday Flavour reminded Ezeilo of the Compact Disc Technology versus MCSN case and how the Commission benefitted from the judgement in the Appeal Court, he noted that a Federal High Court does not have superiority over the Appeal Court that handed down the ruling. “There is a hierarchy in terms of delivering judgement. An Appeal Court is superior to a High Court. And like I told you earlier, that ruling does not mean MCSN is free to administer rights. Its interpretation is that the Federal High Court was ready to hear all the parties”. As the matter rages, one question will continue to bug the minds of many Nigerians who depend on MultiChoice for entertainment; will the pay TV’s services remain qualitative if they suffer a N5.2bn penalty?

P. 24-25

N5.2BN ROYALTIES:

NGOZI EMEDOLIBE

P. 34

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

Inside FCT

VOL. 2 No. 468

Artman In The House

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

I want to show an Africa in Lola Akinmade-Åkerström is arguably the best kept secret about the global reach and brilliance of Nigerians in the creative arts. The Sweden-based visual artist, photographer and travel blogger has garnered nearly 20 international awards and mentions for her celebrated work in photography and writing. In September, National Geographic Channel enlisted the feisty photo-artist to join two other photographers on ‘Through the Lens’ project, a collaborative campaign between National Geographic and South Africa Tourism to document three of South Africa’s landmark destinations; Cape Town, Drakensburg and Durban. In this interview with ADENRELE NIYI from S’ Africa while working on the project, an engaging Lola explores the Nigerian roots in her artistry and obliges Friday Flavour with tidbits about her family life. Excerpts: Do your photographic subjects find you or is it the other way round? It really depends on the purpose and nature of my travels. Unless I’m on a specific assignment, I usually take a lot of travel portraits and street everyday photography; so in a sense, I seek out my photography subjects. People whose stories are written all over their face tend to draw me in. I love listening to people and discovering their stories and what’s important to them. And as a photographer, I aim to capture those moments of joy, bliss and contentment in people’s lives, no matter their personal situations, struggles or successes.

tural aspects and diversity of Durban and KwaZulu-Natal.

How many years have you been a professional photographer? I’ve always been interested in photography as a side passion but it wasn’t until around 2007, that I decided to professionally pursue it full-time.

Is this your first expansive photographic work on the continent? I’ve done a lot of work in Nigeria (both personal projects and work-related projects) as well as in Egypt and now South Africa. I’d love to do something similar like I did for SA all over Africa - from the vibrant cultures in West Africa to the stunning landscapes in Northern Africa to rich wildlife reserves in Eastern and Southern Africa - but above all, focusing on their people and capturing those moments of joy in their lives no matter their personal situations.

How early in life did you discover photography and travel writing as your passions? In terms of writing, I started out as a fiction writer during my teens, but never really did publish any of those books I wrote. It wasn’t until I volunteered as a field journalist with the Eco-Challenge Expedition race in Fiji Islands did I realise how much I enjoyed writing about places and people. As for photography, whenever I travelled, I usually took photos to paint from as an artist. It was then I realised the photos could stand on their own and I didn’t need to duplicate creative effort. At what stage did you become a part of ‘Through the Lens’ campaign for National Geographic Channel? I received an email in early June from the TTL campaign’s producer. He’d seen one of my photos in National Geographic Traveller because I have freelanced for them in the past and I still write for them. He did some Google searches, found and looked through my online portfolio and realised I was a good fit to cover the cul-

How long is this project for? It’s for two years. I just wrapped up filming in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal. They’ve got two other photographers there, one of them is shooting in Drakensberg (Stephen Alvarez) and the other is in Cape Town (Heather Perry). So, it’s us three photographers working now, then they’re going to bring a few more people. A film crew follows us around as we work and experience South Africa and the project will air in January on National Geographic Channel.

Some of the pictures you took at a spice shop at Durban are vibrant and telling; what’s your impression of this city as a subject of photo documentary? Durban was absolutely vibrant and what I loved about it is its diverse mix of cultures, traditions, and lifestyles - from surfers to Indian spice traders - all sharing the same space in a respectful manner. It reminds me of how Lagos prides itself in being a vivid mix of peoples and religions who live harmoniously with each other. Do you agree with the notion that Africans will do better telling Africa’s story? As an African whose traditional values also permeates my lifestyle, I always appreciate it when people tell stories that respect my culture, and I personally get

Photograph taken in an Indian spice shop in Durban

Lola (captured in mid-flight) in the Swedish Lapland, a UNESCO World heritage site.

how people’s own traditions and cultures affect their everyday lives and decisionmaking. So my job as a photographer is to portray someone with the utmost respect I can give them - from children to elders and everyone in between. I want to show more than the singular view of Africa that a lot of the world consumes. I want to show an Africa in which there is actually contentment and joy; an Africa where people are content and grateful for their lives, no matter their status in life. People don’t need much to be truly happy and content and this scene plays out in a good portion of the continent. Did your work for Vogue Magazine move away from travel to fashion photography? I don’t consider myself a fashion photographer. I focus on travel and lifestyle photography for various publications like National Geographic Traveller and BBC. So the photo in Vogue was actually of an Ankara trader who was resting against a stack of neatly folded Ankara fabric in Balogun Market. I’d spent some time with the ladies there and was able to get a relaxed portrait of her. That photo was used to illustrate an article on how Ankara was/is making a big hit in the fashion world. How much of an influence did your home country have on the development of your

I LOVE BEING IN THE BUSTLING MARKETS

LAGOS; FROM BALOGUN TO OKE ARIN, I LOVE THE MARKET LIFESTYLE. OF

art? I think being Nigerian/African does affect how I gravitate towards colour because we naturally like bold tones and patterns and prints. I am absolutely drawn to rich vibrant colour and that is evident in my photographic work. The photos are vivid, the people are vibrant. The world is absolutely beautiful in its simplicity and diverse colons, and I aim to capture those. And what feature of Nigeria or the Nigerian experience stirs your interest as a travel photographer? Believe it or not, I love being in the bustling markets of Lagos; from Balogun to Oke Arin, I love the market lifestyle. The beehive of activity where you see a good cross-section of the city’s residents. The colours, noise, smells, and sounds are all part of what turn me on as a travel photographer within my own country and inspire me. I’m also a practicing Chris-

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, October 12, 2012

Artman In The House

which there is joy –Lola FACT FILE •

Lola Akinmade-Åkerström is an origin of Ondo Town, Ondo.

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She was born and bred in Lagos but relocated to the U.S at the age of 15 where she had her college and university education.

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Lola holds an MSc in Information Systems from the University of Maryland .She specialised in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for 10+ years.

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Her work has appeared in Vogue, National Geographic Traveller, BBC, San Francisco Chronicle, Travel Channel’s World Hum, Forbes Traveller, United’s Hemispheres, Guardian UK’s Been There, Smithsonian. com, amongst others.

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Some of her articles and photography have been syndicated on MSNBC, Yahoo, New York Daily News, Chicago Sun Times, Huffington Post and Time Warner.

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She has also worked as a field journalist on the web team during Eco-Challenge’s Expedition Race in Fiji and currently volunteers as a photojournalist with the Swedish Red Cross and World Hope International, documenting their projects in several countries.

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Lola also works with C.H.I.E.F –an NGO based in Nigeria that promotes grassroots health development, HIV/ AIDS awareness, and the empowerment of women.

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Among her numerous laurels, Lola recently won silver in the 2012 Solas Awards – Best in Travel Writing (Travel and Food) for her article “Meat My Love”.

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Her favourite Nigerian food is ‘Afang’ with pounded yam.

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She lives in Sweden with her husband of two years and 7-month old daughter

Lola

Lola (L) and Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden and Duchess of Västergötland

Lola captures rural life in KwaZulu-Natal

tian and my faith values always aid me in seeing the positives in people’s lives and help me to spotlight and highlight them through photography. There are so many everyday stories of people living a fulfilled life that never get shared through photography. That’s my goal with my own style of travel, street and portrait photography - joy. My favourite places to photograph would be any place where culture is being celebrated and certain lifestyles are being spotlighted – either subtly or consciously. Right now, I’m currently the photoblogger for Sweden’s official website and my task is to show everyday

lifestyle in Sweden – both the exciting as well as the boring stuff – so people can see and form their own opinions about the country. What is the most challenging part of your work? Knowing when to walk away from a photograph. You may have spent a good amount of time getting to know someone, listening to their stories, sharing yours, only to have them refuse to have their portrait taken, and that’s okay. No matter how intriguing your photographic subject is, remember they are human beings first and as a photographer, I

need to respect their wishes first. It’s easy to deduce you are a free spirit; how do you balance the swirl of work activities with family ties? I love to travel and I travel often, but now that I’m married with an infant as well (seven months as of when I went on assignment to South Africa), their needs come first. I’ve grateful and blessed to be married to a wonderful man who understands my free spirit and supports my work as a writer and photographer. And my child has already been to four countries before her sixth month birthday so I weave travel into our lifestyle. I now

have a career as a location independent professional which allows me to work from anywhere if I need to. What is the daily schedule in your regular routine life like? Again, it totally depends since I work a very flexible schedule so I don’t have a “regular” routine in the traditional sense of the word. As long as my child is well fed, bathed, and takes her naps sometime during the day, everything else is fair game - from travelling to working on an assignment to taking everyday photos to social media and consulting work.

Critics

Friday, October 12, 2012

Performance

Reading

Death and life

Three books, three writers and a feisty audience Last Tuesday (last Tuesday in September), the Association of Nigerian Authors, Abuja, had another Reading Session, the September 2012 edition. Three writers were guests of the day. In this piece, IZUCHUKWU OKEKE presents a round-up on the event.

t was a memorable evening that Tuesday when the Abuja chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (ANA), hosted three talented writers to a reading in its September edition of the monthly guest writers’ session. The event which took place at the serene Treasure Island, Zoological Garden, Area 1, Garki brought together writers, critics and booklovers to appreciate the recent publications of the guest authors for the day; Sterile Sky by Dr. Emmanuel Egya Sule; Shadow Fall by Miss Hajo Isah and Crushed Mr. Tope Fasua. Dr. Sule is a popular name in the literary circle in Nigeria, Africa and around the globe. He is an Associate Professor of English at the Department of English, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Niger. Before this, he was a post-doctoral Research Fellow and Scholar in Residence at the Institute of Asian and African Studies, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany. A prolific writer and critic, Sule has written many critical essays in books, journals and conference brochures including What the Sea Told Me, a collection of poetry in 2009; Dream and Shame, a collection of short stories in 2006; Naked Sun a collection of poetry in 2006; Knifing Tongues a collection of poetry, in 2005; Impotent Heavens a collection of short stories in 2004. In 2009, he won the ANA/NDDC Gabriel Okara Poetry Prize Award for poetry with his work, What the Sea Told Me and in 2012, his latest work Sterile Sky was in the final 10 shortlist of the NLNG Prize for Literature. Hajo Isa is an Abuja based lawyer, civil servant, poet, photographer and author. An indigene of Kebbi State, she is a graduate of Ahmadu Bello University. Hajo has been writing poetry in the recent time, and is a literary enthusiast. Her poems have been published in several online magazines and anthology such as sentinel annual literature anthology 2010, Karen O’leary and Gayle anthology for 2012, and Naija Talk Literature magazine among others. Tope Kolade Fasua is a trained economist, accountant, banker, financial analyst and writer. His writings are all scholarly than literary, but all focused on issues about Africa’s under-development. He is a member of Financial Markets Committee, Financial Sector Strategy for Vision 20:2020, Nigeria, since June 2008 till date and an Economic and Social Commentator and Financial Columnist of Sunday Trust Newspaper, Abuja. His passion for Africa has led him to writing soul-searching books on how to rescue the continent in this era of her stationary movement in development.

The books Sule’s Sterile Sky speaks for itself. A book not hitherto in the Nigerian bookstores has suddenly become the talk of the town, with the recent nomination for NLNG Prize for Literature. It shows the strength of Sule’s writing; a complex narrative with thematic focus on the pervasive religious crisis in Nigeria, among many other minor themes. EE Sule’s power of description was unleashed in full force in this book and while it is shy of pontificat-

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

OYINKAN SOMORIN

T Fasua reading from his book, Crushed

THE THREE BOOKS DREW LOTS OF COMMENTS FROM THE IMPRESSIVE AUDIENCE ing, it condemns the nuisance of religious fiefdom and self-righteousness that has become the bane of religious folks in our country. Shadow Fall, a collection of poems is a presentation of life’s many experiences from the eyes of the author. For those who had the opportunity of reading Hajo, what is evident is that her poetry is crisp, sharp, succinct and yet full of deep meanings. She easily switches mood; from line to line, sometimes from joy to melancholy and vice versa. But her communication ability is strong. Her poetry is very enjoyable. Crushed, the title of Fasua’s book, sounds literary but the book is not. It is rather a deeply soul searching explorative missive on the problems of development in Africa. The choice of this book for a reading is to popularise it because contained in there are hard truths all Nigerians and Africans, need to hear at this critical time in the history of the continent. These truths present reality to all the stakeholders that Africa has been crushed over the years by forced colonisation and amalgamations and now persistent idiosyncratic myopic leadership many of her nations have lived with over the years. ‘Crushed’ did not fail to point the way forward if indeed Africans are ready to start on a new journey towards development. It is indeed the book all politicians and bureaucrat continent-wide must read.

he venue was main auditorium, University of Lagos, Akoka, Yaba and it was art affair for organisers Covenant Christian Centre on whose platform Extreme Reaction, the church’s drama group, brought on stage a dance/drama performance titled Death for Life. The entrance to the event was captivating adding a touch to the theme of the dance-drama. Out there, the setting was one of a cemetery and at the background, ghostly music which spooked the little ones that came to watch the show, played. Inside the auditorium, soft jazz wafted to appease the soul of audience members as the main show experienced delay. The evening’s performance started with a small orchestra performing with musical instruments only and delighting the audience with familiar tunes. Next was the Bible reading for the day taken from the book of Romans 8:1-34, followed by poems in form of rap giving words of wisdom. A choreography by the youthful Extreme Reaction crews showcased dance steps imitating the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson’s Thriller was done perfectly. Death for Life is about two friends; one an icecream seller the other a cemetery keeper. The cemetery keeper known as Kola requested his friend (name not mentioned) to stay with him for the night because he was afraid. The ice cream seller initially refused but Kola was able to convince him by bribing him with palm-wine, which they both savoured. A display of happiness was shown with dance steps from both men. It didn’t take them long to start arguing about life and death; Kola walked away with his radio (which played a vital role in the show) and the other man went to sleep. The dream holds the

The performances However, the evening was not all about reading. As usual with ANA Abuja readings in recent time, there were open mic performances with Dike Chukwumerije, the National Slam Champion and the Revolution has no Tribe crooner taking lead. Valerino, an Abuja based poetic/musician also gave a solo performance.

The discourse With each author given opportunity to read excerpts from their books, the house went into discourse emanating from the readings. Expectedly, the three books drew lots of comments from the impressive audience. It needs mentioning here a question by one of the guests, Barrister Musa Ikhilor to Sule, which queried his involvement with NLNG prize, which he, Sule, had criticised in the past. To this Sule replied that he is a critic and the idea of criticism is to right wrongs. And his criticism of NLNG is in line with speaking his mind on few things he found odd about the prize, with a view to making it better. Over years, there have been improvements benefiting Nigerian writers. On this note the house went into photo sessions and book signings. For those who were part of the evening, the opinion is unanimous; it had been a memorable evening.

A scene from Death for Life performance.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, October 12, 2012

Critics

Theatre

to the extreme THOUGH THERE WERE TOUCHES OF CREATIVITY IN THE DRAMA, BUT THE PERFORMERS TOOK IT TO THE EXTREME LIKE THEIR NAME rest of the story which revolves around the lives of three people; a married couple, the job seeker and a lady who lost her father. Though there were touches of creativity in the drama, the performers took it to the extreme like their name .The different acts in each scene though interesting were somehow confusing became each scene didn’t have a link to the theme of the show. The drama is divided into two sections; one for the radio station, Torch Fm 94.3 and the other which was supposed to be the ice-cream man’s dream. Each scene entes into each other but one cannot really tell which belongs to the radio station and which to the dreamer. Both scenes had a lot of dance performances and music instrumental displays, drama, poetry and jokes. Dark coloured bulbs were used for the stage light, thereby making the stage too dark for the audience and faces of the performers could not be seen clearly. Thanks to the spotlight that helped the lighting department a little though the light was not too consistent. Audio from the performance was poor; microphones did not improve the audio for the audience who were seated some distance from the stage. The concepts used for the drama were all foreign settings; no touch of native culture was seen in any of the performances though different songs were used from different parts of the world. It is commendable though that the performance was from young people who are not trained theatre artists; according to the organisers, the dance/drama presentation was an original idea.

The Bridge performance.

Linking the bridge to patriotism The Bridge, a dance drama performed by the National Troupe of Nigeria, premiered at the National Theatre, Lagos on Saturday, September 29 to commemorate Nigeria’s 52nd independence anniversary celebrated on October 1. The piece is a culmination of the three major genres of theatre arts; dance, drama and music, in one package. OLAYIWOLA AWAKAN

his year’s independence commemoration was celebrated by creative minds in dance, drama and musical performances geared towards showcasing the nation’s rich cultural endowments, assessing her political and economic status, correcting national incongruity and proffering solutions to the problems facing the ‘celebrant’, Nigeria, and her inhabitants. Regardless of the problems of insecurity, corruption, unemployment, political irregularities, epileptic power supply and other scourge battering the nation, many people were still proud to celebrate the day in an elaborate way. Conspicuously, the atmosphere was flamboyantly captured with the national shades of green and white. Among the series of creative routines for the occasion was the National Troupe’s performance of the newly created dance drama The Bridge, written and choreographed by Arnold Udoka, and premiered to lovers of the stage. Before the command performance, Femi Ogunrombi and his team entertained the audience with a live music. Amongst the performers was Udoh Mariha, the esteemed xylophonist who thrilled with his craft. The Bridge tells the story of a young man who has a good life with his wife, family and friends. A sudden promotion heightens the happy mood until the dampener is revealed; the new promotion is a ticket to the dreaded land of Tanfo, a failed metropolis with high level of insecurity, corruption, civil strife, rancour and power struggle among the people. The new station turns the mood of the expressive dance-drama to that of anxiety and general sadness, aided by the fact that the young man is lured by work to leave his young and heavily pregnant wife behind. Thus, the first scene closes with the young woman wailing her heart out at the loss

IN THE USUAL BEAUTY OFTEN CREATED BY THE NATIONAL TROUPE TECHNICAL CREW AT EVERY PRODUCTION, THE SET WAS SIMPLE of her lover and husband, together with his kinsmen, she begs him not to go, but he steps into his fate-decided future. The situation in Tanfo brings the young man to a resolve to effect a change and heal the land. The different ethnic groups in Tanfo put up a show of snatching power from one another, putting the land in constant turmoil and despair. In the course of this, the young banker stands as the instrument of change and eventually gets his wish of healing the land and ending the reign of strife and terror. Just as he was able to put things right and ensure the end of political strife brought on by greed and avarice associated with power play, his lovely wife steps into a renewed Tanfo with her tiny babe, who seems to be the bringer of good that eventually wins the struggle. In the usual beauty often created by the National Troupe’s technical crew at every production, the set was simple. The costumes, props and other aspects of the theatre were well-organised for professionalism. Another aspect of the performance was the well-composed songs and the descriptive contemporary dances. The dancers and actors employed an especially aesthetic display of contemporary African dance, with a dint of modern music to pass on the message of peace. A rigorously entertaining and heartfelt display of patriotism, the command performance indeed captured all and is certain to remain in the hearts of true patriots for a long time.

Inside FCT

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Demolition war claims more victims MARCUS FATUNMOLE

fforts to attract private sector participation in property development in the Federal Capital Territory as a strategic option of providing affordable accommodation for millions of residents may begin to suffer a setback. Bulldozers have now left the slums for private estates, pulling down multibillion naira investments as developers watch helplessly. Ordinarily, the rate of investment in property in the FCT is expected to trigger geometrical increase in housing estates and by implication, further advance the drive of government towards ‘housing for all’ in the country. But with the twists and turns of the ongoing demolition war embarked upon by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), such hopes seem to be threatened. One of the incidents that lend credence to this anxiety was captured by Inside FCT last week with the demolition of 500 units of four-bedroom flats in Minanuel Estate along the Abuja-Airport road near the Abuja Development Control. While it takes more than a million naira to pay for two-bedroom apartment at the heart of the city, which forces many residents to opt for homes in the villages that would literally be occupied by goats and other domestic animals, residents stood helplessly as they watched the structures flattened. To many, it was one incident, too many, whose memory would linger for decades in their hearts. To some, the magnitude of the

THIS IS MORE THAN A DISASTER; I HAVE NEVER SEEN DEMOLITION OF THIS MAGNITUDE loss in financial term is less than the impacts which the location of the incident would have on the nation. It is right along the Airport Road where many intended foreign investors and other persons drive through into the country. Ibrahim Mahmud, who was at the scene of the demolition, spoke with Inside FCT. “No one ever believed such a thing could happen. We thought it was a joke when the bulldozers arrived. Many of my people here live in huts. Then, under their watchful eyes, this demolition of billions of naira property occurred. It is too bad and smacks of a complete lack of direction in this country. How would foreigners feel? I can’t see a thing like this and be convinced that such a place would be safe for my investment”, he said. Mary Aboyade, a nearby resident, told our reporter: “I would be surprised if Mr. President and his ministers who are canvassing for domestic and foreign investments fail to do anything about this high-level disaster. Does it mean that government and the developer could not reach a consensus? Where was government before the estate got to the level of near-completion? If the estate had been completed and given out to tenants, would it not have been beneficial to the

What is left of Minanuel Estate after the demolition exercise

government and citizenry. One of the major challenges in the city has been accommodation. It is so unfortunate that this type of thing could still go on in Nigeria”. At a media briefing in Abuja, Director of the Department of Development Control, Abuja Metropolitan Management Council, Mr. Yahaya Yusuf had accused some estate developers of building along the road with backdated allocation document in spite of notices issued to them, threatening that some of the estates would be demolished. “The demolition affected estates belonging to the Nigerian Prisons Service, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps and Liberty estates. The developers ignored the various stop work and quit notices served on them and the department had no alternative than to pull down the structures, many of which are at advanced levels”. Property destroyed was put at N3billion; Abu Ibrahim, a native of Gosa community where the incident took place said: “This is more than a disaster; I have never seen demolition of this magnitude”. Meanwhile, Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) and other stakeholders have expressed dismay over the action. Speaking with Inside FCT on Wednesday at the site, REDAN Chairperson, FCT chapter, Mrs. Binta Ibrahim said the action was an economic waste, adding that the action would never help the agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan. She, therefore, ordered stoppage of all estate building development in the city.

House for sale

Property business slumps in FCT GEORGE OJI

here is a noticeable lull in property business in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the recent times; about three years ago, the story used to be different. Then, property business was the fastest thriving in the city. But in the past year or so, the trend appears to have been reversed. Now, in almost every nook and cranny of the city one visits, there are houses either advertising for purchase or lease. Unfortunately though, the asking prices for both rent and sale are beyond what the average income earner can afford. The result is that many residents who have urgent need of accommodation keep away from such houses and instead migrate to the city’s outskirts and slums where houses are relatively more affordable. The areas mostly affected are the Utako districts, Gwarimpa housing estates, Katampe districts, Apo districts, Lokogoma and Kabusa districts and the entire stretch of Galadimawa amongst others. The boom period for property business in Abuja appears to have taken place in the past five years. Within this time, a lot of slush fund made the rounds in the city and with the crash of the capital market and low receiving interest rates by the banks, these monies found safe haven in the Abuja property business. The result was that houses and plots of lands in Abuja became very competitive and in the process, they were priced above their real values and every Tom, Dick and Harry got involved in estate business over night. There were even more middlemen than the dealers, resulting in all kinds of price mark-up. The situation can best be illustrated through Sun City Estate, one of the medium/high income estates in the Galadima district area of Abuja, which was developed and managed by an housing development company called Adkan. In 2007, a three-bedroom bungalow in the estate (unpainted with a small boys’ quarters space) went for N12m, while the four-bedroom duplex (unpainted and boys’ quarters) went for N25m. By 2010, the same house types had gone up to N18m and N35m respectively. A year after, those houses were available at N30m and N50m respectively. But now, buyers are nowhere to be found. The same situation applied to many houses for rent in the city. While there are many beautiful houses for rent, there is a scarcity of cashready tenants. Yet, the property business in Abuja has failed to respond to tested principles of demand and supply. Going by this simple eco-

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Friday, October 12, 2012

Inside FCT

Abuja Trade Fair: Participants unhappy with outcome OBIORA IFOH

T WHILE POTENTIAL TENANTS ARE SCARED OFF BECAUSE OF THE HIGH RENTAL, LANDLORDS ON THEIR PART HAVE DELIBERATELY REFUSED TO REDUCE THE COST OF RENTAL nomic principle, the prices of the property for sale and rent ought to have taken a nose dive. Unfortunately, this has not been so. Inside FCT discovered that the lull in the property business in Abuja is largely caused by the fact that government has successfully severed many sources of free and loose funds. This has resulted in reasonably checking the mad rush for acquisition of houses and plots of land in Abuja. An estate developer who spoke to Inside FCT on condition of anonymity blamed the trend on what he described as ‘bad’ economy. “It is just that the economy is very bad, things are no longer as they used to be, there is no money anywhere again”, he stated. A financial consultant also confirmed to our reporter that, “The cash squeeze was brought about by the strict fiscal policy of the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala who is insisting on prudent and judicial utilisation of the nation’s scarce resources”. Investigation by Inside FCT showed that the Utako district of the city has the greatest number of houses up for rent. Largely a residential area, Utako falls under the third phase of the FCT development plan and it is nearly fully developed with infrastructure such as water, roads, light, etc. in place. Presently, a standard plot of land in the area is priced at about N40m. Perhaps in order to fully maximise the land, it was observed, most landlords prefer to put up storey buildings instead of bungalow. The houses there (especially the ones for rent) are mainly blocks of two and three bedroom flats. The two-bedroom flats averagely go for N1.3m per annum, while the three-bedroom flats are in the neighbourhood of N2m. It was observed that there are some flats that have been up for rent in the area for the past two years or even more. So while potential tenants are scared off because of the high rental, landlords on their part have deliberately refused to reduce the cost of rental. One of the estate agents, who gave his name as Shuaibu, tried to justify the position of landlords when he told our reporter that; “the houses here are of the highest quality you can get anywhere in Abuja. If you know the cost and quality of building materials used to construct the houses, then as a landlord, you must ensure recovery of your investment through the rent”. But considering that Abuja is a city peopled mainly by civil servants, one wonders how easy it would be to get residents with the financial capability to afford such rents; and this is where the issue of corruption creeps in.

rade fairs are usually avenues for manufacturing companies to showcase their competitive edge in products designs and functionality to teeming consumers who excitedly troop the venue to make purchases at rebated prices and enjoy commercial attractions of exhibitions. Most manufacturers also use fairs to introduce new products and educate consumers on how the products can outperform older brands. Fairs have become a constant phenomenon in Nigerian big cities including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and are usually organised by government agencies. The current trade fair holding in FCT along Airport Road is organised by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ABUCCIMA). It was opened amid fanfare on Thursday, September 27 and ends today after two weeks of heavy commercial activities and social networking. Before now, the event had held at the Eagle Square; the organisers effected a change of venue this year as part of efforts to bring people closer to ABUCCIMA’s administrative headquarters and possibly provide information to those seeking to know more about the chamber. Expectedly, participants came from different countries such as Ghana, Senegal, Malaysia, Philippine, India, Benin Republic, Togo and Mali for marketing and contact opportunities. Each person who came into the venue paid N100 as entry fee and products at the fair cut across all sectors of human needs. Some of them included electricity transformers, farm implements such as tractors, chemicals and other farm tools; kitchen wares; office items, electronic gadgets; children toys and generators, among numerous others. Some challenges for visitors at the fair included non-availability of Automatic Teller Machine (ATM), which is really a major setback. Only one bank operated at the grounds and without ATM. Many buyers came with the intention of getting cash at the venue but they were disappointed. Mr. Victor Francis, a seller of electronic gadgets, complained of low patronage, the rainfall and location which he said hindered many people from visiting the fair. “I am not really impressed with this year’s fair; the venue is not helping us at all. We came here to sell our products at cheap prices, but the buyers are not coming. Even those who came could not get an ATM to dispense cash to them. It is not good at all”, Francis lamented. Earlier in the week, another seller at the fair, Gift Dovi Sam, a Ghanaian, complained to Inside FCT about low sales. She said: “This is not a good experience at all. Some of us from Ghana will leave this place before Friday (i.e. today

Some of the stalls at the Fair.

SOME OBSERVED CHALLENGES FOR VISITORS AT FAIR INCLUDED NON-AVAILABILITY OF

ATM

when the programme is expected to end). Our experience at the Eagle Square in 2011 was better than this year. This venue does not allow enough customers”. Speaking with Inside FCT, Gen. Indian Garba (Rtd.), the Vice President, ABUCCIMA and Chairman, Planning Committee of the fair explained that; “The small medium enterprises are the engines of growth; that is why we are promoting this trade fair. It is to let people know products that are manufactured in Nigeria and outside Nigeria which are put on display by the manufacturers. It serves also as a market for people who come to the fair, see what they like and buy. It brings people from all parts of the world being an International Fair. More than 95 percent of products on display are made in Nigeria”, he informed. Speaking on the turnout of people at the fair, Garba said: “The turnout has been impressive. It is beyond our imagination particularly since it is the first time we are coming to this place. We had to do massive advertising to attract people to this venue. In fact, we got more companies participating here than at the initial venue, the Old Parade ground. This place has a 12-hectare space. There were about 450 participants and you could see that it just looks as a drop of water in the ocean, given the much space we have here. Every day, we recorded no less than 4000 visitors at this fair. That is a sign of good success”, he stated. While calling on government to do more to promote made in Nigerian goods, Gaba said; “The government of Ghana sent its people to the fair in order to exhibit what they produce in Ghana. We expect that government would help us in that regard and government should build infrastructure which will help in promoting this type of event. It should also ensure there are centres of international standards that would help in showcasing made in Nigeria goods”. Some of the benefits of the fair, Garba noted, are promotion of locally made goods, employment generation and promotion of international trade, among others. He apologised for non-availability of ATM at the venue, saying it was as a result of new location. “By next year, banks must have come here with the machines”, he promised. The venue was guarded by the Nigerian Army, the Nigeri Police and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Arty News

Friday, October 12, 2012

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THE HEADIES 2012

Music veterans, nominees, fans set to party

L-R: Omawumi and M.I

Femi Kuti at an earlier performance

ADENRELE NIYI

s the countdown to the 2012 edition of The Headies coming up on Saturday, October 20 begins this weekend, the excitement around urban music’s most prestigious award for excellence and outstanding creativity in music crafts is palpable. Starting tomorrow, The Headies will throw raves to host industry veterans and award nominees contending for laurels in the 19 categories. The traditional

Nominees’ Party will be held in two cities; in Lagos tomorrow at the Cool World Showroom located on Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island and in Abuja on Thursday, October 18, at the exclusive House of Cubana (Klub Vaniti). This innovative development is to widen the scope of participation by music enthusiasts, industry stakeholders and faithful fans in Nigeria’s biggest and best organised music awards show. Themed: “Step into the Spotlight”, the 2012 edition continues to blaze trails in Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives and en-

gaging young people positively Taking its innovative edge a notch higher, The Headies is also introducing a high profile event tagged ‘Veterans’ Night’ as part of activities leading up to the award ceremony. Veterans’ Night is a black tie event to honour and celebrate musicians of yesteryears in a convivial environment with neo-urban music artistes and other industry personalities. Scheduled to hold at the Grand Ballroom of the Eko Hotel and Suites on October 19 (eve of the award ceremony), it promises to be an engaging evening of fine

dining and performances from contemporary artistes. According to Ayo Animashaun, CEO of Smooth Productions (organiser of The Headies), A-list celebrities, industry heads and personality expected at the ‘Veterans’ Night’ include Ken Caleb Olumese, Tony Okoroji, Daniel Wilson, Oritz Wiliki, Chris Okotie, Daddy Fresh, Stella Monye, Baba Fryo, Edi Lawani, Easy K, Pretty (Junior & Pretty), Fellyx, (Fellyx & Mozzyx), Alex Zitto, Edmund Spice, Ras Kimono, Majek Fishhook, Mandators, Edna Ogoli, Bongos Ike, Unyoke Onwenu, KWAM 1, Mike Okra, Blackky and much more. However, the highpoint of the main award show will likely be the

Hoodrush hits cinemas today

Barrister’s daughter releases Adieu, Mr. Fuji

…Denrele to host premiere at Silverbird Galleria

oodrush, a highly-anticipated movie with a cast predominantly made up of emerging talents in Nollywood, will be premiered exclusively at the Silverbird Galleria today. The musical flick from the stable of Flipsyde Studios features an impressive cast of talented Nollywood veteran, Bimbo Akintola; and impressive fresh hands like O.C Ukeje, Chelsea Eze, Gabriel Afolayan and Bolanle Ninolowo of Diesel Music, among others, all of whom are expected to attend the event. Many celebrities and industry stake-

L-R Bimbo and Ukeje in a scene from the movie

holders are all expected to grace the red carpet at the grand premiere while ebullient Channel O VeeJay, Denrele Edun will host. Hoodrush was written, directed and produced by Dimeji Ajibola, Technical Director at Flipsyde Studios. The creative entrepreneur with interests in filmmaking, virtual worlds, 3D animation, cartoons, interactive digital media and music, studied Filmmaking and Cinematography at the New York Film Academy. Speaking on what to expect at the premiere, one of the lead cast, Bimbo Akintola said, “Finally, the wait is now over. Cinema audience can now see what the actors and Flipsyde Studios have been ‘cooking’ up these past months which is a departure from the norm in Nollywood”. Likewise, Ukeje added that “If you are looking for a different, but unique film experience, Hoodrush is it. The movie was shot on another level of creativity; the director knew what he wanted and demanded that we gave it our best shot”.

live performance by Afrobeat maestro and one of Africa’s greatest music exports, Femi Kuti alongside his award-winning band and scintillating dancers. Femi will also be inducted into the Headies’ Hall of Fame at the event Since inception of the awards in 2006, The Headies, formerly known as the Hip-Hop World Awards, has become synonymous to artistic ingenuity and excellence. Hosted this year by rapper M.I. and Afro-soul singer, Omawumi, many of Nigeria’s hit-making names are up against one another to take home the gold-plated plaque called ‘Headie’. Winning one has become a career defining moment for many artistes.

Modinat

he late Fuji music legend, Dr. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister was a music icon of repute in his life time. Coupled with the fact that he was admired as creative mentor and a loving father, one of his children, Modinat Asabi Ademola, a.k.a.Barry Ti De, has released a brand new album titled: Adieu, Mr. Fuji to immortalise Dr. Ayinde. According to her, she derived inspiration for the album from the immense love and care shown his children during her late father’s lifetime and this informs the hit track, Tribute to My Father.

“He was a father in a million. He really took care of us and I can’t forget all the loving memories I have about him. He lived a very fruitful life and this album encapsulates what he means to all his children. I miss his valuable advice, his unconditional love and immeasurable support “, she said. Modinat has been making waves in the local music scene for years, debuting with Barry Made, an album which featured the late fuji icon. The new album was released into the market on the Lukfem Music and Films International label, owned by Lukman Femi Abdulahman. Modinat disclosed that her music is a blend of fuji and Islamic music as she is well grounded in both genres because of her background. “I used to perform on stage with my father and I know I am very well versed in the Quran. My training prepared me for this challenge and I give out my best when it comes to music”, she stated. She hinted that plans are in the offing to do a re-mix of some of Barrister’s popular tracks in a forthcoming album also to be released by Lukfem.

Yaum al-Jumu’ah, Dhul Qaddah 27, 1433AH Friday, October 12, 2012

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Call to Worship

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

Behold Great Mosque of Hohhot

he Great Mosque is the earliest and largest mosque among those eight mosques in Hohhot, the capital city Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region which was built in 1693, renovated in 1789 and 1923. At present, it covers an area of 4000 square meters. The mosque is a strange mix of Chinese and Arabic architecture. Chinese mosques during the Qing Dynasty had minarets that were a compromise between a pure Islamic minaret and a Chinese pagoda, i.e., they were minarets that were crowned with a pavilion-type roof. Moreover, Chinese mosques of that period had steles, or plaques. The Great Mosque of Hohhot has only a single minaret, which, incidentally, was not part of the original design, but was added on later. Of the buildings here, all constructed in black brick, the grandest is the aptly named Grand Prayer Hall, behind which lies both the Teaching Hall and the Muslim Baths. All the buildings within this mosque bear Muslim characters, and especially noteworthy, are the over 30 volumes of ancient Quran scriptures, all written in Arabic. It is also possible, with permission, to climb the 15 metertall hexagonal minaret, which is topped with a pagoda style roof, for a nice view of the city. The back exit leads through a small street lined with food stalls on one side and tables and chairs on the other. Here you’ll find snacks such as noodles and kabobs. To get back to TongdaoJie, walk the full length of the lane.

Hohhot mosque

Every Friday with

Khalifatul

Islam in Inner Mongolia Islam was introduced into Inner Mongolia during the Yuan Dynasty (12791368). Towards the end of Ming Dynasty and beginning of Qing Dynasty, Qur’ran education became widespread in Inner Mongolia and many mosques were built in there. Currently, there are 210,000 Muslims in Inner Mongolia and most of them are Hui Muslims. There are over 1000 Mongolians living in Alashanqi who are Muslims as well. There are 177 mosques in Inner Mongolia: 17 mosques in Hohhot. 12 mosques in Baotou; 12 mosques in Wuhai; 26 mosques in Chifeng; 11 mosques in Tongliao, etc.

Fg asked to create a ministry for religious affairs 29

Ahmadiyya

Friday Sermon: The Prophet (saw) for mankind

he Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) stated: ‘If one has knowledge of the life experiences of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) and is fully aware what

Just Before ‘Eidul-Adha 28

was the condition of the world at the time and upon coming what the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) did, one calls out in a trance-like state ‘O Allah bless Muhammad’. I say most

truthfully, it is not mere thought and imagination, the Holy Qur’an and world history fully bear testimony to what the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) did. Otherwise why would it have been stated exclusively for him: ‘Allah and His angels send blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe! you also should invoke blessings on him and salute him with the salutation of peace.’ (33:57). Such a call was not made for any other Prophet. The only man who came to this world with complete success and complete conciliation was him; who was called Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be on him). It is evident from this verse that the pious practices of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) were such that Allah the Exalted did not specify any word to praise them or quantify CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

Govt should probe the killing of Students in Adamawa 29

Call to Worship

Yaum al-Jumu’ah, Dhul Qaddah 27, 1433AH Friday, October 12, 2012

Just Before ‘Eidul-Adha T I t is now countdown to both Hajj and Eidul-Adha. Both would have been over in the next twenty days. We pray to Allah (SWT) that we witness both in a state of peace and wellbeing. As usual, every festive occasion like this have their special reminders or teachings. Definitely, they have some attendant etiquette for all Muslims. A Muslim and non-Muslim alike are first reminded of the great Prophet of Allah (SWT), Ibraheem, as a man of true faith in the unity of God. He grew up in an idolatrous country but was steadfast in not joining the majority to disobey God; he patiently bore the persecution of his countrymen when they cast him into furnace; He took his second wife (Haajar) and the little lad Ismail, on the directive from Allah (SWT) to the desert where there was no food or people; he sincerely obeyed Allah (SWT) by his willingness to sacrifice his only son then to God; he alone along with his son rebuilt the Ka‘bah and called to it at a time when it was only in the desert; etc. Thus, the rites of Hajj and celebration of the eidul-Adha are in commemoration of this great father of monotheism. The central lesson around both is that we must renew our faith in the oneness of Allah (SWT) and let this reflect in all our thoughts, utterances and actions.

HE CENTRAL LESSON

AROUND BOTH IS THAT WE MUST RENEW OUR

FAITH IN THE ONENESS OF

ALLAH (SWT)

As a prelude towards these periods, a Muslim who intends to slaughter ram during the eid should desist from the first day of Dhul Hijjah from cutting his fingernails, hair and the like. This is based on the Hadith related by Muslim that: “ If the first ten days (of Dhul Hijjah) starts and any of you intend to slaughter ram, he should desist from cutting his hairs or finger nails.” This means that if you plan to slaughter ram during the Eidul-adha festival, you cannot cut your nails, shave or remove any hair or skin from your body (unless for health reason) but you can do that before the twelfth month starts. This is to keep you in a holy state of not having any attention for your bodily adornment but focus on the soul. The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are just like the last ten days of Ramadan except that the former has no laylatul-qadr. The Prophet (SAW) says there are no days when deeds are more beloved and meritorious

than the ones in the first ten days of this month (Dhul Hijjah). It is a sacred month in which a Muslim is expected to be closer to Allah. The Prophet enjoins that we should engage in profuse and continuous chanting of Laailaahaillahlah, Allahu Akbar, Subhanallah, etc. Fasting throughout these days is also meritorious. We should be fully devoted to Allah in these days as we used to in Ramadan or even better because the Scholars have said these are the best days in the year while the last ten days of Ramadan are the best nights. Say your Takbeer now while working, walking, eating, drinking, standing, sitting, sleeping, buying, selling till the day of slaughtering and even three days after. This is a great opportunity to amass reward and be closer to Allah. You should make sure you do not miss fasting on the day of Arafah. The reward for it is that Allah will forgive your sins for two years (past and the coming year). So, grab this spiritual bonanza and become sinless. The greatest day to Allah is the day of nahr (slaughtering), that is the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. Every Muslim Male female should endeavour to slaughter a ram, goat, etc. for Allah. Most of us, these days, spend huge amount in changing our mobile phones but when it comes to matters of worship, we

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are either negligent or unbothered. This should not be. Let us all participate in this great ibadah. After all, what Allah needs is not the bigness of the animal but the piety in our heart. We must however note these points. It is a form of worship and should never be for show off or for the sake of it. We must make our intention purely for Allah. It is unfortunate that many buy these rams to compete with others in town that “I bought it three hundred thousand” or “my ram is the biggest in town.” Such people have forfeited their rewards. More so, it is a sin to waste the lives of these creatures of Allah for such purposes. Many a people for the past years have never got reward for their slaughtering due to incorrect intention. Another compulsory ethic of this celebration is that, you must treat these animals with mercy. Dr. Zafaran is the Director, Vanguards Academy

Submission to the Will of God

n a religious parlance, submission to the will of God means Islam but this piece will delve on the why God really wants us to be submissive. First and foremost, the highest authority is God; Allah is His name and He is the Almighty, the Creator of the universe. None is worthy of worship except Him alone. Chapter 2, verses 22 – 23 of the glorious Quran says “O ye men, worship your Lord Who created you and those who were before you, that you may become righteous; Who made the earth a bed for you, and the heaven a roof, and caused water to come down from the clouds and therewith brought forth fruits for your sustenance. Set not up, therefore, equals to Allah, while you know”. Being the Controller of the whole universe, He “delegates” authority to others and mankind must be submissive to the words of Almighty Allah. Such delegated authority must be followed because it is in tandem with the words of Allah and Sunnah of the holy prophet Mohammed (SAW). Quran chapter 4, verse 59 says “you who believe! Obey Allah and the Messenger Mohammed (SAW) and those of you who are in authority. And if you differ in anything amongst yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger Mohammed (SAW) if you believe in Allah and in the last day. That is better and more suitable for final determination”. The Holy Quran’s fundamental message is the importance of focusing and shaping one’s life on Allah’s will only. Quran ordains deeds rather than words, and constantly reminds mankind to see beyond this earthly life. Almighty Allah says in the holy Quran, chapter 41, verses 2 -4 that “This Book is a revelation from the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful. Its Verses are well-expounded, a Quran in Arabic for people of knowledge. It proclaims good news and warning,

QURAN ORDAINS DEEDS RATHER

THAN WORDS, AND

The Oba of Ojodu land, Oba Dhikrullah Obatula amidst invited guests at the Muslim Congress annual Public lecture held at National Stadium, Surulere on Sunday.

CONSTANTLY REMINDS MANKIND TO SEE BEYOND THIS EARTHLY LIFE but most of them turn away, and pay no heed” It must be noted that Almighty Allah clearly states both “dos” and “don’ts” in His book. It will be in the interest of all follow His dictates strictly having known that this Almighty is in charge of our destinies. Muslims must learn on how to accept whatever that might have happened; either good or bad in good faith because Almighty has promised that both believers and nonbelievers would be tested at the appropriate time. Submission to Allah and those in authority guarantees one’s passport or license to peace and happiness. Sheikh Abdul Ganiyy Umar Arikunkewu is the Founder/National Chief Missioner of Jubulatu Rohfatu Llahi Islamic Society of Nigeria (JUBAT)

Patients being attended to at the Free Medical Services organised by the Muslim Congress (TMC) Lagos chapter.

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Friday, October 12, 2012

Call to Worship

Yaum al-Jumu’ah, Dhul Qaddah 27, 1433AH

FG asked to create a ministry for religious affairs L ATEEFAH IBRAHIMANIMASHAUN

he grand Mufti, Conference of Islamic Organisation (CIO), Sheikh Dhikrullahi Shafii has called on the Federal Government to look into the establishment of the Ministry of Religious affairs, as religion is an important aspect of politics in the country. He advised that competent and trust-worthy personalities from the prominent religions in the country should be as-

signed to manage this sector such that there will be peaceful co-existence among Nigerians. He discouraged the people from chanting songs of segregation amongst people as he stressed that there are benefits in every individual tribe. Sheikh Shafii, who was speaking at the TMC public lecture to mark the annual TMC week said that the current problems of the country has is the inability of people to go back to Allah when there is problem. He said people go back to manufacturer’s manual when there is

problem with their gadgets, but fail to do this to their creator when they are in trouble. He said that one of the principles of Islam is respect for other people’s religion and urged people of other faith to stop abusing Muslims in any form again, as he made reference to the recent film which injured the personality of the holy Prophet, Muhammad. “We name our children by the name of Jesus, Iysa; we name them Moses which is Musa. We even name our children with the name of mother of Jesus which Mary (Maryam) but

you can never find a Christian who has ever named his child Muhammad. This, to an extent, shows how tolerant Muslims are”. Meanwhile, the Waali of The Muslim Congress (TMC) Lagos state chapter, Mallam Monsuru Adebayo lamented that Nigeria cannot afford to continue with the state of things which includes bad governance, insecurity and other social vices. “What is given to us today as people is oppression and it is worse than death and this mindless criminal passivity on the part of our leaders

must not continue. Which means that we must all work together to make sure the madness comes to an end”, he said. He appealed to Muslim leaders to rise and fill the vacuum created by the demise of Alhaji Abdul Lateef Adegbite as he stated that the late leader was a voice that spoke for Muslims, and a leader who led Muslims in all fronts and never fails to represent their voice at times of difficulty. Meanwhile, the Chief Imam of Lekki Muslim Community, Barrister Abdur- Raheem Ahmad

Sayi urged youths to use their time for beneficial things and to avoid actions that will bring them close to the wrath of Allah, but make them be under his shade on the day of judgement. Part of the programme of the TMC week was a courtesy visit to the Economic and Financial Crimes commission (EFCC), visit to media houses including National Mirror newspaper, Medical caravan,(Free health care service to people) among other lectures organised to mark the week.

‘Our leaders must be committed’

Imam, Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation, Ustaz Thirmidhi Muh’d Jamiu, Chief Imam of Lekki Muslim Community, Barrister AbdurRaheem Ahmad Sayi, Mufti Conference of Islamic Organisation, Amir, The Muslim Congress, Ustaz Luqman Abdur Raheem and a guest during the the Muslim Congress public lecture held at the National Stadium, Surulere on Sunday.

Govt should probe the killing of Students in Adamawa L ATEEFAH IBRAHIMANIMASHAUN

onsidering the recent massacre of students of three higher institutions in the country, the Federal Polytechnic, Mubi; Adamawa State University and the University of Maiduguri, Borno State, the Jama’atu Nasril Is-

lam (JNI) has urged the government to dig deep into the roots of the perpetration and bring the culprits to book. The organisation, under the leadership of His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and PresidentGeneral, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar expressed condemnation over the dastardly act, saying the aim of the perpetrators

is to kill the future of Nigeria by killing the young men and women that represent the country’s future. “It is rather unfortunate that we have to condole with the families of the victims of that massacre once again after many of similar satanic acts in recent times”. The organisation commiserated with all concerned individuals and called on all the three tiers

of governments to beef up security by cooperating with the local people to prevent a reoccurrence of such incident. “Meanwhile, we urge all parents in Nigeria to pay more attention to the moral and ideological orientation of their wards, especially those in the tertiary institutions with a view to guiding them towards the right path now and in future”.

Hajj board member tasks pilgrims not to be extravagant TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE

s Nigerians travel for this year’s Hajj, a member of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Pilgrim Welfare Board, Alhaja Rukayat Raimi, has advised the pilgrims to be very careful in the course of performing this year’s Hajj and ensure that they

are not extravagance in their spending. Speaking to National Mirror, Alhaja Raimi, who is the Chairman of the 2012 Welfare Committee of the FCT Pilgrim Welfare Board, said that her board is fully prepared to ensure that all the pilgrims have a stress-free Hajj and therefore advised the pilgrims to cooperate with the Hajj

officials. Her words: “Hajj is one of the important pillars of Islam and it takes time, energy and money to observe it. In the past, it has been discovered that going to the Holy Land for the first time, many pilgrims do lose money, therefore we will advise all the pilgrims to be very careful with their money. Many pilgrims usually fin-

ish their money within two weeks and there is nobody that would give them money over there and that is the challenge most pilgrims usually face. “During the pilgrimage, we would advice the pilgrims not to embark on extravagant spending. They should make sure that they keep their money very well and spend wisely.

s exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim, a clarion call has gone to Nigerian leaders at all levels to be committed to God and to nation building, rather than being selfish. This call was made by Dr. Luqman Adedeji of the Lagos State University during the monthly joint Usrah organised by the Lagos Chapter of the Companion at the Lagos State House of Assembly Mosque, Alausa, Lagos. According to Dr. Adedeji, part of the lessons to be learnt from Eidul-Adha include commitment, perseverance, obedience, patience, steadfastness and trust in Allah as shown by Prophet Ibrahim in his readiness to sacrifice his son. “These are attributes we should imbibe as children, mothers, wives, fathers, political appointees, elected public officers and all other roles we might find ourselves.” He also urged women to emulate Hajar in terms of obedience and commitment to her husband. He traced the origin of big Sallah to Prophet Ibrahim who had a vision in which he was commanded by Allah to slaughter his only son. “Everyone of us has one or more lessons to learn from Prophet Ibrahim. Even children must emulate Ismail too. The story of Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice was a test by Allah (SWT). In surat an-Nisa, Allah

says : “For Allah did take Ibrahim for (an intimate) friend “ (4:125). He is also described in surat an-Nahl as a model: “Ibrahim was indeed a model. Devoutly obedient to Allah, and true in faith, and he joined not gods with Allah “ (16:20).” Dr. Adedeji also admonished Muslims to pity the animals, sharpen their knives very well, cut once and mention the name of Allah when slaughtering the animals. “After slaughtering, we should divide the meat into three, eat one portion, give one to the needy who do not have, but cannot ask and the remaining to passers-by, neighbours, friends and the poor. Let us do away with the habit of keeping the sallah meat weeks after the Eid.” Also speaking, the Amir of the Companion, Lagos Chapter, Alhaji Wale Sonaike enjoined Muslims to always reflect on the Hajj ritual of stoning Iblis(Satan) who tempted Ibrahim to disobey Allah by being committed to Allah’s commandments. In his contribution, Alhaji Najeem Jimoh urged Muslims to be united in the worship of Allah as a family and always remember that Allah will test us with various difficulties as experienced by His Prophets and the need to be steadfast and have trust in Allah. “Prophet Ibrahim therefore instructs that we should owe absolute duty only to God.”

Call to Worship

Yaum al-Jumu’ah, Dhul Qaddah 27, 1433AH Friday, October 12, 2012

L-R: General Secretary, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaát Nigeria, Mr. Raji Dauda; Amir, Dr. Mashhud Fashola Adenrele; Sadr. Majlis Ansarullah, Alhaji Mikail Odukoya; Secretary Ishayat, Alhaji Quasim Akinreti and Muazim, Abdul Lateef Adeosun, during the Jalsa Taribiyya in Ilaro, Ogun State recently.

Naib Amir, Special Duties, Alhaji Al-Hassan Hameed and Sadr. Majlis Ansarullah, Alhaji Mikail Odukoya, during the Nikai WAlimat of Mr. Mustapher Odukoya in Abeokuta at the Weekend.

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L-R: Former Amir, Engr. Hussain Oyekanmi Sunmonu; Chairman, Jalsa Taribiyya, Alhaji Muhammed Shittu and one of the guests, during the Jalsa.

Members of the Ahmadiyya Jumaát, during the Jalsa in IIaro.

…In Remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim L ATEEFAH IBRAHIM-ANIMASHAUN

uring the Hajj, Muslims remember and commemorate the trials and triumphs of the Prophet Abraham. The Qur’an describes Abraham as follows: “Surely Abraham was an example, obedient to Allah, by nature upright, and he was not of the polytheists. He was grateful for Our bounties. We chose him and guided him unto a right path. We gave him good in this world, and in the next he will most surely be among the righteous.” (Qur’an 16:120-121) One of Abraham’s main trials was to face the command of Allah to kill his only son. Upon hearing this command, he prepared to submit to Allah’s will. When he was all prepared to do it, Allah revealed to him that his “sacrifice” had already been fulfilled. He had shown that his love for his Lord superceeded all others that he would lay down his own life or the lives of those dear to him in order to submit to God. During the celebration of Eid alAdha, Muslims commemorate and remember Abraham’s trials, by themselves slaughtering an animal such as a sheep, camel, or goat. The meat from the sacrifice of Eid al-Adha is mostly given away to others. One-third is eaten by immediate family and relatives, onethird is given away to friends, and onethird is donated to the poor. The act symbolizes our willingness to give up things that are of benefit to

us or close to our hearts, in order to follow Allah’s commands. It also symbolizes our willingness to give up some of our own bounties, in order to strengthen ties of friendship and help those who are in need. We recognize that all blessings come from Allah, and we should open our hearts and share with others. It is very important to understand that the sacrifice itself, as practiced by Muslims, has nothing to do with atoning for our sins or using the blood to wash ourselves from sin. This is a misunderstanding by those of previous generations: “It is not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah; it is your piety that reaches Him.” (Qur’an 22:37) The symbolism is in the attitude - a willingness to make sacrifices in our lives in order to stay on the Straight Path. Each of us makes small sacrifices, giving up things that are fun or important to us. A true Muslim, one who submits his or herself completely to the Lord, is willing to follow Allah’s commands completely and obediently. It is this strength of heart, purity in faith, and willing obedience that our Lord desires from us. On the first morning of Eid al-Adha, Muslims around the world attend morning prayers at their local mosques. Prayers are followed by visits with family and friends, and the exchange of greetings and gifts. At some point, members of the family will visit a local farm or otherwise will make arrangements for the slaughter of an animal. The meat is distributed during the days of the holiday or shortly thereafter.

L-R: Head of Operations, EFCC, Mr. Iliyasu Kwarbai, receiving TMC Souvenir from the Deputy Coordinator of The Muslim Congress (TMC) Lagos, during a courtesy visit to the EFCC Office, Ikoyi, during the Annual (TMC) week.

Friday Sermon: The Prophet (saw) for mankind CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27 his attributes. Words would have been found but they were not used. That is to say, praise of his pious practices was immeasurable. A verse such as this has not been stated in the glory of any other Prophet. His soul was so pure and honest and his practices were liked by God to such an extent that Allah the Exalted gave the perpetual commandment that in future people should invoke blessings on him as a mark of gratefulness.’ HadhratKhalifatulMasih said it is a believer’s task to read the teaching brought by the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) and to note his blessed model and when trying to put it in practice, also invoke blessings (Durud) on him in gratefulness of the tremendous favour of this benefactor of mankind. He guided us to the way that leads to

God by showing us practices regarding all aspects of life. He showed us the standards of worship of God and generated the perception of service to mankind in believers. All this demands that while invoking blessings and salutations on him, we make the world aware of this teaching and this blessed model and inform them about his grace and favours. When aspects of his blessed life are put before the outsiders, those with the slightest of fairness in them, cannot help but praise in spite of holding contrary views. Today those who raise objections about him or his teachings are either devoid of fairness or do not know about his blessed life and do not try to know either. It is our task to make the world aware of the blessed life of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) and for this every medium/resource should be used.

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Mirror Mongers

Friday, October 12, 2012

Bestseller titled ‘When Dino Meets Bisi’

Standing up for social networking

T Kalu

Fresh apostle of anti-corruption

his would certainly make a good title for a ‘kiss and tell’ bestseller if the major characters in the book are Honourable Dino Melaye and actress, Bisi Ibidapo-Obe. But intending readers of this book may have to read the blob being offered by the dominant characters to be able to read in-between the lines as regards IbidapoObe’s pregnancy. According to the actress “I actually met Dino through Lola Alao sometime in March or early April. Honestly speaking, I was in need of help and Lola promised she would introduce me to someone who could help. The person turned out to be Dino. I actually visited him in Abuja; he was forthcoming and helpful. I was not the only one involved then but he took particular interest in me. We got to know each other and at a point, I was scared because he was all over me. Overtime, he showed me he meant well and we became good friends”. But Dino, remembering his Bible said: “I am not disturbed about slanderers, I also counsel my beloved friends not to be worried at all over this wicked lies from the pit of hell. I am more than capable to tackle liars and claimants. I am not distracted a bit about this joke and imaginary cre-

rji Kalu may not have made up his mind on the platform to ride on come 2015, but the politician is busy, at least judging from his activities online. After approaching the Supreme Court to challenge the competence of the 107-count criminal charge levelled against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, the ex-governor seems to be loaded with some aces up his sleeves. He is not only contending that the Abuja Division of the Appeal Court miscarried justice against him by giving the anti-graft agency the nod to prosecute him over allegations that were baseless, but has become a new apostle of anti-corruption. He is scheduling series of lectures dealing with anti-corruption and good governance in Africa, which he intends to take around the continent. If Orji could turn back the hands of time... Jombo

ONE-SECOND Q&A

T Obe

ation of a serial liar. I’m not her first victim and may not be the last. Matthew 5:11-12 is clear. No slowing down, no loitering, no parking”. For those who think Dino Melaye’s wife, Tokunbo will be threatening her husband; she is standing beside him much like Hilary Clinton stood beside Bill Clinton during the Monica Lewinsky saga. Meanwhile, the social media is awash with claims and counterclaims from other relatives on who owns the pregnancy, but one question Dino is yet to answer is if he ever had carnal knowledge of the actress.

Nollywood’s far-flung wives

o be able to live the Nollywood dream, which obviously means driving posh cars, carrying expensive handbags and of course, using ‘Brazilian and Peruvian hair’, there seems to be a basic prerequisite, at least in Hollywood. The actress must also look for a husband who is based abroad and do the periodic shuttling to run their homes. Aside Ini Edo and

Mercy Johnson, Uche Jombo has officially joined the frenzy by declaring that she would be working in Nigeria and marrying in New York. But that is not the only buzz the few months old nuptials is creating. Uche’s kinsmen in Ohafia, Abia State are still waiting to drink the traditional wine associated with “Igba Nkwu” from Mr. Rodriguez, her Puerto Rican hubby.

he Senate President, David Mark actually knows when to draw a line between need and want. Barely three months after he and his aides tackled an online news portal, which published uncomplimentary stories about him (the story about his activities in a country seen as haven for investors), he is now professing his love for the social media which he was almost calling for its censorship in Nigeria. While conducting activities of the Senate over the cold-blooded murder of four University of Port Harcourt students (otherwise called the Aluu 4), the Senate President praised the social media for unmasking the men and women behind the killings. Now, the distinguished senator knows there is great need for a third eye being offered by the social media. Will the Senate President remain steadfast in this love affair?

Mark

YINKA ODUMAKIN

Nigeria’s indivisibility beyond 2015 has continued to dominate the polity with many variegated opinions. Former National Publicity Secretary of Afenifere reacts to the issue. There has been centrifugal forces threatening the unity of Nigeria in recent times, how do you think Nigeria can remain one?

Odumakin

We have seen the so-called declaration of Independence by a factional leader of MOSOP by the name Goodluck Digbo, with his name sake in Abuja looking the other way. The Bakassi people have also made a secession declaration. And as if to show that these are coordinated events, the Governor of Bayelsa recently signed the law on Bayelsa coat of arms, flag and anthem to, in his words, promote the ‘identity of Ijaw nation’. But that does not mean we should dismiss the genuine quest for autonomy by the various constituent units of Nigeria; Nigeria needs a restructuring if the country is not to collapse. But rather than the President finding a way around the issue as his body language currently suggests, he should be bold to let us go for a conference. We should put forward the question if we still want to live together as one country. If the answer is yes, we must put in place the infrastructure of federalism, so we can live together in peace. If the consensus is that we should go our separate ways, we should part peacefully and stop all the needless bloodshed going on.

Escape

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Friday, October 12, 2012

A kimchi dish

FACT FILE •

Kimchi, also spelled gimchi, kimchee, or kim chee, is a traditional fermented Korean dish made of vegetables with a variety of seasonings.

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It is Korea’s national dish and there are hundreds of varieties made with a main vegetable ingredient such as napa cabbage, radish, scallion or cucumber.

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Kimchi is also a main ingredient for many Korean dishes such as kimchi stew, kimchi soup and kimchi fried rice

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The Kimchi Field Museum in Seoul has documented 187 historic and current varieties of kimchi.

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Many South Koreans credit their nation’s rapid economic growth in part to eating kimchi.

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The dish is made of various vegetables and contains a high concentration of dietary fiber, while being low in calories.

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One serving also provides over 50% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C and carotene.

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During the 2003 SARS outbreak in Asia, many people even believed that kimchi could protect against infection, although there was no scientific evidence to support this belief.

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However, in May 2009, the Korea Food Research Institute, Korea’s state food research organisation, said they had conducted a larger study on 200 chickens, which supported the theory that it boosts chickens’ immunity to the virus.

A cross section of guests at the dinner

A taste of Korea’s ‘kimchi’ J ERRY A DESEWO

t was a deployment of culinary diplomacy at its best as diplomats, captains of industries, government officials, artistes, politicians and other friends of the People’s Republic of Korea converged on the Sheraton Hotel, Abuja on Tuesday, October 2, to declare open the first ever Korean Food Festival in the continent of Africa. Since the opening of the Korean Cultural Centre in May 2010, there have been lots of cultural programmes which have provided opportunity for Nigerians to be familiar with various aspects of the Korean culture and vice versa. The cultural collaborations have ranged from arts exhibition, Kpop music performances and competition and Taekwondo (the Korean Martial Art), among others. Now, the centre has introduced another fascinating feature of the Korean culture –food, one which the Ambassador, Republic of Korea to Nigeria captured succinctly in his opening remark at the occasion when he said: “A bowl of rice shared, they said, satisfies everybody and it is my hope that this little show of love through our meals will go a long way. I know a common Nigerian proverb that says ‘the road to a man’s heart is his stomach’. So, we hope that the door to your hearts opens wider today”. The Elevator, a group of young Nigerian dancers who just returned from Seoul, South Korea as representatives of the African continent at the 3rd World K-pop dance competition, treated the guests to a scintillating

WHO COULD IMAGINE THAT FOOD CAN BRING PEOPLE FROM DIFFERENT CULTURES AND RACES TOGETHER?

experience. The group, which basecond runners-up position at the K-pop competition, danced to the pulsating rhythms and beat of the Korean wave. In his address while declaring open the 7-day Korean Food Week, Minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke, re-lived his first encounter with Korean cuisine back in the 90s. “Food, like music, is a universal product. Who could imagine that something as intangible as food can bring people from different cultures and races together? I can tell you from experience that Korean foods and drinks are a certified set of edibles good, not only for food but as medicines to ensure good health”. After a toast by the Minister of Water Resources, Honourable Sarah Ochekpe, the clicking and downing of glasses of assorted Korean soft drinks, beer, herbal mix and beverages was followed by a seven-course meal, served elegantly to the admiration of guests at the event. Some of the meals on parade included; ‘Gyeojachae’ (assorted cold plate with mustard sauce); ‘Soe-galbijim’ (braised beef ribs); ‘Bibimbap’ (rice mixed with vegetables and beef); ‘Samgyejuk’ (Ginseng chicken porridge); ‘Gujeolpan’ (platter of nine

delicacies) and of course, the ever popular ‘Kimchi’ which has been described as of the world’s healthiest food. ‘Kimchi’ (or kimchee) is loaded with vitamins A, B and C, but its biggest benefit may be in its “healthy bacteria” called lactobacilli, found in fermented foods like yogurt. The good bacteria helps with digestion, stops and even prevents yeast infections, according to a recent study. And more good news; some studies show fermented cabbage has compounds that may prevent the growth of cancer. Nigerians and other foreign guests at the event had enough to eat and to take away as well. About 10 guests, who emerged successful at the raffle draw, also went home with prizes such as a DVD player, Samsung and LG Smartphones and a giant LG flat screen television.

Chief Edem Duke (L) and Ambassador Jong Hak Se

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Friday, October 12, 2012

WE INTEND TO USE THIS CARNIVAL TO PUT MONEY IN THE HANDS OF THE AVERAGE

• As rebranded Oronna Fest aims for similar goals ABEOKUTA

AND

MAN AND WOMAN ON THE STREET

FEMI O YEWESO

he Rivers State Tourism Development Agency (RSTDA) has said that this year’s edition of Rivers State Carnival (Carniriv 2012) is targeted at impacting on the economic prosperity of the people of the state. Carniriv 2012 holds from Saturday 8 to Saturday 15, December at the Liberation Stadium, Elekahia, Port Harcourt. Dr. Sam Dede, the Director-General, RSTDA, speaking on the level of preparedness for Carniriv 2012, said government is desirous of making this year’s event one of the major platforms to bring about significant economic wellbeing and empowerment for the people of the state. He added that the prosperity of the people will ultimately result in exponential growth in the overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the state, put currently at US$21,073,410,422. With a population of 5.1 million people and GDP per capita of $3,965, Rivers is Nigeria’s second largest economy after Lagos State. “The hosting of Carniriv offers a strategic connection for the people of Rivers State; one reason is the fact that Carniriv is a brand that is owned by the people. Our strategic intent is, therefore, that the carnival must not just be a showcase of the pristine cultures of our people to the world, but a tool for the empowerment and socio- economic prosperity of the people of Rivers State”, Dede said. He further stated that the organisers are persuaded that ultimately, when the people prosper, the state and Nigeria will also prosper. Dede said the strategic linkage between economic prosperity and destination marketing is compelling for countries in view of the current global economic recession. He explained that they are well-focused in the hosting of Carniriv for the sixth time and the positive impact that will have on the economy of the state. “We intend to see more than a good show. We intend to see record economic growth. We intend to use this edition of the carnival to put money in the hands of the average man and woman on the street who will engage in one socio-economic activity or

Travel News

Carniriv 2012 to impact Rivers GDP TERH AGBEDEH

Escape

Dede

the other during Carniriv. That is how Carniriv can impact and improve their lives. We are, therefore, focusing on the economy of the carnival itself ”, he explained. He stated that in South Africa, tourism rose from being the fifth contributor to the GDP to the second place by the year 2007, second only to mining. “This is where we have our eyes on, we intend to track the economic impact of the carnival from this year going forward. This is how we plan to make Carniriv the flagship product of our destination marketing efforts”. Dede announced that arrangements are already in top gear to host the world to one of the best-organised carnival events ever witnessed. Among the precarnival preparatory activities was the hosting of a Strategy Retreat and the inaugural meeting of the Operations Team set up by RSTDA to ensure flawless organisation of the festival from start to finish. The Operations Team comprises experts and consultants from different fields, ranging from PR and reputation management, branding and road show management, health, transport and logistics, safety and environment, technical, as well as welfare support. He further assured Nigerians and the international community that Carniriv 2012 will be very unique and long-lasting memorial for participants.”We seek to raise the bar of excellence this year by putting to-

gether a world-class festival organised by tested professionals from different walks of life”, he stated. Similarly, organisers of the 2012 Oronna Ilaro Festival in Ogun State are promising that this year’s celebration would impact positively on the country’s economy. Chairman of Oronna Ilaro Festival Central Planning Committee (OIFCPC), Chief Kayode Odunaro, in an exclusive interview with Escape said his committee has packaged the programme in such a way that it would bring back memories of cultural exchange between Nigerians and Brazilians in precolonial days. The former Special Assistant on Media to exSpeaker, House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole, revealed that the week-long fest, holding from November 24 to December 2, will be a unifying yearly socio-cultural event spearheaded by Ilaro people. Tagged “Festival of New Beginnings”, the cultural platform aims to instigate self-help initiatives to develop the community. The Oronna festival will, additionally, showcase the rich culture of Ilaro town and develop the tourism potentials of Ogun state and Nigeria in general. Chief Odunaro further disclosed that all sons and daughters of the political headquarters of Yewa/ Awori land in diaspora would grace the occasion. Odunaro said his committee had received assurances of support for the rebranded festival from sons and daughters of Ilaro in diaspora, particularly in the United Kingdom, Ireland and the United States of America. “The Oronna Ilaro celebration is now being rebranded and taken to the next level as a national and international tourism event with potentials to impact on the economy of Ilaro and Ogun state. It is meant to encourage people in diaspora to be part of the new wave of development and make Ilaro a tourist destination”, Odunaro said. Odunaro further disclosed that the Ogun State Government, in her effort to develop tourism potentials of the state, has collaborated with Oronna Ilaro to identify talents for further development in the state.

7th DISCOP Africa gets new sponsor A DENRELE N IYI

nnovative telecommunications company, Etisalat Nigeria, has joined the list of sponsors of the Nigerian Pavilion at the upcoming DISCOP Africa 2012, a three-day conference scheduled to hold from October 31 to November 2 at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa. The three-day event will welcome 175 exhibiting producers and sellers representing overseas and African producers and sellers of popular and highquality film, series, animation, comedy shows, formats, sports content, documentaries, educational programming as well as distributors of thematic channels. In addition to sponsoring the Nigeria pavilion, Etisalat will also participate at the conference with some of the company’s top officials including Head, Media Planning and Management, Mr. Ol-

adapo Adefolaju who is billed to speak on the topic ‘The Mobile Advantage’. Chief Commercial Officer for Etisalat, Mr. Wael Ammar said the topic is based on findings that Africa’s enthusiasm for mobile technologies is boosting the consumption of television content. According to him, “these findings show that Africa has more than 600 million mobile phone users, more than America or Europe, and this number is expected to reach 735 million by the end of 2012”. Ammar further explained that advances in communication, mobile banking and telephonic agroinfo have been a huge boom especially in Africa. Director, Brands and Communications Etisalat, Mr. Enitan explained his organisation’s support for DISCOP 2012 as a way to reach its audience via highly rated quality programs. “As advertisers, we are interested in facilitating this meeting between content producers and buyers in order to ensure that there is content rich enough to attract

our target audiences to the various media channels through which we place our advertisement,” he said. According to Ijeoma Onah, Country Manager for Basic Lead organisers of the DISCOP events, “this is a MAJOR milestone as far as the support and development of the Nigerian Audio-visual sector in encouraging the export of quality programming from Nigerian companies participating at this year’s event having Nigeria as one the most represented country at DISCOP Africa 2012. DISCOP Africa, an annual conference is the only Pan-African industry gathering strictly dedicated to the production and distribution of multi-screen television content. The event combines a market, a co-production forum and a training program offering, unparalleled opportunities to buy and sell television content, initiate partnerships, access valuable information, connect key players and learn from experts in various fields.

Denrele’s Day

Friday, October 12, 2012

Adenrele Niyi

CLAPPERBOARD

Denrele’s Day is a collection of witty & sincere articles inspired by a zany imagination denrele@nationalmirroronline.net

with

Eddie Ugbomah

08059100422 (SMS only)

Scandals are juicy gist; but…

www.edifosafilm.com

Running back to my roots

oday is not the time, neither is it the place for chirpy discussions on the arts and entertainment which I, of obligation, ought to be treating in this column. Quite frankly, a rakish part of me yearns to take a dig at Dino Melaye (a former member of the House of Representatives), his self-advertised (ex) mistress, Nollywood actor, Ms. Bisi Ibidapo Obe and the ‘smoking gun’ of a pregnancy. Incase you’re a bit confused, don’t fret; everyone else following the messy story is too. In an interview Bisi granted a weekly entertainment publication recently, she went into explicit details about an initially sweet and, later on, sour love affair with Dino Melaye. At the end of her betrayed woman’s tale, the lingering picture of Melaye is that of infantile cunning and shoddy covering of his tracks. On Bisi’s part, her public revelation of amorous transactions (if this really did occur) between two adults speaks volumes about her motives. It also says she is an incredibly ambitious and calculative young lady. Let me break this down in simple Nigerian parlance; Bisi is pregnant and Hon. Melaye, the politician and human rights activist she reportedly ‘fingered’ as her runaway lover (pardon the pun), is the baby daddy. In his defence, Melaye is not as generous with information as Bisi has been –however, the brief, scripture-laced rejoinder credited to the politician is heavy on allusions to falsehood in Bisi’s claims and scarce on direct confrontation of the issues. Joining the fray is Tokunbo, Melaye’s wife who apparently is “solidly behind her man” as disclosed via her Twitter handle a few days ago. Anyway, the court of public opinion is having a field day tearing the scandal and its characters apart limb by limb; even Friday Flavour hopped on the bandwagon (see Mirror Mongers). The unpardonable foolishness I refuse to excuse is how this intra-personal crisis which medical science could very easily had resolved through a paternity test, even in the feotal stage, degenerated to content for gossip magazines, blogs, ribald beer parlour commentaries and husband bashing in matrimonial homes. While Dino and Bisi’s saga is worth every bit of attention as torrid romantic dalliances go, the saga of ALUU 4 and the backlash of protests by the University of Port Harcourt students over last Friday’s slaying of Tekena, Ugonna, Lloyd and Chiadika by a violent group of community dwellers takes much weightier precedence. The dastardly deed in Aluu, a community in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, occurred barely three days after more than three scores of students were brutally eliminated by unknown gunmen in Mubi, Adamawa state. The Aluu mob, driven to murder frenzy by years of living under the relentless scourge of crime

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Grim poster displayed by UNIPORT protesters on Tuesday.

in the community, ‘robbed’ four young boys of their right to life or defence against allegations they died for. Really, there is no excuse whatsoever to justify ALUU 4 or Mubi 40 and none is permissible. I remember Jesus’ answer to the crowd who had brought before him a woman caught in adultery. At the time, under the Mosaic Law, the penalty for adultery was death, most likely by stoning and this woman faced certain condemnation –save for a ‘miracle’. Yet, through a profound question, none of the esteemed religious leaders, scholars and proselytes in Isreal anticipated, Jesus upturned a law which offered no mercy, but instant severe judgement on offenders. “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first” (John 8 vs 7), the pensive Jesus had said to the blood-hungry mob. One after the other, the guilt ridden accusers slinked away in sober reflection till the woman stood alone, saved. I wistfully hoped a member of the selfrighteous Aluu mob, for one straight-thinking moment had given in to the nudging to speak in defence of the four boys and, perhaps, they would be in their lecture classes as I write. I truly wish this had been the case. Now, my sleep is haunted by pictures of bashed and battered-to-death young men. I can’t shake off the feeling that the man welding the thick piece of timber, the killing weapon brought down with vehement force over and over again on the prone, defenceless body of one of the young men, is in reality a demon entity guised in the skin of humans. Only an evil being whose heart is unfeeling can express evil in such cold fashion without breaking pace. Horror films and thrillers are crafted around this sort of baleful and malevolent disregard for humanity. The more I ponder over the bestial manner in which these four boys were killed, the more I fight a sense of vulnerability and welling nausea in the pit of my stomach. For anyone who has been touched by this blatant and outrageous murder, you will empathise with their colleagues’ rage and bitterness leading up to protests. This is a desperate cry of apprehension and uncertainty that if Mubi 40 were last Monday’s victims and Tekena, Ugo, Chiadika and Llyod went on Friday, where is the next attack coming from and more specifically, who else must we lose? I suppose these are grave topics to dwell on, rather than concern ourselves with the nationally mundane Dino Melaye and Bisi Ibidapo baby drama. Love and peace for the weekend!

his essay is purely on my plans to celebrate me at 72 years, 50 years in entertainment and the launching of my autobiography all happening between December 2012 and March 2013. It would be crowned with the release of nine of my hit movies; Oyenusi, Tolu Ade, Omiron, Akoba, The Mask Black Resident, Oil Doom, The Boy is Good and Vengence of the Cult. These are all 35mm and 16mm celluloid films shot between 1979 and 1997. The films will be flown to New York for scanning, cleaning, colour correction and transfer into DVD ready for cinemas and maybe television stations (if they will stop insulting film makers with N75,000 per film). It is a shame that these cable and local TV stations offer us peanuts, saying our films are old films and not in demand. Last year a film of 53 years won the Oscar in the midst of today’s computer films. It is so sad that despite my contribution to entertainment in this country, even my state has never shown any appreciation. I was appointed chairman of Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) on merit by the Babaginda Government and adviser consultant to the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) for six years again on personal merit. I was given the National Award, Officer of the Order of Niger (OON) on merit. I am glad that I am highly appreciated by the Federal Government and I have assisted many people from Delta in the movie world. Now, I am expecting the Government of Delta under Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan to rise in my celebration. I have started the plans with two friends Richard Mofe Damijo, RMD, and Prof. Hope Eghagha but my headache now is that Prof. Eghagha has been kidnapped by Delta hoodlums. I pray to God that this super gentleman is released soon to join RMD in my plans. The show has to be moved forward because of Eghagha’s crisis and the flood which sacked my house and two entire local governments, East and West Ndokwa. This show has to be special because I am calling all my

IT IS SO SAD THAT THOSE FROM MY

AREA DON’T EVEN APPRECIATE THE ACHIEVEMENT OF THEIR SON associates, reluctant colleagues and Nigerians to come and say “YOU DO WELL BABA!”. It is so sad that those from my area don’t even appreciate the achievement of their son. When Zeb Ejiro and I were given OON awards, we personally sent the Governor a letter by hand; this letter was never replied and now, Justus Esiri has joined us. Pete Edochie and other easterners were appreciated in cash, adverts, celebration and Peugeot 406 cars. I can’t remember any great son or daughter of Delta that a lecture has ever been organised for. We should start to have lectures on people like Sam Amuka, Pa. Osadebe, Okotie Eboh and Pa. Rewane. If not for the artiste connection, nobody would know about Prof. Onobrakpeya. This same stupidity is happening in the east and they shout marginalisation. When we don’t appreciate or blow the trumpet of our achievers, who do we expect to do it for us? We must start to organise programmes about our icons. As for me, I have decided to cry out loud so that Delta will get up and celebrate me. The problem in Nigeria is that you can have an idea or plan in this country but who is ready to listen? I want to thank Governor Uduaghan for assisting Enebeli Elebuwa to treat his stroke and I pray Prof. Eghagha is found alive because he wants to champion this celebration. Eghagha advised that I approach RMD who too has been keen to see this event come to be. The autobiography will be in hardcover, the films will be on DVD and this big gbedu will cost nothing less than N26m to handle not the billions dumped into irrelevant people who are already multibillionaires and political exploiters.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

People In The Mirror

Friday, October 12, 2012

Felabration showcases outstanding young debaters As part of activities marking the 2012 Felabration Week, selected students from secondary schools across Lagos State came together on Tuesday, October 9, to represent their various schools in a debate session, which took place at the Freedom Park, Lagos Island. The fierce battle of articulation, under the topic, Social Media in Africa: Good or Evil?, saw Master Temitope Ejide of Oriwu Senior Model College, Ikorodu, emerge winner of the event.

Winner of the debate,Temitope Ejide driving his points home.

Cross section of students at the event.

L-R: Finalists at the event; Freda Ijiebor of Dowen College; Temitope Ejide of Oriwu Senior Model College; John Okorie of Army Children Senior High School; Nifemi Adelakun of St. Gregoryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College and Kemi Adeyemi of Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls.

Member of Panel of Judges, Nike De Souza (left) and Director of Education, Lagos State Ministry of Education, Mrs. Mercy Olaoye.

At the Nigeria Prize book party The Committee for Relevant Art (CORA) in conjunction with NLNG Ltd. held the fourth edition of its annual book party on October 7 at the Freedom Park, Lagos. In honour of the 10 writers shortlisted in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edition of the Nigeria Prize in Literature, the book party featured readings, conversations and an after party.

L-R: Adebola Williams, Yeni Kuti and Makin Soyinka.

1st runner-up, Kemi Adeyemi convincing the panel of judges.

University Press rewards staff, customers On the last Friday in September, customers and staff of the foremost publishing company in Nigeria, University Press Plc., were treated to prizes as reward for outstanding performance, as well as for long service to the company with headquarters in Ibadan, Oyo State. Only a day before, the company held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) where shareholders were informed that for the first time ever, UP Plc. posted a turnover of N2.082 billion.

L-R: Mr. Dare Benson Olatunji, Best Staff; Mr. Kolawole Shakiru Raifu, first runner-up and Mr. Oladiran Odunayo Adeniyi, second runner-up.

A scene from a drama sketch at the event.

South African writer, Kgebetli Moele, reading at the event.

PHOTOS: YINKA ADEPARUSI

L-R: Mr. Oladiran Odunayo Adeniyi, second runner-up, receiving his prize from Chairman of the company, Dr. Lalakan Are.

Poet and essayist, Odia Ofeimun addressing the gathering.

L-R: Shortlisted authors Adaobi Tricia Nwabauni and PHOTOS: TERH AGBEDEH Jude Dibia.

L-R: Mr. Timothy Olajide Jegede, SM/Ag. Head (Human Resources), Ibadan; Mr. Garfar Amobi Fakemi, PM (Distribution), Ibadan; Mr. Adekola Dedeke, Manager (Audit) and Mr. Michael Ajao, Account Officer, Abeokuta all in the 15-year long service category.

Alhaji Ganiyu Adebayo, ED (Finance) one of the longest serving staff of the company in the 20-year long service category. PHOTOS: TERH AGBEDEH

Friday, October 12, 2012

Mirror Drive

2012 BMW X3:

OLUSEGUN KOIKI

his latest BMW X3 has made great strides in chassis sophistication over the previous-generation versions. The 2012 BMW X3 models come standard with black high-gloss interior trim, option packages have been changed on 2012 X3 xDrive 28i and 2012 X3 xDrive35i models and a new M Sport Package with a sports suspension is available. Completely redesigned, the new BMW X3 has a stable sensation with well cushioned chassis that covers rough ground with little transmission of sound or vibration. This latest-generation BMW X3 is roomier than pre-2011 models. Cargo space behind the second row is generous for the class, which auto professionals say it is an unusual achievement for a BMW. The exterior is tasteful. It holds on BMW design cues, but makes the previous version look suddenly dowdy and dated. Auto drivers who have had the opportunity of testdriving the BMW X3 xDrive35i said it demonstrated some of the best poise and isolation they have ever experienced in an SUV on gravel roads. A completely redeveloped suspension technology, with a new doublejoint spring-strut mechanism at the front and a multilink system at the rear improves handling over the previous-generation X3. BMWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, standard on all models, retains as much of a rear-drive feel as it can muster, using a multi-plate clutch to vary rear-to-front torque split from fully 100 per cent committed to the rear to 40 per cent sent forward to assist with traction.

THE NEW X3 HOLDS ON BMW DESIGN CUES, BUT MAKES THE PREVIOUS VERSION LOOK SUDDENLY DOWDY AND DATED Two engines are available, a 3.0-litre inline-6 and a turbocharged version of the same engine. They get essentially the same fuel economy, but the turbocharged engine has more power. Otherwise the two models, X3 xDrive28i and X3 xDrive35i, are nearly identical, though the xDrive35i comes with slightly larger wheels. The xDrive28i and xDrive35i come with an 8-speed automatic transmission. An optional electronic damping control system is available to vary shock response according to conditions, with a driver-selectable three-position switch to focus its operation to the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intended activity. This so-called Performance Control switch also affects the level of steering assist and the xDrive all-wheel drive system by selecting a 20/80 front-to-rear torque-split in steady state driving and also providing some so-called torque-vectoring influence in corners by braking an inside wheel. These new technologies may prove decisive to buyers searching for the latest in safety and dynamic systems.

Lineup The 2012 BMW X3 xDrive28i comes with a normally aspirated 2996 cc inline-6 that produces 240 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The xDrive28i comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels.

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T h e BMW X3 x D r ive 3 5 i features a 2979 cc c inline-6 equipped with a twinnscroll turrb o c h a r g e r, and produces es 300 horsesepower and 300 pound-feet of torque, the latter available from 1300 rpm through to 5000 rpm. The xDrive35i comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels. Standard features on X3 models include climate control with micron air filter, leatherette upholstery, black high-gloss trim, 205-watt AM/FM/CD with MP3 and HD radio, power locks, power windows, eight way power front seats with memory for driver seat, steering wheel audio controls, Bluetooth, iPod connectivity, on-board computer, floor mats. Safety features include the mandated dual front airbags plus side-curtain airbags for head protection, side-impact airbags for torso protection. Active safety features include anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, all-wheel drive. Optional safety features include rearview camera, Park Distance Control.

New discovery The crisp lines of this latest BMW X3 seem more familiar than novel at first sight, but the design soon

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

dates the previous car and you need to see old and new side by side for the full import of the new look to be absolutely clear. Up front is the usual forward-leaning BMW kidney grille. The headlight assembly is large and emphatic and is integrated with a detailed front apron which uses contrasting colours and various apertures to provide plenty of surface excitement. There are six contour lines sweeping down to meet at the kidney grill for a sculpted appearance. BMW says the twin round headlights combined with the round fog lamps form a triangular light pattern that is characteristic of its SAV design. The upper edge of the headlight assembly is accented by a chrome trim, and BMW’s signature Corona Rings are again used as the daytime running lights. When equipped with the optional xenon high-intensity discharge headlights, the Corona Rings and daytime running lights are provided by bright white LEDs.

Interior The interior of the BMW X3 is welcoming with tasteful surfaces and a tidy arrangement of components. Dark dashboard moldings contrast with lighter lower sections and carpet colours. High-grade wood trim accents are used sparingly on the centre console, door cappings, and above the glovebox. The view out the windscreen is commanding. Big mirrors provide a good spread of rearward visibility to deal with the inevitable blind spots that occur in cars with vertical Dpillars. pill A fourth-generation iDrive riv multi-media controller keeps control-button prolifke eration to a minimum, and er the th dashboard looks tidy and an organised. Anyone with a passing acquaintance with BMW ergoqu nomics will have everything n working within seconds; w strangers may take a few s minutes more, but they will m doubtless appreciate the d quality feel of the switches and controls. A fat-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel incorporates various satellite switches for the audio system and cruise control, and the ambiance is at once functional and luxurious. Storage compartments and cupholders are present at every turn. The navigation system uses an 8.8inch high-resolution display featuring a trans-reflective screen said to be the largest in the vehicle segment while the rear seats are roomier than in pre-2011 models. The luggage compartment provides 56.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats down, 19 cubic feet with the rear seats in place. Rear-seat backrests split 60/40 and can be folded separately or together. The rear seats that come with the optional ski pass-through have three segments (40/20/40) that can also be folded down individually.

Mirror Drive

Friday, October 12, 2012

Kia Motors posts 7.4% sales growth …as Nigerians embrace brand K ia Motors Corporation recently announced its global sales figures; export sales, domestic sales and sales from overseas plants for passenger cars, recreational vehicles (RVs) and commercial vehicles for August 2012, recording a total of 212,405 units sold. This figure represents a year-on-year increase of 7.4%. An online statement signed by its media consultant in Nigeria stated that in August, Kia posted strong year-on-year sales increases of 22.8 per cent in North America (57,710 units sold); 22.2 per cent in Europe* (41,006 units sold); 2.3 per cent in general markets* (43,790 units sold) ; and 0.2 per cent in China (37,821 units sold). It however stated that August sales in Kia’s home market of Korea decreased by 12.4 per cent (32,708 units sold) year-on-year. The statement further stated that cumulatively through the first eight months of 2012, Kia’s global sales have increased by 11.1 per cent year-on-year to reach 1,788,054 units. Europe, North America and China have experienced the highest cumu-

2012 Kia Rio

lative gains to date in 2012 of 24.8 per cent (377,427 units sold), 17.1 per cent (441,472 units sold), and 12.3 per cent (309,471 units sold), respectively. Kia’s best selling model in overseas markets for the month of August was the Bsegment Rio (known as ‘K2’ in China) with 36,427 units sold. The Sportage compact CUV was the second best seller with

28,988 units delivered, while the C-segment Cerato (known as ‘Forte’ in some markets), D-segment Optima sedan and Sorento mid-size CUV followed with 27,946; 23,553; and 19,134 units sold, respectively. According to Kayode Adejumo, Marketing Manager for Kia Motors in Nigeria, the positive growth of Kia globally is reflected in the Nigerian

Škoda to invest 34m euro on new centre

he Skoda Auto Company last week said that it will invest at least 34 million Euros in the expansion of the existing technology and development centre in Cesana near the company’s headquarters in Mlada Boleslay. The auto company said the investment represents one of the largest investments in the area of development currently undertaken in the Czech Republic. The core of the project consists of 21 new engine and component testing facilities while the

building measure is part of the automobile manufacturer’s growth strategy. Until 2018, the brand’s sales are to rise to at least 1.5 million vehicles per year while a new or revised Škoda model is to be introduced in the market every six months. “It is obvious that such a model offensive requires investments in all areas, especially in the technical development department. Our development is a central factor for success, its expansion an impor-

market as well. “We are honoured by the way Nigerians have embraced Kia here. This is reflected in the large demand for the different models by individual buyers and corporate organisations. By the second week in September, we had run out of stock for the Rio and all the other models are doing very well too”.

tant contribution to our Growth Strategy 2018. The new engine testing centre is an important investment for a successful future of the ŠKODA brand”, said Dr. Winfried Vahland, the Chairman of the board. Škoda, he noted, already performs important development work within the framework of the affiliated group, with regards to components, brakes, transmissions and engines. The core of the new assembly testing centre will consist of 15 engine testing facilities with capacities ranging from 250 to 400 kW. In the future, besides testing new generations of engines as they are prepared for series production, highly dynamic tests on the most powerful 400 kW test stand shall also be possible.

MAINTENANCE TIPS

How to keep your car running longer

ost Nigerians today are complaining of bad economy and are looking for a way to cut spending while also improving on their way of life. At this stage, car users are careful and device a mean of maintaining their cars with less resources. In this edition of Mirror Drive, we share with our readers how to keep their cars running longer despite the economy. Car users should keep all fluids and oils clean and topped up. Fluids are vital for your car and over time they evaporate, leak and lose their qualities, so change as needed

and top up when the level is low. Also, pay attention to your car’s instrument panel. Light

like “Check Engine” “Low oil pressure” or “Brake warning light” comes on while driving? Have it looked at as soon

as you can. Notice the engine temperature rises higher than normal? Have the problem diagnosed before the engine overheats. Watch for early signs of potential problems. Leaks, irregular noise, difference in the engine performance, occasional sputtering, grease splattered on the wheels, different feel of the brake pedal -these are the types of early signs that indicate a problem that needs to be taken care of. Deal with the problems as they appear, before they get worse. To be concluded next week

Cocktail

Friday, October 12, 2012

FOR YOUR SUCCESS

WITH DR. DEJI FOLUTILE

Today's Tonic (21)

If a person is in your life it is because you have a gift for each other. –Robert Holden * * * People Are Gifts With Gifts! The way we see the people around us will determine what we gain from them. If we see the people placed in our lives as blessings, we cannot but be blessed by them. I have come to believe by experience that NO ONE is around us by accident. The people around us are angels sent to add value to us if we are perceptive enough! If we are attentive enough to the signals of the Spirit, we will reap benefits untold by our association with people. In relationships, instead of fighting each other, we should be learning from each other! We are repeatedly told to love our neighbours for our own good because love is the key that will unlock the treasures and gifts in the heart of people for our advancement in life. Here is the secret of secrets: you know me because I have a unique role to play in your life and I know you because you have a special role to play in my life too! NO ONE IS USELESS AROUND YOU! Stay Great Today! TEL 08104942999 E-MAIL deji.folutile@gmail.com Follow me @TwitterOWOTIDE

Coffi C ffin used d as flower planter l t sold ld ffor $150K

orget about finding a briefcase full of cash—just hope for a coffin full of flowers. In a Dorset garden, a Roman marble coffin was detected by auction valuer Guy Schwinge on a routine valuation, the BBC reports. While walking the grounds, Schwinge saw the coffin “peeping out from under some bushes.” He investigated and discovered the coffin wasn’t your ordinary, everyday

pine box. “As I drew closer I realized I was looking at a Roman sarcophagus of exceptional quality,” Schwinge explained to the BBC. Experts believe it dates to the second century. Cha-ching! The coffin had apparently come into the possession of the owner’s family a century earlier when, according to an auction catalog from 1913, it “was imported to Britain by Queen Victoria’s surveyor of pictures.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Oddities

Man dies after eating bugs, worms in a live cockroach-eating contest A man has died after winning a live cockroach-eating competition in Florida. 32-year-old Edward Archbold became ill after eating dozens of live cockroaches, worms and other bugs at Ben Siegel Reptile Store, near Miami. The grand prize in the competition was a python. MrArchbold won the competition, in which 30 other people took part, but was taken ill within minutes of it ending. He collapsed in front of the shop shortly after, and was rushed to hospital where he was pronounced dead. Authorities are waiting for results of a port-mortem examination to determine a cause of death. None of the other contestants became ill, the sheriff’s office said. “We feel terribly awful,” said the reptile store’s owner Ben Siegel, who added that MrArchbold did not appear to be sick before the contest. “He looked like he just wanted to show off and was very nice,” Mr Siegel said,

adding that Archbold was “the life of the party”. Mr Siegel added that Archbold was selling the exotic prize to a friend who took him to the contest. A statement from Mr Siegel’s lawyer said all the participants signed waivers “accepting responsibility for their participation in this unique and

Cockroaches

unorthodox contest”. The bugs consumed were from an inventory of insects “that are safely and domestically raised in a controlled environment as food for reptiles”. Michael Adams, professor of entomology at the University of California at Riverside, said he had never heard of someone

dying after eating cockroaches. “Unless the roaches were contaminated with some bacteria or other pathogens, I don’t think that cockroaches would be unsafe to eat,” he said. “Some people do have allergies to roaches, but there are no toxins in roaches or related insects.”

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business & Finance The Federal Government of Nigeria has continuously placed the safety and security of the maritime domain in the front burner. In this respect, concerted efforts have been made to ensure adequate safety and security mechanisms in Nigeria’s maritime domain. Minister of Transport, Idris Umar

“There is an erroneous belief that raising the oil benchmark for the 2013 budget above $75 per barrel would automatically translate into increase in projected revenue but benchmark does not necessarily give you more revenue”, Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Lamido Sanusi.

World Bank vows to tackle global economic woes TOLA AKINMUTIMI ABUJA

mies are repositioned on the track of sustainable growth as witnessed in the pre-depression years. “We are in challenging times. Food prices remain high and volatile; growth in high-income countries is weak; and developing countries, which have been the engine of growth, will not be immune to the increased uncertainty in the global

economy. “The economic announcements emanating in recent weeks have been sobering. Everyone is vulnerable during times of uncertainty, but especially the poor who have few, if any, safety nets and resources and live from day to day. “ “Our job at the World Bank Group now is to make sure the growth over the

last five years that we’ve seen in developing countries in Africa and Latin America and Asia is not destroyed by further worsening the situation”, Kim said. He explained that as part of starting a dialogue around barriers and solutions to ending poverty, the World Bank has launched a global on-

line conversation - “What Will it Take to End Poverty”- campaign in the lead up to the conference and crowd-sourcing ideas and comments through social media and video as a means of identifying what the Bank can do “to fundamentally change the arc of history to end absolute poverty more quickly than it is currently predicted.

he World Bank yesterday restated its commitment to working together with governments and stakeholders in various countries to reverse the ravaging impact of poverty and other socio-economic crises in many countries and take measures that will bring succour to their citizenry. Giving the assurance while formally declaring open the bank’s ongoing conference in Japan, the President, Mr. Jim Yong Kim, said the board and management were deeply worried about the negative micro and macroeconomic situations in many parts of the world, saying that all portend that more efforts are required to stem the tide of global economic instability. Kim said the bank had initiated series measures and strategies not only to reverse the worrisome developments but also to enL-R: General Manager, Customer Relations, MTN, Mr. Andrew Esemezie; Chief Executive Officer, Protax Consulting, Mr. sure that the global econo- Tokunbo Siyanbola and Customer Relations Executive, Mr. Akin Braithwaite, at the MTN Technology Fair in Lagos recently.

Aviation Minister charges ATC to show dedication to duty OLUSEGUN KOIKI

he Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah has challenged the Air Traffic Controllers (ATC), in the sector to show more dedication to duty for the betterment of the sector.

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LAGOS: 01-8446073, 08094331171, 08023133084, 08034019884 ABUJA: 08033020395, 08036321014

Speaking during the week at the 41st Annual General Meeting and conference of the controllers in Makurdi, Benue State, Oduah said for the country’s aviation sector to remain safe, ATC have a role to play. Oduah who was represented by her technical adviser, Mr. Victor Oche recalled that controllers played a vital role in the last Dana Air crash in La-

gos by showing direction in search and rescue during exercise. Also speaking, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Nnamdi Udoh said that the welfare of ATC personnel remained paramount in the establishment. Udoh, represented by Air Traffic Safety, Electronic Services, Engr. Ifeanyi

Statistician General tasks govts on statistical infrastructure, framework

Nwankwo emphasised that the plights of the ATC as regards to workload were being attention by the management. Udoh said the role of the controllers cannot be ignored, adding that the agency was on course by training ATC in spite of the huge financial commitment and ensuring that the Aeronautic and Information Services (AIS) automation would be totally com-

pleted before the end of the year. Besides, in his opening address, the Chairman of the occasion, Hon Bala Na’ Allah a former deputy chairman house committee on aviation, said the aviation industry remained critical to the country’s economic development. Na’ Allah stressed the need for all parastatal chiefs to attend aviation conferences organised by associations in the sector to brainstorm on issues affecting the sector.

Anxiety mounts over viability of Onitsha River Port

FLIGHT SCHEDULE Arik Air

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

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

EXCHANGE RATES WAUA

234.6271

USD

155.84

CHF

159.2642

SDR

235.0535

CFA

0.2924

GBP

244.1701

EURO

191.3715

OIL / GAS FUTURES ICE BRENT

$123.39

-0.78

NYMEX

$108.45

-0.11

OPEC BASKET

$122.86

+1.16

NATURAL GAS

$2.83

-0.03

Business News

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Statistician General tasks govts on statistical infrastructure, framework TOLA AKINMUTIMI JOS

he Statistician General of the Federation, Dr. Yemi Kale, has solicited the support of all tiers of government in ongoing efforts of the National Bureau of Statistics targeted at building the necessary statistical infrastructure and other structures that will help in enhancing the quality of statistical data produced in the country. Kale, who made the appeal in his welcome remarks at the opening session of the National Statistical Workshop for Journalists organised by the Bureau in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Jos, Plateau State, said putting in place such critical facilities or systems will support government’s decision-making processes and implementation of socio-economic programmes at all levels of government. Represented by his Director Real Sector and Household, George Okparaku, the NBS boss pointed out that in view of the need to enhance the quality of data being used to implement the ongoing reform agenda at all levels of government, it had become imperative for Federal, States and Local Governments to create institutions that will facilitate effective statistical data production within their domains. He said it was as part of the agency’s efforts to drive the capacity building agenda that, in collaboration with development partners, has designed a comprehensive National Strategy for the

Development of Statistics for the NSS. Kale described the NSDS as a 5-year framework designed to cover the entire NSS bringing together all agencies involved in data production across the three tiers of government. According to him, the central focus of the plan is to ensure the existence of a statistical system in Nigeria that will be capable of effectively meeting both national and international data needs. He explained:”We are in an era where statistics and information technology make planning much easier right from the subnational to the national level of government. It is obvious that statistical information helps nations understand their potentials and weaknesses. “Data provides necessary ingredients for development, planning, policy formulation and implementation, efficient resource allocation and forecast into the future with high degrees of certainty”, Kale said. In his address, Governor Jonah Jang, who was represented by the Chairman of the state Planning Commission, John Daduut, said the state has begun the process of reforming the State Statistical System to enable it cope with the unfolding challenges. Specifically, he disclosed that a Statistical Master Plan that will drive the reform process had been produced and would soon be forwarded as an Executive Bill to the State House of Assembly to give legal backing to the proposed State Bureau of Statistics.

Senior Pastor, The Fountain of Life Church, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya (left) and Head, Career Development Agency, Mr. Bisi Osunneye, during an exhibition on Corporate Social Responsibility, organised by the agency in Lagos recently.

Nigerian Treasury Bill offers increase yields UDO ONYEKA WITH AGENCY REPORT

ubscriptions to Nigerian Treasury bills rose to the highest in more than a month at an auction yesterday as investors sought higher yields and the naira’s exchange rate stabilised. The Central Bank of Nigeria sold 171.9 billion naira ($1.093

Jonathan, others to discuss Nigeria’s economic transformation STANLEY IHEDIGBO

resident Goodluck Jonathan will lead investors and policymakers from across Africa and the world to a forum discussing new ways to implement transformation in Nigeria at the flagship Nigerian summit organised by Economist Conferences in Lagos. In a statement to National Mirror by the Economist Group, The President will give the keynote address at the summit scheduled to take place on March 19th – 20th 2013.

According to the group the forum will provide a platform for over 180 senior level participants to discuss what Nigerian policy makers are doing to implement significant structural reforms in various areas to achieve the administration’s Vision 20:2020. “Several other notable speakers are also confirmed to participate in the power-packed two-day summit. Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Nigeria’s Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, will lead the discussions on ‘Driving change – Implementing the

vision’. “During the discussion, she will shed more light on her earlier assertion that steady, stable change is all that is required to grow the Nigerian economy as, according to her, the country has a great future and plenty of opportunities for growth. Mr. Dougal Thomson, Head of Conference Programmes CEMEA, The Economist Group, said, “There is no shortage of vision that will see Nigeria transformed into a dynamic, competitive economy where entrepreneurialism and innovation thrives.

Intel expands business operations in Nigeria KUNLE A ZEEZ

lobal Information and Communication Technology giant, a accompany that designs and builds the essential technologies that serve as the foundation for the world’s computing devices, Intel, said it was set to expand its business operation towards driving accelerated

digital inclusion in Nigeria. As part of the strategic move to consolidate its presence in the country, the IT company said it has boosted its personnel by fresh appointment of seven Nigerian experts to compliment its business operations while also unveiling a new campaign tagged “Create Your Tomorrow’ to drive the digital vision. Speaking at a press conference

in Lagos, Intel Country Manager, Mr. Olubunmu Ekundare, said the move marked the extension of Intel’s footprints in West Africa and underline its commitment to supporting its partners and customer network in one of the world fastest growing markets with solutions and innovation that can make life easier and better. Ekundare stated that the appointment and investment on

million) of Treasury bills, with bids totaling 356 billion naira, the highest since Sept. 5, the central Bank of Nigeria said. Debt sold included 30.2 billion naira of 91-day bills at a yield of 13 percent, 30 basis points higher than the previous auction on September 26 and the highest since September 5, it said. The bank sold 73.5 billion naira of 182-day securities at 13.34 percent and 68.2 billion naira of 364-day notes at 13.39 percent. ``Demand for Treasury bills is rising as the central bank accepts higher rates to enable it mop excess liquidity in the system,’’ Tunde Ladipo, chief executive officer of Lagos-based Valuechain Investment Ltd., said. Central bank Governor Lamido Sanusi lifted a requirement last year for foreign investors to hold local-currency debt for at least a year, to attract capital. The naira, which gained by 0.3 percent at 157.2 a dollar as of 1 p.m. in Lagos, has risen 3.3 percent this year, the best performer among African currencies tracked by Bloomberg.

``While we recommend that investors buy bonds, we also like Treasury-bill yields at such levels, especially given the resilience of the naira,’’ Samir Gadio, an emerging-markets strategist at Standard Bank Group Ltd. in London, said today in emailed comments. The most-traded bonds maturing in March 2014, October 2019 and January 2022, are being added to JPMorgan’s GBIEM indexes between Octember 1 and December 3, Giulia Pellegrini, the bank’s London-based sub-Saharan Africa economist, wrote in a note to clients September 25. The yield on Nigeria’s 16.39 percent bonds due January 2022 jumped 30 basis points to 13.78 percent, according to October 9 data on the Financial Markets Dealers Association website. The CBN kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged at a record 12 percent Sept. 18, to control inflation and bolster the naira. The inflation rate slowed to 11.7 percent in August from 12.8 percent the previous month, the statistics agency said September 16.

new personnel was part of a strategic and gradual expansion bid of the company. According to him, the fresh personnel would manage various business portfolios around Intel’s commercial activities and innovations in Nigeria. Meanwhile, the mukltinational chip maker has unveiled a new media campaign tagged ‘Unveil Your Tomorrow’ through which it intends to connect and engage Nigerian IT consumers and youths via

campuses activities, social media platforms, music and different intellectual opportunities to help unlock innate potential through the use of technology. Explaining the concept behind the campaign, Ekundare said the campaign was borne out of the fact that Intel is not just a global technology giant and respected chip maker, but it seeks to develop technologies, products and carious initiatives to continually advance how people work and lice.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business News

Friday, October 12, 2012

Guidelines to stimulate Made in Nigeria IT products on course, says FG KUNLE A ZEEZ

ppropriate guidelines and standard for Information Technology products, services as well as campaign for patronage of made in Nigeria products are being developed by the Federal Government and will be ready soon. This was disclosed by the Minister of Communication Technology, Mrs. Omobola Johnson, during an Information and Communication Technology investors’ forum held in Lagos recently. The minister said the Federal Government, through the ministry, was working on developing a framework that will place priority on the development of local entrepreneurs by staging the playing fields of event by making it more advantageous for Nigerians to do business with Nigerians. She explained that as part of the ongoing framework being developed, the Federal Government had recently directed that computers and laptops of certain configuration purchased through appropriated funds must be locally-assembled or manufactured in

Nigeria. “The government is also working on providing regulatory framework that will offer support and protection for intellectual property rights and privileges of the local entrepreneur and on technology biased policies such as tax-breaks, tariff/levies concession,” she said. Johnson, who noted that IT entrepreneur investment in local content development will bring earning of income into the national economy and more importantly help in alleviating poverty, added that such investment can make Nigerian become producers an creators in the high value areas of the knowledge economy being driven by ICT. She said, “The ministry’s local content agenda is premised on a national imperative to ensure that Nigerian and Nigerians participate more meaningfully in one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy. “There are five major areas if this national local content agenda in ICT and they include software and services, device production, cards manufacturing, ICT infrastructure input and skills devel-

opment.” Noting that the government was aware that local software industry, for instance, has tremendous potential for local content development, Johnson said “We are beginning to pursue policies and programmes that encourage a culture of patronage and consumption of locallydeveloped software.” She said government through its IT development agency, the National Information Technology Development Agency, is promoting the establishment of ICT incubation centres that operates in a private sector/entrepreneurial setting to provide the required support for software entrepreneurs to thrive and be commercially successful. Included in the initiative, the minister said, was the promotion of a venture capital fund to promote alternative and more appropriate means of funding for software and other ICT entrepreneurs especially in their start-up phases and providing avenues for the commissioning of bestpoke software by the business community.

IFC report highlights Interswitch’s business model KUNLE A ZEEZ

new report from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), has spotlighted Interswitch, the country’s electronic transactions processing company, as a company focused on providing opportunities for every individual in the society including the poor people. The IFC report entitled, “Being the Change: Inspiring the Next Generation of Inclusive Business Entrepreneurs Impacting the Base of the Pyramid” highlights the personal stories of the leaders of some of IFC’s inclusive business clients. Interswitch and other clients of IFC are adjudged in the report to have developed innovative and successful business models that expand access to goods, services, and livelihoods for poor people, while generating strong financial returns.

WTO reference centre opens in Nigeria STANLEY IHEDIGBO

orld Trade Organisation (WTO), has opened its reference centre in Nigeria to enable it facilitate trades and other related information in the country. The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, Mr. Dauda Kigbu, who commissioned the WTO Reference Centre in Nigeria, said the centre will enable the SME’s, trade negotiation researchers, business community, non state actors and other interested users to have access to WTO information and multilateral trade agreements, tariffs and other

related information. The event was witnessed by the Head of WTO Reference Centre, Dr. Mustapha Sadni Jailab, who is also the Head of Academic Programme, Institute of Training and Technical Cooperation at the ministry headquarters in Abuja. Kigbu added that the establishment of the WTO Reference Centre in the ministry was a clear demonstration of the organisation’s readiness to build capacity of member countries and the importance attached to accurate and evidence based trade data and information. He stated, “This is a welcomed initiative as it would afford Reference Centre coor-

dinator the opportunities of learning how to disseminate information in an efficient manner, and by networking and sharing information with other centres.” According to the permanent secretary in the ministry, the global training will include collecting, classifying, correcting and analysing relevant data which can be technical, legal economical and commercial. He urged WTO to include Nigeria in the annual missions for the purpose of upgrading and establishment of additional centres as earlier approved by the global organisation for Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and the University of Abuja.

IFC Vice President, Business Advisory Services, Mr. Nena Stoiljkovic, said by bringing lowincome producers and consumers into their supply chains, the companies were adjudged pioneers in their respective area of business. “Creating inclusive business models in developing economies is a top priority for IFC, and critical in building prosperity,” he said. Based on interviews with 14 founders and chief executive officers of IFC client companies, including Mitchell Elegbe of Interswitch Limited, in Nigeria, the report identifies a number of lessons on inclusive business, including the need to balance short-term returns with longterm goals and the importance of knowledge of local conditions, needs, and capabilities. The stories also reflect the overarching optimism these leaders share about the future of inclusive business.

First set of winners emerge in Ecobank win big promo ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI

L-R: Public Relations and Event Coordinator Manager, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, Mr. Tope Ashiwaju; Head, Regulation and Monitoring, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Mr. Jude Ogaga and Marketing Manager, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, Mr. Manpreet Singh, at the Indomie Super Millionaire Promo in Lagos, yesterday.

he first set of winners has emerged in the Ecobank “Win Big” promo following the opening monthly draw that held in Lagos where Alhaji Musa Bashir Bashir of Hotoro Branch in Kano won the star prize of a brand new Nissan salon car. Other winners include Abene Stella, a customer of Ughelli Market Branch and Okala Chinyere Celestina of Ekwulobia Branch in Anambra, who both won 2.5KVA Generators. Mr. George Ekakite, also of Ughelli Market Branch and Nazzal Tyser Ahmed of Owo Road Branch in Akure, are going home

with 32 inch LCD television. The Lagos duo of Olajide Oluwakemi (Broad Street branch) and Kareem Ismail Adeleke (Ikorodu Road branch) both smiled with brand new blackberry phones. The Ecobank Executive Director, Domestic Bank, Mr. Kingsley Aigbokhaevbo, who was represented by Funwa Akinmade, Head of Domestic Products stated that the event is the first of four monthly draws earmarked for the promo. According to Mr. Aigbokhaevbo the climax will be the grand draw when a customer is expected to take home a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV). He reiterated that the promo is Ecobank’s way of saying thank you to all her customers and stakeholders.

Aviation Minister defends automation, restructuring in agencies OLUSEGUN KOIKI

he Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah yesterday insisted that her planned automation of all the revenue points in the Nigerian aviation sector was a step in the right direction. She also explained that the last week’s restructuring in all the agencies in the sector followed due process and was approved by President Goodluck Jonathan. Speaking through the General Manager, Corporate Communications of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in a press statement, Mr. Yakubu Dati, the minister maintained that the automation drive of the agencies was modern and ben-

eficial way of revenue collection endorsed by the management of all the aviation agencies. She emphasised that before being appointed a minister in 2011, some of the agencies had commenced automation of their revenue points, pointing out that this ensured the blockage of all leakages in the process and made revenue collection easier and more transparent. Oduah denied that she had concessioned automation in the sector, rather saying that the agencies instructed their major revenue bank, First Bank Plc, to spearhead this automation on a contractual basis that allows the bank to invest up-front in the equipment, hardware and software to run the system and to be remunerated for this over some period of years.

Maritime

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Anxiety mounts over viability of Onitsha River Port

he recent commissioning of the abandoned Onitsha River Port by President Goodluck Jonathan will no doubt boost economic activities in the South Eastern parts of the country. The journey towards the refloating of the port abandoned over 10 years ago after it was initially commissioned by former President Shehu Shagari sometime in 1983 started in 2009 when the Federal Government re-awarded the contract for the dredging of the River Nigeria from Baro in Niger State to Lokoja in Kogi down to Onitsha to create a network of channels. The refloating of the port is also in line with the policy of the Federal Government in developing inland transportation, which is borne out of the realisation that transportation is critical to its Vision 20:20-20, which is expected to transform Nigeria to one of the 20 biggest economies of the world by year 2020. When fully operational, the port would also facilitate a reduction of the pressure on the nation’s dilapidated roads, arising from overuse, especially by big trucks that transfer petroleum products and other imported consignments to other parts of the country. It is therefore expected that goods imported through the Lagos Ports Complex and Tin Can Island Ports both in Apapa and meant for Onitsha, Enugu, Owerri and Aba etc can no longer be transported by road with the attendant delays. These goods are henceforth, expected to be moved to the river port either by smaller boats or barges as the case may be depending on the nature of the consignments in question. Also, river port if effectively managed, could serve as a feeder-port to the Container Freight Station in Onitsha and the Inland Container Depot in Isialangwa, Aba in Abia State. But stakeholders have raised some concerns over the inability of the Federal Government to address what they described as ‘operational and quality assurance’ and other technically-related issues associated with the port. President of National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, one of the biggest freight forwarding groups in Nigeria, Mr. Eugene Nweke, who spoke in an interview, disclosed that the association’s secretariat located in Apapa has been awashed with enquiries from importers and exporters, who are potential users of the facility, following the commissioning of the river port. He disclosed that these shippers (importers and exporters) have raised some fundamental issues over the workability or otherwise of the port, saying that the Federal Government and its Anambra State counterpart should have shed more light on issues associated with the operations of the port and general security. According to him, operationally, the importers and exporters would want to know whose responsibility it is to provide the barges that would be required to move the cargoes for instance, from Apapa or Onne Port to the

About one month after President Goodluck Jonathan officially commissioned the Onitsha River Port, 30 years after it was initially commissioned by former President Shehu Shagari, maritime experts are divided over the viability or otherwise of the port, given some unresolved technical issues, FRANCIS EZEM reports.

Onitsha seaport

IT IS NOT FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO ALSO

PROVIDE BARGES.

WHAT IT NEEDED TO DO WAS

TO CREATE THE ENABLING ENVIRONMENT FOR

THE PORT TO FUNCTION, WHICH IT HAS DONE BY DREDGING THE VARIOUS CHANNELS AND ALSO EQUIP THE PORT ITSELF river port before moving them to the importer’s warehouse in Aba or Onitsha Main Market. This concern by the prospective port users might not be unconnected with the fact that the movement of some goods abandoned at Apapa Port to Ikorodu Lighter Terminal by the Presidential Committee on Port Reforms on the orders of the president was seriously hampered by the dearth of barges in the port system. Investigation showed that the evacuation, which ought to have lasted for two or three days lasted for several weeks as the committee had to suspend the operation to source money to hire the scarce barges, which were so expensive to hire. Nweke also noted that the shippers raised fears over the safety of consignments being moved by barges, which are naturally slow crafts, especially given the security challenges in the country in the face of growing menace of piracy and sea robbery. He stated that the importers and ex-

porters would want to do a cost-benefit analysis of what it takes in terms direct cost, efficiency and safety and security of the cargoes in question compared with moving the same goods by road. It was gathered that In reaction to enquiries, the association is putting finishing touches to plans to write the National Inland Waterways Authority, which regulates inland transportation in Nigeria in order for the agency to address some of the doubts raised by the port users, ranging from the provision of barges, security as well cost. The NAGAFF-boss argued that though the refloating of the port was a right step in the right direction, NIWA should work with the private sector to ensure that the issues raised by the importers and exporters were addressed, so that the government does not commission yet another rat port. He had argued that it was the inability of the government to address these issues when the port was first was commissioned that made the prospec-

tive users to abandon it. But President of Institute of Freight Forwarders of Nigeria, Dr. Zeb Ikokide, who commented on the fears raised by the port users, argued that as genuine as their fears might be, government cannot provide barges for the transfer of the cargoes. According to him, what the government needed to was to open up the place, which it has done, adding that what is left is left for the private sector. “It is not for the government to provide barges. What it needed to do was to create the enabling environment for the port to function, which it has done by dredging the various channels and also equip the port itself. The challenge before the private sector is to invest in barge operation, which has been an aspect of the industry that has not been properly explore over the years’, he noted. On security, Ikokide noted that the duty of providing security for the newly dredged areas should also not be left with the government agencies charged with the provision of security like the Nigerian Ports Authority or the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency. According to him, an independent security agency not chocked up with various other functions should be allowed to take up this aspect of the maritime industry. He agreed that a barge is a slow moving craft, which requires a special kind of security apparatus, also giving the increasing menace of pirates and sea robbers that ravage the nation’s maritime domain for too long. He, therefore, canvassed the passage of the Maritime Security Agency Bill, which had already been passed by the House of Representatives but got stuck at the Senate, the upper legislative chamber. Ikokide had argued that such an agency would be better focused on that aspect of the maritime security so as to make it efficient and properly focused. Aside the issues associated with security and operations of the river port, some stakeholders have also argued that the government should go a step further by concessioning the port facility as it had done with the seaports in the country. This category of operators had argued that it is not just enough for the government to develop a port but it will make more economic sense if extra effort is made to ensure that it works. They have also argued that it was absurd for the government to privatise some seaports and leave others. In view of the fears raised by the prospective users, government should go step further to ensure the functionality of the port so as to achieve the economic objective of boosting economic activities in the neighbouring. Efforts should therefore be geared towards ensuring that the fate that befell the port in 1983 when it was first commissioned does not befall it again. A stitch in time, they say saves nine.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Maritime

Friday, October 12, 2012

Don’t expect sanity on port roads for now, says AMATO T

IMO begins work on container weight regulation

STORIES: FRANCIS EZEM

xpectations that most port access roads would be cleared of trucks to make for easy movement of cargo in and out of the seaports were dashed when the Association of Maritime Truck Owners told stakeholders that it was practically impossible to clear the roads of trucks littered here and there until some vital issues were sorted out. Presidential Committee on Port Reforms headed by Professor Sylvester Monye had in conjunction with the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation cleared the Apapa-Oshodi Express Way of trucks indiscriminately parked along the road with the attendant perennial traffic gridlock, which had over the years constituted a nightmare to road users. Chairman of the association, Chief Remi Ogungbemi, who spoke at a one-day stakeholders’ forum organised by the Apapa Area 1 Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, told stakeholders that it was not possible to remove the trucks out of the roads until the cause of the problem was addressed. According to him, the only time the roads would be cleared of such trucks will be when there is provision for a parking lot for the trucks to wait for their turn to pick containers and other consignments from the seaports. While taking a swipe at the Bureau of Public Enterprises for a ‘wholesale’ of the seaports, noted that the port concession has changed the structure of the ports, which had placed the truck owners in trauma.

“You cannot eat your cake and have it, before the concession programme, there were places designated for the trucks to park while waiting to pick containers from the ports but BPE gave out everything probably with the understanding that motor bikes would be used to take containers out of the port in the post-concession era”, he wondered. “The port access roads would continue to be littered with trucks until somewhere is provided for them to park their trucks since they must come to pick containers from the ports and since it is not possible for them to carry these trucks on their heads”, he stated. He noted that due to the lack of parking lot for the trucks while waiting to pick consignments from the ports, many members of the association have been made objects of extortion by some government

agencies, which capitalise on the predicament of the truck owners to defraud them of their hard earned incomes. Ogungbemi, however, disclosed that the association has found two pieces of land in Lagos, one around Mile 2 area of the state and the other being the Signal Barracks of the Nigerian Army, which he said is currently out of use, since recent advancements in information technology has rendered the barracks used for transmitting information useless. It was gathered that each of the pieces of land, if acquired has the capacity to take over 1,000 trucks at a time where they are expected to park while waiting for their clients to call them to pick consignment. Investigations also show that the family that owns the land where the Signal Barracks was cited had taken the Nigerian Army to court as part

of bid to reclaim their land, which the court awarded in their favour. He disclosed that the association is currently talking with the Lagos State Government over plans to acquire any of the two pieces of land identified and therefore urged the stakeholders to support the association. He had also expressed appreciation to the management of the service for its decision to relax the enforcement of the aspect of the Customs and Excise Management Act, which stipulates that in case of importation of contraband, both the cargo and the vehicle of conveyance are liable for seizure. Many members had lost their trucks, which were impounded especially by the Federal Operations Unit of the service while on hire services to move consignments from the seaports to the importer’s warehouse.

Container Ship

Port reform increased cargo volumes, efficiency –NPA

early seven years after the completion of the port reforms and subsequent coming on stream of private terminal operators, the Nigerian Ports Authority has said that the exercise has brought about increase in cargo tonnage and general efficiency and productivity at the seaports. Meanwhile, recent port statistics released by the authority for the first half of the year shows laden container throughput stood at 438,049 Twenty Equivalent Units in first half 2012, indicating an increase of 15.2 percent over 380,114 Twenty Equivalent Units recorded in the corresponding period of last year. Available statistics showed

that the total gross tonnage of the ocean going vessels stood at 60,230,440, representing a growth of two percent over the 2011 half year figure of 59,070,867. General Manager in charge of the Western operations of NPA, which manages the two biggest ports; Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports both in Lagos, Mallam Mohammed Bulangu, who spoke in an interview in Lagos, said the essence of the reform was to bring in private sector funds and efficiency into a public sector domain. “You know before the reform, NPA was operating as the land lord, the cargo handler and also in charge of port development but today, the element of cargo han-

dling is in the hands of the private sector and today, if you take statistics from 2006 to date, you see a remarkable improvement both in terms of efficiency, productivity and volume of cargo”, he argued. He said that dream of government has been achieved given the level of inflow of public sector funds and efficiency, which have brought about a remarkable improvement in efficiency and productivity. “If you look at the ports from 2006 till now, since the terminal operators took over the aspect of cargo handling from NPA, you would see a remarkable improvement both in the terminals and the kind of equipment, which has brought about growth in terms of

cargo throughput and level of efficiency, which is no doubt as a result of the port reform’, he noted. He noted that the authority is committed to ensuring that the various concessionaires complied with the concession agreement, especially as per the development plan of the ports. According to him, development of a seaport is a continuous exercise, arguing that bigger and more sophisticated vessels are being built daily, which imposes fresh challenges on the development of port infrastructure and so no one can say he has reached the peak or maximum point in port development, as there is room for improvement.

he challenges facing those who want to introduce the mandatory verification of shippers’ declared weight of loaded sea containers were laid out on Tuesday in London as the build-up to next year’s International Maritime Organization meeting on the topic began. Talks at the IMO’s sub-committee for Dangerous Goods, Solid Cargoes and Containers (DSC 17) at the end of September failed to push forward the introduction of new legislation – despite support from a wide range of industry bodies and several governments including the US, Denmark and the Netherlands – due to technical objections from Greece, Cyprus and Panama. That move looks to have set back new legislation by at least a year, and the IMO has now set up a correspondence group to write guidelines to the legislation, which would appear as an amendment to the Safety of Life at Sea (Solas) regulations and would likely enter force in 2017. The International Cargo Handling Coordination Association (ICHCA), an industry body that advises the IMO on safety matters, has been named joint-chair of the correspondence group, and held a day-long seminar with representations from a range of participants in the supply chain to begin the work, which will culminate in its report to the next DSC (18) in September 2013. “This seminar starts our industry consultation as part of our contribution to the DSC correspondence group,” ICHCA financial director Richard Marks told delegates. What was immediately apparent, however, was the wide range of views from different parts of the supply chain. Under the existing Solas regime, shippers have a legal obligation to provide an accurate weight of the container – its contents in addition to its tare weight – while the new proposal says that the declared weight has to be verified either by weighing or by providing an accepted calculation of the weight. Because of the sheer number of cases where actual container weights have differed from the declared weights, shippers have faced considerable opprobrium over the issue, particularly in the aftermath of high profile casualties such as the MSC Napoli, Annabella and Husky Racer. However, Global Shippers Forum secretary general Chris Welsh argued that the criticism was misplaced.

Global Business

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, October 12, 2012

Investors gain N122bn as ASI outperforms its peers STORIES: JOHNSON OKANLAWON

rading in equities continued on bullish note on the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday, as more investors took position in stocks, particularly the banking sector. The All Share index rose by 1.35 per cent to close at 27.371.30 points, compared to the increase of 0.62 per cent recorded the preceding day to close at 27,006.77 points. Market capitalisation appreciated by N122bn to close at N8.72trn, higher than the rise of N53bn recorded the pre-

ceding day to close at N8.59trn. The benchmark index outperformed its peers, as its year-to-date return stood at 32.03 per cent except Egyptian EGX 30 Index that returned 58.43 per cent. The banking index led sectorial indices by 3.19 per cent to close at 446.39 points, followed by the NSE 30-index with 1.61 per cent to close at 1,297.94 points. The consumer goods index rose by 0.81 per cent to close at 2,364.37 points, while the insurance index appreciated by 0.48 per cent to close at 143.50 points. Lotus Islamic index gained 0.26 per cent to

close at 1,645.39 points, while the oil and gas index closed at 163.64 points, up by 0.16 per cent. Diamond Bank Plc led the gainers’ table with 44 kobo or 9.84 per cent to close at N4.91 per share, followed by Fidson Healthcare Plc with 11 kobo or 9.73 per cent to close at N1.24 per share. Academy Press Plc rose by 25 kobo or 9.73 per cent to close at N2.82 per share, while DN Meyer Plc appreciated by 16 kobo or 9.58 per cent to close at N1.83 per share. Dangote Sugar Plc closed at N6.75 per share, up by 54 kobo or 8.70 per cent.

On the flip side, Royal Exchange Plc dropped by three kobo or five per cent to close at 57 kobo per share, while Pharmdeko Plc dipped by 15 kobo or 4.97 per cent to close at N2.87 per share. University Press Limited Plc lost 20 kobo or 4.87 per cent to close at N3.91 per share, while UAC-Property Plc shed 45 kobo or 3.93 per cent to close at N11.00 per share. AIICO Insurance Plc declined by three kobo or 3.61 per cent to close at 80 kobo per share. A total of 552.4 million shares valued at N4.86bn were traded in 5,372 deals.

Source: NSE NIBOR QUOTES 10 OCTOBER & 11 OCTOBER 2012 20.00 19.00 18 00 18.00 17.00 16.00 15.00 14.00 13.00 12.00 11.00 10.00 9.00 8.00 7.00 6.00 5.00

10-Oct-12

11-Oc t-12

Source: FMDA

Market indicators All-Share Index 7,342,308 points Market capitalisation 23,066.74 trillion

Stock Updates GAINERS

NSE remains source of capital formation, says Fashola

he Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, has said that the nation’s capital market remain the bastion of capital formation for developing infrastructure in the domestic economy. Speaking at the 16th annual Stockbrokers conference and induction of new associates yesterday in Lagos, he said that as the state engage in colossal development in area of infrastructures growth and development the capital market will be the place of sourcing for funds. According to him, the stock market is

known for providing cheap fund for business growth and government in the implementation of elephant project across the globe will continue to serve as a veritable place for sourcing for funds. The Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Ms Arunma Oteh, said that the capital market would be repositioned to tap from the Federal Government’s transformation agenda of the agricultural sector. Oteh said that market participants must be prepared to tap from the development in the market, noting that the market was experienc-

ing increased participation of institutional and retail investors. She pointed out that the commission would in 2013 roll out strong regulatory framework that would guide collective investment schemes, saying that, retail investors should embrace the investment window. Oteh said that the commission would continue to educate retail investors on the need to embrace the investment scheme to avoid loss of investment. The President of the Chatered Institute of Stockbrokers, Mr. Ariyo Olushekun, urged investors on the Nigerian

capital market to take advantage of the low prices of shares for future gains. He said that it was obvious that activities had begun to stabilise in the market, noted that it is a perfect opportunity for investors to stake their funds in the market. “This is the right time for investors to take part in the equities market, with the prices of shares at their lowest levels. We at the CIS are confident that as from now, the market would begin to stabilise and investors would begin to record significant appreciation on their investments,” he stated.

DMO to appoint broker for FGN bonds

he Debt Management Office has said that it will appoint a stockbroker to serve as government stockbroker for FGN bonds listed and to be listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. The Director, Market Development Department of DMO, Mrs. Patience Oniha, who disclosed this in Lagos, noted that a lot of these FGN bonds are

not been traded and the NSE market data base doesn’t capture activities in these bonds. Oniha, who represented the DirectorGeneral of the Debt Management Office, Abraham Nwankwo said that the role of the gover nment stockbroker will be different from what it used to be, saying that it is an appointment that will be renewed peri-

odically and not by rotation. She said, “We are looking at actually developing the OTC market for FGN Bonds listed at the Exchange. We should have data on the stock market including the OTC market for FGN bonds. Data from OTC market for FGN bond are not includes in the stock exchange data. The size of the stock market should in-

clude OTC market for bond and not only the equities.” According to her, the debt office interest in the stock market is in line with the developmental role, adding, “There is very little trading activity in FGN listed bonds at the Exchange. We started by having an active OTC market to provide liquidity for these bonds to be traded.”

COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

AGLEVENT

1.20

1.26

0.06

5.00

INTBREW

6.61

6.94

0.33

4.99

CAP

24.12

25.32

1.20

4.98

REDSTAREX

2.62

2.75

0.13

4.96

BERGER

6.93

7.27

0.34

4.91

ETERNA

2.35

2.46

0.11

4.68

CADBURY

15.25

15.95

0.70

4.59

BAGCO

1.56

1.63

0.07

4.49

IKEJAHOTEL

1.12

1.17

0.05

4.46

AIRSERVICE

1.57

1.64

0.07

4.46

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

CONTINSURE

0.63

CLOSING 0.60

0.03

-4.76

GTASSURE

1.75

1.67

0.08

-4.57

UTC

0.92

0.88

0.04

-4.35

STERLNBANK

1.07

1.03

0.04

-3.74

ROYALEX

0.55

0.53

0.02

-3.64

OANDO

13.99

13.61

0.38

-2.72

DANGFLOUR

6.30

6.13

0.17

-2.70

DANGCEM

112.40

110.00

2.40

-2.14

UNILEVER

35.50

35.00

0.50

-1.41

DANGSUGAR

4.55

4.50

0.05

-1.10

Primary Market Auction TENOR

AMOUNT (N’mn)

RATE (%)

DATE

91-Day

30,159.21

13.75

11-Oct-12

182-Day

73,490.67

14.94

10-Oct-12

364 -Day

68,184.69

16.22

11-Oct-12

Open Market Operations TENOR

AMOUNT (N’mn)

RATE (%)

DATE

178Days

14,231.30

15.50

04-Oct-12

356-Days

193,954.35

16.20

04-Oct-12

Wholesale Dutch Auction System AMOUNT OFFERED

MARKET DEMAND

AMOUNT SOLD

DATE

$120m

N/A

$120m

10-Oct-12

$150m

N/A

$104m

08-Oct-12

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, October 12, 2012

Capital Market

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Stock exchange daily equities summary Equities as at October 11, 2012 1st Tier Securities Sector

Company name

1st Tier Securities No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Sector

Company name

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Community Mirror “I do not think that the constitution intend to turn the national assembly into a mere mechanical rubber-stamp.” SENATE PRESIDENT DAVID MARK

Coop society sues IGP, others for N500m ISE-OLUWA IGE

he Police Service Commission Staff Multi Purpose Co-operative Society has instituted a N500 million suit against the Police Service Commission and the Inspector General of Police (IGP), before a Federal High Court in Abuja over torture of four of its members. The claim was contained in a writ of summons filed by the Society and members at the Federal High Court, Abuja against the defendants. Other plaintiffs in the case are Emmanuel Ibe, Paul Adebisi, Abiodun Awosanya and Obinna Molokwu. The suit also named Ali Amodu, a Commissioner of Police as defendant. The society had alleged that the defendants unjustifiably arrested, detained and tortured four of its officials joined as plaintiffs in the suit. It submitted that the action was a breach of the fundamental human rights to personal liberty and dignity of human person of the second to the fifth plaintiffs. It had sought a declaration that the arrest, detention and torture of the second to fifth plaintiffs

from July 18 to July 20 were unlawful, illegal and unconstitutional. The plaintiffs had sought a declaration that the powers of the first defendant (Police Service Commission) under its enabling law, did not extend to include the supervision, administration and control of the first plaintiff. They further sought a declaration that the first plaintiff was a registered corporate legal entity separate and distinct from the first defendant. They sought further declaration that the executive action of the first defendant in publishing a disclaimer on July 23, in respect of a landed property owned by the first plaintiff was unlawful. The plaintiffs had therefore sought an order of injunction to restrain the first defendant by herself, her chairman, members, staff or any persons acting under her control or directive from further interfering with the lawful operations and activities of the first plaintiff. The plaintiffs had averred that sometime in July 2012, the Chairman of the first defendant, Mr Parry Osanyande, maliciously reported to the second defendant (Ahmodu) that the plaintiffs were selling and developing a land which did not belong to them. The plaintiffs however submit-

Ohanaeze justifies suspension of officers FRANCIS SUBERU

he president of Igbo apex socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Lagos State Chapter and Chairman, Ohaneze Diaspora, Chief Oliver Akubueze, has justified the suspension of four executive officers for alleged gross misconduct. The suspended officers including Deputy President, Collins Ozor, Legal Adviser, Fabian Onwughalu, Secretary General, Chief Thompson Ohia and Publicity secretary, Chief Louis Okafor, all of the state chapter, were, last week, suspended at a key stakeholders’ meeting of the organization in Lagos. Speaking in Lagos, Sir Akubueze, maintained that there is no crisis in the chapter, even as he maintained that their suspension stands. According to him, the four sus-

pended officers published falsehood against him, alleging he addressed a press conference where he suspended Eze Ndigbo, Lagos State, Chief Nwabueze Ohazulike, saying the latter should no longer award chieftaincy title. Akubueze averred that he was invited by the apex body and even interrogated for three hours, which, in turn cleared him of all allegations and a vote of confidence passed on him. Following this, a vote of no confidence was passed on the four suspended officers who publicly castigated him prior to appearing date before the body. Corroborating Akubueze, the President, Igbo Speaking Community of Lagos State, Ebere Ubani, noted that the action taken against the suspended officers was a unanimous agreement of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo which decried their resorting to the media to derogate the president.

ted that based on the report, the second defendant arrested the second to fifth plaintiffs and detained them at the Area 10 Police Command, Abuja from July 18 to July 20. The second to the fifth plaintiffs claimed that while in detention, they were tortured in the most harrowing, barbaric and dehumanizing manner by officers of the second and third defendants. They had alleged that the sec-

ond defendant and officers of the disbanded IGP Special Task Force stormed the residence of the second plaintiff and carted away bank documents belonging to the first plaintiff. According to them, a Zenith Bank Plc cheque booklet with account number 1013058275 and a Skye Bank Plc cheque booklet with account number 17709255680 were some of the documents carted away.

They further submitted that the other document taken away by the police was 15 non used receipt booklets belonging to the client of the first plaintiff. The plaintiffs had said that till date, no member of the public made any extra-judicial statements of defraud to the second and third defendants against the plaintiffs. No date has been fixed for the case.

A group of cart pushers jostling to unload a bus at Ojuelegba area of Lagos.

Pastor, accomplice arrested for kidnap threat TONY ANICHEBE UYO

wo suspects have been arrested by the police following threats to kidnap one Igwe Uneke, an Oronbased trader. Community Mirror gathered that the General Overseer of Upper Roll Ministry, Pastor Wisdom Ikpo Inyama and Victor Abuchi Offondu of No. 6 Elvis Okpo Street, Oron, were arrested for threatening to kill Aneke, except he paid a ransom of N2million. The fraudsters, arrested on September 9, 2012, were alleged to have demanded that Aneke pay the ransom, if he did not want to die like his elder brother who was recently murdered in mysterious cir-

cumstance. Due to threats, he paid N500, 000 into one of the suspect’s account in one of the new generation banks, even as he was said to have parted with another N300,000 following intense pressure. In spite of this, the suspects were alleged to have sent more threatening text messages to the victim to pay the outstanding amount. Unable to pay further, Igwe Uneke reported the matter to the police who immediately apprehended the culprits. When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, confirmed the story, stating that the Commissioner of Police, Umar Gwadabe, will soon make a statement on the matter after investigations are completed.

NIPOST request exemption for branded bikes TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

he Nigeria Postal Service (NIPOST), has requested for exemption of its employees who convey mails and parcels from the ban on motorcycles operating on some routes in the metropolis, by the Lagos State Government. The agency also called on individuals and organizations operating mail boxes for private and commercial use to update the right of ownership through renewing their licenses immediately or risk forfeiting them. Stating this while commemorating this year’s World Post Day with theme: ‘A new strategy for a new world,’ the Area Manager, Lagos Mainland Territory, Mr. Rufai Yahaya, disclosed that his area officer had lost three motorcycles to the new traffic law in the state.

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

North

Friday, October 12, 2012

Security forces can’t end terrorism –Shehu Sani AZA MSUE KADUNA

he President of the Civil Rights Congress of Nigeria (CRCN), Mallam Shehu Sani, yesterday said that the terrorists’ insurgency facing the northern part of the country cannot be solved through what he described as the ‘reckless execution of innocent people’ by the security Joint Task Force (JTF).

Mallam Sani, while calling on the Federal Government to probe what he called extra-judicial killings in the north, noted that ordinary Nigerians have become the biggest casualty in the ongoing confrontation between the terrorists and the military. In an e-mailed statement signed by Mallam Shehu Sani and sent to National Mirror, he said the security agencies’ ac-

tions against law abiding citizens would be unacceptable as it is self-defeating. He maintained that although Nigerians appreciate the delicate assignment of fighting insurgency but cautioned that it must not be done at the expense of the rights and lives of innocent Nigerians. The statement read in part: “The counter-insurgency campaign going on

in some northern parts of Nigeria has becoming as atrocious, senile and deprave as the insurgency itself. Anti-terrorism activities of the Joint Task Force; otherwise known as the JTF has become a blank cheque for gross human rights violations and mass murder.” He said that Joint Task Force (JTF) must operate within the ethos of democracy and the law for

its mission to be credible. The statement added: “The expedient approach of short-circuiting the law and constitutional principles in the fight against terror is inimical, unacceptable and self-defeating. “The reprehensible acts of killing and vandalism by the insurgents cannot be addressed and contained by the arbitrariness and brigandage of the security agencies. “The Federal Government should probe the re-

ported cases of extra-judicial killings and arson by the JTF. The strategy of using disproportionate force in the prosecution of the fight against the insurgents is simply annihilating and alienating the people,” he said. Sani, who appealed for an end to the bloodshed, reminded all that insurgents are only accountable to themselves but the security agencies are accountable to Nigerians and the laws of the land.

‘Disbursement on projects doesn’t make good governance’ WOLE A DEDEJI ILORIN

Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Mr. Bala Ngillari (left) receiving relief materials from the North-East Zonal Coordinator, National Emergency Management Agency, Alhaji Muhammad Kanar for victims of the recent communal crisis in Numan and Lamurde Local PHOTO: NAN Government Areas of Yola, yesterday.

Borno gov urges pilgrims to pray for peace INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

orried by the spate of killings and the destruction of property by terrorists in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, state governor, Kashim Shettima, has appealed to the 2012 Muslim pilgrims to pray for the restoration of peace and unity among the people of the state while in Saudi Arabia. Shettima made the appeal yesterday when he paid a visit to the first batch of pilgrims to the holy land to bid them fare-

well at the state Hajj camp at the Maiduguri International Airport. He said the insecurity experienced in the state has been a source of concern to his government and people of the state, as such; it needs serious prayers from all and sundry so that the state will regain back the peace and harmony that exists between the diverse ethnic groups in the state. The governor, who wished them a successful hajj exercise, also said that this year, his administration has

approved the sum of N350 million for befitting accommodation and uniforms for all pilgrims while in the holy land. He urged them to be good ambassadors of the country and not to engage in any habit that will tarnish the image of the state and Nigeria at large. Speaking on the exercise which he described as successful, the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Hassan Abdallah Hassan, said that a total of 3, 301 pilgrims are to perform this year’s hajj

exercise from the state, pointing out that the first batch of about 532 were safely airlifted to Jeddah yesterday and that, his office has not received any complain from the Saudi authorities about the pilgrims as all of them were accompanied by their Muharams (male guardian). Hassan said the second batch of the pilgrims will leave today and that he was optimistic that all the pilgrims will be airlifted to the holy land before the expiration of the deadline.

ing journalists on the resolutions reached at the weekly meeting of the State Executive Council. He said the buildings would be sold to civil servants in the state. Where civil servants could not buy the houses after three months, however, Dabarako said such houses would thereafter be offered to interested

members of the public. He said in this case the buyers would buy the property at a higher price than the subsidised one meant for civil servants. According to him, the buildings were about 120 in number on which government hoped to generate about N800 million from their sales. However, the HoS

said that buildings that are within hospital and school premises which he said might be easier to sell because of the purposes they serve, might be spared. The policy, which was inherited and sustained from ex-governor Bukola Saraki has of late generated strong distaste from the people.

Kwara to sell government-owned houses WOLE ADEDEJI ILORIN

he Kwara State government has decided to sell government-owned residential buildings occupied by civil servants in the state. Head of Service (HoS), Mohammed Dabarako, gave this hint while brief-

utgoing ViceChancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Isha’q Oloyede, has said that it is wrong for governments in the country to use the volume of money spent on projects as the yardstick for measuring successes of the various administrations. Speaking with journalists after he delivered the 116th Inaugural Lecture of the university yesterday, titled, “Islam: The Conflux of Disciplines”, Prof. Oloyede said such claims get the public disillusioned. “We should stop measuring successes by money spent. It should be by achievement. In a situation whereby we say we’ve spent X or Y, the public becomes disillusioned because they are not in a position to know and because they’ve not travelled all over the country to know you put N1 in Ilorin, N1 in Ibadan and in other places and you say you have spent N1 million, the person in Ilorin who sees only N1 would think you are not telling the truth. “The fact of the matter is to talk in concrete terms on what we have achieved with the money here and there,” he said. The outgoing vicechancellor, who also identified what he called negative and foreign language of Nigeria’s public officers as another problem, said they ascribe almost everything to Mr. President in a bid to satisfy

him. He said the habit could engender mistrust between the government and the people, adding that it should be the Federal Executive Council, federal agencies or the government has decided on something or the other. “The issue of ascribing everything to Mr. President is what is making the media to also ascribe all negative things to him.” Oloyede said terrorism as it is in the country today, is a strange phenomenon without any religious boundary, adding that it is a negative development that is not based on religion. He said since the Federal Government and Muslims in the country have said that the ravaging terrorists are not Nigerians, it should therefore be convincing enough that people should stop associating terrorism with Islam or Nigeria. “Muslims have said that terrorism and those who engage in it are not part of Islam. I don’t know why we chose to believe those in the minority and disbelieve the majority and officials of Islam,” he said.

Oloyede

News

Fayemi commissions 103km road projects Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi yesterday commissioned 10 major roads totaling 103 kilometres in fulfillment of the resolve of his administration to make all the communities in the state accessible by 2014. The governor also commissioned five water treatment plants as part of projects scheduled to mark the second anniversary of his administration. The 10 roads which are located in Ekiti Central senatorial district include 14.3 km Erijinyan-Ilawe road; the 12km Odo Owa-Oke Ila road; 6.25km Awo-Iyin road; 24km Ikogosi-Efon road; 11.5km Ado-Ilawe road and the 5km Fajuyi-Basiri-Police Headquarters’ road. Others are the 1.65km Fajuyi-Teaching Hospital road; the 10.75km Ado-Afao road; the 2km Ijigbo-Isato and 13km Osun-Iloro road. Commissioning the various roads, Governor Fayemi said the construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation of the roads became necessary following their deplorable condition which had given ‘motorists nightmarish experiences traversing the roads.’ According to the governor, the government decided to award the roads, especially those leading to Ado Ekiti in November 2011in order to ameliorate the sufferings of motorists and also to give the state capital a face-lift even as Fajuyi-Teaching Hospital road was planned to link the on-going Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki road with Fajuyi Park. He added that government is rehabilitating 16 other roads within the township to make Ado-Ekiti an enviable state capital. While commissioning the Ado-Afao road, the governor said the rehabilitation of the road will undoubtedly be a great relief to motorists using the road especially motorists going towards Ikole and the northern part as it is a shorter link than the Ado-Ifaki road.

Tuesday, October 12, 2012

Budget: Presidency, Mark, Tambuwal trade tackles AYODELE OJO

he Presidency yesterday berated the leadership of the National Assembly over their remarks during the presentation of the 2013 Budget by President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday. The Senate President, David Mark, had told the President that the lawmakers would not rubber-stamp the budget, saying that the budget proposals were mere

estimates. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, had decried the poor implementation of the 2012 budget. But the Presidency through the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Affairs, Dr. Doyin Okupe, described Mark and Tambuwal’s remarks as “unfair treatment of the President”. He cautioned the leadership of the National Assembly not to be seen as playing

to the gallery. Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Okupe said: “In a democracy, there is useful idea about deliberations until useful conclusions are reached. “Referring to the budget as mere estimates is unfair and does not speak well of the entire process. “President Jonathan and his administration do not see the National Assembly as a rubber- stamp. The President does not expect the National Assembly to be a rubber-

L-R: Four Nigerian farmers, Alali Efanga, Friday Udo, Chief Fidelis Oruma and Eric Dooh, in a court session, during proceedings on a landmark compensation case against Shell over oil spills dating back to 2005 in Nigeria, in The Hague, Netherlands, yesterday.

My wife doesn’t deserve abduction –Osun Speaker WALE FOLARIN OSOGBO

he Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Hon. Najeem Salaam, yesterday broke his silence over the abduction of his wife, saying that the woman does not deserve to be kidnapped for any purpose. Reacting to the development, the Speaker said that his wife, Muibat, was more of a wife and a business woman than a Speaker’s wife. Salaam said his wife is an

easy going type, who does her normal legitimate business with a view to supporting him at keeping the home front in his hometown. His words: “I must say that I was embarrassed by the entire scenario, because my wife does not deserve it, she should not have been abducted for any reason, because she chose to stay with my children in my hometown, doing her legitimate business as usual to support me at the home front. So, if she is kidnapped in order to get at me, then she

rotesters yesterday marched on the National Assembly in protest against the demolition

of about 500 houses which combined value is put at about N3bn. The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) through its Department of Development Control had,

between September 29 and 30, carried out the exercise, but there were controversies about the status of the project site as well as the real name and ownership of the location.

stamp.” The President’s aide, however, accused the Speaker of “being dictatorial and over authoritative.” “The Speaker should know that the era of releasing funds without due process is over and government cannot continue to play Father Christmas with budgetary allocations,” he said. In his reaction, Mark described Okupe as ill-informed about legislative process. The Senate President, who spoke through his Media Adviser, Kola Ologbodiyan, said: “Our attention has been drawn to media attacks on the office and person of the President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, by the Senior Special Assistant to the Mr. President, Dr. Doyin Okupe, to the effect that the President of the Senate derided President Jonathan during the budget presentation on Wednesday. “It is instructive to first state that Senator Mark and Mr. President are on the same page in the onerous task of ensuring the actualisation of the transformation agenda of this administration. “There was nothing derisive in the welcome address of the President of the Senate at the budget presentation. We challenge Dr. Okupe to revisit the speech and discover his misadventure. “It is, therefore, strange that Dr. Okupe would meddlesomely attempt to create

does not deserve it.” Speaking in the same vein, the Deputy Speaker, Mr. Akintunde Adegboye, urged the kidnappers to release the woman, adding that she has not done anything to warrant the kind of trauma she is being subjected to. “I urge the people behind this abduction to please consider the children of their MARCUS FATUNMOLE captive, think of the trauma ABUJA she is going through for the he Bill and Melinda reason she could not underGate Foundation and stand by releasing her,” he WaterAid have voted said. $6, 628, 162 (about N1bn) for water and sanitation projects in Nigeria. The project, to be known Speaking on behalf of as “Sustainable Total Sanithe project firm, Minantation,” was launched in uel Investment Limited, Abuja, yesterday . Chief Festus Adebayo, Speaking at the launch, said the company set out Country Representative of and acquired the land WaterAid, Dr Michael Ojo, from Messrs NCR and Associates in 2004 with said the contract provided valid documents to sup- total funding of $6, 628,162 port the development of over four years. Ojo noted that $6, 038, 926 was made the land. He said the firm re- available by the Bill and ceived all approvals to Melinda Gates Foundation, build and develop the while the remaining $589, demolished residential 236 would be co-financed by houses slated to be hand- WaterAid. The fund, he said, would ed over to the company’s be used for water and sanicontributors by the end tation projects in 500 comof this month. munities in three states According to him, the namely Ekiti, Enugu and estate was designated

Property developer protests demolition of N3bn estate O MEIZA A JAYI

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

unnecessary disaffection between the legislature and the executive. “Dr. Okupe as a public affairs manager has a responsibility to make friends and create a harmonious working relationship between the executive and other arms of government. His job is not to make enemies and create unfavourable atmosphere for Mr. President. “We take exception to such unwarranted attack on the Office of the President of the Senate and we urge Dr. Okupe to know his limits.” Also reacting, Tambuwal, who spoke through his Media Adviser, Imam Imam, said Okupe lacks respect for the legislature. He said: “The Speaker wishes to state that the remarks of the two leaders were in conformity with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and that the statements by the two leaders were backed by facts and figures from field studies by the legislators and experts’ advice. “It is apparent that Okupe is dabbling into areas where he is totally ignorant about. The uncouth manner in which he replied elected representatives showed his apparent lack of respect to the legislature as an institution. “The entire remarks he made gave him out as an overzealous official doing a hatchet job in order to be relevant in the scheme of things.

Gate Foundation, WaterAid vote N1bn for water, sanitation

Jigawa, over the next four years. Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, Ambassador Godknows Ighali, lamented at the occasion that his house in his village has been submerged by flood. Ighali hails from Bomo clan in Ekowe community, Southern Ijaw, Bayelsa State. While narrating the ordeals Nigerians go through as a result of flood that has ravaged different parts of the country, Ighali said of his house: “Yesterday night, my house in my village was covered with water from the first floor, and it has started entering the second floor; which means the rest of the community, especially most of those who don’t have storey buildings are already under water. That is how bad the floods are.”

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

World News

“Violence and reports of militia groups organizing five months before Kenya’s presidential election are a cause of great concern.” – Ex- UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan

Shell rejects Nigeria’s oil spills claim PAUL ARHEWE

WITH AGENCY REPORTS

he Anglo-Dutch oil giant Shell has rejected claims by four Nigerian farmers that it should pay compensation for damage to their land, the BBC has reported. The farmers are suing the company in a civil court in The Hague, claiming oil spills ruined their livelihoods. Shell’s lawyers told the court it could not be held liable because most spills were caused by criminal damage. They said repairs were hard to carry out because of insecurity in the Niger Delta. Shell lawyer Jan de Bie Leuveling Tjeenk told the court that sabotage and oil theft were widespread in the region. The case is being brought against Shell by the farmers and the Dutch arm of the environmental group Friends of the Earth. If their case is successful it could pave the way for thousands of other compensation claims, says the BBC’s reporter in The Hague. It is the first time a Dutch multinational has been taken to a civil court in the Netherlands in connection with damage caused abroad. The case is linked to spills in

Goi, Ogoniland; Oruma in Bayelsa State and a third in Ikot Ada Udo, Akwa Ibom State. Earlier, Channa Samkalden, lawyer for the Nigerians, told the court that Shell had failed to maintain its pipelines, clean up leaks and prevent pollution. “Shell knew for a long time that the pipeline was damaged but didn’t do anything. They could have stopped the leaks,” she said. Judges are now considering the evidence and a ruling is expected early next year.

Speaking to the BBC before the hearing, one of the plaintiffs, Friday Alfred Akpan from the village of Ikot Ada Udo, said the oil leaks in his village had badly damaged his 47 fish ponds. “Fish died as a result of the oil spill, making it difficult for me to live and put my children through school.” He told the BBC’s Newsday programme he wanted compensation for the loss, and for Shell to clean up the spill. Shell official Allard Castelein

told the BBC the spills in question “were all caused by sabotage”. “I mean, there’s video evidence. There’s signed testimonies by joint investigation teams that are constituted of the local municipality, the company, the government.” In a statement, the company said: “The real tragedy of the Niger Delta is the widespread and continual criminal activity, including sabotage, theft and illegal refining, that causes the vast majority of oil spills.

Striking miners killed one man by setting him on fire yesterday while another was fatally shot, apparently by police, in rekindled labour unrest in South Africa that saw police firing tear gas and rubber bullets. The violence near an Anglo American Platinum (Amplats) mine has escalated since the company dismissed 12,000 striking miners on Friday. Dozens have been killed in violence in other strikes in South Africa since August. One person died Thursday in a hospital after being hit by two rubber bullets likely fired by police trying to disperse striking miners, said Gaddafi Mdoda, a leader of the striking Amplats mineworkers. Another person died of his wounds after being set alight by striking workers, North West police spokesman Brig.

Africa shows progress on hunger - Report

People staring at a Shell’s oil pump

Photo: Globalwhisperer.com

US embassy security chief killed in Yemen

asked gunmen shot dead a Yemeni security chief on his way to work at the U.S. embassy in Sanaa yesterday, in an attack a Yemeni security source said appeared to be the work of al Qaeda. The incident was the latest of a wave of attacks on officials

WORLD BULLETIN Man burnt, another shot in S’Africa mine strikes

in the impoverished Arab state, which is battling Islamist militants with Washington’s help. The attackers, on a motorcycle, opened fire on Qassem Aqlan - who headed an embassy security investigation team - near his house in the centre of Yemen’s capital, the source told Reuters. “This operation has the fin-

Hundreds of protesters enraged by the anti-Islam film recently stormed the U.S. Embassy compound in Sanaa, Yemen. PHOTO: POPDECAY

gerprints of al Qaeda which carried out similar operations before,” said the source, who asked not to be named. Yemen-based Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and other militant groups strengthened their grip on parts of the country during an uprising that ousted veteran President Ali Abdullah Saleh in February. Washington, wary of the growing power of al Qaeda, has stepped up drone strikes on suspected militants, with the backing of Saleh’s successor, President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. Fahad, a neighbour of Aqlan’s, said he had noticed strangers roaming the streets over the past three days, suggesting Aqlan was being watched before the attack. “Once he (Aqlan) stepped out of his house the men shouted his name and when he replied, they shot him in the head and neck,”

he said. Aqlan, who was in his fifties and had worked at the embassy for more than a decade, was responsible for coordinating security information between the U.S. embassy and the Yemeni authorities, the source added. He had been involved in the investigation into the attack last month on the U.S. embassy by protesters angry over an antiIslam film made in the United States. “We are aware of the reports of this tragic incident and our embassy in Sanaa is working with the Yemeni authorities,” Bernadette Meehan, a spokeswoman for the White House National Security Council, said in Washington. A senior State Department official said: “We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident involving a Yemeni employee of our embassy.”

Africa has had more success than South Asia in tackling the problem of hunger over the past decade, according to a report on world food production. Food shortages and malnutrition have been reduced in many parts of Africa, the Global Hunger Index says. But it remains “extremely alarming” in countries such as Eritrea and Burundi. The report says India, meanwhile, which has shown strong economic growth, has a disappointing record on tackling the problem.

Ghana court upholds seizure of Argentine ship A Ghanaian court yesterday ruled against releasing an Argentine naval vessel which is currently being held at Tema Port near here. The commercial court decided that the ARA Libertad should be prevented from leaving because of claims against the Argentine state by creditors in the United States. The U.S. creditors are demanding payment in full for Argentine bonds for which most investors accepted 30 cents on the dollar in 2005. The court earlier ordered the seizure of the Argentine tall sailing ship at Tema harbor following judgments against Argentina issued by the United States District Court and supported by similar court rulings in the United Kingdom. Justice Richard Agyei-Frimpong said yesterday that Argentina had not shown why the injunction on the ship should be set aside. The judge upheld his earlier ruling to restrain the ship, which came to Ghana on a goodwill mission as part of a West African tour.

TRANSITION

Friday, October 12, 2012

Prof. Oluwole Ademola Adebo

rof. Oluwole Adebo died in Marietta, GA on September 22, 2012. He was born August 16, 1944 to Chief Simeon and Regina Adebo. His education spanned several countries: Nigeria, the United Kingdom and the United States of America. He received a doctorate degree from the University of Ibadan and completed his General Surgery residency at Strong Memorial Hospital, New York. He also completed residency in Cardiothoracic Surgery in Providence, Rhode Island and became a lecturer and Director of Emergency Medical Services at Highland Hospital, Rochester, New York. A recent clip from his journal reads, “A spiritual rebirth in 1976 altered my life, goals, and perspectives. Working for God became the defining motivation for my endeavors. My motivation for diligence, integrity, and excellence was to

please God who gave me purpose”. As of 1987, Wole was a professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, where he also held positions as Head of the Department of Surgery, and Dean. After retiring, God called him to serve with the Nigerian Baptist Convention as Provost of the Bowen University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Iwo and Chief Medical Director of the Bowen University Teaching Hospital (BUTH), Ogbomosho. These were extremely demanding positions with campuses in two different states. In November 2011, Wole fell ill, and began rigorous treatments in the U.S. In the midst of these he made several excruciating trips to Nigeria and back, shuttling between both Bowen campuses. He initially set his term for 2 years, but extended it to relentlessly pursue accreditation for both institutions. This became a reality in July 2012, and Bowen became the only private university with a teaching hospital in Nigeria. Wole was greatly appreciated all over the world; gifted in teaching and performing surgery in the U.S., U.K., Singapore, and Nigeria. He was a member of several professional societies: the World Heart Federation, the Canadian Society of Thoracic Surgeons (CATS), West African College of Surgeons (WACS), Nigerian Cardiac Society (NCS); and served as president of Pan African Society of Cardiology (PASCAR) of Nigeria. He was a Fellow of various medical bodies, including the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, American College of Chest Physicians, and the International College of Surgeons. Above all else, Wole’s faith and relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ were his driving force. He was heavily involved in the Nigerian Fellowship of Evangelical Students (NIFES), where he mentored students and medical professionals. He was president of the Christian Medical Dental Association (CMDA) until June 2012. Mission work was of utmost importance to him, and he founded the Macedonia Foundation which funds missions to rural areas.

Bode Alalade

eteran broadcaster and former General Manager of NTA 7, Lagos, Otunba Bode Alalade died on Tuesday at his home in Ogudu GRA, Lagos, at the age of 75. In his several decades in broadcasting, Otunba Alade exhibited great versatility and intellectualism. He was a presenter, newscaster, producer, writer and great administrator. Born in Ibadan, Oyo State capital on July 14, 1937, Alalade joined the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) in 1973 and spent several years both as an on air personality, casting news for over 30 million listeners/viewers. He had his education at Princess School and Government School in Lagos. He also went to St. Peter’s School, Aremo, Ibadan and Hussey College, Warri, 1952-56; Ibadan Grammar School 1957-58, Fourah Bay College, Sierra Leone; the University College, Sierra- Leone, 1961-64; University of London,

1968-69 and the University of Lagos 1986-87. Otunba Alalade was not only one of Nigeria’s broadcasting legends, but also a passionate teacher— former high school teacher, college lecturer and TV and Radio broadcast journalism trainer— with a flair for grooming aspiring journalists. He was quoted as saying: “I love teaching, it’s my passion. And that is why I don’t want these things to die,” an indication of his commitment to cultural preservation, rural community development, historical documentation and ensuring that knowledge is transferred from the older to the younger generation. His broadcasting profession which entailed producing public programmes including genres such as “documentaries,” involves processes such as researching, voicing, scripting etc., and are all invaluable methods required for the purpose of conservation within the museum.

Gabriel Daramola Adesuyi

abriel Daramola Adesuyi was born into the family of late Pa. Adesuyi James and late Mrs. Yumerufo Adesuyi in Igbede’s compound on November 5, 1946 at Ijesha Isu in Ekiti State. He left Ijesha Isu for Lagos in the year 1959 in search of greener pasture and later learned trading in electronics. He later joined OTIS Elevators, where he was trained as a lift technician and later became a lift engineer. He left Otis Elevators in 19992 and started a career in business. He was married to Mrs. Abigael Adesuyi and the family is blessed with children and grandchildren. Late Gabriel joined Gospel Apostolic Church in 1980 and remained a devoted christain until his death. He is survived by wife and children.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Florence Obiageli Oweka

ate Florence Obiageli Oweka was an Alumnus of the University of Benin and graduated with Bachelor of Education in English and Eng/Lit. She was Assistant Headmistress in Asagba Primary School, Asaba until her retirement in 1986. She joined Word of Faith Group of Schools and retired as Headmistress in 2008. She was married to late Anthony Oweka of Umuogba Quatre Aniocha South LGA of Delta State. She is survived by children and Grandchildren.

Evang. Babatunde Idowu

he death has occurred in Benin City of Superior Evangelist Fidelis Babatunde Idowu, aged 81 years. The late Sup. Evangelist Idowu was, until his death on August 5, 2012, a devoted Christian and an active member of the Celestial Church of Christ where he functioned in various capacities. He is survived by children, grand and great grand children, brothers and sisters amongst whom are Humphrey Idowu, Sabina Idowu-Osehobo (GM, LAPO NGO), Samson Idowu and Ezekiel Idowu. Born on April 14th 1931, the late Babatunde Idowu had his primary education at Eme-Ora and secondary education at St. John Bosco College, Ubiaja. He started his teaching career at Uokha in 1949, a job he did meritoriously. On graduating from the Adeyemi College of Education in Ondo, he was employed in 1969 as a tutor in Edo Boys High School, Benin City and rose to the position of Principal Master II. He was appointed the first counselor of the school and retired voluntarily from service in 1984 with several awards in recognition of his hard work and honesty. Burial arrangement released by the family indicates that the late Superior Evangelist has been buried yesterday in his compound at NO 1, Idowu Street, Off Orere Street, Eme-Ora, Edo State.

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

We are ready for the Lone Star and I think we should be ready to celebrate the Afcon ticket

Stars, teams rise and fall across Europe, Americas

-NFF TECHNICAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, CHRIS GREEN

Battle of Calabar: Crush Lone Star, Glo tasks Eagles AFOLABI GAMBARI

eading telecommunications company, Globacom, yesterday called on the Super Eagles to strive for total victory as they encounter the Lone Star of Liberia in the second leg of the final round qualifier for the African Nations Cup finals in South Africa next January. A statement by the company in Lagos urged the Eagles to believe in themselves to edge past the Liberians whose contingent arrived in Calabar, venue of the crucial match scheduled for the UJ Esuene Stadium tomorrow. “The Super Eagles need to win this match to help Nigeria to return to reckoning in Africa after missing out at the last Nations Cup 2012 jointly hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea,” the statement said. “This is the only way footballloving Nigerians can be appeased especially as our football was affected adversely with the Eagles’ non-participation at the last finals,” it added. Meanwhile, the Eagles intensified training yesterday as coach Stephen Keshi assured Nigerians of victory in the encounter. “I think the fans have nothing to worry about because we have perfected our strategy to get the result we need,” Keshi said, stressing, “By the grace of God, we will qualify for the Nations Cup in South Africa.” Globacom is the major partner of the Nigeria Football Federation and official sponsor of Nigerian national teams.

he Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) said yesterday that a 25-man delegation of the U-17 national team of Guinea will arrive in Lagos today ahead of Sunday’s African Youth Championship qualifier with the Golden Eaglets. NFF spokesman, Ademola Olajire, told National Mirror that the Guinean contingent would arrive aboard an Arik Air flight and would depart for Calabar, venue of the match, in another Arik flight. “All arrangements have been put in place to receive members of the Guinean delegation and ensure their smooth passage to Calabar,” Olajire said. The match, billed for the U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar is the first leg of a second round fixture in the race for qualification for next year’s AYC in Morocco and has been scheduled to kick-off at 2pm at the instance of the Guineans who wished to depart to Lagos immediately after to catch a first flight to Conakry on Monday . Nigeria dismissed Niger in the first round by 10-1 aggregate while Guinea drew bye.

Didier Drogba Chelsea midfielder Victor Moses is one of the foreign pros that Nigeria is relying on to win the Afcon ticket tomorrow

‘Win Afcon ticket, become landlords’ AFOLABI GAMBARI

WITH AGENCY REPORT

Warriors captain, Nyandoro

U-17 AYC: Guinea due in Lagos

he government of Zimbabwe has announced that each member of Warriors will get a house if the team qualifies for the Afcon 2013 finals this weekend. Warriors defeated Palancas Negras 3-1 in Harare in the first leg of the finals round of the qualifier and need to avoid defeat in Luanda to sail to neighbouring South Africa. The players have already been promised $10,000 each if they qualify for the finals to he hosted by South Africa. But Local Government Minister,

Ignatius Chombo, revealed yesterday that the nation had resolved to reward the players with houses in the middle class Pomona area of the country’s capital, reportedly worth $25, 000 each. “We are supporting the national team in its effort to qualify for the Nations Cup and we hope the players will deliver,” Chombo said. About 30 players in the Warriors camp were trimmed to 18 yesterday by coach Rahman Gumbo as the contingent prepared to depart to Angola later today for the Sunday’s game. Zimbabwe last featured in the Afcon finals in 2006 after its maiden appearance at the Tunisia 2004 edition.

Drogba banks on experience

nfluential Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire captain, Didier Drogba, thinks that the team will draw from experience to qualify for the Afcon 2013. The Shanghai Shenhua striker, who spoke yesterday at the end of the Elephants’ training in Dakar, Senegal where they will meet the Lions in the second leg final round of the Nations Cup qualifier on Saturday, said the Ivoriens were optimistic despite walking a tight rope. “I think that the key to the match will come from experience and at this level, I can say that we have plenty of it,” Drogba said. “This qualification is the last one for a great number of us and we don’t want to miss it. We will do everything to win a ticket to South Africa,” he further said, even as he admitted that the hosts could be a hard nut to crack. “The Lions are a team that deserve a lot of respect, but if we remain concentrated during our match, we will reach our goal.”

Sport

Friday, October 12, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wi Window on Nigerian players abroad

with IKENWA NNABUOGOR ikenwa.nnabuogor@gmail.com

I’m ready to play for Nigeria and Keshi –Mikel ‘Odu’ nears full fitness

arese of Italy based star Nnamdi Oduamadi is fast recovering from the hip surgery he underwent and fast nearing a return to action. The on-loan AC Milan youngster went under the knife few weeks ago and was ruled out of action for close to two months. ‘Odu’ had helped Serie B champions Torino to win the title and earn instant promotion to the Italian top flight, netting three times in 11 appearances. His impressive showing for the Turin side earned him constant call-ups to the Super Eagles but injuries prevented the 21-year old to making his full international bow. ‘Odu’ who is still undergoing a therapy told National

helsea midfielder John Obi Mikel arrived the Super Eagles Metropolitan Hotel camp Calabar on Wednesday ahead of Saturday’s crucial Nations Cup qualifier match against Liberia. Mikel had delayed his arrival at the camp by a day because his passport was deposited at the Ukrainian Embassy London for entry visa into the Eastern European country ahead of their Champions League date with Shaktar Donestk. He was reported to have picked his passport on Monday in London and only flew out of England on Tuesday night. The Super Eagle told the media at the airport that his main objective was to assist the National Team qualify for the 2013 African Cup in South Africa. ‘’I’m ready to play for Nigeria and for the gaffer (Keshi). We want all the support for the game and hopeful the boys will give their best and make sure we are in South Africa next year. And winning on Saturday is the only way to be in South Africa,’’ the 25 - year -old told a local website. Under Fifa regulations, a club can retain a player’s services until four days before an approved international game. The crucial clash on Saturday will be Mikel’s first outing under Keshi since he took over from sacked Samson Siasia last November. Mikel Obi

Nigerian youngster emerges goal king in Mozambique

My Eagles’ time will come –Odibe

C Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk of Ukraine central defender Michael Odibe says he will ride on the back of his impressive performance for his club in the Ukrainian Premier League and UEFA Europa League to earn a recall to the Super Eagles. The on-loan defender from Italian side AC Siena believes it’s just a mat-

ter of time before he made his way back to the national team which had earlier given him just a cap. Odibe has been in super form since he switched from another Ukrainian side, Arsenal Kiev, as he continued to play a huge role in coach Juande Ramos’ side. He has so far made seven appearances in the league

Odibe (right) celebrates with mates in a game

Mirror he’s impressed with his recovery rate and will back in action soon. “I have been riding on the bicycle for some time and I must say I’m doing very well in terms of returning to action. “I have really missed a lot due to the injury but you know injury is part of the game. It’s been frustrating too but there’s nothing I can do. “I’m eager to return to action and I can’t wait to start playing again. I hope in the next few days, I will be back to action. “I have signed for Varese on loan from Milan. I’m happy to be here and I want to play my part this season and see how it goes at the end of the season.”

and four outings in the Europa League as Dnipro maintain their summit position in Group F after two games. “I believe I have done well enough to be considered for an invite and I will have to just wait and see how things go,” Odibe told National Mirror. “The players in the national team now are my friends and I will only wish them well because I will always give them the best moral support I can offer. “We talk on phone too and I can’t just wait to be part of the team. “Coach Stephen Keshi is a coach I respect so much and he knows his onions. “I believe as a central defender he was during his playing days, he knows too well about what it takes to play in the role.” Odibe was handed a 90 minute shirt against Sierra Leone in an international friendly in Lagos last year and remains the first and only bow for his country.

igerian kid Ejike Awurum grabbed all the headlines in the local scene in Mozambique by winning the second division top scorer award and capping his fruitful season by carting away the Best Striker’s Award. The 18-year Baleia MG striker buried 30 goals to re-write the history books in the lower division of the Southern African country. The Port-Harcourt born former Academy player, arguably the only Nigerian playing the fast-growing league in Mozambique achieved the feat in his very first season to spark off interests from the top division as well as clubs in nearby South Africa, Awurum, who is now a household name in the soccer circles in Mozambique tried his luck in the former Portuguese colony after failing to land contracts in Denmark, Croatia, Lithuania and Serbia. The kid emerged the top scorer in the 2009 Dana Cup with the gold medal winning team of Vejle Academy, netting six times to land the double honours. “I was amazed when I signed for the second division side because of the solid organisation of the club and the league generally,” Awurum said. “I would have signed for a first division side but I arrived late and had to start with this second division side. “I’m happy that I made the

wise decision and just few months after, I’m attracting offers from top clubs. “I’m working on my papers right now since the season ended and I hope in the next few days, I will sign a contract. “Right now, Costa Do Sol and Ferroviario de Maputo have shown interests in me and a few clubs in South Africa. “But my manager is working on them and the picture will get clearer soon. “The pay here in the second division is not bad but what interests me the most is the organisational set up. We have all the facilities including a club-owned gym centre.” The youngster says his ambition is to take his trade to Europe soon and a shot in the Portuguese League, he says, could be within reach in near future.

Ejike Awurum

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, October 12, 2012

HOS Cup final gets date MURITALA AYINLA

he 7th edition of the Lagos HOS Cup football competition in the male and female categories, played amongst agencies in the Lagos State Public Service will climax on October 16 at the Agege Stadium, Lagos. In the male category, the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) will meet the defending champion, the Lagos State Judiciary in the male category while Office of Sports will play against the Ministry of the Environment in the female category. SUBEB edged out the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) by 2-0 in the first semi final while Judiciary beat the Office of Sports by 3-0 in the other semi final. Office of Sports defeated SUBEB in the semi-final via penalty shootout after extra time in the female category while Ministry of the Environment defeated the Office of Chief of Staff

1-0. In the third place match played last week, Office of Sports defeated LASEPA 1-0 in the male category while SUBEB walked over Office of Chief of Staff to win the bronze in the female category. About 50 government ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), including local governments and local council development areas participated in the male category while 24 MDAs participated in the female category. Ministry of Youth, Sport and Social Development, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Lagos Television, Lagos State Judiciary, Ministry of Transportation and Lagos Judiciary have won the male category in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 respectively while Ministry of Youth, Sport and Social Development, Office of Chief of Staff, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, and SUBEB have won in the same years with SUBEB winning back-to-back in 2010 and 2011.

Governor’s Cup: Adegoke opts out YEMI OLUS

inalist at this year’s edition of the Central Bank of Nigeria Tennis Championship, , has revealed that she will not participate in the 12th Governor’s Cup Lagos Tennis Championship whose preliminary rounds serve off today at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club. The 15-year old, who featured in the Governor’s Cup last year for the first time, told National Mirror that she would focus on the National Sports Festival holding in Lagos between November 27 and December 9. “I am focused on winning gold at the sports festival and I don’t think it will be too challenging for me considering that

Sarah Adegoke

I defeated Biola Akewula who defeated me at the Rivers 2011 festival,” Adegoke said. “I also fancy my chance because most of the top players are not going to be around,” she added while pledging to improve on the two bronze medals in the singles and doubles event at Rivers 2011. Adegoke, who is a member of the national junior team, played in the second round in the first leg of the competition and first round in the second leg of the 2011 Governor’s Cup. She caused a sensation at the CBN Open this year when she defeated defending champion Akewula and other experienced opponents enroute the final where she lost to Fatima Abinu.

Sport

WORLD RECORD

First animated film

Vol. 02 No. 468

The earliest film to use the stop-motion technique, to give the illusion of movement to inanimate objects, was Vitagraph’s The Humpty Dumpty Circus (USA, 1897). Albert E. Smith (USA), who conceived the idea, borrowed his daughter’s toy circus and succeeded in animating the acrobats and animals by shooting them in barely changed positions one frame at a time.

Friday, October 12, 2012

FG: Governance as wallowing in darkness

espite his foibles as a public sector person; as well as his choice of controversy as his second name, I am beginning to appreciate the Central Bank Governor, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi’s style of confronting some of the knotty contradictions trailing governance and resource management in the country with brutal frankness. The latest was his recent outcry while addressing a joint committee of the House of Representatives, that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has no proper record of crude oil production in the country. Whereas the benchmark for daily crude production is 2.48 million barrels per day for the 2012 fiscal year, Sanusi says the exact output is not known. The NNPC, according to him, “has said 2.7 million barrels per day, but someone should ask NNPC, do they have a metering system? Is there a meter, do we really know

FRIDAYS WITH Dozie Okebalama

dozieokeama@yahoo.co.uk 08164966858 (SMS only) how much you produce? We don’t. We don’t have metering system, to the best of my knowledge. If we have a metering system, how do you know, by sitting in their offices in Abuja?” The lawmakers had wanted to raise crude oil price benchmark in the 2013 budget proposal to $82 per barrel as against $75 per barrel in 2012. The Reps’ joint committee headed by Abdulmumini Jibrin, in a preliminary report, was said to be of the opinion that increasing the benchmark would rake in more revenue to the Federal Government and significantly cushion the over N1.3 trillion deficit in the 2013 budget proposal. Sanusi’s position, however, was that the nation’s best bet would be to increase crude production and sales and diversify the Nigerian economy; and not necessarily hiking the benchmark. My thinking is that he is right. It may seem stranger than fiction, but from the point also made by Sanusi, even the Minister of Finance has no access to the actual figures of crude production. Yet crude oil is the mainstay of the nation’s economy. Coming from a man at the helm of the nation’s apex bank, an institution charged with managing the country’s monetary policies, it seems clearer than ever that the FG has no firm grip of its primary source of income – crude oil. The situation is so bad that the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), a subsidiary of the NNPC, does not allow members of the House of Representatives Committee

GOVERNMENT WALLOW IN DARKNESS IN ITS MANAGEMENT OF THE NATION AND ITS RESOURCES?

on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), access to any information or relevant documents on the marketing and sale of the nation’s crude oil, according to reports credited to Muraina Ajibola, the chairman of the committee. Perhaps, the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) will address the problem. But even if it does, that will not diminish the fact that ours has become a government that is scarcely sure of its facts, whose figures hardly add up, and whose accounting processes cannot, and should never be trusted. The disgraceful performance of highly placed government officials at the recent House of Representatives’ probe of fuel subsidy confirmed it all. It may be recalled how, before a bewildered nation, the Minister of Finance and her Petroleum Resources counterpart, the NNPC and the Central Bank of Nigeria

Sport Extra

w orld number two, Novak Djokovic, made serene progress into the quarter-finals of the Shanghai Masters yesterday with a routine 6-3 6-3 victory over Feliciano Lopez. The Serbian sent down 12

FOR HOW LONG WILL THE PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN’S

(CBN) regaled the Reps probe panel with outrageously conflicting figures. From the N250 billion reportedly appropriated for fuel subsidy in the 2011 Budget, the figure frog-jumped to N500 billion, moved up again to N600 billion, and later took a huge leap to N1.3 trillion. In just no time, the Finance Minister, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, said on Channels Television that her office had spent N1.4 trillion on fuel subsidy, before the CBN sealed the confusion with N1.7 trillion as the actual figure. Incredible indeed! Reports a week ago indicated that the House of Representatives probe into the role played by the FG; Agip and Shell, two multinational oil giants, in the curious sale of Oil Prospecting License (OPL) 245 to Malabu Oil and Gas Limited, and the disappearance of the $1.1 billion proceeds, was stalled because the ministries of Finance, Petroleum Resources, the CBN and the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF) failed to produce the relevant documents connected to the contentious OPL deal as demanded by the panel through four letters. Another report had it that eyebrows were being raised that the $1.1 billion realised from the OPL was allegedly paid into accounts controlled by Malabu Oil, a company owned by the Minister of Petroleum Resources during the late General Sani Abacha era, Chief Dan Etete; and then shared among some ‘powerful’ people who facilitated the deal. It is most probable that none of the aforementioned government agencies has any coherent, factual or credible document to present to the panel. If the ministries of Finance, Petroleum Resources the CBN and NASS cannot make authoritative and factual statements on the nation’s income streams, who then will; the NNPC or jointventure oil multinationals, or another set of yet unknown cabals? For how long will the President Goodluck Jonathan’s government wallow in darkness in its management of the nation and its resources? If this is what it takes to tongue lash a lame duck Presidency, I stand to be counted among those that crowned Jonathan the most criticized president worldwide.

Tennis: Djokovic, Murray shine at Shanghai Masters aces to claim victory in just 68 minutes and was rewarded with a last eight showdown with either compatriot Janko Tipsarevic or German veteran Tommy Haas, even as Tomas Berdych and Jo-

Wilfried Tsonga also progressed to the quarter finals. British star, Andy Murray, also easily navigated his way into the quarter finals of after a slick straight-sets victory over Ukrainian Alex-

andr Dolgopolov. The reigning champion was on top form during his 6-2 6-2 triumph, speeding to his 10th successive victory at the event in just 58 minutes to set-up a last eight meeting

with Czech Radek Stepanek. Murray, who was handed a bye and a walkover to reach round three without playing a shot, broke an out-of-sorts Dolgopolov twice en route to claiming the opening set.

Novak Djokovic

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