March 11, 2016

NNPC workers end strike, as management opts for dialogue Chidi Ugwu, Abuja

Kachikwu

Vol. 6 N0. 1324

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igerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, yesterday announced sus-

pension of the strike embarked on by organised labour within its unit on Wednesday.

The corporation assured that no worker would be victimised as a

result of the strike.

Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division of the Corporation, Ohi Alegbe, stated that the strike was called Continued on Page 2>>

N1.04trn MTN fine: Senate alleges complicity by AGF, OAGF, CBN

P.4

Saraki

National Mirror Online @NationalMirror Friday, March 11, 2016

N150

N3.97bn fraud

Court admits Badeh J to N2bn bail

Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja

ustice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, yesterday, admitted former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Alex Badeh, to bail in the sum of N2bn with other stringent conditions.

The court also held that Badeh should produce two sureties in the sum of N1bn each, who Continued on Page 2>>

Reps raise alarm over illegal possession of firearms P.5

Traffic gridlock due to dispensing of fuel at a filling station at Ikeja Along, Agege-Oshodi Expressway, Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: ADEYANJU OLOWOJOBA

FG appoints Dakuku P. 11 Peterside NIMASA boss

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Court admits Badeh to N2bn bail CONTINUED FROM Page 1

must be residents of the Federal Capital Territory, with landed properties in Abuja worth the amount of N1bn.

The sureties are to deposit certificate of occupancy with the Registrar of the court, who must ascertain the genuineness of the ownership as well as the market value of the property.

Besides, the sureties are to provide three years tax certificate and to depose to an affidavit of means with specification and they are also to deposit two photographs with the registrar of the court.

The court further directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to verify and ascertain the ownership of the properties as well as the genuineness of the certificate of occupancy within 24hours.

On his part, Badeh is to deposit both his International and official passport with the Chief Registrar of the court.

In addition, the court directed the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, to provide the said information to the court within 24 hours and should ensure that the commission complies with the orders of the court.

Justice Okon, in his ruling, said the offences on the face of the charge before the court are bailable in nature.

He added that the accused person is presumed under Section 35 of the 1999 constitution to be innocent until the contrary is proven.

“However, the court is enjoined to consider the grounds of the objection raised by the prosecution in line with section 162 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015.

“I have also considered the proof of evidence, the nature and gravity of the offence and the likelihood of the accused person interfering with the trial as well as the fears expressed by the prosecution that the accused person will not be available to stand his trial.

“However, the constitutional presumption of innocence overrides the fears expressed by the prosecution counsel which in my view are speculative.

The security agencies have the capacity to deal with the situation if it happens.

“What the court should do concerning the issue of availability to stand trial

is to balance the competing right of the applicant in line with his constitutional presumption of innocence and the prosecution that the applicant will be available to stand trial.

“I am therefore inclined to exercise my discretion in admitting Air marshal Alex Badeh bail.

“It is not that the court has overlooked the grounds of objection by the prosecution counsel

but they cannot stand in the face of section 35 of the constitution.

“Having regard to the amount involved in the charge, Badeh is admitted to bail in the sum of N2bn with two sureties in the sum of N1bn each,” the judge ruled.

Badeh, who is being prosecuted by EFCC, alongside Iyalikam Nigeria Limited on a 10-count charge bordering on

money laundering, criminal breach of trust and corruption to the tune of N3.97bn, had on March 7, 2016 pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Jacobs had told the court that the offences against Badeh were very weighty, and “he might disappear in a bid to avoid the shame of facing trial, so the severity of the offence should be looked at.”

Jacobs added: “Some of

the witnesses who would be called to give evidence against him include some of his subordinates, and so if granted bail, his presence will have impact on them.”

One of the subordinates, according to him, is the Director of Finance of the Nigeria Air Force, NAF, which according to him “was given instruction by Badeh to convert public funds into dollars

and to use same to buy all the assets referred to in the body of the charges”.

He further told the court that EFCC operatives found $1m cash in the bedroom of an Abuja mansion belonging to him.

He noted that while Badeh denied ownership, properties belonging to him including photographs were found in it.

The trial continues on March 14, 2016.

L-R: Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode; Oba of Ketu, Oba Isiaka Adio Balogun; Oba Oniru of Iruland, Oba Abiodun Idowu Oniru and Ojoni of Lagos, Chief Nurudeen Olubiyi Agoro, during a courtesy visit by the Council of Obas and Chiefs in the state, to the Lagos House, Ikeja, yesterday.

NNPC workers end strike, as management opts for dialogue CONTINUED FROM Page 1

off after a prolonged meeting presided over by Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and Group Managing Director of NNPC, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, with the leadership of the oil workers.

The oil workers were led to the meeting by National Presidents of Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN, and National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, Francis Johnson and Igwe Achese respectively.

He disclosed that the in-house unions reviewed their stance after a decision was reached to set up a committee with representatives from the unions and NNPC management to look into the new structure with a view to considering

any suggested amendment where necessary.

Alegbe stated that the consensus was reached on other outstanding issues bordering on pension matters, job security as well as staff performance and appraisal and quoted the minister as saying that the restructuring was aimed at enhancing capacity utilisation of staff and not creating job losses.

According to him, the meeting ended with a strong commitment from the leadership of the unions to collaborate with the management of NNPC to address the lingering fuel crisis nationwide.

It would be recalled that workers of the Corporation had embarked on the nationwide industrial action over the current restructuring, which led to complete paralysis of its

operations across the country.

As early as 6.30 a.m., on Wednesday, the gates of NNPC Towers, Abuja, had been shut by protesting workers over alleged unilateral decision by government to unbundle the national oil company into seven units and 20 companies.

The workers had barricaded the company’s premises to prevent workers from gaining access.

The protesters said the decision to unbundle NNPC was taken unilaterally by the minister without carrying any of the stakeholders along, especially PENGASSAN and NUPENG. Meanwhile, Senate Committee on Petroleum said Dr Kachikwu, did not contravene any law in the restructuring of NNPC.

Chairman of the Committee, Tayo Alasoadura, made this known while briefing journalists shortly after a closed-door meeting with Kachikwu at the National Assembly in Abuja yesterday.

The minister was at the senate to brief the committee on circumstances that led to the shutdown of NNPC’s operations nationwide on Wednesday.

Alasoadura said the explanation given by Kachikwu indicated that the decision to restructure NNPC was to reposition it for optimal performance.

According to him, Kachikwu was only carrying out an internal restructuring to better position the corporation to serve Nigerians better.

He stated that the restructuring would help to cut down losses being ex-

perienced by the corporation in recent times.

The lawmaker, however, pointed out that the legislature was not consulted before such critical step was taken.

“He is working in the best interest of Nigeria.

Now that the price of oil is going down, if we do not restructure, we might run into more problems as a country.

“Why we invited him was to be sure that the law was not contravened and we are convinced.

“From figures made available to us, NNPC in recent times lost about N30bn monthly, but because of the restructuring, it lost only N3bn, last month.

“The minister assured that the restructuring when completed, will help Continued on Page 5>>

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, March 11, 2016

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Photo News

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Friday, March 11, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: District Governor, District 9140, Ijeoma Pearl Okoro; District Governor, District 9110, Otunba Bola Onabadejo, Rotary International President, Ravi Ravindran and Rotary International Zone 20A Director, Safak Alpay, as Ravindran interacts with the youth (Rotaractors and Interactors) of District 9110, in Lagos.

L-R: Executive Director, Business Development, Med-View Airline, Alhaji Ishaq Na’Allah; General Manager, UAE and Oman, Anta Group, Mr. Kumar Jagadeesan; Manager, Mr. Shirantha Senteviratne and MD, Med-View Airline, Alhaji Muneer Bankole, during Med-View Airline’s Trade Partners’ forum on Dubai route and Tour Packages in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: ADEYANJU OLOWOJOBA

Wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode (middle), signing the visitor’s register during her visit to Ipaja Transit Home, where she donated welfare items in line with her passion for the upliftment of victims of domestic abuse, violence and trafficking, on Thursday, March 10, 2016. With her are Coordinator, Ipaja Transit Home, Mrs. Patience Ifeajuna (2nd right) and members of Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO).

L-R: Representative of Minister of Information and Culture, Mr. Joe Bankole; Author of the Book Titled, So Long Too Long Nigeria, Segun Adeleye; representative of Bi-Courtney, Ms. Molara Wood and representative of Osun State Governor, Dr. Adeleke Ipaye, during the SAFFGLIA African Leadership Lecture and Book launch in Lagos, yesterday, PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

National News

N1.04trn MTN Fine: Senate alleges complicity by AGF, CBN George Oji Abuja

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enate yesterday accused Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, AGF, and Minister of Justice, the Accountant General of the Federation and the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, of complicity regarding payment of N1.04 trillion fine slammed on MTN by Nigerian Communication Commission, NCC, over violation of subscribers’ SIM card registrations last year.

The lawmakers alleged that rather than allow NCC, the body that slammed the fine on MTN to enforce its compliance, the three government offices are unfortunately circumventing the efforts of the commission by entering into different arrangements, leading to the renegotiation of the fine to N300 billion and demanding that the amount be paid into a special recovery account in clear violation of the Trea-

sury Single Account, TSA, regime of the present administration.

This allegation was made by members of the Senate committee on communication yesterday during an investigative session the committee, the CBN, AGF, MTN and NCC at the National Assembly.

NCC had in October last year, slammed N1.04 trillion fine on MTN for non-registration of about five million lines out of several other millions in use by its customers in Nigeria, which allegedly aided operations of the Boko Haram insurgents in no small measures between 2012 and 2015.

Executive vice chairman of the commission, Professor Umaru Danbaba, told the lawmakers yesterday that the fine to be paid by MTN is now N780 billion, after granting it a waiver of 25 per cent on the earlier fine as approved by the Presidency.

On their parts, the At-

torney-General of the Federation, Accountant General and representative of CBN, gave conflicting figures based on new proposal by MTN. The proposal as tabled before the committee by the representative of the Attorney-General of the Federation, Dayo Apata, entails payment of N300 billion as against N780 billion, out of which a tranche of N50billion have been paid by MTN into a special recovery account opened by the office of the Accountant - General of the Federation with the CBN at the instruction of the Attorney- General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami.

As stated in the 13 page document titled: “ Re:Settlement Proposal From MTN Nigeria in Respect of Fine Imposed By NCC against It”, and signed

by Solicitor- General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Justice, Taiwo Abiodun , on behalf of the AGF, Abuba-

kar Malami, the N300billion is to be paid in tranches from this year till December 31st 2020.

The settlement proposal agreement made by MTN in respect of the N300billion reads in part: “The parties have agreed that the N50billion paid in good faith and without prejudice by MTN Nigeria on 24th February 2016, in order to commence settlement /negotiation, will form part of the monetary empowerment of this settlement .

“In five equal and annual installment between the date of execution of this agreement and 31st December 2020, MTN Nigeria , shall pay a total of N100billion by electronic fund transfer to the federal government recovery account of the Central Bank of Nigeria. These payments will commence by 31st December 2016and be made by 31st December of each subsequent year” MTN further explained

in the N300billion payment proposal that , the remaining N150billion will be used for participation in sovereign bond purchase and provision of access to fibre network.

According to it, its participation in sovereign bond purchase is as a demonstration of its commitment to and confidence in the Nigerian economy, and subject to necessary regulatory approvals, while under provisions of access to fibre network, will entail it in providing the federal government of Nigeria with access ( subject to availability of excess capacity), to the company’s fibre network for the purpose of allowing the federal government to expand its e- initiates.

Though representative of the Attorney - General explained that the proposal remains a proposal since the matter is still in court, and since all parties concerned, have not accepted it, but the committee accused the office, that of the Accountant Gen-

eral of the Federation and CBN of already short- changing the country in the whole matter with the acceptance of N50billion , paid into the ‘recovery account’ Specifically, the Committee Chairman, Gilbert Nnaji and many of the members, queried representative of the Attorney- General for the out of court arrangement without carrying along NCC and the Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu , who confessed that neither his ministry nor NCC, was carried along in the whole N300billion resettlement arrangement by MTN. A submission that made the committee to declare that the proposal as presented, was unacceptable and that the Minister of Communications and NCC executives should be carried along in whatever out of court settlement arrangement, MTN wants to achieve on fine slammed against it.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News 5

Friday, March 11, 2016

Reps raise alarm over illegal possession of firearms Ubong Ukpong Abuja

H

ouse of Representatives yesterday, expressed deep concern over high rates of illegal firearms possession in the country.

The lawmakers said this has been responsible for the alarming rates of violence and therefore, mandated its Committees on National Security and Intelligence and Police Affairs to liaise with relevant security agencies and other stakeholders to device means of curbing the trend.

The committees are to report back to the House within four weeks for further legislative action.

This followed a motion on “The Need to Intensify Efforts to Check Illegal Possession of Firearms Across the Country”, brought by Odebunmi Oluesegun Dokun.

Dokun noted that arms, ammunitions and explosives were item number two on the Exclusive Legislative list in the second

schedule, part 1 of the 1999 Constitution and are clearly defined in Section 2 of the Firearms Act, Cap F28, LFN, 2004.

He expressed concern about the proliferation and high rate of illegal possession of firearms by individuals and groups in violation of Sections 3, 4, 8, 11, & 12 of the Fire Arms Act, a situation that substantially contributes to the high rate of insecurity and crime in the country.

The lawmaker recalled that several efforts at recovering those firearms from people possessing them illegally had yielded little or no results as they were either abandoned or the firearms later found their ways back into the hands of those from whom they were recovered.

He stressed the urgent need to recover those weapons from the public in order to guarantee security of lives and properties.

Consequently, the House presided over by the Speaker, Yakubu Dogara, adopted the motion.

NCAA suspends Sikorsky type aircraft over frequent crashes

A

bill for an Act to reduce incident of unsolicited telephone calls and text messages received by consumers, yesterday in Abuja, passed the second reading in the House of Representatives.

The bill, sponsored by Aliyu Madaki (Kano-APC), was intended to provide a legal framework to stop the sending of unsolicited ringtones and text messages to mobile phone subscribers.

The lawmaker explained that the bill was also intended to prohibit online telemarketing without prior consent of a subscriber.

Madaki disclosed that the bill, when passed into law, would empower aggrieved subscriber to seek redress before a court.

He explained that currently, there was no legislation to address the prevalence of these unsolicited messages in the country, thereby leaving the consumers at the mercies of telephone service providers.

The Speaker of the House, Yakubu Dogara, therefore, referred the bill to the Committee on Telecommunications for further legislative action.

CBN aborts attempted fraud, suspends key officials

T

he Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, yesterday hinted of how a highly sophisticated plot to defraud it by some criminals was uncovered and subsequently aborted.

A statement issued by the Acting Director, Corporate Communications Department of the apex bank, Isaac Okorafor, indicated that although preliminary investigations so far had not revealed any accom-

plice within the bank but that management has suspended all key personnel involved in the transactions on suspension.

Okorafor stated that this step was taken to ensure unfettered investigation of the attempted fraud even as he hinted that all relevant authorities had been notified of the development.

He also assured the public that the security of the bank remained intact.

President Muhammadu Buhari receiving First Vice President of South Sudan, Dr. Riek Machar Teny Dhurgon, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, during a visit, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

NNPC workers end strike, as management opts for dialogue CONTINUED FROM Page 2

to end any form of loss.

“The only problem we had was that we were not consulted and the Minister of State adequately apologised,” he said.

Alasoadura said the committee would brief the senate appropriately.

Earlier, Kachikwu said he was creating divisions that would allow for optimal performance “and not unbundling the corporation.”

He pointed out that the restructuring would help professionals who were hitherto under-utilised to make adequate use of their talents and experiences.

“I may have been misunderstood, but I want to assure you that it would no longer be business as usual; we will run a profitable entity.

“I want to assure you that we will create new ideas that will create new challenges for people who are in the system, that will create new career part for people, that will create accountability.

“Every publication we have done since September, if you take time to read the numbers, you will see how they are moving very positively, both in

terms of volume, in terms of reduced loss position.

“It is also in terms of massive reduction in the cost environment rate.

“So, I think we are going into a threshold where the measures are going to be the major focus for us because we have to deal with outstanding debts.

“Others are new fund-

ing for them to do a hundred per cent production platform and that is the only way you can increase incremental barrels,” he said.

Kachikwu added that the 2016 budget was based on about 2.2 million barrels.

“Before the explosion, we have actually began to

hit 2.3 million barrels and the target was 2.4 million barrels to 2.5 million barrels,” he said.

He assured Nigerians that the development was in their best interest, adding that he would not do anything that would impact negatively on the economy.

Kogi Assembly to file contempt charges against NASS

K

ogi House of Assembly yesterday in Lokoja resolved to file contempt charges against the leadership of the House of Representatives for disobeying a subsisting court injunction.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion by the Majority Leader, Friday Sani (PDP-Igalamela-Odolu) at plenary.

Sani said he agreed with the position of the House of Representatives on the provision of Section 11(4) of the Constitution.

The section empowers the National Assembly to make laws for a state when the state House of Assembly is unable to perform its functions.

He, however, contended that the House of Representatives was hasty in its decision to seal up and

take over the functions of the Assembly without considering sub-section 5 of the section.

Section 11(5) according to him, states: “For the purpose of Section 4 of this section, a House of Assembly shall not be deemed to be unable to perform its function so long as the House of Assembly can hold meeting and transact the Assembly business.”

The legislators held that the House had been performing its functions, having sat on December 16 and 29, 2015 as well as March 2 and 11.

“It may interest this House to note that State Assembly does not fall into the category of either Section 11(1), (2), (3) and (4) as anticipated by the House of Representatives.

“This is in addition

to the matter filed by the leadership of this House at the Federal High Court, Lokoja, which the hearing notice was granted by the court dated March 1st, to April 6th,” he said.

Adoke Bello (PDP-Adavi) seconded the motion which was supported by all the members at plenary.

In his contribution, Bello Hassan (APC-Ajaokuta) said the action of the National Assembly to seal up and take over the state assembly was “illmotivated, bias and unconstitutional.”

The new Speaker, Umar Imam (APC-Lokoja 1), in his contribution called on the Senate to discountenance the concurrence being sought by the House of Representatives and direct the re-examination of the prevailing situation.

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Friday, March 11, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FG invites immigration tragedy victims to training schools

…may issue them recruitment letters Marcus Fatunmole Abuja

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ederal Government has invited victims of the deadly recruitment exercise conducted by the Nigerian Immigration Service, NIS, in March 2014 to two immigration training schools in the country.

National Mirror learnt yesterday that the victims, alongside replace-

ments for persons who died in the exercise, are currently at the Immigration Training Schools in Kano and Port-Harcourt.

Our correspondent gathered that the victims are being trained with other regular recruits into the service.

In Kano State alone, National Mirror gathered that there are over a thousand men and women being trained by the service.

Sources said the trainees are grouped into the two schools, according to their academic qualifications. Applicants with senior secondary school certificates are deployed to Port Harcourt, while those with the National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and degrees are based in Kano.

There are 176 persons, who have been cleared by government as victims of

the exercise nationwide, according to the national coordinator of the victims, Edmund Osumah.

Osumah spoke with our correspondent when National Mirror exclusively covered the protest carried out by the victims in Abuja recently. The protest apparently compelled the government to engage the victims.

Federal Government under former President Goodluck Jonathan had pledged to offer automatic

L-R: IGP Solomon Arase; Chairman, House Committee on Police Affairs, Rep. Haliru Jika; Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Logistics and Supply, DIG Tsafe Mamman, during the inspection of Nigeria Police Force Dog Breeding Centre in Abuja, yesterday

Buhari warns against collapse of South Sudan peace agreement Rotimi Fadeyi Abuja

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resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday pledged that he and other members of the African Union High-Level Consultative Committee on South Sudan would do their utmost best to ensure the peace agreement signed by the various political factions in the country is successfully implemented.

A statement issued by senior special assistant to the President on media and publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, said Buhari spoke at an audience with South Sudan’s first Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar Teny Dhurgon.

Buhari assured him that Nigeria and the committee would work with all stakeholders to overcome problems hindering implementation of the sevenmonth-old agreement.

“The situation must not deteriorate,” the President

told the first Vice President, who is a signatory to the peace agreement.

Expressing concern that compliance with the agreed ceasefire in South Sudan has not been total, Buhari said Nigeria would work in collaboration with other members of the African Union to achieve a speedy stabilisation of the situation.

The President advised leaders of South Sudan not to allow ethnicity and corruption to gain a foothold in the new country.

“Ethnicity and corruption are a lethal combination. You have to deal with them, otherwise instability will continue,” Buhari warned after receiving a briefing from Dr. Machar on the current state of affairs in South Sudan.

Also yesterday, Buhari received a special envoy of the African Union chairman, President Idris DebyItno.

The special envoy, Mr. Abubakar Saleh Chahaimi, delivered a message from President Deby to President Buhari on the strengthen-

ing of bilateral relations between Nigeria and Chad, as well as the work of the African Union Consultative Committee on South Sudan.

employment to the victims, many of who were trampled upon and severely injured at heavily crowded centres used for recruitment test on March 15, 2014.

Government also pledged to compensate each of bereaved families of the exercise with three persons, two males and a female – with employment.

Sources told National Mirror yesterday that government considered the families, but they could not verify if three slots were given as promised. The stampedes claimed about 20 lives.

One of the sources, who pleaded anonymity, said not all 176 victims received the message for mobilisation to the training school when it was sent to them last Friday.

“There were issues at the ministry really earlier this week. Some people said they didn’t get the message the government sent to us that we should resume unfailingly at the training schools two days after getting the message. We got the message last Friday. So, those people who didn’t receive the message rushed down to the ministry to sort things out. I haven’t heard from them since.

But, one thing I know is that all of the over 60 victims I know around the FCT were called.”

Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Danbazau, had told journalists

recently in Abuja shortly after defending the budget of his ministry before the Senate Committee on Interior that the ministry would soon issue employment letters to the victims.

“We have decided that we are going to finally take them on board; so, very soon we will issue them their letters of employment. We have a committee that is looking at the overall exercise and on the other aspects, we will take decision later. There is a presidential directive and we are implementing; so, yesterday we took a final decision on that.

“They will get their letters of employment as soon as possible. It is now for the board to sit down and organise the process; we want to ensure that the process is transparent so that nobody can criticise it in the future,” he had said.

Former Minister of Interior who supervised the botched test, Abba Moro, is currently being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC. Moro is standing trial alongside former permanent secretary in the ministry, Anastasia Nwobia, among others.

They were accused of defrauded the applicants to the tune of N676 million. Applicants had paid N1,000 for the test. About 676,000 applicants were said to have registered for the test.

RMAFC yet to submit new revenue formula, remuneration to Buhari –Official

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evenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC, said yesterday that it is yet to submit recently concluded review of revenue allocation formula and remuneration packages for political office holders to President Muhammadu Buhari.

This was contained in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, by its head of public relations, Mr. Ibrahim Mohammed, yesterday in Abuja.

Mohammed said rather, the draft reports of both documents were being finalised for submission to the President for onward transmission to the National Assembly.

He said the commission was in the process of sending the draft report to former President Goodluck Jonathan when certain intervening variables crept in to truncate the process.

Mohammed said these variables included the proceedings of the Justice Kutigi-led National Conference as well as the Senator Ekweremadu-led constitutional amendments committee, respectively.

Mohammed said the commission had also deliberated extensively on the issue of revenue allocation formula review and the 2015 general elections, which saw the emergence of the Buhari administration.

The statement recalled that the immediate past

chairman of the commission, Mr. Elias Mbam, had at the end of the Revenue Allocation Formula Review in January, 2014, held a press conference in Abuja.

At the said conference, Mbam assured Nigerians that the lapses inherent in the old revenue allocation formula would be addressed.

This is because the ``draft report would provide a just and promising template that would ensure that fairness becomes the grand norm and rule of engagement in the nation’s revenue sharing game.

“Sounding prophetic at the time, Mbam cautioned that Nigeria must

quickly reduce the level of its over-dependence on oil and gas revenue by diversifying the economy.

“This is in order to ensure sustainable means of funding its development programmes as the hydrocarbon resources which the nation relies on are exhaustible, non-renewable and vulnerable to international price volatility and politics.

“To this end, he added that the commission’s prescription in the proposed document would not only serve the needs of the people but also encourage the three tiers of government to optimise the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) potentials within their domains.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NEWS

Friday, March 11, 2016

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Amosun seeks legislature’s approval to create 37 development areas

G

overnor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State yesterday urged the House of Assembly to approve the creation of 37 Local Council Development Areas, LCDAs, in the state.

These would be in addition to the 20 council areas in the state.

Speaker of the House, Mr. Suraj Adekunbi, read the governor’s letter during plenary session in Abeokuta.

The letter stated that the request was in furtherance of the state government’s attempt at meeting the yearnings of the people through delivery of democratic

dividends.

According to the letter, creation of the LCDAs would also bring government nearer to the people and engender further development.

“I forward herewith the list of existing and new Local Council Development Areas totaling 57 in all for your kind consideration,” the letter said.

The proposed LCDAs are Abeokuta North West, Abeokuta North East and Oke Ogun from Abeokuta North Local Government, Abeokuta South East and Abeokuta South West from Abeokuta South Council

Area.

Ado Odo Ota Local Government have Ado Odo, Agbara Igbesa, Ota West, Sango Ijoko, while Ewekoro Local Government would have Ewekoro North and Ifo Local Government would have Ifo Central, Coker Ibogun and Ifo South.

Others are Ijebu East Central from Ijebu East Local Government, Ijebu North Central, Ijebu Igbo West and Ago Iwoye from Ijebu North Local Government, while Yemoji would be created from Ijebu North East Local Government.

Ijebu Ode South LCDA from Ijebu Ode Local

Government, Remo Central from Ikenne Local Government, Afon from Imeko Afon Local Government, Ipokia West and Idi Iroko from Ipokia Local Government.

Oba, Obafemi, Ofada Mokoloki from Obafemi Owode local Government, while Opeji, Ilugun would be carved out from Odeda Local Government, Legeru, Ifesowapo from Odogbolu Local Government.

Ogun Water Side East would be created from Ogun Water Side Local Government, Remo North East from Remo Local Government, Sagamu Remo West, Sagamu

L-R: Chairman, Governing Council, Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, Iyalode Alaba Lawson; Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun; Rector, Prof Oludele Itiola and Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Modupe Mujota, at the 14th Convocation ceremony, Abeokuta, yesterday.

Ogun Assembly intervenes in govt/labour face-off

I

ndications have emerged that issues that precipitated the strike by civil servants in Ogun State would soon be resolved.

This followed the intervention of the House of Assembly, which held a meeting with labour leaders at the Assembly Complex in Abeokuta yesterday.

Speaker of the House of Assembly, Suraj Adekunbi, who led a team of members comprising Deputy Speaker, Olakunle Oluomo, while briefing government about the outcome of the

meeting said the House was worried about the development and as such could not fold its arms and watch the impasse fester.

The Speaker said following their intervention, the labour leaders had agreed to shift grounds and dialogue with government with a view to resolving the contentious issues.

Adekunbi, who noted that government had been alive to its responsibilities, appealed to it to also shift grounds on the matter in the overall interest of the state.

Responding, Secretary

to the State Government, Mr. Taiwo Adeoluwa, thanked the Assembly for its intervention and reaffirmed readiness of government to further negotiate with the workers.

He said the state government was anxious to resolve all issues and see all the workers back at their respective duty posts.

Corroborating the Speaker, Adeoluwa said as major stakeholders, the workers have contributed to the success of the state and as such could not be taken for granted.

“We are appealing to labour to come back to the table. We have built the state together to this enviable status. Genuinely, we know that they mean well for the state, but this is not the time to destroy what they themselves have built.

“We will immediately set up a team between labour and government that will meet day to day to discuss these issues so that it will not affect the system too much.

“Government is interested in peace and harmony,” the state scribe said.

Remo South from Sagamu Local Government.

Iju and Ketu would be carved from Yewa North

Local Government and under Yewa South Local government there would be Yewa South East.

Monarchs visit Ambode, laud prompt rescue of school girls

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agos State Council of Traditional Rulers and Chiefs yesterday commended Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and security agencies for the prompt and successful rescue of students of Babington Macaulay Junior Seminary School, Ikorodu, who were kidnapped by gunmen at their school on February 29.

The traditional rulers, who stated this when they paid a courtesy visit to the governor at Lagos House, Ikeja, said the swift response and collaboration with security agencies, which culminated in the rescue of the three girls and arrest of the hoodlums, was highly commended.

Briefing journalists at the end of the visit, Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, said the kidnap of the girls had again brought to the fore the need to remind Lagosians to be security conscious and be alert at any given point in time.

He said, “We are here to appreciate what God has done in the recovery of the abducted school girls and to thank the governor, the security forces, particularly the Commissioner of Police, the state Director of DSS, Commander of 9th Mechanised Division of the Nigerian Army and other security forces who worked tirelessly in the recovery of the three children.

“They really moved in on time and achieved success with God’s guidance and help.

“So, we are here to appreciate them and to alert the people on the need to be security conscious. We are also here to pray for the success of the Lagos State Government and to brief the governor on the outcome of my visit to Saudi Arabia with Mr. President.

“We were very happy when we heard the news of the rescue of the girls and you see the efficacy of prayer is not in

doubt. “All hands were on deck and God heard our prayers and we were very happy. The governor played the role of a father, an administration and of a man who cared for the welfare of his people, and our prayer is that God almighty will continually be with him and all of us.”

Responding, Governor Ambode said the primary purpose of government is to ensure the security and welfare of the people, assuring that his administration would not renege in keeping faith with that role.

He thanked the monarchs for finding time to come and appreciate what his administration has been doing, especially in terms of security, saying the visit would further spur him to do more for the people.

“I just want to say a very big thank you to my royal fathers, my chiefs and this is coming from the bottom of my heart because for you to have thought it necessary to come and show appreciation about what has happened, about our security situation in the last one week, means that the concern that you have brought here is about the progress and unity of Lagos State in general.

“What you have done will more or less inspire us to do more. Your visit to the Lagos House today in respect of the three children that were kidnapped and later recovered is to send a message that you are in support of all our security agencies and you are also in support of the government with the way we have given security the required attention.

“You will recall also that the paramount reason why we are in government is for the safety and welfare of all Lagosians and we would not renege in ensuring that we keep Lagos safe and ensure that the lives and property of all Lagosians are of paramount importance to us,” the governor said.

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National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Lekki building collapse: Police declare landlord, engineers wanted Patience Ogbo

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ngineers in charge of the ill-fated building that col-

lapsed at Lekki Gardens in Lagos and the owner of the building which collapse killed about 35 persons have been declared wanted by the police in Lagos State.

This followed the arrest on Wednesday of the contractor in charge of the structure, one Taiwo Odofin, for allegedly continuing work on the sealed building.

Taiwo was arrested based on the confessions and statement of the construction workers, who testified that they alerted him about the structural defects but that he chose

to simply double-pile the beams.

When contacted, the Lagos State police public relations officer, Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the arrest.

She said: “Yes, we have arrested the major contractor. He was arrested and taken into custody.

The owner of the building ran away but we are also on his trail.”

Lagos bans sponsorship of pilgrimages to Mecca, Jerusalem Francis Suberu

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Queue at a filling station in Ikeja, Lagos, due to fuel scarcity, yesterday. PHOTO: ABIOLA ABDULHAMMED

Penalty for rape too mild –Judge

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has left the teenage girl pregnant.

She said anyone found culpable in the Oruru saga should not be allowed to go free, but face severe punishment to serve as a deterrent to others.

She said punishing those involved in the case would reduce cases of child abuse in the country.

Justice Akin Oladimeji of Osun State High Court attributed the assault on women to culture and religion, which he said had not helped their cause in Nigeria.

He said some culture and religions specifically made men to be lords

over women, making it easy for them to batter women.

Justice Titilayo Adesola-Ikpatt of the Ondo State High Court, called for the establishment of a special desk and a special court to handle cases of abuse of women.

She said this is necessary because of the slow nature of the regular court.

News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that the workshop was also attended by media professionals, civil society organisations, the police and the judiciary, among other stakeholders.

agos State government yesterday said it has finally banned state sponsorship of Muslim and Christian pilgrims who embark on pilgrimages to Mecca in Saudi Arabia or Jerusalem in Israel, saying it is the most irresponsible way to spend tax payers’ money.

The state’s Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Abdulateef Abdulhakeem, who disclosed this when members of the Lagos State House of

The Senate, in October 2015, passed the Sexual Offences Bill 2015, prescribing life imprisonment for rapists and those who had sexual intercourse with children.

This followed report of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, submitted by its chairman, Umaru Dahiru (APC, Sokoto South).

Dahiru said it would give legal backing for the prosecution of sex offenders.

The bill was sponsored by Ms. Chris Anyanwu, (APGA, Imo East).

Assembly Committee on Home Affairs, led by Hon. Olayiwola Olawale, paid a visit to the ministry in furtherance of their oversight function, said government decided to ban the sponsorship because it amounts to injustice for certain individuals to continue to benefits from government to the detriment of other members of the society.

He said state government has commenced the process of gathering data of religious organisations and their locations in the state to be able to set standards, give orientation and provide security for them.

According to him, there is a symbiotic relationship between the executive and the legislative arms of government in the state, and thanked the assembly for the quick passage of the 2016 budget.

Responding to the development, Hon. Olawale said the decision is laudable, saying the Assembly is ready to back the decision with the necessary legislation.

He stated that the visit of the committee to the ministry was home-coming, adding that the commissioner was a man of integrity and that the committee would work hand-in-hand with the ministry.

ustice Aderonke Aderemi of Oyo State High Court said the penalty for rape is too mild.

She made the remark during a workshop on ‘Violence against Persons (Prohibition) Law,’ organised by the Initiative for Social Development with the support of the British High Commission, in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday.

Aderemi said those found guilty of rape should be made to face life sentence so that such cases could reduce drastically in the society.

She, therefore, called for a review of the na-

tion’s laws to have more powers to punish offenders.

Aderemi said there is urgent need to review upward the punishment for culprits of some crimes in order to serve as deterrent to other intending criminals.

“We need to review our laws to give room for life sentence for such crimes to serve as deterrent to others,” she stressed.

Aderemi decried the circumstance that led to the purported marriage of Ese Oruru to Yunusa Yellow without the consent of her parents, which

Tunbosun Ogundare and Audu David

Awujale tackles Alake over Yoruba Obas’ ranking

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he Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, yesterday condemned the statement credited to the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, over the ranking of Yoruba Obas, saying the Alake’s ranking is a fallacy and does not represent the true position of Yoruba traditional institution.

He stated this in Lagos during his remark at the launch of his N1 billion endowment fund for professorial chair in governance at the Olabisi

Onabanjo University, OOU, Ago-Iwoye, held in Lekki, Lagos. Many eminent Nigerians from different walks of life graced the occasion.

Oba Adetona who has spent 56 years on the throne however consequently directed the Alake, whom he described as a young and inexperienced traditional ruler, to contact the former President Olusegun Obasanjo for “proper education so as to save himself and his people from further embarrassment.”

It would be recalled that the Alake, while receiving the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye

Ogunwusi, to his palace recently, said Yoruba Obas (the big five, so to say) have been categorised with the Ooni in the first position, followed by the Alaafin of Oyo, the Oba of Benin, with Alake coming fourth and the Awujale as the fifth in that order, quoting the the Federal Government 1903 gazette to support his claim.

It would also be recalled that the Alake’s position generated heated controversy especially in Yorubaland and Edoland –Benin kingdom- as many faulted the claim.

But Oba Adetona insisted that Alake’s claim is falsehood and misrepresentation

of fact, saying what the Alake referred to as a gazette to support his claim was a mere newspaper report.

He said even though the Alake had denied that he did not make such a statement when he confronted him over the matter, he did not publicly deny the statement even when the media continued to credit the statement to him, which is an indication that he indeed stood by his ranking.

He explained further: “But, I will like to ask the Alake through this medium, who categorised the Yoruba Obas and when? And, I will also challenge him to produce

the document on the categorisation.

“It is a known fact that the Alake was a junior traditional ruler under the Alaafin at Orile Egba before he fled to Ibadan for refuge as a result of the war then ravaging Yorubaland.

“Following the defeat of Owu by the Ijebu army in 1826, the Owus became refugees all over Yorubaland.

Some of the Ijebu troops that fought the war proceeded to Ibadan where they met the Alake and sacked him, consequently forcing him to seek refuge at Ake in Abeokuta in 1830 where, of course, he met

the Osile, Olowu, and Agura already settled at Oke-Ona, Owu and Gbagura sections of Abeokuta township respectively.

“Even then, the Olubara, of Oyo origin had always argued that all the aforementioned four rulers met him in Abeokuta and therefore claimed to be their landlord.

“To even refer to Alake as Alake of Abeokuta not to talk of Egbaland is a misnomer, as his control since his arrival at Ake in 1830 and till today is restricted to the Ake section of Abeokuta. The official government gazette testifies to this fact.

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Friday, March 11, 2016

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Lagos-based maritime activist emerges new Obalufe …royal families clash over appointment Boladale Bamigbola OSOGBO

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Lagos-based maritime activist, Comrade Idowu Olaniyi Adediwura, has emerged the new Obalufe of Ile-Ife. It would be recalled that battle for the throne of Obalufe of Iremo Quarters in Ile Ife, had been the subject of intense competition among many aspirants since the demise of the late Oba Folorunsho Omisakin in October 2015.

To lay the struggle to rest, however, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, yesterday announced the appointment of Adediwura from Ajagbusi Royal House of Orunto.

In Ile Ife chieftaincy hierarchy, Obalufe, who is next in line to Ooni, is not only the chief kingmaker; he is also the Prime Minister of the town and assumes full administrative responsibility in the absence of an Ooni.

Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Mr. Moses Olafare, in a statement issued in Osogbo, said the appointment was guided by the laws of Osun State in line with the customs and traditions of Ile-Ife. Born in 1967 to the family of Pa Alfred Tijuara and Mrs. Tayelolu Mariani Adediwura, the Obalufe-designate is a trade

unionist and labour leader in the maritime sector.

A member of Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Adediwura has remained the Tin Can Island Container Terminal unit chairman from 1992 till date.

He attended All Saints Primary School, Ilode, IleIfe, Oronna High School, Ilaro, Ogun State, and Pen Foster Career School in Canada.

Meanwhile, some royal families yesterday clashed in the premises of Ooni’s palace, over the new appointment.

At palace, members of the Oga and Jaojo ruling families, who were in the premises to lodge a complaint to ensure they produce the next Obalufe, openly exchanged hot words.

After being attended to by other traditional rulers in the absence of Ooni, members of the families engaged in fierce altercation over the appointment of Adediwura.

The families also clashed over pamphlets, which accused Lowa, Obaloran, Obajio and Jaaran of accepting ‘bribe’ to favour a candidate that was eventually announced.

It was gathered that four royal houses are entitled to occupy the position of Obalufe. They are Ajagbusi, Ado Gbodo, Aga and Jaojo.

Minister, Ajimobi call for gender equality in Nigeria Kemi Olaitan IBADAN

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inister of Women Affairs, Senator Aisha Jummai Alhassan, and wife of Oyo State governor, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, yesterday renewed the call by women for gender equality in the country.

The duo made the call at the 2016 Mothers Day summit organised by the National Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Oyo State Council tagged: “Today’s women and nation building”, held at the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan.

They condemned the recent attacks on female children across the country, stating that government at all levels must ensure the protection of female children.

According to the minister, who was represented by Director of Special Duties, Mrs. Aliu AnetuAnne, the role of women in nation building cannot be over-emphasised.

While lauding the efforts of some state governments that have supported nomination of women for elective offices, she lamented that women are not being treated fairly in Nigeria.

Participants at free screening for kidney by the University College Hospital, Akinkugbe Kidney Centre, marking the World Kidney Day in Ibadan, yesterday.

Med-View unveils plan for Dubai route, partners 2 foreign carriers Olusegun Koiki

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ed-View Airline has announced commencement of flight operations from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Ikeja, Lagos, to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, UAE, through the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, NAIA, Abuja.

The airline said it would partner two foreign carriers; Air China and Jed Airways on the route for easier connectivity for clients travelling beyond the Middle East country.

Managing Director, Med-View Airline, Alhaji Muneer Bankole, disclosed this on Wednesday night in Lagos during a forum with trade partners and travel agencies.

Bankole also announced that the airline was partnering with a Dubai-based company,

Anta Travels and Tours, for comprehensive packages for travellers, who are going to the Middle East country for tourism, pleasure or businesses.

A Boeing 767 aircraft has been deployed to the route by the airline.

Bankole further disclosed that the airline had chosen Amadeus, a leading airlines distribution solution provider, as its partner while talks had reached advanced stage with Sabre Network for the same purpose.

Bankole was, however, silent on commencement date for the Dubai route, but explained that it would operate three frequencies weekly. The days are Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and would depart the country at 8pm, while Dubai departure is 6am.

He assured that the same quality services rendered on its other international routes like London and Jeddah would be ex-

tended to the new route, stressing that the company, which commenced operation as a travelling agency barely 16 years ago, had grown to become a global brand.

He said, “Med-View Airline today is an international and global airline. When we commenced scheduled flight operations over three years ago, we started with two aircraft, grew the fleet to four and later to six.

“In the next couple of weeks our fleet would grow to eight and we would be able to spread our wings to other routes we have been allocated to fly into.

“I like stiff, but healthy competition among airlines as this would bring out the best in you. If you don’t like competition, there is no way you can grow as an airline.

“In order to lure passengers to our side, we are offering the business class passengers 75kg checked-

in luggage, which no other airline on the route can offer anyone.”

Also speaking at the event, General Manager, Anta Travels and Tours, Mr. Kumar Jagadeesan, noted that the business partnership with MedView Airline started some 18 months ago when the airline indicated interest to partner it on the route.

Like Bankole, Jagadeesan promised clients comfort and easy access to tourist destinations in Dubai.

He disclosed that the UAE Government was currently constructing a new terminal that would accommodate 120 million passengers per annum, making it one of the biggest in the world.

“Our company is interested in selling memories and not just packages. We offer highly competitive rates, unique and tailormade packages to our clients,” he said.

MTN partners 6 states in maternal health project Franka Osakwe

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very single day about 2,300 underfive children and 145 women of child-bearing age die, mainly due to lack of access to preand post-natal care in the country.

In order to quell this high maternal and infant mortality rate, as well as fulfill its corporate responsibil-

ity, MTN Nigeria under its MTN Foundation, MTNF, has begun renovation of 24 hospitals across the six geopolitical zones.

The six state beneficiaries are Abia, Cross River, Kaduna, Niger, Oyo and Sokoto, which emerged winners after a rigorous selection process.

MTNF Executive Secretary, Nonny Ugboma, made this known during a press briefing in Lagos to flag off

the project. According to her, the goal of the first phase of the MTNF maternal ward support project is to renovate and equip maternal wards in 24 general hospitals in the six states.

“Each maternal ward will be equipped with 20 hospital beds with cardiac rest, 20 standard hospital mattresses, 20 standard hospital pillows, 10 four-way foldable ward screens, 20 metal bedside cupboards, 20 visitors’

chairs, 10 drip stands, 20 hydraulic over-bed tables, 10 height adjustable baby cots and two Carl Novel baby incubation “We have also mapped out training and retraining programmes for health workers who will be in charge of the maternity wards.

“We will also sensitise the women to visit the maternity wards to receive these services so that many more lives would be saved,” she said.

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National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FG appoints Dakuku Peterside NIMASA boss Francis Ezem and Olufemi Adeosun

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ederal Government has appointed governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Rivers State in the 2015 election, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, as Director General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA. Peterside replaces Mr.

Haruna Jauro, who was appointed about seven months ago on an acting capacity amidst controversies.

A statement signed yesterday by Director in charge of Press at the Federal Ministry of Transport in Abuja, Mrs. Yetunde Sonaike, said President Muhammandu Buhari has already approved the appointment of the new NIMASA helmsman.

According to her, the appointment takes immediate effect.

Peterside, who had hoped to be sworn in as governor of Rivers State until last month’s Supreme Court judgment upholding the election of Nyesom Wike, holds a Doctorate Degree in Management Science from the University of Port Harcourt and a Masters Degree in Business Adminis-

tration MBA. He also holds a Bachelors Degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences, B.MLS, in Hematology from Rivers State University of Science and Technology.

Peterside is also a close friend and associate of the current Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi.

Prior to his appointment as director general of NIMASA, there were

speculations that he might be sent to head the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC. The appointment of Peterside also puts paid to all the scheming and lobbying of top party members, friends of the President, the minister and even traditional rulers in a desper-

ate bid to clinch the plum job.

Among these lobbyists were the acting director general, who naturally wished to be confirmed as the substantive helsman and a former chairman of the agency, Alhaji Tijjani Ramalan, among several others.

INEC ready for Saturday re-run in A/Ibom, Cross River –Official

…deploys 10, 000 personnel in A/Ibom

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Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike at the launch of construction of four roads in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State, recently. PHOTO: NAN

Edo group faults police over suspects’ bail charges Oarhe Dickson, Benin

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n Edo State-based human rights advocacy group, Talakawa Parliament, has faulted the police on what it described as “undue exploitation, extortion, victimisation and dehumanisation of innocent citizens” and demand for money before suspects are granted bail.

The group in a petition to Edo State Commissioner of Police, signed by its speaker, Mr. Kola Edokpayi and secretary, Wilson Imasuen, condemned the act, which it said was being perpetrated by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS. The group urged the police commissioner to sanction and prevent some of his men from destroying the image of the police.

The petition said, “Despite the victory you have recorded so far, some saboteurs in anti-cultism are working assiduously to frustrate your effort by using the people as ‘atm machine’ to vomit money for bail even when the Inspector General

of Police had said on different occasions that ‘bail is free’.

“A lot of people are complaining bitterly on daily basis of the monstrous activities of anti-cultism and SARS, who from time to time go for raiding where innocent persons are arrested and made to pay heavily for

bail, even when they are aware of the fact that they are innocent.”

The petition cited a case of a 15-year-old boy, Joe Enamino, who was arrested in lieu of his father over a communal crisis in Auchi, where the minor spent 10 days in custody for failure to pay N60,000 to secure his bail.

The human right activists expressed the need for police authorities to purge SARS of bad eggs.

“We will not allow some police who are businessmen to drag the name of the force into the mud because of their selfish and egoistic interest of making money at the detriment of the masses,” the petition said.

convocation on Saturday.

“All the 1st class graduands are to remain with us; it is the university’s policy and they cut across all faculties and departments,” he said.

The vice-chancellor also disclosed that three individuals who had distinguished careers in the service of Cross River and Nigeria would be awarded PhD, honoris causa during the convocation.

He said that former Governor Donald Duke would be honoured for transforming Cross River and Senator. Florence ItaGiwa for her contribu-

tions to women.

According to him, Senate President Olusola Saraki would also be recognised for his contribution to the development of Kwara State as governor and to Nigeria in general.

Akpagu said the university will graduate 4,868 with first degrees, 952 with Masters Degrees and 1,402 with Diplomas.

The vice-chancellor said that during the academic session under review, 30 students were either suspended or dismissed from the university for disciplinary reasons.

ndependent National Electoral Commission, INEC, says it is ready for a smooth conduct of rerun of House of Assembly elections in Akwa Ibom and Cross River states on Saturday.

Deputy Director of Publicity and Voter Education in the commission, Mr. Nick Dazang, said in Abuja yesterday that the elections would “surely be free, fair and credible.”

Dazang said the commission had concluded the training of ad-hoc staff expected to handle the exercise.

He disclosed that the rerun would be conducted for five state constituencies’ seats and one senatorial seat in Akwa Ibom and one state constituency seat in Cross River.

According to details of the re-run polls released by the commission, the state assembly election will take place in Oron/Udung Oko, Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara, Ibesikpo/Asutan, Etinan, and Itu. The senatorial election

would be conducted in five wards and 33 polling units in Akwa-Ibom North-East district.

In Cross River, it was revealed, the election would be conducted in all polling units of Yakurr II state constituency.

Dazang also confirmed that accreditation and voting would be held simultaneously as was done in recently-conducted exercises.

Meanwhile, INEC in Akwa Ibom said it would deploy 10, 000 personnel for Saturday’s rerun elections.

Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, in the state, Dr Gabriel Ada, disclosed this yesterday in Uyo, while speaking with newsmen on arrangement for the exercise.

Ada explained that out of the 10, 000 personnel, 3,500 were ad hoc, while the rest were INEC and security officials.

The REC announced that he had received sensitive materials like ballot papers and result sheets and would send them to the registration centres after sorting.

UNICAL to offer employment to 12 Rivers saves N1bn through BVN First Class graduates ecutive Council meeting

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niversity of Calabar is to offer automatic employment to its 12 first class graduates as a reward for hard work and motivation for students of the institution to attain academic excellence.

Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Zana Akpagu, said this yesterday in Calabar at a news conference on the 29th convocation of the institution.

According to him, the first class graduates are among the 7, 222 graduates of the university during the 2014/2015 academic session billed for

Dennis Naku,

Port Harcourt

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ivers State government says it saved about N1bn through Bank Verification Number, BVN, validation of civil servants ordered by Governor Nyesom Wike.

Also, the state government has announced it would embark on a comprehensive biometric confirmation of all civil servants in the state as a further measure of blocking all other existing revenue leakages in the system.

The resolution was reached at the State Ex-

held on Wednesday at Government House, Port Harcourt.

Addressing journalists yesterday, Commissioner for Information, Dr Austin Tam-George, said the resolution would enhance the financial management of the state.

The council noted that the biometric verification will also confirm the actual population of civil servants in the state for effective planning.

Tam-George said the comprehensive biometric verification became necessary to boost the finances of the state.

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Friday, March 11, 2016

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Biafra: IPOB supporter attacks Okorocha in London Chris Njoku, Owerri

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mo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, was attacked during his lecture yesterday at Chatham House, Royal Institute of International Affairs, an independent policy institute, in London.

According to National Helm, a London-based tabloid, a supporter of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, armed with a Biafran flag attacked Governor

Okorocha during a speech delivered by the governor on the topic, ‘Nigerians’ Human Capital and State Education Initiative: The View From Imo State.’

He advanced towards the podium where the governor was standing, agitating that no one is doing anything about the plight of Biafrans in Nigeria. He accused Governor Okorocha of being a murderer.

The IPOB member was immediately rushed by other participants at the event

as they clashed with him while trying to push him out of the hall.

Reacting yesterday in a statement, the Imo State government noted with disdain the unfortunate and embarrassing action of the member of the IPOB on Wednesday, stating that “they had undertaken to disrupt Governor Rochas Okorocha’s speech at the world-famous Chatham House, London, to which he was invited to deliver a paper.”

The statement signed by the chief press secretary to the governor, Sam Onwuemeodo, noted that IPOB members on that disturbing mission said they acted that way because Governor Okorocha refused to support their actions or actions of any other pro-Biafra groups.

That was their only reason for throwing caution to the wind and invading the Chatham House to disrupt such a wonderful outing by a bona fide leader and son

of Igboland.

“As a government, we do not hesitate to commend the high level maturity which the governor and few of the senior government functionaries, who made the trip with him, exhibited in the face of such unprovoked and ill-advised action of the IPOB members at Chatham House,” it added.

The government expressed worry that “members of a group like IPOB that have always given the impression that they are fighting a cause for the Igbo would decide to storm the Chatham House to cause trouble at an event one of the best in Igboland

was invited to deliver a speech on the way forward for our society.

“Indeed, if IPOB apostles could undertake to embarrass an Igbo leader of Governor Okorocha’s status in London, then, their claim that they are fighting or agitating in the interest of Ndi’Igbo should be taken with a pinch of salt by those who had hitherto believed them.”

The statement described the action as very unreasonable on the part of the IPOB members - to think that a man like Governor Okorocha, who has built schools across the nation as his own contribution to the unity of Nigeria and had in the past

Two arraigned over armed robbery in Abia Ifeanyi Ashikodi, Umuahia

T Representative of Acting Director-General of NAFDAC, Dr Bukar Usman (left) and National Vice President, Fisheries Society of Nigeria, Dr Agbabiaka Adegoke, during NAFDAC Veterinary and Allied Products Sensitisation Workshop in Enugu, yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

Police task Effium community to produce suspected rapist Aliuna Godwin, Abakaliki

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bonyi State police command yesterday tasked community leaders of Effium, Ohaukwu Local Government Area of the state, to produce one Sunday Obaji, who allegedly raped one Mgbada Chioma at gunpoint.

Speaking with journalists in Abakaliki, the state’s police public relations officer, PPRO, George Okeafor, said the command would ensure the arrest of the culprit to face the consequence of the crime he committed.

He said, “On March 7, 2016, one Mgbada Chioma from Effium community, Ohaukwu Local Government Area, reported to the police that at about 2am, one Sunday Obaji entered her bedroom, pointed gun at her and threatened to kill her if she raised alarm.

“In the process, with the threat of the gun, Sunday Obaji tore her dresses

and had unlawful carnal knowledge of her and after that he escaped.

“The girl reported the matter to the police and the scene has been visited.

The matter is under investigation.

“The suspect is on the run; we are trying to trace him to wherever we can.

He cannot run for long.

“The community should assist in producing him because they know him very well. How can a lady be sleeping at night and a man will move in and rape her at gunpoint and run away.

“We are talking about violence against women and this is one of such

incidence. Wherever this man is, we must fish him out. He must be punished and we are calling on this community to do something immediately and produce this suspect.

“He is a native of the community; even if he escaped from the community, they have to fish him out.”

wo persons, George Okereke and Blessing Ngozi, have been arraigned before a magistrate’s court in Umuahia for armed robbery.

The duo was arraigned before the trial magistrate, Mrs. Chinyere Uzoma Ibe, for robbing one Mr. Ugochukwu Ibenge.

The suspects, armed with guns and other dangerous weapons, robbed Mr. Ibenge whose residence is at Agbama Housing Estate, Umuahia, of his Toyota RAV4 SUV jeep, handsets, bags and other personal belongings, thereby committing an offence punishable un-

der section 1(2)(a) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provision) Act. CAP. R11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 as applicable to Abia State.

The magistrate said her court lacks the jurisdiction to try the matter and reminded the accused persons of their rights to apply for bail at the High Court.

She, however, directed that the case be forwarded to the office of Director of Public Prosecution for vetting and legal opinion.

She therefore adjourned the case to March 29, 2016 for report compliance while she further directed that the accused persons be remanded at the Federal Prisons, Afara, Umuahia.

NAFDAC sensitises S’East stakeholders on use of technology in agric

N

ational Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, in Enugu, yesterday sensitised stakeholders in the South East on the use of modern technology in agriculture.

Speaking at a seminar, acting Director-General of NAFDAC, Mrs. Yetunde Oni, said the sensitisation was the fourth in a series planned by the agency for the six geo-political zones of the country.

Oni said, “NAFDAC had organised these types of seminar in Ibadan for

the South West zone and the second in Kaduna for the North West zone in 2014.

“The third in the series was held at Minna two weeks ago, which highlighted the importance of the agency’s interactions with stakeholders, especially in different parts of the country.

“The sensitisation done so far shows that effective regulation is needed to achieve a sustainable food production of international standard and quality in line with government’s desire,” she said.

She said the availability of safe and wholesome food is an important component of NAFDAC’s mandate and one of the priority issues of public health concern.

Her words: “In order to meet the demand for food by the rapid growing population of Nigeria, the use of safe, quality and efficacious farm inputs is inevitable.”

She said her expectation at the end of the programme includes comprehensive communication.

Earlier, the director,

Veterinary Medicine and Allied Production of NAFDAC, Dr. Bukar Ali Usman, had said that the agency organised the seminar to get the full cooperation and commitment of stakeholders to human and animal health.

“It is also aimed at increasing awareness on the need for judicious and appropriate use of veterinary medicines and allied products.

“I wish to make it clear that the directorate of veterinary medicine and allied products was created to achieve the purpose I stated above,” he said.

Also, the national vice president, Fisheries Society of Nigeria, FISON, Dr. Agbabiaka Adegoke, said stakeholders mostly concentrate on the symptoms of diseases rather than the causes.

“We should be debating on the causes of diseases and not the symptoms because it is through the causes that the diseases could be curtailed,” he said.

He called on government to produce more para-veterinarians, especially those that specialise on aquatic products.

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North

Friday, March 11 , 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NABDA set to produce drugs to combat cancer

N

ational Biotechnology Development Agency, NABDA, said it is set to produce drugs for the treatment of cancer.

Director-General of the Agency, Prof. Lucy Ogbadu, made this disclosure in Abuja yesterday.

Ogbadu said the agency in partnership with the African University of Science and Technology was working on the drugs that could be used to treat cancer ailments.

“The success we have recorded on the treatment of cancer in partnership with the African University of Science and Technology is that we succeeded in isolating an active compound from the bread fruit plant.

“We subjected the plant to series of tests and it has been found to be effective against cancer.

“Having identified this compound, we now are using computer modeling to design the drug after which it will be tested on experimental animals to see how it works.

“It is after that that we can now go into production of the chemical compound as an efficacious material against cancer.

“So we are making progress in this aspect,” Ogbadu said.

She said the drug pro-

C

onsultant Nephrologist, National Hospital, Abuja, Dr Habibu Galadanci, has blamed the rising incidence and prevalence of kidney disorder on overdependence on western lifestyle in dieting.

Galadanci said this at the sensitisation walk to mark the 2016 World Kidney Day in Abuja yesterday.

The theme of the day is “Kidney Diseases and Children: Act Early to Prevent It.” The consultant noted that the sensitisation campaign was aimed at enlightening the public on the danger inherent in sedentary lifestyle and dangers of obesity.

Galadanci identified some western lifestyle practice by Nigerians to include intake of refined food, dairy product as well as oily food.

However, he said such

duction would be a major breakthrough for the country because it would reduce the state of hopelessness that possesses patients of cancer and also curtail medical tourism.

Speaking on other projects undertaken by NABDA, Ogbadu said the agency had helped in the socio-economic development of the country by impacting skills on the citizenry to empower them.

“Our snail and grass cutter projects are all resident in our Bio-development centres.

“The agency is not to produce on a commercial scale, ours is to impact the skills of this production onto the citizens that want to go into the bio-enterprises.

“We equip bio entrepreneurs that will take them up and begin to cultivate or produce them and that is exactly what our bio resources development centres have been doing.

“We will train would-be entrepreneurs (bio-entrepreneurs) that will take up these bio enterprises and establish them as their businesses,” she said.

The director general added that the agency had also established a bio-ethanol plant at its centre at Ogbomosho, Oyo State, which would be ready for commissioning soon.

Long queue of motorists at Conoil Filling Station in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

Reps query FG, states over UBEC funds Ubong Ukpong ABUJA

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ouse of Representatives, yesterday, queried the federal and state governments, including the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, for defaulting in their counterpart funds for the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC. This came as a result of a motion by Hon. Aishatu Jibril Dukku, on the urgent need to investigate the lukewarm attitude of states defaulting on UBEC funds.

The lawmaker noted that

the Universal Basic Education, UBE, programme was a nine-year basic educational, which was introduced in September 1999 to eradicate illiteracy, ignorance and poverty as well as stimulate national development, political consciousness and national integration.

He also noted that the UBE Act provided for not less than two per cent of the consolidated revenue of the Federal Government to be contributed to the fund and for any state to qualify for the intervention fund, it must contribute 50 per cent of the cost of whatever project it

intends to embark upon as a commitment to its execution.

Dukku said he was aware that the idea of UBEC has been hailed as one of the best policies that ever happened in the country’s education sector, as it helps to provide free and universal basic education for every Nigerian child of school-going age, thereby laying a solid foundation for life-long learning.

He expressed concern that some states have failed to claim their grants since 2005, while over N58bn from the Commission is idling away in the Central Bank of

World Kidney Day: Experts urge Nigerians to eat more local foods practice encourages obesity thereby leading to diabetes and hypertension.

The consultant identified diabetics and hypertension as the major causes of chronic kidney diseases.

“The rising incidence of kidney, particularly chronic kidney disease, in our country which also reflected globally is due to westernisation; we have taken up western lifestyle which comes up with diseases.

“These diseases were previously not as common as we have them today, just like diabetics and hypertension, which are the commonest causes of chronic kidney diseases.

“The main thing is diet; we have abandoned our traditional diet of vegetables and fruits.

“We have taken up a

lot of sugar, refined food, dairy product and oily food which encourages obesity and further lead to diabetics, the major cause of chronic kidney diseases.

“We should adopt general healthy living which has to do with diet, we need large amount of vegetables, fruits, moderate carbohydrate, chicken and fish, minimal amount of dairy product,” he said.

Galadanci said that management of kidney diseases was very expensive, urging Nigerians to guard against things that would expose them to such ailment.

He advised Nigerian adults to go for annual check-up for blood pressure and sugar.

Furthermore, he urged children to utilise the

opportunity of entering primary, secondary and tertiary institutions to test their urine for kidney disorder.

According to him, such measure would go a long way in addressing the disease from the scratch before it generate to kidney failure and dialysis, among others.

“The most important thing is to try and prevent patients from getting to kidney failure which is too expensive for them to afford.

“The best thing is to prevent it, identifying the risk factors. Identifying chronic disease before it progresses to kidney failure is a major step,” Galadanci said.

Chairman, Nigeria Nephrology Association, Abuja branch, Dr Zike Tada, urged government

to assist in the reduction of cases of kidney failure.

Tada said such assistance should be geared toward subsidising or making kidney diseases treatment and dialysis free, among others.

He said that the association decided to focus on children this year because the disease is no respecter of anybody.

“We are focusing on children because we want to catch them young. People are ignorant of it; they do not have the knowledge and understanding of the causes, and preventive measure of kidney in the country.

“Kidney diseases are preventable if you eat healthy diet, reduce salt consumption and avoid excessive weight gain, among others,” Tada advised.

Nigeria unclaimed.

He regretted that some states moan that they do not have money to develop the education sector.

He also expressed concerned that the lukewarm attitude of the defaulting states have been a source of worry to well-meaning Nigerians, as both conditional matching grant and non-conditional special education fund from UBEC have been neglected.

He said states like Abia, Benue, Cross River, Ekiti, Enugu, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Osun and Oyo, with an average of over N3bn each idling away in CBN, have failed to access their allocations since 2011, despite the dilapidated state of infrastructure in primary and secondary schools in those states.

The lawmaker noted that while the Federal Government contributed about N70bn in 2014 and N8bn in 2015, 27 states and the FCT have not contributed their grants, and have, as a result, been deprived of the right to access the fund.

The Speaker, Yakubu Dogara, therefore called on the Federal Government to remit the statutory allocations for the months of January to April, 2015 to the UBEC Fund without further delay.

He urged defaulting state governments to, in the national interest, contribute their counterpart funds to enable them access the UBEC fund to bring education in the states to the reach of every child.

Friday, March 11, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

13

Politics

Unease over politicians’ arrest in Ekiti Abiodun Nejo Ado Ekiti

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his is not the best of times for political office holders -elected and appointed - in Ekiti State as they are being hunted for arrest for reasons yet unknown.

It has turned a season of accusation and counter accusations as political opponents from the major political parties in the state trade blames and accusations over the development.

It all began last Friday when armed operatives of the Directorate of Security Services, DSS invaded the Ekiti State House of Assembly Complex causing confusion in the place while lawmakers, Assembly staff and visitors scampered for their lives.

Speaker of the Assembly, Hon. Kolawole Oluwawole flanked by 12 other lawmakers were quick to raise the alarm that they did not know the whereabouts of four of their unnamed members following the DSS invasion of the complex.

Although the reason for the DSS action was unclear, opinions are polarised as to what can be the real motive of the security agency.

A school of thought is of the view that it was part of the move of the All Progressives Congress, APC - led Federal Government to unseat the Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose over sundry allegations.

Another is of the opinion that the arrest is not unconnected with the revelation by the estranged Peoples Democratic Party, PDP State Secretary, Dr Tope Aluko, who narrated how money allegedly exchanged hands to rig the June 2014 governorship election in the state won by Fayose.

However, the picture of the situation became clearer when the Ekiti State Executive Council (EXCO), in a resolution signed by the Deputy Governor, Dr Kolapo Olusola and 19 members at

Olatunbosun its meeting on Monday, said that four lawmakers were forcibly “abducted in the hallowed chambers on Friday and whisked away to yet to be identified destination.

“The Commissioner for Finance, Chief Toyin Ojo, was arrested and detained on Monday, March 7 by men of the DSS,” adding that “all of them had been held incommunicado since then and reasons for their abduction and detention remain hazy and far-fetched”.

The four affected lawmakers are Hon. Sina Animasaun (Ekiti West II), Hon. Musa Arogundade (Ado II), Hon. Afolabi Akanni (Efon) and Hon. Badejo Anifowose (Moba I).

The state EXCO had condemned the “invasion” of the state assembly and the arrest of the lawmakers and commissioner by DSS operatives for yet to be ascertained reasons and accused President Muhammadu Buhari of plotting to usurp the state government using military tactics in view of the governor’s criticism of the President.

The state EXCO called on the international community, civil society organizations and all lovers of democracy to prevail on the President to ensure immediate release of the detained persons.

The council had fault-

Oluwawole ed how the DSS allegedly flouted the statute that established it and acted extrajudicial by detaining the suspects for more than 24 hours as prescribed by laws.

While adducing reason for the DSS invasion, Speaker Oluwawole had said: “We got it on good authority that the script now being acted by the DSS is part of the APC and President Buhari’s clandestine plot to cripple Ekiti State Government by arresting and detaining top functionaries of government.

“The plot is to harass, intimidate and embarrass top officials of the administration because of the governor’s critical stance on Buhari government,” the Speaker said.

Oluwawole, who alleged that 18 lawmakers had been penciled down for harassment to submission, “with a view to coercing them into signing an already prepared notice of impeachment of the governor and his deputy,” said the state Assembly would not make itself available for anyone to destabilize a democratically-elected government in the state.

But the APC in the state was quick to tell the Speaker to encourage the lawmakers to submit themselves to the law over their alleged crimes against the nation’s constitution instead of embarking

on blackmail to whip up sentiments for public sympathy.

APC State Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatunbosun, told the Speaker that instead of accusing Buhari of persecution, it was the governor that was persecuting the opponents.

Olatunbosun, who said Nigerians were not fooled by the game being played by the governor and his agents, stated that the assembly members were not the first Nigerians to be invited by the DSS for investigation, citing the APGA National Chairman, Victor Umeh, and other eminent Nigerians who had been invited to answer charges against them but were released after making their statements.

However, the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA Ado-Ekiti Branch also expressed dismay at “the brazen use of force by the men of DSS” in the recent arrest of the lawmakers, describing their arrest and detention as “a sharp departure from the tenet of democracy and a clear contravention of the Law setting up the Institution”.

NBA Ado- Ekiti Branch Chairman, Dr Foluke Dada, said in a statement yesterday that “the arrest is a clear contravention of the Constitution of Nigeria which the DSS is established to uphold at all times when discharging their duties”.

This was as the APC in

Ekiti State also alleged of plot by the state governor to unleash mass violence on the operatives of the DSS and APC members in the state.

The petition by APC State Secretary, Paul Omotoso to the state Police Commissioner, Mr. James Etop and state Director of DSS, Mr. Andrew Iorkay, alleged that the governor had been mobilising to start attacking APC members after a planned invasion of DSS office in Ado-Ekiti Omotoso, who cautioned that it would not be the usual easy run in attacks on APC members, said PDP thugs would meet “a stiff resistance on the streets to defend APC members with all strength that our members can muster”.

In the petition entitled: “Complaint On Governor Ayodele Fayose’s Planned Mass Violence In Ekiti State”, the APC alleged that it was aware of “clandestine plots by the governor to cause massive violent protest against DSS and APC members that could lead to unprecedented breach of peace in the entire Ekiti State.

“Our complaint is not without foundation against the backdrop of the governor’s penchant for using state radio and television stations through inciting press releases to instigate public

anger, thus creating grounds for his supporters to launch attacks against his opponents,” the party submitted.

However, the PDP yesterday accused the APC leadership of submitting names of more PDP lawmakers and government officials to be arrested by the DSS as part of Federal Government’s plans to truncate the present government in the state.

PDP State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Jackson Adebayo, said in a statement that information at the party’s disposal had it that the list of some key officials of Ekiti State government including some principal officers of the state legislature had been submitted to President Buhari to coerce them to indict the governor.

Adebayo alleged that the recent invasion of the Assembly and “subsequent abduction by gunmen from DSS headquarters” of the lawmakers was a prelude to mass abduction of members of the party in government with a view to force them to indict the governor.

However, the Assembly Speaker, Hon. Kola Oluwawole expressed confidence that the will of the people would not be truncated despite the machinations of those opposed to the state government.

Oluwawole, in a statement by his media aide, Stephen Gbadamosi, urged Ekiti people to have faith in God and to always pray, stressing that with prayers, every adversary confronting the state would be put to shame.

This was as the lawmakers, who alleged that they had been promised $1million to collaborate with the DSS and ensure that they begin impeachment moves against the governor vowed not to do anything against the wish of the people who popularly elected the governor.

However, as the state and indeed the nation await the next step and who blinks first, it is ripples of unease in the state.

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Politics

Friday, March 11, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Awolowo Foundation charges govt, politicians, others on nation building Robert Awokuse

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bafemi Awolowo Foundation has charged governments and politicians across the country to emulate progressive politicking in order to achieve true and sustainable development.

This is contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the Obafemi Awolowo Birthday Commemorative Symposium titled “Awo, then and now: Politics, Economics and Education” and signed by its Convener and the Executive Director , Obafemi Awolowo Fondation, Dr. Olatokunbo AwolowoDosumu.

The communiqué while noting the challenges and prospects of the country posits that progressive politics and governance must be focused on development, which should be done in a proactive manner.

The symposium which holds twice a year, is organised to x-ray and chart a way forward for the country’s challenges which covers politics, economy, education and socials.

The foundation as part of its observations, noted that despite the 29th year passage of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the late sage still remains an epitome of good governance, stressing that his legacies cuts across education, politics, economy,

labour, welfare, among others. It however lamented their decline in recent time, which it attributed to bad governance.

The foundation through the communiqué further condemned the state of education in the country which it said was the major legacy Awolowo established.

“The most stellar legacy of Obafemi Awolowo was education, which his government vigorously pursued and implemented at the regional level, even though this was not allowed to be replicated at the national level.

“There is now a dearth of educational progress and the trend must be reversed, particularly in the western part of Nigeria. There is a dearth of policy actions on sound recommendations that come out of intellectual gatherings such as seminars, conferences and workshops. Attempts to grant access to quality education have been made without adequate planning and sustainable strategies on the parts of various governments.”

The foundation bemoaned the spate of insecurity in the country as well as the challenges of human development and economic productivity following the current economic crisis as a result of “over-reliance on oil, compounded by corruption of the ‘extractive

Be patient with Buhari, Ondo senator tells Nigerians Ojo Oyewamide Akure

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senator representing Ondo Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Tayo Alasoadura has urged Nigerians not to lose hope in President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

Alasoadura said the economic hardship being experienced by the people would soon be a thing of the past.

He spoke with reporters shortly after being honoured with the 2015 Yoruba Man of the year by Omoluabi Leadership Reporters.

The senator said it was too early for Nigerians to lose hope in the present administration, urging them to be patient.

The All Progressives Con-

gress, APC chieftain, who noted that Rome was not built in a day, said as long as Buhari is not a magician, Nigerians should not be expecting miracle.

He lamented that things had gone so bad with the nation before the APC took over.

The lawmaker assured Nigerians that the Presidency and the senate were working hard to make life meaningful for them.

Alasoadura said the senate would support the Buhari government by making certain laws that would assist it to succeed.

He commended the APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu for his invaluable contribution to the development of democracy in the country, saying “Tinubu is a role model”.

agents’ among the Nigerian political elites”.

In its recommendations to salvage the situation, the foundation said, “There should be fiscal prudence, geared towards economic growth and development in order to achieve national economic rebirth and

prosperity. The National Economic Conference being proposed by the federal government should involve not only experts and practitioners, but also representatives of all critical stakeholders.

“The malaise in the educational sector must be ur-

gently tackled and uprooted.

Privatization of education must go hand in hand with adequate state budgetary allocation to the public educational sector, so that the children of the poor are not undeservedly disadvantaged.

“There is a need to prop-

erly examine the contents and contexts of the national educational policy and carry out necessary reforms.

Citizens should engage in self-education and personal development to enrich their minds, as Chief Awolowodid”, the communique concluded

Speaker, Adamawa House of Assembly, Alhaji Kabiru Mijinyawa (L), in a handshake with the Coordinator, Adamawa State National Emergency Management Agency, Mr Sa’ad Bello, shortly after an interactive session on the House’s Outstanding Committee on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPS), in Yola yesterday.

PHOTO:NAN

Jubilations in Modakeke over new LCDA Boladale Bamigbola Osogbo.

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eople of Modakeke town in Osun state on Thursday took to streets in celebrating the newly created Ife North East Local Council Development Authority, established alongside 30 others by Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

The celebration march which took residents to Itasin, Iraye and Ogunsua’s palace was led by the leader of the All Progressive Congress, APC, in the town, Chief Wahab Adetunji with

the residents commending Governor Aregbesola for granting the request of the town after 100 years of struggle.

It will be recalled that Modakeke town had engaged IleIfe in bitter communal war for over five years, with the relocation of headquarters of Ife East local government area from the town to Oke Ogbo in Ile Ife being one of the remote causes.

The old Modakeke Area Council which was later created as part of peace deals after the war, was upgraded to the status of LCDA in the

new LCDAs announced by the governor.

However while addressing the jubilant crowd that turned out for the road march, the APC leader in Modakeke, Chief Adetunji singled out Governor Aregbesola and Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi for recognition over the role the duo played in making sure that the community got its council area.

Adetunji, who was flanked by other party leaders in the area, said the town is ready to make necessary sacrifice for the effective take-off of the

LCDA. In their separate remarks, a community leader, Mr. Bisiriyu Kolawole and Mr Dickson Abiodun Amola, allayed fears about parliamentary system of government at the newly created LCDAs, saying the new innovation should be replicated across the country because it prevents wastages.

They argued that the fear of over taxation in the LCDAs was undue, just as they pledged to rally the people of the town to support the Ife North East LCDA to achieve aim behind its establishment.

LG boss assures of delivering democracy dividends Kemi Olaitan Ibadan

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ewly appointed caretaker chairman for Afijio Local Government Area, Mr. Lukumon Olasunkanmi Anwo, said what occupies his mind is to meet the yearning of the people amidst dwindling revenue.

Anwo who said this yesterday while speaking with National Mirror, maintained that he would prioritize and

consolidate on the capacity building to ensure optimum use of the available resources.

He said, “One of our plans is to make sure we reduce the rate of mass unemployment in the local government, we know the economic situation of the country, we want to make sure that the youths are engaged in agriculture by providing them with what they need to have jobs in the area. We will employ them while the agriculture depart-

ment will supervise them for proper monitoring”.

He also reiterated his commitment to serve his people by ensuring that the dividends of democracy are delivered to them.

“I am ready to serve my people with all my full capacity. I use this medium to express my readiness and determination to explore all legitimate avenues to make life better for my people and make expected impact towards the development and

up-lift of the local government, the state and Nigeria at large.

“The local government administration being the closet to the grassroots has the overall tendency of determining the success or otherwise of any government, in view of this, the premium is placed by successive governments on capacity and capability of managers of manpower and resources at this tier of governance”, he stated.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Friday, March 11, 2016

15

Garba urges World Bank to beam searchlight on IDPs Olubunmi Omoogun

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he Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND Committee of the Senate on Thursday anchored its interactive session with the World Bank on approach to achieving

education for all.

The Committee chairman, Senator Binta Masi Garba, Adamawa North in the interactive session emphasised the need for the World Bank to beam its searchlight on the Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs in Adamawa state.

Tinubu’s daughter, market women storm APC secretariat Obiora Ifoh Abuja

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he Iyaloja General of Nigeria and daughter of the national leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Folasade Tinubu-Ojo has lamented what she called non-inclusion of market women in President Muhammadu Buhari’s government.

She said market women of Nigeria believed that the government of the day is not carrying them along as it should be, lamenting that they worked round the clock for the party during the electioneering campaign, “but after the inauguration most of us are not carried along.”

Tinubu –Ojo who led hundreds of market women to the National Secretariat of APC in Abuja yesterday said

Garba said “Education is one of the most important drivers for ending poverty and boosting shared prosperity. “ The displacement of our people has even dragged our students 50 percent backward, we jointly need to look at that so that the students gradu-

ally getting back to school life are also able to learn and develop the skills needed for life and work” she said.

The committee also decried the low quality standard of education in most of Nigeria’s rural areas even as it urged the stakeholders to improve the

standard to make graduates employable.

The World Bank’s Senior Education Specialist, Dr. Tunde Adekola said “We have approached the Senate in order to share knowledge and receive support from distinguished senators to use their position to advocate improved

education”.

The Committee charged the World Bank to regularly interface with the senate with adequate information of subsequent work plan of intervention projects.

The World Bank is one of the largest external education financiers for developing countries.

the market women all over the country are not happy with President Buhari and the APC led government over their non-inclusion in the government..

“I am here this afternoon to represent market women and men of Nigeria. There have been agitations, the people believed that the government of the day is not carrying them along as it should be, that they worked round the clock for the party during the electioneering campaign, but after the inauguration most of us are not carried along.

“We only hear on the news that the First Lady is doing a programme, this and that and we just see it in the news and they wouldn’t allow me be, all the complain come to my table morning and night and I say okay, enough is enough.

National Commissioner, Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Hajia Amina Zakari (l), presenting an award to the representative of Speaker House of Representatives, Hon. Nnena Elendu Ukeje (r), at Commonwealth Day Celebration in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

anything bad in evil and indiscipline again. Abnormal things have become normal in our society,” he said.

The lawmaker highlighted some of the indiscipline acts to include, defeacation in open space, street fighting, disobedience to traffic

lights, littering roads, blocking of drainages with waste, failure to use pedestrians bridges, beating of security operatives among others.

Ogunyemi called on the federal government and other relevant authorities to motivate the security opera-

Robert Awokuse

… condemns herdsmen grazing activities

Lagos assembly tasks Buhari on restoration of discipline

Robert Awokuse

T

he Lagos State House of Assembly has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to resuscitate War Against Indiscipline, WAI to restore orderliness, sanity and discipline in the country.

This call followed the joint motion moved by Hon. Lanre Ogunyemi, the Chairman, House Committee on Education and seconded by Hon. Yinka Ogundimu, the Chairman, House Committee on Finance.

The lawmakers while decrying the breakdown of law and order, urged for a comeback of the 1984 programme, targeted at restoring good behaviour and sanity in the society.

Ogunyemi said the programme would help build the culture of cleanliness, humility, dutifulness, honesty among others in the country.

“There is no more sanity in the society; people don’t see

T

he Lagos State House of Assembly has condemned in clear terms the manner in which Fulani herdsmen are overstepping their boundary within the state metropolis, especially on BRT lanes hence obstructing the free flow of traffic.

In a motion moved by the Majority Leader, Hon Sanai Agunbiade, he noted that cattle rearers now take to BRT lanes, which has no grass to graze for their cattle, between Owode Onirin and Mile 12 at noon, adding that the act violates traffic law of the state.

He stressed that the excesses of the herdsmen must urgently be curbed before it goes beyond what the state can handle.

Contributing on the issue, Chairman, Budget and Economic Planning Committee, Hon. Rotimi Olowo, noted that the development if not urgently tackled might culminate into mayhem between the herdsmen and Lagosians.

He further directed the Ministry of Information to embark on awareness campaign in various indigenous Nigerian languages to curtail the ill conduct.

tives to ensure that Nigerians behave responsibly in the society.

Also speaking, Ogundimu said, “Indiscipline has taken over the society, what were considered abnormal before are regarded as normal. We are now not disci-

Hon. Tobun Mustainu also added that the act brings to bare the nonchalant attitude of Fulani herdsmen in the country, as they often times flout laws that restrain such act in order to deliberately cause crisis.

“I see it as a ploy to cause public disorder on the part of the nomadic cattle rearers. I have seen them with AK 47 while guarding their livestock on the roads this is uncalled for. They most times don’t care about what the law says.”

Chairman Environment Committee, Hon. Dayo SakaFafunmi stressed that, “we

plined.”

Chairman, Committee on Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Abiodun Tobun said, “there is no more fear in the heart of our people and this makes everyone to be indiscipline.”

Tobun called on all the se-

need to halt this development as Hausas rearing these cattles are not bound by our laws, they indiscriminately violates the laws. There are lands with grazing areas in Badagry and Epe with less vehicular traffic, they should make do with that, they need be stopped before the unexpected happens.”

The majority leader moves that the house call on the Governor Akinwunmi Ambode to call on the security operatives to attend to the livestock management units to be mindful of development, urging the Federal Government should also be

curity operatives to lead the discipline campaign and be alive to their responsibilities.

In his remark, the Speaker, Rt.Hon. Mudashiru Obasa described the loss of orderliness as ‘shameful’ and called on Buhari to resuscitate the programme.

briefed too.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon Mudashiru Obasa expressed displeasure, stressing that it is totally unacceptable to grazing on roads.

“A lot of dangers are posed due to the act. Lots of people are maimed and killed. Former Nigerian goalkeeper Dosu Joseph and Chief Olu Falae were victims.

“We should tame it before it goes virile, the livestock managing body and farms should halt illegal conducts of the herdsmen. The federal government should also do something about this,” he said.

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Editorial

Friday, March 11, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

All the Facts, All the Sides

A PUBLICATION OF GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LTD BARRISTER JIMOH IBRAHIM, CFR n PUBLISHER

SUNDAY OLAJIDE

n

MANAGING DIRECTOR/CEO

BEN MEMULETIWON

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AYO OLESIN

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ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF

Ese: That the law may not fail

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eports last Tuesday revealed that Yunusa Dahiru, the man that allegedly abducted Ese Oruru (13) last year, forcefully converted her to Islam and married her ostensibly against her will, was arraigned before a Federal High Court in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, last Tuesday, with Justice H. A. Nganjiwa presiding. Yunusa was charged with abduction, kidnapping, unlawful carnal knowledge and sexual exploitation of the teenager. The public expects no less, but eternal vigilance matters the more now that Yunusa is eventually standing trial.

The system failures that plunged the nation into the national embarrassment are many.

What with reports, last week, that the Sokoto State Government and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) were investigating yet another case of alleged abduction and forced marriage of a 15-year-old girl from Benue State, Patience Paul, in Sokoto State. Without public vigilance, the public outcry and media hype that culminated in the liberation of Ese could turn efforts in futility in a federation where a section plays the ostrich game with religion and the law.

Widespread outrage, media blitz, freedom for Ese, Yunusa arraigned in court – yes. But the strongest articulation of

The police tactically left the teenager to her fate, instead of

being her friend in time of need the degeneration that bred the likes of Yunusa registered as yet came from the duo of Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka and Lagos lawyer, Femi Falana, who in a joint media outing in Lagos lately, condemned Federal Government’s failure to prosecute former governor of Zamfara State and now a Senator of the Federal Republic, Ahmed Yerima, who allegedly married the 13-year-old daughter of an Egyptian driver; and how the government failure is capable of breeding more monsters like the alleged abductors of Ese and Patience.

Equally punctured by Soyinka and Falana were attempts to veil child marriage with religion.

They copiously cited relevant portions of the country’s 1999 Constitution; United Nations Convention for the Rights of the Child; which Nigeria as a member of UN ratified and domesticated since 2003 as the Child’s Right Act; as well as the Compulsory Universal Basic Educa-

tion Act, all of which Yunusa infracted with impunity. It may be rightly stated, therefore, that the prosecution has a good case against the celebrated alleged abductor – Yunusa – if the state has eventually chosen to rise up to its lawful and bounden responsibility of making the law work without minding whose ox is gored.

But whatever the outcome of Yunusa’s trial, is there any guarantee that freedom for Ese will herald the end of the glaring state, religious, traditional and socio-cultural conspiracies that trail those whose pastime is the abduction of under-aged girls for so-called marriage? The Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, said he handed the girl over to the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Tabari Yabo, in charge of Zone 1, since September last year for onward transportation to her family in Bayelsa. “I’m amused to hear that I’m still holding Aisha Chuwas (Ese Oruru) after knowing fully that I have nothing to do with her case…”, the Kano monarch said.

The Police in Zone 1, Kano, confirmed the Emir’s position.

Mr. Shuaibu Gambo, who took over from Yabo, said the Emir sent his palace guard and some Sharia Commission members, the Oruru family and the suspected abductor to former AIG Yabo, but because it was late, Yabo asked them to report the

following morning. Gambo said the delegation never returned with the girl for onward transportation to her family; and no further report of complaint whatsoever was received in respect of the case. When it did not hear from the delegation again, the Police in Zone 1 ‘innocently presumed’ the case might have been resolved by the Sharia Commission. But that lackadaisical approach to policing has plunged Ese into the trauma of the roughly six months unplanned pregnancy the abduction fetched her.

Call it failure of communication. It could also be contrived.

But barring other side-kicks in this matter outside the public domain, this is where the bungling of Ese’s case peaked. The police tactically left the teenager to her fate, instead of being her friend in time of need. If the time the case was reported was late for former AIG Yabo, the State Police Command was there for him to hand the matter over to. What a service standard for a policeman of AIG ranking! The Police High Command says it is investigating the roles its men in this mess. May the probe be thorough, free and fair; but public interest, however, is that the culprits are made to pay for their negligence of the call of duty, ineptitude, possible compromise and perfidy.

ON THIS DAY March 11, 1946 Rudolf Hoss, the first commandant of Auschwitz Concentration Camp, was captured by British troops. Auschwitz concentration camp was a network of concentration and extermination camps built and operated by the Third Reich in Polish areas annexed by Nazi Germany during World War II. At least 1.1 million prisoners died at Auschwitz, around 90 percent of them Jewish, between early 1942 and late 1944.

March 11, 2006 Michelle Bachelet was inaugurated as the first female president of Chile. Veronica Michelle Bachelet Jeria (born September 29, 1951) is a Chilean politician from the Socialist Party who has served as the President of Chile since March 11, 2014. She previously served as President from 2006 to 2010, becoming the first woman in her country to do so. After leaving the presidency, she was given a job by the United Nations.

March 11, 2014 The internationally recognised Ukrainian territory of Crimea was annexed by the Russian Federation. From the time of the annexation, Russia has de facto administered the peninsula as two federal subjects — the Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol — within the Crimean Federal District. The military intervention and annexation by Russia took place in the aftermath of the Ukrainian Revolution.

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Taking inference from IRA and casemodus scenario Abubakar Shekau’s silence andETA’s current operandi Counter-terrorism Tips With

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

T

he Boko Haram stands for a strategy he struggle against the Boko Haram of psychological warfare with powhas placed new and difficult demands erful ramifications. For decades, teron our Intelligence and law enforcerorist violence has been experienced in difment workforce since 2009. Acquiring finferent parts of the world at different times. ished intelligence about the locations and These ugly situations mistakenly have been plans has been an enormous challenge for considered to be beyond the realm of conthe Federal Government troops. Meeting flict resolution practices such as; peacemakthese challenges requires different skills ing through negotiations and dialogue. Terthan the usual activities to acquire informarorism was a form of violence that many tion about the sect’s next line of action. nations like ours, for example, believed If we have learned anything about physicould only be countered through military cally fighting Boko Haram for the past six responses but that is a misconception. years or so, as opposed to the usual intelliGoing down memory lane on terrorism gence war, it is that over reliance in military record in winning strategic goals such as might has not in any way delivered expected overthrowing existing government and reoutcome and may not in the nearest future placing it with a terrorist leader like Shekbecause without genuinely sustained mulau, it raises question as to why terrorism tilateral cooperation to collect intelligence, has become the most popular form of politicapture them, disrupt funding; countertercal violence since the 19th century. The only rorism efforts usually take longer and are answer is that terrorism has demonstrated less effective. a low cost, low risk, cost effective and potenIt is correct that combat operations may tially provides good result in winning useful vary widely depending on the mode of optactical objectives for its members. eration and our objectives in countering the Another likely explanation for the continBH sect and its affiliates. Major operations ued spread of terrorism as a means of strugwhether or not they involve large-scale ofgle is that it has become more sophisticated fensive, should normally include some level thus, clever leaders know that although it of stability operations with result-oriented is unlikely to work as a strategic weapon in outcome against the sect. Although defence isolation, it can be extremely effective as an may be the stronger force posture, it is the additional weapon to achieve devastating

offense thatgoals. is normally decisive in combat. short term Nevertheless, during sustained offensive If one could examine current trends operations, selected elements of the joint of the BH sect and other terrorist groups force may it need pause, resupply , or reworldwide, maytonot lead one to conclude constitute, otheranforces continue the that we nowwhile confront entirely new pheattack. Transitioning between offense and nomenon of post-modem terrorism in place defence and not politics of the oldrequires terrorist agility movements of the 1960s like1970s. in ourThe casedomestic scenario.naive groups using and Insurgency may own devolve into terror against their people haveterrorbeen ism because of manyand factors as; And lack doing so for decades vicesuch versa. of popular support, leadership, honestly speaking, all loss theseof groups both or desperation thus,peculiar the BH missions violence and fell past and present have on desperationstructures and leadership loss arguorganisational with various likement. Normally , insurgencies apply miliminded links within domestic and internatary power against military forces whilst tional affiliated extensions. terrorists unlawfully use violence against It has been widely proven that a late 20th civilians.

Unfortunately , BH responsibility have applied century terrorist groups deny both to date, meaning themselves for their attacks whilstthat the they modern groups did notwhenever understand concept prinaccept theythe strike.

For and instance, cipals of theirBoko actions like our democratic the Al-Qaeda, Haram, Alshabab and set up.

Unity of but command means all forces ISIS to mention just a few, belonging to operate under a single commander with the modern groups accept responsibilities the requisite authority to direct forces of attacks, in some instances, they all do accept employed in pursuit of a they common responsibilities even when were purnot pose. No twobecause commanders may exercise the responsible such claims are tactisame command relationship over the cal strategies to boost their images andsame gain force at anyof oneinstilling time. Thisfurther argument can be popularity fear and evidenced considering the style and modus alarm to wider audience. operandi of the erstwhile leader, the the deRealistically , there’s no gainsaying ceased Abubakar Shakau is andwithout the current fact that new terrorism any one. Although, date,of some still believe clearly defined to form operation, they thatmore the original Shakau those are diffuse and can is bealive, carried outthat by understoodwithout the change and their freelancers link in to style any group, for modus operandi since the rumoured death example Dzhokhar Tsarnaev and Tamerlan need no prophet to prophesise andout interTsarnaev the siblings who carried the pret theMarathon true position.

Boston bombing on April 15, 2013 It isUnite oftenState. argued, scholars and pracin the ThebyWorld Trade Centre titioners was that aterrorism is a powerful bombing radical departure from tool the to generate forgenerally a violentapplied extremist usual modussupport operandi by modern terrorist groups. Therefore, infer-

MR ajor operations EALISTICALLY , whether or not

THERE’S NO

they involve large-

GAINSAYING THE FACT scale offensive,

THAT NEW TERRORISM IS should normally

WITHOUTsome ANY CLEARLY include level of DEFINEDoperations FORM OF stability

OPERATION with result -oriented outcome ences should never against be taken fromthe that oneoff total deviation from modern terrorist sect traditional norm.

As a democratic outfit, I’m afraid we intumay movement such as the BH sect.

A central have to deal with both old and new terrorist ition underlying this idea is that BH used viotactics weapons simultaneously , andand we lence toand provoke government into harsh need to be aware of the continuities in their indiscriminate counterterrorism responses developments as welland asmobilise possiblea lessons in order to radicalise populafrom past experience which may help us tion whose interests they claim to represent. deal more effectively BH or any other The possibility thatwith our counterterrorism emerging threats in the future. efforts increases support for BH sect raises experiences fromengage modem theThe question; why thederived government in terrorism such as the Irish Republican repressive crackdowns in the first place. On Army Al-Qaeda or brutally the one(IRA), hand, the government neededactive to enBH sect shows that there are no simple and/ gage in some form of counterterrorism to or particular Thisthe means preserve theirroutes dignityout. before rest ofthat the many out of terrorism exists, dependworld routs and citizens. ingBefore on the affected nation’s preferred choice attack commences, the extremof soliciting for lasting solutions.

Moreover, ists decided first whether or not to launch some affected democratic nations may dea violent campaign to avenge Mohammed cide to go in opposite directions, whilst Yusuf’s death. They were aware that ifsome they may prefer alternative routes out. Whichdid so, the government must decide how to ever routeParticularly adopted remains irrelevant to the respond. , the then government citizens.

What we require is peace so that chose whether to invest in developingNi-a gerian citizens willcampaign get back their lives, parcounterterrorism that indicts as ticularly those in the Northeast who have little damage as possible on the aggrieved been subjected to refugesto status in their population or whether engage in aown less country, a painful situation.

discriminating of counterterrorism The routes outform of terrorism are obviously that causes more damage to both ends.

Had not mutually exclusive however the most they realised that terrorism would backeffective strategy lies on multi-pronged apfire badly; allas other thingsco-ordinated being equal; eleBH proach such skilfully would be less likely to initiate a campaign ments from various available measures. of violence the first place. whereby the There exist in some approaches In large measure, chalterrorist members on meeting their ownthese decide to lenges should be the responsibility of abandon violence and repent. It should exbe ecutive government.

One noted thatbranch there isof noour sound basis that the toof the primary responsibilities of our Natal eradication of the BH or any other terrortional Assembly is todemocratic decide appropriate ist violence group from society is levels of budgetary resources; to oversee feasible but can be reduced to a reasonable our Intelligence and law enforcement agenproportion if properly managed.

The offencies’ efforts by ensuring that resources sive approach we adopted over the yearsare is wellan managed andse. that our national needs not option per Although, a terrorist are met. Some thatterm our campaign can beobservers eradicatedbelieve on a short National Assembly has special responsibilby determined and efficient military action, provide a clear framework itities goestowith heavy cost statutory on the economy , loss to guide the unprecedented and uncertain of lives of innocent citizens, investment and evolution of our intelligence eninfrastructural sabotage.

The and mostlaw likely forcement agencies relationship.

Whichoutcome and frequent effect of this strategy ever youdrive lookmost at it.ofSuch a framework is thatway it will the terrorist into is necessary in order to minimise chances exile and the possibilities of continuing their for a failure the campaign campaign fromofabroad is likely. against the BH sect or, alternatively serious erosionapof Some other efficient ,and attempted protections of individual liberties that have proaches includes; dealing with domestic evolved since BH sect by usethe of first law republic. enforcement and juBy the way , before First actions World War dicial system because the terrorist are and the Cold War era, terrorism was not a serious crimes which should be dealt with major intelligence priority and, in many firmly under the criminal code. Educating cases, terrorist groups were mass perceived as members through families, media, acting on behalf of, or at least with importrade unions, churches, schools and other tant support , Communist parties.

The fomajor social by institutions that will succeed cus was on the other pressing problems and in convincing its members that terrorism not terrorism per se but today , the reverse is is both undesirable and counterproductive. the case.

And since terrorism is perceived Furthermore, concessions to genuinely felt by scholarsofand practitioners asproductive a disaster grievances members may be bound to happen, what we require is a conlastin ending the violence, for instance; ing and long term solution as previously apsidering the success it had on the IRA and plied by aggrieved nations.

ETA’s case scenario.

Practicability of Practicability ofMmedical medicalconfidentiality condentialityininNigeria Nigeria(II)

Adekeye Ifedayo

VICTOR IFEDAYO ADEKEYE

Continued from last Friday

M T

Confidentiality is one ofConthe heedical practicability of Medical principles in of Nigeria Medical is Ethics fidentiality closeand to it as obligates medical practitioners zero numerous factors hinge the to keep in private information and data obsmooth adherence of this principle.

These tained and received course ofbelow, treating factors which will in bethe discussed intheir patients.

Thelimited confidentiality duty runs clude but are not to the following: throughout the lifetime of the patient and Lack of proper punishment for breach even after hisConfidentiality death. of Medical by regulatory The medicalThe practice is founded on the authorities’: Nigerian environment trust patient have on medical practitioner is a religion-conscious environment one which allows the disclosure of information where medical practitioners are seen about their health assurance that giving details of with theirthe medical practice this information kept private.

With thedurabsuccess usually be tagged as “miracles” sence of this trust,periods patients will conceal these ing “testimony” in churches and information on their health thereby denying mosques.

The conventional defence that the medical practitioner informationand on these disclosures werevital anonymized of their health will inevitably the state patients’ name notwhich mentioned no lonleadhold to the inability of Nigerian medical practitioners ger water in the Community to adhere proper treatment.

The integrity of as the provision of the Rules of ProfesmedicalConduct practicein allRule over44 thewhile worldstating is primed sional the on this single trustmandates that patient steps to disclosure that disclosed patients’ information will remain within the earscan of consent be taken before any disclosure themade medical This medical confibe evenpersonnel. if the patients’ identities will dentiality obligation is rooted in the Geneva be anonymized. declaration and the Hippocrates oath, thus Medical practitioners in conversations showing its, expediency the individuals practice of with family friends andto other medicine. talk about their patients, which expressly The Rules of Professional for violates confidentiality . SinceConduct the MediMedical and Dental Practitioner, a set pay of cal and Dental Disciplinary Tribunal rules or to no direct, guide to and themediconlittle attention theregulate breach of cal confidentiality, it is relatively hard to

edical practitioners

in conversations THE DUTY OF with family, friendsALSO and CONFIDENTIALITY other individuals EXTEND BEYOND THE talk about their , MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS

patients,STAFFS which IT OBLIGATES AND expressly violates EMPLOYER IN A MEDICAL confidentiality ORGANISATION TO KEEP

see cases in which practitioners are disciIN CONFIDE INFORMATION plined for unlawful disclosure of patients’ STUMBLED UPON BY THEM information.

Medical confidentiality is in notNigeria absolute duct of Medical Practitioners in and the information covering its PART B RULE 44 has adopted the medical medical confidentialityobligation is confined to information confidentiality as stated in the Hipdisclosed to a medical practitioner pocratic declarations and the Geneva while oath, inhas his mandated capacity as a medical A pait that medical doctor. practitioners tient who is bringing an action forprinciple medical must adhere to the confidentiality confidentiality must prove the presence with any breach or unauthorised disclosure of medical some factors whichwhich includes; exisof information was the obtained tence of a doctor-patient relationship, that in the process of treating patients will attract the information disclosed by the medical appropriate sanction. These sanctions inpractitioner wasand obtained by such mediclude suspension sometimes revocation cal practitioner while acting in his official of licenses. capacity andlaid thatdown he has suffered to damages This rule directions be fol(usually irreparable) due to the disclosure lowed when medical practitioners are by such medical practitioner.

At the proof confronted and faced with disclosure of inof these factors, some of the defences formation if such disclosure is not for and the justification for disclosure availableof to the the purpose of aiding in the treatment medical practitioner to debunk the allegapatient. These guide steps include the need tions but are notpatient limitednotwithto, that to seekincludes the consent of the the consent of the patient was obtained standing the nonexistence of any potential

before disclosure, that he disclosed to prevent the commission of a crime, that the risk of the patient identified with such disclosure was tobeing prevent the harm to a information or not, when consent been third party, that the disclosure ishas permitso obtained practitiotedadequately and mandated by the law,medical that the discloner can disclose and such disclosure sure is to prevent a dangerous and should harmbe to the minimum possible fulkept disease, that the disclosure isdisclosure to help in needed.

The rules also addedor anthat interesting the treatment of the patient the dispoint to it, it stated that even after consent closure is to protect the public policy and has obtained, the been general public.and it is expedient that the disclosed information be anonymized It is important to mention at thiswhere juncunidentifiable data and information will tion that any disclosure made by a medical serve the purpose of disclosure e.g. teaching practitioner must be restricted to the re& seminar purposes. quired quantum for the need for its discloThe confidentiality duty outlasts the docsure, and to the minimum level required, tors’ employment, the lifetime of the patients a medical practitioner is en-stopped from and the relevance the disclosed informadisclosing the fullofmedical record of the tion.

The duty of confidentiality also patient, he must restrict disclosureextend to the beyond the medical practitioners, it obligates information needed. staffs employer inofa medical organisaTheand practicability the medical contion to keep in confide information fidentiality principle in Nigeriastumbled is also upon byby them. simply that clerks, hinged the This presence of mean Teaching hospicleaners, card staffs, document assistance, IT tals in Nigeria Universities. The sole aim Staffs and anyone who is privileged or is with of these teaching hospitals are to teach access to in patients information are bound and help the training of medical stuto the confidentiality obligation. medical dents in the art of medicine, theAquestion practitioner required declinethe any emthat plays inis my head is to whether mediployment that may lead to him breaching cal students are bound by the confidentialconfidentiality either old patient or ity duty? I answer in of thehis negative as they new patient. have not taken the “Geneva” or the HipThe complexity therope practice modern pocratic, which isofthe that of ties medimedicine has made it practically impossible cal practitioners to the confidentiality for a medical practitioner to keep disclosed obligation.

Despite this, medical students medical information to himself withoutfiles disare still allowed access to patients’ closing it to other professionals who are to and information in these teaching hospitreat the patient too, let me put this in clearer tals. The visible solution I see to this is the

need for the Medical and Dental Regulatory body to compel institutions running word, treatment of a patient hosthese the teaching hospitals to putininanplace pital ranges from different professionals to regulations and sanctions for students another with each professionals needing which will make disclosure a punishable the findings and any medical information of offence such that medical student that the patient from the professional who last discloses patients’ confidential informatreated such patient to administer his own tion will be sanctioned with suspension or treatment.

This obligates the medical profesexpulsion as the case may be. sional disclose every information within An to aggrieved patient whose confidenhis ambit and will be of help in the treatment tiality has been broken can bring a malof the patient.

This part hasbefore been taken care practice complaint action the Mediof by the Rules where it exempts a medical and Dental Disciplinary tribunal as cal from liabilityfor of breach wrongful wellpractitioner as maintain an action of disclosure if such disclosure is made to ancontract or a tort action. other practitioner to aid in Themedical medical professioninisa bid germane to the treatment of the patient.

The exception the human environment and plays an imcomes into play in Rule 44 where it provides portant role in the continuous existence of that disclosure can be made when such dismankind. Without medical confidentialclosure for the treatment the patient. ity, the is medical professionofcannot achieve Despite the provisions of the Rules of its purpose as it will be relatively hard for Professional Conduct, it is however sad that patients to trust the medical system thus the practicability of medical confidentiality leading to the hoarding of confidential inis at the low .

In the Nigeria Medical practice. formation, without which medical practiMedical practitioners especially in Nigeria tioners won’t be able to adequately adminare nonchalant with the disclosure of inforister treatment to patients. mation of their patients.

Adekeye Ifedayo wrote via ifedayoadTo be continued ekeye@gmail.com Send Send your your views views by by mail mail or or sms sms to to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mail@ mail@ nationalmirroronline.net mirrorlagos@ nationalmirroronline.net mirrorlagos@ yahoo.com or 08164966858 yahoo.com or 08164966858 (SMS (SMS only). only). The The Editor Editor reserves reserves the the right right to to edit edit and and reject reject views views or or photographs. photographs.

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

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Friday, March 11, 2016

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Aregbesola as victim of muscle flexing

I Clean bill of health for Augean stable

F

rom all indications the heat on the financial crimes by President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration is gradually building up and spreading to various sectors especially the revenue earning government parastatals.

Besides, the implementation of the Treasury Single Account an innovation credited to the Jonathan administration is a major step aimed at curtailing fraudulent practices of some public officers.

Some of the measures so far aimed at purging the system tilt more to financial crimes. There is the need to go beyond this. It could be recalled that during his administration as a military head of state, Muhammadu Buhari’s battle was centered against the socioeconomic crimes. While culprits found guilty on financial crimes were decisively dealt with, the War Against Indiscipline (WAI) was vigorously pursued.

The WAI campaign of the erstwhile Buhari’s administration no doubt impacted positively on the social life of the people. This is because it touched their behavioral pattern of life in relation to societal norms of decency and decorum. WAI enforced discipline, obedience to the rules and constituted authority, detest bribery and short cuts which in totality add value to the society’s respect within the comity of nations. There is therefore the need for the present administration to consider the possibility of the reintroduction of WAI program matched with proper orientation of the people for a better acceptable standard of living. This will conform with the change slogan of the current APC administration.

It is also imperative at this juncture for Buhari’s administration to note that as it fights the financial crimes, there is the need to extend the battle to other areas especially the political sector to rid it of political rascality and thuggery. The use of thugs by politicians especially during the electioneering campaigns and dumping them at the end of election exercise has caused the nation a high price if not a misfortune.

Abba Mohammed Bashir Shuwa wrote via abashirshuwa@hotmail.co.uk

am not flattered reading Olabisi Deji-Folutile’s column piece titled ‘Frank Talk: Ogbeni Aregbesola, this is no time to flex your muscle’ on Saturday January 16. While the author began by trying to dismiss any assumption of bias against the Osun Governor, she ended confirming not just her personal bias but a corporate policy of antagonism against him by her organisation.

The problem with her piece began with the title. If lecturers and doctors in the state are on strike, solidly backed by a national newspaper, and are threatening to cripple medical services in the state, then it is the governor who is actually the victim of muscle flexing by labour unions, not the

other way round.

She introduced the article by referring to a protest letter written by the Osun SSG, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti. I gathered that the letter had been written since September last year; it was not acknowledged and none of the complaints of the government was addressed, until this casual reference to it. I think respect begets respect; when a state government officially writes to an organisation, treating it this way is not arrogance, it borders on incomprehension of corporate etiquette.

I have had cause to write to New York Times and Washington Post to complain about spelling, grammar or fact and they had the decency to acknowledge my mails.

I think for the benefits of her readers, she should have at least named the complaints of the government and allow them to judge and see if the complaints are baseless. Even if complaints come from politicians, does that automatically rule out errors of commission and omission on the newspaper’s part? How for instance can a newspaper casually dismiss a complaint by the state government that the local correspondent in Osogbo writes fictions or that the newspaper publishes accusations by the opposition PDP which for most part are always false?

I will concede to her from the beginning that she never pretends to be Governor Rauf

A fuel Attendant and a Black-marketer in a face off as a result of Fuel scarcity at a Filling Station in Abuja yesterday. PHOTO ROTIMI OSASONA

Rivers: Before everyone is killed

I

have no doubt in my mind that Gov. Nyesom Wike of Rivers state is a tragic hero.

Taking full control of primitive power after a recently dubious and highly contestable supreme Court judgement, Rivers, in the words of Karl Maier, is a house that’s fallen. Just like what Adolf Hitler did to the Jews, Wike(d) is on the verge of achieving a global notoriety of political terrorism with the intent to wipe out a whole generation of political class in the opposition in Rivers.

After securing the ticket of the Guber race from the PDP shortly before the last elections, the man went on rampage. Along with his political bandits and thugs, he fleeced the soul of Rivers and frittered away its innocence and today, the state sit on a keg of gun powder or better still the “Killing field of the South south.

The government he super-

Letters to the Editor

intends, is an outrageous example of brazen impunity with predatory instincts. It is on a voyage of ignorance and comic political adventurism, that is laced with rascally motivated self serving rhetorics based on infantile display of primitive temper tantrums of the stone age.

Heeding the recent call

by Wike to burn alive members of the opposition and other electoral personnel who stand on their way to victory in the forthcoming elections in Rivers, the APC in the last one week has lost over thirty powerful stakeholders through murders.

Mr Franklin, an APC ward 4 chairman in Ogba/ Egbeme/ Ndoki LGA along with his wife and son were brutally murdered in cold blood and beheaded. Gabriel Cookey and four other APC stalwarts were clubbed and killed by

alleged PDP members in Obibi, Etche LGA while only yesterday, Ofinijife Amachree in what could be described as the greatest satanic display of primitivism, was similarly set ablaze in broad day light. With all these atrocities, there is the need to declare a state of emergency in Rivers, as the Governor has abdicated his responsibility of protecting lives and property.

My appeal to the President is not to be complacent or lethargic in standing up to be counted in this hour of need. All men of goodwill must save Rivers from this modern day Hitler. After all, Napoleon the great was quoted as saying “ The world suffers a lot not because of the violence of bad people, but because of the silence of good people”.

Ibrahim MODIBBO, an Abuja based journalist and commentator on National issues wrote via ibrahimmodibbo60@gmail.com

Aregbesola’s friend, but there are too many factual errors and faulty logic in the article. I will address some of it.

First, she alleged that the governor ‘slashed tuition drastically’ at UNIOSUN and lecturers had to embark on industrial action when he could not pay their salaries afterwards.

Yes, the State Government reduced tuition fees payable by indigenes of Osun at the state university on the sound premise that most parents in the state whose taxes were used to establish and run the university could not afford the fees. However, at no time did the university staff embark on an industrial action because their salaries were not paid. Nevertheless, they went on strike in 2013 over dispute on ‘hazard allowance’.

“Again, the governor merged about 850 secondary schools in the state into 70, in what he described as the “Omoluabi Essence.” By that merger, Christian schools were merged with Muslim colleges where the mode of dressing involves the wearing of hijab. That also created problems. At some point, some students dressed as masqueraders to school to prove a point. It was really confusion galore!”

There are no public schools in Osun delineated along religious lines. Public schools, by definition, cannot be religious schools.

There were missionary schools acquired by the government in 1976 as part of the Universal Primary Education policy of the then General Olusegun Obasanjo. That was 40 years ago. These schools were properly acquired and compensation paid to the owners. Part of the agreement then was that their names would be retained in order to honour their founders.

That is why they still bear their old names. They are now owned, funded, staffed and managed exclusively by the government on behalf of the public.

The government embarked on reclassification of schools into Elementary (Primary 1-4), Middle (Primary 5-6 and JSS1-3) and High (SSS1-3) cadres. This necessitated moving pupils into their new categories and the most important criterion used was nearness to home. There was no confusion at Baptist High School in Iwo, even though the wearing of funny costumes to school by pupils was comical. Protest in one or two schools over a fundamental restructuring of the school system is not unusual. Indeed, it should be expected. The joke is on those who orchestrated the drama.

Fasure wrote from Osogbo.

Send your letters or mails to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mirrorlagos@yahoo.com and info@nationalmirroronline.net or 08056180209, 07033375481 (SMS only).

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Your

FRIDAY

Oresegun Olumide

gathering like a wind within him. According to him, “I am short of words and grateful to God for all the attentions I’ve been getting for my paintings. I can’t describe how I feel. I’m just digesting this new reality slowly and I feel very good about it”.

Olumide narrated how his paintings became popular first on Facebook where he shared them and surprisingly, they attracted commendations. “The paintings got popular online, particularly Facebook. Before now, they have been there without much recognition” He also talked about his life and background, confirming that he has always been in love with arts since childhood and has

been practicing since then. “I am from IjebuOde in Ogun State; I’m the second child in a family of four children. My mother is late and my father is a retired business man. I have been a painter for a long time now and was trained at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos. I have been surviving through my work as a painter and can’t imagine myself doing

His talent and art have distinguished him, and this painter is on the path of greatness

Arty News

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igeria is a place where dreams are valid and one can become a star overnight just coming from the blues.

Either by miracle or by one’s talent, Nigeria is a breeding and viable ground for unsung talents to court limelight.

This year, it started with a bread seller Olajumoke who is now a super model, today the story is hovering around a hyper realistic painter Oresegun Olumide, a Lagos based painter who few weeks ago started making waves in the social media especially on Facebook owing to his paintings that look like camera pictures. Oresegun Olumide stardom began when he started sharing his painting on Facebook and due to the peculiar aesthetics and profound realness of the paintings that looks like photographs. Nigerians fell in love with this phenomenal feat and in turn shared their awe on different social media platforms and right now, Olumide has thousands of friends on Facebook and over 18 thousands friends on Instagram actively sharing and circulating his paintings on social media.

Olumide’s painting tell unique stories of everyday life and experiences of children and young teenagers and most dominating of his themes is the apotheosis of water and its overbearing power on human existence.

The most popular of his paintings online is the painting showing only the head and the shoulder of a little girl with her hair wet, and drops of water all over her body. Another painting tells the story of naked and semi naked boys playing in shallow water with a rough wooden structure at the background.

The one that speaks volume is a painting of naked girl-child scooping water from a bucket and bathing her naked younger brother and this illustrates the activities of children in most Nigerian communities.

In a chat with Olumide concerning his painting and his sudden fame, he revealed to this reporter that he is overwhelmed with his sudden fame. He stuttered as he looked for words to describe the strong emotions

any other thing because arts have been my childhood passion”. I earn my living through painting and I have had enormous patronage due to the recent popularity of my paintings”Olumide has also been recently interviewed by CNN where he talked about the theme of water in his paintings.

He revealed in the interview with CNN that he talks much of water in his paintings because water has no enemy.

Numerous Nigerians have gone agog on several social media channels to discuss his work. This Oresegun Olumide few weeks ago was unknown but has now carved a niche for himself through the power of social media. He has leveraged on the tools of the time to sell his art and talent and may have just crossed the threshold of fame and wealth. An artist who has been confronting the harsh realities of a Nigerian society that hardly appreciates or patronizes art works has redefined negative fixations on arts in Nigeria. He has helped rekindle a new consciousness in art and for now, the discourse on social media will be on Olumide’s visual arts. Olumide has distracted Nigerians’ attention from Olajumoke, the bread seller turned super model.

His talent and art have distinguished him, and this painter is on the path of greatness. A Facebook commentator and architect Elekwa .O. Elekwa said mind boggling truth on Olumide’s paintings: “blessings are in different forms, some art works like that of this Artist Olumide will make you just shout wow!”

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Isiguzo Destiny

Inside FCT

Unsung Nigerian painter meets ‘sudden’ stardom

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

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Friday , march 11, 2016

Flavour

Critics

VOL. 4 No. 827

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WEEKEND STARTERS

he Nlele Institute - Centre for African Photography, in collaboration with the Goethe-Institut Nigeria, have taken a step further in its effort to sustain young and upcoming photographers in Nigeria. The project is being built around these photographers in line with the Nlele Institute´s philosophy to keep providing platforms of visibility for Nigerian photographers, who have the passion to learn, develop and become critically engaged with their spaces.

It will focus more on conceptual work and critical engagement of the subject - the city of Lagos and will hold on Friday, 11th March 2016 at 10am to 5 pm at Goethe-Institut, City Hall, Lagos Island, Lagos.

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here will be a film show with intriguing story on Friday, 11th March 2016 Goethe-Institut, City Hall, Lagos Island, Lagos at 2:30pm. After serving a 13-month prison sentence, Ganove Zeki Müler goes in search of the loot from his last

robbery. The money is buried under a school´s gym hall.

He applies to become the caretaker at that school but gets a job as a substitute teacher instead which has him dealing with a naive trainee teacher and delinquent learners who can´t even spell “F*ck you, Goethe” correctly. This is Zeki´s baptismal into a career in pedagogy.

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Movie screening

Art Man

Photo exhibition on Lagos

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Art Man

Friday, March 11, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Music has always been my life —Righteousman How was your growing up?

My growing up was very sweet o, because I was a street guy and I am still on the street, because Jesus Christ, seventy five percent of his miracles was not in any church…it was on the streets. At the age of twelve, he left his parents, they were looking for him and he told them ‘leave me alone, I am going about doing my father’s job’. He paid his dues then before he started his ministry when he was thirty years old. So, a lot of artistes today don’t want to pay their dues because they feel because they know the scripture, they won’t want to serve. Nobody wants to serve. Elisha served Elijah.

At the tender age of 15, Righteousman made his entry into the industry via NTA Benin Music Panorama, a popular show in the 80s. He would later release his debut album as a teenager titled “Stay With Me” under Liberty Records owned by the iconic Pastor Felix Liberty. He talks about his life in this interview: everywhere does not justify the end. You still have to pay your dues. As am talking to you, am still working because sometimes you go to some places, and expect your name to open some doors and the first thing you will meet there is one upcoming guy that does not even know you. A lot of these upcoming artistes don’t read, they don’t even know you. The moist dangerous thing is when you are invited to a concert and you don’t even know some of the artistes.

Where you born with a silver spoon?

Yes the spoon there was silver because there was no wooden spoon, or plastic spoon.

The spoon we have then was silver and till tomorrow, we still have silver spoon even in poor people’s house. It depends on the silver you are talking about.

What’s the source of your inspiration?

God. I did not just start like a Gospel artiste.

I was a secular artiste. As a secular artiste, I didn’t sing songs that will insult God. I was more of an inspirational and motivational artiste. I was always singing about the ills in the society

Did you have a humble beginning?

Very humble beginning because as long as my parents can give me three square meals and even more. My parents might not be as rich a Dangote but they did not make me suffer hunger.

How did your career begin… did you start from the church?

I got my gift from God, so it means I started from my mother’s womb because when I came out I cried and it was a gentle noise. My mum said when I was crying, they were trying to get the right producer to produce the beat for that cry. After seven days, they got people together and gave a name and it was nice.

Which dues did you pay when you were coming up?

I have been paying dues over the years. As I’m talking to you now…

Was there any time you thought of pulling out of music?

Music has always been my life and I have always said the I am not going to carry files or work in any office even when I was very small. I started playing music when I was young. I started appearing on television when I was fourteen years old playing guitar. I was a guitarist for Felix Liberty. Felix Liberty released my third album, that was twenty four years ago. But before then, I used to be one of the guest artistes in a programme produced

by NTA in Benin called ‘music panorama’.

That’s the same programme Chris Okotie, Majek Fashek came out from. I was opportuned to be on that platform. I paid my dues, carried sticker and all that. There were times when big artistes were invited to come and play and we will work with the organisers and form a band. Then, you can’t call yourself a musician if you can’t play a musical instrument, not the ‘cut and paste’ music that we have today. I remember us telling the organizers that we can open the show and they told us ‘No!’ I didn’t know how my friend got mot money to enter. I had to climb am electric pole through the fence of the stadium to jump into the venue. The projector hit my back and gave me a serious mark and as I was going I never felt any pain. At the end of the day, after ‘killing’ myself to enter the show, the guest artiste got news that armed robbers were at-

Righteousman tacking his house. He left the show and the organizers started looking for a substitute.

Then, artistes play for close to eight hours non-stop, now that they play for just ten to twenty minutes and they get millions for it.

At the end of the day, I ended up singing.

Was that the beginning of your career?

The artiste that was to perform was Felix Liberty and that was how he got to hear about me. One day, I was trekking all the way

from Ojota to Awolowo way, and I saw his car and I said ‘Let me just go and say hi and introduce myself’ and he asked me ‘If I build studio for you now, can you record?’ and I answered ‘yes’ and that was how it all began.

What were the challenges you faced?

Life is a challenge, even the Gospel is bloody. David killed Goliath but didn’t get into the throne immediately. He still paid his dues. Even making a hit song and it plays

Righteousman

It depends on what you call club. Do you know you can club in your church? I cannot go to a strippers club because I am not Jesus. There is no way I can go there and say ‘stop the music

What made you leave secular music?

We are in a country where you need to define some things. If you dot define it people will criticize you. The bible makes us to understand that there is nothing wrong about eating idol’s food. But what will people say like the unbelievers when they see you eating it? they will judge you. For that reason, don’t do it. I have never seen a doctor or lawyer called Gospel doctor or Gospel lawyer. It’s only in music we have this. In my international passport, there’s nothing like Gospel musician o. But we are in a country that when you don’t spell it out, they will name you themselves. The music I was doing then is still Gospel. What is Gospel? The bible says ‘when the righteous is on the throne, the people rejoice’. People want to hear Jesus, before they know its Gospel.

So, when theres no Jesus, you are secular or worldly. I was listening to ma preacher, Helen Upkabio who said theres nothing like Reggae Gospel, that people should go and burn their CDs. Is that even the message for this time?

Ok, is highlife the Gospel? We have people with myopic minds and all that. Classification between secular and Gospel is like a book. It depends on the content of the book. A book is made from wood. A book is a book. It’s what you write in it that defines it either to become a bible, an academic or any other content you put in it. Let me shock you. A lot of secular artistes will make heaven. A lot of Gospel artistes will make hell. It’s only God that sees the heart of man.

What can you say about the future of Gospel music in Nigeria?

I have said that before that we need the support of the media. There’s no endorsement for artistes singing Gospel. I have spoken about the church. If the church will not value you, will people value you?

It seems you also support secular musicians. Do you also go to club?

It depends on what you call club. Do you know you can club in your church? I cannot go to a strippers club because I am not Jesus.

There is no way I can go there and say ‘stop the music, I want to preach’. I don’t have that courage.

But Jesus preached everywhere He went and also commissioned people to preach the Gospel…

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Art Man

Friday, March 11, 2016

21

Becoming a filmmaker, tug of war —Douglas

Director of award-winning short film Zyra, Douglas Iziegbeariase Enogieru, is a passionate movie director willing to go the entire mile to see his dreams come through. He draws attention to the impediments that may hinder the federal government from winning the piracy war in this interview with REGINA OTOKPA. Excerpts: describe it is the good films are less than one third but there are good films produced by Nigerian film makers except that the number of quality of films has not outweighed the numbers of substandard film. I must say every film is good because it has to do with someone’s intellectual ability but it depends on the disposition to them. Even though we don’t have a standard for measurement yet, so far we are coming up, it’s a green one.

Douglas How has life as a filmmaker been?

I didn’t just jump into becoming a filmmaker, film making generally is life. My life would have been a myth if I were not a film maker because film making enables me the privilege to tell people their stories; their pains, visions, dreams, aspirations and to be able to touch lives. It is an opportunity for me to express the innermost hurt of someone, the people or a nation when it has to do with the motion picture story telling.

Do you think Nigerian movies still touch lives?

Every film touches lives positively or negatively, it only depends on the disposition of the individual to the film. The audience has to prepare their minds to how the film gets to touch him or her.

How did you find yourself in the world of film making?

Becoming a film maker was more like a tug of war, dumping my mother’s dream of wanting to be a lawyer, and dumping law for film is a mystery nobody thought anyone would have been able to succumb to. I actually was studying law and was in my second year at university of Benin. I had to leave law to study film at the film and broadcast academy where I graduated as a film maker.

It was basically about dumping what my family has always wanted me to study to go ahead with what I had always wanted to

study and the reason behind it is passion.

Growing up, I used to see moves on the television and I didn’t even know how they were produced even though we were not allowed to see those movies but when we are opportune to see movies like Things Fall Apart, Tales by Moonlight, there was this thing that comes to my consciousness that there must be people behind all of these scenes in the television. That quest to know how a movie was put together was what stimulated my interest into studying film.

Given your international experience, how would you rate the quality of films produced in Nigeria i?

There is actually no standard with which we can use to rate the quality of films produced by Nigerians but the film industry in Nigeria is still undergoing a revolution; a lot of developmental processes are still on. It will be wise to say that the film industry is sub divided into three. We have the free market system where everybody can produce a movie and sell, we have Nollywood where we have the semi class film below standard budget for film making and of course today, we have quality films being produced by some Nigerians who are trying so hard to set the pace in quality visual story telling.

It is a three way thing but the best way to

The Nigerian film industry indeed has grown from what it used to be but as we strive to meet up with the standard of other countries, these countries are getting even much better. Do you see the industry getting to the present standard of other countries soon?

The study of film making here and outside Nigeria is just the same; the environment, the set of people telling you how it is made over there is what makes the difference. Most of the things that may seem like a difference is that they get to spend a lot of money in the budget, they carry out a lot of proper planning, scheduling and scripting.

They carry out a script conference, reading, editing, rehearsals and of course these things come with a budget.

Also, the quality of production personnel is a top priority, they are highly trained and they know what they are doing.

The industry today in Nigeria isn’t what it used to be and growth is constant, at the stage where we are, we are gradually growing in terms of knowledge and knowledge brings about quality. We will get there but we are not there yet.

How well do you write?

I write a couple of scripts at my own level but presently I am working with a professional screen writer so I allow him do his thing, I just watch and read.

How many movies have you produced so far?

I have produced about five personal films with great story lines. We have Sophia’s Pain, our award winning film Zyra which was written by five writers including a Nigerian, Ghanian, Liberian and a Canadian which won an award in the best Nigerian short film category at the Eko International Film Festival. We also have Shared which was produced In December, we have submitted Shared for a number of festivals around the globe.

Given your position, how often do you effect changes on a script?

I don’t take laws into my hands by tampering with the intellectual properties of an individual. Every screen play that has been written is an intellectual property of the writer, basically I summon the writers we together share some ideas and agree on what we want.

The industry today in Nigeria isn’t what it used to be and growth is constant

How often do you shoot movies outside Abuja?

When I have to shoot or direct other people’s stories but it depends on where the producer wants it to be done. Sometimes back I was in Liberia to shoot the highest selling movie in Liberia so far, Killer Bean which sold 13,000 copies in two weeks. When it is my job, it depends on where I am comfortable with, for instance we shot Zyra in Benin City but I shoot some in Abuja.

What are the challenges you encounter while shooting movies in Abuja?

The fear of being imprisoned because we don’t know who is who, whose house not to station our cameras even without recording them, getting artistic locations. Accessing props is also not easy because of the situation of the country, people are very careful of who comes in and goes out.

The present administration has promised to fight piracy; do you see the federal government wining this war?

Piracy is as old as life itself and so it is not a war that will be won. What are the mercenaries put in place so far, how well does the government of the day know the history of the industry, what effort has the government out in place to collaborate with the industry practitioners, what is the relationship between the government and the film marketers because those are the angles we need to look at, those are the angles piracy comes from. For now, I am not thinking that the present government will be able to win that war because no effort has been made.

Who do you look forward to working with in the industry?

Before now I was looking forward to working with Benjamin Gbemanayi and we are working now. I am looking forward to working with Tope Oshin Ogun that is one lady I respect so much in this industry. With the demise of Amaka Igwe, I almost thought we would not have another woman perform as much as she performed before now but I see Tope Oshin Ogun standing in that capacity and she has been doing great. My brother Eric Aghimien, the director of A Mile from Home, we are already talking and we might be working on my next project together.

Internationally, I would appreciate if I become a script supervisor or assistant director in the Mel Gibson set because I would love to work with him, directing a show for the Warner brothers would be the height in my career.

When you dropped out of school to study film making what was the battle like at home?

What won the battle for me was the love I have gained from my mum, she loves me a lot. My parents are farmers, imagine coming from a home where your parents are struggling hard to send you to school with the belief you should study law and make money for the family, be a good man to the society then you wake up suddenly to announce you want to study film.

FILM

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Critics

Friday, March 11, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Oscars 2016 and diversity issues

From Chris Rock’s opening monologue to the fiery Public Enemy anthem “Fight The Power” that ran over the credits, the 88th annual Academy Awards mounted a sustained and wildly messy assault on Hollywood’s diversity problem.

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THEATRE

ne of our very best comedians, Rock was clearly in tough spot. How to critique the film industry on a night in which he was employed to be the industry’s biggest cheerleader? (You could say he was caught between “Chris Rock” and a hard place.) As host, he failed as an ambassador for cinema, and he certainly didn’t succeed at keeping things moving. He wasn’t as smooth as I wanted him to be, and while his roughness produced an energizing rawness, he contributed to a telecast marred by errant direction, dropped sound, and stagehands getting in the way of shots. But as whip to the show’s redemptive ideological and P.R. mission, Rock was provocative and effective, even if the jokes themselves were all over the place.

Beginning the night in an ivory tuxedo jacket, Rock welcomed us to “the white People’s Choice Awards.” He then jokesplained why he didn’t quit the gig after the nominations were announced. (It’s a job – and he couldn’t stand to lose another one to Kevin Hart.) The stand-up that followed tried to have it both ways by legitimizing and critiquing the outrage. After asking why it’s taken so long for people to care so much about diversity, Rock riffed on why African-Americans weren’t complaining about their lack of nominations in the 1960s: “We were too busy being raped and lynched to care about

who won best cinematographer. When your grandmother is swinging from a tree, it’s really hard to care about best documentary foreign short.” The audience laughed – and squirmed. Rock smiled at their discomfort and kept rolling.

Rock blasted Hollywood’s institutional biases and those that would protest it. Not every crack was funny, and his logic wasn’t always sound. He roasted Jada Pinkett Smith, who works on screens big and small and whose most recent credit is the Fox series Gotham, suggesting she didn’t have the authority to call for an Oscar boycott because she was currently a television actress and therefore not eligible for invitation to the movie prom. This from an actor whose most recent screen credit was a guest spot on Empire. (Perhaps Rock

Lyrics of assurance

Good lyrics come to the fore in in the album, ‘Every Day of My Life’, supported by a video directed by Obi Emelonye; and starring Nkem Owoh and Fr. Albert Ofere.

Tosin Adams

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Oscars red carpet

ixing Afro-pop and gospel has a lot of implications. Perhaps, that is why Afro-pop Gospel music artiste, Rev. Fr. Albert Ofere said he ventured into music to glorify God, preach the gospel and draw souls to God. In a recent press conference that was well attended by ranking media houses in Nigeria, Fr. Albert told journalists that music has become for him a way of life, and in today’s world with harsh realities, it is an easy way to preach the gospel to

non-believers who are lovers of music. The Afro-pop artiste said since childhood and through-out his vocation as a priest, singing and music has become a very integral aspect of his life and ministry as he uses his songs to reach out to souls in UK especially’ Nigerian migrants in the UK who are facing challenges due to their status as migrants and the economic hardship most of them often face in Europe and other parts of the world. Fr. Albert who is also the Nigerian Roman Catholic chaplain in Britain said from his experience as a priest, inspirational songs have proven to be a relief to Christians passing through hard times especially when songs have very rich lyrics that appeals to the Christian faith and belief.

Responding to questions by journalists on his refusal to take a stage name, his expectations of his songs, financial sustenance of his musical projects, the profits he hopes to make, his future projects ad collaboration with other artistes in Nigeria, Fr. Albert declared that he is not into music to make profit and that is why he may not go about his music projects like most artistes do, hence his refusal to go by a stage name. He also revealed that the funds for his songs are most

didn’t see Magic Mike XXL, which featured Pinkett Smith in a sizable supporting role.)

He also seemed to dismiss her as a defensive wife standing up for her slighted man, Will Smith, who failed to receive a nomination for his performance in Concussion. (Why pick on Pinkett Smith? Why make her the face of the boycott movement instead of, say, Spike Lee, who was given a lifetime achievement Oscar last fall, yet whose bold, acclaimed film Chi-Raq was ignored.)

Rock kept pointing outward, diverting our attention to more urgent expressions of racial issues, like police shootings of black suspects. (The audience – or at least Matt Damon – really had no idea how to respond to that one.) I appreciated these jokes for the ways in which they got us thinking about big-

ger issues than Oscar meritocracy, but at the same time, they risked letting Hollywood off the hook by minimizing the #OscarsSoWhite problem, by saying, “This really isn’t a big deal.” His attempt to conceptualize Hollywood’s racism as “sorority racism” – the latest iteration of a point he’s been making for quite awhile – was too high concept and too soft. I wanted blunter and funnier.

Rock and the show in general produced a cultural good by simply talking about the problem of diversity so much, if not terribly well. It won on volume, not quality. Some bits worked like gangbusters, like the package that inserted Whoopi Goldberg, Tracy Morgan, and Leslie Jones into best picture nominees, either in token roles or replacing the white stars themselves. (Quibble: The Martian spoof – the idea that NASA wouldn’t

times given to him by his parishioners and other Christian faithful and that he hopes to put whatever profit he makes from music into charity works. He assured Nigerians that more releases are on the way and that he will also collaborate with other Nigerian gospel artistes if the opportunity comes and as the Holy Spirit leads him. Fr. Albert also praised the effort of some Nigerian musicians saying he is often inspired by the likes of Sinach whose gospel songs he often listen to.

Father Albert Ovie Ofere recently released an album Every Day of My Life, which has a collection of six tracks: God Dey My Side,When I Think, Where Were You, Jesus Lamb of God, God You are Good and Oghene me do; and the songs are a fusion of Afro pop and gospel, and also the musical video of God Dey, My Side which was directed by the award winning movie director and producer Obi Emelonye. The musical video also featured Nigerian most popular movie comedian and actor Nkem Owoh a.k.a Osuofia. The musical video has gone viral on the internet as many Nigerian celebrities are sharing the video on their Facebook pages and their Twitter handles.

The video is also on YouTube at http:// youtu.be/NIYCl9PEK9o And the songs cab be downloaded at Amazon and CD Baby.

Father Ofere’s album

The musical video has gone viral on the internet as many

Nigerian

celebrities are sharing the video on their

Facebook

pages and their

Twitter handles.

Friday, March 11, 2016

Jumaada al-Thaani 2, 1437A.H.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

23

Call to Worship

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

related by bukhari and muslim

‘Women not inferior to men’

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o mark this year Women’s Day, Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr. AbdulHakeem AbdulLateef urged women to rededicate themselves to their primary responsibility saying they are not inferior to men.

He explained that it was wrong for people to abuse women in whatever manner and implored women to see themselves as Commissioners in their respective homes.

“A society start from the home, to have a good home, women must rise up to their responsibilities.” Attributing the increasing cases of social vices to poor parental care, he maintained that the role of women is fundamental to proper child upbringing.

He therefore urged women not to com-

pete with anybody but themselves in all their dealings, stressing the need for them to demonstrate good examples to promote their value in the society.

“Women should develop more interest in their children. Today, many women most especially nursing mothers will leave their homes in the dawn and will not come back until dusk”, he said.

Describing women as the best university in the world, Dr AbdulLateef maintained that women should not be used but celebrated. “No one has celebrated women like Allah, the Most-High, He celebrated them by dedicating a whole Chapter of the Qur’an named Suratul Nisai to them.

“Women are the children factory.

When you train a girl child, you have

President of Turkey, Mr. Recep Tayyib Erdogan (second right), Sheikh Abdul Fatai Thani, Chairman, Board of Trustees, Majlis Tajdeed Tadhamunil Muslimeen Association (first right), Imam Abdullahi Shuaib, CEO, Jaiz Zakat & Waqf Trust Fund (third left), Hajia Maryam Tahan (first left), Executive Director, Nurul Bayan International Academy, Abuja with her daughter, Hibah Thani after an interactive meeting with Mr. Erdogan at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja lastnight.

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

Let’s put tribal, religious sentiments aside 24

train the world. Women today are fighting for women liberation; this should not be their focus. Their focus should be how to take good care of the future leaders of this country. Focus on how the young ones will become professionals in different fields irrespective of their gender.

Women should dress in a very modest manner in such a way that it will not influence men negatively,” he stressed.

Dr AbdulLateef warned the public

from thinking that it was not reasonable to educate girl child emphasized that no child should be denied education for any reason. “Women are not in any way inferior to men. It is unfortunate that women are used wrongly. Women are used to advertise tyres, bicycles and even men’s wears. Women should fight back to regain their lost glory and value system “, he added.

NASFAT holds walk on religious harmony ... Condemns corruption, terrorism Sekinah L awal

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he NASRUL-LAHI-L-FATHI Society (NASFAT), a Muslim organisation will be holding a walk on religious on the 26th of this month as part of activities marking the 21st anniversary of the society.

Urging Nigerians to live peacefully with one another for sustainable development in our country, the President of NASFAT, Alhaji Kamil Bolarinwa, said the theme for the anniversary is: “21 Years Of NASFAT in Da’wah: Building Religious Harmony’’.

“There is need to live peacefully with one another especially as the Qur’an preaches peace and brotherhood among mankind; it has noble precepts and prescriptions for every aspect of human behaviour.

“It also preaches obedience and submission, not only to Allah but also to those in authority, upon whom it has placed great responsibility for justice, integrity, sacrifice, equity and good governance.”

He also added that the world is in turmoil socially, economically, religiously and politically leading to a disconnect among our youths.

He identified some factors which were not religious to be responsible for terrorism. “Religion does not promote terrorism, neither does race nor ethnicity; it is people who perpetrate acts of terrorism; positive socio-politico-economic conditions are safeguards against terrorism.”

While calling on Muslims to unite in the face of this changing world that aspires to change the Creed of Islam and eliminate its core values and laws, he urged Nigerians to support the government’s efforts to rid the society of corruption.

“The war on corruption is one of such programmes and all Nigerians should see it as our war whose victory will ultimately lead to the enthronement of new values.”

Also speaking, Alhaji Abdullahi Akinbode, NASFAT’s Chief Missioner, appealed to journalists to be truthful and accurate in their reportage of issues.

Alhaji Remi Bello, Chairman of the Anniversary Committee, said that there was need for everyone to look inwards and start doing things right.

Bello said as part of the activities marking the anniversary, there will be an extensive medical outreach, formal opening of NASFAT mosque in Abuja, lectures, awards, luncheon and foundation laying of Mosque at the Islamic Centre in Asese, Ogun

Narrated by Abu Said Al Khudri (RA): Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) said, “Allah’s Apostle said, “When the believers pass safely over (the bridge across) Hell, they will be stopped at a bridge in between Hell and Paradise where they will retaliate upon each other for the injustices done among them in the world, and when they get purified of all their sins, they will be admitted into Paradise. By Him in Whose Hands the life of Muhammad is, everybody will recognize his dwelling in Paradise better than he recognizes his dwelling in this world.”

Sahih Al-Bukhari Vol. 3: No. 620

The Islamaphobic media 25

Bypass pointless discussions 25

24

Call to Worship

Friday, March 11, 2016

Let’s put tribal, religious sentiments aside I t is high time we put all manners of tribal and religious sentiments aside and focus on our nation’s development. There is need to live peacefully with one another especially as the Qur’an preaches peace and brotherhood among mankind because we are all from Adam and Eve. The world is in turmoil in various fronts with our nation deeply involved.’

Islam and other religions do not promote terrorism; people do perpetrate acts of terrorism.

Wrong education, lack of education, extreme poverty, hunger and unemployment encourage violence, insecurity, and terrorism.

I said that we should put aside all forms of tribal and religious sentiments and focus on real development because there was an outrage on the social media last week about President Muhammadu Buhari “forcing” the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, to cover her hair during a meeting in Qatar. We’ve had many popular female Christian personalities who had visited same country with their heads covered and nothing of such insinuation of wanting to Islamize them or their countries.

These include Mitchell Obama, Queen Elizabeth, Sirleaf Johnson among others. Why do some people like castigating anything Islamic?

This will not do us any good because there are so many hypocrites who actually know that there so many goods in particular actions but will not say the truth just because the action is Islamic or from Islamic country.

Examples of these are the issue of Islamic banking, taking grants from Islamic Development Bank among others. Funny enough, there are many nonMuslims who are patronizing Islamic banks because of the many benefits, who have not been “Islamised”.

If we will take grants from Islamic bank without “killing” interest and another from IMF and World Bank with “killing” interests as we have experienced in the past, which one will benefit the masses more?

People should just put sentiments aside and support the current leadership in an attempt to put our nation back on the path of glory. If some categories of people have been in power for years with nothing concrete to show in terms of development but looting spree we are faced with on daily basis, then, the current leadership deserves our support.

Much ado about this noise on Islamising Nigeria as Islamic non-interest banking system will not Islamise the country but will only fulfill the yearnings and religious aspirations of many Muslims without interfering with the banking rights of non-Muslims.

Also, the ongoing war against corruption must be won and it will be good if Special Courts are created to handle the corruption cases we have now in order to do justice to such cases on time. …. On Women’s Day This International Women’s Day, Women Deliver is calling on global leaders – across sectors, regions and generations – to take

Healthy Corner Dr. Yahaya

Male infertility in focus (1)

M

aking baby we all believe is a simple and natural process and as such we all take it for granted, but for some people, it is difficult to impregnate their partners. A man’s fertility generally depends on the quality and quantity of his sperm. If the number of the sperm a man produces is low or quality is poor, it will be difficult and in some occasions impossible for him to impregnate a woman. Male infertility is diagnosed when after couples undergo investigation, reproductive problems have been traced to the male.

Is Male infertility common?

For every 1 in 5 infertile couples, the problem is found in the male partner, 1 in 20 have low sperm count, 1 in 100 males has

no sperm in his ejaculate.

Is there any Symptom?

No obvious symptoms and signs.

Erection, intercourse and ejaculation will all be present. The quantity and the appearances of ejaculates will be normal to the naked eyes, it is only the medical tests that will determine if a man is infertile or not.

What are the causes of male infertility?

Male infertility can either be caused by problems affecting either sperm production or transport which will be differentiated by medical tests. 2 out of 3 infertile males have difficulty in producing sperms in their testes.

1 out of 15 infertile men has transport problems. This in-

action and accelerate universal gender parity, the official theme of this year’s campaign. The upcoming Women Deliver 2016 Conference, taking place in Copenhagen, Denmark from 16-19 May, will build on the day’s themes and emphasize solutions, impact and action to advance the health, rights and wellbeing of girls and women. “We must strive to create a world where girls and women have choice, not chance,” said Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mary of Denmark, Patron of the Women Deliver 2016 Conference. “A world where a woman can decide for herself if, when and with whom to have a baby; a world where she does not risk unnecessarily dying in childbirth; and where she is economically empowered and financially literate.”

At the conference, more than 200 plenaries, concurrent sessions and side events will focus on solutions and how we can achieve the biggest impact for girls and women by emphasizing health, rights, gender equality, education and economic empowerment. When girls and women are healthy and have a chance to learn and earn there are also positive ripple effects across development – families are healthier, communities are stronger and nations are more prosperous.

“I am both very proud and excited that Denmark is hosting the Women Deliver 2016 Conference,” said Danish Minister for Foreign Affairs Kristian Jensen.

“Investing in girls and women is crucial for a sustainable future for all. It is my hope that the Concludes men who have undergone Vasectomy i.e. operation for permanent contraception now willing to have more babies. Obstruction in the tubes carrying sperms from the testis to the penis can cause a complete absence of sperm in the ejaculates, 1 out of 100 infertile men have problems affecting whether semen is able to enter woman’s vaginal for fertilization to occur.. 1 out of 100 infertile couples have reduced quantity of hormones made in the brain that act on the testes.1 out of 16 infertile men has Sperm antibodies. In most men, sperm antibodies do not affect infertility.

Known causes of male infertility Those affecting sperm production: Common genetic problems, Undescended testes (Failure of the testes to descend into the scrotum at birth), Infection, Torsion (testes twisting in the scrotum).

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

Jumaada al-Thaani 2,

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

THE PLATFORM with

Sekinah Lawal t: 08055102994 e: sakinah207@yahoo.com ference will help put concrete action behind the new Sustainable Development Goals in order to create real improvements for girls’ and women’s health and rights.”

More than 5,000 global and local leaders, policymakers, researchers, private sector, NGO representatives and young people from 150 countries are expected to participate in the Women Deliver 2016 Conference.

L-R: President Barack Obama, Pope Francis and Michelle Obama during a visit of President Obama to the Pope, at the Vatican City, Rome, recently.

L-R: Michelle Obama, an official of Qatar government, and President Barack Obama at a visit of President Obama to Qatar, recently.

(L-R): Engr. Abdulkareem, Alfa Kamaldeen (host Imam), Imam Agbaraojo Shamsudeen; Alhaji Mustain Olohunkemi (halefa), Alfa Sadullahi at a TMC public lecture in Iraye-Epe, Lagos.

L-R: An official of Road Safety Commission and Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr. AbdulHakeem AbdulLateef, during a visit of the Road Safety official to the commissioner, in Lagos, recently.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, March 11, 2016

IN HIS LIGHT

with

USTAZ

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

The Islamaphobic media (1)

I

t is against the letter and spirit of Islam to be despondent. The current horrible tide of Islamaphobia and biasness of the media are not new. But we should remember that it is in the very nature of falsehood to vaporize when truth takes its true shape.

The very weapons of Islamaphobia shall once again become its tools for returning souls to Allah.

Were Pastor Akanji Oluwaseun, Emmanuel and their accomplice who abducted schoolgirls in Ikorodu Muslims, what do you think the headlines will be by now?

‘Boko Haram shifts base to South West’, ‘Muslims Kidnappers at it again’, ‘Ikorodu girls kidnapped by Muslim terrorists’, ‘new tactics of the Muslim terrorist’; etc. Already we have been told he is a fake pastor.

Perhaps, we will be properly guided if we can have the list of all fake pastors so that when they kidnap or kill next time, we will not be surprise! Thank God, they are not Muslims.

When one pastor, in Osun state, organized members to attack a church in the regalia of Muslims, he said it was a drama, it went into cooler. When one Christian law student in UI entered the mosque on a Friday to shout Jesus while the faithful were praying it went into the cooler; when a Christian principal flogged a junior girl 43 strokes, no media deem it fit to give it coverage because it is a Muslim girl!

You will not see any Muslim attacking or attributing the actions of Reverend King, the molester and murderer, who even killed a member of his church to Christianity. There are several other cases by some so called-pastors raping, embezzling, do we say Christianity sends them? No, it is their human propensity that must be condemned by all human beings.

Muslims hate no one as we all have right to our religion by law. But why can’t our socalled counterparts allow peace to reign.

When Sani Yerima married one young lady, it was the talk of the town, there are thousands of such happenings where no media is turning search light; when Sanusi Lamido married too it was the talk of the town.

But history has it that King Richard II (1400 AD) married a 7yr old girl, Henry VIII (1500 AD) married a 6yr old, the Catholic Encyclopedia says” Mary the mother

Jumaada al-Thaani 2, 1437A.H.

of Jesus was 12 when she married 99 old Joseph”; and the Bible says “but save for yourselves every GIRL who has never slept with a man” (Numbers 31:17-18); examples abound but a seasoned historian simply knows that many socio-climatic factors determine marriages across climes and times.

What makes Ese/Yunusa’s case so special? How many of the so-called religionists are its true adherents? A lot of such happen all the time but makes no headlines but because for whatever reason he is a Kano Muslim boy from the Sanusi Lamido’s enclave, the news must go sensational.

I ask what exactly is the national gain in hypocritically blowing the issue out of proportion. Thank God, the Muslim scholars have spoken on the issue. It is clearly one of those media manipulations. I am very sure if the boy is from the Eastern or western part, it may not make any news.

One who lives in a glass house should not throw stone at others. A lot of terrible and criminal acts and rituals are being perpetrated by some so-called pastors or church leaders, locally and internationally, we hear, we read, we see on YouTube. People forget that the greatest gift of the global village is information. We read about breast sucking and ritual pastors, etc, and our media are either silent or explain it away as ‘fake pastors, devilish man of God’, etc.

President Buhari’s trip to Saudi Arabia and even entering the Kabah is tilted to mean that he wants to Islamise Nigeria; whereas former president Jonathan’s several trips to Israel was a prayer for the country and no any Christian coloration was attached. Students of history know the strategic divisive role Israel plays in the world; the arms deal during Jonathan cum those involved was never linked with Christianity; were it to happen during Buhari, the media would have captioned as ” Buhari prepares for Jihad buying armament..”.

Let us always treat issues based on their context and condemn evil no matter the perpetrator whether Imam or Reverend, Pope or Sultan, evil is evil, we should make our thorough investigation and research and should not tilt towards injustice. I am afraid that in the near future, if there are no sanctions on this kind of bias reporting, the media may plunge this nation into ethno-religious war. No nation goes into such and come back to normalcy easily.

These attacks, biases will breed nothing but widening of gaps of intolerance. The tide is already changing. An instance is how youths have engaged the Lagos State government on the issue of Hijaab even to the level of Appeal Court. These coming youths are more informed and aware of how their fathers suffered in the hands of Christian missionaries when they had to change their names from Rasheed to Richard as an example.

To be continued

L-R: Founder, Jamraf Islamic Society of Nigeria, Alhaji Abdul Rafiu Olalekan, receiving a merit award from the Chairman, EGPDF, Segun Destiny.

The Chairman, EGPDF Segun Destiny Merit, Alhaji Abdul Rafiu Olalekan, founder, Jamraf Islamic Society of Nigeria

Bypass pointless discussions (2)

S

ome make small sacrifices and think they have done a great deal or think they have done a great favour.

The Promised Messiah (as) used to mention an incident in regard to such people. It is said that an individual hosted someone. He went above and beyond in hospitality. At the end, when the guest was about to leave he was apologetic to him that due to his wife being ill and other circumstances I was not able fully to pay the dues of hospitality. I hope you will forgive these shortcomings.

The guest said I know that by saying this you want me to praise you but you should be grateful to me. The host said that was not my intention at all. The guest said I am fully aware of your intentions. The guest said that look you should realize that I could have set your home on fire whilst you were preparing food. The fact that I did not do so, is this not a great favour? You should be grateful to me. The host thanked him for not setting his home on fire.

A believer should be grateful to others instead of seeking thanks from others.

Once a king who was very much inclined towards and impressed with a PEER [spiritual guide] and always used to say to one of his viziers that he must go and meet him. But because the Vizier knew the reality about the Peer he always would somehow avoid going. But once when the King went to the PEER he took his Vizier with him. The Peer made some totally erroneous reference to history and the Vizier made a remark noting the utter ignorance displayed by this and the King lost all respect for the Peer.

The Promised Messiah used to mention this and then say that one should be mindful and knowledgeable of their surroundings. It is important to understand the traditions and practices of where an individual is going.

Nowadays our missionaries are questioned about the state of the world. All missionaries should keep themselves abreast of knowledge of history, geography, medicine, manners related to speech, and gatherings - at least to the degree necessary to be able to join gatherings of respected people. This is not at all difficult to achieve. All that is required is a little effort. So elementary books of these fields of knowledge should be read.

Apart from this also sometimes when our missionaries are asked about cur-

Call to Worship

25

Every Friday with

Khalifatul Ahmadiyya rent affairs they are not able to respond adequately as they are not keeping up with the knowledge of what is going on in the world or have not delved into these matters in any depth. Under such circumstances sometimes worldly people go away with a bad impression and sometimes complaints are received.

Promised Messiah (as) remarked that an individual had two sons. He distributed his wealth amongst them. The younger son took his wealth and went far away and wasted his wealth. When he lost everything he ended up being a common labourer. But seeing that he was not able to even feed himself despite working and that his father employed many such servants who were able to take care of themselves, he decided to go his own father and ask for such employment. The father happily accommodated him and celebrated the son’s return by having an animal slaughtered in honour of his return and the consequent happiness.

When the other son arrived, he did not like the fact that the younger son’s return was being celebrated in this way - he who had wasted his fortune. He told his father that he had always obeyed him and yet had never been so well treated as his brother. The father remarked that you were always here with me and all that I have is indeed yours but all this happiness is being celebrated because my son was lost and all but dead but now we have found him and he has come back to life.

When an individual admits their flaws in front of their God, God turns to them with Mercy and accepts their repentance. So learn to forgive your brothers who come to you with pure hearts admitting their shortcomings.

Also pray for those who are not seeking forgiveness.

One should strengthen their personality and should not be detracted. The Promised Messiah used to relate a story.

A king liked eating eggplant. When his servant learnt this he started praising the attributes of an eggplant a lot. After a few days the king became sick and said that he did not like eggplants. Upon hearing this the same servant started to say bad things about eggplants.

To be continued

Fadilat Sheikh Islam Alhaji Hussein Arikewuyo Al-Musodiqdedji at the celebration of Maolud Nabiyy at Amuwo Odofin, Lagos, recently.

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Arty News

Friday, March 11, 2016

Oke’Badan Festival celebrates Gbenga Ogunbufunmi

N

igerian mobile telecommunications giant, Globacom Limited has reiterated its commitment to the unity and oneness of the country through the promotion of people’s cultures and traditions. ‎ Chairman of the company, Otunba Mike Adenuga gave the commitment in his goodwill message delivered at the media briefing heralding the Oke’ Badan Cultural Festival 2016 organised by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, CCII, held at Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo,Ibadan Oyo State capital yesterday.

In the goodwill message delivered by Mr.Tunji Omoworare, Globacom Sales Manager (Oyo 1), Adenuga explained that his company’s sponsorship of festivals across the country “is aimed at consolidating its commitment to identify with the culture and tradition of the Nigerian people, as a Nigerian company playing on global pedestal.

“Globacom’s collaboration with the custodians of the festival is in order to showcase the company’s interest in the cultural activities, traditions and events that bind the Nigerian people together as one geo-

Oke’Badan festival graphic entity,” the Globacom boss said.

Recalling that this year’s celebration of Oke ‘Badan Festival is the second year of the sponsorship contract signed with Globacom, he disclosed that the involvement in the celebration of the festival “is geared towards celebrating the unique tradition and custom of the Ibadan people.

“By sponsoring Oke ‘Badan and other festivals with huge tourism potentials comparable to the 100- year-old Rio de Janeiro Carnival, Globacom is helping to promote the cause of tourism in the country,” adding; “Globacom is proud to be associated with

Oke ‘Badan in the sense that it serves as a reminder of the historical antecedents of the Ibadan people while it is also a festival of unity among Ibadan people”.

President-General of the CCII, Chief Wole Akinwande, who was supported by the Aboke of Ibadanland, Chief Ifasola Ifamapowa, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Reverend Ademola Moradeyo and other Principal Officers of the socio-cultural group in his address described the Oke ‘Badan Cultural Festival 2016 as a unique one with the theme ‘Re-branding Ibadan Cultural Festival’.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Comedian Inojie sues for peace in Nigeria

A

s Nollywood star Charles Inojie celebrated his birthday on Friday , the Edo State born actor called on all Nigerians to embrace peace and work together for the progress of Nigeria.

In a short birthday message he personally signed, Inojie said Nigeria belongs to us all “and we should all strive to make her a great country. Elections have come and gone, this is now the time for us all to join hands with the president, Mr. Muhammadu Buhari to build a strong and virile nation. As I celebrate my birthday, I pray for peace for my fatherland and call on people planning to do this nation evil in the form of terrorism and other ills, to have a change of heart,” he said adding: “I thank God Almighty, the giver of life for adding another year to my life. Not only was last year pleasantly eventful for me, but God showed Himself mightily in several aspects of my life, business and career. I also thank my fans all over the world, without you, I will be doing something else by now. I appreciate you all.”

RMD, Olu Jacobs in ‘Hush’

O

n April 4, 2016, viewers across Africa will welcome a new and exciting telenovella to their screens as Africa Magic premieres Hush, a tale of fashion, politics and ambition which follows different members of high society.

The story of Hush revolves around Bem and Arinola, power-players in fashion and

politics respectively. Bem, played by Richard Mofe-Damijo, is one of Africa’s biggest designers based in Lagos State, Nigeria, and Arinola, played by Thelma Okoduwa, is one of the state’s fastest rising politicians. The intrigue begins when Bem proposes marriage to Arinola, an action that sets in motion a chain of events propelled by the secrets in their respective lives, secrets that run through the backrooms of secret societies, the corridors of the judiciary and on social media.

The Director, M-Net West Africa, Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, said: “Hush is an exciting telenovella that explores the intriguing relationship between two powerful individuals, and the power tussle between players in fashion, politics, and high-society. The storyline is unique even as the acting promises to be ex-

citing, given the caliber of the cast and crew involved. We are excited for our viewers and urge them to tune in to catch Hush.”

Hush follows in the stead of Africa Magic’s recently concluded and highly popular Nigerian telenovella, Hotel Majestic, and promises to keep viewers entertained with its themes of love, power, high-society, betrayal and intrigue. The telenovella explores the precarious and delicate weaving between seemingly disparate worlds which co-exist in Lagos, each possessing its own eco-system based on interconnecting, seamless interaction, secret alliances and loyalty.

The telenovella which will air weeknights at 9pm CAT, stars Richard Mofe Damijo, Thelma Okoduwa, Olu Jacobs, Baj Adebule, Rotimi Adelegan and Meg Otanwa, and will air weeknights at 9pm CAT.

‘Yoruba Latokun’ accuses parents of neglecting language Tayo Irantiola

Y

oruba parents have been accused of creating a gap between their children and their roots through the systematic neglect of the language.

This was unveiled at Yoruba Lakotun, a quarterly cultural programme at Ethnice Heritage Centre, Ikoyi.

Mr Ayoade Okedokun, author of Ika Abamo, Omo Elede and other books in Yoruba and English languages, said, ‘there are certain words that cannot be translated into Yoruba language because it has no equivalent in English and vice versa. He explained that Yoruba parents have mixed up the role of the school and that of the home.

In his words, ‘the payment made in the school is to teach the children English language; while the children should learn Yoruba language from their parents and immediate community. Unfortunately, many people muddled up these roles

At Yoruba Latokun which are distinctly separate. Parents should both cooperate to ensure that their children understand the language; children should not be separated from their roots.’

Similarly, Ms Adebunmi Adeniran, Chief Ex-

ecutive of Nailangs, a virtual keyboard that can type 12 Nigerian languages with the tonal marks, expressed shock at the rate in which Yoruba make their children speak English compulsorily when Yorubas in the Diaspora are keen about making their children understand the language.

In her words, ‘our mother tongue needs to be a reference point many generations to come and we have to ensure that it is preserved with the use of technology and also orally as passed down from one generation to another.

Adesewa Oyinkansola, student of Yaba College of Technology Secondary School, performed two poems in Yoruba language to the delight of the audience who applauded her for her dexterity in performing in English and Yoruba language.

According to her, ‘I challenged my Mum that I do not want to be a stranger to my culture. My Mum agreed and today, I prefer to read my Yoruba Bible and wear Yoruba clothes.’

The programme was dedicated to Benin Republic, a country where Yoruba language has just been adopted as the second language. Although, there is a slight variation of their Yoruba with that those at the core of the language but it is a right step in the right direction. Everyone is calling upon the Nigerian Government to emulate this idea rather than making International languages compulsory at the expense of Nigerian languages at all levels of learning.

For a brief moment, I worried that the spirit of the

Artman In The House

Friday, March 11, 2016

Golden

Globes had

possessed the

Oscars spend billions and billions of dollars to rescue a black astronaut – has been done before and sharper by others.) Another bit, “Black History Month Minute,” saluted the achievements of… Jack Black.

But the show erred by making Hollywood’s problems with representation seem all about the marginalization of black people instead of addressing how it marginalizes everyone was isn’t white and male. The critique of inclusiveness was wrongly exclusive.

When the show did acknowledge other races, it fumbled with stereotypes. Using Asian kids to portray the accountants who tabulate the Oscar votes? Why? Because they’re good at math? Yeesh. (Rock preemptively tried to counter complaint from those who might tweet-shame the joke by making another joke about our devices being made by Asian child labor.) #OscarsSoWhite wasn’t the night’s only upstaging righteous cause.Lady Gaga turned her performance of “’Til It Happens To You” (fromThe Hunting Ground) into a forceful protest against campus rape, victim shaming, and a culture that allows sexual violence to flourish. Declaring himself “a proud gay man,” Sam Smith, who took home the Best Song Oscar for “The Writing’s On The Wall” (from Spectre) dedicated his award to the global LGBT community. Best Actor winner Leonardo DiCaprio used his speech to eloquently rail against climate change, environmental ruin, and the powerful forces that would seek to minimize or deny the cost of industry and consumerism run amok. DiCaprio took a lot of heat for how he waged his Oscar campaign, for humblebragging about how much he suffered for The Revenant. I’m not a fan of the movie myself, but he did well by himself with that speech.

The downside of Oscar’s advocacy palooza: nurturing a flawed view of movies as a means to an end instead of art, an ironic if fitting outcome for a glitchy gala that took as its theme a celebration of the filmmaking process. The most entertaining stretch of the evening was the hour in which Mad Max: Fury Road stormed the technical categories and brought waves of charmingly scruffy or exuberantly grateful artists to stage to testify to the power of collaboration.

(Bedazzled, super-casual costume designer Jenny Beavan should win all the awards.)

I was grateful for the huge upsets that not only pulled us through the too-long broadcast but also redirected our attention back to the movies. Mark Rylance (Bridge of Spies) beat Sylvester Stallone(Creed) for best supporting actor, a stunner that denied us a sentimental moment for the ages and cost Stallone what might have been his best and last chance to win a statue. In a welcome, smart, and underdog victory, Ex Machina beat Mad Max and Star Wars: The Force Awakens for Best Visual Effects. And to the delight of critics who’ve spent months loudly decrying.

BOOK

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Life under a bridge

27

They call me Mama! From the Underbridge Diaries, written by Dolapo Osinbajo is a delight to read.

I

t gives us a glimpse into the world of typical ‘Area boys’ in the city of Lagos and how some religious, non- governmental organisations and individuals try in their little way to care for them and possibly take them off the street.

The 175 page hard cover book, written in a first person (writer’s) view makes an interesting read.

It is full of intrigues. From the colourful painting on the cover page-which is a graphic illustration of a mother and her child, which was painted by one of the ‘boys,’ to those on the inside pages, and that at the inside back page of the book, you are tempted to know the content in detail.

The book has different topics but no clear cut chapters. Some of the topics are; ‘Bentley’, Mr. Cool’, ‘Walkman’, ‘Play’, Fertile ground’, ‘Speakerphone’, ‘S’ayo’, ‘On Holy ground’ among others.

The author includes Bible passages at the end of some of the topics.

The title of the book, ‘They call me Mama!, came about as a result of the boys showing their appreciation of the care given them by the writer and her group. They usually hail her, ‘Mama!’ each time they catch a glimpse of nicely packed food and drinks brought for them by their regular visitors. In turn, the boys always love to do her favour ; like stopping the traffic for her to drive home after their meetings and would not mind fighting other motorists to do this.

The book reveals various experiences of the writer during her interactions with the ‘boys’ under the Muri Okunola bridge, on Lagos Island. It is a documentation and it is the origin of the Step Up programme which aims to give those on the street with no help, a way out through vocational training and assistance to set up their own businesses as opposed to seeking employment. The stories in the book are true life stories.

According to Osinbajo: “Most of the stories were penned down within a week, in May 2003, I had the irresistible compulsion to document at least some of the experiences, in a bid to share the reality of the street boys and men in Lagos State, giving them a human face to the surprise of those to whom they are presented as demonised.”

Life under the bridge could be likened to buying a brand new car, park it and cover it up and no one is allowed to drive it. The life of the boy under the bridge is covered up and his talents and opportunities would not be realised as long as he chooses to remain there.

There was a particular boy that drew the attention of the writer with his well spoken English language, though dressed in dirty cloth, he looked so familiar to her. ‘I cannot shake the feeling, that I know this boy’s parents. They must

be looking for him as we speak. If only I knew who they were, where they were, I would have told them where he is, speaking of Bentley, under the bridge!”

The boys are like family to one another. When one of the boys, simply referred to as ‘F’ got into trouble and landed in prison, others, with the help of ‘Mama’ would speak with him on phone and also visit him from time to time.

The boys were provided with spiritual food i.e. preaching, teaching of God’s word and physical food also. They are encouraged to come out from ‘under’ to worship in the church and the group would offer cloth to those who wish to go to church either for mid week services or Sunday morning services.

It got to a time the author was discouraged by the attitude of some of the boys as majority of them were stuck in the dreadful cycle of life under the bridge while some of them were able to come out of the horrid life.

This leaves the writer wondering, “Do they not listen to what we had to say to them week after week? Do they not desire to live like those who they see daily, driving or riding to work purposefully, clean, dignified and accomplished?”

On one of the visits of the author and her group to the boys on a particular Sunday, the air was thick with smoke

On one of the visits of the author and her group to the boys on a particular

Sunday, the air was thick with smoke and smell of marijuana

and smell of marijuana. The visitors were upset with what they saw and they let the boys know they were not happy about this. By the following week, there was an improvement.

The age range of the boys hovers between 13 and 35years, but sometimes it is difficult to ascertain their age due to malnutrition which often makes them look emaciated.

The writer noted: “Over the years, we learnt that most of the boys were like coconuts, hard and tough on the outside, but soft on the inside.” Sometimes when ‘Mama’ and her Step up group speak to them, they cry.

Some of the boys were ready to learn, hear God’s word and change while others like ‘Mono’ is described as ‘cold’ and ‘unfeeling’. He is not touched, not caring and he is full of mischief. “He never spoke his mind and always looked as though he was wiser and cleverer than we were and that he was not on to what we were trying to do.”

‘Mono’ never showed up at meetings again after few attendance.

One of the boys even confessed to selling Indian hemp at Kuramo. He had realised it was wrong and was sorry for it. The group showed him love, they did not condemn him. He was encouraged to learn a trade and was given money to start selling recharge cards.

Many of the boys are from poor families, some are from broken home where the parents are no longer together and many of them grew up in an atmosphere of frustration and violence but it is only during these meetings with ‘Mama’ and her group that they have opportunity to express themselves and have fun during their play sessions.

They call me Mama! Is a book anyone, especially believers can learn from, especially of how to take the good news of God’s kingdom to the people of the world and by showing them the love of God. Apart from some few errors, which can be corrected in subsequent editions, the book is a good one.

28

Inside FCT

Friday, March 11, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Gwagwa residents commend police over security

Another resident, James Ogar also

Adeola Tukuru

R

esidents of Saburi, Gwagwa area in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have commended the Nigeria Police for ensuring security following the constant robbery attacks in the area. the residents in the area who spoke to Inside FCT expressed satisfaction with the said the security operations recently put in place when compared with the previous years.

For Seyi Ayibatonye, the police should be commended for the security measures in the area and saying that the effort should be sustained She explained that if such security measures could be maintained, it would open up more commercial activities in the area which would have positive impact on the economy.

“My street has been known as the most dangerous and one that was prone to crime within the area but I commend the security agencies, especially the police who took it upon themselves in ensuring that the people are protected,” Ayibatonye said.

Another resident, James Ogar also said his area has been calm because of the security put in place and called on the police not to relent on their efforts while urging the federal government to step up plans in ensuring that the security of lives and property in the

said his area has been calm because of the security put in place and called on the police not to relent on their efforts

Police at crime scene at Gwagwa

country.

Ogar said during the last Yuletide season, residents in the area never experienced any criminal incident even when there were fears that the area may witness unpleasant criminal activities because of the economic condition in the country.

For the police in Saburi, Gwagwa area of

the FCT, there is no hiding place for criminals as four armed robbers who invaded the residence of Osita Ihejiaku were engaged in a gun battle.

The Divisional Police Office (DPO) of Gwagwa police station, Nkem Rahael, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CPS) who led the team engaged the robbers said in

the gun battle, one of the robbers was killed while others escaped with bullet wounds.

Nkem said it was the duty of the police to protect lives and property, saying, “we will continue to work hard in ensuring that Gwagwa remains safe”.

Obiora Michael, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, told Inside FCT that a barrette pistol with three rounds of live ammunition, an empty shell and a Jincheng motorcycle were recovered from the hoodlums.

He said the victim of the robbery who sustained injuries during the incident was taken to the hospital for treatment adding that investigation is ongoing to track down the robbers.

Traders risk poisoning in Wuse market Marcus Fatunmole

F

or many traders at the Wuse market located in the Abuja metropolis in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT, it is a known fact that some of them at the market suddenly become sick and that it usually takes a long time for them to get well.

Perhaps most of them may not know that what could be responsible for making them sick was that they inhale the fumes or smoke from the many power generating set used in the market.

When Inside-FCT visited the market, apart from the normal buying and selling activities that take place in the market, the deafening sound of power-generating sets, including thick carbon monoxide coming out of the exhaust also enveloped the area.

Everyone was inhaling the smoke, perhaps unconscious of the health implications, while the try to manage with the sound of the sets.

Emeka Williams, a trader who has a shop in the market told Inside FCT that the situation has been like that for a long time He, however, noted that some educated persons in the market understand the consequences of inhaling the poisonous carbon monoxide, including persistent sound coming from the power generating sets.

According to him, the situation has become more worrisome because there is no stable power supply in the market and traders have to resort to the use of power generating sets The deafening sound coming from the power generating sets in the market could only be compared to the situation in a manufacturing company that relies mostly on big

The activities of these trades often obstruct vehicular traffic on

the roads as passengers in slow-moving vehicles hurriedly buy items through vehicle windows from traders who loiter about the roads in expectation of making quick sales.

power generating sets to manufacture their products According to some of the traders, the situation is worse around the month of March shortly before the raining season when the hot weather during that period make virtually every trader in the market to have his generating set to provide light and also power air conditioners and fans because of the poor public power supply.

Musa Mustapha, a trader in the market, told Inside FCT that some traders have even died from one ailment or the other because of the situation in the market “This smoke is not good for our health.

I have heard and read of people who have been reportedly dead of this thing. I know of two or three persons here who have died of unknown ailments.

They just fell sick and died after few days.

The only solution is for government to provide us with regular power supply”, he said Interestingly, diseases which bring the marketers down are mostly directly related to those caused by carbon monoxide.

Generators at Wuse market According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, Carbon Monoxide also known as CO coming out of power generating sets can cause harmful health effects by reducing oxygen delivery to the heart, brain and other tissues of the body and it can lead to death if exposed to carbon monoxide at extremely high level.

The agency further said carbon monoxide reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. People with several types of heart disease already have a reduced capacity for pumping oxygenated blood to the heart, which can cause them to experience myocardial ischemia (reduced oxygen to the heart), often accompanied by chest pain (angina), when exercising or under increased stress.

For such people, the agency said short-

term exposure to carbon monoxide further affects their bodies’ already compromised ability to respond to the increased oxygen demands of exercise or exertion.

Similarly, the Centre for Disease Control, CDC said carbon monoxide could be found in fumes produced any time you burn fuel in cars or trucks, small engines, stoves, lanterns, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges, or furnaces and could cause many health hazards when inhaled for a long time According to CDC, the most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, stomach upset, chest pain and vomiting It explained that the symptoms are often described as “flu-like.”, adding that inhaling a lot of carbon monoxide could result in death.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Inside FCT

Friday, March 11, 2016

29

Evening markets take over Abuja roads

Street trading in Abuja Blessing Ukaegbu

M

any residents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), may have been wondering why roadside markets have resurfaced along major roads in Abuja, and the reason that had made such markets to thrive in a city where most people like to do their shopping at supermarkets.

At some point in the past, the major streets, bus stops and junctions across the city were without roadside markets, but not anymore these days, as the major junctions of the city have already being turned to markets, especially in the evenings.

Some of the markets are found in some areas around the city including Berger Junction, Lugbe car wash bus stop, the Charly Boy Bus Stop in Gwarinpa area and the Karu roundabout.

The pedestrian bridges on the major highways in the city are not left out as many traders display various items for sale on the bridges without considering public safety, public decency and official directives.

Daniel Pam who usually sells shoes on the pedestrian bridge over Aleyita bus stop, on Umaru Yar’Adua Way, prefers to call these markets, “evening rush-hour markets” because traders in the markets offer items for sale to workers when they are returning home in the evening after work hours According to him, traders who were mostly itinerant and “shopless” sell various items to passengers when they disembark from vehicles He observed that the harsh economic condition in the land has forced many people to come to the evening markets to sell in order to make ends meet

Pam said there was no way the traders would not continue to sell by the roadside as they could not get shops at affordable rates in places like Wuse or Garki.

“How much does it take to rent a shop in Wuse Market or Garki Market these days, and how can I raise such shop rent before I could do something to feed my wife and three children?”he queried.

Evening markets in the city offer items from books, men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, curtains, bedspreads, mobile phones, children’s toys, provision, and cosmetics, to bread, vegetables, fruits, food stuff, among others.

For many city dwellers, a market is anywhere selling and buying of goods and services takes place. Because the needs of individuals, households and organisations are mostly met through buying, selling, it is immaterial what market arrangement allows the buyer or seller to exercise his freedom, through choice of commodities to meet or satisfy those needs.

Uga Esowe who resides in Kubwa, a satellite town in the city would patronize any

market whether it was roadside or not provided he could buy goods at a good price without encountering difficulties parking his vehicle.

Esowe, who said he patronises the evening markets expressed satisfaction with the quality and price of items he had purchased including his clothes.

According to him, the prices of items at the evening markets are quite low compared with big shops in the city However, despite recent directive by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) that the ban on trading activities and hawking on Abuja roads was still in force, the roadside evening markets still thrive The markets could best be described as a makeshift hub thriving on temporary or mobile stands, including wooden or plastic contraptions, vehicles, and other things, which serve as platforms, which are overstuffed with various items.

Some traders even display items on mats or cellophane bags on the ground while the highly itinerant traders carry their wares about.

The activities of these trades often obstruct vehicular traffic on the roads as passengers in slow-moving vehicles hurriedly buy items through vehicle windows from traders who loiter about the roads in expectation of making quick sales.

The activities of these trades often obstruct vehicular traffic on the roads as passengers in slow-moving vehicles hurriedly buy items through vehicle windows from traders who loiter about the roads in expectation of making quick sales.

However, many time officials of the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), charged with the responsibility of ensuring that the FCT is clear of refuse come to the evening markets and seize items from the traders, some of whom are even arrested Margaret Oseni, a resident of Lugbe Village, a satellite town in FCT who said she patronizes roadside evening markets appealed to the government to support mobile roadside traders.

“There is need for massive construction of low-cost markets across the FCT to absorb traders who cannot afford to rent shops in places like Wuse nad Garki markets”, she said.

According to her, many of them have shown creativity, drive and persistence and therefore need from government to be able to do their business She said the evening markets remain the only option available to the traders to make some money to cater for their dependents sine they could not secure employment in government offices or the private sector Speaking in the same vein, Timothy Umar who sells furniture at a roadside market in Kuje noted that artisans are not supported by any agency of government.

“If we do not display our goods where more people could see them, access them and appreciate them first hand, and buy from us, how would we succeed in business? We need all the support that can be helpful”, he said.

30

Capital Market

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, March 11, 2016

Stock exchange daily equities summary Daily Summary as of 10/03/2016

Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018

Equities as at March 10, 2016 Daily Summary as of 10/03/2016 Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018

Daily Summary (Bonds) No Debt Trading Activity

1st Tier Securities on Board EQTY Sector Activity Summary Company name

AGRICULTURE Crop Production OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals Livestock/Animal Specialties LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC. Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals

No Of Deals Symbol OKOMUOIL PRESCO

Symbol LIVESTOCK

Quotation(N)

Current Price 31.50 34.25

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 1.18

AGRICULTURE Totals

Symbol AGLEVENT TRANSCORP Daily Summary UACN

No. of Deals 7 101 (Equities) 40 148

CONGLOMERATES Totals

Real Estate Development UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Daily Summary as of 10/03/2016 UPDC REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018 Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Totals

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Published by The Nigerian Exchange © UPDC REAL Stock ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST

Value Traded 478,905.00 478,905.00

467,830

2,526,337.20

Current Price 0.76 1.16 19.96

Quantity Traded 985,504 11,156,700 94,392 12,236,596

Value Traded 749,433.04 13,107,044.54 2,057,275.00 15,913,752.58

12,236,596

148

HEALTHCARE Totals

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 5 5

Current Price 5.10

Quantity Traded 5,084 5,084

Value Traded 26,817.40 26,817.40

ICT Processing Systems E-TRANZACT INTERNATIONAL PLC Activity Summary on Board Processing Systems TotalsEQTY

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 10.00

Quantity Traded 15,000 15,000

Value Traded 150,000.00 150,000.00

26,564

467,787.60

11

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol DUNLOP

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 10,000 10,000

Value Traded 5,000.00 5,000.00

Symbol Symbol CHAMPION JBERGER GUINNESS INTBREW Symbol JOSBREW UAC-PROP NB

No. of of Deals Deals No. 59 49 5 4 No. of Deals1 5 90 5 153

Current Price Price Current 2.88 41.50 113.00 18.50 Current Price 1.51 5.10 96.50

Quantity Traded Traded Quantity 241,500 6,480 234,818 6,480 170,760 Quantity Traded 1,000 5,084 5,341,444 5,084 5,989,522

Value Traded Traded Value 681,256.00 290,970.20 26,550,269.85 290,970.20 3,159,060.00 Value1,440.00 Traded 26,817.40 515,603,441.80 26,817.40 545,995,467.65

Symbol UPDCREIT

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 10.00

Quantity Traded Page 15,000 15,000

11

Symbol DUNLOP

Symbol CHAMPION GUINNESS Daily Summary INTBREW JOSBREW NB Symbol 7UP

Value Traded 12 2 150,000.00 of 150,000.00

26,564

467,787.60

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 10,000 10,000

Value Traded 5,000.00 5,000.00

No. of Deals 9 49 (Equities) 4 1 90 153

Current Price 2.88 113.00 18.50 1.51 96.50

Quantity Traded 241,500 234,818 170,760 1,000 5,341,444 5,989,522

Value Traded 681,256.00 26,550,269.85 3,159,060.00 1,440.00 515,603,441.80 545,995,467.65

No. of Deals 3 3

Current Price 161.50

Quantity Traded 2,550Page

No. of Deals 30 43 64 15 32 1 185

Current Price 5.98 18.38 1.72 7.37 2.49 11.25

Value Traded 12 2 397,796.00 of

2,550

397,796.00

Quantity Traded 610,577 362,791 1,864,302 105,220 1,729,875 23,144 4,695,909

Value Traded 3,621,670.47 6,635,651.38 3,172,813.92 786,512.66 4,296,366.75 247,409.36 18,760,424.54

Symbol DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR NASCON TIGERBRANDS UNIONDICON

Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

No. of Deals 15 62 77

Current Price 17.20 700.00

Quantity Traded 15,282 147,058 162,340

Value Traded 264,751.80 103,344,022.98 103,608,774.78

Symbol VITAFOAM

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 4.30

Quantity Traded 4,104 4,104

Value Traded 17,008.60 17,008.60

Symbol

No. of Deals 36 37 73

Current Price 25.00 28.00

Quantity Traded 1,048,886 115,881 1,164,767

Value Traded 26,206,840.30 3,253,474.33 29,460,314.63

Personal/Household Products P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals

PZ Summary (Equities) Daily UNILEVER

Activity Summary on Board EQTY CONSUMER GOODS Published

by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © CONSUMER GOODS Totals

FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. Daily Summary as of BANK 10/03/2016 UNITED FOR AFRICA PLC Printed 10/03/2016 UNION14:36:18.018 BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC. Banking Totals Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services AIICO INSURANCE PLC. EQTY Activity Summary on Board

CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC FINANCIAL SERVICES Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INSURANCE COMPANY PLC AXAMANSARD INSURANCE PLC N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. STANDARD ALLIANCE INSURANCE PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © PLC UNITY KAPITAL ASSURANCE WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

Micro-Finance Banks NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Daily Summary as ofMORTGAGE 10/03/2016 BANK PLC ABBEY Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018 ASO SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC

Other Financial Institutions Other Financial Institutions Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals HEALTHCARE Healthcare Providers UNION DIAGNOSTIC & CLINICAL SERVICES PLC Healthcare Providers Totals Pharmaceuticals EVANS MEDICAL PLC. FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC.

Page 12,029,192

498

Symbol ACCESS DIAMONDBNK ETI FIDELITYBK GUARANTY SKYEBANK STERLNBANK UBA UBN UNITYBNK WEMABANK

No. of Deals 101 47 12 97 268 73 4 135 21 15 25 798

Current Price 4.64 1.55 18.00 1.20 16.30 1.00 1.74 3.40 5.71 0.70 0.89

Symbol AIICO CONTINSURE

No. of Deals 8 13

Symbol INTENEGINS MANSARD NEM NIGERINS STDINSURE UNITYKAP WAPIC

12 3 of 698,244,786.20

Quantity Traded 2,238,803 2,312,200 79,644 112,424,441 18,583,965 7,385,171 111,907 5,203,710 261,361 1,385,158 3,867,758 153,854,118

Value Traded 10,226,567.24 3,594,768.13 1,433,845.86 129,463,993.06 303,176,725.96 7,385,196.00 194,898.18 17,930,180.47 1,495,194.74 956,940.54 3,451,073.06 479,309,383.24

Current Price 0.81 0.91

Quantity Traded 111,738 385,000

Value Traded 89,754.74 353,700.00

No. of Deals 1 7 14 1 1 2 27 74

Current Price 0.50 2.22 0.77 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50

Quantity Traded 583 300,001 6,335,000 20,000 1,000 Page 1,000,200

Value Traded 291.50 662,002.20 4,877,650.00 10,000.00 500.00 4 of 12 500,100.00

Symbol NPFMCRFBK

No. of Deals 6 6

Symbol ABBEYBDS ASOSAVINGS

Daily Summary (Equities)

Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC UNITED CAPITAL PLC FINANCIAL SERVICES

Pharmaceuticals EVANS MEDICAL PLC. FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC Daily Summary as of 10/03/2016CHEMICALS PLC. NIGERIA-GERMAN Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018 Pharmaceuticals Totals

Value Traded 290,970.20 1 290,970.20 of 12

Food Products DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NASCON ALLIED INDUSTRIES PLC TIGER BRANDED CONSUMER GOODS PLC UNION DICON SALT PLC. Food Products Totals

Household Daily Summary as Durables of 10/03/2016

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

15,913,752.58

Symbol UPDCREIT

Symbol AFRIPRUD Daily Summary CUSTODYINS FCMB STANBIC UCAP Symbol

Packaging/Containers BETA GLASS CO PLC. Packaging/Containers Totals

NATURAL RESOURCES Totals OIL AND GAS Activity Summary on Board EQTY Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC OIL AND GAS Energy Equipment Services Published by The Nigerian Stockand Exchange © Energy Equipment and Services Totals

Symbol EVANSMED FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER NEIMETH NIG-GERMAN

No. of Deals 1 15 7 8 3 5 39

Current Price 0.50 2.62 24.98 0.99 0.66 4.67

Quantity Traded 10,000 8,920,570 13,692 523,885 8,221 54,747 9,531,115

Value Traded 5,000.00 23,366,983.40 331,830.26 518,636.15 5,287.23 243,076.68 24,470,813.72

9,651,115

24,530,813.72

Quantity Traded 4,000 4,000

Value Traded 13,000.00 13,000.00

40

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol ETRANZACT

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 3.10

1

4,000 Page

6

13,000.00 12 of

Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER CAP CCNN WAPCO

No. of Deals 12 6 2 10 20 50

Current Price 24.00 9.42 38.50 8.88 85.50

Quantity Traded 11,188 6,700 3,372 18,370 49,843 89,473

Value Traded 276,479.00 63,194.50 125,164.64 163,872.50 4,293,721.94 4,922,432.58

Symbol BETAGLAS

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 45.50

Quantity Traded 836,659 836,659

Value Traded 38,079,717.77 38,079,717.77

926,132

43,002,150.35

Quantity Traded 863 863

Value Traded 6,360.31 6,360.31

863

6,360.31

56

Symbol ALUMACO

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 7.75

1

Daily Summary (Equities)

Integrated Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals

Symbol OANDO

No. of Deals 96 96

Current Price 4.86

Quantity Traded 3,680,485 3,680,485

Value Traded 17,864,624.10 17,864,624.10

Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors CONOIL PLC ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals

Symbol CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL MRS TOTAL

No. of Deals 7 5 75 13 2 14 116

Current Price 16.56 1.85 293.23 159.95 47.18 142.95

Quantity Traded 12,608 51,736 127,162 11,389 110 11,178 214,183

Value Traded 213,344.80 96,061.95 33,662,656.01 1,749,276.74 4,931.30 1,661,920.27 37,388,191.07

Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 350.00

Quantity Traded 227,728 227,728

Value Traded 79,673,545.10 79,673,545.10

4,125,396

134,927,860.27

Daily Summary as of 10/03/2016 Exploration and Production Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018 SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Exploration and Production Totals Daily Summary as of 10/03/2016 OIL AND GAS Totals Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018 SERVICES Apparel Retailers Activity Summary on Board EQTY LENNARDS (NIG) PLC. Apparel SERVICES Retailers Totals Courier/Freight/Delivery

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

REDNigerian STAR EXPRESS PLC © Published by The Stock Exchange Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals SERVICES Courier/Freight/Delivery Hotels/Lodging RED STAR EXPRESS IKEJA HOTEL PLC PLC Courier/Freight/Delivery Hotels/Lodging Totals Totals

Hotels/Lodging Printing/Publishing IKEJA HOTEL PLC PLC. ACADEMY PRESS Hotels/Lodging Totals LEARN AFRICA PLC Printing/Publishing Totals Printing/Publishing ACADEMY PRESS PLC. Road Transportation Daily Summary as ofAFRICA 10/03/2016 LEARN PLCCOMPANY PLC ASSOCIATED BUS Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018 Printing/Publishing Totals Road Transportation Totals Road Transportation Transport-Related Services ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC PLC AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS Road Transportation Totals NIGERIAN AVIATION Daily Summary as of 10/03/2016 HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018Services Totals Transport-Related Services Activity Summary on Board EQTY AIRLINE SERVICES Support and LogisticsAND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC SERVICES Transport-Related Services Totals C & I LEASING PLC. SERVICES Totals Support and Logistics Totals Support and Logistics OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC EQTYCAVERTON Board Totals Activity Summary on Board EQTY Published by C The Stock & INigerian LEASING PLC.Exchange © SERVICES Support and Logistics Totals SERVICES Totals

Activity Summary on Board PREMIUM

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © EQTY BoardSERVICES Totals FINANCIAL Banking ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals Activity Summary on Board PREMIUM Daily Summary as of 10/03/2016 Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018 Other Financial Institutions FINANCIAL SERVICES FBN HOLDINGS PLC Banking Other Financial Institutions Totals ZENITH BANK PLC Daily Summary as ofINTERNATIONAL 10/03/2016 Banking14:36:18.018 Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals Printed 10/03/2016 Other Financial Institutions INDUSTRIAL GOODS

Current Price 3.29 3.81 0.82 14.70 1.68

Quantity Traded 5,707,479 307,117 34,136,664 20,654 5,219,591

Value Traded 18,854,650.43 1,171,403.77 28,454,322.53 310,292.42 8,850,445.09

No. of Deals 466

Current Price

Quantity Traded 45,391,505 Page

Value Traded 57,641,114.24 5 of 12

Value Traded 5,000.00 23,366,983.40 331,830.26

Value Traded 60,000.00 60,000.00

Value Traded 12 7 of 1,500.00

No. of Deals 128 (Equities) 8 212 12 106

Quantity Traded 10,000 8,920,570 13,692

Quantity Traded 120,000 120,000

Quantity Traded Page 3,000

Value Traded 2,500.00 5,000.00 7,500.00

Current Price 0.50 2.62 24.98

Current Price 0.50

Current Price

Quantity Traded 2,000 10,000 12,000

No. of Deals 1 15 7

No. of Deals 1 1

No. of Deals 2

Current Price 1.25 0.50

Symbol EVANSMED FIDSON GLAXOSMITH

Symbol UNIONDAC

Symbol

No. of Deals 2 1 3

Value Traded 60,000.00 60,000.00

550,653,356.92

Value Traded 1,500.00

Activity Summary onTotals Board PREMIUM INDUSTRIAL GOODS Equity Activity Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS

Quantity Traded 120,000 120,000

221,752,567

Quantity Traded 3,000

Value Traded 57,400.00 57,400.00

Current Price 0.50

Value Traded 57,641,114.24

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 53,500 53,500

No. of Deals 1 1

1,347

Value of Shares(N)

Quantity Traded 45,391,505

No. of Deals 2

Current Price 1.07

Symbol UNIONDAC

Quantity Traded

Current Price

Symbol JAPAULOIL

Activity Summary on Board PREMIUM FBN HOLDINGS Building MaterialsPLC

550,653,356.92

No. of Deals 466

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals NATURAL Daily Summary as RESOURCES of 10/03/2016 Metals 14:36:18.018 Printed 10/03/2016 ALUMINIUM MANUFACTURING COMPANY PLC Metals Totals

7,143,961.00 13,637,959.44

221,752,567

Quotation(N)

ICT ICT Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Building Materials Totals

14,287,922 22,441,444

1,347

No Of Deals Symbol

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals

Quantity Traded 6,480 6,480 Page

Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals

VITAFOAM NIG PLC. Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018 Household Durables Totals

Company name

FINANCIAL SERVICES Other Financial Institutions Other Financial Institutions Totals

Current Price 41.50

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals

Beverages--Brewers/Distillers CHAMPION BREW. PLC. GUINNESS NIG PLC INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. JOS INT. BREWERIES PLC. Activity Summary on Board NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. EQTY Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Published by 7-UP The Nigerian Stock Exchange BOTTLING COMP. PLC.©

Quantity Traded 405,500 405,500

Sector

No. of Deals 5 5

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Totals

CONSUMER GOODS Automobiles/Auto Parts DN TYRE & RUBBER PLC Daily Summary as of 10/03/2016 Automobiles/Auto Parts Totals Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018

Value Traded 2,003,561.00 43,871.20 2,047,432.20

1st Tier Securities Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Symbol JBERGER

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals CONSUMER GOODS Automobiles/Auto Parts DNSummary TYRE & RUBBER PLC Activity on Board EQTY Automobiles/Auto Parts Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Infrastructure/Heavy Construction CHAMPION BREW. PLC. JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. GUINNESS NIG PLC Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. Real Estate DevelopmentPLC. JOS INT. BREWERIES UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. Real Estate Development Totals Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals

Value of Shares(N)

Quantity Traded 61,110 1,220 62,330

17

Activity Summary on Board EQTY CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Totals

Quantity Traded

No. of Deals 9 2 11

Daily Summary as of 10/03/2016

CONGLOMERATES Printed 10/03/2016 14:36:18.018 Diversified Industries A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals

Daily Summary (Equities)

Daily Summary (Equities)

Other Financial Institutions DANGOTE CEMENT PLC Totals Building Materials Totals PREMIUM Board Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals

Building Materials PREMIUM BoardCEMENT Totals PLC DANGOTE Building Materials Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Equity Activity Totals

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol LENNARDS

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 3.00

Quantity Traded 1,725 1,725

Value Traded 4,916.25 4,916.25

Symbol REDSTAREX

No. of Deals 5 5

Current Price 4.00

Quantity Traded 201,343 Page 201,343

Value Traded 12 8 805,372.00 of 805,372.00

Daily Summary (Equities)

Symbol Symbol REDSTAREX IKEJAHOTEL

No. No.of ofDeals Deals Current CurrentPrice Price 53 4.00 2.60 53

Quantity QuantityTraded Traded 201,343 5,560 201,343 5,560

Value ValueTraded Traded 805,372.00 14,567.20 805,372.00 14,567.20

Symbol Symbol IKEJAHOTEL ACADEMY LEARNAFRCA

No. No.of ofDeals Deals Current CurrentPrice Price 33 2.60 0.55 34 0.82 7 No. of Deals Current Price 3 Current Price 0.55 No. of Deals 41 0.82 0.50 71

Quantity QuantityTraded Traded 5,560 281,885 5,560 59,778

Value ValueTraded Traded 14,567.20 155,036.75 14,567.20 49,117.96

341,663 Quantity Traded Quantity281,885 Traded 59,778 2,200 341,663 2,200

204,154.71 Value Traded 155,036.75 Value Traded 49,117.96 1,100.00 204,154.71 1,100.00

Quantity QuantityTraded Traded 2,200 25,000 2,200 85,329

Value ValueTraded Traded 1,100.00 57,750.00 1,100.00 350,016.48

Symbol ACADEMY Symbol LEARNAFRCA ABCTRANS Symbol Symbol ABCTRANS AIRSERVICE

No. No.of ofDeals Deals Current CurrentPrice Price 12 0.50 2.20 1 17 4.10 19 Symbol No. of Deals Current Price AIRSERVICE 2 Current Price 2.20 Symbol No. of Deals NAHCO 172 4.10 CAVERTON 1.52 197 CILEASING 0.50 45 Daily Summary (Equities) 9 Symbol No. of Deals Current Price CAVERTON 2 1.52 2,384 CILEASING 7 0.50 Daily Summary (Equities) 9 45

Daily Summary (Equities) NAHCO

ETP Activity Totals

110,329 407,766.48 Quantity Traded Value Traded 57,750.00 Quantity 25,000 Traded Value Traded 85,329 350,016.48 101,000 153,600.00 110,329 407,766.48 1,027,100 513,550.00 1,790,920 2,105,026.64 1,128,100 667,150.00 Quantity Traded Value Traded 101,000 153,600.00 263,011,175 1,472,391,231.79 12 10 513,550.00 of 1,027,100Page 1,128,100 1,790,920

667,150.00 2,105,026.64

Page

2,384 Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Daily Summary (Equities)

10

of

12

263,011,175

1,472,391,231.79 Value Traded 374,053,177.74 374,053,177.74

ZENITHBANK

293 293

12.40

Quantity Traded 30,188,621 30,188,621

Symbol FBNH Symbol ZENITHBANK

No. of Deals Current Price 291 3.70 No. of Deals Current Price 291 293 12.40 293 584 (Equities)

Quantity Traded 16,543,388 Quantity Traded 16,543,388 30,188,621 30,188,621 46,732,009

Value Traded 61,269,577.96 Value Traded 61,269,577.96 374,053,177.74 374,053,177.74 435,322,755.70

No. of Deals Current Price 291 Current Price 3.70 No. of Deals 42 165.01 (Equities) 291 42 626 584

Quantity Traded 16,543,388 Quantity Traded 16,543,388 911,322

Value Traded 61,269,577.96 Value Traded 61,269,577.96 150,310,833.21

Daily Summary Symbol FBNH Symbol DANGCEM Daily Summary

42 3,010 Symbol DANGCEM

No. of Deals 626 42 42

Daily Summary (ETP)

Exchange Traded Fund

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals Name LOTUS HALAL EQUITY ETF NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) Traded Fund PublishedExchange by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © VETIVA BANKING ETF Name CONSUMER GOODS ETF VETIVA LOTUS HALAL EQUITY VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETFETF NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) Exchange Traded Fund Totals VETIVA BANKING ETF ETF VETIVA Board Totals CONSUMER GOODS ETF VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals

220

Symbol LOTUSHAL15 Daily Summary NEWGOLD VETBANK Symbol VETGOODS LOTUSHAL15 VETGRIF30 NEWGOLD VETBANK VETGOODS VETGRIF30

Current Price 165.01

3,010

911,322 47,643,331 46,732,009

150,310,833.21 585,633,588.91 435,322,755.70

911,322 310,654,506

150,310,833.21 2,058,024,820.70

Quantity Traded 47,643,331 911,322 Page 911,322

310,654,506

42 No. of Deals Current Price 1 8.50 (ETP) 1 2,349.00 1 2.48 No. of Deals 1 Current Price 5.96 1 8.50 1 11.67 2,349.00 51 1 2.48 51 5.96 1 11.67 5 5

911,322 Quantity Traded 5 1 Page 5 Quantity Traded 10 105 311 5 31 10 10 31 31

Value Traded

585,633,588.91 150,310,833.21 11 of 12 150,310,833.21

2,058,024,820.70

150,310,833.21 Value Traded 42.50 2,349.00 11 of12.40 12 Value Traded 59.60 42.50 116.70 2,349.00 2,580.20 12.40 2,580.20 59.60 116.70 2,580.20 2,580.20

ETF Board Totals

5

31

2,580.20

ETP Activity Totals

5

31

2,580.20

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Page

12

of

12

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Arty News

Friday, March 11, 2016

29 31

P Square, 2Baba inspire us —GSB GSB, a new sensation entertainment crew is dazzling fans with their talent. They group explains in this interview their passion, dream and vision for Nigeria entertainment. Excerpts Can you take us through your journey in showbiz?

We are Golden and Silverbird, GSB, Entertainment, we were motivated by the desire to follow our dream and vision in entertainment industry, and this is because when I was a teenager, I was then in primary school, I had this interest in entertainment. When we are about to enter Junior Secondary School, we had our graduation party show, and I think that was where everything started because I love music but my parents never liked my idea of going into music.

They wanted me to go to school and that I shouldn’t be thinking about music and dancing, so I refused to listen to what they were telling me, so in my JSS 1, Jss2 and SSS3, my classmate came up to have a show, and as I did on my passing out during my primary school, we had another show on our graduation and it was a big thing for me.

So, it was then that I decided that my future lies in the entertainment industry.

Then I was into dancing and also a member of the Saint Peter and Paul Catholic church choir with my other crew members. I was also a member of one crew then, known as IDM, as a dancer, that period, I went into entertainment fully and I was going for rehearsals, practices, and shows and other school’s end of the year party with my crew and we always perform during the parties. It was after then that I stopped dancing at my SSS3 and when I relocated to Festac Town with my uncle; it was at FESTAC, started singing and came up with Golden and Silverbird Entertainment, GSB, in 2009 that is how I came up with my own crew known as GSB. In Incredible Dance Motivator, IDM, crew its all about dancing but for me I want to start singing and that was what formed my leaving IDM to form GSB, we specialises on singing, dancing and comedy What are the ages of your members?

I’m 20 years old and we are in our twenties both male and female members of the crew.

What’s the size of your group?

We are about 16 in number So far, what has being in your kitty since 2009, that the organisation came into being.

Since then we have been attending shows and just late last year 2015, we had organise a show by ourselves and on December, 20 2015 we had our first entertainment show organised by our crew, GSB

GSB and it was termed Knock it off and we about to have another show but we consider relaxing it because we don’t want to start without first creating the awareness and that was what we did on last December. And last Valentine Day, we came up to organise a Lovers’ Day show in our area.

friends from different secondary schools while some are in the same secondary school, even we are in different classes but we came together because we share the same dream and vision about entertainment and that is why we came together to realise that dream.

How many albums have you released ?

We have not done any album yet but we have released some single tracks like jeje; we have released Shelewapka; Gbom gbom, we also have Baby oku; they are so many.

Why you don’t have a Northerner in your group?

If we have any one, we will accommodate him

What are your challenges in releasing album?

The reason is that we don’t just want to start hitting the road just like that because many of us are still in school, we just want to wait and immediately we are all through with our university education, we will just move on and now that we our manager, we have gone half and, immediately after school, from there we start.

Where are your members from?

We are from all parts of Nigeria; some of us are from South- South, South East, and South West, we are all in our Church choir in Oke Afa Isolo, here that is where we meet on regular basis and we are

Do you have anybody or group of musicians that are your role models in entertainment industry?

Our role model is Chris brown and in Nigeria, I look up to PSquare, 2Baba and others. I love every of P Square’s album.

What are your future forecasts?

We are to also build younger talented ones; we bring our own talent hunts for younger ones that will be coming after us and by God’s grace if we expand and become a great crew, we will be signing younger ones. We have dancers, rappers, musicians, comedians; cultural dancers will be part of the GSB. What type of music are you into?

We sing afro-hip pop How would you rate African music?

African music has its own peculiar ordinances because we make use of our local materialsinstruments, beats, languages, fables, stories, experiences, proverbs, idioms

I don’t believe that African music will go down, even though the foreign music is still being played in Nigeria it can no longer control our music, gone are the days when those music reign. Our musicians are doing wonderfully well in all ramifications. African music has its own peculiar ordinances because we make use of our local materials, instruments, beats, languages, fables, stories, experiences, proverbs, idioms and African folklores and other cultural background into our hip –pop, the way that foreigners cannot use them. So these things are what are going to keep African music ever –green.

What are the personal and stage names of your crew members?

Gabriel Okafor, the leader of GSB, Henry Chukwuemeka, Iam the leader of IDM, Joshua, Macaulay, Paul, Martins, we have Henry, we have Kerry, we also Daisy, we have Jude, we have Gabby, Tinto Fire, Dikky, Simples, Tino Smith and for those on comedy we have MC Pako, MC G, MC Potty, and MC Sas and others.

How do you cope with rivalry in the group?

I don’t think we will have problem of such issues. Like I have been following Terry G, recently the P’Square brothers, I believe if we are together and looking at these issues happening, it left for us now to learn from them and correct our selves. We had the D’banj; I believe that our quarrel shouldn’t be something that will create tears us apart and we should settle our problems instead of allowing it to unsettle us. By the grace of God and Him being with us, we will not have problems.

32

Friday, March 11, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ocholi’s death: FRSC restates commitment to govt convoy drivers’ re-training T

he Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Boboye Oyeyemi has reiterated the need for the retraining of government officials’ drivers in order to avoid convoy crashes.

Oyeyemi made this known following the fatal accident, which occurred on Sunday along Kaduna- Abuja road in which the Minister of State for Labour and Productivity, Barrister James Eneojo Ocholi, his wife and son died.

The Corps Marshal, who addressed a section of members of the press in the aftermath of the crash, noted that the death of the minister in the crash was a tragic incident that has challenged FRSC to step up its campaigns against carnage.

Oyeyemi said he was personally touched and would work with relevant stakeholders to develop appropriate strategies that could address future occurrences.

According to the Corps Marshal, following the unfortunate incident, FRSC is more determined to work with the Executive and mem-

Oyeyemi

bers of the National Assembly as well as other relevant stakeholders to workout appropriate modalities for ensuring crash-free roads.

He said the training and retraining of government drivers is part of the immediate measures being taken by the FRSC to avert convoy crashes in the country.

He noted that when FRSC trained the drivers of the

Governors’ convoy, the benefits in terms of improved driving culture became immediately noticeable, saying the Corps would be working with members of the Federal Executive Council to put some measures in place, including re-training of their drivers to avoid convoy crashes.

“We are working with the Minister of Works, Power and Housing to install traf-

fic signs at some strategic points along the highways.

We are equally committed to working with the National Assembly to step up advocacy and enforcement strategies to curtail issues of speed violation and promotion of use of seatbelt,” Oyeyemi said.

Meanwhile, the Corps Marshal has revealed that, James Elegbede, the driver of the late Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Barrister James Ocholi had no driver’s license as his name was not found on the data base of FRSC. Oyeyemi, who stated this while presenting the accident’s Road Traffic Crash Investigation Interim Report to the Federal Executive Council, FEC, on Wednesday at the meeting of the body at the presidential villa, Abuja, said Ocholi, his wife and son had died in the accident as a result of over speeding.

He disclosed that a search conducted on the commission’s database showed that the driver do not have a valid driver’s licence.

Oyeyemi said “There was no record in the driver’s national data base of the driver of the minister with the name Taiwo James Elegbede.

“However, there was a re-

cord found on the driver’s licence database of the driver of minister’s back up vehicle with the name Ibrahim Abubakar.

Oyeyemi said after losing one of the rear tyres of the vehicle, the driver who was in high speed applied break and thereafter lost control of the vehicle.

“Information gathered revealed that the driver of the crashed vehicle was actually moving at excess of the stipulated speed when he had a tyre burst.”

The FRSC boss also said that although the vehicle’s tyres had not expired at the time of the accident, investigation revealed that they were wrongly fixed.

He added that Ocholi and his son were ejected from the car because they did not use the rear seat-belts.

“The major safety issues identified in this crash were the operating vehicle speed, driver’s panicky situation due to sudden tyre explosion, hard application of brake, tyre maintenance, vehicle crash worthiness and availability and non use of safety rear seat belts by the minister, his wife and son,” Oyeyemi added.

Kia plans 90% local content in Made-in-Nigeria cars

K

ia Motors Nigeria has revved up its drive to achieve 90 per cent local content inputs for its Made-in-Nigeria cars.

The company’s plant in Lagos has produced over 4500 units of cars since its launch in the first half of 2015.

The growth of the locally assembled KIA cars has galvanised the company to explore local content in its assembling chain and influenced its plan to reach a 90 per cent local content utilisation in the production of its cars.

The plant produces all nine models in its plant, including the made in Nigeria 2016 Kia Sorento.

Outside Korea, the birth country of Kia, the automobile company has a long history of building locally to meet

the specific needs of local customers with assembly operations using ‘car kits’ sourced locally and other parts of the world.

A statement issued by the Chief Commercial officer, Kia Motors Nigeria, Mr Sandeep Malhotra, indicated that Nigeria remained an emerging and growing economy in the world with vast potential for growth, despite its myriad of challenges the country promises a large economy of scale, hence it’s incumbent upon us as a local investor to help her realise its goals.

“As a company with an unswerving interest on the advancement of the nation’s economy, we have a plan to utilise 90 per cent local content in our assembly process to help strengthen the economy.

Malhotra

Buoyed by our increased acceptability among our valued customers in the last decade, we are now looking at further

strengthening our foothold and expanding our reach in the localisation of our assembly plant”, Malhotra said.

With its built-from-scratch assembly chain firmly in place and over a year of SKD production phase under its belt, the company is now focused on the local content utilisation in its made in Nigeria Kia cars.

According to the Chief Commercial officer, the plant in Lagos is progressing on schedule for the utilisation of local contents in its assembling process and currently sourced some of its parts including, refrigerant, lubricant, and workshop consumables amongst others locally.

The plant has a capacity to build up to 27,000 vehicles annually on flexible assembly lines that can manufacture several different models simultaneously to adapt to changes in buying trends.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, March 11, 2016

33

Nigeria’s rail transport modernization agenda on course – Minister Adejuwon Osunnuyi

T

he Minister of Transportation, Mr Rotimi Amaechi, has said that the Federal Government’s efforts at transforming the country’s rail transport system were on course.

Amaechi made the declaration at the inspection of newly-acquired executive coaches for the Abuja-Kaduna standard gauge line at the Apapa Ports Terminal in Lagos.

The minister, who was represented by Mr. Mohammed Babakobi, Director, Rails, Federal Ministry of Transportation, said government remained resolute in improving the rail transport system in the country.

He said: “What we have seen here today are the new coaches that have just been brought here, to service our standard gauge line running from Abuja to Kaduna.

“It is a complete transformation in the rail transportation sector for the populace.

“The coaches are made with particular focus of the comfort of passengers; they are very safe and have a designed speed of about 150km/h.

“So with that, we can be assured that the passengers will get to their destinations as fast as it can be, and it’s safe.

“In a very short while, they will be moved to Abuja and installed on the rail tracks, where they are supposed to be servicing, that is between Abuja and Kaduna.’’

He assured Nigerians of the Federal Government’s sustained efforts at acquiring more standard gauge coaches to meet de-

mand.

“There will be more as we progress on the operation of the line between Abuja and Kaduna; as the demand increases, more coaches will be required,’’ he added.

Mr Fidet Okhiria, the Acting Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), who said that the coaches were designed to run at 150km/h, added that the corporation was on track to upgrade its operations.

“This is the first time in Nigeria that we are having the standard gauge and that is to tell you that we are looking ahead.

“We have one for executive, three standard coaches and one baggage van that will carry loads belonging to passengers.

“They are all air-conditioned, fitted with vacuum toilets, CCTV cameras and TVs. The legroom is quite accommodating and it is going to be comfortable to ride in them.

“We are making progress and the government is hoping to continue at this pace and in due course, the standard gauge will

Amaechi

go round the country.’’

He said that the NRC had commenced the upgrade of its website, to ensure that passengers could purchase tickets online.

Okhiria disclosed that the 25-metre long coaches would be moved to Abuja using specialised purpose vehicles – extendable trolleys-designed for transporting such items through the roads.

“We have already arranged with a company specialised in carrying extra dimensional bodies at a speed of 30km/hr.

“The first time, they will take two as a trial run, then the next time they will take three, at once.

“By Wednesday, the first set will go after paying the Customs Duty by Tuesday. So we hope that by this time next week, the first set would be in Abuja.

On maintenance, Okhiria noted that the coaches were accompanied with spares, saying “the manufacturer is going to be here in Nigeria for at least one year, to maintain them.

“By that time, our technicians and engineers will grab the nittygritty of the maintenance of the coaches.

“We hope to keep the maintenance level so that they can last even beyond the 30 years they are designed for.’’

He further assured passengers of safety and affordability, saying, “nothing is as safe as going by rail all over the world.

“You cannot hear about armed robbers attacking rail because those robbers would be crazy to attack about 1000 passengers.’’

The maiden operation of the standard gauge coaches is expected to commence in May between Abuja and Kaduna.

Oyeyemi cautions on fuel hoarding amid product’s scarcity

T

he Federal Road Safety Corps Marshal, Boboye Oyeyemi has called on motorists in Nigeria who are in the habit of stockpiling fuel during periods of scarcity to desist from doing so as the flammable petroleum product poses very serious health hazards in case of road crash.

In a statement released by the Head Media Relations and Strategy of the Corps, Corps Commander Bisi Kazeem, he quoted the Corps Marshal as advising users to bear with the crunch of the moment than to stash up fuel in vehicles, wheth-

er commercial or private.

Kazeem stated that the Corps had noticed that this has become a trend among most commercial vehicle drivers during periods of fuel scarcity, adding that it is as a result of this the Corps Marshal is also urging passengers who notice such moves by their drivers to question it and reject travelling with the vehicles.

According to him, the Corps marshal asserted that travelling with commercial vehicles that stock pile fuel does not only pose dangers in the event of a crash, but is also not healthy to

breath in the petroleum emission that permeates the air in the vehicles they are stored while on transit.

Kazeem stated thus, “aside the fact that the product is flammable, not all passengers are healthy; some are asthmatic and cannot bear breathing gasoline in such airtight conditions.”

Against this backdrop, the Head Media Relations and Strategy said that the Corps is calling on commercial drivers to protect the lives of their passengers by staying off those unethical standards of stockpiling fuel in their vehicles.

megacrown1@yahoo.com 08025237926

BMW 100 Event

BMW Group unveils VISION NEXT 100 plan … as centenary celebrations kick off

A

lthough the company did not build its first motorcycle until 1923, nor car until 1928, the 1916 foundation of the aero engine company that eventually begot BMW as we know it, has been the catalyst for the yearlong celebration.

Although both Rolls Royce and MINI are also expected to unveil concepts to mark the occasion, BMW’s VISION NEXT 100 is the headline piece so far.

The Group has unveiled what it called BMW VISION NEXT 100 which it said is the company’s mobility vision for the future.

The autonomous concept vehicle combines “coupé-type sportiness with the dynamic elegance of a sedan,” says BMW. “But rather than just being a being an anonymous transport machine, it is a highly customised vehicle that is perfectly tailored to suit the driver’s changing needs,” says the company.

BMW VISION NEXT 100 was introduced by Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW, Harald Kruger.

Kruger stated three qualities that set the BMW Group apart: “The capacity to learn and adapt, technological innovation, and a sense of responsibility toward society.”

“We have demonstrated on many occasions throughout our history that we are capable of learning fast and taking bold steps,” Kruger said.

Against this background, the BMW 100th anniversary will “focus primarily on what lies ahead and explore how individual mobility might develop over the coming decades”.

“Future mobility will connect every area of people’s

lives. And that’s where we see new opportunities for premium mobility,” Kruger said at Monday night’s event.

Accordingly, BMW VISION NEXT 100 allows a “choice of driver-controlled or vehiclecontrolled operations”. Labelled Alive Geometry, the vehicle features Boost and Ease modes.

In Boost, says BMW, “the entire vehicle focuses on the driver, offering the support needed to maximise the driving experience – for instance by indicating the ideal driving line, steering point and speed”.

Ease mode turns the car into an autonomous lounge, where “the steering wheel and centre console retract; the headrests turn to the side, and the seats and door trim merge to form a single unit so that the driver and front-seat passenger can turn towards each other.”

BMW says the VISION NEXT 100 will go on “a symbolic World Tour entitled Iconic Impulses”.

After an Asian premiere in Beijing, the concept car will travel to London, where the MINI and Rolls-Royce’s concepts will be debuted.

In Los Angeles, the final stop on the tour, BMW Motorrad (motorycles) will add its own concept to the trio.

BMW Australia is also expected to announce 100th Anniversary events. It’s new GT3 racecar will wear #100 when it races in support events in the upcoming Australia F1 Grand Prix.

34

People In The Mirror

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar (L) receiving President Jacob Zuma of South Africa on his arrival at the Presidential wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

L-R: Minister of State For Foreign Affairs, Hajia Khadija Ibrahim; Swiss Minister of Foreign Affairs ,Mr Didier Burktialter and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Geoffrey Onyeama during the courtesy visit to Federal Ministry Of Foreign Affairs in Abuja..

A Cross Section of Mothers during the Mothers Day Celebration at the Aso Villa Chapel in Abuja.

L-R; GMD/CEO Sonia foods industries ltd Mr Nnamdi Nnodebe; Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Otunba Bimbola Ashiru and Chairman Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Ogun State Chapter, Mr Wale Adegbite, after the factory tour Sonia Foods Industries Ltd in Sagamu Ogun State.

Friday, March 11, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: Consultant, Public Health Physician, Ministry of Defence, Dr Chimah Uzoamaka; Director, Medical, Ministry of Defence, Dr Akinlade Oluwatoyin and Acting Director, Medical, Defence Headquarters, Brig. Gen, Michael Robinson, during the 2016 World Hearing Day in Abuja. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

L-R: Kemi Lala Akindoyin,Actress in Fifty, Iretiola Doyle, Actress fifty, Mo Abudu, Producer, Fifty,Olajumoke Orisagunna, Model, and Omoni Oboli Actress Fity, at the Screening of the Fifty in commemoration of International Women’s day in Lagos recently.PHOTO:ABIOLA MUHAMMED

L-R: Director, Drug Evaluation and Research, NAFDAC Pharm. Titilope Owolabi; Head, Anticorrruption Transparency Unit (ACTU) Secretariat ICPC, Justin Kuatsea; Acting Director General, NAFDAC, Mrs. Yetunde Oni; HOD (Corruption Monitoring and Evaluation Dept) representative, of Chairman ICPC, Mr. Akeem Lawal; Director, Special Duties, Nafdac, Dr. Abubakar Jimoh, during the Sensitization Workshop On Anti Corruption, Gemder and SERVICOM Organised by the Reformed Unit of NAFDAC, yesterday.

L-R: Country Director, Slovenia Nigeria Chamber of Commerce, Mr Uche Udungwo, President, Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr Tony Ejinkeonye and President, Slovenia-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce, Mr Fred Uduma at the 1st Slovenia Trade Mission to Nigeria in Abuja.

Friday, March 11, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business Maritime

35

Rekindling hope on Nigeria’s Cabotage law implementation, 13 years after Recent disclosure by the Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, that the Federal Government would soon embark on a comprehensive review and overhaul of the Coastal and Inland Shipping Cabotage Policy comes with lots of relief to Nigerian ship owners, especially after the Cabotage Act 2003 had been left unimplemented for 13 years, reports FRANCIS EZEM.

M

ost indigenous ship owners might just heave another sigh of relief. This follows recent disclosure by the Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi that he is awaiting approval by the Presidency to carry out a comprehensive review and overhaul of the Coastal and Inland Shipping Cabotage Policy.

This is definitely not the first time a Minister or top government official would make such promises in the last 13 years when the Cabotage Act has been in force, but they have no choice to believe at least with a pinch of salt.

No doubt, in enacting the legislation, which drew its origin from the United States’ Jones Act 1920, the Federal Government has the best of intentions, as it was expected that the Act would be a catalyst towards enhancing the participation of Nigerians in the shipping business in the country, especially within the coastal and inland region before advancing into the more technical and capital-intensive deep sea shipping.

It was in the light of this that the Act provides that vessels to be deployed into the regional shipping activities must be built in Nigeria, owned and crewed

by Nigerians. It however provides for a waiver clause, which allows foreigners to render these services with a caveat that Nigerians must be given right of first refusal. It also provides under the waiver clause that foreign vessels to be deployed must be jointly owned with Nigerians.

Ironically, foreign vessels still lift refined petroleum products within the coastal and inland waters as if there is no Cabotage policy in place. Expectations that the policy would be reviewed and overhauled over the years, especially during the 10th

anniversary of the legislation remained dream never come true.

The uncontrolled total foreign domination both in the deep sea shipping and coastal business got to its peak following discovery that even tug boats and other smaller crafts used in the country are crewed by foreigners to the detriment of Nigerians.

However, in what appeared a renewal of hope of the indigenous operators, the minister hinted after his maiden visit to the seaports in Lagos, that there was an urgent need to take a comprehensive look at the Cabotage regime in the country with a view to assessing its successes and failures so as to take precautionary measures for future implementation.

He disclosed that he might need to consult with President Muhammandu Buhari and the Federal Executive Council FEC, the nation’s highest policy decision making body for the necessary guide and approvals on the best possible way to go about the overhaul.

It was further gathered that the proposed review of the Cabotage policy is in tandem with the holistic audit of the entire maritime industry and the agencies in the industry.

The minister admitted that it was obvious from all indications that the Cabotage policy has yet to achieve the goals and

objectives of setting up, a development that requires that it is reviewed to inject new ideas and blood to make it work.

He however said that apart from the approval by the Presidency and FEC, the ministry would also require inputs from relevant stakeholders on the review of the policy when the time comes so that the mistakes of the past would be avoided.

But most stakeholders are of the strong view that the policy has over the years been marred by poor implementation which led to the non-realisation of its goals and objectives.

They therefore believe that even after the proposed overhaul and review, if the policy was not effectively implemented, the status quo would persist.

Founding chairman of the defunct Indigenous Ship Owners Association of Nigeria ISAN, Chief Jolapamo while speaking at a recent seminar organised by the African Ship Owners Association, blamed the woes of the indigenous ship owners

No doubt, in enacting the legislation, which drew its origin from the United States’ Jones Act 1920, the Federal Government has the best of intentions, as it was expected that the Act would be a catalyst towards enhancing the participation of Nigerians in the shipping business in the country

on poor implementation of the policy.

Jolapamo, who was reacting to moves by the Minister to compel all the various indigenous ship owners association to merge under one entity, argued that the missing link was the lack of political will on the part of the government and its relevant agencies to strictly enforce the Cabotage regime.

President of Nigeria Shipowners Association NISA, Captain Niyi Labinjo, who spoke in a telephone interview, argued that if the relevant provisions of the legislations were strictly enforced, the International Oil Companies and other foreign stakeholders would have no choice than to enlist the indigenous shipping firms for jobs that are legitimately theirs as provided under the policy.

It was gathered that poor implementation of the policy is currently threatening a $250 million {N262.5bn) ship supply deal between Nigerian ship owners and some Greek shipyards.

Under the contract, which is in response to claims by some IOCs that Nigerian ship owners’ vessels are classless, the Greek ship owners are to boost indigenous fleet expansion and enhance their participation in the coastal trade by supplying them with 40 ships would be transferred to Nigerians after two years.

Labinjo however raised fears that the MOU has been threatened by the worsening state of

lack of jobs for the indigenous ship owners occasioned by the non implementation of the policy..

According to him, many of the prospective beneficiaries of the Greece-Nigeria ship supply deal, have developed cold feet because of the prevailing situation in the industry whereby Nigerian ship owners are schemed out of jobs by their foreign counterparts more than 13 years after the Cabotage regime came on stream.

“If you offer me one million ships I will not accept them because there are no jobs to engage them gainfully and so you would still run hug over-head cost, which does not make any business sense”, he argued.

He also said: “Many of our members are highly indebted to the banks arising from this high overhead cost on ships that are tied to the anchor because there are no jobs to engage them and so many of our people are not willing to take such risks again, especially in the face of the current economic meltdown”.

With the expected review of the policy, which the Minister has also promised to draw so much inputs from the stakeholders, there is seems to be light at the end of the tunnel. Also it is expected that the recently reforms and eventual unbundling of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporations, many of the foreign collaborators, who have made it impossible for Nigerian ship owners to be allocated wet cargo may have been dislodged.

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Business Maritime

Friday, March 11, 2016

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FG seeks regional collaboration on Ports’ State Control regulations STORIES: FRANCIS EZEM

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he Federal Government has made a strong case for cooperation and collaboration among governments and maritime administrations

within the sub-region in terms of Ports State Control regulations.

The International Maritime Organisation IMO, the apex global maritime regulatory mandates maritime administrations to pe-

riodically carryout Port State Control regulations in compliance with the instruments to which the Flag State is a signatory.

Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, who spoke at

Minister of Transportation and Vice Chairman, Abuja MoU, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, Secretary General, Abuja MoU, Mrs. Mfon Ekong Usoro and the acting Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Mr. Haruna Baba Jauro at the opening ceremony of the Regional Training Course on Port State Control, held in Lagos, recently.

Plant Quarantine Service back to seaports over illicit beans export

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he Federal Ministry of Agriculture has ordered the Nigerian Plants Quarantines Service NPQS to return to the nation’s seaports and also participate in the examination of imports and exports in and out of the nation’s seaports.

This is sequel to the export of a total of five containers of locally produced beans to the Republic of Ireland, which was returned as the consignment did not meet global standards, as the commodity was said to be infested with weevils.

Minister of State for Agriculture, Mr. Heineken Lokpobir, who gave the directive in Lagos while inspecting the five containers at the Ports and Multiservices Ports Terminal Limited PTML in Apapa, Lagos, asked the Nigeria Customs Service NCS, to include the NPQS in all its examination of all agro products imported or to be exported out of the country’s seaports.

It was gathered that the illfated five containers of beans were not inspected by officials of the NPQS, as they have been asked to leave the seaports, a development the Minister believed was a huge embarrassment to the Nigerian nation, especially among the international community.

“Going forward, for any agro-products to leave this country either beans or apple, it must be certified by the

Quarantine Service, ‎that is the global practice anywhere in the world. If you go to the United States of America, you can’t import anything without it being certified by their quarantine services. It is more important to get our acts right now because there is no more crude-dollars but we need agrodollars”, the Minister warned.

He had also insisted that it was very important that before any product leaves Nigeria, there is need for proper quarantine certifications to forestall future embarrassments to the nation.

While reacting to last year’s blanket ban placed on the export of Nigeria’s beans into any European nation by the European Union, the Minister said: ““This ban is embarrassing to the country but there is need for the country to put strict measures in place for the future” He also argued that the EU was only concerned about the quality and standard of goods exported into the community, warning that if appropriate measure were not put in place, it might extend such ban to other agricultural products from Nigeria.

Former Minister of Finance of Finance, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala had acting on the directive of the presidency ordered some agencies to leave the sea-

ports.

This directive followed public outcry that some of the agencies operating at the ports contributed significantly to the delay in cargo release at the seaports.

the just concluded regional training on Ports State Control PSC, for West and Central Africa held in Lagos recently, said only effective Ports State Control regulations through collaboration would bring about the needed respite within the sub-regional waters.

The Minister however pledged that the Federal Government in conjunction with its maritime administration will continue to perform and maintain high safety standards within Nigeria’s territorial waters.

According to him, irrespective of the increasing security challenges given rise to by the high level of maritime activities, the Nigerian government has ensured and will continue to ensure safety on the nation’s waterways.

Nigeria will continue to ensure the entrenchment and maintenance of a robust and effective maritime safety regime anchored on a continually updated vessel inspectors’ knowledge and skills”, the Minister also assured.

He however observed that merchant ships often trade outside the areas that are under the jurisdiction of the Flag State, maritime agencies cannot therefore, absolutely guarantee that all ships under their flag are in full compliance with safety requirements.

Despite obvious limitations, he insisted that the Nigerian Government is more than ever before committed to repositioning the maritime for effectiveness and efficiency.

He also assured member states of Nigeria’s cooperation for a better Port State Control implementation not only within the sub-region but also within the African continent.

Meanwhile, acting Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA; Nigeria’s apex maritime regulatory organ, Mr. Haruna Jauro while speaking at the event, also assured member states of the agency’s resolve to ensure an effective implementation of Ports State Control in the industry.

According to him, NIMASA is ever committed to human capacity development, adding that the Port State Control training will be a continuous exercise aimed at the development of the shipping industry in particular and the nation’s economy in general.

“NIMASA will continue to build the required capacity to meet domestic and international obligations aimed at making Nigeria’s waterways safe for shipping activities” Jauro also pledged.

The eight- day training hosted

by NIMASA was attended by representatives from the 19 member states of the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding MoU with resource persons drawn from the IMO The NIMASA Act, 2007 empowers it among several other core functions empowers the agency to carryout periodic Ports State inspection on foreign vessels that call at the nation’s harbours.

“This agreement provides an opportunity for the three ports to complement and significantly enhance each other’s value proposition by providing the industries in their hinterland a gateway for wider market by leveraging on the location of the partner ports.

We also envisage the landlocked countries adjacent to Iran to use the existing multilateral agreements for transport corridors to

access new markets and thereby enhance regional trade opportunities,” David Gledhill, the Port of Salalah’s CEO said.

After its economic isolation ended, Iran is renewing maritime ties with numerous countries such as South Korea, Singapore, Germany and China. It became a center of interest for many international shipping companies.

Oman, Iran strengthen maritime ties

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mani Port of Salalah and Iranian Shahid Rajaee Port and Chabahar Port have inked a Memorandum of Understanding that aims to facilitate growth in shipping, trade and commerce between the two countries.

Under the Memorandum of Understanding MoU, Port of Salah, the biggest port in Oman, is to support modernisation of Iranian ports by offering its knowledge and expertise. The agreement with the Iranian ports has been signed through the Port and Maritime Authority PMO, of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The three ports plan to develop joint marketing strategies to enhance trade opportunities and promote an all-water route between Bandar Abbas, Chahbar and Salalah.

“With a number of joint ventures being discussed between the two governments, the local community sees this agreement as a step towards anchoring some of these ventures in Salalah providing career opportunities for the Omani talent,” Ahmed Akaak, Deputy CEO of the Port of Salalah pointed out.

South Korea, China crack down on North Korean vessels

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orth Korea has been hit with a new wave of sanctions affecting its maritime industry as its neighbour South Korea announced a total ban on vessels that stopped at the North Korean ports over past 180 days amid Seoul’s measures aimed at strengthening maritime-related controls at the country’s ports.

The new sanctions would also see blacklisting of 40 individuals, including heads of shipping firms from Taiwan and Singapore, and 30 entities suspected of

being involved in North Korea’s weapons program, the Seoul government said in a statement.

The firms that have been targeted by the harsher sanctions include Thai shipping firm Mariner’s Shipping and Trading and Taiwan company Royal Team Corporation, which will now be barred from trading and see their assets get frozen, Reuters reports.

The move is being drawn as China steps up efforts against North Korea prohibiting North Korean ships from entering China’s ports.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Nigeria loses $3.3bn to NLNG project on tax exemptions –SOMO UDEME AKPAN

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igeria may have lost $3.3 billion on the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas, NLNG, project as a result of the 10-year tax holiday granted during the implementation of the project, a study has indicated.

A study carried out by the Netherlands-based Stichting Onderzoek Multinationale Ondernemingen, SOMO, also known as Centre for Research on Multinational Corporations on the project and the tax and other fiscal incentives granted its operators and published January this year showed that the amount should be considered a minimum estimate based on conservative assumptions.

“SOMO aims to contribute to the discussion on responsible tax governance and financial transparency through this report by presenting factual evidence that tax breaks given to multinational

corporations create unacceptable advantages for them that work against the interests of the Nigerian public.”

The report which documented that NLNG made a total profit of around US$ 29.5 billion over the period 2004 to 2013 maintained that the 49 per cent shareholder, the Nigerian state oil company NNPC, has received a large part of these profits.

The NGO disclosed that the cost of extending NLNG’s tax holiday to 10 years based on publicly available NLNG financial reports (obtained from the Nigerian company registry).

SOMO stated that it had compared the potentially foregone Nigerian government tax revenues that result from the NLNG’s extended 10-year tax holiday (as established by the NLNG Act) with what would have been received if it had been granted the usual fiveyear tax holiday which all other companies in Nigeria qualify for

under the Industrial Development (Income Tax Relief) Act 1971.

The report indicated that that factoring in a further two years of applying other legal provisions, for example, the carrying forward of deferred tax assets, means the company actually enjoyed a 12year tax holiday between 1999 and 2011, reducing its tax bill to almost zero during the period.

It maintained that based on a calculation of the potential amount of tax that would have been payable by NLNG in case of the normal tax relief period in Nigeria of five years, the total potential in lost tax to the Nigerian government amounts to a staggering US$ 3.3 billion between 2005-2013 – an average tax loss of around US$ 367 million per year.

The report indicated that in a country where more than half of the population lives below the poverty line, Nigeria’s citizens could have benefited enormously from these foregone tax payments.

L-R: Director, Macroeconomic Analysis, Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning, Mr Tunde Lawal; Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Hajia Zainab Ahmed and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs Fatima Mede, at the National Stakeholders Dialogue on the National Policy on Food and Nutrition in Abuja yesterday.

Intercellular plans market return with Huawei’s 4 LTE Isaiah Erhiawarien

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ioneer Code Division Multiple Access, CDMA, telecommunications company in Nigeria, Intercellular Nigeria, is planning a return into the market with a promise to offer an improved LTE network.

As a result of that the company has signed an agreement with Chinese technology vendor company, Huawei for a rapid network transformation to LTE. According to the Chief Executive Officer of Intercellular, Mr Emad Sukker who was at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona Spain, to close the deal, the agreement is a joint LTE 4G transformation of the former CDMA network and its plans for rapid expansion to provide high

Business News

Friday, March 11, 2016

quality telecommunication services to Nigerians.

He said that agreement requires Huawei to deploy an 800MHz LTE network to help Intercellular meet the strategic and service demands of the Nigerian market.

He added that depending on its frequency portfolio of the 800MHz and 3.5GHz spectrum, Intercellular intends to provide services to Nigerians with the most advanced communications technologies available today, hence its partnership with Huawei.

“Huawei is both the world’s leading supplier of LTE devices and also the most trustworthy partner. This LTE collaboration will help Intercellular accelerate our LTE transformation and give our people better and faster net-

work services”, Sukker said.

According to Sukker, there are many surveys globally that indicate a positive correlation between a country’s GDP and broadband penetration stressing that “at Intercellular, we believe that for Nigeria, the pervasive penetration of broadband will strengthen activities of individuals and MSME’s enabling them to expand their craft and services to a global audience. As a corporate citizen of Nigeria, Intercellular will continue to invest in advanced technologies that will empower Nigerians in their quest to achieve their aspirations and dreams’’.

Sukker also made public the company’s intention to launch its services as early as the second quarter of 2016 in key strategic cities across the country.

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Women professionals set to create economic values

BY SYLVA EMEKA-OKEREKE

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omen in Management and Business, WIMBIZ, have geared towards contribution to the nation’s building as well as economic development.

To achieve this, the WIMBIZ has planned its lecture, aimed at tackling national crisis of values.

With the theme, “The Crisis of Values: Reclaiming our Society”, the lecture is expected to serve as a catalyst for national re-awakening through stimulation of discussion around erosion of indigenous values as well as effects on the society.

Chairperson, Executive Council, WIMBIZ, Aisha Ahmad, said this year’s annual lecture would challenge Nigerians to reassess the definition of success and value of money relative to social good.

According to her, a lot of the challenges confronting the nation today stems from a national deterioration of values, as a result, many Nigerians are sometimes, viewed with distrust and suspicion around the world despite their drive, work ethics and enterprise.

“It appears that the pursuit of individual gain has become the primary focus over the common good and success in-

creasingly measured by financial parameters whilst we appear to be losing the traditional values of contribution and dignity in labour, which made our country great in the past”.

“As a group dedicated to developing human capital, we are very concerned about this and we see the 2016 Annual Lecture as our opportunity to encourage the development of a different mindset particularly among women who are natural change agents,” she stated.

She said the objective was to emphasize the importance of tempering individualism with a concern for the common good, saying this would contribute to the restoration of fundamental values such as respect, consideration for others, living a life of integrity, which would ultimately help the nation to re-create a wholesome society.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Kayode Fayemi, is expected to be the guest speaker at the event.

WIMBIZ is a Nigerian nonprofit organization formed in 2002 to identify serious issue concerning women in the workplace and in business, particularly in the areas of leadership capacity building and avenues for networking for growth.

Intel buys Israeli 3D video tech firm

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ntel Corp) said yesterday that it bought Israel’s Replay Technologies, which developed a 3D video technology that has started to be used by U.S. professional sports broadcasters.

In a blog on its website, Intel did not disclose the purchase price but Israeli media said it was about $175 million.

Replay’s technology was used in the recent National Basketball Association AllStar Weekend, mainly giving fans a 360 degree view of the slam dunk contest.

Intel worked with Replay’s technology to create a 3D video rendering of the court using 28 ultra high-definition cameras positioned around the arena

and connected to Intel-based servers.

It was also used in the National Football League’s Super Bowl.

“Intel has been collaborating with Replay since 2013 to optimize their interactive, immersive video content on Intel platforms,” Intel said. “Technology now plays an unprecedented role in sports - and we’re just getting started.”

Founded in 2011 Replay last month raised $13.5 million in funding round led by Deutsche Telekom Capital Partners to bring total fundraising to $27 million. Mark Cuban, owner of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, holds a stake in Replay. (Source – Reuters.com)

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Friday, March 11, 2016

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NEMSA cautions contractors, firms on unethical practice CHIDI UGWU, ABUJA

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he Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) has banned the use of substandard materials and equipment by electrical contractors and distribution companies in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) Also banned are substandard and bad construction practices in the power industry and other allied industries/workplaces.

According a statement signed by the agency’s Director of Public Affairs, Uche Aneke, this move is to guarantee the delivery of safe, stable and

reliable power supply to the citizenry and to guarantee the safety of lives and property nationwide.

In a memo dated 4th of February 2016 addressed to the Electricity Distribution Companies informing them of the ban, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of NEMSA and the Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, Engr.

Peter Ewesor, gave reasons of hindrances to safe, stable and reliable power supply to Nigerians caused by the use of these substandard materials and equipment in our power systems and networks as major reason for the ban.

Ewesor also said that the

Agency took the decision on the strength of several reports submitted to it by NEMSA’s Inspectorate Field Officers across the country after the monitoring and evaluation of network/ power systems nationwide.

According to him, during the exercise, the indiscriminate use of substandard materials or equipment and bad construction practices in NESI by the electrical contractors and Discos alike were discovered He therefore warned the utility companies or Discos and the electrical installation contractors from further use of these types of substandard materials or equipment and practices in the NESI.

The industry expert advised them to ensure strict compliance and adhere to standard construction practices in the execution of their network and power systems.

The Chief Executive identified some of these substandard materials to include use of untreated wooden poles, use of untreated wooden cross-arms, use of un-galvanized channel/ angle irons, use of un-galvanised and improper tie straps and use of un-galvanized bolts and nuts.

In his remarks, he stated

Amazon to lease 20 Boeing 767s to build delivery network

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L – R: Chief Executive Officer, The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) Oscar N. Onyema, OON; Managing Director/CEO, FITC, Dr. Lucy Newman; General Counsel/Head, Legal and Regulation Division, NSE, Tinuade Awe; Deputy Governor of Lagos State Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule; Group Head, Inclusive Banking, Ope Wemi Jones and immediate past Attorney General of Ogun State, Abimbola Ibironke Akeredolu (S.A.N), at the NSE 2016 International Women’s Day Celebration at the Exchange, yesterday.

NOTAP’s DG seeks collaboration with MDAs on economic growth Isaiah Erhiawarien

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he National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) has advocated for closer collaboration amongst government regulatory agencies to enhance Foreign Direct Investments, FDIs, technology transfer and economic growth of the country.

Director General of NOTAP, Dr. Dan Ibrahim, made the call when he led a delegation of NOTAP Management on a courtesy visit to Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, Mr. Olusegun Awolowo.

Ibrahim said Industries in Nigeria operate under harsh environment and there is need to encourage those who are willing to invest in the country and transfer technology to Nigerians especially within the prevailing economic environment.

He disclosed that the leadership of the Ministry of Science and Technology led by the Minister,

Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, is desirous of creating an enabling environment for foreign based industries intending to invest in the country especially those willing to transfer their technologies.

The DG said this posture therefore demands that relevant government agencies begin discussion on how to create the necessary incentives that will attract foreign industries to establish in the country and transfer their technologies to Nigerians.

The NOTAP boss further disclosed that as a result of the Office intervention in the registration of technology transfer agreements coming into the country, a total sum of N188.2 billion that would have amounted to capital flight was saved the country between the years 2010/2014.

Awolowo admitted the need for collaboration amongst government agencies to enhance synergy and focus towards the development of the country saying that NEPC as the non-oil exports pro-

motion agency in Nigeria has placed the organization in an apex position for the much talked about diversification of the nation’s economy as a result of the dwindling price of oil, the major export of Nigeria.

He said the agency had various programmes presented to the government such as the Zero Oil Plan that is targeting 13 sectors of the economy, the National Strategic Export Products Programme, the Nigeria Diaspora Export Programme and the One State One Product Programme amongst several others all targeted at enhancing the nation’s non-oil economy.

Awolowo reiterated the fact that Nigeria is blessed with abundant natural resources apart from oil, which when fully exploited will yield huge dividends for the country adding that the council is open for partnerships with other MDAs to reach its targets and is excited that NOTAP is a willing partner.

that frequent failures of these substandard equipment and materials usually result in sudden collapse of distribution networks/systems, posing risks to lives and property.

Ewesor listed other risks to include, use of split conductors and cables resulting in sudden snapping of conductors and network collapses, use of undersize conductors and cables limiting current carrying capacity and the use of fake/non copper (aluminium) cables for indoor wiring and installations.

mazon.com Inc. is stepping up plans to build its own air delivery network, saying it will lease 20 Boeing Co. 767 freighters from Air Transport Services Group Inc., sending shares in the lessor up the most in six years.

The agreement shows Amazon’s commitment to expanding its own logistics network to make deliveries faster and more efficient. The Seattlebased company wants to lessen its dependence on United Parcel Service Inc. and FedEx Corp., which have sometimes run into delays during the busy holiday season.

“This is the first formal confirmation from Amazon that they are in fact pursing an air transportation network and more logistics services,” said Colin Sebastian, an analyst at Robert W Baird & Co. who rates the stock outperform. “We can dispense with all the speculation and actually look at something that’s real and happening.”

Shares of Air Transport Services surged the most since March 2010, rising as much as 27 percent. They gained 18 percent to $13.89 at 1:12 p.m. in New York. As part of the deal

announced Wednesday, Amazon also has the right to buy as much as 19.9 percent of Air Transport Services common shares over five years at $9.73 per share, based on its Feb. 9 closing price. Amazon shares fell almost 1 percent to $555.22.

By taking a small stake to begin with, Amazon gets a chance to test progress on its long-term goals and see if it likes how it works before committing to a purchase outright.

Amazon has been quietly building out its strategy for years. A 2013 report to Amazon’s senior management team proposed an aggressive global expansion of the company’s Fulfillment By Amazon service, which provides storage, packing and shipping for independent merchants selling products on the company’s website.

The project, called Dragon Boat, envisioned a global delivery network that controls the flow of goods from factories in China and India to customer doorsteps in Atlanta, New York and London, according to a person familiar with the initiative, who asked not to be identified because the information isn’t public.

Korean automakers edge up in global green car market

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yundai and Kia overtook Ford to become the world’s fourth largest manufacturer in terms of ecofriendly cars last year.

According to figures released on Tuesday by the Korea Automotive Research Institute, the combined sales of the Korean automakers reached over 74,000 units last year, up 4.9 percent from a year earlier.

In particular, the hybrid version of Hyundai’s Sonata midsize sedan led the brisk sales, and

Kia also sold around 9,000 units of the Soul EV since its launch in May 2014, an over 4-fold increase from the previous year.

Toyota topped the market, selling over 1.08 million eco-friendly cars. Honda came in second with 273,000 cars, followed by RenaultNissan with 231,000 cars. Ford saw its sales volume dip by 21.5 percent to 68,000 cars and fell to fifth place.

Total global sales of green cars stood at 1.99 million last year, up 2.1 percent on-year.

Friday, March 11, 2016

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39

Women seek improved support in agriculture ABOLAJI ADEBAYO

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omen have appealed for more empowerment in agriculture based on their role and involvement in the developing of the sector as they celebrated International Women’s Day, IWD. According to internationally comparable data, women comprise an average of 43 per cent of the agricultural labour force of developing countries. This implies the conscious involvement of women in agriculture.

On the home front, the woman is seen as the home maker and builder. At the religious end, women are regarded as help mates to the men. In economic circles, the women are seen as better managers of resources – termed to be meager and inadequate – than men. With these and many more attributes in mind, the world sets aside March 8 every year as a day to celebrate women.

According to the International Women’s Day website, the day is set aside to “celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.

“International Women’s Day, IWD, has been observed since early 1900’s – a time of great expansion and turbulence in the industrialised world that saw booming population growth and the rise of radical ideologies. International Women’s Day is a collective day of global celebration and a call for gender parity. No one government, NGO, charity, corporation, academic institution, women’s network or media hub is solely responsible for International Women’s Day. “Many organisations declare an annual IWD theme that supports their specific agenda or cause, and some of these are adopted more widely with relevance than others,” the website noted.

It is noteworthy that the involvement of women in agriculture in Africa has experienced a surge. Food and Agriculture Organization statistics shows that women in Nigeria are fully involved in agricultural activities. With this year’s campaign theme: #PledgeforParity, women are rising to the demand for the conducive environment to help them harness the limitless potentials they possess in social, economic, cultural and political economy, business as well as in agriculture.

With this campaign hitting the waves, there is a sincere attitude of the women to give in more to every facet of living as well as contribute their quota to the advancement of the world.

To achieve this, the CEO of WOFEM Agro-Allied Limited, Mrs. Atinuke Sopade said that there was need to actually ensure the exposure of women to the requisite education, information, science and technology, and extension services, adding that this would definitely im-

prove productivity, expand ownership and reach.

According to her, accessibility to credit schemes for women farmer groups must not be cumbersome as this could be discouraging, noting that women farmers in Enugu State were

promised support by the Bank of Agriculture in February.

She said the promise by the bank to give more support and credit scheme platforms to youths and women was a good one from the bank and must be fulfilled headlong.

She said, “The nation is in dire need of diversifying as its mono economy is nose-diving. Agriculture is a sure way to go in the diversification process. All necessary support and favourable schemes must therefore be put in place to encourage women, men and the youth in attaining maximum output in production.”

Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, receiving the preliminary report from Mr. Oloche A. Edache, a leader of the policy working group at the end of the strategy retreat on Agricultural Policy road map in Abuja yesterday. With them are, Minister of State, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri (second left) and Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shehu Ahmed.

African journalists support sustainable fisheries mgt in continent

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ournalists in Africa committed to agricultural sector growth have expressed their support for sustainable fishery management in view of its potential for extreme poverty reduction in the continent.

The journalists numbering over 100 from 44 African countries declared this when they convened in Elmina, Ghana, to tackle issues in the fisheries sector.

They witnessed how sustainable fishery management can reduce extreme poverty, build climate resilient communities, and foster strong economies. Together, journalists decided to harness the power of the media to support sustainable fisheries.

Experts in agriculture, particularly fisheries described the development of fish farming and management as key to tackling poverty and malnutrition on a massive scale in the continent.

In his remarks, Acting Permanent Secretary, West Africa Sub-Regional Fisheries Commission (SRFC), MariemeTallaDiagne, noted that “the promotion of transparency and participation in the fisheries sector is taking center stage globally.

“It is obvious that without a platform or an effective network to disseminate relevant information to the public, these objectives will be difficult to achieve, even with the best will of governments” In Africa, fish account for more than half of the total animal protein people eat (FAO), and fish provides essential food security, which is particularly important in coun-

tries such as Liberia and Sierra Leone as they are recovering from Ebola outbreaks.

Globally, 1 billion people in developing countries depend on fish for their primary source of protein, yet many fisheries are overexploited, and poor management and illegal fishing make it hard for fishers to feed their families.

In Ghana for example, about 135,000 fishers saw a 40 percent decline in catch in the first decade of the 21st century.

Speaking at the opening session at the forum, World Bank Country Director for Ghana, Liberia and Sierra, Henry Kerali, said that “over the past decades, Africa’s

capture fisheries rapidly expanded without proper governance or management. In other words, there are too many boats and too many fishers chasing too few fish. The consequence has been biological degradation of fish resources and substantial economic losses” Globally, the economic loss from poor fisheries governance and management amounts to $50-100 billion each year. As African fisheries continue to expand, policies are needed to guide the industry to prevent further resource degradation, rehabilitate overexploited stocks, and manage overall fishing effort levels.

South Africa’s economy slows as drought hits farming

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outh Africa’s economy grew at an annualised 0.6 per cent in the last quarter of 2015, as the country battles the worst drought in a century, official statistics showed.

The growth was a slight drop from 0.7 percent posted in the previous quarter as President Jacob Zuma struggles to tackle high unemployment, a sharply weakened currency and falling commodity prices.

The worst drought in over 100 years saw the agriculture sector contract by 14 per cent, said StatsSA.

The statistics agency said the economy grew by 1.3 percent in 2015, down from 1.5 percent the previous year.

Economists forecast that Africa’s most developed economy will continue to be fragile, with the World Bank and the IMF predicting growth will be less than one percent in 2016.

Headline inflation jumped one percentage point to 6.2 per cent in January, breaching the central bank’s target of six percent.

The country’s energy regulator on Tuesday approved a 9.4 percent-electricity tariff hike.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Friday, March 11, 2016

40

Equities record 0.01% marginal gain Johnson Okanlawon

T

he benchmark index of equities closed positive on the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday with a marginal appreciation of 0.01 per cent.

Trading in the shares of Dangote Cement Plc, Oando Plc and PZ Plc underlined activities for the day.

The All-Share Index rose by 38.46 points or 0.01 per cent to close at 25,923.77 in contrast to 25,885.31 achieved on Wednesday.

Also, the Market Capitalisation closed higher at N8.91 trillion against N8.90 trillion posted a day before.

Dangote Cement Plc recorded the highest gain to lead the gainers’ chart, growing by N1.01or 0.62 per cent to close at N165.01 per share.

Flourmills Plc came second having garnered 87 kobo or 4.97 per cent to close at N18.38, while Oando Plc garnered 42 kobo or 9.46 to close at N4.86.

PZ Plc appreciated by 30 kobo or 1.21 per cent to close at N25.00 per share and Dangote Sugar Plc added 23 kobo or four percent to close at N5.98 per share.

Conversely, Nestle Plc topped the losers’ table with N15.00 or 2.10 per cent to close at N7.00 per share.

Betaglass dipped by N2.00 or 4.21 per cent to close at N45.50 per share, while International Breweries lost 55 kobo or 2.89 percent to close at N18.50

per share.

Nigerian Breweries shed 50 kobo or 0.52 per cent to close at N96.50 and Union Bank Plc lost 27 or 4.52 per cent to close at N5.71 per share.

In all, 278.85 million shares valued N1.74 billion were exchanged in 2,485 deals.

Fidelity Bank Plc emerged the most traded stocks. Investors committed N127.51 million to purchase 110.76 million shares.

Drop in FDIs hurting corporate sector — Experts

F

inancial experts have said that the economic growth data confirmed what the Nigerian government and its backers have been loath to admit that currency controls are hurting the economy and slowing it down.

An economist at Exotix Partners LLP in London, Alan Cameron told Bloomberg yesterday that the figures confirm widespread fears of a slowdown, possibly even a recession.

“The lack of investment and access to imported inputs has hamstrung the corporate sector, and is increasingly being felt by the man on the street,” he said.

Growth in the country economy and oil exporter slowed to 2.8 per cent last year, the weakest level since the advent of civil rule in 1999 and down from 6.2 per cent recorded in 2014.

Industrial output con-

tracted 2.2 per cent last year, compared with expansion of 6.8 per cent in 2014.

Capital controls and restrictions on currency trading imposed backed

by President Muhammadu Buhari have made matters worse. Rather than benefiting manufacturers, as government has claimed, the GDP data show industries such as food and vehicle production continue to suffer.

Gross domestic product rose 2.1 per cent in the fourth quarter from a year earlier, the statistics office said on Tuesday, down from 2.8 per cent in the previous three months and lower than the 2.9 per cent median estimate of 11 economists surveyed by Bloomberg.

The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN’s measures have effectively pegged the naira at N197 to N199 against the dollar since

March last year and hindered the ability of manufacturers to pay foreign suppliers.

They’ve also caused investors such as Aberdeen Asset Management Plc and Ashmore Group Plc to sell naira bonds and stocks.

“We see some scope for faster growth, forecasting the economy to expand by 3.8 per cent this year,” David Faulkner, an economist at HSBC Holdings Plc in Johannesburg, said in a note to clients. “However, much will depend on Nigeria’s exchange rate policy, with the current foreign exchange and import restrictions — imposed to stabilize the naira — having a detrimental effect on economic activity and growth.”

Lower oil output and prices contributed to the industry contracting 8.28 per cent in the fourth quarter compared

E

blue-chip Euro STOXX 50 index rose 3.6 per cent.

The ECB’s decision, the second stimulus cocktail in three months, put the euro under pressure, and this in turn helped European stocks, since a weaker euro makes European companies’ exports more affordable overseas.

“The weak euro is positive for equities,” said Hantec Markets’ analyst Richard Perry.

Banking sectors stocks and insurers were the top sectoral gainers after the ECB decision, both gaining more than three per cent. Italian lender UniCredit was the top gainer

on the FTSEurofirst with a rise of 11 per cent.

British insurer Aviva rose five per cent after posting higher profits and dividends, while reinsurer Hannover Re also climbed after it increased its total dividend and its net profit surpassed the billion-euro mark for the first time.

However, Lagardere shares slumped 8.5 per cent after results from the media group underwhelmed investors, while fertiliser group K+S also fell 5.8 per cent after it warned of a significant drop in operating profit

Inter-Bank Rate Naira

US Dollar

$1

N197.00 Market indicators All-Share Index 25,923.77 points

with expansion of 1.1 per cent in the third quarter, the statistics office said.

Growth in the non-oil industry, which accounts for 90 per cent of GDP, was little changed at 3.1 per cent.

There is little to suggest the economy has improved so far this year, according to Manji Cheto, an analyst at Teneo Intelligence in London. While the government plans to boost growth with a record $30 billion budget, lawmakers are yet to pass it.

“Growth for the first quarter of this year could be worse because nothing has happened,” Cheto said by phone. “Government hasn’t yet ramped up spending since we don’t have a budget. The performance in this quarter will drag growth down for the rest of the year. It confirms that Buhari’s government has been very slow off the line.”

European stocks rally after ECB unveils more stimulus

uropean shares rose sharply on Thursday, extending earlier gains after the European Central Bank unveiled more stimulus in a bid to boost growth and inflation in the region.

The ECB unexpectedly cut its main refinancing rate to zero, and pushed the interest rate on the deposit facility deeper into negative territory, while lifting the size of its asset purchase programme by more than expected.

The pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 index rose 2.5 per cent by to touch its highest level since January 13, and euro zone’s

Source: NSE

this year.

Rate (%) Inflation

8.2

MPR

13

Crude oil price

$58.96

Market capitalisation 8.92trn

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

TIGERBRANDS

2.27

2.49

0.22

9.69

OANDO

4.44

4.86

0.42

9.46

HONYFLOUR

1.58

1.72

0.14

8.86

REDSTAREX

3.81

4.00

0.19

4.99

FLOURMILL

17.51

18.38

0.87

4.97

ACCESS

4.44

4.64

0.20

4.50

MAYBAKER

0.95

0.99

0.04

4.21

DANGSUGAR

5.75

5.98

0.23

4.00

ACADEMY

0.53

0.55

0.02

3.77

FIDELITYBK

1.16

1.20

0.04

3.45

CHANGE

% CHANGE

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

AGLEVENT

0.80

0.76

-0.04

-5.00

CAVERTON

1.60

1.52

-0.08

-5.00

UBN

5.98

5.71

-0.27

-4.52

WEMABANK

0.93

0.89

-0.04

-4.30

BETAGLAS

47.50

45.50

-2.00

-4.21

INTBREW

19.05

18.50

-0.55

-2.89

NESTLE

715.00

700.00

-15.00

-2.10

CONTINSURE

0.92

0.91

-0.01

-1.09

GUINNESS

114.00

113.00

-1.00

-0.88

LIVESTOCK

1.19

1.18

-0.01

-0.84

FGN Bonds

Offer

Bid

Description

Price

Yield

Price

Yield

15.10 27-APR-2017

1.13

106.13

9.24

106.28

9.10

16.00 29-JUN-2019

3.30

115.88

10.20

116.18

10.10

15.54 13-FEB-2020

3.93

113.23

11.27

113.53

11.18

16.39 27-JAN-2022

5.88

120.58

11.47

120.88

11.41

14.20 14-MAR-2024

8.01

112.64

11.72

112.94

11.67

12.50 22-JAN-2026

9.87

104.56

11.70

104.86

11.65

Closing Market Prices of March 10, 2016

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

Exchange

Rates (N)

9-Jun-16

5.69

5.77

WAUA

270

USD

197.00

8-Sep-16

7.65

7.95

EURO

214

2-Mar-17

8.26

8.99

CFA

0.32

YEN

1.64

Tenor

Rate (%)

SWISS FRANC

202

O/N

5.0983

POUNDS STERLING

293

1M

7.8136

3M

9.2168

SDR

273

6M

11.0593

NIBOR

CBN Clearing Rates of January 7, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

41

Friday, March 11, 2016

World News I don’t know about the Hitler comparison. But it’s a terrible comparison and I’m not happy about that certainly.

49 A fol abi G ambari

WITH AGENCY REPORT

–US Republican Party presidential hopeful, Donald Trump

EU crisis: Palace maintains Queen’s ‘neutrality’

B

uckingham Palace yesterday issued a statement insisting that Queen Elizabeth II is neutral on whether the UK should leave the European Union, after a British newspaper reported she had strong views on the subject.

British tabloid newspaper The Sun published a front page story yesterday headlined “Queen backs Brexit,” a term used to describe a potential “British exit” from the European Union.

The UK will have a national referendum on June 23 in which the public will vote on whether to leave or stay in the 28-member bloc.

Citing an unnamed “senior political source,” The Sun said that at a lunch at Windsor Castle in 2011, the Queen told Britain’s then-Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg that the EU was heading in the wrong direction.

The newspaper quoted the

Queen Elizabeth II

source as saying that those present “were left in no doubt about her views on Europe.”

However, Buckingham Palace’s statement insistined the Queen was neutral on the Brexit.

“The Queen remains politically neutral as she has for 63 years,” the statement

read.

“We will not comment on spurious, anonymously sourced claims. The referendum is a matter for the British people to decide,” it further said Clegg, the former deputy prime minister and current member of Parliament who

was supposedly party to the conversation, denied that it took place.

“As I told the journalist this is nonsense,” he tweeted yesterday, stressing, “I have no recollection of this happening and it is not the sort of thing I would forget.”

Britain is a constitutional monarchy in which the royal family is seen as above the political fray.

British Prime Minister David Cameron has been campaigning for the UK to remain in the European Union, arguing that a deal struck with European leaders to give Britain “special status” within the bloc meant it would have “the best of both worlds.”

But high-ranking members of Cameron’s own Cabinet, and London’s charismatic mayor Boris Johnson, one of the UK’s most popular and influential politicians, have all come out in support of the “Leave” campaign.

Mandela’s grandson gets rape reprieve

R

a p e ch a r g e s a g a i n s t Nelson M a n d e l a ’s g r a n d s o n h ave b e e n p r ov i s i o n a l l y w i t h d r aw n by a S o u t h A f r i c a n c o u r t .

The National Prosecuti n g Au t h o r i t y s a i d ye s t e rd ay t h a t i t w i t h d r e w t h e c a s e a g a i n s t t h e 2 4 - ye a ro l d , wh o c a n n o t b e n a m e d f o r l e g a l r e a s o n s, “ p e n d ing further i nve s t i g a tions”.

A 1 5 - ye a r- o l d a l l e g e d that he raped her in the t o i l e t s o f a Jo h a n n e s b u r g

bar in 2015.

He said the sex was cons e n s u a l a n d h e b e l i eve d s h e w a s m u c h o l d e r.

Prosecutors said new infor mation has come to light and they required more time look into it.

T h e y m ay h oweve r r e instate the charges at a l a t e r s t a g e, a c c o r d i n g t o r e p o r t s f r o m Jo h a n n e s burg.

During the hearing in Au g u s t , h i s l aw ye r s d i s puted the age of his ac-

c u s e r, s ay i n g s h e w a s 1 6 , the age of consent.

Under South African l aw, s e x w i t h s o m e o n e u n der 16 is classed as rape wh e t h e r c o n s e n s u a l o r not.

T h e l a t e D r. N e l s o n Mandela was South Africa’s first black president who became an icon to many after spending 27 years in prison for his role in the fight against white minority r ule.

M

European Council President Donald Tusk

EU and Turkey set out a plan to ease Europe’s biggest refugee crisis since World War Two. Under the plan, still to be finalised, all migrants arriving in Greece from Turkey would be sent back. For each Syrian returned, a Syrian in Turkey would be resettled in the EU. Announcing the plan on Monday, European Council President Donald Tusk, said there would no longer be a

‘How Al-Shabab stave off foreign forces’ Militant Islamist group alShabab has said it fought off an attack by foreign forces on one of its bases in southern Somalia.

One fighter was reportedly killed in the overnight raid, carried out by two helicopters.

The al-Qaeda-affiliated militant group has not identified the nationality of the troops involved in the operation.

The assault comes after the US said it conducted air strikes on Saturday on a training camp of the group, killing more than 150 fighters. But Al-Shabab said the number was exaggerated.

The African Union Mission in Somalia has not commented on the latest raid.

Amadou quits Niger run-off Niger’s jailed opposition leader Hama Amadou has withdrawn from this month’s presidential run-off.

Amadou campaigned from prison where he is being held on baby trafficking charges, which he denies, arguing they are politically motivated.

The Copa opposition coalition accused the government of fraud and unfair treatment between the two candidates.

The government rejected the accusations, saying the run-off would proceed as planned on March 20.

The court ruling on whether Amadou’s trial would go ahead on March 23 has yet to be decided.

President Mahamadou Issoufou gained 48 per cent of the first round vote in February, with Amadou, jailed since November, taking 17 per cent.

Ukraine officer mocks judges

Late Nelson Mandela

Migrants’ crisis: Macedonia shuts border acedonia has said it will no longer let any migrants through its border with Greece, effectively blocking the Balkan route north.

The decision came after Slovenia barred access to migrants transiting the country. Croatia and Serbia then said they would follow suit as some 13, 000 migrants are now stranded at the MacedoniaGreece border.

The moves come after the

WORLD BULLETIN

path to Europe for migrants.

“The days of irregular migration to Europe are over,” he said.

Hundreds of thousands of migrants have travelled through Macedonia over the past year, heading north.

But Macedonia began to limit the numbers, first to Syrian, Afghan and Iraqi migrants, then recently to just a trickle - mainly Syrians from areas it considered conflict zones.

A Ukrainian officer, Nadia Savchenko, has defied a Russian court trying her over the killing of two Russian journalists, vowing to continue a hunger strike and making an obscene gesture at judges.

Savchenko, a pilot who served as an infantry volunteer fighting rebels, was making her closing statement.

She denied directing mortar fire at the Russian journalists in June 2014.

She is reported to have refused all food and drink since Friday, when the hearing was adjourned.

Speaking Ukrainian, she mocked the judges in the court in the south Russian town of Donetsk, saying they proved that Russians were “fascists”.

A translator read out her formal, final statement in which she proclaimed her innocence and described her trial as a “farce”.

42

North

Friday, March 11, 2016

Again, Bauchi uncovers 19,241 ghost workers, saves N7.465m Ezekiel Titus, Bauchi

B

auchi State has again unearthed another 19,241 ghost workers barely one week after it uncovered 5,000 ghost workers as a result of the ongoing civil service verification exercise initiated by Governor Mohammed Abubakar’s administration.

This was just as the government said it has saved

about N797,465,000 from the discovery of ghost workers.

This news was contained in a press statement made available to National Mirror, signed by the special adviser to the governor on media and communication, Yakubu Ibn Mohammed.

The statement added that the figures were released in collaboration with the office of the state’s accountant general.

According to Moham-

med, it is expected that at the end of the verification exercise government would be able to save close to N1 billion monthly in the 20 local government areas under the LGEA. “In the face of dwindling resources and in keeping with its resolve to ensure probity, accountability and prudence in governance and management of scarce resources, the Bauchi State government has embarked

on a verification exercise to ascertain the strength of its actual workforce and pensioners in the main civil service and local governments,” the release said.

It would be recalled that Governor Abubakar had promised to trace all funds allegedly siphoned from the state coffers in his renewed commitment to tackle corruption for improved economic development.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

VSF to reconstruct public schools in Dikwa Inusa Ndahi, Maiduguri

V

ictims Support Fund, VSF, said it would reconstruct all public schools and other public buildings destroyed

by Boko Haram insurgents in Dikwa Local Government Area of Borno State in the first phase of reconstruction programme.

Executive Secretary of VSF, Professor Sunday Ochoche, disclosed this while flagging off distribution of books and other learning materials to pupils of Maimusari Primary School, Maiduguri.

He said “20,000 children of school age will benefit in the first phase of the VSF gesture, among which 10,000 are from Borno State, as the state is the most affected by insurgency in the North East.”

He said VSF has been intervening in various sectors such as health and the needy - widows and or-

phans empowerment; and now, they are investing in the education sector, as according to him, education is critical to any meaningful development.

While flagging off the occasion, Governor Kashim Shettima who was represented by his deputy, Alhaji Usman Mamaman Durkwa, said since the last six years, Borno State has been ravaged by the insurgents in the name of Boko Haram and virtually 70 per cent of schools have been destroyed, leaving children out of school.

The governor stated that the launch of the educational materials would be targeted at the worse affected areas of Bama, Gwoza and Kukawa, among others, by the VSF, adding that the materials would greatly assist children in their learning process, while teachers would also enhanced their capacity building and knowledge in the discharge of their duties.

Nigeria contributes $750,000 annually to C’wealth of Learning –Minister Regina Otokpa

M Borno State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Usman Durkuwa (l), presenting books to a Primary School pupil at the Children Education Support Project by Victims Support Fund in Maiduguri, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Taraba urges striking workers to return to work Justin Tyopuusu, Jalingo

T

araba State government has appealed to striking workers to return to work and come forward with names of those affected by the variations in salary payments for immediate action.

Commissioner for Information and Re-orientation, Mr. Anthony Danburam, made the appeal yesterday during a press briefing in Jalingo.

Danburam, who exonerated the state government of any blame, said government was not happy about the abnormalities in salaries of workers and accused labour unions of going on strike even when they failed to bring forth a comprehensive list of those affected by the omissions or alleged deductions as requested by government.

“The variations are not deliberate. Before now, Soft

Link System, a company owned by the present deputy governor, was handling payment without any issue, but because he is now the deputy governor it’s not right for his company to still handle staff salary payments and we engaged Starter Point Consulting Company, which is now handling the payments.

“The new consultant is still using the data base of Soft Link, pending when the ongoing staff verification would be completed in a matter of months from now. But within the period CHANGE OF NAME

LATEEF: Formerly known and addressed as Lateef Mobolaji Akanbi, now wish to be known and addressed as Lateef Mobolaji Disu. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as ALHAJI OCHOYO ENOKELA, now wish to be known and addressed as ADA- EDE OCHOYO. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

there are staff promotions from one grade level to another and some have retired or died and the new consultant does not have these records.

“The Head of Service had written to the organised labour to compile a list of workers affected from various Ministries, Department and Agencies and forward it to the desk officer in charge so as to correct the abnormalities in payments and they have not complied with the directive,” he said.

The commissioner said despite the lean resources

of the state, Governor Darius Ishaku has been paying staff salaries, unlike other states that are finding it difficult to pay their workers, adding that government has no plan to stop workers’ salaries despite the strike.

He wondered why the workers decided to make an issue out of nothing when they failed to comply with government directive to come forward with the names of people affected and are in turn accusing government of being insensitive.

inister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, has disclosed that Nigeria contributes about $750,000 annually to the Commonwealth of Learning, COL, a programme designed to promote learning for development.

Briefing the media ahead of the annual Commonwealth Day celebration with the theme ‘An Exclusive Commonwealth,’ yesterday in Abuja, the minister noted that the contribution spanned a period of eight years.

Represented by Minister of State for Education, Prof.

Anthony Anwukah, he said: “Nigeria is a major donor to COL and occupies a seat in the COL board of governors. As a matter of fact, from 2006 to 2014, Nigeria contributed $750,000 annually to COL.” He, however, added that

IYIEGBU: Formerly known and addressed as IYIEGBUCHINENYE now wish to be known and addressed as IFECHUKWU-A-CHINENYE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

I, formerly known and addressed as Kasali Ganiyat Adetoun, now wish to be known and addressed as Yusuf Ganiyat Adetoun. All former document remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, HAKEEM ALABI KAREEM and also addressed as AKEEM ALABI KAREEM is the same person and all refer to me. But now want to be known and addressed as HAKEEM ALABI KAREEM. All former documents bearing these two names remain valid. GTBANK, FIRST BANK, UBA and General public please take note.

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CHANGE OF NAME I, NNAEMEKA NELSON OKECHUKWU also addressed as EMEKA NELSON is the same person and all refer to me. But now want to be known and addressed as EMEKA NELSON. All former documents bearing these two names remain valid. Banks and General public please take note.

ERINFOLAMI: Formerly known and addressed as ERINFOLAMI ISIMOTH AJOKE now wish to be known and addressed as KATIBI ISIMOTH AJOKE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

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I, formerly known and addressed as NOAH IBRAHIM, now wish to be known and addressed as ISAIAH SUNDAY. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

“the 2015 contribution is being processed for remittance, while that of 2016 is pending budgetary appropriation.”

According to him, the COL is an inter-governmental organisation established

by Commonwealth Heads of Government to address the issue of Brain Drain, programmes towards teacher education as well as open and distance learning programmes.

Adamu stressed that the theme of this year’s celebration re-emphasises the commonwealth’s core value as a inclusive network of mutually supportive growth and development partners.

He added that “in relation to our sector, inclusive education is a means of attaining equity, justice and quality education for all learners, especially those who have been traditionally excluded from mainstream education for reasons of disability, poverty, ethnicity, and gender albinism.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

I, OMOLAYO TOYIN ADEWALE also addressed as OMOLAYO ESTHER ADEWALE is the same person and all refer to me. All former documents bearing these two names remain valid. Banks and General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as Fayemi Tolulope Oluwatoyin, now wish to be known, called and addressed Olaluwoye Tolulope Oluwatoyin. All documents and certificates bearing my former names remain valid. General public and Relevant authorities should please take note.

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43

Friday March 11, 2016

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I Esther Udoh Udeme hereby confirm that am the same person bearing the name Esther Adeshina Udeme. All former documents remain valid, general public take note.

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OGBODO: I, formerly known and addressed as OGBODO TOCHUKWU JULIET, now wish to be known and addressed as OGBODO TOCHI JULIET. All former documents remain valid.

UBA and general public should please take note

NNOAH: I, formerly known and addressed as NNOAH NDUBUISI CLETUS, now wish to be known and addressed as NNONAH NDUBUISI CLETUS. All former documents remain valid. BANKS and general public should please take note.

IHEAKA: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS IHEAKA JOY OBIAGERI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS IWU JOY OBIAGERI. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm and certify that OKPALAUBA MALACHY, OKPALAUBA MALACHY SUNDAY CHINEDU and OKPALAUBA MALACHY SUNDAY refer to one and the same person, now wish to be known and addressed as OKPALAUBA MALACHY SUNDAY. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public please take note.

CORRECTION OF NAME This is to inform the general public that My name AMOS GODSPOWER JOHN, was wrongly written during my BVN registration but now wish to be corrected and addressed as EMOS GODSPOWER JOHN. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as MRS AKINFENWA VICTORIA ADEWALE now wish to be known and addressed as MISS ADENIPEKUN VICTORIA ADEWALE. All former documents remains valid, Ondo state local government Service commission .Akure and general public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AMULEYA ABIMBOLA TOPE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS .AKINTEMI ABIMBOLA. All former documents remain valid, general public take note.

This is to notify the general public that OKORO ESTHER ADAEZE and OKORO ESTHER are one and the same person. All documents that bearing the above names remain valid, UNION BANK, UBA, ECO BANK and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly MISS AKINWALE IYABODE OPEFOLUWA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ADEYEMI IYABODE OPEFOLUWA. All former documents remain valid.

Authority concern and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MISS MAMISKA KANAYOCHUKWU GABRIEL, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS JASPER ASHER. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as UMAR JIBO OBADIAH, now wish to be known and addressed as UMAR JIBRIL BASHARI. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as OBOCHI SAMSON ALECHENO, now wish to be known and addressed as OYIGEBE SAMSON. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

OBI: Formerly known and addressed as OBI ONYEKACHI KENNETH now wish to be known and addressed as NDULUE KENETH ONYEKACHI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as AFISU ADIJAT, now wish to be known and addressed as MARUF ADIJAT. All documents remain valid.

First Bank PLC and general public should please take note.

MARY: FORMERLY known and addressed as MARY KATO SHARUBUTU NOW wish to be known and addressed as MARY .D. YARO. All my relevant documents remain valid. FCMB, Authorities concerned and General public should please take note.

This is to confirm that AUGUSTINE ONYEKWERE ENWERE is the same person as BRIGHT AUSTTINE ENWERE. All documents bearing the two names remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that I, FRANK JAMES is one and the same person as AIBIZUGBOWA EWAEN DICKSON, now wish to be known and addressed as AIBIZUGBOWA EWAEN DICKSON. All former documents bearing the above names are mine and remain valid.

General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME/ CORRECTION OF DATE OF BIRTH I, formerly known and addressed as JUBRIL TOM HASSAN, now wish to be known and addressed as AZEEZ TAOFIK DAMILOLA. And my date of birth was wrongly written as 9th day of December, 1985 instead of the correct date as 9th of December, 1991.

All former documents remain valid. WEMA Bank and general public please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS. MOTUNRAYO IDOWU ABUNO now wish to be known and addressed as MRS MOTUNRAYO IDOWU OPESEITAN. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

MBAKWE: Formerly known and addressed as MISS MBAKWE EVANGELINE IJEOMA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS EVANGELINE IJEOMA OHAERI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as MARIAM SHAIBU, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MARIAM MOHAMMED. All documents and certificates bearing my former names remain valid. General public and Relevant authorities should please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MR. OGUNBANJO OLAJIDE FATAI now wish to be known and addressed as MR. OLAJIDE FATAI. RUFAI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

JOHN: Formerly known and addressed as JOHN LABAR now wish to be known and addressed as GAYIR LABAR JACHANGKUR. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

JEZREEL: Formerly known and addressed as JEZREELKIR SAMUEL now wish to be known and addressed as SAMUEL SUNDAY. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF FAMILY NAME We, formerly known and addressed as Mr. Henry Chike Okonkwo and Mrs. Ebere Dorothy Okonkwo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mr. Henry Chike Ezumeozoh and Mrs. Ebere Dorothy Ezumeozoh.

All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as OKEMBEE RUTH OLABISI, now wish to be known and addressed as ATALE RUTH OLABISI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OGUNBOYE: I, formerly known and addressed as OGUNBOYE OLUWAROTIMI, now wish to be known, called and addressed as DANIEL OLAOLUWA ROTIMI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME ROBBINSON: I, formally known and addressed as NLEMCHUKWU ROBBINSON CHIAZOM now wish to be known and addressed as NLEMCHUKWU RAYMOND CHIAZOM All former documents remain valid, General Public should please take note.

ABDUL: Formerly known and addressed as ABDUL MALIK BANSE now wish to be known and addressed as ABDUL MALIK. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as EKEH IFEANYI, now wish to be known and addressed as EKEOCHA IFEANYICHUKWU. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

ARAMIDE: Formerly known and addressed as ARAMIDE MODUPE OGUNYINKA, now wish to be known and addressed as ARAMIDE MODUPE AKINKUOTU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as JOHN A. LAURENCE, now wish to be known and addressed as ABIWONNU JOHN LAWRENCE. All former document remain valid. GTBank, UBA and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

formerly known and addressed as IDIKA JOY UZUNMA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. JOY MCCLINTON CHIMA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MISS OJO OLUWAPONMILE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ADEBAYO FELICIA `OLUWAPONMILE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm and certify that I OLUMEGBON CHRISTIANA ABIKE is the same person as OLUMEGBON YEMISI and now wish to bear all the names OLUMEGBON CHRISTIANA ABIKE YEMISI. All former documents remain valid, Banks and the general public please take note.

This is to confirm and certify that ETUK ENO GIFT is one and same person as CHRISTOPHER PATRICIA and now wish to be known as CHRISTOPHER PATRICIA. All former documents remain valid, Banks and the general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MISS. ABIMBOLA KOLAWOLE, now known and addressed as MRS. ABIMBOLA AMAECHI OGWUECHE. ZENITH BANK and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

SALAMAT: I, FORMERLY known and addressed as ABDULSALAMI IYABO AISHAT NOW wish to be known and addressed as IBRAHIM SALAMAT. All my relevant documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as EBUNEOHA DORIS EBERECHUKWU, now wish to be known and addressed as EBUNEOHA MARYANN EBERECHUKWU. First Bank Plc and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NGWU: I, formerly known and addressed as NGWU CHARLES OBINNA, now wish to be known and addressed as ONAH CHARLES OBINNA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OSUH: I, formerly known and addressed as OSUH CHIBUIKE SAMUEL, now wish to be known and addressed as OSUH CHIBUIKE COLLINS. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly ADENIYI BUSOLA OLANREWAJU, now wish to be known, called and addressed as ADENIYI BOSOLA OLARENWAJU. All former documents remain valid.

Authority concern and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as NONYE NWAECHE, now wish to be known and addressed as NWAECHE CHINONYE FAVOUR. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

OGBUABO: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OGBUABO RACHEAL GINIKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ANEKE RACHEAL GINIKA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly ADESOLA FRANCES AJAYI, now wish to be known, called and addressed as ADESOLA FRANCES OGUNKOYA. All former documents remain valid.

Authority concern and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as SUNDAY ONYEKACHI ILOABUCHI, now wish to be known and addressed as SUNDAY ONYEKACHI ONUH. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MOHAMMAD IDRIS, now wish to be known and addressed as MUHAMMAD IDRIS SARAKI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as OBI OBI EMMA, now wish to be known and addressed as OBIEJESI COLLINS UCHENNA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CORRECTION OF NAME This is to confirm that my real name is ABDULAZEEZ KAREEM ALADE and not ABDULAZEEZ KAREEM ADISA as it was wrongly written in some of my documents. All former documents remain valid. Diamond Bank Plc and the general public please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to certify and confirm that I, MRS. ADELUSI VICTORIA TEMITAYO is one and same person as JOLAYEMI MOROMOKE T. and ADEWUMI VICTORIA MOROMOKE. Henceforth wish to be addressed as MRS. ADELUSI VICTORIA TEMITAYO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

MBAH: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AMAKA CHARITY MBAH, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS AMAKA CHIMAOBI ENWEREM. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MISS AJANI SERAH ADEBIMPE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS BAKARE SERAH ADEBIMPE. All former documents remain valid.General public take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE COVENANTED CHRISTIANS GLOBAL MINISTRY

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Ministry has Applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for Registration Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: Apostle Dr. Gabriel Ewa Ekeng — President & General overseer/

Vision Coordinator/ Chairman Rev (Mrs) Beatrice Gabriel Ekeng — Vice President/Director of Finance &

Administration / Secretary Elder Francis Fidelis — Treasurer THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To reach the unchurched, unsaved and unloved, moral souls in all part of the world to win to Christ 2. To reach the body of Christ in all parts of the world.

3. To provide qualitative and quantitative educational/ Scholarships at all levels from nursery, primary, secondary to tertiary institutions including vocation trainings for all categories and providing support to be gainfully self employed..

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street Maitama , Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed CHAIRMAN

44

Friday, March 11, 2016 CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MISS. ADESOLA FUNMILOLA C. Now wish to be addressed as MRS. YUSUF FUNMILOLA C. All former documents remain valid.

Access Bank and General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MISS. OLORUNFEMI CECILIA KIKELOMO. Now wish to be addressed as MRS. AGBOALU CECILIA KIKELOMO. All former documents remain valid. Ekiti State Universal Basic Education Board and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as DARAMOLA DESMOND OLUWABUNMI, now wish to be known addressed as DARAMOLA AYOMIDE OLUWABUNMI. All former documents remain valid.

FIdelity Bank, GTBank and general public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MRS JESUMUYIWA ODUNOLA FLORENCE, now wish to be called and known as MRS FAMUYIWA ODUNOLA FLORENCE. All former documents remain valid, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN),Access Bank Plc and general public should please take note.

Formerly known and called as MISS ALYCE IKIRI ALEY, now wish to be addressed and called as MRS ALYCE IKIRI ALEYAJAYI. All former documents remain valid, Banks, Concerned Authorites and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME/ CONFIRMATION OF DATE OF BIRTH

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to certified that SALAMI SIKIRU is the same one person as OLANIPEKUN DHIK’RULLAH OLASUNMIBOLA, that henceforth wish to be known and called as OLANIPEKUN DHIK’RULLAH OLASUNMIBOLA. All former documents remain valid, general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MISS ORISHADE BOLANLE ESTHER, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OLAWUMI BOLANLE ESTHER. All former documents remain valid. Ogun SUBEB and genenal public take note.

Formerly Known and addressed as MRS BUKOLA KANU OLAYINKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. BUKOLA OLAYINKA KANUMUANGI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that DAIRO AANUOLUWAPO OLUWASEUN is the same person as DAIRO AANU OLUWASEUN. Henceforth, I wish to be known as Dairo Aanu Oluwaseun. All former documents remain valid. First Bank, Eco Bank and general public should take note.

Formerly known as IGBASUE 42 BEM BENJAMIN now wishes to be known as IORKYUMBUL BENJAMIN BEM. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

KUCHUBU: I, FORMERLY known and addressed as KUCHUBU MAMMAN NOW wish to be known and addressed as WASE KUCHUBU. All my relevant documents remain valid. FIRST BANK and General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as CHUKWUEMEKA UGURU, now wish to be known and addressed as MBAM CHUKWUEMEKA. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as TAWAKALITU GARUBA, TAOFIKAT GARUBA ASUMI, now wish to be known and addressed as TAOFIKAT GARUBA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OYEWOLE: Formerly known and addressed as OYEWOLE OMOLARA OLUWATOLA FUNMILAYO now wish to be known and addressed as AWOLEYE OMOLARA FUNMILAYO. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAMES

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as EBOKA JONES, now wish to be known and addressed as EBOKA CHIGOZIE LUCKY. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as RUTH OLADEPO now wish to be known and addressed as RUTH SHOLAGBADE, born 10th April, 1956. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as ADEMOLA AMUDA YUSUF, now wish to be known and addressed as AKEREDOLU OLAWALE YUSUF. All former documents remain valid. Sterling Bank Plc and General Public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as BELLO EBEAGBO BOSE, now wish to be known and addressed as ASIKA EBEAGBO BOSE BELLO. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

This is to confirm that NWEKE EMEKA JOSEPH and AKPUEZE EMEKA MICHEAL belong to one and same person. That henceforth l will like to be known and addressed as NWEKE EMEKA JOSEPH. All documents bearing the names to remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly addressed and known as MISS MORDIYAT AJANI, now wish to be called and addressed as MRS ZAKARIYAU MARDIYAT PINPINLADE..

All former documents remain valid, general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as IGINETUS JUDE CHUKWUDI now wish to be called and addressed as KINGSLEY CHUKWUDI ALISI. All former documents remain valid, First City Monument Bank Plc, (FCMB), Skye Bank Plc and general public should please take note.

CHANGExxxOF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS OLAWOLE JUMULAT OLUWAFUNMILAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ABDL KAREEM JUMULAT OLUWAFUNMILAYO. All former documents remain valid. Ogun State SUBEB and genenal public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that NWALU EMMANUEL and AKPA AUGUSTINE refer to the same person. Henceforth wish to be known as NWALU AKPA EMMANUEL AUGUSTINE. All former documents remain valid. Authorities concerned and General public please take note.

CORRECTION OF NAME This is to inform the general public that my name was wrongly written as MR. JACOB OBI instead of MR. JACOB AVWEROSUOGHENE UKPEKPOKPOR OBINNA. Henceforth wish to be known, and addressed as MR. JACOB AVWEROSUOGHENE UKPEKPOKPOR OBINNA. All former documents remain valid.

This is to confirm that YUSUFF KEHINDE TAOFEEK and YUSUF MUHAMMED TAOFIK are same person.

Managements of Union Bank Plc,FCMB and the general public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

DANTARO: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS DANTARO GRACE NAJI now wish to be known and addressed as MRS AUDU DAVID GRACE NAJI. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as FELIX OMOTOLA CECILIA, now wish to be known and addressed as OMOTOLA CECILIA IYABO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as ADEWUNMI ADESHOLA ADENIKE, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEWUNMI ADESHOLA ZAINAB. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CORRECTION OF NAME his is to inform the general public that my name was mistakenly written as AYOOLA ISHOLA ABDULYEKEEN instead of AYOOLA BABATUNDE YEKEEN. Henceforth i wish to be known and addressed as AYOOLA BABATUNDE YEKEEN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

LUKMAN: FORMERLY known and addressed as LUKMAN WABI RIBAH NOW wish to be known and addressed as LUKMAN WABI ALABI. All my relevant documents remain valid.

ECOBANK and General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAMES

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known as MISS NJOKU OGBONNE STELLA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ANOPUE OGBONNE STELLA. All former documents remain valid, General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known as MISS IBIKUNLE ABIODUN ELIZABETH, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ADEYEMI ABIODUN ELIZABETH. All former document remain valid, General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ONU: I, formerly known and addressed as ONU ANI SUNDAY, now wish to be known, called and addressed as EZE CHRISTIAN ONUABUCHI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

OJEKUNLE: I, formerly known and addressed as OJEKUNLE OLATUNBOSUN SHA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OJEKUNLE SHARAFA OLATUNBOSUN. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

OCHONOGOR: I, formerly known and addressed as OCHONOGOR FAVOUR, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OCHONOGOR ISHIOMA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

PAUL: I, formerly known and addressed as PAUL TITUS, now wish to be known, called and addressed as GODWIN POYI BINCHEN . All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS OLUTOYE ADENIYI ISAAC, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN, CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS AWOPEJU OLANIYI ALEXANDER. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME AJIBOYE: I, formerly known and addressed as COMFORT OLUWAFUNMILAYO AJIBOYE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as COMFORT OLUWAFUNMILAYO OGUNSOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I formerly known and called ENDURANCE EJENUBOR, now wish to be addressed, known and called ADAKRE ENDURANCE OMONEFE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

MOBOLAJI: I, formerly known and addressed as MOBOLAJI AGBEKE OLOLADE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OLOLADE ADETUTU JULIE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MISS UZOIGWE CHINELO EBERE, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. OKAFOR CHINELO EBERE. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MUDASHIRU AHMEED KEHINDE, now wish to be known and addressed as MUHAMMAD AHMEED KEHINDE. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MUDASHIRU KAFAYAT OLASILE, now wish to be known and addressed as MUDASHIRU KAFAYAT AINA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MARTINS ADEMOLEYE, now wish to be known and addressed as MARTINS OMOLEYE. All former documents remain valid.

Access Bank PLC, UBA PLC and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as FUNMILAYO OMONIYI MORITIWON, now wish to be known and addressed as FUNMILAYO OMONIYI NWAJEI. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as FRIDAY JOHN UDOGWU, now wish to be known and addressed as SAMUEL JOHN. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as KABUK CHRISTOPHER, now wish to be known and addressed as KEVIN CHRISTOPHER NAYAN. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as HASSAN MOHAMMED, now wish to be known and addressed as HASSAN YAKUBU. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I wish to confirm that I, MR GABRIEL ERHIAKPOREH is one and same as MR ERHIAKPOREH GABRIEL OKPAKO. All former documents bearing the above are mine and remain valid. General public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as ONWUALIA HENRY UNRAY, now wish to be known and addressed as ONWUALIA HENRY NWACHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME JOSHUA: formerly known and addressed as MISS FEDORA CHIGAEKPEBI JOSHUA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS FEDORA CHIGAEKPEBI SYLVESTER MADUAKO.All former documents remain Valid.General public please take note.

l, formerly known and addressed as FADARE EMMANUEL ADEBAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as FADARE EMMANUEL OLUWATOSIN. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

NAME CONFIRMATION

Formerly known and addressed as ADESEUN AJOKE TUNRAYO now wish to be known and addressed as BABATUNDE OLUWABUKOLA OYEBIMPE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as AMU FELICIA FOLASHADE, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEYEMI FELICIA FOLASHADE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

SULE: Formerly known and addressed as MISS SULE ESTHER OLAWUNMI ODUNAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ESTHER OLAWUNMI ODUNAYO AWE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MISS. ILUGBUSI TITILAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. AGBEDE TITILAYO. All former documents remain valid.

Ekiti State Government and general public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as NWEOKAKA CHIMARAOKE, now wish to be known and addressed as CHIMARAOKE NWOAKEKE JERRAED. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as ANENE IFEYINWA CHINAZAM, now wish to be known and addressed as ORJIAKO IFEYINWA CHINAZAM. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

ADDITION OF NAME That I was formerly known and addressed as ABDULLAHI ADAMU that I now wish to add DANGONGOLA, to my former name. That I now wish to be known, called and addressed as ABDULLAHI ADAMU DANGONGOLA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as MISS. NWABUEZE LAWRETTA UZOR or NWABUEZE LAWRETTA UZORCHUKWU, now wishes to be known and addressed as as MRS. NNABUNDO LAWRETTA UZORCHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ISEME: I, FORMERLY known and addressed as SADIKU ISE NOW wish to be known and addressed as SEDI SADIQ ISEME. All former documents remain valid.

Authorities concerned and General public should please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OYERINDE RUKAYAT OMOLOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as AKOWONJO RUKAYAT OMOLOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as GRACE OFOLUWA AJAYI, now wish to be known and addressed as GRACE OFOLUWA ADJEI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as JOSEPH DAVID OWOLABI, now wish to be known and addressed as OWOLABI EMMANUEL TIJESUN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MISS. AKPAN MERCY ETIM now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. SAMUEL MERCY BASSEY. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as UMEODUAGU ANGELA NNEKA OGECHUKWU, now wish to be known and addressed as OKEKE ANGELA NNEKA OGECHUKWU. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME ALATISE: I, formerly known and addressed as ALATISE ADEBAYO ABAYOMI, now wish to be known, called and addressed as SAMUEL ADEBAYO ABAYOMI. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

I, formerly known as MISS MUSILIU BUKKY GANIYAT, now wish to be known,called and addressed as MRS. TIRI GANIYAT BUKKY, all former documents remain valid general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ELEOJO: I, formerly known and addressed as ICHABE ELEOJO, now wish to be known, called and addressed as AGADA GIFT. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as ADAMU DANGANA OLAYEMI, now wish to be known and addressed as SUCCESS ADAMS PETER. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as ODUMEFUN ADETUTU A., now wish to be and addressed as BABARINDE ADETUTU A. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as OLAJIDE MONDAY, now wish to be known and addressed as OLANIYI MONDAY ADEREMI. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

MICHEAL: formerly known and addressed as MISS MICHEAL COMFORT METINA, now wish to be known and addressed MRS AMEH COMFORT METINA. All former documents remain Valid.

General public take note.

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l, formerly known and addressed as NNADI CHIAMAKA CONCILIA, now wish to be known and addressed SALAWU CHIAMAKA CONCILIA. All former documents remain Valid.

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Friday, March 11, 2016

45

Sport

You can say something to popes, kings and presidents, but you can’t talk to officials. In the next war they ought to give everyone a whistle

At 45, Van der Sar to 46 come out of retirement

AFCON 2017 qualifier

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

–Abe Lemmons (1977)

Odion Ighalo ready for Egypt

Pharaohs to storm Kaduna in private jet ...‘Siasia is afraid of Egypt’ EVEREST ONYEWUCHI

A

delegation of the Pharaohs of Egypt will storm Kaduna on March 23 in a chartered flight for the first leg of the double header 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier holding at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium on March 25.

Egypt goalkeeping coach, Ahmed Nagi, disclosed this while speaking on television on Wednesday in Cairo.

“The team will hold a camp 19 March as the squad will be announced after the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup games. Then we will fly to Nigeria on 23 March in a private jet to Kaduna,” Nagi said.

A report in africanfootball.com indicates that Nagi believes that Nigeria interim coach, Samson Siasia, is using bully-boy tactics to hide his fear ahead of the crucial Group G match.

“We can recreate October 1977; why not? The home-boys have come in and full training has commenced.

Everyone is rearing to go. By the time the foreign-based players arrive, the competition will be what we want,” the Super Eagles coach had said, recalling Nigeria’s 4-0 thrashing of the Pharaohs in Lagos in a FIFA World Cup qualifier in October 1977.

“Siasia’s statements won’t affect Egypt players, or the coaching staff.

We’re used to hearing these kinds of comments from African coaches.

The statements indicate he is worried about the Egypt clash,” the goalkeeping coach added.

“Siasia respects the Egypt team.

He knows our abilities. And we also respect the Nigeria team, as they are strong opponents, so I hope to achieve a positive result.”

Meanwhile, Nigeria and Zamalek player, Yusuf, has warned the Super Eagles about the Pharaohs duo of Mohamed Elneny and Mohamed Salah.

Yusuf has had plenty of exposure to both Nigerian and Egyptian football, having plied his trade in both countries.

He played for Kwara United in the

Nigerian league before transferring to El Shorta in the Egyptian Premier League and finally landing at the White Castle, Zamalek.

Yusuf was quoted by KingFut.com as saying the two European-based players can cause havoc against the Eagles.

“Nigeria have to prepare well for the game against Egypt because they are coming with full force,” said Yusuf.

He also advised Coach Samson Siasia and his technical staff to focus on using a quick full back to quell the danger of AS Roma’s Salah.

“Nigeria have to have a good rightback; I think they have good wingers (Salah),” added Yusuf.

“Mohamed Elneny is a very good midfielder, he operates everywhere in midfield and he has strengths.”

Lying top of the group on six points, following back-to-back wins over Tanzania and Chad, the Pharaohs will face Nigeria in Kaduna March 25 before hosting the Super Eagles in Alexandria four days later.

Fans to watch Nigeria, Egypt with N1000, N300

T

ickets for the Nigeria, Egypt 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna on Friday, March 25 will go for N1000 and N300 for covered seats and popular stand respectively.

NFF marketing officials said yesterday that the prices remain the same from the Day 1 match between the Super Eagles and Le Sao of Chad played at the same venue on June 13, 2015.

The 25,000 –capacity arena has hosted several matches of the various National Teams over the past decades, and ongoing renovation work geared towards improving its look and standard of facilities would be completed a week before the game.

Super Eagles’ Head Coach, Samson Siasia and Assistant Director (Technical), Abdulrafiu Yusuf checked out the Ahmadu Bello Stadium and ongoing renovation works last weekend, during which Siasia expressed satisfaction with the playing turf and other areas.

46

Sports

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, March 11, 2016

At 45, Van der Sar to come out of retirement F

ormer Manchester United goalkeeper, Edwin van der Sar, is coming out retirement at the age of 45 to play for a Dutch amateur team.

According to BBC Sport, Van der Sar answered an SOS after VV Noordwijk - his first senior club - were left without cover when their keeper picked up an injury.

“We are thrilled that Edwin wants to help,” Noordwijk director, Peter Vink, told Voetbal in de Bollenstreek.

“After deliberation he agreed to keep goal next Saturday against Jodan Boys.”

He added, “We assume that it is basically only for one game.”

Van der Sar spent five years at VV Noordwijk before joining Ajax, aged 20. He won four Dutch league titles and a Champions League title with the Amsterdam club.

He earned a record 130 caps for the Netherlands and collected four Premier League crowns and another Champions League title at United, before retiring in 2011.

Saintfiet woos Adebayor to return to Togo

T

Adebayor

‘Officials were aware of Sharapova and meldonium’

T

ennis officials were aware there was a problem with the use of meldonium in the sport before fivetime Grand Slam champion,

Maria Sharapova, tested positive, World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Independent Commission chair, Richard Pound, claimed yesterday.

Sharapova

Sharapova announced at a hastily-arranged press conference in Los Angeles on Monday (March 7) that she had failed a drugs test at the Australian Open in January.

The 28-year-old revealed she had returned a positive test for meldonium, the heart attack drug only added to the WADA banned list on January 1.

Pound, the Canadian lawyer who is the longestserving member of the International Olympic Committee, believes officials within tennis had knowledge that a high amount of top-level players were using the drug ahead of

Sharapova’s positive test.

“I believe that tennis discovered a high prevalence of use,” Pound told the Tackling Doping in Sport Conference.

“Clearly within the tennis circle at least they were aware that a lot of players were using it, so they said there must be something to this.”

He had claimed that the ITF was the body which flagged up the issue of meldonium to WADA last year, leading to the substance being placed on the watch list, though this has been denied by world tennis’ governing body and WADA.

ogo coach, Tom Saintfiet, is hopeful he may yet be able to convince Emmanuel Adebayor to return to the national team, after the striker rejected a call-up for their forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Tunisia.

Adebayor, who last played for his country in June 2015, said he wanted to focus on his new club, Crystal Palace, which he joined in January after 10 months away from professional football.

But Saintfiet said the 32-year-old was still key to his plans.

“Me as national team coach, I want Adebayor to return to the national team, I want him to be there, I want him to play and I want him to score goals for our country,” Saintfiet told BBC Sport.

The Belgian coach added, “I got the information that Adebayor gave a message that he is not ready to come back, but let’s see what happens in the next coming weeks.

“We have still a few weeks before the match, so I hope we can still convince him to return to the national team.”

Adebayor has had a difficult relationship with Saintfiet in the past.

The former Tottenham, Manchester City and Arsenal player had not been picked since failing to turn up for a Nations Cup qualifier against Djibouti last September following a row over losing the captaincy.

But Saintfiet says he has been monitoring Adebayor’s progress at Crystal Palace and is hopeful the striker may change his mind about returning to the national set-up before the Tunisia match on March 25.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Rio 2016 Paralympics: Powerlifters lament paucity of funds Joel Ajayi Abuja

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ith less than six months to the 2016 Paralympics in Brazil, the Nigeria Para-Powerlifting Federation has revealed that the paucity of funds is threatening the federation’s final preparations for the world sports fiesta.

Technical Director of the federation, Samuel Ekeoma, told National Mirror in Abuja that the merging of the Sports and Youth ministries into one has compounded the financial difficulty of the sport.

According to him, the scrapping of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the merger of sports and youth ministries have delayed the Paralympics preparations.

“The bureaucratic bottleneck existing now will not allow things to move freely; we should have been in camp since February.

“This means that we would have attended the Malaysia championship from the camp and also returned to camp.

By now, we would have been talking about foreign training tour,” Ekeoma lamented.

He explained that the federation in its little way tried to organise national competitions for the athletes to keep them in form but noted that it had stretched itself beyond its financial capacity.

Ekeoma noted that the scarcity of funds might lead to the dropping of some athletes out of the 18 that qualified for the Paralympics, to accommodate other sports.

Folashade Oluwafemiayo

ITF/CAT Junior: Rains stop Nigerians in S/Africa IFEANYI EDUZOR

F

or the second day running, heavy rainfall disrupted play at the 39th ITF/CAT African Junior Championships which served off on Wednesday at the Tuks Tennis Club, Pretoria, South Africa.

The U -14 and 16 championship featuring about 120 players from 25 countries had barely commenced on Wednesday before the heaven opened up which forced organisers to reschedule all the matches to yesterday morning; but all the players and officials were forced to remain indoor as the rain failed to recede on Day 2.

“We were scheduled to play two games each to cover for the suspended matches but today it’s even worse. It’s been raining since early morning and not even a single match has been played,” Nigeria’s coach, Mohammed Ubale, told National Mirror.

Two Nigerians, Gabriel Friday and Michael Osewa were in action on Day 1 before their matches were suspended due to rain. Friday was leading Cameroun’s Paul Wamba 6-2, 3-2 while Osewa was tied 4-4 with Eliakin Coulibaly of Cote

Sports

Friday, March 11, 2016

d’Ivoire before their matches in the boys U-14 were put on hold.

Friday is the number six seed in Pool 5 which also has Assil Boussairy of Morocco and Aymen Moussa of Algeria.

Osewa is the eighth seed and alongside Eliakin, he has eleventh-seeded Schalk Van Schalkwyk of South Africa and Salum Mutabazi of Burundi to also compete with in Pool 2.

For the girls U-14, Barakat Oyinlomo Quadri is in Pool 7 which also has Kenyan Angela Nyangweso, Madagascan Finarita Andriamadison and Celine Van Min Lee of Mauritius. Marylove Edward, the 11-year-old sensation who is competing for the first time outside the shores of Nigeria will face a baptism of fire as she face Makayla Loubser, the third seed from South Africa in her first match in Pool 2 which is completed by Manuella Eloundou of Cameroun.

In the boys U-16 , Christopher Itodo will battle in Pool 2 alongside South Africa’s Christian Worst, Albert Njogu of Kenya and Fabrics Tuyishime of Rwanda while in Pool 5, Christopher Bulus will come face-toface with no six seed, Egyptian Adham Gaber, Valia Rabarijaona of Madagascar and Shaun Andriamaro of Seychelles.

MANDATE

THE

Sylvester Ikuejamoye

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

On Oliseh and NFF, I am vindicated I had thought the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) would have proved me wrong on the predicted war or battle of supremacy that erupted between them and the immediate past Super Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh. Now that the harm has been done in a near-perfect ratio prediction margin, I can only invite the readers of this column to kindly go through the piece I wrote and published on the NFF and the engagement of Oliseh immediately after he was contracted and unveiled to the public last year as presented below.

It was titled “Oliseh, safe flight” I have followed with keen interest the permutation, interest, analysis and other submissions generated on the appointment of the new Super Eagles coach, Mr. Sunday Oliseh who was formally unveiled in Abuja on Wednesday by the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF. My position is still the same and that is the timing of the appointment as a result of the sudden sack of the former chief coach–Stephen Okechukwu Keshi. I have said before now that an employer reserves the right to hire and fire. No one can question that, but that right must be exercised with a proven level of courtesy, integrity, decorum and decency. The implication of such an action must first be fully analyzed and weighed against any possible backlash. We have travelled through this similar road before but with a little difference.

Coach Shaibu Amodu qualified Nigeria for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and another coach took us there and, of course, the outcome was awful. In this case, we are still in the early stages of playing our qualifying matches.

To imagine that we have crucial matches to play to be at both the 2017 Nations Cup and the 2018 World Cup is enough challenge, not to talk of going to the “battle field” with a divided house. With what is coming out from some strategic stakeholders, like the National Sports Commission who was reported to be unaware of Oliseh’s contract and its contents means that all is not well with the approach and the methodology applied in engaging the new coach.

I would want to believe that the board should know better that the Nigeria Football Federation is a government institution that

enjoys budgetary allocation from the Federal Government and as a result cannot pretend to be financially autonomous. He who pays the piper dictates the tune. So, the news going round that a company is picking Oliseh’s salary package cannot hold water for obvious reasons. The running and the administration of Nigeria Football Federation is beyond the salary package of the chief coach and other technical members.

Nigerians should know that if anything should happen midstream be-

Oliseh

tween the alleged paying company on one side, and the coach and NFF board on the other hand as we have seen repeatedly in the past, Nigeria’s interest the country’s image will be in jeopardy. Agreed, that Oliseh is a Nigerian but the sports commission should be privy to all contract documents entered into between the coach and the NFF. Should the NFF and its paying agents be unable to meet their obligations to the coach, Nigeria will definitely come the rescue.

It is apparent that Oliseh is taking over at a very auspiciously difficult and challenging time, particularly, under a board whose actions thus far have not fully depicted foresightedness, focus and above all administrative competence. I can recall that when the sacked Keshi was appointed to take over from his predecessor Samson Siasia, I wrote an article titled “This Keshi Self”. In it, I had warned Keshi to be careful so as not to be frustrated and possibly humiliated out of the job as a result of various inter-play of interests that was partly responsible for the Samson Siasia-led Eagles squad that failed to win the Afcon 2012 ticket. Unfortunately, my prediction was right on target with Keshi’s cross of woes, heavier and more burdensome than that of his

47

predecessor. I hope and pray that Oliseh will not suffer the same fate.

Two among various opinions and submissions made by football technical experts attracted my attention and obviously worthy of mention. I want to believe and strongly too that they were not quoted out of context. Chief Adegboye Onigbinde and Clemence Westerhof have both served as chief coach of the Super Eagles at various times. Onigbinde is a CAF and FIFA instructor and one of the most experienced coaches we have both in Nigeria and Africa.

Please, kindly note the choice of my words. I said “one of the most experienced” and not “the most successful”. They are two different things.

In their reported reactions to the possible but now confirmed appointment of Oliseh as the Eagles Chief Coach, they are in agreement that it was a managerial error on the part of the NFF board to appoint a beginner as head of the team. They reckoned that the fact that Oliseh was a good player did not translate to him being a good coach. Onigbinde, particularly, gave example of Jose Mourinho who is not known to have played any high level football anywhere in the world but is today one of the best coaches in the world. He also drew the analogy of Diego Maradona who is known to be one of the greatest footballers in world history but has not attainesd success in his coaching career despite several opportunities.

One cannot but agree that to be a successful player is certainly and fundamentally different from being a successful coach.

The truth is that Oliseh is not known to have coached significant teams except a brief stint with Vervietos, a 3rd division football team in Belgium. Though his being a FIFA agent or member of FIFA study group is no doubt an achievement for self-development that should be appreciated, it would have been better for Oliseh to work under a renowned world coach of immense wealth of experience for apprenticeship.

It is also on record that Oliseh has issues with temperament. Your behavior and attitude as a player or as a team captain cannot be the same as a coach who is a manager, a father and a mentor on and off the field of play.

Without mincing words, I doubt if Oliseh can work with the entire board of the NFF hitchfree, taken into cognizance his temperament and the attitudinal deficit of this board. Both seem to lack the required managerial competence to complement each other. My appeal is that now that the deed is done and sealed, they must learn to tolerate and understand one another for our collective interest. The journey ahead looks stormy with possible cloudy weather and bumps but I pray the flight is in safe hands.

Oliseh, I wish you safe flight.

WORLD RECORD Health & Wellbeing WORLD Largest RECORD violin

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The galeBliss against pilgrimages Uganda: of blithely sit-tight sore (II) PT Vol. 05 No. 1321

overty pays.

The poor is where likely rude to o further defile a continent, say God forbid!

Butconstitution those whoby pray tinkering with the leadfervently Nigeria’s oil selfish crashes ers for nothat other reason than posolitical that and the economic profligategains Giant oflargely Africabecome will has have reallyPresident, making aYoweri whole lot of the sense norm,are Ugandan Musevsense.

Knuta Hamsun - 1952), eni, won fifth term(1859 in office lastawarded month to the Nobel in Literature 1920 “for extend hisPrize 30-year rule. But hisinclosest rival, his monumental work, ‘Growth of arrest the Kizza Besigye, who was under house Soil’”, another of victory work ofwas his, announced, ‘Hunger’ wheninMuseveni’s struck this difference between two poor said Uganda just witnessed what must be the extremes: “The intelligent poor individual most fraudulent electoral process in her histowas a much observer than the intelry. The nextfiner closest challenger , former Prime ligent rich Amama one. TheMbabazi, poor individual Minister was alsolooks under around him at everysaid. step, listens suspihouse arrest, reports ciously to every word he Chief hearsObserver from the European Union’s (EU) , Edpeople he meets; everyparty’s step he takes uard Kukan, saidthus, the ruling (National presents a problem, a task, for“domination his thoughtsof Resistance Movement, NRM) and is alert and sensitive, he is thefeelings. politicalHe landscape distorted the fairness experienced, his soul has been burned...”. of the campaign”.

Nigeria’s former President Perhaps weObasanjo, may begin pretend, Olusegun atto the head of yes thepreCom-

FRIDAY WITH Dozie Okebalama

dozieokeama@yahoo.co.uk 08164966858 (SMS only)

frombecause the fairness credibility of the retence of theand burden of poverty , that sults; while America’s Department said that crop of leaders in State the helm of affairs delays in the of voting materials, refrom Abuja to delivery the remotest state presently , ports of pre-checked ballotsintelligent and vote buying, are mostly Knut Hamsun’s poor. ongoing blockage of social sites and For several decades, statemedia sponsorship excessive use of force by the police, collectiveof Muslim and Christian pilgrimages had monwealth election observers’ team, said vote ly undermined the integrity of the electoral constituted a major drain-pipe to the nadelays and other problems seriously detracted process. tion’s resources. Through it, the Federal Reports are vivid on how Museveni’s ragGovernment and states fritter away hutag armyamounts marchedof onfunds Kampala in the 1986naand mongous from seized power The afterNigerian the horrible regimes of tion’s coffers.

Constitution Milton Obote andrecognises Idi Amin. One writer said (1999 as amended) the relevance (Museveni) looked every inch like freeofhe religion alright.

It guarantees the afreedom thatconscience had sacrificed comforts dom offighter thought, and the religion as of life. He was hailed for his discipline and fundamental human rights.

The same way to steer 10) Uganda a polity it determination provides (in Section that out theof governfraught with ethnic, corrupt visionless ment of the federation or of and a state shall perversions.

Effectively in charge in But 1986, not adopt any religion as state religion.

Museveni spentatnine years in power until the government the centre and in states 1995, when a constitution with a10five-year have been putting a lie to Section of the presidential through term limit was and promulgated.

Constitution brazen underThe romance next yearwith (1996), he won election for the cover religion. first as brazen an elected He contestThetime most is president. through lavishing ed for the second and whatpilgrimages was constitutionstate funds on religious the allyeven supposed to be his last term office way theocratic states dare in not.

Thein 2001;channels and won convincingly , too. But drain are the National Hajjmidway Cominto hisofsecond term, Musevenifor conspired mission Nigeria (NAHCON) Muswithand thethe Ugandan parliament fiddled lims; Nigeria Christianand Pilgrims with the constitution to remove the and term Commission (NCPCO) for Christians; limit so heatcan as many times he their peers thecontest state level.

In 2014, anas onpleases.

Today , criticsNigeria’, say he has become inline medium, ‘Forum gave insight creasingly authoritarian. into how state governments, a lot of them of unpaid the erroneous impressions downOne with workers’ salaries atsome the foreign commentators onand theindividuals, sit-tight cantime, some organisations cer plaguing Africa have is that what drives

W A

57

HICH ONE should IS A BETTER PW ilgrimages be COUP , COME THINK OF for the ritzyTO , whether M uslim Christian IT? THE or ONE STAGED BY OVERZEALOUS SOLDIERS

warmed up to spend at least N70 billion in 2015 on pilgrimages Mecca and OR JeruHUNGRY FORtoPOWER salem, among others. In 2015, NAHCON THE ONE PERPETRATED proved Forum Nigeria right when it announced 76,000 slots allocated to Nigeria

BY GREEDY CIVILIANS

by Saudi Arabia for the 2015 Hajj. Of the number, NAHCON Media Director, power gluttony on the continent areAlhaji poor reUba Mana,benefits. said 66,000 were allocated to the tirement Anneke Van Woudenberg nation’s 36 states, theWatch Federal Capital Terof the Human Rights (HRW), Africa Diritory (FCT) and thehas Armed vision, for example, beenForces; creditedwhile as saythe for ‘international ingremaining retiring as10,000 a headwas of state in Africa doesn’t pilgrims’ or tour operators. usually come with a lot of benefits; and that The few conservative figure — forinChristian “very African countries fact almost pilgrims Israel, and Greece, none —visiting have any kindRome of pension or secubased on 2014for statistics, was 30,000; mean-of rity scheme former presidents or heads ing thatSo a out totalofofpower roughly 96,000 state. means outNigerians of money”. were expected perform in Nothing can betofarther frompilgrimages the truth if driv2015 alone, majority of them at have governen by empirical evidence.

It would been ment’s expense.

Forum Nigeria better if Van Woudenberg had saidsays somethe AfriHajj announced

by NAHCON for power 2015 canfare leaders, whose desire is to part with was each Mus-or onlyN758,476.59 in death, dominimum not bother for about pension lim departing from theahead northern partretireof security provisioning of their the country; and N766, 556.59 minimum for ment.

The same cannot be said of a country each those going theprovisions southern part. likeofNigeria, wherefrom lavish are in For Christians, it would each pilgrim place for both serving andcost retired leaders. whose destination only Israel N379, 840; The closest VanisWoudenberg came to the Israel/Rome, N462, 510; and that Israel/Greece, truth was her observation “at the very N462, 510. of Theit package includes ticket, essence is the hunger forair continued power”. But that is putting it mildly. At the

,

?

visa fee, accommodation tour root of feeding, the sit-tight rot in Africa and is feverish togreed holy sites for 11 days.

For the 76,000 for authority and prestige not Musmeant lims that performed Hajj, their to serve the needs ofthe the2015 collective or fortoadtalvancing spending was about N57.6and billion; and forof the development greatness their 30,000 counterparts, even if nations onChristian the continent.

The craving, which they endedfrom up inthe Israel, theirofspending was streams recesses the hypocrisy about Just in leaders, one year,is2015! of aN11.3 great billion. many African usually One had expressed shock yearand thatis corruption-driven from thelast womb; President Muhammadu Buhari gave interapstrictly meant to serve self; and other proval for concessionary , state-subsidized ests cluttering around self.

They eminently exchange of N160 to $1 forofthe manifestrate through the erection cult2015 perChristian particularly when sonalitiespilgrims; in replacement of strong and the firm economy was in tatters, with the official state institutions that can outlive leaders, exchange of thefunds, nairarent to the dollar of danstealingrate of public seeking the gling between and above at the time.as most vicious N230 type from the state, as well Bad enough alsolifestyle, reports that entreprelavish andwere prodigal while all develneurs whoindices desperately needed opment plummet.

Thatsuch theirconcesnations sion their productive concerns sent arefor plunged into avoidable civilwere strife, unaway emptyviolence, handed by theand same President. speakable wars crimes against Not quite log after, of what seemed presihumanity because their sit-tighta bids are dential remediation to came when through a of no consequence them. terseIndeed, press statement byAfrican his Senior one honestsigned question leadSpecial onUnion Media(AU); and South Publicity , ers in Assistant the African AfriMallam Garba Shehu, President Buhari’s can Development Community (SADC); East announced his government not to African Community (EAC)decision and Economic bankroll any Federal Government Community of West African Statesdelega(ECOWtion toetthe 2015 have Hajj not in Saudi The AS), cetera, shownArabia. keen interest government, Garba said,is: “shall train answering sincerely whyplay rallyits against ditional roles of providing consular, medical military coups in Africa; but tolerate the and security services to Nigerian pilgrims”; subversion of Constitutions by civil African and that the translate to the leaders thatdecision wish to would die in office?

Which one FGissaving about million in hard currency a better coup,$1come to think of it?

The one and N30mby inoverzealous local expenses.

Perhaps, this is staged soldiers hungry for the wonders of one poverty in action. power, or the perpetrated by greedy civilThe so latest news is conspired that Lagosand State has ians, to say , who changed joined the league of states Edo, Ekiti, a the rules of the game?

In like truth, however, Kwara, coup isKaduna a coup. and Kano now resolutely resolved to be funding holy Muslim Like not President Barack Obama of the of United Christian Statespilgrimages told the AUin at deference its meetingtoin dwindling oilJuly price shrinking state Ethiopia in 2015,and Africa’s progress is at resources. should for when the risk whenPilgrimages leaders refuse to stepbe aside ritzy , whether Muslim or Christian.

Like their terms end.

No individual is above the Sam a colleague ‘The law.Omatseye, When a leader changesin the ruleNation’ midway, group frankly putAfrica it lately , pilgrimages, for it leads to strife. does not need strong some are all about escape and esmen.pilgrims, The continent needs strong institutions. capade, not necessarily about pious experi-to, The AU, for instance, whenever it chooses ence.

More importantly , they are neither can represent one of such strong institutions compulsory nor are they gateways to endto reverse ,the wrongs on the continent. ing up in the godly dreamland.

(Concluded)

Sport Extra

est Ham midrsenal goalkeepfielder Alex er, Petr Cech, Songmiss has Saturbeen will recalled by Cameroun day’s north London for dertheir 2017 Africa Cup of by against Tottenham Nations qualifier against Hotspur at White Hart South Africa.

Lane because of a groin Song has not played for injury. his national team sincethe Cam-inCech suffered jury late in his side’s 2-1

AFCON Cameroun recall Alex Cech toqualifier: miss Saturday’s London derbySong

eroun’s 2014 by World Cup coach Broos’Wenger, first squadtold Sochaux Karl Toko, has a risk on him last playforward against Swansea as not er,Hugo Arsene homepoor defeat Swansea naltaken since joining campaign in Brazil where he is a surprise after the 28-year23, and Anatole Abang of the and has turned to Ajax’s AnArsenal lost for the sec- summer. on Wednesday after go- BBC Sport. lashed out at Croatia’s Mario old announced his internaNew York Red Bulls included. dre Onana instead.

Defender Laurent ond successive league ing up for a corner.

Arsenal start the Mandzukic off the ball durretirementwill last year . miss Malaga The qualifier against game.goalkeeper, Idriss Koscielny also “He had a little grointional derby third in the Preing their Group A defeat in BBC Sport reports that Carlos Kameni was hoping South Africa takes place on six Former Chelsea mier League table, problem before the the derby with a damManaus.

Broos has named two newto be fit for the match followMarch 26 at the Limbe Omnikeeper, Cech, 33, has points behind leaders game and I think he aged calf.

Song’s inclusion in new in the squad with ing knee surgery , but28Broos sport Leicester Stadium. City, with 10 played in all Premier internationstruggled a little bit to-comers France Song night,” Arsenal manag- al, Koscielny, 30, did not League games for Arse- games remaining.

Cech

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