Thursday, December 20, 2012 by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

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Judiciary, media top Musdapher’s lecture today FRANCIS FAMOROTI Musdapher

he cream of the legal community will converge today on the Muson Centre in Lagos, for the second anni-

Vol. 2 N0. 517

Bayelsa crash:

versary lecture and book presentation of Global Media Mirror Limited, publishers of the National CONTINUED ON PAGE 6>>

Lawmakers demand dismissal, prosecution of Demuren, NCAA boss

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

N150 ROTIMI FADEYI AND A ZA MSUE

F How we escaped death –Gowon, Maku Jonathan, ministers hold special FEC session

Amina, widow of the late Kaduna State Governor, Patrick Yakowa, (right) and the children at a service of songs in Kaduna, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Yakowa for burial today

ormer Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon and the Information Minister, Mr. Labaran Maku, yesterday narrated how they missed flying aboard the crashed naval helicopter by a whisker. The crash killed the former Kaduna State governor, Mr. Patrick Ibrahim CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

Ministers observing one-minute silence for the deceased at the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Subsidy: Reps pass N169bn supplementary budget Nkiruka

Police arrest 16 over Nollywood actress’ abduction P.12

...as terrorism bill divides Senate Oil communities seek audit of mismanaged N7trn derivation funds

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Pension fund: Again, Maina shuns Senate P.4 P.51 Police seal off Ogun PDP secretariat as factional groups clash Pirates attack tanker, kidnap five Indians

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

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JUSTICE MUSDAPHER ARRIVES FOR NM LECTURE

Former Chief Justice of Nnigeria, CJN, Justice Dahiru Musdapher, GCON, at the airport in Lagos, yesterday

L-R: Justice Musdapher; Senior Manager, Strategic Development, National Mirror newspapers, Alhaji Kayode Balogun and Mr. Steve Ayorinde. PHOTOS: YINKA ADEPARUSI

Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, National Mirror newspapers, Mr. Steve Ayorinde (left) and Justice Musdapher.

L-R: Justice Musdapher; Senior Studies Fellow, Office of the Administrator, National Judicial Institute, Mrs. Hadiza Sa’eed and Editor, Sunday Mirror, Mr. Bolaji Tunji.

National News

Dana Air crash: Reps demand dismissal, prosecution of NCAA DG TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

he House of Representatives yesterday recommended the dismissal and prosecution of the DirectorGeneral of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Dr. Harold Demurren, for alleged “criminal negligence” in the case of the Dana Airline crash in June this year. The recommendation was sequel to the consideration and adoption of the report of the Senate and House of Representatives’ Committees on Aviation. A Lagos-bound Dana airplane had, on June 3, this year crash-landed, killing all 156 passengers on board. The airline owned by Indian nationals, after several inquests by agencies under the Ministry of Aviation, was re-issued its licence on a provisional basis, pending when the ministry would round off its ongoing audit of aircraft in the country. The report also recom-

mended the revocation of the Air Operating Certificate (AOC) of Dana Airlines, because it was not issued in compliance with the NCAA’s Civil Regulations Guideline, 2009. The House of Representatives, in its report yesterday, accused Demurren of criminal negligence, particularly for dispatching an allegedly incompetent engineer to do the pre-arrival inspection of the ill-fated aircraft. The house also recommended that the Inspector, Engineer Suleiman Akwuh, who was sent to carry out the pre-arrival investigations, be also dismissed. Presenting the report, the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Aviation, Hon. Nkiruka Onyejeocha (PDP-Abia), said that the committee in carrying out its assignment, received memorandum from stakeholders. It recommended further that the NCAA should compel airlines involved in accident to settle

all outstanding insurance claims and ensure that current operating AOCs had reliable insurance cover as required by civil aviation regulations. The report stated in part: “The NCAA Inspector, Engineer Suleiman Akwuh, who did pre-arrival inspection on the ill-fated Dana aircraft without prerequisite professional qualification should be dismissed from service. “NCAA Director-Gen-

eral, Dr. Demurren, who approved and deployed the officer should also be dismissed from service and prosecuted for criminal negligence.” The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) was asked to recover the N35.5 billion intervention fund extended to the defunct Air Nigeria through the UBA Plc. It recommended the phasing out of all MD83 aircraft operating in Nigeria because the NCAA

had no certified engineer to handle the aircraft type. It recommended revisiting of investigation report on the Bellview Airlines plane crash and other accident investigation reports. The house also recommended a total overhaul of NCAA’s staff strength with a view to injecting technically and professionally qualified personnel. Some of the recommen-

dations are as follows: (1) Dana current AOC should be revoked because it was not issued in compliance with Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Civil Regulations Guideline 2009. (2) NCAA inspector, Engineer Suleiman Akwuh, who did pre-arrival inspection on the ill-fated Dana Aircraft without pre¬requisite professional qualification should be dismissed from service.

Again, pirates attack tanker off N’Delta, kidnap five FRANCIS EZEM WITH AGENCY REPORTS

irates yesterday attacked and looted a tanker off the Niger Delta, taking five crew members hostage. The ship’s operating company, Medallion Marine, however, did not give the nationalities of those kidnapped but maritime sources disclosed that they were all Indians. Piracy and kidnapping in Nigeria’s oil-producing Delta and offshore are

common, and the oil-rich Gulf of Guinea is second only to the waters off Somalia for the risk of pirate attacks, which drives up shipping insurance costs. “On Monday, the vessel (SP Brussels) was boarded by heavily armed pirates whilst approximately 40 miles off the Niger Delta,” Medallion Marine said in a statement. “The pirates ransacked the vessel for personal belongings and took five crew members with them on their departure.” According to a mari-

time tracking website, the SP Brussels is a 7,600-tonne oil and chemical tanker. Nigeria is a busy oil shipping route and is among the world’s top 10 crude oil exporters and imports around 80 per cent of the fuel products needed for its 160 million people due to a lack of domestic refining capacity. Gunmen had earlier kidnapped four foreigners, believed to be South Koreans, and two Nigerians working for Korea’s Hyundai Heavy onshore the Ni-

ger Delta on Monday. Meanwhile, efforts to speak to the Deputy Director, Public Relations of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety, Hajia Lami Tumaka and officials of the Nigerian Navy officials were not successful as calls did not go through. The Director-General of the agency, Mr. Patrick Akpobolokemi, had said in Lagos last week that the numbers of reported piracy incidences in Nigerian waters has reduced substantially when compared with previous years.

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

Subsidy: Reps pass N169bn supplementary budget GEORGE OJI, TORDUE SALEM AND EMMANUEL ONANI

he House of Representatives yesterday passed the N161.6bn supplementary budget for 2012 proposed earlier by President Goodluck Jonathan. The provision is to effect payment of subsidy on petroleum products in order to facilitate adequate supply of

products during the Christmas and New Year seasons The House, which sat till 7p.m. had before passing the supplementary budget went into an executive session that lasted for almost two hours. Presided over by Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, the House unanimously approved the bill as soon as Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, Hon. John Enoh (PDP, Cross River) gave a synopsis of the bill.

He told the House that N888bn was originally approved in the 2012 revenue framework for subsidy, but there were shortfalls necessitating the request for more funds. According to him, the N888bn was also to cater for the outstanding subsidy payment of N232bn in 2011. He said the arrears later rose to N451bn. President Goodluck Jonathan had on December 14 forwarded a request of

N161,617,364,911. Meanwhile, the Senate yesterday said it would resume debate on the 2013 budget appropriation bill at 2pm today. The upper chamber suspended debate on the bill to enable its Joint Committees on Finance and Appropriation more time to harmonise all the different figures presented by the various committees to it. Senate President David Mark, who announced the

L-R: First civilian governor of Delta State, Olorogun Felix Ibru; Executive Director, Obafemi Awolowo Foundation, Dr. Tokunbo AwolowoDosunmu and Chairman, Selection Committee of the Awolowo Prize for Leadership, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, during the unveiling of the recipient of the maiden award of the Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership in Lagos, yesterday.

eventual adjournment after the Red Chamber had resumed to commence consideration of the bill, explained that the lawmakers could not go ahead with the bill because there were no clean copies for the Senate to work with. Earlier, the Senate had been divided over the report of the Conference Committee of the House of Representatives and the Senate on a Bill for an Act to amend the Terrorism (Prevention) Act, 2011 and for other related matters. Specifically, the insertion of clause 2, new section 1(a), which deals with national coordinating bodies in counter terrorism offences, sparked a heated debate on the floor, which culminated in the suspension of discussions on the bill, to allow for “more discussions.” Hardly had the Senate President started reading the conference report for possible adoption when Senator Ita Enang raised a point of order on the seeming anomaly inherent in the said provision. Enang had drawn the attention of the Senate President to the fact that, Special Advisers are appointees of the President and to that extent; the Senate cannot

prescribe roles for them, as doing so will be tantamount to lawmakers performing executive functions. According to the lawmaker, the 1999 Constitution (as amended) only made provision for Special Advisers to be appointed, for purposes of helping the President execute some delegated functions. He said to that extent, it is not within the purview of the parliament to attach duties and responsibilities to an executive office. Efforts by the Senate President to explain that conference committee reports, being products of the two chambers, cannot be altered, failed to persuade lawmakers, who insisted that the upper chamber can still regulate itself on such issues. Raising another point of order was Senator Ayogu Eze, who maintained that Order 1 of the Senate’s standing rules gives it “a leeway” to return the report back to the conference committee for the grey areas to be addressed. At this point, the session became stormy and when the question on whether or not to allow the new section stand was put, it was difficult to determine whether the “ayes” or the “nays” had it.

brother rest with our Lord.” It was a sober mood at the FEC meeting yesterday as a special session was held for the late Yakowa. At the meeting, one-minute silence was observed for the victims of the crash after which President Goodluck Jonathan and ministers paid tribute to Yakowa and Azazi as well as their aides and the pilots. He described them as patriotic and dedicated Nigerians who served the country diligently. The President added that in the mood of the sober reflection, FEC would not treat any memo and adjourn pending memos to January 9, 2013, when the council would reconvene after the Christmas and New Year break. It will be recalled that on June 7, FEC also held special session for the victims of Dana plane crash in IjuIsaga in Lagos, killing 156 passengers on board. Paying tribute to Yakowa, the President de-

scribed him as a different type of politician. He said: “Most of us who are politicians exploit religious sentiments to divide Nigerians for selfish gains. We exploit North-South to divide Nigerians for our selfish gains but Yakowa was very different.” The President described the December 15 tragedy as a black Saturday for the country. Jonathan noted that the victims were people that had served the country diligently. President Jonathan said he knew Yakowa when he became the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State. “I had some interactions with him and since then I knew him more when the then governor of Kaduna State, Namadi Sambo, was moved to Abuja to assist me and Yakowa became the governor of the state. “He was a gentleman who believed in the unity of this country,” Jonathan added.

How we escaped death –Gowon, Maku CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Yakowa, and the immediate past National Security Adviser, NSA, Gen. Owoye Azazi in Nembe, Bayelsa State last Saturday. Their aides, Dauda Tsoho and Mohammed Kama and the two pilots, Murtala Daba and Adeyemi Sowole, also died in the crash. Speaking at the Golden Jubilee celebration of the President of Throneroom Trust Ministry Worldwide, Apostle Emmanuel Nuhu Kure in Kafanchan, the former military ruler also said that the cause of the helicopter crash might be technical fault rather than sabotage. He said: “As we were with the aide of the President to pay our condolence, they were arranging a navy helicopter to take us to Yenagoa. But, another helicopter was arranged for me and five others. And that was it. “So, when I heard about this accident, it really pained me. And I want to say, well, you can never tell

with some of these things. It was an accident. Don’t impugn any meaning to it. Don’t say that it was planned to get rid of some people or something like that. It is an accident, yes, it was an accident. “There was this young pilot, who came to me after another helicopter was found for us, and he said to me, ‘Sir, but I was ready to take you to Yenagoa, as part of my duty today’. “And I said to him, ‘don’t worry, there will be another time. I really hope I will have the pleasure of flying with you again’. These were nice innocent people. Something, probably mechanical, went wrong to have caused the accident. So, it was not a plan to get rid of the governor for whatever any reason people want to guess.” Maku, who moved the motion to pay tribute to the victims of the crash at yesterday’s special session of the Federal Executive Council, FEC, meeting, also

recalled how he escaped death by the whisker, saying he was supposed to be in the helicopter but only for a twist of fate. “When we met in Bayelsa, it was a twist of fate that we did not board the same helicopter, because on that day, the Special Adviser to the Vice-President on Media, Alhaji Sani Umar and myself and Timi Alaibe, were supposed to travel together with the two of them back to Port Harcourt. “Somehow just before we could take off from the funeral arena, Sani branched out and decided to travel alone. “I myself stood up and was going together with them but by some involuntary action, I returned to my seat; I said I would wait for a moment, that was simply the twist of fate that kept us alive,” Maku said. While urging Nigerians not to misinterpret Yakowa’s death, Gowon called on Governor Mukhtar Ramalan Yero to put in mea-

sures that would stop the activities of the dreaded Islamic sect, Boko Haram and ensure that peace reigns in the state. The former head of state also expressed the need for the governor to tackle the problem of insecurity headlong. “When I saw the governor, who was newly sworn in last Sunday, I said I hope you will continue with the good work that your late governor was doing. “It was the two of you that were doing the work. You were working to bring peace to Kaduna State. I hope you will do something about this madness alluded to Boko Haram, which unfortunately is being alluded to Muslims. “If Boko Haram members are Muslims, then they are not the Muslims that I have worked with over the years. So, don’t just blame Muslims for the violence, but that particular group that none of us understand. So, may the soul of our

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6>>

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How we escaped death –Gowon, Maku CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

On Azazi, the President said: “For Gen. Azazi, though we are both from Bayelsa State and Ijaw ethnic nationality, I never met him until 2004 when the then Brig. Azazi was made the Director of Military Intelligence, DMI. I was then the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa. “Somebody came to me that one of our own has been made the DMI and that was a prestigious posting in the Army. And I said I was going to receive him and have a little party for him and I hosted him one evening in Abuja; in one of their officer’s mess. “From that time we

started interacting then he was promoted to Major General and made GOC 1 Division, Kaduna and then he was also made the Chief of Army Staff, that was another level of our interaction in 2006, then I was the governor of Bayelsa State. “I also hosted him as Chief of Army Staff along with the current Minister of Petroleum Resources as the first female Executive Director of Shell. “He was made Chief of Defence Staff in 2007 when I was vice president to the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. I also made him the National Security Adviser when I became the President”

“I saw him as somebody who meant well for this country. The gentlemen have worked very well for this country, even those who make negative comments about politicians you rarely can hear any negative comment about these men. “Sometimes people wonder why good people die, it is quite touching. Both of them touched our lives, they worked for this country. We pay condolences to the families, their aides, the pilot, co-pilot. “The honourable minister just told us that Azazi has a 90-year-old mother. “Can you imagine how a 90-year-old mother will

mourn a son who did very well and rose to become a four-star general in the Nigerian Army?” President Jonathan said. Vice-President Sambo described the death of Yakowa as painful, saying that he had interacted with him for over 25 years, stressing that when Yakowa was appointed Permanent Secretary, he personally requested that he be sent to his ministry. Sambo recounted how he went ahead and selected him as his running mate despite having contested the PDP gubernatorial election against each other. Maku described both Yakowa and Azazi as fine

L-R: Executive Secretary, Red Cross of Nigeria, Alhaji Bello Diram; member, Presidential Committee on Flood Relief and Rehabilitation, Mrs. Folorunso Alakija; Abia State Governor, Theodore Orji, leader of the delegation, and Chairman, Heirs Holdings, Mr. Tony Elumelu, during the committee’s visit to Abia State for the donation of relief materials to flood victims in Umuahia on Tuesday.

Judiciary, media top Musdapher’s lecture today CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Mirror. Expected to lead the dignitaries at the forum is the immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Dahiru Musdapher, who will deliver the lecture on the theme: “Judiciary and the Challenges of the Rule of Law.” At various fora, the retired CJN, who, like the sociological jurist, Roscoe Pound, sees law as an instrument of social engineering, has not minced words in demonstrating his passion for ensuring the betterment of the judiciary at all times. Among other issues, the lecture is specifically billed to focus on the critical roles of the judiciary as the third arm of government, fostering the rule of law and revitalis-

ing the justice administration mechanisms in the country. The two-in-one event will also feature the public presentation of a book entitled: “For law, for country: Conversations with the Bar and the Bench.” The 338-page book is a compilation of divergent views of seasoned legal practitioners, especially Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SANs, lawyers in the academia and judges on various contemporary legal issues affecting the polity. It also offers lawyers belonging to different generations, diverse specialised areas and various philosophies and ideologies, the opportunity to freely express their views on the challenges facing the judiciary and the rule of law. A statement by National

Mirror said the book was a humble contribution of the newspaper to safeguarding the integrity of the judiciary and the rule of law. “The annual lecture will also present a rare opportunity for very important personalities, especially in the legal circles in the country, to reunite and discuss the judiciary and the all-important topic of e-media practice and the law,” the statement said. The event is expected to be chaired by the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN). Other personalities expected at the lecture are governors Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti); Rauf Aregbesola (Osun); Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom), Gabriel Suswan (Benue), Ibrahim Shema (Katsina) and Sullivan Chime (Enugu).

President Goodluck Jonathan, GCFR, is expected as the special guest of honor at the event. Also billed to attend the event are a host of SANs, state attorneysgeneral, university dons, the executives of Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, representatives of governments and public agencies and media executives. On hand to receive Justice Musdapher and other guests at today’s lecture will be the Group Managing Director of Global Fleet Group and the publisher of National Mirror, Barrister Jimoh Ibrahim, OFR. The first anniversary lecture held at the NICON Luxury Hotel in Abuja last year was delivered by legal luminary, Chief Richard Akinjide (SAN). At that lecture, he spoke on the “Challenges of the 21st Century.”

gentlemen who showed courage, humility, patience and dedication in their different call to duty. The Federal Capital Territory Minister (FCT) Minister, Mohammed Bala described Yakowa as a bridge builder and a great leader. He recalled his experience with Azazi who he said did a lot to lay a solid foundation for the present security arrangements in the FCT For the Minister of Environment, Hadiza Ibrahim Mailafia, Yakowa was a quintessential leader, who she said she met about 19 years ago, “ We had very nice jokes. It is very traumatising to know that the two persons are dead.” Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison Madueke said the incident has been very traumatising for the people of Bayelsa State, describing Yakowa as a kind hearted person adding that “It is with a heavy heart that we console the people of Nigeria to take heart in these trying times.” Ministers of Internal Affairs (Abba Moro), Finance Minister (Ngozi OkonjoIweala,) National Planning (Shamsudeen Usman) Niger Delta Development (GodsDay Orubebe ) as well as Minister of State for Defence (Olusola Obada) and her counterpart in the Ministry of Health (Mohammed Pate ) also paid tributes to Yakowa and Azazi. Specifically, Orubebe commended the roles Azazi played in persuading former Niger Delta militants to renounce violence and choose the path of peace. For Okonjo-Iweala, late General Azazi assisted in ensuring the release of her mother who was recently kidnapped. Jonathan and all the ministers later signed the condolence register opened in the State House for Yakowa and Azazi while preparations were also made to attend the burial of Yakowa which holds in Kaduna today. President Goodluck Jonathan will today lead Federal Government delegation to the burial of of late governor of Kaduna State, who died along with Azazi after attending the burial of the father of Special Adviser to the President on Research and Documentation, Oronto

Douglas. Their aides Dauda Tsoho and Mohammed Kama and the two pilots, Murtala Daba and Adeyemi Sowole also died in the crash. The President at a special session of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), said he would personally lead the delegation. He has therefore directed the Chief of Staff, Chief Mike Oghiadomhe to make necessary arrangement for the ministers that would be going for the burial, though he did not specifically mention the ministers that would be on the delegation. “The Chief of Staff will get in touch with the people that will accompany me to the burial”’ Jonathan told the ministers before the end of the meeting yesterday. According to the President, the death of Yakowa, Azazi and the other victims of the crash was very painful to the nation, saying that they worked diligently for the country. The Vice President Namadi Sambo already left Abuja yesterday ahead of the arrival of the President today to enable him attend the valedictory session organized for Yakowa by the Kaduna State House of Assembly Yakowa was Deputy Governor when Sambo was Governor of Kaduna and worked together before Sambo became Vice President to Jonathan and Yakowa took the position of Sambo as Governor of the State. Meanwhile, the new Governor of the state, Alhaji Mukhtar Ramalan Yero has said that the remains of Yakowa would be laid to rest in his home town, Fadan Kagoma in Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Yero stated this yesterday during the valedictory session held in honour of the late governor at Kaduna Government House over which he presided. Yakowa’s corpse was taken from Saint Gerald Catholic Hospital mortuary and brought in during the session, at 11:26 am with his widow, Amina and his four children, Kyola, Peter, Benedicta and Rose in attendance. Yero said his government would take care of late Yakowa family.

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

BAYELSA CRASH

Yakowa prayed at parents’ graveside two weeks before crash –Councillor A ZA MSUE KADUNA

he late Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa of Kaduna State prayed at his parents’ graveside to mark his 64th birthday on December 1. The councillor representing the late Yakowa’s ward in Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Mr. Nehemaa Madugu, disclosed this yesterday. Madugu, who spoke with our correspondent

in Fadan Kagoma, late Yakowa’s home town, said the deceased who celebrated his birthday on December 1, knelt beside his parents’ graves and offered prayers. He said: “We are shocked over the death of Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa. To us, it is like a movie. On Saturday December 1, 2012, the late governor came home for the local government elections and that same day was his birthday. “Yakowa went and knelt down beside his parents’

graves in the family house and prayed for them. “Yakowa then said that was the only way he would celebrate his birthday this year. It was like a joke; we only sat with him to eat food and later left for our homes.” Our correspondent, who visited the late Yakowa’s village, about 200 kilometres from Kaduna town, observed that finishing touches were been given to the former governor’s grave for today’s burial.

Service chiefs, IG visit Azazi’s family FRANCIS SUBERU

he Service Chiefs and the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, yesterday paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Gen. Andrew Azazi in Lagos. The Service Chiefs, led by the Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim, include Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, Chief of Naval Staff, Vice-Admiral Dele Ezeoba, and Chief of Air Staff, AVM Kas Gbadi. They were received by the wife, family members, including children of the late general at his Oba Elegushi Road resident, Ikoyi, Lagos. Speaking with journalists after signing the condolence register, Ibrahim described the late Azazi as

a brilliant soldier, whose wealth of experience would be greatly missed. He said: “We will miss him a lot. We will miss his counsel. He is so simple. He presided over the National Security of this country at a time when we are most challenged and he did his best.” The Defence Chief noted that competent authorities in the land were investigating the crash, with a view to unravelling the misery behind it. Ibrahim promised that the best experts would be used for the investigation, including foreign experts, adding that no particular person or thing was being focused as factor responsible for the crash. He said: “Accident could happen anywhere, any time. The pilots were some of the best in the military

L-R: Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson; Vice-President Namadi Sambo and Kaduna State Governor Ramalan Yero, at a service of songs for the late Governor Patrick Yakowa in Kaduna, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

air fleet. The helicopter was regularly maintained as requested by the manufacturer. We don’t take things for granted in the military.

Aliyu lampoons those rejoicing over former gov’s death PRISCILLA DENNIS MINNA

overnor Muazu Babangida Aliyu of Niger State has condemned those rejoicing over the death of former Governor Kaduna State, Ibrahim Patrick Yakowa, in a military helicopter last Saturday. According tom, whatever belief a person holds, its teachings admonish the followers to sympathise with the dead and the bereaved by praying for the repose of the departed. The governor said it was wrong for the peo-

ple to pray for the death of their leaders, adding that rather than praying against them, the people must go back to the teachings of their religions as laid down. He said: “This development shows that we as parents are failing in the duty to train our children. We must talk to our children. We must be involved in the moral and religious education of our children and wards.” Aliyu also stressed the need for leaders to ensure equity, fair play and justice in all they do so as to carry everybody along.

President Goodluck Jonathan signing the condolence register for the victims of December 15 helicopter crash in Bayelsa State, at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

He described the late governor as a bridge builder, who brought followers of Christianity and Islam together which led to the restoration of peace in Kaduna State. Earlier, the Speaker, Hon. Adamu Usman, told Aliyu that the news of Yakowa’s death came during the Speakers’ meeting. Usman also said that legislators were happy with the humility exhibited by the former governor when he was alive that endeared him to a lot of people. He said: “The late governor has left an indelible mark in the sands of time.”

Immortalise late gov, Assembly tells Yero

aduna State House of Assembly yesterday called on Governor Mukhtar Yero to immortalise the late Governor Patrick Yakowa. The Assembly, during a four-hour valedictory session in honour of the late governor, suggested the naming of the state secretariat and other landmarks in the state after him. The session, presided over by the Speaker, Alhaji Muazu Gangara, described the deceased as a peace maker, humble, committed and amiable gentleman. The Majority Leader, Mr. David Umar, described Yakowa as “a patriotic man of peace” who had contributed to peace and development in the state. He said: “Yakowa had played very vital role toward the transformation

of Kaduna State in the area of security, peace, education, health and economy. “’He responded positively to any of our calls, and we had cordial working relationship.” In his contribution, the Deputy Speaker, Alhaji Balarabe Jigo, said death was an inevitable end for every soul, adding that the former governor would be missed for his hard work and high sense of humour. Noting the recent commencement of work on 31 roads across the state by the deceased, Jigo said all the constituencies in the state benefited from the projects. He said: “People of Birnin Gwari would really miss him; the road abandoned in my constituency for decades has been awarded by Ya-

kowa.” The Minority Leader, Alhaji Usman Adamu, supported the stand of the Assembly for the immortalisation of Yakowa and called on the House to monitor the execution of all projects he awarded. On his part, a member of the Assembly, Mr. Bitiyong Nkon, said: “We really lost a gentleman who has special interest in the development of the state.” Another lawmaker, Alhaji Mohammed Aliyu, said the state had lost one of its brightest governors. He said: “Death is a price which every soul must pay. He has worked tirelessly to develop and unite the people of the state.” Mr. Kantiok Irimiya, said Yakowa was a man of excellence, who was careful in taking decision.

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

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Bond market to cater for retail investors JOHNSON OKANLAWON

Director, Administration and Supply, National Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Muhammad Zanna, receiving dignity kits for flood victims from Resident Representative, United Nations Population Fund, Madam Victoria Akyeampong, in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Again, Maina shuns Senate GEORGE OJI AND EMMANUEL ONANI ABUJA

or the umpteenth time, the Chairman of the Pension Reform Task Team, Mr. Abdulrasheed Maina, yesterday failed to honour the invitation by the Senate Joint Committees on Establishment and Public Service, States and Local Governments. The joint committee, which is probing the administration and management of pensions in the country, had last week, issued an arrest warrant to the Inspector General of Police Mr. Mohammed Haruna to arrest and bring Maina to the venue of the public hearing at the National Assembly yesterday. However, neither Maina nor the Inspector General of Police was there to offer explanations on the execution of the arrest warrant. The committee conse-

quently adjourned further sitting of the committee indefinitely. The Chairman of the committee, Senator Aloysius Etok, while announcing the postponement said, “We have been here and believing that we want to give the acting director of CIPPO, Abdulrasheed Maina a fair hearing because we have been sitting and adjourning for the sake of making sure he is here so that we can give him fair hearing because in the other pension hearing, he said he did not have fair hearing. “Today, we have been here and we have kept these people waiting for one hour and incidentally the Inspector General of Police is not here. The Senate under the leadership of the Senate President issued a warrant of arrest and directed the Inspector General of Police to present and compel Maina’s appearance before this committee by 12 O’clock.

“We have been waiting here for one hour and 10 minutes and we did not see him. And for today like I appealed to you we are not going to waste your time and since we have promised we want to make sure we give him fair hearing. After due consultation with members of this committee we have decided to adjourn this sitting sine die.” Etok was temporarily interrupted by his cochairman, Senator Kabir Gaya when he announced that, “I have information from the police that he is at the gate addressing his supporters instead of coming here. We wanted him to be here. So, the committee will decide what to do. Also one thing is that we have been honest and sincere. We want to put it on record.” Meanwhile, Maina was seen at the main entrance to the National Assembly addressing his supporters who had besieged the place to show solidar-

ity with the official, who is also the acting director of the Customs, Immigration and Prison Pension Office, CIPPO. Maina, while fielding questions with some newsmen at the venue said he wanted to go into the National Assembly to honour the invitation by the probe committee but was prevented from doing so by his supporters. While some demonstrators came to show support for Maina, there were other persons who demonstrated against the acting director. Those against Maina had some placards which read, “EFCC arrest Maina now,” “Maina must go,” while those in his support had banners that read, “Maina is God sent,” “Leave Maina alone to continue to do his good job.” The CIPPO boss made a brief appearance last week at the venue of the public hearing, but was not recognised by the probe committee.

Vandals threatening products’ supply – NNPC CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

he Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, yesterday decried incessant vandalism of pipelines and product theft posing great danger to the efficient distribution and supply of petroleum products in parts of the country. The NNPC Group General Manager, Andrew Yakubu, who condemned the act, spoke against the backdrop of the recent line break in

Ije-ododo community in Ojo Local Government Area of Lagos State. According to a statement by the Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division of NNPC, Mr. Fidel Pepple, the group general manger said that if left on checked, the nefarious activities of pipeline vandals could cripple the smooth operation of the downstream sector of the industry. Yakubu, who declared open the 3rd Triennial Delegates Conference of the

Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association, PENGASSAN, in Abuja, noted that less than one week after the vital system 2B was restored after extensive repair work on the ruptured Arepo point, the corporation had been compelled to shut the line owing to Monday’s attack on the Ije-ododo point. He said: “We had over 774 break points since August 2012 from Atlas Cove to Ilorin depot. Between Atlas Cove and Mosimi depot, we recorded 181 break points,

from Mosimi to Ibadan, we had 421 ruptured points and from Mosimi to Ore, we recorded 50 vandalised points. “Also between Ibadan and Ilorin we had a total of 122 break points.’’ According to Yakubu, though the NNPC is working hard to ensure effective distribution of petroleum products across the country through increased trucking, the trucking option comes with enormous cost which is totally unsustainable.

he Director General of Debt Management Office, DMO, Dr. Abraham Nwankwo, has said that retail investors who are interested in the Federal Government Bond can now do that through the secondary market, with the appointment of Stanbic IBTC Stockbrokers to manage the bonds. He disclosed this at the presentation of Stanbic IBTC Stockbrokers to the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, as government stockbrokers to its bonds. He said, “Since 2003, we have been trying to develop the sovereign bond market in Nigeria and we have been taking various steps to do that. Recently, JP Morgan included the Nigerian Bond market in its index. “That shows that in their independent assessment, our bonds market is growing, though we still have some more challenges to deal with, but it is appreciated all over the world that we are doing the best to develop

the bond market. “So going forward, we felt we need a bond broker so that the FGN bond could be actively traded on the exchange. The FGN bond is currently being traded on the counter. Though it is good, but in every economy, you also need it to be traded on the floor of the Stock Exchange. “What we have done by appointing Stanbic Stockbrokers as the FGN stockbroker is to ensure that the FGN bond is actively traded on the Stock Exchange. That will ensure that retail investors are mobilised to participate. This will make development inclusive. He said this was line with the transformation agenda of the government, adding that as the government tries to transform the economy, the capital market is an integral part, and as such, it is part of government’s effort at developing the capital market. He added that trading the bond on the NSE and OTC will make the trading more balanced and boost market liquidity.

Reps order arrest of NPC chairman, Odimegwu TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

he House of Representatives yesterday issued a warrant of arrest on the Chairman, National Population Commission, NPC, Mr. Festus Odimegwu, for turning down a summons before the House Committee on National Planning. Odumegwu is to appear before the committee to defend ‘inconsistencies’ in a recent recruitment exercise conducted by the commission. While issuing the arrest warrant on Odimegwu, the Chairman of the committee, Hon. Ahmed Idris, said the NPC boss had turned down more than two invitations to appear before the committee. The chairman said yesterday that despite warnings to discontinue the recruitment exercise, Odumegwu went ahead with it. He said: “In spite of all the communication including a letter asking him to suspend the recruitment exercise, he went ahead to issue appointment letters

without due process which violates federal character principles. “In view of the above, the committee hereby nullifies all recruitment exercises. One of the invitation letters reads in part: “Sequel to the Thursday, 6 December 2012 meeting held with your Director of Admin and Legal Adviser on your organisation’s nominal roll, recruitment exercise and other staff matters and to know the extent of compliance with principles of federal character as enshrined in Chapter Two, Section 14 (3) of the 1999 Constitution.” Idris said the committee had demanded the suspension of the exercise following petitions from several Nigerians and its oversight. According to him, the committee was constrained to invoke Section 88 (1d) to force the chairman’s appearance. The section gives both chambers of the National Assembly express powers to compel the appearance before the legislature of any person.

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News

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Two killed, five injured in Osun bank robbery WALE FOLARIN OSOGBO

wo persons were killed and five others injured during a bank robbery at Ikirun in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Osun State yesterday. Armed robbers, num-

bering about six, stormed the bank at about 4:pm while workers were preparing to close for the day. The injured victims, who were said to have been hit by stray bullets, were immediately rushed to hospital for treatment, while the bodies of those killed were deposited in

the morgue. The armed robbers shot sporadically into the air to scare onlookers, as they overpowered the bank’s guards in an operation that lasted for about 30 minutes. They first raided customers using the Automated Teller Machine (ATM)

of the bank before moving into the bank hall where they carted away an undisclosed sum of money Confirming the incident, the police spokesman, Mrs Folashade Odoro, said the state police command had deployed its men to the town to ensure the arrest of the suspects.

L-R: Chief of Defence Staff, Vice-Admiral Ola Ibrahim; wife of the deceased, Mrs. Alero Azazi; daughter, Mrs. Perembo Fadipe and Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Abubakar, during the condolence visit to the family of late former National Security Adviser (NSA), Gen. Andrew Azazi (rtd) in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: OLUFEMI AJASA

Money laundering: EFCC arrests another suspect with $130,000

OLUFEMI ADEOSUN ABUJA

he Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has again arrested one Bashir Abdu for non-disclosure of $130,000 allegedly found on him. It will be recalled that the EFCC had, on December 12, 2012, arrested Aminu Lamido, the eldest son of the Jigawa State Governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, at the same airport on his way to Cairo, Egypt over money laundering allegations. Aminu Lamido, who is currently on administrative bail, was arrested during security checks as he prepared to board an Egypt Air flight to Cairo. His arrest followed the discovery that he declared $10,000 in his possession to the Nigerian Customs at the airport while a physical search by operatives of the EFCC found he had tucked away another $40,000, total-

ling $50,000. According to a statement by the anti-graft body, Abdu was nabbed by the operatives of the commission yesterday at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano. It said that Abdu, a Nigerian but with a Dubai resident permit, was on

his way to Dubai on board Egypt Air when he was arrested by the EFCC for failing to declare the $130,000 on him. “He only declared the gold bars with him and 30, 000 Saudi Riyals,” the statement said. The commission added that arrangement had been

concluded to arraign the suspect in court as the “offence is punishable under Section 12 of the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act Cap. F34 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 and Section 2(5) of the Money Laundering Act 2011.”

GLO empowers Lagos NULGE with 25,000 toll-free lines

ommunication giant Globacom Nigeria Limited yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to provide 25,000 toll-free telephone lines for members of the Lagos State chapter of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE). Speaking at the launch of the Glo/NULGE Close User Group held on at the Remi Tinubu Hall of Yaba Local Council Development Authority, Globacom’s Head of Public Sector, Mr Tunde Amunikoro, said the package would enable members to communicate

with one another seamlessly at reduced costs daily. “This partnership, easily the most convenient in the industry, is designed to promote productivity and efficiency through communication, and is in continuation of Globacom’s meaningful contributions to the lives of the generality of Nigerians.” Amunikoro said. He said NULGE members would get the Subscribers Identification Module (SIM) cards free and would not pay rentals for the first month whilst subsequently paying six hundred naira monthly

charge. Calls among members in the CUG group are free of charge, while calls to other networks are at reduced rates. Also speaking, the Lagos State President of NULGE, Comrade Lasisi Ayinde Akinsanya, said their partnership with Globacom was based on the track record of the company as a socially reliable and trustworthy indigenous company. He commended Globacom for the initiative and urged NULGE members to avail themselves of the opportunity to foster bonding and friendship by regularly using the lines.

Christmas: 31,500 FRSC personnel to prevent traffic infractions

he 31,500 personnel of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) yesterday began a 26-day nationwide special patrol in line with its drive to reduce the spate of road traffic infractions on the nation’s highways. A breakdown of the deployment indicates that 18,000 officers, 13,500 special marshals and 800 vehicles will be actively engaged for this year’s Christmas and New Year nationwide special patrol as part of measures to engender safer road conduct among motorists. Speaking during a media chat at a stakeholder’s forum in Abuja, the FRSC Corps Marshal and Chief Executive, Osita Chidoka, said: “We have deployed 800 vehicles and 13,500 personnel with effect from today for intensive patrol and rescue activities from this period up to the point of return, to calm down speed and ensure traffic control” Tagged “Operation Zero Tolerance,” the FRSC’s focus will be on traffic control/calming, clearing of obstructions, checking speed limit and overload-

ing violation, dangerous driving, use of phone while driving, light signal violation and other road vices. According to the Corps Public Education Officer, Jonas Agwu, “23 corridors such as Sagamu-Ore-Benin, Lokoja-Benin-Auchi, Onitsha-Ihiala-Aba, Abuja-KeffiAkwanga-Hawan Kibo-Jos, Minna-Birnin-Kebbi-Sokoto-Gusau-Funtua-Zaria, Kabba-Umuoke-Ekiti-IdoIlesha, Benin-Warri-PataniPortharcourt and Makurdi-Oturkpo-Obollo Afor-9th Mile highways and 65 routes have identified nationwide for this exercise. “Twenty critical traffic control points notorious for causing traffic gridlock will be manned by FRSC operatives, in addition to 20 help areas and 12 zebra points along these identified corridors for prompt first aid and medical assistance to victims of road traffic crashes. “The nationwide exercise is the highpoint of the Corps’ consistent tradition in the year towards road crash reduction and to avoid a one-off approach to road safety management in Nigeria.

NEMA strategises to access Lagos pipeline explosion site

he National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has commenced building a foot bridge in order to gain access to the site of the pipeline explosion that occurred at Ije-Ododo in Ojo Local Government Area of Lagos State. NEMA spokesman, Mr Ibrahim Farinloye, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Wednesday, near the marshy site of the explosion, which has continued smouldering almost 72 hours after it happened. He said that the construction of the plank bridge was a collaborative effort between the agency and the indigenes of the area, as well as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) because of the swampy terrain. Farinloye said: “We had to wait for the residents and the officials of the NNPC before we could gain access to the site.” Farinloye explained

that exigencies of safety demanded the presence of specialists before anyone could make the last 100 metres or so to the spot of the explosion. NAN reports that armed policemen arrived at the scene, alongside a team of the Pipelines Products and Marketing Company (PPMC) at about 12:40 pm on Wednesday to ensure that the spot could be accessed and examined. Though the cause of the explosion had not been confirmed by any of the relevant arms of government, it was suspected to have been caused by vandalism of the pipelines.

Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola

South West

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Police seal off Ogun PDP secretariat as factional groups clash FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

he fragile peace existing between the two factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State yesterday snowballed into an open confrontation as members engaged one another in a clash at the party secretariat in Abeokuta, the state capital. The clash, which left one person unconscious, prompted armed policemen, as well as the State

Security Service (SSS) officials to seal off the party secretariat. The clash between members of the factions loyal to the party’s financier, Prince Buruji Kashamu and those of the former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, began over the control of the party secretariat. While many members of the two warring factions were injured in the melee which lasted close to 30 minutes before security personnel arrived at the scene, five persons were

also arrested in connection with the fracas. An unidentified man was allegedly hit with objects suspected to be charm in the confusion and started vomiting blood profusely before he was rushed to an unknown hospital for medical attention. Armed and stern-looking policemen prevented journalists and other visitors to the party secretariat from gaining entry into the premises after the situation was brought under control. Yesterday’s clash be-

tween the two factions started when the members of the Bayo Dayo-led state executive committee, who had earlier in October, been evicted from the party secretariat by the Dipo Odujinrin executive stormed the party premises and attempted to regain possession. The Odujinrin-led executive, however, resisted the move, which eventually resulted in the clash. Speaking with journalists after the incident, the Bayo Dayo-led faction de-

scribed the developments that led to the fracas as the “illegality of the highest order”. He also accused some elders of the party fomenting trouble within the party. Dayo said that the executive under him was the authentic leadership of the PDP in Ogun State “as affirmed by various court judgments”. But the Publicity Secretary of the Odujinrin-led executive, Bidemi Osunbiyi, denied the occurrence of clash between the support-

ers of the two rival groups. Osunbiyi said security operatives only prevented disagreement between two members from degenerating into a crisis. The state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ikhemefuna Okoye, who led other senior security chiefs to the party secretariat, told journalists that his men were at the premises to maintain peace, law and order. Okoye said he came to the party secretariat after he was informed that the place “was on fire”.

Money laundering: Babalakin asks court to stop EFCC again K AYODE KETEFE

arely five days after a Federal High Court in Lagos struck out his suit seeking to stop the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Chairman of Bi-Courtney Group, Wale Babalakin, asked the court to scuttle his planned prosecution by the anti-graft body for money laundering at an Ikeja High Court. It will be recalled that the EFCC had filed a 27-count charge against Babalakin before Justice Adeniyi Onigbanjo of Ikeja High Court which essentially comprised alleged offences of money laundering. Babalakin, who could not attend his scheduled arraignment at the last adjourned date on account of his hospitalisation at LUTH, then rushed to the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos with an application for leave to file a motion for an order of certiorari and prohibition against the EFCC, which the court granted.

Babalakin, however, lost the motion on December 14, 2012 when the presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Idris, struck out the suit Babalakin filed to that effect. Justice Idris based his decision on the grounds that Babalakin committed procedural errors by failing to comply with provisions of the court’s rules. The judge had held that under Order 34 Rules 5 of the court’s Civil Procedure Rules, the plaintiff (Babalakin) is required to depose to and file an affidavit of service of court processes on the respondents, a requirement Babalakin failed to comply with. But Babalakin once again re-filed the suit yesterday with a minor adjustment taking cognisance of the grounds for which his old application was struck out. National Mirror also gathered that the new suit has already been assigned to a judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Ibrahim Buba, and the matter was slated for accelerated hearing scheduled for December 21, 2012.

School head suspended for conducting virginity test on pupils

he Ogun State Government yesterday suspended the principal of Ajuwon High School at Iju Ajuwon in Ifo local Government Area, Mrs. Mrs. Olufunke Olatundun Aladeojebi, for allegedly conducting virginity test on some female pupils. Mrs. Aladeojebi was suspended following investigation by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr. Segun Odubela, said the ministry invited and interrogated the principal to give her fair hearing. Odubela added that a five-man panel had been set up to further investigate the case and make appropriate recommendations on how to deal with the matter. The panel has 14 days to submit its report.

L-R: Director-General, Obafemi Awolowo Institute of Government and Public Policy, Prof. Adigun Agbaje; Head, Servicom, Nigeria Institute of Social and Economic Research, Mr. Mutha Ibrahim and representative of the Director-General, Prof. Adefemi Olokesusi, at a media workshop in Ibadan, Oyo State, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Soyinka bags Awolowo Prize for Leadership LEONARD OKACHIE

he Selection Committee of the Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership has named Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka as the recipient of the Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership. The Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership is an initiative of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation set up in April 1992 to serve as the custodian of Chief Awolowo’s intellectual legacy. It was established as an independent, non –profit, non-partisan organisation dedicated to immortalising the democratic and development-oriented ideals of the late sage. Speaking at the ceremony yesterday in Lagos, Chairman of the Selection Committee, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, said Soyinka was unanimously adjudged by the committee to possess the highest degree of attributes for the award. The attributes, he mentioned, include integrity, credibility, discipline, cour-

Soyinka

age, selflessness, accountability, tenacity of purpose, visionary and people -centred leadership, as well as respect for the rule of law and press freedom. The former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, who did not disclose the number of nominations, however noted that an impressive number of nominations were received. He acknowledged that many of the nominees are eminent persons who have made tremendous contributions in various spheres of national and international life. “The prize consists of medal, a certificate and a plaque. The emphasis is on the intrinsic value of the award, which, in itself, not only confers considerable

honour and recognition on the recipient, but also serves as a strong incentive for the pursuit of the excellence in leadership and good governance in Nigeria, ” the Chairman said. Chief Anyaoku said that Prof. Soyinka had, in various ways, demonstrated many of the core values that have been associated with the late Chief Awolowo, and which the Prize is meant to encourage and reward. He said that Prof. Soyinka’s appropriate citation would be given at the actual award ceremony scheduled to hold on March 6, 2013, to coincide with Chief Awolowo’s birth anniversary. Others on the Selection Committee are eminent Nigerians, such as Justice Muhammed Uwais, Prof. Akin Mabogunje, Sir Olaniwun Ajayi, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Olorogun Felix Ibru, Prof. O. Akinkugbe, Bishop Emmanuel Gbonigi, Bishop Matthew Kukah, Prof. Adetokunbo Lucas, Prof. Ladipo Adamolekun, Prof. Anya O. Anya, Mr. Bola Akingbade, Prof. (Mrs.) Funmi Soetan and Mr.

Niyi Adegbonmire. It is assisted by the Foundation’s Executive Director, Dr. Tokunbo Awolowo Dosunmu. However, Prof. Soyinka, who was absent on the occasion, sent an SMS to the organisers in appreciation and it read thus: “I consider this as the crème de la crème of all the recognitions I have ever received.” Meanwhile, Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun yesterday congratulated Soyinka on winning the award. Aregbesola, in a statement by the Director, Bureau of Communications and Strategy, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, said Soyinka exemplified the true leadership essence that the late Obafemi Awolowo stood for. The statement reads: “This prize to the Nobel Laureate is a homemade laurel bestowed on our own WS who has traversed the globe raking honours for his academic excellence, scholarship, relentless promotion of the culture of the African people and his service to humanity.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South West

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Osun International market gulps N1.3bn –ACN chair WALE FOLARIN OSOGBO

etermined to boost socio-economic activities in Osun State, the administration of Governor Rauf Aregbesola has spent over N1.3 billion on the construction of the Ayegbaju International market, scheduled for commissioning next April. The state acting Chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, Mr. Adelowo Adebiyi, disclosed this yesterday in Osogbo, the state capital,

while speaking with journalists during an inspection tour of the market. He assured all displaced traders in Osogbo that they would soon be relocated to the market. Adebiyi said the government was constructing the market to ensure rapid economic development of the state, adding that the plight of the displaced traders was a concern to the government. He disclosed that the government embarked on demolition of some structures in the state capital

to pave way for development and to boost the economy of the state, in the interest of all. The ACN chairman added that the government had provided alternative for all displaced traders. Commending Aregbesola for his efforts in promoting Public Private Partnership, Adebiyi noted that the administration had transformed the state through its Six-Point Integral Action Plans. He said: “The effort of the government at es-

tablishing the Ayegbaju International Market is to show that the state government cares for all and sundry in the state. It is therefore important for the people to make use of the opportunity offered them by the project.” The Project Coordinator, Mr. Johnson Makanjuola, disclosed that the international market has 420 open stores, 210 ministores and 500 open shops, adding that the state government had committed billions of naira into the project.

L-R: Osun State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori; Governor Rauf Aregbesola; acting Vice-Chancellor, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Prof. Niyi Gbadegesin and Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, during a stakeholders meeting on LAUTECH at the institution’s auditorium in Ogbomoso, yesterday.

Revenue service shuts seven firms over N71.9m tax evasion

agos State Internal Revenue Service, LIRS, has closed seven companies for not remitting N71.9 million workers’ income tax to the coffers of the state. Most of the companies sealed yesterday were in the hospitality business. The Head of the Distrain Unit of LIRS, Mrs. Folasade Coker-Afolayan, told the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, that the affected companies were in default for one to three years. She said: “Six of the companies failed to remit their workers’ income taxes for 2010, while the other company defaulted to remit workers’ taxes from 2008 to 2010.” Coker-Afolayan added that the state-wide tax enforcement drive would continue until people imbibed the habit of paying their taxes willingly.

She said that payment of tax was a constitutional obligation and that tax evasion was a serious crime. “Tax payment is civic responsibility of everyone because that is the only

way government can provide the necessary infrastructure for the citizens,” she said. Coker-Afolayan warned companies that were sealed not to reopen for business until they settled

their debts and liabilities. She said: “It is unlawful for anyone to assault tax officials while performing their lawful duty. Anyone found wanting in this regard will be dealt with accordingly.”

Ford Foundation donates 100 RRR waste bins to Lagos

agos State Government has received 100 Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, RRR, Waste Bins from Ford Conversation and Environmental Grants to support effort of the state to attain a cleaner and sustainable environment. Receiving the waste bins, the Commissioner for the Environment, Mr. Tunji Bello, said the ultimate target of the state was to attain a zero tolerance waste management as well as a sustainable environment conducive for economic activities. Bello, who spoke through the Acting Per-

manent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Mrs. Adebola Afun, said the government initiated Lagos Greenery Programme to ensuring that the citizens attain a sustainable and healthy environment. He said: “Corporate and private organisations should collaborate with the state government to sensitise, educate the citizenry on the benefits derivable from a cleaner environment and the need for attitudinal change on waste disposal, desist from littering the environment and be environmen-

tal friendly.” The commissioner commended the foundation for taking the right step in the right direction while urging other corporate organisations to take a cue from the kind gesture and see it as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR. The spokesperson of the Ford Foundation, Mrs. Laura Oloyede, explained that the RRR Campaign sponsored by Ford was aimed at educating the general public on the importance of proper waste disposal and the need to educate them on how to properly care for the environment.

Lagos screens female civil servants for cancer MURITALA AYINLA

agos State Government has commenced the screening of female civil servants for breast and cervical cancers, to prevent needless deaths arising from the diseases. This is as the government also trained 60 health facility managers on quality health service delivery. The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, who disclosed this yesterday in Lagos, explained that the exercise which began on Monday would end tomorrow. According to him, the screening holds at the Drivers’ Pavilion within the Secretariat’s premises, Alausa, from 9am to 4pm daily. He said: “Activities planned for the exercise include individual and group counselling, health talks, screening, treatment and appropriate referral if need be. “A daily schedule has already been released to the different Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, to know which of the days their female staff members are expected to go for their screening.” According to Idris, breast cancer is an abnormal growth in the tissue of the breast which is the

commonest form of cancer in women in Nigeria. The commissioner added that it occurs among women of various age groups but prevalent among women under 30 years in 15 per cent of the cases while the life time risks for all women of developing the disease is 10 per cent. He said: “In the same vein, cervical cancer is the commonest genital cancer killing women especially in sub-Saharan Africa. “It is the second commonest cancer affecting women in Nigeria and it is prevalent among the sexually active women in reproductive years. Both breast and cervical cancers could be managed if detected very early as early detection is the first line of management to prevent unnecessary deaths in women.” One of the identified factors for high rate of deaths associated with cancer, according to the commissioner, is low level of awareness among the people on how the disease can be detected.

Fashola

N10.9bn theft: Court permits ex-FinBank director to travel abroad

Lagos High Court in Ikeja yesterday granted leave to a former Director of FinBank Plc, Dayo Famoroti, to travel abroad for medical treatment. Famoroti is standing trial alongside a former Managing Director of FinBank Plc, Okey Nwosu, for allegedly stealing N10.9 billion belonging to the bank. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, charged the two men to court alongside two other former directors, Danjuma Ocholi and Agnes Ebubedike. The four accused, according to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, are facing a 26-count amended charge of stealing and had pleaded not guilty to the charge. Justice Lateefat Okunnu, delivering her ruling

on the application filed by Famoroti’s counsel, Mr. Yemi Sowemimo (SAN), ordered the court registrar to release his international passport. She noted that the application was not opposed by the prosecution, adding that the passport should be returned to the court’s custody immediately the defendant returned to the country. This is the third time Famoroti is being granted permission by the court to travel on health grounds since the defendants were arraigned on May 10, 2011. The court had on July 13, 2011 and June 25, 2012 granted him permission to travel to England where he is being treated for an undisclosed ailment. Okunnu adjourned the matter to January 24 for continuation of trial.

South East

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Obi swears in Customary Court of Appeal President, two commissioners CHARLES OKEKE AWKA

overnor Peter Obi of Anambra State yesterday swore-in Justice Samuel Okoye as the new President of the Customary Court of Appeal. The ceremony, held at the Governor’s Lodge in Awka, the state capital, followed the retirement of the former Court of Appeal President, Justice Chinwe Amechi. Justice Okoye, until his elevation as the substantive President, was the Acting President of the Court. His appointment was earlier approved by the National Judicial Council and confirmed by the state House of Assembly. Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Obi urged Justice Okoye to use his position to improve the ju-

dicial system and sustain the existing cordial relationship between the judiciary and the executive. He expressed satisfaction that the state is on course to achieve its vision to build a better future. The state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Peter Afuba, said the appointment complied with all requirements of the constitution. He thanked the governor for his conscious efforts to ensure that all categories of courts are established in the state in order to promote quick dispensation of justice. Responding, Justice Okoye thanked the governor for the opportunity offered to him to serve. He commended the governor for his cooperation and proper funding of the judiciary.

Governor Obi also swore-in two commissioners. They are Dr. Lawrence Ikeakor now in charge of the Ministry of Health and Mr. Sabastine Okoye

CHRIS NJOKU OWERRI

he Imo State Police Command yesterday disclosed that it had arrested 16 suspects in connection with the abduction of the Nollywood actress and Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Affairs, Nkiruka Sylvanus. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Vitalis Onugu, disclosed that the suspects were arrested during a raid of the kidnappers’ dens, adding that they were already assisting detectives in their investigation. The Nollywood actress was kidnapped on Sunday evening by gunmen who were dressed in police uniforms and operated with Sports Utility Jeep

truggle for national balance through the creation of new states in the South-east continues unabated as former Abia state governor Dr. Orji Kalu warned against allowing outsiders to play on the imaginary divisions within the geopolitical zone. Kalu said: “I have heard a lot of comments especially

In his speech, Governor Obi advised the appointees to use their wealth of experience to contribute to development of the state.

of the intensified efforts of the government and security agencies to end kidnapping in the state”. Also, members of the Actors’ Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Southeast zone have, demanded the immediate release of the actress. Nollywood actors, led by its National Vice-President in the South-East, Ikechukwu Ezenagu, a lawyer, barricaded the entrance of the Government House in Owerri, displaying placards with various inscriptions such as “Southeast Governors, give Nollywood actors security,” “Insecurity is the bane of investment in the South-East,” and “Turn away from kidnapping and join Nollywood,” among others.

Committee provides succour for flood victims

• Elumelu leads team to Imo, Abia

he Presidential Committee on Flood Relief and Rehabilitation (PCFRR) on Tuesday visited communities ravaged by flood in Imo and Abia states, promising to rehabilitate the victims and provide support for preventive measures against recurrence. Leader of the visitation group for Abia, Anambra, Imo and Cross River states, Mr. Tony Elumelu, said the Federal Government, through the PCFRR, was bringing private sector approach to solving national issues. The visitation team, embarking on the first phase of providing relief and rehabilitation support to the victims in Imo and Abia states, presented relief materials, including foods, mattresses and beddings to affected com-

New states won’t divide S’East –Kalu by so called prominent men who still believe in marginalisation as an instrument of war. Some of them claim the Igbo are quarrelling over names for the proposed states. Others claim there are agitations over who should benefit from the arrangement. These are all diversionary. Call them

North Local Government Area, while Dr. Lawrence Ikeakor was the former Chief Medical Director of Amaku Teaching Hospital.

L-R: President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Chief Kola Jamodu; Anambra State Governor Peter Obi; Chairman, MAN, Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu states, Dr. Chike Obidigbo and National Vice President, Enugu, Prof. Frank Jacobs, during a visit to the Anambra State Government House in Awka, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Police arrest 16 over Nollywood actress’ abduction (SUV) with tinted glass and security siren at a location in Owerri, while shooting a film. Meanwhile, the state government has directed security agencies to arrest any unauthorised person found using siren and vehicles with tinted glasses. The Imo State governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, said that the renewed war against unauthorised use of siren and tinted glasses was among the measures adopted by the government to checkmate crime in the state, especially during the Yuletide period. Okorocha, who expressed sadness over the abduction of his aide, said: “The perpetrators may have engaged in that wicked act to embarrass the state government and possibly make mockery

as the new Commissioner for the Environment. The ceremony also took place at the Governor’s Lodge. Mr. Sabastine Okoye is from Obaofemili in Awka

Njaba, Adada, Orashi, Aba, Etiti or even Anioma states. The people are not divided, just create the states first.” The former governor said it was usual for opinions to differ.”Not everybody in the Western region supported the creation of Mid-west in 1963.There were politicians who felt the Northern and

Eastern regions were playing politics with the process. And name does not really matter. Afterall, in General Yakubu Gowon’s broadcast on May 27, 1967 that divided Nigeria into 12 states, there was no mention of Kwara state. What he mentioned was West-central state, comprising Ilorin and Kabba

munities. During a courtesy call on Governor Rochas Okorocha in Owerri, the Imo State capital, Elumelu, who was accompanied by some members of the sub-committee, including fashion icon Mrs. Folorunso Alakija, and Secretary-General of the Red Cross Society, Bello Hamman Diram, said that the PCFRR would also support rehabilitation and preventive measures in collaboration with government agencies. “This committee was set up to provide relief, rehabilitation and prevent future occurrence. It was bad that the flood occurred and people and communities were affected, but we will see better communities come out of it,” Elumelu said. Okorocha, however, described the gesture as the

Provinces. States he emphasised were free to change names. That was how Kwara came to be.” He also cited other examples where what was expected by some was not met, yet it did not affect the creation of those states.”Let us look at Ogun state at creation in 1976.I guess many Ijebu

highest form of sacrifice which only a few people would do. According to him, it is instructive that the Elumelu-led team, despite huge economic achievements in various fields of endeavour, still showed commitment to the plight of the poor. At the Government House, Umuahia, the Abia State capital, Governor Theodore Orji thanked the team for its support and presented a comprehensive report of the affected communities and plans to provide succour.

Elumelu

thought Sagamu would be named the Capital City. Their expectations were dashed when Abeokuta got it. They saw the hand of a Son of the Soil who was just a step below the Head-of -State at Dodan Barracks. Again, when Delta state was created, the Urhobo felt Ughelli or Warri could have been picked, not Asaba as Headquarters,” Kalu added.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Troubled times for Nigerian governors

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Yakowa: Quintessential public servant, erudite politician bows out

LG poll: ACN accuses Kwara court of bias FELIX NWANERI

he Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has expressed serious doubt over the ability of the Kwara State High Court to do justice in the appeal filed by it against the decision of the Election Petition Tribunal on the chairmanship of Ofa Local Government

Area of the state. In a statement yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said its concerns stemmed from the improper constitution of the court and the perpetual refusal of its applications while granting that of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). It therefore appealed to

all lovers of democracy and rule of law to prevail on the court to ensure that justice is not only done in the case, but that it is seen to have been done. The ACN is challenging the decision of the tribunal on the basis that it exceeded its jurisdiction in the determination of the petition filed by the PDP and its candidate against the victory

of the party’s candidate during the January 2011 rerun election for the chairmanship of Ofa council. The party said that since the inception of its appeal, the appellate section of the High Court has always been improperly constituted by just two judges, contrary to the requirement of the law that three judges must sit to determine the appeal.

ACN said: “The implication of the court being composed of only two judges is that there cannot be a majority decision in case there is a disagreement in the opinion of the two judges, and there would be no way to state the position of the court. This is the basis of the law requiring a panel on appeal to be composed of odd number of judges. “It is trite law that where a party to a matter requests that a case be stated by the High Court to the Court of Appeal on interpretation of any provision of the constitution, the High Court has no choice in the matter as it is bound to so grant the application. “It is rather disappointing that their Lordships of the High Court of Kwara State are hell-bent on deter-

mining this case in a proceeding which has shown an outright bias in favour of the respondent, the PDP. Pursuant to that, the ACN’s application for the case stated to the Court of Appeal, which raised a recondite point of law on whether the Local Government Election Petition Tribunal had the jurisdiction to interpret any provision of the Constitution and declare certain provisions of the Kwara State Local Government Electoral Law, 2004 illegal, was rather refused by the High Court in a questionable proceeding. “This is quite worrisome as we believe it is the constitutional right of every litigant who is displeased with the decision of a court of law to appeal against same in accordance with the law.”

Kogi Elders’ Forum berates Wada’s opponents OLAJIDE OMOJOLOMOJU

L-R: Niger State governor, Babangida Aliyu; Chairman, Chanchaga Local Government, Yakubu Sallau, and Managing Director/CEO. Grand Towers, Uchenna Duru, at the presentation of a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding on the construction of Minna City Center in Minna, yesterday.

PDP berates LASIEC over stakeholders’ forum OLAJIDE OMOJOLOMOJU

he Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has descended heavily on the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) over its frequently organised stakeholders’ fora, describing them as “diversionary, waste of money and indeed an insult on Lagos electorate.” The PDP was of the opinion that the LASIEC, as presently constituted, is “shamelessly partisan, yet has elected to dance in the naked.” The party was reacting to the last Stakeholders’ Forum organised by LASIEC and where it accused Lagos electorate of not coming out to participate in the October

22, 2011 local government poll. It said: “This LASIEC as presently constituted has failed Lagosians and like a leper, it can never be attractive in subsequent elections. Meanwhile, it is a blackmail of Lagos electorate to accuse them of exhibiting voters’ apathy during elections. The truth remains that Lagos electorate participated satisfactorily enough and voted against the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), but the LASIEC, acting out the script written by the ACN, disenfranchised many voters.” Accusing LASIEC as presently constituted as an arm of the ACN, the PDP argued that for the people of the state to have confidence in the system, it must be dissolved. The PDP added: “The

present LASIEC must be dissolved to give us confidence. It is only organising the frequent fora to justify the misappropriation of the N36 billion allocations it got to conduct its affairs. The commission should desist from wasting taxpayers’ money in the name of stake-

holders’ forum which will lead to nowhere.” It said that all the suggestions made prior to the 2011 local government poll were never utilised, hence there is no need to keep asking for contributions that would not be taken into consideration from stakeholders.

he chairman of the Kogi Elders’ Forum, General Salihu Ibrahim (rtd), has blamed the losers of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primaries that produced Captain Idris Wada for the crisis rocking the state. A faction of the group had accused the governor of non-performance and corrupt practices. While addressing a press conference in Lokoja, the state capital, Ibrahim de-

15-yr-old is Speaker of Osun children’s parliament

15-year-old, Miss Olaide Popoola, has emerged the first female Speaker of the Children’s Parliament in Osun, beating 90 other contestants from 30 local governments. The Executive Secretary of Osogbo Local Government, Isiaka Aderibigbe, decorated Popoola on yesterday at the secretariat of the council. Popoola is a student of Ataoja School of Science in Osogbo and hails from

Osogbo Local Government. Aderibigbe, who lauded the achievement of the speaker, further said: “With this unique feat, it has been clearly demonstrated that your colleagues place high premium on your ability to steer their ship to the promise land. “It is also an eloquent testimony to the confidence reposed in you as a worthy ambassador of the state of Osun Children’s parliament.

‘’With this on my mind, I wish to admonish you to always allow the overall interests of your people to be your guiding principle as we celebrate you today as one of our own who make us proud.’’ The father of the speaker, Ayodele Popoola, expressed appreciation to Aderibigbe for deeming it fit to honour his daughter, saying that the success of his daughter was not for the family alone but for the state at large.

clared that the Abuja-based group were not registered members of the forum and as such should not have the right to use its name to attack the governor, who was their opponent in the last election in the state. Ibrahim, a former Chief of Army Staff, stated that the forum is proud of the achievements the governor has recorded so far, even as he lamented the attitude of the Abuja-based politicians who have constituted themselves as clogs in the wheel of the development of the state. His words: “The present administration is facing series of litigation arising from the December 3, 2011 governorship election, which to us should have been put behind by every contestant now, since somebody has been declared winner, but the problem kept recurring.” He, therefore, called on the aggrieved politicians to come back home and support the present administration in the state, instead of continuous bickering and needless agitation.

Politics

AYODELE OJO writes on the challenges confronting some of the state governors with the death of Governor Patrick Yakowa in a helicopter crash in Bayelsa State.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Troubled times for Nigerian governors

his is not the best of times for Nigerian governors. In recent time, some of the state chief executives have been battling with health-related issues, political crisis and air crashes claiming the life of one of them. Even the son of one of the state governors was last week arrested at the airport for money laundering. In less than two months, two of the 36 state governors had air crashes. The first involved Governor Suntai Danbaba of Taraba State on Thursday, October 22 while last Saturday’s unfortunate helicopter crash in Bayelsa State claimed the life of Kaduna State governor, Patrick Yakowa. While the nation was still in grief about the sudden loss of Governor Yakowa, rumour filtered in that Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State had passed on in India on Saturday. It turned out to be a hoax. Two days earlier, on Thursday, Governor Ibrahim Shema lost his younger brother. Indeed, it has been a tragic period in the fold of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum.

Chime The state of health of Enugu State governor, Sullivan Chime, has been a source of worry for the people of the state. Chime was last seen in the state on September 9. Since then, the whereabouts of the governor has been handled with discrete. There is no official explanation as to the condition of the state governor. What the state government simply said was that Chime is spending his “accumulative leave.” But several sources said Governor Chime has serious health challenge which he has been trying to find solution to. There was a rumour on Saturday that the governor was feared dead in an Indian hospital. The state government promptly denied the report, saying the governor is alive.

Imoke

Yakowa Suntai Suntai Sun tai

Yakowa At the burial of the father of the Special Adviser to the President on Research and Strategy, Oronto Douglas, in Okoroba in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, the late Governor Yakowa, who flew into the town in a Naval helicopter, was full of life. While waiting inside Oronto’s living room for the commencement of the burial rites, Yakowa sat with prominent dignitaries including Information Minister, Labaran Maku where National Mirror’s reporter engaged the minister. At the end of the programme, Yakowa, former National Security Adviser (NSA), Gen. Andrew Azazi, and two aides hopped into the Naval chopper to Port Harcourt where he intended to connect with Abuja. But he never made the journey back home. And Yakowa died. A few minutes after take-off, the ill-fated chopper exploded mid air and crashed into a forest killing all the occupants: Yakowa, Azazi, their aides, Dauda Tsoho and Warrant Officer Mohammed Kamal and the pilots, Commander Muritala Mohammed Daba and Lt. Adeyemi O. Sowole. President Goodluck Jonathan expressed utter shock and sadness over the sudden loss of these distinguished Nigerians, describing it as extremely painful to the entire nation. Ironically, death had a hand in his political growth. Yakowa became deputy governor when the occupant of the office died in 2005. The death of an incumbent president helped him to become the governor. But that same death did not allow Yakowa to complete his tenure in office. His death is, however, instructive. After a successful career in the public service at state and federal levels cumulating in being a Federal Permanent Secretary, Yakowa ventured into politics and was appointed Secretary to the Government

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Chime C Chi me

Lamido

Imoke

of Kaduna State in September 2003. But on July 10, 2005 the Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Stephen Shekari, died in office which paved the way for the elevation of Yakowa as the deputy governor. He contested the gubernatorial ticket on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) but lost to Arc. Namadi Sambo, the incumbent Vice President, who picked him as running mate. The death of President Umaru Yar’Adua and the elevation of Vice-President Goodluck Jonathan helped his political fortune. Jonathan picked Sambo as his vice. And Yakowa became the governor, realising his ambition in 2010. He was able to win the 2011 governorship election and hoping to contest for the second term in 2015 until death came calling. His deputy, Alhaji Muktar Ramalan Yero, was on Sunday sworn in as the governor.

Danbaba Governor Danbaba, trained as a pilot while in office crashed his Cessna 208, 5NBMJ Jet in Yola, Adamawa State on Thursday October 22. Three occupants of the jet died while others sustained injuries. The governor had his hand broken, according to information. For almost two months, the governor has been under intensive care in a German hospital after being air-

IRONICALLY...

YAKOWA BECAME DEPUTY GOVERNOR WHEN THE OCCUPANT OF THE OFFICE DIED IN

2005. THE DEATH

OF AN INCUMBENT PRESIDENT HELPED HIM TO BECOME THE GOVERNOR... SAME DEATH DID NOT ALLOW

YAKOWA TO

COMPLETE HIS TENURE IN OFFICE lifted from the National Hospital, Abuja. He had initial treatment at a specialist hospital in Yola. There is still anxiety over his state of health. The good news for the family is that while the governor has been on hospital bed, his wife delivered twins in Germany.

Cross River Governor, Liyel Imoke, is the latest of the governors with health challenge. In the last one month, the governor has not been seen in the public glare. Following speculations about the health of Imoke, his Chief Press Secretary, Christian Ita, confirmed that the governor is actually sick and that his doctors advised him to embark on medical evaluation. Imoke has taken a two-month leave to use the opportunity to undergo medicals as advised by his doctors. Ita said: “Some three weeks ago, His Excellency Governor Liyel Imoke took a short break after a long, hectic and eventful year, all preparatory to the start of the busy Calabar Festival season. He used the opportunity to undergo medicals, and in the course of so doing, was advised by his doctors to undergo further medical evaluation. Accordingly, His Excellency will be proceeding on a two-month accumulated leave with effect from December 6. In line with the provisions of the Constitution, His Excellency, Efiok Cobham, the deputy governor will act in his place.” Governor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State had his in-law, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar, kidnapped recently. He was later released. Out of health issue, Governor Sule Lamido of Jigawa State had his reputation at stake. His son, Aminu, was arrested at the Kano International Airport by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for money laundering. He was found with $50,000 whereas he only declared $10,000. He has since been released on bail. There were speculations that the governor’s son was laundering money for his father. But Lamido has come to clear himself of the allegation, saying his son was only travelling to Cairo, Egypt for medical of his daughter who has spinal cord challenge. Not quite long ago there were reports that the wife of Governor Abiola Ajimobi was arrested in London for money laundering. The report was later found to be untrue but the damage to his reputation had already being done with the information that went viral on the internet. Politically, Governor Murtala Nyako of Adamawa State is fighting a political battle of his life. He is engaged with the PDP national chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, over the running of the state chapter of the party. It is a battle of 2015 elections.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Politics

OLAJIDE OMOJOLOMOJU presents the profile of the late governor of Kaduna State, Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa as his remains is committed to mother earth today in Kaduna. ‘O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? ... But thanks be to God, which gaveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.’ I Corinthians 15: 55, 57.

oday, Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, the late governor of Kaduna State who died in a Naval helicopter crash in Bayelsa State on Saturday is being committed to mother earth. Since the tragic incident, the nation has been in mourning. Tributes have been pouring in from across the country for a man many described as peace-loving. Born on December 1, 1948, in Fadan Kagoma, Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Yakowa attended St. Mary’s Secondary School, Fadan Kaje and St. John’s College, Kaduna. After the completion of his secondary education, he was admitted into Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria from where he graduated in 1972 with a BSc (Social Sciences) degree. Yakowa chose a career in the civil service when he joined the civil service of the then North Central State, serving as Division Officer for Birnin Gwari division of the then North Central State (December 1974 to July 1975); secretary, Land Investigation Commission, January 1980-December 1980); principal secretary, Parastatals Development, January 1981 to March 1983 in the military governor’s office; Secretary/Chief Administrative Officer of Kaduna State Agricultural Development Project (March 1984 to December 1985) and local government administrator of Saminaka Local Government Area between December 1985 and August 1986. Yakowa excelled in his chosen career and rose to the pinnacle of the service to become Permanent Secretary, heading Health, Works and Transport ministries between 1987 and 1990. In 1990, Yakowa transferred his service to the Federal Civil Service, serving as the Director of Ecological Funds in the Presidency. He was later moved to the Federal Ministry of Water Resource as Director of Finance and Supplies, only to return to Kaduna State as a commissioner during the administration of the late Gen. Sani Abacha between 1994 and 1997. He returned to the Federal Civil Service as the Director, Joint Services at the Ministry of Defence between February 1997 and August 1998. He also served as a Director in the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. He later became a Permanent Secretary and retired on June 14, 1999.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Yakowa: Quintessential public servant, erudite politician bows out THE LATE KADUNA STATE GOVERNOR WAS AND WILL REMAIN

NIGERIAN PATRIOT, WHO CAME TO BAYELSA, A GREAT

BUILDING BRIDGES OF LOVE AND BONDS OF FRATERNITY tee in the Presidency between June 1999 and 2003. He worked assiduously for the Ahmed Makarfi campaign organisation in 2003, contributing in no small measure to the success of his re-election. He was also the chairman of the Rivers State Screening Committee for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2003. In September 2003, he was appointed the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Kaduna. By providence, he became the deputy governor to Makarfi when his former deputy, Stephen Shekari died in July 2005. He became a contender for the plum governorship seat in 2006, but lost to Makarfi’s anointed candidate, Namadi Sambo. He however emerged Sambo’s deputy in the 2007 general election. Providence was yet to play a part in his becoming the governor of Kaduna State in May, 20, 2010, following the demise of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua; President Goodluck Jonathan assumed the presidency and nominated Sambo as his vice. Yakowa thus became the first person from the Christian-dominated Southern Kaduna and first Christian to mount the leadership saddle of the Moslem-dominated Kaduna State. He completed Sambo’s first term of office. At his swearing-in on May 20, 2010, as the 20th governor of Kaduna State, he told the protesting Moslem community of the state: “I take the honour bestowed on me by God seriously in serving the people of Kaduna State, and I am not a Christian governor but a governor for all.” In the April 2011 general elections, Yakowa not only picked the PDP gubernatorial ticket but also ran a successful campaign and was elected the Kaduna State governor with 1,334,319 votes to beat to the second place his closest rival and candidate of the Congress for Positive Change (CPC), Haruna Sae’ed, who polled 1,133,564 votes.

Political career Yakowa’s political career began when he became the chairman of caretaker committee of the Kaduna State chapter of the defunct National Republican convention (NRC) from December 1992 to April 1993 and led the state delegates to the NRC convention. At the advent of the present political dispensation, Yakowa was a member of the National Economic Intelligence Commit-

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Death On December 15, Yakowa died when a Naval Augusta 109 Helicopter crashed at Nembe-Okoroba area of Bayelsa State, while flying to Port Harcourt. Yakowa died along with the former National Security Adviser (NSA), Gen. Owoye Andrew Azazi (rtd) and four others, including Dauda Tsoho, Yakowa’s aide; Warrant Officer Mohammed Kamal, Azazi’s aide as well as the

Yakowa

pilots, Commander Murtala Mohammed Daba and Lieutenant Adeyemi O. Sowole. Yakowa had gone to Okoroba in Nembe area to attend the funeral of the father of Special Adviser to the President on Research and Documentation, Oronto Douglas.

Tributes Since the death of the late governor, tributes have been pouring in. President Jonathan expressed shock and sadness at the unfortunate demise of the governor. A statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Reuben Abati, said: “President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has expressed utter shock and sadness over the crash… The President extends deep and heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the deceased, and the governments and people of Kaduna and Bayelsa states. He describes the sudden loss of these distinguished Nigerians as extremely painful to the entire nation.” The PDP also said that it was shocked beyond imagination at the news of the death of Yakowa and Azazi. Speaking through its National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, the party said that no words can adequately give expression to the depth of its grief, adding that the nation has “lost a great patriot who in about two years in the saddle as the governor of Kaduna State demonstrated an unyielding capacity in wielding together varying fragile interests. He rendered quality stewardship to his people. “Even in the face of daunting security challenges, nothing came close to compromising his iron cast resolve and faith that the phase must certainly pass. It is unfortunate that the nation has lost him at this critical curve in our national history. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also said that he received the news of the crash and those involved with shock and regret. The former president said: “This is indeed a tragedy. Our nation has lost com-

patriots whose contributions have been invaluable and who would still have been giving their best to our development. I pray that God in His infinite mercies grants the deceased eternal rest.” Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar also described Yakowa’s death as a national tragedy. Atiku said it was devastating to hear that Nigeria lost one of its finest breed of politicians, in the person of Governor Yakowa to the crash. Vice President Sambo, while commiserating with the wife of the late governor, Amina, described Yakowa’s death as a great loss to not just the state, but the nation at large, saying: “It is with great sense of sadness that we are here to console and commiserate with the government and people of the state on the loss of my brother, friend, partner and associate.” Senate President David Mark also described Yakowa’s death as monumental loss to the nation, adding that Yakowa was his personal friend, whose death was a personal tragedy to him. He commiserated with the family of the late governor, praying God to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss. Bayelsa State governor, Seriake Dickson described the late Yakowa as a detribalised Nigerian, who within his short life in government built bridges of love and unity. Dickson said: “The late Kaduna State governor was and will remain a great Nigerian patriot, who came to Bayelsa, building bridges of love and bonds of fraternity.’’ The chairman, Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) and governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, said Yakowa’s death has thrown the nation into mourning at a time Nigerians were preparing for the Yuletide. The Ekiti State governor, Kayode Fayemi, in a condolence message expressed shock, saying that the crash was a “big tragedy of monumental proportion which hit the nation when least expected.” Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State described Yakowa’s death as shocking and devastating; Jonah Jang of Plateau State said he has lost a worthy neighbour who had been a committed partner in the peace process in Kaduna and Plateau states; Lagos State governor, Babatunde Fashola, while cancelling all engagements said: “I am simply horrified.” Oyo State governor, Abiola Ajimobi said that the country has lost one of its bright starts in Yakowa, saying that the NGF would “miss a man of depth and sagacity whose contributions to the upliftment of the forum were remarkable.” The Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Shehu, in his condolence message said: “Yakowa was a peace-loving Nigerian who gave priority to the development of the state and its people without bias…. We urge his successor to build on the good work that he started, especially on measures of ensuring peace in the state.” It is no gainsaying that death has dealt a heavy blow on the Southern Kaduna natives, even as political analysts are agreed that it would take divine intervention to see another Christian assume the mantle of leadership in the state. May the soul of the late governor rest in perfect peace.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

Adoke on extra judicial killings IT HAS BEEN SAID EXISTENTIAL HUMANISM

FRY

NDUBUISI fryndubuisi@nationalmirroronline.net (08023016709 SMS only)

he Federal Government recently identified the rot in the nation’s criminal justice system as the principal reason for the escalation of the culture of self-help and terrorism activities in the country. The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Mohammed Adoke (SAN), speaking in a forum organized by the National Human Rights Commission(NHRC), in Abuja also disclosed that the police had carried out extra-judicial killings of over 7,195 people, mostly detainees, in the last four years. These points were the highlights of the paper he presented at the forum. In the paper titled Torture, extra-judicial killings and national security: Human rights implications, Adoke painfully noted that the police have all these years relied on “Police Force Order 237” to commit extra-judicial killings. The Order, which allowed the police to shoot any suspect or detainee trying to escape or avoid arrest, had led to the killing of about 7, 195

he differential rate of development and accomplishments among human beings has often spawned the question of which of the races of the earth is the most intelligent? Conventional assumptions have often placed the Caucasian race at the zenith of these cerebral endowments with Africans condemned to the lowest rung. Although a convincing empirical research that unequivocally settles the connection between race and intelligence is yet to be undertaken, some putative anecdotal and controversial social researches seem to have been confirming the conventional stereotypes. It will be recalled that the renowned geneticist and Nobel Laureate, James Dewey Watson, released a bombshell in 2007 when he attributed Africans’ low intellectual capacity to genetic inadequacies. Watson has been quoted as saying “I am inherently gloomy about the prospect of Africa, because all our social policies are based on the fact that their intelligence is the same as ours – whereas all the testing says that is not really true. I hope that that everyone is equal, but people who have to deal with black employees find this not true.” If this had been said by just any white man, it would simply have been dismissed as the ranting of a demented mind, but Watson is a world acclaimed cell biologist, Nobel Laureate, a co-discoverer of the structure of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA ) in 1953 (with Francis Crick). I had joined several people all over the world in denouncing this assertion, describing Watson findings as having been

SEVERALLY THAT THE SLOW PACE OF JUSTICE IN

NIGERIA IS

UNHEALTHY FOR OUR NATION people in just four years. Out of this number, 2500 were detainees. The justice minister stated that though this figure had been disputed by the police authority, he averred that it is on record that some dishonorable police officers had actually taken law into their hands in the most barbaric fashion by killing suspects and innocent citizens. He added that plans were on the way for his office to take over from the police the power to prosecute any criminal suspects in the courts, saying the police force is peopled by laymen that could not tackle counselling of defendants in the court. Speaking further Mr. Adoke lamented that the principles and practice of rule of law had taken flight in the society, “which condones a situation where citizens take the law onto their hands and summarily try and execute suspected felons”. He deposed that this practice had survived because the “apparent slow pace of the criminal justice system, par-

ticularly the corruption that permeates the system, has been identified as the main reason why citizens take laws into their hands”. He thus believed that “a holistic reform of our criminal justice system is long overdue.” This is just saying the obvious. The state of the nation’s criminal justice system is very appalling, to say the least. The country is gradually descending into a state of anarchy, a semblance of the law of the jungle where it is war of man against man and the survival of the fittest. A situation where up to 7,195 people were killed extra-judicially in just four years is callous. This type of incident has continued to project our image negatively to the outside world. It is on record that the International Human rights Report 2012 gave a damning report on the human rights situation in the country. This has been the trend over the years. We need to put our house in order to escape this constant condemnation from the international community on our human rights records. As pointed out, the judiciary is a major culprit in the recourse to self help. It has been said severally that the slow pace of justice in Nigeria is unhealthy for our nation. Over the years, nothing concrete has been done to remedy this situation. It was in recognition of this fact that President Goodluck Jonathan, during the swearing in ceremony of the incumbent Chief Justice of the Federation, Justice

Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, stressed the need to create special courts for the trial of high profile criminal and corruption cases. This call, unfortunately, was not favourably received by both the CJN and the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). It is my candid opinion that the call for special courts is expedient, given the precarious situation of our criminal justice system. These courts, if created, will help to decongest the regular courts. Aside from this, our criminal justice system is archaic and due for thorough review. It is unfortunate that all the committees set up in the past for the purpose of this needed review have not yielded any positive results. It is also necessary to release all the reports for all the various committees set up on police reforms. It amounts to a waste of public funds to spend so much on committees purportedly for public good without a corresponding effort to make public their findings, so as to implementing their recommendations. It is hoped that the observation of Mr. Adoke on the state of the criminal justice system in the country will serve as the tonic needed to carry out the required changes in this area of our public life. Prof. Ndubuisi, an attorney at Law, is of the Department of Philosophy, UNILAG

How intelligent are Nigerians? fuelled by racism and bigotry. The core of my counter-argument then was that other races could have attained development for a number of reasons and that African backwardness was not traceable to any genetic dementia, but was purely traceable to attitudinal intellectual complacency. I still hold that theory today, but I have started to feel progressively uncomfortable with it. How long are we going to lay claim to potential mental equality if we continue to do things the wrong way and other people continue to do theirs the right way? Would it not amount to self delusion if we continuously keep failing on all the indices of wisdom and nonetheless hold tenaciously to a theory that our actual performance does not matter? Looking at our society, our system, in all honesty, could not be said to have benefited much from quality thinking. Our education system is in shambles; we cannot meet our electricity requirement, managing with a meager 4,400megawatts when even South Africa with less than a third of our population generates more than 40,000 megawatts. We are the most profligate gas flaring nation in the world. Last year alone, over 460 billion standard cubic feet of gas estimated at over $2 billion was flared! Netherlands flares none of her gas. Fifty two years after independence, we cannot boast of a vibrant real sector, a fact which makes industrialisation a mirage. Majority of our graduates are graduating into unemployment, or in some cases criminalities. Religious intolerance on daily basis claims lives, with criminality and its attendant insecurity reigning with impunity. Yet you would often see the ruling class go about

INTELLIGENCE RATING IS NOT SOMETHING YOU MEASURE ON THE BASIS OF SYMPATHETIC,

HUMANE SENTIMENTS; IT HAS TO BE OBJECTIVELY BASED ON OVERT BEHAVIOURS in flowing agbada or babaringa, as if nothing is amiss! I don’t know the last time Nigeria announced any breakthrough in any field of science and technology. In matter of intelligence, are we in the same league with the Japanese, Chinese, South Koreans or Indians? Intelligence rating is not something you measure on the basis of sympathetic, humane sentiments; it has to be objectively based on overt behaviours. There was a time when the Japanese were seen as just small yellow-skinned backward people, but not so any longer. The whole world now pays tribute to Japanese technological wizardry. There was a time the Chinese were seen as overpopulated, underdeveloped humanity with specialty in the production of sub-standards goods, and cheap imitation of other people’s technologies. But the story has changed today as the Chinese now rank among the forerun-

KAYODE

KETEFE

kketefe@nationalmirroronline.net 08032147720 (SMS only)

ners in almost every field of human knowledge and accomplishments. When will our own transformation take place? Each time I pondered on our multifaceted problems I keep wondering if Watson had not been right after all! I don’t claim as of yet the perfect answer to the starting question “How intelligent are Nigerians?” But I know that such question is not just to be settled by mere opinion. Scientific laws are there to be discovered, let us go after them, technological feats are there to be invented, let us invent them, laws of human relations based on sociological and anthropological truths and ideals are there to be evolved, let us identify and imbibe them. Knowledge has no respect for colour, if we are really as smart as we claim, let us move forward in concrete ways. Send your views by mail or sms to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mail@ nationalmirroronline.netmirrorlagos@ yahoo.com or 08164966858 (SMS only). The Editor reserves the right to edit and reject views or photographs. Pseudonyms may be used but must be clearly marked as such.

Editorial

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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

STEVE AYORINDE

MD/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

YELE AKINROLABU

ED OPERATIONS

SEYI FASUGBA

DAILY EDITOR

BOLAJI TUNJI

SUNDAY EDITOR

GBEMI OLUJOBI

SATURDAY EDITOR

DOZIE OKEBALAMA

COORDINATOR, EDITORIAL BOARD

ADESOYE ADEKOYA

CONTROLLER, PRODUCTION

CALLISTUS OKE

EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR

ISE-OLUWA IGE

ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF

KAYODE BALOGUN JNR

SM, STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT

FRANK OBOH

HEAD, GRAPHICS

INEC and the de-registration of parties

otwithstanding the House of Representatives’ support for the recent deregistration of 28 political parties by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as expressed by the Chairman, House Committee on Electoral Matters, Jerimon Sunday Manwe, a few days ago, the acrimony and dust raised by the action of the Prof. Attahiru Jega-led electoral umpire last week are yet to settle. The affected parties are bracing up for legal redress while critics view the development as an affront to the future of democracy and the sustainability of the rule of law in the country. INEC purportedly invoked section 78(7)(2) of the Electoral Act (as amended) to de-register the parties said to have failed to secure at least a seat in the National Assembly or any State House of Assembly. The INEC decision, according to reports, also contradicted the 2002 Supreme Court judgment on the liberalization of the political space. The Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) had in a legal battle with the electoral body, secured victory at the Supreme Court that vitiated the perceived power of INEC to de-register political parties. The Supreme Court verdict was that INEC did not have the power to create and de-create political parties; and that the electoral body only had the power to register the flag, logo and constitution of a political party that seeks registration.

Our thinking is that the INEC decision appears undemocratic, authoritarian and violates the principle of the rule of law. The Electoral Act, which INEC relied upon, for example, is not superior to the country’s 1999 Constitution (as amended). The constitution unambiguously provides the right to association of individuals and groups wishing to form a political association or party when certain interests are shared. The political party is an instrument of interest articulation, interest aggregation, political socialization and ideological struggles. We believe these are essential features of any true democracy, which should not be undermined by the whimsical regulation of the political space. It may be conceded that the minor parties are docile and barely contest elections, but are paid grants from time to time by INEC. Yet the electorate’s right to determine what party survives or dissolves through election ought to be respected by any true democracy. The United States which the nation apes as an ideal democratic model, for instance, has about 37 political parties, though the Democratic and Republican parties are dominant. Britain has 417 political parties with a 64 million population. Nigeria’s First Republic had unrestrained minor parties on the basis of the erstwhile 1960 and 1963 constitutions. The minor parties included the United Middle Belt Congress (UMBC), Northern Ele-

WE INSIST THAT INEC’S DELISTING OF THE 28 POLITICAL PARTIES CONSTITUTES A SETBACK FOR DEMOCRACY IN THE LAND ments Progressive Union (NEPU) and the Dynamic Party (DP). Benin Republic has 39 political parties; Algeria, 21; South Africa 82 and Egypt 16, among others. The foregoing suggests that political parties evolve and not decreed by a ‘leviathan’. The parties’ existence is determined by the voters through regular elections. The future of parties should depend on their capacities to organize for elections and persuade the electorate on their programmes and manifestoes. The democratic space ought not to be contrived through strict official regulation. Indeed, political parties should not be obliged to contest national elections. They may choose to pre-occupy themselves with local elections and specific local issues they feel very strong about. It is quite distressing that INEC is still threatening to axe more political parties on account of their docility and irrelevance, so-

called. But we urge the Commission to shift its emphasis from hacking small political parties to improving the voters’ register, securing e-voting, reducing violence at the polls and improving on its logistics, especially in remote communities, coastal areas and semi arid regions. It should expose and deal with corrupt electoral officers who connive with parties to subvert the electoral process. Similarly, the autonomy of INEC will be better enhanced when the appointment of its chairman is conferred on the National Assembly as against the Presidency. The subsisting arrangement whereby Mr. President appoints the INEC chairman creates the perception of partisanship, and rightly so. The parties and civil society organizations should be represented in INEC to promote transparency and fair political competition, accountability and de-politicization of the Commission. This argument was prominently canvassed before the Electoral Reforms Committee and should be included in the nation’s electoral laws to deepen the country’s democracy. We insist that INEC’s delisting of the 28 political parties constitutes a setback for democracy in the land and should be reversed without further delay. It is a huge minus for the country’s democratic process and raises the fear of more such assaults in the future. The electoral agency should not allow this apprehension to be sustained.

ON THIS DAY December 20, 2007 Elizabeth II became the oldest ever monarch of the United Kingdom, surpassing Queen Victoria, who lived for 81 years, seven months and 29 days. Elizabeth II (Elizabeth Alexandra Mary; born April 21, 1926) is the constitutional monarch of 16 sovereign states (known as the Commonwealth realms) and their territories and dependencies, as well as head of the 54-member Commonwealth of Nations. She is also the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, among others.

December 20, 2004 A gang of thieves stole £26.5 million worth of currency from the Donegall Square West headquarters of Northern Bank in Belfast, Northern Ireland, one of the largest bank robberies in United Kingdom’s history. This made it the largest bank robbery in UK or Irish history. Although the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the British and Irish governments claimed the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) was responsible, the IRA denied the allegation.

December 20, 1987 History’s worst peacetime sea disaster occurred when the passenger ferry, Dona Paz, sank after colliding with the oil tanker Vector 1 in the Tablas Strait in the Philippines, killing an estimated 4,000 people (1,749 official). With a possible death toll of 4,375 people, the collision became the deadliest peacetime maritime disaster in history. Dona Paz was traveling from Leyte Island to Manila, the capital of Philippines.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today ‘History should be made compulsory in our schools’ 21

NECO has no ‘miracle centre’ –Registrar TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

egistrar, National Examination Council (NECO), Prof. Promise Okpala, has debunked the wide claim by some members of the public that the exam body was operating special centres otherwise known as ‘miracle centres,’ to favour some candidates in its yearly conducted examinations in the country. Okpla, who stated this in Minna, Niger State, while addressing journalists recently over the activities of the council in the last one year, said the council had zero tolerance for all forms of exam malpractices and would not spare no effort in exposing culprits and bring them to book. “To the best of my knowledge, no such ‘miracle centre’ exists for NECO. All our exam locations across the country are duly approved by the council and monitored by our personnel during the exams and I am saying again now that I don’t have the knowledge of the existence of any other centre established on special arrangement,” he said, adding: “So, I will like to see any member of the public, including the media professionals with useful information to expose at least one the so-called miracle centres and people behind it and bring the matter to the public domain.” He explained that the personnel of the council were men and women of proven integrity and therefore could not engage in such a criminal practice. Okpala, a professor of Education Evaluation and Research, noted that aside the Senior School Certificate exams (internal and external), the council also conducts National Common Entrance Exams for primary school students, National Entrance Exams into the federal unity senior secondary colleges and the newly introduced Basic Education Certificate Exams for JSS students. While he promised that the council would continue to conduct not only credible exams, but exams that have met international standard and acceptability, he also advised candidates to always prepare very well and understand instructions on their questions papers before answering them so as to enable them come up with good grades. The registrar disclosed that the council had put in place formidable measures in eliminating exam malpractice. One of these, according to him, is the use of customised answer scripts for every subject, which he said had made it impossible for candidates or exam officials to smuggle worked answer scripts into the exam halls. “We have also introduced biometric to prevent impersonation and this has zero tolerance for identity theft, we are now engaging lecturers of credible character from universities and security personnel during our exams, all to prevent malpractice. And these have been working for us as we have drastically brought malpractice in our exams to a barest minimum and anybody who thinks of cheating in our exam is a joker as the council will not give room for malpractice,” he pointed out.

Rekindling hope of students with disabilities 20

Okpala

I WILL LIKE TO SEE ANY MEMBER OF THE PUBLIC, INCLUDING THE MEDIA PROFESSIONALS WITH USEFUL INFORMATION TO EXPOSE AT

LEAST ONE OF THE SO-CALLED

‘MIRACLE CENTRES’ AND PEOPLE BEHIND IT

On whether he had experienced a situation whereby a candidate returned his or her fraudulently gotten certificates on the premise of becoming genuine child of God, he said only two persons approached him so far on the matter. “Even at that,” he said, “These two people only asked me for forgivingness without them coming along with their certificates in question. And I told them they did not offend me until they brought their certificates for proof.” The registrar, however, noted that the council was

FG to tackle out-ofschool kids’ syndrome 23

faced with some challenges which he said included but not limited to inadequate funding and qualified personnel, the construction of permanent site buildings, as well as the utility vehicles with which to distribute question and answer papers during exams. Speaking on the justification for the establishment of NECO, which some people consider unnecessary when WAEC is in place for similar exams, the registrar said the council was established as an indigenous exam body to break the monopoly enjoyed over the years by the West African Examination Council (WAEC) in the conduct of internal and external examinations for the senior secondary school students in the country. He noted that the enjoyment of monopoly by WAEC then had denied many academically brilliant students university admission, especially on the year of their graduation from the secondary schools. “That students had to wait at least a year-round for a re-sit exam in deficient subjects before furthering their studies is not good enough for a country like ours that is encouraging a healthy competition and thriving to increase access to university education and with NECO in place, students have the opportunity to make a right subjects combination with which to enter university,” he argued.

Shun truancy, UNN tells pioneer surgeon graduands

Education Today

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Rekindling hope of students with disabilities Despite the persistent abuse of the rights of persons living with disabilities in the country, some institutions, including governments and the individuals are still giving them deserved attention. TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE writes.

undreds of students of primary and secondary schools in Lagos State, who are living with one disability or another, were last Friday celebrated by the state government. This was to commemorate this year’s edition of the International Day for Persons Living with Disabilities, a day instituted by the United Nations and observed by the countries around the world. This year’s edition with the theme: “Removing barriers to create inclusive and accessible society for all,” was designed to express love and care to the children with health challenge in the society. The students related freely with people in the larger society, especially the high profile individuals in government, an opportunity considers rare to many of them. Without gainsaying, people with one disability or another in this part of the world, are known to be subjected to social stigmatisation and discrimination even from their blood relations, but on this occasion, they felt recognised, loved and acceptable by the same people and the society. Aside the general march past by the repre-

sentatives of each participating school, some also involved in cultural dance, reading of Braille novel, ewi rendition, choreography and fashion parade, among others. Another highpoint of the event was the exhibition of various art works they themselves produced. These ranged from the neck beads, batik and adire clothes, insecticides, pomade, soaps, painting frames, handbags to slippers and they were not only beautiful, they were also of high quality. They can compete favourably with similar products in the market. The students, who are made of both sexes and of different ages, ranged from the visually impaired, deaf and dump, mentally and behavioural challenged to those with spinal cord injury. Others included those suffering from polio meningitis, cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome and the lame. While some were born with that health conditions, others were as a result of one illness or another. And they are from Modupe Cole Memorial, Yaba; Atunda Olu School, Surulere; Model College, Agbowa- Ikosi, Ikorodu; Wesley Schools; National Orthopaedic Special School, Yaba; Ojuwoye

Some of the art works displayed by students from Wesley School at the event.

Community Nursery/Primary and Special Education School, Mushin; L.G. Primary School (Unit),Ipakodo, Ikorodu; Roman Catholic Missionary School, IbejuLekki, and Patrick Speech and Language Centre, GRA, Ikeja, among others. These institutions, except a few of them, are operating as regular and all inclusive schools (i.e., they are also admitting students, who are with no disability.) It was gathered that despite their disabilities, some of them were academically brilliants. They do well in class and in the external examinations conducted by such institutions as the West African Examination Council (WASC) and the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB). Those in this category have also demonstrated their brilliance through their involvements in various inter- schools’ academic competitions organised for students in the secondary schools in the state. Paul Ebuka, 18, an SSS 1 student of Model Senior Col-

lege, Ikorodu, was a good example. The visually impaired student emerged the Overall Best in this year`s edition of Bureau Friendly Essay Competition organised by the state Ministry of Transport. And for this feat, he was rewarded with a N2 million scholarship trip to the United Kingdom, among other benefits. “We were six in numbers, who travelled earlier this year to the UK on the account of the Lagos State Government for a seminar on how we could make the state a better place to live and it was an experience I will ever remember,” Paul recalled proudly. National Mirror further gathered that those schools had produced many graduates, who are today contributing significantly to the economy. But those, who are deficient academically among them, are being trained on one vocational job or another so that they will be economically relevant in future. Adeyinka Adenle, who read the welcome address at the forum, is now

Lagos State Commissioner of Education, Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye, in a handshake with a visually impaired, Ebuka Meze, at the event.

an instructor in bead making at one of the schools. But generally, many of them, especially the visually impaired ones, National Mirror gathered, find Mathematics and science subjects difficult to understand. “They are not that good in subjects involving calculations, particularly Mathematics but teaching in class, generally, is required that teachers are patience and tolerance,” disclosed Mr. Onasanya Adetunji, a teacher at Model College, Ikorodu. He added that teachers had to come to their levels and involve them in practical works than theories to enable them (teachers) get the best out of them in class. “The visually impaired, deaf and dump among them,” he added, “are taught with the aid of sign language.” Although, their schools are tuition and accommodation free, they are faced with lots of challenges. The most important one is the dearth of specialist teachers to teach them. Mr. Bidemi Yunusa, a behav-

ioural therapist, at the Patrick Speech and Language Centre, Ikeja, told National Mirror, that his school had no sufficient teachers. They are also confronting with the problems of instructional materials such as Braille, computer system, and audio visual device with which to teach the students. For Modupe Cole’s Schools, Akoka, accommodation is the major challenge. The school has diverse kinds of students with disabilities. The Head teacher of the school, Mrs. Folake Durowoju, said the school was currently overcrowded and because of that, it could not admit new students again. The state’s Commissioner of Education, Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye, who promised that the state government would continue to give a deserved attention to the course of the persons living with disabilities in its various schools, urged parents, corporate bodies and kind-hearted individuals to do likewise.

Overhauling of teaching profession on course –FG IJEOMA EZEIKE ABUJA

he Federal Government has said it would continue on its restructuring of the teaching profession to ensure that only qualified teachers are in employment of the profession. The Minister of Education, Prof Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa’I who stated this on Monday in Abuja maintained that the teaching profession would be exposed to more restructuring so as to phase out unqualified teachers in the entire education system. The minister who disclosed this while declaring open the West African Re-

gional Workshop on Curriculum Innovation and Teachers Capacity Building revealed that stakeholders had identified the poor quality of teachers as one of the reasons for poor performance of students in external examinations. She added that it was important to keep teachers abreast with latest developments so as to enable them communicate the curriculum effectively. Earlier in his remarks, the Director and Country Representative of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), Dr Joseph Ngu, noted that while Sub-Saharan Africa had made progress in access to education, the is-

sue of quality was still a big challenge. Ngu said curriculum and teacher capacity building were germane to quality education, especially in the 21st Century, adding that the large population of unskilled and semi-skilled people pose a threat to the stability of the sub-region. In his key note address, the Minister of State for Education Mr. Nyesom Wike, said it was necessary for the Sub-Saharan African region to join forces to tackle issues that are relevant to their common development. He also said the workshop would afford the participants the opportunity to examine curricu-

lum content, structure and challenges across countries with a view to infusing innovations to address the issues of poverty alienation and inclusiveness. He hinted that the event would equally create an avenue in sharing experiences in mainstreaming Child Friendly School (CFS) model for effective teaching and learning. “it is expected that at the end of the workshop, the capacity of curriculum workers and development of teachers will be enhanced. A common framework in curriculum innovation and teacher capacity development for the sub-region is also expected to be developed,”

Wike said. The minister explained that the workshop was timely, especially for Nigeria as it would help participants to identify innova-

tive approaches, including Information and Communication Technology, open and distance learning for effective professional development.

School ends session with beauty pageant AYO ESAN

he Eagles Tower School, IyanaIpaja, Lagos, has ended the year 2012 with a beauty pageant competition, tagged: “Miss Eagles Pageant”. This year’s edition of the contest, which is for the secondary arm of the school, was the 6th edition. The competition, which featured 12 contestants, was won by a Senior Sec-

ondary School (SSS1) Student, Rosebel Vincent. The prize for the winner, according to the principal, Mr. Osawe Henry, is N25, 000 and a cruise ride from home to school and vice versa for one academic year. Speaking on the award, the 12- year- Rosebel, whose hobby is dancing and singing, said she thanked God for the achievement, promising to give her studies a deserved priority.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today

Thursday, December 20, 2012

How would you assess your 10 years of representing Nigeria at UNESCO? I was in UNESCO between year 2000 and 2009 and I will say I had very positive impacts on the world educational policies and programmes. We brought good image to the country and it also earned us a good opportunity to be part of the global efforts to reposition the education system for good globally. I must tell you that, I had opportunity to relate with a total of 10 education ministers within the 10-year period but this rather than creating instability in our policies, the experience of the appointed ministers never permitted such. This might also not be dissociated from the fact that I only had two Presidents to work with; former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and late Umaru Yar’Adua. I spent eight years with the former and two years with the latter. Also, as a result of the different ministers appointed at the different times, I can tell you that the ideas were diverse and the diversity of these ideas enriched the performance of our delegation to UNESCO. Instead of us to be talking about unstable policies, I can say that the appointment of new ministers usually brought new dimensions and freshness to our programmes. It also taught me that when people stay too long in the office, they tend to run dry of ideas. Also of importance to mention is the great support I received from Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as a president of the country. His vision for the education sector was very clear and he pursued them very vigorously. His was to give the best to the country’s education system and that actually informed his decision to allow the private investors to come in. He allowed protocols to be served and ensured conventions were signed. He ensured that Nigeria contested major elections in the world body and we won all the elections we contested for during his tenure. What specific roles did you play within the global body? I was Nigeria’s ambassador and permanent delegate to UNESCO. I was also Nigeria’s representative at the International Bureau of Education in Geneva, Switzerland, where school curriculum is produced. Then, I was President, General Conference of UNESCO and the first West African to be so appointed. I was there between 2003 and 2005. It was very difficult at that time but President Obasanjo working with Professors Tunde Adniran, Babalola Aborishade, Fabian Osuji and Chinwe Obaji, made our operations very smooth then. With your experience at the global body, how do you see the dwindling fortunes of education back home? I think our major role at the time was to link Nigeria with other countries of the world for the advancement of education, culture, communications and information. And so, what we did was to put Nigeria forward for membership of councils and committees where experts from Nigeria will come and interact with their colleagues from other parts of the world. And we were on many of the committees and commissions serving in various capacities all aimed at learning new trends in the education system and to be in turn taken home for implementation. We served on NonGovernmental Organisation’s Committee of the Executive Board of UNESCO; Nige-

History should be made compulsory in our schools –Ex UNESCO boss Prof. Michael Omolewa was Nigeria’s Ambassador and Permanent Delegate to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), Paris, France between year 2000 and 2009. The first West African President of the world body’s General Conference, in this interview with MOJEED ALABI, takes a look at his 10-year tenure and reflects on pertinent educational issues including the waning glories of History as a subject in our schools. Excerpts:

THE STUDY OF

HISTORY GUARANTEES THE PROMOTION OF INTEGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF OUR GREAT COUNTRY

Omolewa

rian was elected a member of the executive board of UNESCO; Nigeria was elected on the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO, which was very competitive. In addition to that, we established UNESCO’s chairs, which are established in developing countries in partnerships with universities in advanced countries. We established many of those chairs in our universities and also, at the general conferences of UNESCO, the ministers were usually invited with various proposals and recommendations to the world body. So, when looking back, I can humbly tell you that the world really influenced Nigeria and Nigeria also influenced the world in positive ways. Despite these efforts, why the sector is continued to degenerate? I wouldn’t want to agree with you that things are going down on daily basis because I am sure within the last one decade or so, various governments at different levels have been committed to educational reforms and so it would be difficult to substantiate such a claim. Though, immediately I left UNESCO, I moved on to spend two years in the UK as a member of the Advisory Council for Teachers’ Mobilisation and Recruitment of the Commonwealth. As I understand, the long years of abandonment the educational systems have suffered could not allow the speedy recovery we all expect, but then, there are always rooms for improvements and I believe we would get there some days. You seem to be an advocate of public-private partnerships in the running of educa-

tion system but people have viewed the evolvement of private academic institutions as part of the factors influencing the neglect of public institutions by government. How would you react to this? I think the first thing is that fingers are not equal and that is why you see the fees being paid in Oxford University in the UK higher than others and likewise institutions as Harvard and Yale in the US, among others. There are people who are ready to pay for the services not yet provided in public schools and we cannot bar them from doing so, because if you do, they will go elsewhere to have it and further take the money meant for our economy to those places. I think what the private institutions have come to do is to offer alternatives to education provided by the public but rather than limiting their chances of survival, they should serve as eye openers and bring on board healthy competitions and rivalry. There is a growing belief that the crises rocking the country are caused by the high rate of illiteracy in the country, particularly in the northern geopolitical zone. What is your view on this? I think you may want to know what illiteracy is all about. There are some people we consider illiterate, who are really very literate. They can be literate in other languages apart from English. There are others who are seen to be literate but very illiterate. They are illiterate in the sense that they are socially and politically ignorant. They can be economically illiterate as long as they don’t know how to make money. Illiteracy is a very flexible

term, but generally speaking, I understand your point that illiteracy can breed gangsters and the irrationalities currently pervading our nation. But I think what is important for us now is to undertake a study of the impacts of illiteracy on our national growth and development. As a stakeholder in the nation’s education sector, why do you think History as a subject of study is losing its importance in the secondary schools’ syllabus? I think there are five issues to consider here. The first is that there are those, who are uncomfortable with the knowledge of the past because they have wreaked so much havoc on the society that they don’t want them to be remembered. So, for History not to be in existence in our schools is their joy. Also, there are some countries that have perpetrated evils against African nations either by trading in slavery, colonialism, among others. So for them, phasing out the study of History in schools, make them more comfortable. There are also those who believe that History when properly studied arouses automatic quests for independence which may lead to revolution. The fourth one is the fact that those teaching History itself would have to be proactive. They cannot just sit down there and expect those working against the subject’s study to easily give up. No! They have to work for it. They must articulate the values of the subject and arouse the people’s interest so that the people themselves can demand for it. The last is the subject itself must be made more flexible, relevant and appropriate to the modern trends. Some Nigerians are more aware of Europe and America than their birthplaces and that is informed by the way western education was brought to us. To get things back on track as I have said above, the stakeholders including the History of Education Society of Nigeria, the History Society of Nigeria should be up and doing to get the subject returned to our classrooms as lively as before. They must write relevant textbooks, redesign the curriculum to accommodate new developments because the study of History guarantees the promotion of integration and development of our great country. In your view, what do you think about making History a compulsory subject for secondary school students in the country. I think what should be done is for making learning of History compulsory for a particular period of time during which they could call an emergency period because of the lost glories. This will enable it to be properly restored because this cannot just be achieved under ordinary circumstance by making it optional. Rather, it has to be made compulsory to ensure everyone of our pupils has knowledge of their pasts.

Education Today

Pen Junior School gets lab IBADAN

n ultra-modern global standard laboratory for the development of science and engineering related subjects is to be constructed and donated by Mr. Seyi Makinde, for the Pen Group of Schools owned by the Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). Makinde pledged to construct the laboratory project while speaking at the maiden edition of the year 2012 Xmas carol organised by the Gbenga Opadotunled executive of Oyo NUJ. The laboratory project to be solely financed by Makinde and opened for use next year, also coincided with another on-going library building project being undertaken for the school by the families of late former Governor of the State, Chief Kolapo Ishola , in his memory. The politician and philanthropist, who drew inference and quoted copiously from the holy Bible to laud a number of developmental projects being undertaken by the state chapter of NUJ, said he was not surprised because these were the kind of things you see “when the righteous people are in position of authority.”

NOUN to partner Lions’ Club

iceChancellor, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Vincent Tenebe, has promised that the institution would collaborate with Lions Club in the area of awareness creation about the open and life- long learning model system operating by the university. He stated this at the installation of the institution’s Bursar, Mr. Monday Onyeme, as the President of Lions Club, District 404A Nigeria, Asaba, Delta State, recently. Tenebe, on the occasion, was honoured by the humanitarian association with an Award of Excellence for his immense contribution to the development of university education in the country. He was represented at the forum by a facilitator in the university’s School of Education, Dr. Gabriel Job.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Shun truancy, UNN tells pioneer surgeon graduands DENNIS AGBO

KEMI OLAITAN

Thursday, December 20, 2012

ENUGU

he management of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), have restated their commitment towards the provision of a conducive environment that would enable students to achieve their academic desires and shoot to national limelight. To this end, the institution says it has not only sponsored lecturers on study trips to some world class universities abroad, to boost learning and re-

search, but has also refurbished all hostels to make them more conducive for students, while security on its two campuses had been beefed up. In his remarks at the swearing–in ceremony of its 13 pioneer dental surgeons at the institution’s College of Medicine in Enugu, the deputy ViceChancellor in charge of Academic, Prof. Isaac Asuzu, challenged the graduands to shun truancy and greed but to always show love to their patients and maintain the high

standard for which UNN was known since its inception in 1960. Prof. Asuzu, who represented the Vice- Chancellor at the forum, expressed joy that despite initial difficulty, the institution had now made history by graduating its pioneer dental surgeons, following recent accreditation of the Dental School by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria. He however, called for the participation of the private sector in the funding of university education in the country, adding that:

Assistant General Secretary, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Mr. Felix Odusanya; Vice-President, National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu, Mrs. Portia Imo; Deputy ViceChancellor(Administration), University of Ibadan, Prof. Arinola Sanya; President, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Mr. Taiwo Oyewumi; Public Relations Officer, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Miss Bakare Ummukuthoum and the General Secretary, Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Mr. Olaniyi Oladire, all from the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy during their courtesy visit to Prof. Sanya in Ibadan, recently.

We have renovated 400 schools –Ahmed WOLE ADEDEJI ILORIN

he Kwara State Government said it had rehabilitated 400 classrooms at the basic and senior secondary school levels this year. Also, another set of 200 would be rehabilitated shortly to achieve its goal of realising a vibrant education system, as well as getting the required appropriate infrastructure for it to be beneficial to pupils and students. Governor of the state, Dr. Abdulfatah Ahmed, stated this on Monday at the inauguration of a new private sector driven group of cchools-the Adrin Schools. The governor, who commended the initiator of the schools for embracing the state government’s policy of a virile basic education culture, said that his administration would not hesitate to close down any school found to be violating the statutory standards for the education sector in the state. Ahmed explained that government’s policy on

education was informed by the realisation that “a child’s basic educational development was directly correlated to the foundation laid at the basic level.” According to him, the government intends to strengthen the capacity of our Quality Assurance Unit to ensure that all public and private schools adhere to the teaching standards and benchmarks outline in educational policy, in pursuit of ensuring highest standards of teaching and learning in the state’s school system.“ Ahmed said his administration would complete the second phase of the rehabilitation of the state school for special needs while the International Vocational Centre, Ajasse-Ipo, would be completed and first set of students would be admitted during the coming year.

Ahmed

“The era when we depended only on government for funding has gone and as matter of fact, great universities globally rely on their alumni for grants to carry out capital projects.” Also speaking, the Dean of Faculty of Dentistry, Dr Oge Okoye, described the graduands as warriors and history makers, stressing that despite their minimal size, they had been grounded in character and learning and could compete favourably with their peers anywhere in the world. She noted that UNN was the only university in South East Nigeria that is offering dentistry Administering the physician oath of allegiance, on graduands, on behalf of the Registrar of Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, the Provost, UNN’s College of Medicine, Prof. Basden Onwubere, warned them against unethical practice. He told them that the university was using members of its alumni association globally to monitor performance of members. Prof. Onwubere, hailed the pioneer dental sur-

geons for their rare brilliance, having recorded a 100 per cent success in their final year examination, which attracted a loud applause from the university’s Senate during their just concluded meeting. He, however, explained that the Provost’s Prize introduced in the college was to boost scholarship, learning and research, among students of the institution. He also disclosed that some of the past graduates of the college, who are based in the United States of America had agreed to donate N150, 000 annually for the next 10 years to stimulate research in the college under a group, called African Research League. Odo Tochukwu emerged as the Best Overall graduating student while dignitaries in attendance included the chairman of Nigeria Medical Association, Enugu State Branch, Dr. Obinna Onodugo, former deputy Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Mrs. Rich Umeh and the wife of late Provost of the College, Prof. Mrs. Magaret Aghaji, among others.

UI partners rabies’ experts to curb disease TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

iceChancellor, University of Ibadan (UI), Prof. Isaac Adewoye, has reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to collaborate with epidemiologists and rabies experts to stamp out rabies in the country. He stated this when a team of rabies experts and officials from the Federal Ministry of Health paid him a courtesy visit in the university recently. The visit was aimed at intimating him with a detailed programme of the maiden edition of the International Conference on Rabies in West Africa (RIWA) to be co-sponsored by the Centre for the Control and Prevention of Zoonoses, UI and the Federal Ministry of Health. The VC, in a release by the university’s spokesman, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo, assured the visitors of the university’s readiness to partner with the association so as to jointly tackle rabies-related diseases in the country. Expressing their appre-

ciation for the VC’s support so far, the visitors stated that rabies in Nigeria was assuming an alarming rate, and if not contained now, it would spell doom for the country. Speaking on behalf of others, the co-Principal investigator, Dr. S. Cadmus, noted that experts in rabies were contributing their quota in tackling the disease, but would do more by collaborating with institutions and individuals that are dealings in rabiesrelated health conditions. “Statistics have shown that as rabies in dogs increases so also in human beings because there is a direct correlation between the two” he said, noting that, rabies in human is deadly and non treatable. “So there is the need for us to work out a preventive measure by ensuring that people are properly treated when they are exposed, and pet dogs are properly immunized against the disease,” he noted In another development, the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, has called for community policing as a way of curbing the rising

crime rate in the country. He stated this when the new Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mbu Joseph Mbu, led a team of senior police officers on a courtesy visit to his office recently. The VC, in a statement by the university’s spokesman, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo, urged the police high command to take community policing seriously, adding that: “the Uqwniversity of Ibadan is committed to building a collaborative partnership with the Nigeria Police in this regard. According to him, there is the need for the police to go back to community policing. We have deemed it necessary to bring the police into our village square meeting. This is necessary as criminals live in the community and members of the community can identify them. This way, the police can curb crime in the society. Adewole noted that the university was currently collaborating with the Oyo State Police Command in the training of campus security personnel for effective policing and crime fighting on campus.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today

Thursday, December 20, 2012

FG to tackle out-of-school kids’ syndrome “The Federal Ministry of Education has made access to quality education its cardinal policy to enhance and develop citizens with the skills and competences to function in diverse sectors of the economy,” he said. The Minister decried the practice of luring young school children into apprenticeship and business urging a reverse of the situation if the country must attain its literacy goals “I invite you mothers to join us in creating the environment favourable to education of our boys and girls and ensure sustainability of all our activities,” he said. In her remarks, Mrs Rosemary Effiong, a resource person at the work-

shop regretted that the problem of schools drop out on mistaken orientation, peer pressure and unemployment. She urged parents to always seek ways to ensure that out-of-school children receive the attention they deserve for societal development. The workshop for scaling up girl-child enrolment in Nigeria has been held for Mothers’ Associations in North Central, North East, North West and SouthWest geo-political zones in the last one month. More than two thousand mothers participated in the zonal workshops. The leaders of Mothers Associations are expected to train other mothers in different senatorial districts of the four zones.

L-R: Nigerian Ambassador to the US and Guest Lecturer, Prof. Anthony Ibidapo Adefuye; Registrar, University of Lagos, Mr. Oluwarotimi Shodimu; Dean, Post Graduate School, Prof. L.O. Chukwu; Sub-Dean, Dr. Adedun and the Deputy Registrar/Administrative Secretary, Mrs. Yetunde Ogunlewe, at the 2012 Distinguished Lecture series of the institution’s Postgraduate School.

for scaling up girl child enrolment through Mothers’ Associations organised by Federal Ministry of Education in conjunction with the Millennium Development Goals, stressed that the Federal Government has adopted different strategies to ensure success of the project. Wike challenged SouthWest mothers to join mothers in different parts of the North to encourage girls and boys to enrol and remain in school despite the social constraints they face. Represented by the Deputy Director, Gender Education in the ministry, Mrs. Adeola Fola Ola, Wike restated the government’s commitment to gender equality by ensuring equal access of quality education to all.

Provost ranks non-teaching staff high

Ogun boosts technical education with N220m

IJEOMA EZEIKE ABUJA

n a bid to meet some of the targets at the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) the Federal

MOJEED ALABI

he Provost, Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka, Lagos, Dr. Sijibomi Olusanya, has commended the institution’s branch of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) for what he described as its unflinching support for the college’s management. Olusanya made this remark recently during the maiden edition of the association’s annual public lecture, which was organised as part of its end of the year weeklong celebration. He said of all the unions on the campus, none had been as proactive, cooperative and supportive as NASU. “As a matter of fact, the Director of State Security Service (SSS) visited us on this campus recently and without prompting him, he was quick to note that their investigations revealed that

Government is making effort to ensure that less privileged out-of-school children in the North and South are enrolled in schools, the Minister of State for Education,

only the union had been less provocative and more mature in their activities,” the provost said. On their part, the union also thanked the leadership of the institution for the support it had enjoyed in terms of staff training and the prompt release of its members’ welfare packages. The association’s Chairman, Mr. Samuel Ogunmokun, credited the school’s management for the implementation of the new minimum wage, payment of hazard allowance to all categories of staff, sponsorship of members for workshops and seminars, among others. “It would interest you to know that contrary to our expectation that the sum of N5, 000 would be paid as non-accident bonus for each driver instead of the N2, 500 being paid before, the management under the leadership of Dr. Olusanya jerked it up to N10,000. We are so impressed and we

Plateau budgets N7 billion for education JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

lateau State Government said its plans were to spend over N7 billion on the education sector next fiscal year. The amount is part of the over N133 billion of the entire state budget. Governor Jonah Jang disclosed this while presenting the 2013 budget to the state Assembly mem-

bers in Jos, the state capital on Tuesday. According to him, the amount would be used to renovate and equip five schools in each of the three senatorial zones, as well as the renovation of Technical College in Bukuru. The governor added that the amount would also cover the renovation and construction of three science schools in each of the senatorial zones of the state.

Mr. Nyesom Wike, has declared. The minister who spoke in Ibadan at the weekend during the closing ceremony of the capacity building workshop

pledged our further support,” Ogunmokun said. Meanwhile, the union has further requested the management to, among other things, review upward the staff training and development allowance from its current N15,000 for National Diploma programme applicants to N45,000; N55,000, N65,000, N75,000 for BSc, MSc and PhD respectively. They also demanded for the speedy completion of its administrative blocks and suitable offices for other categories of other workers within the union. This year’s lecture, which was titled: Unionism as a Tool for Effective Management, was delivered by the Registrar, Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, Ijanikin, Lagos, Mr. Bola Disu, who enjoined members of the union to exploit their working environment to acquire more certificates and climb up the ladders of promotion to enjoy more benefits. The guest speaker also advised the union members to always see violence as no solution to crisis but rather as a means of complicating complicated situations.

Prof. Ayeni

TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

he Ogun State Government has earmarked a total sum of N220 million for the renovation and purchase of equipment for the stateowned science and technical colleges. The money for the project would be provided through the Private Public Partnership (PPP) arrangement. The Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Science and Technology, Dr Tunji Abimbola, made this known while speaking for the ministry

at the 2013 budget defence before the Finance and Appropriation Committee of the State House of Assembly recently. According to him, the step became necessary in order to fill the gap, which the paucity of trained technical manpower has created. He added that the measure would bring back the lost glories of the technical education in the state. On the model schools, the special adviser said the foundation laying ceremony for the second phase would be performed by the state governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, next February.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr. Segun Odubela, said that list of secondary schools to be renovated next year was being compiled and that government would not only renovate those schools but would also provide them with other facilities that can aid effective teaching and learning. Responding, Chairman of the House Committee on Education, Hon. Bankole Oki, urged the state government to ensure that no government school was left behind from enjoying free and qualitative education.

US Consulate conducts empowerment programme for corps members PAUL ARHEWE

he United States Consulate in Lagos has conducted a workshop aimed at rewarding and honoring 100 outstanding Nigerian Youth Service Corps members for their outstanding service in Lagos State for the period 2010-2011. The programme, which took place at the Public Affairs Section of the Consulate, was in collaboration with Gordon Barrett, a Human Resources organisation in Lagos. The idea behind the workshop was to commend the Corps members for their selfless commitment, tireless develop-

ment work, and to prepare them for the future. Using “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” Public Diplomacy Officer, Rhonda Watson, who served as the facilitator, spoke about the importance of determining specific goals and achieving such goals through the seven habits. Noting that habits are learned behavior that are repeated, she explained that when “you sow a thought, you reap an action, sow an action, you reap a habit and then from habit to change.” Ms. Watson told the participants that as young adults, they should continue to “learn and teach others” how to proactively choose

their responses to circumstances rather than reacting without regard for the consequences. In what turned out to be a very interactive session, the participants as well as Ms. Taizir Ajala, the chief executive officer Gordon Barrett, the partnering organization, commended the US government through the Public Affairs Section (PAS) for recognizing the importance of the work the Youth Corps members were doing by rewarding them with the training workshop, one of the laudable programs embarked upon by the U.S. President Barack Obama administration to empower the Nigerian youth.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FROM OTHER LANDS

How Nigerian-owned varsity birthed in Porto-Novo The Government of the Republic of Benin recently granted a licence of operation to a university established by a Nigerian, Prof. Oyebode Ayeni, where many young Nigerians have trooped to in search of knowledge. The ivory tower, ‘Institut Littoral Des Etudes Professionnelles Superieures’ otherwise known as Littoral University, Porto-Novo, is according to the founder, a product of cross-cultural contents. MOJEED ALABI writes.

istorically, PortoNovo was once regarded as a tributary of the Yoruba kingdom of Oyo and till date, there continues to be a sizable Yoruba community in the capital city of the Republic of Benin. The establishment of an English-French run university in this city by a Yoruba Nigerian could be regarded as confirmation of the shared history between the two countries. The founder and ViceChancellor of the university, Prof. Oyebode Ayeni, who was recently enthroned as the patron of the Yoruba community in the city, said the establishment of the institution was in fulfillment of his passion to bring together the cultures of the two nations. According to the VC, the procurement of the licence is not a ‘child’s play,’ as it the strict rules set out by the education ministry of the Republic of Benin were met, and to do that required “massive investment in both human and

material resources.” “We were given some years to operate on temporary basis with close monitoring and supervision by the ministry of education and other relevant government parastatals. Having started out as a school of part-time studies we had been used to the system and not long after we transformed to a university we were offered the full licence to run our five schools,” Ayeni recounted. Having passed through the rigorous conditions to secure the licence for an institution already in its three years of existence, the professor and pastor of the Shito-Seme-based Evangelical International Full Gospel Church, to thank God for the opportunity to impact the people. The university has five schools as approved by the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Benin are; the School of Arts, Communication and Languages under which there are: Mass Communication,

Spanish rectors unite on protest

panish rectors have spoken out with one voice against plans to cut funding for higher education and research. All but one of the heads of 50 public universities took the unusual step of staging simultaneous readings around the country of a joint declaration of protest at midday on 10 December. They were protesting plans to cut 18 per cent from funding for universities and 7.21 per cent from funding for research and development from the 2013 central government budget. Taken together with the financial difficulties of regional governments, this reduction “is bringing our university system to the brink of economic asphyxiation and will cause irreparable harm,” said the declaration. “If univer-

sities do not do research, not only are they not fulfilling one of their essential functions but the country as a whole is being deprived of one of its main drivers for development, progress and well-being,” said José Manuel Roldán, rector of Córdoba University. The cuts are currently working their way through the Spanish parliament and if, as seems likely, they are approved, this will represent a cut in research funding for the fourth year running. “The most important thing is not so much this year’s cuts but rather the brutal drop in funding since 2010,” said José de Nó, a researcher in automation at the Spanish National Research Council, or CSIC, and coauthor of a recent analysis of the cuts. University World News

Linguistics etc; School of Economics and Business Management; School of Law and Political Science including Law, Political Science, International Relations, Conflict Management and Diplomacy. “On the School of Science and Technology we are told to make an affiliation with some universi-

ties but currently, we are making a move to affiliate with the best private universities in Nigeria and in the US. And we have the Bishop David Oyedepo School of Education,” Ayeni stated. Speaking about funding, the VC, said; “We are not in a hurry, we are taking the developmental processes step by step, and even as I speak, we are not on loan because our staff have been sacrificing. Bishop Oyedepo used to say, “If you have a seed and you eat it you are eating your future but if you plant it then expect that harvest will surely come,” therefore, the funding is

done by God.” Some of the students, who spoke to National Mirror, commended the founder for the dream and for giving them the opportunity to be part of a new emerging world of cultural diversity. Ajayi Fehintola is a 200-level student of the Department of Nursing Science, who said the university is a very nice one and “schooling outside Nigeria is a great privilege for me because I have an advantage of learning French Language which is one of our core courses. So, at the completion of my programme, it’s expected that I will be French learned.”

UK teachers end strike over community school two -day industrial

action by teachers over a government proposal to turn their school into an academy ended today. Sinfin Community School, in Derby, was taken over by the government after “serious concerns” about standards were raised following an Ofsted report. But teaching unions argue the school has achieved its “best ever results” and should stay as a community school. An interim executive board will now run a consultation on converting the school into an academy. Susan Arguile, from the National Union of Teachers (NUT), said: “We hate strikes - but we feel that we have no option and members feel that they have no voice. “This has been forced on us by the government.” She added: “Sinfin has had its problems in the past - but it’s a good school and it’s on the up. “This is a community school and I think the name says it all, a good local school for every child.” BBC

Cross section of new students of the institution at their matriculation ceremony, recently.

Row at Burkina Faso University deepens

he crisis at Burkina Faso’s University of Koudougou over the exclusion of students and campus disorder continues, with students denouncing an ‘anti-student campaign’ by the lecturers’ union Synadec, which went on strike to protest denigration of the teaching profession and violence on campuses. In spite of an attempt at reconciliation and visits to the university by Minister for Higher Education, Moussa Outtara in October, the two

sides have not come to any agreement, and both gave press conferences to stake out their positions, air grievances and make demands. A row over disciplinary measures against 16 students, 14 of whom were expelled temporarily or permanently from the university, provoked the dispute. Students demonstrated and went on strike and Outtara, accompanied by another minister, went to Koudougou to mediate. Outtara made it clear on

Quebec students protesting tuition hikes, which would raise university fees by $1,625 over five years. PHOTO: GRAHAM HUGHES/THE CANADIAN PRESS

a second visit that he was in favour of reducing the students’ punishments. But lecturers issued a statement listing their grievances and demanding the punishments should be retained. On 26 November Synadec called a press conference to announce that it was calling a 72-hour strike to protest against denigration of the teaching profession and violence on campuses, and in support of Professor Mahamoudou Oubda who had allegedly been attacked by excluded students, reported Zoodomail of Ouagadougou. The union believed the punishments were “just, measured and legitimate” and that “all education entailed obligations, and wishing to dissociate education and submission to these obligations would destroy educational action”, reported Zoodomail. University World News

S/African students warned against illegal courses

outh Africa’s Department of Higher Education and Training has warned students to be wary of registered private colleges that offer qualifications that do not have an official stamp of approval, writes Leanne Jansen for Independent Online. Spokesperson, Vuyelwa Qinga, said there was concern about institutions that secure registration for some programmes, and then “hide behind” this status to offer unregistered courses. The Mercury recently reported on how a private design college in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, was shut down for offering unaccredited programmes. Style Design College said it had found itself without full accreditation for certain programmes because of how “complex” the system was, and inordinate delays in processing applications.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, December 20, 2012

with Mojeed Alabi mojeedalabi2@yahoo.co.uk or mail@mirroronline.net

and allegiance on Tuesday. Giving the advice at he newly appointed the ceremony, the Special members of the Adviser to Governor Raji Governing Council Fashola (SAN) on Educaof Adeniran Ogunsanya tion, Otunba Abdulfatai College of Education (AO- Olukoga, told them to reCOED), Otto/Ijanikin, La- frain from “anything that gos, have been advised to will compromise their pobe above board in the dis- sition as government apcharge of their duties. pointees on the council”. They were also told not He also reminded them to disappoint the Lagos that the governor reposed State Government that ap- much confidence in them pointed them for the task. based on their individual inThe appointees, who are: tegrity and contribution to Deputy Governor in Bola the development of the state Ahmed Tinubu adminis- and education in particular tration, Prince Abiodun and should therefore justify Ogunleye, Mrs. Oladapo why they were the right perOdunlami and Mrs. Vic- sons fit for the assignment. toria Peregrino, formally “I will employ you to took the oaths of office use your rich and robust

TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

AOCOED’s new council members tasked on performance

New member of the Governing Council, Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, Otto/Ijanikin, Lagos, Mrs. Victoria Peregrino (left) being congratulated by the council’s chairperson, Mrs. Victoria Akran, during the swearing- in ceremony of the new members of the college’s governing council.

professional and business experiences to support AOCOED and make the institution better by the day,” Olukoga advised, adding:

“You should also endeavour to put the overriding interest of the college at the top of your consideration.” Welcoming the trio,

Federal University, Wukari, unveils farm produce at matriculation TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

istory was again recorded at the Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State, when about 500 pioneer students were officially admitted into the institution amidst jubilation. The matriculating students were those admitted last year into various departments in the Faculties of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Pure and Applied Sciences, Humanities, Management and Social Science. The formal launch of the university’s magazineThe CROC- and the unveiling of branded farm produce-soya beans and maize- cultivated by the university were among the highpoints of the celebration, which took place recently.

At the event, the Minister of Education, Prof. Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa’i, described the occasion as remarkable and historic. She restated that the purpose of establishing the university and the eight others by the Federal Government recently was in fulfilment of the Transformation Agenda of President Jonathan’s- led administration on education sector. The minister, in a statement by the university’s spokesman, Mr. Jerry Amah, disclosed that the Bills establishing the nine new universities had been passed into law by the National Assembly and that the process had completed the ground work for their take-off. She noted that while the government had placed high premium on increasing access to university

education, he added that the administration of President Jonathan also took the issue of equity, standards and quality assurance, teacher development and vocational and technical education very seriously in the sector. Ruquyyatu, however, charged the matriculating students to leave their feet in the sands of time with excellent performance in their studies and shun all forms of evil practices. In his remarks at the forum, Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Julius Okojie, enjoined the host community to contribute to the development of the university. He also sued for cooperation of workers and students of the university with the people of the host community.

‘OAU has no plan to increase tuition fees’ ABASS ALOBALOWO (200 LEVEL, (OAU)

he Registrar of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Mr. Ayorinde Ogunruku, has dispelled rumour that the university authority was planning to increase school fees. He was reacting to the last week lecture boycott and protest by students of the institution calling for the restoration of the proscribed students’ union. He said the procedure for fees increment was

quite clear and that the university management did not at anytime deliberate on a matter relating to school fees. The registrar, in a statement, said: ‘’further to the circular issued on Sunday December 2, 2012, on the activities of some students on campus, the attention of the university administration has been drawn to rumours being peddled by some mischief makers to justify their nefarious illegalities that the university has planned to increase school fees begin-

ning from next academic session. Those concerned have even forced some students to boycott lectures without following the university regulations in that regard. But I will enjoin students to disregard the lies, which are being orchestrated by some students in order to drum support for their unscrupulous intentions. He noted that the university administration was committed to the well being and wellness of all the members of the community.

Speaking on behalf of Wukari people, the traditional ruler of the community, the Aku Uka of Wukari assured the university community of the support of the indigenes of the area. The monarch, who spoke through the Andoma of Doma in Nasarawa State, unveiled the branded produce from the university farm.

AOCOED Council Chairman, Mrs. Victoria Akran, expressed appreciation to Governor Fashola for enriching the council with people of proven integrity. She said the council, and indeed AOCOED community, were looking forward to benefiting from the new members’ maturity and well-proven rich experiences in the provision of quality education to the students. “You are taking up membership of the college at a time the 53-year-old institution, the first tertiary institution established by the state government, is

entering a crucial phase in its internally propelled effort to position itself as the nucleus of qualitative teacher education delivery in the country” she said, urging the new members to “settle down quickly, study their papers and briefs and join hands with other council members, and other stakeholders in the efforts to place AOACOED at the very highest point in the pantheon of higher education delivery institutions. “It is our collective belief in AOCOED that only the best is good enough for the college,” she added. Mrs. Akran said a lot still had to be done to bequeath to coming generations an AOCOED that could be a proud heritage of this era. “We need to move into an era of content, curriculum and quality in teaching and learning. The quality of NCE graduates in the country still leaves a lot to be desired. We need to sharpen the skills and competences of our teaching and nonteaching to be able to produce graduates that can compete with their counterparts anywhere in the world,” she stressed.

HE NATION ON SUNDAY of December 16 leads us to the hall of infamy today: “Two arrested over (for) Kano Assembly member’s killing” “The nation was again thrown into mourning with yesterday’s death of… in an helicopter crash.” News: a (not an–which is old school!) helicopter crash. “As the major oppositions’ preparations for the 2015 presidential election gathers (why?) momentum….” “An international photo model who recently returned to Nigeria to setup (set up) shoes and human hair stores….” Last Wednesday, educationists, under (on) the platform….” (National Mirror, December 13) “Plane with 500 pilgrims crash lands in Kano” Which is the verb here? This kind of lexical and structural nonchalance speaks volumes of the profile of any publication. Get it right: crash-lands. And its noun form: crash landing. “The problem occurs when any of these activities are (is) disturbed.” This kind of language weakness is known as error of proximity. “Are we loosing the battle against Boko Haram?” I hope we are not losing the battle against verbal inaccuracies! “Nigeria needs N10.32tn infrastructure (infrastructural) investments in four years—Okonjo-Iweala” “Abubakar urged the beneficiaries to seize (take/use/employ, et al) the opportunity to beat the poverty lane….” Americanism, unlike British English, accepts the faulty word as contextualized in the excerpt! “I am deliberately leaving out the outrightly lewd comments on the Tribune article.” My own comment on the faux pas: outright lewd comments. “…from all nooks and corners (crannies) in Nigeria.” “Road repairers arrested over (for) assault on NSCDC officer” “Vigilante (Vigilance) group arrests suspected burglars at Dagiri” A vigilante is a member of a vigilance group. ”…to gird their loins and acquiesce to (in) in the devastating effects of the government’s planned removal of fuel subsidy come (in) 2013.” “President Jonathan, during his visit to Port Harcourt, observed different construction project (projects) going on in the state….” “In this task, we are ready to gather all progressives willing to engage all shades of opinion….” POLITICS: shades of opinions (plural) “But none has raised more eyebrows than the vulgar display of wealth at (on) the occasion organised by friends of….” “NUPENG, NLC blame government over (for) lingering fuel subsidy crisis” ”…he could be misunderstood to mean that the Nigeria Police has

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

A, not an, helicopter crash NOBODY PRACTISES MEDIA–WHAT WE HAVE ARE MEDIA PROFESSIONALS (have) been busy condoning illegality for a long time now.” And this: an illegality (or illegalities, depending on context). “Alison-Madueke’s position tallies with the OPEC view that any excess supply of oil to the international market would result into (in) a lowering of oil prices which would.…” “At the struggle for independence, the part played by the leaders of yesteryears set each apart to take over the reins of nation building.” Stock expression: yesteryear. “Sex has become a past time, an avenue for recreation....” Get it right: pastime. “Society has been so lenient with the male specie (species) that every woman.…” “Recently, the police again raised its (their) periodic alarms over the apparent siege by armed bandits.” Do we have unarmed bandits? “The laxity can extend to parking in (on) bank premises.” “Are you not worried that things like this is happening knowing the volatile nature of Kaduna? This way: Are you not worried that things like these are…or a thing like this is…. “A case of throwing away the bad (the bath) water and the baby in it.” Idiomatic correctness: throw the baby out with the bath water. “Parents can pay more attention to their underaged children and wards and prevent them from getting behind wheels.” Celebration of health: underage children. “No sooner had this happened than an argument ensured (ensued).” “Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, is now a beehive of activities following the arrival….” Justice in service of community: a beehive of activity. “The contestants beamed happily (or with cheers) at the fanfare accorded them on arrival.” They couldn’t have beamed sadly (or with sorrows)! “It is not enough to point accusing fingers at one’s opponents.” This way: point the finger at one’s opponents. “Politics should not be a do or die affair” Fixed form: a do-or-die affair (take note of the hyphenation). “Eroding confidence on (in) accountancy worries don” “As they say (a comma, please) whatever is good (sauce) for the goose is equally appropriate (sauce) for the gander.”

“I feel that the ultimate emphasise should be on….” Beyond Waziri’s dismissal: emphasis. “…the issue of cost and fees are bound to come up.” The issue…is (not are) bound to come up! “Bayelsa, Adamawa: PDP playing double standards” Trust is a burden: double standard. “MTN trains media practitioners” Nobody practises media—what we have are media professionals. “Electricity consumers lampoon NUEE over incessant industrial action” Why not actions? “Foundation donates stationeries, bags to Lagos public schools” Stationery/cutlery/bedding/loot/fur niture/equipment, et al, are uncountable. Technically, it is called number restriction on nouns. “Reneging on the FG-ASUU agreement is palpably reprehensible and an affront on (to) the sensibility of Nigerians.” “Indeed, some gender sensitive (a hyphen, please) critics were to charge him for (with) not maintaining a high profile and sustained enthusiasm and support for their cause.” “We congratulate Archbishop George Carey for (on/upon) holding his own acre of Christendom….” “According to the source, Shagari openly endorsed Buhari and enjoined Babangida and his supporters to do same.” Get it right: supporters to do the same. “…the mass exodus of members to other parties should be a source of worry to the leadership of the party.” ‘Exodus’ involves massive movement. “You better get down on your knees and do what I am doing right now.” The end of illusions: You had better get down…. “Every detail of our daily life furnish (furnishes) compelling reasons for pessimism.” “NNPP paths way with NDP” This way: parts (not paths) way… “In fact when it is not a victim of communal clashes, it suffers fallouts of....” ‘Fall-out’ is uncountable. ‘There is the erroneous tendency to blame all the shortcomings in the electoral process at the doorstep of the Independent National Electoral Commission.” Get it right: blame on (not at). “Though recent amendments to the Electoral Act have changed some deadlines with regards to the submission of the lists of candidates.…” Either as regards or with regard to. “Four years ago, when the former governor proclaimed his presidential aspirations with palpable bravado and fanfare under (on) the platform of the PDP….”

“The politician’s so-called grouse with Obasanjo is not….” This way: grouse about (not with) OBJ. “As the governor observed during his tour of the troubled spots....” Get it right: trouble spots. “Arab leaders appeared not to have put their acts together to join the global movement.” Iraq: get their act (not acts) together. “I remember once when he came to Port Harcourt we worked on a case till 5 a.m. in the morning” No! Just end it at 5 a.m. “…disagreement ensued resulting into shooting to death of one of the ‘okada’ members by the police.” This Life: resulting in. “It was sometimes (sometime) this year while I was still in Abuja….” “For a NAFDAC that has in almost two years been performing creditably towards ensuring that food and drugs need of Nigerians are (is) given standard manufacturing preparation….” “…his predecessors who were on (in) seat for years without actually doing the work for which they were paid.” “Most of the indictments the National Assembly levelled on (at, against) the President....” “Whose actions or inactions rubs (rub) off negatively almost all the time on the image of the industry?” “Out of 50 years of Nigeria’s independence, the military held the reins of power for a period of 29 years.” Standard phrase: reins of government. “…with Goodluck Jonathan on (in) the saddle as the....” “Coalition of parties protest INEC’s demand for more powers” Not yet proximity: coalition of parties protests. “It is perhaps in this light that the series of consultative meeting....” Get it right: the series of consultative meetings. “There was no doubt about the involvement of an officer like late Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu.” Learning everyday: an officer like the late Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu. “Of course (a comma) film-makers should also watch them so that the public can be told the videos are not some comical make-belief.“ My comment: make-believe. “The distressing state of the nation cannot give room for any pomp and pageantry.” This way: pomp and ceremony/pomp and circumstance or, simply, pomp.

POMP AND CEREMONY/ POMP AND CIRCUMSTANCE OR, SIMPLY, POMP

Thursday, December 20, 2012

New season: Oyeniyi sure of Warriors upstaging Hoopers, Pillars 30

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

I was not cited in the match-fixing probe. But I am the head and should be held accountable – Suspended SAFA President, Kirsten Nematandani

FIFA ranking: Only 7 AFCON finalists in Top 10 EVEREST ONYEWUCHI SPORTS EDITOR

Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan (left) with Team Leader, Ruth Izenegu, when the state honoured Delta athletes who won the 18th National Sports Festival (Eko 2012), in Asaba on Tuesday.

Keshi to unveil Nations Cup list on Xmas Day

uper Eagles’ coach, Stephen Keshi, has disclosed that his list of foreign-based pros will be made public on Christmas Day. However, Keshi yesterday in Abuja gave away some of the professionals who will be on that list when he said Russia-based strikers, Ahmed Musa and Emmanuel Emenike, as well as Ogenyi Onazi would be in camp in Portugal on December 29. He also said that Ukraine-based striker, Brown Ideye, would join up with the rest of the squad on the same day. Keshi also mentioned Newcastle United striker, Shola Ameobi and Bright Dike, who is based in the United States, as players who had impressed him to earn a call-up for the Nations Cup. He said that he expects at least 11 of the foreign-based players mainly from Scandinavia and Eastern Europe in Portugal same day. However, he confirmed that Inter Milan midfielder, Joel Obi, will not be involved in the Nations Cup in South Africa on account of a muscle injury. “Joel Obi is out and we will miss him,” lamented Keshi. Meanwhile, Keshi has reacted to

... Denies being owed N30m

a newspaper report (not National Mirror) to the effect that he was being owed the sum of N30 million by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) which amounts to six months salary, saying the story is not true. Keshi said that he understands the financial position of the NFF and does not have any salary dispute with the federation. “In fact the board and by extension the Sports Ministry have been

very supportive since I became the national coach about a year ago. Our friends in the media must cross check facts and not sensationalise things because we are at a crucial period of preparations for a major tournament. “Not that I don’t need money but the nation takes precedence, money will come at the right time, but let’s work first and we will get our dues,” he said philosophically.

… Technical committee summons him

he Technical Sub-Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will meet tomorrow in Abuja to deliberate on several issues related to Nigeria’s participation at next year’s Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa, the African Youth Championship (AYC) for U-20 players and the African U-17 Championship. Chairman of the committee, Mr. Chris Green, said yesterday that Super Eagles’ coach, Stephen Keshi, has been invited to appear before the committee same day to expatiate on his plans to ensure a glorious performance for Nigeria at the AFCON in

South Africa next month. “There are a lot of issues on the table and we have to treat them in order that our teams can start integrated preparations for these major competitions. “It is not enough for our teams to qualify for competitions; we are determined that Nigeria’s flag must be flown brightly and with dignity at every international championship,” said Green. Nigeria plays Burkina Faso, Cup holder Zambia and Ethiopia in that order in Group C of the 29th Africa Cup of Nations, with matches in Nelspruit and Rustenburg.

orld soccer governing body, FIFA, yesterday released its last global ranking of national men’s football teams for the year, with the Super Eagles gaining five places to finish 52nd and placing 10th in Africa. Going by the latest FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, only seven of the 16 finalists to January’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in South Africa are in Africa’s Top 10. The countries are: Cote d’Ivoire (1), Algeria (2), Mali (3), Ghana (4), Zambia (5), Tunisia (8) and Nigeria (10). The three other countries in the continent’s top 10, Egypt (6), Gabon (7) and Central Africa Republic (9) are missing on the South Africa 2013 train. Pundits believe that the ranking means that Eagles have defending

champion, Zambia’s Chipolopolo to contend with in Group C of the AFCON in Nelspruit and Rustenburg during the preliminary stage. In a statement sent to National Mirror yesterday, FIFA said that there were a few shuffles among the global top 10 but with Spain still leading the table ahead of Germany and Argentina, newly followed by Italy (4th, up 1) and Colombia, who have gone up three places and are now in fifth place. “The results of 143 international matches have been taken into account for the current edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking. In total in 2012, the results of 900 matches have been taken into account, more than half of which were friendlies (465, 52%) and more than a quarter of which were qualifying matches for the 2014 FIFA World Cup (257, 29%),” FIFA said.

Zambia lines-up 4 friendlies

frica Cup of Nations (AFCON) defending champion, Chipolopolo of Zambia, has lined up some friendly games ahead of the 2013 AFCON tournament in South Africa. The team is scheduled to play four warm-up matches against Tanzania, Swaziland, Morocco and Namibia, before their first Group C match against Ethiopia on January 21. Zambia’s first friendly match would be against

a non qualified team for AFCON, Tanzania in Dar es Salaam at the weekend. The team would later proceed on a short Christmas break after the Tanzanian game and resume camping in South Africa in January, before playing the friendly against two non qualified teams, Swaziland and Namibia in Nelspruit. Coach Herve Renard considers the friendly games key in the team’s preparation ahead of the start of the tournament.

Oyo SWAN honours Maigari

resident of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Aminu Maigari, will be honoured today in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital as the Football Administrator of the Year at the 2012 Awards and Investitute Ceremony of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Oyo State chapter.

In the letter conveying the selection of Maigari as Football Administrator of the Year, Chairman of Oyo SWAN, Mr. Seun Ajayi-Obe, hailed the achievements of Nigeria’s National Teams in the outgoing year, extolling the leadership style of Maigari and his commitment to excellence.

Sport

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Barca hands Abidal green light

ong lay-off Barcelona defender, Eric Abidal, got assurance from the club to begin full training ahead of his return to the team. Spokesman Toni Freixa said yesterday that the club was delighted by the players’ return a doctors felt he has fully recovered from his liver transplant. “The club’s intention is Abidal’s intention,” Friexa said yesterday. “He has made an extraordinary effort and is happy to have done so because he can live a satisfactory life again. His continuity will depend on what he himself decides, and Barca will always be there at his side,” the spokesman added.

Ronaldo

City eyes Ronaldo’s signature

anchester City owner, Sheikh Mansour, is being linked with an amazing bid for Real Madrid pair Cristiano Ronaldo and Fabio Coentrao. Coentrao, who has become a mainstay of the Real first team and his compatriot, Ronaldo, are also being courted by affluent French side PSG. Moreover, with the future of Jose Mourinho still uncertain, City wants to capitalise and strike before other suitors pounce on them. Money however appears to be object, as City is bankrolled by its super rich owner Sheikh Mansour. According to the Portuguese newspaper, City is prepared to offer £134m for the pair. Ronaldo may interestingly be hampered by going to the Etihad as he would incur the wrath of bitter rivals Manchester United.

Oscar

No rift with O

Vilanova succumbs to tumor

arcelona coach, Tito Vilanova, is set to step down after suffering a relapse of a tumor he had removed last year. The 44-year-old had a tumor on his parotid gland removed last November when he was the club’s assistant manager. He took over the top job after Pep Guardiola stepped down in April this year, signing a two-year contract. Barcelona is currently nine points clear at the top of La Liga and is reportedly in talks with a replacement for the rest of the season, even as it cancelled a scheduled press conference yesterday as the news broke.

Eric Abidal

Tito Vilanova

Samba raps ‘racist Zenit’

Christopher Samba

nzhi Makhachkala defender, Christopher Samba, yesterday said Zenit St Petersburg fans who want non-white and gay players excluded from the Russian team are living in another century. Landscrona, the Russian champions’ largest fans’ group, said black players are “forced down Zenit’s throat”. “I’m not surprised. Everybody knows Zenit supporters are racist,” Samba said. “In this time we have different communities and countries that constitute teams. If they can’t accept that then they are never going to progress.” Zenit is the only top-flight Russian team without a black player until the summer signings of Brazil striker Hulk and Belgian midfielder Axel Wit-

sel. The club was fined by the Russian Football Union after one of their fans offered a banana to Anzhi Makhachkala left-back Roberto Carlos before a match between the two sides in March 2011. Black players in the Russian league have been the target of monkey chants and Samba also had a banana thrown at him by a Lokomotiv Moscow fan shortly after his move from Blackburn Rovers. Samba, 28, believes Russia’s continuing problems surrounding racism would not help the country’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2018. “If we’re not welcome then it would be very difficult to change the mentality ahead of the World Cup,” he said.

helsea Manager, R it as satisfactory not happy to be le line-up for Sunday’s Clu Corinthians. Oscar, who was incl tal One Cup quarter-fi been used sparingly by to date, starting just th charge. The Brazilian playm appointment after bein against Corinthians, bu no rift with the player. “Oscar is a very goo have any issue with him “I try to manage play tion because we have Ed who can do more or less “Oscar will have a lo I’m sure he’ll be a great

Balotelli acc

ecalcitrant Man Balotelli, has ac dropped his ap Premier League club h City is understood striker two weeks’ wa £340,000 for his lack of season. The 22-year-old was and his lawyers were d League tribunal on We the sanctions. However, the issue h the need for tribunal a move on from the affai “Mario remains ava forthcoming fixtures,” terday.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Oscar–Benitez

Rafa Benitez, has described that midfielder Oscar was eft out of Chelsea’s starting ub World Cup final against

uded in yesterday’s Capiinal at Leeds United, has interim manager Benitez ree of his seven games in

maker expressed his disng selected on the bench ut Benitez insists there is

od professional. We don’t m,” Benitez said yesterday. yers, especially in his posiden Hazard and Juan Mata, s the same job. ot of time on the pitch and player for the club.

cepts City fine

nchester City striker, Mario ccepted a two-week fine and peal against the club, the has confirmed. to have fined the Italian ages reported to be around discipline on the field last

NSF fallout: Uduaghan rewards Delta athletes

The Super Eagles will be expected to visit tourist sites during their stay in South Africa

AFCON 2013: SA Tourism gets visitors’ boost AFOLABI GAMBARI

equel to its recent call made to intending visitors to South Africa during the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, South Africa Tourism said yesterday that it had received enquiries from fans in many countries on the continent. South Africa Tourism Regional Director for Africa, Phumi Dhlomo, who spoke to National Mirror yesterday, described the development as encouraging, saying the company has also received calls from countries in Europe and Asia. “We are really impressed by the response that we have received, although we believe more calls will come in as the Nations Cup approaches,” Dhlomo said. “I think it all comes down to what we have been able to offer in the past when South Africa hosted the All Africa

Games, the Rugby World Cup and the FIFA World Cup and the fans certainly want to enjoy the facilities yet again, even as we reckon first time visitors among those who have made enquiries,” he added. On the possibility of Nigeria and other AFCON teams not visiting the famous Table Mountain in Cape Town during the competition after the Local Organising Committee struck out the city from the hosting venues, Dhlomo said: “Every country will be able to visit any tourist site across the country if they so wish and in accordance with each country’s programme, and it has nothing to do with whether or not the site is located at match venues.” National Mirror learnt that South Africa is investing $53.5m on tourism for the Nations Cup while it expects the visitors to contribute $154m to the host country’s economy.

…Coach wants Adebayor U-turn

ogo C Coach, h Didi Didier Si Six iis urging i Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor to rescind his international retirement. Six has not given up hope of persuading Adebayor to change his mind and feature for Togo at the African Nations Cup, which kicks off in South Africa on January 19. “It’s clear that we will need Adebayor but don’t forget we qualified without him

unhappy with the penalty due to appear at a Premier ednesday to appeal against

has been resolved without and the club is now keen to ir. ailable for selection for all ” a club statement said yes-

Sport

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Emmanuel Adebayor

during the play-off Six d i one off th l ff matches,” t h ” Si said yesterday. “I am doing everything I can to get him to come back to us. He’s a world-class player and the Togo national team captain and is very important to the group. “I will put all my strength to get him to change his mind but he has the last word. This is about more than just him sending a warning to ensure Togolese football moves forward.”

elta State Government yesterday in the capital Asaba rewarded gold medallists at the 18th National Sports Festival with automatic employment, in addition to N1m gift. Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, who announced the package at a reception for the athletes said silver medallists would get N600, 000 while bronze winners would receive N400, 000. Athletes that did not win a medal also got N50, 000 for flying the state’s flag at the festival. “Head coaches who won gold receive N1m while the silver and bronze medalists will get N600, 000 and N400, 000 respectively,” the governor said. “Our administration will use sports to create employment for the youths while we promise to continue to encourage deserving athletes with appreciable re-

ward,” he said. According to the governor, Delta State will host an Under-17 African Youth Athletic Competition soon to scout talent. “We have embarked on a policy of promoting sports from primary to secondary school and we hope that this will produce the desired result of sustaining the leading position our state has occupied in Nigeria. Director, Grassroots Sports Development and representative of the Sports Minister, Alhaji Hassan Yakmut, said at the occasion that the state could encourage athletes with a specific body anatomy to participate in given sports. “This will ensure specialisation and promote excellence,” Yakmut said, adding that 65 per cent of Nigerian athletes that won laurels at the past All Africa Games were from Delta State.

Ndlovu for burial Saturday

he funeral of Warriors and Highlanders legend, Adam Ndlovu, has been slated for Bulawayo on Saturday. Family spokesman, Madinda Ndlovu, said yesterday that they are yet to decide on the place of burial but there were indications the football hero might be laid to rest at the Lady Stanley Cemetery preserved for prominent members of the Bulawayo community. It also emerged that former Warriors’ captain, Peter, who was seriously injured in the car crash that killed his brother, has been informed of Adam’s passing after the news was hidden from due to his critical condition after the incident. Members of the public were allowed to visit him yesterday

at Mater Dei hospital where he is receiving treatment after his condition stabilised on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the family spokesman said the Ndlovus were yet to meet with the family of 24-year-old Nomqhele Tshili who died with Adam in the crash.

Late Adam Ndlovu

Golf: Calabar bubbles for Mary Slessor AFOLABI GAMBARI

ore than seventy kids drawn from different schools in Cross Rivers State will be concluding their two days clinic at the Calabar Golf Club today as part of the events of the 2012 Mary Slessor Golf Charity Golf Tournament. A member of the organising committee, Igbe Aruko, told National Mirror yesterday that the clinic had highlighted the event it debuted in 2008. “We believe that this is a platform to develop the game and empower more kids to play golf,” Aruko explained. This year’s event will be teedoff by the Acting Governor of

the state, Barrister Effiok Cobham, while over 100 amateur golfers are expected to feature in the main event that will tee off tomorrow. Organisers said that the Director General of the Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Otunba Olushola Runsewe, and some member of the diplomatic community would take part in the tournament sponsored by First Bank and Lilliker and designed as part of the annual Calabar Festival where players will compete in seven different categories that Category One, Two and Three for both men and lady golfers while veteran players would also compete for a different prize.

Sport

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

SLAMMING AND E-mail: folashayoezekiel@yahoo.com Phone: 08027536696

DUNKING

With SAYO OGUNDEJI

Jennings helps Bucks beat Pacers

unleavy scored 17 points off the bench, including grabbing a key rebound and scoring on a putback after missing a 3-pointer with 1:35 left, to help the Milwaukee Bucks hold off the Indiana Pacers 98-93. ‘’It was nice to have him back,’’ Bucks coach Scott Skiles said. ‘’It didn’t seem like he had been out. He’s not known for being a great athlete. He is really long and he has a really great basketball set. When he is around the rim, usually something good

happens.’’ Dunleavy said it just felt good to be back on the court and to contribute to a win against a Central Division rival. ‘’I felt very comfortable out there,’’ said Dunleavy, who hit 3 of 5 3-pointers. ‘’I feel like my condition is a little bit down, but I felt good. I hate missing games, but it’s good to be back and good to get a win.’’ The other star of the game for Milwaukee was Brandon Jennings, who scored 34 points, grabbed five rebounds and handed out six assists.

Coach impressed with Del camp turnout

oach Oladele Awonuga has expressed satisfaction with the turnout of young and prospective basketball players at the just-concluded three day camp organised by the Del Basketball Academy in conjunction with 43Basketball of Germany. About 70 kids, both male and female from different parts of the country took part in the programme aimed at not only discovering but also giving hope and guidance to the kids discovered during the exercise. The programme, which enjoys international support from a sports kitting company from Germany, according to the coach, has discovered quite a number of talented players who are playing for some of the professional clubs in the country. He said, “We have been able

to discover many young talent who in our opinion, if given proper monitoring, has the quality to make it to any stage they so desire.” “Some of the kids have even participated in the Milo organised secondary school basketball competition and attending this programme will further help them in their carrier as we not only teach them the rudiment of the game but also push them in their quest of becoming professional players in the future. “The support we have enjoyed from our German friends have been massive which has also helped all the kids we have around and we hope the next edition which comes up in February next year will be better than this as we hope to give opportunity to more interested kids.

Participants at the just-concluded Del Basketball 3-day camp.

Premier Basketball League action involving Dodan Warriors and Customs at the Indoor-Sports Hall of the National Stadium Lagos during last season.

New season: Oyeniyi sure of Warriors upstaging Hoopers, Pillars

ollowing their impressive run in the 2011/2012 Premier Basketball League season, Dodan Warriors’ forward, Abayomi Oyeniyi , says his side has improved greatly and will pose a serious threat to the likes of Royal Hoopers and

Kano Pillars winning the league come next season. Warriors were outstanding during the last campaign as they went through the whole regular season unbeaten and the forward who helped his side through the record breaking campaign, insisted that the team would do its best to build on that success. Despite their unblemished record in the league, the coach Adeka Daudu led side failed to live up to expectation as they lost out to the league champions, Royal Hoopers of Port Harcourt, a side they had beaten both home and away during the regular season. Currently, the team is preparing for the new season and Oyeniyi who was excited over his side’s performance in the last campaign, stated that the coaches have been working on how to improve the team’s performance. According to him, his side has learnt a lot of lessons from last season, saying they will throw everything they have into it by mak-

ing sure they emerge champions at the end of the day. “Last season was the best in the history of the club as we won all our matches during the season and the best we can do this time around is to improve on that performance and I can assure you that you will see new Warriors when the new season dunk off, the Hoopers player stated. “The team failed to rise up to the occasion when it mattered most but we have learnt from our mistakes as the coaches have ensured that such mistakes are not repeated any longer. “Most of our players are still very much available which is positive on our side and we have the credentials to dethrone the likes of Hoopers and Pillars if we play up to our potential. The player who praised the Nigeria Basketball Federation for organising a befitting league, however called on the body to ensure there is improvement in terms of officiating and logistics which, according to him, will help the league develop properly.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business & Finance Main One’s pedigree as a provider of dependable and affordable broadband service places NGCOM at a vantage point to offer fast and efficient services to its customers.

We have the sea-link project; a sea-link project is basically a maritime transport infrastructure; we are looking at how we can enhance the volumes of trade that falls within the ECOWAS sub-region and even the Central African region.

Chief Executive Officer, Main One Cable Company, Funke Opeke

NEXIM BANK MANAGING DIRECTOR, ROBERTS ORYA

NERC insists pre-paid metres are free CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

he Chairman, of NERC, Dr. Sam Amadi, reiterated the pre-paid meters being distributed to users remained free of charge, as the cost of the meter had been reflected in the new electricity tariff. In a letter to the consumers titled, Knowing your right about meters, he urged electricity consumers across the country to report any individual requesting payment for a meter or for its installation, stressing that such persons are doing so against the law and are liable to face prosecution by the EFCC. “Any individual requesting payment for meter or its installation is doing so against the law and face procesution by EFCC. If you are a victim of such a practice, evidence (If obtained) in the form of photography or tape recording would be very useful. Be sure to make a note of the full name and branch of any PHCN staff assisting you; they are required to carry ID cards, please report any suspected fraud to your nearest customer service complaint unit (CCU), by email (info@nercng.org), or by writing to NERC”, he advised. However, it is widely known that PHCN official charge between N30,000 to N60,000 for purchase and installation of metres. Meanwhile, electricity Dis-

tribution Companies otherwise known as DISCOs require about N170 billion for the purchase of about 2.8 million meters to meet metering gap in the in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC)’s Principal Manager, Government and Consumer Affairs, Mr. Shittu Shuaibu disclosed this during a presentation at the capacity building programme organised by the commission for energy correspondents in Abuja. Shuaibu, stated that about 2.8 million meters are still required the fill the metering gap in the industry, adding that the com-

mission had proffered ways for sourcing the money. He said the money which would serve as subsidy for poor and less privileged consumers would be sourced from donor agencies including World Bank, International Non-governmental Organisations and rich individuals. Shuaibu, who noted the exercise would commence sometime next year, added that a committee would be set up to determine the beneficiaries and the how to classify who is poor and qualified to benefit from the fund. This power consumer fund is supposed to be warehoused here to serve as a subsidy for the poor

WITH AGENCY REPORT

he naira yesterday fell for a third day, reaching its lowest in a month, as seasonal dollar demand increased and the Central Bank of Nigeria ended its

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Aero Contractors

L-R: Managing Director, Nigerian Bottling Company, Mr. Ben Langat; Managing Director, Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd. Mr. Adeola Adetunji and Director-General, Nigerian Economic Summit Group, Frank Nweke Jnr. at a the cocktail party for the newly appointed managing director of Coca-Cola Nigeria recently.

Naira falls on year-end demand as currency auction ends UDO ONYEKA

and under-privileged consumers” he stated. According to him, already a customer service forum had been inaugurated to handle customer service standards of performance for distribution companies. This he said would ensure that standards expected from distribution companies in the provision of electricity supply to customers, in the area of meter reading, billing, cash collection and credit management for electricity supplies, and stipulates procedures concerning accurate meter reading by distribution companies are realised.

FLIGHT SCHEDULE

foreign-currency auctions for the year. The currency weakened 0.1 percent to 158.05 per dollar. A close at this price would be its weakest since November. 16. The naira has gained 2.7 percent this year, the second-best performing currency in Africa, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. There is high dollar demand due to seasonal, year-end imports and travelling, Jide Nwaogwugwu, a research ana-

lyst at Lagos-based Dunn Loren Merrifield Limited said. “There will be demand pressure while the CBN is not selling.” The central bank said last week it will end dollar sales to lenders at twice-weekly auctions December 19 and resume on January 7. The CBN sold $300m yesterday, the most since an August 8 sale, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Nigeria’s inflation rate rose for the second consecutive month in

tasks FG on development of indigenous fleet

November to 12.3 per cent from 11.7 per cent, theNational Bureau of Statistics said Dec. 17. The central bank left its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 12 per cent this year to control inflation and stabilise the naira. Yields on 10-year naira debt were unchanged at 11.88 per cent, according to yesterday’s prices compiled on the Financial Markets Dealers Association website. Borrowing costs on the nation’s $500 million of Eurobonds due January 2021 fell one basis point to 4.13 percent December 19.

Mobile portability: How NCC, telcos failed Nigerians

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

EXCHANGE RATES WAUA

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0.2924

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OIL / GAS FUTURES ICE BRENT

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Branding on the slippery image of celebrity

Business & Finance

Thursday, December 20 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NATCA, NAMA bicker over radio communication performance OLUSEGUN KOIKI

he ongoing controversybetween the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), the umbrella body of Air Traffic Controllers and its management, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), may be far from over as the duo again yesterday traded words over the performance of radio communication in the country’s airspace. While NATCA insisted that the poor radio communications has been on for decades and warned of imminent danger in the airspace if not rectified soon, NAMA on the other hand said that the seeming gloomy picture being painted by the group does not exist as the daily statistics show more traffic across the nation’s airports, averaging 500, apart from over 150 daily flights around the Port Harcourt Airport axis operated by the oil companies. Briefing journalists yesterday in Lagos, the President of NATCA, Mr. Victor Eyaru said that all the claims of NATCA on

the poor Very High Frequency (VHF) radios used by the two Area Control Centres (ACC) in Kano and Lagos are verifiable facts, which NAMA management attested to by saying it had some challenges in solving their problems. Eyaru noted that over N400m tax payers’ money had been expended on the Total VHF coverage project in the last four years, but without any success. On the argument of NAMA that the ongoing Aeronautic Information Service (AIS) automation project would solve the communication problem, NATCA explained it would never solve the problems being faced now, rather, called for complete overhaul of the facilities for effective performance. He argued that the personalized headsets the NAMA management said it procured for N400, 000 each could not solve the problem and urged the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency to fully commercialise the air navigation services provided for desired efficiency and reduce waste in the system. The controllers challenged

L-R: Managing Director, Noah’s Ark Communications, Mr. Lanre Adisa; Principal Education Officer, Community Senior High School, Mrs. Opeyemi Remi-Oluwasanmi and vice Principal, Mr. AbdulKabir Abubakar, during Noah’s Ark Corporate Social Responsibity in Lagos, yesterday.

the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to live up to its responsibilities by not limiting its regulatory duties to only private sector of the industry, but also services rendered by government agencies to the flying public. However, NAMA management insisted that the radio communication facilities have been working as expected.

A press released signed by the General Manager, Public Affairs, NAMA, Mr. Supo Atobatele and made available to journalists said it viewed this latest affront on the management by the controllers as another attempt to distract its attention from pursuing the set goals of transforming the agency to a world class air navigation service provider. Atobatele insisted that the to-

tal VHF radio coverage of the country has been completed and like any new project, it is being fine tuned by the engineers to allow it operate as specified. He added that “the ongoing effort to the Lagos Area Control Centre by deploying 120.9MGH was successful as proved by the recent test run of the frequency by both controllers and engineers proved successful.

NAICOM releases guideline on NAC cautions states over banning of motorcycles insurance premium S I OMOBOLA TOLU-KUSIMO

uge numbers of outstanding premium reported in the financial statement of insurance companies in the country has increased their credit risk and brought uncertainty in the market as to their capacity to meet their obligations to policyholders and other stakeholders. To avert the situation, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), has released a guideline on Insurance Premium Collection and Remittance to be complied with by insurance operators from January 1, 2013. Fines to the tune of N500, 000 will be paid and may be a ground for suspension of the license of the Insurer. This was revealed in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Fola Daniel and made available to journalist yesterday in Lagos. The commissioner stated that as a result of the growing challenges arising from huge levels of outstanding premium reported in the financial statements of insurance companies, the Commission carried out a detailed review of the subject. He disclosed that aside from insurers running high credit risk and uncertainty in the market, other findings show that

the companies have continued to report huge amounts of outstanding premium while at the same time making equally large amounts of provision for bad debts without significant subsequent recoveries of the debts, thereafter. Also, “There are wide disparities between what insurers claim are due from brokers and what the brokers claim are due to insurers. “The Insurance Act 2003 deems premium collected by brokers as having been collected by insurers. Such insurers are therefore presumed to be on cover for all such risks insured. Because insurers are not immediately notified by brokers of the collection of the premiums on their behalf, insurers are nonetheless presumed to be on cover in respect of risk which they have not had the opportunity of documenting and arranging for reinsurance, where relevant. “There are several cases of significant amount of premium that had been paid to insurers but could not be matched against relevant debts due to lack of sufficient information.” Daniel however stated that in consonance with the Insurance Act 2003, there shall be no outstanding premium in the books of any insurer as covers granted on credit is not recognised by the law.

TANLEY HEDIGBO AND OLUFEMI ADEOSUN

he National Automotive Council (NAC), has kicked against ban of motorcycle in some states of the federation, saying the development is depraving the less privilege Nigerians their right to own and operate affordable means of automobile in the country. It will be recalled that Federal Capital Territory was the first to ban motorcycle movement, followed by states like Rivers, Abia, Imo, Lagos, Plateau, Delta and there are plans by other states to do the same

thing in the nearest future. Speaking at the second annual seminar for Trade and Investment Correspondents and Business Editors, in Abuja, on Tuesday, Director General, Engr. Aminu Jalal, said that the motorcycle ban is not a welcomed development as alternative means are not made available by the government that placed the policy. Adding also that some states where alternative are made available is not enough which resulted people suffering while they can offer motorcycle for their ease movement. He added that the banning of motorcycle in the country is worsening the improvement

of transportation system and discouraging some automobile investors in the country. Meanwhile, the Director General reiterated the commitment of Federal Government to support local automotive industry to start manufacturing vehicles in the next 10 years in the country. According to him, the automotive industry has a considerable indirect economic impact since it impacts not only upon the transport, the movement of people, goods and the flow of services. But most importantly, its manufacturing technology has synergies and is interlinked with other economic sectors.

Subscribers to test applications at mobile money forum KUNLE A ZEEZ

rganisers of the annual Mobile Money Expo have said existing and prospective subscribers to mobile money services would have the opportunity of interaction with various mobile money applications and the companies offering the services in the third edition of the annual forum. The forum, featuring exhibitions and conferences, which is scheduled to hold in Lagos early next year,delivers two full days of top executives networking, cutting

edge content from dynamic presentations and engaging discussions designed to address developments, challenges, opportunities and success stories within the mobile financial ecosystem in Africa in 2012. The expo which is jointly promoted by Mobile Money Africa and Nigerian communications Media, will be a gathering of influencers in the industry across Africa and beyond, cutting across Mobile Network operator, financial institutions, technology, regulators and other associated players. Organisers said the forum will

add another feature event which will enable subscriber test mobile money applications from different providers during the two day event. They said the during the 2013 Edition of the Mobile Money Expo, mobile money operators will share experiences in all domain areas of mobile financial services covering regulation, technology, application, marketing, customer relationships, agency network and other innovative practices that will improve adoption of mobile financial services for shopping, remittances, micro finance, social payments and others.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Business & Finance

Thursday, December 20, 2012

ISAN tasked FG on development of indigenous fleet FRANCIS EZEM

ndigenous Ship Owners Association of Nigeria, umbrella association of all fully indigenously owned shipping companies has said that only the development of indigenous fleet would make the country a truly maritime nation. Following the liquidation of Nigeria’s former national carrier, the Nigerian Shipping Line, which at one time had over 25 ships on her fleet, the country has found it extremely difficult to re-build her fleet, a development that makes it difficult to train her seafarers after their cadt trining. Chairman of the association, Chief Isaac Jolapamo, who spoke at a recent awards ceremony organised by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria,

noted that current efforts of the government at developing the maritime nation might not yield the desired results unless Nigeria develops her indigenous fleet. According to him, currently Nigeria as a major crude oil exporter and member of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and an import-dependent nation has a lot of cargo but unfortunately cannot determine the terms of lifting these abundant cargoes because she does not own ships. “It is only when a country has sufficient ships that she can rightly be described as a shipping nation, not even membership of the International Maritime Organisation”, Jolapamo said. He regretted that the foreign cartel that operate in Nigeria’s waters, which include the International Oil Companies in connivance

with the foreign shipping lines have made it a point of duty that the few ships owned by Nigerians are not gainfully employed so that they will go into extinction. It was also gathered that apart from these IOCs and multinational shipping companies, some persons in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation have connived with these foreign interests to deny Nigerian shipping cargo, especially crude and refined petroleum products. Jolapamo, who doubles as chairman and chief executive officer of Morlap Shipping, one of the foremost indigenous shipping companies, argued that acquiring a ship when there is no guarantee of allocation of cargo would make a mess of the issue since cost of maintaining such an anchored ship for six months would make the company closure shop.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

22 states enact Bureau of Statistics law - Statistician General TOLA AKINMUTIMI

urrent efforts at all levels of government to develop a fully-integrated and qualitative National Statistical System in the country are beginning to yield desired results with 22 states in the country having enabling laws for their statistical data production and utilisation and general development programmes. This is even as others have commenced processes of creating similar legal instruments and structures for the operations of their statistical agencies with a view to ensuring that their development plans are anchored on evidence-based qualitative statistical data and other relevant development information. Giv-

ing the hint Tuesday at the Joint Planning Board (JPB) Meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State, in his paper titled ‘Imperative of Credible Statistics for Performance Management System’, the Statistician General of the Federation, Dr. Yemi Kale, described the enactment of the laws at subnational level as healthy for the national statistical system. While noting that the process of getting a fully integrated National Statistical System in place is enormous, he however pointed out that the various initiatives of the National Planning Commission to chart a common course for its attainment were remarkable and expressed the hope that all the states would soon have their State Statistical Agencies (SSAs) operational.

TUC urges FG to sanction indicted oil marketers MESHACK IDEHEN

L-R: Managing Director/CEO, Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, Mr. Abdullahi Sule; recipient of 15 years long service award/Acting Regional Sales Manager North, Mr. Danladi Suleiman and General Refinery, Mr. Braimah Ogunwale, during the end of the year party and 2012 Long Service Award in Lagos recently.

‘Jibia Border closure, an indictment on Customs’ FRANCIS EZEM

takeholders in the supply chain in Nigeria have said that the decision of the Federal Government to shut Jibia Borders in Katsina State penultimate week over alleged arms smuggling, which constitutes a major security threat to the country was an indictment on the Nigeria Customs Service. The border, which links Nigeria with the Niger Republic, also provides a common like Between Niger and Mali. Under the current Destination Inspection, Jibia Border is manned by Cotecna Destination Inspection Nigeria Limited, which is charged with the responsibility of providing scanning services for all imports into the country through the border. The Comptroller General

of the Service, Mr. Abdullahi Dikko had boasted on national television that the government and indeed Nigerians should go to sleep because the high level of security at the border was second to none. The Customs-boss, who spoke during the just concluded Comptroller General’s conference, which held in Katsina had dispelled rumours of massive arms smuggle across the border into Nigeria, thus fuelling insecurity in the country. An authoritative industry source, who did not want his name mentioned, noted that the closure of the borders with the aid security information got from external sources, which indicate smuggling of arms into the country indicates that the service is not on ground. The source said: “What this implies is that the government and peo-

ple of Nigeria cannot rely on the service for effective manning of that border because arms will keep flowing in”. According to him, it is even more indicting when the head of the service boasted on national television that the border is safe and secure, arguing that it would have been better the Customs helms man kept quiet than for such revelation to be made about the same border. Another source, who spoke in a separate interview, noted that it is a well known fact that the service may have its challenges that might make it difficult to cover the entire length and breadth of the border at all times, it is not good enough that such discovery was made one week after the annual conference was held in the state, which is also the home of the Comptroller General.

he Trade Union Congress (TUC), has urged the Federal Government to ensure that any individual or company found guilty of defrauding the country in the oil subsidy claims face the full wrath of the law. Furthermore, the congress said also that it is against the antics that are currently being deployed by some indicted oil marketers in order to avoid prosecution. President of TUC, Mr. Peter Esele, told National Mirror on Wednesday that the congress is worried about what is going on concerning the prosecution of oil marketers that have been indicted, adding government should mete out appropriate sanctions on whoever is found to have defrauded the state. According to the TUC presi-

dent, Nigeria does not recognise good work and good behaviour, and does not have incentives, rather, it is bad behaviour that is rewarded by the powers that be in the country. Advocating harder sanctions, Esele added that it was time for government to start dishing out appropriate sanctions, saying also that the best way to solve the problem is for government to be on top of the situation by applying appropriate sanction, increase the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), capacity and release enough products to genuine marketers. Linking fuel queues in some parts of the country to inadequate products and the government for not making enough provisions to bridge the shortfall occasioned by the refusal of some marketers to import fuel, Esele added that one of the ma-

Security experts want NCAA’s oversight on airlines review OLUSEGUN KOIKI

or effective regulation of indigenous airlines by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), a security expert and aviation consultant has called for the review of the agency’s economic regulations of airlines in the country. The Chief Executive Officer, Scope Centre Limited, a security company, Mr. Adebayo Babatunde in an interview with National Mirror in Lagos said that if this is strictly adhered to by the authorities in the country, it would give room for more efficiency for the regulatory body. Although, he said that economic regulations oversight of the airlines was part of the statutory functions of NCAA in Nigeria, but posited that in other climes,

safety and security oversights are the sole statutory of their CAAs while another body entire take cares of economic oversight. He said in a bid to erase clash of interest, the government should formulate this policy shift so that NCAA can be allowed to fully concentrate on safety and oversight functions while the new body would be able to oversee economic issues of the airline. He said, “Economic oversight of the airlines, which presently is part of the statutory functions of NCAA, I think, deserves to be reviewed. In other climes, the civil aviation authorities have the sole mandate of overseeing safety and security. They have that mandate to focus on issues relating to safety and security of the aviation industry. That does not allow for any economic compromise.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Info Tech

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Mobile portability: How NCC, telcos failed Nigerians

xpectations by telecoms consumers that mobile number portability, (MNP), will be launched by December this year, have again been dashed, following last week’s declaration by the Nigerian Communications Commission that the implementation would no longer take place this year. Although, telecoms subscribers have expressed discountenance on the latest postponement, the Commission said the move was to ensure adequate planning was done before rolling out the service, expected to improve quality of service as well as offering wider choices for telecoms consumers. Specifically, the telecoms industry regulator had disclosed that the MNP service would now be launched by the first quarter of 2013, contrary to earlier plans to have it launched by December, this year. Yet, the commission insisted it had been working assiduously towards ensuring the benefits of mobile portability were brought to the generality of Nigerian phone users but was handicapped by a number of factors, top of which was blamed on the telecoms operators’ slow readiness. The MNP service, which has been successfully implemented in most developed countries around the globe and recently in Ghana, is an initiative that allows phone users to navigate from one network to another without losing their original numbers. According to experts, the scheme is consumer-centric that provides opportunity for telecoms subscribers to alternate networks when they are no longer enjoying quality of services from their current operators, or when not complacent with the tariffs offered by any of the competing telecoms operators. Speaking at the recent Telecoms Executives and Regulator Forum 2012, organised by the Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria, (ATCON) in Lagos, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Dr. Eugene Juwah regretted the inability of the scheme to go live this December. Trading blames on the impasse to the scheme rollout, Juwah pointed accusing fingers at the telecoms firms for contributing to the failure of Nigeria to roll out the service this month, saying it was as result of the operators’ inability to upgrade their billing infrastructure to meet the required standards for the process. “The operators are not giving the number portability scheme the priority that it deserves and I can tell you that the operators have not upgraded their billing system,” he said. While insisting that it would be unfair to ascribe the failure to the Commission, Juwah added that NCC had demonstrated more commitment to the scheme’s implementation than the operators. According to him, “Each of the operators is failing in one area or the other. The operators are slowing the pace. They are not given MNP the priority that it deserves. The major issue is that they are yet to upgrade their billing infrastructure.” He said the MNP would take off in the first quarter of 20I3, adding that this would happen after a three-month infrastructure testing must have been carried out by the regulator and the operators beginning from January 2013. The NCC boss, however, promised to ensure that proper testing is carried out before rolling out the services to avoid unnecessary hitches when launched. “We are testing and we are going to test well before rolling out the service. It is better we don’t do the MNP at all, than to do it and become a catastrophe,” he added. Following the approval of the MNP framework, the commission said it began plans to develop the regulatory, legal and technical framework for the implementation of MNP in Nigeria. “These frameworks are at advanced stages of completion with regular inputs from industry via the technical and regulatory working groups formed with membership amongst others from the NCC, operators and the Number Portability clearing house. “With the focus being accorded to the rollout of MNP in Nigeria, and the status of the deployment of required MNP infrastructure across operators, the service is scheduled to be live in Q1 2013.”

Contrary to initial plans to roll out mobile number portability (MNP), before the end this year, the Nigerian Communications Commission has again postponed the launch till next year, truncating telecoms consumers’ expectation to start enjoying the benefits of the scheme, reports KUNLE AZEEZ.

Juwah

Ajayi

IF THE MNP HAS BEEN SHIFTED TILL FIRST QUARTER OF

2013, LET US, AS SUBSCRIBERS, WAIT AND SEE WHAT WILL HAPPEN.

BUT CERTAINLY THIS YEAR, NCC AND THE OPERATORS HAVE FAILED US IN ENJOYING THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICE Meanwhile, Juwah stated that MNP would boost network quality of the operators. “NP is a competition tool among telecoms operators and if your network is not good, people will move. It is also in sync with SIM registration because we need to know who is moving.” Juwah assured that MNP would be fully implemented before the end of the first quarter of 2013, without fail. However, telecoms operators have also said the blame for the country’s inability to roll out the MNP should not be entirely heaped on them on the basis that, “NCC also needs to double the speed of necessary regulator and technical provision’ for the scheme to take off on time. Apparently expressing the telecoms operators’ view, Airtel’s Head of Licensing and Compliance, Mr. Adeyemi Shola, who had earlier tackled the NCC at the ATCON forum for being responsible for the delay, said NCC needed to fast-track the implementation of MNP. He said: “From the operators’ side, most MNP equipments have been procured, installed and testings are ongoing. What we need now is for the NCC to quicken its own activities to ensure that the service is launched on time as Nigerians are waiting for the MNP scheme. “Having too much delay will send a wrong signal to the public. NCC should fast track measures to ensure that implementation deadlines and schedules are achieved on time.” Giving insight into the MNP operations, one of the consultants to the project, Senior Manager, Managed Services, Interconnect Clearinghouse Nigeria Limited, Mr. Johnson Farotimi, claimed that telecoms operators were already upgrading their infrastructures and investing in

new equipments. “Today, Interconnect Clearinghouse is ready to connect operators. We are still waiting for telecoms operators to connect to the clearing house. We will test the number portability scheme for three months. Once, we get it right, then, we would go live,” he said. However, one area that may make the MNP unattractive to the operators is the number of days it will take an operator to process a subscriber’s switch-over to another network which is currently put at maximum of three days. Also, the current arrangement when the scheme is launched provides 90 days validity period for a subscriber to be on the recipient network before being able to move again to any other preferred network. Reacting, the President, National Association of Telecoms Subscribers, (NATCOMS), Chief Deolu Ogunbanjo, said the NCC and the operators had been foot-dragging on the MNP implementation process. Ogunbanjo urged the NCC to keep to its pledge of implementing MNP in the first quarter of 2012. He said telecoms consumers are currently groaning in pains and MNP will provide soothing relief to them. Meanwhile, the President, ATCON, Mr. Lanre Ajayi has said the plan to postpone the take-off of the MNP till the first quarter of 2013 could not be faulted, on the basis that proper planning and preparation is required so as to get the scheme right once and for all, rather than have hitches with it after the scheme has been launched. Ajayi’s view was backed by the National Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Mr. Gbenga Adebayo. According to Adebayo, “If by virtue of the need to ensure that we get it right before rolling out the service, I want to support NCC’s postponement of the MNP scheme till 2013 and I think it is for the overall benefits of the entire industry.” Earlier in year, telecoms operators had hailed NCC’s plan to introduce MNP while expressing their readiness to put necessary measures in place to ensure that the implementation of the scheme sails through on time. This however, was not to be, at least, this year. But according to NATCOM President, “If the MNP has been shifted till first quarter of 2013, let us, as subscribers, wait and see what will happen. But certainly this year, NCC and the operators have failed us in enjoying the benefits of the service.”

Info Tech

Thursday, December 20, 2012

NCC to auction 2.5GHz spectrum next year KUNLE A ZEEZ

he Nigerian Communications Commissions has said, ahead of 2015 when it is expected to get adequate frequency spectrum to drive broadband services, it would license the remaining bloc of 2.5GHz spectrum sometime in 2013. In addition, the commission has listed other strategies being planned to ensure frequency spectrum availability for services delivery. The commission confirmed the plan at two separate industry functions organised by the Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria and BusinessDay in Lagos recently. Speaking at the BusinessDay broadband forum, the Director, Public Affairs, NCC, Mr. Tony Ojobo, said the commission had concluded plan, among others, to licence the 2.5GHz spectrum

band by 2013 to jump-start deployment broadband services. “We are auctioning 2.5GHz by 2013 and that will contribute to the issue of how we drive broadband services. Our auction processes have always been very transparent. When we auctioned the Digital Mobile Licence in 2011, it was seen local and internationally as very transparent,” he said. Ojobo added that already, NCC had started collaborating with some United State experts to ensure that global best practices in the auction process was followed. Speaking at the ATCON’ .event, the Executive Vice Chairman, NCC, Dr. Eugene Juwah, said as a scare resource, frequency spectrum need to be efficiently managed to ensure optimal allocation and usage which ensures availability of required spectrum for existing, new and evolving technologies.. Explaining strategies being

adopted for frequency availability, Juwah said of such strategies is to leverage the digital dividend spectrum, which he said can only be fully realised when the digitalisation of the broadcast industry is complete by the targeted 2015 deadline. To this end, on digital dividend, Juwah said the commission would re-plan 8000MHz band for Long Term Evolution, LTE; re-farm 700MHz band for LTE; and re-farm 2.5GHz band as well. He said other areas NCC is looking at to ensure more spectrum availability to drive most broadband services deployment include the possibility of licensing 1 x 20Mhz slot in the 2.3GHz band’ licensing of the 5.4GHz band on regional and state basis; re-farming existing 1900 and 2100 MHz spectrum for mobile broadband; and as well as ensuring technology neutrality on newly-assigned spectrum.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sidmach chairman wins NCS award

hairman, Sidmach Technologies Limited, Mr. Mike Ajibola Olajide, has been bestowed with a Professional Fellowship Award at this year’s National Information Technology Merit Awards (NITMA) which held at the Civic Centre in Lagos. NITMA 2012 is organised by the Nigeria Computer Society to acknowledge, celebrate and reward corporate organisations and individuals who are outstanding in their various Information technology practice and have also contributed immensely to the development of the profession in Nigeria. Speaking in after receiving the award, Olajide said, “The Professional Fellowship Award is the highest recognition of professional excellence anyone can receive in IT practice in Nigeria so I am elated to accept this prized industry honour. “It is especially thrilling when your peers notice your contribution to the development of the sector even when you are just busy pursuing your passion which incidentally provides you with opportunities to grow and learn.” He added, “My team at Sidmach is one of the best in the industry! I am happy to work closely with and learn from a number of people in the course of my career, including my colleagues in Sidmach. This

achievement is a reflection of the contributions I get from them and the rest of the team. I thank God for the grace of knowing and working with them.” Olajide attended the University of Lagos where he graduated with B.Sc. in Computer Science in 1981. He started out as a Programmer/Analyst and has worked in various capacities at different times as Senior Consultant and Software Development Manager before teaming up with four other colleagues to set up Sidmach Technologies Nigeria Limited. He was at various times Executive Director and also Managing Director of the company. A thoroughbred professional who is passionate about education and human capacity development, Olajide played major roles in the visioning and development of software solutions that has positively impacted the education sector. Today, the success recorded by the Educational Institutions where these solutions have been implemented has drawn appreciation from similar bodies from other countries, thereby making our National institutions good reference points and boosting our country’s glory. Olajide has, over the past 30 years, attended many IT trainings and conferences locally and abroad.

Foundation empowers children in IT skills

T L-R: Business Head, Hand Held Products, Mr. Emmanouil Revmatas, Marketing Manager, Samsung Electronics West Africa Miss Okikolu Olajumoke; Managing Director, Mr. Brovo Kim and Business Leader, Hand Held Products, Mr. Daesong Na, during a breakfast meeting with the media to unveil two new devices in Lagos recently.

64% Nigerian firms buy printing equipment haphazardly - HP KUNLE A ZEEZ

ewlett Packard Nigeria has said 64 per cent of Nigerian organisations do not conduct any research before purchasing Inkjet or LaserJet cartridges for their printing needs. This was disclosed by the Supplies Country Manager, Printing & Personal Systems, HP English West Africa, Ms Rita Amuchienwa, in a statement even HP’s mobile authentication tool was recently awarded a Records and Information Management Awareness, (RIMA) Award, which recognises information security as a critical aspect of business in Africa. Quoting a recent Forrester Research, Amuchienwa said the outcome of the study was

an indication that businesses were not fully aware of the need to verify their cartridge supplier before making purchase. She added that the finding aptly highlights a clear need for the use of HP Mobile Authentication technology to make sure that purchased cartridges are genuine. Meanwhile, the HP awardwinning technology uses a unique code on security labels to tell customers within seconds if ink and toner supplies are genuine HP products or illegal counterfeits. This empowers HP customers to spot suspicious printing supplies, turning smartphones into crime, fighting equipment and deterring criminal gangs. Each code can be validated using a QR code reader downloaded as a smartphone ‘app’

or entered into the HP Mobile Authentication website. An invalid response indicates that the product may not be genuine and automatically gives the user instructions on what to do next. In HP’s fiscal year 2012, 1.3 million illicit items were confiscated by law enforcers in the Middle East, Mediterranean and Africa regions, supported by HP’s investigations teams. The illegal counterfeit goods are manufactured by criminal gangs and investigation and prevention of this issue take up the valuable time of government officials. Amuchienwa insisted that counterfeiting is a serious issue in Nigeria where fraudsters trick consumers and local businesses into buying substandard print supplies using unknown chemicals.

he Bisola & Olu Akindeinde Foundation has completed a free computer programming training workshop for 20 children and teenagers between the ages of 12 and 16. Speaking on the initiative, one of the directors of the foundation, Mr. Oluseyi Akindeinde, who is also the Chief Technical Officer, Digital Encode, said, “Bisola & Olu Akindeinde Foundation was established to bring computing and hi-technology concepts to teenagers and young adults through a process of real world hands-on creative learning experience. “The foundation is geared towards fostering an attitude of Action Learning otherwise referred to as ‘Learning-by-doing’ through a series of free interactive computing workshops.” He said the theme of the workshop was; ‘Learning mobile games development: A tool for computer programming,’ adding that participants were taught to design and develop prototype iPhone, iPad, iOS games. Besides, he said the workshop was also for the participants to learn skills in lateral thinking, problem solving and analytical reasoning, after which certifi-

cates of accomplishment were issued to them. Akindeinde further said the training succeeded in introducing the children to programming, computing and entrepreneurship, using GameSalad. According to him, one of GameSalad’s strengths is its unparalleled ease of use, saying it had proven to be a tremendous asset in the classroom for teachers and students alike, as classes adopt and utilise GameSalad as part of their curriculum. He said GameSalad had also sparked many learning initiatives by organisations and foundations the world over, fostering growth through education as well as the spirit of creativity. “In Africa, the opportunities are somewhat limited. So, we hope to give these kids a chance to actually learn something that can be put to good use even after the programme,” he said, while defending the relevance of the workshop. The foundation, which is self-funded, according to him, holds competitions in addition to the classes it provide, offering prizes like iPads and monetary rewards as encouragement to participants.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Brands & Marketing

Thursday, Decemeber 20, 2012

Branding on the slippery image of celebrities

Don Jazzy

Funke Akindele

Kate Henshaw

Tiger Woods

Once sports and entertainment figures reach celebrity status, brand builders get them to endorse their brands. But when they get into crisis, advertisers and brand managers get their brands off the hands of the celebrity endorsers, writes ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI.

hen a celebrity is the center of attraction, enjoys fame, many advertisers can’t wait to see such celeb hold their brands in the glare of target consumers, on the television, billboards and other point-of-exposure that could raise awareness for the brand. But when such celeb runs into controversy, many advertisers can’t afford to wait the situation out. The damage may be done. Companies may have to distance themselves before their own reputation is tarnished. David Beckham could be seen in advertising billboards in Calvin Klein underwear, Cristiano Ronaldo as the face of Clear Shampoo, Anna Kournikova, the face of almost everything and the greatest golfer ever, Tiger Woods earning the most amount of money out of them all through various sponsorship deals but when Woods, Armstrong and other world highest earning sports and entertainment celeb brands endorser got enmeshed in scandals, their bank accounts took big a beating as their reputations. But that notwithstanding, many brands have not resisted using celebrities as marketing tools to promote, reposition and increase sales turnover for their brands locally and globally, Nigerian brands too have also found celebrity endorsement as a sales-pull and push tool to increase product awareness and sales as a result of tremendous popularity most Nigerian celebrities enjoy with huge emotional appeal among 160million populace who are potential market for any brands that aims at capturing any segment of the entire population. Recently, the unveiling of Don Jazzy as Loyal Milk ambassador, a multi award-winning record producer, singer-songwriter, musician, former CEO of Nigerian record label Mo’ Hits Records founded in 2004 and current CEO of Mavin Records label which he founded in May 2012 after his split up with childhood friend and Mo’Hits partner, D’Banj, is the latest celebrity in the grow-

ing lists of brand-promoting celebs. The Kanu Nwankwo and son endorsement of Peak Milk, is also one of the most successful of all celebrity brand endorsement whose commercial on Radio and TV became an anthem in every home, Kanu, I no sey one day, you go make me proud. Glo ambassadors Kunle Afolayan, Funke Akindele, aka Jenifa; D’Banj, Ini Edo, Femi Adebayo, Ramsey Noah have raised Glo’s awareness among telecoms subscribers. Also, Omotola JaladeEkeinde, Genevieve Nnaji and Nkem Owoh have also been used to endorse brands and by political office runners at one point in time or another. The reason given by advertisers is understandable. In the case of Loya Milk, winner of advertiser’s Best brand revitalisation of the year, the premium full cream milk powder from the stables of Promasidor Nigeria Limited which was introduced into the Nigerian dairy market in 2004 and fortified with 28 vitamins and minerals plus 50percent more Calcium claimed to be more than any other milk brand in Nigeria, the Commercial Director of Promasidor Nigeria, Mr. Kachi Onubogu said, “our choice of brand ambassador is driven by the essence of the brand and its proposition to its target audience. By the time we officially unveil the new brand ambassador, you will see the strategic fit between the two brands as they both share same attributes.” As good as the marketing goal of advertisers are, they often have no choice but to drop the deal when celebs run into trouble. For the fact that celebrities are prone to controversies, dog-eat-dog war among advertisers and marketers and quest by celebs to maximise their fame to rake in more money before it fades, some brands and celebs either gently or forcefully part ways. Afolayan, a popular Nollywood actor, director and producer, lost his Glo ambassadorial deal as a result of his involvement in Phone Swap movie believed

CELEBRITY ATTRACTS ATTENTION AND AN ARTISTE SHOULD BE ABLE TO CONVINCE AND CONNECT WITH THE CONSUMERS THROUGH HIS OR HER CREDIBILITY to have been sponsored by a competitor in the telecoms industry. Afolayan wasa a director and a character in the movie which was premiered in Lagos, Abuja and Ghana premiered early this year and shown to over 2000 viewing audiences. Although, the collapse of Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw’s marriage with Mr. Roderick Nuttal, did not attract Onga seasoning product of Promasidor to slam Henshaw’s deal against expectations that her Promasidor endorsement deal would be suspended. “There are strong indications that Ms. Henshaw is in danger of losing her endorsement contract with Promasidor,” reported nigeriafilms.com. But almost two years after, Henshaw still in the deal just as she has got many others such as Airtel’s Nigeria’s Got Talent, reality show with Dan Foster and other celebrities. A Senior Manager, Media of TPT, a PR firm that manages Promasidor account, told National Mirror, “ Kate’s deal is still on. It is meant for two years.” But in developed countries, marriage break-up, drug testing, sex scandal, drunkenness is common among celebs which berate values and threatens value proposition of brands are not treated with kid gloves by advertisers and their marketing strategists. Major global brands love family-friendly images and

they hate controversy. So, when their brand ambassadors get caught in something less than heroic, companies distance themselves as quickly as possible. Contracts are ended, ads are pulled, and the superstar finds out who their real friends are. Ben Johnson gave up his 1988 Olympic gold medal and lost a $2.8 million deal with Italian sportswear maker Diadora. Mike Tyson lost millions when Pepsi ended its endorsement deal with Tyson after his wife said he abused her. Pepsi let go of endorsement deals with Magic Johnson after he announced that he contracted HIV in 1991. Although OJ Simpson was never convicted of the crime, Hertz likely regrets that the main suspect in the Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman murder was once their biggest spokesman. Nutella and McDonald’s dropped their endorsement deals with Kobe Bryant when the basketball star was caught up in a sexual assault case. Steroids helped Barry Bonds break records and also led to MasterCard, KFC, and Charles Schwab breaking endorsement deals with the slugger. Also, after the Woods sex scandal hit the news, AT&T, Accenture and Gatorade soon dropped their endorsement contracts with him. Luxury watch brand, Tag Heuer stood by Woods for a while, but later ended their relationship with the golfer too. But with the emotional appeal which celebrity endorsement offer brands to position against competition, three scholars from Covenant University Okorie Nelson, Oyedepo Tunji, and Akhidenor Gloria, in their research, The Dysfunctional and Functional Effect of Celebrity Endorsement on Brand Patronage, said many companies have financially suffered from the inconsistency in the professional popularity of the use of celebrities in endorsements: The celebrity may lose his or her popularity due to some lapse in professional performances. The scholars also said multi brand endorsements by the same celebrity, which usually lead to overexposure, are major problems that often cause endorsement problems. Using the “Transfer of meaning model theory”, the scholars reasoned that “effectiveness of the endorser depends on the meaning the celebrity is bringing into the endorsements process and the brand. “Celebrities are full of different meaning reflecting such as demographic (age, gender) and lifestyle types, thus making it evident that celebrities convey not one but a variety of meaning. The cultural meanings that are connected with the celebrity will be transferred to the endorsed product/brand,” stated their research. Irrespective of their submissions, the reality is, some celebrities have made some brands achieve their marketing goals while others have done damage to endorsed brands. Whichever way, experts warn brand builders to do critical audit of their brands and the connection it has with the brands before sealing the deal. “Celebrity attracts attention and an artiste should be able convince and connect with the consumers through his or her credibility. A corporate brand with a core focus will go out of its way to seek the right celebrity to match the brand as the core idea of the campaign is as important for the brand as it is for celebrity,” said Mrs Mimi Akinkugbe, Regional Director, West Africa, International Private Bank at Barclays Wealth.

Brands & Marketing

Thursday, Decemeber 20, 2012

GTBank sponsors Lagos City edition of Monopoly board game STORIES: ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI

uaranty Trust Bank has announced its sponsorship of the first African city edition of Monopoly game tagged, “Lagos City Edition of the Monopoly Board Game”, in its effort to further project Lagos as a mega city of repute in Africa and the world. The game which seeks to promote several locations and monuments within Lagos was launched on December 11, 2012. GTBank’s sponsorship of the board game is based on the huge success of the London, Hong Kong and Atlanta versions and the Lagos edition is set to put Lagos and Nigeria on the global chart. The bank would also be using the medium to assist the state government create awareness about the various laws

governing the diverse aspects of Lagos State. Speaking on the sponsorship, the Managing Director and CEO of Guaranty Trust Bank plc, Mr. Segun Agbaje stated that the sponsorship is based on the high premium GTBank puts on the development of its host communities wherever it is located. He further said that, “we realise the enormous potential the game has at boosting the financial literacy of players and inculcating in them the financial discipline and responsibility which aligns with the bank’s business objectives”. Guaranty Trust Bank has been involved in several other community development initiatives such as the annual autism seminar, the support for Swiss Red Cross projects and provision of equipment for hospitals such as Massey

Street Children’s Hospital amongst others. GTBank also continues to make contributions towards education through its adopt-a-school programme which covers scholarship for students, infrastructural development of schools and provision of books and other stationery. Other initiatives in education include the sponsorship of school sports tournaments and innovation challenge for undergraduates in partnership with SIFE. Monopoly is the most popular and internationally recognized board game in the world designed to promote interest in real estate, tourism, improve negotiation skills and enhance general financial literacy. The game is positioned to create nostalgia in people who grew up playing it and this city-specific edition will make it more relevant as players can identify with the landmarks within Lagos.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ecobank rewards customers in Win Big Promo

cobank has rewarded a third set of winners in Abuja where Chibuzor Nwaogo Jane of Jabi Branch, Abuja drew the star prize of a brand new Nissan salon car. The first and second draws held in Lagos and Port-Harcourt recently. The atmosphere was electric as customers and guests waited with bated breath before breaking into hilarious celebration after Chibuzor Jane was announced as the star prize winner by Engr. Sham Kolo of the Consumer Protection Council. Winners in other categories include Haruna Taiwo and Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed, both customers from (Ibrahim Taiwo Road) Kano and (Garki) Abuja respectively. They won 32 LCD television each as Ikebuoku Anthony Ndubuisi and Yahaya Raiyanu emerged winners of 2.5kva generators each, while the duo of Adamu Abubakar and Clement Maboh Peter (both from the FCT) won separate Blackberry phones. The bank’s Head of Domestic Products, Mrs Funwa Akinmade, while addressing customers at the event “This is a big opportunity to Win Big. Akinmade elaborated that customers with steady deposits way beyond the N20,000 mark within the month stand multiple chances. He reiterated that the promo is “Ecobank’s way of saying thank you to all her customers and stakeholders.” Also, Head Local Corporates Abuja, Mr Kehinde Ogundipe, who was represented the Executive Director, Domestic Banking FCT/North, Shehu Jafiya affirmed that Ecobank has earmarked four monthly draws for the promo to appreciate customers and help them enjoy the benefits of maintaining a good savings culture, adding that, “Each draw takes us closer to the 1st prize; a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) to be won in the Grand Finale which comes up in January 2013.” A Senior Manager from the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Abuja, Mr. Kayode Musibau Ojoogun, emphasized that, “The focus of the Commission is the transparency of draws.”

Coca-Cola partners DreamWorld Africana Park

L-R. Deputy Marketing Manager, KFC, Owolabi Damilola; Head, Marketing, Vikram Varma; and Chief Operating Officer, KFC, Rahul Takalkar during the official launch of Fish Zinger and Zinger Shrimp in Lagos recently.

LG electronics wins Most Trusted Brands Award

G Electronics, a global leader in consumer electronics and home appliances, has won the 2012 Most Trusted Brands Award as the most trusted home appliance brand in Nigeria. The award was given by Brand Health in recognition of LG Electronics’ innovative products that have made quality home appliances available to Nigerians. Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of BrandHealth, Mr Emman Udowoima, said: “Going by the research we conducted, the LG brand is undisputedly the most trusted home appliance brand in Nigeria. LG has distinguished itself going by the array of qual-

ity products it has on offer”. Also speaking at the event the Corporate Marketing Manager, LG Electronics, Mr Rajesh Agnihotri, said: “We are committed to providing our teeming consumers with first-rate products that meet their peculiar needs. Our responsive posture is what has endeared many to the LG brand”. The Most Trusted Brands award is organised annually by BrandHealth, a brands research company. This year’s event was the third edition. It is an initiative developed and executed as a campaign to mobilise Nigerian consumers to ask for accountability from

organisations who offer them goods and services. In recent times, LG has introduced into the Nigerian market forwardthinking home appliances, one of which is the robot vacuum cleaner known as Hom-Bot. This stand-alone robot is capable of cleaning floors independently, allowing people to focus on things that matter most. Another is the LG Antimosquito Air Conditioner which comes with an ultrasonic device that gives off ultrasonic sound at a frequency of 30100KHZ. This sound knocks down as well as repels mosquitoes which are the carrier of the malaria parasite.

Coca-Cola Nigeria has partnered as the official drink DreamWorld Africana, a replica of large theme park situated on the Gold Coast in Queensland, currently Australia’s largest theme park with over 27 rides including 4 roller coasters. The partnership was made known during a media visit to the Park which is situated Lekki, Ajah, Lagos by the representative of Managing Director of Coca-Cola, Mr. Femi Osilaja. Osilaja told journalists that Coca-Cola has exclusive rights at the Park which offers families a day full of fun, leisure and adventure from exciting scenes in Africa such as exciting scenes of the great Pyramids of Egypt; Mountain Kilimanjaro; Victoria Falls, Lake Victoria among others fun sites. It also boast of family coaster, Carrousel, Indoor Play centers, Red Baron Airplane ride, Bumper Cars, Five-Aside-soccer bitch pitch among others recreation games for young and adults. The park which is being constructed in phases offer families, according to the Managing Director of the Theme Park, Jude Utoh, chose Coca Cola as a result of the exciting and refreshing taste it will have on visitors to the Park. But Osilaja said Coca-Cola will welcome other brands who are not competitors with any of Coca-Cola products.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Brands & Marketing

Thursday, Decemeber 20, 2012

Sunglass, Glamour online shops prospect 50 million internet users ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI

s e-commerce begin to change mode of retailing in the country, the managers of leading e-shops has said it is targeting the 50 million internet users in Nigeria to boost sales and make e-commerce a shopping experience in the country. The Chief Executive Officer of Start-Up Partners Africa, promoter of Sunglass.com and Glamour.com, Mr. Jaime Moreno, said Nigeria is rated 10 among internet users population in the world and currently has about 50 million internet users who are potential hope of e-commerce growth for the

economy. “We have 50 million internet users here. Nigeria is the 10 largest internet users but with no e-commerce. There is potential. We have others coming up because we have 50 million internet users who are potential e-shoppers. We are becoming part of the new industry, e-commerce,” said Moreno. Sunglass.com and Glamour. com which started e-commerce in the country six-months ago, according to Moreno, is a global e-retailer who offer products of high quality at lower price to online-shoppers in Europe, America and Middle-East. “We are bringing that quality to Nigeria. We are bringing the local knowledge as well, bringing

world class product you will get in UK, Dubai, Paris,” he said. “We have relationship with distributors of different products ranges, world-class sunglass labels at lower price. What you need to do is go to our website, make an order and we will bring it to your door-step and you can pay on delivery or online. As Nigerians prepare for Christmas, Moreno said, Sunglass.com is bringing a new line of products at just five thousand naira. “Sunglasses just started a new product line of business. Glasses and Sunglasses at five thousand naira which has Europe standard quality. From our research, there is no one doing it,” he said.

L-R: Marketing Manager, Innovation Guinness Nig. Plc, Sola Oke, Sales Director, Udo Anya, Managing Director/Chief Executive Seni Adetu, African Rapper No. 1, Mr. Incredible (M.I) and Marketing Director, Austin Ufomba at the launch of SNAPP in Port Harcourt, recently.

Validating FCMB’s new brand campaign

t was in the Saturday PUNCH of December 16, that I read about FCMB’s new advertising campaign. This quickly aroused my interest to investigate the brand and authenticate its claims. The truth is that I have never had any concrete dealing with the brand and I needed verifiable platforms to support my viewpoint. I remember signing a reference form for a neighbor and I had to probe his reasons for selecting such a bank! The new FCMB brand campaign is predicated on the thrust of improving service delivery for the benefit of the customers. It is entirely focused on the new brand image of the bank. I believe the ultimate goal is to create a refreshing image beyond what it used to be. To authenticate the brand’s new proposition, I took an under-

study of some branches to determine the level of compliance to the bank’s new brand campaign. A visit to the Akowonjo branch revealed to a great extent that some employees have actually embraced the new brand direction to better the lot of the customers. I was pleasantly impressed with the attitudinal disposition of Oluwabiyi Olabisi, a customer service personnel. She is one individual that has the requisite skills to project the bank’s image properly. She exhibited the attributes of courtesy, good mannerism and she is indeed a worthy brand ambassador. I had an impression of the brand before entering the branch but my earlier impression vanished instantly. She took me through the different products and she demonstrated an in-depth knowledge of the brand. She indeed is one person that aligns with the new brand

ad VA NT AG E icon

Kankarofi

Born on 22 October 1954 in the old city of Kano, Alhaji Garba Bello Kankarofi was the eldest son in the family of Alhaji Bello Sale Idris Kankarofi, a foremost public servant, and his wife, Hajia Binta Bello Mohammed. After this initial and early education, he was enrolled at Urmawa Primary School, Kano in 1961. In 1968, he was admitted to the famous Government College (Now Rumfa College), Kano. Garba Bello Kankarofi worked with a media research group from the University of Michigan, U.S.A. from 1973 to 1974, and in that same year, he enrolled for the Higher School Certificate. He began his career as a commercial salesman in 1974 when he joined the staff of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation. Thereafter, in 1977, he gained admission on merit, into the prestigious Bayero University, Kano

Brand X-Ray with Ayodeji Ayopo Tel: 08023448199 E-mail: mayomipo@yahoo.com proposition. The new FCMB campaign is anchored on providing qualitative service delivery to the customers. Now through with the process of its integration with FIN Bank, FCMB assures customers of excellence value by communicating its desire to serve them better. I also detailed a colleague to visit the Oba Akran branches of FCMB and the report is encouraging even though some improvements are still needed. The insights generated from the former FIN Bank (now FCMB) on Oba Akran revealed a customer centric bank that focuses on the customers as individuals. The branch through insights has been customer friendly and proactive in its approach to customer

needs. The ambience of the bank offers the customer a sense of belonging through positive association. The internal aesthetics in the branch also portray the bank as a unique and appealing to customers. The old FCMB branch on Oba Akran, Ikeja has equally been known for good customer relations. The branch retains it pedigree of attending to customer needs in an efficient manner. However, even with the positive signals, the bank still needs to immerse the internal stake holders in the new Better for You campaign. It is highly imperative for the staff to embody the values of the new FCMB brand. This is one of the observations during the

to study Mass Communication. He graduated with honours and a Bachelor’s Degree, three years later. On graduation from College, he was employed to work for the Kano State Broadcasting Corporation From 1983 to 1993, he headed the Commercial Services Department of the Broadcasting Corporation in Kano. He was appointed the Managing Director of the Corporation in 1993, and served in that position until year 2006, when he was appointed as the Registrar/ Chief Executive of the foremost regulatory body, the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria( APCON). Alhaji Garba Bello Kankarofi is a distinguished Fellow of the Advertising Profession and a media administrator par excellence. In the 1980s, he met and impressed Hajia Bilikisu Kankarofi with whom he is married and has seven lovely children.

insight generation survey at this branch. Some of the staff needs to realise that the paradigm has changed and as a result, they need to exhibit positive values to make the new brand story real to the external audience. The need to immerse the internal audience in the new communication campaign is further reinforced by the attitude of the staff at Allen Avenue branch. The response time to enquiries and attitudinal disposition needs to be improved upon. The role of the internal stakeholders in the overall success of the communication campaign cannot be underestimated. The enlistment of the internal stakeholders in any communication campaign should be guaranteed before reaching out to the external audience. The Better for You campaign underscores the commitment of the brand to its external stakeholders but the internal stakeholders should live the brand and generate positive perception for the brand.

Global Business

oland’s central bank cut borrowing costs for a second month to spur growth in the European Union’s biggest eastern economy, which faces the risk of its first recession in two decades. The only central bank in the 27-nation EU to raise rates this year lowered the benchmark seven-day reference rate 25 basis points to 4.25 percent yesterday, in line with the forecasts of 33 of 35 economists surveyed by Bloomberg. Two predicted a 50 basis-point decrease. The central bank will explain the decision at a news conference at 4 p.m. in Warsaw. The Narodowy Bank Polski last month cut the rate for the first time since 2009 and Governor Marek Belka announced the start of an easing cycle, adding he sees no risk of a recession for Poland. Since then, inflation slowed below the upper end of the bank’s tolerance range for the first time in almost two years and economic growth slowed to the weakest in 13 quarters, prompting analysts including Marcin Mazurek at BRE Bank SA (BRE), the local unit of Commerzbank AG, to predict a contraction. “This is a partial disappointment because of weak economic growth in the third quarter,” Dariusz Winek, chief economist at Bank Gospodarki Zywnosciowej SA, wrote in a research note. “We still think a steep fall in the inflation rate in the next few months will trigger further monetary

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Poland cuts main rate second month amid recession threat

Poland central bank governor, Marek Belka

easing.” The zloty strengthened to 4.1196 per euro yesterday in Warsaw, extending its advance to 0.3 percent on the day. The currency has

South Korea’s unemployment falls to 7-month low on service jobs

outh Korea’s unemployment rate unexpectedly fell to a seven-month low on increasing numbers of self-employed workers and service-sector jobs even as Europe’s debt crisis dragged down exports. The jobless rate was at 3.1 percent in July, compared with 3.2 percent in June, Statistics Korea said yesterday in Gwacheon, south of Seoul. The median estimate in a Bloomberg News survey of 14 economists was for a rate of 3.3 percent. The outlook for the labor market is clouded by signs that Asia’s fourth-largest economy is losing steam. A decline in exports in July was the steepest since 2009 and the central bank said August. 9 that domestic demand is also weakening. “Jobs are increasing in the service sector

and the self- employed are lifting the total number of workers, but Europe’s fiscal crisis is taking a toll on company hiring,” said Sun Yoo, an economist Woori Investment & Securities Co. in Seoul. “The quality of the job market is deteriorating with more people taking non-salaried work.” The won weakened 0.3 percent to 1,133.00 per dollar at yesterday open in Seoul and the benchmark Kospi stock index was little changed. The number of employed people increased by 470,000 to 25.1 million in July, with the self-employed and public services providing 318,000 of those new jobs. The seasonally unadjusted jobless rate was also at 3.1 percent in July, compared with 3.2 percent in June, yesterday’s report showed.

Budget standoff causing economic gloom

ravelers Cos. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Jay Fishman said that businesses are curbing spending and hiring because United State lawmakers haven’t addressed fiscal imbalances the country faces in the next decade. “The best thing that could happen right now is a bipartisan solution” to the nation’s mounting debt and widening deficit, Fishman, said in an interview for Bloomberg Radio’s Closer Look With Arthur Levitt to be aired next month. “The sense of gloom and despair would lift and, in fact, businesspeople would be more optimistic.” Executives including BlackRock Incorporated Laurence D. Fink and Pacific Investment Management Co.’s Mohamed El-Erian have warned that Congress’s inaction on fiscal policy will hurt economic growth in the world’s largest economy. Businesses see challenges beyond the

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Mexican President, Enrique Peña Nieto

end of this year, when the U.S. faces a so-called fiscal cliff of automatic spending cuts and tax increases, said Fishman, whose New York-based firm provides insurance coverage to almost a million companies in the country. “Most businesspeople are worried about the intermediate term,” he said.

gained 8.4 percent against the euro this year, the world’s second-best performance after the Hungarian forint. The yield on five-year government bonds rose two basis

points to 3.60 percent. Monetary easing will total 150 basis points, according to Mazurek. That’s above the market expectations even after derivatives traders boosted their bets for monetary easing following the release of the third-quarter data. They now predict a total of 123 basis points in cuts in the next 12 months compared with 100 before, according to the gap between the equivalent forward-rate agreement prices and Warsaw Interbank Offered Rate compiled by Bloomberg. Inflation slowed to 3.4 percent in October from 3.8 percent a month earlier and will “record a remarkable decline in November,” according to Jaroslaw Janecki, Warsaw-based economist at Societe Generale (GLE), who expects the rate at 2.8 percent. If confirmed by the Central Statistical Office on December. 13, it would be a two-month low. The central bank predicts consumerprice growth will decelerate to the 2.5 percent target next year, when the economy will expand 1.5 percent, the least since 2002.

Finnish economy joins Euro area in recession on investments

inland’s economy unexpectedly joined the euro area in a recession in the third quarter as the region’s debt crisis weighed on business confidence and sapped investments. Gross domestic product contracted 0.1 percent from the prior quarter, when it shrank 1.1 percent, Statistics Finland in Helsinki said on its website today. That missed the estimates of three economist surveyed by Bloomberg for growth of 0.2 percent to 0.4 percent. On an annual basis, GDP fell 1.2 percent. “I’m afraid the final quarter is going to be even weaker,” said Pasi Kuoppamaeki, Helsinki-based chief economist at Danske Bank A/S. “It’s possible the trough will be in the first quarter.” Finland’s economy is stalling as businesses cut investments amid concern over falling demand as the 17-nation euro area struggles to contain a debt crisis now in its fourth year. Investments fell 1.1 percent from the previous quarter, with construction spending dropping 1.4 percent, and machinery and equipment investments contracting 2.5 percent. The slump in the northernmost euro economy comes as the government raises taxes and reins in spending to keep debt growth in check. The austerity is exacerbating a slump as companies such as Nokia Oyj, stainless steel-maker Rautaruukki Oyj and paper-machine manufacturer Metso Oyj have responded to declining demand with job cuts. Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen told reporters yesterday that the economic situation is “very challenging,” even as the government will stick to its austerity policies to keep borrowing costs from rising. “Creating new growth is more challenging than usual,” he said today. “We can’t take risks at the expense of our pub-

Katainen

lic finances, as we must defend our credibility.” The government has agreed on 2.3 billion euros of austerity measures next year, which will swell to 5.9 billion euros by 2016. The deficit will shrink to 1.2 percent of GDP in 2013 from 1.7 percent in 2012, the government said on September 17. The economy of the euro area shrank 0.1 percent in the third quarter after contracting 0.2 percent in the second, according to preliminary data. It had stagnated in the first three months of the year as growth eludes the single currency bloc. Growth is also slowing in Germany’s economy, Europe’s biggest. Finnish exports grew 2.4 percent and consumer spending expanded 0.8 percent from the prior three months. The increase in exports is probably due to companies delivering old orders, Kuoppamaeki said. “I’m surprised exports showed an increase,” he said. “Most statistical observations don’t support this. New orders are weak and exports are in a downward trend. Companies are probably working on older orders.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Capital Market

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Stockbrokers to reject forbearance package JOHNSON OKANLWON

here are indications that some of the 84 stockbroking fir ms who have been listed as beneficiaries of the forbearance package announced by the Finance Minister Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala will reject the bail out. This was made known by the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) Mr Mustapha Chike-Obi. According to him, there has been feedback

that many of the stockbroking firms would be rejecting the forbearance package due to the stringent rules that comes with the package, adding that some of the stockbroking firms believe they will not be able to meet up with the rules. One of the conditions set for the brokers is that they would not consult for any firm for a period of three years. However, some brokers who spoke on the issue said though the conditions were stringent, some brokers would still go ahead to take the package. According to the

Chair man of the Association of Stockbroking Houses of Nigeria (ASHON), Mr Emeka Madubuke, “the conditions are stringent but not too stringent and some stockbroking fir ms will be taking it.” He confirmed that some stockbroking firms would be rejecting the forbearance offer saying, “we have met and have decided that the conditions are okay, although some stockbrokers will not be taking the offer, majority will take it. “However, the most important thing for us is that the government

is finally recognizing the importance of the capital market to the economy and they are looking our way”, he stated. Meanwhile the AMCON chief, Chike-Obi has said the corporation will be sending letters to each of the 84 stockbroking firms informing them of the offer and giving them a timeframe to ether take or reject the forbearance package. The Finance Minister had recently announced a bail-out package for 84 stockbroking firms affected by margin loans which may run up to N22bn.

DN Meyer, Academy Press losses drag down NSE’s value

rice losses outweighed gains at the reopening of transactions yesterday on the the Nigerian Stock Exchange, following heavy share price losses recorded by most highly capitalised stocks, as market indices depletes further by N29bn However, volume of shares traded climbed significantly, as 317.4 million shares worth N2.5 billion was exchanged in 3,819 deals, higher than 255.7mil-

lion units worth N2.7 bn traded in 4,933 deals on Tuesday. Specifically, at close of transactions in the day, 23 companies, comprising of penny and blue chip stocks depreciated in price, against 27 less capitalised ones that constituted the gainers table. Precisely, corporate performance indices or All-share index of the Exchange depreciated by 88.65 points or 0.32 per cent, from

27,437.76 recorded when the market closed on Tuesday to 27,349.11 while market capitalisation dipped by N29bn or 0.33 percent, from N8.767 trn to N8.74trn. On the price movement chart, DN MEYER Plc emerged the day highest price loser, dropping, 9.73 per cent to close at N1.67 per share. Academy Press Plc followed depreciating 9.50 per cent to close at N1.62 per share. Custodian Assurance Plc, NPF Corporative

Plc, John Holt Plc dropped 7.69, 5.00 and 4.83 per cent to close the day at N1.20, N0.95 and N3.94 per share respectively. Conversely, Presco, Ikeja Hotel, Conoil, Berger and UTC gained by 7.03, 5.00, 4.98, 4.77 and 4.64 per cent to close the day at N16.60, N0.84, N21.52, N8.56 and N0.67 per share respectively. In all investors swapped 317.4 million units of shares in a deal of 3,819 deals valued at N2.46bn.

Ghana’s Stock Exchange to start alternative market in March

he Ghana Stock Exchange will start a parallel market by March for small companies that have potential to use the capital raised by selling shares for growth, said General Manager Ekow Afedzie. Businesses with a minimum capital of 250,000 cedis ($132,000), at least 20 shareholders and with one year of published accounts will qualify to list on the Ghana Alternative Market, he told reporters in the capital, Accra,

today. The exchange will have less stringent requirements for listing than the main Ghanaian bourse, Afedzie said. “We believe that in the long term this market would be key to the growth of the economy,” Afedzie said. Ghana’s Composite Index (GGSECI) has expanded 23 percent this year, outpacing a 4.9 percent gain in Morgan Stanley’s frontier markets measure, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The West

African nation’s economy, the second-biggest in the region, is forecast to grow 8.2 percent this year and 7.8 percent in 2013, according to the International Monetary Fund. The stock exchange will start a revolving fund to cover listing costs of companies on the alternative market, Afedzie said. The African Development Bank has contributed $600,000 for the fund, he said. Ghana’s Venture Capital Trust Fund is giving $500,000

while the bourse will provide $50,000, according to Afedzie. “The fund will help companies entering the market to postpone listing costs to a future time when they begin to make profit,” he said. Ghana’s Securities and Exchange Commission asked the government to waive a 0.05 percent tax charged on companies to list shares on the market, Director General Adu Anane Antwi told reporters.

U.S. Stocks fall on housing data, budget negotiations

.S. stocks fell, pulling the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index down from a two-month high yesterday, as the White House said it would veto a Republican budget plan and housing starts decreased. Alcoa Inc. (AA) fell 2.6 percent as Moody’s Investors Service placed the aluminium producer under review for a credit down-

grade. Utility and phone stocks declined more than 0.4 percent for the worst performance among 10 S&P 500 groups. General Motors Co. (GM) jumped 8.3 percent on plans to purchase 200 million shares from the government. Knight Capital (KCG) Group Inc. rose 6.2 percent after agreeing to be bought by Getco LLC. The S&P 500 lost 0.2 per-

cent to 1,443.58 at 12:05 p.m. in New York. The benchmark index has gained 15 percent so far this year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 24.27 points, or 0.2 percent, to 13,326.69 yesterday. “Markets continue to be very much focused on fiscal cliff resolution,” Ryan Larson, the Chicago-based head of U.S. equity trading

at RBC Global Asset Management (U.S.) Inc., said in an interview. His firm oversees $250 billion. “The move over the last few days has been supported by optimism that a deal will be reached by year-end. However, so far today we’re seeing a bit of caution as Congressional leaders remain at different ends on several key issues.”

Source: NSE

NIBOR QUOTES 18 DECEMBER & 19 DECEMBER 2012 20.00 19.00 18.00 17.00 16.00 15.00 14.00 13.00 12.00 11.00 10.00 9.00 8.00 7.00 6.00 5.00

1 8 -De c -1 2

1 9 -De c -1 2

Source: FMDA

Market indicators All-Share Index 26,435.89 points Market capitalisation 8,446,887 trillion

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

PRESCO

15.51

16.60

1.09

7.03

IKEJAHOTEL

0.80

0.84

0.04

5.00

CONOIL

20.50

21.52

1.02

4.98

BERGER

8.17

8.56

0.39

4.77

UTC

0.64

0.67

0.03

4.69

AGLEVENT

1.29

1.35

0.06

4.65

NEIMETH

0.87

0.91

0.04

4.60

CONTINSURE

0.68

0.71

0.03

4.41

GUARANTY

20.21

21.10

0.89

4.40

OKOMUOIL

36.65

38.00

1.35

3.68

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

DNMEYER

1.85

CLOSING 1.67

-0.18

-9.73

ACADEMY

1.79

1.62

-0.17

-9.50

CUSTODYINS

1.30

1.20

-0.10

-7.69

NPFMCRFBK

1.00

0.95

-0.05

-5.00

JOHNHOLT

4.14

3.94

-0.20

-4.83

ETERNA

1.90

1.81

-0.09

-4.74

MCNICHOLS

0.85

0.81

-0.04

-4.71

RTBRISCOE

1.52

1.45

-0.07

-4.61

AVONCROWN

1.99

1.90

-0.09

-4.52

PREMBREW

0.89

0.85

-0.04

-4.49

Primary Market Auction TENOR

AMOUNT (N’mn)

RATE (%)

DATE

91-Day

21,838.51

14.09

20-Dec-12

182-Day

59,081.14

15.05

20-Dec-12

364 -Day

30,0000

14.4

20-Dec-12

Open Market Operations TENOR

AMOUNT (N’mn)

RATE (%)

DATE

297 Days

7, 878.70

16.40

20-Dec-12

289-Days

12,963.25

16.39

20-Dec-12

Wholesale Dutch Auction System AMOUNT OFFERED

MARKET DEMAND

AMOUNT SOLD

DATE

$200m

N/A

$200m

20-Dec-12

$250m

N/A

$250m

19-Dec-12

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Stock exchange daily equities summary Equities as at December 19, 2012 1st Tier Securities Sector

Company name

1st Tier Securities No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Sector

Company name

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Harnessing budding talents through arts STORIES: LEONARD OKACHIE

alent is certainly never enough! In this day and age, when enviable talents thrive, the need to hone such talent is highly apparent, because the raw talent needs to be finetuned and polished before it becomes something the world recognises and can identify with. This is certainly part of the vision of Artsbeat Concepts, the budding theatre cum media company that captured and enthralled Isheri-Magodo community recently, when they showcased talents in the teens and youths at their Positive Talents Project (PTP) season one. The programme is meant to be a tour to communities within and outside Lagos State. Armed with the theme of ‘Talents for Community Development’, Artsbeat stepped outside the box for what is obtainable today among youths of this generation. Exploring the theatre arm of the company, the group indeed put the dint of truth in their mantra, “exploring the arts of the mind”. On hand for the well attended event were eminent personalities like veteran presenter, Feyikemi Niyi-Olayinka, known in many circles as the Lion of Yoruba Television Presentations. An accomplished actress herself, Niyi-Olayinka is no stranger to talents and the need to hone and encour-

age it in Nigerian youths. Also in attendance was music maestro, Gbenga Ogundeyi – stage named as Felefelelaye, who dazzled the ready audience with his sonorous albeit, ageless voice. Kenny Brown (Onisoji), music producer and gifted gospel artiste equally performed a beautiful rendition from her latest album, OWO OLUWA “Angeli Ewe” track, specially dedicated to the young ones; budding gospel artiste, Beedee, unrivalled in her use of the stage, dazzled endlessly with her rich fluid voice in a captivating performance of one of her songs “Damilare”, also in dedication for the young ones who displayed creativity matched with their talents. Olusola Taiwo Emmanuel, aka, Lord of Poetry, who is uniquely skilled in the genre of poetry and poetry dramatization, and is widely known for his lengthy yet “visioned” poem, “Why Won’t I Write” performed two artful poems for the intellectual audience. The organisation, which started in 2008 in Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State capitalised on the occasion for the celebration of her 5th anniversary. The command performance entitled “Cry-out from the ghetto” put up by members of Artsbeat Concepts, mostly comprising secondary school students of various ages who have been undergoing training since the beginning of the year, is an

Institute gives free computer training

wenty-seven students in Ikorodu area of Lagos recently graduated in a free computer appreciation course organized by Access Educational Consult towards building computer literacy at the grass root level. Among the areas covered by the scheme are; Computer Engineering, Graphics and Design, Data Base Management, Web development and Management and Desktop Publishing. Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Managing Director, Access Point Educational Consult, Mr. Aboyede Ajasa said the reason behind the initiative is to encourage youth at the community level build a self in a global world. He said the benefits derivable from the programme include, job

Apesco Dance Company performing the Atilogwu dance.

avant-garde dance drama, written and directed by the Creative Director/ CEO of ArtsBeat Concepts, Olayiwola Awakan. The dance drama is a perfect picture of the society today under the present government and a look into the various challenges militating against the development of our nation. Artfully depicted, the dance drama throws a harsh incandescent light on the truth of societal ills and plagues which is rudely apparent in what is today known as the ghetto. The teens were used as the focal point for the message in the well-crafted stage act. According to the creator of the play, Awakan, “Cry-out from the ghetto” is built to be taken on a tour to schools for students

creation for participants which will of course lead to self-reliance on their part. Ajasa maintained: “The idea of the free computer initiative is centred on giving value and empowering participants to broaden their opportunities in a technological driven world via computer appreciation. “This is just a starting phase; we have plans to increase the quality of service rendered as well as the numbers of participants in the next program. We intend to achieve this by partnering with Local Government Areas in Lagos and other interested corporate entities in delivering to the society.” Accordingly,the Keynote speaker, Prince Adetokunbo Fasanya, commended the efforts of the institute and advised that the initiative be sustained for the organisation to be able to achieve its stated goals in the society.

to be sensitised about the situation of the country, as well as encouraging them to focus on their talents for community development. In addition to this, Artsbeat performed a brilliant Edo dance garbed in beautiful costumes and props. Amongst the invited participants were members of the Apesco Dance Company from Olodi-Apapa, Ajegunle, who thrilled the audience with two dances, “Agbeko”, a Ghanaian war dance and “Atilogwu”, an Igbo acrobatic dance. Some of the budding Artsbeat teens performed poetry to the amazement of the audience. Amongst other prominent guests was the Baale of Isheri, Chief Albert O. Bankole who

Beneficiaries of the free training computer programme.

graced the event with his fatherly demeanour and desirable charm. Also in attendance were distinguished personalities from Isheri Community. The ebullient compere, Aparawa GMX was not found wanting in any way and it was a fun ride all the way, as members of Isheri-Magodo environs were quite overwhelmed. Also present at the event was Bamidele Bello a.k.a Bob DE Poet, IyunCrown and other members of the company from O.O.U. In a moving speech Niyi-Olayinka continually emphasised the need to encourage the Nigerian youth, as they are truly the leaders of tomorrow. In treating her topic, Talents for Cultural Appraisal, she further opined that the world has gone beyond parents, beating talents out of children because they feel such talent is not a worthy one. She advised that a child should be guided on the right part in whatever positive endeavour he or she is embarking upon, stressing: “Everyone has something to offer the society, and it is important to create one’s own brand. Furthermore, talent can be used to promote the African culture in ways government propaganda cannot.” She sighted young rappers like Dagrin, Wiz Kid and Olamide who have changed the face of rap music in Nigeria by rapping in Yoruba. Positive talent she believes should be encouraged and harnessed, not discouraged and frowned at as some are wont to do. In all, the programme was an eye-opener for many, and it was commended as a good initiative for youth and community development.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Young & Next Generation

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Isa, Imoh win Country DStv Eutelsat Star Awards

Lagos YCW celebrates Christmas for the elderly

STORIES: LEONARD OKACHIE

sa Bello Suleiman, 16, of Zamani College, Kaduna; and Imoh Daniel, 16, of Army Day Secondary School, Cross River State; have emerged as the 2012 Country Winners in the Essay and Poster categories, respectively at the 2012 DStv Eutelsat Star Awards. Oyindamola Adisa of Adesoye College and Simon Akpan Anita of Lagos Anglican Girl’s Grammar School emerged runners up in the essay and poster categories as well. The DStv Eutelsat Star Awards is a Corporate Social Responsibility of MultiChoice Africa and Eutelsat. It an initiative designed to educate and create awareness about satellite technology and its application among African students. The award is also designed to stimulate interest in science and technology among African school children by educating them on the science involved. Speaking at the winners announcement prize presentation recently in Lagos, the Managing Director of MultiChoice Nigeria, Mr. John Ugbe said he was proud to state that the awards, which seeks to inspire innovative thinking among secondary school students and create awareness on how science and technology can be applied to everyday life is fast becoming a household name among students. “Last year when we commenced the award, over 150 entries were received in Nigeria and worthy winners for the overall awards emerged from Uganda, Ghana, Mauritius and South Africa. The awards provided a platform for students in and outside the country to express their knowledge on satellite

L-R Master Isa Bello Suleiman, Mr. John Ugbe, and Miss. Imoh Daniel, during the presentation of prizes to national winners of 2012 DStv Eutelsat Star Awards in Lagos, recently.

technology,” he said. The two winners expressed their gratitude to the organisers, saying the award has inspired them to do more in their different endeavours. Meanwhile, East Africa stole the show at the continent level as Anthony Oyom Peter from Uganda was chosen as the winner for his essay and Eva Chemwgorem from Kenya for her poster, at the ceremony in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Anthony came out top in the Best Essay Award category with his entry “A watchful eye from above the heavens” that impressed the judges with its creativity. This is the second year that

a Ugandan student takes first place in the DStv Eutelsat Star Awards, after last year’s winner, Mary Musimire. The Best Poster Award went to Eva entitled “Africa united through satellites”. Antony’s prize is a trip with one of his parents to watch a live rocket launch and a visit to Eutelsat in France. Eva will also visit Eutelsat’s Paris headquarters to get a closer insight on satellite technology. Merit Awards for the runners up for Best Essay and Best Poster Awards went to Charles Finch from Swaziland and Tony Tumnsiime from Uganda who will both visit MultiChoice’s broadcast facilities in Johannesburg, South Africa.

embers of the Young Christian Workers Movement of Nigeria (YCWM) Lagos State visited the Holy Family Home for the Elderly, Mushin, recently to celebrate with the aged as part of their many programmes to mark the Young Christian Workers’ Lagos Regional Week. They made some financial donations and gift items. The Matron of the Home, Rev. Sister. Anthonia Adebowale (EHJ), who welcomed the youths, gave a brief history of the place, which houses and caters for 14 elderly people at a time. With the aid of six other members of staff, the matron explained the challenges which they have to encounter in managing such a humanitarian programme, while acknowledging that there were no plans to expand in other to accommodate more elderly people. She cautioned: “Nigerians should be discouraged from dumping their parents in a home. Our parents took care of us while we were young, therefore the onus lies on us to reciprocate the love shown us to them when they age. Funding may be one of our major challenges, but our morals and values in the society is changing in a bad way.” Rev. Sister Adebowale frowned at the new trend in Nigeria where people are eager to give up their old people to be taken care of in an old people’s home. She made an appeal to corporate bodies and individuals to come to the aid of the elderly while they are alive, rather than throw elegant ceremonies at their deaths. She noted that the home is in need of a bus, wherein the elderly can be taken on excursions and moved about from time to time, eliminating their rather often sedentary lifestyle. The Lagos Regional President of the youth group, Mr. Esan Andrew Akins noted that it has become a necessity to visit the elderly judging from the abysmal trend of neglect which is often associated with the aged citizens. In continuity, the group according to the Regional President has established a trust fund - YCW Friend of the Needy Trust Fund, to cater for the elderly and other charitable activities.

Child stars dominate Nigeria’s Got Talent

ith one of them as eventual winner, child stars were a dominant presence in the just concluded Nigeria’s Got Talent Season One, sponsored by Airtel Nieria, taking three of the top four positions. Dancer and violinist, the talented eight year old Amarachi Uyanne defeated nine other finalists to clinch the overall trophy. In the top ten with her were many other under-16s. She clinched the N10m winner- take-all star prize. On her way there, Amarachi defeated 20 years old violinist and top challenger, Godwin Ogechukwu and the duo of Jesse and Oghomwen, both under 12 years, to the grand prize through a public voting process. Amarachi was not the only kid revelation at the NGT. Several others showed up but did not go beyond the auditions. Yet a few others like 11 years-old singer Raji Oluwayomi, Dan Samuel Okon, Crystal Core, 12 years old rapper Olayemi John Pelumi

made it to the semi-finals while 11 years old singer Oluwatoke Salami and the duo of Jesse and Oghomwen, both 13 and 11 respectively made the top four in the finals. Besides these individual acts were other youngsters who enormously contributed to the success of their groups on the show. They include Code Red, The Pebbles, Expendables, DNA, Kellyz Family Dance Group, The Lord’s Chosen and the Experiential Dancers. Just as Amarachi’s emergence as the winner was not anticipated from the onset given her age, experience and most primarily, the array of talents participating in the reality show, same case could be made for the rest youngsters. However, as the show wore on, they increasingly won the support and followership of the viewing Nigerian public as they flexed muscles with other much older contestants, most of whom were outshone.

Top of the pack was 12 years old Olayemi John Pelumi who wowed the NGT judges, live audience and the viewing public with his class of rap music that combined swag, exceptional confidence and excitement. Until he lost out to ventriloquist Dr. Bariyu Yesuf in the race for a finals slot, he was a top contender for the N10 Million Airtel grand prize. Pelumi may not have gone beyond the semi-finals, but he left a mark as one of the budding stars discovered on the Airtelsponsored Nigeria’s Got Talent platform. While a handful of these youngsters took to singing and rapping, most engaged in other genres of performing arts particularly dance. This is remarkable in itself in view of the low perception of dancers in the Nigerian society. These youngsters made most of the NGT platform, sparking in the process, the revival of aspects of our culture which has suffered neglect over

Amarachi

Toke-Salami

Oghomwen Edosowmanand Jesse Umoh

the years. Speaking on the performance of the youngsters on the show, Airtel’s Chief Marketing Officer, Olu Akanmu, said it was indicative of the depth of talents in the country and the commitment of the operator to create respectable platforms for talent discovery and nurturing. “As we have seen courtesy of the NGT show, our youths are very talented across board; they have delivered great music, great

dancing, and great performances that leaves no one in doubt that Nigeria indeed harbours great talent that can go toe-to-toe with their counterparts across the world. With NGT, Airtel is offering the biggest platform to local talents to live their dreams and this debut season has justified our belief in and commitment to the Nigerian youth knowing that they can reach their zenith given the enabling environment and platform.”

Media

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Govt should empower independent TV producers –Bassey Yvonne Bassey is a talented, experienced, but unassuming journalist and TV producer, who has been promoting African destination with her programme, Thru’ The Eyes Of An African on DStv/ Africa Magic. Her effort was rewarded recently at the Nigeria Media Merit Awards (NMMA) 2012, as she bagged two awards of TV Programme Presenter of the Year and TV Production of the Year. Bassey, who is the executive producer, speaks on the programme and TV production in Nigeria generally, in a chat with LEONARD OKACHIE. Excerpts: me to put it together and pay me to air it as well. For instance, I travelled to Cairo, Egypt to put together advert for Egypt Air. I voiced it and I aired it. That is the only way I have been able to get round that, but basically my sponsorship comes from people who are willing to come on to the programme and talk about what they do for a living. I try to make sure that I align tourism and travel since that is what the programme is all about, but occasionally I involve a few things just to make sure that I get what it takes to feed the programme and to keep it alive. Occasionally, you find a politician speaking about his quest to become a governor, but I still make sure that he speaks about what he will do in the area of tourism when he does become a governor.

How do you feel winning TV Programme Presenter of the Year and TV Production of the Year, at the 2012 NMMA, award? I am overwhelmed and really gratified that my effort and my obsession in the promotion of African destination through TV documentary is beginning to yield fruit. I believe it is a sign that people are beginning to reckon with, not only my work but what it is that I am promoting, which is tourism in Nigeria. Though it is a mark for the promotion of tourism and the fact that people’s eyes are beginning to open to the fact that tourism is a veritable tool for economic growth, something that has not been realised before. Many years ago, I am sure many people didn’t even know what the word tourism meant, but now that has changed slowly. So, I feel this is the time that we should work harder, do better and fly higher. It has boosted my confidence and that of the entire crew as well as improved the profile of the programme. I am thankful to God. What is the programme all about? Thru’ The Eyes Of An African is a weekly travel and tourism related programme that is aimed at promoting African destination basically, with special entity from Nigeria. We are concerned with destination, tourist sight, heritage legacies, cultures of different African groups and ethnic groups that have not received much attention, sights that have been relegated to the background, that people did not realise the inherent value in the area of strengthening the economy in creating job and adding value to the nation’s economy generally. Those were the virtues we are interested in. Yes, we do visit the well publicised ones, but more especially that need a spotlight to be directed upon for people to understand that there is something fresher, say in this corner of Anambra State or this little flame hidden in Kogi State which we have never heard of before. That is what we are passionate about. How would you describe the journey so far? It has been a continuous journey, we are still on the road discovering every single day. It is a continuous trim of discovering because there are so many places that exist in Nigeria. Everywhere we go there is something that every state can boast of. Sometimes the owners of those treasures do not even know it is there. It is just as exciting for me too to learn more and more about my country every day. How do you see the criticism that T.V production has falling in Nigeria? I feel those that criticise should first of all ask the reason why. I am sure we do

Bassey

have so many talented TV producers, TV presenters, script writers and so on, whose work can compare with those of their counterparts in any part of the world, but how much support are they given? How much do the independent TV producers enjoy? I am not talking about the government or even the TV stations themselves. You pay huge sums of money to air your programme. Where can you get that kind of money from? Before you talk of getting quality content you need money. For instance, a programme like ours, we need to travel. We pay air ticket, accommodation and feeding for the crew before you now talk of editing. Right now, I am using a generator; we haven’t had light all day. The editor, cameraman, production assistant, I and others need to be paid at the end of the month. It is not easy. The government should empower serious independent television producers so that they can be in the right position to produce first rate TV production; otherwise it is not just possible. I believe this is the reason why the quality of TV production is dropping. Don’t you think producers and script writers lack ideas? Nigerian TV producers and script writers are some of the most talented to be compared anywhere in the world. I learnt this when I attended one of these producer functions in Nairobi where I was privileged to rub shoulders with some of very talent Nigerian TV producers. They have got fantastic work waiting for spon-

NIGERIAN TV PRODUCERS AND SCRIPT WRITERS ARE SOME OF THE MOST TALENTED TO BE COMPARED ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD sorship before it could go on air or magazine. I think the government should really look at this as another avenue towards alleviating poverty, because what happens is that once they are not able to bring to bear their creativity they become dormant and they just become another unemployment figure in the market. I think it is criminal to let these talents waste. So how do you get sponsorship for your programme? Sometimes I wonder if those that get sponsors to their programmes belong to a kind of cult or something, because I have not had any sponsor (I mean advert) on my programme. What I actually had to do out of desperation was to create my own advert, going to some airlines, tourism related establishments to tell them that I create advert if they don’t have any to air on my programme. So, I take my cameraman, equipment, take pictures of the establishment and put together an advert. They pay

How did you succeed in getting a big platform like DStv? It will be wrong for me to take all the glory. I believe that in anything anyone does not only should it be a job; it should be like a calling, because when you are destined to do that, you find out that the kind of favour that doesn’t usually come to people comes to you. The first time I tried to get my programme on DStv/African Magic I was told that I would never air my programme there because there were big players with lots of money, lining up for airtime and they hadn’t even got it. But there was little me without even enough to pay for my first season. It’s God because there is no other person I can attribute this to. They aired my programme if when I had not finished paying for my season one. The programme is now in season six and God has been sustaining it. Sometimes I sit down and wonder how it happened. Would you say your experience with Channels TV shot you to this height? Channels TV is my first love. I feel very emotional any time I think of Channels. And there is no doubt about the fact that Mr. John Momoh, the Chairman of Channels TV is the master of the game when it comes to television production. So I sat at the feet of the master himself for seven years. He impacted so much on my career, he gave me a fantastic platform to shine, he gave me a blank cheque to travel to anywhere in the world. I started off as a newscaster. That didn’t last too long and then I became aviation reporter. Later I joined with it tourism but after a while it became apparent that it was not possible to handle the two because they are both verse enterprises on their own. Eventually it became apparent that tourism was where my strength is needed. That was how I became a producer in charge of tourism and travel. I left as head of documentary.

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Media

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Media Abroad

Yahoo revamps its email in battle with Google

L-R: Managing Director, News Agency of Nigeria, Dame Oluremi Oyo; UNICEF Facilitator, Mr. Geoffrey Njoku; Member, Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME) Trustees, Mr. Lanre Idowu and former Ogun State Governor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, at the DAME presentation ceremony in Lagos recently. PHOTO: YINKA ADEPARUSI

JAAIDS honours media at Red Ribbon Awards LEONARD OKACHIE

t was an electrifying moment when Georgina Ahamefule, who recently won the HIV-related discrimination lawsuit, was announced winner, Breaker of Silence Individual in the community category at the 2012 Red Ribbon Awards Four awards were given out, two for the media and two for the community categories at the awards ceremony organised by Journalists Against AIDS (JAAIDS), Nigeria and her partners at the Airport Hotels, Ikeja, Lagos. Ahamefule’s determination and courage that the 12 years long court case will not see her end rather she will see the end of it, won her the award for Breaker of Silence Individual. The guests listened attentively as the compere read out her ci-

tation which summarised her ordeal while waiting 12 years for judgement which the Lagos State High Court judge finally handed down on Thursday 27th September 2012. Ipole Community Development Organisation (ICDO) from Benue State won the Breaker of Silence Organization. Olubunmi Yekini of Metro FM - an arm of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), won the radio award sponsored by New HIV Vaccine and Microbidices Advocacy Society (NHVMAS), beating Justice Kalu Amah of Solid FM, Enugu to second place. Modupe Bosede Esan won the Best Feature Reporting on HIV/AIDS (Television). All winners in each category of the awards went home with N100, 000 cash prizes, a specially-designed Red Ribbon plaque and a certificate.

This year’s awards celebration started with the end of year roundtable panel discussion which had the theme ‘Getting to Zero: A Dream or Reality for the Nigerian AIDS Response’ which unifies this year’s campaign of ‘Getting to Zero’. The theme addressed four key areas namely: Most at Risk Populations (MARPs), Research, New Prevention Technologies and the Role of the Media. HIV activist and journalist with The Nation newspaper, Mr. Fredrick Adegboye who spoke on behalf of the awards panel of judges, said this year, three categories were considered under the media section, but entries received in print category did not meet up with the stated criteria as the focused was on New Prevention Technology (NPT) for both print and radio categories.

51 years after, UNN awards PhD in Mass Comm DENNIS AGBO ENUGU

he Department of Mass Communication, University of Nigeria, made history on December 14, when one of its PhD students and lecturer, Michael Ukonu, successfully defended his thesis before a panel of examiners. The defence marked the first time in the 51-year history of the department that a PhD thesis oral examination was ever conducted. The Head, Department of Mass Communication, Dr. Nnanyelugo Okoro, affirmed that the department was now ready to show leadership among the respected communication-training institutions in the world.

He said, “The current crop of reputable, scholarly and progress-oriented academics in the department is poised for the best despite the challenges of the past.” Dr. Okoro, who was himself the first PhD graduate to be produced in any South-East university, commended the current administration of Prof. Barth Okolo for its visionary leadership in providing the environment for graduate studies to thrive. The University recently held a historic maiden orientation workshop for her post-graduate students and supervisors during which it unveiled plans to reposition its post-graduate studies for greater efficiency. Also speaking, Ukonu com-

mended the head and staff of the Department of Mass Communication for their resolve to re-write history. Ukonu expressed satisfaction with the on-going transformation in UNN, which was already yielding manifold results in line with the university’s goal of pursuing internationally acceptable standards in education. UNN Department of Mass Communication was established in 1961 as the first School of Journalism in subSaharan Africa. In 1982, the Master of Art in Mass Communication was added. However, it took 25 years for the PhD programme to take effect. The first batch of PhD students began classes during the 2006/2007 academic session.

ahoo is spiffing up and expanding its email service in an attempt to regain ground lost to a Google alternative that lured away millions of users. The changes unveiled last week are meant to make Yahoo’s email faster and easier to use on the Web. To cater to the growing audience checking their email on smartphones and tablet computers, Yahoo also introduced mobile apps for the iPhone, iPad and devices powered by Microsoft Corp.’s recently released Windows 8 system. The company, which is based in Sunnyvale, Calif., also updated its email app designed for Google Inc.’s Android operating system. The email overhaul is part of Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer’s crusade to give people more reasons to visit the company’s online services and stick around longer. In doing so, Mayer hopes to sell more advertising and accelerate Yahoo’s revenue growth after years of financial malaise. The stagnation has kept the company’s stock price below $20 for more than four years. Yahoo shares were hovering near $30 before the company squandered an opportunity to sell itself to Microsoft for $33 per share in May 2008. During her 13 years as a top Google executive, Mayer played a key role in building the company’s Gmail. The service was a novelty when it began in 2004,

Yahoo CEO, Marrisa Mayer

and with Mayer’s help it transformed into a trend-setting service that surpassed the early leads of rival offerings from Yahoo and Microsoft. Through October, Gmail had more than 295 million active users to eclipse Microsoft’s Hotmail at nearly 284 million users and Yahoo email at 282 million, according to the most recent data from the research firm comScore. At the same time last year, Hotmail led the pack with 335 million users, followed by Yahoo at 303 million and Gmail at more than 245 million. With more people gravitating to Gmail, Microsoft also recently redesigned Hotmail and rebranded the service as Outlook. com — a reference to the communications channel built into the software maker’s widely used Office suite of programs. The Columbus Dispatch

International Newspaper of the Year contest opens

ewspapers worldwide can apply for an award for International Newspaper of the Year Award. The Award is part of the U.K.’s 2013 Newspaper Awards, the industry awards dedicated to news media production. Judges will be looking for consistent quality over three different newspaper issues printed between October 1, 2012 and February 11,

2013. Design, use of colour and photography will also be taken into consideration by the judges. Other categories open to international publishers include Digitally Printed Newspaper of the Year and The Newspaper App of the Year. The contest also features 18 categories limited to U.K. newspapers. The deadline is February 11.

Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship

Typically, 12 Americans are joined by six international colleagues. Applicants must be granted a leave of absence for the academic year from their employers. Applicants must have at least five years of professional experience. Print, broadcast and online journalists are eligible to apply. U.S. fellows receive US$70,000 and have their tuition and travel costs covered by the program. The stipend for international fellows varies. The deadline for U.S. and international applicants is February 1. Source - ijnet

idcareer journalists can apply for a fellowship at the University of Michigan. The Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship, sponsored by the University of Michigan, brings exceptional journalists from the United States and abroad together for a year of academic study. Fellows devise a personalised plan of study with access to the courses and resources at the university.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Community Mirror “I believe people who have grievances against the government should come out to discuss them and settle for peace.” FORMER MILITARY HEAD OF STATE; GENERAL ABDULSALAMI ABUBAKAR

Shagamu pledges good relations with company FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

he people of Remo in a Shagamu Community have pledged to maintain cordial relationship with Lafarge Cement, WAPCO, for the smooth operation of its activities in the community. The community, under the aegis of Shagamu Community Development Council (SCDC), gave the assurance at the 2012 CSR Day which featured presentation of bursary awards for 72 indigent students of the community. In his welcome address, chairman of SCDC, Olootu Michael Oyedele, described Lafarge WAPCO’s presentation of the developmental projects, as the essence of well structured and collaborative Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR. Later, the company unveiled developmental projects worth N85million, which are in the areas of security, education, youth empowerment, health, environment, as well as basic infrastructure. Among others were donation of laboratory science equipment and materials to 18 public secondary schools, medical equipment, as well as tools for the local vigilance group. Speaking at the event, the Akarigbo and paramount ruler

of Remoland, Oba (Dr.) Michael Adeniyi Sonariwo, charged the recipients and beneficiaries of the projects, to make good use of the opportunities to engage on journey of self-development. The Managing Director of Lafarge, Mr. Hudson called on beneficiaries to develop the willingness to learn and be accountable for their actions always, bearing in mind that their own resolution to succeed is more important than any support they have received”.

Couple clubs baby to death OJO OYEWAMIDE AKURE

three-month-old baby has allegedly been clubbed to death at Ajebamidele Street in Akure, Ondo State capital, following a scuffle between the mother and another couple. The couple, Oluwaseun Oluwatoba, 27, and Omolara Oluwatoba, 19, are said to be living in the same compound with the deceased’s mother.

They were alleged to have caused the death of Miss Roseline Adebisi, by hitting her on the head with a hard object. The couple has consequently been arraigned before an Akure Magistrate’s Court where the prosecutor, ASP, Pelumi Adejuwon, argued that the alleged offence was contrary to and punishable under Section 324 of the Criminal Code Cap 37 Vol 1 Laws of Ondo state 2006. The prosecutor demanded

that the accused be remanded in prison custody to enable him send the the case file to the Ministry of Justice for legal advice. In his ruling, Chief Magistrate Omotosho Akinyele, ordered that the couple be remanded in prison custody, just as he ruled that the duplicate of the case file be sent to the Ministry of Justice for legal advice. Hearing in the case has been adjourned for January 17, 2013.

On-going construction of a make-shift bridge to scene of the vandalised pipeline at Ijedodo in Ijegun, Lagos.

Loan default: Bank detains customer’s wife, daughter CHRIS NJOKU OWERRI

rs. Uzoma Maduagwu did not bargain for detention. But she tasted the bitter pill for the sake of her husband, Ikechukwu Maduagwu who was accused by First Bank Plc, for defaulting on loan repayment agreement. Her journey to detention began on December 10, 2012 when four armed policemen came to her home at Urualla, Orlu, Imo State to whisk her and her one year old daughter away. For two days, the mother and child, Ugochi, were kept in a police cell without food and water. Narrating her ordeal, the nursing mother said when the police from the State Criminal Investigation Department of

the Imo State Command, acting under instruction of First Bank Orlu branch, stormed her home, she was manhandled before being whisked away with her one year old baby to Owerri and locked them up for two days in the police cell, in place of her husband Mr. Maduagwu, a customer of the bank. “They inquired of the whereabouts of my husband, but after explaining that he was not at home the police officers forcefully dragged me into the waiting van with my one-year-old baby, branding us accomplice to fraud.” According to her, in the process, she sustained bruises on her right arm while being forced into the van. Mrs. Maduagwu said when they got to Owerri, she and her

baby were locked up in the cell for two days, even as the police insisted she would not be released until her husband was arrested. But she was eventually released when they learnt her husband has consulted the services of a lawyer. Her husband, Mr. Maduagwu, vowed to sue First Bank Plc and the Imo State Police Command for illegal detention and violation of the fundamental rights of his wife and little daughter. He added that his daughter is now down with malaria, resulting from mosquito bites in police cell. According to him, he took a loan facility of N1 million, early this year from First Bank, Orlu branch to expand his poultry farm, adding that the loan facility would expire in March 2013.

But he was surprised that the repayment date had not expired before the bank’s Branch Relationship Manager, Mr. Lawrence Nwakamma, invited the police to arrest him. He further stated that a condition for the loan was that he must deposit the sum of N250, 000, which he did and he also paid additional N200, 000 before he lost 3,200 birds in his poultry farm due to bird flu. Maduagwu, maintained that he duly informed the bank of his predicament. Even his insurers, Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC) paid loss claims into his First Bank Account in Lagos, while the bank also transferred N250, 000 security deposits to the loan account without his knowledge. He said, “in spite of this, the

bank invited the police from Urualla division, alleging that he had defaulted on the loan repayment. But after thorough examinations, the Orlu Police Division told Mr. Nwakamma, that there was nothing fraudulent in the business transaction and they should rather allow some time to recover from my losses to enable me continue the loan repayment, but he got angry with the police for not detaining me’’. Meanwhile, Mr. Maduagwu said last Friday, he had told the Business Manager, Mr. Clinton Ogu, that he would pay some installments the following Monday and that he actually went sourcing for the money, when Nwakamma arrived with the police and arrested his wife and daughter, while locking them up in police cell for two days.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

World News

Obama calls for gun policy change after shooting

“I want to define with Algeria a strategic partnership on an equal-to-equal basis. I am not here to repent or apologize; I am here to tell the truth.”

– French President, Francois Hollande

Mali’s executions caused by extremists, not foreigners – Traore PAUL ARHEWE

WITH AGENCY REPORTS

ali’s president acknowledged yesterday that the Islamist group carrying out public executions and amputations in the country’s north is made up mostly of Malians and not foreign fighters, a declaration that appears aimed at fostering dialogue with the group. The move comes as Ansar Dine negotiates with the Malian government and West African regional powers push for a military intervention to oust the Islamists who seized power earlier this year. The comments mark the first time Mali’s leader has acknowledged that the Ansar Dine group includes mostly Malians. Previously the government had maintained the group included militants from al-Qaida’s North Africa branch and other foreigners who invaded Mali in the wake of a coup in March. Yesterday, though, President Dioncounda Traore said Ansar Dine fighters “are mainly made up of our fellow countrymen.” He also noted the presence in northern Mali of Nigerian terror group Boko Haram and al-Qaida’s North Africa branch, or AQIM, in the area, which has known links to Ansar Dine.

Ansar Dine, or “Defenders of the Faith,” controls the towns of Kidal and Timbuktu in northern Mali, where they have imposed a strict form of Islamic law known as Shariah there. They’ve stoned to death a couple accused of adultery and accused thieves have had their hands hacked off hacked off. Ansar Dine also has recruited children as young as 12 into their ranks and forced women to wear head-to-toe veils. While Ansar Dine may be made up of mostly Malian nationals, there are credible reports of its links to AQIM, al-Qaida’s North Africa branch, which operates in northern Mali. The cousin of Ansar Dine’s leader is one of the people in charge of an AQIM brigade in Kidal, according to Stephanie Pezard, a political scientist who is preparing a report on Mali for the Washington-based Rand Corporation. Ansar Dine has emerged as one of the dominant groups among those who first took control of northern Mali in the wake of a March military coup in the country’s distant capital that created a power vacuum. Their leaders in recent weeks have tried to make concessions, including distancing themselves from terrorism, even

Kony

els. When the shooting subsided the soldiers found a pair of lifeless rebels and two children deserted by insurgents. But the deputy — Dominic Ongwen, the subject of an international

The ECOWAS Commission on Tuesday in Monrovia, handed over 300 metric tons of rice to the Liberian Government for distribution to more than 66,800 Ivorian refugees in Liberia, who were displaced by the post-2012 electoral crisis to flee their country. Making the presentation at the Free Port of Monrovia to Liberia’s Minister of Finance, Amara Konneh, who also is in charge of ECOWAS affairs in the country, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Kadré Ouédraogo, said the provision of humanitarian assistance to citizens in distress “is a core task of our institution and by extension, the implementation of one of the assignments passed on to us by the Community.”.

126 rape cases occur in eastern Congo fighting – UN

Traore

though many analysts question their sincerity. Still, they are seen as the only Islamic group in the north that can be brought to the negotiating table, in part because their leaders are all Malian nationals, who own property in north Mali, and stand to lose if an international military operation is sanctioned.

By contrast, MUJAO, an extremist group controlling the city of Gao, and al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb, are led by Algerian and Mauritanian commanders. Their ideology is in sync with al-Qaida’s and their spokesmen have made clear that they have no interest in negotiating with the “infidel” government of Mali.

arrest warrant — had escaped, leaving his pursuers to rue a missed opportunity. The shoot-out last August in the Central African Republic highlighted the limitations of African efforts to eliminate the leadership of the LRA, a brutal gang of jungle militiamen with no real political aim except violence and destruction. Roughly one year after 100 U.S. special forces troops arrived in four Central Africa nations to advise African soldiers in their pursuit, Kony is still on the run and his exact whereabouts unknown. Ugandan officials now say he is hiding in a place called Kafia Kingi, along the volatile Sudan-South Sudan border. When President Barack Obama announced in October 2011 that he was sending in the

forces, American policy makers and Africa experts warned that even with the extra U.S. assistance, the hunt for a killer in an expansive jungle the size of France would be difficult. The warnings have proved to be true. Despite a spike in LRA defections and statements by the State Department that significant progress has been made, those most interested in the Kony hunt are calling for even greater U.S. involvement. Kasper Agger, a researcher with the U.S.-based anti-genocide group the Enough Project, said in a recent report that U.S. forces must “play a more operational role,” in the hunt. American forces now don’t participate in the physical hunts and engage in combat only in cases of self-defence.

US claims progress in Uganda rebel leader’s hunt he foot soldiers searching the deep jungles on the hunt for African warlord Joseph Kony were convinced they had cornered his deputy as they exchanged fire with a band of Lord’s Resistance Army reb-

WORLD BULLETIN ECOWAS gives aid to Ivorian refugees in Liberia

The United Nations says at least 126 cases of rape took place in eastern Congo last month. U.N. spokesman Martin Nesirky says two Congolese soldiers so far have been arrested in connection with the violence. Preliminary investigations have accused Congolese army soldiers of committing rapes, looting and other human rights violations in Minova and surrounding villages. The violence took place in late November after soldiers retreated from the city of Goma after it was captured by the M23 rebels. Rape has long been used as a brutal weapon of war in eastern Congo, where both soldiers and various armed groups use sexual violence to intimidate, punish and control the population.

Senegal adopts law to try ex-Chad dictator Senegal’s national assembly adopted a much-anticipated law yesterday which creates a special tribunal to try ex-Chadian dictator Hissene Habre, the first step in ending 22 years of impunity that began when the deposed former president fled to Senegal, leaving behind a country strewn with mass graves. The statute gives the Senegalese president the right to ratify an accord with the African Union, creating the tribunal, which will act as a chamber within the larger Senegalese court system. Rights groups have been pushing Senegal for decades to try Habre, and the regime of exPresident Abdoulaye Wade, who was ousted in this year’s election, was accused of purposely dragging its feet.

World News

Ailing Iraqi president to be treated in Germany

raqi President Jalal Talabani will be flown to Germany for further treatment after suffering a stroke earlier this week, two Kurdish officials close to him said yesterday. Medical experts from Germany and other countries began arriving earlier in the day to assess the 79-year-old president’s condition. Iraqi doctors at the Baghdad intensive care unit where he is being treated say he is in stable condition and getting better, but they have released few details about his illness. Talabani, a member of Iraq’s Kurdish minority, was taken to the hospital late Monday and doctors worked to stabilize him into the following day. His illness raises new concerns about Iraq’s stability, which is being tested anew by a recent spike in tensions between the central government and the Kurds. Firyad Rawndouzi, a senior member of Talabani’s Patriotic Union of Kurdistan party, said the German team recommended he be moved, possibly as early as Thursday. The head of the president’s media office, Barazan Sheikh Othman, also said doctors were preparing to transfer him. “Most probably the president will be taken tomorrow, or at maximum the day after tomorrow, to Germany to complete his treatment,” Othman said. “The president’s medical situation has improved and he has passed the dangerous stage.”

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Obama calls for gun policy change after shooting • Named Time magazine’s Person of the Year

S President Barack Obama has called for “concrete proposals” on gun control by the end of January, saying “words need to lead to action”. In remarks at the White House, Obama said VicePresident Joe Biden would

lead an exploration of options after a mass school shooting in Connecticut. There have been calls for gun law reform after 26 children and teachers died at Sandy Hook School in Newtown. The president said a “majority of Americans”

back changes to some laws. Those include the renewal of an assault weapons ban, limits on highcapacity ammunition magazines and an end to loopholes allowing gun purchases with no background checks, Obama

President Barack Obama standing with Vice President Joe Biden as he makes a statement yesterday, at the White House in Washington. PHOTO: AP

outh Korea’s President-elect, Park Geun-hye, has said her victory will help the country’s economy recover. Ms Park, the daughter of former dictator Park Chung-hee, defeated her liberal rival Moon Jae-in. She will be South Korea’s first female leader. Votes are still being counted, but Mr Moon has admitted defeat. Turnout was high in a poll dominated by economic and social welfare issues.

said. He urged Congress to hold votes on those issues when it reconvenes in the new year. “If there is even one thing that we can do to prevent anyone of these events, we have a deep obligation - all of us - to try,” he said. “The fact that we can’t prevent every act of violence doesn’t mean we can’t steadily reduce the violence.” The assault weapons ban lapsed under President George W Bush in 2004. Obama has previously stated his support for a reintroduction without backing a specific move to do so before now. Biden has decades of experience as a senator and analysts say that experience could be essential to getting any changes through Congress, which has been lobbied extensively on the issue by the National Rifle Association (NRA). The vice-president’s team will include members

of the Obama administration as well as representatives of outside groups. Obama told reporters he would push for the proposals recommended by the Biden-led task force “without delay”, after the January deadline. Meanwhile, Time has tapped President Obama for its Person of the Year for the second time, citing his historic re-election last month as symbolic of the nation’s shifting demographics and the rise of younger, more diverse Americans. In announcing its annual selection yesterday, the magazine called Obama the “Architect of the New America.” “He’s basically the beneficiary and the author of a kind new America - a new demographic, a new cultural America that he is now the symbol of,” Time editor Rick Stengel said of Obama, who was also selected for the honour in 2008 when he became the nation’s first black president.

South Korea elects first female president Ms Park, 60, will replace her party colleague Lee Myung-bak.He is stepping down as the law requires after his five-year term. Park Geun-hye’s win means that South Korea now has its first female president. In a country

where rapid modernisation exists alongside ancient Confucian values, many people are saying her election will prompt real social change. Ms Park has already served as South Korea’s first lady, after her mother

was killed in the 1970s. Now she’s won a stint in her father’s role, she’ll face loud demands to reform the big family conglomerates he created, whilst protecting the country’s modern economy from the effects of the global slow-

down. Supporters of her liberal rival, Moon Jae-in, have accused Ms Park of belonging to the past, and of having little understanding of the rough and tumble of modern democratic government.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South South

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Oil communities seek NEITI’s audit of N7trn derivation fund TOLA AKINMUTIMI ABUJA

eaders of oil producing communities in six states of the federation have accused their respective state governments of misappropriating a whopping N7.28trn and urged the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) to carry out a comprehensive audit of distributions from the fund to the states over the past 13 years. In their letter to NEITI authorities the community leaders urged the body to intervene in the “illegal and unconstitutional payment” of 13 per cent derivation into any state government’s accounts. The letter was signed by Chief William Igere representing Delta State; Pastor Macpherson Kurobo (Bay-

elsa State); Chief Harry Opaks, (Rivers State), Saviour James Okon, (Akwa Ibom State); Princess Nomwen Uhunmwangho, (Edo State); and Comrade Samuel Ebiwanno, (Ondo State). The communities also reminded the NEITI authorities about the subsisting legal position on the Derivation Fund, insisting that, contrary to the stance of the governors, the fund is not part of consolidated revenue of any tier of government nor was it a part of the state joint local government account. In addition, they argued that the 13 per cent derivation fund is the first charge on the Federation Account as provided in the Section 162 (2) of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The 13 per cent derivation fund is prior to any revenue formula.

The letter reads in part: “The illegal and unconstitutional payment of 13 per cent derivation fund through the state governments have left the actual oil and gas producing communities in abject poverty. “The state governments, which received this money illegally, use the funds to develop their state capitals and non-oil and gas producing communities, leaving the actual oil and gas producing communities in hunger and penury. This situation has caused monumental fraud against the oil and gas producing communities. “The oil and gas communities therefore appeal to NEITI to intervene and prevail on RMAFC to respect the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria, stop this illegal and unconstitutional payment

of 13 per cent derivation fund into any state government account, comply with the principle of fiscal responsibility, transparency, accountability and pay the 13 per cent derivation fund directly to oil and gas communities through a National Derivation Board”. The oil and gas communities also appealed that while NEITI is carrying out the financial audit on the derivation fund, they should visit the oil and gas communities to undertake physical audit of these communities to see the degree of poverty, lack of infrastructure, lack of means of livelihood, level of devastation, environmental degradation, pollution and health hazard. The demand of the oil producing communities aligns with the Federal Government’s directive which mandated NEITI to

commence the audit of the 13 per cent derivation revenue accruing from the extractive sector to all natural resource producing states in the country with a view to determining how the disbursements have been utilised by natural resource producing states. Confirming this at a stakeholders’ forum held in Abuja last week, a representative of the Civil Society Organisations and member of the NEITI’s National working group, Faith Ossai Nwadishi, said the directive was given recently by the Federal Executive Council (FEC). She explained: “This approval is for fiscal disbursement of statutory allocation to look at the extractive revenue, you know that the extractive revenue gets into the 13 per cent derivation, what is happening with it, the Tertiary Education Fund, Ecological Fund, Central Bank Natural Resource Fund and the four per cent that was given to NAC. “In addition, the exercise will consider those are all that are coming from the extractive sector. These are part of the mandate of NEITI, to tell Nigerians what has been happening to that and it is going to be very interesting when this report comes out.” It would be recalled that over the past few months, there has been sustained agi-

tation by oil communities to stop payments of the 13 per cent derivation fund into any state government’s account. For instance, the leaders of oil producing communities in six states of the country had written the Fiscal Responsibility Commission to prevail on the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), for the implementation of their demand for direct payment of 13 per cent derivation revenue to their communities. When they felt RMAFC appeared not to be treating their demand with utmost despatch even when the Chairman, Mr. Elias Mbam, had earlier assured a delegation of oil producing communities leaders who visited him over the same matter of support, they urged the Fiscal Responsibility Commission through another letter sent to the Chairman to prevail on RMAFC from further allowing the direct distribution of the derivation fund to states and local governments’ accounts. In the letter to the FRC Chairman, the elders cited Section 162 (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended and Article 1803 of the United Nations to support their agitation for fairness in the sharing of the 13 per cent derivation revenue.

Edo Assembly approves N149bn 2013 budget Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, consoling Mrs. Amina Elizabeth Yakowa, widow of the late Governor of Kaduna State, Patrick Yakowa, who died in a helicopter crash, at the weekend.

SEBASTINE EBHUOMHAN

JTF destroys 4, 349 illegal refineries in Niger Delta

Arrests 1, 945 suspects EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA

he Commander of the Joint Military Task force (JTF) in Niger Delta, Major General Johnson Ochoga, yesterday said that the security outfit has destroyed a total of 4, 349 illegal refineries in the nine oil producing states in the Niger Delta in the past one year . Ochoga said the JTF also arrested 1, 945 suspects allegedly involved in illegal bunkering and refineries in the coastal region, stating that they lost 10 personnel to sea pirates and illegal oil bunkerers

in the waterways during the outgoing year. The commander, who spoke yesterday in Yenagoa, at a briefing with journalists, said the security outfit conducted 7, 585 anti-illegal bunkering patrols in the Niger Delta area to ensure the safety of oil facilities. He revealed that 133 barges; 1, 215 large wooden boats; 187 tanker trucks; 178 illegal fuel dumps, as well as 5, 574 surface tanks in the region were either seized or discovered. “In addition, 36, 504 drums of illegally refined products, 638 pumping machines and 326 outboard engines were

seized and destroyed. An outstanding success of the task force was the arrest of 18 vessels during the period,” he explained. Ochoga said the JTF would continue to destroy such illegal refineries and store seized crude in safe areas to discourage the activities of illegal bunkering in the region, adding that the outfit was mindful of the environmental hazards in the destruction of crude. “In order to carry out effective protection of oil and gas facilities, we conducted reconnaissance of SPDC and NNPC pipeline networks. Subsequently, air and ground patrols are regularly carried out to deter vandals from sabo-

taging the pipelines. This facilitated the regular pumping of products by the NNPC from Port Harcourt to Aba depot.” The JTF boss noted that the operatives also destroyed some militant camps at Oron, Akwa Ibom State, Ikang, Cross River State as well as abandoned militant camps at Foropa in Bayelsa State and Ojoma creek and Ferepakama community in Rivers State. Ochoga regretted that one of the challenges faced by the JTF was the slow pace in the dispensation of justice for oil theft suspects, as he called for special court for the prosecution of oil thieves.

BENIN

he Edo State House of Assembly yesterday approved N149.447.798.805billion for the state government as the 2013 Appropriation Bill was passed. The assembly approved the sum after due consideration of Governor Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole’s budget proposal of N150.045.377.060.00. The N149.447bn approval was sequel to the report presented by the House’s Standing Committee on Appropriation and Project Monitoring, which Chairman, Hon. Peter Aliu, of Etsako East Constituency, read to lawmakers in the chamber of the assembly. With the approved estimate, the total recurrent expenditure now stands at

N63, 342.801.205billion as against the earlier proposal of N116, 479.778.045billion while capital expenditure stands at N86, 104.997.60billion as against the proposed estimate of N87.40billion. The consolidated fund charges stands at N20.760.135.800billion. The house also approved N7bn for the state government to service internal debts; N250million for external debts; N6.240billion for bond; N300million for services of local bank charges while guaranteed loans stands at N300million. On the other hand, the sum of N1.500billion was approved for contractual obligations; N5, 683.292.150billion for miscellaneous expenditures while N5, 179.414.910billion was approved for government counterpart cash contributions.

North

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Two Plateau workers die in auto crash

Resign for Plateau to make progress, CPC tells Jang

JOS

JAMES ABRAHAM

he Plateau State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) yesterday confirmed the death of two of its members who died in a car crash in Langtang North Local Government Area of the state while returning home after a peaceful protest. Also yesterday, checks by National Mirror revealed that labour officials stormed the state Ministry of Local Government and destroy properties belonging to the ministry. The striking local government workers stormed the premises of the ministry at about 11.00am and destroyed the properties. Confirming the incident, the state Commissioner for Information, Pastor Abraham Yiljab, described the incident as sad. He said the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Paul Wai and the permanent secretary and other members of staff where however unharmed. He also said that the state police command was investigating the issue, adding that the state government is not at war with the striking workers. He added that as a mark of government overall strategy of achieving peaceful resolution, a delegation of top government officials met with

the Hon. Minister of Labour and Productivity, Emeka Wogu, in Abuja on Monday, where it was resolved that both government and labour should take steps to speed up the resolution of the dispute before the next adjourned date of the National Industrial Court in January. “The challenge of the moment calls for understanding by all citizens as part of our collective resolve to reposition public institutions to deliver quality services toward a greater Plateau of our dreams.” Yiljab also called on the striking workers to call off the strike and go back to work in the interest of the good

people of the state. The NLC at a press conference yesterday in Jos, gave the names of those killed in the crash as Nimel Vonjen and Nanmwa Mamshing. In the press conference addressed by the state Secretary of the Medical and Health Workers Union, Comrade Richard Bawan, on the ongoing strike in the state, labour accused the state government of employing security operatives and political thugs to violently attack and brutalise workers in the state. Bawan also accused security agents and their cohorts of brutalising the protesting workers with tear gas and live ammunition resulting in the

hospitalisation of some members who sustained varying degrees of injuries. This he said is not acceptable in any quarters as it violates rules of engagements. In his words: “We want to state our position clearly that we would not succumb to obnoxious and draconian law of no work no pay.” He continued; “We wish to inform members of the public that the strike action is still on and cannot be called off or suspended unless the state government fully comes to terms with labour and an agreement is signed by both parties towards the amicable resolution of the impasse.”

JOS

he Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in Plateau State has called on the state governor, Jonah Jang, to resign over his inability to resolve the industrial dispute between the state government and the organised labour. In a statement signed by CPC’s state Secretary, Pastor Dabit Joseph David, yesterday in Jos, the party said the call has become necessary so as to save the entire state from plunging into another round of crisis.

L-R: Gombe State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Kennedy Ishaya; Consultant, Medical Science for Health, Mr. Abdullahi Belel and Project Manager, Gombe State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, Dr. Suraj Abdulkarim, at a client satisfaction study on antiretroviral therapy dissemination meeting in Gombe, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

According to the statement, it has become imperative for the party to “come out in clear terms with this position in view of the predicament of workers in the state.” The statement said it is sad that the Plateau State government is insensitive to the plight of its citizens, stating that people are the priority of any responsible government. The party also accused the state House of Assembly of failing in its statutory responsibility of checks and balances, saying that it had failed the electorate in the state. The CPC also appealed to the National Assembly to as a matter of urgency “come to the aid of Plateau State workers” by intervening in the lingering industrial dispute between the state government and the striking local government workers in the interest of the good people of the state. The party further called on Governor Jang to immediately pay the salaries and wages of the workers without any condition attached, adding that people has been pleading with the governor from all the nooks and crannies of the country, but that the pleadings have fell on deaf ears, adding that the governor is insensitivity to the plight of the citizens of the state.

Borno creates jobs for 18,000 youths

CPC lawmaker promises to deliver votes to PDP in 2015

INUSA NDAHI

DANJUMA WILLIAMS

MAIDUGURI

etermined to tackle the security challenges facing the state, the Borno State government said it has created over 18, 000 jobs for youths across the 27 local government areas of the state. Commissioner of Poverty Alleviation and Youth Empowerment, Dr. Zainab Gimba, who disclosed this at the end of the year briefing, held at the Musa Usman Secretariat in Maiduguri, said that the state government has placed more priority on job creation and youth empowerment. She said over 50 youths were sponsored to Sabore Farms, in line with Governor Kashim Shettima’s agricultural transformation agenda, adding that they are also in turn expected to train others.

Gimba said thousands of youths have undergone training and retraining in various trades with a view to making them self-reliant and even be employers of labour, adding that 25 thousand youths are currently receiving training at the Katsina School of Craft and that very soon another set of 34 youths will be enrolled in the school again. According to the commissioner, the state government has procured

thousands of machines that those currently receiving training in brickblock making would use after their training. She stressed that the bricks are being used in the construction of 750 housing units for the displaced flood victims in Damasak and in the construction of classroom blocks at Government Girls Secondary School, Yerwa and Government College, Maiduguri, as pilot projects.

PRISCILLA DENNIS

ing the nation to achieve its strategic goals in the Equatorial Guinea region. Jijiwa, who made this known during a courtesy visit on Niger State Governor, Dr. M uazu Babangida Aliyu, in Minna, said the introduction of Portuguese language would complement the eight languages VON is transmitting at the moment to over seven mil-

GOMBE

verwhelmed by the citing of infrastructural projects in his constituency, a Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) member in the Gombe State House of Assembly, Hon. Abdul Hamid, representing Kwami East Constituency, has vowed to give 100 per cent support to Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo of the PDP in the 2015 general elections.

Even though Hamid did not officially declare that he has left the CPC for the ruling PDP, he publicly declared his support for the governor and identified with the achievements so far recorded by the Dankwambo administration in its almost two years in office. The lawmaker said this in Mallam Sidi, when the governor was in Kwami-East state constituency during his “Midterm meet the people” tour of all the 24 state constituencies and 114 electoral wards in the

VON to start transmission in Portuguese

MINNA

he Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Alhaji Abubakar Jijiwa, has announced the preparedness of the station to commence transmission in Portuguese language. He said that the move was part of efforts aimed at help-

lion listeners. He said the station would also introduce Chinese language among its language services in no distant future to enable Chinese citizens have a better grasp of what is happening in the country and business opportunities that abound in Nigeria. According to him, the station had over the years did its best in ensuring that

only the truth is reported of events in the country to its numerous listeners through robust reportage of news stories and programmes. He also said VON had started digital transmission of its programmes to Europe and North America, saying the station was the first in Africa to commence digital transmission.

state. Hamid, who promised to deliver all the votes from his constituency for the PDP in the 2015 general election, said; “This is because there is one project or the other going on in Kwami-East constituency either being completed or ongoing.” According to him, even though an opposition party member, he couldn’t hide his impression on the on-going projects in his constituency which include rural roads, water and electricity supply, among many others in many villages within the constituency. He, however, told the governor that he could do better if a General Hospital is established in his area or the existing health facility be upgraded as there was none in the entire local government area which has forced his people to travel many kilometres in search of medical attention for very serious health issues.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Insight

NIGERIA PREMIER LEAGUE

Thursday, December 20, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Crises, intrigues halt game,

The more hope surfaces on keeping the professional football league in in Nigeria Nigeria afloat, afloat, the the more more the hope vanishes. AFOLABI GAMBARI writes that it is not for lack off effort effort by by stakeholders stakeholders to return the system to reckoning, but hardly have the stakeholders ers addressed ad ddressed d the the lingering issues dispassionately and selflessly.

League players go through virtual hell with nothing to gain in monetary terms

recent visit to the famous Rojenny Sports Centre in Oba near Onitsha, Anambra State presented a vivid description of the abyss that domestic football in Nigeria has sunk. The hitherto sprawling facility is literally crying for attention after more than a decade of neglect, yet with no hope for restoration in the near future; no thanks to the erosion-ravaged road leading to the place as well as the pathetic environment that the centre itself has become. Back in the late-1980s up to the late-1990s, merchants in Onitsha had looked forward to thronging Rojenny to watch professional league matches at weekends to unwind after a whole week of rigours that trading entail. It was not for nothing that the league organisers always settled for Sunday as fixture day, considering that markets would be shut on the day as revelers sought the best way to relax and socialise while top football players in the country competed for points with three Onitsha-based clubs, Gabros FC, Udoji United and Jasper FC, who made the stadium which could hold about 10, 000 spectators a fortress of sort. The day after matches sent the traders talking about what transpired the night before, until other “preys” came calling to the homers, whereupon the traders trooped again to Rojenny. As it was for the Onitsha fans, so it was for others at many venues across the country as the spectators’ stands were filled to the brim week-in and week-out and not a few football followers believed the trend would continue for eternity. But at the turn of the new century in 2000, economic downturn in Nigeria had lowered the interest of private club owners in running their outfits. Interestingly, only very few clubs were owned by the various state governments at the time. Like an unprecedented ocean surge that threatened to consume anyone or anything on its path, state governments took over most of the clubs as though, with their financial muscle, they had the greatest capacity to run the clubs effectively. Yet, instability in the state administration had merely ambushed genuine progress and it was only a matter of time before this reality dawned on every one. No sooner had a “football-loving” governor moved to “reposition” the staterun club than such governor was shoved out of power and the “repositioning” died a natural death. There was always a new direction for the governor’s successor to tread and for the most part, this direction led nowhere. The incalculable damage that the above scenario has done to undo Nigeria’s football can only be imagined. But the fact stares every one today; just as the far-fetched way out of the self-inflicted doldrums tells the story of how Nigeria’s football league that ruled Africa and resonated even beyond has come to a dreadful pass. It is still just as dreadful that all the 20 clubs in the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) are wholly owned by state governments. Ironically, despite the massive construction of modern stadia in the states, many fee-paying fans have stayed away from the venues. It begs the question: what went wrong and where did things go awry? Gross lack of professionalism takes the biggest chunk of the malaise. The manner of appointment of officials who run the clubs takes no cognizance for expertise. Sports Commissioners have curiously adopted favouritism in hand-picking club managers most of who practically learn on the job and at the expense of progress. In an age where football has become big business, especially in countries where the populace is as vast as Nigeria, no word best describes this situation than destructive. With job learners at the helm of nearly all the clubs, seeking financial turnaround for the clubs on a private

Maigari favours varied sponsors s

Akinbobola wants justice

IRONICALLY, DESPITE THE MASSIVE CONSTRUCTION OF MODERN STADIA IN THE STATES, MANY FEE-PAYING FANS HAVE STAYED AWAY FROM THE VENUES initiative has since become a tall order. The result is as retrogressive as it is equally dreadful. Contracts with players are signed without recourse to mutual respect, even as the terms are open-ended and not meant to be respected by the parties. It would not be expected that sponsors would look the way of the league as being run at the moment. Nonetheless, the Nigeria Premier League board has routinely assured that sponsors would get attracted, amidst the maladministration that has stalked the NPL that itself would rather run a civil service structure that threatens initiative than spare any conscientious effort to run a purely business venture where dividends would be declared as a matter of rule. Executive Secretary of the NPL, Mr. Tunji Babalola, seemed to express the mind of the board last week over the disturbing trend of seeking sponsors and finding none for two consecutive league seasons. “We have lost over N1.3bn in two years to lack of title rights,” Babalola said. More money is set to be lost, however, considering that

Minister Abdullahi not doing enough

the crisis that would not depart from Nigeria’s football administration and, indeed, the Premier League. There are no doubt a myriad of issues that needed to be addressed ahead of the new season. The NPL board headed by Victor Rumson Baribote was determined to look into the issues with a view to fixing the grey areas in a most sustainable way. It set a December 1 date for the 2012/2013 season to begin. But the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), ruled that “the date was not feasible” even without giving reasons. In the ensuing confusion, the NPL announced it would hold its annual Congress on November 17 in Kano, Kano State where it hoped to pursue this desire to a logical conclusion.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Insight

Thursday, December 20, 2012

keep players, spectators at home WE HAVE LOST OVER N1.3BN IN TWO YEARS TO LACK OF TITLE RIGHTS

Babalola laments huge loss

Inyama okeys NPL Congress

Alonge canvasses ‘professional NPL’

Less than five days to the congress, however, the NFF moved to stop the event, claiming the NPL had contravened an earlier order not to proceed with the congress. According to the Chairman of NFF Media and Publicity Committee, Chief Emeka Inyama, “the Federation took the decision in its determination to see that outstanding issues around the Premier League are conclusively resolved.” The NPL countered that the Kano Congress was sacrosanct and there would be “no going back”, although the public and would-be sponsors had already gleaned from the needless controversy that disorder still reigned in the country’s football administration.

In a sudden twist a day after, the NPL announced that it had suspended the congress, despite earlier announcement that “all necessary logistics have been put in place to ensure a successful congress”. “Following the directive of the Nigeria Football Federation to suspend all pre-season activities, I have the instruction to inform all the clubs and other stakeholders that the Congress earlier scheduled to hold on November 17, 2012 has been put on hold till further notice,” NPL executive secretary, Babalola, said in a statement, only 48 hours before the congress was scheduled to start and while delegates had arrived in Kano, according to National Mirror findings. Babalola said in the statement: “New date for the Congress will be sent to all the Premier League clubs, state football associations and other stakeholders.” He reckoned, rather belatedly, that despite the botched Kano congress, some clubs in the NPL were yet to submit registration papers ahead of the new season and directed them to “do so without further delay”, while advising the clubs to “intensify preparation for the new season” that for all practical purposes have no fixed date. Hardly would Babalola have believed that any title right sponsor was encouraged by the avoidable confusion that ambushed the congress for which so much time and resources were expended before the NFF decided to put it on hold. A flicker of hope surfaced on December 4 when NFF Secretary General, Barrister Musa Amadu, gave a green light to the NPL “to stage the Congress on December 6”. But a twist emerged in the wee hours of December 5 when representatives of the 20 clubs in the NPL rose from a meeting and declared that the Baribote-led board had been sacked and an Interim Management Committee (IMC) of six members led by the General Manager of Sunshine Stars of Akure, Mike Idoko, had been appointed. NFF’s reaction was swift. Amadu, who pleaded for calm among warring parties, quickly announced that an emergency meeting by the federation would be held on December 7, although it would not be ascertained if a quorum would be formed by the board members at the meeting. Nonetheless, the meeting held and a communiqué released after it, ordered that Baribote be reinstated immediately, while the NPL Congress should be held in Abuja within 72 hours. The splinter group led by Idoko complied. At the NFF ordered Congress, Baribote and his board were eventually thrown out and Babalola was directed to oversee affairs pending the constitution of a new board. A new February 16, 2013 kick-off date for the new season has been fixed. Meanwhile, there is no dull moment at club camps, no matter that no one is sure of the sanctity of the new league’s kick-off date. Kwara United has signed and unveiled Samson Unuanel as Technical Adviser in a colourful ceremony that tended to give the local league a semblance of what obtains in the more organised leagues. Safe for the funds being expected from the state government, the club has set the ball rolling while waiting on the NPL’s “further notice”. In Ibadan, fans of the 3SC literally hijacked the club’s recruitment when some of them rejected the signing of young but experienced goalkeeper, Uche Akubuike, whom the management had gleefully announced as “a useful addition to the squad”. As far as the fans are concerned, Akubuike has “passed his peak and will not add any value to our team”. In Enugu, Rangers have acquired the services of experienced journeyman, Ezenwa Otorogu, who recently had a forgettable time looking for lucre in the South African league with Orlando Pirates and Bloemfontein Celtic. Oto, as his fans call him, has rediscovered his

scoring form for the legendary club as the team engaged in “pre-season tune-up games”. An aggrieved NPL stakeholder, Akin Akinbobola, has also used the interlude to weigh in his anger after what he considered “bad treatment” meted to him during his stormy days in the league board. In a widely publicised statement, Akinbobola described the professional league as “sham” while alleging that “millions of naira cannot be accounted for as cases of match-fixing has become the order of the day, with violence and molestations amongst clubs at match venues so rampant”. But Akinbobola did not reckon that the league for which he passionately spoke was given up for subjectivity, as it were, when he took his case to Sports Minister, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, to “take a bold step in line with his oath, office to ensure that the cancerous situation of the Nigeria Premier League is looked into with a view to addressing the injustices and repositioning the league.” For two seasons, players have broken sweat for nothing as the sponsors kept a safe distance. Reigning NPL champion Pillars FC of Kano played rigorously till the end before emerging the league winner. The club took nothing as prize money from the league organisers, save for Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s largesse of a salon car each to the players and officials. Considering the legal tussle for the league’s title right between Globacom and MTN, itself seeming far from being resolved amicably in the interest of progress, the “play-for-nothing” will continue for more years to come. Officials have sought what they called “diplomatic” approach to the resolution of the title right ownership of the league, drawing from the practice elsewhere which enables various sponsors to combine in the bid to move the game forward. “It’s best for the system if we have as many sponsors as possible,” NFF President, Aminu Maigari, admitted in an interview with National Mirror in Lagos, apparently deviating from the usual refrain that Globacom could conveniently serve as sole sponsor of the Premier League. Weeks after his posture, however, Maigari is yet to publicly project his view on co-sponsorship of the league but would rather “support any meaningful pursuit of sponsors for the league.” There are suggestions that MTN harbours the hope of wresting the league’s title right, the telecommunications company banking its hope on the N2.6bn sponsorship deal it struck with the Nigeria Football Federation on December 24, 2010, notwithstanding that the deal has since been breached by the NFF which seemed to favour a wholly Globacom sponsorship on a perception widely believed to be predicated on “local content” in league branding and for which MTN is in the court to challenge. Interestingly, Director of Total Promotions Limited, Mr. Niyi Alonge, whose company brokered the MTN deal reputed to be the best to happen to Nigerian football, does not want the crisis prolonged further “in the interest of the reputation of Nigeria as a country.” “We have been wronged by those in the authority who breached a contract that was mutually signed and which both parties believed would turn around league football in the country for good,” Alonge said last week. “But the fact is that while we await justice, we cannot afford to watch our football die a slow and steady death. We are a country to reckon with in Africa. But look at Ghana and see how the league has run smoothly. Same goes for South Africa, Kenya and Zambia and in truth, we are not behind all the listed countries in terms of endowment. So, why can’t our league move forward?” Forward movement rests squarely, however, on the Sports Minister, Abdullahi, who upon assumption of office in December 2011, promised to examine the crisis threatening the league with a view to “righting all the wrongs”. Nothing can be more disturbing, therefore, than the reality that Abdullahi has appeared to rest on his oars as the league sails to an unenviable disaster.

WORLD RECORD

Smallest visible object Vol. 02 No. 517

N150

Thursday, December 20, 2012

The resolving power of the human eye is 0.0003 of a radian or an arc of one minute (1/60th of a degree), which corresponds to 100 microns at 25 cm (10 in). A micron is a thousandth of a millimetre, hence 100 microns is 0.003937, or less than four thousandths of an inch or 2.5 cm.

Necessary conversation with the Bar and the Bench

he rule of law fascinates us at National Mirror. From its inception as a rebranded quality daily, the paper’s template is to be the leading source of news for lawyers, judges, students and lecturers in Law departments and to provide a fair and balanced coverage of the Judiciary. This is the reason why the paper’s Law and Justice Section, every Monday, has consistently dedicated two pages of interviews to leading players in this important sector to which ordinary citizens run for justice. Most of such interviews are reproduced in a special publication, For Law, For Country: Conversations with the Bar and the Bench, which is being presented this morning at the MUSON Centre as part of the highlight of today’s second anniversary celebration. The main part of today’s event, of course, is the annual lecture to be delivered by the former Chief Justice of the Federation, Justice Dahiru Musdapher, (GCON). If anyone is looking for a candid assessment of the issues bedeviling the Judiciary in Nigeria and the role of the media in its ‘re-

orthern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy has been named the European Tour’s Golfer of the Year. The 23-year-old, who ended the 2012 campaign as world number one after five worldwide victories and also winning the money lists on both sides of the Atlantic, stormed to an eight-shot win in the USPGA Championship at

SOMETHING BEFORE THE WEEKEND

Steve Ayorinde

sayorinde@nationalmirroronline.net (08054500808 sms only)

demption’, then Justice Musdapher’s lecture, titled “Media and the Judiciary: A Necessary Symbiosis”, is the must-read document. Today’s lecture and the book thus capture our fascination with issues of the Law. Given the continuing controversy surrounding the conduct of certain individuals, both in the Bar and on the Bench, many Nigerians have become accustomed to the idea of ‘purchased justice’. At a point, it seemed like a sector that appeared to have been shielded - and which ought to be - from the pangs of corruption, has ostensibly been found wanting in dispensing justice. Opinions suggest that not only is the rot real, but might as well be deep-rooted than imagined. The Bar started a subtle accusation of the Bench and the mudslinging that had traditionally characterised the Executive and Legislative arms of government, suddenly, and sadly too, began to spread to the hallowed chambers. But as concerns grew for the integrity of the Judiciary, so did hope for self assessment and internal cleansing. The Monday interviews in National Mirror got richer, not just because stakeholders were speaking courageously about the strong whiff of untoward behaviour in the ‘Third Estate’, but also because practitioners themselves are proffering solutions. The need to interrogate both the Bar and the Bench and to document their views for posterity got even more attractive. And so, each interview became like a mini-conference on the sanctity of the courts and the administration of justice in Nigeria. We are convinced that most of the views expressed

IN FIXING THE ROT IN THE JUDICIARY, WE WOULD HAVE COMMENCED THE PROCESS OF REBUILDING

NIGERIA

in the series of interviews with our Judiciary Desk Team are sincere and ennobling; and are truly deserving of perpetuation. The book is, therefore, our attempt to expand the debate and broaden the narrative that seeks an end to ‘justice for hire’ syndrome. Essentially, however, the reason behind the compilation of the interviews is to look at the controversies, denials and counter allegations, especially when it looks like the apex association of lawyers – the Nigerian Bar Association – appears to be having issues with the Bench, which sure gives an indication of turbulence. A conscionable press should not overlook such development. Yet, the reason for engaging the Judiciary top players has to do with the scandal of early last year. National Mirror had hit the ground running after its debut on December 17, 2010 when it broke the story of the imminent crisis that might rock the Judiciary with the plan to elevate Justice Ayo Salami, the erstwhile President of the Court of Appeal, to the Supreme Court against his wish. Our scoop, in January 2011, was confirmed barely 48 hours later with the announcement of Salami’s ‘elevation’ by the

National Judicial Commission (NJC). The ensuing events, over several months, became a tug of war between Salami and the then Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Aloysius Katsina-Alu, who approved Salami’s elevation and his eventual suspension. An unprecedented theatre of the absurd it turned out to be, considering that two of the most senior legal officers in the country, who incidentally were classmates (both were also classmates of Justice Musdapher’s), could be drawn into a nasty public fight that nearly polarised the apex judicial bodies. Politics, without doubt, appeared to have finally taken a prime seat in the Nigerian justice administration, even if the two legal pugilists have somehow left the ring. While it may be unfair to argue that the rot at the top has permeated the entire Judiciary, all that our book has succinctly captured is the lingering stench of malfeasance and how to spray a new fragrance of hope over the judicial house. For easy navigation, the book is divided into four sections: the first part x-rays those that we celebrate as Strong and Emerging Voices. Mostly lawyers, they represent the generation that craves change and is not afraid to say so. Part Two welcomes the views of lawyer-teachers. If corrective measures will be effective, they must start from the law departments and law schools across the country as respected legal tutors opine in the publication. A good number of Senior Advocates of Nigeria are the voices of reason in Part Three with an unequivocal tone of truth on how the Judiciary can walk on the path of honour. The book ends with the opinions of a few Justices who remind us of the correct letter of the rule of law. Our aim, essentially, is to transform all these deep and thought-provoking interviews from a newspaper collection to a book that will endure and serve as panacea for a new and more proactive Judiciary. And by so doing, we are transmitting a sense of urgency that in fixing the rot in the Judiciary, we would have commenced the process of rebuilding Nigeria, where justice, equity and the rule of law shall prevail at all times.

Sport Extra

Golf: McIlroy wins Europe’s top award Kiawah Island in August and finished the season by capturing the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai. McIlroy had already wrapped up the Race To Dubai as Europe’s leading money earner but ended the cam-

paign in style by winning the finale with birdies at each of the last five holes. He shone in Europe’s epic Ryder Cup triumph at Medinah, winning his singles clash against Keegan Bradley on the final day.

“Everyone who knows me knows the 2012 season was special,” McIlroy said yesterday, adding, “To win Race To Dubai was a massive highlight of this season and I hope it will be the first of many.”

Rory McIlroy

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