Thursday, January 24, 2013 by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

Reps probe alleged N275bn Customs scam TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

he House of Representatives yesterday mandated its

Dikko

Vol. 3 N0. 542

Committee on Customs and Excise to investigate an alleged diversion of N275bn meant for payment for the Destination Inspection Scheme, DIS, CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

Newswatch...frontline brand returns with a bang! . ...goes daily w with bumper eedition P.46,47

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Again, fire guts A NNPC pipeline

N150

UDEME AKPAN, FEMI OYEWESO AND MESHACK IDEHEN

Zambia can’t stop my Nations Cup dream –Mikel P.27

NUPENG calls for protection agency

key Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, pipeline again went up in flames yesterday at Arepo village in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State after an attack by suspected vandals. The attack, which occurred in the early hours CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

Oduah

Dana victim, protesters barricade airline’s office

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We’re in Mali to dislodge terrorists –Jonathan P.4

Scene of the pipeline fire in Arepo village, Ogun State, yesterday.

Gunmen kill 12, raze primary school

...as JTF arrests 11 terrorists in Maiduguri CAN dares Catholics, says ‘you can pull out’

P.2 P.5

News

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Gunmen kill 12, raze primary school INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

t least 12 people were killed yesterday in serial attacks by suspected members of the Jamatul Ahlis Sunnah lid Daawa wal Jihad, popularly known as Boko Haram, in Jiddari Polo, Baga road and London Ciki wards of Maiduguri me-

tropolis. This is even as gunmen also attacked Gomari II Primary School in Jere council area of the state and set it ablaze at about 7:30p.m. on Tuesday. Also in Gomari area, suspected gunmen burnt down Gomari II Primary School. The Maiduguri killings came barely 48 hours after gunmen laid ambush to

Damboa Local Government Area, killing 18 hunters in the main market, while five others were also killed by suspected sect members in Kano. Our correspondent learnt that five people were said to have been slaughtered in Jiddari Polo Ward of the metropolis when some hoodlums suspected to be Boko Haram members

entered two houses in the area. A resident of the area told our correspondent that the terrorists came at about 10p.m. on Tuesday night when the unsuspecting victims were asleep. They were said to have gained access to the house by jumping the fence before slaughtering them. In Baga Road, two gun-

Victim of Dana plane crash and activists protesting non-payment of compensation at the airline’s office in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: FRANCIS SUBERU

Again, fire guts NNPC pipeline CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

of yesterday, came barely two weeks after the facility was damaged by suspected vandals trying to steal fuel. About 60 people were reportedly burnt to death in the explosion. National Mirror gathered that yesterday’s fire broke out after officials of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, stationed to guard the facilities had engaged the vandals around Magboro who had come to the area to wreck havoc in a shootout. There were, however, no immediate reports of casualties and the NNPC had since shut the pipeline, which constitutes the main trunk of the System 2B pipeline network, for repairs. A top NNPC official, who did not want his name mentioned, confirmed the shutdown of the network in Lagos. He said that the corporation had suspended pumping of products from Atlas Cove through System 2B to allow for repairs of the vandalised pipeline. The source said that maintenance and service management team of the

corporation had to wait for the fire to subside before they embarked on damage assessment and repairs. “Pumping of petroleum products had been suspended at the early hours of the day when it was observed that the line had been vandalised again to allow for repairs. “No causality was recorded in the acts but we are going to ensure prompt repairs of the line to commence pumping of product to the line,” the source added. He said that the management of the corporation had resolved to install the vandalised pipeline in a vertical directional position to restrain vandals from getting access to the line. While assuring prompt repairs of the line to commence pumping of products, he stressed that adequate amount of products had been pumped to Mosimi before the system was vandalised. Some petroleum products marketers, who preferred not to be named, said they were worried that the latest incident might lead to scarcity in many parts of

the nation, including Lagos and its environs. However, the NNPC said there would be no scarcity as measures were being provided to ensure that distribution was sustained in different parts of the nation. NNPC Acting General Manager in the Group Public affairs Division, Ms. Tumini Green, said the corporation had deployed resources to eliminate shortage of the products. NNPC’s Group Managing Director, Mr. Andrew Yakubu, had made similar comments when vandals first attacked the same pipeline. The attack had triggered a war of words between the Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun, who blamed negligence on the part of the NNPC for the attacks and Yakubu, who accused the state government of not doing enough to provide security for the pipeline in its domain. However, the South-West Zonal Public Relations Officer of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Mr. Ibrahim Farinloye, has also confirmed that there was no causality in yesterday’s explosion.

He said that the line had been shut down to allow for repairs of the pipeline, adding that the residue of products still in the pipeline was what was still burning. “There is no causality, while all stakeholders are presently on ground to see the last of the fire before we embark on the repairs,’’ Farinloye said. Also commenting on the incident, the NSCDC Public Relations Officer (PRO), in Ogun State, Mr. Kareem Olanrewaju, explained that the corps could not ascertain whether it was the same gang of vandals that had encountered its officers earlier at Arepo that returned to the spot. “Officers of NSCDC were stationed to patrol the area since the last incident. We have also carried out series of operations there successfully with the arrest of some suspected vandals and seizure of exhibits,” he said in a statement issued in Abeokuta, the capital. Olanrewaju added that the state NSCDC Commandant, Mr. Aboluwoye Akinwande, was already at Arepo village for an on-the-spot CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

men were shot dead by the Joint Task Force, JTF, operatives when they were trying to escape after killing a man in the area. The attackers were said to have ran and entered two houses in the area following which the JTF operatives were said to have cornered the attackers. An eyewitness, who did not want his name mentioned, told our correspondent that the gunmen came about 5:30p.m. In the process of fleeing the area, they reportedly abandoned their Keke NAPEP and a Golf car and entered the two houses. Also, suspected members of the deadly sect killed four people in London Ciki area on Tuesday night and fled. Meanwhile, a bomb has exploded in Kalari area of Shehuri ward near the Shehu of Bornu’s palace but no life was lost as the bomb exploded by the roadside at about 12:30p.m. Confirming the incidents in a statement in Maiduguri, JTF spokesman, Lt.-Col. Sagir Musa, said: “Information available to the JTF indicated that some suspected gunmen killed three people at about 3a.m. today (Wednesday) in Jiddari – Polo, Maiduguri metropolis.” Sagir added that the JTF had cordoned off the area, arrested three suspects and recovered one assault rifle with 10 rounds of ammunition. He explained that two gunmen were killed and one soldier was wounded during an exchange of fire in the metropolis yesterday, stressing that the suspects were already in JTF custody and that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing members of the gang. The spokesman also confirmed that there was an Improvised Explosive Device, IED, explosion at about 12:30p.m. yesterday in Shehuri ward, Maiduguri metropolis. He said that immediately after the explosion, the JTF rushed to the scene, cordoned off the area and arrested 10 suspects. Sagir added that no life was lost and nobody was injured in the blast, stressing that the situation had since been normalised and people going about their

normal businesses. In Jos, the Anti-bomb Unit of the Plateau Police Command yesterday destroyed 140 IEDs recovered after failed bombing attempts. The unit Commander, Mr. Abel Mbibi, who supervised the destruction, told the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, that the bombs did not explode before they were discovered and defused by men of the unit in Jos and parts of Bauchi State. Mbibi said that the IEDs, which were recovered over time, were kept for public awareness purposes and identification by sister security agencies. “The idea is to educate sister agencies to help them in identify IEDs because they take various forms and shapes,’’ he explained. The unit commander said that 90 per cent of the enlightenment on the bombs had been achieved and that there was the need to destroy them as some had started deteriorating. He explained that the IEDs were home-made and refined grenades, unexploded military stores (another type of explosive), compressors, gas cylinders and cone iron pipes. “Also here are some devices manufactured inside vegetable tins, plastic cans, Coca-Cola cans and several others in different shapes,” he added. Mbibi said the destruction of the IEDs was a routine exercise aimed at protecting citizens. To ensure the safety of people around the Quarry area in Zaramaganda, Jos, where the exercise was carried out, he said that the unit gave several days notice, advising people to steer clear of the vicinity between 6:30a.m. and 4p.m. “We took time to ensure that nobody was anywhere close to the quarry to avoid any casualty as a result of the blast,” he said. Mbibi assured members of the public that the unit would ensure a bomb-free society. He called on the public to always assist the police and other security agencies with useful information that would lead to the recovery of bombs before they exploded.

TOBORE OVUORIE

gainst the backdrop of research indicating that alcohol could be beneficial to the blood vessels and blockages in the arteries to the heart and brain, the American Heart Association (AHA) has cautioned that people should not start drinking– if they do not already drink alcohol. The England Journal of Medicine had published a study recently which examined the roles of drinking patterns and heart disease showing that after a 12 year follow-up, that men who consumed alcohol between three and seven days a week had fewer heart attacks than men who drank once a week. But the AHA, in a swift reaction pointed out that while research is being done to find out what the apparent benefits of drinking wine or alcohol in some populations may be due to, including the role of antioxidants, an increase in HDL (“good”) cholesterol or anti-clotting properties, clinical trials of other antioxidants such as vitamin E have not shown any cardioprotective effect. Also, even if they were protective, antioxidants can be obtained from many fruits and vegetables, including red grape juice. The association however agreed with Dr. Kenneth Mukamal, author of the study in the England Journal of Medicine that alcohol affects HDL levels just about as strongly as any other lifestyle factor. According to AHA, the best-known effect of alcohol is a small increase in HDL cholesterol. However, regular physical activity is another effective way to raise HDL cholesterol, and niacin (a drug therapy for cholesterol) can be prescribed to raise it to a greater degree. It also noted that alcohol or some substances such as resveratrol found in alcoholic beverages may prevent platelets in the blood from sticking together. That may reduce clot formation and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Thursday, January 24, 2013

Good Health Booze? Don’t start now! •American Heart Association cautions against studies indicating that alcohol could lower heart attack risk

AHA says how alcohol or wine affects cardiovascular risk should be subjected to further research.

RIGHT NOW, THE AMERICAN HEART

ASSOCIATION DOES NOT RECOMMEND DRINKING WINE OR ANY OTHER FORM OF ALCOHOL TO GAIN THESE POTENTIAL BENEFITS It however specified that the form of alcohol intake being referred to is moderate drinking and does not include any other type of alcohol consumption. “If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. This means an average of one to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. (A drink is one 12 oz. beer, 4 oz. of wine, 1.5 oz. of 80-proof spirits, or 1 oz. of 100-proof spirits.)”, the AHA stated in its report. But it further warned that drinking more alcohol increases such dangers as alcoholism, high blood pressure, obesity, stroke, breast cancer, suicide and accidents because it’s not possible to predict

in which people alcoholism will become a problem. Given these and other risks, the association cautions people NOT to start drinking if they do not already drink alcohol. This therefore implies that there are many caveats as to who can take alcohol. Thus, infrequent drinkers cannot start drinking more, just as teetotalers (one who abstains completely from alcoholic beverages) must not take up drinking! Studies, for example, indicate that some health benefits only come with moderate drinking and are greatest for older men. And even moderate drinking is not recommended for women who are pregnant

or thinking of becoming pregnant, or for people who are under 21. It would however interest you to know that there are yet other health benefits associated with moderate drinking such as a lower risk of diabetes in both men and women. For instance, some experiments in which alcohol were administered over a couple of months to people without diabetes revealed that moderate drinking improves the body’s sensitivity to insulin. It was discovered that it may actually lower insulin levels altogether in both men and women, and may prevent diabetes through that mechanism. However, a reduced risk of dementia was also discovered more recently, in moderate drinkers. In a study involving a group of older adults in the United States- average age of mid-70s, and slightly younger populations from Europe, it was noticed that those who drank moderately may have a lower risk of dementia. Though the researchers were not exactly certain what the mechanisms may be behind that, they found out that some of it may very well be because drinking tends to occur in social settings and just the process of getting out and socializing may be an important way to prevent dementia. Besides the above, there is also evidence that moderate drinking may prevent silent strokes or other subtle types of brain injury which are major predisposing factors to dementia. In fact, AHA says how alcohol or wine affects cardiovascular risk should be subjected to further research. “But right now the American Heart Association does not recommend drinking wine or any other form of alcohol to gain these potential benefits,” it says.

YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

drinks linked to depression Obese moms risk having babies with low Vitamin D –Study Sweetened ew research suggests and 71 at enrollment. From with vitamin D insufficienomen who are obese women transferred

obese at the start of their pregnancy may be passing on insufficient levels of vitamin D to their babies, according to a new Northwestern Medicine® study. The study found that babies born to lean mothers had a third higher amount of vitamin D compared to babies born to obese moms. Vitamin D is fat-soluble, and previous studies have found that people who are obese tend to have lower levels of the vitamin in their blood. In this study, both obese and lean mothers had very similar levels of vitamin D at the end of their pregnancies, yet

less vitamin D to their offspring compared to lean women. “Nearly all of mothers in this study reported taking prenatal vitamins, which may be the reason why their own vitamin D levels were sufficient, but the babies born to the obese mothers had reduced levels of vitamin D,” said Jami L. Josefson, M.D., first author of the study. “It’s possible that vitamin D may get sequestered in excess fat and not transferred sufficiently from an obese pregnant woman to her baby.” Josefson is an assistant professor of pediatrics at Northwestern University

Women who are obese at the start of their pregnancy may be passing on insufficient levels of vitamin D to their babies

Feinberg School of Medicine and an attending physician at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. It is unknown what health risks babies born

cy may face. Recent studies have linked low vitamin D in adults to an increase in autoimmune diseases, inflammation and obesity. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, recently, was designed as part of a longerterm project to investigate whether body fat at birth is a predictor of body fat in later childhood and adulthood. Because vitamin D deficiency is associated with a host of health conditions, including obesity, the researchers included the analysis of the mothers’ and babies’ vitamin D levels.

that drinking sweetened beverages, especially diet drinks, is associated with an increased risk of depression in adults while drinking coffee was tied to a slightly lower risk. “Sweetened beverages, coffee and tea are commonly consumed worldwide and have important physical -- and may have important mental -- health consequences,” said study author Honglei Chen, MD, PhD, with the National Institutes of Health in Research Triangle Park in North Carolina and a member of the American Academy of Neurology. The study involved 263,925 people between the ages of 50

1995 to 1996, consumption of drinks such as soda, tea, fruit punch and coffee was evaluated. About 10 years later, researchers asked the participants whether they had been diagnosed with depression since the year 2000. A total of 11,311 depression diagnoses were made. People who drank more than four cans or cups per day of soda were 30 percent more likely to develop depression than those who drank no soda. Those who drank four cans of fruit punch per day were about 38 percent more likely to develop depression than those who did not drink sweetened drinks. –Science daily

Photo News

Thursday, January 24, 2013

L-R: Chairman, Local Organising Committee, 42nd Paediatric Association of Nigeria Annual General Meeting, Prof. Bede Ibe; President, Dr. Dorothy Esangbedo and Ex-Officio, Prof. Austine Oweigbeale, during a news conference in Enugu, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Wife of Oyo State Governor, Mrs. Florene Ajimobi (left) and comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka 1st, during a visit to the governor’s wife in Oyo State, yesterday.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: Business Solution Manager, Malta Office, Michael Hans Mier; Chief Executive Officer, Mediacraft Associate, Mr. John Ehiguese; Manager, Malta Office, Mark Oldfield and Managing Director, Skysat Technologies Nigeria Ltd, Mr. Izzat Debs, at the Konica Minolta digital print solutions exhibition in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

L-R: Chairman of the occasion, Surveyor Akhigbe Irenen; President, Nigeria Institute of Surveyors, Hon. Bode Adeaga and Chairman, Lagos chapter, Prince Afolabi Solesi, during the institute’s 8th Annual Adekunle Kukoyi Memorial Lecture in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: OLUFEMI AJASA

National News

Huge income from drugs, ransom fuelling terrorism in Africa ROTIMI FADEYI ABUJA

resident Goodluck Jonathan yesterday in Davos, Switzerland said that terrorism in the African continent was fuelled by the attractive rewards they get as ransom for hostage taking and drug trafficking. Jonathan who was speaking on the theme: “De-Risking Africa”, as one of the panelists at an interactive session at the World Economic Forum holding in Davos, said Africa needs the cooperation and support of the International community to deal with terrorism on the continent. He noted that terrorism was further fuelled by the Libyan crisis stressing that terrorists would always want to instigate crises because of the monetary attraction. Jonathan also said that Nigeria deployed troops to Mali to avoid the spread of the crisis in that country to other West African countries “One fundamental

one eye because neighbours. •Says Nigeria is in Mali to dislodge terrorists with “We are gradually imthe terrorists will like to problem in Mali is the issue of governance and religious extremism. The terrorists’ aspect and issue of hostage taking for the purposes of ransom and drug traffickers happened because of the crisis in Libya and of course the terrorists will always want to instigate crisis because they make money out of it,” he said. According to him, unless the crisis is properly handled, Africa stands the risk of being run over by terrorists, a situation which has the potential of increasing investment risks in the the continent. “If we do not contain the problem of Mali, definitely it will affect other African countries and that is why Nigeria had to move fast and we thank the government of France,” he said. Jonathan, who spoke alongside his South African counterpart, Jacob Zuma, Sunil Bharti Mittal, CEO of Bharti Airtel limited, Graham Mackay,

Executive Chairman of SABMiller and President of International Crisis Group, Louise Arbour, said the Mali crisis has been fueled by the instability in Libya. “Definitely if you look at the situation in Mali, if it is not contained it will spill to other West African countries. If the region was made stable, we would not have had those crises in Libya and Mali would have been better than what it is now,” he added. Speaking on the theme of this year’s forum, Jonathan stated that Africa was not the only one facing risks, as there are generally risks involved in any business venture anywhere in the world, depending on the circumstances. He noted that for some time now the major risks in the African continent was fueled by the political instability adding that so far the continent was gradually putting that be-

hind it. Also speaking at the forum, Zuma noted that Africa has been having a robust economy because African leaders have collectively come together to make the continent move in the right direction. President Jonathan while speaking in Geneva at a meeting with Nigerians living in Switzerland had earlier said that the decision of his government to send troops to Mali was based on the need to insulate Nigeria from the activities of Islamist insurgents and check the wave of terror threatening to engulf the sub-Saharan region. The president said that Nigeria was particularly interested in the issue of Mali because the Northern part of Mali was now becoming a sanctuary for breeding terrorists that are trooping into West and North Africa. “If you don’t solve the problem of Mali, Nigerians will continue to sleep

move from Northern Mali to Niger, Chad and of course Northern Nigeria. Almost 50 per cent of the Boko Haram adherents are trained in Northern Mali. Most of the weapons they use come from Libya to Mali and then to Nigeria, the President said. He stated that Nigeria does not have any territorial ambition in the neighbouring Mali, but to protect its citizens and ensure that terrorists being trained there and the weapons passing through the area never enter Nigeria. “Nigeria has no territorial interest in Mali. Going to Mali does not mean that we are trying to extend our territorial control to the country. No. We believe that if we don’t go there, the war going on there will affect us,” Jonathan said. He explained that if the crisis in Mali was not managed it may engulf Nigeria and many of its

proving the Nigeria security architecture. So, we are surely working hard and by the grace of God, the problem will surely be over,” he added. The President disclosed that his government was fighting corruption in all sectors of the economy, stressing that in the agriculture sector, the Federal Government has been able to address the issue of fertilizer and tractor scam, which has greatly affect the growth of the sector. Nigeria’s Consular to Switzerland, Ambassador Fidelia Njeze, observed that the embassy has a cordial relationship with Nigerians in Geneva, who she described as hardworking, law-abiding and patriotic. The leader of Nigerians living in Geneva, Alhaji Isa Abdullahi said many of them are inspired and are being mobilised for the success of the transformation agenda of the Federal Government.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Thursday, January 24, 2013

dares Catholics, Again, fire guts NNPC pipeline CAN says ‘you can pull out’

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

assessment of the situation. The NSCDC spokesman also revealed that some officers of the corps were attacked and seriously wounded after being attacked by pipeline vandals around Iperu/Ogere area of the state yesterday. He explained that some of the injured had been taken to the hospital for treatment. “In view of this, more armed personnel will be deployed as soon as we receive reinforcements from headquarters as that will help to cover the areas effectively.” Meanwhile, the National

Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, has called for the immediate establishment of a pipeline protection agency by the Federal Government in partnership with stakeholders in the sector. NUPENG President, Igwe Achese, said in a statement yesterday that such agency would check the incessant damage to oil pipelines in the country and reduce or eliminate the huge losses the nation’s was suffering regularly. He said the the high unemployment rate in the country was responsible

for the incessant pipeline vandalism, saying that the agency, if and when created would also tackle unemployment to some extent. The NUPENG president added that the agency should work in tandem with the security agencies, failing which the country would continue to experience pipeline vandalism. He said: “We are experiencing a system failure; a total collapse of our values. If our security agents are unable to arrest those who killed government officials while repairing

damaged pipelines, then the situation has reached worrisome dimension. “The Federal Government needs to overhaul the polity to make it to work again. It also has to arrest and punish pipeline vandals, as this would go a long way in stopping the scourge,” Achese said. He stressed that government must not allow saboteurs to frustrate its efforts and turn the wheels of progress backward, saying also that NUPENG has lost many of its members to pipeline vandalism in the past.

L-R: Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; Minister of Foreign Affairs 1, Prof. Viola Onwuliri; President Goodluck Jonathan; Nigerian Ambassador to Switzerland, Mrs. Fidelia Njeze; Nigerian Ambassador to UN Permanent Mission in Geneva, Ambassador Umunna Orjiako and Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, during a meeting of President Jonathan with Nigerian community in Geneva, Switzerland on Tuesday. PHOTO: NAN

Reps probe alleged N275bn Customs scam CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

contracts awarded to four foreign firms. The companies were to provide scanning services, risk management techniques, electronic platform at various ports and borders in Nigeria. A motion of urgent national importance raised by Hon. Abimbola Daramola (ACN-Ekiti) on the floor yesterday was adopted by the House. The firms are Cotecna Destination Inspection Ltd; SGS Scanning Nigeria Ltd; Global Scan Systems Ltd and Webb Fountain (Nigeria) Ltd. They were supposed to build, equip, train, and transfer the technology and expertise to the Nigerian Customs Service, NCS, and handover their functions seamlessly to them fully at the end of December 2012. But Daramola in the motion called on the House to prevent continued loss of revenue through ports in-

spection contracts. He submitted that in December last year, the Minister of Finance and the NCS management in conjunction with the service providers announced an extension of the contracts for six months without due process and against the overall interest of the country. The lawmaker noted that following the extension, N21bn would be paid to the service providers irrespective of the quality of work and without handing over to the NCS or making Nigerians the dominant players after so many years. Daramola also expressed concern that the revenue potential of the country were not being realised as adequate taxes were not being paid by the Destination Inspection Service Providers. He added that revenue collection was also not being maximised as over $1bn had been lost.

Meanwhile, yesterday’s proceedings on the floor of the House were disrupted midway into the session as the audio system installed in the chamber malfunctioned intermittently. The development forced the House to adjourn plenary until Tuesday next week to enable the technical department to rectify the problem. Deputy Speaker, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, who presided said: “Because of the technical problem in the last 20 minutes, our proceedings have not been recorded. After consultations we have decided to adjourn plenary till Tuesday and because of the Eid el Maolud tomorrow to enable the technicians to rectify the problem.” The lawmakers had earlier declined to pass a motion, seeking to investigate the non- implementation of the Backward Integration Policy on local production of cement in the

country. The motion titled, “Urgent need to investigate the non-implementation of the Backward Integration Policy on Local Production of Cement,” raised by Hassan Saleh was rejected by the House in a voice vote by members. Saleh had drawn the attention of the House to the fact that the Federal Government was yet to “vigorously” pursue and implement the policy, which was initiated to encourage and protect local manufacturers from the dumping of cement products into the country through importation. The development, he said, had caused the management of Dangote Cement to temporarily shut down the Gboko Cement Plant in Benue State and had asked its workers to proceed on forced leave pending when the situation improved.

OLUFEMI ADEOSUN ABUJA

he Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, yesterday reacted to the alleged moves by the Catholic Church to break away from the umbrella religious body, stressing that the threat was occasioned by the loss of the Presidency of the body to Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor. The Public Relations Officer of the 19 Northern States of CAN and Abuja, Mr. Sunny Oibe, who spoke with journalists yesterday on the alleged threat, also accused Catholics of arrogance. He said: “There is no division in CAN and we are all speaking with one language. There are some certain elements in the leadership of CAN, led by Cardinal John Onaiyekan because he lost the CAN Presidency to Oritsejafor who has a lot of achievements. “There is no need for anybody to lose sleep over the threat by Catholics to pull out of CAN, because without them, CAN will still continue. The constitution of CAN makes provision that membership can be terminated by any group that is misbehaving or any group can also terminate their membership. “Why is it that when Catholics were in the leadership of CAN, every bloc supported them but now because power has changed hands, they are threatening to pull out and causing confusion? “They have been agitating that the Presidency of CAN must from the South. They are an appendage of PDP and PDP themselves. They are known for double standards. A man of God should not be double speaking.” He said in exercising their right to free association, Catholics should not mislead the public. “The Catholics are claiming that the current CAN leadership has deviated from the vision of the founding fathers when they don’t even know how CAN came about. What did the Catholics know about the vision of the founding fathers? “CAN was formed because of the marginalisation of Christians in the

North. The Christians in the North, particularly those of them from the TEKAN extraction came together and formed Northern Christian Association. It was that body that metamorphosed to CAN,” he said. According to him, during the administration of Olusegun Obasanjo when CAN was to be registered, “the leadership was given to them because Catholics were in leadership; I want o correct that impression because they have been telling the world that they are the founding fathers of CAN. “Catholics have accused the current CAN leadership led by Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor of being pro-government. But if you look at the whole scenario, you will be able to find out who between Oritsejafor and Onaiyekan is more close to government. “The problem of Catholics is that they always display arrogance of knowledge. They don’t want to be under anybody but they want everybody to be under them. It doesn't work like that because there is no seniority in CAN,” he added. It will be recalled that the Diocesan Administrator of the Catholic Diocese of Abeokuta, Ogun State, Monsignor Christopher Ajala had on Tuesday said that the church decided to boycott the activities of CAN last November, particularly at the national level because it was no longer comfortable with the closeness of its leadership to the government. The Catholic Church said because it would not want to be part of an association that had become a mere appendage of the present administration, it therefore had no other choice than to boycott CAN activities. Ajala said that the umbrella Christian body had failed to meet its goals and objectives as a religious organisation, which should be the mouthpiece of the ordinary people. “I don’t know, what can we call them after Executive, Legislative, Judiciary then maybe they are the religious arm. But the Catholic Church says no, it should not be like that because they would dictate to us what to do and they would not take our advice seriously.”

National News

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Eid-el-Maulud: Jonathan, Mark, Tambuwal preach peace GEORGE OJI AND ROTIMI FADEYI

resident Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President David Mark and House of Representatives Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal, yesterday urged Muslims to rededicate themselves to making the country a better place. In their separate messages marking the Eid-el-Maulud celebration, the leaders expressed optimism that the country would surmount its present security challenge. Jonathan urged Muslims to use the opportunity of the celebration to live up to the ideals of honesty, selflessness, tolerance, good neighbourliness, justice, equity

and fairness which Prophet Muhammed preached and exemplified. In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the President urged all true believers in the Prophet’s divine message to continue to pray for peace in all parts of the country and resolve to do more to support ongoing efforts by the Federal Government and its security agencies to ensure greater safety of lives and property. He urged all Muslims to offer special prayers for the officers and men of Nigeria’s security agencies at home and abroad who are working very hard, day and night, and sometimes making the supreme sacrifice for the security of the coun-

try and all who live in it. In his own message, Mark urged Nigerians to join hands with the government to make the country a better place, noting that irrespective of religious or ethnic divide, Nigerians must see themselves as one people bound by a common destiny.

The Senate president noted the challenges facing the country, including security and suggested that collective approach was needed to tackle the menace. He said: “The challenges we have as a people should be a concern to all of us.” On his part, Tambuwal urged Nigerians to imbibe

the culture of tolerance as the country celebrates the birth of the Prophet. In a message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Mallam Imam Imam, the speaker also appealed to Nigerians to eschew bitterness and primordial sentiments in their dealings with one

another. He said the Prophet’s life is an example in forthrightness, diligence, hard work, and commitment to set objectives. When imbibed, according to him, these virtues can help propel any nation towards rapid growth and development.

Senate confirms Turaki, Nebo as ministers-designate GEORGE OJI ABUJA

he Senate yesterday confirmed the appointment of Professor Chinedu Nebo from Enugu State and Alhaji Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (Kebbi) as ministers-designate. The exercise, which was conducted by the Committee of the Whole, was in line with Section 147(2) of the 1999 Constitution as amended. The section requires the upper parliament to screen and confirm the appointment of persons to be made ministers before such appointment could take effect. President Goodluck Jonathan nominated the two men last week vide a letter addressed to the Senate President, David Mark, and read on the floor of the upper chamber. Although it is expected that Nebo, a former vicechancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, and the pioneer vicechancellor of the Federal University, Oye, Ekiti State, is expected to replace Prof. Berth Nnaji as minister of power, the senators asked Nebo questions outside of the power sector. Nebo, a professor of Metallurgical and Material Engineering, answered

questions on issues relating to the country’s falling standard in education, proliferation of tertiary institutions, youth unemployment, challenges of insecurity, unbundling of the power sector, independent power projects, noncompliance with the federal character principles, how he would support the President to drive his transformation agenda, among others. The professor answered the questions satisfactorily leading to his confirmation. Turaki, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, who contested the last gubernatorial election on the platform of the Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, is expected to replace Mohammed Haliru as defence minister. Like Nebo, he answered questions outside the defence sector, including deployment of soldiers to Mali, solutions to security challenges, whether or not he had the drive to become a minister, whether it is wise or not to celebrate the country’s centenary, making the police to perform effectively, his stewardship as a member of the team Nigeria Trust Fund, whether appointment of SAN is more political than legal, etc. Turaki also answered all the questions satisfactorily.

Members of Joint Health Workers protesting the state of health sector in Enugu, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Dana victim, protesters barricade airline’s office OLUSEGUN KOIKI

ne of the victims of June 3, 2012 plane crash at the Iju-Ishaga area of Lagos, Pastor Daniel Omowunmi, and the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, Funmilayo Unit, yesterday staged a peaceful protest from Agege through Allen Avenue to the airline’s office. Omowunmi’s warehouse and other properties were destroyed by the

Aviation Minister, Oduah

Dana plane crash. The victim, in a convoy of vehicles and about 100 other people, blocked the entrance to the airline’s office. The protest started as early as 8:30am with protesters carrying placards with various inscriptions, which condemned the insensitivity of the airline to Omawunmi’s plights since the crash. Some of the inscriptions read: “Dana is death; beware,” “Nigerians please stop flying Dana airlines,” “Dana’s mission is to kill and destroy,” “Dana is yet to pay a dime for property destroyed,” “Dana is back to business, but we are still out of business.” The protest created traffic jam on Allen Avenue but was managed by the protesters, who designated one of them to control the vehicles using the road. At the airline’s office, the staff of the airline locked themselves inside the building, while private

security men watch over the building and monitored events. Some of the airline’s workers were peeping through various openings to observe the protesters. A detachment of policemen in a Toyota Hilux car with registration number 2388C was at the airline’s

office to maintain law and order. Speaking with journalists during the protest, Omowunmi said he lost about N500 million worth of property to the accident, which included his warehouse, publishing house, fish ponds and other businesses.

N600,000 estacode: Hembe, Azubuogu’s trial begins afresh EMMANUEL ONANI ABUJA

rial of the suspended Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Capital Market, Hon. Herman Hembe, and his deputy, Ifeanyi Azubuogu, began afresh yesterday. During the trial, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, called two witnesses. The prosecution witnesses, Austine Adache

and Aniette Udoh, both told the court that they investigated the alleged misappropriation of $4,095 (about N600,000), being estacode given to Hembe and Azubuogu by the Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, to travel to Dominican Republic for a conference. Both witnesses were cross-examined by counsel to the accused, Mr. Jibrin Okutepa (SAN), who tendered certified true copies of witnesses’ evidence before the former court.

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News

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Auto crashes: FG approves training for convoy drivers

•As FEC condemns attack on Emir of Kano’s convoy ROTIMI FADEYI ABUJA

etermined to reduce the rate of auto crashes involving governors and other top government officials, the Federal Executive Council, FEC, yesterday approved a training

policy for the convoy drivers of governors, ministers, heads of agencies and permanent secretaries. The council gave the approval after expressing concern over the high rate of auto crashes involving convoy drivers that has resulted in the death of aides of such government

officials as well as other innocent citizens. Addressing State House Correspondents after the weekly FEC meeting yesterday, Information Minister, Labaran Maku, said the training would be conducted by the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC.

He noted that in the report presented to council by the FRSC, some convoy drivers were not qualified and needed to be trained. According to him, the report also revealed that some of the drivers have visual impairment, adding that the training would ensure that they are physi-

L-R: Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulure; former Head of the Interim Government, Chief Ernest Sonekan; former Minister of Defence, Lt.-Gen. Theophilus Danjuma and his wife, Senator Daisy, at the commendation service for late former Primate of Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Abiodun Adetiloye, in Lagos, yesterday.

EFCC arrests Imo House of Assembly clerk CHRIS NJOKU OWERRI

here was a mild drama yesterday in Owerri, when the anti-graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, stormed the Imo State House of Assembly to arrest the Speaker of the House, Hon. Benjamin Uwajiomogu. It was gathered that many of the members of the house and the principal officers, who narrowly escaped arrest, took to their heels as some abandoned their cars to escape being apprehended. However, when the EFCC officials could not arrest the speaker, who was said to have travelled abroad, the Clerk of the House, Mr. Chris Duru, was arrested and whisked away.

The visit of the anti-graft agency which was coming barely 24 hours after the Imo State Governor, chided the EFCC for delaying the arrest of his predecessor, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, threw the entire state into confusion as key government officials were battling to stop the operatives from making further arrests. Although, facts about the visit was sketchy as at the time of filing this report, it was reliably gathered that the EFCC invaded the house to arrest its principal officers, including the Speaker, Hon Benjamin Uwajumogu, over an alleged contract scam and irregularities in employment and promotion of staff without due process. When contacted, Media Assistant to the Speaker, Mr. Samuelson Ihuoha, said that,

“The Clerk was not arrested as speculated, but that he was only invited to answer some questions.” According to him; “There is nothing spectacular about the visit. The EFCC has the right to investigate any arm of government or institution, so their visit is in line with their constitutional functions. The Imo State House of Assembly has nothing to hide.” However, when contacted, the Commissioner of Information and Strategy, Mr. Chinedu Offor, declined comments on the matter, adding that the house was different from the executive. “You know that the house is distinct, so you can contact the media assistant to the speaker, I can’t speak on behalf of the house.”

NAN, reports that the Villagers stop attempt to hijack SURE-P jobs geria, villagers, who assembled

ttempts by two politicians from Enugu State to smuggle their names into the Federal Government’s Community Services Women and Youth Empowerment Programme failed yesterday as vigilant villagers protested against

them. The programme is designed by SURE-P to engage unemployed youths, women and vulnerable persons for services in their communities at a monthly stipend of N10, 000. The News Agency of Ni-

at Aguobu-Owa in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State cried foul when ward heads and councillors brought lists of persons selected for the programme without recourse to the guidelines.

cally and mentally stable to discharge their duties. The council therefore urged FRSC to continue train all drivers in the country. Auto crashes involving governors have been on the increase in recent time, the most recent being the one involving Governor Idris Wada of Kogi State on December 28 last year which claimed the life of his Aide-de-Camp, ADC, Assistant Superintendent of Police, Idris Mohammed. The governor was returning from the annual Igala Education Conference at Anyigba in Dekina Local Government Area of the state. While speaking on the development of the solid minerals sector, Maku said the Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, with the Chinese government to facilitate the establishment of minerals laboratory in the country. Minister of Mines and Steel, Musa Mohammed Sada, while speaking further on the matter, noted that the project would be private sector driven in

order to ensure that the country’s solid minerals are processed in the country rather than being taken abroad. According to him, the establishment of world class minerals laboratory in the country by Chinese private businessmen was a critical part of the agreement, saying that this would further encourage investors. FEC also yesterday condemned last Saturday’s attack on the convoy of the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, describing the emir as ‘highly cosmopolitan.’ Maku, said the council particularly commiserated with the emir over the incident, which led to the death of four people. He said council condemned in totality the attempt on the emir’s life and the killing of innocent people during the attack. The minister reiterated the determination of the government to hunt, apprehend and prosecute all those behind the attack. He called on all Nigerians to continue to support the ongoing battle against religious extremists bent on creating social disorder in the country.

Pensioners accuse HoSF of fraud •Call for civilian pension board EMMANUEL ONANI ABUJA

he Association of Federal Public Service Retirees, AFPSR, has accused the Head of Service of the Federation, HoSF, Alhaji I. I. Sali, of fraud, alleging that he has re-introduced a regime of mismanagement of pension funds. In a statement signed by it National Chairman, Chief Emmanuel Omoyeni, the pensioners lamented the nonpayment of their November and December pensions, blaming the development on the take-over of the responsibilities of the Pension Reform Task Team, PRTT, by the office of the Head of Service of the Federation. According to Omoyeni, since the office of Head of Service of the Federation took charge of the payment of monthly pension to retirees of the Federal Government, “at least 98 percent of our members have been grossly underpaid, unpaid or out rightly denied of ex-

istence.” In faulting the decision of the HoSF to assume the task of paying monthly pensions in realisation of his retirement in March, Omoyeni said all Mr. Sali intends to achieve, was to cause “confusion” in pension administration, with a view to returning “us to the years of pain, anguish, sorrow and penury.” While blaming the new trend on the action of the Head of Service of the Federation, which he insisted was done “without recourse for knowledge of PRTT,” the pensioners appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan, to among other things; “Stop the Head of Civil Service of the Federation’s office immediately from further interfering and stealing pensioner’s monies. “All of us were denied our salaries in November and December, 2012. We celebrated the Christmas and New Year in hunger. Many of us can’t eat well

or pay for our medications again.” Also, the pensioners urged President Jonathan to: “Order the EFCC and the ICPC to get our November and December salaries from Sali. The cabal is back, bolder and stronger. These two months salaries were not paid to us and the monies were taken out of government account.” Other recommendations are that: “The PRTT should be ordered to resume payment of our salaries from January 2013, without further delay for sanity. “The Federal Government, to institutionalise the pension reform, takes the gains and database of the PRTT to give us a “Civilian Pension Board.” If the military have Military Pension Board and the Para-Military have theirs, why is that of the civilians in the hands of the corrupt office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation? Give us our own board. What is good for the geese is also good for the gander. “Mr. President should let the PRTT transform into the Civilian Pensions Board.”

South West

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

2013 budget shows Aregbesola means well for Osun –ACN FELIX NWANERI

L-R: Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III; National Chairman, Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Chief Bisi Akande; ACN national leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi and the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, during the visit of ACN leaders to the palace in Oyo, yesterday.

10 held for 72-year-old guard’s murder in Ondo HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE

en people, including a company manager are now in police net over the murder of a 72-year-old guard. It was learnt that the guard was strangled in the early hours of yesterday at the Kola Rewire area of Ondo town on the Ondo - Akure Road. The area was deserted yesterday afternoon, apparently for fear of arrest by the police.

It was, however, gathered that the police patrol team from Yaba divisional police station, led by the Station Officer, Samuel Akingbulu, made some arrests. Confirming the development, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Wole Ogodo, said investigations had started on the incident. Meanwhile, a senior police officer at the Yaba Police station confirmed the arrest of 10 people, including the branch manager of a multi-national

firm in the town. He listed those arrested to include mechanics, some generator repairers and others within the company’s vicinity. “The suspects, who are currently helping the police with useful information on the matter, will be released on bail as soon as investigation is completed on the matter,” the officer said. It was, however, gathered that the remains of the deceased have been deposited at the Ondo State Specialist Hospital

Drug peddling: South African gets 18 months jail term K AYODE KETEFE

Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday sentenced a 37-year-old South African, Mrs. Duru Lindiwef, to 18 months imprisonment for attempting to export about 5.5 kilograms of methamphetamine to South Africa. The court also ruled that the convict should be repatriated to South Africa at the end of her jail term. Lindiwef was apprehended at the Murtala Mohammed Airport on June 27, 2012 during an outward clearance of South African Airline flight to Johannesburg, after about 5.5 kilograms

of methamphetamine was recovered from her. According to the prosecutor, the substance was concealed in a carton of sardine, to avoid suspicion, but was discovered by the female clearing officer at the South Africa departure table. The expatriate was later arraigned on November 26, 2012, on a onecount charge of illegal drug dealing. The offence contravened Section 11 (b) of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act, Cap N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The presiding judge, Justice Benedicta Molokwu, who had earlier convicted Lindiwef, after she pleaded guilty to the

charge, adjourned the sentencing till yesterday. At the resumed hearing of the case yesterday, Lindiwef ’s lawyer, Mr. Eugene Okenyi, made a passionate plea for leniency for the convict. Okenyi said the convict married to a Nigerian with whom she had a child, was just a victim of circumstance and that at the moment of her trial she had no knowledge of the whereabouts of her husband and the only son. The lawyer told the court that the convict had been misled into conveying the substance, adding that she had no knowledge the substance was put in her bag by a third party who had paid her flight ticket back to South Africa.

morgue im Ondo town while efforts are being made to carry out a postmortem examination on the corpse to determine the cause of his death. Speaking with journalists on the issue, the President of Defence for Yoruba Peoples Rights, Chief Muyideen Olamoyegun, condemned the arrest of some people in the area by the police on the matter. He described the arrest of some innocent people living within the vicinity of the company as unlawful.

he Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, has commended Governor Rauf Aregbesola for his programmes for the people of Osun State as presented in the 2013 budget presented to the state Assembly on Tuesday. The state Director of Publicity, Research and Strategy of ACN, Mr. Kunle Oyatomi, said in a statement that the budget had shown that Aregbesola meant well for the state. He added that it also showed that the opposition parties were wrong about the intention of the governor for the people. Oyatomi, who said the governor had through the budget offered himself for service, added that it centred on the implementation of the Aregbesola’s Six Point Integral Action Plans aimed at eradicating poverty and making life more meaningful for the citizens. He said employment opportunities would be created through the agricultural programmes of the administration as priority attention had been given to the sector in the budget. According to the ACN spokesperson, Aregbe-

sola’s commitment to agricultural development in the 2013 fiscal year would also encourage rapid agro-allied industrialisation of the state and attract more people, especially youths. He explained that the allocation of N9 billion to the agriculture sector showed the genuine interest of the government in the sector, adding that it was also a pointer that the state would have excess food in the year. On education, Oyatomi noted that the budget had shown that the administration would provide all the state-owned primary, secondary and tertiary institutions with necessary facilities. He noted that no government in the history of the state had shown much commitment to the education sector like Aregbesola’s administration. The ACN spokesman said the government had built new and modern classrooms for primary schools and also introduced a free feeding programme that would be extended to primary four classes in all the public schools, according to the 2013 budget. He therefore enjoined the people to give maximum support to the government to deliver all its promises in the year.

Oyo chief arraigned over Alago title KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

traditional chief, Alhaji Ganiyu Busari Ajiboye, was yesterday arraigned at a Chief Magistrate’s Court in Oyo town for unlawfully parading himself as the Alago of Ago-Oja. Five charges were preferred against the accused in two different charge sheets. The first charge sheet prepared by the police with number MOY/13C/2013 slammed a three-count charge against Ajiboye. He was accused of unlawfully parading and conducting himself in a manner likely to cause breach of the peace and punishable under Section 484 and 249(d) of the Criminal Code Cap 38 Volume 11 laws of Oyo State of Nigeria 2000. Ajiboye was also accused of disobeying court

order which restrained him from parading himself as Alago of Ago-Oja, an act punishable under Section 133(9) of the Criminal Code Cap 38 Volume 11 laws of Oyo State of Nigeria 2000. Other charge sheet signed by Mr. Olumide Ojo, Senior Legal Officer in the state Ministry of Justice, on behalf of the state Director of Public Prosecution, DPP, with number MOY/15C/2013 contained two charges which border on conspiracy and conduct likely to breach the peace. While applying for bail, counsel to the accused, Mr. Biodun Abduraheem, urged the court to make conditions for bail liberal. He said that since June7, 2012 when his client allegedly committed the offence, there was no information that it had been repeated. The counsel explained

that the offence for which the accused was charged was before an appellate court while the briefs had been pasted by all the parties concerned with February 27 fixed for hearing. The presiding Chief Magistrate, Mrs. Jejeomo Ogunbona, then advised the defence counsel to defer his argument on pending litigations till when the hearing begins proper and concentrate on the bail application for his client. Counsel to the plaintiff, Mr. Kayode Babalola, urged the court to use its discretion on the matter. Delivering ruling on the first three charges, the Chief Magistrate granted the accused bail in the sum of N100,000 and two sureties in like sum with one of the sureties to be a serving political office holder, who must be either a state or federal lawmaker.

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South West

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Tinubu, Akande, others visit Alaafin, pledge to re-build burnt palace SINA FADARE

eaders of the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, yesterday visited the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, to sympathise with him over the fire that recently gutted a section of his palace, promising that the party would rally support for the monarch to rebuild the burnt palace. The ACN leaders include its National Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Abiola Ajimobi of

Oyo State, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, National Vice-Chairman, South-West and Alhaji Lai Mohammed, National Publicity Secretary. “The most unfortunate thing has happened, and we are here to sympathise with our history. We sympathise with the people of Oyo as the custodian of the great history of the Yoruba race,” Tinubu told Alaafin. He said that the party would do everything possible to keep the beauty of culture and modern essence of the palace and its history. “We will all come together to give the Alaafin a

befitting palace that will be a mix of the history, culture and the tradition of the Yoruba race,” the former Lagos State governor said. Also speaking, the National Chairman of the party, Chief Akande described the inferno as unfortunate, pledging that his party was solidly behind the royal father in his effort at re-building the burnt palace. Governor Ajimobi, in his remark, acknowledged the cooperation and support of Oba Adeyemi to his administration as well as his commitment to the growth and development of Yorubaland.

Oba Adeyemi expressed appreciation to the visiting ACN leaders and Governor Ajimobi, who he said was the first person to pay him a sympathy visit immediately the incident occurred. “I want to testify before all of you that Governor Ajimobi has been doing very well. He accords due respect to traditional institutions. Some say he is stubborn, but I love it like that; some say he is stingy, I like it like that. He has done wonderfully well,” he remarked. The monarch said that the palace would be given a new design to symbolise the contributions and support of the Ajimobi administration to the traditional

institution. Meanwhile, a pan-Yoruba pressure group, the Coalition of Self Determination Group, COSEG, has called on governors in the South-West geo-political zone to rise up to the occasion and rebuild the burnt palace of the foremost Yoruba traditional ruler, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, the Alaafin of Oyo. The group, in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman and SecretaryGeneral, Dayo Ogunlana and Razaq Olokooba respectively, frowned at the overture made by President Goodluck Jonathan to rebuild the palace, saying it was a Greek gift that may not bring any good tiding to

the Yoruba nation. The statement catalogued several instances where Yoruba were allegedly “sidelined, marginalised and short-changed in appointments into various government agencies,” regretting that; “that was how Mr. President decided to pay us back for the overwhelming support we gave him during the presidential election of 2011.” COSEG then sympathised with the monarch, assuring him that “your true children will rebuild the palace to toe the proverbial line of ‘ile oba to jo, ewa lo bu kun,’ (A burnt palace can only give birth to a more enduring and beautiful edifice.”

Lagos gives 3-day ultimatum to abandoned vehicles’ owners MURITALA AYINLA

L-R: Chairman, Ogun State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Babajide Odubanjo; Governor Ibikunle Amosun; Special Adviser on Taxation, Mr. Wale Ogunyomade and Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, during the board’s Tax Identification Number Sensitisation Workshop in Abeokuta, yesterday.

PRONACO accuses FG of shielding Otedola, others TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE

he advocacy organ of the Pro-National Conference Organisation, PRONACO, the Citizens Advocacy Group, CAG, has threatened to mobilise Nigerians against any attempt by government to neutralise the report of the Farouk Lawan-led Committee on Fuel Subsidy Scam on the account of the bribery plot masterminded by Mr. Femi Otedola, against the committee. Commenting on the bribery saga yesterday in Lagos, PRONACO spokesperson, Olawale Okunniyi, said as a matter of fact, both the bribe giver; Mr. Femi Otedola and the alleged taker; Hon. Farouk Lawan, are culpable under Nigerian law and international convention. While decrying what

he perceived as a ploy to absolve Otedola ; the bribe giver of guilt, PRONACO said if government is sincere, the AttorneyGeneral and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN, should immediately commence the prosecution of the Lagosbased business mogul for

admitting to have offered the said bribe to Farouk Lawan. Okunniyi, however, described as unfortunate a situation where a bribery scam involving a high profile legislator and a frontline business tycoon in the country could be known to government; and the prin-

cipal characters in the said bribery saga, have openly admitted their involvement in the scandal, yet the Attorney-General and the hierarchy of the Nigeria Police would fail to institute charges against them to serve as deterrent to other would-be bribe-givers and takers.

Appeal Court to Fayemi: You can’t sack elected chairmen ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

he Court of Appeal sitting in Ado Ekiti, yesterday ordered Ekiti State governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, to pay all the entitlements and allowances of local government chairmen and councillors that were sacked from office on October 29, 2010, shortly on his assumption of office.

The compensation is to cover the date they were sacked to December 19, 2011 when their three-year term would have expired. The order of the court followed the court’s ruling that the governor lacked the constitutional powers to sack elected council chairmen and councillors elected into office during the tenure of former Governor Olusegun Oni in

2008. In a unanimous judgment read by Justice Olukayode Bada, the Appeal Court faulted the ruling of the lower court on the matter, saying the lower court did not dwell on the matter in contention, which was the constitutionality or otherwise of the sack of the elected chairmen and councillors by the state governor.

he Lagos State government yesterday warned owners of abandoned vehicles in the state to remove them within three days or risk their being impoundment. The state government also appealed to mechanics along the Third Mainland Bridge up to the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, office at Sura, Ilubirin area of the metropolis to vacate the entire stretch of the road within three days. State Commissioner for Transportation, Comrade Kayode Opeifa, who gave

the warning yesterday, said owners of abandoned vehicles, especially in Surulere, Mainland, Mushin, Agege and other local governments in the state should remove their vehicles immediately. He added that members of the Committee on Abandoned and Disused Vehicles will commence the removal of abandoned vehicles from Monday, January 28, 2013. Opeifa said the massive towing of abandoned vehicles would start from Surulere Local Government, Itire-Ikate and Coker-Aguda Local Council Development Areas.

NAFDAC seeks stiffer penalties for drug counterfeiters ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

he National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, said yesterday that it has commenced moves to ensure that counterfeiters of drugs get stiffer penalties which could sanitise the system. NAFDAC Director-General, Dr Paul Orhii, said the agency was exploring the opportunity of the ongoing constitutional review to press for stiffer sanctions such as life sentence and confiscation of the property of the culprits. Orhii, who spoke in Ado Ekiti, expressed disappointment with the kid-glove treatment meted to dealers

in fake drugs and counterfeiters in the country, said the penalty for perpetrators in China and India was either death or life imprisonment. His words: “While China has enacted laws making drug counterfeiting a death penalty, India punishes offenders by sentencing them to life imprisonment. But in Nigeria, what are we doing? We are appealing to the National Assembly to use the ongoing constitution amendment to correct this anomaly”. The NAFDAC boss was in Ekiti State to understudy the operation of the state government-owned Central Drug Store located at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti.

South East

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Igbo leaders meet to resolve Ohanaeze impasse DENNIS AGBO ENUGU

olitical and traditional leaders in Igboland will tomorrow meet at Akwa, Anambra State to resolve the impasse generated by the Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s general election that took place on January 12. The meeting, which is expected to draw notable elders in the zone, apart from discussing the factions created in the apex Igbo sociocultural organization, will

also discuss other issues that are of common interest to the Igbo nation. The meeting, which is scheduled to hold at Marble Arch Hotels, Awka, is being convened by Ndigbo Council of Elders and the former Chief Judge of Enugu State and past President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Igwe Justice Eze Ozobu and Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, would co-chair the parley. Acting Secretary of Ndigbo Council of Elders, Dr.

Nkemka Jombo-Ofo, who disclosed this while briefing journalists in Enugu, yesterday, said the meeting is expected to be attended by eminent Igbo leaders and elders of the Igbo nation from all the Igbo-speaking states of the South East, Delta and Rivers as well as leaders of the Group 21, South-East Forum, Southern Elders Forum, among others. According to him, topical issues to be discussed include “working out a roadmap for a solution to

the Ohanaeze election problem; discussing Ohanaeze Foundation and Centre for Leadership; institute regular meetings of Imeobi and Elders Council; and to consider necessary amendments to the Ohanaeze constitution. The participants would also develop a programme for constructive engagement with the Governors of South-East and deliberate on other issues that would ensure the progress of Ndigbo in Nigeria.

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APGA crisis: Anambra exco urged to endorse stakeholders’ decision CHARLES OKEKE AWKA

he Chairman of Peter Obi Campaign Organisation, Chief Sylvester Nwobu-Alor, has called on the Anambra State Executive Committee of APGA, led by Chief Mike Kwentoh, to respect the right of stakeholders to chose their leader and endorse the removal of Ifeanyi Orji from his position as Chairman of Anaocha Local Government chapter of the party. Nwobu-Alor, who hails from Anaocha and wields strong influence in APGA, said that as far as they are

concerned, the removal of Ifeanyi Orji was final and nonnegotiable. It will be recalled that last Friday, chieftains of APGA from Anaocha stormed the party headquarters in Awka, where they accused Ifeanyi Orji of anti-party activities and thereafter introduced Ambrose Aforekelu, as the new chairman of Anaocha party in the area. This development took place after Chief Kwentoh had relayed to the restive party members, the decision of the executive on their demand to have Aforekelu recognised as chairman of Anaocha APGA.

Chime: Akpabio’s inclusion in NGF visitation team clears the air

Niger Delta-based socio-political group, Centre for Awareness on Good Governance, CAGG, has said that the inclusion of the Akwa Ibom State governor, Godswill Akpabio, in the team of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum that visited ailing Enugu State governor, Sullivan Chime, has lent credence to the view that the latter’s health condition was not as worrisome. The group said the photograph was credible and informing, even as the CAGG called for more prayers for the ailing governor. President of the group, Chief Ben James, who said that unlike the case of the ailing Taraba State governor, Danbaba Suntai, whose photograph in the dailies

generated controversy sometimes, the presence of Akpabio, who he described as a man of integrity, among the governors that visited Chime, made it clear that the picture was neither ‘arranged’ nor deceptive, “as Akpabio would never be part of any devilish plot.” According to Chief James, “Nigerians have been so deceived and misled that they easily would criticise the most real event, so I can’t blame those who are pointing accusing fingers at the NGF for ‘arranging’ a photograph with Chime. “However, with the presence of Chief Akpabio, a man of integrity and principle, it is our belief that the photograph was not arranged, because he would not take part in any such plot.”

TCN warns of power interruption in South-East CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

ransmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, said there will be power interruption in Abia, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi and Imo States in the South-East as well as parts of Benue State, on Saturday, January 26 and Sunday, 27, 2013. This, the company said would allow it carry out final connection works on the new double circuit 330KV transmission line from Benin, in Edo State to Onitsha, in Anambra State and the associated substation at Onitsha. In a statement by TCN

management, signed by the company’s Assistant General Manager, Public Affairs, Mr. Dave Ifabiyi, the crucial final connection works to be carried out by its contractors, having completed the stringing of 330KV double circuit transmission line across River Niger, are aimed at enhancing the transmission capacity in the area and improve grid power delivery and reliability nationwide. TCN regrets any inconveniences the two-day power interruption will cause the governments and the good people of the affected states. Recently, TCN assured Nigerians of steady and regular electricity supply.

Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi (left) and Anglican Bishop of Amichi, Most Rev. Ephraim Ikeakor, during the governor’s visit to Amichi Diocesan Hospital in Anambra State, yesterday.

Abia paramedics, NAUTH workers want Health Minister sacked GEORGE OPARA AND CHARLES OKEKE

embers of the Joint Health Sector Union, JOHESU, Abia State chapter, yesterday in a rally at the premises of the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, protested against the Minister of Health, Dr. Onyebuchi Chukwu, accusing him of being a parochial minister, who takes care of only the doctors in the health sector, ignoring other integral health workers. Speaking at the occasion, Chairman of the Abia State Medical and Health Workers Union, Uchenna Obigwe, who called for the minister’s sack, said health care delivery is a collective responsibility of all health workers, but regretted that in terms of increase in remuneration, only doctors

are accommodated while other health workers are often excluded. Some of their placards read: “We need our freedom, Onyebuchi must go,” “National Health Bill is our right,” “Onyebuchi Chukwu keep off b4 it is too late,” “Skipping of salary CONHESS A10 is our right,” “Dr Onyebuchi Give us our right,” among others. Furthermore, the protesters accused the minister of being self-centred, biased, insensitive and incompetent and that his actions and inactions have negatively impacted on the process and quality of health care to the good people of Nigeria. Also yesterday, health workers of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, NAUTH, in Anambra State, joined their colleagues and staged a protest against the minis-

ter. The workers called for the removal of Chukwu on account of being insensitive to the plight and welfare of the health workers. The protesters, who were large in number and clad in their red and black attire, marched round the hospital premises several times and Nkwo Nnewi Triangle to sensitise people on their plight. They carried placards having inscriptions like, “Mr. Minister Remember Posterity,” “Mr. President, Please Come To Our Rescue,” “We Have Unhealthy Health Minister,” “A Quit Notice For Health Minister,” among others. JOHESU, it was recalled, went on strike first week of May, 2012, but the intervention of the Federal Government through the Ministry of Labour and Productivity, that looked into their 10-point demand which

engendered an agreement meant to be implemented on or before May 29, 2012. However, it was said that attempts to implement the agreement failed and the issue was subsequently referred to the National Industrial Court, NIC, for judgement and interpretation. At the court, it was decided that the union should return to the status quo, yet, to no avail as the health minister was accused of not helping matters. Thus, the protesting union maintained that all issues already agreed upon at various meetings as mediated by the federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity with other agencies of government in attendance should honestly be carried out as the union had complied with the directive of the industrial court that they should call off their embarked strike action.

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South South

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Poll: Tribunal dismisses Airhiavbere’s petition SEBASTINE EBHUOMHAN BENIN

he Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal yesterday dismissed the petition filed against the reelection of Governor Adams Oshiomhole of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, MajGen. Charles Airhiavbere (rtd). Oshiomhole was declared winner of the July 14, 2012 governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). In a unanimous judgment read by its Chairman, Justice Mu’azu Pindiga, the tribunal particularly reprimanded Airhiavbere for wasting its time with the petition by fining him N150, 000. Governor Oshiomhole, Deputy Governor Pius Odubu; Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Julius Ihonvebere; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon, ACN National Vice-Chairman

(South-South), Mr. Osagie Ize-Iyamu; ACN National Leader, Chief Tom Ikimi; the state party Chairman, Mr. Thomas Okosun and Secretary, Chief Osaro Idah, as well as former commissioners, traders and youths attended the one hour and thirty-six minute long judgment delivery, even as Airhiavbere and his aides were conspicuously absent.

Affirming INEC’s declaration of Oshiomhole as winner, Justice Pindiga said: “We hold that the 1st respondent won the majority votes of 447, 478 as against petitioner’s 144, 235 votes. There was no infraction of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended to warrant the voiding of the election of Adams Oshiomhole.” Underlining the fact that Airhiavbere lost in all the

The managing director said: “Governor Uduaghan’s vision of Delta beyond oil is a very positive development because oil will not last forever.” He said Uduaghan’s commitment to empower the people through agriculture deserves commendation, adding that the Bank of Agriculture had rolled out programmes to partner with the state government in the agricultural sector. According to him, the bank would partner with the state government in the areas of cassava production, stressing that the state is one of the largest producers of cassava in the country, hence the need to partner with it.

The managing director said that with the Federal Government’s commitment to include cassava as one of the substitutes of wheat because of the huge amount being spent on the importation of wheat, increasing the production of cassava has become imperative. Apart from cassava production, the bank would encourage farmers, including women and cooperative societies to engage in the whole production chain from farming, processing and storage. The state Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Misan Ukubeyinje, said that partnering with the bank would enhance farming activities.

Activities of pipeline vandals traumatic –JTF EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA

he new Commander of the Joint Military Taskforce (JTF), Maj-Gen. Bata Debiro, has decried the activities of pipeline vandals in the Niger Delta region. Describing the vandals’ activities as traumatic, Debiro said there was the need for a collective fight against the

to prove his allegations of corrupt practices, non-compliance with Electoral Act, illegal amendment and manipulation of voters register, intimidation and harassment of voters as well as multiple voting and thumb printing. Following earlier Supreme Court ruling of January 7, 2013, which held that the tribunal had no jurisdiction to entertain the issue of Gover-

L-R: Bayelsa State House of Assembly Speaker, Hon. Kombowe Benson; Governor Seriake Dickson and Deputy Speaker, Hon, Victor Ateki, during a visit by members of the Assembly to the governor shortly after his return from his two weeks vacation at the Government House in Yenagoa, yesterday.

Bank of Agriculture, Delta to partner on food production he Bank of Agriculture (BOA) and the Delta State Government are to partner to boost agriculture and create jobs. BOA Managing Director, Dr Mohammed Santuraki, disclosed this yesterday in Asaba after a meeting with the state governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan. Dr Santuraki, who said Uduaghan was committed to boosting food security, added that the partnership was necessary for the state’s development. He said the bank desires to partner with the Delta State Government because of the laudable programmes the governor initiated in the agricultural sector.

councils, wards and even his unit in the election, the tribunal remarked that his petition was lacking of any serious evidence that could give him a highly sought victory. “If there is any petition that is starved of evidence, it is this one. This petition is bereft of evidence and goes to show no substance,” the tribunal said, before flaying the petitioner for his failure

menace. The JTF boss bared his mind yesterday to journalists in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital. He said: “What can we do to discourage pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering? We will come up with programme that can make these people desist from these criminal activities. We will comb the creeks to ensure the vandals are wiped out.” Debiro said JTF had

arrested many suspected pipeline vandals for prosecution to serve as a deterrent to others. The JTF Commander assured that the agency would also tackle sea piracy in the creeks of the Niger Delta. Debiro, however, sought the support of the media in fighting pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering in the Niger Delta.

nor Oshiomhole’s academic qualification for the election, the tribunal expunged as inadmissible some exhibits it had earlier admitted. Governor Oshiomhole, however, hailed the people of Edo State and the judiciary for speaking loudly with one voice. He said the petitioner’s voyage was an empty one that wasted the time of the court as well as that of the government and people of the state. Oshiomhole said the petitioner approached the tribunal with the view of seeking to manipulate the court even when he knew he truly lost the election. He reminded the people to always exercise their powers inherent in their mandate. Oshiomhole said: “The people voted freely and I won 75 per cent of the votes cast in the election. Even if we offered no defence, even if we said everything they complained about we agree when he led evidence in about 62 units out of over 2, 620 polling units and even if we have dashed him the 62 units, he knows that that won’t have made any meaningful change in the case.

‘Poor funding hampers East-West Road completion’ EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA

ayelsa State Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral John Jonah (rtd), yesterday blamed the slow pace of work on the East-West Road in the Niger Delta on the poor release of funds by the Federal Government. Defending the competency of the contractor handling the project, Setraco Nigeria Limited, Jonah said the firm was capable of completing the road, started over eight years by a previous company. The deputy governor spoke yesterday in Yenagoa, the state capital, at a pre-tour media briefing, insisting that Setraco was capable of handling the project recently awarded to it by the state government. Jonah said several projects, including roads, were on going in the state, stressing that the government had spent over N2 billion to resuscitate power subsector in the state. Power situation in Yenagoa and its suburbs has been dismal in the past six months. Concerned citizens of

Flood: Group alleges the state have expressed disappearance reservations on the compe- of N250m grant tence of Setraco to handle the project, given its poor performance on the EastWest Road project. Some persons and groups are calling for the re-awarding of the EastWest Road to a more competent firm to hasten its completion. The deputy governor, however, warned sponsors of kidnapping and their agents to desist from the act or be prepared to face the unpleasant consequences. According to him, there would be no hiding place for kidnappers and their sponsors in the state as security agencies were on their trail. Jonah wondered why kidnappers could whisk off the 78 year old mother of the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Madam Betinah Benson, from her community at Korokorosei, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of the state. He said: “When we came on board, life was traumatic for Bayelsa residents. There were cult-related activities in the state. You see dead bodies on the roads.”

TONY ANICHEBE UYO

he N250 million grant given by the Presidency to ameliorate the sufferings of flood victims in Akwa Ibom State has come under question. A group, under the aegis of Concerned Idoro Obio Flood Victims, alleged that months after the disbursement of the fund to Akwa Ibom State, the government had not done anything with the money. The group’s coordinator, Prince Ubong Eberefiak, said that the state Ministry of the Environment and Mineral Resources was supposed to have taken statistics of the flood victims with a view to ascertaining those genuinely affected. He, however, regretted that up till this moment, the ministry had remained silent on the matter. Eberefiak said the group had decided to petition the President over the whereabouts of the money.

North

A ZA MSU KADUNA

group, the Middle Belt Dialogue (MBD), has risen against perceived President Goodluck Jonathan’s 2015 re-election bid. MBD has, therefore, urged President Jonathan’s kinsmen from the SouthSouth to prevail on him to shelve the re-election bid. In a statement signed yesterday in Kaduna on behalf of the group’s Central Committee, Mr. Emma Endazo accused President Jonathan of betraying the Middle Belt despite the support the people of the region gave him during the 2011 presidential election. The group also accused Jonathan of refusing to assist communities traumatized in the Middle Belt by the 2011 post-election vio-

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

2015: Group rises against Jonathan’s re-election bid ...Accuses President of betrayal lence. The group’s statement reads in part: “Jonathan has gone out of his way to placate those who vigorously, albeit violently, opposed his election as President of the Federal Republic, and promised to make the country ungovernable, should he win the 2011 election. “The bulk of the 369,198 votes the President got in the 2011 elections were from Zuru area of Kebbi State. After his swearing in ceremony, Jonathan nominated the then National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr

Haliru Bello, and the people of Zuru did not bat an eyelid. Upon Dr Haliru’s resignation, Brig-Gen. Bitrus Usher was considered as a possible replacement. “When this became public knowledge, the Chairman of the PDP in Kebbi State, Alhaji Mansur Shehu, objected to the possible nomination, saying that Gen. Ushe was not acceptable to the people because they did not know him as bonafide PDP member, in spite of the fact that it is public knowledge that the General is a cardcarrying member of the

PDP and actively worked to ensure that President Jonathan got the 36 per cent of the votes he got during the last 2011 election. “It is now clear that President Jonathan denied Gen. Ushe his support because he (the latter) is from the Middle Belter, a Dakarkar by tribe. “Statistically, and as can be seen from the 2011 election results, it is politically suicidal to treat the Middle Belt people with contempt. Where we stand will again determine the winners and losers of subsequent Nigerian elections.

“Even when the President set up the Lemu Committee to investigate the post-election violence, he ensured that we, the minorities, the victims of the violence, were not represented. “We in the Middle Belt Dialogue do know of several ministers and other federal appointees, who actively campaign against Jonathan, voted against him and have refused to be supportive of him, and are in fact gearing to do the same in 2015 should he decide to contest. “We, the people of the

Middle Belt, feel betrayed by our fellow brother, who has refused to give us justice, and as a matter of fact, treat our people with contempt. “All over the world, people give support to benefit from appointments, projects, policies and programmes. For President Jonathan, favour and appointments go to those who oppose him. Is President Jonathan telling us the people of the Middle Belt to go to the opposition? “Finally we wish to use this medium to advise our Niger Delta brothers that they should talk to their son to stop treating our people with such disdain and contempt. We are not asking for what belongs to other people. We are seeking for fairness and equity which President Jonathan is denying our people, his loyal supporters.”

Police kill three armed robbers, arrest 34 in Katsina He said that the police he Katsina State

Niger State Governor, Dr. Babangida Aliyu (left), making a presentation to Special Representative for Gavi Eligible countries, Dr. Mercy Ahun, during a courtesy visit in Minna, yesterday.

Why projects are poorly executed in Plateau –Speaker

lateau House of Assembly Speaker, Hon. John Dabwan, has explained why projects were poorly executed in the state, blaming the development on lack of proper oversight functions by members of the House. “I am surprised that many projects have been abandoned in spite of provisions for them in the budget, but I blame that on the shortcomings of members who have not been serious with their oversight functions,” Dabwan said in Jos. The Speaker, who addressed his colleagues during the plenary yesterday, said that such abandoned projects would not have existed if members had

monitored the contractors. He stressed the need for due diligence to oversight functions of monitoring projects and financial reports, urging the members to also monitor the quality of work at the various sites. Dabwan urged members to take details of capital spread in the budget, especially as it affected their constituencies, and strive to quicken the release of funds to actualise them. “I agree that there are loopholes in budget implementation and also agree with my colleagues that abandoned projects, like the five-kilometer roads in every constituency should be given priority atten-

tion,” he said. The Speaker also mandated the financial appropriation committee to avail it with its financial report at the next sitting. A member representing Pankshin North Constituency, Hon. Istifanus Mwansat, called for proper oversight functions on all projects to minimised cases of abandonment. Mwansat, quoting from Section 14 (4) of the Constitution, said that there was the need to recognise the diversities of the people in citing projects. In his contribution, a member representing Kanke Constituency, Hon. Timothy Golu, said that there was the need to know

the actual budget performance of 2012 to enable the Assembly debate the 2013 budget effectively. He moved a motion to summon the state Commissioner for Finance to brief the members on the issue and acknowledged that the five-kilometer road in Kanke had also been abandoned.

Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang

Police Command killed three suspected armed robbers and arrested 34 others in various parts of the state last December. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Aminu Abubakar, told journalists yesterday in Katsina that the state recorded 17 robbery cases during the period. He said the police had recovered a car, two motorcycles, 20 toy guns and other dangerous weapons the armed robbers used in their operations. Abubakar said that the police also arrested 103 hoodlums, popularly called “Kauraye” who attacked innocent people.

had recovered 10 machetes, three swords and eight knives the miscreants used in attacking people. According to him, the police nabbed 10 suspected vandals of pipelines and the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) cables in Funtua and Katsina towns. He said further that the police had apprehended three persons for alleged rape in the state during the period. The PPRO added that all the suspects had been charged to court for prosecution. He urged members the public to assist the police by exposing the hideouts of criminals to curb crimes.

Bauchi Assembly passes N136.3bn budget for 2013

he Bauchi State House of Assembly yesterday passed the 2013 budget of N136.3 billion. The state Governor, Malam Isa Yuguda, had presented a budget of N137. 3 billion to the Assembly for consideration. The Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, Budget and Planning, Hon. Abdulkadir Dewu, presented the report at plenary. Dewu called for the pruning of the budget to give more funds for the execution of capital projects.

The committee recommended N63.5 billion for recurrent expenditure and N72.8 billion for capital. The breakdown of the budget showed that personnel cost would gulp N25.9 billion and overhead cost was allocated N24 billion. The budget also proposed the recurrent revenue of N94.5 billion and capital receipt was pegged at N72.8 billion. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Dewu said the Assembly would ensure a workable budget through oversight function.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Olusegun Obasanjo: Celebrating a living legend, an outstanding statesman

14,15

ACN seeks time frame to revamp police colleges FELIX NWANERI

he Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has urged the Federal Government to give a time frame within which it will redeem its pledge to restructure and refurbish police training institutions across the country. The party, in a statement issued yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Lai Mohmmed, said the time frame will convince Nigerians that the promise is not a hoax designed only to douse the nationwide anger generated by the Channels TV expose on the rundown Police College in Ikeja. ACN said: “If this is one of those ploys to divert attention from a burning issue and then continue

with business as usual, the government is in for a rude shock, because Nigerians will definitely hold the Jonathan administration to its promise to refurbish the police training colleges. “To convince Nigerians that this is not the usual government gimmick, the Minister of Police Affairs, Caleb Olubolade, must give a time frame within which the government will redeem its pledge. This promise cannot be open-ended if it is to be credible.” ACN queried why the government has chosen to intimidate Channels TV, which decided to expose the rot at the Police College in Ikeja as part of a strategy to forge a public-private partnership to help raise the resources needed to refurbish the college.

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Politics

Jonathan has failed to deliver –Emami

2015: Suit to stop Jonathan stalled EMMANUEL ONANI ABUJA

suit seeking to stop President Goodluck Jonathan from contesting the 2015 Presidential election could not go on yesterday before a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, as the plaintiff, Mr. Henry Amadi did not comply with an order of court directing him to respond to the preliminary objection filed by President Jonathan. Amadi, a member of the

ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) hails from Elele - Alimini in Rivers State. President Jonathan through his counsel, Mr. Ade Okeanya- Inneh (SAN), is challenging the plaintiff ’s locus standi to institute the suit against him. Besides, Jonathan insisted that he is currently doing his constitutionally-guaranteed first term of four years in office as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The President further argued in his preliminary ob-

jection that, though, the constitution allows him to run for a second term, he has, however, not indicated his intention on whether or not to participate in the 2015 poll. Consequently, he prayed the court to dismiss the suit for being hypothetical, academic and in the interest of justice. This is even as he maintained that the plaintiff did not comply with the extant rules of the Federal High Court. Meanwhile, the PDP has made an application to join

SURE-P will reduce poverty, crimes in Ekiti – Akinyemi OLAJIDE OMOJOLOMOJU

he chairman of the Ekiti State Implementation Committee of the Subsidy Reinvestment Programme (SURE-P), Femi Akinyemi, has assured that the Community Services, Youths and Women Employment Scheme of the SURE-P will reduce poverty and crimes in the state when fully implemented. In a statement issued yesterday, Akinyemi disclosed that the first 3,000 people to be recruited for the scheme will receive their first salary in February, adding that “another 2,000 people will be recruited in February

and by the time we recruit the 15,000 allocated to us, poverty and crimes will reduce drastically.” Akinyemi, who also disclosed that over 30,000 job seekers have applied to benefit from the scheme, even as he debunked insinuation that forms were only given to members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, saying: “The programme is meant for everyone, irrespective of political affiliation.” He stated that the state director of National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Abimbola Oni, is the vice chairman of the SIC and that was enough to show that the programme is not for members of any political party.

L-R: Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. Pius Anyim; Chief of Staff to the President, Chief Mike Oghiadohme and Vice President Namadi Sambo, at the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

in the subsisting suit, seeking to nip in the bud perceived moves by Jonathan to seek re-election come 2015. Counsel for the PDP, Mr. C. I Paul, informed the court yesterday that the reason the party seeks a joinder is because it will be affected by the outcome of the court’s decision; regardless of whichever direction it goes. Presiding judge, Justice Adamu Bello adjourned the matter to February 28, for hearing of the application as well as the objection which counsel to the plaintiff, Mr. C.N Eke told the court he intends to raise. Amadi’s motion seeks an order of court restraining President Jonathan from participating in the 2015 race, saying doing so will amount to a breach of the constitution, which prescribed a renewable single term of four years. In the plaintiff ’s estimation, Jonathan took his first oath of office and allegiance on May 6, 2010, following the death of President Umar Musa Yar’Adua, both of whom were jointly elected in 2007.

Bayelsa scores self high on devt projects

he Bayelsa State government yesterday beat its chest on development projects ongoing in the state, saying that work on the 18 internal roads, the Governor’s Lodges scattered in Government House and at Nembe and Sagbama local government councils, the new state secretariat and other ongoing developmental projects in the three senatorial districts, worth billions of naira would soon be completed.

Disclosing this at a press briefing to mark the one year in office of the Seriake Dickson administration was the Deputy Governor, John Jonah, who said that the administration has invested heavily on human and capital development as part of its Reformation Agenda. Jonah said that the government has embarked on over 18 key projects in areas of infrastructure, technology and security that are of

relevance to the people of the state. He noted that the various projects are aimed at not only making the state economically viable, but also to generate sustainable income for the teeming youths in the state. While defending his principal on investment in security, Jonah said that security need to be seriously addressed to attract investors to the state, saying: “The critics of the Gover-

nor Dickson-led administration are ignorant of the past security challenges and the total air of despair created due to crime and cultism. The spending on security is to win the confidence of the people, attract development and promote investment in the state.” He added that at the advent of the administration, life meant nothing to the people of the state as cultrelated activities and crime were high.

Politics

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Olusegun Obasanjo: Celebrating a living For two days, last week, eminent personalities showered encomiums on the legendary Chief Olusegun Obasanjo at a civic reception in honour of the former president in Abeokuta. FEMI OYEWESO, who covered the event, reports.

is leadership acumen as well as his exploits both in politics as well as in his military career dominated the two-day civic reception organised by the South-West Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for former President Olusegun Obasanjo last weekend. He served Nigeria at various levels culminating in being the Military Head of State between February 13, 1976 and September 30, 1979. Again, he was democratically elected president in 1999 and served for eight years till May 29, 2007. For two days, January 18 and 19, Obasanjo was celebrated as an outstanding Nigerian statesman and national icon, who for almost 50 years has occupied a unique place in Nigerian history. The event featured lecture, cultural night and a civic reception in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. Overwhelmed by the degree of accolades that greeted Obasanjo’s personality during the lecture, Ernest Shonekan, the chairman of the event in his address, charged those present to remember that “whatever we do today ultimately become part of our history; therefore, we must endeavour to leave history to judge us.” Obasanjo’s audacity and unwavering commitments towards sustaining national unity and peaceful co-existence in Nigeria were brought to bear in the two-day civic reception which witnessed the convergence of the high and low in the ancient city of Abeokuta, last Friday and Saturday. President Goodluck Jonathan was represented by Vice-President Nnamadi Sambo at the occasion where Senate President David Mark, former Head of Interim National Government, Shonekan and former President of Ghana, John Kufuor, were in attendance. Governors Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta), Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom), Rochas Okorocha (Imo) were also not left behind. Obasanjo’s leadership qualities were x-rayed at the occasion. Those who were familiar with his military career declared that he was such a fearless General who never lost a battle; who is never afraid of criticism and who always scout for best hands that could deliver on any mission “even beyond the enemies’ line”.

He has uncommon love for Nigeria –Mark Senate President, Mark, was the first to unveil the leadership qualities of Obasanjo as he declared that the former president is a leader who always scouts for best hands to manage any affairs not minding the ethnic or religious affiliation. Mark said: “We can fault General Obasanjo in so many areas, but one area you can never fault him is his love for this country. There are very few Nigerians living or dead who loved Nigeria as much as Obasanjo does. It shows in him; anything he does is based purely on his love for Nigeria. “In any direction he goes, in and out of this country, he preaches Nigeria, he lives Nigeria, he sleeps Nigeria, and he dreams Nigeria. For him, Nigeria is indivisible, indissoluble and nobody can fault him on that because for you, that is why you are here. And we want to thank you for that courage and that leadership.” Mark recalled his encounter with Obasanjo thus: “I met Chief Obasanjo as a very young captain when he was the Commander of Corps Engineers and his friend and colleague, the late General Murhitala Mohammed was the Commander Corps of Signal. There was always the rivalry between the Corps of Signals and the Corps of Engineers. And the two gentlemen who were commanding these corps were very energetic. “They were Regular Combatant Officers who were very focused and so, that friendly and healthy competi-

L-R: National Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur; Vice President Namadi Sambo; former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; his wife, Bola; former President of Ghana, Mr. John Kufuor and Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha, during the celebration of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as an outstanding Nigerian statesman and national icon in Abeokuta at the weekend. PHOTO: NAN

WE CAN FAULT GENERAL

OBASANJO IN SO MANY AREAS, BUT ONE AREA YOU CAN NEVER FAULT HIM IS HIS LOVE FOR THIS

COUNTRY. THERE ARE VERY FEW

NIGERIANS LIVING OR DEAD WHO LOVED NIGERIA AS MUCH AS OBASANJO DOES

tion came down the line too to officers of the Corps of Engineers and Signals. But surprisingly, when Obasanjo became the Head of State and they wanted an officer to be appointed as chairman of Abandoned Properties Implementation Committee, he did not appoint officer from the Corps of Engineers, he appointed me who was then a young Major from the Corps of Signals. “Ever since then, he has been my mentor, he’s being a father, he’s being my protector and indeed, he’s being my defender at all times. If you try to imitate Obasanjo, you will get into trouble so many times over. This is because that is the way God created him. The moment you tried to do anything that is out of what you are created to do or you are not your normal self, you’ll get into trouble. “I want to encourage you because you are an exemplary leader, you are the one who have shown that the love that you have for this country is one that can never be equalled in the history of Nigeria. We want to thank God for your life. For me, it is a unique opportunity to be here today to actually participate in this lecture.”

Obasanjo in the eyes of history –Kufour The guest lecturer, former Ghanaian President, Kufuor in his paper titled: “Obasanjo in the eyes of history,” remarked that it was only in rare cases that people are celebrated while still alive. Kufuor posited that the contributions of such people to society and humanity as well as the extent of their achievements “are so clear; so huge; so ambiguous and so unanimous that honouring them whilst still alive makes complete and perfect sense.” He declared that people honoured while alive are usually referred to as “living legends” because the usual practice is to wait for such people to serve their time and then pass on while history proclaims its verdict on them. The former Ghanaian president further said that the event has comfortably reinforced the esteem to which Obasanjo was held not just globally, but also among his kith and kin bearing in mind that “a prophet is without

honour in his own home.” “So, when we see a prophet having honour in his own home and in his lifetime, we should immediately recognise that we are dealing with someone special, someone whose works and life has touched hundreds of millions of lives, someone who has left an indelible mark on the history of mankind,” he stressed. Kufuor also explained that he had known Chief Obasanjo for many years but the bond between the two of them became stronger during their reigns as presidents of their respective countries. He said they both effortlessly spoke with one voice at every international meeting on issues about Africa and the developing world. Kufuor, who described Obasanjo as “a going concern” because of what he had achieved for Nigeria as well as the continent, also recalled that the former Nigerian President was instrumental to rebuilding the “literally flat” and cash trapped economy of Ghana when he took over power in 2001 through the lifting of the embargo of oil supplies to Ghana as well as the West African Gas Pipeline project which Ghanaian contributing equity was stalled. He also said Nigeria’s economy, which Gross Domestic Product (GDP) had been painfully slow and hovering around 3 per cent in 1999/2000, grew under the Obasanjo administration to the point that he was able to secure debt pardon for Nigeria from her creditors. “It is fair to say that President Obasanjo truly transformed the Nigerian economy, laying a solid foundation for future progress. The economic development in Nigeria had positive impacts on countries in the sub-region and Ghana has been one of the beneficiaries,” he noted. Kufuor further declared that in Africa, Obasanjo has been “a true peacemaker, an excellent problem solver and a diplomat par excellence when diplomacy is needed.” He recalled Obasanjo’s roles in resolving crisis in Dafur, Guinea Bissau, Namibia, Angola, Burundi, Mozambique, civil wars in Liberia as well as the on-going mediation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) between Joseph Kabila and the rebel leader, Laurent Kaunda among other African countries. “I wonder if he has made a count of the conflicts he has resolved in Nigeria, West Africa and in Africa at large. If he has, he may well realise that he is a strong candidate for the Guinness Book of Records category for Most Conflict resolved.” According to him, Obasanjo had become a household name in Africa as well as globally. He further revealed that Obasanjo’s passion for humanity and in particular, Africa has enable the four of them: Obasanjo (Nigeria), Thabo Mbeki (South Africa), himself from Ghana as well as President Horst Kohler of the Federal Republic of Germany to create a forum for bringing African and German youths to-

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Politics

Thursday, January 24, 2013

legend, an outstanding statesman

L-R: Former President of Ghana, Mr. John Kufuor; former Head of Interim Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan; former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Senate President David Mark, at the civic reception to celebrate Obasanjo in Abeokuta on Friday.

gether for the exchange of programmes which would lead to deepening understanding among youths and provide a platform for future social-economic cooperation among countries involved. Kufuor also revealed that Obasanjo had shown compassion and understanding for the poor and vulnerable, describing him as humanist with deep empathy for all.

He’s a national icon –Jonathan President Jonathan in his remark emphatically declared that his administration would continue to build on the foundation laid by the Obasanjo administration. Jonathan, who spoke through Vice-President Sambo, noted that Obasanjo had laid a solid foundation for successive governments in Nigeria through initiation and implementation of great policies. The President, who described Obasanjo as a national icon and outstanding Nigerian statesman, said his administration would not deviate from the core values of his (Obasanjo) administration. Reiterating that the contribution of Obasanjo has secured a special place for him in the history of Nigeria, Jonathan said: “I want to tell you that we shall continue to implement the fantastic programmes and it shall transform Nigeria as one of the most developed countries of the world. “We are committed to implementing the manifestoes of our great party, the PDP, which Baba Obasanjo was instrumental to drawing.” He argued that Obasanjo, through his selfless service to Nigeria, had secured an important position in the history of the country, noting that he was worth celebrating.

Amaechi, Uduaghan, Akpabio, Okorocha hail Obasanjo Governor Rotimi Amaechi, whose speech was read by Uduaghan, described Obasanjo as great leader, saying “nothing great can ever be achieved without great men; and men are great only if they are determined to be so. “These words undoubtedly resonate about your personality. Your achievements in life are borne out of sheer boldness and determination to succeed. Your audacity and unwavering commitments towards sustaining national unity and peaceful co-existence in our nation can never be forgotten. “It is therefore, no wonder that this time, your people have deemed it fit and worthy to receive and honour you. I wish therefore, to join the good people of the South West, friends, well-wishers and the entire Nigerians as they honour and acknowledge you for selfless and meritorious service to our fatherland. “On behalf of my wife, government and people of Rivers State, I congratulate Your Excellency and wish you God’s blessings and guidance in your future endeavours.”

Uduaghan gave an insight into how Obasanjo helped him realised his ambition of becoming a governor in Delta State. He said: “When they were all threatening to pull me down in Delta; that I could not be governor, God used you (Obasanjo) to raise me up. Some of our elders were pressing me down in Delta; Baba was picking me up from that terrible situation. When people wage such war against human, it’s always difficult to escape, but when God says it is yes, he uses human being to actualise it. And God used Baba to ensure that I got the ticket of the PDP in 2007 and that was how I became the governor of Delta State in 2007. “They did a lot of things, but Baba Obasanjo stood his ground that ‘until you are able to convince me that this young man is not fit to be a governor’ throughout the primaries and processes. I want to thank you sir. “Even after the election, he did not leave us alone; he was bothered about how we govern Delta State. And when we said we were developing a state beyond oil, he also came to our assistance and today, we have one of the biggest poultry farms in Nigeria today.” For Akpabio, there is no gainsaying that the former president has caught the light of all Nigerians. His words: “Baba is a cat with nine lives; he is somebody who has been on the throes of death and God called him from there, resurrected and elevated him. Baba is that man that is mentioned in the Bible, that ‘God will prepare a table for you; in front of your enemies.’ And as you have come to honour him today, may God prepare a table for you in front of your enemies. “We have a lot to learn from you because you have not forgotten your root. Baba is a man of justice and the governor of Delta has said that Baba rescued him. But I don’t think that there is any better example that Baba rescued than me, the present governor of Akwa Ibom State and the good people of Akwa Ibom State. “Have you heard of ‘Uncommon Transformation’? It is the Baba that gave me the advice. It is Baba that rescued Akwa Ibom! All the good roads, Baba; you have tarred over 300 roads for my people because of that decision in 2007. “If you have not made that decision of 2007 possible, it would have been impossible. How can I tell the story of this great man; a man who did not know me from Adam but heard that there was a young man who is wanted by his people and was duly elected in the PDP primaries and of course, the powers that be did not want me? “At the end of the day, Baba you asked a question and you said; “how did you manage to win?” Out of the 58 people he met, that this must be a divine providence and therefore, that leadership is from God. Authority comes from God. That to remove this young man would be to go against God. That is why God is with you and God will continue to be with you. “So, you stood by that decision of my people and today, my people are better for it. Nigerians are singing of uncommon transformation; Africa is singing uncommon transformation; I’m being honoured everywhere, both nationally and internationally. If Baba had not stood firm, that would not have been possible. “So, for the South West region, you have somebody there; you have a great statesman to celebrate. “I know that even African countries should respect for-

WHEN THEY WERE ALL THREATENING TO PULL ME DOWN IN DELTA; THAT I COULD NOT

BE GOVERNOR, GOD USED YOU

(OBASANJO) TO RAISE ME UP. SOME OF OUR ELDERS WERE PRESSING ME DOWN IN DELTA; BABA WAS PICKING ME UP FROM THAT TERRIBLE SITUATION

mer President Obasanjo more than Nigerians; they adore you more than Nigerians. I have been to a couple of African countries and they kept asking me; ‘are you related to President Obasanjo?’ and you can imagine my answer. I always quickly responded that ‘ah haaa, he is my father!” and they said ‘no wonder you are like this’. So, you must identify with good things. “You made it possible for the South-South to have justice; true justice through the National Assembly when the onshore/offshore issue was brought to an end under your regime. May God bless you; may God Almighty also honour your children. May the legacies you have left behind continue to continue to leave forever.” Governor Okorocha argued that Obasanjo’s stature transcended any party in Nigeria, describing him as ‘the father of all.” The National Chairman of PDP, Bamangar Tukur, in his remarks described Obasanjo as a living legend, recalling that the party made giant strides during his administration. He described Obasanjo as a symbol of hope, noting that he was relentless and fought with dogged determination at a time when most Nigerians had given up hope about the nation.

I appreciate all –Obasanjo Responding, Obasanjo appreciated the organisers of the event and attributed all his accomplishments to God. His words: “President Kufuor and I are twins of two different mothers. So, if you see him, you have seen me and if you see me, you have seen him. I know that you still have a role to play not only in Ghana but also in West Africa and indeed, in Africa. “If you start curring and asking for commendation or for honour, you will be the most disappointed person in the world. This is because what is happening here today is not normally usual. People are celebrated only when they are dead and for what reason, you never talk ill of the dead. “I very much appreciate those who initiated it, those who joined to make it as grand as it has been; those who contributed to make it what it is and all those who have made the sacrifice to be here and of course, members of the media. “Let me say this: somebody said war is not a picnic; I will also say that leadership is all about people. With all due respect, you are either a leader or you are not and if you are not going to be a leader, don’t accept the leadership responsibilities. “You are either a leader or you are not and if you are afraid to accept leadership position and do what you believe you must do as a leader, then don’t accept it. We have a saying in this part of the world that you don’t enter water finish and say that water must not touch my body o! If water mustn’t touch your body, then don’t go near water. If you will not take the decision and have the courage to do what you are to do as a leader, then don’t accept leadership responsibilities. And if you want cheap popularity, don’t accept the leadership responsibilities. But if you want to say that “look, this is the way, that is the way I want to go, after you have considered everything and you can defend your decision and your action before God and man, then go ahead. If you cannot, don’t! “The event of civil war that happened over 38 years ago, Akin Aduwo brought it out today and for me, I have no apology. This is because everything we had wanted as at that time and we had done it and all parties concerned were happy. So, I have no apology because as a leader, we had objectives, we had what we wanted to do, we had where we wanted to go and you were not ready to go with us to that place and I had to tell you, then no apology. “So, the issue of leadership is a great issue particularly for a country like this. We are going to move forward and you cannot be a leader and said you will not step on toes, even if you are a leader in the church or mosque. If you will have to do what is right, you will occasionally have to step on toes.”

Politics

Thursday, January 24, 2013

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Jonathan has failed to deliver –Emami like our situation in the Niger Delta such as lack of good roads, shore protection, reclamation, poor education and lack of food because if you don’t have these amenities how can you have shoe and clothes? The immediate expectations of Nigerians is that somebody with this horrible experience would have been in a hurry to provide these facilities not only in the Niger Delta but across the nooks and crannies of the country. Some people said Mr. President is very slow. But I am confused as to whether he is slow or lacks idea or that his aides are frustrating him or he is being wicked to Nigerians because there is an adage that says show me your friend and I will tell you who you are, with the kind of ministers, we can see the type of government and we should not be confused about the character and competence of the leadership.

Chief Ayirimi Emami, the Akulagba of Warri Kingdom, is the chairman of the Itsekiri Regional Development Council. In this interview with journalists including SOLA ADEBAYO, Emami speaks on the state of the nation and the fortunes of the Niger Delta under Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. Excerpts: How do you assess the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan? Goodluck Jonathan has not done very well at all and this position is not new to those who have been following my views about his administration. I have been saying it that Jonathan not only lacks focus, he does not have any development blueprint. The so-called Transformation Agenda is a ruse. Where has he developed in the past three years? The Presidency is just paying lip service to development; it is a dubious propaganda to deceive Nigerians to secure an underserved second term. A serious government should have an agenda. Why do I say so? We have been clamouring for an all round development in the Niger Delta because all the ethnic nationalities are suffering the same fate of underdevelopment, mass poverty, hunger, deprivation, threat to our environment and existence by the activities of the oil companies. We all desire good roads, potable water, foreshore wall, reclamation and electricity to enable us live a decent life like other people in the rest of the country. We have different federal ministries and agencies, which ordinarily should provide these amenities for our people and we also have a President, who is from our region, because that was why he got sympathy votes from us, to develop our areas since he is one of us but the reverse is the case. How? The answer is that Nigerians are not feeling the impact of these ministries. The name of a ministry determines its functions. Take the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs headed by Godsday Orubebe, for instance, by that name, the ministry is saddled with the responsibility of developing the region in all facets but has Orubebe done anything? He is an abysmal failure. The records are there in the region, including his Ijaw areas. What has he done in terms of providing foreshore walls and reclamation for the various Niger Delta communities, including Ijaw communities, which are being threatened by ocean surge? My community, Ugborodo, protested by closing down the gas project of the Nigerian Gas Company (NGC) to draw the attention of the authorities to our plight that the community is being washed away and the compelling urgency to protect the area with foreshore walls. The President intervened and as responsible and law abiding citizens we obeyed and withdrew from the site. Orubebe promised to deal with our problem but in line with his style, he

Emami

failed to deliver in the past two years. Has he delivered on the East/West Road, where lives are being wasted daily? Orubebe has not delivered any project in any part of the Niger Delta. The same thing with his counterpart in the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Diezani AllisonMadueke. The oil minister is a total failure as it affects us in the Niger Delta. If you say the ministers have failed, do you support the views of some critics that Jonathan is not in control? Yes, I support that assertion 100 per cent. He is not in control at all. There is no doubt about that. His deficiency allows the ministers to fumble and do whatever they like. For example, if I own a company as chairman and we can also compare Nigeria to a company with Jonathan as the chairman and the company has to make profit and the chairman of the company continues to romance with the management of the company which is declaring loss every year. Does that show that the chairman has a bearing? Does that connote that the chairman is ready for a serious business? Jonathan is keeping undignified silence about ceaseless public outcry about the performance and conduct of his ministers. He is surely not in control; the ministers are totally in charge of the affairs of the country. For example, we have been talking about the administration of OML 42 in Delta State, in which Shell gave out its stakes. We thought it would afford the indigenes for once to participate in the operations of the oil industry in line with what the Presidency has been professing but the oil minister told us we were wrong. She came with the idea of awarding Shell’s stakes to another state-controlled company, NPDC, which does not have the structure to run the facility. We had planned to run the facility and use part of the proceeds to develop our communities since the government has failed in that regard. Are you advising Jonathan to sack his cabinet? I am not calling for a blanket action because very few of them are working. I am restricting my appraisal for now to the

I HAD THOUGHT SOMEBODY WHO SAID HE HAD NO SHOE SHOULD NOT HAVE FORGOTTEN HIS ANTECEDENT SOON AND BE CARRIED AWAY BY THE LUXURIES OF

ASO ROCK. I DON’T

THINK ANYBODY CAN COME WITH A STORY OF NOT HAVING A SHOE AND WIN THE SYMPATHY OF

NIGERIANS ANYMORE two ministers, whose activities have direct bearing on the well-being of our people. With the prevailing situation in the Niger Delta, it is obvious that Orubebe and Allison-Madueke are not serving the people, they are serving themselves. Jonathan was voted for and he must run his tenure and he is the one who is going to be called to question and the performance of his government will determine his chances in 2015. What are the chances of Jonathan in 2015? I don’t think he should be thinking of 2015 rather Jonathan should concentrate on the execution of the current mandate, which he has not been able to discharge effectively. Those benefiting from him may not tell him the truth but for me, I will state my position at all times. I had thought somebody who said he had no shoe should not have forgotten his antecedent soon and be carried away by the luxuries of Aso Rock. I don’t think anybody can come with a story of not having a shoe and win the sympathy of Nigerians anymore because of the performance of Jonathan. Because anybody, who claimed that he could not afford a shoe must have experienced a hard time

What is your reaction to the criticism of the Jonathan administration by some Ijaw ex-militants lately? I think the grievance of the former militants against Jonathan is that we gave you support to get to the top and you are not carrying out development in our areas. The reason for militancy and amnesty is for development. Sadly, Jonathan got the presidency through sympathy from within and outside the country but he has failed to deliver. There is no development anywhere. The militants could not boldly say that they have got development because people will definitely ask them questions. These people fought and people were killed, Nigerians and foreigners and yet they have got to nowhere. There is nothing to show for it. Even some of us who are involved in pipeline surveillance jobs are doing that at our own risk. Some people say it was the same crude they stole to buy guns to install Jonathan and that he cannot turn around now to stop it. Even at that some of us still try to persuade them to stop the sabotage to make more money available to the government for development. But they would ask you, where is the development? They said they are not seeing anything. One day, these militants will go back home and they will have no story to tell their people about the gains of the mindless war, which claimed the lives of many people, including their own people except their personal pockets; no development to justify the bloodshed. The only thing they gain is the presidency, which is not producing results now. The outburst by the militants is because they are ashamed. Is the Itsekiri ethnic nationality being fairly treated by the Federal Government? Don’t even talk about it. We don’t even want any position from them because we know we won’t get it. That is not an issue you talk about. We are asking for development which I know will not come too. The minister, who is supposed to carry out shore protection and reclamation in Ugborodo in response to our peaceful protest, failed to act. The one we protested for we did not see, is it the one we did not protest for that they would give to us? If they failed to develop their Ijaw communities, is it Itsekiri communities they will develop?

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Views

Thursday, January 24, 2013

The Sultan’s exhortation EXISTENTIAL HUMANISM

FRY

NDUBUISI fryndubuisi@nationalmirroronline.net (08023016709 SMS only)

t was unpretentious, unequivocal and straight from the most authoritative voice from the North, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar. I am referring to his recent statement that the north is responsible for its problems; that no one could Islamize Nigeria; and that Nigerians should strive to promote peace and unity. No one has ever put it straight. The Sultan condemned the activities of Boko Haram, stressing that no good Muslims or Christian would be part of this menace in the north that has caused havoc to both innocent lives and property. He made it clear that “nobody either Christian or Muslim can impose his religion on the country”. He was emphatic that the insecurity and similar challenges that have been the lot of the north for a while now were self –inflicted. He, nonetheless, counseled that dialogue was the only way out of the present quagmire. He stated that the problem of the north would remain the problem of the entire country, admonishing that it be handled effectively for the country to enjoy real peace and

progress. I doff my hat for a worthy leader! The speech was made at the right place - Kaduna, the traditional seat of power in the north -, directed at the very most important audience, and made at a most auspicious time the country is passing through serious crisis. And the forum interestingly was to canvass the way forward for north’s peace and reconciliation. The manner and import of the position of Sultan Abubakar is a departure from the double talk that has characterized the region since the advent of the scourge called Boko Haram. It is to be recalled that the former head of state, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, had made a similar statement in the past when he stated that the pain and wound inflicted on the north by the religious fundamentalists would take two decades to heal. A few northern leaders have been quite frank like the Sultan. In contrast to the position of the Sultan, the governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Alhaji Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, has been trumpeting, both at home and abroad, that the insurgency and such other crises afflicting the north were caused by the fallout of the unequal economic relations in the country, specifically poverty and unemployment. He reemphasized this point recently in Abuja at the signing of a tripartite agreement for the establishment of CBN Entrepreneurship Development Centre in three geo-political. Hear him:

IT IS AN ILLUSION FOR ANY INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS TO THINK THAT THEY CAN IMPOSE THEIR WILL OR RELIGION ON THE ENTIRE NATION “The security situation in this part of the country is fundamentally linked to the absence of unemployment opportunities and the quality of life of the people”. While the efforts of the CBN governor in creating opportunities in any part of the country is commendable, it diminishes his status as an intellectual to link the insurgency in the north to the political economy of the nation. The poverty in the north and other parts of the country did not start today; it has always been with us and may continue unless serious steps are taken to redeem the situation. It is imperative for the governments to take decisive steps to tackle poverty and unemployment in the land. If all the aggrieved decide to carry arms, the entire country would be on fire. It is not a hidden fact that the country is faced with real problem that has the potentials to dismember us .We must be

frank about this. It is significant that leaders in the north have come out in the open to say this, just as the Sultan has done. He is an authoritative voice in the north, both in the spiritual and political sense. The immediate Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Dahiru Musdapher, had earlier warned that the Boko Haram insurgency and such other social upheavals threaten the survival of the country. It is an illusion for any individuals or groups to think that they can impose their will or religion on the entire nation. That era and such thoughts have long died for good. As counseled by the Sultan, it is necessary for the nation’s stakeholders to come together and dialogue on the way forward over issues that have made the country a laughing stock in the comity of nations. What is urgently required in the north is mass education and enlightenment that the country belongs to all of us; and that the centre’s political power has ceased from being any section’s birth right. The north should like its counterparts in the south seek for selfreliance. There abound in the region enormous resources that could be used to make lives pleasant for all. Access to political power alone cannot achieve this. Professor Ndubuisi, an attorney at Law, is of the Dept. of Philosophy, UNILAG

Seeing Nigeria from Obama’s prism

he first paragraph of the American Declaration of Independence goes thus: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness...” This famous mantra was the cornerstone of President Barack Obama’s speech last Sunday during his inauguration for the second term. The declaration embodies the cherished concepts of people’s sovereignty and their inalienable rights and freedoms. The declaration states that freedom and pursuit of happiness are the greatest ends for the establishment of governments and that whenever any form of government “becomes destructive of these ends” people have the right to overthrow such government by revolution! Recall that the American dream was founded on peoples’ sovereignty, human freedoms, respect for human dignity, fundamental human rights, secularism of the state, social harmony and unbridled quest for progress and development. The dream espoused in that declaration was concretely embedded in the American Constitution of September 17, 1787. Each time you hear an American President speaks, you would easily discern the inexorable thematic fixation with the “American dream”, which represents the mutual covenant between the rulers and the ruled for the attainment of excellence on all fronts and achievement of greatest humanly possible developments for American people. This vision also encompasses eternal respect for the dignity, rights and freedom of choices for Americans.

WHEN A PEOPLE ARE DRIVEN WITH A BENIGN VISION AND THE RULERS AND FOLLOWERS ARE PASSIONATELY COMMITTED WITH ITS

ACTUALISATION, MORE OFTEN THAN NOT,

THE MAGIC WOULD BE WROUGHT Last Sunday’s second inaugural speech of Obama was no exception. It reverberated with the alluring idioms of the now familial unquenchable American dream. When a people are driven with a benign vision and the rulers and followers are passionately committed with its actualisation, more often than not, the magic would be wrought. The American dream has already begotten the American magic, or to put it more colloquially, the American Wonder! The US, no doubt, also harbours its own internal contradictions, but when it comes to the issue of a people having a collective vision, we simply have to agree that some people have got it right. The more you ponder on Obama’s speech, the more you are struck with the divergence between “God’s own county” and our own dear Nigeria. Just like the forefathers of the Americans, our forefathers conceived and nur-

tured the vision of a great country. People like Herbert Macaulay, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Tafawa Balewa, Anthony Enahoro et al, were our own John Adams, Alexander Hamilton, Benjamin Franklin, John Jay, James Madison, Thomas Jefferson and George Washington. Alas, our own dream for a vibrant, prosperous nation is stillborn! I read Obama’s speech more than 10 times before penning this piece, and each time I did, I felt like crying, for every word there seems to be an indictment of Nigeria’s aborted vision of nationhood. “Each time we gather to inaugurate a President, we bear witness to the enduring strength of our Constitution. We affirm the promise of our democracy”, was how he started. Is that the case with Nigeria? Honestly, each time we gather to inaugurate a President, we bear witness to our electoral inadequacy and affirm the depth of human capacity for political chicaneries fraud. “Together, we resolved that a great nation must care for the vulnerable, and protect its people from life’s worst hazards and misfortune”. Did you hear him? Is Nigeria caring for her underprivileged and the vulnerable? That of course, is a laughable question because this is a nation that has destroyed the dreams of many of its most talented humanity. So, you just forget about the vulnerable ones! “We, the people, understand that our country cannot succeed when a shrinking few do very well and a growing many barely make it,” he went further. My God, is this not a mockery of our

KAYODE

KETEFE

kketefe@nationalmirroronline.net 08032147720 (SMS only)

own situation? Here is a Nigeria where each top member of the government (executive and legislature) gets millions of naira as overt monthly salary, yet the statutory national minimum wage for a worker is a meager N18000. There are millions of able-bodied men and women who are homeless, famished and frustrated, yet the over-satiated members of the ruling and privileged class ostentatiously flaunt their wealth with callous indifference. “We do not believe that in this country, freedom is reserved for the lucky, or happiness for the few”, Obama further tellingly state. I see this as a reminder of our Nigeria, where freedom is the exclusive preserve of the rich. Go to any of our prisons for confirmation! Please, if you have not read Obama’s speech, do not bother to do so, lest you would be very sad about the Nigerian situation. 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, January 24, 2013

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

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NASS, governors and LG autonomy

hairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State insisted recently that governors would be relentless in their campaign against Local Government (LG) autonomy in the country. Speaking in Port Harcourt, the state capital, he said Nigerian governors were opposed to LG autonomy because they believe that councils should not be designated as federating units. Amaechi argued that countries all over the world maintain two tiers of government and Nigeria should not be an exception; and that the NGF as a pressure group would continue to push its opposition against LG autonomy through the ongoing constitution amendment process. The NGF’s position is, however, at variance with that of the House of Representatives which, only last Monday, hauled a caustic attack on the Forum for its hatred for LG autonomy. Indeed, the House accused governors of misappropriating LG funds. Ordinarily, LG autonomy is the capacity and capability of the third tier of government to exercise independence in the management of its affairs. It suggests the non-subordination of LGs to the whims and caprices of federal and state governments. The 1999 Constitution (as amended), in Chapter 1 (Part I)

(3) (6) stipulates that “there shall be 768 Local Government Areas in Nigeria… and six area councils”, which brings the total to 774. In Part II (7) (1), the Constitution expressly states that “the system of local government by democratically elected local government councils is under this Constitution guaranteed…”. We think the intention of the Constitution is to allow the LGs some degree of autonomy. In practice, however, LG autonomy in the country has largely been relative, with states exercising overbearing influence on them. The administrative structure, power distribution and revenue allocation seem major setbacks to LG autonomy in the land. With the creation of Local Government Service Commissions by states, in addition to state ministries of Local Government, state governments exercise fleeting control and supervision over a tier of government that ought to be independent. Further complicating the arrangement are the allocation of statutory funds meant for LGs through the State – LG Joint Account controlled by states; while power for the conduct of LG elections is vested in State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECS) also controlled by states. The cumulative effect has been that LGs thrive at the pleasure of state governors.

THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SHOULD NOT FEEL INTIMIDATED BY THE SABRE-RATTLING

OF THE NGF, BUT SHOULD REMAIN FIRM IN ITS RESOLVE TO REVERSE THE ODIOUS TREND The major allegations against state governors, which most of them have not been able to deny convincingly, are that they divert LG funds, as well as use denial of funds to the LGs as a positive or negative political weapon. The offices of LG Chairmen are also used by governors to reward their cronies and loyalists; and are not necessarily filled democratically, based on fair competition or merit. We quite disagree with Governor Amaechi’s misleading suggestion that denied the existence of three tier federal systems in more advanced democracies. For, classical studies of even the American federal arrangement indicate that while power and authority may be shared within the context of a dual federal arrangement, a fed-

eral state can justifiably adopt a three-tier structure to reflect its historical circumstances. The Nigerian federal system had evolved, overtime, from a dual federal system to a three-tier structure particularly after the centre-regional arrangement of the First Republic was rested. Besides, the 1976 and 1988 LG reforms were deliberate attempts to consolidate LGs as a formidable third tier of government. In effect, therefore, we canvass the abolition of all the constitutional and other contradictions that encumber LG autonomy in the country, including LG service commissions, state ministries of LG, State - LG Joint Account, SIECS and all, in line with federal principles; as doing so will reduce the subordination of LGs to states, and increase their capacities for local initiatives and social service delivery depending on the quality, integrity and dedication of the leadership at the local level. The crises of governance at the LG level have resulted in the near absence of governance in LGAs nationwide, and the emergence of community and non-state institutions performing some of the statutory duties reserved for LGs. The National Assembly should not feel intimidated by the sabre-rattling of the NGF, but should remain firm in its resolve to reverse the odious trend.

ON THIS DAY January 24, 2011

January 24, 1996

January 24, 1977

At least 37 people died and 180 others injured in a bombing at Moscow’s Domodedovo Airport. Of the casualties, 31 died at the scene, one on the route to hospital, three later in hospital on the same day, one died on February 2, 2011, having been in coma; and another died on February 24, 2011. Russia’s Investigative Committee later identified the suicide bomber as a 20-year-old male, native of Ingushetia, trained by Islamist terrorists.

Polish Premier, Józef Oleksy, resigned amid charges that he spied for Moscow. Oleksy (born June 22, 1946 in Nowy Scz) is a Polish left-wing politician, former chairman of the Democratic Left Alliance (Sojusz Lewicy Demokratycznej, SLD). From 1968 to 1990 he was a member of the communist Polish United Workers’ Party. Between April 21, 2004 and January 5, 2005, he was the speaker (marszałek) of the Sejm, lower house of Polish parliament.

Massacre of Atocha in Madrid: The 1977 Massacre of Atocha was a neo-fascist attack committed by a group that identified itself as the ‘Apostolic Anticommunist Alliance’ during the Spanish transition to democracy. Five people were killed and four injured in an office located on 55 Atocha Street near the Atocha railway station in Madrid, where specialists in labor law, unionists and politicians had gathered.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today Colleges of education admit leftovers from varsities – Provost

How distant learning education changed our lives –NOUN graduates The open and distant learning system of education or e-learning gained prominence with the establishment of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in 2003. And ever since, Nigerians have embraced it as a result of its flexibility and impact. TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE reports.

adam Alisa Mamman Dikko was among the 7, 220 newly graduated students from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). Like most of her classmates, Saturday January 19, has gone down as one of her most memorable days. Clad in her graduation gown and wearing a broad smile, the 64-year-old widow and retired civil servant was excited that her dream had come true. “I didn’t have the opportunity to go to the university when I was a youth because my parents could not afford it. And when in active service, I thought of furthering my education but things did not just work out,” she said. Madam Dikko did not allow these challenges to truncate her ambition of acquiring higher education, which many in her age group in that part of the country do not cherish. She was preparing for retirement at the Ministry of Women Affairs where she worked for decades when she enrolled at the Damaturu Study Centre of NOUN to study peace and conflict resolution. “I chose the course to broaden my knowledge on how to preach peace and resolve conflicts in amicable and effective ways, more so as we are confronted with security crisis in the country,” she said. Mrs. Dikko lived with her 22-year- old daughter and two grandchildren who are at the basic education level while she undertook the course. “The two grandchildren liked coming to me whenever they saw me reading my handouts. While reading, I would also be helping them on their assignments at the corner. I enjoyed their company because it afforded me the opportunity to study for longer period, sometimes into the nights when their parents are sleeping,” she said. Age, to Dikko, is not a barrier to education because the student’s interest is all that really matter. “Other virtues important for consideration are the students’ determination, commitment and goals in life,” she added.

Cross section of graduands at the ceremony

Another reason she went back to school is to effectively run a non-governmental organisation she is establishing for youth development and conflict resolution. “I learnt a lot in the school. Our course materials were wide and very rich. So, I am not getting the certificate to keep under my pillow or look for a paid employment. Rather I know I can now go places with the NGO activities I am going to involve myself in,” she said. Madam Dikko, who was an average student in her undergraduate days, passed all the 50 courses she registered from 100 to the 400 level. “I tried my best to make first class but even as I was unable to make the grade, I am happy with the second class lower grade,” she said. None among the 7, 219, including the post graduate students, made first class. Already, Dikko is about to commence her master’s degree in the same course also at NOUN. Another graduand, Mr. Uche Nworgu, 54, from Abeokuta Study Centre, who studied nursing science, was at the convocation ceremony with his wife, Mary. A nursing officer with the Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nworgu with his newly acquired knowledge said he was now better off on the job. “The course has drastically improved my knowledge of nursing and other aspects of life. Conducting practical work outside our hospital was a worthwhile experience. I was exposed to many things; I made new friends and have fresh perspectives to issues. Today, I am better off as a nurse,” he explained. His class, according to him, conducts

THE EXERCISE USED TO BE HECTIC, BUT THOROUGH AND RESOURCEFUL AND IT WILL DEFINITELY HELP ME AND MY CAREER NOW AND IN FUTURE community experience popularly known as practical work at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta. “The exercise used to be hectic but thorough and resourceful and it will definitely help me and my career now and in future,” Nworgu noted. Being a family man, employee and cleric, Nworgu said he was able to cope with his studies because “The flexibility of the programme enables students to read as they have time and as a result of that, I was able to balance my studies with that of the family, church and other activities.” “Truly, there wasn’t any vacuum created as a result of his studies either at home, as a husband and father or elsewhere for other responsibilities,” Nworgu’s wife, who is a teacher, confirmed. Mr. Samuel Lazarus from Uyo Study Centre, Akwa Ibom State, studied Early Childhood Education. The 52-year-old graduand was before now an NCE-holder. “I am a teacher with many years experience. With my degree programme, I have fresh perspective and ideas on my job and I hope these will greatly help me to perform

Mrs. Dikko

more effectively in the classroom,” he said. Lazarus’ friend and classmate from the same study centre in Uyo, Mr. Ebong Emmanuel, was also overwhelmed with joy since the newly-acquired knowledge will make him perform better as a teacher. Lazarus, 46, is already thinking of enrolling for his master’s degree programme at NOUN to enable him come higher in his career. “I can now go for my master’s degree programme and after that, PhD, after all, there is no age barrier to learning,” he emphasised. Mr. Anthony Kwasau from Kaduna Study Centre, Mrs. Abak Uguzor from Surulere Study Centre, Lagos and Mrs. Josephine Abath from Abuja Study Centre also demonstrated their joy over the feat. Kwasua, who studied peace and conflict resolution, was originally a motor mechanic in Kaduna. He applied to NOUN in 2006 CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

Education Today

Thursday, January 24, 2013

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UI Parents’ Forum supports ban on cooking in hostels TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE AND LINUS KINGDOM

• No, they are not our parents -Students

s the animosity between the students of the University of Ibadan (UI) and the institution’s management over ban on cooking in hostels continues to linger, parents and guardians have thrown their support behind the university’s action, and the increment in hostel fee if necessary. The parents took this position at a Parents’ Forum organised by the university last Wednesday to discuss with the parents, sponsors and guardians of the students on the challenges facing the institution, especially in the area of cooking and high electricity bill in hostels. A statement from the institution’s spokesman, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo, said the meeting had many parents and guardians in attendance and they unanimously arrived at a conclusion that, to genuinely tackle the deplorable conditions of the hostels, there is not only the need to ban cooking but also to increase the accommodation fee. They said the ban would do more good than harm not only to the students but the entire university community. They declared that the current fee of N14, 000 charged per bed space in the university was rather cheap. While the forum thanked the institution’s management for involving members in the administration of the university, they also urged it to continue to open such channels of interactions with them in future. They however, disagreed with the university in contracting the running of the hostels to private investors. They reasoned that the running of hotels should rather be in the hand of the

The Parents Forum of the Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun State, recently inaugurated a cafeteria and e-learning centre on the campus. The event, which was part of the university’s eighth matriculation ceremony, marked a significant success in its drive to achieving set goals. MOJEED ALABI reports

fter about 18 months of commencing the project, the Parents Forum of the Bells University of Technology, Ota, in Ogun State, recently opened its well furnished cafeteria and an electronic learning centre for the use of the university’s students and staff. The project, which according to the body’s Chairman, Mr. Kayode Shobajo, gulped a huge sum of N45 million, was initiated as part of the forum’s contribution to the ivory tower’s aspiration to become a leading citadel of learning in Africa. Two things, Shobajo said, are key to achieving academic excellence and these he noted included good food and uninterrupted access to internet facility. He said when one is not hungry and he is provided with adequate facility to learn, then he

Adewole

Raymond Edosa, student leader

school authorities as obtainable in other federal universities in the country. But they called for private sector’s intervention in the area of building of students’ hostels and other facilities. Among parents at the meeting were: Dr. Ade Adenuga, whose daughter lives in Queen Elizabeth Hall II, Mrs. Tope Olaifa and Mr. Ayodele Adefisayo, whose ward is a student in the Faculty of Pharmacy. An interim executive council for the forum was instituted at the event. The members included Dr. Ade Adenuga, who emerged as protem chairman; Mrs. Ayodele Womiloju and Mr. Ayodele Adefisayo, who emerged as the secretary and treasurer, respectively. In his comment, the VC, Prof. Isaac Adewole, thanked the parents for attending the meeting, saying more of such would

now be holding regularly. He urged them to talk to their children and wards to be patient on the issue and also obey the university’s rules and regulations. While he maintained that cooking remains banned in hostels, he warned that any student found engaging in the act would be expelled. “And please help us pass this information across to them so as to continue enjoying peace on campus” the VC pleaded. He reiterated that students consume large volume of electricity by their cooking in the hotels and that was why the school resuscitated the cafeteria system to control and save the energy. The VC maintained that the about N750 million the university spent in the last three years subsidising students’ accommodation with a larger percentage

to settle electricity bill, would have been used to build additional hostels for students. “So to salvage the situation is the reason we provided kitchenettes with cookers for students to do light cooking. The Federal Government has even told us to hands off accommodation since we cannot on our own, for now, build additional hostels. We are working with some private partners and soon about 1, 200 rooms will be delivered. The parents can also come together to build hostels and manage them. We have land to give free of charge to anyone who wants to build. So, we are ready to make our students live in the best hostels that can be compared internationally,” Prof. Adewole said. In a swift reaction, the students insisted that they will continue cooking on campus, saying the ban wasn’t in their interest considering the economic implication of doing so. They accused the university authority of hiring people to attend the meeting in disguise, and that they are not parents and guardians of the students of the institution. It was gathered that at the students’ union congress held two days after the purported meeting, with the Dean of Students’ Affairs in attendance, students whose parents or their representatives were at the meeting were asked to raise their hands with none doing so. Not only that, it was also gathered that, some students openly expressed their disappointment in the university calling for such a meeting. They described the meeting as kangaroo. and that would never be discouraged by the school authority’s threat to expel students fond to be cooking on campus.

‘Why we donated N45m facility to Bell varsity’

The Chairman, BUPF, Mr. Kayode Shobajo (middle) showing the items to members during the commissioning of the project.

has no excuse to perform poorly. While conducting guests round the facility after the official commissioning by the immediate past chairman of the association, Chief Sunday Jegede, Shobajo, credited the glory to the foresight of the forum’s members and the support offered by the university management. “There are 44 HP internet-enabled computer systems already installed with Microsoft windows 8 professionals. We also have other facilities like photocopier and lamination machines, printers, among others. Within the restaurant is a system

that offers the best approach to food business as it obtains abroad and the entire project that took us about 18 months cost us almost N45 million,” Shobajo stated. He said the gesture is also to support the university towards ensuring that the students are successful in the pursuit of their career. “We believe that education shouldn’t be left to either government or private investors alone; parents and students themselves should be part of the process because that is the only investment that cannot be regretted by the investor. That is the reason the executive

committee of our parents’ forum decided to put this in place. The university has its own e-library already but we believe this is an informal set-up hoping the students will be freer in this kind of situations and can achieve more than when they are before their lecturers.” In his response, the university’s ViceChancellor, Prof. Isaac Adeyemi, thanked the parents for their support and challenged the students to make use of the facility to their advantage. He said through adequate use of the facility, the parents would be further encouraged to do more. Adeyemi, who also eulogized the students for what he described as their sense of discipline, noted that since the formation of the parents’ forum it has shown considerable understanding in cooperating with the university management. “Having completed this project, while we are most grateful to the forum for the timely completion may I humbly inform you that the next project begging for execution is the first phase of the students’activities centre. The centre is being planned in modules. The first structure is to house the students’ association’s offices and recreation unit and the university community will as usual appreciate your moral and financial support,” Adeyemi appealed.

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Education Today

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Colleges of education admit leftovers from varsities – Provost He believes Nigeria cannot get it right in its quest to revamp the education sector unless there is a driving force in teachers’ education. Professor David Wonang, a renowned academician at the University of Jos, until five years ago when he was appointed the Provost of Federal College of Education (FCE), Pankshin, Plateau State, is passionate about quality education in the country. He shared this and other sundry issues in this interview with JAMES ABRAHAM. Could you share some of your experiences since you took over as the Provost of this college? Well, when I came on board as provost of this institution in 2008, there was that division among members of the college community. This was because of the past moves to appoint a new provost. That was my first immediate challenge. As a result of that, I knew I needed to carry everybody along. I then started by encouraging people to learn to forgive and forget and that people should respect opinions of others, irrespective of their tribal and religious affiliations but to join hands together to move the college forward. And I thank God, the approach really worked. I operate an open door system and I don’t want to bother about who is coming from where. What is important to me is what you can do for the progress of the college. I met a staff forum system, through which workers deliberate and take decisions on issues, including budgeting and welfare package that can lead to the development of the college and I sustain it. With this, people make contributions and at the end of the day, everybody has a sense of belonging in the system. Aside the forum, students and workers, also come at times, to offer one useful suggestion or another and these have been helping us. In a nutshell, we operate like one big loving family. What are your other challenges? Just like in any other institution, the fundamental problems are there. The infrastructural facilities and fund are inadequate. There are no enough classrooms, laboratories and teaching aids. We don’t have enough competent manpower. These are some of our immediate challenges apart from other social amenities such as electricity. This community is semi-urban and PHCN is not always giving us electricity. This is a big challenge as the students would need light to read, do practical, and other things. Now, ICT is in vogue and without light, little can be done. I came to meet these challenges in this college. But now we have acquired two big power generators that supply light to the school community almost on daily basis. We no longer depend on PHCN because it rarely works. Another big challenge is that of safe water. Although, I met some boreholes on ground, the topography of the college makes it difficult to pump water that can go round the school. We then resorted to engaging water tankers to supplement the boreholes for our water supply to the hostels and staff quarters. Also, for some years before I came on board, the college wanted to be affiliated with a university to run some degree programmes. It was a serious challenge at that period and by the grace of God my administration pursued the course and today, the college is partnering the University of Jos for degree programmes. The National Universities Commission (NUC) having assessed our facilities on ground believed that we could run some degree courses in affiliation with a university. As at now, the 23 degree programmes we are running are accredited. 13 of them got full accreditation while 10 are on interim and hopefully when the commission revisits the school again this year, we should be able to earn full accreditation on all our programmes. Looking at government educational policies, which specific areas would you recommend for adjustment in order to ensure effectiveness in the system? You know, part of the reasons for the degree pro-

Wonang

gramme is also to encourage students to come into the colleges of education. The truth is that many students don’t like attending colleges of education and the reason is simple. Government policy in teachers’ education is unfriendly to the profession. There is no enough motivation to teachers in the country and that is why many people don’t want to be teachers. In the past, when I was in the basic school, teachers were held in high esteem. We looked at them like demigods. There was enough motivation unlike nowadays. People now prefer to go to university to study and become engineers, medical doctors, lawyers and what have you rather than becoming teachers. But one thing I always emphasise is that our educational guiding principle as enshrined in the National Policy on Education, says we must produce conscientious, motivated teachers.The policy says further that no nation can rise above the quality of its teachers. So, if teachers are the driving force, they must be respected. Aside reproducing themselves, teachers produce other professionals. So, one would expect that

PEOPLE NOW PREFER TO GO TO UNIVERSITY TO STUDY AND

BECOME ENGINEERS, MEDICAL

DOCTORS, LAWYERS AND WHAT HAVE YOU RATHER THAN BECOMING TEACHERS

government pays more attention to the profession. The truth is that there is no driving force in terms of salaries compared to other professions. It is this lack of driving force that is at the root of the many problems we are facing in our educational system. So, I expect that teachers are treated specially. The best brains in the country would have been attracted to the profession. But unfortunately, reverse is the case. Many times, colleges of education in the country admit the leftovers from the universities. Those who could not be admitted by the universities end up coming reluctantly to colleges of education. And when they even finish with their NCE programmes, they reluctantly take teaching appointment and this affects the quality of their service. Another policy causing havoc to the system is that of admitting students on the ratio of 60:40 for sciences and liberal art respectively. People prefer to go to the arts and management courses because of better welfare packages attached to workers in that line. There is no driving force to make the 60:40 policy works and that is why there is a problem. You see, people are crying that teachers are of poor quality and cannot deliver; this is because many of those who go in do so in frustration. They venture into teaching only when they could not get job elsewhere. And when you go in for teaching with that kind of mind, there will be that problem of quality. Similarly, there is also this problem of infrastructural neglect. Education is expensive but we are not looking at it in that way. Like in sciences, you will discover that equipment alone will gulp hundreds of millions of naira. In the sciences, you will need to have necessary equipment in place to carry out effective practical works and this usually cost a lot of money. You will also need the teaching aids. When you learn by doing, it becomes part of you rather than learning by cramming that is common nowadays among students in the country. This is also another reason for students engaging in examination malpractice. Another thing that worries me is the over dependence on paper qualification. When you have a very good result, you are seen as a very brilliant chap even when you are not practically tested. In most cases, you find somebody with First Class but in reality; he is as good as somebody with Third Class. Yes, paper qualification is goodyou need to know the theories and principles and so on. But then, you have to practicalise what you have learnt. So, government has to seriously look at that rather than just looking at paper qualification. How will you like to be remembered after your tenure as the provost of this school? I want to leave behind a centre of excellence in terms of teachers being produced in this institution. And that is why I am leaving no stone unturned in providing infrastructure and quality and qualitative manpower. As I said earlier, apart from recruiting staff, I have had to engage very senior academics from the University of Jos. We have also been able to establish a quality control unit which was never in place, an academic planning unit so that we can make very judicious use of infrastructure both in terms of space and manpower. And in this sense, manpower means that we have to collaborate to ensure that where am capable. For example, you will find somebody who is probably in Agricultural Sciences and specializes in Plant Breeding coming to teach a course in Biology whose content is Plant Breeding and so on. So with this kind of collaboration in place and with the academic planning and with the quality control unit, the quality of this institution is increasing by the day. A part from that, we try to check corruptible practices. We have a unit in charge of that. We are also inculcating moral values on our students. We have zero tolerance for all forms of vices for both the students and workers of the school. We also have SERVICOM in place. The unit goes round to ensure that teachers are in the classroom at appropriate times and there are no sacred cows. I also want to see that the peace we enjoy here is sustained. So it is uppermost in my mind to leave an institution of academic excellence that is comparable to any other institution both national and international level.

Education Today

Thursday, January 24, 2013

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Graduate unemployment worries minister IJEOMA EZEIKE AND BLESSING OKWORI ABUJA

he Minister of Education, Prof. Ruqayyatu Rufa’I expressed displeasure on the gradual waning of enthusiasm in the employment of university graduates in both the formal and informal sectors of the economy, saying the issue has continued to be of great concern to the government. The minister, who stated this in Abuja at the formal presentation of benchmark statements on Student Support Ser-

vices and guidelines for Counseling and Human Development Centres in Nigerian universities, said efforts had been made to reform the education sector in such a way that institutions of learning would carry out their tasks more effectively. As part of the strategies to address the problems, Prof. Rufa’I hinted that a department of Student Support Services had been established in the National Universities Commission (NUC) with the aim of setting standards and encouraging universities, so as to facilitate the creation of conducive environment.

She said; “the present administration is focused on and determined to improve the level of education of Nigerians. It has already ensured the establishment of at least one federal university in every state of the federation and the federal government can only succeed by ensuring

the effective and credible education of the populace through the production of corps graduates that are equipped to face challenges of nation building.” She urged vice-chancellors of all the Nigerian universities to desist from the practice of providing counseling services

through the education faculty and enjoined them to ensure the establishment of a separate launching. The minister explained that the centre would help in producing quality graduates that are equipped with necessary knowledge and skills for the integration of the world of education.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof. Julius Okojie called on the VCs and other relevant staff within the system to sustain the tempo and good working relationships with the commission towards ensuring a crisisfree university environment.

Group donates books to Anambra schools

wka Development Union (ADUN), South Africa chapter has donated 17,000 exercise books for distribution to pupils of 28 primary schools spread across nine communities in Anambra State. The gesture is aimed at improving the quality and standard of education in the state, particularly the Awka education zone. The benefiting communities, according to chairman of the association, Mr Chekwube Dike who led some executives and members of the association on the mission, includes Awka, Umuawulu, Nibo, Nise, Ebenebe, Awba-ofemmili, Mbaukwu, Amawbia and Mgbakwu. Dike pointed out that the gesture covered the two councils of Awka North and South, and was funded by the personal contributions of sons and daughters of the two councils living in South Africa. During presentation of some of the books to the Headmistress, Central School, Awka, Mrs Edith Obi-Nwude, Dike, who was a pupil of the school many years ago, charged them to put the books to proper use. He promised that more teaching and learning aids would be considered in future, to cover all schools and communities in the council areas. In her response, the headmistress said they were overwhelmed and happy for the kind as-

sistance. She appealed to other organizations and individuals to emulate the donor adding that other most schools needed similar assistance. She also disclosed that her school needs more classrooms for the ever-increasing population of her pupils.

Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr. Segun Odubela (second left); Chairman, state Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Babajide Olubanjo (third left) and Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun (third right) with participants at a one-day civic education programme on tax payment for school children held at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta on Tuesday.

ASUU, group call for more investment on education IJEOMA EZEIKE ABUJA

orried by the continued dwindling standard in the Nigerian tertiary education sector, the Academic Staff Union of Universities and coalition of civil society organisations recently called on the Federal Government to revitalise and strengthen public universities in the country. The convener of `United Action for Democracy’, Mr Jaiye Gaskiya, made the call at a civil society stra-

tegic session, entitled: ``Revitalising Nigeria tertiary education for 21st Century challenges.” Gaskiya said the problems faced by Nigeria universities had become worrisome and hence required urgent intervention by all stakeholders in the sector. He said Federal Government should invest more in the public universities rather than in the private ones to enable them to serve as yardstick for measuring education standard in the country. He noted that basically, no nation develops or ad-

vances without education and also without paying very close attention to the quality of education adding that part of the problem of Nigeria education for over a decade now is that the country have shifted away from educating people for the society to educating people for personal empowerment and personal development. “The kind of educated citizenry that we produce are those who think only about themselves and about how to make it in life. They are disconnected from the society and not for what

they can do to actually help move the society forward. If we continue in this way, we will find ourselves increasingly unable to compete in the global market,” he said. Gaskiya noted that the number of Nigerians in Ghanaian universities and the amount of money being spent in those schools was more than the Nigeria education budget yearly. He said the Federal Government needed to fashion out ways of achieving the Nigerian vision in education. In his submission, the President of Academic

Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Dr Nasir Fagge, said Nigeria tertiary education was not doing well when compared with similar institutions in Africa. He added that no Nigerian university ranked among the first 100 in Africa or among the first 5,000 in the world. The ASSU boss pointed that, in the revitalisation drive, government must give the sector 26 per cent of the budget for a trial of period of about three to five years as purportedly stipulated by UNESCO.

Access School wins debate contest TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

ords cannot express the joy that filled the minds of management, staff and pupils of Access International School, Magboro, Ogun State, as the school came first in a debate competition organised by the Nigerian Turkey International Colleges, Mowe, Ogun State, during the school’s annual language week recently. The school defeated

Redeemers High School, Taqwa International College, Topflight International School, Christ College and the host, Nigerian Turkey International Colleges, all in Ogun State, to come top in both the senior and junior boys’ categories of the contest. While the debate topic for the senior category was: ‘Bribery and corruption is worse enemy of our country than armed robbery,” the junior category had its topic as: “An indigenous language

should or not be the official language in Nigeria”. And the debaters were judged based on their comportment, conviction, eloquence and brilliance by an independent panel of judges instituted for the purpose. However, Taqwa International College came first in the senior girls’ category, while Christ College came first in the junior girls’ category of the competition. The proprietor of the winning Access School,

Dr. Jonathan Akpan, attributed the success to hard work and dedication on the part of the debaters, teachers and the management of the school. He said teaching was not the same thing as knowledge impartation and therefore Nigerian teachers should impart knowledge rather than mere teaching. “We record mass failure of students in public examinations year-in and out because many teachers in the country only teach and

do not impart knowledge,” he maintained Akpan explained further that his school engages teachers on capacity building both locally and internationally and this has been helping them to teach effectively In his remarks, the Principal of the host school, Mrs. Faith Keskin said the debate was organised to test the students’ knowledge and understanding of current affairs and issues affecting the country, among others.

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Education Today

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Ekiti rekindles hope for teachers’ education ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

• As college graduates 12,520

he Provost of the College of Education, Ikere Ekiti, Prof. Francisca Aladejana, minces no words in saying that teaching should not be a trial and error process. According to her, the resultant effect of using students as experimental samples or guinea pigs have been “failure in examination, dropping out of schools, development of poor attitude to learning, among others” which she said may not be easily reversible. She said the solution to the above “is a functional teacher education – pre service and in service – which endows entrants to teaching with training in methodology; what to teach, how to teach it and practice of teaching or internship,” all of which, according to her, have been imbibed in the 12,520 students who graduated from the institution last Thursday. Aladejana, who spoke at the 21st convocation ceremony of the institution, disagreed with those who believe that no one needs to take a special form of education to teach, as she argued with conviction that only experts can do it perfectly and achieve the set goals. No doubt, the 34-year-old institution had churned out teachers under its National Certificate in Education (NCE) programme and the Bachelor in Education degree programmes operated by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), but Aladejana said the college had grown both in status and stature since she assumed office one and half years ago. She said: “Since my assumption of of-

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi (left) in a warm handshake with an awardee, Chief Wole Olanipekun, while others including the governor’s wife, Bisi, watch during the ceremony recently.

fice, I have been religiously convinced that the college can be repositioned as a 21st Century world-class institution in terms of research, human and capital resource development, utilization of ICT as a tool for curriculum implementation and paradigmatic shift in sources of funding.” While justifying the persuasion, she said; “The college has the vision to produce outstanding educators, scholars and researchers and to advance the profession of education through research in the science and art of effective teaching. “Towards this end, the college runs well-structured academic programmes strategically designed to expose students to contemporary formal and informal training as well as acquisition of skills

and knowledge in areas pertinent to their fields of study in order to give them competitive edge over their peers.” While making a case for the embracement of education studies in the college in particular, she said she had recorded major innovations in academics, research and physical infrastructure of the college, including establishment of directorate of quality assurance to monitor the quality of teaching and learning; linkage programme with foreign universities; establishment of School of Post Graduate Studies; and sponsorship of lecturers to undertake research and make presentations at international conferences and seminars, among others. Of the 12,520 graduates (12,100 over the

Ajasin varsity, Rufus Giwa Poly’s labour crises linger BIYI ADEGOROYE AKURE

he sack of 92 staff at the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko and Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, both in Ondo State have continued to generate controversies as the staff unions of both institutions maintained their insistence on seeking redress through all means. The development indicates that no end is in sight for the face-off. While 32 staffers were relieved of their appointments at the polytechnic, a total of 60 non-academic staff of the state-owned university were given the booth in what was described as re-organisation exercises. The university has insisted that the sack of the non-academic staff at the university on account of redundancy and poor performance was within its rights, which it said enjoys minimal autonomy. According to Mr. Sola Imoru, the university’s spokesman, such sack and retirement “are regular exercises which should not attract the kind of controversies currently going on.” He disclosed that arrangements were underway to ensure that those deserving of benefits received them in the next few months. But in their reactions, the affected staffers said the sack was ill-timed, add-

Mimiko

Ajibefun

ing that government should have also ensured their cheques were ready before issuing letters. They even questioned the parameter for the exercise. In a separate development, workers of the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic (RUGIPO) embarked on a threeday warning strike over its non-payment of 16 months’ salary arrears late last year. In a communiqué jointly signed by the Chairman of Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic [ASUP], Mr. Oluwabanji Kumuyi, Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnic [SSANIP], Saibu Ifedayo and Non-Academic Staff Union [NASU], Agbi Nelson, they had sworn to embark on indefinite

strike if state government fails to pay them their due. But a couple of weeks after the strike was called off, some members of staff were issued letters of disengagement. Contacted on phone, Kumuyi refused to comment on the issue. But sources said some underground moves were on to seek political solution of the issue. The sacks at both institutions have been condemned in many parts of the state. Many people believe that the affected staffers were being victimised. For example, the alumni of Adekunle Ajasin University condemned the sack of workers of the institution.

past seven sessions and 420 fresh graduates), Aladejana, who congratulated them on their determination and perseverance, said; “These graduating students have no doubt, imbibed the excellent academic and moral culture that this institution has availed of them. “They have worked hard and excelled. They have been well-prepared to fit into the world out there and locate their places. The college is indeed proud to be producing vibrant men and women who have been certified worthy in learning and character to meet the manpower requirements of our nation,” she said. The convocation attracted dignitaries from all walks of life, including the Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka; Vice-Chancellor of University of Ibadan, Prof Isaac Adewole, among others. Three eminent Nigerians, Senator Remi Tinubu, Senator Sola Adeyeye; and Chief Wole Olanipekun were also honoured at the occasion with the prestigious fellows of the college awards to, among others, serve as role models for the students of the college. The visitor to the college, Governor Kayode Fayemi, said the provost had taken the college to higher level within a short time, and pledged his administration’s commitment to keep offering necessary assistance to education institutions in the state in a bid to produce qualitative manpower for the development needs of the country and the world at large. Fayemi, who described teaching as a noble profession, said the earlier scrapped University of Education, Ikere Ekiti on the campus would soon be re-established when the resources of the state improved. Chapter chairman, Comrade Mayowa Adebiyi, a former President of the students’ union, described the act as primitive, barbaric and unacceptable to the association. Adebiyi flayed the action of Prof. Femi Mimiko, the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, urging him to rescind his action or face the consequences. Former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), described it as an “assault on the law abiding citizens working in that patently neglected institution, under the guise of dubious ‘reorganisation’, is one in the series of such mindless tendencies to deprive the people of the state of their legitimate means of livelihood. “It smacks of hypocrisy, of the worst kind, for an administration, which fraudulently hoists the banner of labour, to relieve people of their jobs when it has decidedly elected not to create jobs for an increasing army of jobless people. We want to assure the government that this current state of things is momentary. Every serious government seeks to alleviate the harsh conditions experienced by its people. Genuine leaders depend on their ingenuity to make things work in an environment of systemic dysfunction,” he said. A commissioner in the Mimiko government, however, said the matters were simple labour issues which are within the purview of the respective institutions as they are semi-autonomous and capable of handling their respective administrative duties.

Education Today

NWABUEZE OKONKWO ONITSHA

n 80-member accreditation team from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) on Tuesday visited the permanent campus of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra state on a threeday accreditation exercise to ensure quality assurance. The team made up of experts from various professional fields and drawn from the six geo-political zones of the country, are to

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Accreditation team storms Okopoly access the quality of each academic department in the institution, with a view to accrediting those that meet standard or disaccrediting those that fall below standard. The leader of the team, Austin Ikemefuna Ifejika, who spoke on behalf of the members, described their visit as a normal exercise being carried out periodically in all the polytechnics, monotechnics and other technical institutions in the country. Ifejika, who described

their assignment as quality assurance, said their terms of reference was usually to access the quality of students on campus and their lecturers, adding that they also take a look at academic staff, their ranking, rating and qualifications. He said they would look at the quality of courses being taught across departments.

Earlier in his brief remarks, the Rector of the institution, Prof. Godwin Onu, had assured the team that the school management would provide necessary logistics for them to move round the campuses and see things for themselves. Flanked by the institution’s principal officers, Onu disclosed that in the

face of their dwindling resources, the institution had embarked on aggressive resuscitation of dilapidated and uncompleted structures and building of new ones, through the prudent management of their Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). “We believe so much in Federal Government’s Transformation Agenda,

particularly in the area of technical and vocational education and as such, we have developed the policy of creating offices of the 24th century”, the rector stated. He however, disclosed that the institution had applied to NBTE for resource inspection and approval to admit students in their newly established academic fields like Mechatronics, Nano Technology, Renewable Energy, among others.

Delta extends bursary awards to students in private schools MUJAHEED L AWAL

elta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, has directed the state Ministry of Education and Scholarship Board to ensure that all higher institutions in the state whether public or private enjoyed the scholarship and bursary schemes provided by the state government. The governor, who gave the directive when the chancellor and management of Novena University, Ogume, paid him a courtesy call in Asaba, said the scholarship and bursary programme was not restricted to institutions owned by the state government alone. He said the bursary and scholarship awards were open to students of Delta state origin in both public and privately owned institutions of higher learning. Uduaghan, therefore, said there should be no discrimination of any kind as the scholarship programme

was awarded to First Class students. He expressed surprise that students of private institutions had not been benefiting from the programme, saying they were meant for all students of Delta State origin in higher institutions, whether public or private. The governor, who commended the management of Novena University for the enormous responsibilities it was shouldering, announced the grant of N100 million to the university to accelerate infrastructure development on its campus. He said the challenges involved in building a university was enormous and enjoined the institution to make judicious use of the grant. Dr. Uduaghan also announced that the Direct Labour Agency would start the rehabilitation of the Ogume-Kwale road as well as the Ogume-Abbi road to improve movement to the university.

Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Prof. Godwin Onu (middle front row), with NBTE accreditation team during their visit to the polytechnic on Tuesday.

Stakeholders urged to fight exam malpractice TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

takeholders in the education industry have been charged to save the country’s education from collapsing further by jointly fighting examination malpractice in the country. Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr. Segun Odubela gave this charge in his lecture, titled: “Mad-rush for certificates:

A current trend in Nigeria education system,” at the 60th anniversary celebration of Lagos City College, Yaba, Lagos. Odubela said examination was potent instrument for judgment of knowledge and competence, adding that for examination to be credible, it must possess key elements of validity and reliability and must be devoid of any form of malpractice. “The issue of examination malpractices has be-

How distant learning education changed our lives –NOUN graduates CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

with his secondary school result and was admitted. But because of some challenges confronting the university at a time, he enrolled at the Kaduna Polytechnic to study public administration and two years ago, he completed his OND programme at the institution. “With my OND, I got employment with the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and now that I have added a degree, the sky is the limit,” he said. Mrs. Uguzor, a Lagosbased nursing officer with 25 years experience, told National Mirror that she cannot forget the in-service

training carried out at the Lagos State Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja while studying at NOUN. “The exercise enables you as a student to meet with high profile nurses in the country and other colleagues from the conventional universities,” she said. “So, the programme is a worthwhile one.” Mr. Abiodun Balogun from Apapa Study Centre, Lagos, graduated in human resources and management at post graduate level. For the HR Officer with Bua Sugar Refinery Company, Lagos, what the open and distant learning programme has done in his

life is unquantifiable. “It is indeed a programme for the working class. It is flexible and resourceful,” he stressed. But the experiences of these new graduates were not all rosy. According to them, they also faced many challenges, especially from the school authorities. Many of them spent an additional three to four more years for a four-year-course. For instance, Nworgu started in 2004, Kwasau and Abath started in 2006, while Mr. Amos Jacob from Yenagoa Study Centre, Bayelsa State, spent five years. It was gathered that as a result of the extra years,

many abandoned the programme for conventional universities. The challenges most common to them were the delay in receiving course materials, irregularity in meeting course facilitators, inadequate examination halls and online facilities and shoddy examination schedules, among others. But the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof, Ado Tenebe, while congratulating the graduands urged them to use their newly-acquired knowledge to make meaningful impact in the society. He promised that the school would continue to improve its services.

come of recent, a serious problem, like the emergence of secret cult, in all levels of learning- primary, secondary and tertiary institutions. It has become a disturbing trend not only to examination bodies but also to the government and national development,” he said. The commissioner, who called on all stakeholders in the sector to join hands with the government in fighting the epidemic, said the adverse consequence of exam malpractice was better imagined than real. “The situation will continue to affect our economic growth and development, as well as heightening the rate of crime and restiveness among the unemployed youths,” Odubela said.

While he enjoined teachers to be more effective at work and always conduct credible exams, the commissioner urged school administrators to be up and doing in their work. Meanwhile, the ministry may contract the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), for the recruitment of workers in the state’s civil service. Odubela stated this while receiving JAMB’s officials led by the head of the board in Ogun State, Alhaji Abdulhakeem Abdulhameed, in his office recently. The commissioner promised to assist the board in whichever area possible and also noted that the ministry was ready to partner with it in order to achievet success.

Prospective poly students decry multiple charges

resh applicants to the part-time programmes of the Osun State Polytechnic (OSPOLY), Iree, have condemned the introduction of another N2, 000 by the institution’s authorities as entrance examination fees having earlier ob-

tained application form at the rate of N8, 000. They also accused the polytechnic’s authorities of inconsistency having shifted the examination dates twice before announcing the new date of Saturday, February 2.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Crisis looms in LAUTECH over election with Mojeed Alabi

he peaceful atmosphere currently being enjoyed at the once crisis-ridden Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Oyo State, may soon be cut short, as the 400 level students of the institution are set to protest their ban from contesting the forthcoming students’ union election. The university Senate had on Tuesday, December 18, written the Acting Dean of Students’ Affairs, Dr. Tunde Olabiyisi, on the university’s position concerning the students’ union elections. The letter instructed the DSA to initiate the process that would lead to successful conduct of a fresh election into the students’ union within the first two weeks of the harmattan semester of the current 2012/2013 academic session. However, some of the

mojeedalabi2@yahoo.co.uk or mail@mirroronline.net

clauses in the said letter highlighted some conditions to be met and these included: that eligibility to contest election should be opened to 200 and 300 level students as of 2012/2013 academic session; that all bonafide students with the exception of 100 level and direct entry students are eligible to vote; that the newly elected students’ union officers shall end their tenure not later than second week of the 2012/2013 academic session, among others. It was gathered that the last election that produced the Sulaiman Kazeem-led administration had altered the rule governing the union election by allowing the 400 level students to contest. The university was said to have overlooked that position then as a make-up for their set since they didn’t have such opportunity when they were in 300 level.

However, the alteration of the election calendar has now created similar situation and rather than allowing the new 400 level students to contest on the same ground advanced last year, the university says they must pay the sacrifice to enable a smooth election calendar. But the affected students have kicked against this, claiming what is sauce for the goose is

also good for the gander. According to one of them, who preferred anonymity, the solution shouldn’t be their complete elimination from the process but that since another election has been scheduled for next semester to normalise the calendar, they should not be excluded. “This new rule cannot stand, and there are rea-

sons for saying so; if we are not allowed to contest now, it means the current 300 level students, who will still be in the same class next academic session will have the opportunity to contest again. So, while a set will not have right to contest election, another set will have opportunity of contesting twice,” the source submitted. Reacting, the institu-

tion’s DSA told National Mirror, that the decision was not meant to disenfranchise them but to serve the interest of the university, which he said should over ride the other. Efforts to reach the vicechancellor proved abortive but the students have resolved to first exhaust all other channels of resolving the contradictions before taking to the streets.

Ede poly to introduce fashion design studies ing to business and arts re- Sales of handouts remain banned in AOCOED –Provost Graduating students from the MTN Foundation Scholarship scheme at a workshop in Lagos

DHIKRULLAH AKINOLA

s part of its efforts to add value to polytechnic education in the country, the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, is set to introduce Fashion Design Technology studies, to offer the best approach to the study of the acts and practices of technologies involved in the fashion world. This information was recently revealed by the newly installed rector of the polytechnic, Mr. Patrick Hussain, during the institution’s 20th matriculation recently. He observed that the institution was committed to promoting technological education and ensuring that many candidates secure admissions into science and technology-based courses. “A nation like ours cannot afford to be left out of the technological race, and as a result of that, I promise that this institution will continue to comply fully with the Federal Government policy of 70:30 ratio recommendation for admissions in favour of science, technology and engineer-

lated courses. “I will also like to confirm to you that the introduction of Agricultural Engineering Technology and Fashion Design Technology as separate courses of study is in top gear,” Hussain added. A total of 2,213 students were matriculated with the National Diploma programme taking the large chunk of 1,233 while the Higher National Diploma programme has 876 students. On part- time studies, a total of 104 students were admitted for both levels. The rector charged them to be focused and studious. ‘’Be rest assured that as a new administration, we shall focus on students welfare; serving the best educational interest of our students in teaching excellence; communicating knowledge to students to think critically and analytically; and inspire in them independence of thought and self discipline. Also, we shall create a learning environment in which students and workers find satisfaction in their work and feel proud of their achievement.” He also warned them against indecency and indiscipline.

TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

ne thousand five hundred and seventy students were last Thursday matriculated into the regular NCE programmes of the Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education (AOCOED), Otto/

Ijanikin, Lagos State with the College’s Provost, Mr. Wasiu Bashorun telling them to explore the opportunity to conquer and lead the world. The provost told the new intakes that they would need to prepare themselves for sound knowledge that would help them in their

career progression now and after graduation. He also told them that the ban on sales of handouts in the college remains. “I challenge the students to report any member of staff, whether academic or non-teaching, who are either selling handout not attending classes or ha-

Members of Academic Board, Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, Otto/Ijanikin, Lagos, during the institution’s matriculation ceremony, recently.

UNILAG buries assistant registrar today

he remains of an Assistant Registrar, Information Department, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, Mr. John Kosin will be buried today at the Atan Cemetary, Yaba, in Lagos. The burial ceremony, which kicked off yesterday

with a service of songs held at the multipurpose hall of the university, will be rounded off today. Kosin, born on March 3, 1963, hailed from Bomadi Local Government area of Delta State, and had stints at the defunct National Concord Newspapers Limited,

The Punch Newspapers and The Guardian Newspapers before joining the National Agency for Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in 2003. He joined the services of the University of Lagos as an Administrative Officer, Information, in October, 2005.

rassing students. Students should feel free to call me on the number listed in your student’s handbook if they are being harassed, threatened or intimidated by any member of staff,” he said. While promising that the college would provide them with such sound knowledge, he urged them to participate actively in tutorials, demonstration, experiments and micro teaching and other activities that will help them in their studies. He also asked them to obey the rules and regulations of the college, as well as the laws of the host community. “On our part, we shall redouble our efforts to ensure that quality is not sacrificed in teaching, learning and day-to-day operations of the college,” he stressed, adding that, “henceforth, examination results would be released on time and you are free to call me on phone if you encounter highhandedness from the teaching and non-academic staff of the college because we want to see you as proud alumni of this college and teachers of note within a foreseeable future,” the rector said.

Education Today

ational Mirror Capital Market of January 3 welcomes us this week: “As evidence of confidence in the market, Oando Nigeria PLC flagged off its N52.6bn rights issue on December 31, 2012. It is (was) the biggest right (sic) issue in the year.” It is embarrassing that some reporters still use a non-existent phrasal verb (‘flag off ’) in their reportage and news analyses. I treated this exclusively Nigerian slipup innumerably last year in detail and cannot, therefore, start 2013 on a repetitively sour note! “IGP deploys 500 additional policemen to (in) Anambra” You can also deploy along a border. “While the militant Islamic sect, Boko Haram (another comma) made a mince meal of them….” Not my view: the sadists made mincemeat of them (not a mince meal!). “Coming at the heel (heels) was the abduction of….” “In another breadth (a comma) he said that (sic) the government was on top of the….” Existential humanism: In another breath (not breadth)…. Still on National Mirror under review: “One is at pain (on/ under pain of) hearing…the passage of PIB Bill.” My own view: the passage of the PIB (without another bill). “But the truth is that such setbacks have persisted because of NUC’s woeful (abysmal) failure to do its job….” (Editorial) Finally from the Back Page of NATIONAL MIRROR: “But I

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‘Deployment’ takes in, not to deserve to be heard first before a fatwa is invoked on (against) me.” DAILY SUN of January 2 slipped copiously: “The bank robbery, which lasted about half an hour (half-an-hour), it was gathered, could not be resisted by any security agent attached to the bank. This, it was gathered, has led to serious investigations of the circumstances surrounding the robbery. The state police command, it was gathered, has started investigating the circumstances surrounding the robbery.” What is this stupefaction with ‘it was gathered’ that the phrase had to be applied three times in one paragraph? Even a kindergarten cannot write like this! “In broad daylight, armed bandits storm Osun town, leaving residents with death and destruction” Who is a bandit? My contemporary dictionaries tell me that a bandit is a member of an armed gang who attack travellers, while banditry is acts of stealing and violence by bandits (using weaponry typically). So, ‘armed bandit’ is padding—its usage by some international news channels, as pointed out by Mr. Sunny Agbontaen last November or thereabouts, notwithstanding. A bandit, connotatively and denotatively, does not require any nomenclatural embellishment (armed)!

“ETLS: Seme Customs clears (clear) N6.6bn goods” As I stated last week, the word ‘customs’ takes a plural verb—never singular—in (formal) British Standard English, but North Americans employ singular. Of course, you already know my abhorrence for American English in totality! Last week’s edition of this medium signed off 2012 with a bagful of wrongs: “2013: Security, infrastructure top Nigerians (Nigerians’) wish list” “Egypt president warns against new unrest” News review: Egypt’s or Egyptian president “Venezuela VP in Cuba to visit ailing Chavez” (Solution as above) “Two week holiday in Imo” Comment & Analysis Page: Two-week/Two weeks’ holiday…. “Minister accused over Akwa Ibom LG crisis” Politics Today: accuse somebody of (not over) something. “Is (Are) the Presidency and the National Assembly going back to the trenches?” “However, my major grouse is with (about) Nigerians and their arm-chair castigation and destructive criticism.”

“Man, 24, charged for killing elder brother” I charge the offender with (not for) lexical murder! “As we mourn our fallen brethrens....” Do we need a morphological commission of inquiry into etymological abuse? ‘Brethren’ (plural) is non-count. “Ensure that destruction of life and properties are (is) minimized during such natural disasters.” And this: life and property/lives and properties “Ado Bayero blames FG over insecurity” The man blamed FG for (not over) insecurity. “Now the truth is that they are always in a shock when things like this happen.” This way: things like these or a thing like this. “He acts only when he is humiliated, otherwise how can one explain the release of N5 billion for police welfare only after the junior ranks of the police have (had) humiliated him?” “At the moment Zimbabwe is at (in) the throes of war.” “Nomination for maritime awards begin” Not yet proximity: Nomination...begins. “Since its launching (launch) about two years ago, nothing significant….”

WHAT IS SAUCE FOR THE GOOSE IS SAUCE FOR THE GANDER

British Council trains undergraduates SEKINAH L AWAL

wenty- five young leaders selected from five different Nigerian universities have graduated from British Council’s ‘Leaders for Tomorrow’ programme in Lagos. The programme is a peace building project that focuses on training undergraduates who can speak clearly and confidently about the various issues that confront youths in Nigeria today and who can actively participate in shaping nation’s future. These students from Bayero University Kano, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, University of Maiduguri, University of Jos and Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto were put through

Ruqayyatu

a series of trainings that commenced in October 2012. Speaking recently at a cocktail to mark the closing ceremony of the programme, British

Council’s Country Director, David Higgs told guests that they were making plans to develop and scale up the programme so that it reaches more parts of the country. “The focus of the programme has been to empower young leaders to reach their full potentials as citizens and future leaders of Nigeria. It seeks to create a platform for student leaders to network, share and develop best practices among themselves; all in a bid to equip them with leadership tools. Participants had the opportunity to meet and talk with community leaders, professionals and interact with leaders drawn from different sectors of Nigerian society: business, media, religion, politics and law,” Higgs said.

In the last phase of the workshop which held at Sena hotel in Lagos, the young leaders met with Uwa Osa-Oboh, the Former Chief Responsibility Officer, Restral Consulting Limited, Lagos, who spoke on “Essentials of Transformation LeadershipLessons for Young Nigerian Leaders.” The Executive Director of the Nigeria Network of NGOs, Oyebisi Oluseyi gave a talk and fielded questions on the topic; “Community Development as a Tool for Effective Leadership.” Also in attendance was Yinka Odumakin, Afenifere member and spokesperson to former CPC Presidential Candidate, Muhamadu Buhari, who spoke on, “Political Engagement as a Tool for Effective Leadership.”

“…the chances of success of our nascent democracy is (are) low.” “In the past we have (had) tried and failed but.…” “The excesses of the last batch of soldiers to rule this country has (have)...” “...the military boys who had earlier adopted a holier-thanthou attitude went ahead to perpetrate all manners of graft and corruption.” The Osborne obscenity: all manner of graft and corruption. “The interesting bit for us in this part of the world is the anciliary finding…” Spell-check: ancillary. “What is good for the goose should be good for the gander.” To live in truth is to serve: what is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander. “…there must be at least six newspapers which owe their workers between three to 6 months (sic) arrears of salary.” The media and the future: between three and six or from three to six. “Moonlighting, rapid personnel changes, job mobility and the brown envelope syndrome are some of the fallouts of this factor.” ‘Fallout’ is uncountable. “The governor has (had) been cleared of the allegation last week by the state House of Assembly....”

Speaking at the workshop, project Manager, Roy Chikwem said: ’I am pleased with what we have achieved on the Leaders for Tomorrow training programme. It has been exciting, stimulating and educational. The programme has helped student leaders to recognise and develop their ability and potential and organise themselves to respond to problems and needs which they share as Nigerians.” Chikwem explained that the programme was borne out of a desire to help dissolve the growing tension and conflict between different ethnic and religious groups within the country. According to him, the project is designed to build and enhance the capacity of the leaders to serve as catalysts in building a better understanding between students and their communities.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Markmentors ready for title challenge –Manasseh 29

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Today’s Matches

thiopia has been fined $10,000 by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for the conduct of the team’s supporters in Monday’s match against Zambia. Fans threw missiles, including plastic vuvuzelas on to the pitch after Ethiopia keeper, Jemal Tassew, was sent off in the first half of the 1-1 draw. Half of the fine has been suspended on condition Ethiopia is not found guilty of a similar offence at the tournament. Tassew has been banned for two matches for violent conduct. The 23-year-old was sent off 10 minutes before half-time after launching a flying, high-footed tackle on Zambia’s Chisamba Lungu. Cape Verdean defender, Carlitos (R) fighting off South African striker, Bernard Parker, during their Group A match Both players ended up on the played at the Soccer City in the ongoing AFCON 2013 on January 19. PHOTO: AFP floor and Tassew was being stretchered off the pitch when he received his red card.

Zambia can’t stop my Nations Cup dream –Mikel

AF has fined Zambia US$3,000 for disciplinary reasons emanating from the 1-1 draw against Ethiopia on January 21. Football Association of Zambia spokesperson, Erick Mwanza, said the fine was for the four yellow cards accrued during that game. The Zambian players who received yellow cards from referee Castane Otogo last Monday are defenders Joseph Musonda and Stopilla Sunzu. Striker Collins Mbesuma and midfielder Chisamba Lungu are the other two players. The news come in the wake of Ethiopian goalkeepers red card in the same game after a crude tackle on Chisamba.

Sport

We’ve been really encouraged by spectators’ huge turnout at the AFCON 2013 match venues - SAFA President, Kirsten Nematandani

CAF fines Ethiopia $10, 000

…Zambia to pay $3,000

uper Eagles’ midfield talisman, Obi John Mikel, has said that Nigeria will beat Zambia on Friday to take a bold step towards qualification to the quarter-finals. Group C is wide open after both opening day matches between Zambia and Ethiopia, and Nigeria versus Burkina Faso ended in 1-1 draws. Mikel said after the Eagles’ Tuesday’s evening training that the Chipolopolo must give way because he had started dreaming of lifting the AFCON 2013 trophy. “We may have drawn our

first game but we need to settle down and forget it and concentrate and I can see us smiling home with the trophy at the end of the day,” he said. Mikel, who posted a man-of-the-match display against Burkina Faso on Monday, added that the Eagles had taken the draw with the Stallions in good faith as they look forward to securing victories in subsequent games. “We are disappointed with the draw no doubt especially the way it happened, but we have put that behind us now and will strive harder to beat Zambia.

“I am sure we won’t disappoint ourselves and Nigerians, who should continue to support us,” the Chelsea star, added. Mikel, who is featuring in his fourth AFCON, said the Eagles were a bit naïve in the manner they approached the closing stages of the encounter, adding that he preferred the three points to being man of the match. He was injured and not available for selection when Nigeria beat the Chipolopolo 2-0 in Kaduna in November 2011 in a friendly with goals from Ikechukwu Uche.

Ghana

Mali

4pm

Niger

DR Congo

7pm

Black Stars are ready for Mali –Coach

hana’s coach, Kwesi Appiah, said yesterday that he had adequately prepared the Black Stars for their second Group B match against Mali today. The soft-spoken trainer cited tactical indiscipline for last Sunday’s 2-2 draw with DR Congo after squandering a two-goal lead. “After the first game, the technical team and playing body, almost everyone was not happy but at the moment we have psyched ourselves up and we are really prepared for the game,” he said. “As to any anxiety, we believe it is not going to be easy but we are going to give our best.” The Black Stars are on the brink of exiting the tournament if they fail to win today. Ghana played Mali twice at the 2012 finals in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea with both sides wining one match apiece.

Coach Appiah

Keshi clocks 51, wants trophy as gift EVEREST ONYEWUCHI

S Keshi

uper Eagles’ boss, Stephen Keshi, was a year older yesterday, as he turned 51 years old, again reiterating that he never used football age in his playing career, hence his long years of active football. Most officials and players of the team were oblivious of his birthday as at lunch time as he went about the business of the day as if nothing had happened. Last year’s anniversary was also marked while the team was in camp in Abuja preparing for the qualifiers for the ongo-

ing Nations Cup. “There may be a minor birthday song for him at dinner time but nothing serious will happen until we achieve our aim here in the Nations Cup,” a source hinted. The Big Boss concentrated on his job and held a positive showdown talks aimed at refocusing the team for the remainder of their AFCON 2013 campaign with his players, according to information released by the Eagles’ Media Officer, Ben Alaiya, yesterday. The talks which were held at the training pitch of the Ingwenyama Sports and Leisure Club, where the team is camped was exclusively for play-

ers, technical officials and the team psychologist. Other officials were at a shouting distance as Keshi and his warriors exchanged ideas on how best to beat Zambia and ultimately win the cup, as a befitting birthday present to him. The coach was to reveal later that the meeting was one aimed at ensuring that the team excel lead and was very positive. Striker Brown Ideye, urged Nigerians to keep supporting the Eagles as they were focused on ensuring a good outing at the SA 2013. “We know the expectations are high but our opponents are not also sleeping, so Nigerians must be a little patient with the team,” Ideye said.

Sport

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Tennis: Club boss flays falling standard

ice President of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) Tennis Club, Festac Town Lagos, Model Ezeamama, has charged the Sports Ministry and corporate bodies to construct more tennis courts to aid the growth of the sport. Ezeamama, who gave the charge while reviewing the club’s performance in 2012, said stakeholders must provide adequate facility to guarantee tennis development in the country. He lamented that Nigerian players no longer commanded recognition in ATP and WTA events, saying it was regrettable that tennis had regressed in a country that produced for-

mer stars like Thompson Onibokun, Nduka Odizor, Sadiq Abdullahi and David Imonite who dominated the international scene in the last three decades. “Odizor got to the quarter final of the US Open at flushing Meadows while Onibokun won the Ogbe Hard Court several times beating all the big names,” the FHA tennis club boss recalled. Ezeamama, who described 2012 as successful for the club, said the incumbent executive led by President Chief Pascal Agu would leave a lasting legacy. “Our courts are being refurbished and we are working on the arena to improve on the facility,” he said.

NSF fallout: Edo splashes cash on athletes SEBASTINE EBHUOMHAN BENIN CITY

e presentatives of Edo State to the 18th National Sports Festival staged in Lagos last year have been rewarded with a total of N41m cash. Edo came fourth behind Delta, Rivers and Lagos. Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who presided over the ceremony in Benin City, congratulated the athletes whom he said had acquitted themselves well during the competition. He, however, regretted that the festival had lost its sportsmanship spirit which he said had held the event in high esteem in the past years. “When a state government hires athletes as if they were mercenary soldiers, just to record achievements, that is not

Oshiomhole

the spirit of the National Sports Festival,” the governor said. “This is condemnable and does not augur well for the development of sports in the country,” he added. Gold medalists got N1m each while silver medalists received N300, 000 as bronze winners got N200, 000. The coaches also got N1m each while other officials were rewarded with N300, 000 each. Edo State won a total of 93 medals at the festival, comprising 25 gold medals, 24 silver medals and 44 bronze medals while the state discovered swimmer Victoria Ajakaiye, who won five gold and two silver medals; weightlifter Gideon Aigbefor, who won three gold medals; and gymnast Melvin Amenaghawon, who won two gold medals.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Cricket: Pupils set for Esan tourney

Australian Open…

AFOLABI GAMBARI

Roger Federer greeting the crowd after his win in Melbourne yesterday

Federer sets up Murray semi clash

orld number two, Roger Federer, will play Andy Murray in the semi-finals of the Australian Open after the former battled his way to a 7-6, (7-4), 4-6, 7-6, (7-4), 3-6, 6-3, win over Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. Federer showed only fleeting glimpses of his brilliance during the first four sets, but stepped up when it really mattered to see off his French opponent in three hours and 34 minutes. Tsonga was the better of the two for long periods but slipped away dramatically in the decider on Rod Laver Arena. Federer, who reached his 10th

straight Melbourne semi-final with the win, started in commanding fashion with a break in the opening game but was then broken himself for the first time this year. The 17-time Grand Slam champion appeared to be going in for the kill when he fashioned four break points early in the fourth but Tsonga held on, aided by some big serving and heavy groundstrokes. The 2008 runner-up established a 4-2 lead when Federer pushed a routine forehand beyond the baseline, with the players then trading breaks before Tsonga held firm to serve it out and take the contest into a deciding set.

T/Tennis: Ogundele shines in NSCDC trials YEMI OLUS

inner of the women’s singles and team event at last year’s National Sports Festival, Rashidat Ogundele, emerged champion in the women’s category of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) trials which ended yesterday in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The competition which served off on Monday took a round-robin format and Ogundele beat Oriyomi Shodiya 3-0 in her final match. Some of the other players who featured in the event include Atinuke Olaide, Aminat Fashola, Yaya Sidikat, Funmi Ajala and Halimat Hussein. The former Asoju Oba champion believes that her victory signifies a bright season and she maintained that she would continue to dominate other events this year. “A lot of those who took part are national players so it was no mean feat beating them,” Ogundele told National Mirror. “I am also expecting to do well in the African Club Championships and even the World Championships taking place in Paris, France in May,” she added. The men’s event was yet to be decided at press time but some of the players who featured in the event are Portugalbased Gbenga Anthony, Ganiyu Ashimiyu, Kazeem Makanjuola, Abdullahi Abulrahman, Shola Oyetayo and the youngest NSCDC officer, Olajide Omotayo. NSCDC employs Nigerian athletes cutting across athletics, weightlifting, table tennis and tennis.

Ogundele

bout 224 pupils will be participating in the 2nd Femi Esan Cricket Championship scheduled for Obafemi Awolowo Stadium from January 28 to February 8. Chairman of Oyo State Cricket Association, Mr. Upong Okon, told National Mirror yesterday that the pupils would represent eight schools in the state. The championship is organised mainly to promote cricket in the country,” Okon said, adding that it was staged to immortalise late cricketer, Femi Esan, who contributed to the development of the sport. According to Okon, 52 games will be played in the one-week competition in hardball and softball categories. “The hardball is for pupils from JSS 2 and above while the softball is for the JSS 1 pupils,” he explained, stressing, “Softball category will go for ten Ovals while 20 Ovals will go for the hardball. The former national and West African player said the prizes would however take different categories that include bats, padding bats, gloves, canvas shoes and cricket balls. “The overall winning school will get a trophy and N10, 000 cash awards,” he disclosed. A former national team captain, Oge Alakija, is expected to be among the guests at the tournament.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

Thursday, January 24, 2013

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

DUNKING

With SAYO OGUNDEJI

NBBF holds AGM, pre-season seminar

Markmentors ready for title challenge –Manasseh Markmentors’ new signing Achi Manasseh (L) being unveiled by the team’s General Manager, Skambo Morrison, at the weekend.

Warriors’ coach targets improved record

head of the 2012/ 2013 DStv Premier Basketball League season, Markmentors’ forward, Achii Manasseh, believes that the Abuja based club has what it takes to mount a serious title challenge when the new season dunk, off later in February. Markmentors, formerly known as Tapgun Rockets, had last Sunday unveiled their newly signed players ahead of the new campaign and Manasseh who is one of the new recruits, expressed confidence in his new team to give the old guards in the league a run for their money. The trio of Solomon Idoko, Abdulwahab Yahaya and Bright Akhuete joined from Dodan Warriors, while Stanley Gumut and Denis Ebikoro teamed up with Markmentors from Kano Pillars and Islanders respectively. Manassey, who was part of Kano Pillars’ continental challenge, says he joined the club based on their ambition, adding that his ambition of winning the premier league stands a realistic chance of becoming reality with the set of players recruited. “This is a new challenge in my career and I am excited to have joined a team like Markmentors who are ready to make a strong statement come new season,” the former captain of Bauchi Nets stated. “The club, under the new owners, has unfolded its plans both for the management and the players which will not only encourage the players to give their best but also target wrestling the title back from Royal Hoopers.” According to the former Ebun Comets of Lagos forward, the hiring of Coach Abdurrahman Mohammed is another positive for the club, saying the former international will bring his wealth of experience to bear on

head of the start-off date of the 2013 basketball activities in Nigeria, the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) is holding its Annual General Meeting/ Stakeholders forum in Abuja. The AGM/ Stakeholders forum which started on Monday, January 21, will end tomorrow, Friday, 25 with various speakers being lined up for the pre-season seminar which will involve major stakeholders of the game in Nigeria. Close source within the federation says the 2012/ 2013 DStv Premier Bas- NBBF President, Tijani Umar ketball League for men may dunk-off in February as the federation is also in the last edition of the continent looking ahead of the 27th and 23rd most prized basketball championeditions of Afrobasket for Men and ship held in Madagascar and Mali Women slated for Cote d’Ivoire and and went on to qualify for the London 2012 Olympic after seeing off LithuMozambique. Nigeria finished third and fourth ania and the Dominican Republic.

H Manasseh and Coach Abdulrahman Mohammed both in the colours of Kano Pillars during the last African Club Championship.

the team. Mohammed, until his recent move, was the technical adviser of Bauchi Nets Basketball club and was also part of Kano Pillars technical department during the Final 8 tournament and their African Club Championship campaign and the forward says his arrival has given the players a boost needed to face the challenge ahead. “Coach Mohammed has the technical abilities and international experience to make this team successful and everybody is excited to be part of this new challenge. “We are not unaware of the threats posed by the likes of Kano Pillars, Royal Hoopers and Dodan Warriors who are regarded as some of the best in the league but most of the players here have the experience to succeed at this stage of the league and we will do our best to write the club’s name in gold. “Warriors made a big statement last season by going the whole season unbeaten and having some of those players here certainly will give us the momentum needed and we hope Markmentors not only perform well in the league but secure continental tickets,” the forward who signed a year’s contract with the club, added.

aving guided his team through an unbeaten run in the Premier Basketball League last season¸ Dodan Warriors of Lagos coach, Daudu Adeka, says his desire is to see his side build on their performance as the new season set to dunk off. Warriors made history last season having gone through an entire regular season without losing a match only to come short of picking a continental ticket during the Final 8. But the coach believes his team is well equipped to avoid the mistakes that cost them the title, adding that their aim is to improve on their last outing. He said, “We had a wonderf u l

performance last season and that was due to dedication and total commitment on the part of the players and the management and we want to improve on that performance when the new season dunks off. “The team failed to raise its game when it mattered most as we could not make it to the final of the Final 8 but we hope that will not happen this season. A couple of Warriors’ players have left for other clubs but an unfazed Adeka exhumes confidence in his current side, adding that their departure will not in any way affect their performance in any negative way. “It’s unfortunate because every good coach will always want to keep his best players but the club must respect their wishes and I can assure you we have the right blend of players that t at have the ability the abilth ity to get the job done,” the coach stated.

A Chariot’s player (R) dribbling his Dodan Warriors’ opponent in a match in Premier Basketball League last season.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business & Finance “What we have in Nigeria are business entities that have turned the ports into a gold mine. ”

“We do not have what I would call real insurance companies in Nigeria. What we have are small rms ”

President, National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents Mr. Lucky Amiwero

COMMISSIONER FOR INSURANCE, MR. FOLA DANIEL

Nigeria ’s CDMA voice revenue drops 29% KUNLE A ZEEZ

he voice revenue of telecoms operators in the Code Division Multiple Access segment of the Nigeria ’s telecoms sector may have dropped by a whopping 28.9 per cent, National Mirror has gathered. This was arrived at as the total active CDMA subscriptions in the country that would have fetched the operators more revenue from voice telephone services, fell by over 1.2 million lines in the first 10 months of 2012, spanning January 2012 and October 2012. The decline in the CDMA subscriptions was contained in latest statistics released by the Nigerian Communications Commission for the month of October 2012 which was obtained by National Mirror. According to the statistics, the CDMA networks experienced decline in their combined subscriber base from 4.4 million in January 2012 to 3.1 million at the end of October 2012, losing about 1.2 million phone lines during the period. It was learnt that the decline of over 1.2 million telephone lines lost by the

CDMA networks represent 28.9 per cent of their total subscriber base. National Mirror had, in the third quarter of 2012, exclusively reported a loss of about 4 million telephone lines on the CDMA networks in the last three years, starting from 2009. Industry analysts have also attributed the continuous decline of CDMA subscriptions to factors ranging from technology limitation, inadequate financial muscle and low innovations in terms of valueadded service offerings by

the operators. In Nigeria, the telecoms companies in the CDMA segment including Visafone, Starcomms, Multi-Links and the moribund Zoom Mobile. However, numbers of telephone subscribers that have quit the CDMA networks have further increased from 4 million to 4.4 million at the end of October, 2012, according to the latest statistics from the regulator. Continuous decline of CDMA subscriptions in

Nigeria started in 2009, when subscriptions fell significantly from 7.5 million, which was the highest subscriber CDMA subscriber base in the year, to the current 3.1 million subscribers as at October, 2012. According to National Mirror investigations, the 2007-2008 were brilliant years for CDMA operators as they grew their combined subscriber base from 384,315 lines to over 6 million during the period. Though, this upward trend in subscriber

growth increased to 7.5 million telephone lines in 2009, the subscription growth pattern changed the following year as it remarkably dropped to 6.1 million lines at the end of December 2010. Further decline was experienced in 2011, as challenges facing the CDMA operators intensified, making it extremely difficult for them to favourably compete with their Global System for Mobile Communications, GSM, counterparts.

ABUJA

here are strong indications that Microfinance Banks (MFBs) that intended to upgrade their operations but could not meet the Decem-

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L-R: Company Representative, Axion Engineering Limited, Mrs. Uyai Tkoiwak; Director, Mr. Habert Ogwuegbu and Managing Director, Hon. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA Okey Eze, during the launch of Axion Cement in Abuja, yesterday.

MFBs hesitant to seek extension of recapitalisation deadline TOLA AKINMUTIMI

Arik Air

ber 31, 2012 deadline set by the regulatory authorities for their recapitalisation will not appeal for an extension as that may make them appear irresponsible corporate entities. Investigations by National Mirror indicated that rather, those affected are already beginning to explore the mergers and acquisition options with a view to strengthening

operational capacities and by implication, offer better service delivery mileages to their customers. A chieftain of the subsector and immediate Past President of the National Association of Microfinance Banks, NMBS, Chief Matthias Umeh, confirmed in a chat with our correspondent that most operators believed that asking for another extension as the

regulatory authorities had been fair in setting the December 2012 deadline. While commending the CBN for dealing with the MFBs with a high sense of understanding over the past few years, Umeh said the consummation of the discussions at the subsectoral level may take up to two months after which they will formally brief the NAMB of the results of the

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negotiations. “Yes, negotiations are going on but I don ’t think our members will ask for an extension, especially after such had been granted up to about three times in the past. At the industry level, there are ongoing discussions on mergers and acquisition which may be concluded between the operating parties within the next two months.

Non-oil export revenue drops by N33bn at Apapa Ports

Why phone users may shun mobile portability service

Ogilvy dumps Prima Garnet ... as war of the admen intensifies

Business & Finance

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Non-oil export revenue drops by N33bn at Apapa Ports FRANCIS EZEM

igeria ’s non-oil export to Europe, America and Asia through Apapa Port, the country ’s premier seaport, recorded an all time low, declining by over N33 billion in one year. This decline further heightens apprehension over a possible major economic crisis in the country, which follows the decision of the United States to cut the volume of crude oil purchase from Nigeria, its economic mainstay. Apapa Port, Nigeria ’s largest seaport accounts for over 50 per cent of all the nation ’s non-oil exports through its eight major seaports. Economic and trade statistics released by the Apapa Area 1 Command of the Nigeria Customs Service shows that 116,525 metric tonnes of non-oil commodities valued at N129.9billion were exported through the Lagos Port complex between January and December 2012.

This compares to a total of 665, 010 metric tonnes of the various goods and 3, 700 cartons of other semi pro-processed products worth N133 billion representing a shortfall of N33.1billion. Area controller in charge of the command, Comptroller Mohammed Umar, who addressed newsmen in Lagos on the activities of the command for the 2012 fiscal year, listed the export items to include palm kernel cake, cocoa beans and wheat bran pallets. Others include cashew nuts, sesame seeds, ginger, hibiscus flower, gum Arabic, processed rubber, shrimps, and lead ingot. Also exported were 4, 625,837 square feet of processed leather, 74,547 cases of Dettol antiseptic, Maggi Crayfish, 29,062 cartons of biscuits, 97,100 bags of assorted bathroom slippers and 1,655,320 litres of ethyl alcohol. The command also in 2011 handled a total of 3.4 million kilogrammes and 2.6 million sq metres of 24 other different non-oil commodities. Experts had then attributed

SMEs have huge environmental impact on economy –ACCA KUNLE AZEEZ

he Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), has stressed the need for policymakers, regulators and finance professionals to help small and medium enterprises adopt sustainable business practices given the economic impact of SMEs in a nation. However, the ACCA pointed out that currently, the huge environmental impact of SMEs are often being overlooked, a disposition that the accounting body said must be changed. ACCA, in its new policy paper ‘Embedding Sustainability in SMEs, ’ said despite representing more than 90 per cent of global businesses and accounting, on average, for 50 per cent of gross domestic product and 63 per cent of employment with a significant impact on industrial pollution. The report said SMEs also have been marginalised in the debate about sustainable business practices and have been slow to adopt environment-related improvements. It cited the European Union case, where only 29 per cent of SMEs have introduced measures to save energy or raw materials, compared with 46 per cent of large enterprises, and only four per cent have a comprehensive energy efficiency system. In its new policy paper, ACCA ’s Global Forum for SMEs called on

a number of groups to take action to help smaller businesses to enable them to become more efficient and environmentally friendly. The ACCA stated that a series of SME-specific measures and approaches will need to be adopted, if the efforts are to gain any significant momentum, with policymakers taking into account not only the differences between large companies and SMEs, but also the differences between micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, says the report. It further explained that as many small businesses are run by owner-managers, with no shareholders or boards to answer to, they have more freedom to implement sustainability practices, or to ignore them. This is, the report said, explains why it has become important for governments and business to support professionals ensure that SMEs are aware of the quick gains they can make through increased efficiency and of the grants, financial assistance and incentives that may be available for those which commit to cutting emissions or which reduce waste. According to the report, this includes conditions that are set so that only businesses with sustainable practices have access to large and potentially lucrative public sector supply chains.

L-R: General Manager, Trade and Distribution, MultiChoice Nigeria, Mr. Akinola Salu; winner of Walka 7 in the DStv Mega Promo, Mr. Uzokwe Annie; General Manager, DStv Nigeria, Mr. Mayo Okunola, during the prize presentation in Lagos yesterday.

the increasing export profile to recent efforts of the government to check the excessive dependence on crude oil exports, which had over the years remained the main stay of the economy in terms of foreign exchange earnings.

For instance, the government gives exporters the Export Expansion Grant based on the volume of their exports as well as other incentives like the Duty Draw Back scheme. On in bound cargo, the Apapa

Customs-boss said, “A monthly average of 1,177 containers left the ports under the command ’s trade facilitation scheme. A total of 14,128 containers were exited through the post clearance audit scheme. ”

Lagos, Abuja airports to be certied 1st quarter of 2013 –FAAN OLUSEGUN KOIKI

he Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), over the weekend disclosed that plans are underway to certify the Murtala Mohammed Airport (MMA), Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja before the end of first quarter of this year. The Director of Operations, FAAN, Capt. Henry Omeogu, told journalists in Lagos that the management of the agency had been meeting with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), on the processes to follow to ensure the certification of the two airports. Omeogu noted that the agency was on the verge of closing all the open items observed by NCAA

and assured that sooner, the two airports would be certify to meet the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). He explained that once the airports are certified, it would open doors to foreign investors who had indicated interest in investing in the country ’s aviation industry. He said, “We are in the process of certifying airports and you know when the inspection officers come around, anything that will make us not to achieve the new status should not be found anywhere within the airport complex. “We are going to certify Lagos and Abuja airports before the end of first quarter of this year. NCAA will come to certify it to meet ICAO ’s standards, but we

are to do the job. We know what to do and we have been having meetings with NCAA and the open items we are trying to close. Very soon, we will do it. “Once the airports are certified, investors will floor this whole place just like we have in the power sector. You have to unbind the whole thing. Open it up. In the aviation sector, we are also doing the same thing by building new terminals, remodeling all over. Investors are now coming in because they now see we have an environment for investments. We are running with the transformation agenda. ” It will be recalled that the Director-General, NCAA, Dr. Harold Demuren, for several years had explained why the agency was yet to certify any of the 22 airports in the country.

PHCCIMA faults NNPC over loan facility STANLEY IHEDIGBO

he Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (PHCCIMA), said the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), has no constitutional right to negotiate loan on behalf of the Federal Government. The NNPC is arranging to put up 15,000 barrels per day of its oil production as collateral for bank loan. President of the chamber, Mr

Emeka Unachukwu, said it was illegal for the corporation to tender oil, which belonged to the three arms of government, as collateral for loan without the consent of the National Assembly. According to him, a critical look at that transaction shows that there were a lot of flaws and due process was not followed. “From the private sector point of view, we also picked holes in the proposal, first of all, how did this loan come about. “`How did NNPC accumulate this loan, they claimed it was

from purchase of refined products, we know that marketers pay for this product up front and probably get some kind of guarantee from banks before these products are supplied. ” He added that “Now, under our law, do they have the right to negotiate such loan facility without the approval of the National Assembly? That ’s number two. “Then number three, we are looking at the collateral; what right do they have to mortgage the income of the three tiers of government? ``

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Business & Finance

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Stakeholders set to engage North, others on PIB Air passenger trafc declines by 4% UDEME AKPAN

coalition of Stakeholders involved in petroleum, civil society and labour has resolved to embark on major engagements with many people and institutions, including northern leaders presently opposed to the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB. The engagement, to be coordinated by Spaces for Change, a Lagos-based non-profit organization aims at clarifying issues as well as getting massive support to the PIB which seek among others to retain 10 per cent net revenue of oil firms in Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB for the development of oil and gas bearing communities in the country. Under Section 118 of the bill, every company involved in oil and gas exploration and production is required to remit into the fund on a monthly basis, 10 per cent of its net profit, which the reform bill defined as the adjusted profit

minus the Nigerian hydrocarbon tax and minus the companies ’ income tax. The Fund targeted at developing economic and social infrastructure in oil-producing communities whose people have suffered severe environmental degradation has been opposed by the Northern states who perceive it an attempt to further widen the development gap between the North and oil bearing States. The opponents of the clause said they would not support the PIB in its present form as it does not give serious consideration to other parts of the nation, especially the Northern StatesBut the stakeholders who rose from a crucial engagement in Lagos yesterday urged the government to retain the clause as it represents an important opportunity for addressing the massive environmental devastation and improves community participation in oil exploration in the Niger Delta. It maintained that: “Among several pioneering provisions, the

Bill ’s establishment of the Petroleum Host Communities ’ Trust Fund (PHC Fund) has been widely applauded and perceived as a strategic response for addressing the continued local discontent and instability in the Delta. The Executive director of Spaces for Change, Mrs. Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri said the PIB was not about giving funds to the region but addressing fundamental challenges, capable of improving socio-political climate for sustained operations of operators in the industry. She said: “The PIB should be supported as it aims at improving the conditions of host communities, boosting production and revenue accruing to stakeholders, including the government and oil firms. The Technical Director of Template Design limited, Mr. Bala Zakka said the present PIB cannot become a law without the contributions and sacrifices of major parties, including leaders of the two regions.

in 3rd quarter of 2012 OLUSEGUN KOIKI

he Nigeria airports recorded four per cent decline in passengers ’ traffic in the third quarter of 2012 with 3, 482, 665 passengers movement in all the airports in the country when compared to 2011. In the same period in 2011, passengers ’ movement recorded in all the airports was 3, 640,697 according to a statistic received from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). In the period under review, the domestic wing of the Murtala Mohammed Airport (MMA) recorded 1, 137,547 passenger signifying 15 per cent growth in the same period in 2011, which had passenger traffic of 993,299. The international wing of

Nigerian Railways commences Offa-Kano intercity passenger train service OLUSEGUN KOIKI

he Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) yesterday announced the commencement of the Offa - Kano intercity passenger train service. The corporation stated that the passenger train will regularly depart Offa by 10.00 p.m and arrive Kano the following day. A statement by the Assistant, Director Public Relations of the corporation, Mr. David Ndakotsu, said the introduction of the intercity passenger train service is coming after the successful completion of the 1126 kilometre

L-R: General Managing Director, Odu ’a Investment; Mr. Adebayo Jimoh; outgoing Managing Director, Nigerite, Mr. Jean-Luc Viatour and incoming Managing Director, Mr. Albberto Tenorio during a courtesy visit to Odu ’a Investment Company, Cocoa House, Ibadan, yesterday.

SMEs to enjoy lower electricity tariff –NERC CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

n a bid to sustain the Small and Medium Enterprise (SMEs) sector of the economy, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) said it has conducted plans to conduct a public hearing to prone down the high tariff with a view to more affordable fixed charges for the sector. Director General of NERC Dr. Sam Amadi who disclosed yesterday at a press briefing in Abuja, stated that the move became necessary after monitoring the economic impact of the tariff regime on different customer classes. According to the Amadi, the Multi-Year Tariff Order which was released in June last year saw to the increase of fixed charges for some customers, but after close monitoring the commission decided to reduce the impact of the tariff on the SMEs.

“This is in line with standards of international best practice on economic regulation of the electricity sector. ” Amadi stated. He further disclosed that the Board of Commissioners also reviewed the requests by some electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) demanding the unbundling of customer classes living in different residential areas as categorised in the tariff order, (Residential 2 and Residential 3). According the NERC boss, the development would allow for customers in the R2 category, who are mostly low-income/working class customers to pay less for electricity without undermining the capacity of the operators to recover their costs. NERC said it also issued an order to electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) to issue meters to their customers who have already paid. “Customers are advised to report to NERC of any violation of

this order and we will ensure that punitive action is taken against any erring DISCO. ” Amadi advised. The resolution is coming seven months after the announcement that customers were no longer to pay for meters as the cost has already been captured in the tariff. But, the commission said that available records show that there are an unacceptable number of customers who are without meters. Compounding the issue is the menace of unrealistic estimated bills or ‘crazy bills. This has compelled the Commission to explore alternative ways of ensuring the quicker deployment of electricity meters to customers. The NERC boss, said that options on the table include possible customer financing and the use of accredited meter vendors – details of which will be worked in due course.

MMA recorded 758,740 passengers ’ movement while in the same period in 2011, the passengers ’ movement in the same airport was 713,541. The third quarter indicated six per cent growth in passengers ’ movements. However, the domestic wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport (NAA), had a massive decline in passengers ’ movement with 33 per cent. Passengers who passed the airport in the third quarter were 604,791 while it had 902,848 passengers ’ movement in the third quarter of 2011. The international wing recorded a boost of 32 per cent in the third quarter when compared to 2011. Total passengers who passed through the terminal according to FAAN were 224,866 while it had 170,673 in the same period in 2011.

Lagos – Kano track line. He stated that the introduction of the service was in line with the corporation ’s stand to achieve optimal utilisation of its carriage facilities and with a view to evolving reliable and affordable rail services that will meet the transportation need of the commuting public. It would be recalled that the corporation began rail services on its Western Line (Lagos – Kano) immediately after the completion of the line by flagging off Lagos – Kano intercity passenger train and another petroleum products train on Friday, December 21, 2012.

Cement distributors canvass ban on imported cement

ajor cement distributors at the weekend in Lagos urged Government to encourage indigenous entrepreneurs like Alhaji Aliko Dangote through banning import of items like cement which are now produced in sufficient quantities in the country. The distributors rising from a day retreat with the management of Dangote Cement commended the cement company for creating massive employment in the economy. Alhaji Bala Muhammad Getso, Chairman, Giwa Dynamic Ventures Ltd speaking at the retreat said that entrepreneurs like Aliko Dangote are needed to drive the economy as they create massive employment opportunities. Alhaji Getso who described Dangote Industries Ltd as the biggest employer of labour after the Federal Government, urged Government to ban importing of cement in any form as to encourage domestic manufacturing.

He said, “Dangote is the biggest employer of labour after the government. We need such people who establish industries that build the economy. I commend him for venturing into manufacturing and keeping people gainfully employed. The distributors are gainfully employed, builders are gainfully employed. People in the construction industry are gainfully employed. ” Getso who is also the biggest distributor of Dangote Cement nationwide urged government to ban out rightly the importation of cement in any form describing continuous cement import as policy inconsistent. Mrs. Chinwe Nwosu, an Awka, Anambra State based distributor in her contribution commended Dangote Cement in creating employment opportunities through employing people in the factories and indirect employment through people who earn a living in cement industry related activities.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Info Tech

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Why phone users may shun mobile portability service

obile Number Portability service being planned by the Nigerian Communications Commission for telecoms subscribers of over 109.4 million active telephone lines in the country may suffer early adoption when the service is launched, National Mirror has gathered. According to findings, telecoms subscribers may not buy into the idea early, as may be expected, until certain conditions stipulated for the use of the service which subscribers and stakeholders currently consider ‘unfavourable and cumbersome’ are reviewed by the regulator. Mobile Number Portability is an initiative being planned by NCC, the telecoms industry regulator which will provide wider choice for telecoms subscribers. The MNP allows telecoms subscribers to switch freely from one network to another, especially if they are no longer satisfied with the quality of service being provided by their current service provider without changing the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) number. Already, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Dr Eugene Juwah, had disclosed that the mobile portability service, which subscribers have been anticipating, will kick by the first quarter of 2013. However, telecoms subscribers and industry analysts, who spoke with National Mirror, identified certain thorny areas in the service which, they said, required urgent review by the NCC, in order to make the service acceptable to telecoms subscribers. Such areas, according to them, include the longer hours for switch-over process to complete; the number of days a subscriber must stay on the receiving network after switching over before another switch-over to a new network can be allowed; and the new bio-data registration that subscribers willing to port will be subjected to. The Senior Manager, Managed Services, Interconnect Clearinghouse Nigeria Limited, a consulting firm to the MNP project, Mr. Johnson Farotimi, had disclosed at a forum in Lagos, that, “The current arrangement, when the scheme is launched, will take maximum of three days to process a subscriber’s switch-over from his or her current service provider to another network; it also 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.” Meanwhile, Farotimi, said telecoms operators were already upgrading their infrastructures and investing in new equipments but pointing out that the Interconnect Clearinghouse was waiting for telecoms operators to connect to the clearing house. Speaking on the development, President, National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS), Chief Deolu Ogunbanjo, said though interactions with telecoms subscribers had shown that they were waiting patiently for the service to be launched, saying that anything that can discourage people from embracing the service should be obliterated. “However, we expect that at launch, the three days for the processing of switch-over be made a 24 hours while the 90 days stipulated, in the first instance, for subscriber to be on a new network before switching over to another one should be reduced to

The Mobile Number Portability scheme, scheduled for launch by the Nigerian Communications Commission in the first quarter of this year, may witness a lull if certain critical areas capable of discouraging telecoms subscribers to shun the innovative service are not addressed by the regulator, writes KUNLE AZEEZ.

Juwah

Ogunbanjo

TELECOMS SUBSCRIBERS MAY NOT BUY INTO THE IDEA EARLY, AS MAY BE EXPECTED, UNTIL CERTAIN CONDITIONS STIPULATED FOR THE USE OF THE SERVICE WHICH SUBSCRIBERS AND STAKEHOLDERS CURRENTLY CONSIDER

‘UNFAVOURABLE AND CUMBERSOME’ ARE REVIEWED BY THE REGULATOR. 30 days. “Though subscribers are not expected to pay for the migration from one network to another; it is the operators that will bear the migration cost. Yet, it does not make a business sense to be on a network for three months before one is given the chance to move back. “What if two weeks after migrating to the receiving network, the network goes bad and the poor subscriber wishes to switch back to another network again to continue his or her business activities. So, instead of three months, we are demanding that NCC reduce this to one month,” he said. Ogunbanjo, who did not express stern objection to the three days for switch-over processing, said: “We believe that as time goes on, it will come down to a matter of hours in a day to complete the migration process buy the subscribers who want to port.” Speaking in the same vein, a telecoms industry analyst and Chief Executive Officer, AAA Infotek, Mr. Akin Akinbo, expressed sock on the existing conditions for using mobile number portability when launched. “This thing is a matter of technology. We should be able to have lesser days than three days for migration processing and 90 days during which a subscriber on a receiving network is not allowed to migrate to any other network. This should be reduced to as low as just few days.” Meanwhile, National Mirror gathered

that another area where subscribers said they might find burdensome is the requirement that subscriber will still need to register their bio-data before to receiving network before they can port. A banker, Mr. Chris Nwachukwu, said NCC should make the data available to the operator’s to share. According to him, “Currently, anybody using a SIM in Nigeria today is believed to have duly registered the SIM. So, as a subscriber willing to port my number, why do I still need to waste my precious time going to register my bio-data again as a subscriber? “What has happened d to the subscribers data we submitted to the NCC’s and operators’ registration agents during the last nationwide SIM registration exercise? “For me, I think there is no need to be registering our bio-data again as this amount to complete waste of time for me as a business man, for instance. People don’t have the patience and again, I think some level of flexibility should be built into the number portability scheme.” Ogunbanjo and Akinbo also stressed the importance of making the database collected during the N6.1billion SIM registration project carried out by the regulator available to the operators to share. According to Akinbo, “By now, NCC is supposed to have completed activities of the SIM data harmonisation exercise and then make it available to the operators for use to run mobile number portability.” But the telecommunications companies, speaking through their umbrella

Ajayi

body, the Association of telecoms Companies of Nigeria, said the status quo with regards to the conditions for using number portability service by the subscribers was in order. Speaking with National Mirror, President of ATCON, Mr. Lanre Ajayi, said: “NCC has made it clear that the current arrangement on condition of using mobile portability services is just for the start. It will be reviewed as the NCC and operators deem fit later on. The migration processing will take three days and 90 days to be on the service before switching to a new network. “However, NCC has made clear that the service is free to subscribers and as such it is the operators that pay the bill and that is why the 90 days had been fixed so that the operators paying the bill will also benefit from the subscribers who just switched to its network and in which it has paid to the sending network. “So, I think a subscriber must decide whether to switch or not because once you switch, you will spend 90 days on the new network even if the service is not satisfactory to you,” he said. When asked to comment on the development, the Chief Executive Officer of Backup Networks Limited, Mr. Monday Ogbe, whose company focuses on quality of service testing in the telecoms sector, said his company’s area of focus was not in not in setting up number portability but in testing quality of services. He, however, said, “But what I can say is that mobile number probability will increase consumer choices and increase competition among the operators in terms of striving to provide the best quality of service to their customers.” Meanwhile, the NATCOMS President has urged the NCC and the operators on the need to tactfully address the number of days both for processing of switchover; the days a subscriber is allowed tor remain on the recipient network as well as boosting enlightenment on the novel service.

Info Tech

Thursday, January 24, 2013

54 countries storm Nigeria for ICT confab STORIES: KUNLE A ZEEZ

layers in the Information and Communication Technology industry from 54 countries in Africa are set to storm Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory for the inaugural edition of the Digital Africa Conference & Exhibition. The decision to hold the event, slated for April 23-25, 2013 in Nigeria was based on the latest statistics from the International Communications Union, indicating the country as the fastestgrowing ICT market in Africa. Africa offers major telecom companies opportunities, not only in the traditional voice services but also substantial revenue streams in internet service as well as mobile money operations, it now said to have the highest number of internet users in the continent. The three-day event will scheduled to hold at at Nicon Luxury Hotel, in Abuja, will have Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja Sheraton Hotel, Bolingo

Hotel, Protea Hotel Asokoro, Chelsea Hotel, Rockview Hotel, and Hampton Suites as official accommodation hotels for guests expected from around Nigeria, African countries, and the rest of the world. Speaking during the Project Steering Committee meeting in Abuja, Chief Executive Officer, Compumetrics Solutions Limited, the organisers of the event, Dr. Evans Woherem, said, “Departing from the usual gathering of ICT people talking to other ICT people, Digital Africa 2013 deliberately targets sectors of the society that are major consumers of ICT such as government ministries and agencies, agriculture, education, health and national security organisations.” Describing the African continent as the last frontier for global ICT companies seeking fresh markets, Woherem explained that the aim of the continental technology conference was to promote a better integrated Africa, using modern ICT tools. According to him, the event

is an important platform to network, share knowledge on the latest developments in the ICT world, do business, and sign deals. He said the conference programme, which comprises plenary and breakout sessions, is complemented by a parallel exhibition of various ICT products, devices, services, solutions and innovations. Speaking on the scope of participation, Woherem said, “The conference is open to delegates, sponsors and exhibitors from the 54 countries in Africa, as well as from the rest of the world. “The event has been designed to add value to the leading global computer and telecom brands targeting the virgin and juicy African markets, ICT investors from Europe, the Americas and Asia, seeking fresh markets, and ICT industry regulators and agencies across African countries wishing to showcase their potentials to the world.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Buyright Africa takes digital empowerment to Edo

uyright Africa, the nation’s most credible source of Information and Communication Technology products, has commenced its ICT empowerment scheme among civil servants to Edo State. The state became the first state in the country to officially launch the Nigerian Employees Digital Welfare Scheme, NEDWS, being was launched in Abuja by Buyright Africa in Abuja in the last quarters of 2012. With the launch of the scheme by Edo State Government in partnership with Buyright Africa, public servants in the state recently smiled home with digital equipment ranging from laptops to phones and household appliances. This was in line with the promise made by the Managing Director of Buyright Africa, Mr. Mukoro Emomine, to the Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, during the national launch of NEDWS at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton, in Abuja late last year. The launch in Edo State was attended by prominent citizens and many public servants in the state, who gathered to embrace or witness the new and easiest way to equipment ownership through a partnership with NEDWS. Speaking on the scheme, the Executive Director, Directorate of Information Technology,

Edo State, Mrs. Yemi Keri, commended the company, saying it is an initiative capable of boosting IT penetration in the country. She promised to extend this opportunity of owning genuine quality products with a convenient payment plan to the teachers and every ministry in the state. According to Yemi, the programmers will design a registration form that will be hosted on the state’s website to enable intending beneficiaries complete the form and select any product of their choice. Emomine congratulated the first set of beneficiaries and encouraged other public servants of Edo State to embrace these life style products and enhance their positioning to benefit from the information age. He noted that the Central Bank of Nigeria’s cashless policy would soon go nationwide and the micro finance schemes would become a way of life in Nigeria, stressing that the time to begin to build a credit culture and a responsible attitude to financial commitments is now. “Several States are in touch with Buyright Africa on how their public servants can also be part of this digital exercise and plans are already in place to launch in some of these States in the next few weeks,” he said.

Phase3 Telecom backs eLearning derive in Nigeria

P L-R: Services Manager, Mr. Gilbert Kimeng, Executive Director, Mr. Monu Ogbe and Mr. Itunu Ojutalayo all of Kitskoo Cloud Services Limited; during a media briefing on the company’s upcoming customer forum in Lagos recently.

Oracle boosts business efficiency with new cloud service

racle, the global Information technology firm, has announced Oracle Infrastructure as a Service with Capacity-on- Demand for businesses in Nigeria to boost their operational efficiency and cut cost. Tagged ‘Oracle IaaS’, the service enables organisations to deploy fully-integrated Engineered Systems, including Oracle Exadata Database Machine, Oracle Exalogic Elastic Cloud, Oracle SPARC SuperCluster, Oracle Exalytics In-Memory Machine and Oracle Sun ZFS Storage Appliance in their data centers behind their firewall , all for a simple monthly fee. Oracle IaaS is an attractive acquisition option for Oracle Engineered Systems, from a cash-flow, accounting and disposition perspective. The on-premise, private cloud infrastructure provides

organisations with total control and visibility over their IT environments, enabling them to meet internal and regulatory compliance and security requirements. Oracle IaaS includes elastic compute Capacity on Demand, enabling customers to easily add and remove processing capacity to meet their changing workloads, only paying for peak computing power when it is needed. The service provides Oracle Engineered Systems hardware and industry-leading services that maximise performance, reliability and security, including Oracle Premier Support for Systems. In addition, Exadata, Exalogic and SPARC SuperCluster include Oracle Platinum Services and the new Oracle PlatinumPlus Services exclusively for Oracle IaaS customers.

Speaking on the new cloudbased service, the Senior Vice President, Oracle Software Development, Ms Juan Loaiza, said the new Oracle PlatinumPlus Services provide quarterly proactive analysis and advisory by Oracle experts to identify issues with system performance, security compliance, and system availability, and provide guidance on how to resolve these issues. She said customers can choose to manage the systems themselves or optionally add Oracle Managed Cloud Services for fully managed cloud and application services. According to her, the Oracle IaaS is part of the Oracle Private Cloud Services portfolio, which includes a comprehensive set of best-in-class integrated applications, platform and infrastructure products and solutions.

hase3 Telecom, West Africa’s leading aerial fibre infrastructure company, has made a bold statement in the education sector of Nigeria. The company currently provides broadband connectivity to several primary, secondary, and tertiary schools in Nigeria. And recently, Phase3 Telecom provided broadband internet and Wi-fi connectivity to Baze University, Abuja. The Chief Executive Officer of Phase3 Telecom, Mr. Stanley Jegede, stated that, “Tthe ability for the Nigerian student to go beyond the knowledge of their teachers through research via eBooks and eLibrary, is the cultural shift that takes education from the conventional platform of lecture and teacher focused education to a more open collaborate approach that reaches beyond school hours, beyond classroom walls, and between geographically dispersed locations.” He also added that the company has plans to increase the role of ICT in many schools especially in the rural parts of Nigeria by providing high speed broadband connectivity via their Open Access Network. The

company provides broadband connectivity to, amongst others, Spring Hall British School, Cradle to Crayon School, Centagon International School and The Regent Secondary School in Abuja. According to him, education is one of the main instruments for repositioning Nigeria’s global status in science and technology. He noted that the Information Technology Association of Nigeria and the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria signed an agreement to influence critical government policies at all levels with regards to the ICT at all levels, which includes education. The associations stated that much needs to be done in the area of provision of modern elementary science laboratories and ICT facilities in the primary, secondary, and tertiary schools around the country. Currently, no Nigerian University is rated in the top 5,000 in the world. Many Nigerians thus feel compelled to send their sons and daughters to be educated abroad and one of the key factors that has raised the standard of education abroad has been ICT.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Brands & Marketing

Ogilvy dumps Prima Garnet ...as war of the admen intensifies

Akunwunmi

Having experienced tough times in the last five years, the current legal face-off between Prima Garnet and its foreign affiliate, Ogilvy Africa, over the adoption of Scanad Rumpus, a new agency in Nigeria with footprints in a number of African countries, as affiliate agency, might result in the loss of juicy international accounts writes ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI.

he battle for survival is yet to be over in the advertising industry. After surviving the economic turbulence in the last five years, which forced some agencies to close shop, there are still a high level of apprehension in the industry. While the new reform by the Advertising Practitioners Council which aims to sanitise advertising business by re-registering both local and foreign agencies and practitioners is yet to commence on January 1 as announced as a result of some set-backs, the industry is already spoiling for war over agency and foreign affiliate relationship. Already, Prima Garnet and its foreign affiliate, Ogilvy Africa are at loggerheads over the operation of Scanad Nigeria, a new agency under Ogilvy network. While analyst at Brandcrunch are shocked that Prima Garnet Communications, one of Nigeria’s leading Advertising holding companies, would take its long standing affiliate network partner, Ogilvy Africa to court especially with Lolu Akinwunmi, Group MD/CEO, Prima Garnet, sitting on the board of Ogilvy Africa, there are worries that if the fight get worse, a good number of agencies under the Ogilvy network are likely to be affected by the outcome of the court judgment. “This portends

Thakrar

Ladipo

a danger signal for incumbent affiliate agencies such as Ogilvy, McCann-Erickson, Y&R, JWT, 141-Worldwide, Grey and Lowe among others in Nigeria. Sooner than later, they either agree to be stripped of those global accounts in their kitty or be forced into sell substantial equity to the ravaging Scangroup,” said Brandcrunch analyst. Prima Garnet got affiliated to Ogilvy & Mather Africa in 1996, as the exclusive Ogilvy affiliate agency in Nigeria. This, accordingly, infers that Ogilvy could not directly or indirectly set up or be associated with another agency within the Nigerian market except the network first terminates its long standing agreement with Prima Garnet. However, the relationship has blossomed over the years moving from a mere technical partnership to equity participation by Ogilvy in the Nigerian affiliate agency. However, contrary to the above general affiliation principle, it was gathered that Scanad Group Nigeria commenced operations in Nigeria last years flaunting its partnership with the voraciou Sir Martin Sorrell‘s WPP network which comprises of the Ogilvy advertising network brand among others. Owned by Bharat Thakrar as Group CEO, the Scangroup agencies include Scanad Nigeria, Sca-

nad Kenya, Scanad Uganda, Scanad Tanzania, Scanad Rwanda, Scanad Ghana, Ogilvy Africa, Hill & Knowlton, Red Sky, McCann-Erickson, Roundtrip and JWT. As a group that offers a 360 degree approach in integrated communications which includes Media Investment and Management, Brand/ Creative Advertising, Public Relations, Experiential Marketing, Integrated Digital Marketing and Field Marketing, industry analysts affirm that the Tharkar operation will eventually pull into its kitty most ongoing network driven businesses in WPP networks agencies in the country. While Scanagroup was said to have about 70 percent advertising business in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, through its networks, a similar omen may be in the offing in the country as the Tharkra team is poised to explore and exploit its subsisting Africa wide agreement with the WPP group

by re-routing WPP global clients operating in the Nigerian market to its shop, which offers diverse services in marketing communications. Sources in the industry, however, affirmed that if Scanad could have its way in Nigeria, businesses like Airtel, GSK, Coca-Cola, Gillette, Ford, Unilever, BAT among a host of other heavy budget accounts will desert their incumbent agencies and move to Scanad Nigeria. However, Prima Garnet has been granted a relief against Ogilvy and Scanad Nigeria by a Lagos High Court presided over by Hon. Justice G.M Onyeabo. The court issued an interim injunction which forbids Scanad from operating in Nigeria until the determination of the suit, and Ogilvy from appointing another partner. Meanwhile, investigations reveal that the Ogilvy network has sent a termination of partnership letter to Prima Garnet to formerly

sever the relationship. However, this is seen as a reactionary move by the network coming much after the suit has been instituted. While APCON’s deadline for registration of bonafide advertising agencies in Nigeria was fixed for January 1, 2013, findings reveal that Scanad is yet to register with the sectoral group, Association of Advertising Agencies in Nigeria (AAAN), to comply with the government’s advertising regulatory body conditions to practice advertising in Nigeria. When National Mirror contacted the Managing Director of Scanad Nigeria, Mr. Rufai Ladipo, the former Managing Director of STB McCann Erickson and President of AAAN, refused to comment on the case, saying, “it is not right to comment on the case that is in court.” Akinwunmi responded via text that “unfortunately the case is in court. We are not allowed to comment otherwise it will be subjudice”.

NPC launches Vision 20:2020 campaign ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI

igeria’s Vision 20:2020 got another push with the commencement of a sensitisation campaign aimed at educating Nigerians on the broad goals and objectives of the Nigeria Vision 20:2020. The radio campaign which is currently running across major radio stations, pan-Nigeria is one in the many communication executions that have been outlined to enlighten Nigerians about the seriousness of the Federal Government through the Ministry of National Planning to ensure Nigeria becomes one of the top 20

economies of the world by year 2020. Frontline, multidisciplinary marketing communications firm, Verdant Zeal which got the nod of the NPC to act as its communications agency after a keenly contested pitch in 2010 created the jingles produced in Pidgin and English, with extensions to key local languages in order to address the ethno-cultural and religious demographics of the country. The jingle which captures the mood and essence of the Vision 20:2020 economic plan of the Federal Government puts in perspective, the need for Nigerians to believe and share in the vision,

unite and work, towards the attainment of the goals set out in the broad plan of making Nigeria an economic force. The Vision 20:2020 economic transformation blueprint is a long term plan for stimulating Nigeria’s economic growth and launching the country onto a path of sustained and rapid socio-economic development. The blueprint articulates Nigeria’s economic growth and development strategies and will be implemented using a series of medium term national development plans. The radio campaign currently runs on both government and privately-owned radio stations across the country.

Brands & Marketing

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Changing Dana Air brand name, slogan might send wrong message

the airline was not doing something right. When you change a name, sometimes there might be a bad connotation, people might think well maybe they are doing something wrong. Before the incident, Dana Airline had a good reputation and so far, the preliminary report, released by the official body that can produce a report, the AIB, has never said anything to the contrary. So at the moment, one can still rest on that reputation that we had, since no report has so far shown any deficiency on the airline. We believe that we have nothing to hide, even though rebranding can’t be a good strategy. In the case of Dana we’ve decided to continue our operations with the same name, and the onus is on us to prove to the travelling public and allay the fears that they have, regarding the unfortunate incident. From the management perspective, we are not looking at re-branding based on the reputation we have built over the years, based on the fact that the preliminary investigation report released so far, has not indicted the airline in any way in its processes. This is why we are continuing operations with our name for now. There were allegations that the

Guinness unveils the largest football jersey ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI

uinness Foreign Extra Stout, official sponsors of the Super Eagles, has set a new world record on Monday when it unveiled the largest football jersey in the world in front of teeming Guinness consumers and football fans at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere. The record-breaking world largest jersey, measuring 249.9 foot by 275.58 foot setting a new world record over the last one

set at 234ft 1in by 259ft 8in at Istanbul in 2009, was witnessed the Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola SAN, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports, Youth and Social Development, Dr. Abiola Awonuga. The jersey size, according to Guinness, was measured by the quantity surveying firm, Billings Cost Associates and vetted by the renowned audit firm, Alexander Forbes and the results was presented to Guinness Managing Director, Mr. Seni Adetu.

ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI

Since resumption of operation by Dana Airline after its aircraft with registration number 5N RAM crashed, killing with 153 passengers, crew on board and an unspecified number on ground, some people expect the airline to have changed its name and rebrand before commencing operations to prevent public discontent. But the Head, Corporate Communications, Dana Airline, Mr. Tony Usidamen, explains, in this interview, why the airline has not changed its name and pay-off, writes ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI. In the light of the accident why didn’t Dana change name as it resumed operation? It was an unfortunate incident that affected lots of people. But as safe as the aviation is, as per global statistics, it is still not 100 percent accident free. As a result, accidents have been recorded in different parts of the world, including Nigeria. In Europe, in the recent history of aviation, between 2008 and 2009, Air France and BA that suffered similar incident too did not have to change the names of their airlines. And if we come locally as well there was an airline that suffered a crash and continued with its operations with the same name and months after, for commercial reason, the management decided to rest the operations of the airline. So, management can decide for different reasons to either retain the name of an airline or change the name or re-brand as it were. The only airline that we know that has changed name, did that because that airline was indicted because the processes and systems were grossly inadequate. The airline wanted to get away from the link with that name. But most of these incidents sometimes are not due to the fact that

Bournvita Yummy Life promo produces first millionaires in 2013

Usidame

Dana brand is not demonstrating enough sympathy? After the incident, we tried to visit every family, from the MD, deputy M.D down. Everybody was part of the visit. Some were not prepared to see us, while some said, I don’t want your money, even though we still went to the funerals. While I agree that a lot of things could have been done better, but in terms of funeral, there were certain things we couldn’t do, even though we wanted to. There were two things at the back of our minds in the communication we have been rolling out since the accident. First, assist the families of the victims as much as possible. This, we communicated and tried to demonstrate in all the things that we did in the aftermath of the accident. Besides the visits made by everybody including directors of the company to the families,

we also put in place processes to ensure that, even though money cannot bring back the dead, what they are due, they get. Just to ensure that as much as it is possible for a human being to do, we can make the process easier on the families.

Awonuga said, “I am very proud that Lagos state has been given the rare honour of hosting the record breaking jersey and we especially commend Guinness for taking the initiative to support the Super Eagles and the ever resolute Nigerian fans in the hope of bringing back the cup.” Unveiling the jersey, the Marketing and Innovation Director Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Austin Ufomba said Guinness is proud to be associated with the success. “We are extremely glad to be at the centre of this remarkable feat, putting Nigeria on the global map and rallying the support of millions of Nigerian fans for our dear national team. We are passionate about the Super

Eagles and our greatest desire is to see them excel at AFCON 2013. We know Nigerians share a common passion for the Super Eagles and we believe that creating a platform such as this will help further encourage them to fly the nation’s flag high at the tournament and make all of us proud”. Also the Head, Marketing Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Deji Tinubu said there is no better way to show support for the Super Eagles than rallying round them particularly this time. “We believe this support for the Super Eagles by their fans this period will spur the team on and encourage them to do more” Tinubu enthused.

What are the strategies that would re-ignite customers’ passion in the brand? There is no extra ordinary strategy that we adopted, but we hope to keep the information flow as much as possible. May be we have not done enough in that regard, but we need to do a lot in pushing information on everything that we are doing out there. A lot of perception right now is based on inadequate understanding of how the aviation industry works, and secondly, sundry issues like accident investigations, people don’t understand.

he ongoing Bournvita Yummy Life Promotion has produced more Millionaires at the week eight and nine draws which was held last Friday at the company’s head office, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos. Odera Obidimma, from Abuja and Nnaemeka Nnawube from Ebonyi became the lucky winners of the grand prize of N1 million at the electronic draws witnessed by regulatory agencies and the media. Other winners that emerged at the draw which was the first edition for 2013 includes, Timothy Ilelaboye, a factory worker in Agbara, Lagos and Micheal Ndukwe, a tricycle rider from Imo State who won the sum of N250,000 each while 7 others won N100,000 cash each. The emergence of these two new millionaires brings the total number of winners of the ultimate prize in the promo to nine alongside the seven previous winners including, Mrs Angela Emeruwa a business woman from Warri, Hannah Funmilayo Adedayo, a secondary school teacher from Ilorin, Amina Ahmed, an undergraduate student of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna, Tomori Oladejo, a petty trader from Lagos, Patience Akeraqh from Enugu, Mike Ukono, a businessman from Owerri and another student, Elekuro Adeyemi Oluwakemi from Ibadan. In his remarks at the draw, the Marketing Director, Cadbury Nigeria Plc, Mr. Dele Anifowose said, “with the level of participation from the consumers, the Cadbury Bournvita Yummy Life Promo has so far achieved its set objectives, which is to create excitement, delight and reward consumers for their loyalty to the brand”. Anifowoshe congratulated all the lucky winners that have emerged in the promotion while urging others to take full advantage of the remaining duration of the promo to participate by buying either of the promo packs of the 900g or 450g. The representative of Advertising Practitioner Council of Nigeria (APCON), at the event, Mr. Akinnola Adewale applauded Cadbury Nigeria Plc for the transparent manner in which the Yummy Life promo was carried out.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Brands & Marketing

Thursday, January 24, 2013

StarTimes launches free door-to-door service, new M50 mobile TV phone ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI

fter unveiling plans to invest N15billion and create 8,000 jobs, StarTimes, one of the leading pay digital TV providers in Nigeria, has unveiled StarTimes M50 Mobile TV Phone and the launch of its free door-todoor service. Following yearnings from StarTimes subscribers, the Mobile Director StarTimes, Mr. Song Wei; said the new M50 Mobile TV Phone has better features of 3.2 resistive touch screens, QVGA resolution that brings a distinctive visual experience adding that the latest mobile TV phone comes with dual SIM for easy communication with two Networks. According to Wei other features of the StarTimes M50 includes battery life with ultra long standby time (1400 mah battery), and supports many exciting functions of MP3, FM radio, Multime-

dia, Bluetooth, Facebook, Opera mini and lots more all at an affordable price of 11,900 with 3months subscription. Also, the Public Relations Manager Mr. Anetor Rete said the M50 is a new way of offering StarTimes subscribers a new experience. He said subscribers could also watch the African Cup of Nations 2013 on M50 mobile TV phone. “You can also watch the African cup of nations and many more ultimate entertaining channels. The clear vivid Images and amazing smooth visual experience will help you enjoy stunning 12 Digital TV Channels to its fullest which includes Eurosport news, Aljazeera, BBC News, FOX, NTA24 (News, sport), Kungfu etc. This mobile service is only opened for those in Lagos and Abuja environs,” he said. Meanwhile, in a step ahead of its competition, StarTimes affirms that as a caring brand with great aspiration of ensuring

quality digital TV experinece for its subscribers, it has provided a door-to-door after sales service. “This unveils the originality and selfless service of the brand as its major concern is not just to provide digital television experience, but also show care and give needed support to its users, the door-to-door after sales duties include; outdoor antennal installation to subscribers on purchase of the decoder, product usage, technical assistance and other services required to be delivered.” At no extra charge, the doorto-door Service Supervisor, Mr Francis Ochokwunu affirms, “on purchase of the decoder, the business hall managers or sales rep at our business outlets will find out and inform you if your location needs an outdoor antenna and contact the nearest Door to Door service agent whose contact will be pasted on your decoder as a sticker to help you with the Installation at no extra cost at all.

L-R: Head, Retail Banking Diamond Bank Plc, Mr. Jude Anele; founder of Switbud Global Service Limited one of the five outstanding entrepreneurs of the Diamond Bank’s ‘Building Entrepreneurs Today’ series 2, Mr. Osuntokun Tanwa; and ED, Lagos/West Business Diamond Bank, Mr. Uzoma Dozie at the unveiling event in Lagos recently.

The President, his government and the image challenge

he image of the Federal Government continues to thin out by the day. There is no image building activity to shore up positive perception for the government and its programmes. It is even more worrisome when government functionaries contribute more to the already battered image. The recent visit of President Jonathan to the Police College, Ikeja should have achieved image redemption for the government but the President himself bungled a big opportunity. The college has been suffering from infrastructural decay and environmental kwashiorkor from several decades. The Presidential visit for me was the right step and a timely avenue to shore up the government’s image as a highly responsive one.

It was however shocking when the President bungled huge goodwill through question and answer session that bother on the mundane. The President was more concerned with how Channels TV filmed the decay of the college than leveraging on a huge Public Relations platform. The President would have seized that moment to communicate how his government would resuscitate the lost glory of the college. The role of the media cannot be underestimated in setting agenda for public discourse. The Channels TV coverage of the worrisome state of the Police College aligns with this laudable role of the media. The president should have leveraged on this veritable platform to unveil a transformation agenda for the Police College, Ikeja and all

ad VA NT AG E icon

omi Benson is one of the emerging icons on the Nigerian marketing communications industry. The graduate of the humanities with 18 years rounded experience in advertising, brand management and sales, is no stranger to the world of brand management. With a PGD in Advertising and a Masters in Business Administration, the Managing Director of Culture Communication and member of APCON have had a brilliant career in advertising cutting his tooth at OBM as a Client Service Executive in 1994. He left the agency for STB-McCann and rose to Group Head Client Service before he left in 2001. In 2001, he joined BAT as a Brand manager on International VFM Brands but later went back to the advertising world as a Senior Account Director at Insight in 2004. He did exceptionally well and was promoted to Group Account Director in 2005. He left Insight to become the Managing Director of Media Plus in 2009. Endowed with an entrepreneur spirit and “never-give-up” attitude, Benson alongside a small group of believers founded Culture Communications in January 2010, leveraging on the experience he had garnered on challenging accounts such as Benson & Hedges, London King Size, GSK, Macleans, Ribena, Lucozade Boost, Andrews Liversalt, Heineken, Amstel, Nigerian Breweries Corporate, Visafone, Starcomms, Central Bank, Sterling Bank, Oceanic Bank, Intercontinental Bank, Afribank, he

Brand X-Ray with Ayodeji Ayopo Tel: 08023448199 E-mail: mayomipo@yahoo.com others across the country. This would have been a positive rating for the president and his government. This issue would have generated favorable public perception than the negative reactions and responses being witnessed now. Channels TV as a media organisation fulfilled its own role as a watch dog of the society. The President however focused more on the mundane than the real issue. Channels TV’s intention was not to destroy government’s image but to draw attention to an issue of national significance. The President was bothered about Channels “invasion” of the Police College and the inability of

the Police authorities to contain the alleged “invasion”. The President should have commended Channels TV for revealing some aspects that give his government bad image. It is equally imperative to state that President could be addressing a salient issue in such an atmosphere with a Commissioner of Police. It would have been more impactful if the president had deployed his communication skills effectively by addressing the critical issue and proffering solutions. The conversational manner of the interaction between the President and the Commandant of the College in its entirety portrays the President in a bad light.

Benson

AT CULTURE

COMMUNICATION, WE ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT GREAT CREATIVE COMMUNICATIONS THAT SELLS OUR CLIENTS BRANDS had previously handled. Other accounts he successfully handled are Benson, UAC, Indomie, Dettol, Nandos, Suzuki, UPS, Vitafoam, and Stallion Motors: Hyundai, Audi, Skoda, VW. Highly resourceful and perfection-driven advertising professional, Benson agency currently works on multi-national brands such as Sabmiller, KFC, BAT, Total Nig Plc among others. But there is one thing that works for Benson in his agency. The President’s visit and his utterances have also caused more harm to the image of the government. The chairman of the House of Representative committee on Police Affairs, Mr Usman Kumo has described the President visit to the Police College as meaningless. The President was even up braided for detaching himself from the reality of the society. It would have been a different story if the President utilised the visit to launch an image projection for his government. In his column “in touch” on the back page of The Nation newspaper on Monday, Sam Omatseye also berated the President for showing concern more for Channels TV’s penetration of the college and his government image. The President assumed it was organised to embarrass the image of his government. If that was the major motive, why could the President not embark on an image laundering mission rather than a clueless question and answer session?

Global Business

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

U.S. bank deposits drop most since 9/11 terror attacks

lients of the largest U.S. banks withdrew funds this month at the fastest weekly pace since the Sept. 11 attacks as a deposit-insurance program ended and customers tapped into their year-end cash hoards. Net withdrawals at the 25 largest U.S. lenders totaled $114.1 billion in the week ended January 9, pushing deposits down to $5.37 trillion, according to Federal Reserve data released last week. The magnitude of the drop was second only to the decline after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, according to Jason Goldberg, a New York-

based analyst at Barclays Plc. Customers may be moving money no longer insured by the U.S., drawing down year-end balances and investing in advancing equity markets. A Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. backstop, the Transaction Account Guarantee program, ended last month, prompting some analysts, investors and trade organizations to predict it could drive funds from the banking system. “What you are seeing now is probably TAG money,” Subadra Rajappa, a fixedincome strategist at New York-based

Australia’s slower inflation expands rate-cut scope

Stevens

ustralian consumer prices gained less than economists forecast last quarter on cheaper food and health care, pushing down the local dollar and giving the central bank scope to reduce interest rates. The trimmed mean gauge of core prices rose 0.6 percent from the prior quarter, the Bureau of Statistics said in Sydney yesterday, compared with the median forecast of 26 economists for a 0.7 percent gain. The broader consumer price index advanced 0.2 percent from three months earlier, half the forecast increase. Competition between Australia’s two largest supermarket chains, Woolworths Ltd. and Wesfarmers Ltd.-owned Coles, has driven grocery discounts. A push to sell milk at A$1 ($1.05) a liter contributed to a 27 percent profit fall at the dairy and drinks division of Kirin Holdings Co.’s

Lion unit, the company said in August. Photographer: Sergio Dionisio/Bloomberg Pedestrians cross a road in front of the Reserve Bank of Australia headquarters in Sydney. Investors see a 48 percent chance the RBA will reduce the benchmark rate at its Feb. 5 meeting, compared with 46 percent prior to the release. Photographer: Sergio Dionisio/Bloomberg The data contrast with quicker consumer-price growth in Singapore last month, while the Bank of Japan tries to bolster its economy with a 2 percent CPI target. In Australia, moderating prices validate Reserve Bank Governor Glenn Stevens’s decision to cut rates 1.75 percentage points since Nov. 1, 2011, and revive non-mining areas of the economy. “Today’s figures tell us we saw a slowdown in the Australia’s economy in the second half of the year,” said Paul Bloxham, chief economist for HSBC Holdings Plc in Sydney and a former RBA official who forecast a trimmed mean CPI rise of 0.6 percent. “We’re seeing signs globally that there’s a turnaround and we’re seeing early signs that monetary policy is lifting the Australian economy.” The so-called Aussie weakened, buying $1.0538. in Sydney compared with $1.0559 immediately before the report. The yield on 10-year government debt fell to 3.29 percent from 3.36 percent yesterday. Investors see a 48 percent chance the RBA will reduce the benchmark rate at its February 5 meeting, interest-rate swaps data compiled by Bloomberg show.

South Africa regulator approves Xstrata, Glencore merger

outh Africa’s Competition Tribunal on Tuesday gave the green light to the proposed takeover of global miner Xstrata by commodities trader Glencore. However, the tribunal attached some conditions to the $33bn deal to limit the merger’s impact on job losses in the crucial mining sector, according to Reuters. One of the conditions stipulates that job losses among skilled workers be limited to a maximum of 80 workers, the tribunal said in a statement. Job losses among unskilled or semiskilled workers shall be limited to 100 and may only take place more than two years after the merger has been fully approved by all affected jurisdictions. The job loss conditions do not include voluntary leave or early retirement packages and would also not apply to workers

who refuse to be redeployed. The approval of the merger in South Africa went through smoothly after power utility Eskom withdrew its objections last week following an agreement with Glencore that would limit the impact of the merger on its coal supplies. The utility relies on coal-fired plants to generate 85 per cent of the electricity that powers Africa’s biggest economy and was keen to ensure the merger did not hamper its ability to obtain timely, sufficient and competitively priced coal. Glencore is still waiting for the go-ahead for the deal from antitrust authorities in China, having already received a conditional approval from European regulators. Glencore pushed back the date for completion of the long-awaited tie-up to March 15, citing lengthy regulatory processes in South Africa and China.

Morgan Stanley, said in a phone interview. “Some of the banks’ corporate customers have said they were going to take the money out” if the program expires as it did, she said. The transaction-account protections were introduced in the wake of the 2008 credit crisis and had guaranteed about $1.5 trillion in non-interest-bearing accounts above the FDIC’s general limit of $250,000. The programme expired December 31. Deposits closed the year at about $5.4 trillion, the highest month-end total in 2012 and more than $500 billion higher than at the end of 2011, according to Fed data. Industry groups such as the American Bankers Association and Independent Community Bankers of America had sought an extension for TAG to keep accounts from being moved. “We knew that fund managers would re-evaluate where they want to keep their money -- in a non-interest bearing account, another account at the bank or in other investments,” James Chessen, chief economist at the ABA, said in a phone interview. “If it continues there will be reason to be concerned.” Total money-market-fund assets climbed $70 billion in the two weeks ended January 8 to $2.7 trillion, according to money-fund research firm iMoneyNet in Westborough, Massachusetts. Assets fell to $2.69 trillion in the week

Rajappa

ended January 15. Some of the bank-deposit moves may be year-end balance- sheet management by corporate customers, according to Chessen and strategists including Alex Roever at JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM) and Bank of America Corp. (BAC)’s Brian Smedley. Rajappa said it’s too early to say for sure what caused the drain of deposits. The 25 largest banks lost almost $53 billion of deposits once seasonal variations are taken into account, according to the Fed data released January 18. That shows some of the decline is tied to “calendar-related effects,” Roever said.

Jaguar Land Rover earnings growth stalls on cheaper SUVs

aguar Land Rover Plc, the luxury- vehicle unit of Tata Motors Ltd. (TTM), said fiscal third-quarter profit growth probably stalled because of currency shifts and its cheaper Evoque model attracting a higher share of buyers. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization in the three months through December probably about matched figures for the previous two quarters, and the margin on sales was probably “slightly lower,” the Gaydon, England-based division said today in a U.S. filing. Jaguar Land Rover’s margins declined in the two earlier quarters, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The lower- priced Evoque sport-utility vehicle accounted for almost 30 percent of Land Rover’s wholesale deliveries in the six months ended Sept. 30.

Karne

The Ebitda performance reflects “less favorable exchange rates” and “the ongoing effect of a higher mix” of sales of the SUV, the manufacturer said. “The company saying that margins will be lower is a big concern,” said Umesh Karne, an analyst with BRICS Securities Ltd. in Mumbai. “The indication that capital expenditure will be higher as well as about negative cash flow is a concern, as we factored positive cash flows into the share price.” The Evoque sells for just under 29,200 pounds ($46,300), versus the 38,825-pound starting price for Land Rover’s Discovery 4, a larger SUV, according to the brand’s website. Tata Motors’ American depositary receipts fell as much as 8.5 percent to $27.42, the sharpest intraday decline since May 30, and were trading down 8.3 percent at 11 a.m. in New York. The stock in Mumbai, where the company has its main listing, fell 1.7 percent to 313.05 rupees. The Indian market closed before Jaguar Land Rover released its estimate. Jaguar Land Rover may have negative free cash flow in the year beginning April 1 as the unit raises annual capital spending to 2.75 billion pounds ($4.4 billion) from 2 billion pounds to develop models and build a factory in China. Free cash flow was probably also negative in the third quarter, it said. The luxury division, which has 2.18 billion pounds in cash, may raise additional funds for investments from capital markets and through bank loans, it said.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Capital Market

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Market cap hit N10trn on bank, consumer shares JOHNSON OKANLAWON

ank and consumer shares lifted the benchmark index of the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday, to a fresh four-year close highlighting the increasing confidence in the equities market. The indices surged with above 400 basis points to settle above four-year high at 31,357.24 points recorded on January 2, 2009. The All-Share Index rose by 1.49 per cent to close at 31,446.22 points, compared to the rise of 0.46 per cent recorded the preceding day to close at 30,983.83 points. Market capitalisation

JOHNSON OKANLAWON

nternational Finance Corporation, a member of the World Bank Group, yesterday issued N7.85bn ($50m) bond on the Nigerian Stock Exchange to support the country’s domestic capital markets and increase access to local-currency finance in Nigeria. The IFC said the bond will be IFC’s first nairadenominated bond and the first placement by a non-resident issuer in the country’s domestic capital markets. The IFC Vice President and Treasurer, Mr. Jingdong Hua noted that vibrant domestic capital markets are the foundation for lasting growth,

appreciated by N147.9bn to close at N10.05trn, higher than the increase of N45.2bn recorded the preceding day to close at N9.91trn. Unity Bank Plc led the 38 companies that recorded gains in their share prices with six kobo or 10 per cent to close at 66 kobo per share, followed by Julius Berger Plc with N4.25 or 9.98 per cent to close at N46.84 per share. Presco Plc gained N1.90 or 8.05 per cent to close at N25.50 per share, while UACN Plc increased by N2.75 or 5.82 per cent to close at N50.00 per share. AIICO Insurance Plc appreciated by four kobo or 5.33 per cent to close at 79

kobo per share. On the flip side, Oando Nigeria Plc shed N1.57 or 9.83 per cent to close at N3.90 per share, while Air Service Plc lost 40 kobo or 6.78 per cent to close at N3.90 per share. Trancorp Plc dropped by six kobo or 5.45 per cent to close at N1.04 per share, while University Press Limited dipped by 24 kobo or five per cent to close at N4.56 per share. Vitafoam Plc depreciated by 20 kobo or 4.88 per cent to close at N3.90 per share. Analysis of the sectorial indices showed that the increase in demand for blue-chip stocks particularly in the banking and consumer goods sec-

He explained that the IFC issues N8bn bond on NSE corporation issues bonds adding that Africa can mobilise capital to close the financing gap for key sectors such as infrastructure and housing. He said, “The IFC Naija bond will be a milestone achievement as we continue to work with governments and local authorities to strengthen domestic capital markets in the region. “ The IFC Naija bond is targeted at investors such as pension funds, insurers, asset managers, and banks who seek to diversify their portfolio while investing in high-quality assets. IFC bonds are rated tripleA by Moody’s Investors Service and Standard & Poor’s. Proceeds from

the bond will be used to support IFC’s private sector development program.” The IFC Country Manager, Nigeria, Mr. Solomon Adegbie-Quaynor said that the IFC Naija bond will support the government’s efforts to deepen domestic capital markets in Nigeria. According to him, it will help pave the way for other issuers in the domestic markets and makes available funds that can be put to work in the local economy, saying that the IFC’s committed portfolio in Nigeria stands at $1.1bn, the largest country portfolio in Africa and the eighthlargest globally.

Shareholders give nod to Oando’s N546bn rights issue

hareholders of Oando Plc have endorsed the N54.6bn right issue of the company, even as they advised other investors to take advantage of the offer to increase their portfolios to reap the benefits of the huge investments inherent on the offer. The company is shopping for N54.6bn from existing shareholders through a rights issue of 4.548 billion ordinary shares at N12 per share. The offer opened December 28, 2012 and is expected to close on February 8, 2013. The National Coordinator, Independent Shareholders Association of Ni-

tors was responsible for the improvement. Transaction volume in equities rose by 43.8 per cent, as a total of 797.79 million shares valued at N5.12bn were exchanged in 6,974 deals, compared to 554.68 million shares worth N4.10bn traded in 7,560 deals the preceding day. The Central Bank of Nigeria had on Tuesday described the increasing dominance of foreign portfolio investors in the capital market as unhealthy for its sustainable growth and charged the authorities to adopt measures to address the structural imbalance in its investments.

geria, Mr. Sunny Nwosu, urged shareholders to embrace the issue. “Shareholders should embrace the shares as a future stock. The company has made good investments in the energy sector and very soon the benefits will begin to manifest. The Right Issue is therefore, an opportunity to buy more shares and wait for the returns that would come from those investments,” he said. According to him, while the management of the company strives to make right investments, governments’ policies have not really helped in realising the benefits of some of those investments as

quickly as expected. “I believe that going forward, Oando’s performance will improve significantly. My plea to the Federal Government is that it should have the political will do take some decisions that would make investments in the oil sector profitable. The issue of subsidy removal, for instance, should be addressed once and for all,” he said. The President of Nigeria Shareholders Solidarity Association, Mr. Timothy Adesiyan, noted that the price of the issue is very attractive, considering the assets and future prospects of the company. “As you are aware Oan-

as part of its regular program of raising funds for private sector development, and to support the development of domestic capital markets. He said, “In many cases, IFC is the first, or among the first, nonresident issuers. As of June 30, 2012, IFC had outstanding bond issuances totalling $45bn in 11 currencies. “The IFC Naija bond is the result of a collaborative process among IFC, the Nigerian government and regulatory authorities, and market participants. Chapel Hill Advisory Partners Limited and Standard Chartered are lead managers of the transaction.”

do Plc has huge assets in the energy sector. It operations were only affected by the challenges in the environment. But I believe the bad times are over. The company has a very bright future and I have so much confidence in the business they are into. The price of N12 for the offer is an opportunity no shareholders should miss. The shareholders should take up their rights and increase their holdings,” Adesiyan said. Adesiyan added that with the offer priced at N12, shareholders have an opportunity to average out their investments, and stand to benefit when the share appreciates.

Source: NSE

NIBOR QUOTES 22 JANUARY 2013 & 23 JANUARY 2013 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

2 2 -J a n -1 3

2 3 -J a n -1 3

Source: FMDA

Market indicators All-Share Index 23,105.05 points Market capitalisation 7,354 trillion

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

UNITYBNK

0.60

0.66

0.06

% CHANGE 10.00

JBERGER

42.59

46.84

4.25

9.98

PRESCO

23.60

25.50

1.90

8.05

UACN

47.25

50.00

2.75

5.82

AIICO

0.75

0.79

0.04

5.33

CCNN

8.85

9.29

0.44

4.97

BOCGAS

6.24

6.55

0.31

4.97

12.52

13.14

0.62

4.95

ETERNA

3.64

3.82

0.18

4.95

HONYFLOUR

2.71

2.84

0.13

4.80

% CHANGE

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

OANDO

15.97

14.40

1.57

-9.83

AIRSERVICE

5.90

5.50

0.40

-6.78

TRANSCORP

1.10

1.04

0.06

-5.45

UPL

4.80

4.56

0.24

-5.00

Primary Market Auction TENOR

AMOUNT (N’mn)

RATE (%)

DATE

91-Day

34,999.90

12.88

24-Jan-13

182-Day

60,000.00

14.94

24-Jan-13

Open Market Operations TENOR

AMOUNT (N’mn)

RATE (%)

DATE

76 Days

49,565.48

13.81

24-Jan-13

85 Days

77,114.34

14.06

24-Jan-13

Wholesale Dutch Auction System AMOUNT OFFERED

MARKET DEMAND

AMOUNT SOLD

DATE

$150m

N/A

$150m

23-Jan-13

$100m

N/A

$00m

21-Jan-13

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Stock exchange daily equities summary Equities as at January 23, 2013 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, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Youth facing worsening unemployment globally –UN Report STORIES: LEONARD OKACHIE

he rate of unemployment among youth globally is assuming a disturbing dimension as a new report by United Nations labour agency has warned that the Global unemployment rose in 2012 amid continuing economic insecurity and insufficient policies stifling overall hiring. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) in its annual Global Employment Trends report released this week revealed that the world's youth were most vulnerable to the growing job scarcity. It noted that despite the positive trend of falling unemployment over the past two years, the number of unemployed worldwide rose by 4.2 million in 2012 with gloomy expectations of a further increase in 2013. ILO Director-General, Guy Ryder, in a new release accompanying the report, said: "An uncertain economic outlook, and the inadequacy of policy to counter this, has weakened aggregate demand, holding back investment and hiring. "This has prolonged the labour market slump in many countries, lowering job creation and increasing unemployment duration even in some countries that previously had low unemployment and dynamic labour markets. Many of the new jobs require skills that jobseekers do not have.” In particular, the report singles out the impact of the global unemployment crisis - already afflicting over 197 million people worldwide - on the world's youth, who risk losing vital professional and social skills as the length of their joblessness continues to grow. According to the ILO, some 35 per cent of unemployed youth in advanced economies have been out of a job for six months or longer - an absence which directly impacts their long-term career prospects as their skills deteriorate. Others, meanwhile, get discouraged and leave the labour market altogether.

With almost 74 million people in the 15 to 24 age group unemployed around the world, translating into a 12.4 per cent unemployment rate for this subset, job prospects for the world's younger workers are looking increasingly bleak, says the report. The UN official pointed out that regional differences in youth unemployment were likely to be marked, with the situation expected to improve slightly over the next five years in the developed economies while emerging economies in Eastern Europe, East and South-East Asia and the Middle East would continue to see rising joblessness among its young labour force. He added, however, that it was incumbent on international policy-makers to find a coordinated response to reversing the problem and urged governments to establish coordinated retraining activities to help young people bridge the skills gap caused by extended bouts of joblessness. "The global nature of the crisis means countries cannot resolve its impact individually and with domestic measures only," said Ryder. The report specifically calls on policymakers to engage in three areas crucial to employment generation, including injections of public investment into job-creating initiatives while private funding remains shy; addressing rising labour market mismatch problems through retraining and re-skilling programmes; and focussing action on youth joblessness. "The high uncertainty, which is holding off investments and job creation, will not recede if countries come up with conflicting solutions," cautioned Mr. Ryder. "The costs of inactivity, of allowing long-term unemployment to grow and young people to disconnect further from society, would be far higher."

The contestants performing Lean on Me.

Nigerian Idol contestants fail to impress

udges and audience were disappointed as the contestants of the Nigeran Idol failed to impress throughout the night at the second round of the top 30, which attracted harsh words from the judges. After a stellar group performance of Bill Wither’s Lean on me, that saw many individuals shine, the second round of 10 failed to sparkle, and even the easygoing judges, Yinka Davies and Jeffrey Daniel joined guest judge, Naeto C, in criticising the lacklustre performances that occurred on performance night. Immaculate Victoria, was the first on the chopping block for the evening, performing Blame it on the Boogie by The Jackson 5. “You lacked connection with the audience,” said Jeffery, as he told the young contestant off. Unfortunately, Kemi’s performance of Usher’s There Goes my Baby, followed along in the same vein, failing to impress the judges. Mr Richie’s take on Bruno Mars’ Lazy Song failed to pass muster with the tough judges as well, and a bewildered Yinka had to tell the contestants to “calm down” backstage. The two strongest performers of the evening came from two unlikely sources. The bespectacled, Dani Angus—nicknamed “the accountant” by Jeffrey—tried a diva song choice, and it worked! His choice of Mariah Carey’s We Belong Together, was surprising, however, Dani was able

to eke out a few words of praise from the high table. Moses Adigwe gave the strongest performance of the night, tackling Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black and pulling it off with aplomb. The judges agreed: his performance signalled that the competition was back in business. “What you have done today is what we have been looking for all night. The Nigerian Idol material is back!” said Jeffrey Daniels. Overall, it was not a very good night in Idolville. Was it nerves or over confidence that struck the contestants? Are some favourites leaving Idols at this early stage? And what does it mean for the final 10 vying for their own coveted space in the top 12? Tune in and find out this weekend! Afrobeat Legend and new judge, Femi Kuti, international performing artist, Jeffery Daniel from 80’s disco/dance group, Shalamar, and Nigeria’s soul diva Yinka Davies are the judges this season, with suave host, Illrymz, bringing us the highs and the lows throughout the competition. Guest judge, Naeto C will be on the show while Kuti completes his US tour throughout the month of January. The Idol grand prize is worth $100,000, and the lucky winner will get N7.5 million in cash, a recording contract also worth N7.5 million, and a brand new SUV. Runner-ups will receive prizes worth a total of N10 million.

Youth enlightened on choice of spouses

Members of National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC) on a parade ground. Some of them have become victims of the worsening unemployment.

ickle-cell Club in Katsina State and Service to Humanity Foundation (SHF), a Katsina-based NGO, have jointly commenced enlightenment campaign to create awareness among youth on the choice of would-be spouses. The initiative is aimed at preventing the sickle-cell disease. The Chairman of the association, Alhaji Umar Ata, said this yesterday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Katsina. Ata said the enlightenment, which targeted secondary school students, was aimed at preventing the spread of the disease from par-

ents to their offspring. ‘’We know that sickle-cell is a genetic type of disease and as at now, doctors say it has no cure, but can only be prevented,’’ he said. He said the association was advising potential couples to go for Genotype Blood Test before going into marriage; if the result indicated that two of them are AS (carriers), they should not marry. "There is the tendency that their child may inherit two sickle genes from each of them to become a sickler (SS), or inherit a sickle gene from one parent and a normal gene from the other to become (AS), a carrier."

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Young & Next Generation

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Oba of Benin honours Nigeria’s Got Talent winner N igeria’s Got Talent Season One winner, eightyear-old Amarachi Uyanne, has received an Award for Excellence from the Oba of Benin, for her sterling performance in the just concluded reality TV talent hunt show. Miss Amarachi was among ten outstanding persons honoured by His Royal Highness, Omo No’ba N’edo Uku Akpolokpolo Erediauwa, at the annual event that recognizes achievers within the Oba’s domain. The young violinist and dancer stunned Nigerians when she outclassed 50 other contestants to emerge the winner of the maiden edition of the Got Talent competition that was sponsored by Airtel Nigeria. The honour from the Oba of Benin comes weeks after the show sponsor; Airtel Nigeria treated the youngster to a grand reception preceded by a media tour of select media houses in Lagos. The highly revered monarch who personally presided over the awards presentation ceremony in his palace in Benin City said the recognition was to encourage excellence among the subjects of the kingdom in their various fields. Speaking on the development, Airtel Nigeria’s Chief Marketing Officer, Olu Akanmu said the honour was well deserved by the youngster and praised the Oba for recognizing the young talent, adding that such gesture

could spur Amarachi to the world stage in the nearest future. His words: “Amarachi’s success story is a fair picture of our vision and plan for Nigerians, especially the youth. We are glad for her achievements at this early stage of her life and our solemn pledge to continue to provide more platforms such as the NGT, alongside our primary obligation to create best-in-class telecommunication experience remains firm.” Other recipients of the Oba’s honours during the grand ceremony at the Royal Palace were the Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Professor Osayuki Godwin Oshodin for Academic Excellence and Professor Osato Frank Giwa-Osagie of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos for his outstanding performance in the health sector, especially in obstetrics and gynaecology. The monarch honoured the duo of Sir David Osunde and Pa Joseph Alufa Igbinovia for the Idia Mask sculpture which was a master piece at FESTAC 1977. Others include Justice Efe Ikponmwosa; Chief Oyuki Obaseki, former Chairman of Nigerian Premier League and the Ohe of Benin kingdom, for his contribution to sports development in the year; media icon, Soni Irabor, and the late Sam Loco Efe for his contribution to the entertainment industry.

Amarachi paying homage to Oba of Benin.

Corps member jailed for hard drug

A National Youth Service Corps member, Raphael Ejime with students and teachers of Gbagada Girls Junior Secondary School, during his donation of exercise books, 10 classroom desks, and benches to the school in PHOTO: NAN Lagos, yesterday.

Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiiti on Tuesday sentenced a member of the NYSC, Samuel Udeh, to two months imprisonment for possessing 50 grammes of Indian hemp. Justice Adamu Hobon sentenced the 26-year-old without an option of fine to serve as deterrent to others. “I have carefully considered the facts presented before this court by the prosecution and the plea of guilty by the convict. I have also considered the quantity of the substance. I, therefore, find the accused guilty and convicted thereof as charged.But the jail terms will run from the day of arrest, that is November 19, 2012,’’ Hobon said. The prosecutor, Iliya Waji, had earlier

told the court that Udeh was arrested on November 19, 2012 with 50 grammes of the illicit drug. He said Udeh committed the offence at the NYSC Orientation Camp at Emure-Ekiti. The offence, he said, contravened Section 11 (c) of the National Drug Laws Enforcement Agency Act, Cap N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The accused pleaded guilty to the onecount charge while his counsel, Mr. Cletus Nnechetta, prayed the court to temper justice with mercy. Nnechetta said the convict was remorseful for his actions, adding that he could still be useful to the society as a member of the NYSC.

SCIENCE FOR KIDS

SURE-P engages 3000 youth in Enugu Why is ice cream bad?

he SURE-P has engaged more than 3000 youths, women and vulnerable persons in Enugu State under the Federal Government's Community Services Women and Youth Empowerment programme, an official said. SURE-P was set up to engage the poor in community services and reduce youth unemployment. Mr. Nnamdi Asomugha, the State Coordinator of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Enugu on Tuesday that the selection was going on simultaneously in the 17 local government councils in the state. He said the programme was meant to help the poor and vulnerable, adding that the directorate, in collaboration with an implementation committee set up by the Federal Government, ensured that only the right people got the jobs. Asomugha said he and the committee had set up checks and balances to ensure that the programme was not hijacked by politicians.

He maintained: ``We are in Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State to specifically select unemployed women, youths and persons with vulnerability which includes widows, albinos, people living with HIV and AIDS, blind people and so on and so forth. "We are selecting 3000 persons who belong to these categories into the community services women and youth empowerment programme of the SURE-P programme of the Federal Government. "We expect that between now and tomorrow, across the 17 local government areas of Enugu State we will be able to select 3000 unemployed youths, women and vulnerable persons.’’ He said the programme would last for a year in the first instance with the possibility of expansion. The coordinator said those selected would be captured biometrically because their stipend of N10,000 would be paid direct from Abuja. He called on those selected to reciprocate the gesture by performing the tasks assigned to them by their communities.

ce cream is probably loved by millions of people around the globe. A great percentage of people have what they call a “sweet tooth,” and when it comes to desserts and sweets, many would definitely put ice cream as one of their favourites. But despite the joy and happiness one might get out of eating ice cream, people also know that it may also be bad for one’s health. According knowswhy.com, for one reason, ice cream is loaded with lots of sugar and may become addictive. Sugary food items like ice cream are usually associated with happy moments and comfort. People even crave ice cream just to comfort themselves from stress and other problems at home, school, or work. And when these types of emotions are involved with eating ice cream, people may become dependent on

this temporary sugar rush and the relief they feel and may eventually get hooked. In the long run, too much of this product may cause some serious health problems. Nutritionists also point out that ice cream contains too many calories which could lead to obesity concerns. A healthy and balanced diet involves calories from different food groups. But if most of the calories come from sweets like ice cream, one may have problems in terms of maintaining an ideal weight. In fact, many people who eat too many carbohydraterich foods like ice cream are prone to have more body fat which could also be a great health risk. Another health concern for ice cream is diabetes. This condition develops if there is too much sugar in a person’s bloodstream. Ice cream has lots of sugar in it and is addictive for some people, and so it may be a bad food choice for those who want to control their weight and avoid diseases like diabetes. With all of these health concerns, ice cream is often considered bad for people.

Media

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Newswatch...frontline brand returns with a bang! ...goes daily with bumper edition LEONARD OKACHIE

eaders and customers of Newswatch, the frontline Nigerian news magazine, will have every cause to smile as their darling publication is back with a bang. The rebranded magazine will hit newsstands on February 15, 2013 in a 120 page colour on a mechanised paper. Interestingly, the Newswatch brand has equally gone daily with bumper edition as the maiden edition (starting with weekend titles) of Newswatch newspaper hit the newsstands on January 19, 2013. The repackaged magazine, which is printed ed abroad, is expected to compete favourably with the best e magaest zines in the world, such as Times, Newsweek etc, especially in area of quality, volume and aesthetics. But e etics. that is not to say that the magazine will be relinquishe elinquishing its beautiful prose tradition that it was known known for. ffor In fact, it is coming out even much stronger in that aspect too. Publisher and Chairman of Board of Directors of the paper, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, OFR, had announced the suspension of the Nigeria’s oldest news magazine in August last year to carry out a process of turnaround and re-branding. The business mogul, who acquired majority stake in the company in May 2011, had said during the suspension, “I commend the publishers of The News magazine for operating in a modern office with new technology, while I see the Tell magazine’s facelift and re-branding as unprecedented in the history of Nigerian journalism. Newswatch cannot be an exception to modern changes and the old style must go once and for all.” The billionaire businessman, who is also the publisher of National Mirror, had assured the readers and the customers that it would return to the newsstands “as soon as the surgical operation is completed and the magazine is re

NEWSWATCH H CANNOT BE AN EXCEPTION TO MODERN CHANGES AND THE OLD STYLE MUST GO ONCE AND FOR ALL branded.” Barely six months after, the magazine, which is published by Newswatch Communications Limited, is returning with a bang. Again, it is set to blaze the trail in developmental journalism. According to the management, the magazine is focusing on this emerging area of journalism in developing countries because it aids individual and national development. Other areas which the magazine is known for, will not be ignored as well. Similarly, the Daily Newswatch, which is printed and published by Newswatch Newspaper Limited, with head office at 159/161 Broad Street, Lagos, is still

enjoying warm reception from the public since its maiden edition hit newsstands last Saturday. Daily Newswatch, according to the management, is an A-list newspaper, which means that it is targeted at the upper class, but will not serve purely as the voice of the bourgeois. The management further said that it is a whole package that keeps the entire family with it so that they don’t have to go elsewhere , adding that it is 96 pages of well researched, well packaged and well written newspaper. No wonder, it says in its vision statement which reads in parts: “Our promise as a newspaper is to establish a tradition of truth and independence, thereby giving a pragmatic voice to the voiceless, empowering the powerless in the society populated by few powerful men of selfish desire and voice that have over the years drowned goals and aspirations of the greater number...”

We'll give our readers something Daily Newswatch hit the newsstand last weekend with positive review. But, the Managing Director/ Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Moses Jolayemi, says the readers should expect much more. He tells LEONARD OKACHIE more:

Jolayemi

What kind of paper is Daily Newswatch? Daily Newswatch is an A-list newspaper and when you say A-list newspaper, you are targeting those at the upper runs of the ladder. That is not to say that you will not pay attention to those at the lower runs of the ladder. As a matter of fact, the paper is supposed to be the voice of those who are the base of the ladder, who probably will not be able to get their voices across to those at the upper runs of the ladder. So, where Daily Newswatch comes in is that we are able to amplify the voice of those at the lower runs of the ladder to those at the upper runs of the ladder so that the society can be the better for it. It is not like a kind of paper that turns its back on low level people. It is a actually a paper for the people, but the issue here is that in terms of language, design, layout, what is of interest to us, what is news to us, the paper is A-class. We know the kind of language those people who belong to the A-class love and we are going to employ that. The paper will be written in an elevated language, but it is not going to be purely the voice of the bourgeois. The views of the people will be articulated

and presented to those at the A-class who in this case are the decision makers, who have the political knife to cut and uncut , who decide the fate of the common man. So, we are going to articulate the views of the common man and present to the uncommon man. Our interest is to see how we can propel this country to a kind of enviable pedestal. We want a Nigeria where everybody will be happier than he is now, where opportunities abound for everybody, irrespective of where you are coming from, who you are, your religion or background. It is the style and approach that separates it from other newspapers. You are running 96 pages, all colour. How do you plan to sustain this feat? A couple of people have asked me the same question. They said the quality is A-class, is superb, it looks like foreign paper etc. and you are running out 96 pages how are you going to sustain it? Why I have no doubt with sustaining it is that the owner of the business, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim has an unusual zeal, uncommon interest,

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Media

Thursday, January 24, 2013

My plan for Newswatch Magazine –Folayan

Media Abroad

Journalists attacked in Kenya

The Managing Directior/Chief Executive Officer of Newswatch Communication Limited, publishers of Newswatch Magazine, Dr. Bolu Folayan, in this interview with LEONARD OKACHIE explains that the rebranded Newswatch is coming with something remarkably different. Excerpts: What is the difference between the new Newswatch and old one? We are coming out strong. The basic things that are different, one: in terms of aesthetics we are going all colour. We are printing on mechanised paper –the standard for the best magazine in the world. Time Magazine and Newsweek Magazine that is what they print on. That is why we are printing it abroad. We could not get printers who could do it here. So, there is radical 360 degrees change in the way we lay out the pages and use our pictures. Then, in our writing skills you know Newswatch of old in its hey days was known for beautiful writing, beauty prose in the likes of Ray Ekpu, Dele Giwa. So we are coming back even in much more vigour in that area. In terms of focus, in those days when in Dele Giwa era, Newswatch focused more on breaking the news, exclusive stories and big time stories. Because of the level of development in today’s world where the Internet is everywhere, where even weekend papers have delved into magazines, to survive we need to re-strategise and see how we can compete in that area. And that is why we are now focusing on what we call developmental journalism. It is an emerging area of journalism in the Third World in African countries. What it means is that you publish to equip the person to develop. You publish information that will help your reader whether it is a government institution, a minis-

ter or a business executive. What they read there will help them to develop. That is our primary focus. So we will still publish our exclusive stories. What are your plans for sustainability? You know Newswatch is an old brand, 29-year-old magazine. That is one thing that is going for us. It is a popular brand. We don’t to go round the states and say: “Look, this is Newswatch.” Everybody knows Newswatch. What they were not happy with is that Newswatch lost the steam. By the time we bring the steam back, right in a colour manner, write stories that are beneficial to the reader, then we will win the readers back. We are trying to focus properly. We are looking at the middle, upper class of the society, decision takers, managers of business and political leaders. It is not elitist, but middle level- upper. For you to be a reader of Newswatch, you must be educated for instance, to talk in our language, to understand what we are saying and we are going to keep to that focus. Do you also consider competition in this business? With all humility, I want to say based on the new focus; I don’t think we have a competitor. We are not just going to repeat the news that people have read on the Internet, heard on the radio, seen on TV. That is not journalism. So there is no magazine that is doing what we want to do now. That

better –Jolayemi in fact, unstoppable passion for media. Seriously speaking, Jimoh Ibrahim is not your everyday kind of business man. What Dr. Ibrahim is doing with the media, to the core businessmen who are after money, they will tell you he is stupid. To a very serious capitalist, they will tell you he is crazy. Because this is the kind of business that will not even give return on investment in two, three, four, five years and he knows it, yet he is going into it. The truth of the matter is that Jimoh wants to use the resources that God has given him to develop that sector. To be honest with you, the cover price of this paper does not cover the price. The cost of producing a copy of this paper is many times higher than the cover price. But the man is ready for it. He knows what it takes. Don’t forget that he is a business man who is at home with figures. He has his figures on his fingertips and stored somewhere in his head. He has photograph-

ic brain, he doesn’t even forget things. He has put it in his head and he knows what it takes. Deliberately he is going into it. So it is not black market. So, the issue of sustainability does not give me any sleepless night. One thing you have to understand is that I think we are blessed, we are fortunate here. You have the media arm of Energy Group and you have so many other companies within the conglomerate that are bringing in profits. Jimoh Ibrahim has decided to throw the money into the media arm of his business to develop the Nigerian media, because if you ask him he will say what is he going to do with all the money? And he is not the type of person that you will meet at different parties throwing money here and there. So, the money that other members of the group are having will be used to develop the media until such a time when those newspapers too within the group break even and they will now be able to run on their own.

Folayan means we are in a world of our own. There is no magazine that I know is doing developmental journalism the way we want to do it. Because our focus is different I believe our audience and advertisers will see us as different. We also want to go into a little bit of events because of the brand name. We have a subsidiary, Newswatch Books. We are also going to lift it up and contribute in the area to bring up intellectual development in the society. Print media is now transitioning to digital media. How prepared are you on the digital platform? The plan is on. Within the next few weeks, our online edition will be on. Our readers will be able to buy the electronic copies of the magazine and also book the advert online. We are not coming out with online edition as such, but electronic copies will be available for those who prefer it. Then they will have what we call the Newswatch newsbreak. You know we are magazine and part of the bonus for our subscribers that we will give them free information service on their Blackberries etc of news event before we come out. We come out once in two weeks, so we want to keep them abreast on what is going on.

What should readers expect from you? We recognise the fact that certain things are missing in what they are being currently served by newspapers that belong to that class and we are cashing in on those missing areas by giving them something new, something novel. Apart from the regular news, politics, sports and all those regular sections, we have introduced things that are of interest to these A-class people. The reader should expect something that is truly intellectual, something that actually befits the class that they belong to. I’m not going to use this medium to run other newspapers down. They are doing well and I can tell you that I am proud of them. We are also products of these newspapers that we are talking about, who belong to the A-class and so they can’t suddenly be bad overnight, but I can assure you that we are going to do better because coming from that background we know their limitations and we are building on what those people have. And this is why the readers are going to get the worth for their money because we are giving them more than what these newspapers are giving them.

enyan authorities must hold to account soldiers with the General Service Unit, Kenya's paramilitary force, in connection with their reported assault of two journalists on Sunday, the Committee to Protect Journalists has said. Dennis Okeyo, a photographer for the Daily Nation, and John Otanga, a cameraman for Nation TV, said they were attacked by GSU soldiers while they were attempting to cover politically motivated clashes in Kibera, a neighbourhood in Nairobi, according to news reports and local journalists. The Daily Nation and Nation TV are a part of the Nation Media Group, a large independent media outlet in Kenya. Otanga told CPJ that he and Okeyo were prevented from entering Kibera by GSU trucks that were parked to prevent entry and exit into the area. Soldiers had been assigned to patrol the neighborhood after supporters of a defeated parliamentary nominee began to attack locals who had favored the rival nominee, according to news reports. Otanga told CPJ that when Okeyo showed the GSU soldiers his press card, the soldiers began to beat them with clubs. The soldiers also seized Okeyo's memory card from his camera, and took 2,000 Kenyan shillings (US$23) from him, Okeyo told CPJ. Otanga sought treatment at a local hospital for a head injury and Okeyo for injuries to his knee and arms, Okeyo told CPJ. The journalist also said that his memory card and money had not been returned and that they had reported the attack to the police.

Ugolor institutes human rights award for journalists SEBASTINE EBHUOMHAN BENIN CITY

oised to contribute towards the entrenchment of tenets of investigative journalism in Nigeria, the Executive Director of African Network for Environment and Economic Justice, (ANEEJ), Rev. David Ugolor has instituted an annual award and prize for practicing journalists that report human rights and related issues in the state. To be known as the Reverend David Ugolor Investigative Journalism Prize and with a total winning cash prize of N200, 000.00 for the winner, the award will be competed for and won every year by journalists practising in Edo State for recognised national media organisations in print as well as broadcast genre, in memory of the late Principal Private Secretary of the Governor of Edo State, Comrade Olaitan Oyerinde. Speaking in his office in Benin City, Ugolor, who counted himself quite lucky to have escaped an anticipated hangman’s death after the Nigeria Police Force had successfully framed him up with the murder of his best friend, Oyerinde, told National Mirror that the award was being instituted not only to keep the fond memory, image and deeds of his friend alive, but also to encourage the media to continue to dig deep until it unravels those that killed his friend in cold blood. He stated that by the award, ANEEJ was simply collaborating with journalists to ensure a critical investigation of not just the untimely death of Oyerinde, but also other societal ills and crimes bedevilling the country. As a corollary, he said such collaboration would reduce the sad incidences and situations where innocent citizens are either killed or merely made to suffer for crimes that they were simply framed up with not only to purposely ridicule them before fellow citizens but to also criminalise them.

Cocktail

Thursday, January 24, 2013

FOR YOUR SUCCESS

WITH DR. DEJI FOLUTILE

Today's Tonic (85)

You were born to win, but to be a winner, you must plan to win, prepare to win, & expect to win. –Zig Ziglar * * * MY NOTE: We should never take the potentials within us for granted. There is so much that we can achieve in this life by planning, preparation and ardent positive expectation. There is so much that we can do, be and have! TEL 08104942999 E-MAIL deji.folutile@gmail.com Follow me @TwitterOWOTIDE

Hundreds of animals removed from man’s house

umane society members wearing protective masks removed nearly 300 animals including pigeons, chickens and rabbits from an Ohio man’s reeking house this week. Most of the animals are expected to survive including some that were sick, Sheila Marquis, an officer with the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, Ohio, told Reuters on Saturday. Workers on Thursday took away 60 pigeons, chickens and roosters from the house in Huber Heights, a

suburb of Dayton. They returned the following day for another 93 animals including 30 rabbits living outside. Between 100 and 150 more pigeons, housed outside of the home, have not been removed. Jessica Garringer, spokeswoman for the Humane Society of Greater Cleveland, told Reuters they are working with the owner to relocate all of the remaining birds. The sheer number of pigeons, which can carry airborne diseases, created a health hazard inside the house, Marquis said.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Oddities

Rotten eggs stench reaches UK from France

cloud of harmless gas smelling of sweat and rotten eggs leaked out of a chemicals factory in northwest France and wafted across the English Channel as far as London on Tuesday. The leak occurred on Monday morning at a Lubrizol France plant near Rouen, 120 km (75 miles) northwest of Paris, and winds blew the invisible gas cloud south over northern France on Monday night and then up into England on Tuesday. The fire brigade in the county of Kent, southeast of London, warned residents to keep their doors and windows closed due to a gas cloud it believed had come from France and London police said it had reports of an acrid smell in southeast London. Lubrizol France, which makes additives for industrial lubricants and paint, said the gas was mercaptan, also known as methanethiol, a colorless additive used in natural gas because its sulphurous smell enables gas leaks to be

detected. Internal operations director Pierre-Jean Payrouse said the company was battling to plug the leak, as the cloud spread over some 350 km (220 miles), but said it might take until the evening. The

cause of the leak was still unknown. “It’s not so much a leak as a product that has decomposed, which smells very bad and which is escaping,” Payrouse told RTL radio. “An investigation is under way (into what

happened) but our priority is to deal with the problem.” The gas, which is nontoxic but is flammable in strong concentrations, prompted a flood of phone calls to emergency services in France in the early hours of Tuesday.

Statues decorating the Alexandre III Bridge which crosses the River Seine near the Eiffel Tower in Paris. PHOTO: REUTERS

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

World News

Netanyahu’s party wins Israeli poll, suﬀers setback

“That is why I am in favour of a referendum. I believe in confronting this issue - shaping it, leading the debate. Not simply hoping a difficult situation will go away.” –BRITISH PRIME MINISTER, DAVID CAMERON

Rights group warns of executions by Malian army PAUL ARHEWE, WITH AGENCY REPORTS

France-based human rights group yesterday accused Malian forces of dozens of “summary executions” and other abuses as they counterattack Islamist extremists holed up in the West African country’s hinterlands with key support from French air power and troops. The International Federation for Human Rights, or FIDH by its French acronym, is calling for the creation of an independent commission to look into the crimes and punish those responsible. FIDH charged that Malian forces were behind about 33 killings — including of ethnic Tuaregs — since new fighting erupted Jan. 10 along the narrow belt between the government-controlled south and the north, which has been under the control of al-Qaida-linked militants for months. The human rights group didn’t specify the source of its information. Journalists have been refused access to the area while trying to cover the French intervention that began Jan. 11 — notably with punishing air strikes involving fighter jets and helicopter gunships. The claims come as international backing continued to pour

Two killed, 256 arrested in South Africa protest

Two people have been killed and 256 arrested for looting and other offences in violent social unrest that left a trail of damage in the central South African industrial city of Sasolburg, police said yesterday. The protests that began earlier this week over plans to incorporate the industrial area with a poorer part of the region had mostly quieted down after three days of some of the most intense street battles to hit Africa’s largest economy. At their peak, thousands of people torched vehicles, looted shops and threw stones at police who tried to break up the protests by firing rubber bullets and setting off stun grenades. “There were too many businesses that were damaged, we are still taking stock,” police colonel Motantsi Makhele told Reuters.

Groups call for Somali govt to release journalist

Malian soldiers securing an area at the Mali air force base near Bamako, recently.

in for France’s intervention. Pentagon officials said a U.S. airlift of French forces to Mali is expected to continue for another two weeks. Hundreds of African soldiers from Nigeria, Togo, Burkina Faso and Senegal are now joining. Human rights groups have expressed concern about the situation in Mali — notably the activities of Malian troops. In a statement, FIDH pointed to “a series of summary executions” perpetrated by Malian forces notably in the towns of Sevare, Mopti, Niono and others along the lines of clashes.

In Sevare, at least 11 people were killed at a military camp, near its bus station and its hospital, and “credible information” pointed to about 20 other executions with the bodies “buried hastily, notably in wells,” FIDH said. Malian troops also killed two ethnic Tuaregs in the Niono region, and “other allegations of summary executions continue to come to us,” the group said. Dozens of ethnic Tuaregs in Bamako, Mali’s capital far to the west, have had their homes raided by Malian forces, and at times been subjected to pillage and inti-

PHOTO: REUTERS

mation, the group said. All of the victims are accused of being infiltrators or of having ties to the jihadists, of possessing weapons, or of not being able to produce identity papers or “simply targeted because of their ethnicity,” it said. Asked about concerns of rights abuses by the Malian army, French Foreign Ministry spokesman Philippe Lalliot said last week that protecting human rights and battling impunity was a priority for France, which “will do everything to stop violations of human rights across Mali.”

Kenya begins construction of Africa’s largest IT city

enya’s president has launched a $14.5bn (£9.1bn) project to build a new city intended to be an IT business hub and dubbed “Africa’s Silicon Savannah”. It will take 20 years to build

WORLD BULLETIN

Konza Technology City about 60km (37 miles) from the capital, Nairobi. It is hoped that more than 20,000 IT jobs will be created in Konza by 2015, and more than 200,000 jobs by 2030.

A graphical impression of the Konza Technology City.

Despite Kenya’s usually divisive politics, the project has the backing of all political parties. Konza is part of the government’s ambitious Vision 2030 initiative to improve much-neglected infrastructure over the next 18 years. Correspondents say the government also wants to take advantage of the growing number of software developers in the East African nation. “It is expected to spur massive trade and investment as well as create thousands of employment opportunities for young Kenyans in the ICT [information communications technology] sector,” President Mwai Kibaki said at the ceremony to launch the construction, adding it would be a

“game-changer” for the country’s development. He called on domestic and foreign investors to take advantage of Konza’s “tremendous opportunities”. The 5,000-acre (2,011-hectare) site was a ranch to the south-east of Nairobi on the way to the port city of Mombasa. When the plan was announced after the last elections property prices in the area soared, reporters say. According to the Konza information website, the city wants to attract business process outsourcing, software development, data centres, disaster recovery centres, call centres and light assembly manufacturing industries.

Rights groups yesterday called for the Somali government to release a journalist arrested by police for interviewing a woman who said she was raped by government security forces. The freelance journalist, Abdiaziz Abdinur Ibrahim, and three others accused in the case have been held for more than a week without charge, the groups said. The three groups — Amnesty International, the Committee to Protect Journalists and Human Rights Watch — demanded their release. “Somalia’s new government is saying the right things about the rule of law and a free press, but locking up journalists and others who report rape sends the opposite message,” said Daniel Bekele, Africa director at Human Rights Watch.

Morocco to change law allowing rape marriage

Nearly a year after Morocco was shocked by the suicide of a 16-yearold girl who was forced to marry her alleged rapist, the government has announced plans to change the penal code to outlaw the traditional practice. Women’s rights activists on Tuesday welcomed Justice Minister Mustapha Ramid’s announcement, but said it was only a first step in reforming a penal code that doesn’t do enough to stop violence against women in this North African kingdom. A paragraph in Article 475 of the penal code allows those convicted of “corruption” or “kidnapping” of a minor to go free if they marry their victim and the practice was encouraged by judges to spare family shame. Last March, 16-year-old Amina al-Filali poisoned herself to get out of a seven-month-old abusive marriage to a 23-year-old she said had raped her.

World News WORLD BULLETIN

Cameron promises Britons straight choice on EU exit

Prime Minister David Cameron promised yesterday to give Britons a referendum choice on whether to stay in the European Union or leave if he wins an election in 2015, placing a question mark over Britain’s membership for years. Cameron ended months of speculation by announcing in a speech the plan for a vote sometime between 2015 and the end of 2017, shrugging off warnings that this could imperil Britain’s economic prospects and alienate its biggest trading partner. He said the island nation, which joined the EU’s precursor European Economic Community 40 years ago, did not want to retreat from the world, but public disillusionment with the EU was at “an all-time high”. “It is time for the British people to have their say. It is time for us to settle this question about Britain and Europe,” Cameron said. His Conservative party will campaign for the 2015 election promising to renegotiate Britain’s EU membership.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Fresh gun attack at US College boosts Obama’s campaign SEYI FASUGBA WASHINGTON DC

fresh gun attack on Tuesday suspected to be between two rival groups at Lone Star College in the outskirts of Houston in Texas has further boosted the campaign by President Barack Obama to embark on gun control. The students returned to campus after the Monday holiday to mark the Martin Luther King Day to experience the confrontation which

left four people hospitalised thus creating fresh worries against the backdrop of the campaign by the Republican Party to allow more guns on college campuses. The incident however gave the Democratic Party enough reasons to further pressed for the bill on gun control even as Congress resumed seating yesterday after the inauguration on Monday of the new government in Washington DC. Vice President, Joe Bidden is at the head of the move to get limited control over the use of

and access to guns in the US, a move which the opposition vowed to oppose and which to some extent has brought about a deep division among the members of Congress along party lines. The Tuesday event which shocked the nation sent dangerous signals throughout the state of Texas given the task it gave the police to bring the crisis under control and the suspects arrested. Officials with the Sheriff ’s Office, Maj. Armando Tello, said they received the first call

Ex-pastor convicted of killing second wife A Monroe County, jury in US has determined a former pastor was guilty of first-degree murder in the 2008 bludgeoning of his second wife. The jury also determined Tuesday 64-year-old Arthur Schirmer was guilty of tampering with evidence for staging a car crash as a reason for the death, The Scranton Times-Tribune reported yesterday. On one side of the Stroudsburg courtroom, Schirmer’s daughters and fiancée wept while relatives of Betty Jean Schirmer cheered and clapped when the verdict was read, the Times-Tribune said. The jury was out less than two hours before announcing its verdict against Schirmer, who also awaits trial in the 1999 death of his first wife, Jewel Schirmer. In the 2008 death of his second wife, Schirmer maintained she was fatally injured when he swerved their vehicle to avoid striking a deer and hit a guardrail.

Turkey to build world’s largest airport The new airport set to be built in Istanbul will be the world’s largest, the country’s Minister of Transportation told a press conference yesterday. Binali Yildirim said the international airport will have an estimated annual passenger capacity of 150 million and will take up nearly 300,000 square feet of space. Today’s Zaman said the airport will be on the European side of Istanbul, along the Black Sea. The tender for the airport will be held in May, and the winning bidder will have operating rights for 25 years, the Andalou News Agency reported. The airport is expected to be open in the summer of 2016 and will employ 120,000 people, Yildirim said the airport will cost more than $9 billion. Istanbul currently has two airports.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu waving to supporters as he stands with his party members at the Likud-Yisrael Beitenu headquarters in Tel Aviv, yesterday. PHOTO: REUTERS

at 12:19 p.m. They said they did not know what the dispute was about. No arrests were made initially, but the authorities detained and were questioned the two men they believed were involved in the argument. Both of the men were hospitalized with injuries and were described as persons of interest by the authorities. One of the men had student identification, but officials had not confirmed that he was enrolled at the college. The shooting shocked students, faculty members and administrators at the 200-acre campus. The school is in northern Harris County and about 30 minutes from downtown. It is so close to George Bush Intercontinental Airport that college officials said one can often look up and wave at the passengers. Students said they did not realize that the shots were actually gunfire. Because the shooting occurred outdoors — in a centre courtyard near the library and academic buildings, officials said — many heard the sounds. One student sitting at a table on the third floor of the library thought it was a book cart toppling. “Later we heard people screaming, and we knew it was gunshots,” Jonathan Moreno, 19, one of the fresh students said.

Clinton denies delay in Benghazi response

Netanyahu’s party Fox News has learned from wins Israeli poll, nited States Secretary ing up when describing how she of State Hillary Clinton greeted the families of the victims senior U.S. defense officials that suffers setback

yesterday defended the administration’s response the night of the September 2012 terror attack in Libya, testifying before Congress that there were “no delays in decision-making” despite accounts to the contrary. The secretary, after missing prior hearings due to illness, testified on the attack for the first time yesterday before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. She said she has “no higher priority” than the security of her department’s staff, and that she is committed to making the department “safer, stronger and more secure.” “As I have said many times, I take responsibility, and nobody is more committed to getting this right,” Clinton said, later chok-

when the caskets were returned. The secretary went on to defend the administration’s actions on the night of September 11, when the U.S. diplomatic compound in Benghazi came under fire and four Americans died. “I directed our response from the State Department and stayed in close contact with officials from across our government and the Libyan government,” she said. “No delays in decision-making. No denials of support from Washington or from our military.” Citing the findings of a review panel, she said: “The Board said the response saved American lives in real time -- and it did.” Several accounts relayed to Fox News, though, suggest possible delays in the response.

US Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton testifying before the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, yesterday. PHOTO: REUTERS

a FAST team of Marines out of Spain was asked by State Department officials to change out of their Marine uniforms after being asked to leave for Libya to help -- this required them to deplane and delayed them by about 90 minutes, according to Pentagon officials. Then there is the decision by Clinton and State Department Undersecretary of Management Patrick Kennedy not to mobilize the Counterterrorism Security Group, which is composed of experts on terrorism from across government agencies and makes recommendations on the response to crises involving terrorism. Further, there are questions about the perceived delays CIA officials -- stationed in Benghazi -- encountered that night and their frustration that air support was not sent from nearby Sigonella air base. In recent weeks, Fox News has learned that the rescue unit that left Tripoli was told that air support would be above when they landed in Benghazi. It wasn’t. Members of the Special Operations teams sent from Fort Bragg, N.C. and the Commander’s In Extremis Force in nearby Croatia also say they were never given permission to enter Libya, even though some were just a short flight away in Europe.

surprisingly strong showing by centrists in Israel’s national election tempered a narrow majority won by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s party. Netanyahu’s right-wing Likud Beitenu won between 31 and 33 Knesset seats in the Israel election, TV exit polls reported, more than any other party, as expected. But that’s a sharp drop for the bloc, a coalition of the Likud and the Yisrael Beitenu parties that had 42 seats in the outgoing Knesset. Jewish Home, an extreme right party with a charismatic leader, Naftali Bennett, held its own, getting between 11 and 12 seats. The Yesh Atid party, a new centrist movement devoted to helping the middle class and halting military draft exemptions for ultra-Orthodox civilians, came in a surprising second place with at least 18 seats, according to the exit polls. The Central Election Committee reported yesterday that 99% of votes have been counted and verified, but outstanding votes from members of the military and prisoners won’t be finalized for a couple of days. Official results and allocation of seats in the Knesset -- Israel’s parliament -- won’t be announced until then.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Community Mirror Monarch lauds upgrading of 50 police post

“Too many lives have been lost in unexplainable and avoidable circumstances and this reminds us of victims of bombed churches.” CAN PRESIDENT, PASTOR AYO ORITSEJAFOR

Police finds, returns stolen baby WOLE ADEDEJI ILORIN

he Kwara State police said it has recovered and returned a stolen baby to her parents. The baby, Funke Alaba, who is nine months old, was allegedly stolen by the mother’s bosom friend at Oro, Irepodun Local Government Area in September of last year. The Police, who returned

the baby to her happy parents, said they received report of a missing baby from the Oro Police Division and instantly went into action. According to Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Olufemi Fabode, a case of a missing child on January 18,2013 was reported and was later transferred to the state CID, which commenced investigations that took them to Oranmiyan Area of Ibadan, Oyo State .

“On getting to Aramiyan, the nine month old baby girl was discovered. Her name is Funke Alaba. The suspect whose name was given as Miss Shade is presently at large,” Fabode said. He said,the police is making all efforts to arrest her, even as the spokesperson said Shade was a long time friend of the girl’ mother. He said Shade visited the girl’s mother. After the host went into the kitchen to pre-

pare food, the suspect took the girl and disappeared. Following investigations, the police discovered that Shade brought the baby to Ilorin, bought dresses and other items before leaving for Ibadan. On getting to Ibadan, she introduced the baby as her child,even as she kept the baby with a nanny Fearing she may be nabbed, she ran away leaving the child behind.

Church leader, five others arraigned for drug offence KAYODE KETEFE

63-year old church leader, Elder Jerome Ukwa, and five other persons have been charged before a Federal High Court, Lagos, for alleged production of a narcotic, Methamphetamine. The others include: Anslem Okolie, 35, Augustine Umeodiegwu 48, Kenneth Aharawuma 27, Ejike James 30, and Patrick Okolo 54. They were all arraigned on a three-count charge of production and distribution of illegal drug, even as they pleaded not guilty to

2012, by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at Ilasa, Isolo, Lagos State, following a tip-off. Aenan, told the court that after his arrest, Ukwa claimed to be a Pentecostal church elder. Aernan further alleged that the brain behind the production of the illegal substance was the third accused, Augustine Umeodiegwu. Lawyers for the accused persons, Mr. Benson Dakara and Mr Ugochukwu Nwokocha, prayed the court to grant bail to their clients, stressing that they would not jump bail but would promptly attend

ustice Olabisi Akinlade of the Criminal Division, Ikeja High Court has sentenced a 36year old man, Obot Friday to a four years imprisonment for the death of his son, Michael. Obot ,faced a one-count charge of manslaughter at the Ikeja High Court, after he was accused of killing his 11-year old son by flogging him with cable wire on September 12, 2009 for allegedly refusing to sleep at home. Mrs. Mariam Olaniyi, prosecuting on behalf of the Lagos State Government, said that the defendant was aware of the probable consequences of his action. She added that it was established that Obot beat his son into a state of coma with a cable wire. The boy was rushed to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, where he died few hours later. She added that the defendant was charged for the offence of manslaughter in accordance with Section 325 of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 17, Vol 2, Laws of Lagos State. The defendant claimed he was told by a prophet, that Michael was witch

because he was very stubborn. He added that since he was six years old, things have not been normal for the family. Obot, also told the court that the boy left home and could not be found till the following day, stressing that he refused to take instruction to kneel down when asked. He admitted beating his late son to state of coma following which the boy was rushed to the hospital where he was confirmed dead. Counsel to the defendant, Mr. Kazeem of the Office of the Public Defender, pleaded on behalf of his client, stating that he was remorseful, having realized he committed an offence contrary to the Lagos State Criminal Laws, adding that his client did not have the intention of killing his son. He further stated that his client was the bread winner of the family and that he did not have any record of previous conviction. He, therefore, pleaded for mercy. In her ruling, the Judge, considering the circumstances, sentenced the accused to four years imprisonment.

Man, 61, dies having sex

Some of the suspects arrested in Ebonyi State by the NSCDC for murder of a middle aged man.

all the counts. About three kilogrammes of the narcotic was alleged to have been recovered from the accused, after which they were detained at the Ikoyi prison. The prosecution, represented by Mr. I.J Aernan, told the court that the accused committed the alleged offence on November 23, 2012. It was alleged the accused are in the business of producing and selling illegal drug called Methamphetamine, which is a cocaine-analogue. According to the prosecution, the accused were arrested on November

Father jailed for killing son

trial. They also claimed the offences were bailable and that bail is not meant to serve as a punishment. The bail applications were, however, opposed by the prosecution. In his ruling, the presiding judge, Justice Saliu Saidu, held that the prosecution had failed to state a cogent reason why the accused should be denied bail which is a constitutional right. The judge consequently granted them bail in the sum of N5 Million each with one surety each in like sum and adjourned the trial till March 7, 2012.

TONY ANICHEBE UYO

here was pandemonium on Akanimoh Street in Eket,Akwa Ibom State, when a 61 year old man, identified as Akpan Okon, slumped and died during sex in GUAN Hotel on the same street. Community Mirror gathered the man, who came into the hotel with a young lady whom a reliable source confirmed is in her early twenties, had tarried inside the room, a situation that forced the hotel staff to make enquiries. A source said that when the room was forced open, the lifeless body of the man was found lying on

the bed without the lady who was believed to have disappeared immediately the man slumped. It was learnt that on confirming their father’s death, the children had invaded the hotel and destroyed properties in retaliation. When Community Mirror visited the hotel, stern looking security personnel were seen guarding the place. When contracted, the Divisional Police Officer (D.P.O) for Eket said investigations were ongoing. It would be recalled that in 2005, a similar incident happened in the same hotel when a staff of Mobil Producing Nigeria, died during casual sex.

Community Mirror

Thursday, January 24, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Monarch lauds upgrading of police post HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE

he Ondo State Police Command has been commended for upgrading the police station at Ilu Tuntun to a divisional headquaters, as it has helped reduce crime, including recent recovery of arms and ammunitions in the area. This commendation was made by the traditional ruler, Oba Earnest Adeoye Idepefo, the Majuwa of Ilu Tuntun and Moribodo kingdom, who said

upgrading of the station indicated the command’s readiness to combat crime. He said the creation of the divisional headquarters has restored normalcy in the community, even as he noted that crime was high before the upgrading of the station. He however said people in the area now move about without fear of being molested or attacked. The monarch said that crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, thuggery and others have since become things of the past.

He said the crime rate was so high that the criminals operated without hinderance, saying “My palace was not spared as armed robbers have visited it more than four times, carting away valuables, injured staff and destroyed cars. But with the new police divisional headquarters, we can now sleep with our two eyes closed, walk in the street without fear of being molested.” Oba Idepefo, commended the Divisional Police Officer saying “the

DPO needs to be encouraged, she has been doing wonderfully well, peace has been totally restored, police now work both day and night as part of efforts to reduce crime in the area. He attributed the latest arrest of some bandits by the police to vigilance of the officers, even as he explained that the police patrol team rescued some injured accident victims, unaware they were armed robbers but after searching their vehicles found caches of arms.

According to him, the arms include two AK 47, eight magazines and 96 live ammunitions. The traditional ruler however solicited government support in providing patrol vehicles for the division to ease movement of officers to combat crimes. It would be recalled that police officers from the area recovered arms and ammunitions from a Toyota Sienna car which was involved in an accident on the Lagos – Ore Expressway. The incident at Omoto-

sho area occurred when the Toyota car with registration number FKJ 365 AS, from Benin to Lagos was involved in an accident. It was gathered that one of the occupants in the vehicle identified as Prince Obasi, died while being rescued alongside other victims by the police,even as 10 knockout explosives, two AK 47 rifles marked 08849 and 213740 and eight magazines with 96 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition each were recovered.

Etikan elders petition govt over chieftaincy crisis Traditional ruler aspirant HAKEEM GBADAMOSI

AKURE

ollowing the killing of a 23 year old man,Oyetakin Orioye in Etikan in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, the council of Chiefs and elders have petitioned the government to intervene in the lingering crisis in the community, even as they accused the local government caretaker chairman, Hon. Banji Okunomo of meddling in chieftaincy matters. In a letter signed by four principal chiefs which include Chief Festus Oroyo, head of Mafemiwa ruling house, Rev. Folagbade Mebawondu, head of Kogun ruling house, Chief Olu Ayemo, head of Ikumapayi ruling house and Chief Owonifari Omodun, head of Holo

ruling house, they absolved the community over the ugly incident on December 27th 2012, that claimed the life of Orioye Oyetakin, alleged to have been shot by hoodlums. The chiefs said the late Orioye, was killed following invasion of the community, even as they claimed he was among hoodlums sponsored by Hon. Okunomo to disrupt peace in the community. They claimed the Okunomo family of Etikan, deliberately fixed their family day celebration to coincide with the community’s annual masquerade festival, saying all appeal to shift the date fell on deaf ears. They also alleged the Okunomo family celebration was designed to install the Onikan elect, Adeleke Oyetakin, as Oba, saying “the

Gov Mimiko

family deliberately fixed their purported Okunomo family day on the same day the community celebrates its masquerade festival, all in a bid to install Adeleke Oyetakin. All efforts to prevail on the caretaker chairman and his associates to alter the date proved abortive, as he claimed he was not subject to the tradition and custom of the community”. They claimed Orioye was killed during the invasion

of the community by hoodlums, who were sponsored by Okunomo. “The slain son of Oyetakin was among them, as he drove one of the Hilux vans used in the attack. The thugs invaded at midnight of December 27th with guns, cutlasses, arrows and other dangerous weapons, while sacking the community and destroying properties of perceived enemies. In the process they shot Orioye Oyetakin”. But the caretaker chairman, Banji Okunomo denied sponsoring hoodlums to disrupt peace in the community, as he faulted allegation that the late Oyetakin was killed during a midnight attack, but rather claimed the hoodlums attacked late Orioye and some family members in the evening hours of that day.

charged for fraud DENNIS AGBO ENUGU

he Police have charged one Sir Ikechukwu Okeke, a traditional ruler aspirant in Amangwu-Obuoffia Community of Enugu State to court on a fourcount charge of fraud. No plea was taken when the matter came up at the Chief Magistrate’s Court 9, Enugu East as the accused was not in court. Presiding Magistrate Mrs.E. Jideofor adjourned the case to February 8, 2013, after counsel to the accused, Mr. Foster Ugwoke, claimed his client was admitted to hospital in Emene, and could

not appear in court. He asked for a short adjournment, which police prosecutor Paulinus Onyeigbo (ASP) did not object to, even as he expressed reservations that the accused may be avoiding the court. In the four-count charge, the police alleged that Okeke on May 10th, 2011, at Owokeen Petrol Station near the National Orthopedic Hospital Enugu, did with intent to defraud, receive from one William Ohaa, the sum of N140, 000 which he paid into Account No. 5492010018744 of First Bank Plc to watch an international football match believed to be false and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 386 of the Criminal Code Cap 30 Vol. 11 Revised Laws of Enugu State of Nigeria 2004.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

North

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Court rejects Goje’s appeal to discontinue case in Gombe DANJUMA WILLIAMS GOMBE

L-R: Minority Leader, Kaduna State House of Assembly, Alhaji Shehu Adamu; member, House Committee on Youth and Sports, Alhaji Muhammed Ali and the committee Chairman, Mr. Bitiyong Nkom, during the budget defence at the Assembly, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

he Federal High Court in Gombe has rejected the application by former Governor Danjuma Goje to transfer his money laundering case to any part of the country outside the North-East geopolitical zone. Ruling on the application filed by counsel to the former Gombe State governor, the presiding judge, Justice Babtunde Qadiri, said after carefully studying the arguments of both the prosecution and defence counsel, he arrived at the conclusion that they shared common grounds that there had been a series of attack in Gombe and other parts of the country and the rights of all the ac-

cused to fair hearing had not been infringed. The judge then said none of the accused persons or counsel had been attacked or subjected to any threat since the case commenced and if the court transferred the case, it would give a different impression to the common man. He added that no session of the court had been interrupted by a security threat since hearing commenced. Qadiri therefore rejected the application for change of venue. He said: “This application is hereby rejected for now. However if any of the accused, counsel or witnesses is harassed, no matter how little, even if it is a phone call, please inform the court.”

Fear grips Kaduna residents needs assistance for over influx of Okada riders NPC credible census –Aliyu A ZA MSUE KADUNA

here is apprehension in Kaduna State over the influx of commercial motorcyclists, whose operations have been outlawed in Kano State. The motorcyclists, otherwise called Okada riders, were banned in Kano city because of criminals operation on motorcycles. The residents of Kaduna State, who spoke with our correspondent yesterday, expressed fear there might be increase in crime in the state. One of the residents, who pleaded anonym-

ity, said: “The ban of Okada in Kano city has negative security implications on Kaduna State because many of them will certainly move to Zaria, Kaduna city and other towns in the state to carry on their business. “You know Okada riders pick passengers everywhere. They do not know the kind of passengers they pick from one place to the other. Okada riders may not be involved in crime, but their passengers may commit crime. “We are praying that security agencies will take charge of the situation. Kaduna State

had a series of attacks in recent times and we are appealing for more calm and stability in the state.” The Kano State Government banned the use of motorcycles for commercial purposes in Kano city following attack on the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, on Saturday, killing his driver and some guards. Kano State reportedly has the highest number of commercial motorcyclists who may relocate to neighbouring states like Kaduna, Jigawa among others to carry on their business. A security operative said most crimes, especially attacks on security

Armed robbers lay siege to Makurdi HENRY IYORKASE MAKURDI

here has been resurgence in criminal activities in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, in recent times. The residents now sleep with one eye closed because of the nefarious activities of men of the underworld as innocent citizens are on a daily basis attacked and robbed of their belongings. Investigation show that hardly a day passes without the report of one robbery case or the other.

Areas which are routinely attacked include New GRA, Owners Occupier Estate as well as Judges’ Quarters where very important personalities reside, including the former governor now Senate Minority Leader, Mr. George Akume. A victim, who preferred not to be named in print, said she was woken up about 3am by gun wielding men who forced their way into her house by breaking down the front door. According to her, the robbers requested for

money or ATM card. Speaking in similar vein, another victim, who also pleaded anonymity, recounted his ordeal. He said he was beaten up mercilessly by the robbers, who forced their way into his apartment and requested for cash. Unfortunately, however, he had no money at home because his father had just being discharged from the hospital. He added that he had spent all his money on the hospital bill.

personnel in the North were carried out by men on motorcycles. In a telephone interview with our correspondent, the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olufemi Adenaike, said security operatives had been fully mobilised. He said: “The question you are asking, we discussed the issue fully at State Security Council meeting. I don’t want to comment much on it but I can tell you that all our Kaduna borders have been blocked and placed under 24 hours surveillance to check influx of people into the state. In a few days, you will see our actions.”

PRISCILLA DENNIS MINNA

iger State Governor, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, has called on Nigerians to support the National Population Commission, NPC, in order to provide the country with credible population figures. Aliyu also stressed the need for NPC to search for means of testing the reliability of its figures. The governor made the call when the federal commissioner in the state, Aliyu Datti, led management staff of the NPC on a visit to him in Minna. He decried the way both death and birth registrations were being carried out in the country. Aliyu therefore urged the country to return to the tra-

ditional way of registration to ensure credible and acceptable figure. He said: “I am also opposed to the payment of levies for registration of birth and death. To me, sking people to pay will be a disincentive because after delivery, parents or relations are more concerned with raising money for naming ceremony or to buy burial cloths (in case of death).” Earlier, during an interaction, the state government officials and the NPC management gave different figures on the population of children between ages one and five in the state. The government, using the immunisation statistics of children, put it at two million, the NPC, based on the 2006 census, put the figure of children at less than one million.

Support Nasarawa’s development, gov’s aide tells speaker IGBAWASE UKUMBA LAFIA

asarawa State Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura’s administration has asked the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Musa Ahmed Mohammed, to support the government to rescue the state from the jaws of underdevelopment. The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mallam Iliyasu Ali Yakubu, said this in Lafia, the state capital, while reacting to a statement credited to the speaker in one of the national dailies denying knowledge of Al-Makura’s

plan to source for a N30 billion loan for the development of the state. He said: “I read the speaker’s alleged ignorance about my boss’ plan to source for a N30 billion loan facility in order to accelerate development in the state in one of the national dailies with dismay. “It is quite unfortunate that somebody whom I accord much respect and consider him to be an embodiment of integrity that such a statement will emanate from. “Perhaps, anybody in Nasarawa State who might have happened to be present at the state House Assembly com-

plex during the presentation of the 2013 Appropriation Bill by His Excellency, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, will be a living witness that the governor had conveyed that request to the state Assembly of his intention to secure a N30 billion loan for development of the state.” Yakubu said Mohammed, being a leader, should bear in mind that the purpose of seeking leadership of the people was to do what the people desired hence his attention should focus on the development of the state and not to bring in politics of sentiments in the affairs of governance.

News

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Nigeria’s leadership crisis blamed on greed OBIORA IFOH ABUJA

rominent Nigerians yesterday admitted that greed and selfishness among politicians are some of the fundamental causes of leadership crisis in country, even as they called on leaders to be more circumspect in the way power is used. Speaking at the 10th Daily Trust Dialogue with the theme: “Nation building: challenges and reality” the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, warned those

in position of authority to know that leaders hold their positions not by any divine law, but by the leave of the people, adding they are only leaders by proxy. He said: “This fact is common knowledge. But since we are talking about the reality of nation building, we must agree that more often than not we leaders behave as if the people owed us rather than the other way round. Once we get power, we become selfish and arrogant and forget that we are servants of the people and not masters of the universe.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Six suspected cultists docked for armed robbery N o fewer than six suspected members of a secret cult, Eiye Confraternity, were yesterday arraigned before a Lagos State High Court in Ikeja for alleged armed robbery. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that those arraigned were Ahmed Ibrahim, 22; Lateef Lawal, 25; Azeez Onikosi, 22; Femi Oladeji,

20; Kilani Azeez, 22; and Victor Aitanu, 23. They are facing a fourcount charge of conspiracy, armed robbery, burglary and membership of an unlawful society. The prosecutor, Mrs Mosunola Balogun, told the court that the defendants on April 6, 2012, at Alozie Hotel, Ishawu, Lagos, robbed one Ahanu Akpata of N64,000.

Balogun said that the accused also burgled a room in the hotel and stole textile materials belonging to one Mrs Adesola Ajayi. The prosecutor said that the stolen goods worth N300,000. Balogun said that the defendants were armed with dangerous weapons when they committed the offences.

According to her, the offences contravene Sections 42, 295(2), 297 and 305 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State, 2011. The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charge. The judge, Justice Lateefat Okunnu, ordered that they should be remanded pending the hearing of their applications for bail on February 12.

NURTW boss hails award on Chidoka KAYODE FASUA

he National President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Alhaji Najim Yasi, yesterday expressed delight over Sunday’s bestowal of “Public Officer of the Year” award on the Corps Marshal of Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr. Osita Chidoka, describing it as deserving and overdue. According to him, commercial drivers in the country are particularly proud of the leadership

style of Chidoka, “who has transformed his officers and men into polite agents of the law, dutifully serving the road users.” Yasi, in an interview with our correspondent, described the award on Chidoka by Hallmark Newspapers as “a true reflection of his leadership style.” According to him, “Chidoka has helped commercial drivers through countless enlightenment programmes, taking us along as partners in progress and not like the case of predators against their preys.

Prayers being offered at the annual Maulud Nabiyyi celebration marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad at the Shehu of Borno’s palace in Maiduguri, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Otedola vs Lawanl: Keyamo prepares charges for private prosecution E MMANUEL O NANI ABUJA

Lagos-based lawyer, Mr. Festus Keyamo, is set to begin private prosecution of the suspended Chairman of the House of Representative’ Committee on Education, Hon. Farouk Lawan. The move is in keeping with his seven-day ultimatum to the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of justice, Mr. Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN), to act on the case. In a letter sent to the AGF yesterday, Keyamo said that his resolve was consequent upon Section 342 of the Criminal Procedure Act Cap. C41, Laws of the Federation

of Nigeria, 2004. Attached to the letter is proof of evidence against the embattled lawmaker and “his accomplice, one Boniface Emenalo.” The letter, entitled: “Prosecution of Farouk Lawan and Boniface Emenalo for conspiracy to accept gratification, agreeing to accept gratification, accepting gratification and criminal intimidation” reads in part: “Last week, I gave a seven-day ultimatum to the Police to commence prosecution of one Farouk Lawan, a member of the House of Representatives and his accomplice, one Boniface Emenalo, for agreeing to and actually accepting gratification from one

Femi Otedola in order to doctor the report of the House ad-hoc Committee on fuel subsidy. From reports I read in the media after issuing my ultimatum, the police have passed the buck over to your office for the inaction so far, claiming it has finished the investigation and that your of-

Adoke

fice has just refused to file charges for reasons unknown to the public. “It is for the above reasons I have prepared a Charge (attached herewith) for the purpose of private prosecution. “Therefore, consequent upon Section 342 of the Criminal Procedure Act, Cap C41 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, I forward herewith the following proof of evidence and documents to you: (1) The Criminal Charge against Farouk Lawan and Boniface Emenalo. (2) The proof of evidence: (a) A recording of a telephone conversation between Farouk Lawan and Femi Otedola contained in a memory card wherein Farouk Lawan was so-

liciting or asking for gratification to doctor his report and appealing to Otedola to keep it secret. (b) The transcript of the said recording. (c) Court processes (including a sworn testimony on oath) in Suit No. FCT/3839/2012: BETWEEN ZENON PET. & GAS LTD. & ANOR. V. LAWAN & ORS, where the graphic details of how the accused persons solicited for, and received gratification from Femi Otedola are stated. “Needless to say that these are just proofs of evidence and the originals shall only be presented during trial. “The position of the law is that, before I commence private prosecution, you should be given

the opportunity to prosecute or to decline to prosecute. This is what I have done by this letter. “I will expect your reply by the close of official business on Tuesday, January 29, 2013, to enable me determine my next line of action. “I sincerely hope you will make your decision one way or the other as any indecision on your part will amount to a refusal to act as held by the Supreme Court in the case of CHIEF GANI FAWEHINMI V. COL. HALILU AKILU & ANOR: IN RE: ODUNEYE reported in 1987 (4 NWLR) P. 67. In that case, it will be all-clear signal I require to file the Charge.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Club raises Sunzu dust

Coach rues Togo’s loss

ogo’s coach, Didier Six, is still seething over his team’s disallowed goal in a 2-1 Africa Cup of Nations Group D defeat to Ivory Coast in Rustenburg on Wednesday. The Hawks cancelled out Yaya Toure’s opener when Jonathan Ayite struck in first-half stoppage time, and had the ball in the back of the net off a corner after the break. But that effort was ruled out by Cameroon referee Alioum Neant, apparently because the corner had been taken too quickly. Arsenal’s Gervinho then compounded Togo’s plight with the winner two minutes from time. “There were too many refereeing mistakes. It’s not an excuse, but there were too many abnormal decisions,” Six said yesterday.

AFOLABI GAMBARI

WITH AGENCY REPORT

Bafana Bafana players jubilating after their win over Palancas Negras in Durban yesterday

Bafana bashes Negras, nears quarter-finals

A Togo coach, Didier Six

turnaround in fortune yesterday saw South Africa returning to contention after an easy 2-0 win over Angola in their second Group A match at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. Centre-back Siyabonga Sangweni volleyed in at the far post to score Bafana Bafana’s first goal of the tournament as the hosts dominated but lacked a cutting edge.

How important is this Africa Cup of Nations to Mali? It’s an important competition in many ways for Mali and we don’t want to mess it up. We need to work our socks off and make sure that Mali can be proud of its children. After finishing third the last time in Gabon/Equatorial Guinea, what are the prospects this year? The team has grown up. We’ve got more experience and more confidence too thanks to the last Cup of Nations. Patrick Carteron is in charge now and he’s already taught us a lot. We also have some new players who are making their own contribution. We’re not worse than we were in 2012 and we believe we can win the title. How do you cope with the expec-

They were later rewarded with a second goal when Lehlohonolo Majoro slotted past the keeper from a tight angle, only two minutes after he came on as substitute. Katlego Mphela was among those to be drafted in from the start, with coach Gordon Igesund hoping the striker would provide some much-needed threat up front in a team that has long been strug-

gling to score. Angola threatened to add to the goal tally shortly after when Manucho rose to meet a corner but Bafana goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune managed to beat the ball away. South Africa had a good chance to add a third when Bernard Parker crossed for Majoro but this time he could not provide the finish.

P Mazembe of Congo DR yesterday alleged that the managers of Zambia defender, Stopilla Sunzu, lied to English Premier League side Reading that the player is a free agent. Reports said last week that Sunzu had passed medical and agreed terms with Reading, but the latest development appears to put spanner in the works. Mazembe President, Moses Katumbi, said in a statement that the reports on the club’s player were deliberately misleading. “Sunzu is contracted to us until 2015,” Katumbi said. “I suspect the people behind those reports are his agents who want to get Sunzu for free by lying that his contract with Mazembe expired last December and we have a copy of the contract here which we can prove to anyone,” he added. Sunzu, who is currently on national duty at the 2013 Africa Cup in South Africa, had been granted permission by Coach Herve Renard to fly to England to cement the Reading deal early last week. RESULTS South Africa

2-0

Angola

Morocco

1-1

Cape Verde

Why Mali aren’t African superpower–Keita After a great start to the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa, Mali’s captain, Seydou Keita, says he will be unstoppable this time. The 33-year-old spoke to FIFA.com on his journey since he became a full international in 2000 tation that comes with your high profile as the most experienced player in the squad? Surely, when you have a status like that, there’s a pressure that comes with the privileges. You just have to accept it, but I cope with it very well and it makes me proud to think that my country can count on me. The expectation creates a positive pressure on me. What are your thoughts now on your time at Barcelona? I had four magnificent years there and I won seven titles, in-

cluding the Champions League, Club World Cup and the Liga. The years were important to me as a player, and even more so as a man. It was while I was in Spain that I raised my children and became a father. What is still missing in Mali as you look to become one of Africa’s major powers? Continuity. Unfortunately, there has been a lot of rotation on the playing side, either because of injuries or other problems. In addition, we have had a succession

of different coaches, one after the other. You need a minimum of stability for things to work. Changes are always a handicap for a team. What is your target for Brazil 2014 World Cup? I was lucky enough to play in one at U-20 level in 1999 and I’d like to experience that again before the end of my career–both for myself and for Mali. I can’t even imagine the joy it would bring to our people if we were fortunate enough to qualify for Keita (with the ball) Brazil.

WORLD RECORD

Largest ship (cargo ship) Vol. 03 No. 542

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Protecting the girl child

haped by discrimination and bias, the society, especially in the third world, has dealt the girl-child a rough blow even before birth. India, for instance, accounts for the termination of about 10 million female foetuses over the past 20 years, while female infants are still found dumped in dump sites in large numbers. In Nigeria, the story is not different as women continue to endure all sorts of humiliations for giving birth to girls - the so called weaker sex. In her journey through life, the girlchild, when lucky enough to be spared, undergoes a lot of harrowing experiences, ranging from early marriage, low level of schooling, exposure to violence, HIV infection, maternal death and vesicovaginal fistula. Although child marriage is against the law in many countries, including Nigeria, it is estimated that about 51 million girls

N150

The world’s largest ship of any kind is the oil tanker Jahre Viking (formerly the Happy Giant and Seawise Giant), at 564,763 tonnes (1,245 billion lb) deadweight and 260,815 grt. The tanker is 458.45 m (1,504 ft) long overall, has a beam of 68.8 m (226 ft) and a draught of 24.61 m (80 ft 9 in).

ormer footballer Fabrice Muamba, who almost died on the pitch during an English Premier League game at White Hart Lane last March, is to become a father for the second time, his wife Shauna announced yesterday. The couple, who married in Oc-

Guest Columnist

Biliqis

Bakare

are forced into early marriages world-wide. In Nigeria, the marriageable age varies from one region to the other. In the NorthWest and North- East regions, for instance, 14 years is considered as the average age for marriage, while in the North -Central region, marriage could be contracted between 2nd and 3rd menstruation, whereas in the Southern part it varies from between 16 to 18 years. Quite often, in most African countries, parents of child brides are driven by factors such as pressure to conform to age long customs like preservation of chastity and economic considerations. In poor developing nations, it is not uncommon for poverty stricken parents to settle debts by offering their underage girls as payments. Invariably, these early marriages deny girls the opportunity for quality education, in addition to depriving them of their childhood. Among the more than 100 million children not in school globally, approximately 40% are girls. In Nigeria, women and girls constitute 60% of the illiterate population. Also, most young wives,burdened by growing up responsibilities, household chores, rearing of children, most often do not get a chance to interact with their peers or carry on friendships outside the household. This put them in a state of complete dependency on their husbands. As a result of the age gap existing between the child brides and their spouses, they are often exposed to domestic violence and other forms of abuse. At least one in three girls and women worldwide has been beaten or sexually abused in her lifetime.

EARLY MARRIAGES DENY GIRLS THE OPPORTUNITY FOR QUALITY EDUCATION IN ADDITION TO DEPRIVING THEM OF THEIR CHILDHOOD It is now a common occurrence to hear of girls and women being frequently raped, irrespective of their ages. Today, of all girls and women’s fears that of being raped is the darkest .The rape epidemic in our society reflects the extent to which women’s and girls’ (women’s) rights are being violated. It has gone so bad that minors, as young as four years old, are now being raped with the resultant effect of preventing the victims from socializing or settling down later in life. Equally, child-brides often suffer from vesicovaginal fistula, a medical condition where there is an opening between the uterus and the bladder because the pelvic bones do not have sufficient time to develop. This often leads to abandonment or divorce by their husbands and ostracization by their communities as urine continuously leak from their bladders. Also, it has been estimated that over two million girls and women are subjected to genital mutilation every year, a practice still rampant in some parts of Nigeria. Intervention into the practice is considered

a violation of privacy, yet many girls face several health risks through this practice, including contraction of HIV infection through the use of unhygienic methods in carrying out the procedure. Statistical data show that adolescent girls have HIV rate up to five percent higher than their boys’ counterpart. And during child birth, women in sub Saharan Africa face a one in 13 chances of dying, whereas in Europe the risk is one in 1, 200. As a result of all these challenges women and girls are left to contend with, the United Nations General Assembly on December 19, 2011 adopted resolution 66/ 170 to declare October 11 every year as the International Day of the Girl-Child in recognition of girls’ rights and the unique challenges they face. The first one was marked in 2012 with the theme: ‘Ending Child Marriage’. Experiences have shown that investments in girls’ education translate directly and quickly into poverty reduction, better healthcare, better nutrition for the whole family, and better overall economic performance for the nation. Therefore, one of the best strategies for protecting the girl-child is to improve her access to good quality primary and secondary education. By the time she leaves the secondary school she would have been armed with some basic knowledge on how to cope and interact with the opposite sex , and face the challenges of child rearing. Elimination of gender gaps in school enrolment should also be a top priority. Public awareness should also be created about the dangers inherent in child marriages and legislations put in place to punish violators. The citizens also have to report cases of gender-based violence to the police. In all, it is imperative for policy and decision makers to bear in mind that the worth of a nation is measured by the number of its empowered females and not the amount of money in its foreign reserve. Bakare is of the Features Unit, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos

Sport Extra

Muambas set for second baby tober, revealed that a brother or sister for their four-year-old son Joshua is expected to arrive in June. “Thanks for all the lovely well wishes. We’ve been so blessed and can’t wait to meet our new baby,” Shauna wrote on Twitter.

Muamba was technically dead for 78 minutes after his collapse in the FA Cup game between Bolton and Tottenham Hotspur but was brought back to life after shocks from a defibrillator got his heart beating again.

Despite his recovery, however, he was forced to retire from professional football in August. In October, he launched the Hearts and Goals campaign, which aims to provide CPR training and increase the provision of defibrillators in public places in Britain.

Muamba

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