Thursday, May 23, 2013 by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

Police apologise to Amaechi, reinstate Speaker’s security aides

Fake security reports:

PDP demands punishment for erring judges, others

Ex-militants protest against governor

SAM OLUWALANA AND GODWIN OKONKWO

Vol. 3 N0. 627

he Police yesterday apologised to the Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, over the action of some its men in the crisis rocking the state

chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. The police authorities assured that they would make amends in righting all the CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

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Mimiko

Thursday, May 23, 2013

N150

Soldiers leak secrets to Boko Haram –Army chief

...says culprits’ll face the music Detainees to be released in phases

ISE-OLUWA IGE, OBIORA IFOH, OMEIZA AJAYI, AZA MSUE AND INUSA NDAHI

Sunmonu

Oil firms to invest N25.7trn in five years

he Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, yesterday disclosed that officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army were leaking vital information on military operations to the Boko Haram insurgents. Ihejirika, who made the disclosure yesterday warned men of the Nigerian Army to desist from such terrible acts or face the music. He read the riot act in CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

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L-R: Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Mrs. Chinwe Nwebili; Deputy Governor, Mr. Emeka Sibeudu; wife of the governor, Mrs. Margret Obi; Governor Peter Obi; widow of the late Prof. Chinua Achebe, Christy; his son, Ike and daughter, Chinelo, at a farewell session in honour of the late author in Awka, yesterday. More tributes on page 3,54-55. PHOTO: NAN

Killers of Kwara police commissioner arrested in Enugu P.11

British soldier killed in London terror attack

Customs, police impound large cache of ammunition

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Four suspected cultists killed in Lagos P.8,10 Nollywood: Pornographic movies flood Lagos P.4

PM cuts short Paris visit

Cameron

News

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Police apologise to Amaechi, reinstate Speaker’s security aides CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

wrongs inadvertently made by its officers. Also, youths, numbering over 2000, believed to be former militants under the umbrella of Rivers People Assembly, RPA, yesterday gathered at Isaac Boro Park, Port Harcourt, chanting anti-Amaechi slogans. The new Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG, in charge of Zone 6, Jonathan Johnson, acknowledged that police officers and men in the Rivers State Command might have made errors in the discharge of their constitutional duties in the recent political events in the state. He applauded the gesture of Amaechi in improving the welfare and operations of the Police in the state. Johnson stated this when he led a delegation of senior police officers in the zone on a courtesy visit to the governor at the Government House, Port Harcourt yesterday. The AIG said he had directed the state Commissioner of Police, Mbu Joseph Mbu, to ensure that there was no security breach in the state. He said: “So, we will take note of all these mistakes and we will correct them. I am assuring you, we will correct them. If there

are lapses noticed, let us know so that we can make amends. “And I also want to thank you (Amaechi) that for all you have done for us and the others that you are going to do. We shall continue to appreciate because you know requests from the police will never stop coming. “Every human being that has served or is going to serve (the Nigeria Police Force) sometimes is susceptible to some errors here and there and when that comes to forefront, it is incumbent on that very particular person to say we shall amend. “I know when these issues of withdrawal of security from some staff officers of yours came, there were agitations here and there.” Johnson added that he had instructed Mbu to replace the police orderlies from the Anti-Terrorism Squad withdrawn from some top officials with policemen from the Special Protection Unit. He commended Amaechi for showing understanding and support for the police, while promising to communicate this to his boss in Abuja. “We have always been at the wrong side of history because of one thing or the other but you (Amaechi)

show understanding in our mistakes, you show understanding in our service and that is why you’ve provided all these things. “We remain grateful to you on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police. We say a big thank you. “I must show gratitude because I’ve heard so much about your activities, when your government singlehandedly sponsored the development and training of our ATS (Anti-Terrorism Squad) centre here in Rivers State.

“We have it on record, your numerous activities of assistance to the command and to the mobile police force. “I can also see what I have seen on the road yesterday, the new patrol vehicles here and there, that is to show your demonstration of love for the police force”. The AIG promised to use trained policemen from the ATS to fight kidnapping and other vices in the state. Amaechi thanked him

and his delegation for their visit, but appealed to the police not to play politics with the security of lives and property of the people of the state. “We should not play politics with security. The only responsibility enshrined in the constitution for both the President and the state governors is that we swear to an oath that we will protect lives and property and we are beginning to have that challenge in Rivers State. “I want you to kindly

convey to the Police Command that we are beginning to have security challenges in Rivers State and we should not forget that you may play politics with every other thing but one place you don’t play politics with is the security of the lives of our people who elected us to offices and it will not be to the interest of Rivers people if we go back to the era of 2005, 2006 and early 2007,” Amaechi said. The youths drawn from CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

L-R: President Goodluck Jonathan; World Boxing Organisation International Champion, King Davidson Emenogu; Vice-President Namadi Sambo and Mr. Emma Emenogu, during a reception in Abuja, yesterday.

Soldiers leak secrets to Boko Haram –Army chief CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Abuja at the opening ceremony of a three-day Army Transformation Seminar with the theme “Building capacity of the Nigerian Army to meet contemporary challenges.” The COAS said: “Let me use this opportunity to warn officers and soldiers who indulge in giving out information both from Army Headquarters and other formations certain vital information that had one way or the other worked negatively in our operations. “There are also some other soldiers that have been found posting negative comments in the internet and also some had been engaged in conversing with insurgents.” He said any officer or soldier linked, one way or the other, to the insurgents would be sanctioned. To buttress this point,

the Army chief disclosed that a soldier that gave out information on the movement of troops to Mali and were subsequently attacked near Okene, Kogi State, had been apprehended and he would be court-martialled. Ihejirika said the seminar could not have come at a better time when the country was grappling with security challenges, some of which threaten the nation’s corporate existence. He said that the Directorate of Military Intelligence, DMI, the Military Police and commanders in the field had been encouraged to continue the monitoring activity, adding that military service was based on patriotism. Ihejirika, however, said he was impressed with the choice of theme of the seminar. “I have also noted that series of lecture outlined in the programme, which

is centred on management and human resource development in the Army. The theme was central to the attainment of my vision which is “to transform the Army to a force better ableto meet contemporary challenges.” Chairman, Senate Committee on Defence, Senator Thompson Sekibo, commended the Army for the sacrifice it had made in the line of duty and in furtherance of national interest and cohesion. He noted the steadfastness and conduct of the officers and soldiers in meeting with the current security challenges facing the nation. The senator said the professionalism, patriotism and selflessness with which the officers and soldiers respond to internal security challenges, especially the wave of terrorism are both reassuring and commendable.

Sekibo said the present administration was aware of all the daunting challenges facing them and the National Assembly would ensure that all their demands were met. He asked the Army to continue to uphold public confidence in maintaining law and order in their internal security and peace support operations. The Chief of Army Transformation, Maj-Gen. Ibrahim Sani, said the essence of the Army transformation was for greater effectiveness, to be ready for today’s challenges and prepare for emerging and evolving future threats. “This requires the Nigerian Army to think differently and develop the kind of force and capabilities that can adapt quickly to the myriad evolving contemporary threats,” Sani said. He said the Army Trans-

formation and Innovation Centre recognised the importance of human resource element in the attainment of COAS’ vision. Sani said the event was to elicit new methods of optimising Army human resources management based on continuous improvement of management skills and procedure. Meanwhile, amid the speculations that high-profile terrorist suspects, like Kabiru Sokoto and others whose cases are already in court, would enjoy “presidential reprieve,” the Presidency has said that the measure was only for wives and children of the Boko Haram sect members. It, however, added that others releases would be effected later. The Presidency also said that the gesture was in accordance with the recommendations contained in the interim report by the

Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peace in Northern Nigeria that measure be adopted as part of government’s strategies to solve the security challenges in the North. In a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Affairs, Dr. Doyin Okupe, the Presidency said that the order for the release of the detainees would be in phases. He said: “Concerning the first batch, the emphasis is on women and children who have been in detention on suspicion of involvement and/or connection with insurgency in some parts of the country.” The Federal Government on Tuesday announced its decision to release some suspected members of the deadly Boko Haram Islamic sect, their wives and children, who had been held in various detention centres CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

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Tribute

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Chinua Achebe (1930-2013)

Encomiums for Achebe as Anambra celebrates literary icon CHARLES OKEKE AWKA

igerians yesterday poured encomiums on the late literary icon, Prof. Chinua Achebe as the Anambra State government staged the ‘Celebration of Life’ ceremony in his honour in a burial programme held at the Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, the state capital. The ceremony was marked by speeches delivered respectively by the state Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, the Senate President, David Mark and other dignitaries, who poured encomiums on the late literary giant and the worthy and exemplary life he lived. The Celebration of Life ceremony which was attended by dignitaries drawn from within and outside Nigeria was made to usher in the burial of Achebe in his Ikenga, Ogidi compound yesterday. Immediately the body of Achebe, who died in Boston, United States of America on March 21, 2013 at the age of 82, was brought in to the grand arena, accompanied by Governor Obi and key family members, the ceremony started with a prayer for God to have mercy on his soul. Once the preliminary formalities were complet-

ed, it was time for speech making by key dignitaries present. First to speak was Prof. Vincent Ike, a close associate of the late icon. He described Achebe as “Eagle that patched on an Iroko tree,” while thanking the state government for honouring Achebe with the first class burial. Ike regretted that all the great world class writers in Nigeria were all getting dead and gone. Senate President, David Mark, who was represented by the Senate Majority Leader, Senator Ndoma Egba, in his speech, described Achebe’s life as exemplary and worthy of emulation. He stated that with the death of Achebe, that Anambra State in particular, and Nigeria in general have lost a gem, a very great nationalist and a scholar. President-General of the Anambra Association of Town Unions, Dr Innocent Onwubuya, who spoke on behalf of the town union presidents, thanked God for giving Anambra somebody like Achebe, a man he said was difficult to be found anywhere again. Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof. Boniface Egboka, speaking for the academic community praised

Achebe, saying that he was a great man, father of African literature, a man whose works had made great impressions worldwide. He said Achebe was a mentor, a man of integrity, bold and fearless. He announced that the university will immortalise him with an annual lecture, Chinua Achebe Annual Lecture to be held in the institution. Speaking on behalf of the state House of Assembly, the Speaker, Hon. Chinwe Nwaebili, announced that the House has passed a resolution urging the state government to rename one of the higher institutions owned by it in honour of Achebe. The last person who spoke was Governor Obi. He thanked all the dignitaries and those who attended the ceremony for honouring Achebe with a big farewell ceremony. Obi who said Achebe showed everybody the path to good and exemplary life, described Achebe’s death as a big blow. He said it is important that people should emulate the worthy life Achebe lived; stressing that so far he has received condolence messages from the Presidents of 12 countries. •

More tribute Pages 54-55

L-R: Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Margret Obi; Governor Peter Obi; widow of late Prof. Chinua Achebe, Prof. Christy; his son, Dr. Ike Achebe and daughter, Prof. Chinelo Achebe.

Members of Achebe’s family.

Cross section of dignitaries

Dr. Chris Ngige and Hon. Emeke Nwogbo. L-R: Igwe Innocent Obodoakor of Agulu, Anugwu of Mbaukwu and Orizu of Nnewi.

Secretary to the State Government, Oseloka Obaze, Bishop Paulinus Ezeokafor and former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili.

Anambra State Chief Judge, Peter Umeadi: Speaker, Chinwe Nwebili and Deputy Governor, Emeka Sibeudu.

Photo News

Thursday, May 23, 2013

The World Bank Country Director in Nigeria, Maire Francoise Marie Nelly (right), presenting a copy of Nigerian Economic Report to Niger State Governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, in Minna, yesterday.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Newly appointed judges of the National Industrial Court during their swearing-in by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mariam Aloma Mukhtar, at the Supreme Court in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

L-R: Hon. Justice C. A. Balogun of the Lagos High Court; representative of the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Olubunmi Femi-Adeniyi and Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Ikeja branch, Mr. Monday Ubani, during the ongoing NBA Law Week in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: YINKA ADEPARUSI

L-R: Chief Financial Officer, Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman; Group Head, Retail Loans, Ms Kikelomo Kuponiyi; Country Manager, Intel Corporation, Mr. Olubumi Ekundare and Intel Global Director, Mr. Carlos Martinez, during a press conference to announce the Sterling Bank, Intel and Westgate Smart PC purchase deal in Lagos, yesterday.

National News

Nollywood: Pornographic movies flood Lagos NGOZI E MEDOLIBE

here appears to be a renewed effort by producers of pornographic films to get a huge chunk of the movie market in Nigeria. A recent survey conducted by National Mirror showed that in the last six months, over 40 film titles with nude scenes have flooded both the Idumota and Alaba markets, the two film depots in Lagos, the country’s commercial hub. While efforts are being made by some renowned producers to get Nigeria on the map of quality film productions, certain filmmakers, driven by the passion to make quick profits, have turned their attention to making films with lewd scenes, which are often sold in the open market. During a random visit to Idumota, it was discovered that films such as ‘Edge of Darkness’, ‘Dark Secrets’, ‘Sinful Act’, ‘Sinful Truth’ and ‘Oyoyo Air-

line’, among others, were the rave of the moment. Some other titles like ‘Bold Five Babes’, ‘Room 027’, ‘The Benjamins’, ‘Pregnant Hawkers’ and ‘Destructive Instincts’ were being awaited to appear on mass consumable formats. Although not displayed conspicuously on the shelves, all a customer needs to do is to explain what he or she wants and the items are brought for him from inner chambers. For instance, after our reporter convinced the shop owners that he was on a genuine mission, they disappeared to other adjoining shops to collect over 40 titles which they claimed had appeared this year. Such titles are usually released in parts, with potential buyers being forced to buy all the parts of any title they wish to watch. For reasons best known to the producers, they seem to have also narrowed their choice of

actors to some popular acts. It seems favourites are emerging in the person of actors like Tony Umez, Muna Obiekwe, Jibola Daboh, Tonto Dike and Ghanaian actors like Prince David Osei and Frank Artus. Phone calls to Umez on this development were neither picked nor text messages sent to him, replied at press time.

Meanwhile, the whole process seems to be happening behind the back of the Nigerian Film and Video Censors Board, NFVCB. A member of staff at the Corporate Affairs department of the NFVCB, who spoke on the development, said the producers might be cutting corners by submitting master tapes that were

at variance with the ones that were finally released. He said: “And they go along to put the classification logo of the board when they have clearly violated the rules of the classification.” When asked if the board was aware of ‘Bold Five Babes’, ‘Room 027’ and ‘The Benjamins’ making waves online, he said

it was not within the purview of NFVCB to monitor what happens online. He said: “Some of those may have been posted from locations other than Nigeria. It will be difficult to say what is being done elsewhere. As I speak to you, the board is not aware of such movies, because they have not been classified yet.”

Don’t succumb to temptation, CJN warns judges ISE-OLUWA IGE ABUJA

hief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Mariam Aloma Murhktar, yesterday said that judges must expect temptations of various forms, including bribery, from those standing trial before them. She, however, urged them to, at all times, resist temptations. Murhktar, who spoke in Abuja at the swearingin of 12 new judges for the National Industrial Court, NIC, also directed judges

not to shy away from reprimanding or jailing any lawyer or litigant who recklessly flouts court orders. The CJN, who said she expected a high moral standard from the new judges, however, slammed lawyers including members of the Inner Bar who engaged in media trial of the judiciary when they lost cases. Muhktar said the conduct was not only unprofessional but also unacceptable. President Goodluck Jonathan had approved the appointment of 12 judges for

NIC. The approval followed the recommendation of National Judicial Council, NJC, headed by Mukhtar. NJC is a creation of Section 153 of the 1999 Constitution with statutory powers to hire and fire judicial officers serving in superior courts of records. The newly inaugurated judges are Rakiya B. Haastrup, Waziri Abali, Rabi H. Gwandu, Lawal Mani, Olufunke Yemi Anuwe and John Dele Peters. Others are Oyejoju O. Oyewumi, Edith N. N. Agbakoba, Amadi Kenneth

Ikechukwu, Anthonia Ndidi Ubaka, Peter Odo Lifu and Ebeye David E. Isele. The swearing-in ceremony was held inside the biggest courtroom of the Supreme Court. During the special session, Muhktar said henceforth, judges must take firm position against contempt of the court, both in facie curiae and ex-facie curiae because “it is an affront on the collective integrity of the Bench as well as the integrity of the particular judge involved”.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Thursday, May 23, 2013

MEND suspends planned attack on mosques

he Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, MEND, yesterday said it had called off its plans to bomb mosques and kill Muslim clerics. The militant group said its decision to shelve the attack followed the intervention from some respected individuals, including its jailed leader, Henry Okah. In a statement signed by its spokesman, Jomo Gbomo, which was made avail-

able to National Mirror yesterday, the group claimed that despite provocation by certain individuals, it had taken into consideration the recent activities of the Federal Government which it said were genuine. ‘”In spite of several provocative and careless utterances by so-called South-South elders led by Chief Edwin Clark testing our resolve to carry out our planned attacks on mosques and other related

agencies of religious intolerance, the intervention of well-meaning Nigerians, religious bodies and the Federal Government’s recent show of sincerity with the order to release from detention women, children, relatives and suspected Boko Haram members giving room for genuine dialogue has been taking into serious consideration. “‘We have also heeded to the appeal from Mr. Henry Okah and Mr. Kingsley

Kuku, Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs. “To these effects, the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, MEND, hereby announces the suspension of “Operation Barbarossa” which was to have commenced from Friday, May 31, 2013, with immediate effect,” the statement said. The group however, called for the release of its

L-R: Minister of State for Defence, Erelu Olusola Obada; Education Minister, Prof. Ruqqayat Rufai; Minister of State for Education, Chief Nyesom Wike; Environment Minister, Hajiya Hadiza Mailafiya and Minister of State for FCT, Olajumoke Akinjide, at the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja, yesterday.

Soldiers leak secrets to Boko Haram –Army chief CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

across the country. The action, which it said was based on the recommendation of the amnesty committee, would see the suspects being handed over to their respective state governors for consequent rehabilitation before they would be finally released to their community leaders and families. But Okupe made further clarifications on the directive for the release of some people. He said: “This will be followed by other phased releases where cases will be treated on their individual merits by the Defence authorities and security agencies. “The presidential directive was as a result of the interim report by the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peace in Northern Nigeria which recommended the measure as part of government’s multi-faceted strategies at solving the security challenges posed by the activities of the sect. “This directive by Mr.

President further proves that the Federal Government has not foreclosed dialogue as a viable option in its bid to put an end to insurgency and terrorist activities in the Northern part of the country. “It is expected that this phased release of detainees will encourage those who wish to embrace the peace option to come out and take advantage of the dialogue and peace option provided by the Committee put in place by government.” Also, the Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, has commended the Federal Government’s decision to release some Boko Haram suspects. In a communiqué signed by the Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Fati Ibrahim, the forum called on the government to provide relief materials to the affected suspects. ACF also urged the Federal Government to comply with the resolutions of the National Assembly

on the proclamation of the state of emergency in Yobe, Borno and Adamawa states, especially on the funding and sustenance of the military campaign. The communiqué called on the Federal Government to allow human rights monitors and observers full access to areas involved in the current military campaigns to ascertain the methods being applied. Also, Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima has described the planned release as “a welcome development”. Shettima spoke yesterday through his Chief Press Secretary, Isa Umar Gusau, in a statement made available to newsmen in Maiduguri, the state capital. He noted that releasing the detainees would further show the commitment and sincerity of the Federal Government to the peace negotiation, which should attract the sect members to the negotiation table and increase community participation in the process.

leader. “‘We use this opportunity to call for the release of Henry Okah and others

in detention over the October 1, 2010, twin car bomb blast.”

Airtel's chief marketing officer quits in protest ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI

he Chief Marketing Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Olu Akanmu, yesterday resigned his appointment following the intractable crises between the telecoms company and the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria, APCON, on one hand and advertising agency, Prima Garnet Africa, on the other. Sources in the telecoms firm said that Akanmu resigned after it was discovered that Airtel, in breach of APCON rules, published an advert in one of Nigeria’s national dailies without clearance from him. It was learnt Akanmu was angry that the advert was published without reverting to him, a factor that suggested lack of respect for his office as the Chief Marketing Officer. Akanmu, who was said

to have expressed his anger over the published advert, which was in clear violation of a court order that Airtel should maintain status quo in a dispute it has with Lolu Akinwunmi’s Prima Garnet, was reported to have expressed his disappointment to the management over the company’s inclination to a disobey court order. With the resignation of Akanmu from Airtel, the crises brewing between Scanad Nigeria, an agency owned by Indian Bharat Thakrar and Prima Garnet, has claimed its first major scalp. Managing Director, Blueflower Limited, Airtel publicists, Mr. Chido Nwakama, when contacted last night said a statement would be issued soon. However, multiple industry sources confirmed the development last night.

Police apologise to Amaechi CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

the 23 local government areas of the state with white T-shirts and different inscriptions said they were tired of Amaechi’s style of administration, which they said had impoverished the Rivers people. Also, another set of youths under the aegis of Peoples Democratic Party Rural Empowerment Advocacy Projects, PDP YouthREAP, yesterday called for the probe of the governor and some principal officers of his administration. The spokesman of the youths, Martyns Mannah, said: “Rivers people can’t stay and watch him (Amaechi) challenge President Goodluck Jonathan who comes from the SouthSouth and desires to contest in 2015.” Mannah alleged that the governor had sidelined the real owners of the PDP in the state and blocked those that opposed him. He said: “We want Amaechi to tell us the whereabouts of the two jets Odili left behind and real

owners of the Bombardier aircraft,” denying that the protest was sponsored. The leader of the Niger Delta Vigilante Force, Ateke Tom, and women who came in buses took part in the protest. At a press briefing also yesterday, the group called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, to “unravel the circumstances surrounding the ownership and documentation of the bombardier jet (owned by Rivers State) after funds had been duly appropriated by the state government.” The state Coordinator, Warigbani Ezekiel, also condemned the activities of the state House of Assembly over the suspension of Obio/Akpor Local Government Council executive without recourse to due process. Meanwhile, Mbu has banned demonstrations and

rallies in the state, saying that any group that wanted to carry out protest must first seek clearance from the command. He gave the warning yesterday in Port Harcourt at a briefing by Johnson, saying that the police would no longer allow protests in the state without its approval. “From today, there will be no procession… Whoever does that without permission will be arrested,” he said, adding that the police would use minimum force to arrest defaulters for prosecution. Johnson, however, backed the continued presence of policemen in the headquarters of Obio/Akpor LG Secretariat. He also urged the Speaker of the State House of Assembly to see the commissioner of police on the alarm he raised over the planned assassination of Amaechi, himself and some top government officials. “If that allegation is true, he has the opportunity to prove it,” the AIG said.

News

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FEC approves new aviation policy for commercial, private aircraft ROTIMI FADEYI ABUJA

he Federal Executive Council (FEC) yesterday approved a new aviation policy for the operation of commercial airlines and private jets in the country in order to ensure global safety standards. Speaking at a press briefing after the FEC meeting presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan, Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah, said the Revised National Policy for Civil Aviation was reviewed because of the change in the global aviation sector. Oduah said there was

the need to regulate the operation of private jets in the country, particularly because of the present state of insecurity and the need to conform to international best practice. She said that the policy was last reviewed 11 years ago and had to be reviewed to bring it up to the present realities in the aviation sector. The minister said: “We must have healthy airline operations in order to ensure safety, when airlines are unhealthy, such airline would have difficulty in complying with safety measures.” According to her, under the revised aviation

policy, operators of private jets are expected to pay the required charges and levies as stipulated by laws regulating the aviation industry. She said the major highlights in the policy were general aviation practice regarding private jets which were not properly regulated according to global practice. Oduah said that the

policy addressed the major issues regarding the use of the latest technology to drive the aviation sector to an enviable level. Similarly, FEC approved the sum of N19.4 billion for the construction of the Karshi Water Supply Scheme under the rural development efforts of the Federal Government The project is expect-

ed to be completed in 30 months. The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Olajumoke Akinjide, said the water project would address the issue of water scarcity within Karshi and its environs. While speaking on the performance of his ministry, the Minister of Transport, Idis Umar, said N49.6 billion was ap-

proved for the ministry, but only 56 per cent of the money was released According to him, the ministry recorded remarkable achievement in the resuscitation of the rail system for the movement of people and goods as alternative to road transportation. Umar said that the rail transportation from Lagos to Kano had been running smoothly.

JAMB to varsities: Adhere to rules governing admission E MMANUEL O NANI ABUJA

he Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has warned universities and other degree-awarding institutions in the country to adherence strictly to rules and regulations governing admission process. It vowed to put an end to what it described as a “regime of admissions regularization” in degree-awarding institutions. JAMB Registrar, Prof. Dibu Ojerinde, made the position known in a statement signed by the Board’s Head of Information, Fabian Benjamin. To ensure the success of the initiative, Ojerinde, who spoke during the conduct of the Computer Based

Test (CBT), said that the Board had earlier met with the committee of Vice-Chancellors (VCs) in Abuja where it was agreed that the respective varsity heads would, henceforth, submit lists of all matriculating students to the Board. He also reminded the VCs of the decision reached after a similar tripartite meeting held among JAMB, National Universities Commission (NUC) and the VCs. Details of the lists, according to the JAMB boss, include students’ course of study, the university/institution of choice, matriculation number and other relevant data. The move, it was stressed, would enable the admission regulatory body “to compile final matriculated students’ album for 2012 on

L-R: Bishop of Ibadan North Anglican Diocese, Most Rev. Segun Okubadejo; Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi; Mrs Juliet Okubadejo and Rt. Rev. Olubayo Obijole, at the opening of the third session of the fifth synod of the diocese at St. Peter’s Anglican Cathedral, Aremo, Ibadan, recently.

Lagos demands N13bn pension arrears from FG MURITALA AYINLA

he Lagos State Government yesterday appealed to the Federal Government to remit the N13 billion the latter owes its retirees.. Addressing journalists at the state secretariat on the achievements of her ministry in the last one year, the Commissioner for Pensions, Establish-

Jonathan gives account of two years in office, May 29 ROTIMI FADEYI ABUJA

resident Goodluck Jonathan will on May 29 brief Nigerians on his achievements in his two years in office Speaking yesterday after the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) in Abuja, Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku, said the President would use the opportunity to render account on the progress made in all the

sectors of the economy. According to him, the address would be televised live nationwide. Maku said: “It will be a major report and it will really be an opportunity for Nigerians to pay attention and participate in the programme of the President’s report back to his people on what this government has been able to do in the last two years.” He said that starting from June 3, ministers would appear on this

year’s ministerial platform to also render account of the performance and achievements of their respective ministries, stressing that the ministerial platform would be the second phase since it started last year. Maku said the ministerial platform would also include question and answer session, where the ministers would give answers relating to their performances in the last two years.

ments and Training, Mrs Florence Oguntuase, said the non-payment of the entitlements over the years had caused untold hardship to the pensioners and had put unnecessary burden on the state government. The commissioner said that the unpaid arrears were the Federal Government’s share of the total pension benefits, saying the state government had consistently settled its own share. She said: “We are appealing to the Federal

Government to settle the verified pension indebtedness to the tune of N1 billion it owes retired workers of the state government and the N12 billion of workers in the local government. “The state government, through the Civil Service Pension Office, has forwarded applications for the arrears to the Federal Government and we hope it will pay the benefits before the pensioners pass on”. The commissioner said the state government had

so far paid N18 billion pension benefits to no fewer than 3,384 retired workers. She added that N39 billion had so far been remitted to the different PFAs by the state government as its contribution to workers’ pension accounts. The commissioner put the total number of public service pensioners in the state at 14, 934. On workers’ training, Oguntuase said the government had in the last one year spent N394 million on the training of 7,457 of its workers.

Ibrahim Bukar appointed FCT Acting CJ EMMANUEL ONANI ABUJA

resident Goodluck Jonathan has approved the appointment Justice Ibrahim M. Bukar as the Acting Chief Judge (CJ) of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Justice Bukar’s appointment is coming on the heels of the sudden resignation

of the former CJ, Justice Lawal Gummi. A statement by the Acting Director of Information of the National Judicial Council (NJC), Mr. Soji Oye, said Justice Bukar would be sworn-in today by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Aloma Mukhtar. The event, the statement added, would hold at the CJN’s Chambers at 10:00am.

Justice Gummi was said to have cited the need to fill the vacant stool of emir of Gummi community in Zamfara State following the death of the former emir, Alhaji Aliyu Abara, as reason for his resignation. The former CJ is one of the many judges whose cases are pending before the NJC headed by Chief Justice Mariam Aloma Mukhtar.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Signed by PROF ISHAQ AKINTOLA

News

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Suspected cultists kill four in Lagos FRANCIS SUBERU

here was pandemonium at the popular Alaba International Market yesterday as four people were killed by gunmen, who invaded the market. The deceased were suspected cult members, who were caught unawares by a rival gang that invaded the market around 4.30pm yesterday. The incident, which occurred around Fancy and Furniture Section of the market, shook parts of the market to its foundation as

sounds of gunshot rented the air. Traders and buyers at the market scampered for safety as many shop owners hurriedly closed their shops for fear of being attacked by the cult members. An eyewitness, who simply identified himself as Segun and who claimed to have arrived the scene shortly after the killer gunmen escaped, said four bodies were lying close to Ubakazon Plaza at the market. He also said that bullets and guns were found on the deceased persons by the market task force and policemen, who arrived and

cordoned off the scene of the attack. It was gathered that the deceased people were drinking at a joint in the market, when the gunmen opened fire on them, killing four instantly. A trader, who did not want his name in print, told National Mirror that the incident might not be unconnected with leadership crisis in the market. He also said that the different factions in the leadership crisis have been hiding under rival cult groups to perpetuate evil in the market. A senior police officer at Ojo Police Station, who

did not want his name mentioned, confirmed that four people were killed close to the market. The police officer, however, denied that the deceased person were traders, insisting that they were “miscreants” who were drinking at a ‘joint’ around a canal in the area. Efforts to get the reaction of the image maker in charge of the state police command, Ngozi Braide, failed as her cell phone was switched off. Meanwhile, the bodies of the deceased cultists have been taken away by policemen from Oojo Police Station.

L-R: Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar; Enugu State Governor, Sullivan Chime; Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mohammed Adamu, at the presentation of security patrol vehicles and equipment to the Nigeria Police in Enugu, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Man jailed for selling pirated copies of El-Rufai’s book WALE IGBINTADE

Federal High Court judge, Justice Saliu Saidu, yesterday has sentenced a bookseller to three months imprisonment for selling pirated copies of the book, “The Accidental Public Servant,” authored by the former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mallam Nasiru ElRufai. The convict, Chibueze Akamu, resident at No. 69, Owodunni St., Iwaya, Yaba, was charged to court by the Nigerian Copyright Commission, NCC. He pleaded guilty to a two-count charge of piracy and sale of pirated books. Justice Saidu sentenced the accused having pleaded guilty to the offence. “Having pleaded guilty to the charge before this

honourable court, the accused is hereby convicted as charged. The accused is sentenced to three months imprisonment, on each count which term shall run concurrently,” Saidu ruled. Earlier, the prosecutor, Mrs. Lynda Alphaeus, had told the court that the accused was apprehended on April 25, at Oyingbo, Lagos. She told the court that the accused was caught at the bus stop, selling pirated copies of the book, According to the prosecutor; the books were then recovered from him while he was arrested and detained. She therefore urged the court to convict and sentence the accused. The convict, who had no legal representation, pleaded with the court for mercy, adding that the books were supplied to

him by a customer. He said he was not aware that they were pirated copies, and begged the court to tamper justice with mercy. Meanwhile, a lawyer, litigant and a court registrar (names withheld) were yesterday docked by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Ibrahim Auta, for constituting nuisance by making noise within the corridor of his courtroom, thereby disturbing proceedings. The three were discussing loudly in front of Justice Auta’s court, making the judge, who was being addressed by a lawyer, momentarily stopped proceedings. Everyone in the courtroom turned to look towards the direction where the noise was coming from but the three kept talking

unperturbed. Justice Auta, who was in Lagos to attend to some cases before going back to Abuja then directed his police orderly to order the three into his courtroom. When they came in, he asked them to stand at a corner and went on with the proceedings. At the end of proceedings, he asked them to step forward. The three said they were sorry for disturbing the court, but the judge told them to step into the dock. Justice Auta expressed his displeasure that the lawyer and registrar, who ought to know the workings of the court, were the ones talking loudly to the extent of disturbing court proceedings. After warning them, he said, “This is a court premises where silence must be maintained, adding they must not make such a mistake again.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Pastor, others in police net over WAEC fees fraud FEMI O YEWESO ABEOKUTA

pastor in one of the big Pentecostal churches in the country and three other directors in the Ogun State Ministry of Education are presently undergoing interrogation over their roles in the N200 million West African Examination Council, WAEC, fees fraud recently uncovered in the state. Sources Police confirmed yesterday in Abeokuta, that those held in connection with the large scale fraud included two males and two females who are all senior officials of the ministry. This was just as the state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr. Segun Odubela, confirmed that four officials of his ministry were presently undergoing interrogation over the fraud. Odubela, who described the incident as an “ugly” development, however, promised to expatiate further on the incident during the ministerial press briefing his ministry will be

addressing today in the state capital. National Mirror also gathered that police detectives have succeeded in uncovering huge sums of money lodged in the bank accounts of those already interrogated. At least N20 million was said to have been uncovered in the personal account of the said pastor who could not explain the source of the money when interrogated. Also, four exotic cars were said to have been found in the house of the said pastor, who was pleading for forgiveness, while N10 million and N15 million were also discovered in two of his accounts. It was further gathered that the detectives were already closing in on proprietors of some private secondary schools involved in the shady deal in the state. The police source, however, said that appreciable progress had been made on the large scale fraud, stressing that; “I want to tell you that we are not resting on our oars to get the cabal within the state ministry of education.”

Independent newspapers 2012 investiture holds Saturday

ll roads lead to the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Saturday, May 25, 2013, as Independent Newspapers Limited, INL, holds its ‘Man of the Year 2012 Investiture.’ INL is the publisher of Daily Independent, Saturday Independent and Sunday Independent newspapers. During the ceremony scheduled to hold at 4.00 pm., three distinguished Nigerians shall be honoured with INL awards. The awardees are; Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON, President/ Chief Executive, Dangote Group; Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru, MFR, Managing Partner, Compliance Professionals Plc and immediate past Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, and

the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Theodore Orji. According to the Managing Editor of INL, Akpandem James, the Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, is the guest speaker and would be speaking on ‘Amnesty, Human Rights and The Rest of Us.’ James said the ViceChancellor of the Federal University, Ndufu Alike Ikwo, Ebonyi State; a distinguished professor of the University of Lagos, Oyewusi Ibidapo-Obe, OFR, shall preside over the occasion and added that top echelon of the public service, political chieftains, captains of industries, and importantly, friends, associates and well wishers of the honourees are expected to grace the occasion.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South West

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Land Use charges earn Lagos N6.2bn –Commissioner MURITALA AYINLA

agos State Government yesterday said it realised N6.28 billion from the collection of Land Use charge on properties in 2012. The Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Adetokunbo Abiru, who said this while briefing journalists at the state Secretariat, Alausa, on the activities of his ministry in the last one year, disclosed that the state month-

•Puts monthly revenue at N29bn

ly revenue now averages N29 billion. Abiru, who promised that all ongoing projects would be completed, said the state had embarked on financial strategies to ensure that projects undertaken by current administration were completed. The commissioner said the state would retain the budgeting process of maintaining a funding preference for capital expenditure more than overhead expen-

diture, adding that the state had developed public financing model which would span between 2008 and 2023. He said: “In specific terms, our total revenue grew from a monthly average of N18.9 billion in 2008 to about N29.0 billion in 2012, which amounts to an average yearly growth of 10.7 per cent over the fiveyear period. “Over the five-year period, Internally Generated Revenue accounts for over

Murder: Octogenarian’s petition stalls ACN chairman’s trial ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

earing in the murder case involving the Ekiti State Chairman of Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, Chief Jide Awe, and others could not begin yesterday owing to the petition written to the National Judicial Council, NJC, by 81-year-old Hon. Gabriel Adewumi. Adewunmi, in the petition to NJC and Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Aloma Mukhtar, entitled: “Petition against Unprofessional Conduct of Chief Magistrate, Mr. Adesoji Richard Adeg-

boye,” had urged them “to kindly look at the activities of the chief magistrate that granted bail to the murder suspects relying on the administrative bail earlier granted the accused persons by the police”. Awe and four others were on May 6 arraigned on a four-count charge of murder, attempted murder, conspiracy and disruption of public peace in connection with the alleged murder on March 30 of Mr. Ayo Jeje in Erinjiyan-Ekiti, Awe’s hometown, while planning to defect to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. Adegboye had while

adjourning hearing in the matter till yesterday, ordered that Awe and the other accused be allowed to enjoy the administrative bail granted them by the police. However, hearing of the case could not continue yesterday as counsel to the prosecutors and defendants were said to have met behind the closed door and adopted July 12 as the date for the proper commencement of the case. A source said the chief magistrate did not sit on the case yesterday because he did not want to pre-empt the outcome of the NJC decision.

Oni, Fayemi suit: ACN plans to destabilise Ekiti –PDP ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

he Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, yesterday petitioned the police and the State Security Service, SSS, over alleged plot by the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, to destabilise Ekiti State ahead of the May 31 Supreme Court judgement in a matter involving Chief Olusegun Oni and Governor Kayode Fayemi. In the petition entitled: “Propaganda for May 31 Supreme Court judgement,” the state PDP Secretary, Dr. Tope Aluko, urged the security agencies to investigate the matter to ensure stable political environment in the state. Aluko said ACN had concluded arrangements in the 16 local govern-

ment areas to print PDP uniform/attire for its members to masquerade as members of the opposition party to wreak havoc on the state. The petition reads in part: “The focus of the ACN propaganda is to destabilise the state, send a message across to the nation as if the state is on fire and also to pressurise the judiciary as if the judgement is known and in favour of the PDP.” The Supreme Court has fixed May 31 for judgement in the suit in which Oni is praying the court to reverse the 2010 Appeal Court verdict that removed him from office as governor and declared Fayemi the duly elected governor. This is as the state PDP Director of Information, Media and Commu-

nication, Chief Gboyega Aribisogan, yesterday dismissed the statement by the ACN that the opposition was planning to create mayhem in the state. Aribisogan said at a press conference in AdoEkiti that the ACN was “simply jittery of the impending doom to their shenanigans. May 31 is around the corner. They are afraid of their shadows and in their vain attempt to cover up their lies, they have plotted to turn Ekiti State to a battleground should the impending judgement go against their wish. “Last week, we heard it on good records that the leadership of ACN has instructed its ward leaders to bring the names of two thugs who will be used to unleash violence on May 31”.

65 per cent of the total revenue. “This reflected the stable nature of the state’s fiscal revenue, as it continues to rely more on IGR rather than revenue receipts from the Federal Government which are subject to external shocks and dictated by prices of oil in the international market.” On the amount generated through the collection of land use charges, Abiru said it was an improvement over

the N250 million recorded in 2008, adding it was ensured by the comprehensive billing approach adopted by the government. The previously existing charges were Tenement Rate, Development Rate, Ground Rents and Neighbourhood Improvement charge. The commissioner added that: “The adoption of comprehensive billing of enumerated properties greatly helped to push up our revenue in 2012.

“Out of a total number of 641,132 enumerated across the state, 622,155 representing 97 per cent were billed. The outstanding 18,977 billable properties which mainly are raw records yet to be processed, but not exempted from payment, are now receiving due attention. “It is gladdening that we have removed many of the problems encountered in the administration of the charge, and the voluntary payment by residents has helped a lot.”

Ondo ACN dissociates self from APC steering committee HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE

ndo State chapter of the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, yesterday dissociated itself from the composition of the steering committee for the All Progressives Congress, APC, which was reportedly inaugurated by some members of the party in the state. This is contained in a communiqué issued in Akure, the state capital, and signed by state Publicity Secretary, Rotimi Agbede, at the end of a meeting of the state Execu-

tive Committee of the party held at the ACN Secretariat. Agbede said there was never any directive from the National Headquarters of the merging parties to all the state chapters across the country to warrant the composition of any committee. The ACN publicity secretary noted that the merger was not a proposition of individuals, adding that the party, as a disciplined organ, was still awaiting the directive from its National Headquarters before taking any action. He said: “The state chap-

ter of the ACN declared the purported constitution of the steering committee of APC as null and void since the said exercise did not receive the blessing of the executive committee of the party. “The party, having received the detailed report of the activities of the party’s legal team in its election petition, expressed total confidence in the ability of the team and gave support to the plan to challenge at the Appeal Court the judgement of Justice Andovar Kaka’an led tribunal.

South West

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Why cancer-related diseases may increase in Ekiti –Commissioner ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

L-R: Customs Acting Area Controller Oyo/Osun Area Command, Mr Richard Oteri; Deputy Commissioner of Police-in-Charge of Operation, Mr. Musa Kimo and Deputy Controller of Custom, Administration, Mrs. Charity Nkanu, during the handover of seized cartridges by Customs to the police in Ibadan, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Customs intercepts 227 cartons of ammunition in Oyo

•Police arrest car-laden with 3, 500 cartridges KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

he Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has seized 227 cartons of 56, 750, rounds of ammunition at Igboho area of Oyo State. Also yesterday, the Oyo State Police Command said it intercepted about 3,500 live cartridges in Saki. The Customs Area Controller, Mr. Richard Oteri, said yesterday in Ibadan that each carton “contained the red sar high

speed of 250 cartridges of 12 gauges. ‘’ Oteri said his men could not arrest anybody in connection with the ammunition, adding that the suspects left their vehicle and fled immediately they saw the security personnel. According to him, the smugglers of the ammunition concealed them in bags packed with dried cassava tubers in a lorry. The Customs boss, who later handed over the ammunition to the

Oyo State Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. Musa Kimo, called on the law-abiding citizens and traditional rulers to always volunteer information that would assist in tackling smuggling. He added, however, that the command generated N4.5 billion in the first quarter of the year as against N3.8 billion generated last year. The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Muhammed Indabawa, while parading a suspect identified

as Soliu Akanji before journalists, said policemen intercepted white car marked Lagos AW 965 KTU while on routine patrol in Isale Adini area of Saki. According to him, on sighting the police, the driver suddenly stopped the car and the five occupants jumped out and fled to the bush, but the police pursued them and caught up with Akanji. Indabawa said following the search of the vehicle, the cartridges were discovered in it. He promised that the police would soon catch up with the fleeing suspects.

Ogun promises end to ill-feeling among monarchs FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

he Ogun State Government has reiterated its earlier stance that it would not interfere in the affairs of traditional institution in the state. The government said the ill-feeling among some monarchs would soon be resolved shortly after the Council of Obas submits its reports on the legality and illegality of some claimants to obaship in their communities. The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Bashorun Muyiwa Oladipo, spoke yesterday at the on-going ministerial press briefing to mark the second anniversary of Governor Ibikunle Amosun-led administration.

Making a reference to the accusation leveled against the government over the crisis rocking the Onijoko of Ijoko stool in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of the state, Oladipo warned the two monarchs laying claim to the stool to keep the state government out of the crisis. Acknowledging that there are two monarchs laying claims to the stool, the commissioner said that the government had consulted with the state Council of Obas to advise it on who should be recognised as the genuine Onijoko. He said the Amosun-led administration would not deviate from whatever recommendation sent to it by the Council of Obas, which has been given a threemonth mandate to advise the state on the matter.

It will be recalled that Oba Fatai Alani Matanmi and Oba Kolapo Ogunseye have been laying claims to the Onijoko stool, in which Oba Matanmi accused the government of bias. But reacting to a report where Oba Matanmi was quoted as accusing the state government of supporting his rival, the commissioner accused the monarch of being economical with the truth. He said: “I said I stand by it and I want to be quoted to the extent that Oba Matanmi said I was at Ijoko Day physically; I say that he is a liar. The Ijoko matter is one of the dirt that we met when we came on board. “We all know that there is an area that is called Lagos Road, the road between Ita Oshin and Sango. Practically, all the communities in that area have two Obas

recognized by the then government of the day. “So, we believed that one of the functions of the Council of Obas is to advice the government. So, if within themselves they agreed, they do all that is necessary and they say that ‘A’ monarch is more legal than ‘B’ monarch or that ‘C’ is more legal and that government should please do something about ‘D’ monarch, then we will have basis to say, then that based on your advice, the world will know that government itself has been very reasonable. “We have already charged the Council of Obas to advise us and one of the areas they are to advise us is on the legal and illegal Obas across the state so that we will not wake up one day and tell the world that Oba A is legal while B is illegal.”

kiti State Health Commissioner, Prof Olusola Fasubaa, has decried the increase in the establishment of beer and drinking joints, cigarette smoking and sexual promiscuity across the state. He said the menace put the state at the risk of increased cancer-related diseases. Fasubaa said: “In Ado Ekiti alone, there are over 1,500 joints selling beer and other drinks. Promiscuity is on the increase with the attendant high level of sexually transmitted infections which have been linked to many cancers”. The commissioner, who spoke at a press conference in Ado-Ekiti to herald a weeklong Cancer Awareness Campaign billed to begin on May 27, listed such cancers to include “cancers of the cervix, vagina and vulva in women, cancers of the throat, lungs and liver in both men and women”. Fasubaa, who regretted that an average Ekiti man is now exposed to western diets at the expense of natural diets, while both men and women now consume alcohol

in large quantity, said the programme was meant to screen Ekiti people of cancers and other metabolic disorders, including hypertension and liver problem among others. According to him, the programme is expected to increase the life expectancies of Ekiti people, which he said was put at 55 years, based on demographic health survey of 2011. It has been billed to take place in State Specialist’s Hospitals at Ijero-Ekiti, IkoleEkiti and Ikere-Ekiti, Basic Health Centre, Oke Oniyo, Ado Ekiti; and General Hospital, Ifaki-Ekiti. Fasubaa, who claimed that the “awareness among the poor and the rich, educated and uneducated is still low,” said: “It is believed that most deaths and complications are preventable if early precautions are taken through screening, early detection and early treatment. “Lifestyle modification, behavioral changes, attention to personal details are recognized in fighting these cancers”, he said, adding that for “us to fight against cancer, we have to address critically, our life style which is a product of responses to experiences and environment”.

Murder: I wasn’t responsible for my wife’s death –Arowolo KENNY ODUNUKAN

he man accused of killing his banker wife, Akolade Arowolo, yesterday told an Ikeja High Court that he was not responsible for the incident. Arowolo said he loves his wife, Titilayo, and would not think of killing her. While testifying before Justice Latifat Okunnu, the suspect said: “I love her and I also love my daughter, Olamide.” Led in evidence by his counsel, Mr. Olanrewaju Ajanaku, Arowolo said he received a call from his father on his birthday at about 10:am and several other calls before he left home for the bank to cash a cheque for the celebration of the birthday. He said on his way home, he met his mechanic that he had called earlier to fix the shaft of his Honda Accord car so that he and the late Titilayo could pick their daughter from his in-laws’ house. Arowolo added that on

getting home, he met the late Titilayo fully dressed as against their earlier discussions. According to him, he asked her why she was fully dressed up and she shouted at him that he should leave her alone. He said as he was trying to persuade the woman to stop shouting on him, she slapped him. Arowole added that immediately after that, the phone of his father-in-law, George Oyakhire, rang. He said: “Titilayo picked the call and asked her father to warm me to leave her alone. I then spoke to Daddy George Oyakhire and reported that Titilayo just slapped me.” According to him, he reported the incident to their next door neighbour, Mama Hanna Alaka, who invited them for resolution of the quarrel. He, however, added that Titilayo took some hard drinks in the early morning of the incident. Justice Okunnu adjourned the matter till September 17.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South East

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Killers of slain Kwara police commissioner arrested DENNIS AGBO ENUGU

nspector-General of Police, IGP, Mohammed Abubakar, yesterday said seven of the suspected killers of the former Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Chinwike Asadu, have been arrested and arraigned before a competent court in Enugu. He also said that the seven suspects arrested in connection with the murder have confessed to the crime and

others, noting however, that some of the suspects in the Asadu murder are still at large. The inspector-general gave the names of those arrested and arraigned in court as Ogechukwu Uzor; Ogechukwu Nnadi; Ugwoke Obiora; Okwosa Anthony; Chukwudi Enete; David Elvis Aja and Amobi Nnamuchi. Abubakar, who was on a working visit to Enugu State yesterday, also declared the state as one of the safest in

the country. He said his rating is anchored on the indices that the state has the lowest crime rate in the country, adding that the feat was made possible by the collaboration of the Enugu State government, the police and other security stakeholders in the state. The inspector-general said this when he took delivery of 100 patrol vehicles donated by the state government to the police for further enhancement of security in the state.

He said Enugu’s emergence as the safest state was largely a result of the tremendous support the administration of Governor Sullivan Chime has been giving to the police and other security agencies in the state. Abubakar later inspected the police formation in the state command and commissioned a clinic built for the police. He said the latest donation of vehicles by the government was unprecedented in the sense that it included

both patrol vans and sedans (saloon cars), adding that it fell in line with the new policy objective of his administration to move away from vans as is the practice in advanced societies. He also promised that with the vehicles “a new brand of policing would commence in Enugu State because police officers would be adequately trained in the use of the vehicles,” stressing that the gesture was a challenge to the police, he charged officers

and men of the Enugu State command to use the vehicles only for their stated purposes to rid the state of criminals. The police boss warned that any abuse or misuse of the vehicles by the officers will be sanctioned. Earlier while presenting the vehicles consisting of 50 patrol vans and 50 cars, Governor Chime remarked that it had been the policy of his administration since inception to partner with the police to maintain security.

Ojukwu: Court orders service on Bianca via Nigerian embassy WALE IGBINTADE

Abia State Governor, Theodore Orji (second right); his wife, Mercy, and others at the flagging-off, of the distribution of Vitamin A cassava stems to farmers in Umuahia, yesterday.

Imo commissioners jittery over imminent sack scorecard during a public forum to mark the second year anniversary of his administration. A source close to Government House revealed that the planned cabinet dissolution was not targeted at any commissioner but a measure to bring in fresh hands that will help the governor to consolidate on his achievements these past two years. The source told our correspondent that the disso-

lution will be announced soon, disclosing further that, “most of the commissioners have relocated to the Government House to lobby their way back.” However, when contacted, the Commissioner for Information, Hon. Chinedu Offor, said it was not true. Also the Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Mr. Ebere Uzoukwa, said he was not aware of any plan to dissolve the cabinet.

ndications emerged yesterday that the Imo State governor, Rochas Okorocha, may dissolve the state executive council any moment now just as state commissioners that may have been penciled down for removal are feeling jittery, looking for ways of lobbying their way back into reckoning. It was gathered yesterday

that the governor’s plan to reconstitute his cabinet was not unconnected with his resolve to join the All Progressives Congress, APC, as the move will help him to accommodate new members of the merging parties in the state executive council. National Mirror learnt that Governor Okorocha was reportedly said to be unhappy with the performances of some of the commissioners, who could not render a comprehensive

ALIUNA GODWIN

Police arrest 23 kidnap suspects, hoodlums in Ebonyi

CHRIS NJOKU OWERRI

EBONYI

bonyi State police command yesterday said they have arrested 23 kidnap suspects for masterminding the kidnap of one Lydia Uduma from Oso Adda South Local Government Area of the state and one Dr. Manyike Chuka and for committing other crimes in the state. Speaking with journalists in Abakaliki, the state Police Public Relation Officer, PPRO, Sylvester Igbo, said some of the suspects were

arrested while in gun battle with the police. He said one of the hoodlums, identified as Abuchi Okum, 26 years and who hails from Amaeka in Ezza South Local Government Area, sustained injuries during the shoot-out while the others, who are now at large, will soon be arrested. “SARS cracked down a gang of armed robbers that robbed Dr. Emmanuel Agha of No. 3 Emmanuel Close, off Hatchery on May 18, 2013 and dispossessed him and his

wife of two laptop computers, five cell-phones, one wedding ring, one wristwatch, First Bank ATM card, and cash of N110, 000 only.” Igbo said the hoodlums further threatened to kidnap Dr. Agha if he fails to drop N1 million for them at a particular location along Afikpo road opposite Chiboy Motors, but luck ran out on them as police intercepted them in an attempt to collect the money. However, items recovered from them include one locally-made double barrel pistol,

one Sony digital camera, one Baraka Digital Microscope, among other things. Although Igbo revealed the readiness of the police to intensify efforts to arrest the fleeing members of the gang as those arrested are undergoing interrogation. Igbo further urged the members of the public to have confidence in the police and should volunteer vital information to the police to enable them nip in the bud, criminal activities in the state.

Lagos High Court judge, Justice Adebayo Oyebanji, yesterday granted leave that Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, wife of late Biafran leader, Chukwuemeka OdumegwuOjukwu, be served originating processes through the Nigerian Embassy in Spain. Justice Oyebanji gave the order in a suit filed by Chief Debe Odumegwu-Ojukwu (claimant), who claimed to be the first and eldest son of the late Bianfran leader. The claimant had in his suit joined Ojukwu Transport Limited, OTL, Prof. Joseph Okwuabudike Ojukwu, Engineer Emmanuel Ndubueze Ojukwu, Mrs. Lotanna Ojukwu, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Mr. Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Mr. Patricia Ojukwu and Mrs. Margret Nwagbo (Nee Ojukwu), as defendants in the suit. The court had at the last adjourned date, ordered that

Bianca be served through a national newspaper publication, since the claimant could not serve her in person as a result of her current assignment as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain. But, at the resumed hearing of the suit, the claimant informed the court that the cost of advertising on national newspaper would be too expensive for him to bear. Debe, who appeared in person and on behalf of the second claimant, Silver Convention Nigeria Limited, told the court that he has filed a motion ex parte dated March 27, for a varying order in respect of full and effective service on Bianca. He urged the court to grant an order enabling him to serve Bianca either through the Foreign Affairs Ministry or by courier to the country’s embassy in Spain. In her ruling, Oyebanji granted Debe’s prayer to serve Bianca by courier through Nigerian Embassy in Spain within seven days.

I’ve not endorsed anybody for 2015 –Orji GEORGE OPARA ABIA

head of the 2015 governorship election in Abia State, Governor Theodore Orji, yesterday said he has not endorsed anybody to succeed him, insisting that the race is open to qualified and interested aspirants. Orji spoke in Aba when the lawmaker representing Aba North and South in the House of Representatives, Chief Uzo Azubuike, whose name has been featuring prominently as likely successor to Governor Orji, was honoured by traditional rulers in Aba area. The governor said he had to make the clarification be-

fore people would begin to misinterpret his presence at the reception to honour Azubuike. His words: “Let me say this for the records, Aba is the centre of rumour. If you go to one beer parlour now and spread one rumour, by the time you get to your house, it is everywhere in Aba. “What we have come to do is to join Aba people to celebrate Uzor Azubuike. We have not come to endorse anybody for 2015. “I want you to know that, because when we leave now, the rumour will be that the governor has come to endorse somebody. What we have come to do was to come and celebrate him, because he has done well.

South South

Thursday, March 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ex-Gov Sylva seeks court’s permission to travel abroad ISE-OLUWA IGE

ormer Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, yesterday requested a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja to grant him permission to accompany his wife on a foreign trip. Sylva, in the application filed on May 16, said his wife was scheduled for surgery in a United Kingdom, UK, hospital and needed his company. The ex-governor is standing trial before the court for alleged money laundering related offences. But the anti-graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, prosecuting him yesterday urged the court to reject his request. EFCC said allowing him

to travel offshore would jeopardise on-going investigation on his alleged fresh criminal activities just uncovered. Sylva, however, told the court to ignore the objection by the EFCC. He said he was only complying with the order of the court to apply for its leave anytime he had to travel. He specifically urged the court to release his international passport to enable him embark on the trip. He promised to return for his trial and to also return the passport to the custody of the court. Sylva reminded the court that it was part of the conditions attached to the bail granted him last June, to always seek the court’s leave before embarking on any foreign trip. He said his wife needed

company for her trip and he was the readily available choice, being the husband. But the EFCC in a counter affidavit urged the court to refuse Sylva’s application on the ground that he could refuse to return for trial. The EFCC stated that since Sylva was arraigned in June last year and granted bail, it has unearthed fresh evidence that the ac-

cused allegedly engaged in fraudulent acquisition of property through other persons. The commission further stated that in view of the new discovery, it got a court order last December, freezing the new assets. EFCC said investigation was still ongoing and it could be jeopadised should Sylva be allowed to travel.

The commission said Sylva had, on several occasions, refused to honour its invitations, a development that prompted his last arrest by its operatives. Sylva’s application could not be taken yesterday because EFCC’s lawyer, John Anietor, objected on the ground that he was just served with the applicant’s reply affidavit few minutes before the

court sat. He prayed the court for time to enable him file a further and better affidavit in response to issues raised in Sylva’s reply affidavit. Although Sylva’s lead counsel, Isaac Olorundare, SAN, opposed an adjournment, the court said the EFCC’s lawyer was entitled to a short time to file additional response.

Delta revenue board to automate tax processes AMOUR UDEMUDE ASABA

he Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, DBIR, yesterday said it is working towards automating all tax processes in the state as part of measures to check unhealthy practices and possible leakages in the state tax system. Board Chairman, Mr. Joel Onowakpo Thomas, stated this in his office in Asaba while playing host to a team of World Bank officials who were in the state to ascertain the workings of the state board of internal revenue. While saying that the transformation in the agency will place it above other agencies, the DBIR boss informed his guests that efforts in that direction is yielding commendable results, adding that the

remarkable increase in the state’s Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, from N1.2 billion in the previous year to N5.7 billion recorded in January this year was indeed testimonial. The chairman, who attributed the increase to a number of factors, among which are; blocking all the leakages in the tax system, setting yearly targets for its staff, employing the services of committed, dedicated and experienced professionals into the board, disclosed further that the state board of internal revenue contributes significantly to the state purse and to this end, the board is committed to its duties. “What we did was to change the structure of the board such that it became more goal and target oriented.

Members of the Rivers People Assembly protesting against Governor Rotimi Amaechi’s administration in Port Harcourt, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Police arraign two suspected rapists EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA

ayelsa State police command yesterday arraigned two suspected rapists, Adamu Musa and Nathaniel Elaweremi, 35, at a Yenagoa high court for allegedly having carnal knowledge of two teenage girls on separate occasions. At a resumed hearing at the state High Court 7, a one-count charge of unlawful carnal knowledge was slammed on Elaweremi .

You’re not sole administrators, Dickson tells LG bosses EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA

ayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, yesterday told newly elected council chairmen in the state not to see themselves as sole administrators in their respective local governments. Rather, the governor said the chairmen should always consult and build consensus within the party in their areas to stimulate internal democracy. Dickson, who spoke in

Yenagoa at his monthly interaction session with party stakeholders, reiterated his loyalty and commitment to the ruling party. “I congratulate the local government chairmen and urge them to key into the spirit of the new Bayelsa at the ward and local government levels. They should exercise leadership and responsibility at that level; let them know we are a government of the party.” The state chief executive said the last council election in the state was the most peaceful; pointing out that

PDP was the party with the vision to take Bayelsans to the next level. Governor Dickson called on the chairmen to also work closely with government representatives at the local government areas to step up security machinery, especially in the area of sea piracy as they are closest to the grass root. Earlier, state Chairman of the PDP, Col. Sam Inokoba (rtd), said the task ahead of the party was to support President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 poll and that of the governor in 2016.

The state’s Principal Counsel, Pere Egbuson, told the court that the accused raped one Miss Blessing Ugolor, 14, at about 7.30pm on October 14 last year along the Green Villa Road at Biogbolo axis of the state capital. Egbuson said the suspect was promptly arrested by the police the very day he committed the offence. According to him, the suspect was alleged to have lured his victim while she was disposing refuse at a dump site in the area.

He said: “The accused instilled fear in the teenage girl that she had committed an offence by disposing the waste at the dump site located opposite a drinking bar. He dragged the girl to a guest house and raped her under the threatening presence of five other boys in the room of the guest house.” The state principal counsel also told the court that Adamu Musa, a local cobbler was alleged to have trailed a 12-year-old teenage girl to a building at Biogbolo, when

she was returning from school. Egbuson said the suspect claimed to have called the girl to buy him some kerosene, as he followed the girl into the house and allegedly tore off her school uniform. “He grabbed a machete in the house to threaten the mother of the girl who walked in on him during the heinous act. Adamu threatened to kill the mother and daughter, but for the quick intervention of neighbours, who rescued them,” the counsel added.

Federal secretariat project abandoned in Bayelsa EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA

ndication emerged yesterday that work on the federal secretariat complex in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State has been abandoned owing to lack of funds. A visit by National Mirror to the project site along the Ox Bow Lake Road, Swali showed that construction work had stopped in the area since February this year. Only a few security men were spotted at the

site when our correspondent visited the area yesterday. The ceremonial foundation laying stone of the project was done last year when the former governor of the state, Timipre Sylva, was in office. Work on the proposed four-storey secretariat complex was at its foundation level before it was abandoned. The National Good Governance Team led by the Minister for Information and Orientation, Labaran Maku and over

70 journalists, including members of non-governmental organisations on February 16, visited the state to inspect some ongoing federal projects. It was gathered that the contractor quickly mobilised a few members of staff to the project site when the minister and his team visited the state. The group spent at least three days touring parts of the state to inspect projects embarked upon by the Federal Government.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Al-Makura has disappointed Nasarawa people –Egya

ABUJA

enate President David Mark has accused northern politicians of sustaining Almajiris in the region. Mark, who said northern politicians elected not to address the issue because it served them some political purposes, urged the governors in the region to outlaw the practice. He said: “We must admit that politicians in the North have failed over the years to stem the Almajiri system. “In fact, if anything else, it will appear that they have encouraged it or for political reasons they have been scared of making a comment on it.” The Senate President said this while contributing to the debate on the bill for an act to repeal and re-enact

Politics

APC: The storm ahead

GEORGE OJI

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Northern politicians behind almajiris –Mark the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Act 2003. Almajiri is a social problem whereby children are exposed to laborious work at a tender age, normally between the ages of seven and 20. It also has to deal with persons who beg for assistance from the streets or from house to house as a result of some deformity or disability. The Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwanso, last week outlawed Almajiris in the state. The Senate President said from his personal inquiries, he was told that Almajiri was not an Islamic injunction, but a practice being perpetrated to serve some selfish purpose. Mark said time had come for northern gover-

nors to take the path of honour to outlaw Almajiri practice throughout the northern region. He said: “I was very impressed when Senator Alkali Jajere made his point and I had to call the man who introduced Sharia, because wrongly or rightly, I think he is knowledgeable in Islamic affairs, to ask him truly if Almajiri is not an Islamic injunction, and he told me categorically that it is not.”

The Senate President also expressed concern over the growing act of human trafficking in the country and the reasons of unemployment, illiteracy and poverty to explain the menace. He said: “As long as we continue to make excuses for these criminal activities, we are going to find it difficult to improve because there is a mindset already. “It is amazing when we tend to make excuses for

our failings. If you cannot gain employment you go and join a terrorist group so that you can be employed. You join Boko Haram because you have no employment. “If you are poor, then you begin to trade and traffic in human beings so that you can be rich. These are all excuses. What about the people who are buying these people outside. Is it because they can’t find employment or because they are poor? I

think we should stop making excuses. Everything is reduced to the level of unemployment in the country. “Nigeria is not the only country where everybody is not employed. That you are not employed does not mean you should go and do something very bizarre. You open up a baby factory; you begin to sedate people and remove their organs to sell. It’s just never a good excuse for some of the things that we do.”

‘Osun deserves another political alternative’ OLAJIDE OMOJOLOMOJU

gover norship aspirant on the plartform of the Labour Party (LP) in Osun State, Prince Wale Alakinde has said that the state should try another political alternative. Indicating his interest in the Government House of Osun in 2014, Alakinde, a chartered accountant, said: “I strongly feel there are still lots of issues yet to be addressed. On the whole, I feel our people are not satisfied with the present administration because they feel the present administration in Osun State have only been doing media governance; claiming what is not. Giving the public an impression of what is not happening and this is what the present administration in Osun State has been doing since its inception over two years ago. In fact, I don’t see this present administration taking Osun State anywhere.” Alakinde said there was the need to find another alternative to the “scripted

system of governance” in Osun State to create a strategic engagement of the people of the state in all ramifications. He said: “For instance, the geology graduate employed to sweep the street should have been engaged to conduct a feasibility research on the deposit volume of gold in Osun State. I am not sure you are aware that Osun State boasts of the largest deposit of gold along the West African coast; contrary to the general belief that Ghana has the largest deposit.” Alakinde further explained that his agenda for Osun is based on a tripod of socio-economic development of all facets of life in the State of Living Spring, massive infrastructural development and youth empowerment. His words: “We will address the socio-economic development challenges in the area of health, education, rural electrification and water. We will also give attention to infrastructural facilities especially roads and housing while our priority will also be for the youth empowerment drive.”

Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi(right) admiring the plaque presented to him by the Assistant Inspector General(AIG) of Police, Zone 6, Jonathan Johnson, when the AIG led some senior officers from to pay a courtesy visit on the governor.

Fake security reports: PDP demands punishment for erring judges, others HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE

unitive actions have been recommended for those found to have played major role in the abortion of justice over the discovery by the police and the State Security Service (SSS) that the security reports presented before the 2007 Governorship Election Petition Tribunal which was relied upon by the Justice Garba Nabaruma-led tribunal was forged. The state Publicity Director of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State, Ayo Fadaka, who made this call yesterday in Akure, the state capital, stated that the action becomes imperative to guide against future occurrence. Fadaka said the report has helped to vindicate the party over the 2007 election

results in the state saying that the tribunal relied on the faked and forged documents to pave the way for the declaration of Dr. Olusegun Mimiko as the winner of the 2007 governorship election. He said: “It has now been established by the relevant security agencies that Mimiko and his legal team manufactured evidences particularly of security nature to ensure he wins at all cost. Through this fraudulent means, Mimiko was declared winner of an election he did not win. “They tendered these security reports in the court and the very original copies were tendered and the Tribunal in its wisdom or otherwise accepted them as against the normal trend of accepting only certified copies of such documents. “Our lawyers kicked but

the response of that Tribunal was that it should be front loaded. The DSS was in court to disclaim it, but the Tribunal would rather wish to accept the fake report as against the words of the security agency.” He recommended that all the people involved in the atrocity should be arraigned in court for forgery and tendering forged documents to deceive the court of justice. He lamented the delay in the investigation saying the former governor of the state, Dr. Olusegun Agagu had petitioned the presidency alleging that the LP forged SSS reports in Ondo State during the 2007 election which were presented at the tribunal. He decried the delay in the investigation, saying “if they had made that possible, Mimiko would not

have completed that tenure because the foundation of his victory at that tribunal was built on fraud arising from this is to declare that corruption played a dominant role in the frustration of justice and its attainment in today’s Nigeria.” He added: “The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) owes this nation a duty to investigate all judges that sat on that case and punish them as appropriate for acquiescing with corruption. It is important to let the CJN know that in the estimation of Nigerians today, judges that sit on election cases are generally seen as absolutely corrupt. “Mimiko must be made to resign his position as governor, since it is now confirmed he is a common felon, having perpetrated forgery. Nigeria must begin to get it right, no matter the cost.”

Politics

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Al-Makura has disappointed Nasarawa people –Egya State. What the people agitated for was a change; and what they were expecting was a positive change from the old order. It is expected that by now, we would have seen changes in the infrastructural development of Nasarawa State in terms of road construction, in the area of provision of adequate healthcare services for the people; we expect that by now we would have witnessed a tremendous change in the area of provision of potable water for the people of our dear state, we expected that the skill acquisition prospects of the people should have witnessed a change, where unemployed youths roaming about the streets would have be empowered to become self employed. By now, we expected that we would have seen a change in all spheres of lives of the people of the state, but as far as I am concerned, and as far as the feedback from the people is concerned, Nasarawa State is yet to witness any change. And given all these indices, it is very glaring that the current administration in Nasarawa State has disappointed the people of the state; it has failed woefully, no doubt.

Hon. Sam Egya represented Nasarawa/ Toto Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives in the sixth National Assembly. In this interview with OLAJIDE OMOJOLOMOJU, he bares his mind on the problems of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nasarawa State, the call for the younger generation to take over leadership in the state, the performance of the Tanko Al-Makura administration and the state of security in the country. Excerpts: There have been clamours in Nasarawa State, especially in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for younger generations of political leaders to emerge to take over from the old brigade. What is your reaction to this? The elders were youths before becoming elders and they learnt from that youth level before becoming elders. As leaders, you are obliged and duty bound to look after the younger generation, provide good leadership and the impetus to enable the younger generation attains leadership position as well. In the PDP, all along we have been together, following the footsteps of our leaders up to this moment. Unfortunately, before the last election we witnessed some bitter experiences which led to losing the election as a party, the situation became so serious and is still very serious; but we are now putting all heads together, all hands on deck, working round the clock to ensure the crises are resolved amicably, so that the PDP as a family will become united, and become very formidable once again. And we earnestly appeal to our leaders in the PDP to pave way for the younger generation to also attain leadership position in the state. If they hope to give us good sense of belonging and give us good leadership, they should pave way for some of us coming behind them to attain the position of leadership. They should bury all differences and come together. We, the younger generation want to see them united and working together, providing good leadership and remobilising members of the PDP and change from the current situation where from the position of rulership, we are now in the opposition, not because we were not formidable enough, but because our elders failed to do what was expected of them. I sincerely align with this school of thought that having tried the old brigade and having not measured fully to our expectation, they should now step aside and give the younger generation the opportunity to attain the position of leadership for our great party to reclaim its position as first among equals for the development of Nasarawa State and for the deliverance of dividends of democracy to the good people of the state. Would you agree to the notion that the older politicians have failed the present generation in terms of providing good leadership? It is cultural in Nigeria that older people should groom the younger ones to succeed them and as very responsible leaders and elders, when they know that younger ones have come of age, and garnered enough experience under their tutelage, they should voluntarily, without any prompting relinquish and cede leadership positions to the younger generation to take over. In essence, they would remain at the background providing the necessary and relevant impetus and advice for them to succeed. In other words, I am aligning with that notion, calling for generational change in leadership across the country and especially in Nasarawa State. However, we are not advocating that the older generation should be relegated to the background in the scheme of things, but we are saying that it is cultural and incumbent on them to groom the younger ones and provide enabling environment for them to attain leadership positions and also accede leadership position to them. That is the essence of having children who one expects will take over when one can no longer do certain things.

Egya

In the present situation in Nasarawa State, we acknowledge that we have leaders and we have leadership that we are following and I also acknowledge the fact that in the state, we have good followership, because all along, we have not witnessed any situation where youths are protesting against the elders like we have in other states, as far as the PDP is concerned. However, I want our leaders and elders in Nasarawa State PDP to do us a favour, by uniting and coming together and provide the necessary and needed leadership; but in a situation whether that is not obtainable or possible, then we the younger ones should now begin to think of the alternative solution. It is my candid believe that some of the younger generation have actually come of age and if given the opportunity of leadership, would be able to bring these old people together again. All along, all avenues of reconciliation have been exploited, but we are yet to witness the needed unity and progress in the PDP in Nasarawa State. So, it becomes imperative for us the younger generation to come together, assume leadership position and see how we can bring our leaders and elders together to become one family again. They are still needed; a society where there were no elders may not be able to move forward. But the truth is that the younger ones have come of age and they can handle leadership positions very well. How would you assess the Tanko Al-Makura-led Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) administration in Nasarawa State? The Al-Makura administration has not met the aspirations and yearnings of the people of Nasarawa

WHAT THE PEOPLE AGITATED FOR WAS A CHANGE; AND WHAT THEY WERE EXPECTING WAS A POSITIVE CHANGE FROM THE OLD ORDER... THE CURRENT

ADMINISTRATION IN NASARAWA

STATE HAS DISAPPOINTED THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE; IT HAS FAILED WOEFULLY, NO DOUBT

At the national level, the number one challenge today is insecurity. Do you think the Federal Government is doing enough to combat insecurity in Nigeria today? The insecurity in the land today is the most terrible thing we are witnessing in this country. And I don’t think what we are contending with is natural, it is artificial and self inflicted; the people either by omission or commission have consciously caused the present state of insecurity, because I have not seen any basis or reason why people should take up arms against the state. And it is my belief that whatever dialogue and discussion cannot solve or provide violence cannot as well provide it and I pity those who are behind the problem at hand. I appeal to them strongly to have a rethink and turn a new leaf, because innocent people are at the receiving end of their actions, people are dying on daily basis, people are maimed, property destroyed on daily basis. I don’t think it is humane for anyone to afflict this monumental suffering and hardship on fellow human beings. The Federal Government is trying and doing its very best. I salute the courage of the current president, Goodluck Jonathan and the way he has been handling the security situation. During the regime of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, when issues like these came up, and his approach, the invasion of Odi and Zaki Biam communities, people were on the neck of the government that the invasions were not in order. People wondered then why a whole community would suffer for the sins of a few elements in such community. It is very difficult handling this kind of situation and I think the present government is trying to avoid a situation where a repeat of the Odi and Zaki Biam scenarios were repeated. It is not everybody in communities where these insurgents are hiding that are involved in their activities. So what government is trying to do is separate the wheat from the chaff and it takes very long time to do that. Secondly, security is not government’s responsibility alone; it is the responsibility of everybody, including you and me. Now, these insurgents live among the people and it is incumbent on the people of these communities where they live to report them to the security agencies. So it behoves on every Nigerian to be at alert and report any untoward and suspicious character or situations to the security agencies. But we must give kudos to the present administration; it is doing its best and at the same time listening to the people. What do you foresee in Nasarawa State in 2015? I foresee the PDP coming on stream and taking over power from the CPC in 2015. I foresee a situation where the PDP is totally reconciled and all its members coming together as a family, formidably united to reclaim what it lost. And I want to assure you that once we are united, the sky is the beginning of great things to happen to the PDP in Nasarawa State. It is therefore hopeful that by the special grace of God and as the PDP re-unites; the state would once again in 2015 become a PDP state.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Thursday, May 23, 2013

he recent conventions of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) and the Congress for Progressive Party (CPC) where the resolution to merge with other progressives parties to form the All Progressive Congress (APC) have ushered in a new political equation in the country’s political space. If the calculation of the parties succeeds, the country once again is ready for robust politicking towards a virile democratic experiment come 2015. Unlike other alliances in the past that usually start with good beginnings, especially when elections are very near, but would suddenly, in a tinkle of an eye, turn sour, it is expected that the new merger has come to stay. In the instant case, there have been lots of assurances from the parties involved that a new dawn has come and there is no turning back. The National Chairman of the ACN, Chief Bisi Akande, assured that the merger has come to stay. His words: “We must not entertain any weariness or surrender to sentiments or blackmail in this enterprise, mindful that merger is strange, new and unique in Nigeria and that the law did not envisage the ambush presently being placed on our ways. But we shall overcome. This merger has come to stay! “…Nigerians are waiting patiently but with bated breath, to see the successful outcome of the merger talks. We must never let them down. We must rise above pettiness and personal ambitions and put the greater interest of this nation over any other thing else, for this is the only guarantee, to salvaging Nigeria from the precipice.” Political pundits are of the view that when it comes to the sharing of party positions and who picks what in terms of portfolios towards the race to 2015 general elections, the APC may not be able to speak in one voice. They hinged their premise on the ambitions of some of the new party promoters. The former presidential candidate of the CPC and one of the arrowheads of the merger process, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, has indicated interest in the 2015 presidency under the banner of APC. This school of thought believes that Buhari, who had contested for the presidency in 2003, 2007 and 2011, may not have age on his side, because by 2015, he would be 73. Against this backdrop, the party may decide to field a younger candidate, who is more acceptable, formidable and has the political clout to slug it out with the ruling party’s candidate, which may likely be the incumbent president, Goodluck Jonathan. But Buhari, who had initially vowed not to drop his ambition, is now singing a new song in recent times in order to convince the doubting Thomases that the merger is for real and nobody is larger than the party. He dropped the hint recently in Minna, the Niger State capital, when he said that if there is a formidable and better candidate, he was going to drop his ambition. “Whoever thinks he has got a chance, let him come out because the more we are, the merrier it becomes. I will be ready to step down if there is a formidable and better candidate. It is not about me but for the survival of the party. The APC is about ensuring internal democracy. Whoever emerges is the person I will support. Yes

Buhari

Tinubu

APC: The storm ahead Despite the determination and political conviction of the progressive parties to form the All Progressive Congress (APC) as alternative to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), SINA FADARE examines how prepared the new party is for the political storm ahead.

I will be ready to step down,” Buhari said. But political observers see Buhari’s statement as political. Even, the National Chairman of the PDP, Bamangar Tukur was sure that the APC will be scattered when it comes to the sharing of party positions. “Don’t worry, this is not the first time Nigerians would hear about merger. Let elections come and everyone will see the problems within them. They will be torn to rags because of ambitions,” Tukur said. Former governor of Kano State, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, believes that the emergence of the APC standard bearer would be democratic, despite the array of formidable presidential materials in the party. His words: “It is too early to talk about a presidential candidate. In the APC, we will have internal democracy that will guide the party. Let us have the party on the ground first, congresses will be held at various levels that will produce our candidates. At that point, anybody can contest and the party will support the best candidate that emerges. “We are not talking of just dismantling the PDP; we want change. We are not just talking about change in democracy but change in attitude, change in approach, change in character and change in conducting the business of government. That is why our slogan is ‘Change’. We are determined to change Nigeria for the better.” Poor internal democracy that has always been the bane of political parties in the country may be a major albatross of the new party. With the heavy presence of the ACN which is controlling six states in the country in the new party, the consensus phenomenon that was the hallmark of the ACN may creep into the new party and at the end of the day, the interest of few leaders may prevail in picking candidates through consensus and this may create a crisis with the party. How the interest of former governor of Lagos State, Bola Tinubu, will be taken care of in the new party surely will be another major storm. No doubt, Tinubu,

the National Leader of APC decides who get what in the ACN and with other parties coming into fold, there may be friction over his influence on the APC. Insisting that the merger is the only panacea that can bail the country out of the political crossroad it finds itself at this critical time, former Governor of Zamfara State, Ahmed Yerima said: “If you look at developed countries like the United States (US), France, Germany and the United Kingdom (UK) for example, they have two major parties. Nigeria deserves to have this kind of arrangement so that she can have an alternative. The objective of having the APC as a party is to give Nigerians a chance to have an alternative party to the ruling party, the PDP. We have been moving towards a one-party state which is not healthy for democracy.” Speaking to National Mirror, the former governor of Zamfara State noted that “this is an opportunity for Nigerians to vote for people of their choice because when you have robust opposition party like the APC, you will see people getting options in case of a forced candidate.” Commenting on whether the quest for party officials and party nominations for elective post come 2015 may scuttle the ambition of the APC, Yerima noted that the party has passed such level. His words: “We have passed that stage. We have held conventions to approve the merger by the entire congregation of parties involved. The next step is to follow the provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended), apply to INEC for reg-

LET ELECTIONS COME AND EVERYONE WILL SEE THE PROBLEMS

WITHIN THEM.

THEY

WILL BE TORN TO RAGS BECAUSE OF AMBITIONS

istration. By the time all the conventions are done, the APC will stand as a one family. We are going to sit down and look for the best person who can lead the family and other national officers will follow.” He pointed out that as soon as the new party comes to reality, one step will be taken after another in order to build a solid party that will be an alternative to the ruling party. Speaking in the same vein, a member of the APC Merger Committee and National Publicity Secretary of the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP), Osita Okechukwu, also dismissed the suspicion that personal ambition poses danger to the merger process. According to him, “the most prominent thing that the members and supporters of the APC have put ahead is to save the country, to save our democracy and even save our constitution which the PDP has bastardised. So, the song is to redeem the country because if there is no country there is no ambition to talk about.” Okechukwu noted that “for the leaders of the merger process, this thing is about the country. Nigeria is drifting dangerously into a failed state. So these patriots are saying that they are going to salvage this country and let personal interest go down the drain.” But despite all these braggadocio from members of the APC, the emerging party still has so many hurdles to cross before posing any threat to the ruling party. Among such hurdles are the controversies surrounding its acronym, the APC, which two other organisations – African Peoples Congress and All Patriotic Citizens – are laying claim to, the tenuous process of registration by the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the mobilisation and registration of new members across the length and breadth of the country, among others. How the APC and its proponents are able to navigate these murky waters of the obstacles on its way would surely go a long way to determine its ability to weather the storms on its path as the march to 2015 general elections continues to gather momentum. However, a PDP chieftain and Chairman, Senate Committee on Education, Uche Chukwumerije, said that the courage and confidence of the APC to channel a new course of political thought is good for democracy. Chukwumerije, while speaking with National Mirror recently in Lagos, said: “A strong national alternative is very good for the dynamics of growth, stability and democratic maturity in this country,” adding that if the experiment works, “it will encourage dynamism in governance. When you run into effective and strong challenges to your position, this will compel you to improve on your performance. The future of this country lies in the existence of a duality of two strong national networks, called two national parties. It will help the country a lot.” As Nigerians are patiently waiting to know the magic wand which the APC may likely display in order to dislodge the PDP, political observers are of the view that if the APC is allowed to sail through by the INEC, the political space in 2015 may witness a robust and competitive politicking.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Thursday, May 23, 2013

Reining in anarchy EXISTENTIAL HUMANISM

FRY

NDUBUISI fryndubuisi@nationalmirroronline.net (08023016709 SMS only)

he debate on the propriety of the state of emergency recently declared by President Goodluck Jonathan in Yobe, Borno and Adamawa states still rages on. While some Nigerians approve of it, others see it as belated, while yet some others think it unnecessary, arguing that a presidential amnesty committee was already in place. Whichever way the argument goes, the truth is that Mr. President has both the moral and legal obligation to do what he has done. Section 305(1) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution backs him. With emphasis on ‘enough is enough’ in his emergency declaration speech, Jonathan wielded the big stick in the exercise of his power and fidelity to the provision of the law of the land. The recent kidnap of elder statesman and octogenarian, Alhaji Shettima Ali Monguno, by Boko Haram in Maiduguri should be seen as the high point in the sect’s atrocious impunity. Report had it that a whopping N50 million was paid for this respected Nigerian to regain his freedom. Thus apart from destroying lives

and properties, Boko Haram has gradually veered into the business of kidnapping-for- ransom, which obviously meant it desperately needed funds to prosecute its nefarious agenda. The extent the insurgents have gone is quite frightening. They were not only killing, maiming and destroying churches, schools, businesses and mosques, they had already overrun some villages in Borno State, and claimed suzerainty over them with the hoisting of its nationhood flag. By this audacious act, the sect had shown that its agenda was more that many Nigerians had previously imagined. Thankfully, the governors of the affected states have thrown their weight behind Mr. President’s move; the Northern Governors’ Forum has also lauded the action as a good option to tackle the insecurity impasse in the region, and the Nigerian Labor Congress (NLC) has described it as a demonstration of political maturity. In sharp contrast, the National President and Convener of Nigerian Voters’ Assembly (VOTAS), Dr. Femi Aborisade, sees the President’s approach as a demonstration of weakness and lack of political will to resolve the lingering security challenge. Mallam Shehu Sani, president of Civil Rights Congress of Nigeria (CRCN), sharing Aborisade’s sentiments, describes the emergence rule as an admission of failure by the Federal Government in addressing the root causes of insurgency in the country. He is joined in this by Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), the apex socio-cultural

WHILE THE NATION WAS COUNTING ITS LOSSES FROM THE UNCEASING ONSLAUGHTS FROM

BOKO HARAM,

ANOTHER GROUP,

OMBATSE, EMERGED IN NASARAWA STATE group in the North. However, the United States, condemning the Boko Haram’s campaigns of terrorism in the strongest term, however, urged the soldiers enforcing the state of emergency to “apply disciplined use of force in all its operations and protect civilians in any security response..’’ From whichever perspective one views this development, I personally see it as the best opportunity for the Federal Government to decisively tackle this unpleasant insecurity in the North and other parts of the country. Before this move, it was obvious Nigeria was sliding into a state of anarchy, which was why the Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, did not only commend the action of Mr. President, it went further to call for the declaration of a “state of national emergency”, saying that limiting the emergency only to the three northern states would only offer a temporary solution to the nation’s security challenges.

There is no doubt Nigeria has been under a serious threat; and it is very unfortunate that politics is read into every move made by the authorities in the country. A fire of disintegration was threatening the nation with a culture of audacity showing in all fronts. In the face of this, politicians are only too quick to see where they are losing or gaining political grounds, the health and promotion of public good never their concern. We have gotten to a dangerous level where human lives are worth nothing, and life has become brutish, short and nasty. While the nation was counting its losses from the unceasing onslaughts from Boko Haram, another group, Ombatse, emerged in Nasarawa State with its own agenda. Its last encounter with law enforcement agencies left scores of security agents dead. That was another national scandal; it was a total humiliation of the Nigeria Police Force. If swift action is not taken to contain the group now, it would become another big monster, which will possibly position itself to make unwholesome demand on the nation. Where it sources its sophisticated weapons should be a big concern to the security agents. This state of emergency offers the government a great opportunity to sort out the security challenges in the North and other parts of the nation. There cannot be real progress in the country under the prevailing state of anarchy. Professor Ndubuisi, an attorney at Law, is of the Department of Philosophy, UNILAG.

Depoliticising the war against fake drugs SUFUYAN OJEIFO

was distressed by the reports in some newspapers on May 1 this year, that some youths in Benue State attacked the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Dr Paul Botwev Orhii and some of his staff at the destruction site for counterfeit medicines in the outskirt of Makurdi, the state capital. However, the claim was roundly debunked by the agency’s image maker, Alhaji Abubakar Jimoh. However, what was correct about this strange narrative was that a group of youths actually protested the location for the destruction of counterfeit medicines on grounds that the emissions from it constituted a dangerous pollutant that could cause serious hazards to the health of the host community. Whether these claims were founded or not is neither here nor there. NAFDAC did not forcefully take over the fake drugs destruction site. It was reportedly carved out by Benue State Ministry of Environment after the necessary environmental impact assessment. After this initial set back, the fake drugs valued at over N400 million were eventually publicly burnt two days later, thus taking them out of the system. Destruction of fake drugs worth over N600 million had similarly in December last year, taken place in Kano State. Hundreds of cartons of counterfeit chloroquine, banned analgin injections and 14 million tablets of Tramoldine, often abused by commercial drivers and motorcyclists, were affected. Burning of the

BUT BENEATH THE PROTEST IN

BENUE, WHICH

INCIDENTALLY IS THE HOME STATE OF THE

AGENCY’S

DG, IS AN

OBVIOUS POLITICAL UNDERTONE seized caches of drugs serves to complement the other methods, especially the cutting-edge technologies such as Truscan equipment, Mobile Authentication Service and Black Eye that have been deployed by the agency to attack frontally the menace of fake medicines. But beneath the protest in Benue, which incidentally is the home state of the agency’s DG, is an obvious political undertone. There were even reports that the protesting youths issued warnings and threats to Orhii to wait for his time to be governor of the state. One must therefore, condemn the cheap resort to blackmail and politicization of an issue as serious as the war against counterfeit drugs. Although, Orhii, who is a thoroughbred technocrat, has not indicated his interest in politics, it is not surprising that some persons somewhere, who perceive him as a potential threat to their ambitions in the event that he decides to throw his hat in the ring, are already panicky. It simply means that they see some positives in the

anti-counterfeit medicines campaign that he is driving at NAFDAC. Should he now ride on the wave of the wonderful performance to build political machinery back home? This is the issue those trying to politicize the anti-fake medicine campaigns in Benue find difficult to comprehend. Rather than try to undercut his great effort at sanitizing and controlling our drug and food market, the institution of NAFDAC, much more than Orhii, needs the genuine support of all Nigerians, including the political elite in Benue, to combat the menace of fake drugs that has unfortunately and painfully robbed us of loved ones over the years and will continue to do so if all hands are not on deck to fight back. This collective will does not need to be bogged down on the altar of politics, ethnicity as death occasioned by ingestion of fake medicines does not know politics, or ethnic background. Death through fake medicines diminishes mankind and reduces all of these primordial considerations six feet down the grave. At least four persons were reported to have died in the state about the time of the “protest drama” over the site of fake drug destruction after they were administered with fake procaine penicillin and gentamycin injections. Orhii, according to media reports, said the victims died in Gboko, Makurdi and Otukpo Local Government areas of the state. His disclosure was at a one-day Consumer Awareness and Sensitization Forum held in Gboko. He had urged Nigerians to stand up against the fakers of drugs, stressing that drug fakers were

worse than armed robbers. It is cheering that successive leadership of NAFDAC had always provided the focus of attack against the sophistication and conscienceless courage of fakers of medicines as well as their importers and hawkers. Orhii, according to media reports, had hinted that the agency had approached the Federal Government for a N200 billion pharmaceutical intervention fund to help provide funds for pharmaceutical companies to aid local production of drugs. His rationalization is that when finally approved, the fund would be readily available and accessible to pharmaceutical companies in the country to aid the production of drugs and thereby discourage the importation of fake drugs. The agency must be enabled, even if legally, for instance, to collect regulatory allowance or levy of five percent, as obtained in some developed countries, on such luxury items like tobacco products, energy drinks, alcoholic beverages, which most people do not need. I believe, as I have advocated before now, that the regulatory allowance will come in handy for NAFDAC. Ojeifo, an Abuja-based journalist, contributed this piece via ojwonderngr@yahoo.com 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, May 23, 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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FRANK OBOH

HEAD, GRAPHICS

Nigeria’s lamentable festering corruption

he attention of the Federal Government has repeatedly been drawn to the soaring heights of corruption in the country, despite purported attempts by the various authorities to curb the festering sore. At a book launch in Lagos not too long ago, former President Olusegun Obasanjo had presented a grim picture of how, in many countries in Africa, including Nigeria, “political and bureaucratic classes are so corrupt that the government is unable to muster the necessary moral courage to push through any policy that may cause any inconvenience to the middle class, no matter how temporary or beneficial the policy may be in the long run…” In the case of Nigeria, the former President had said: “There seems to be an obnoxious solidarity among the middle class that allows the manipulation of available democratic institutions against the enforcement of anti-corruption laws. The poor enforcement of anti-corruption laws in turn makes the citizenry less enthusiastic to act positively on any call by the government to make sacrifice”. Pioneer chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), Justice Mustapha Akanbi, also recently cried out that indicted former governors, ministers

and party officials, have surprisingly become the power brokers in the country. “Many well meaning and responsible Nigerians have been crying foul at the turn of events and the apparent cover up of purveyors of corruption in recent times and the lethargic manner corruption cases are being handled. Given the situation described above, more often than not, mediocre, incompetent and corrupt officials rather than resourceful, efficient and competent hands, find their way to positions of power and authority which they use and manipulate to their own advantage and not to the benefit of society or for the public good”, was how he put it. Again last weekend, Justice Akanbi lamented that corrupt public office holders were more powerful than the government, and that they had enough funds to fight antigraft agencies, a remark that tallies with Obasanjo’s analysis, among others. President Goodluck Jonathan and organised labour leaders, at the last Workers’ Day celebration, held at the Eagle Square, Abuja, traded words on the extreme level of corruption in the land and government’s impotence in taking on the menace headlong. Labour drew attention to how, for many years now, such key sectors as manufacturing, agriculture, education,

WITH THE TOTALITY OF PUBLIC

EXPERIENCE SO FAR, THE FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION APPEARS FEEBLE oil and gas, have not recorded any progress. Apparently concurring with the position of labour, Jonathan had said at that event that “labour has been in the forefront for the demand for good governance and increased action against corruption, and these issues are being vigorously tackled from various fronts. Prosecutions are being pursued in matters arising from petroleum subsidy fraud, embezzlement of pension fund and other serious long-standing malpractices demystified by this administration”. For a fact, however, corruption has since independence been the Achilles’ hill of the country’s development drive. It contributed to the collapse of the First Republic, which was followed by the locust years of the military. The Second Republic that followed was worse off, which again led to further military intervention in governance. There was a stifled Third Republic. However, the country eventually returned to democratic rule in

May 1999. Some of the debilitating effects of the nation’s corruption-induced economic backwardness, infrastructure and social amenities deficits, unemployment and mass poverty, have been geometric increases in the number of crimes and criminal gangs kidnapping, armed robbery child trafficking, prostitution, ritual murders, insurgency and militant uprisings, and presently, terrorism. It has consequently become necessary to again draw the attention of the Dr. Jonathan administration to the widely acclaimed seeming lack of political will from the highest authorities in the country to fight corruption, as well as the compromised handling of high-profile corruption cases. While some members of the labour unions may be corrupt, for instance, it is the bounden responsibility of the government to firm up the country’s laws and anti-graft bodies to enable them confront and effectively tame the monster. The buck ends on Jonathan’s table. We are in no way suggesting that Labour should not call its corrupt and thieving members to order; our well considered point is that with the totality of public experience so far, the current fight against corruption is too feeble, considering the imminent dangers it poses to both the polity and the nation’s economic well-being.

ON THIS DAY May 23, 2010 The2010Kingstonunrest: Jamaicanpolicebeganamanhunt for drug lord, Christopher “Dudus” Coke, after the United States requested his extradition, leading to three days of violence during which at least 73 bystanders were killed. Christopher Michael Coke, also known as Dudus, (born March 13 1969), is a Jamaican drug lord and the leader of the Shower Posse, a violent drug gang started by his father Lester Coke in Jamaica.

May 23, 2004 Part of Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport’s Terminal 2E collapsed, killing four people and injuring three others. The Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, also known as Roissy Airport, is one of the world’s principal aviation centres, as well as France’s largest airport. It is named after Charles de Gaulle (1890–1970), leader of the Free French Forces and founder of the French Fifth Republic. It is located within portionsof severalcommunes,25km(16mi)tothenortheastof Paris.

May 23, 1992 Italy’s most prominent anti-mafia judge, Giovanni Falcone, his wife and three body guards were killed by the Corleonesi clan with a half-ton bomb near Capaci, Sicily. Giovanni’s friend and colleague, Paolo Borsellino was also assassinated less than two months later, making 1992 a turning point in the history of Italian Mafia prosecutions.TheCorleonesiisthenamegiventoafactionwithintheSicilian MafiathatdominatedCosaNostrainthe1980sandthe1990s.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today ‘2015 MDGs’ target on education in Nigeria 23 unrealistic’

Students owe Ekiti varsity N2bn tuition!

The university’s gate

THERE WERE CASES OF STUDENTS, WHO GAINED

ABIODUN NEJO ADO- EKITI

hirty-one-year old Ekiti State University, EKSU, Ado-Ekiti, is a university with a difference, especially in the aspect of students’ attitude to payment of school fees. The erstwhile culture at inception in the university, which took off as Obafemi Awolowo University and later Ondo State University before adopting University of Ado Ekiti and its present EKSU, was that students paid their tuition fees immediately on resumption for a new academic session, But that has become history as the culture had undergone degeneration over time from payment as at when due to when the students felt it was convenient for them and consequently not paying at all. There were cases of students, who gained admission to the university, spent four sessions, graduated and went for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme without paying a dime to the coffers of the university. According to sources in the university bursary, many full-time and part-time students hate payment of school fees with passion. As a matter of fact, many graduates paid for only one or two sessions and succeeded in getting necessary examination and clearance papers through the back door. One of the participants at a stakeholders’ forum involving the principal officers of the university, staff, parents, sponsors and guardians held at the university on Saturday, who described himself as a parent, painted a clearer picture when he said he was amazed that a person celebrated his passing through

ADMISSION TO THE UNIVERSITY, SPENT FOUR SESSIONS, GRADUATED AND

NATIONAL YOUTH SERVICE CORPS (NYSC) SCHEME WITHOUT WENT FOR THE

PAYING A DIME TO THE Aina

EKSU without paying a kobo for four sessions. The question is how such students got their way through the university? Sources said they colluded with some members of staff in relevant quarters for enabling papers to deceive the authorities that they had paid. This is one of the issues that the current Vice- Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Patrick Aina, who assumed office one and half years ago, has to contend with as efforts to effect change appears to be meeting with resistance from the students, who appear to have preference for maintaining the status quo. Aina, who said students owed over N2 billion tuition fees when he assumed office, vowed that his administration would ensure that EKSU was run in line with what obtained elsewhere in a bid to reposition the institution as a world-class university. Consequently, he pressured the students to ensure their tuition fees for 2011/2012 session were paid before partaking in the second se-

COFFERS OF THE UNIVERSITY mester examination, asking them to bring a regulated clearance – a situation which saw some students having to pay tuition fees arrears. The VC, who vowed that it would no longer be business as usual stressed that students had to pay their 2012/2013 tuition fees latest two weeks after resumption for the new academic session. However, on resumption, the students chose to follow their own old ways by refusing to pay the school fees and taking the path of protest when the university authorities decided to apply “no school fees, no lecture policy” to compel them to pay. As the protest, whereby the students locked the university gates to prevent entry into the campus, entered its second day on May 3, the authorities of the university announced a mid-semester break for the students “to enable them have time to pay up the tuition”. The university later announced that

its gates would not be opened to the students until at least 80 per cent of them had paid up. The vice chancellor said: “As of Wednesday, May 2, 2013 (five weeks into the current session), out of the 14,802 students in the regular programmes, only 1,227 students had paid their fees. There are 124 students in the College of Medicine, only two had paid their fees. This is alarming in a College of Medicine.” But the students, who were said to have gathered for the showdown as early as 5.30am chanted war songs against Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi and the school management and, as well made bonfire outside the locked gates of the institution. Some students, who spoke with journalists had accused the university of insincerity over the ‘no fee no lecture’ stance, saying their fees were too high as students in some departments were being made to pay as high as N150,000 through various charges as against the N50,000 school fees being announced. The students, who said the authorities should allow them to attend classes while they pay the school fees later by installment, challenged the university to disclose to the world the sundry fees they were being made to pay in addition, thus making their fees outrageous. The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), coming to the aid of its members at EKSU, said it had held an exhaustive deliberation with the university management so that students could be allowed to pay bit by bit. A statement by NANS National President, Comrade Yinka Gbadebo, said its position was informed by the fact that such would make life easier for the indigent ones among the students as they would not suffer being locked out of lectures. But Aina said: “Payment of fees is a condition of studentship. That is the standard now in the university,” saying: “We will not encourage that situation whereby students do not pay school fees to continue.” The VC clarified at the stakeholders’ forum that the university needed to look inwards to meet its financial commitments, saying: “The most credible source of generating fund is through tuition fees, which at the moment stand at N50, 000 flat rate” According to Aina, who reeled out the approved tuition and service charges for undergraduates to the stakeholders, tuition is N50, 000 while other charges included payment for health services, registration, ICT, laboratory, field trip, identity cards, among others. He described the fees as moderate and considerate, particularly when compared with what obtained in other sister universities like Lagos State University, Osun State University and Olabisi Onabanjo University, which he showed their school fees schedules. Aina, who said the students were deliberately refusing to pay approved fees, said “they would rather deploy their fees already collected from their parents to other uses like purchase of state- of- the- art gadgets, phones and other mundane activities that are not beneficial to them as students.”

Education Education Today Today

Last Sunday, academics from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, under the banner of Committee of Friends, gathered at Jade Palace, Victoria Island, Lagos, to honour the trio of the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rahman Ade Bello and his deputies: Professors Babajide Alo and Duro Oni. The feast came just as the university marked one-year remembrance of the university’s late VC, Prof. Babatunde Sofoluwe. MOJEED ALABI reports.

he atmosphere reflected the circumstance of the event and the identity of the organiser- Committee of Friends, as guests threw banters at one another, reminiscing long forgotten events and how those events had shaped their lives. It was the reception organised by the friends of the administrators of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, namely: Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rahman Adekanbi Bello and his two deputies, Professors Babajide Alo and Duro Oni at Jade Palace on Victoria Island, Lagos, last Sunday. The Chairman on the occasion and former Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Oyewusi Ibidapo-Obe, while declaring open the programme, described the new leadership of the university as unusual with the three honourees sharing the same circle of friends. Ibidapo-Obe, who is currently the ViceChancellor of the Federal University, NdufeAlike, Ebonyi State, said, “the feast is not only to acknowledge their success but to also set agenda for them and exchange mutually beneficial ideas on best way to grow the university, which he described as a brand that

To my best

TEACHER

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

When friends feted UNILAG VC, DVCs •As varsity honours late VC

L-R: Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Oye Ibidapo-Obe; Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Rahman Bello, and his wife, Alhaja Adedoja Bello, at the reception held in honour of the VC and his deputies by their friends, at Jade Palace, VI, Lagos, on Sunday.

THE FEAST IS NOT ONLY TO ACKNOWLEDGE THEIR SUCCESS, BUT TO

ALSO SET AGENDA FOR THEM AND EXCHANGE MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL IDEAS ON THE BEST WAY TO GROW THE UNIVERSITY has come to stay. The anchor of the ceremony and immediate past Vice-Chancellor of Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, Ogun State, Prof. Segun Awonusi, described the new VC as a worthy and dependable fellow who he said had always demonstrated his administrative acumen since his days as

a commissioner for Special Duties in Ogun State. When it was time for tributes, some of the members, including the Chairman of the university’s alumni association, Prof. Olaide Abass; Prof. Muiwa Falaye of the institution’s Department of Philosophy and the former Dean of the Faculty of Education, Prof. Duro Ajeyalemi, spoke glowingly of the three honourees, describing them as achievers in their individual capacities. They urged them to translate their individual qualities to a common front to bring forth progress to the university and humanity as a whole. On her own, wife of the chairman on the occasion, Mrs. Sola Ibidapo-Obe, who, on behalf of the committee, presented an award plaque to the VC, described him as a humane, kind and friendly figure. She thanked the VC’s wife, Alhaja Adedoja Bello, for her support for her husband. “I could remember in the late 1970s when my husband’s friend, Prof. Ogunye and others were in Canada for their academic pro-

grammes, Prof. Bello, who was then a young lecturer always took care of us. In fact, his friends used to make jest of him calling him husbands of many women. His kindness and thoughtfulness have brought him this far and we should thank God for everything,” Mrs. Ibidapo-Obe recalled. In their responses, the celebrants thanked their friends for honouring them and pledged their commitment to make them proud and build the university to attain the dreams of its founding fathers. “We understand the load is heavy but we also believe that with God and the support of these friends we will conquer. Though funding is part of the challenges facing the education sector in the country, stakeholders must come together to utilise the limited resources and achieve excellence. That is part of what we are doing here today and I know that the sky is the beginning of the limit for UNILAG,” Bello said. It would be recalled that Bello, who until the death of the immediate past Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Babatunde Sofoluwe, was the deputy VC in charge of management services, was announced the institution’s substantive 11th VC recently, having served in acting capacity when his predecessor died in May last year. Meanwhile, the university has also in the last one week celebrated Sofoluwe’s legacies and immortalised him with the commissioning of various projects named after him. At an interdenominational service held in his honour last Wednesday, his successor promised to build on his achievement and make UNILAG one of the world leading universities. “The staff club has just commissioned a game section in his honour, the senate of the university has also approved a park in his honour which will be located right in front of the senate building here where he spent his last hours at work,” Bello disclosed.

Mother Agnes Hassan, former principal, St. Theresa College, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Mother Agnes Hassan was popularly known as Sister Agnes when she was the Principal of St. Theresa College, Ibadan, Oyo State. She was in the school for many years and many students passed through her tutelage. Many of them are a force to reckon with today not only in their chosen fields, but also in everything else. One of such former students is Prof. Sidi Osho, who was in the school between 1971 and 1976. Osho was a science student and she is today the Vice Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti. A Professor of Food Processing and Technology, Osho was formerly with Olabisi Onabanjo University, AgoIwoye as a senior lecturer before joining ABUAD as a pioneer Vice Chancellor. A scientist of note, Osho has received several awards locally and internationally, including the American Soybean Association Award in 1989 for recognising and carrying out research that later led to the increment in the consumption of Soybean-related products in the country. Prof. Osho today pays glowing trib-

Sidi

ute to Mother Agnes Hassan based on their relationship as a young secondary school girl. “I am happy today for who I am and what I have become in life. Although, I give God the glory, that I passed through the tutelage of Sister Agnes, as we fondly called her then, which contributed greatly to what I have achieved so far in life. “Another teacher I respected so much in the school at the time was Mrs. Sangowawa. She was also a teacher par excellence. And this is not to

say that others were not good. They were all fantastic teachers. They taught very well in class and offered themselves as good role models. But Sister Theresa, I must confess, stood out among them. She was a disciplinarian, who did her job passionately. She didn’t condone indiscipline from both the students and teachers. She showed us the road to success and encouraged us not to deviate from it and this virtue usually translated into good grades for the students of the school in final exams year-in and year-out. “Her leadership style at the time was equal to none. She was very firm and that really helped and is still helping me and I believe other alumni till today. She is aware I am the VC of ABUAD and the last time we saw was just about a month ago at a public forum in Ibadan, where I delivered a keynote address. She was happy to see me while I was happier seeing her. We hugged tightly. She said she knew I would become somebody in life back at St. Theresa College. Sister Agnes equally

encouraged every student to be actively involved in extra-curricular activities like sport, drama, literary and debating society. “So, to say the least, Sister Agnes left an indelible mark in the life of every student she taught. She inculcated in us the virtues of hard work, honesty, self reliance, discipline and courage. I thank you greatly Ma for all you did to impact our lives positively back at St. Theresa College, Ibadan. May you continue to enjoy good health in your old age in Jesus name, amen”.

If you can read this, then you have a reason to be grateful. Show your appreciation to your best or favourite teacher in this column. Send us a ‘Thank You’ note, including your full names, current status and the years you were taught by your teacher. You can also send us your current picture plus that of your teacher where possible. Write to the Editor, To My best Teacher Column, National Mirror, P.M.B. 10001, Marina Lagos or e-mail:

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Education Today

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Improve our school facilities, spelling bee winners urge Fashola

TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

he winners of this year’s Lagos State Spelling Bee Competition at both primary and secondary school levels have urged the state governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola to intensify efforts in improving the facilities of their schools. They made the call at the grand finale of the competition held at Alausa, the seat of the state government, last week. Spelling Bee Competition is being organised annually by the state government in conjunction with Dufil Prima Foods, makers of Bobo and other drinks, to reward academic excellence among secondary school students in the state-owned institutions. The overall winner at the secondary school category, a 15- year-old Boadley Afolarin from Omole Senior Grammar School, Ikekja, who by virtue of the achievement will serve as one day governor in the state asked Gov. Fashola to come to the rescue of his

school’s laboratories and art studio by providing necessary equipment and other facilities to aid their practical works. Similarly, his first and second runners-up, Abolaji Abdulrahman, 12, from Community Senior secondary school Ipaja and Bio Marvelous of Victoria Island Senior Secondary School, Iru, want the gover-

nor to equip their libraries, renovate their bad school buildings and toilet facilities, as well as equipping their laboratories. They believe that doing that would greatly enhance their learning and consequently their performances in external examinations. The winners at the primary category on their parts also made similar de-

mand on the governor. One of them, Adewumi Usman, 11, from St. Paul’s African Primary School, Odi-Olowo, Mushin, who came first, said: “My school needs a well-stocked library, a good toilet facilities and a functional borehole and I am using this medium to appeal to the governor to help us out.” Nevertheless, they were

n Information and C o m m u n i c at i o n Technology expert, Dr. Niran Oyekale, has advocated the need for Nigeria to promote digital literacy in various aspects of its economy to cope with the various challenges of the 21st Century. Oyekale, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Commit Technology & Consult Limited, one of the leading IT training firms in the country, said in current high-tech world, digital literacy had become a requirement for an individual to be competitive. He, however, noted that the literacy required for such success was not well defined and neither were the skills included in many learning standards/curricula nor measured up to standard on most state and local assessments. Oyekale stated that the need to bridge the digital literacy gap in Nigeria, through education and exposure to world class digital literacy requirements has informed Commit

home with a cheque of different values, trophies and certificates of recognition. Welcoming participants to the forum, the state Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye said the competition was designed to encourage healthy contest among students in public schools. She disclosed that each category winner would go for an educational exchange programme outside the country, stressing that the competition has become a source of motivation for students to excel in their studies.

CMS Grammar School set to celebrate 154th anniversary MOJEED ALABI

L-R: President, Old Students Association, Gaskiya College, Badiya, Ijora, Lagos, Mr Raymond Eze; the school’s Principal, Mrs. Shobowale Omonike and the Chairman on the occasion, Mr. Olu Oduyoye during the school’s cultural day to mark its 50th anniversary, recently.

Nigeria needs new standard in digital literacy –Expert KUNLE AZEEZ

all commended the state government, especially on its policy on free education and infrastructural development of their schools, saying as Oliver Twist they would not but ask the governor to do more for them. Expressing their happiness over the achievements, they thanked their parents, teachers and schools for their significant roles that boosted their performances before and during the competition. They disclosed that they earned the awards. Each of the winners went

Technology’s commitment to expose Nigerian to the Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC³), a credential that provides a global platform for that foundational preparation. “To achieve a new standard in digital literacy for Nigeria; there is need to bring Nigerian students and workforce to IC³, globally recognised as the standard for digital literacy, validate the digital literacy skills required in today’s academic and work environments and establish a strong foundation for further studies and increased productivity,” he said. He explained that the IC³ reflects the most relevant skills needed in today’s academic and business environments. “Every job and career, every field of study, and even social and personal lives are increasingly impacted by technology. The IC³certification helps every individual to be successful, be it in the workplace or in the academics in high-education,” he said. Oyekale also noted that, as nations compete in today’s global economy;

“those economies that are best prepared to grow have ensured that a growing populace has basic computer digital literacy skills.” According to him, “A nation’s ability to attract

investment, new industry, and job enhancement will greatly be determined by the skills of its people. Digital literacy skills will level the playing field for Nigeria and move it into a greater

Elizade varsity sends students’ results online TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

n fulfillment of its promise, Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State has released its first semester’s results a week after completion of the examination. Approved by the university’s senate, the results were sent to the students who are still on semester break via their e-mail addresses and to their parents’ e-mail addresses submitted to the university. Presenting letters of commendation to those who performed excellently in the exam, the Registrar, Mr. Omololu Adegbenro lauded the efforts saying the school commended them so as to further encourage them to keep up the standard while motivating their peers to also strive for excellence. On why the results were

sent to the parents and guardians of the students, the registrar said the system was a way of carrying them along in the activities of the university, including the monitoring of their wards academic performances. He explained further that through the system, parents would be able to motivate their wards, who performed very well and those who did not to enable them do better in future exams. “Because the university will sustain the policy, it will help the students coming out with good grades,” he stressed. He disclosed that the university on its part had put in place facilities that would give the students of the institution equal experience with their counterparts in the developed world, thus, no excuse for failure.

igeria’s pioneer secondary school, CMS Grammar School, Bariga, Lagos, is set to celebrate 154 years of its establishment with dedication of various projects donated to the school by individuals and organisations. The President of the school’s Old Students’ Association, Mr. Abayomi Akin-Johnson made this disclosure yesterday at the school while briefing journalists on the scheduled activities to mark the ceremony. According to him, some of these programmes which shall also take place in United Kingdom and the United States of America include thanksgiving sessions, prize giving ceremony, career talk, project commissioning among others. “On Thursday, May 30, we shall be rolling out the drums to appreciate our students and staff as the prize-giving day ceremony while the students’ feast and novelty football match also hold same day. The career talk and the annual inter-house sport ceremonies will hold on Monday, June 3, and Tuesday, 4, respectively. The project commissioning and founder’s day luncheon is billed to take place on Thursday, June 6,” the president disclosed. The school’s Principal, Venerable Tunde Oduwole, who thanked the old students for their support, said since the return of the school to the missionaries the school had been waxing stronger claiming its old glories.

FUTMINNA suspends four students for misconduct PRISCILLA DENNIS MINNA

he Management of the Federal University of Technology, FUT, Minna, Niger State, has announced the immediate suspension of four of its students for their alleged involvement in various acts of gross misconduct in the institution. According to the university, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Musbau Akanji, approved their immediate suspension from the school. The affected students include 500 level student of the Department of Agricultural and Bioresources EngineeringJimoh Oluwakayode with registration 2008/1/29067EA; Victor Musa of the Department of Biochemistry with registration 2008/1/30829HB; Aisha Abdulraheem of the Department of Crop Production with registration 2009/1/34151AC, and Okoro Ikechukwu, Department of Soil Science with registration 2010/1/37219AS.

FG seeks Czech Republic’s collaboration on education EMMANUEL ONANI ABUJA

he Federal Government has sought collaboration with Czech Republic for purposes of improving the standard of education in the country. Making the appeal during his visit to Czech Republic during recently, the Minister of State for Education, Mr. Nyesom Wike, sought collaboration in the areas of exchange programmes between Nigerian teachers and those from Czech Republic, as well as science and technology education. Wike also pleaded with his host country to extend more scholarship facilities to Nigerian students.

Education Today

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Ogun uncovers N200m WAEC fees scam FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

fficials of the intelligence unit of the Ogun State government has uncovered a multi - million naira fraud in the payment of the West African Examination Council (WAEC) fees for students in its secondary schools. The fraud, which runs into N200 million was said to have been perpetrated by officials of the state education sector and is said to have spanned the last three academic sessions. National Mirror recalled that the Ibikunle Amosun led administration had said that it had between 2011 and 2013 paid about N1 billion to WAEC, including the

arrears inherited from the previous administration. Already, four officials, two males and two females were said to have been quizzed and arrested by the state police who had also commenced investigations into the matter. Sources close to the state police revealed that the fraudulent practices were perpetrated through inflation of the list of candidates in public schools. The perpetrators of the fraud were said to have fond of conniving with proprietors of private schools or tutorial centres in the state to pay the WAEC fees into their personal banks accounts, while the state government would then be made to pay for the candidates. It was reliably gathered that most of the

bank accounts being used to defraud the government had been traced, while many banker officials were also said to be helping the police. The Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Taiwo Adeoluwa, while commenting on the incident described the incident as an ugly. “This is a disturbing development. Education is number one on the five-cardinal programme of our administration and that is why we are investing so much to rebuild the sector. “Officials who think they can divert funds meant for this important sector are in for a surprise. Anybody, who is implicated in this scam, will be made to face the full wrath of the law,” he vowed.

Some of the participants at the graduate interns training orientation programme under the Subsidy Reinvestment and Employment Programme (SURE-P) scheme in Lagos, recently

SURE-P: FG trains 85, 000 unemployed graduates TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

o fewer than 85,000 unemployed graduates across the country are undergoing intensive training under the first phase of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Employment Programme (SURE-P). This was disclosed at a recent orientation programme organised for graduate interns and companies in Lagos State by the coordinator of the project, Mr. Peter Papka. Papka, a director of Community Services, Women and Youth Employment office under the Federal Ministry of Finance, noted that although the initial target of government was to train 50,000, a total of 85,000 graduates had already registered under the scheme across the 36 states of the federation and Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. Only 84 are participating in Lagos State so far. Papka added that as things were, the number across the country was expected to increase with time to about 185,000. Decrying the high rate of youth unemployment in the country and the non-employability of many of them, Papka said the idea of instituting graduate interns training was, among others to prepare participants with skills that would make them economic relevant. “Government organises the training to create job opportunities that could make the unemployed youths to either get fixed

for paid employment or establish businesses of their own and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy” he stressed. Quoting National Bureau of Statistics’ survey of 2011 to make refrence, Papka said about 16 million Nigerians are unemployed with a majority in their most economically productive age. The project coordinator, who expressed displeasure at the low turnout of partici-

pants in Lagos State, urged the media to create more awareness on the need for expected audience to key into the programme. Also speaking, Chief Executive Officer of Afterschool Graduate Development Centre, a consulting firm in charge of the training in Lagos, Mrs. Detoun Ogwo, tasked participants to make use of their three-day training to develop their skills for future economic engagement.

UNIJOS inaugurates new Governing Council JAMES A BRAHAM JOS

he University of Jos on Tuesday inaugurated members of its Governing Council. The inauguration which took place at the Main Campus of the university was the 12th since the institution was established in 1975. The ceremony also followed the constitution of members of the Governing Council of Federal Universities by President Goodluck Jonathan last month. Speaking at the event, Pro-Chancellor of the university and Chairman of Council, Chief Don Etiebet thanked President Jonathan for finding them worthy to serve the institution. The former Minister of Petroleum Resources, who expressed surprise that the institution was yet to move to its permanent site more than 38 years after it was established, promised that

members of the council would work assiduously to realise the objective. He also promised to do everything possible to ensure that the take-off grant which has not been given to the university since inception is released, adding, “We want the University of Jos to be the best and we will do all we can to ensure the realisation of this objective.” The university has operated for more than two years without a Governing Council. Responding, the Vice- Chancellor of the university, Prof. Hayward Mafuyai told the council members that this has hampered the smooth running of the institution. He listed other challenges facing the institution to include poor funding, security challenge, on implementation of the 2004-2010 Visitation Panel Report, Pending Staff promotion for 2010/2011;2011/2012;ecological problems among others

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Shun malpractice, LearnAfrica charges NECO candidates

head of this year’s June/July Senior Secondary School Certificate Examinations (SSSCE) to be conducted by the National Examination Council (NECO), the LearnAfrica Education Development Foundation has advised candidates who will be sitting for the exam to shun all forms of malpractice throughout the period the exam will last and beyond. The foundation, a charitable arm of Learn Africa Plc, one of the leading resource companies in the country (formerly known as Longman Plc) gave the advice in a statement made available to newsmen by the Head of Marketing of the company, Mr. Allwell Nwankwo. Nwankwo, who also oversees the activities of the foundation, urged the candidates to study very well to enable them come up with good grades, noting that any success made fraudulently will only be temporary. He disclosed that the foundation would reward the top three candidates in each state of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja at this year’s edition of the LearnAfrica-NECO Excellence Awards ceremony. He noted that the award, instituted last year, was first of its kind in scope and coverage in the country to recognise and reward academic excellence among NECO candidates, their schools and teachers with a view to encouraging a healthy competition at that educational level. While pointing out that a total of 111 students, 97 schools and 37 teachers were beneficiaries of last year’s edition across the country, he noted that one of the joint national winners, Sandra Anazor, was granted a scholarship by her state, Anambra, to study medicine in the university.

Katsina to send more student to Egypt JAMES DANJUM KATSINA

nother group of students are to be sent to Egypt by the Katsina State Government to study Medicine and other related courses. The students are in addition to several others sent in past years to Egypt and other Arab nations with the exercise costing the state hundreds of millions of Naira. Speaking shortly after inspecting conduct of examination for the prospective students, the Education Commissioner, Prof Aminu Kurfi said total of 170 sat for the exam out of the 523 that applied. Kurfi identified the courses the students would be studying to include Dentistry, Surgery, Radiology, Medical Imaging, Medicine (MBBS), Physiotherapy, Biomedical Equipment and Systems. Also speaking, the Special Adviser on Girl-Child Education, Bilkisu Kaikai commended the state government for investing on the future of the state through students’ sponsorship to study science-based courses. Kaikai expressed appreciation over the large number of female candidates who sat for the examination which she attributed to the efforts to encourage girl-child education in the state.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today

Thursday, May 23, 2013

JAMB: End of the road!

ince the release of the Oronsaye panel report recommending the stripping of the Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board of the powers to conduct examinations for admission into tertiary institutions in the country, many Nigerians have voiced their opinions for and against the humble submission of the revered panel. But if the 2013 outing is anything to go by, then I would state without fear of contradiction that the Oronsaye panel was right. For JAMB the end has come! From its inception in 1978 until 2005, JAMB was virtually a lone ranger in the admission process into Nigerian universities, except for some competition from the pre-degree programmes which progressively gained ground as time went on. But then something snapped, and JAMB lost its credibility within the academic community. The candidates selected by JAMB had become progressively unserviceable, teaching progressively more difficult and even hazardous and the quality of graduates progressively unacceptable to the industry. JAMB had failed to live up to expectations. The vice-chancellors of universities, prodded by their very agitated lecturers and backed by the visionary minister of education Mrs. Chinwe Obaji, struggled to free the system from the yoke of JAMB, and the postUME was born. The post-UME entered the scene in 2005 amidst vigorous protests from virtually every segment of the society including the national assemblies, JAMB, students and parents. The most vociferous protesters were the parents and guardians who had invested, and are still investing fortunes in examination

AT A CENTRE IN PORT HARCOURT, THE

SCRIPTS OF CANDIDATES WERE SEIZED BY THE SUPERVISOR FOR REFUSING TO PAY AND ONLY THE TIMELY INTERVENTION OF THE STATE COORDINATOR BROUGHT RELIEF TO THE AFFECTED CANDIDATES malpractice for their children and wards to ensure that they secure a place in the nation’s tertiary institutions, preferably, a university. They perceived, and rightly so too, that the post-UME would neutralise the investments so far made and introduce a new variable in their quest to secure a university degree for their children and wards. But common sense prevailed and postUME was allowed to be and it immediately proved to be a game changer. It confirmed what was already known to many, that the selection process orchestrated by JAMB was virtually worthless. The worst candidates came top in the UME because they were more prepared to engage in unbridled examination malpractice while the students who would not participate were harassed and not given a chance to perform. This explains why the best candidates selected by the UME were not able to secure a pass mark in the post-UME screening exercises.

Education as I see it

Nine years after the emerby Tosanwumi Otokunefor gence of the info@alphaedufoundation.org post-UME, 08030904461 (email/SMS only) JAMB has deteriorated beyond they could not commence until around 2 pm. i m a g i n at i o n ! Examination malpractice is now perpetrated Those who would not cheat were thus denied with impunity. Payments are demanded and sufficient time to write the examination and received by JAMB’s appointed officials just faced instant elimination, while those who to gain entrance to the examination centre. received answers were done in less than one Thereafter, it is payment all the way, includ- hour and came out jubilating! Even in the era of the post-UME screening biometric identification, permission to cheat during the examination including co- ing exercise, the university administraoperation in the hall and to receive answers tions are compelled by JAMB to include through the cell phone. From the informa- these high scores so fraudulently secured tion at my disposal, some candidates paid in the UTME when selecting candidates between N2500 and N6000 during this last for admission, thereby giving these candidates a decisive edge in the final scheme of outing of JAMB. At a centre in Port Harcourt, the scripts things and legitimizing the illegality comof candidates were personally seized by the mitted to achieve them. This is one of the many travails of the unisupervisor for refusing to pay and only the timely intervention of the state coordinator versity system which is currently overpopubrought relief to the affected candidates. In lated with candidates with low academic abilsome centres, the invigilators were required ity but very huge experience in examination to make returns to the centre supervisor from malpractice. Nigeria can no longer tolerate the proceeds of examination malpractice. It this negative selection process that elimiwas reported that many of the invigilators nates the best candidates while retaining the and supervisors secured the positions only weak ones. JAMB has consistently failed to after paying financial gratification to the of- reform itself and failed to accomplish the function for which it was established, that is, ficers in charge or their representatives! But after all these, and the harassed and to select credible candidates for admission exhausted candidates were finally allowed to into the nation’s tertiary institutions. The Federal government should not hesitate to take their seats, the correct combinations of courses were not available to all, and candi- implement the Oronsaye’ panel recommendates had to share question papers in the ex- dation immediately. amination hall. Worse still the examination Otokunefor is a professor of microbiology proper was allowed to run for less than half at the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. of the stipulated time in many centres as

Nigeria’s transformation, a collective responsibility –Wike TRIBUTE In his acceptance given him the opportunity tion yesterday when he Dipo Fashina, the Jingo of GREAT IFE EMMANUEL ONANI the minister to contribute to the Transreceived two awards from speech, a United Kingdom-based thanked the two organisa- formation Agenda, Wike, bows out of academics inister of State television, Bent TV and tions for honouring him, however, stated that the ABUJA

FRIDAY OLOKOR

for Education, Mr. Nyesom Wike, has said the transformation of Nigeria into a nation of envy was a collective responsibility by all Nigerians. Wike made the asser-

o you know this man? For those who are lucky to have passed through the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife (aka Great Ife), the name, Dr. Ola (Dipo) Fashina will not be strange. He is the Satrerean legend of contemporary Nigeria and the doyen of modern epistemology, metaphysics and logic. Oh, Great Jingo! All Great Ife products will miss you as you bow out of the university after over 35 years. Your tutelage and exemplary renaissance in the field of academics and civil rights activism will forever remain extant in our minds and psyche. You may not be a born again Christian by virtue of your belief. But I hope to see you in heaven...I still recall your involvement in the Great Treks on and out of campus in the early 1990s during some of those protests against (late General Sani Abacha’s) mili-

City People magazine. The awards, according to the organisers, were in recognition of the minister’s “valuable contributions to the education sector in Nigeria”, as well as “youth development.”

even as he promised to continue to do all within his mandate to enhance quality education in the country. While dedicating the award to President Goodluck Jonathan, who has

awards will spur him and his team to do more. He charged both public office holders and the public to put all hands on deck, saying “Nigeria is the only country we have, and we can’t run away from it.”

2015 MDGs’ target on education in Nigeria unrealistic –Ezekwesili Fashina

tary interregnum and totalitarian genocide. I am proud to have been taught Phil 101-”Introduction to Philosophy & Logic” in 1991 and many other elective courses by you. I am proud to have embarked on an academic pilgrimage to Great Ife and I have no regret at all. Bravo Jingo! You are an irredentist, a blessing to your generation, present generation, Nigeria, Africa and generations unborn. May God bless you Sir. Olokor, an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University and journalist, is based in Abuja.

TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

xcept drastic and urgent steps are taken to overhaul the country’s education sector at all levels, Nigeria will not meet the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) on Education for All (EFA) target by 2015. The former Minister of Education, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili disclosed this on Tuesday in Lagos at the opening ceremony of the Lagos State Education Summit, where she was a keynote speaker. EFA is an international initiative for every country, including Nigeria to meet the learning needs

of all children, youth and adults by 2015 with the aim of reducing to barest minimum poverty, gender inequality, as well as making people live healthier and happier, among others. Ezekwesili said virtually all variables that could aid Nigeria in achieving the target were just not working towards that direction. She said many school age- children, especially girls for instance, are still out of schools and many from those in schools also drop out before completing the first nine years of education. Disclosing that about 56 million Nigerians, repre-

senting 35 per cent of the country’s population as at last year, were illiterates, the former minister said government at all levels and other stakeholders would have to do something significantly to collectively move the education sector to the next level. Ezekwesili said three factors that could drive the sector to appreciable heights are resources, structures and process and that among the trio, process, which she described as the driving force of other variables, would need to be taken more seriously in the country. She said the rigidity in

government bureaucracy slowed down not only the government business in education sector, but also the entire socio-economic development of the country. Declaring the summit open, Governor Babatude Fashola said his administration would continue to invest in the education sector at all levels, noting that his government believes so much in securing good future for the children by providing them with quality education. He also urged the private sector to equally intensify efforts in taking the sector in the state to appreciable heights.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FUTA student wins Kia Picanto as Etisalat enlivens campus FAITH OLANIRAN

EDITED BY MOJEED ALABI mojeedalabi2@yahoo.co.uk

Cross section of participants at the programme sponsored by Etisalat in FUTA, recently.

NANS backs emergency rule DHIKRU AKINOLA 400L, POL. SCI.

he National Association of Nigerian Students, (NANS), has thrown its weight behind the declaration of emergency rule in the northern states of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe by the Federal Government. In a statement issued at the National Secretariat, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, NANS president, Yinka Gbadebo said President Goodluck Jonathan acted wisely by the decision, saying that nothing could have been better at this point in time. Gbadebo observed that the president had given the insurgents enough time to

accept the amnesty he earlier offered and that their refusal to come to the open confirmed the fact that they had hidden agenda and that their motive was clearly criminal. He recalled how the insurgents had made life very difficult for Nigerians including students and other members of academic community. “Rather than state their grievances, they resorted to killings and engaging in other criminal activities which have continued to soil the already battered image of our nation. There is no serious country that will fold its arms while a group of individuals continue to make life unbearable to the people. It is unheard of, and that is why NANS did not hesitate to hail the Presi-

dent’s order. “However, while we endorse the emergency rule, we will also like to enjoin the security officers drafted to the hot spots not to take laws into their own hands by giving adequate respect to human rights and the rights of ordinary civilians. They should remember that their responsibility is to restore order, they should therefore not make the decision to be counter-productive by being lawless in the execution of the order,” Gbadebo stated. He urged all the stakeholders in the country to key in to play active roles in regaining Nigeria’s lost glory by laying good examples rather than making statements that could further set the nation ablaze.

FG urged to implement vocational education framework OMEIZA AJAYI AND JOEL AJAYI

isturbed by the decline in the standard of education, as well as the growing wave of unemployment in the country, an educationist and Chief Executive Officer of Kiara College, Abuja, Mr. Endi Ezengwa, has called on Federal Government to immediately begin implementation of the National Vocational Framework that would add value to vocational qualification rather than leaving students to continue to crave for degrees. He said while government could not provide employment for the millions of

Nigerian graduates, who are roaming the streets in search of white-collar jobs, he noted that a sound vocational education system would effectively tackle the problem of unemployment. Ezengwa who stated this at a press conference in Abuja, expressed the desire of Kiara Group to provide holistic vocational support that would lead to improved well-being, employability and economic prosperity of ordinary Nigerians. He stressed the need for stakeholders in the education sector to inculcate the spirit of skills acquisition in school curricula so as to bridge the gap between employers and the job seekers. “In UK, most of the de-

gree holders are working in the small scale firms while people with vocational skills are working in the top places but in Nigeria the reverse is the case. I am not saying we should not have degrees but the question is how useful are they to the society? “The colonial mentality of people going for degrees like women acquiring clothes is no more relevant to the nation’s economy except the system produce the right personnel to implement policies. The truth is also that most Nigerians grow up in the villages where the parent sell houses, mortgage their farm land to send their children to university and still no work after graduation,” he disclosed.”

100 level student of the Department of Entrepreneurship Management, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Ondo State, Adeyemi Kehinde, has described as unexpected but thrilling, his winning of a Kia Picanto car in a raffle draw organised by Etisalat Communication Company. Kehinde had participated in a raffle draw during Etisalat’s Cliq Fest programme, a campus show created by the company to intimate members of the university community with its products. The show, which replaced the

earlier EasyCliq Campus Storm edition, now combines learning and entertainment to produce an enthralling experience for students. According to Kehinde, his decision to participate in the draw was just something he took without deep interest and that he was too excited when he was announced the winner of the star prize because he never dreamt of it. “In fact, I don’t know how to drive but my friend will help me take it to my uncle’s house. It is marvellous and surprising,” the excited winner said. There were other consolation prizes including phones for other students

who took part in the raffle draw. To the students of the university, the programme really impacted them particularly with the motivational speeches and art performances by star artists including MayD, Chuddy K, Dammykarne alongside DJ Zeez and the 2012 winner of Nigerian Idols, Mercy Chinwo. According to the communication company, the programme is designed to connect with users of the youth package which it stated enhances friendship and youthfulness, and that the seminar will help the students to identify their unique selling points and succeed in life.

Corps members lift ailing student in Nasarawa what I saw really baffled me too, took the case as our perDAYO OJERINDE

embers of the National Youth Service Corps in Gadabuke Development Area of Nasarawa State have assisted an SS 3 student of Unity Secondary School, also in Gadabuke, Yohanna Daniel, who was involved in a motor accident. Daniel was said to have been taken to an undisclosed hospital for treatment after the accident where he was later found to have been poorly managed by the doctor; the development it was learnt worsened the his condition. Narrating what informed their intervention, the project coordinator, NYSC Gadabuke Development Area, Jeffery Igbuzor, said; “This boy was staying close to my house and I used to overhear him groaning in pains when passing through their compound. I later inquired about his condition and

because leg had developed a serious sour that was not healing. There was a time I learnt he nearly committed suicide when he was almost fed up. I then intimated my colleagues and they agreed that we should help him.” The Corps members then agreed to take Daniel the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, in Nasarawa State where a surgical operation was performed on him leading to amputation. The Corps members thanked the Local Inspector (LI), Mr. Adamolekun Moses for supporting the idea and for his financial support too. “Do you know the LI could have easily thrown out this idea when we mooted it, but instead, he endorsed it and also made sure he was part of the it. He did not only visit the hospital but also contributed money just to make sure that Daniel regained his health. And all the corps members in

sonal and joint project,” one of the corps members narrated. Adamolekun also commended the corps members for their initiative and enjoined others to emulate them by helping individuals and organisations in need of their assistances. Daniel, who said he was short of words, said he looks up to a day when he would also serve Nigeria like his helpers are doing and help the masses with his education. He added that as soon as he was finally fit, he would return to school to complete his secondary school education. However, the hospital has also disclosed that Daniel would need about N150,000 to procure prosthesis for his amputated leg. The corps members therefore called on well meaning Nigerians to help in raising the needed sum to full restore hope in the ailing student.

The project coordinator, Jeffery Igbuzor at the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, with the patient, Yohanna Daniel recently.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Campus News

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Activist sues FUTO, AGF over alleged non disclosure of senator’s certificate CHRIS NJOKU OWERRI

rights activist and coordinator of Save Imo, Godwin Ekenulo, has dragged the Registrar and authorities of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice to the Federal High Court 11 in Owerri, over alleged refusal to prove that Senator Hope Uzodinma obtained his claimed Higher National Diploma (HND) certificate from the univer-

sity. He sought the court to compel the mentioned authorities to make available to the plaintiff, information he sought on the certificate claimed by Senator Uzodinma (Imo West senatorial District) that he was admitted into the institution to read Higher National Diploma (HND) programme in Maritime Technology. In the suit, FHC/OW/ CS/55/2013, of the originating summons, plaintiff is seeking if the “first defendant has not contravened the Freedom of Informa-

tion Act 2011 when he ignored, refused, and failed to avail the plaintiff the information the plaintiff applied to him for or notify the plaintiff why his application was denied as required by law. The plaintiff therefore prayed the court to compel the defendants particularly the 1st defendant to make available the information sought for by plaintiff to procure the certified True Copy of the certificate. He also sought to know among others whether FUTO gave Uzodinma Hope

admission to study Maritime Technology at HND levels, as well as the details of his course of study and duration, and the degree or certificate awarded and year of graduation. However, the counsel to the plaintiff, Alex Williams requested for time to enable him make some consultations. The trial Judge, Justice O. O. Oguntoyinbo, who could not preside in her court due to personal problems, on Tuesday fixed July 12, for further hearing on the case.

L-R: Students of the Banking and Finance Department, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Omowunmi Arogundade, Blessing Uzu, Michael Essien, Harriet Eweka and Yetunde Aremu, during their association’s week in Ekiti, recently.

FCE governing council promises rapid development MOJEED ALABI

he newly inaugurated Governing Council of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka, Lagos, has pledged its support for the management of the institution to ensure its rapid development to a leading technical school in Africa. The Chairman of the Council, Alhaji Kabir Maska, who made this commitment recently during the council’s inauguration, commended the Provost of the college, Dr. Sijibomi Olusanya for his achievements in transforming the campus, and for ensuring peace and tranquillity. Maska called for contributions, ideas and suggestions from members of staff and students of the college on ways to achieve the dreams of the institution’s founding fathers while insisting that due process would be followed in taking decisions about

•As college matriculates 293 degree students

the college especially in the award of contracts and appointments. “I want to assure you that members of this council are experienced and seasoned technocrats and administrators who, I promise, will surely avail the college their wealth of professional experience in their various fields, thus ensuring that the college attains greater heights in its endeavour to promote and enhance technical and vocational education in Nigeria and beyond. “I therefore enjoin the staff of this school to continue to do their best to sustain the remarkable achievements the college has recorded in recent years especially in the areas of infrastructural development and sustenance of peace and security within the college,” Maska stated. While welcoming the new council, the provost

enumerated achievements recorded so far by the college management and noted that challenges facing his administration included scarce financial resources, land constraint and epileptic power supply. Meanwhile, the college in affiliation with Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna, Niger State, has matriculated 293 stu-

dents in its second matriculation ceremony. Speaking during the matriculation ceremony, which held on the campus recently, the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Misbau Akanji,who was represented by Engr. Ogbonaaya Chukwu, urged the matriculating students to consider themselves lucky to be enrolled for the programme.

Thieves cart away millions, documents at Akwanga college IGBAWASE UKUMBA LAFIA

lleged thieves have reportedly stolen undisclosed amount of money at the College of Education (COE), Akwanga, Nasarawa State, following a burglary operation in the college that lasted some hours last weekend. It is still not certain the exact amount of the money stolen, but sources said some millions of naira in two safes in the cashier’s office was carted away by the burglars alongside some vital documents bearing financial position of the college.. It was further gathered that only cash, bursary and students’ affairs offices in the administrative block of the college were raided by the hoodlums. The college’s bursar, Mrs. Hellen Akpanva, confirmed the incident to National Mirror, saying it was only the provost that could talk further on the incident. The Provost, Mr. Hosea

Tsaku, however, declined comment on the incident even as he did not deny the alleged theft. However, investigations have shown that the thieves gained entrance into the college from the main gate along Jos Road, after they had over-powered and tiedup the security guards on duty. Sources said after the operation, two safes from the cashier’s office were found empty downstairs by daybreak, just as the Students’ Accounts and Bursar’s offices were also broken into with financial documents and computers stolen. This incident, National Mirror gathered, was the third in less than one month that hoodlums would break into public offices in the state; the first being the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), and the second was the Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK). All authorities have remained quiet over the three thefts, and have not stated the exact sums of money stolen.

Covenant varsity to support Rwanda MOJEED ALABI

he Covenant University (CU), Ota, Ogun State, has pledged to support the education programmes of Rwanda as part of its contribution to the ongoing reform in the country after the 1994 genocide. This was contained in a statement made by the Chancellor of the university, Dr. David Oyedepo while receiving the Rwandan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Joseph

Provost, Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka, Lagos, Dr. Sijibomi Olusanya (3rd from left) and the Chairman of the college’s Governing Council, Alhaji Kabiru Maska (6th from left) with other members of the council after the council’s inauguration.

Habinezer, who visited the institution recently. The High Commissioner had informed the Chancellor about the ongoing development in Rwanda particularly within the education sector saying President Paul Kagame fervently believed that national development is always enhanced by investing in the people’s education. He said the country provides free basic education to its citizens up to nine years noting that the country had changed from what it used to be and now aiming to become one of the continent’s fast growing economies in the world today. Habinezer also commended Oyedepo and the Living Faith Church for the intervention in Nigerian education, adding that very soon, the country would begin to reap the fruits of the efforts. Impressed by the message from Rwanda, the chancellor promised to support the country’s education drive through provision of scholarship to qualified citizens of Rwanda.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

NIGERIA Political Economist of April 2013 leads the infamous hall of blunders today: “All this (these) and lots more you will find in this carefully (would it have been carelessly?) scripted edition.” Journalism must be knowledge driven! “…does the situation in Anambra State justify the huge resources that has (have) come into the state since then?” “Yero deploys security operatives to (in) Southern Kaduna.” “Wada assures of adequate security for investors” Who did Governor Idris Wada of Kogi State assure of security? ‘Assure’ must take an object because it is a transitive verb. “So it is high time Nigeria begins (began) to….” Put differently, it is time Nigeria begins to…. “Suarez: biting more than he can chew” This way, ThisDay: biting off more than he can chew “Golden gallands to a worthy friend @ 50: Minabelem Michael West, Esq., mni” (Full-page advertisement, THISDAY, April 27) Happy birthday: garlands NATIONAL MIRROR of April 30 murdered the English language: “Syrian Prime Minister escapes assassination attempt” The fact that the man escaped the attack presupposes an attempt on his life. So, Syrian PM escapes assassination “Aregbesola’s phone thief

Bite off more than one can chew!

bags 45 years jail” All the Facts, All the Sides: 45 years’ jail term ”Lawmakers pass vote of confidence on (in) Ikuforiji” Confidence in (not on) somebody—the ‘passing’ should not confuse anyone. For those who may not know, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji is the speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. NATIONAL MIRROR Editorial of April 30 contained two school-boy howlers: “The issue of who occupies what political position in the country and under (on) which platform appears….” “In advanced (an advanced) democracy like the US….” “Dearth of funding slow job creation efforts” Business & Finance: …slows down job-creation efforts “The Alade Market incidence (incident)….” “Unknown gunmen raid bank, kill three policemen, two others” (THE GUARDIAN Headline, April 30) Yank off ‘unknown’! “The same pattern of foreign excesses and Nigerian laxity obtains when the operations of some foreign firms in Nigeria is (are) considered.” (The Guardian Editorial, April 30) “Minister commissions (inaugurates) Kwali micro-finance

BEST’ IS AN

ABSOLUTE AND, AS SUCH, DOES NOT ADMIT QUALIFICATION OF ANY SORT (VERY)

bank” (Source: as above) Still on THE GUARDIAN Headlines: “Zonal election into sports federations hold (holds) today” THISDAY Front Page Headline of April 27 fumbled: “Jonathan, Shettima in closed-door meeting over Bagga killings” Robust journalism: meeting behind closed doors (not closed-door meeting)! SATURDAY PUNCH of April 27 circulated this same blunder: “Falana in closed-door meeting with Jonathan” “The impending NGF election has polarized the 36 states (state) governors into two (sic) camps….” Just camps! “…I had lot of contracts with many corporate organizations.” Global soccer: a lot of contracts or lots of contracts (depending on context). “Police arrest Oloko over (for) ex-Oyo SSG guard’s murder”

N2.4m, laptops for winners of PZ Chemistry quiz contest TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

total of N2.4 million and four laptops will be given out as prizes to winners in the PZ Cussons Chemistry Quiz competition among the senior secondary school students in Lagos State. The money and laptops

will be shared among the top winning four with the overall best receiving N700, 000 and first runner-up N500,000 while the two others in order of position will go home with N400, 000 and N300,000 respectively and one laptop each as applicable to the first two. Teachers of the winning students and their schools will share the balance in

form of cash and chemistry textbooks, respectively. This was disclosed yesterday in Lagos by the Chairman of PZ Cussions Plc, Prof. Emmanuel Edozien, at the launch of the competition with many students and teachers in attendance. The competition will be handled by PZ Cussons Foundation, a charitable arm of the com-

L-R: Guest from the Department of Chemistry, University of Lagos, Prof. Oladele Osibanjo; Chairman, PZ Cussons Plc, Prof. Emmanuel Edozien and the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babatunde Fashola on Science and Technology, Mr. Joseph Adunse, during the launch of PZ Cussons Chemistry Quiz competition in Lagos, yesterday.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

(SATURDAY PUNCH Headline, April 27) “But industrial relations experts are apprehensive that currently the rate of strikes are (is) undeniably alarming.” “Strike actions: Lawful but inexpedient” We certainly do not need ‘action’ here. Simply strike. All strikes are action-based. “I am looking forward to the next Igbo summit to comprise of all the Igbo-speaking fragments irrespective of where they are located.” In order not to abort the language dream, delete the first ‘of ’ and move to the next two errors from the same medium (name withheld like Nigerian newspaper reportage!). “And in Nigeria, subsequent military regimes which held sway finally culminated into (in) the most dreaded era of military rule in the country–-the Sani Abacha years.” “No wonder therefore that every inaction of these elected leaders only seek (seeks) to further entrench and protect the many years of brigandage on this nation.” “Its diverse composition reflected in (on) how its different peoples were organised prior to 1914.” “We have no genuine recon-

pany and participation is not only free, but will also be an annual event, starting with Lagos State and to be extended to other states in future. Prof. Edozien said the company instituted the competition to encourage the study of chemistry among secondary school students in the country with a view to making a career in the subject’s related fields. He noted that as chemistry was important to the development of industrial sector, so also to the totality of man’s existence thus, the need to encourage the study of the subjects in the country. Lauding the initiative, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babatunde Fashola on Science and Technology, Mr. Joseph Adunse said Lagos State government would give necessary support for the success of the project. He noted that the initiative was in line with that of the state’s government in promoting the study of sciences in school.

ciliation in Nigeria even though the Oputa panel did its very best.” ‘Best’ is an absolute and, as such, does not admit qualification of any sort (very). “As the governor of Akwa Ibom, he has not reneged on both promises to his party and his electioneering campaign promises to the people of the state.” Either electioneering or campaign. Both cannot co-exist. “…before the advent of the Europeans in Nigeria, most societies or kingdoms have thriving and stable political system….” This way: kingdoms had (not have) a (a vital component) thriving and stable political system. “Somebody who can formulate policies and see to its execution to the minute (minutest) detail.” An eye for detail: policies and their (not its) execution. “As such (a comma) the little time that have been given to the politicians.…” Time that has…. “…Guinea finally elects a president in an election that witnessed series of crises and postponements.” The long road to democracy: a series of crises and postponements. “In one breathe; there are those who are still….” Take a fresh breath before we continue. “…it was a soothing balm.” What else do balms do apart from soothing?

Ekiti Deputy Gov. lauds polytechnic over entrepreneurship training SEUN LAWSON

kiti State Deputy Governor, Professor Modupe Adelabu has lauded the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti for giving the students of the institution entrepreneurship trainings that will make its graduates self reliant and employers of labour after graduation. She gave the commendation while receiving Members of the Governing Council and Management of the institution who paid a courtesy visit to her office in Ado, adding that the institution has tracks of academic excellence which made it to rank first among equals and urged the Governing Council and management of the institution to work at sustaining and even improving on the standard. The Deputy Governor who said Governor Kayode Fayemi is very passionate about anything that has

to do with acquisition of knowledge and technology development assured the Board of Directors and management of the Federal Polytechnic that the government will continue to give its support to the institution and collaborate with it in entrepreneurship development. She also commended the institution for embarking on production of laboratory glassware, describing it as a positive development that will lead to improvement in the teaching of the sciences in schools and also reduce the money spends on importation of science and laboratory equipment by government. Earlier, the Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Polytechnic, Ado, Mr. Victor Ebomoyi said the visit was to introduce the new Members of the Governing Board of the institution to the state government.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

The qualifiers with Kenya and Namibia are crucial indeed. But I believe we will prevail over them - Super Eagles defender, Efe Ambrose

Robben eyes ‘tear-wiping’ triumph 28

Super June: Danger ahead, warns Chukwu

ormer Super Eagles’ coach, Christian Chukwu, has expressed concern over the spate of injuries picked up by the Nigerian senior national team players ahead of the crucial World Cup qualifying matches in June. As at the last count, Chelsea duo of John Obi Mikel and Victor Moses as well as Kalu Uche, Reuben Gabriel and Ahmed Musa, have declared themselves unavailable for the international friendly against Mexico on May 31 in Houston, United States of America and the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Kenya in Nairobi and Namibia in Windhoek on June 5 and 12 respectively. The injured players will equally be unavailable for the side’s campaign at the 2013 FIFA Confederation Cup in Brazil coming up from June 15 to 30. Chukwu described the development as unfortunate, but said it is a challenge for Coach Stephen Keshi to produce capable replacements for the injured players. “It’s unfortunate that the players are picking up injuries at a time we need their services most. However, it’s an opportunity for the coach to give other players a chance in the squad to prove their mettle.Who knows we may discover to our chagrin that they’re better than the ones they replaced.

“Once the reason is on account of injury, it’s always better to go into a game with fit players than unfit ones no matter their pedigree. An injured player is a high risk and big gamble to field in a crucial game,” Chukwu told supersport.com. The one-time Kenya coach said that the Nigerian bench may replace the injured players with players in the local league, who are currently in the thick of actions. “I’m worried by the development as it’s always good and reassuring for a coach to go into a game with his best materials, but that’s not to say that if we put our acts right, pick good replacements quickly, we’ll not be able to post good results in the matches.”

Sunday Mba signing autograph on the 2013 AFCON ball for a fan at an event in Nuremberg, Germany, on Tuesday.

…Don’t panic, Keshi assures EVEREST ONYEWUCHI

oach Stephen Keshi has told Nigerians not to panic as the Super Eagles prepare for crucial 2014 World Cup qualifying games and the FIFA Confederations Cup tournament – all taking place next month. A spate of injuries, first to Scotland-based midfielder, Reuben Gabriel, and ace striker, Emmanuel Emenike, and lately to attacking midfielders, Kalu Uche and Victor Moses, is causing anxiety in football circles, but Keshi, who steered less-endowed Togo to that country’s only FIFA World Cup qualification eight

years ago, has said that he is more than committed to leading his own country to next year’s finals in Brazil, no matter the odds. “I am never one to run away from challenges; I have confronted them head-on all my life. I have very good relationship with each and every of my players, with mutual respect and regard being the bedrock. “The players that we have invited for these matches are patriots and are always ready to defend the green-white-green. We have 16 players here now and team spirit is high. Everyone wants to play. What we will certainly not do is to beg anyone to

play for Nigeria,” the NFF said in a statement yesterday, quoting Keshi from the Eagles’ Germany training camp. The AFCON 2013 winning coach and longest-serving captain of the national team said the late arrival of some players in the Germany camp was expected. “Most of the players have just concluded very grueling season and have need to sort out personal issues, and of course there are talks to hold ahead of next season. These talks have to be done now considering that the players would be away for about seven weeks, on duty for Nigeria.”

Meanwhile, Eagles’ Novina Hotel camp in Nuremberg swelled yesterday with the arrivals of Germany-based striker, Joseph Akpala and Ukraine-based forward, Babatunde Michael. Portugal-based John Ogu also arrived last night, while defenders Kenneth Omeruo and Elderson Echiejile, as well as midfielder Nnamdi Oduamadi are expected in camp today. First-choice goalkeeper, Vincent Enyeama, based in Israel, is expected tomorrow, while Scotland-based stopper, Efe Ambrose and Italy-based midfielder, Ogenyi Onazi, have been granted permission to arrive on Saturday due to club commitments.

Palmgren toughens killer squad for Nigeria IKENWA NNABUOGOR

N Chuckwu

ewly-appointed Namibia coach, Roger Palmgren, has named a 27-man squad for a friendly match against Zambia in Windhoek on Saturday, preparatory to the crucial 2014 World Cup qualifier tie against Nigeria on June 5, National Mirror has learnt from media sources in Namibia Namibia’s respected soccer

website namibiasport.com.na. reports that the friendly match, the first official game under new coach Palmgren, will be a dress rehearsal ahead of the World Cup qualifier against Nigeria. Rundu Chiefs’ young goalkeeper, Edward Maova and Tigers striker, Panduleni Nekundi, have been called up for the first time while several other players have been recalled to the squad after prolonged absences. They include African Stars’ defenders, Chris Katjiukua,

Dennis Ngueza and Freedom Puriza, African Stars’ midfielders, Johannes Seibeb and Bradley Wermann; Black Africa striker Marco van Wyk; Mighty Gunners striker, Harold Ochurub and Tigers striker, Benson Shilongo. Only five foreign-based players have been included namely goalkeepers Virgil Vries of Maritzburg United and Ephraim Tjihonge of Milano United; defender Willem Mwedihanga of Amazulu, and midfielders Petrus

Shitembi of Pretoria University and Heini Isaacks of Maritzburg United. Palmgren, who handled Kwara United some years ago however said that Namibia’s other foreign-based players like Rudolph Bester, Henrico Botes, Ronald Ketjijere, Manfred Starke, Lazarus Kaimbi and Tangeni Shipahu were not available for various reasons but will all be considered for next month’s World Cup qualifiers against Malawi and Nigeria.

Sport

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Road to Wembley 2013…

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Gotze blow for Dortmund

orussia Dortmund attacking midfielder, Mario Gotze, has reportedly suffered another setback in his bid to be fit to face his future club Bayern Munich in the final of the UEFA Champions League on Saturday. Gotze, who has scored 19 goals this season, more than his last two campaigns combined, tore his hamstring during the second leg of the semi-final against Real Madrid and is still rated doubtful for the Wembley Showdown. He started light training just over a week ago and appeared to take a step up on Tuesday when he followed an individual training session in the morning by joining his team-mates in the afternoon. But latest reports said Gotze had been forced to pull out of that second session when he felt the problem again. “We don’t know how bad it is and whether he is still suffering from it,” Dortmund General Manager, Michael Zorc, said yesterday. It leaves in question Gotze’s chances of playing against the club he will be joining in July after a 37 million euros transfer was agreed upon last month. Gotze is not Coach Jurgen Klopp’s only concern with Mats Hummels, a man who switched between the two Bundesliga giants in the opposite direction in 2008, labouring with an ankle injury, but chances of a recovery from an injury he picked up only on Saturday are significantly greater. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich legend, Lothar Matthaus, believes Dortmund has a good chance of triumphing at Wembley without Gotze. “Dortmund are not reliant on Mario,” Matthaus said yesterday. Bayern faces Stuttgart in the final of the DFBPokal on June 1.

Robben eyes ‘tear-wiping’ triumph Robben

ayern Munich winger, Arjen Robben, is desperate to bring an end to his own UEFA Champions League curse when Bayern Munich plays Borussia Dortmund in the final at Wembley on Saturday. The Dutchman, who is involved in his 11th straight season in the Champions League, has been on the losing side twice in the final in the past three seasons, while he also lost out in a FIFA World Cup final for Netherlands and the final of the DFB-Pokal last summer. The disappointment of losing to Chelsea last May and Inter Milan two years previously is spurring him and his team-mates on to ensure it is a case of third time lucky this weekend. “Most of us were in the side which lost in 2010 and 2012 and that explains why so many of us now

Gotze

want to win this title,” Robben said yesterday as Bayern intensified training in Munich. Bayern will go into the final as favourite having stormed to the Bundesliga title in record fashion. Robben says Bayern must go on to the field aware that it is stronger and without making any alterations to the way it has played all season. “We just have to do precisely the same things we’ve been doing all season, because we were very successful. We are experienced and we know what’s coming so we will prepare in a very normal way, as we have always done,” he added, stressing that he is convinced of landing the dog-eared trophy this year. “I have a good feeling that we are going to do it on Saturday,” the Dutch international submitted.

Dante

Dortmund can be dangerous –Dante

Relatively unknown outside Germany before arriving at Bayern Munich in April 2012, Brazilian centre-half, Dante, has enjoyed a quick rise to prominence that anyone unfamiliar with his career would think he has had it easy. The 29-year-old spoke to FIFA.com on the Champions League final between Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich billed for Wembley on Saturday Is your new recognition because you are with Bayern now or because you are playing the best football of your career? I can’t deny that I’ve learned a lot in the time I’ve been playing for Bayern. When you play for such a big team you’re faced with situations you’ve never dealt with before and the pressure is different. But I think it’s true to say that Bayern decided to sign me because I was playing very well, even if my profile wasn’t that high.

You came in for a lot of praise in Bayern’s 7-0 aggregate win over Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final… I got the feeling in thos games that a lot of peopl who didn’t know me wer looking for confirmation in some way. It’s like they were saying, ‘Let’s see if this Dante guy can play just as well against grea players.’ For the peopl who didn’t know much about me, I think it wa the ideal chance to show that I can do well in big

Tit bits...

Carroll

Wenger

Liverpool striker, Andy Carroll, has withdrawn from the England squad for the friendly games against the Republic of Ireland and Brazil due to a foot injury, the Football Association announced yesterday. The FA however said Manager Roy Hodgson had not called up a replacement, apparently as no player is clearly in the frame to step in at this moment. Reports said it is not unlikely that the big forward would be replayed in the next few days.

Arsenal Manager, Arsene Wenger, is understood to have targeted offensive additions this summer, including the likes of Fiorentina’s Stevan Jovetic, but could yet be put off by the £30 million valuation of the Italian club. Real Madrid frontman Gonzalo Higuain and even possibly England forward Wayne Rooney are other reported targets. Borussia Dortmund defender Lukasz Piszczek and Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar, who is set to leave relegated Queens Park Rangers, are others said to be on Wenger’s radar.

Podolski Germany forward, Lukas Podolski, has been linked with a switch to Juventus after being the most substituted of Arsenal’s attackers this season. “The fact is, I have a contract with Arsenal. There is no reason to leave the club. But, in the football business a lot of things are conceivable,” the World Cup veteran said yesterday. “I can only wait and see,” he added.

Wilshere

Arsenal midfielder, Jack Wilshere, hopes the latest opera tion on his troublesom ankle will prove the las as he looks to recover full fitness for both club and country next season. The 21-year-old is se for surgery in the comi days to remove a pin in serted during a previou procedure, which has hampered his progress during the closing wee of the Premier League campaign as he was limited to mostly subst tute appearances using painkillers.

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National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

Thursday, May 23, 2013

UAE 2013: Jonathan charges Eaglets games. You’ve got an even bigger game this weekend against Borussia Dortmund. Does that put pressure on you? I don’t think it matters who you’re up against because it’s a Champions League final. Obviously neutrals would see it as more of a European final if Real Madrid or Barcelona was in it, but for the players it doesn’t make any difference. Dortmund really deserve to have got this far. They’re an excellent team and they’re very combative, no matter whether they’re in possession or hitting you on the counter, when they can be very fast and dangerous. You looked very much at ease on your debut for Brazil against England at Wembley too… Yes, I’m known for being laid-back and there was a good reason for me being relaxed that day. I knew my time had come and I was ready for it. I’d worked hard for it and I’m still working hard now. I sensed it was my chance to show I was in the national team to stay. I didn’t want to go away afterwards and feel that I hadn’t made the most of it, and psychologically I felt ready for it. Do you think you, Thiago Silva and David Luiz can play together in the national team? Don’t put me in a tight spot. It’s up to the coach to decide. I just do my job as I am told.

ROTIMI FADEYI ABUJA

resident Goodluck Jonathan has enjoined players of the national U-17 team, Golden Eaglets, to be focused ahead of the FIFA U-17 World Cup slated for United Arab Emirates in October. The president, who made the call during a reception for the team and his crew at State House, Abuja on Tuesday night, also told the team

Eaglets’ striker, Isaac Success

that journey to conquer the world in the UAE was still far away and only present-mindedness of the team could guarantee success. “The World Cup presents another chance to record a brilliant performance at the global stage and you should not fail to register this reality in your minds,” Jonathan said amidst applause from the audience that include Nigeria’s representatives at the recent maiden U-18 African Youth Athletics Championships (AYAC) held in Warri, Delta State as well as representatives of the national U-20 team whose players and coaches are currently in Germany preparing for the FIFA U-20 World Cup scheduled for Turkey next month. Each of the Eaglets got N500, 000, chief coach N1million, assistant coaches N750, 000, team officials N500, 000 and team curator N300, 000. Sports Minister, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, who delivered a speech at the occasion, said the Jonathan administration’s commitment to sports development had ensured the Eaglet’s brilliant outing at the recent Africa U-17 Championship in Morocco. “It is the first time that Nigeria qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup since 2007,” the minister remarked.

W/C 2014: Black Stars launch bid for Brazil

eports yesterday said Ghana will pitch camp in Ethiopia and South Africa to prepare for next month’s crucial 2014 World Cup qualifiers against Sudan and Lesotho. The Black Stars had originally planned to camp in Kenya and play a friendly against the Harambee Stars on June 1 but opted out of the friendly citing the unavailability of some players. According to the reports, Coach Kwesi Appiah has announced that his team will camp in Addis Ababa and Johannesburg ahead of the crucial matches. High altitude training in Addis Aba-

ba will put the Black Stars in shape for the game against Sudan and Lesotho where the altitude is reportedly high. The Black Stars will train in Ghana from their various homes for three days before departing to Ethiopia where they will be camped before the match against Sudan on June 7. Ghana must win the matches against Sudan and Lesotho to have a strong chance of topping the group to reach the final phase of the World Cup qualifiers. The West Africans are currently second in Group B with six points, one point adrift of Zambia who tops the table after a protest won over Sudan.

Ndanusa

‘NOC focused on C’wealth, Rio’ JOEL AJAYI ABUJA

he Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC) says it would soon engage newly elected board members of various sport federations to chart a course towards actualizing desired result ahead of the Com-

monwealth Games 2014 and 2016 Olympics. NOC Secretary, Tunde Popoola, said in Abuja yesterday that the Olympic body would collaborate with relevant stakeholders in future global competitions, even as he explained that every federation must strive to achieve its mandate. “Sport federations are like the foot soldiers because they have all it takes in harnessing the talent,” Popoola said. “We will continue to provide them with support to enable them to succeed as we believe that our performance at the Commonwealth Games and Youth Games will determine our output at Rio.” He, however, explained that the priority given to some sporting activities as ‘elite’ was not aimed at undermining the federations’ targets. Nigeria finished ninth at the last Commonwealth Games held in Delhi, India with 11 gold, 8 silver and 14 bronze medals.

5-A-Side: Baruwa rues Nigeria’s ouster AFOLABI GAMBARI

aptain of Team Nigeria to the Standard Chartered Trophy 2013 5-A-Side Tournament, Tosin Baruwa, has expressed regret that the country’s effort fell short of the requirement to win the trophy. The annual tournament ended on Tuesday at the Anfield Stadium in Liverpool, United Kingdom. “We tried our best but it wasn’t good enough,” the captain, who is also a defender, said yesterday. The Nigerians lost 1-0 to Thailand, 3-2 to India and 2-0 to Dubai at the keenly contested competition which was eventually won by Thailand who beat Dubai 3-2 in the final via penalty shoot-out after regulation time ended 1-1. Nigeria’s second game against India proved the most painful as

the Asians grabbed the winner with the last kick of the game. Baruwa and his mates went in search of a third goal only to concede another and subsequently lost the spirit to fight on. Team Manager, Joke Adu, however expressed delight at the showing, saying her wards played their best. “Some of the other teams apparently came here with players who played together more regularly that us and that showed in their performance,” Adu observed, adding, “Our team is made up entirely by our staff members and we are proud of that.” The two journalists on the team, Mumini Alao of Complete Sports and Sola Aiyepeku of COD United, were not featured as Team Nigeria stuck with the players that took the side to the final of the 2012 Nigeria’s Bankers League.

Okunowo hails taekwondoists

Neville

YEMI OLUS

Everton defender, Phil Neville, has told Chairman Bill Kenwright that he is interested in succeeding David Moyes as manager at Goodison Park. Neville is considering his options after deciding to end his eight-year playing stint at Goodison Park, and will join the England Under-21 coaching staff for the European Championship finals in Israel in June.

Black Stars celebrating after a recent victory

hairman of the Lagos State Taekwondo Association, Jimi Okunowo, says he is satisfied with the performance of the state’s athletes at the 2nd Eko Taekwondo Championship held last week. About 150 taekwondoists participated in the international event which took place at the Sir Molade Okoya- Thomas Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere on May 17 to 18. Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin Republic, Niger Republic and Mali featured in the championship. “It was a successful champion-

ship because so much planning went into it,” Okunowo remarked. “We had about 160 athletes registered and of course we had sponsors Avro Pharma on the ground to give health talk targeted at the youths. “The officiating was free and fair and 75 per cent of the referees are internationally certified taekwondo officials, just to ensure that the competition maintained international standards. It was a senior open event for people who are senior black belters. We ensured that as many clubs in Lagos were registered as we discovered that most of the athletes who won gold medals were from Lagos State.

Sport

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Racist slur: Woods gets Garcia’s apology

T Who rules at Roland Garros?

Pundits are tipping resurgent Rafael Nadal to excel

The current form of top contenders, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, suggests an explosive contest at the French Open 2013 which serves off in Paris on Sunday

oger Federer’s latest struggle against Rafael Nadal in the Italian Open finals was a microcosm of eight frustrating years of French Open futility against his Spanish nemesis. There is little, if anything, to examine with the future of this rivalry on red clay. It would be like trying to sell a dunk contest between Michael Jordan and Larry Bird. Instead, it leads many tennis fans to reflect on the Swiss Maestro’s most glaring weaknesses. Analysts recently summed this up by wondering how recent French Open history could have changed: “If Roger had a two hander, would Nadal not have bothered him as much,” they asked. Certainly Nadal’s lefty topspin has created a terrible matchup for Federer’s more spotty single-backhand, but there are numerous layers to this question. Inexorable changes from the ATP tour have directed much of the warfare in tennis that has shaped these two epic champions. Federer, born in 1981, saw plenty of claycourt champions win with a single backhand. Mats Wilander and Ivan Lendl could push away shots with their weaker side and set opponents up—Wilander preferred to grind for opponent errors and Lendl looked to club his forehand for winners. There were other one-handers who thrived on clay in the 1990s, including bullish Thomas Muster, who needed a big windup for his other wing—and artistic Gustavo Kuerten, who used his lanky height and grace to place the ball deep in the court and stymie counter-attacks. Nadal, born in 1986, may have been aware of Bjorn Borg’s clay-court dominance, but the Viking’s two-handed topspin dominance was still more of an aberration. But by the time Nadal was five years old, Jim Courier and Sergi Bruguera had come along with heavy two-handed Western topspin that would dominate four consecutive French Open titles. Fellow Majorcan Carlos Moya also used a two-hander, and champions like Andre Agassi made the baseline

op player, Sergio Garcia, yesterday apologised for what could be construed as a racist remark about Tiger Woods at the European Tour’s annual awards ceremony. Garcia, who has been involved in a row with Woods since an incident during the third round of the Players Championships at Sawgrass earlier this month, was on stage for a question and answer session with the rest of the European Ryder Cup team. “We will have him round every night. We will serve fried chicken.” the Spaniard, who was asked if he would have Woods around for dinner one night during the forthcoming US Open, said. “I apologise for any offence that may have been caused by my comment on stage during The European Tour Players’ Awards dinner. “I answered a question that was clearly made towards me as a joke with a silly remark, but in no way was the comment meant in a racist manner.”

FEDERER HAS AN ORIGINAL STYLE, BUT ALSO AN ANACHRONISTIC ONE PLAYING UNDER NEW CONDITIONS AGAINST A MOSTLY NEW CAST OF COMPETITORS.

HE IS CLAUDE MONET’S “WOMAN WITH A PARASOL” HANGING

IN A GALLERY NOW BEING DECORATED WITH DIGITAL FACSIMILES OF SUPERMODELS style look highly attractive to tennis prospects. Federer has an original style, but also an anachronistic one playing under new conditions against a mostly new cast of competitors. He is Claude Monet’s “Woman with a Parasol” hanging in a gallery now being decorated with digital facsimiles of supermodels. Suppose Federer did possess Djokovic’s double-backhand? Would this be the ultimate completion to the perfect player? Would he have a shelf of half a dozen French Open cups to go along with the other 16 Grand Slam titles? French Open 2013 promises to be a spectacular display with Nadal determined as ever to combat his focused competitors. Whether or not someone can beat him with a big double-backhand, that challenger will need a big heart and legendary determination. Nadal will not hand over his crown easily.

Woods

Garcia’s remark was similar to one made in 1997 by Fuzzy Zoeller to Woods after he had won the Masters which entitled him to choose the champions’ dinner menu for the following year. “You pat him on the back and say congratulations and enjoy it and tell him not to serve fried chicken next year,” Zoeller had said before he later pleaded to being misconstrued. Garcia told reporters ahead of the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth that there was no end in sight to his spat with Woods. “Tiger is not my favourite guy to play with,” Garcia confessed. “He’s not the nicest guy on Tour. We don’t like each other. It doesn’t take a rocket engineer to figure that out. He is who he is. I am who I am. It’s best we are not playing together again.” Asked, however, if he would call Garcia to clear the air, Woods simply said: “No”. .culled from www.espn.com

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business & Finance We will achieve this by using the existing Network for African Student Entrepreneurs club structure and deriving a standard schedule of activities for all members across all universities.

The capital market is not driven by euphoria, but by fundamentals of diﬀerent sectors of the economy represented on the Exchange DIRECTOR-GENERAL, SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, ARUNMA OTEH

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga

Oil firms to invest N25.7trn in oil and gas exploration, production UDEME AKPAN

he International oil Companies, IOCs have budgeted to invest $165 billion in the upstream sector, involving exploration and production of oil and gas in the next five years. The amount is targeted at executing ongoing and planned projects at onshore, offshore and the deep offshore to enable the nation meet its target of increasing the nation’s crude oil and gas reserves which presently stands at over 36 barrels per day and 187 trillion standard cubic feet respectively. The Managing director of SNEPCO, Mr. Chike Onyekekwe who disclosed this while making a presentation in Lagos yesterday said such investment would assist to improve the ranking of Nigeria which is currently the 12th largest oil producer in the world. Onyekekwe who noted that it cost about $150 million to develop one well at the deep waters said it also take between 10 and 20 years to develop and execute one project at the terrain.

The Managing directoe who noted that the nation exported 100 million barrels of oil in May 2007 before Niger Delta militancy started to affect production said that much emphasis should be paid to offshore and deep offshore because of the prospect of making commercial oil finds in the areas. The Managing director who emphasized the need to raise the nation’s oil reserves to 40 billion barrels by 2020 stated that explora-

tion and production demand huge resources. Onyekekwe pointed out the nation invested over $48 billion in offshore oil exploration and production in 2007 alone, thus culmination in the boosting of the nation’s production capacity during the period. He said there was a great need to finance projects, especially in the deep waters as about 39 per cent of the nation’s current over 2.5 mil-

lion barrels per day comes from the deep waters. Citing the examples of many deep offshore projects, including Eni’s Abo, ExxonMobil’s Erha, Shell’s Bonga, Total’s Usan, Chevron’s Agbami and Total’s Akpo, the Managing director said increased funding is required to design and execute projects that are capable of creating several multiplier effects in the industry.

ABUJA

he Acting Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Alhaji Kabir Mashi, has advised the 36 State Chairmen of Boards of Internal Revenue on the imperative of consistently enhancing their professional skills and operational competences as a strategic option of improving the efficiency of tax administra-

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IRS L-R: Executive Director, Treasury International Operations South East, Skye Bank Plc, Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu; Group Managing Director/CEO. Mr. Kehinde Durosimi-Etti and Chairman, Mr. Olatunde Ayeni, during the Annual General Meeting of the Bank in Lagos, yesterday.

FIRS boss tasks state tax chiefs on capacity-building TOLA AKINMUTIMI

Arik Air

tion at sub-national level of the country. Mashi, who gave the advice at a two- day Leadership Enhancement Programme organised by the Joint Tax Board (JTB) in collaboration with ReStral Consulting in Abuja, said continuous learning remained the most vital tool they needed in their efforts to boost their performances and by implication, create the enabling environment for tax compliance and deploying taxes to people-oriented developmental programmes. The FIRS boss explained to the tax chiefs that as leaders they owe themselves, their people and

the country the duty to develop themselves technically and operationally in their areas of calling since capacity building remains one of the challenges confronting leaders of corporate and public enterprises in modern societies. He said: “Let me state that as Chief Accounting Officers of our respective tax authorities, the need for continuous capacity building programmes cannot be over emphasised. “You are all quite aware that we are constantly faced with the challenge of how to effectively and adequately manage both human and material resources at our disposal for optimum rev-

FHA recoups N500m lost from employees housing scam

enue collection. While we strive for perfection, we equally need avenues like this share and compare notes of the goods and not too pleasant situations around us” he said. Mashi, who is also the Chairman of the Joint Tax Board (JTB), said consistent learning in areas of their professional calling would help the chieftains of the SBIR to build essential skills for achieving organisational goals and objectives, adding that it is in realization of this fact that FIRS decided to organise the three-day leadership training programme for all members of the JTB.

Concerns over proposed lawful interception law

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Firworks as Guinness, APCON differ on banned extra-stout ad

Business & Finance

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FHA recoups N500m lost from employees’ housing scam OLUFEMI ADEOSUN ABUJA

he Interim Managing Director of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Mr. Terver Gemade, yesterday opened a can of worm in the agency, revealing that it recovered N500m from the over 44 units of houses illegally acquired by some employees within a month. The Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Ms Amal Pepple, had

alleged that some employees of the Authority illegally took possession of the houses belonging to the agency. Gemade clarified the allegations with journalists in Abuja yesterday shortly after members of the newly constituted Interim Management Team of the agency signed performance agreement with him. According to him, the agency has done verification of estates belonging to the authority and uncovered 44 units of houses illegally occupied by staff.

He said, “We have done some verification and recover a number of houses. We recovered about 44 houses a some months ago, and we were able to realise N500million within a month. Gemade added that the new interim management would soon carry out further verification exercise with a view to determining who owns what. On the alleged rift between the agency and its union regarding the proposed commercialisation of FHA, the

MD explained that the fear of members was premised on the stereotype that there would be a job cut. While noting there was no such plan, he noted that the ongoing restructuring of the agency was geared toward enhanced service delivery. “We are on course. We have strategies of maintaining the industrial harmony. We have done it in the past and we will still do a lot better. We are doing our possible best to make sure that the welfare of members of

our union is protected. When there is change, there is always going to be fear in the system, but we have allayed their fears. We are not intending to sack anybody. The reform the minister has put together is transiting from agency of civil service to a commercialise agency of government, he said. He said that the new IMT would curb wastages associated with the agency in the past with a view to positing it to deliver on its mandate of housing delivery to all Nigerians.

Tobacco firms to fight illicit trade in excisable goods STANLEY IHEDIGBO

tax officials tackle the criminals who carry it out. The DCTA offers a proven, secure and cost-effective solution, based on Codentify technology, for this purpose. Codentify makes the leap into the digital age, offering quick and easy access through a mobile phone to all the information governments need to protect tax revenues, verify the legitimacy of shipments and meet international regulatory requirements, including the World Health Organisation’s protocol to eliminate the illicit trade in tobacco. Pat Heneghan, spokesperson for the DCTA, said, “Today’s legal supply chains are global, complex and involve many parties. When combined with the sophistication of the criminals and terrorists who traffic illicit goods, it means national governments must use the latest advances in technology to secure supply chains if they are to make any real progress in addressing this dangerous and growing problem.

FG flags-off 2nd phase of GES in South west

he world’s four largest international tobacco companies have forged a joint venture to fight the illegal trafficking of excisable consumer goods. British American Tobacco, Imperial Tobacco Group, Japan Tobacco International and Philip Morris International yesterday launched the Digital Coding &Tracking Association (DCTA), set up to promote international standards and digital technologies to help governments fight smuggling, counterfeiting and tax evasion. According to a statement from BA, the DCTA draws upon the industry’s collective expertise in securing international supply chains and developing sophisticated technologies to help distinguish genuine product from counterfeit. Eliminating the illicit trade in cigarettes and alcohol requires international cooperation and smarter tools to help customs, border and

TOLA AKINMUTIMI

Konica Minolta investment in Nigeria hits N1bn

L-R: National Sales Manager, Coscharis Motors Limited, Mr. Justin Ngini; General Manager, Cutler Ogilvy Public Relations, Ms. Laura Oloyede and Regional Sales and Marketing Manager, Sub Saharan Africa Ford Motor Company, Mr. Ezio Tunis, at the media parley on the company’s activities in Africa in Lagos, yesterday.

ABUJA

he Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, has flagged-off the 2013 Growth Enhancement Support Scheme (GES) in the South West with advice to farmers to properly utilise the seeds. The minister, who was represented by the Ministry’s South West Regional Director, Mr. Olalekan Quadri, in Otiri Farm Settlement in Iseyin, Oyo State, said the launch of the 2013 GES was part of government’s concerted efforts to ensure that Nigerian farmers have undisrupted access to farm inputs Describing the event as “milestone in the quest for state and Federal Government to reposition agriculture in the country and make Nigeria a major player in the food market”, Adesina said

the GES had put paid to the unwholesome activities of middle men who, over the years, had been diverting inputs for their selfish end and leaving only 11 per cent of what was provided yearly by government for use by the Nigerian farmers. A statement by the Director of Press in the Ministry, Greyne Anosike, signed by Mrs. Idowu Jokpeyibo, quoted the minister as saying that the efforts of the Federal and state governments, is aimed at making agriculture profitable through value chain approach and timely delivery of agricultural inputs directly targeted at farmers would go a long way in attracting the youth to agriculture and reduce unemployment rate. He disclosed that the Federal Government has so far registered 4.5 million farmers in 2012 and look forward to registering five million farmers in 2013.

The minister explained that the One-Stop-Shop (the venue of the flag-off) was put in place to ensure that the farmers access to inputs they require are within their reach in terms of availability and cost. The GES, in his explanation is to ensure adequate and regular supply of Agricultural Inputs, such as fertilizers and seeds to farmers through Fertilizer and Seed Companies at subsidized rates. He appealed to farmers to ensure that the inputs given to them are used in their farms and not sold or eaten as they contain chemicals meant for growth multiplication when planted. The Commissioner for Agriculture in Oyo State, Mr. Peter Odetomi said there was need for government to look into the issue of agricultural extension service delivery as a vehicle to drive productivity of other focal crops or commodities.

OLUFEMI ADEOSUN ABUJA

print machine manufacturer firm, Konica Minolta yesterday put its level of investment in infrastructure building and personnel training in the country at N1bn The Managing Director, Mr. Izzat Debs, who made this known in Abuja during the company’s print digital solution exhibition, said the machines had brought more productivity and profitability into Nigerian businesses. He noted that though the company is just two years in Nigeria it had achieved tremendous progress. Debs further added that Konica Minolta was excited to launch products that would increase efficiency in printing, stressing that, “The new printers include the bizhub series 3300P, 4000P and 4700P with a compact design and impressive

optimal performance. According to him, one of the unique features of the new technology lies in its various features, including speed rate to suit different customer’s need.” Meanwhile, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment in his speech at the event charged MDAs and private sectors to take advantage of the exhibition and develop partnership that would translate to good business transactions. He noted that such transactions would enhance the country’s economic growth. The minister, who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant, Mr. Steven Amuche, further said as a facilitator of investment inflow into the country, the ministry was happy to be associated with them especially at a crucial time when the ministry was leaving no stone unturned to encourage both domestic and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflow.

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Business & Finance

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Secure cyber platform critical to Vision 20: 2020, says NITDA Airlines to save $1m on fuel consumption KUNLE A ZEEZ

he need to develop a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) to ensure sustainable and secure platform for cyber accessibility, secured transactions and credible identity is critical to Nigeria’s quest to achieve its Vision 20: 2020. Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, Prof. Cleopas Angaye, disclosed this at a second workshop on and public presentation of the PKI Blueprint for Nigeria which held in Lagos yesterday. Angaye said with the rate of uncontrolled infiltration and proliferation in the use of cyberspace for communications and transactions, having a PKI technology has become imperative. A PKI is a collection of security technologies, procedures, processes and policies that collectively

provide a framework for addressing the fundamental security issues of privacy, authentication, integrity and non-repudiation and access control in data communications. According to Angaye, the implementation of the PKI will bring about a cyber ecosystem where it is easier and safer for businesses and individuals to carry out secure transactions, especially as Nigeria continues to drive a cashless economy. He described the PKI as the first comprehensive document put together by the Federal Government to chart a new course for the emergence for the emergence of a digital economy in the country. He noted that, in the process of developing the blueprint and implementation strategies, NITDA, in October, 2012, inaugurated the National PKI Committee with members drawn from various institutions both from private and

public sector such as the banking sector, Office of National Security Adviser and Nigeria Computer Society. Listing some benefits of the benefits of PKI implementation, Angaye said it would lead to the creation He also explained that the creation of digital signatures which is evidence of “who did what to whom”, that is critical to electronic transactions carrying high legal risks or compliance requirements, among others. The NITDA boss also insisted that when integrated into smartcards and other electronic transactions processes, PKI is recognised as “the only practical solution.” Speaking in the same vein, the President, Nigeria Computer Society, NCS, Sir. Demola Aladekomo, called on the NITDA and other related agencies to focus on legislation for the PKI and awareness.

on new Boeing OLUSEGUN KOIKI

Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental successfully completed its first test flight on Tuesday with a package of performance improvements including enhanced GE engines. This package is designed to improve the fuel efficiency of the popular jetliner, Boeing said in a statement. With the completion of the improved performance test on the airliner, operators of the equipment are expected to save $1m annually on each aircraft, as fuel efficiency will improve by another 1.8 per

AfDB launches new information platform UDO ONYEKA

ollowing the launch in March 2013 of Open Data Platforms in 30 African countries, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has launched additional data platforms in some other African countries. According to the Bank the countries include; Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Gabon, Mali, Madagascar, Niger, Somalia, Sudan, bringing it to 40 the number of African countries already connected to the Open Data network. According to AfDB said the Open Data Platform program is part of the Bank’s recently launched “Africa Information Highway” initiative aimed at L-R: Representative of the Minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, Mr. Chudi Uwandu; Direcsignificantly improving data tor of Culture, Mr. Georg Ufot and Chief Executive Officer, National Council of Arts and Culture, Mr. Malgui and dissemiMaidugu, during the 2013 World Cultural Day Celebration in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA management nation in Africa. Work is on

FG announces 1,200 female entrepreneurs as YouWiN ‘2’ winners TOLA AKINMUTIMI ABUJA

he Federal Government yesterday said 1,200 young female entrepreneurs had been selected as final winners of the 2nd cycle of the Youth Enterprise with Innovation in Nigeria (YouWiN) business plans competition. Disclosing this to journalists in Abuja, YouWiN National Coordinator, Dr. Supo Olusi, said the 1200 winners, who cut across the geo-political zones of the country, were also among the 6,000 who made the initial cut and went through a rigorous process that entailed two legs of entrepreneurial training and submissions of business plans based on which

they were adjudged eventual winners. About 65,000 registered for the competition which was supervised by the Enterprise Centre of the Pan African University. Olusi, who commended the winners and attributed their asuccess to dedication and commitment, said he was convinced “that this crop of young Nigerian women would do their gender proud. They would also do Nigeria proud and I am sure they will, through the many jobs they create, help this administration achieve its vision of bringing down the rate of unemployment in Nigeria”. It may be recalled that the Federal Government had dedicated the second cycle of the competition to young Nigerian business-

women in a bid to boost their entrepreneurial profile and thereby empowering them to be business owners who are as well able to cater to the other aspects of their family lives. YouWiN, which was launched by the Federal Government on October 11, 2011, is designed to help identify young Nigerian entrepreneurs with bankable businesses or business ideas. Specifically, the competition is structured to produce 1200 winners per cycle who are then given grants, some up to N10million depending on the winning enterprise, by the Federal Government to enable them either strengthen or set up their own businesses,. These businesses are expected to reduce the numbers of unemployed youths in the country while also ensuring that Nigerian businesses apply world class standards to their operations.

cent. With Boeing Flight Test and Evaluation Capt. Kirk Vining and Chief Pilot Capt. Mark Feuerstein at the controls, the aircraft took off from Paine Field in Everett, Wash. at 1:30 p.m. local time and landed at Boeing Field in Seattle approximately four hours later. “It was a great flight and the engines performed as expected,” said Capt. Vining. “This is an important milestone for the flight test program.” The airplane Performance Improvement Package (PIP) includes improvements to the GEnx-2B engines and Flight Management Computer (FMC) software.

course to complete platforms for the remaining 13 African countries by July 2013. “The Open Data Platform is a user-friendly tool for extracting data, creating and sharing own customized reports, and visualizing data across themes, sectors and countries in tables, charts and maps. Through the Open Data Platform, users can access a wide range of development data on African countries from multiple international and national official sources. The platform also facilitates the collection, analysis and sharing of data among countries and with international development partners. “The platform offers a unique opportunity for various users, such as policymakers, analysts, researchers, business leaders and investors around the world, to gain access to reliable and timely data on Africa.

We want to check shippers’ exposure to risk – Shippers Council FRANCIS EZEM

orried by increasing losses recorded by Nigerian importers and exporters (shippers), Nigerian Shippers Council has restated its commitment to drastically reducing such loses through mass education and enlightenment of the shippers themselves. The Nigerian Shippers Council, created by the Federal Government to protect the interest of Nigerian importers and exporters had in turn created the CDF to enable the shippers get redress in terms of losses they encounter while transacting their legitimate businesses. Secretary of the Fund, Ms. Azuka Ogo, who spoke in an interview

shortly after a one-day roundtable conference in Apapa yesterday, attributed most of the challenges faced by these shippers mostly to ignorance and lack of adequate information. The roundtable which was organised in conjunction with the Nigeria Insurers Association, Nigerian Ports Consultative Council and Association of Cargo Surveyors centred on the need to check cargo exposure to risks of damage, loss and delay at the Nigerian seaports. The event was fallout of a recent visit spearheaded by the und to the NPCC during which it was agreed that there was urgent need for the managers of the nation’s seaports to adopt a system change at the seaports to check unnecessary exposure of cargo to risks and losses.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

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Info Tech

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Concerns over proposed lawful interception law T he proposed draft Lawful Interception Communications Regulation by the Nigerian Communications Commission is raising concerns among stakeholders in the nation’s telecoms sector, especially with regards to the likelihood that it does not lead to abuse of the fundamental right of individual to privacy, as entrenched in Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended. The concerns were expressed by the stakeholders at a policy review forum organised by the Joint Action Committee on IT Development and Awareness, JACITAD, in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission and key industry players. Wikipedia, the free online encyclopaedia, defines Lawful Interception (LI) as “obtaining communication network data pursuant to lawful authority for the purpose of analysis or evidence. Such data generally consist of signalling or network management information or, in fewer instances, the content of the communications.” Under LI, communication can be intercepted by law enforcement agencies, regulatory or administrative agencies, intelligence services, in accordance with the law. Similarly, in exercise of the power conferred on the NCC by Section 70 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 and other powers enabling it in that regards, has taken a step to draft the LI regulations which seeks to provide the legal and regulatory framework for the lawful interception of communications in Nigeria and to put into effect the provision of sections 146 and 147 of the Act. It also seeks to specify the nature and types of communications to be intercepted; prescribes penalties for non-compliance with the regulations; provides a notification procedure to the commission of all warrants issues, amended, renewed or cancelled under the regulations, as well as ensuring the privacy of subscribers as contained in the Nigerian constitution. Some of the basic highlights of the NCC’s draft lawful interception regulation include that communication can be intercepted in any part of the country; intercepted communication can be disclosed in the interest of national security; privacy of subscribers will be ensured in consonance with the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; warrants can be issued for the purpose of preventing or investigating a crime, or protecting and safeguarding the economic wellbeing of Nigerians, or in the interest of public safety. It prescribes that warrants may be granted to the National Security Advisers or a

The draft lawful interception communications regulation proposed by the Nigerian Communications Commission is generating concerns among stakeholders, reports KUNLE AZEEZ.

THE DOMINANT CLIMATE OF OPTIONS AMONG STAKEHOLDERS IS THAT WHILE THE DRAFT REGULATION ON LAWFUL INTERCEPTION HAS

MORE STRENGTHS THAN WEAKNESSES, EFFORTS MUST BE MADE TO ENSURE GREY AREAS ARE ADDRESSED designee not below the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (or equivalent) or to Director State Security Service or designee not below ACP; that the NSA may initiate interception without warrant in an emergency, which may entail death, danger or serious injury, or in cases of conspiracy threatening national security, or organized crimes and that when such happens, the NSA must make application to a judge within 48 hours after interception. If such application is denied, interception must terminate immediately. Other key highlights is that a warrant is issued for three months, and lapses unless renewed for another maximum three months; that when communication is encrypted, then it must be decoded by the licensee; that any person intercepted shall, in writing, notify the NCC, and may make application to the court for judicial review. Interception will be in force till reversed by a court. However, at the JACITAD forum, con-

cerns on the NCC draft regulation were raised, the chief concern being that Blackberry services could be at risk in the country as the regulation will run counter to the technical operating standards of the phones’ distinct network. As a phone network, Blackberry maintains a strict policy of non-disclosure of pass codes or key, sent over an encrypted network and, according to National Mirror findings, there are over three million Blackberry users in Nigeria who stand the risk of being denied telecoms access in case of possible ban on the services. Raising concerns over the draft regulations, the Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria, Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, wondered if the bill would not impinge on the right to privacy of citizens which is constitutionally protected. He stressed that the telecoms network operators that are expected to implement interception, through installation of neces-

NCS urges FG to tackle insecurity with ICT KUNLE A ZEEZ

igeria Computer Society, the umbrella body of all Information Technology professionals, interest groups and stakeholders in Nigeria, has again tasked the Federal Government to work with the Society on the best way to deploy Information and Communication Technology to address rife insecurity in the country. NCS President, Sir. Demola Aladekomo, made the calls during a press conference organised to discuss preparation for this year’s edition of NCS’s annual 11th Inter-

national Conference of the NCS holding in Osun State next month. According to Aladekomo, “NCS had diligently, over the past few months, canvassed the use of ICT towards resolving the issues of security in our country. “We therefore call on the Federal government to engage NCS towards contributing in resolving this massive issue. Once this is done, youth empowerment and employment will follow,” he said. Speaking on the theme of the conference “e-Governance and National Security”, he said the theme was borne out of need to highlight the relevance of IT to governance and national security “to ensure real, all-

inclusive development and transformation of governance through IT, while overcoming the menace of insecurity bedevilling the nation.” He noted that the recent declaration of State of Emergency in three states in the country by the President due to insecurity challenges in those states made the theme all the more compelling. “One way to describe e-government is the application of ICT to strengthen governance, the use of ICTs in the operations and performance improvement of public sector organisations. It also means the use of ICT to achieve better stakeholders’ engagement. “When carefully designed and diligently

sary technical requirements, in the national interest, “should be protected against civil and criminal liability in clear and specific terms.” He added that on the need for the requisite legal framework to provide sufficient safeguards against abuse and opportunities for redress, arguing there should be clear supervisory and reporting provisions. In his views, President, Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Mr. Lanre Ajayi, said that countries throughout the world have adopted legislative and regulatory requirements for providers of public and private communication services (service providers) to design and implement their networks to support authorised electronic surveillance explicitly. He, therefore, called on lawyers to challenge the legality of operation of Lawful Intervention devices by enforcement agencies when the regulation to guide the usage is still a draft. Also spotting grey areas in the draft lawful interception communications regulation at the JACITAD), Former Federal Capital Territory Minister, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, who led the discourse also argued that the draft negates the constitutional provisions regarding privacy or otherwise of physical and electronic communications between citizens. The former minister described the regulations as lacking in legitimacy stressing that Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution says, “The privacy of citizens, their homes, correspondence, telephone conversations and telegraphic communications is hereby guaranteed and protected.” In his submissions, the Director, Regulatory & Government Affairs, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Osondu Nwokoro, who also identified grey areas in the draft regulations, concluded that while NCC efforts was commendable, “We are, however, of the opinion that lawful interception should be provided for in our laws because of the serious constitutional issues involved.” Generally, the dominant climate of options among stakeholders is that while the draft regulation on lawful interception has more strengths than weaknesses, efforts must be made to ensured grey areas are addressed and measures are put in place to prevent the regulation from being manipulated and used for negative ends. implemented, e-government tackles the problems of poverty, disease, unemployment and hunger. E-government strategies that work facilitate both public sector and private sector development. “The protection of life and property is the major function and responsibility of any government. All over the world, no nation is excluded from the challenges of insecurity. Murder, armed robbery, terrorism, cultism and other crimes abound despite the best efforts of security and law enforcement agencies. “A more proactive IT-led approach to combating this menace is needed in a country like ours. It is our considered view that no organisation is better suited than the NCS to chart the way forward in this regard,” he said.

Info Tech

Thursday, May 23, 2013

FG begins incubation for software developers KUNLE A ZEEZ

he Federal Government is set to receive the first batch of software developers that would undergo one year training at the Lagos Incubation Centre. Accenture Consulting, the project management office handling the ongoing selection process of software developer, said 10 teams would emerge at the end of the exercise. The winners would then be handed to the Minister of Communications Technology, Mrs. Omobola Johnson, who would, in turn, present them at the Lagos Incubation Centre for oneyear training. The minister had, early this year, launched the Techlaunchpad initiative designed by the Federal Government to groom software developers and make their products marketable and acceptable within and outside Nigeria. Confirming the ongoing selection exercise to National

Mirror, the Senior Project Manager for Techlaunchpad, Mr. Adebayo Ebrahim, said, “Ten teams will be selected and sent to the Lagos incubation centre for one year where they will receive training on practical skills on how to further develop and improve on their application software.” He explained that the 10 teams would be handed over to the minister, who would then present them at the incubation centre for hands-on practical training for one year. “The selection exercise, which commenced last week, is expected to end this week and the presentation done next week,” Ebrahim said. The training programme is the idea of Techlaunchpad, an initiative of the Federal Government, but has a joint sponsorship between the Federal Government and the private sector. Ebrahim explained that the first batch training is for software developers who have applications for the oil & gas

and the financial institutions in Nigeria, stressing that “the two sectors are therefore cosponsoring the training with the federal government, and providing mentorship for the developers.” He also disclosed that at the incubation centre, each team will have one Chief Information Officer (CIO) of banks and oil & gas companies that will be providing mentorship to them all through the one year incubation period. It is expected that at the end of one year, incubation developers would be able to come up with applications that will drive the oil & gas and the financial sectors of the Nigerian economy and could be exported to other countries to address similar situation. Meanwhile, it was gathered that most of the participants at the selection process said they got the information from internet, while browsing, and others said they were informed through the social media and newspapers.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tech Box

Norton Mobile Security for iOS devices

orton by Symantec, one of the global security software companies, has released the latest version of its flagship mobile offering, Norton Mobile Security. The new Norton Mobile Security delivers powerful protection for consumers’ mobile needs, including support for iOS devices, contacts backup and an improved user experience. According to the company, mobile phones are an integral part of consumers’ lives, with two-thirds of adults worldwide reporting they use a mobile device to access the Internet but. It, however, noted that, one in three mobile device users have had a device lost or stolen, putting their sensitive information at risk. Hence, the company said Norton Mobile Security helps consumers keep their device se-

Schneider tackles IT challenges

chneider Electric, a global specialist in energy management, has introduced the APC NetShelter SV, an affordable rack solution with industry proven design and seamless integration of essential rack accessories. The NetShelter SV is offered in multiple heights, widths and depths to meet the challenges that businesses face in their Information Technology environments. The APC NetShelter SV is optimized for basic enclosure applications such as typical small and medium business IT needs and co-location cage environments. The company, in a statement, said the solution provides seamL-R: Financial Controller, Temenos, Mr. Mike Kent; Clients Relationship Manager for West Africa, Temenos, Mr. Ralph less integration with rack Power Talabi; Executive Director, Implementation and Support Services, Inlaks Computers, Mr. Tunji Agbaje; Managing DiDistribution Units (PDU) and rector, Inlaks, Mr. Olufemi Adeoti and Global Alliances Director Temenos, Mr. Mike Head, at a recent international cable management systems inconference in Lagos.

Cisco Unified Access simplifies network operations KUNLE A ZEEZ

global Information and Communication Technology company, Cisco said its new Unified Access products would assist Nigerian businesses to simplify their network operations as need increases to connect more people, data, processes and other things to their corporate network. The company said while the role of wireless and wired networks grows as network operations and feature requirements become more complex, the Unified Access would help businesses to drive mobility, security, and collaboration. Speaking during a recent

visit to Nigeria, Head of Architecture & Enterprise, Emerging Markets for Cisco, Mr. Den Sullivan, said, as organisations in Nigeria face the ever-growing challenge of managing the growth of mobile devices and business applications across multiple networks, businesses were finding it difficult to consistently find time to address issues that are enabling innovation and agility. He said, “Our customers in Nigeria are looking for a simple, highly secure network with reduced total cost of ownership that allows them to address the demands that new access requirements such as BYOD and new innovative line of business applications bring. “Cisco Unified Access allows

customers to achieve these goals by moving away from individual vertical stacks of technology and disparate components and creating a single architecture for an intelligent network.” Sullivan said with the increasing need to connect more people, data, processes and things to the network, the role of wireless and wired networks was growing and network operations and feature requirements are becoming more complex. “For example, according to the Cisco Visual Networking Index Global Mobile Data Traffic Forecast for 2012 to 2017, in Middle East and Africa, mobile data traffic will grow 17-fold from 2012 to 2017, a compound annual growth rate of 77 per cent,” he said.

cure, recover a lost or stolen device and prevent strangers from accessing their information. Vice President, Product Management, Consumer Business Unit, Symantec Corporation, Mr. Dave Cole, said, “It’s no secret that people are using mobile devices more than ever in their daily lives, for everything from connecting with friends to paying for a cup of coffee. “Your phone may not just be your phone; it may be your wallet, identity card, address book and family photo album. As we use our phones in new ways, we’re also putting sensitive information at risk if the device gets lost or stolen. With the latest version of Norton Mobile Security, we are making it simple for people to stay protected on whichever device they choose,” Cole said.

cluding tool-less installation of vertical rack PDUs and cable management in the rear of the cabinet which does not take up any of the costly U-space. According to the statement, vertical mounting rails are fully adjustable, making the cabinet adaptable to many typical IT applications. “Also, NetShelter SV offers compatibility guaranteed with vendor neutral rear accessory mounting brackets which are compatible with all EIA-310 compliant 19 inch equipment. The product is available in various widths and depths to meet any specific equipment requirements while its design includes cable access roof, removable side panels and pre-installed leveling feet and casters,” the company said in the statement.

Sidmach Technologies bags awards

ne of Nigeria’s Information and Communication Technology players, Sidmach Technologies Nigeria Limited, has emerged as the winner in the Indigenous Software Company of the Year category at the 2013 Beacon of ICT Awards ceremony. The company, which has recorded many firsts in the industry, was presented with the award which was held in Lagos recently. Speaking on Sidmach’s profile, Publisher, Nigeria Communications Week and organisers of the award ceremony, Mr. Ken Nwogbo, described Sidmach as a company that has impacted positively in the continuous delivery of best-in-class solutions to the Nigerian market. He added that the company has engendered profound changes in the way ICT is deployed to serve the

average Nigerian. Among several feats, the company pioneered the use of Biometric Technology for the registration, verification, and implementation of examination candidates; implementation of the online result verification system for WAEC and a host of other solutions that have advanced the nation’s quest for the achievement of integrity, excellence in service delivery and the promotion of economic development. Receiving the award, the Managing Director, Sidmach Technologies, Mr. Hassan Alao, noted that the ICT industry is made up of emerging companies such as Sidmach, stressing that the award was a motivation to work harder and deliver even better ICT solutions and services to Nigeria.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Until recently, Guinness Nigeria and the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria have enjoyed a cordial relationship, which stemmed from compliance and respect for code of advertising practice, but the two parties have fallen apart in the last two weeks over the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of approval certificates for Guinness’ alcoholic beverage advertising in February effectively preventing the company from advertising its products till date. To remove doubt about APCON’s integrity, APCON has set up a probe panel to investigate case of discrimination raised by Guinness Nigeria against its vetting arm. ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI reports.

Brands & Marketing

Fireworks as Guinness, APCON differ on banned extra-stout ad

he Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria, APCON, and Guinness Nigeria Plc are seemingly on a collision course. In the last two weeks, the regulator and the regulated have been trading words over the withdrawal of Guinness certificate of approval for all its alcoholic beverages advertising on the ground that the Guinness “Made of More” ad that was aired on Saturday, February 2, on Digital Satellite Television, DSTV, Super Sport violates current advertising code. The ad spot was ran during the African Nation’s Cup match between Ghana and Cape Verde at 16:40 hours West African time and English Premiership lives matches but Guinness Nigeria complained that APCON have played a questionable role in the ban especially as the council is said to have turned blind eye to Guinness competitor who was running a campaign under similar circumstance with Guinness. Although APCON in a release last week Thursday signed by APCON’s Communication Officer, Miss Nkechi May-Nzeribe, stated that through its Advertising Standards Panel, ASP, Committee, it has lifted the ban placed on Guinness Nigeria Plc because “Guinness complied by withdrawing all advertisements that had been scheduled to run and apologized over the broadcast of Guinness Foreign Extra Stout adverts on Digital Satellite Television, DSTV, outside the prescribed periods allowed by the APCON Code of Advertising and Promotion guidelines.” Guinness was said to have contravened Article 39 of the Nigerian Code of Advertising Practice which states that advertisements for alcoholic beverages shall not be aired between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on radio and between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on television but in a swift reaction, the Director of Guinness Corporate Relations, Mr. Sesan Sobowale, described APCON’s statement as untrue. Sobowale said contrary to the claim by APCON in the widely circulated report, Guinness Nigeria had withdrawn the advertisement in question before the meeting of the APCON Council, which endorsed the recommendation of the ASP to impose sanction on the company. “In fact, the decision by the ASP to recommend the withdrawal of the sanction imposed on Guinness Nigeria Plc followed a meeting between the management of the company, its marketing and media agencies and APCON in which the company established that it was not in breach of the relevant provision of the Code of Advertising Practice and Sales Promotion as of the date the decision by APCON was taken,” said Sobowale. Sobowale’s reaction followed an earlier letter sent to APCON on May 7 by the Managing Director of Guinness Nigeria, Mr. Seni Adetu, which alleged bias by APCON and discrimination against the company by ASP

Bello-Kankarofi

IT MUST BE STATED AT THIS JUNCTURE THAT APCON PERFORMS ITS REGULATORY

ROLE, HAVING REGARD TO LAWS ESTABLISHING IT AND AS SUCH EXTENDS NO FAVOURITISM TO ANYBODY SO AS TO ENSURE FAIR PLAY IN THE INDUSTRY chairman, Mr. Ade Akinde. However, Sobowale in an official statement said both the Guinness team and ASP agreed on the process of rescinding the withdrawal of certificates of approvals granted to Guinness Nigeria for the advertising of its alcoholic beverages including the submission of a letter by the company stating its side of the story. He stated that the draft of the letter was jointly agreed with Akinde, who made input into it. Sobowale said Akinde explained that “in view of the fact that the Council of APCON had no scheduled meeting for another few weeks, the submission of the letter with part of the content provided by him was the fastest and easiest way of correcting the error which the ASP had misled the Council of APCON into by its decision to withdraw the certificates of approval earlier issued to the company. Following approval of the draft letter by Akinde, it was printed on the company’s stationery, signed and submitted to APCON.” Furthermore, Sobowale claimed that following a meeting with Akinde where the company’s agencies were present , Akinde assured that since the company had complied with the directives of the ASP to withdraw the materials, it would not make public the decision of the Council of APCON to endorse its recommendations to sanction the company but sources however told National Mirror that an APCON PR consultant had without the approval of the Registrar/CEO of APCON, Alhaji Garba Bello-Kankarofi and Akinde was mistakenly sent a statement to a national newspa-

Adetu

per, not National Mirror, triggering the dispute. To unravel series of allegations raised by Guinness, Bello-Kankarofi said, “Following various instances of breach of the provision of the Code of Advertising by Guinness Plc, APCON on the recommendation of the ASP did suspend approval of previously approved certificates for alcoholic advertising for Guinness. APCON recently restored same upon the recommendations of ASP as to compliance with laws. However, since then, there have been several calculated attempts in the news media to manoeuvre perception over such ordinary discharge of regulatory function. Firstly, Guinness Plc has through a letter dated May 7 from its MD, Mr. Seni Adetu alleged bias from the regulator and discrimination amongst other things from ASP chairman, Mr. Ade Akinde. There was an also personal complaint leveled against Mr. Akinde.” “It must be stated at this juncture that APCON performs its regulatory role having regard to laws establishing it and as such extends no favouritism to anybody so as to ensure fair play in the industry.” He made it clear that APCON was not out to witchhunt any persons, organisations or brands but to join hands to move the industry forward. He noted that the APCON Council is made of representatives of various sectors of the industry and would not in any way create unfair level playing ground for all stakeholders. Bello-Kankarofi said further that the council set up an investigative panel to urgently look into the matter and intimated Guinness plc of such on May 14 but, he, said the council however noticed publications apparently by a faceless advocacy group essentially echoing the allegations made in the letter from Guinness MD. However, Bello-Kankarofi assured Guinness and the stakeholders that the matter is being fully investigated. “In the premise, we wish to assure the public that the matter is being fully investigated and to advise that one should refrain from making uninformed comments particularly as the various codes and laws in these matters are available to all and more importantly, investigation is yet to be concluded.” He affirmed and assured further that all parties concerned would be given ample opportunity to make representations.

Brands & Marketing

Thursday, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Golden penny launches sugar, PR agencies turn to innovation as excites partners with gifts Mediacraft unveils bizwatchnigeria.com ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI

he idea of launching an online business directory or business news by PR firms is new in Nigeria but the growing migration to online or digital media is however making agencies to look inward and innovate to beat competition and stay in business. An innovation that should remain within the spec of news organisation, however, has become an allure for PR firms to not only leverage the brands they handle but to also stay relevance in the face of shrinking marketing budget. Last week,a leading PR consultancy firm, Mediacraft Associates made pioneering move to record a major landmark as Nigeria’s second PR agency to unveil an online business news portal as part of efforts to provide an industry

sector-based online news and business intelligence platform for both local and foreign business interest seeking market intelligence about Nigeria, perhaps with a desire to tap into the one of the world fastest growing economy. During a media lunched of the launch of the online portal, the Group CEO of Mediacraft Associates, Mr. John Ehiguese, said Bizwatchnigeria.com is a pan-Nigeria news and information platform, caters to over 30 different industry sectors that play in the Nigerian business environment, offering news, special reports, features, opinions and job vacancies across the different sectors. Ehiguese reiterated his organisation’s determination to continually raise the bar in public relations practice in Nigeria. “ Bizwatchnigeria.com takes into cognizance the increasing need for easier access to news and information on various industry

sectors of the Nigerian economy, especially in an increasingly fastpaced world. The platform thus points people to the latest news, information and business intelligence on their individual business sectors, at the click of a button, on a daily basis. This unique feature makes the portal the number one fully functional online news and business intelligence platform that operates across virtually all industry sectors in Nigeria. “Yet another unique feature of bizwatchnigeria.com is its presentation of news in the form of easy-to-read news summaries and briefs, making it easier for busy corporate executives and professionals to have an overview of the goings-on in their industry sector without spending much time. The portal also serves to furnish foreigners desirous of doing business in Nigeria with up-to-date news on the Nigerian business landscape,” said Ehiguese.

L-R: Chief Marketing Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Olu Akanmu; Managing Director, Nokia West & Central Africa, Mr. Nick Imudia; Group Director, Consumer Channels, Microsoft Nigeria, Mr. Mark Ihinmoyan and General Manager, Nokia West Africa, Mr. Chris Brown, at the launch of the two new Nokia devices in Lagos recently.

Justrite targets 400% growth draws ‘Chop Life’ star prize ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI

ith two outlets to its credit in about a decade of existence, Justrite Superstores targets a 400 per cent growth rate over the next one year. This hint was dropped by the Managing Director/CEO, Mrs. Tosin Aderinwale while briefing the press on the forthcoming final draw of the Justrite ‘Chop Life’ consumer promotion in Lagos. Taking a look at the at the retail industry and business environment generally, Aderinwale noted that access to finance, cost of finance, infrastructural challenges, power, multiple taxation and human capital challenges are some of the problems that businesses contend with in the country and urged the authorities to intervene

in the proper sense of the word. “Cost of generating alternative source of power, double taxation, billing demand notices by governments – local, state and federal agencies increase the overhead cost of doing business, reduces profit and hampers growth. Therefore, the authorities need to intervene” Speaking on the just concluded Justrite Chop Life consumer promotion, the managing director noted that this is one of the several ways the company rewards loyal consumers and build affinity with the public. “We have held over 10 consumers promotions in the past and its getting better by the day” According to her, the edition which rounded off April, 30, 2012 has as star prize a brand new car. The star prize is expected to be drawn under the watchful

eyes of the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) and other relevant authorities and agencies on the 28th May, 2013 at the Sango Justrite Superstores outlet. Responding to the promotion compliance status, the managing director noted that the promotion was approved and monitored by the CPC, lottery agencies and the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON) and other relevant bodies. She added that the authorities will be represented at the final draw. Notwithstanding the growing competition with the recent entry of multinational retail organizations into the market space, the Justrite CEO says her organization has a deliberate strategy which ensures success despite the fact that the stores are located outside the city centers.

lour Mills Nigeria Plc has entered the thriving sugar market with a new product, Golden Penny Sugar, which was unveiled during the Golden Penny Foods Annual Customers’ Forum 2012which held at Eko hotel recently. Addressing distributors and customers at the forum, Mr Paul Gbedebo, the Group Managing Director Flour Mills Nigeria Plc, said the annual forum is an opportunity for the company to appreciate its customers and generate better ways of making their lives better. “Flour Mills Nigeria is dedicated to quality service to our loyal customers. The theme of this year’s customers’ forum: ‘Bigger, Stronger Better’, mir-

rors the goal of this company. We want to grow and expand our network, thus, the onus falls on us to become better and increase the quality of our products and services”. He further solicited the support of the partners and distributors to make Flour Mills a bigger and better agro-allied company. In his keynote address, Mr John Coumantaros, Chairman Flour Mills Nigeria Plc, noted that the company has been active in the service of providing good and quality foods to Nigerians and providing jobs as well for 52 years. “Our dream is to be the largest food company in Nigeria and we will continue to serve our customers with good services and good value”.

MarketingWorld prepares for 2013 MWA

reparations are in earnest for the 3rd MarketingWorld Awards MWA (2013), the biggest marketing event in Nigeria. In its third year MarketingWorld Awards continue to represent the pinnacle of achievement by rewarding outstanding performance across the integrated marketing communication industry. As the unrivalled badge of excellence for the marketing sector, this prestigious award attracts the industry’s biggest hitters and is the most hotly contested awards in the marketing space. With refreshed and refined criteria, the MarketingWorld Awards 2013 will showcase the latest innovations and initiatives, recognising the exceptional work of the Nigeria marketing champions over the past twelve months.

The award night is a platform for the industry to demonstrate and celebrate the advances made in the key areas of digital, experiential, media, stewardship, efficiency, innovation, corporate social responsibility and creativity. The Award which coincides with the fifth year celebration of the premium MarketingWorld Magazine will also feature the launch of Brand Executive Network BREN and a compilation of Who is Who in the marketing space, called the A LIST. Other industry sideline attractions will definitely make the night a memorable one. According to the CEO, Instinct Group, publisher of MarketingWorld, Mr. Akin Naphtal, the 3rd MarketingWorld Awards will deliver class and quality which are the hallmarks of the past two editions.

Bobo rolls out super kid promo

obo Foods and Beverages, makers of popular Children flavoured milk drink, Bobo, has flagged off the Bobo super kids and school support promo. The annual support programme for children and their schools which will focus on nine states from across the federation is set to run till December 2013. According to the Marketing Manager, Mr. Eric Ewhubare Birhiray said, “the Super Kids and Schools Support Promo seeks to contribute towards educational development in the country by rewarding the Nigerian kids and their respective schools for choosing Bobo fruit Milk Drink as the milk drink of their choice.” The Bobo Super Kids and Schools Support promo will run in two phases to enable all kids within the coverage areas

enjoy the promo and prizes on offer. The first Phase which took off in April will end in July 2013 and will cover Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Kwara, Edo and Delta. The second Phase will run in Lagos and Ogun States between September and December 2013. During the exercise, thousands of pupils from nursery and primary schools both in private and public school will be visited by the Bobo promo team. Managing Director, Bottomline Promotions, the experiential marketing company driving the activation, Mr. Churchil Iwuru, revealed that the program would involve free sampling of Bobo fruit Milk Drink and upon submission of 5 wrappers of Bobo 200ml pupil will be qualified for Essay writing competition among school kids.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Brands & Marketing

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Onuk raises hope for African CSR at 2013 roundtable ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI

s innovation becomes very important in the quest to ensure sustainable development in the face of peculiar challenges facing African countries, the Lead Consultant/Chief Executive Officer, ThistlePraxis, a CSR Management Firm, Mrs. Ini Onuk, has said that the 2013 African Roundtable on Corporate Sustainability and Responsibility (AR-CSR) will look at innovation through transformational leadership and sustainability. Onuk said this while examining the impact of the annual CSR roundtable where top industry leaders to discuss relevant issues on daily operations of companies doing business in Africa and clearly stating the business case for CSR and its disparity from corporate philanthropy and charity as practiced by most organiza-

tions. She said the aim of the ARCSR is to foster a platform that brings together leading executives, global experts and interested professionals every year to discuss the future of Africa. Like every other Thought Leadership initiative of ThistlePraxis, she said, “we dwell on solutions and not current challenges. The 2011 edition started off the series with the theme ‘The Business Case for CSR and its impact on African Economies’ and H.E. Mary Robinson (Irish Former Prime Minister and Global Human Rights Advocate) was our Keynote Speaker. Dr. Gro Brundtland (First, Female & Youngest Norwegian Prime Minister and Former Director General of WHO) led the 2012 edition with the theme: ‘Sustainable Development – Expanding Economic Opportunities for PublicPrivate Synergy’. The Lead Discussants who

have driven conversations include: Prof. Craig Smith, INSEAD Chaired Professor of Corporate Responsibility and Business Ethics; and Graham Sinclair, an ESG expert and President, Africa Sustainable Investment Forum.” On the 2013 roundtable which holds early June, Onuk said, “the 2013 theme, ‘Driving Innovation through Transformational Leadership & Sustainability’ reflects a broader focus and approach to sustainability which everyone can relate very easily with.” According to her, innovation has become very important in the quest to ensure sustainable development considering that so much is happening in the sustainability space albeit Africa still grapples with peculiar challenges. The CEO of Mara Group of Companies, AshishThakkar, will participate as Keynote Speaker with the Cross River State Government as our hosts.

L-R: Chairman, Open Media and former Executive Vice Chairman of Nigerian Communications Commission, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe and Associate Vice President, Computer Warehouse Group, Mr. Dayo Abegunde, during the presentation of ICT Solutions Provider of the Year Award to CWG at the annual Beacon of ICT Awards in Lagos recently.

ad VA NT AG E icon

unmi Oke’s calm mien is one of her strengths. When her mind goes to work there is no going back until the job is done. From staff strength of 35 and one international account, she has led 141 Worldwide to become one of the most dynamic advertising agencies in Nigeria. The Social Sciences graduate of the University of Lagos began her Advertising career at Grant Advertising where she worked as a PR Executive/ Account Management trainee between 1986 and 1989. Her unique organisational and presentation skills resulted in her being moved to client service department where she worked on multinational brands like Unilever’s Blue Band Margarine, Berec Batteries, UTC, Coca-Cola amongst others. Oke moved to LTC Advertising (now LTCJWT Lagos) in 1989, and spent 10years (before a brief stint as head of Account Management in Advertising Techniques (Nig) Ltd in 1991. She moved to England UK in 1992 where she worked at the West End Job Employment Centre, London). She eventually returned to Nigeria in 1993 to rejoin LTC Advertising in 1994. In 1995, Oke became the 1st female Client Service Director of LTCJWT Advertising and in 1997 she became the Director/Head Client Services and Media department. She left LTC-JWT in 2000 for a “career adventure” with her family to Abuja for four years, working in an NGO and eventually, the National Open University of

Oke

HER UNIQUE ORGANISATIONAL AND PRESENTATION SKILLS RESULTED IN HER BEING MOVED TO CLIENT SERVICE DEPARTMENT Nigeria (NOUN) as the pioneer Chief Public Affairs Officer. She has been and is still on several AAAN committees including LAIF Management Board (2006 – 2010). She has been the Chairman for LAIF Awards since 2010. She is currently the only female member of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) Executive Board and President of AAAN.

Advertising industry and the lingering image challenge

have written previously in this column on the advertising industry and the myriad of challenges bedevilling the industry. I wrote on the foreign affiliation, which has become an albatross as well as the local content issue. The foreign affiliation like I stated then has become a very thorny issue and it is the origin for all the messy fights which have now pervaded the industry landscape. I had read several reports that have been in bad taste were published and these bothered on character assassination. The industry has witnessed intense bitter struggle presently than ever before and this does not augur well for its continued existence. It is shocking that the same creative ingenuity of the industry is being deployed in a very wrong manner and mainly because of business interests,

some practitioners sacrificing professionalism on the altar of ungodliness. The industry should be in the forefront of charting a course is now at the centre of a toxic war that will further nip its image in the mud. Though the matter is still in court and I hope I will not be liable for any judicial sanction, the parties involved should have opted for the legal option rather than drag the image of the industry in the mud. It is more worrisome that some sponsored adverts were direct in attacking some others personalities and organs of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria(APCON). I believe there are more responsible channels to seek redress rather than take the wrong option of injecting poisonous substances into the industry. What worsens the situation the

Brand X-Ray with Ayodeji Ayopo Tel: 08023448199 E-mail: mayomipo@yahoo.com more is that from the acts and the scenes, it was very glaring to know the source of this denigrating battle. This is one of the issues I have raised several times in my columns highlighting those things that have been left undone in the past. These are the front burner issues now shaking the industry to its roots. It is disheartening that some of the leaders in the industry are self centred and they never bothered about developing the industry. What is now playing

out now is the inability to have a foresight of the necessary measures to be put in place to ensure stability in the industry. I stated it in an earlier column that the industry has slumbered for too long on salient issues such as this. When I read a published advertorial titled: In Defence of My Name and APCON by Mr. Lolu Akinwunmi, the chairman of APCON, I could not but imagine the proportion that the issue has degenerated to. The ongoing battle is one that the elders in the

industry should rise to. This is not a time to sit on the fence. It is a moment of sober reflection and the outcome of all these portends what becomes of the industry in the future. The image of the industry needs to be salvaged at a time like this to further sustain the pedigree of the profession as one built on integrity and noble values. It is also not out of place for the warriors to sheathe their swords and protect the name of the industry to forestall any untoward development. The way things are going portends a dangerous signal to the industry. It is a bitter pill to swallow when the one saddled with image protection is the one splashing mud to dent it. This is a Herculean task for all practitioners and the sanctity of the profession should not be desecrated in a battle that is totally uncalled for.

Global Business

Thursday, May 23, 2013

China export gains spur renewed skepticism of figures

hina’s export growth unexpectedly accelerated in April even as shipments to the U.S. and Europe fell, spurring Bank of America Corp. and Mizuho Securities Co. analysts to say the figures were inflated by fake reports. The 14.7 percent increase, reported by the General Administration of Customs in Beijing yesterday, was led by a 57.2 percent jump in shipments to Hong Kong that highlighted suspicions of false transactions used to mask capital flows into China. A customs spokesman said last month that the agency would investigate the “extraordinary” gain in trade with Hong Kong. The report deepens skepticism on the reliability of trade data from the world’s largest exporting nation, with Royal Bank of Scotland Group Plc saying export gains may be overstated by 9 percentage points. Regulators announced a crackdown this week on companies using trade reports to disguise speculative money inflows chasing a yuan that’s already exceeded last year’s gains against the dollar. “Exports actually haven’t done all that well,” Louis Kuijs, the RBS chief China economist who previously worked for the World Bank, said on Bloomberg Television from Hong Kong. That reflects a “pretty weak global picture, weak de-

China’s President Hu Jintao

mand for Chinese exports” and the impact from yuan appreciation on China’s shipments, he said. Yesterday’s report showed a 0.1 percent drop in U.S. shipments and 6.4 percent decline in exports to the European Union. Previous figures showed China’s shipments to Hong Kong rose 92.9 percent in March, while Hong Kong said imports from China rose 13.8 percent.

A 40-day strike by port workers at Hong Kong’s container terminal ended this week after spurring shipping lines to divert vessels to nearby ports, including Shenzhen’s. Economists from Bank of America Corp., Societe Generale SA and Australia & New Zealand Banking Group Ltd. joined Kuijs in questioning this export numbers, building on skepticism over previous data this year. Nomura Holdings Inc. estimated growth was actually around 2 percent last month. “We advise caution in interpreting these figures,” said Yao Wei, China economist at Societe Generale in Hong Kong. The report on April trade was again at odds with the “unambiguous disappointment” in figures from South Korea and Taiwan, she said. South Korea said May 1 that exports rose 0.4 percent in April from a year earlier while Taiwan said Tuesday that its shipments abroad fell 1.9 percent. China’s customs administration didn’t respond to faxed questions today on skepticism over the April data and the status of its investigation into reports of inflated figures. Capital Economics Ltd. said the chief reason for the pickup was the presence of two additional working days in April, due to the timing of a holiday this year and last year.

FTSE 100 hits 6,000 after U.S. strikes fiscal deal

he FTSE 100 smashed through the 6,000 barrier on Wednesday as investors celebrated a United States budget deal averting tax hikes and spending cuts that risked pushing the world’s largest economy into recession. By Tuesday, London’s blue chip index rose 127.32 points, or 2.1 percent to 6,025.13, breaking above the 6,000 level for the first time FTSE 100 hits 6,000 after U.S. strikes fiscal dealsince July 2011, driven by big gains in miners and banks. TThe gains echoed the New Year’s Eve rally on Wall St, which was the biggest final-day gain in the S&P 500 since 1974. The catalyst for Wednesday’s rise was the approval by the U.S. House of Representatives of a bill raising taxes on top U.S. earners, fulfilling President Barack Obama’s re-election promise and avoiding, at least in the short-term, the $600 billion “fiscal cliff ”. “It is good to start the new year off with a bang but there is still a lot of stuff

to digest ... It will be interesting to see if these gains can be sustained,” Gerry Celaya, chief strategist at Red Tower Research, said. Miners were the main outperformers on Wednesday. The sector was a major laggard in 2012, ending the year flat compared with a 5.8 percent rise for the wider FTSE 100. Mining stocks were helped by positive PMI data out of China, the world’s largest consumer of raw materials, which allayed fears of a slowdown in demand, while the UK manufacturing PMI also showed an unexpected rebound in factory activity. Anglo American, which lost more than 20 percent in 2012, was one of the top early gainers, up 5 percent as some analysts tipped the firm for a turnaround in fortunes this year. Wednesday’s rally meant the FTSE 100 is up nearly 15 percent since June 2012 lows. Investors have been imbued with

Obama

confidence as central banks across the globe have taken action to support the financial system and attempt to boost growth.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Poland cuts interest rates to record amid lack of recovery

Marek Belka

oland’s central bank cut its benchmark interest rate to a record low as the European Union’s largest eastern economy struggles with slowing growth. The Narodowy Bank Polski lowered the seven-day reference rate by a quarter-point to 3 percent yesterday matching the estimate of 11 of 38 economists surveyed by Bloomberg. Two predicted a half-point cut and 25 forecast no change in borrowing costs. Monetary authorities will explain their decision at a news conference in Warsaw. Governor Marek Belka joined counterparts in the euro area, Hungary and Australia in embracing recordlow rates as the debt crisis on Poland’s border curbs growth and consumer prices. Inflation slowed to its weakest in more than six years and manufacturing shrank the most in 45 months in April. Poland is fighting against the steepest slowdown in more than a decade. “The data flow had been pretty supportive of a move lower in rates,” Timothy Ash, chief emerging-markets economist at London-based Standard Bank (SBK) Group Ltd., wrote in an e-mail. “This likely swung the ‘swing’ voter Belka into the easing camp.” The zloty advanced 0.1 percent to 4.1374 per euro yesterday in Warsaw, paring this year’s decline to 1.3 percent. Ten-year government bond yields dropped 6 basis points to 3.19 percent.

Bernanke says premature tightening would endanger recovery

Benanke

ederal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke said the U.S. economy remains hampered by high unemployment and government spending cuts, and that raising interest rates or reducing asset purchases too soon would endanger the recove “A premature tightening of monetary policy could lead interest rates to rise temporarily but would also carry a substantial risk of slowing or ending the economic recovery and causing inflation to fall further,” Bernanke said today in testimony prepared for a hearing at the Joint Economic Committee of Congress

in Washington. Monetary policy is providing “significant benefits,” he said. Bernanke is leading the most aggressive economic stimulus in the Fed’s 100year history in an effort to spur growth and reduce an unemployment rate that stands at 7.5 percent almost four years into a recovery from the longest and deepest recession since the Great Depression. While the labor market has shown “some improvement,” the Fed chairman said “high rates of unemployment and underemployment are extraordinarily costly.”

“Not only do they impose hardships on the affected individuals and their families, they also damage the productive potential of the economy as a whole by eroding workers’ skills and -- particularly relevant during this commencement season -- by preventing many young people from gaining workplace skills and experience in the first place,” he said. Stocks extended gains after the comments. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index climbed 0.5 percent to 1,678.10 at 10:04 a.m. in New York. The yield on the 10year Treasury note fell to 1.90 percent from 1.93 percent late yesterday.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Capital Market

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Acquisition: First Rand targets Mainstreet, Keystone banks JOHNSON OKANLAWON WITH AGENCY REPORT

he Chief Executive Officer of FirstRand, Mr. Sizwe Nxasana yesterday said the bank is no longer considering an acquisition of Enterprise Bank Limited, but Keystone Bank Limited and Mainstreet Bank Limited. FirstRand, South Africa’s second-largest bank by value, had said previously it was looking at buying one of bridged banks by Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON. “Certainly not Enterprise Bank, but Mainstreet and Keystone were the ones that are a little

bit more interesting for us,” Nxasana told Reuters. According to him, valuations in Nigeria’s banking sector had moderated. AMCON had on Monday said it would finish with the disposal of the three bridged banks by the third quarter of 2014 and plans to start with Enterprise Bank Limited. FirstRand withdrew a bid for Sterling Bank last year after the two parties could not agree on pricing. Nxasana, however, said the bank is still awaiting regulatory approval for its planned purchase of a stake in Merchant Bank Ghana but was not pursuing any other opportunities

in the oil-producing west African country. The bank’s Chief Executive Officer had during the inauguration of Rand Merchant Bank Nigeria in February said its move to the Nigerian market would afford it the opportunity to enter the retail market. He said the bank would expand its operations in Nigeria through an acquisition, saying, “We are looking at having a universal banking operation in Nigeria. Our appetite for Nigeria is growing and we are going to be looking at opportunities that will put us in a position where we will be among the top five banks in Nigeria in the next few

years.” FirstRand has been looking for an entry into the country for years. It ended talks last year to buy a majority stake in Sterling Bank Plc after both parties failed to agree on a price. FirstRand had said in November that it could spend more than $300m to buy a retail and commercial bank in Nigeria. The three bridged banks were created to take over the assets of the former Afribank Plc, BankPHB Plc and Spring Bank Plc, whose licences were revoked by the Central Bank of Nigeria, for not being able to meet the bank deadline for recapitalisation.

Source: NSE

Source: FMDA S

ASI rises 0.6% as Cadbury, Fortis MFB lead gainers DAMILOLA AJAYI

rading in equities continued on bullish note on the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday, as investors’ appetite on stocks rose further. The All Share Index appreciated by 0.58 per cent to close at 37,259.91 points, compared to the increase of 0.62 per cent recorded the preceding day to close at 37,046.63 points. Market capitalisation gained N7bn to close at N11.91trn, lower than the rise of N8bn recorded the previous day to close at

N11.84trn. The Oil and Gas Index led the sectorial indices by 3.37 per cent to close at 191.29 points, followed by the Lotus Islamic index with 1.59 per cent to close at 2,677.83 points. The Industry index appreciated by 1.47 per cent to close at 2,221.44 points, while the NSE 30- index increased by 0.65 per cent to close at 1,781.64 points. The Consumer Goods index was up by 0.29 per cent to close at 1,094.42 points, while the Banking index shed 0.23 per cent to close at 427.30 points. The Alternative Securities

Market index shed 1.12 per cent to close at 1,002.10 points, while the Insurance index shed 0.37 per cent to close at 144.36 points. Cadbury Plc led the gainers’ table with N4.85 or ten per cent to close at N53.35 per share, followed by Fortis Microfinance Bank Plc with 60 kobo or 10 per cent to close at N6.60 per share. Ashaka Cement Plc appreciated by N2.45 or 9.98 per cent to close at N27.00 per share, while Constain Plc gained 11 kobo or 9.73 per cent to close at N1.24 per share. Evans Medical Plc closed at 21 kobo per share, up by

N9.72 or 2.37 per cent. On the flip side, RT Briscoe Plc lost 18 kobo or 10 per cent to close at N1.62 per share, while Tourist Company Plc shed 45 kobo or 9.93 per cent to close at N4.08 per share. Juli Pharmacy Plc declined by 23 kobo or 9.70 per cent to close at N2.14 per share, while Courtville Hotel dropped eight kobo or 9.41 per cent to close at 77 kobo per share. Learn Africa Plc fell 15 kobo or 8.33 per cent to close at N1.65 per share. A total of 468.7 million shares valued at N4.12bn were traded in 6,224 deals.

Bernanke comments spur volatility, as stocks, dollar gain

tocks, bonds and currencies took a wild ride yesterday after Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said the United States central bank’s massive bondbuying program would remain in place for now, even as the bank considers cutting back stimulus in coming months. Wall Street stocks jumped as much as one per cent, before modestly paring gains after Bernanke, in testimony to Congress, said that if economic improvement continued, “We could in the next few meetings take a step down in our pace of purchases.” The dollar rose to a four and half year high against the yen after Bernanke cited the risks of holding interest rates too low for too long, reversing earlier

losses sparked by his comments that it was too soon to remove existing stimulus measures. US Treasuries sold off on Bernanke’s comments about possibly tapering bond purchases, with the yield on the 10-year note, which moves inversely to the price, briefly touching two per cent, while European shares finance/markets/index climbed into positive territory. “He said exactly what Wall Street wants to hear,” said Todd Schoenberger, managing partner at LandColt Capital in New York. “He’s putting out there that there’s no end in sight, which is exactly what we want and why stocks are bidding higher. “With things continuing for quarters to

come, summer doldrums seem unlikely this year,” Schoenberger added. In his testimony to Congress, Bernanke said the Fed’s monetary policy was still providing significant benefits to the economy and that prematurely tightening it would carry substantial risks. Analysts had not expected Bernanke to announce any substantial change to policy, but his comment on a potential tapering of the Fed’s stimulus program caused stocks to come off their highs, which had seen the Dow and the S&P 500 touch new highs. The Fed’s policy is widely credited with contributing to the S&P 500’s rally of nearly 18 percent in 2013, a surge that has repeatedly taken it to all-

time highs, including on Wednesday. Investors have been trying to determine whether the Fed is ready to begin paring back its $85 bn in monthly purchases of Treasuries and mortgagebacked securities, with expectations that it will start to gradually reduce the purchases later this year. But Bernanke’s explicit mention, even with the caveats he mentioned, sparked the volatility in stocks, bonds and the euro. The Dow Jones industrial average was up 118.78 points, or 0.77 per cent, at 15,506.36 points, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index was up 12.80 points, or 0.77 per cent, at 1,681.96 points. The Nasdaq Composite Index was up 20.29 points, or 0.58 per cent, at 3,522.41 points.

Market indicators All-Share Index 37,259.91 points Market capitalisation 11.91 trillion

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

CADBURY

48.50

53.35

4.85

% CHANGE 10.00

FORTISMFB

6.00

6.60

0.60

10.00

ASHAKACEM

24.55

27.00

2.45

9.98

COSTAIN

1.13

1.24

0.11

9.73

EVANSMED

2.16

2.37

0.21

9.72

GLAXOSMITH

49.00

52.90

3.90

7.96

CONTINSURE

1.20

1.29

0.09

7.50

TOTAL

158.90

170.00

11.10

6.99

NEIMETH

0.75

0.80

0.05

6.67

VITAFOAM

3.15

3.30

0.15

4.76

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

RTBRISCOE

1.80

CLOSING 1.62

0.18

-10.00

TOURIST

4.53

4.08

0.45

-9.93

JULI

2.37

2.14

0.23

-9.70

COURTVILLE

0.85

0.77

0.08

-9.41

LEARNAFRCA

1.80

1.65

0.15

-8.33

WAPIC

1.01

0.94

0.07

-6.93

WEMABANK

1.19

1.12

0.07

-5.88

CUSTODYINS

1.66

1.57

0.09

-5.42

PRESTIGE

0.65

0.62

0.03

-4.62

REDSTAREX

4.70

4.51

0.19

-4.04

Primary Market Auction TENOR

AMOUNT (N’mn)

RATE (%)

DATE

91-Days

42,057.31

10.32

23-May-13

182-Days

50,000.00

13.03

23-May-13

Open Market Operations TENOR

AMOUNT (N’mn)

RATE (%)

DATE

127-Days

90,063.82

13.34

23-May-13

126-Days

140,317.70

13.34

23-May-13

Wholesale Dutch Auction System AMOUNT OFFERED

MARKET DEMAND

AMOUNT SOLD

DATE

$300m

N/A

$300m

23-May-13

$300m

N/A

$300m

23-May-13

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Stock exchange daily equities summary Equities as at May 22, 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, May 23, 2013

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

SCIENCE FOR KIDS

Why do humans have different skin colour?

he colour of human skin is determined by the amount of two pigments, eumelanin and pheomelanin. These pigments are the basic ones underlying all kinds of coloration in animals â&#x20AC;&#x201D; even blue colours like those in the irises of blue eyes result from light reflecting above a layer of dark brown-black eumelanin. The darkest human skin and hair tones contain an abundance of eumelanin, while brown and reddish hair and freckles of the skin contain a large proportion of pheomelanin. Genes can influence skin and hair pigmentation in many ways. The overall colour of the skin results from both the number of pigment-making cells (called melanocytes) and their level of activity. Most skin is capable of tanning, which means that exposure to UV radiation induces greater melanin production. Today, more than 20 genes are known to influence skin pigmentation in humans. Genetic changes can alter the development and migration of melanocytes, the regulation and expression of genes that generate melanin, or the chemical steps in the synthesis of the pigments themselves. As a result of such genetic changes, two people who live in the same environment may have very different shades or patterns of skin coloration. Some of the genes that influence skin pigmentation also cause variation in hair colour or eye colour. For example, variation in the gene OCA2 explains most of the variation in eye colour in Europeans. People with blue eyes are mostly homozygotes for an allele of this gene; these people also tend to have slightly lighter skin due to this allele. Likewise, the variation in the gene MC1R explains some of the variation in skin colour in Europe, but also explains a large proportion of variation in hair colour. Red and blond hair each result from some of the distinctive alleles of MC1R. Relatively light-skinned populations include the native inhabitants of Europe, West Asia, East Asia, the Arctic, and the Americas. The lightest skin tones are found in Europe, while the darkest are in tropical Africa, southern India, Indonesia and Melanesia, and Australia. The level of skin pigmentation shows a close correspondence with latitude â&#x20AC;&#x201D; people living near the equator tend to have dark skin, while light-skinned people live nearer the poles. Source: Johnhawks.net

Different colours of people.

In Nigeria and Africa the rights of children like these, are not protected.

AU Summit: Experts urge focus on children in post-2015 agenda STORIES: LEONARD OKACHIE

s the African Union sets to celebrate its 50th Anniversary, with consultations on what will replace the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), African leaders and experts are united in calling for children to be at the centre of the post2015 development agenda. The global community has been intensely discussing what will replace the MDGs and at the AU Summit being held 26-27 May, which will mark the 50th Anniversary of the Organisation of Africa Unity/AU, Heads of State will adopt Africa's Common Position on the Post-2015 Agenda. It is on this note that the African Child Policy Forum (ACPF) - a leading pan-African centre for policy research and dialogue on the African child organised a high level dialogue in Addis Ababa. The panel of distinguished African leaders and thinkers agreed on a number of critical priorities to ensure children's specific and holistic needs are reflected in a strong post-2015 development agenda and a common set of accountable and comprehensive goals for governments and the international community. The United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), on November 20, 1989. Subsequently, in July 1990, the OAU Assembly of Heads of States and Governments adopted the African Union Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (CRCW). However, in a statement by the ACPF, former President of Mozambique (1986-2005) and Chairman of the International Board of Trustees of ACPF, H.E. Joaquim Chissano, who chaired the panel said: "The MDGs have achieved much for children, galvanizing development efforts and guiding global and national priori-

ties, and as a continent Africa has witnessed much progress including impressive reductions in child mortality and greatly improved primary school enrolment. "But there remains an urgent and unfinished agenda for Africa's children and it is imperative that the postMDG framework tackles children's realities and their potential in a comprehensive and accountable way. So for the sake of development - human, social and economic - it is time to put children and their rights and best interests at the centre of development, nowhere more so than in Africa." Similarly, former Vice Chair of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child, Ambassador Moushira Khattab, noted that children under the age of 18 make up as much as 60 percent of the population in some African countries. He emphasised that not only should such a large constituency have their rights promoted and protected, â&#x20AC;&#x153;they also represent a potential productive workforce that can further drive and accelerate economic growth in the region. So our goal is simple - to ensure the rights and needs of these children are front and centre in the post-2015 development agenda". Discussions at the panel event focused on a series of recommendations in ACPF's Towards an African Position on Children and the Post-2015 Development Agenda which was drawn up through research, analysis and consultations with child rights experts throughout Africa to provide a common voice on the way forward for children in the next decade and beyond. The recommendations include; elimination of preventable infant and

child deaths; greater investment to ensure adequate nutrition; universal access to quality education at both the primary and secondary levels, especially for girls; universalise birth registration (Currently an estimated 56% of births in Africa are not registered). Also recommended are; skillsbuilding and vocational training, specifically for older children and adolescents; ensuring protection of children against all forms of violence, including harmful practices; and combating child poverty. Unfortunately, in most African countries, the rights of children are being denied despite adoption of the Child Rights Act. Nigeria for instance, adopted the Act to domesticate the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 2003.Only 16 of the 36 states have passed the Act, although law was passed at the Federal level. The Act requires that a child reserves the right to survival and development and to a name and registration at birth, and shall be given such protection and care as is necessary for his or her wellbeing. The Act further provides for freedom from discrimination on the grounds of belonging to a particular community or ethnic group, place of origin, sex, religion, the circumstances of birth, disability, deprivation or political opinion. It also stipulates that no Nigerian child shall be subjected to physical, mental or emotional injury, abuse or neglect, maltreatment, torture, inhuman or degrading punishment, attacks on their honour or reputation, among others. The country has been unable to deal with several issues hindering the protection rights of children such as children living on the streets, children affected by communal conflict, drug abuse, human trafficking and the weaknesses of the juvenile justice system amongst others.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Young & Next Generation

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Youths should engage in skills acquisition –Ibrahim LEONARD OKACHIE

n the face of growing unemployment in the country, youths have been advised to engage themselves with skill acquisition programmes, so that they can become employers of labour rather than job seekers after their graduation. Principal of Eko Akete Senior Grammar School, Lagos Island, Mrs. Mopelola Ibrahim gave this advice at the unveiling of the Tallest Cake in Africa, which held at the Silverbird Galleria in Victoria Island, Lagos. The‘28 feet high’ cake, was unveiled by Cakes by Tosan, a market leader in the Nigerian bakery industry, and was graced by guests from various sectors of the economy, including secondary school students. Ibrahim noted that what the Nigerian and the world economy needs today is skill, saying “let them learn

that in the future they will be able to stand on their own. For instance, Cake by Tosan employs people to make cake for weddings, birthdays and other ceremonies and that brings ready income. “This kind of thing should be encouraged for our children, instead of having them sit down at home say for five years without any job. We don’t want these children to roam about the street, but to keep them busy.” The principal said who was grateful to the management of Cake by Tosan, for their support to the school, disclosed that the organisation had invited her students to their laboratory to see how cakes are being made and decorated. She explained that the organisation has also asked the students to visit their office at their free time to learn more about cake making. Earlier, the CEO of Cake by Tosan, Mr. Tosan Jemide, said the proceeds

of the unveiling ceremony would be given to Eko Akete Grammar School, adding that organisation is very curious about giving back to the society. “We are particularly interested in the educational sector and skills acquisition and that is why we are building and equipping the Home Economics laboratory at Eko Akete Grammar School. We just want to enhance and empower their skills,” Jemide said. Jemide remarked that the choice to tag the event “The Tallest Cake in Africa” is premised on the heels of series of activities for the centenary celebration of Nigeria and the passion for the development of the African continent. “Nigeria is an emerging market and there is globalisation now. I wanted something that would pass a message. And one of the messages I wanted to pass was that goodness comes from Nigeria. I am proud to be a Nigerian and an African,” he said.

Tosan Jemide, at the unveiling of the 'Tallest Cake in Africa'.

NYCN congress commences in Makurdi TOLA AKINMUTIMI ABUJA

Chairman, Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Comrade Ayodele Adewale (with mic) flanked by children and youths on a sensitisation walk in celebration of the maiden edition of the National Day for Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Festac Town, Lagos, recently. PHOTO: FEMI AJASA

‘Albino children need encouragement’

mother of two albino children, Mrs. Jane Peter has stressed the need for parents with albinos to encourage them to be more relevant in the society. She told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that parents with children living with albinism should ensure that they were well informed on issues of albinism. According to Peter, I am doing my best to make sure that my kids who are living with albinism do not have freckles by protecting them from the sun. She said, "I always ensure they wear hats and long sleeves when going to school. The school allowed me to provide special uniform for my children, the school teachers make them seat in front of the class due to their sight.” Peter, therefore, urged the government to continue the good work and en-

sure that people stopped discriminating against albinos. She also appealed to the government to provide jobs for albinos, especially the qualified ones looking for jobs. Also speaking, her albino child, Miss Golden Peter, told NAN that teachers and educators should be given adequate information about children living with albinism. She said, "Albinos are human beings like you, but they face challenges; with well informed teachers they can overcome some of these challenges. "We can live a meaningful live and become doctors, pilots, lawyers and even teachers.’’ She debunked misconceptions that albinos did not eat salt or pepper, that albinism was a contagious condition and that albinos were not intelligent.

he election Congress of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) is slated to commence today (Thursday) and be concluded on Saturday, May 26, at Markurdi, Benue State. The election was coming up consequent upon the decision reached recently at a meeting of officials of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and members of the National Transition Committee of the National Youth Council of Nigeria in Abuja. According a statement by the Assistant Director, Press, in the Ministry of Youth Development, Mr Olusola Abiola, the meeting which was convened based on the directive of the Minister of Youth Development, Inuwa Abdul-Kadir, deliberated mainly on the modalities for hosting a successful Congress which is expected to lead to the election of new set of Executives that will chart a new course for the Council. Similarly, the meeting took far reaching decisions which will ensure a hitch free Congress, including that the minutes of the Lokoja Congress that adopted the reviewed Constitution should be submitted by NYCN to enable the Ministry’s Legal Adviser conclude registration processes with the Cor-

porate Affairs Commission; and that sale of forms to all aspirants would continue until 10th May, 2013; In addition, it was also decided at the meeting that the list of revalidated voluntary youth organizations would be published on the Congress notice; and that all delegates and aspirants would be screened with the M.R.I machine to ensure they are within the stipulated age of 18-35 as contained in National Youth Policy and Constitution. Meanwhile, the Minister has appealed to all State Commissioners of Youth across the Federation to support all delegates from their respective States and adequately mobilized for their full and effective participation at this all important Congress. Abdul-Kadir emphasized the need for a free and fair Congress that should lead to the election of credible and acceptable new Executives that will collaborate with the Federal Government in transforming the lives of millions of youths in Nigeria in line with the transformation agenda of the government He pledged his readiness to ensure that the Congress is in accordance with existing legal instruments and wished the delegates and aspirants a successful and peaceful Congress.

Aki, Emeka Ike to chair Igbo Youth Cultural Day

s part of the programmes lined up for the 2013 Children’s Day celebration, Ugwumba Productions, content providers for ‘Ugwumba’, a television show that currently runs on NTA 10 Lagos as well as Africa Magic, DSTV is set with her maiden youth show, Igbo Youth and Children Cultural Day. Slated to hold on Friday, May 24, the event will take place at the premises of the NTA Channel 10, Tejuosho, Yaba in Lagos and will have actors; Chinedu Ikedieze, Kingsley Ogbonna and Emeka Ike as special guests. The show is a partnership between ‘Ugwumba’ and Embassy Pharmaceuticals. According to the chief executive officer of ‘Ugwumba’, Mike Onovo, the

show will avail the platform to promote and propagate Igbo language and culture among younger ones drawn from schools and churches in Lagos. Onovo further said, “The event is aimed at helping the children develop the love for their mother tongue and it’s hoped that this will help reverse the near extinction of Igbo language as predicted by UNESCO. “The event holds at 10 am prompt. It promises to be a day for the promotion of Igbo language and culture as so many schools, churches and markets where the Igbo co-habit. They have been mobilised to ensure the success of the event.” The event is also endorsed by the Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, Lagos chapter.

Media

Thursday, May 23, 2013

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Poor communication responsible for Nigeria’s stunted growth –Sobowale Professor Idowu Sobowale, journalism lecturer, former assistant editor of the old Daily Times Newspaper and exCommissioner of Education, Lagos State recently delivered a treatise entitled; Communication, Politicians and True Democracy at the 35th Public Lecture of the Covenant University in Ota, Ogun State. MOJEED ALABI reports that the lecture, which drew personalities from relevant sectors, proffered solutions to Nigeria’s underdevelopment.

s an academic cum politician, and a former journalist, the lecture presenter, Prof. Idowu Sobowale was a round peg in a round hole to discuss the subject of Communication, Politicians and True Democracy. And going by the category of people that formed the audience, the lecture adequately served the purpose of the university’s contribution towards rebuilding the nation’s battered image by planting a true democratic system. Beginning with the relationship between the nation’s rulers and the ruled, Sobowale identified the loophole of poor communication as the major reason behind Nigerian’s mistrust in their leaders, saying “our politicians do not communicate, but what they do at most is only to inform.” He, therefore, explained the difference between communication and information or even noise making, charging the followers to demand explanation from the leadership on positions and policies of government on pertinent issues. “Communication is different from information or persuasion. What most of our leaders do is to give information, a euphemism for “order,” “directive” or “decisions” already taken behind us, without consulting us, and with minimal regard to how they would affect us. Sometimes they try to persuade us, in order not to reject their decisions when they sense that we may oppose them.

Neither of these is communication. “Communication, on the other hand, is transactional. It takes place with the spirit of give and take. It involves dialogue, where the parties involved present their positions and bargaining ensues. It does not succeed in an atmosphere of force or coercion. It flourishes only in an atmosphere of freedom and mutual respect for each other’s rights and feelings,” Sobowale explained. Meanwhile, in the absence of direct communication between the leaders and the followers, the lecturer picked on the media, that is, journalists as the supposed intermediary between the two. A journalist, he said, is expected to report the positions of the two parties without prejudice. However, he said so many factors have combined to hinder journalists from being fair in their responsibilities and these, he added, included the prevailing political and economic situations in the country. “Because most media organs in Nigeria are not economically viable, they are subject to the whims and caprices of the political authorities in their areas of influence. For instance, the fact that several media houses cannot survive economically without the patronage of the governments, either through advertising, funding of special projects or outright handouts, operators of these media organisations find it extremely difficult, if

You said journalism is the only job you know. How have you fared in the profession? I must give credit and thanks to Mr. Nduka Obaigbena, who gave me first opportunity to practice journalism. He saw something in me and gave me the job. That was how I started way back in the mid ‘90s. I started as a cub reporter and grew to become the Thursday South-south and South-east editor. I was also in Abuja, where we started the Gavel to Gavel. I was the Senate correspondent. So my career in journalism has passed through many sectors, from reporting to managerial journalism. It is the only job I know. I don’t know any career that would have given me the satisfaction and fulfillment that journalism has given to me. I have always loved to work. I love the sequential logic of writing. There are times in journalism you think somebody is punishing you, but you don’t know the person in grooming you. I passed through all these and I thank God where journalism has placed me today. As general manager and editor- in- chief of the state owned newspaper, what are the prospects and challenges? Well, where the challenges occur, I don’t shy away. I also try to find the solutions. When I came on board in 2007, the major challenge was the absence of a printing press. Of course, those who have practiced journalism will tell you that having your own press helps you with deadline man-

Sobowale delivering the lecture

not impossible, to operate professionally. “A proprietor of a newspaper in Nigeria was once quoted as having advised his reporters to use their identity cards as their “meal tickets.” In a situation like that, what could one expect other than falsehood, blackmail and extortion? Many, if not all news organisations in Nigeria, have commercialized the news items they carry in their media as a matter of official policy. But news is supposed to be provided for the public free of charge as part of the surveillance function of the mass media,” he submitted. To resolve the development challenge facing Nigeria, therefore, the lecturer suggested building a new culture of accountability on the part of government asking both the executive and legislative members to inculcate the habit of carrying along the people in their programmes and activities. The Secretary to Ogun State Government, Mr. Taiwo Adeoluwa, on behalf of the state, and in response to the question

raised by the lecturer on the demolition of properties going on in the state, said, the people were duly informed before the demolition. He also stated that the demolitions were necessary to pave way for the ongoing urban renewal projects saying it is part of sacrifice the people must pay to achieve common development. The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Ayo, emphasised the importance of annual lecture in his welcome message and charged the university communities to be involved in returning the nation to the path of greatness and the African continent by extension. Dignitaries including the former managing Director of the Guardian Newspapers, Mr. Lade Bonuola; Chairman of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board, Alhaja Khadijat Daodu; Vice-Chancellor, Lead City University, Ibadan, Prof. Olufemi Onabajo; Dean, Lagos State University’s School of Communication, Prof. Lai Osho, among several others graced the occasion.

Newspapers will never go into Mr. Udo Silas is the General Manager and Editor in Chief of the Akwa Ibom State Newspapers Corporation, publishers of the Pioneer Newspaper titles. A former regional editor of Thisday Newspaper, he spoke in an exclusive interview with TONY ANICHEBE, on a wide range of issues. Excerpts: agement. Time management is very critical. If you cannot manage both time and deadline, that is the beginning of your problem. So I tabled our request to the governor and the process of acquiring our press began. Of course, you are aware of the controversies that stalled our progress, but we knew that owing our own press is the first step to making Pioneer a household newspaper, not just in Akwa-Cross axis, but in the entire South – south region. I can say without pride that not too long ago, our machine arrived and right now, we are waiting for the press hall to be ready so that the governor will commission the machine after instillation. Another challenge I noticed as a person coming from a private sector is that of manpower, discipline and commitment. When you work in a state owned newspaper, which is fashioned along civil service culture,

you find that because it is a service environment and because you are working under civil service rules, it becomes difficult to apply discipline especially to journalist when they fall short of expectation or when they err. There is also this challenge of time. If you work in the private sector you discover that at any point in time you are called upon to write, you comply. It is not always like that here, but we have attacked that mentality creditably. If you call on reporters or editor at any time they wake up because they have seen that you are in the fore-front of the job as well. So they see that you are involved in whatever you ask them to do. When will the Pioneer newspaper go daily? We have made representation to the governor on the

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Journalist donates books to empower students KUNLE A ZEEZ

journalist and Group Executive Director, DigitalSense Africa Media Limited, Mr. Remmy Nweke, has donated copies of “A Decade of ICT Reportage in Nigeria: The Award-winning series” to the Anambra State government to empowers students in the state. Nweke, who is the author of the book, presented the books recently to the state’s Commissioner for Education, Dr. Mrs. Uju Okeke. Nweke, a well-versed on Information and Communications Technology, said ICT holds the key to the development of Nigeria. He also said it was imperative for young people to urgently acquire skills in ICT to aid them cope with the demands of the emerging world. He also urged all those who are desirous for Nigeria to emerge as one of the leading powers in the world to put their ideas in a book form and pass it on to the youths. Apart from making his book available for use by students, Nweke said his organisation, will partner with the government in organising workshops for computer and IT teachers as well as final year students of secondary schools in the state. Nweke further said his book is a chronicle of his award winning articles on ICT in over 15 years journalism practice, which “started as a desire to leave some handy educational legacies for the future generation.” According to him, he was greatly inspired by Nigeria’s First President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, who

Media

Thursday, May 23, 2013

fired his desire in journalism. He said: “Another thing that kept the spirit moving as far as my journalism career is concerned is the fact that I saw in journalism a developmental tool to enhance my society, which does not mean that criticism is deleted but structured in a constructive manner to elucidate further discuss.” “This book, 'A Decade of ICT Reportage in Nigeria' emphasizes the significance of raising analytical ICT reporting to create relevant awareness among politicians and State Government officials; linking university education with recent developments and trends in the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) field globally, and increased effects in Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) on businesses, especially the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), among others. Receiving the book donation, Okeke commended Nweke for the energy expended in putting his works into a book and thanked him for making the donation to the state government. She said the ministry would take full advantage of the opportunities offered by Nweke and DigitalSENSE and promised to partner with the organization for the benefit of the students and pupils in the state. The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Ngozi Ezeike, also congratulated Nweke for his works. “How I wish the teeming youths can get initiatives like this instead of staying idle and getting involved in vices because vices eventually boomerang; if not with them, but with their children,” she said.

extinction –Silas manpower needs. We have done an audit and realised our area of deficiency and until we tackle these areas, we cannot give a definite date. The first thing we need to go daily is our own press. Once that press is installed, I can assure you that it will not take us two months to hit the streets. By that time, we would have covered areas of deficiency. For example, there is no point going daily and your newspaper will not be found in Rivers , Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River states as at when they are supposed to be found. We are thinking of circulating our papers in Abuja and Lagos and you are aware we have offices in Lagos, Abuja, Cross River and Port Harcourt. We need to open one in Bayelsa. We want to become regional champion, having been known in Akwa Ibom and Cross River states. Gradually, we will occupy the national space. So, what we are trying to do also is that by the time we have gone daily, our content will be well defined and value added. We want a situation the 31 local government areas in Akwa Ibom will be represented in the emerging Pioneer newspapers. Ab initio, we will have 31 pages of news representing the 31 local government areas.

Media Abroad

Contest opens for best coverage of infectious diseases

J Daily Monitor staff locked in and not allowed to leave by the police. PHOTO: OBSERVER MEDIA

Police shut newspapers, radio stations in Uganda

he Ugandan government should immediately end politically motivated police intimidation of newspapers and radio stations and ensure that the media can operate freely, Human Rights Watch has said. According to statement by the rights group, recent raids on two newspapers and two radio stations are linked to a legal dispute in which the police have sought to obtain the source for an article by the Daily Monitor about the "Muhoozi Project," an alleged plot to usher into power the son of President Yoweri Museveni. "Police should resolve legal disputes before the courts without resorting to abusive tactics to scare journalists away from politically sensitive stories," said Maria Burnett, senior Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch. "Muzzling the media is a bad way to address Ugan-

da's political debates." On May 7, 2013, the Daily Monitor published an article detailing an alleged conspiracy to frame or eliminate high-ranking members of the government who do not support a plan for Museveni's son Brig. Muhoozi Kainerugaba to take over when his father steps down. The article was based on a leaked April 29 letter written by Uganda's coordinator of intelligence service, Gen. David Sejjusa (also known as Tinyefuza), to the director of the Internal Security Organization calling for investigations into the plot. Sejjusa is currently outside of Uganda but has publicly confirmed that he wrote the letter. In response to the article, the police media crimes unit questioned the article's authors, Risdel Kasasira and Richard Wanambwa, as well as the Monitor's managing editor, Don Wanyama.

The fortune of the print media in the country appear to be declining. What in your opinion do you think will salvage the situation? I know a couple of people that started a newspaper and failed to consolidate. If you look at the legal necessities for setting up a newspaper, it is just registering in the library and then you send your copy and they give you your ISSN number. But we as professionals, we really need to go back, sit down and attempt an investigation into the legal imperatives of bringing on board a newspaper because people just wake up from bed and start floating a newspaper for a purpose and once that purpose is met, they go back to where they emanated from. I must say that it will take perhaps eternity for journalism and newspaper industry to go extinct. The market determines its sustainability. If you look at newspapers, even though people say some have political undertone, but whether or not you have political undertone if your content is below bar the market will tell you so and if the market say so you go under, no two ways about it. Those that have survived did so not because they have advert connections and patronage, but because their contents are good. When you make your content worth the salt, the market will recognize you and keep you afloat, no matter the influx of quacks. Silas

ournalists from the United States, Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa can win international reporting trips worth up to $10,000 for submitting the best stories on infectious diseases. Stories can address diseases including AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. These three diseases alone are the leading causes of death in low- and middleincome countries. They claim nearly 4 million lives every year and cost billions of dollars in lost productivity. The International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) is launching the story contest to spur discussion about how the global community deals with these critical health issues. Reports published or broadcast between May 20 and Aug. 1, 2013, will qualify. The deadline for submission is Aug. 1, 2013. Along with the story submission, participants must include a 300-word proposal for an international reporting trip to expand their coverage of infectious diseases. The International Center for Journalists will select three winners, one from each region. An editor or manager at each of the selected news organizations will also earn a trip to Washington, D.C., to attend ICFJ’s 2013 Awards Dinner on Nov. 7, 2013. The Africa contest is administered in partnership with the African Health Journalists Association. Winners will be announced on Sept. 15, 2013. Stories must be in English or French and cover diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. Possible topics include: Government policies and programs that address infectious diseases; Effectiveness of donor-funded infectious-diseases programs; The state of funding for the delivery, treatment and research of infectious diseases. Stories must be well-researched and well-written or presented. The contest also is open to freelance journalists, whose stories are published or broadcast by Aug. 1, 2013. For more details and to submit a story visit icfjhealth@icfj.org

Cocktail

Thursday, May 23, 2013

FOR YOUR SUCCESS

WITH DR. DEJI FOLUTILE

Today's Tonic (152) “To move from setbacks to comebacks, learn the lessons from your setbacks, forget the details and start again. “ –Sam Adeyemi START AGAIN! A popular preacher always tells his teeming congregation, it is never too late to start what is right. Okay, you failed, but you can start again. It is said that it is not a crime to make a mistake, but only a fool makes the same mistake twice. Whatever may have happened, forgive yourself and move on. It is highly detrimental to focus endlessly on the past. Past mistakes do not have to limit our future except we hold on to them. I once had a nasty setback and I was finding it extremely difficult to start again. In fact I did not know where to start from. I lost so many things and it looked as if the world has come to an end. Getting up was so difficult until I came across a powerful quote in a book that says the world is like a circle, and where we think is the end may just be the beginning . I was encouraged! I was energized! I picked up my pen, drafted a business card and started all over again. I want to let this story encourage you today. Stop moaning your current negative situation and move forward. Start again. Forgive yourself. Forgive others. Get up and go at life again. As long as you are still alive, there is hope! DR. DEJI FOLUTILE Tel: 08035219966 Email: deji.folutile@gmail.com Follow me on Twitter @folutile

Canadian singer apologises for U.S. anthem botch

Canadian jazz singer apologized for botching the U.S. national anthem at the Memorial Cup junior ice hockey game in Saskatchewan. Alexis Nor mand said she had been asked the day before the Saturday

game to lear n the StarSpangled Banner to perfor m at the Wester n Hockey League game between Nova Scotia’s Halifax Mooseheads and Oregon’s Portland Winterhawks at Credit Union Center in Saskatoon, the Toronto Star reported Monday.

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Oddities

American captures, kills 19-foot python

Florida man with experience handling snakes captured and killed a 128-pound Burmese python he discovered on the side of the road in Miami-Dade County, Fla., USA Today reported yesterday. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Jason Leon was driving down a rural road when he saw three feet of the 18-foot, 8-inch snake sticking out of the bushes. Leon, who owned several Burmese pythons before they became illegal in 2010, killed the snake with a knife when it began to wrap itself around his leg. Leon’s discovery turned out to be the largest ever Burmese python found in Florida.

The second longest was 17-feet, 7 inches. “The FWC is grateful to him both for safely removing such a large Burmese python and for reporting its capture,” the Exotic Species Coordination Section

of the FWC, said in a statement. The FWC also warned the general public not to try to handle or capture the snake themselves. Burmese pythons, the largest species of snake in the world, are

The 18-foot, 8-inch snake Photo: UPI

considered invasive to the state of Florida. According to the National Park Service, more than 1,800 of the reptiles have been found in Everglades National Park since 2002.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

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World News

British soldier killed in suspected London terror attack

“(This is) the most appalling crime and there are strong indications that it is a terrorist incident”

PAUL ARHEWE,

WITH AGENCY REPORTS

imbabwe President Robert Mugabe signed a new constitution into law yesterday, replacing a 33-year-old document forged in the dying days of British colonial rule and paving the way for an election later this year. Approved overwhelmingly in a referendum in March, the constitution clips the powers of the president and imposes a two-term limit. However, it does not apply retroactively so the 89-year-old Mugabe technically could extend his three decades in office by another 10 years. A beaming Mugabe, flanked by Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai, his main political rival, and Deputy President Joice Mujuru signed multiple copies of the charter at State House in the capital to cheers and applause from aides. The constitution was rewritten under terms of a power-sharing deal between Mugabe and Tsvangirai after elections in 2008 marred by violence. The five-year coalition government formed under the same agreement expires on June 29, and parliamentary and presidential elections should follow within 90 days of that date. However, many obstacles

–BRITISH PRIME MINISTER, DAVID CAMERON

Mugabe signs Zimbabwe’s new constitution, paves way for election

L-R: Zimbabwe’s President Robert Mugabe signing the new constitution into law, as Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai looks on, in Harare yesterday. PHOTO:

remain, not least finding the estimated $130 million needed to pay for the election and reaching agreement on outside monitors. Harare has turned down offers of United Nations or donor assistance and Mugabe accused some in the 15-nation Southern African Development Community (SADC), which has been mediating in the crisis, of trying to

impose their will. “We rejected this,” he told reporters after the signing ceremony, adding that any vote would be fair. “We will ensure that there won’t be any violence, that there won’t be any rigging.” Mugabe made no mention of an election date but Tsvangirai later told reporters it would be later rather than sooner because of the need to amend electoral laws

and allow the 30-day registration period for new voters mandated in the constitution. State media said on Wednesday that Mugabe was pressing for a vote before July although his rivals wanted it delayed to allow for the opening up of broadcast media, registration of new voters and reform of the military to ensure it stays out of politics.

Seven kidnapped Egyptians in Sinai freed

even Egyptian security men kidnapped by Islamist militants in Sinai last week were freed on Wednesday and President Mohamed Morsi vowed to pursue a crackdown on lawlessness in the desert peninsula. The abduction underlined the threat posed by jihadists who have exploited a security vacuum that opened up in the isolated Sinai after the 2011 uprising that toppled Hosni Mubarak. The state has struggled to re-

store order there since. The militants have launched attacks on Israel and targets in North Sinai, where security problems have been exacerbated by a flow of weaponry smuggled from Libya. An Israeli defence official, speaking after the release of the seven, said it was vital that Egypt succeed in crushing terrorism. “I call on everyone in Sinai who has weapons to turn them in. This nation is bigger than all of us and weapons can only be in

The released soldiers sitting before a news conference in Cairo, yesterday. PHOTO: REUTERS

the hands of the government,” Mursi said after greeting the ex-hostages on their arrival at a military airport in Cairo. “This is not a short-term operation that ends, and (the release of) our sons without a drop of blood being spilt is the first part of it,” added Morsi, an Islamist elected last June who had faced intense domestic pressure to resolve the crisis. Security sources said the men - six police officers and an army border guard - were freed after mediation efforts by Bedouin tribal leaders. They were released in an area south of Rafah, a town straddling the border with the Gaza Strip. An Egyptian presidential spokesman said the men had been released without “any bargaining, concessions or negotiations”. Earlier this week, Morsi said there would be no negotiations with militants he described as “criminals”. “The perpetrators of the crime

are identified and are being pursued,” Interior Ministry spokesman Hany Abdel Latif said. A security source in Sinai said the militants had decided to release their captives fearing a confrontation with the armed forces, which sent reinforcements to North Sinai this week. The kidnappers are part of Tawhid wal Jihad, a hardline group which espouses a more radical form of Islamism than Morsi’s Muslim Brotherhood. The same group is blamed for bomb attacks on Sinai tourist resorts from 2004 to 2006. They had demanded the release of six Tawhid wal Jihad members sentenced to death last September for attacking police in North Sinai in 2011, killing seven people. Sinai’s militancy problem predates the 2011 uprising and has grown partly out of state neglect and heavy-handed security crackdowns in the past, analysts say.

WORLD BULLETIN

Zuma implicated in South Africa wedding plane scandal

A South African government report released on Wednesday implicated President Jacob Zuma in a scandal over a plane chartered by rich friends of his which landed at a military base without proper permission. The presidency and Zuma’s ruling African National Congress (ANC) have denied demanding landing permission for the flight carrying nearly 200 guests for a wedding. But a diplomatic protocol chief Bruce Koloane said he acted “under pressure from No. 1”, a direct reference to Zuma, the report said. Koloane has been suspended and not spoken on the matter. The government report said he used deception to obtain military landing permission. Opposition members of parliament charged that the Gupta family at the center of the affair and whose companies have employed two of Zuma’s children in high profile roles, was wielding undo influence over Africa’s largest economy.

World Bank pledges $1bn for DR Congo, neighbours The World Bank has unveiled a $1bn (£660m) aid package to help the Democratic Republic of Congo and their neighbour, as fighting continues near the eastern city of Goma. The money is to be used for health, education, cross-border trade and hydroelectricity projects, it said. The announcement comes as World Bank head Jim Yong Kim and UN chief Ban Ki-moon start a tour of the region. One person was killed when a mortar landed in Goma, a UN spokesman said. Government and M23 rebel forces have been involved in heavy fighting near Goma since Monday, killing 19 people.

Four sentenced to death in Egypt for killing priest

An Egyptian court sentenced four men yesterday to death by hanging for the 2011 killing of a Coptic Christian priest in his apartment in the southern city of Assiut, state news agency MENA reported. The four were found guilty of killing Reverend Dauoud Peter Boules during a robbery that was aided by his maid, MENA said. The men beat and stabbed the priest to death and stole his money and some belongings. There did not appear to be a political or religious motive behind the crime, a security source told Reuters. One of the four convicted is Christian, the source said. One of the four was tried in absentia, while a fifth man was sentenced to 10 years in prison for assisting in the crime, MENA said. Death penalties in Egypt are rarely carried out.

World News

WORLD BULLETIN

Boston bomb investigators kill Florida man

A Florida man was shot and killed when he became violent while being questioned by Boston bombing investigators, FBI officials say. The shooting took place early yesterday as officials interviewed 27-year-old Ibragim Todashev. The FBI initially said their agent had killed Todashev, but an updated statement left unclear the question of who had fired the deadly shot. Two Massachusetts State Police officers were also in the room, the FBI said. The FBI agent was taken to a hospital with non-life threatening injuries, and an agency team has been dispatched to review the shooting, standard procedure in such cases. US media reported that Todashev had known Tamerlan Tsarnaev, the Boston bombings suspect killed in a shootout with police days after last month’s deadly marathon blasts. Todashev was a mixed-martial arts fighter who, like Tsarnaev, had links to the Russian republic of Chechnya, according to reports.

Iran’s president condemns election decision

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said yesterday that a decision by election overseers to disqualify his top aide from next month’s presidential race is an act of “oppression” and that he will take the case to the country’s supreme leader. His comments were posted on his website, president.ir, the day after the Guardian Council removed Esfandiar Rahim Mashaei from the final candidate list. Despite Ahmadinejad’s pledge to appeal, it is unlikely that the Guardian Council made its decision without the blessing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It allowed only eight candidates, most hard-liners associated with the clerical establishment. Among those approved for the June ballot are Iran’s top nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili, prominent lawmaker Gholam Ali Haddad Adel, former foreign minister Ali Akbar Velayati and Tehran mayor Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf — all top Khamenei loyalists.

Syrian rebels call for reinforcements as war spreads abroad

Rebels fighting for control of the Syrian town of Qusair called for reinforcements yesterday to repel forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad in a civil war which is spreading violence through an already volatile region. Opposition fighters said air strikes and shelling rocked the small town on the Syrian-Lebanese border that has seen some of the fiercest fighting in months in the two-year-old war that has so far cost at least 80,000 lives. The fighting has drawn in fighters from Lebanon’s Hezbollah movement, the latest sign of outside involvement in the war and evidence, according to Britain, that Iran and its allies in the militant group are lending increasing support to Assad.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

man, identified as a British soldier in active service was killed in a machete attack and his two assailants shot by police in Woolwich, south-east London. The UK government is reported to be treating the assault as a suspected terrorist incident and the prime minister said it was “truly shocking”. Footage has emerged showing a man wielding a bloodied meat cleaver and making political statements. Local MP Nick Raynsford said the dead man was a soldier at Woolwich barracks but this has not been confirmed. The ITV film shows a black man, dressed in a grey hooded jacket, saying: “We must fight them as they fight us. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.” He added: “I apologise that women have had to witness this today, but in our land our women have to see the same. You people will never be safe. Remove your government, they don’t care about you.” Home Secretary Theresa May has summoned a meeting of the government’s emergency response committee, Cobra. It is too soon to know exactly what happened. But what makes this completely different to any other violent attack is the fact that the prime minister asked the home secretary to convene a meeting of Whitehall’s emergency response committee. Those meetings are not convened lightly. The fact is that all available accounts point towards this being a terrorist incident carried out by someone inspired by al-Qaeda’s jihadist ideology. If that’s the case, it would be the first such incident leading to a death of someone other than the perpetrator since the London suicide bombings of 2005.

British soldier killed in suspected London terror attack

People standing at the scene of the attack, yesterday.

So the first task for ministers will be to consider what implications the situation has for the public and national security. The official terrorism threat level is currently “substantial” - the third highest level - which means that an attack is “a strong possibility”. If officials raise the level to “severe”, that would mean they fear that another attack is highly likely. Mrs May said she had been briefed by the director general of Security Service MI5, Andrew Parker, and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Bernard HoganHowe on the “sickening and barbaric” attack. “It has been confirmed to me that a man has been brutally murdered,” she said. “Two other men were shot by armed police and they are currently receiving treatment for their injuries.”

Speaking in Paris, Prime Minister David Cameron said there were “strong indications that this is a terrorist incident”. He said Britain had faced terror attacks such as the one in Woolwich before, before adding: “We will never buckle in the face of it.” Downing Street said Mr Cameron, who had been planning to stay in Paris overnight after meeting the French president, would be returning to the UK tonight. One witness, identified only as James, said two men had attacked another man, aged about 20, who was wearing a T-shirt of military charity Help for Heroes. “These two guys were crazed. They were just animals. They dragged him from the pavement and dumped his body in the middle of the road and left his body there,” he told LBC radio. He said after the “horrendous”

IMF’s boss quizzed in French arbitration case

MF chief Christine Lagarde was questioned by a French magistrate yesterday over her role in a 285-million-euro ($366 million) arbitration payment made to a supporter of former president Nicolas Sarkozy. Lagarde risked being placed under formal investigation at the hearing for her 2007 decision as Sarkozy’s finance minister to

Lagarde

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use arbitration to settle a longrunning court battle between the state and high-profile businessman Bernard Tapie. Under French law, that step would mean there exists “serious or consistent evidence” pointing to probable implication of a suspect in a crime. It is one step closer to trial but a number of such investigations have been dropped without any trial. Such a move could prove uncomfortable for the International Monetary Fund, whose former head, Frenchman Dominique Strauss-Kahn, quit in 2011 over a sex assault scandal, and for a woman who has been voted the most influential in France by Slate magazine. Lagarde is not accused of financially profiting herself from the 2007 payout and has denied doing anything wrong by opting for an arbitration process that

enriched Tapie. However a court specializing in cases involving ministers is targeting her for complicity in the misuse of funds because she overruled advisers to seek the settlement. “The (IMF’s) board is comfortable that she did not profit from this herself. For now it is not a concern,” a source close to the board said, adding that it could reconsider that position if judicial procedures took Lagarde away from her duties. Lagarde, herself a former lawyer and based in Washington since taking the IMF helm, said last month she was perfectly happy to go to Paris to answer questions about the Tapie affair. Her lawyer has played down the hearing as routine. The hearing, the first time Lagarde has been questioned over the affair, starts on Thursday and will likely run into Friday.

PHOTO: BBC

attack, the two men, who were also in their 20s, stood around, waving knives and a gun, and asked people to take pictures of them “as if they wanted to be on TV or something”.

Oklahoma tornado: Rescuers search ruins as recovery begins

escue workers with sniffer dogs picked through the ruins of an Oklahoma town yesterday to ensure no survivors remained buried after a deadly tornado left thousands homeless and trying to salvage what was left of their belongings. “Yesterday I was numb. Today I cried a lot. Now I’m on the victory side of it,” said Beth Vrooman, who hid in a shelter in her garage during Monday’s storm in Moore, Oklahoma. When the winds died down, she realised a car was blocking her exit. “It took some muscle, but I got out,” Vrooman said, as she sifted through piles of clothing, broken knickknacks and nail-studded boards that had once been her home. Meanwhile, the mayor of Moore has vowed to push for a new law on shelters, after a huge twister there killed at least 24. Glenn Lewis said he would propose an ordinance requiring a reinforced shelter to be built in every new home. The tornado on Monday afternoon flattened entire blocks of the town, including schools, a hospital and other buildings. At least 24 people were killed and 240 others injured, but authorities were increasingly confident that everyone caught in the disaster had been accounted for, despite initial fears that the twister had claimed the lives of more than 90 people.

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North

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Boko Haram: Help FG end violence, Ado Bayero tells peace committee AUGUSTINE MADU-WEST KANO

he Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, has appealed to the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North to properly advise the Federal Government on how to end the Boko Haram insurgency. Bayero noted that Boko Haram members might have sponsors and collaborators within and outside the country.

The emir also pointed out that only prayers for God’s intervention and concerted efforts by government and Nigerians could bring an end to violence in the region. The monarch, who received members of the committee in his palace, frowned at what he termed government’s lukewarm attitude to previous reports and recommendations of similar committees. The Chairman of the committee, Alhaji Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN)

told the emir that his team had been consulting with all stakeholders to tap from their wealth of experience. He said: “We are in your palace to interact with you and to take ideas from you. We want to understand it from your own perspective. We need your prayers and words of wisdom because the society holds you in high esteem.” Turaki, who is also the minister for Special Duties, noted that, “any good Muslim likes peace and will always do every-

thing to ensure peace. Kano is one of the places that were attacked during this insurgency and we commend the state government and traditional institution for restoring peace and stability in the state”. The committee also held a town hall meeting with Kano elders, political leaders and the Ulamas at the Africa House in the Government House, where it sampled opinions on the way forward. The Chairman of Kano

Fake drugs being destroyed by Kano State Government in its fight against drug abuse among youths in the state, yesterday.

Let’s flush out Ombatse, Al-Makura urges Nasarawa citizens overnor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura has called on the residents of Nasarawa State to provide information that would help in flushing out the Ombatse militia group which has been terrorising the people in the last two years. Al-Makura made the call yesterday at the Government House, Lafia when the

Lafia Division Elders Consultative Forum paid him a condolence visit over the recent massacre of security operatives at Alakyo village by the group. He said: “I am calling on the citizens of Nasarawa State, particularly those of the Eggon nation to bring forth the Ombatse militias. “Whoever has any information with the activities of these outlawed group should please come forward with it as government will

give you every support and protect you.” The governor said his administration had the capacity to deal with the Ombatse group but “that will negate the democratic norms. We have to go from one step to the other. “While we must conform to democratic tenets, we also have problem in our house that requires more than democratic process; we have to expunge Ombatse from Nasarawa State.

“Therefore, we have to sit down and make sure that whoever is involved in this act, no matter how highly placed in the society, the law must catch up with him”. Al-Makura disclosed that the activities of Ombatse thing had gone beyond Nasarawa State and snowballed into national problems. The governor, therefore, called on security agencies in the country to rise up to the task.

PRISCILLA DENNIS

Aliyu decries poverty level in the North

United States had economic problem, they came out with a marshal plan to find a way and which they executed properly and they came out successfully. “The insecurity we are going through is as a result of poverty.” The governor also called for the introduction of commercial farming all over the country and move beyond subsistence farming to boost Nigeria’s food security and national income.

IGBAWASE UKUMBA LAFIA

MINNA

overnor Muazu Babangida Aliyu of Niger State has decried the debilitating level of poverty in the North, which he put at 70 per cent of the national poverty rate. Aliyu said if the southern and northern parts of country were to be two nations, the South would be described as middle-income earner, while the North, would be regarded

as low-income country. Decrying the poverty index in the North during a visit by the Country Director of the World Bank, Mrs. Marie Nelly Francoise in Minna, the governor said 70 per cent of the present national poverty level, which World Bank put at 63 per cent, was from the North. Aliyu noted that to address the economic situation, the country must come up with

a comprehensive marshal plan that would be properly executed as the United States once did when it had serious economic challenge and overcame it. He said: “Belief me, 63 per cent poverty in any country is very dangerous and to me the World Bank is being diplomatic. I think our poverty rate should be 70 per cent, if not even 80 per cent. “I remember when the

Elders’ Forum, Alhaji Magaji Dambatta, who hosted the committee, said: “We recognise the importance of your duty because through it lies the chance of gaining peace, economic growth and respect for human

life. “Within the past years, the nation has witnessed wanton killings and destruction of property and we hope that this effort of yours will bring lasting solution to all these problems.”

N36bn Loko-Oweto Bridge ready in 2015 –Onolememen OLUFEMI ADEOSUN ABUJA

he Minister of Works, Mr. Mike Onolememen, has promised that the N36 billion Loko Oweto Bridge would be completed by 2015. The road project involves construction of two dual carriage bridges across River Benue with 3.88km long approach at Loko end in Nasarawa State and 3.09km long approach road at Oweto in Benue State. Speaking during a visit to the resuscitated site, Onolememen explained that construction work on the project awarded to Messrs RCC Nigeria Limited in 2011, could not take off on time owing to issues bothering on change of project alignment necessitated by the need to avoid difficult terrain over which the alignment initially traversed. The minster, who said the constraints had been addressed, said abnormal high water level occasioned by the unusual flood in 2012 was part of the initial inhibiting factors. Onolememen promised that the funding of the proj-

ect would not be a problem as the project would now be handled under (Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme, SURE-P. To ensure speedy completion, the minister explained that the Federal Government had allocated N30 billion to the project in fulfilment of President Goodluck Jonathan’s Transformation Agenda in the road sector. He reiterated the President’s commitment to the completion of the road for easy movement of people, goods and services from the South-East geo-political zone to the Federal Capital Territory, FCT. The minister disclosed that the bridge would boost economic activities between Loko and Oweto, while reducing time from Abuja to the South-East as the road would burst out at Otukpa Junction close to Enugu State. After the inspection, the minister paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Loko, Alhaji Abu Sabo Ahmed. He appealed to the emir to ensure that the indigenes allow the contractor to carry out construction work on the road.

Fleeing residents will soon return –Benue HENRY IYORKASE MAKURDI

enue State Government said yesterday that it was making efforts to bring back indigenes of Agatu Local Government, who fled their homes to neighbouring Kogi State in the wake of recent disturbances by Fulani herdsmen. The Deputy Governor, Chief Steven Lawani, made the disclosure while giving an update on the crisis in an interview with journalists at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Makurdi. Lawani said the government was not losing sight of the plight of the refugees, adding that he was in touch with his counterpart in Kogi State to ensure the safe re-

turn of the people. The deputy governor, however, noted that Kogi State, as a reliable neighbour excised from the old Benue State, protecting and looking after the well being of the refugees. Lawani implored others to emulate this gesture of humility, love and spirit of oneness shown by the government and people of Kogi State since the crisis broke out in Agatu Local Government. He said: “Nigerians, irrespective of tribe or religion, should put behind us this issue of constant violence leading to bloodletting and wanton destruction of properties thereby rendering thousands homeless in their abodes and are being made refugees in their own country.”

North

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Daura attack: Families of slain security personnel get N2m each JAMES DANJUMA KATSINA

amilies of slain security personnel in last Thursday’s attack in Daura, Katsina State, have received donation of N2 million each from the state government. The state government gave N500, 000 each to se-

curity personnel injured in the attack. No fewer than three military men and six policemen were reported to have lost their lives during the incident. Governor Ibrahim Shema announced the donation when he paid sympathy visit to the injured victims at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in

Katsina. Governor Shema, who praised them for their gallantry in saving the lives and property of the people, assured of continued medical attention even after being discharged from the hospital. The governor also sympathised with the Commanding Officer of the 35 Motorised Battalion of

the Nigerian Army, Katsina, Lt-Col Oladapo Ayodele, who is recuperating from gunshot wounds he sustained during the attack. Shema also visited the 35 Motorised Battalion and the police headquarters in the state where he sympathised with security personnel over the loss of their colleagues.

Rally to mark safe motherhood day in Kaduna, yesterday.

Gunmen kill filling station manager in Borno residents scampered for safety following the sound of the gunshots. I quickly ran to hide in my room. Because of the curfew imposed on the state capital as well as the emergency rule, I and other members of my family remained indoors till this morning. “As at 8:0am the following day, the body of the manager was still lying at the scene.” Describing the incident as shocking, another witness said: “It is unfortunate that none of the deceased family member nor the security agencies has been contacted on the

development as there was no GSM network in Borno State for the past one week, but I was informed that this morning some of his relatives and associates upon hearing the incident, had gone to report the matter to the men of the Joint Task Force (JTF) so that they will allow them to bury the body.” Due to GSM network total blackout for the past one week, our correspondent could not reach the JTF spokesman, Lt-Col. Sagir Musa and the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Gideon Jubrin, for confirmation.

ome suspected Boko Haram sect members have shot dead a manager of a filling station in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital. The incident occurred barely a few hours after President Goodluck Jonathan ordered the immediate release of all Boko Haram sect members, including their wives and children from detention. National Mirror learnt that the gunmen shot the manager in Ajilari/Railway Crossing Ward of

Maiduguri metropolis. Eye witnesses said the manager was killed on his way to his house after performing the Magrib prayers in a nearby mosque. The witnesses added that the gunmen fled the scene immediately after killing the victim. One of the witnesses said: “I was about entering my house when I saw three people in a tricycle popularly called Keke Napep riding towards the house of the manager and shortly after that, I heard gunshots. “Neighbours and other

WOLE ADEDEJI

Govt plans to boost economic growth with IPP

INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

ILORIN

he Kwara State Government is planning an Independent Power Project (IPP) with a projection of 100 megawatts of electricity. Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, who stated this through his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communication, Dr. Muyideen Akorede, said that the

IPP would facilitate rapid economic growth and job creation for youths. Ahmed said: “We are taking advantage of the unbundling of the power sector by the Federal Government to create an IPP that will generate power to facilitate the emergence of industrial clusters. “This will accelerate industrialisation, economic

growth and generate a significant number of jobs for our youths, not to mention other sectors of our economy that will benefit from regular electricity supply.” The governor identified other projects to benefit from the IPP as four mega schools, a modern Information Communication Technology (ICT) vil-

lage, construction of new hospitals, massive road construction across the three senatorial zones, construction of modern markets and the remodeling of major sports infrastructure. He said that the state government had spent huge amount of money on the provision of power supply over the years.

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Kwankwaso destroys N350m adulterated drugs AUGUSTINE MADU-WEST KANO

bout 18 truck-load of expired and adulterated drugs worth N350 million were yesterday evening destroyed in Kano State by Governor Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso. Shortly after setting the consignment ablaze at Mariri, in the outskirts of Kano city, Governor Kwankwaso told journalists that the action was a pointer to his administration’s determination to end the sale and consumption of harmful drugs and medical consumables. He said: “The government will not succumb to pressure to reverse its decision to close the obnoxious Kano drug market. The state made the resolution not to impede anybody’s business, but initiated the decision to close the market in the collective interest of the people. “The government will not sit and watch a few individuals selling bad drugs and related items just to acquire wealth. No responsible government will al-

low its citizens to patronise inferior or contaminated medicines, provisions and products.” Stressing that the fight against the sale and consumption of illegal, counterfeit and expired drugs is not that of the government, community leaders and security agencies alone, Kwankwaso urged individuals and groups to work support law enforcement agencies in the crusade against the menace. The governor said: “Those people selling bad drugs are those that clothe their children well, feed them well and send them to schools aboard, while they give our own children drugs to take and become nuisances to the society.” Earlier, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubukar Labaran Yusuf, explained that some of the items were confiscated by the Task Force on Counterfeit Drugs in an unoccupied building on Abeokuta Road in Sabon Gari area of Kano, while the rest were seized in several locations within the city.

CPC, effective platform to free Kwara people, says CPC WOLE ADEDEJI ILORIN

hairman of the Congress of Progressive Change (CPC) in Kwara State, Alhaji Sulaiman Buhari, has described the formation of yet to be registered All Progressives Alliance (APC) as the most effective platform to defeat the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. Buhari, who spoke with National Mirror in Ilorin, the state capital, described APC as the only saving grace to wrestle the people from a “prolonged political slavery that they have been subjected to in the hands of one single family.” He said: “As part of the measures to free the people from slavery, we embraced the idea of a merger among other several political parties in the country with a view to become one party that will form a robust platform to challenge the PDP in the forthcoming elections.” Stressing that Kwara

would be the most beneficiary of the merger arrangement, the CPC chairman said: “APC is coming at the right time. It is more nascent in Kwara State. It will pay Kwara most. “We have agreed to sacrifice personal interests capable of causing disagreement among our leaders. The national leaders of our different parties understand our plight and are ready to join us in our strategies to liberate Kwara State. “Our focus is not only on 2015, but beyond in the interest of the people. APC will be registered by the end of May and we are slugging it out with the PDP in the forthcoming local government election.” Speaking on that speculation that a former member of the House of Representatives, Gbesmisola Saraki, is planning to defect to CPC, Buhari said he was not aware of the plan, but stressed that she was free to join the party like any other person if she is interested.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

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Community Mirror “We have a situation in the country where you go round the city and find garrison of children, able-bodied youths, begging.” KANO STATE GOVERNOR; RABIU MUSA KWANKWASO

Seven arraigned for stealing govt’s goat ADEOLU ADEYEMO OSOGBO

n Osogbo Magistrate’s Court has arraigned seven persons for allegedly stealing a goat belonging to the Osun State Government. The suspects, Muhammed Moruf, Ayeni Abiodun, Agboola Fatai, Fayinka Gbenga, Olowoniyi Jeromu, Olorunfunmi Adeyemi and Babatunde Michael were alleged to have sto-

len the goat at the government’s livestock garden, Osogbo on May 14, 2013 even as they face a two count charge of conspiracy and stealing. The suspects which included six men and a woman were arraigned before Magistrate Habibat Bashiru and were alleged to have committed a punishable offence. Police Prosecutor, Mr. Isiaka Ajadi, told the court that they committed the offence which

is contrary to and punishable under section 516 and 390(9) of Criminal Code Cap 34 Vol. 11 laws of Osun State of Nigeria, 2003. Counsel to the accused persons, Mr. Nnnena Ngwu, prayed the court to grant them bail assuring that he would produce them anytime they are wanted in court. According to him, “I appeal to the court to grant my clients bail in the most liberal term as the

suspects should be presumed innocent until the contrary is established. The suspects will not jump bail if granted and I will produce them whenever their attention is needed by the court.” Though, the suspects pleaded not guilty to the offence and Magistrate Basiru, adjourned the case till June 5, 2013 for hearing, as he granted them bail in the sum of N50,000 each with a surety in like sum.

Passengers struggling to board a commercial bus at Ikeja,Lagos yesterday.

PHOTO:ADEMOLA AKINLABI

Passenger safety our priority –MD NRC FRANCIS SUBERU

he Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation,NRC, Engineer Seyi Sijuwade has said the corporation has put in place measures to ensure that passengers on board trains are secure, adding that the organisation’s services are being made more attractive and enjoyable. Sijuwade, who said this at a press conference, added that the vision of the NRC is to become a world class transport organisation, providing safe, efficient, affordable and reliable service to customers.

According to him, the rate of accidents on rail crossings in the country’s major cities, especially Lagos, has drastically reduced since the intensification of efforts at sensitising the public and motorists on what is expected of them as are approach rail crossing as well as when a train a approaches. He said; “Safety is very important. We are taking multidimensional approach to ensure that our customers are safe on board the train. We are also working with the state government; we have solicited their partnership in the area of sensitisation of motorists on what is expected of them at

the rail crossings. There is also efforts in the area of inter agency partnership. So, we are partnering with the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Lagos State Ministry of Transportation and others in the area of advocating for safety consciousness, for the public who may go near rail lines. All these are aside the mechanism, like revolving light put at all rail crossings to beam red light for those who are hard of hearing”. Also speaking, the Commissioner of Police for Nigeria Railway Corporation, DCP Boniface Onyeabo, said security is being beefed up at both the railway stations and

on board trains; saying despite the security challenges, the railway is not under any threat. He said; “We are aware of the security situation in the country and the upsurge in rail transportation. Hence we have put security measures in place. For instance, everyone boarding the train is properly screened to ensure those who have no business in the train are not allowed on board. “We also make sure that police officers escort each train departing our terminal and there are personnel at our rail stations because we are concerned about the security of those at the station too.”

Ogun to distribute ceramic water filters FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

total of 2,500 ceramic water filter pots are to be distributed to communities in the 20 local government areas of Ogun State as part of measures to curb prevalence of pathogens in the state. The Commissioner for Rural Development, Falilu Sabitu made this known in Abeokuta, while answering questions from journalists at the on-going annual ministerial press briefing to mark the second anniversary of the administration. Sabitu, who explained that the government was worried at the prevalence of pathogens leading to diseases in the local communities, further stressed that such has necessitated the need for the ceramic water filters. He said the procurement and distribution will reduce the level of the pathogens prevalence by 99.8 percent, adding that the government wants to put in place preventive measures. Aside from assisting in the eradication of water borne disease, the Commissioner further explained that it will create opportunities for local entrepreneurs, increase employment as well as develop the rural economy. “The Governor has given approval for the procurement of 2,500 ceramic water filter pots to be distributed to all the 20 local governments’ areas. “This will go a long way in reducing 99.8 percent of pathogen that was responsible for typhoid, dysentery, cholera and diarrhea in the state. The ministry’s vision is to focus on the prevention of these prevalent conditions in the rural areas,” he said. Sabitu explained that the ministry will collaborate with other government agencies to construct 144 kilometre of rural roads in each of the senatorial zone of the state. In the same vein, the Commissioner for Special Duties, Olu Odeyemi also disclosed that the government was ready to construct a mini water plant to boost water supply to the people in Abeokuta and environs. Odeyemi said the water plant would be built at Iberekodo near Arakanga Water Works that supplies potable water to the city.

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Elegy For a nation

for Chinua Achebe, at 70

I Ah, Chinua, are you grapevine wired? It sings: our nation is not dead, not clinically Yet. Now this may come as a surprise to you, It was to me. I thought the form I spied Beneath the frosted glass of a fifty-carat catafalque Was the face of our own dear land — ‘own’, ‘dear’, Voluntary patriotese, you’ll note — we try to please. An anthem’s sentiment upholds the myth. Doctors IMF, World Bank and UNO refuse, it seems, To issue a certificate of death – if debtors die May creditors collect? We shall turn Parsees yet, Lay this hulk in state upon the Tower of Silence, Let vultures prove what we have seen, but fear to say – For if Leviathan is dead, we are the maggots Probing still her monstrous womb – one certainty That mimics life after death. Is the world fooled? Is this the price of hubris – to have dared Sound Renaissance bugles for a continent? Time was, our gazes roamed the land, godlike, Pronounced it good, from Lagos to Lake Chad. The hosts of interlopers would be exorcised, Not throwing the baby out with the bathwater, Enthroning ours as ours, bearing names Lodged in marrow of the dead, attesting lineage. Consecrated brooms would sweep our earth Clean of usurpers’ footprints. We marched To drums of ancient skins, homoeopathic Beat against the boom of pale-knuckled guns. We vied with the regal rectitude of Overamwen – No stranger breath – he swore – shall desecrate This hour of communion with our gods! We Died with the women of Aba, they who held A bridgehead against white levy, armed with pestle, Sash and spindle, and a potent nudity – eloquent Abomination in the timeless rites of wrongs. Grim cycle of embattled years. Again we died With miners of Iva valley who undermined More than mere seams of anthracite. All too soon, Ma, we would augment, in mimic claims,

In our own right, the register of martyrs. Oh, How we’ve exercised the right of righteous folly In defence of alien rhetoric . . . what God has joined, etcetera. For God, read white, read slaver surrogates. We scaled the ranges of Obudu, prospected Jos Plateau, pilgrims on rock-hills of Idanre. Floated on pontoons from Bussa to silt beds Of eternal Niger, reclaimed the mangrove swamps, Startling mudskipper, manatee, and mermaids. Did others claim the mantle of discoverers? Let them lay patents on ancestral lands, lay claim To paternity of night and day – ours Were hands that always were, hands that pleat The warp of sunbeam and the weft of dew, Ours to create the seamless out of paradox. In the mind’s compost, meagre scrub yielded Silos of grain. Walled cities to the north were Sheaths of gold turbans, tuneflul as minarets. The dust of Durbars, pyrotechnic horsemen And sparkling lances, all one with the ring of anvils From Ogun’s land to Ikenga’s. Rainbow beads, jigida From Bida’s furnaces vied across the sky with Iyun glow and Ife bronzes, luscent on ivory arches Of Benin. Legend lured Queen Amina to Moremi, Old scars of strife redeemed in tapestries Of myth, recreating birthpang, and rebirth. And, yes – We would steal secrets from the gods. Let Sango’s axe Spark thunderstones on rooftops, we would swing In hawser hammocks on electric pylons, pulse through cities In radiant energies, surge from battery racks to bathe Town and hamlet in alchemical light. Orisa-oko Would heal with herbs and scalpel. Ogun’s drill Was poised to plumb the earth anew, spraying aloft Reams of rare alloys. Futurists, were we not Annunciators of the Millennium long before its advent? In our now autumn days, behold our leaden feet Fast welded to the starting block. Vain griots! Still, we sang the hennaed lips and fingers Of our gazelle womenfolk, fecund Muses

CHINUA ACHEBE: THE END OF AN EPOCH MAKING “I have watched particularly the chaos in my own state of Anambra where a small clique of renegades, openly boasting its connections in high places, seems determined to turn my homeland into a bankrupt and lawless fiefdom. I am appalled by the brazenness of this clique and the silence, if not connivance, of the Presidency”. - Chinua Achebe (2011)

ADENRELE NIYI

WITH AGENCY REPORTS

nternationally acclaimed Nigerian-born novelist, Chinua Achebe lived a remarkably striking existence, by any standards, in his 82 years on earth. He passed on in Boston, Massachusetts, U.S, in the early hours of Friday, March 21, bringing to an end an era

of literary excellence which was the hallmark of his writing career that spanned almost six decades. As reflected in the quote above, Achebe communicated –whether in writing or speech– with conviction and without fear or favour. That powerful quote by one of modern African literature’s most strident voices defined the ethos and steel-mindedness which shaped and propelled Achebe’s personal life and professional writing to eponymous status. Twice, the iconic Nigerian-born writer refused the Nigerian honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (2004 and 2011); part of the reasons for declining the honour was captured in the public statement.

Humble beginning Born on November 16, 1930 in Nnobi, a settlement nearby his hometown of Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area, Anambra State, Albert Chinualumogu Achebe, entered the land of the living in a pastoral setting which ultimately provided the perfect backdrop for his novels’ charac-

ters and world he created for them. It was the hey days of colonial rule in Nigeria and his father became a Christian and worked for a missionary teacher in various parts of Nigeria before returning to Ogidi. Achene, then only five, recalled the homecoming as a passage backward through time.

Literary exposure A young Achebe received what was to become the foundation of his literary power from the tutoring at the prestigious Government College, Umuahia; he started to explore the school’s “wonderful library”. There he discovered Booker T. Washington’s “Up From Slavery”, the autobiography of an American former slave; Achebe “found it sad, but it showed him another dimension of reality”. He also read classic novels, such as Gulliver’s Travels (1726), David Copperfield (1850), and Treasure Island (1883) together with tales of colonial derring-do such as H. Rider Haggard’s Allan Quatermain (1887) and John Buchan’s Prester John (1910). After he was educated

(English, History and Religion) at the University of Ibadan, Achebe taught briefly before joining the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) as director of external broadcasting (1961–1966).

Emergence of a writer Just prior to joining NBC, Achebe burst onto the world literary scene with the publication in 1958 of his first novel, “Things Fall Apart,” which has sold more than 10 million copies and been translated into 45 different languages. Set in the Ibo countryside in the late 19th century, the novel tells the story of Okonkwo, who rises from poverty to become an affluent farmer and village leader. But with the advent of British colonial rule and cultural values, Okonkwo’s life is thrown into turmoil. In the end, unable to adapt to the new status quo, he explodes in frustration, killing an African in the employ of the British and then committing suicide. The novel, which is also compelling for its descriptions of traditional Ibo society and

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Thursday, May 23, 2013

tuned To Senghorian cadences. We grew filament eyes As heads of millet, as flakes of cotton responsive To brittle breezes, wraith-like in the haze of Harmattan. Green of the cornfields of Oyo, ochre of groundnut pyramids Of Kano, indigo in the ancient dye-pots of Abeokuta Bronzed in earth’s tonalities as children of one deity – We were the cattle nomads, silent threads through Forestries and cities, coastland and savannah, Wafting Maiduguri to the sea, ocean mist to sand dunes. Alas for lost idylls. Like Levi jeans on youth and age, The dreams are faded, potholed at joints and even Milder points of stress. Ghosts are sole inheritors. Silos fake rotundity – these are kwashi-okor blights Upon the landscape, depleted at source. Even The harvest seeds were long devoured. Empty hands Scrape the millennial soil at planting. But Chinua, are you grapevine wired? Do you Tune in, listen? There is old music in the air. The word is out again, out from the closet. Renaissance beats are thumbed in government lairs, In lobbies, caucuses, on promotion posters, In parliaments. Academe’s close behind. Renaissance Haunts beer and suya bar, street and rostrum, Inhaled as tobacco smoke, chewed as kola, Clerics beatify the word, lawyers invoke it. Never word more protean, poised to incarnate In theses, conferences, investments. A historic lure Romances the Diaspora. Gang-raped, the continent Turns pregnant with the word – it’s sworn, we shall be Born again, though we die in the attempt. But then, our offsprings, Chinua, have they leisure To play at love? To commune with Source, shaded By coarse-grain village walls at noon? Crush wild mint Between their fingers, let the agbayun coat Their tongues, at war with the bitterness of kola? Raid the hoards of gods and ancients, Recite their lineage praise-names, clan histories? Or have the rigours of survival bred a race Of naked predators? Is sharing out of fashion? Community a dirty word, service an obscenity? Are ours the emerging children of Molucca Born to burn at six, slaughter at seven, Rinse their hand in the throat’s death gurgle, Secure in the arch-priest’s absolution? Attuned At noon to dissolution of the bond of dawn, deaf To neighbour cries? Easy reddened are the wafers Of communion – have we been here before? Still, here you sit before the travelled world, gathered To pay homage. Survived the kwashi-okor days. You’ve fed on roots, barks and leaves Your world contracted, ringed with iron Fenced with the wringing hands of the world As unctuous in neutrality as Pontius Pilate. But you made flesh what is so often said – Sweet are the uses of adversity – as even now Your silent eloquence attests. The ancient pot-stills Turned refineries. Neglected herbs, mystery silica Powered transistors to accuse the world, screaming We are not dead, but dying. And iron monsters Rose furtively from forest bays, hammered From the forges of Awka. Who can forget the errant Ogbunikwe that rose skywards, plunged to blast A fiery tunnel through encircling steel? Absences surround your presence – he The great town crier, Okigbo, and other griots Silenced in infancy. The xylophones of justice Chime much louder than the flutes of poets, Their sirens lure the bravest to their doom. But some survive, and survival breeds, it seems, Unending debts. Time is our usurer, but earth remains Sole signatory to life’s covenant – and thus I ask:

rituals, went on to become a classic of world literature and was often listed as required reading in university courses in Europe and the United States. But when it was first published, “Things Fall Apart” did not receive unanimous acclaim. Some British critics thought it idealised pre-colonial African culture at the expense of the former empire. A few other novels by Achebe early in his career were occasionally criticised by reviewers as being stronger on ideology than on narrative interest. Besides novels, Achebe’s works included powerful essays and poignant short stories and poems rooted in the countryside and cities of his native Nigeria, before and after independence from British colonial rule. His most memorable fictional characters were buffeted and bewildered by the conflicting pulls of traditional African culture and invasive Western values. For inspiration, Achebe drew on his own family history as part of the Ibo nation of

The statues of mbari to the ground, these Christian Talibans. Their brothers in Offa Murder Moremi in her shrine, shrieking Allah akbar. Rivals else, behold their bonded zeal that sanctifies Alien rape of our quiescent Muses, extolling theirs.

Whose feet are these upon the storehouse loft? Shod in studded boots or jewelled sandals, Khaki crisp or silk embroidered – who are these? Did time appoint these bailiffs? Behold Enforcers out of time, shorn of memory but – Crowned are the hollow skulls, signets on talons. Their advent is the hour of locusts – behold Cheeks in cornucopia from the silos’ depletion While the eyes of youth sink deeper in despair. Death bestrides the streets, rage rides the sun And hope is a sometime word that generations Never learnt to spell.

We who neither curse their gods nor desecrate Their texts, their prayer mats or altars – What shall we do, Chinua, with these hate clerics? While we sleep, their fingers spread as brambles, Deface our Book of Life. How teach them:

Chinua, I think with you I dare Be indelicate – we scrape our feet upon The threshold of mortal proof, denying The ancestors yet awhile our companionship – May that day learn patience from afar! – On the stage at Bard, behind the lectern, Gazing across time to your staunch spirit Wedded to a contraption we neither make nor mend My irreverent thoughts were – There sits the nation, All faculties intact, but wheelchair bound. Your lesson of the will, alas, a creative valour Marks the gulf between you and that land We claim our own. II There are wonders in that land, Chinua Are you wired? Tuned to images of cyber age? Severed wrists will soon adorn our walls And Conrad’s Heart of Darkness be fulfilled. The cairn of stones is building for the first Butchery in a public square, a female scapegoat Tethered for primordial rites that men devise To keep their womenfolk obedient to the laws of man. An encampment is on the move, biped Amorphous tents, a sorcerer invasion choreographed In castration shrouds, visors no less secretive Than face-masks, twin to ancestral masquerades Proclaimed infidel. They slink through streets And markets – yes, it is our women on the move Our mothers, wives and sisters, comrades-in-arms Bereft of limbs and faces, haute couture decreed By encyclicals of eunuch priests. Features Mummified by laws of terror. Oh my compatriots, Shaved bare-skull at initiation, convertites Dipped body and soul in the waters of salvation Are yours these zombies of the age, are these The paracletes of the new millennium? They’ll murder heritage in its timeless crib, Decree our, heroes, heroines out of memory Obliterate the narratives of clans, names That bind to roots, reach to heavens, our Links to ancestral presences. The Born-Agains Are on rampage, born against all that spells Life and mystery, legend and innovation. Imprecations rend the air, song is taboo, The stride of sun-toned limbs racing wind a sin, Flesh is vile, wine, the gift of earth, execrated. These tyrants have usurped the will of God. How did we fail to learn, that guns and boots Are not essential to a coup d ‘état? Shall Ala die? Ahiajoku be anathematised? Does Oya defile her streams, Ifa obstruct the paths Of learning and councils of the wise? Praise the Lord And launch the bulldozer – they’ve razed

WRITER (1930 – 2013) southeastern Nigeria, a people victimised by the racism of British colonial administrators and then by the brutality of military dictators from other Nigerian ethnic groups. The 1960s proved to be a creatively fertile period for Achebe and he wrote the novels No Longer at Ease (1960), Arrow of God (1964) and A Man of the People (1966), all of which address the issue of traditional ways of life coming into conflict with new, often colonial, points of view. In a related endeavour, in 1967, Chinua Achebe and Christopher Okigbo, a renowned poet, cofounded a publishing company, the Citadel Press, which they intended to run as an outlet for a new kind of Africanoriented children’s books. Okigbo was soon killed, however, in the Nigerian civil war. Two years later, Achebe toured the United States with Gabriel Okara and Cyprian Ekwensi, fellow writers, giving lectures at various universities. The 1960s also marked Achebe’s wedding to Christie Chinwe Okoli in 1961, and they went on to have four children.

Some are born pagan, wedded to life’s seamlessness Tuned to the breath of things, magma and animus. The waters of the Holy Gospel bounced against This splinter of Olumo Rock, retreated In despair, seeking more porous earth. How reveal The sublimity of godhead that abhors The murdering tyranny of Creed? Has gore Proved godlove on Kaduna streets – ten thousand Mutilations and three thousand dead of faith? But the sun rose still the following dawn, indifferent. Let all creeds be recast. If the gates of Paradise Are locked behind the Pope’s demise, We wish him blessed occupancy of yonder realms With all the Heavenly Host. Has the last Imam Been here and gone? Then, Bon Voyage Seek me out among the questers, creed-divorced, In covenant only to that solvent that is earth. How shall they be taught, Chinua, that Ajapa Lives, but no longer borrows feathers from the birds To survey earth? Myths are our wise cohabitants. Icarus .1. Transcended wax, new trajectories lace the spheres. The galaxy is boundless host to a new race Of voyagers, seeking the once forbidden. Cinders From Promethean dares, shards of Ajapa’s shell, Are constellations by which ships of space are steered. The jealous gods are no more. Age by age We inched towards the sun, then raced beyond To drink the heady draught of space, returned to earth Emboldened. The voices of new prophets are not voided In the wilderness but fulfilled. Applause Is the new music of the spheres – it’s heard In other lands, I am told. I have not heard it here. But we survived, Chinua. And though survival reads Unending debt – for time, alas decrees us Witnesses, thus debtors – earth alone remains Our creditor. Yet I fear the communion pots Lie broken at the crossroads, kola nuts and cowries Scattered by scavengers. Couriers turn coat, Turned by profit, priest, predator and politician. The masquerade’s falsetto may reveal, not Artifice but loss of voice, its gutturals camouflage Death throes, not echoes of our spirit realms. The strongest eagle, wing-span clipped, talons Manicured in gilded thumbscrews may not hold Nor bear the weight of sacrifice. Our caryatids Are weary of cycles of endless debts. Incense Of burnt offering, heavy with abominations Hangs dose to altar, dissipates between Earth And Sky. Shorn of new alibis, our intercessors Falter at the door of judgement. What shall we say To the years that drift past, accusing? What shall we chant to their dew-bright notes – Our new tuned buglers of the Renaissance?

– Wole Soyinka

Achebe... a legacy cast in gold Novels Things Fall Apart (1958) No Longer at Ease (1960) Arrow of God (1964) A Man of the People (1966) Anthills of the Savannah (1987)

Short stories Marriage is a Private Affair (1952) Dead Men’s Path (1953) The Sacrificial Egg and Other Stories (1953) Civil Peace (1971) Girls at War and Other Stories (including “Vengeful Creditor”) (1973) African Short Stories (editor, with C.L. Innes) (1985) Heinemann Book of Contemporary African Short Stories (editor, with C.L. Innes) (1992)

The Voter Poetry Beware, Soul-Brother and Other Poems (1971) (published in the US as Christmas at Biafra, and Other Poems, 1973) Don’t let him die: An anthology of memorial

poems for Christopher Okigbo (editor, with Dubem Okafor) (1978) Another Africa (1998) Collected Poems Carcanet Press (2005) Refugee Mother and Child Vultures

Essays, criticism, non-fiction and political commentary The Novelist as Teacher (1965) - also in Hopes and Impediments An Image of Africa: Racism in Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness” (1975) - also in Hopes and Impediments Morning Yet on Creation Day (1975) The Trouble with Nigeria (1984) Hopes and Impediments (1988) Home and Exile (2000) Education of a British Protected Child (2009) There Was A Country: A Personal History of Biafra, (2012)

Children’s books Chike and the River (1966) How the Leopard got his Claws (with John Iroaganachi) (1972) The Flute (1975)

WORLD RECORD

Largest collection of fire helmets Vol. 03 No. 627

In memory of a man of the people

inally, today, he transits to the far country, leaving a legacy of exceptional skill in the art of storytelling; an unbridled principle and a controversial posture in matters of his ethnic nationality. Chinua Achebe, the literary giant who died earlier this year at 82, will be buried today in his hometown in Ogidi, Anambra State, exactly 55 years after the publication of Things Fall Apart, his worldacclaimed novel. It is said that the death of the aged in Africa is equivalent to the razing of a whole library and this is particularly true of this late professor of Literature. He leaves a big vacuum. If four heads of state and many internationally acclaimed personalities grace his burial today, as expected, it can only confirm Achebe’s towering stature as a gift to the whole of Africa who deserves a

N150

Thursday, May 23, 2013

The largest collection of fire helmets consists of 838 fire helmets and belongs to Gert Souer (Netherlands), in Haren, Netherlands, as of 9 February 2012.

he Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) yesterday withdrew its national team Taifa Stars from the COSAFA Cup holding in Zambia from July 6 to 20. Tanzania, one of two CECAFA nations invited for the COSAFA

SOMETHING BEFORE THE WEEKEND

Steve Ayorinde

sayorinde@nationalmirroronline.net (08054500808 sms only)

huge celebration for his contributions to scholarship in particular; and serving as a conscience of the nation through social commentaries. In celebrating the life of this illustrious son with something akin to a state burial, however, it should not inspire any unsolicited posthumous awards, especially from government circles. Such would be rather perfunctory as Achebe had made it clear on a number of occasions that accepting national honours from the Federal Government of Nigeria would amount to conferring dignity on leaders who have not only failed but whose actions amount to a deliberate chastisement of the society’s poor and the needy. If any government, either at the federal or state level, deems it fit to name institutions after him, it should feel obliged. But honours that the good professor would have rejected in his lifetime should not now be hanged on his tomb as a mark of magnanimity from the state. The truth is that like every literary colossus, Achebe does not need state endorsements to validate his greatness. The nation, and indeed the whole world, is celebrating him. More heart-warming is the frank sincerity with which his clan, the tribe of the intelligentsia, is according him worthy recognition – raising him and his art up for applause and further appraisal. It should not matter if the language of discourse is probing and interrogatory insofar the motive is not ulterior. The rite of passage is unobtrusive to the creative muse. And nowhere has this

LIKE EVERY LITERARY COLOSSUS, ACHEBE DOES NOT NEED STATE ENDORSEMENTS TO VALIDATE HIS GREATNESS been evident than in the elegy by Prof. Wole Soyinka (published on pages 54 and 55 of this newspaper today) as a creative salutation to a man who attained greatness through the intellect and power of his pen. In fact, Soyinka, more than any other Nigerian, has demonstrated the meaning of real tribute in memory of a man who does not deserve to be mourned but celebrated. When editors found it hard to reach the iconoclastic Nobel Laureate on the day Achebe died, little did they know that Kongi was busy drafting a statement, together with the respected poet, Prof. J.P Clark, in which they expressed grief over the “silencing” of another member of the “pioneer quartet” of the contemporary Nigerian literature; the fourth being the late Christopher Okigbo, a poet of admirable talent and courage. Situating Achebe in history, as a literary pioneer, and recreating a timeless elegy in his honour as Soyinka has done may sound like an ideal way of acknowledging a special colleague, but his interview in saharareporters last week is even

more telling as a perfect honour from a source where it is least expected. The media may have done their best to give that interview a news edge interpretation, revisiting the suspected age-old rivalry between the two giants. But then that’s fair. It does not reduce the import of the occasion; that for the first time in recent history, Soyinka would agree to comment on knotty issues of his relationship with Achebe without seeking to reduce the other’s place in history. For everyone who has the faintest inclination in literary matters, I recommend the Soyinka interview on Achebe not just for the measured but rich and brave outpourings therein, but also for the indescribable elegance of the language deployed. To miss that interview would be worse than a sin; it would amount to missing the literary heaven. In celebrating Achebe, Soyinka spoke in a manner that is as elevated as it is lordly - rich in historical recollection and intellectual purity. For example, speaking about Achebe’s controversial last book: There was a country – A personal history of Biafra, Soyinka said he would have loved to take his friend on with some friendly fire. “It’s a book I wish he had never written...that is, not in the way it was. There were statements in that work that I wish he had never made...” Like the controversial book, the issue about Achebe not getting the Nobel Prize and who qualifies to be the father of African literature, among others, are the things Soyinka spoke about with frank but fresh insights. All was said in a way to define Achebe’s role in history even when there were reasons to hold different opinions on issues. it is remarkable! How then should Achebe’s place in the canon of world literature be assessed? Soyinka’s apt response should suffice as the great literary giant is laid to rest today: “wherever the art of the story-teller is celebrated, (Achebe’s place) is definitely assured!”

Sport Extra

Tanzania withdraws from COSAFA competition Cup together with Kenya, said the withdrawal was due to the Stars’ impending 2014 CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier against Uganda. TFF Secretary General, An-

getile Osiah, said Uganda had refused to reschedule the CHAN qualifier dates. “We have no option but to withdraw from COSAFA in the circumstance,” Osiah explained.

Beach Soccer Results Nigeria

8-4

Libya

CIV

4-1

Egypt

Senegal

7-3

Madagascar

Tanzania President, Kikwete

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