DTN-03-11-18

Dalung: We will continue to prioritise athletes’ welfare g 22

Tragedy: How stray bullet nearly sent mother of 9 to early grave https://plus.google.com/+DailytimesNgr/posts

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2018

VOL. 3

NO. 795

N100

Family in fear of the unknown over sudden incident We’re investigating incident- Security personnel

Yakubu Salisu, Kano Tragedy struck in Kano as yet-to-be identified persons fired live ammunition into the family compound of Mallam Abudullahi of Brigade Quarters of Kano.

Not knowing what to expect, Hajiya Rakiya, a housewife and mother of nine, woke up on Saturday, October 27, 2018 to begin her daily routine of house chores, but never did she know that she would be fighting for her life on

that same day.

Between the hours of 7 and 8am, Rakiya was in the compound trying to fetch water when from nowhere, a stray bullet hit her and without delay, blood started gushing out from the affected spot while she collapsed in the process.

With the trauma and confusion within the family at that instance, the mother of the house screamed for help as the sight of the gushing CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

Court stops Labour from embarking on nationwide strike Nov 6 g 3

Reps’ NHIS probe: Health Ministry, Yusuf differ over g 5 N967m fraud

WIMBIZ: Match g 15 value with branding, Awosika tells entrepreneurs

We won’t extend submission of Governorship, State Assembly candidates lists – INEC g 5

Expectations as Pearl Thusi, others host 5th AFRIMA g 14

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Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

How stray bullet nearly sent mother of 9...

Continued from page 1

blood is better imagined than said.

Doctors at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) were able to stop the bleeding after administering first aid but decided not to continue further treatment till the family provides a police report despite the 2017 Gunshot Act that permits doctors to treat gunshot victims.

It took the intervention of The Daily Times correspondent whose attention was drawn to the matter, who engaged the doctors at the AKTH Accident and Emergency Unit on the need to attend to the woman based on the 2017 Act, and after much heated discussion, the woman who was left unattended to, for more than 5 hours, was eventually admitted for treatment.

Investigation has revealed that most doctors

at the hospital are sceptical about handling such cases despite the law permitting treatment. This prompted for further investigation.

A visit to the hospital’s Information Department revealed that no one at the department nor the doctors at the Emergency Unit have a copy of the said act, so it was hard to tell if any of them has even read it as it concerns their job.

It took doctors four more days to finally remove the bullet after different opinions to remove the bullet or allow the wounds to heal and allow it to push out the bullet lodged in her flesh.

Although the family feel relieved after the successful surgery, but their fear of the unknown remains as the police are yet to unravel the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Confirming the incident, the Kano State Police spokesman, SP Musa Majia, said the matter has been reported to the police

and investigation has commenced.

The Daily Times recalls that such cases were recently recorded in the state where stray bullets struck different individuals right in their rooms with this latest one generating concern over such reckless use of arms by security personnel and the availability of illegal arms in some quarters of the society.

Rakiya was lucky to have survived, but who knows who will be next and what would be that person’s fate? If people are not longer safe and have to fear for their lives while at home, it means the authorities have to review how arms are being used.

As at the time of filling this report, the family of Abdullahi were left with the bullet removed from the mother of the house which makes one to wonder if police are really interested in the available evidence at hand.

Minimum wage: Court stops Labour from embarking on strike Nov 6 Andrew Orolua, Abuja

The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NIC) in Abuja on Friday restrained the Organised Labour from proceeding on the nationwide strike scheduled to begin on November 6 over the National minimum wage dispute.

Justice Kado Sanusi gave the restraining order while ruling on an ex-parte application filed by the Attorney General of Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN) and argued by the Solicitor General of the Federation, Mr. Dayo Apata.

In his ruling over the application, Justice Sanusi further restrained the parties in dispute over the National minimum wage: the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TLC), Federal Government, the AGF and Incorporated Trustees of the Nigerian Governors Forum from taking any further step on the matter pending the determination of the substantive matter.

In effect, the proposed strike scheduled to commence on Tuesday, November 6, would remain in

abeyance pending the determination of the suit that was filed by the Federal Government and the AGF. Justice Sanusi said that the restraining order was essential to preserve the res (the subject matter) and ensure that none of the party restore to self help while the matter is pending before the court.

The judge also said that in granting the exparte application that was argued by the Solicitor General of the Federation (SGF), Dayo Apata, he took into consideration the likely devastating effect of a strike on the nation, particularly on the economy and on the poor masses who are struggling to survive on daily bases.

Meanwhile, the court has fixed November 8 for the hearing of the substantive suit .

But the organized labour is still insisting on Friday that it would not call off the strike scheduled for Tuesday on which it has undertook an elaborate mobilization of its members - the workers.

The nationwide strike it planned to embark upon, despite the National Industrial Court ruling in Abuja is to press for the implementation of N30 , 000 as the new National Minimum Wage ,

The President , Nigeria Labour Congress President, Mr Ayuba Wabba , said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday in Abuja .

According to Wabba, we are not aware of any court ruling and we have not been served any notice .

He said, “ We have just concluded our joint organ meetings of the Central Working Committees of the Labour Centres of the NLC , Trade Union Congress and the United Labour Congress here in Lagos . “ The meeting is the final preparation for a full engagement with the government on the new National Minimum Wage and we have taken our decision to go on the strike. Our decision is to go ahead with the nationwide strike unless the government does the needful.”

Also , Mr Musa Lawal , TUC General Secretary , also told NAN said the centre was not was aware of any court ruling concerning the planned strike by organised labour. “ We are not aware because we have not been served any court order ; we have taken our

Continued on page 5

3 News

PHOTO TIMES

President Muhammadu Buhari (right) receiving attestation and confirmation of result from West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) Registrar, Dr. Iyi Uwadiae, at the State House Abuja...on Friday.

President Muhammadu Buhari (9th left); Niger State Governor, Abubakar Sani Bello ( 8th left); SGF, Boss Mustapha (6th right) and Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakari (4th right) and others during a solidarity visit of delegation of Eminent and Respected Citizens of Niger State to Buhari at the State House in Abuja ...on Friday.

L-R: Vice President, Rockefeller Foundation, Christine Heenan; Managing Director, Africa Regional Office, Rockefeller Foundation, Mamadou Biteye; Executive Secretary, Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Vera Songwe; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN; President/CEO, Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote; and Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Okechukwu Enelamah, at the ongoing Africa Free Trade Forum in Victoria Island, Lagos...on Friday.

Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki (left) presenting a prize to one of outstanding workers in the state civil service at the 2016 and 2017 National Order of Merit Award, at Government House in Benin City, Edo State...on Thursday. With them is the Head of Service, Mrs. Gladys Idahor (middle).

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Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

5 News

Reps’ NHIS probe: Health Ministry, Yusuf differ over N975m fraud Panel settled with N19m after my indictment, allegations against me recycled- Yusuf Health Ministry: He was suspended over financial recklessness, other infractions him from exposing high level Reps c’ttee summons SGF, CBN prevent corruption at the agency.

Henry Omunu, Abuja The embattled Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Prof. Usman Yusuf, on Friday, alleged that his suspension was effected because he refused to release N975 million to the Ministry of Health.

But the Health Ministry insisted on Friday at the continued investigative hearing by the House of Representatives ad hoc committee looking into the crisis rocking the health insurance scheme that the suspended executive secretary was hammered because of financial improprieties.

Meanwhile, the House ad hoc committee has summoned the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to testify about goings on at the NHIS. In his testimony before the panel, Yusuf revealed that the crisis rocking the NHIS started when he turned down the ministry’s request for funds.

He informed the committee that “this led to the setting up of a panel to probe me and the panel delivered as the panelists were given N19 million and even the security too were given money.”

Asked whether he has any evidence, Yusuf responded in the affirmative, declaring that “l even have documented evidence of how the money was shared.”

He described his suspension by the governing board as a coup against transparency, saying it was done to

According to him, he was suspended on October 18, 2018 because it was the day he was due to present to the board a report of the violation of the Public Procurement Act in the handling of public funds at the agency.

The executive secretary further alleged that he was also expected to present before the board a forensic result of the activities of HMOs suspended as well as a report of the NHIS performance.

He said, “Why was I suspended on October 18 and not 19th of October?

On the 18th of October was the day I was going to present a result of the forensic audit of the activities of HMOs. “18th of October was nothing but preemptive coup at the NHIS. It was a gang up to stop my fight against corruption,” he stated.

Yusuf challenged the committee to invite the ICPC and the EFCC, saying that the two anti-graft agencies had given him a clean bill of health on the same allegations being leveled against him, insisting that “all the allegations were recycled.”

He further disclosed that, “Due to the criminal nature of these allegations, there are anti-graft agencies such as the EFCC and the ICPC and I would like this honourable committee to invite them.

“These are all allegations that have been recycled. They were all investigated by the ICPC and EFCC and they found nothing, and I was cleared.

They wrote to me clearing me.”

But the Health Minister, Prof. Isaac

Adewole, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Abdulaziz Abdulahi, in his submission, asserted that the executive secretary was suspended for his financial recklessness and his refusal to follow due process.

He listed more than 10 infractions, including the approval of N210 million contract for electronic media and how he, Yusuf, single-handedly made his brother the media consultant to NHIS. “All the allegations levelled against him are 100 per cent correct as all the panel’s recommendations were perpetuated.

“The suspended executive secretary did not carry out his statutory functions as an accounting officer pursuant to Section 20(1) and (2) of the Public Procurement Act, 2007, he stated.

In his presentation, Chairman, National Civil Service Union, Mr. Shehu Gajo, noted that “the executive secretary was not given fair hearing as the Association of Senior Civil Servants is fond of frustrating all executive secretaries of the agency.

“Right from the days of Femi Thomas when the agency was created, the association once management fails to meet up to its bidding will crash such a management,” Gajo said.

But, Chairman of the ad hoc committee, Hon Nicholas Ossai, countered him, declaring that “l warned earlier that I do not want biased papers here, your paper on this issue is biased.”

He, thereafter, directed the secretariat of the panel to summon the SGF and CBN to give details concerning all their transactions with the NHIS. The hearing is billed to continue on a date yet to be determined.

Buhari thanks WAEC for upholding integrity as he receives his result Mathew Dadiya and Tunde Opalana, Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari has received the attestation and confirmation of his 1961 West African School Certificate (WASC) Examination result from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

The documents were presented to the President on Friday at the State House during a courtesy visit by a delegation of WAEC led by its Registrar, Dr. Iyi Uwadiae, accompanied by Olutise Adenipekun, Head, National Office, WAEC, Abiodun Aduloju, Head Public Affairs, WAEC and Olufemi Oke, Zonal Coordinator, WAEC Abuja.

The President thanked the examination board, established in 1952, and which conducts the WASC examination for University and JAMB entry examination in West African countries, for upholding its integrity over the years, adding that he did not expect anything less from the institution.

Buhari said that it would have been impossible for him to have attended the Defence Services Staff College, India (1973) and thereafter, United States Army War College, as a Nigerian military officer, if he didn’t sit for the WASC examinations in 1961.

The President recounted that during his secondary school days, it was very difficult to commit examination fraud, even though it was not impossible.

He said, ‘’My colleagues and I who spent close to nine years in boarding

school both in primary and secondary, including Gen. Musa Yar’Adua, when we intended to join the military, we had to take a military examination. ‘’We were examined in three subjects, English, Mathematics and General Knowledge because English is the language for general instruction throughout the country because of our colonial heritage. ‘’Mathematics in the military was necessary, coupled with Geography.

We were trained how to be dropped off in the bush, given only a pair of compass and since we were not astronomers, you have to learn to find your way, calculate, using the Pythagoras Theorem and others to work out your position.”

In his remarks, the Registrar said it was possible for candidates to lose their examination certificates through fire and any other unfortunate incident. ‘’We don’t issue certificates twice but we can issue attestations or duplicate copy of the certificate. ‘’We also have what we refer to as confirmation; usually, universities were using this in those days when Information Technology was not in vogue. ‘’Whoever sat for WASC exams in whatever year, we have the records in our database, and Mr. President, we have the records of the examinations you sat in 1961. ‘’We have the attestation of results which we issue to candidates who lost their certificates and confirmation of results,’’ Dr. Uwadiae said.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic

Party (PDP) has described as ridiculous, tragic and comedy, the presentation of what was called WAEC Attestation certificate, to President Buhari at the Presidential Villa on Friday.

The party expressed shock at the Presidency’s mere calling of whatever certificate that was presented to Buhari as ‘attestation’.

In his reaction, PDP national publicity secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, said the party stand by its position that the President has no school certificate.

“What are they attesting to?

We stand by our position that Mr. President has no school certificate. It’s simply a political certificate. We have said that the Buhari presidency and his handlers are always fretting at the mention of a certificate.

“If Mr. President has a certificate, why did he not use it in 2015 election?

Why is the certificate suddenly emerging few months to the election?” he asked.

Questioning the veracity of Buhari’s claim, he asked: “Have you checked the photograph that was attached to the certificate? In 1961, was it the requirement of WAEC to have a passport attached to school certificate?

“Even in our own generation, was a condition in WAEC that you must submit your passport to be attached to your certificate?”

The party recalled the procured Martin Luther Award presented to the president which it claimed was later discovered to be fake, adding that the so-called certificate is a similar award which was procured.

Yakubu

We won’t extend submission of Governorship, State Assembly candidates lists -INEC Tunde Opalana, Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that it will not extend the date for submission of lists of candidates for governorship and House of Assembly by political parties.

According to the Commission’s timetable, submission of names of candidates closed on Friday night.

This was confirmed by INEC’s Director of Voters Education & Publicity, Mr. Uzzi Oluwole Ozaze in a telephone interview.

As at 6.30pm Friday, source at the submission centre located within the International Conference Centre, Abuja confirmed that major political parties including the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and Labour Party have completed process of submission.

An official of the Commission

who spoke on condition of anonymity, said 38 of the 89 parties have completed submission as at 6.30pm, while majority of the party had their submission in progress as they still have list of some states to submit.

The United Progressives Party (UPP) fielded governorship candidates in just 18 states while it submitted 179 names for the of House of Assembly seats.

The national chairman of the Advanced Peoples Democratic Alliance (APDA), Shittu Mohammed Kabir said INEC gave a long time for the parties to comply.

“I want to commend the INEC for having this type of timetable that has helped the parties, helped the country.

He said the process was peaceful, smooth, and well organized.

“We have governors, which is 17 states. We are contesting in 17 states “, he said Waiting to submit their lists at the time of filing this report include the Green Party, KOWA Party and Accord Party.

Court stops Labour from embarking on strike...

Continued on page 6

decision and we are going to stand by that , ” he added .

The Nigerian Governors Forum had issued a communique after its meeting claiming that state governors can only pay N22,500 , as the new national minimum wage.

The organised labour has reiterated its position that any figure below N30,000 would not be acceptable to labour .

Labour had earlier called on its members to mobilise in preparation for the commencement of an indefinite strike on November 6 , unless necessary steps are taken to adopt the recommendation of the Tripartite agreement.

Also, Alhaji Kola Olumoh, the chairman, Trade Union Congress (TUC), in Kwara has said the Friday’s judgment of the National lndustrial Court, Abuja, cannot stop the proposed NLC nationwide strike.

The TUC Chairman stated this in llorin on Friday while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on his reaction to the judgment retraining the NLC from

embarking on the strike scheduled to begin on Nov. 6.

Olumoh described the judgment as a ploy to cause confusion which was already belated.

He said the National body of the organised Labour Unions would appeal the judgment while the proposed nationwide strike would continue Olumoh said labour was magnanimous enough to stand at N30,000 minimum wage for workers which could not be compared with the jumbo pay of the political office holders.

“We are fully prepared for the proposed strike in Kwara if the Federal Government fails to accept the N30,000 as minimum wage, ” Olumoh said.

He advised workers in the state to fully prepare for the impending strike and cooperate with the Labour Unions in the struggle.

The TUC Chairman alleged that most States Governments in the Federation spent about 40 per cent of the monthly allocations for salary and wondered why they were rejecting N30,000 minimum wage.

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

APC guber ticket: Oshiomhole calls Short News powerful joints teenage sex workers woo Govs Rochas, Amosun emperors Six men with charms uncovered ... Says they are feudal lords

Tom Okpe, Abuja Ahead of the 2019 general election and its governorship tickets, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, has exploded on governors of Imo, Rochas Okorocha and his Ogun state counterpart, Ibikunle Amosun, describing them as ‘emperors’ who are feudal leaders.

Oshiomhole, who described Governor Rochas Okorocha as an “embarrassment” to the party also said that he will not help the Imo state governor to build a political dynasty in the South-east region.

In a press conference on Friday in Abuja at his private office, Aso Drive, the National Chairman, Oshiomhole reacted to some of the comments recently made by the two governors as a result of outcome of the governorship primaries in their respective states accusing them, (governors Amosun and Okorocha) of imposition in their states.

In Imo state, Oshiomhole revealed that that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party which he leads met

and have upheld the result of the Gulak committee and “we have prepared the name of Senator Hope Uzodinma to be submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)”.

“If governor Rochas chose to relocate to the Villa and use the ground to intimidate me by creating a dynasty, I will even on one leg but powered by the truth uphold the best interest of APC members and indeed of APC people in Imo state”.

On Amosun, he said the governor went against the primary process revealing that Amosun called him (Oshiomhole), telling him that he was going to adopt consensus option but he rejected it, and insisted on direct primary.

“Governor Amosun decided that he and his preferred aspirant will not participate in the primaries organized by the NWC and tried to withdraw the security that was necessary for the primary panel. At a stakeholders’ meeting, governor Amosun decided to introduce the third element which didn’t feature in the resolution of the National Executive Committee (NEC), announced that Ogun state was going to adopt consensus and he proceeded to define what in his view

Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

constitute consensus.

“He announced somebody as the consensus governor, announced another as the deputy governor, proclaiming himself as the next Senator and he said the current serving senator, Tejuoso should step aside.

“The governor also announced that the second senator also from Ogun state will step aside while another man will come in, announcing another man who will be the next speaker, and another the next deputy speaker. He also pronounced that of the eight House of Representatives members, seven will not return according to him, only one will return. All these he claimed are consensus.

“The governor however decided in his wisdom to conduct its own self help, in what he called his own primary where the Secretary to Ogun state government became the Chief Returning Officer”.

Oshiomhole however, assured Nigerians that his party, the APC will defeat the candidate of the main opposition People’s Democratic party (PDP) in the next year presidential election adding: “We will defeat Atiku the way we have defeated him before”.

Six Powerful joints where teenage sex workers allegedly charm men with prepared powder charms for sexual intercourse in Delta State, have been uncovered.

The Joints, it was gathered, are located in Umunede Community, Nnebisi road Opposite Grandhotel Asaba, Ubulu Okiti Community, Ibusa Round About, Jakpa Junction in Warri, Uromi Junction Agbor where these teenage prostitutes Allegedly woo unsuspecting sex hungry men into sexual intercourse with them for the purposes of financial gains with prepared powder Charms.

Their modus operandi, one of them, Elizabeth Otasowie who spoke to Journalists during night fall on Thursday in Asaba said: “we frequent Asaba opposite Grandhotel because men patronize us a lot; the lodger in the big hotel will always want teenage girls around them for a night and sometimes two nights, and to make us attracted to them we work with native doctors in Asaba who we pay N40,000 each, and we will be given prepared powder charms for us to be using during night fall while we go out to where we hustle to earn a living,”.

According to her, “I am a native of Benin City and our Oba Ewuare11 placed curses on human trafficking and prostitution in Benin, so we have to move into Asaba’’.

Fashion designer drags neighbour to court over threat to life, inflicting injury on dog

A middle-aged fashion designer, David Peters, on Friday dragged his neighbour, Ismail Owolabi, before an Ogudu Magistrates’ Court in Lagos accusing him of threatening the life of his family and blinding the right eye of his dog.

The accused, a public servant, of Sangojimi Street, New Oko-Oba, Abule Egba in the Fagba area of Lagos State, is charged with conspiracy, belonging to an unlawful society, threat to life and causing injury.

The Prosecutor, Insp. Lucky Ihiehie, told the court that the case was referred to the Anti-Cultism Unit, State CIID, Panti, Yaba through a written petition endorsed by the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Police Command.

He said that the complainant reported that sometime in June, himself and his family had a misunderstanding with the complainant, during which he threatened to destroy his family and kill his dog.

The prosecutor said Peters said he took the threat as mere talk because it was in the presence of other neighbours, until Oct. 29 when he noticed someone had inflicted an injury in the eye of his dog with a broom.

Ihiehie said that sometime in September, Peters said he noticed his dog could not see very well and he called a Veterinary Doctor to find out what had gone wrong since the dog just turned 4-years-old.

Sexual assault: Court remands bursar in prison pending legal advice

crowd of petty traders being profiled by officials during the inauguration of TraderMoni, at Oba Market, Benin...at the weekend.

Bribery video: Ganduje denies bribery allegations, describes Jafar a blackmailer Yakubu Salisu, Kano Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje has denied all bribery allegations leveled against him by the publisher of Daily Nigerian, Jafar Jafar, in videos released by the publisher recently, describing him as a blackmailer.

Ganduje denied the allegations on Friday through a letter read before the state’s House of Assembly committee investigating the alleged video.

Ganduje, who was represented by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Youth and Culture, Muhammad Garba, also denied the allegations, insisting that he has not accepted any bribe from anyone and will not accept any bribe.

Ganduje also described the video as a political weapon orchestrated by some political opponents to tarnish his image at a time the nation is warming up for another election.

He described Jafar Jafar as a serial blackmailer who has previously done same to the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, on immorality, and the former Governor of Kano state, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, of having houses in London and Dubai but that at the end, the truth always prevailed.

He called on the committee to ensure a thorough investigation and ensure that justice is served at the end of the investigation, assuring them of his support in the course of their investigation.

Meanwhile, the state Attorney General, Ibrahim Mukhtar, has cautioned media houses to be professional in the cause of their reportage over the matter.

He said the call became pertinent following a false report he heard on one of the radio stations in the state before the commencement of the sitting that only one member of the investigative committee was present whereas, all the seven members of the committee were present.

Lawyer to Governor Ganduje, Barrister

Maruf Yakasai, noted that there has been instances of character defamation by different media outfits which could lead to legal responses, saying , however, that the governor has decided to look the other away.

He called on reporters to remember and apply the various code of ethics guiding the journalism profession while reporting on the matter for the sake of peace and public interest.

During Friday sitting, the Publisher, Daily Nigerian, Jafar Jafar, was absent and there was no representative on his behalf.

The Chairman of the Committee, Hon Baffa Dan Agundi, said the committee could not cross-examine the commissioner because he’s not Ganduje but that the committee will not relent at carrying out its duties.

He adjourned the sitting till Tuesday, November 6, 2018, during which members of the committee would sit with forensic experts to watch and analyse the alleged video.

An Ikeja Magistrates’ Court on Friday ordered that Pius Edu, a bursar at Christ Redeemer School Oworo be remanded in prison custody, pending legal advice from the State Director of Public Prosecutions (DPPs).

Edu, 21, who resides at No. 55 Oworo Rd., Oworonshoki in Lagos, is being charged for sexual assault.

Chief Magistrate, Mrs B. O. Osunsemi, ordered that the case file be sent to the DPP for the advice.

Earlier, the police prosecutor, Insp. Raphael Donny told the court that the accused committed the offence on Oct. 15 about 3.30 p. m. at No. 50 Oworo Rd., Oworonshoki, Lagos.

He alleged that the accused tied the six-year-old girl’s mouth with handkerchief and sexually assaulted her.

The offence, he said, contravened Section 261 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015, (Revised).

The Section stipulates life imprisonment for offenders.

The Magistrate adjourned the case until Dec. 3.

2019 Elections: Jega urges strict compliance to electoral code of conduct

Ahead of 2019 general elections, Prof. Attahiru Jega, a former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, has called for the formulation, adoption and strict compliance with the electoral code of conduct by political parties.

Jega made the call in an in-house monthly publication of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) made available to the newsmen on Friday.

According to him, compliance with “Peace Accord” signed by political parties, will avert bloody political strategies and the “do or die” politics in the country.

He further said that compliance would foster the creation of formidable and productive means of civil engagement through advocacy and public enlightenment, irrespective of individual’s religious and political leaning.

The former INEC chairman observed that while brinkmanship was a deliberate political strategy in electoral politics or diplomatic negotiation, its deployment currently, was primarily in pursuit of selfinterest.

“If brinkmanship is not promptly addressed through appropriate holistic measures by the relevant authorities, it will fuel electoral violence before, during and after elections at all levels.

“The wrong use of brinkmanship in the country, if not rigorously checkmated, may provide a breeding ground for do-or-die politics leveraged by ethno-religious and political demagogues in pursuit of selfish political gains,” Jega said.

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

2019: INEC uncovers 22 polling units in politicians’ homes in A’Ibom Isaac Job, Uyo As preparations for 2019 general elections intensify, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has uncovered twenty two polling units in private homes in Akwa Ibom The commission also disclosed that 175,995 permanent voters cards (PVCS) have not been collected by their owners.

Addressing a press conference in uyo yesterday,the resident electoral commissioner in Akwa Ibom , Mr. Mike Igini, said that no fewer than 22 polling booths have been discovered in the homes of politicians and other private residences in the State.

Igini further explained that “the polling booths are not illegal, but are located at improper places”, and that such polling places had been relocated to public places where voters can easily access.

“We have relocated such polling booths to proper places where the people can access. Elections will hold in Akwa Ibom state and votes will count”, Igini assured, even as he warned desperate politicians against hate speeches that could inflame the polity.’’

He said he was on a mission to Akwa Ibom to conduct free, fair, credible and transparent exercise in line with the relevant sections of the Electoral Act and enjoined eligible voters, party agents and other stakeholders to join hands with INEC to deliver hitch-free

polls whose outcome would not be disputed.

Urging the electorate to get their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs), Igini lamented that 175, 995 PVCs belonging to registered voters between 2015 and 2018, were still yet-to-be collected and tasked the media on intense advocacies against electoral frauds and other malpractices.

Vowing that money would never influenced the outcome of all elections in the state, the INEC boss said he was ready to imbibe every due process to ensure all political parties conduct their businesses in a level playing field and within the ambits of the electoral laws.

“We are in Akwa Ibom to count money, rather, we are in the state to count votes”, he assured,

7 News

Short News Court strikes out Ekiti LG chairmen’s suit against Gov Fayemi Gbenga Sodeinde, Ado-Ekiti An Ekiti State High Court on Friday struck out a suit filed by the sixteen local government chairmen seeking an order to restrain Governor Kayode Fayemi from removing them from office.

The suit was filed by the council chairmen under the aegis of the state chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) who are members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Justice Abiodun Adesodun struck out the suit following a notice of discontinuance filed by their counsel, Mr. Ezekiel Agunbiade.

The notice of discontinuance was consequent upon the notice of preliminary objection filed by counsel to the defendants.

The defendants in the suit are Dr. Kayode Fayemi (1st), Governor of Ekiti State (2nd), Attorney General, (3rd), Speaker (4th) and House of Assembly (4th).

The 1st and 2nd defendants were represented by Mr. Ibrahim Olarewaju and Mr. Tajudeen Akingbolu while Mr. Kabir Akingbolu appeared for the 3rd defendants.

The 4th and 5th defendants were represented by Mr. Adeoye Aribasoye.

Plateau LG boss moves to curb crime, revamp community Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos The Local Government Chairman of Langtang South in Plateau State, Hon. Nimchak Rims has said miscreants will no longer find a safe haven in the community, adding that the local government council will witness a total transformation in no time.

Mr. Nimchak stated this on Friday in Langtang while formally assuming duty since after the LG polls were held.

“I will without any hesitation any hesitation set all machinery in motion to transform the Local Government Area without discrimination. I call on all people of the area to wilfully join hands with my administration irrespective of political difference to take the council to greater height”, he said.

The LG tasked the people of his community to be law abiding citizens and to tolerate each other no matter the provocation.

Our correspondent reports that the royal fathers in Langtang South, Chief Clappertion Durven, and the acting Ponzhi Taroh, Chief Nimnan Langnim, charged the APC led LG boss, not to fail the people whom have voted him into power.

NUJ seeks synergy with security agencies on members’ safety in Nasarawa

Front row: Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed (middle); Coadjutor Bishop of Ilorin Diocese, Most Reverend Paul Adegboyega (second from left); the Catholic Bishop of Ilorin, Most Reverend Ayo-Maria Atoyebi (second right); the APC Governorship Candidate in Kwara State, Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq (extreme right) and the Parish Priest of Saint Andrew’s Catholic Church, Oro, Reverend Father Joseph Awoyale (back row second to the right) at the centenary celebration of the Catholic Church in Oro, Kwara State... on Thursday.

Saraki lauds FG for adopting Kwara’s 10-year old policy Tunde Opalana, Abuja Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has commended the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government for adopting the ‘Every Child Counts’ education policy initiated by his administration 10 years ago, when he was governor of Kwara State.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki applauded the government for keying into his decade-old vision for education reform, which was initiated to resuscitate public education in Kwara State by ensuring an improvement in teaching quality across the state and building strong educational institutions in the state through the development of the Ministry of Education, the Teaching Service Commission and strengthening the State Education Management Information System (EMIS).

“I commend the Federal Government for adopting and modifying the ‘Every Child Counts’ programme that we began in Kwara State in 2008 for the entire country. This shows that this administration values such time-tested ideas that leave positive impact on the lives of our people - especially our young children.

“Right now, our nation is suffering from a rising epidemic. We have over 10.5million out of school children across the country. In order to systematically and strategically cut down on this number, we must work to implement the ‘Every Child Counts’ policy across the country,” the Senate President stated.

Saraki also emphasised that the Federal Government must work to ensure that improving the quality of teachers through constant training and re-education - which was a central focus of the Kwara State model - must play a central role in the Federal Government’s policy approach.

“Teachers are the bedrock of our educational system. The better and more equipped our teachers are, the smarter

and more educationally sound our young children across the nation will be. Hence, it is important that as we work to build strong educational institutions through this repackaged policy, we must also work to enhance the individual capacities of our teachers to meet the demands of a constantly changing world,” he said.

Saraki called on other states across the nation to study and emulate the Kwara State model, while also commending his successor, Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, for sustaining the model that his administration began in 2008.

“Right now, we must look beyond our political affiliations to address the issues that are important to our people. Other states across the nation should key into the successes of the Kwara State model, as the Federal Government has done, to ensure that we not only get our students back in the classrooms, but also to improve the quality of their education through strategic and holistic reforms,” the Senate President stated.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nasarawa state council, says it will seek stronger partnership with security agencies in the state to protect journalists in the course of carrying out their duties.

The Chairman of the union in the state, Mr Dogo Shammah, disclosed this in an interview with newsmen in Lafia on Friday.

November 2, is a United Nations recognised day annually celebrated as The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists.

Shammah said the council had made efforts to orientate security outfits, in the state, on the activities of journalists.

He added that the synergy would go a long way in preventing crimes against journalists as security officers would have a clearer understanding of the work of journalists.

“We have a mutual understanding with security outfits in the state.

“We are working hard to strengthen it so that journalists can do their job in highlighting issues that affect our state and the country at large.

“That is why when we came on board, we embarked on advocacy visits to various security organisations, to build synergy and enlighten them on the vital role journalists play in the society,” he said.

Shammah Also said that the council had proposed to the Nasarawa state government a sensitisation workshop toward enlightening journalists, security outfits on the roles of the media in nation building.

FG to open “National Youth Dialogue” against corruption – Minister

The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr Solomon Dalung, has said the ministry will soon hold a national youth dialogue to make Nigerian youths join the fight against corruption.

Dalung said this in Abuja on Friday at a press conference held by the ministry to mark the “Africa Youth Day” celebrated yearly on Nov. 1.

He said that the ministry would engage youths in both northern and southern parts of the country in the proposed dialogue.

He said that the dialogue became necessary since young people were important in the fight against corruption through the use of new mechanisms, He listed the mechanisms to include whistle blowing, social media and investigative journalism.

“The ministry would engage the youths to create and pilot innovative solutions to the fight against corruption using the African Union-European Union Youth Cooperation Lab. “Furthermore, the Federal Government through the ministry has embarked on series of activities aimed at ensuring accelerated sustainable development especially for the Nigerian youths.

“Some of these include strengthening youth networks and platforms, reform of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, promoting cultural and youth exchange programmes and providing intervention for value reorientation and leadership training.

News 8

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

Nigerian shops reopen in Ghana - Envoy Adebisi Oyindamola, Abuja The Nigerian High Commission to Ghana on Friday disclosed that all Nigerians shops that have been closed due to crisis have been reopened.

The Ghanaian High commissioner, Rashid Bawa who corroborated this in Abuja, following an invitation by the Nigerian minister of foreign affairs, Geoffrey onyeama, assured that his government was on top of the matter.

The envoy confirmed that “80 Percent of Nigerian shops shut have been reopened, and others remained closed only because the

owners were not present”.

In a statement by the ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, the Nigerian High Commissioner to Ghana confirmed today from Accra, that all the Nigerian shops had now been reopened and Nigerian traders were now trading freely.

The Ghanaian Envoy also informed that the Government of Ghana has made it clear that Nigerians were fully entitled to trade in Ghana and their rights would be protected and enforced.

He also said “that Ghanaian traders were assisting Nigerian traders to register their businesses in accordance with Ghanaian law”.

The Ambassador also appreciated the peaceful

disposition to addressing the crisis by Nigeria and informed that the issue is currently being addressed by relevant authorities in Ghana.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama on his part reaffirmed the commitment of Nigeria to work closely with the Government of Ghana to end the crisis and welcomed the recent steps taken by the Ghanaian Authorities in this regard.

The minister reiterated that prevention of Nigerian trader from trading in parts of Ghana was tantamount to a violation of the ECOWAS protocol on free movement and right of abode, adding that the Ghanaian government should do all in its power to protect Nigerian traders.

Short News BMO dismisses Atiku’s criticism on sale of FG assets Tom Okpe, Abuja The Buhari Media Organization (BMO) has described recent criticism by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar of the federal government’s plan to sell some public assets as laughable.

The group wondered when the former Vice President had a “road to Damascus”, encountered what he only recently recommended for the oil and gas sector.

The chairman of the group, Niyi Akinsiju revealed this to journalists in Abuja on Friday saying that the Atiku Presidential Campaign team is just playing to the gallery with its ill-conceived criticism of a well thought plans.

He said: “We make bold to say that the former VP’s media handlers did not consult him before issuing a statement that is at variance with what their principal stands for. If they did, Atiku would have reminded them of the interview he granted Reuters in May this year where he vowed to privatize the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and other major sectors of the economy including mining if elected President.

“We consider it quite an irony that the same campaign team that advanced reasons for the sale of the nation’s refineries as canvassed by its principal, just a short while after, throw so much tantrums in condemning the intention to sell a consciously profiled set of public assets in a sector the Nigerian government had historically privatized.

Police arrest Togolese killer cook Joy Anyim, Lagos The Togolese cook, Sunday Anani who allegedly murdered the Chairman of Credit Switch Technology, Chief Opeyemi Bademasi has been arrested by the Police in Ondo State.

Anani who had been employed by the deceased had allegedly killed him barely three days after assuming duty at Chief Bademasi’s resident in No.3A Onikoyi Lane residence, Parkview estate, Ikoyi.

According to the Lagos State Police Command that had declared the suspect wanted following his disappearance after the act, the suspect was arrested on Friday at about 9:30 am at Yaba area in Ondo town, Ondo state.

Confirming the arrest, the Lagos Command Public Relations Officer, CSP Chike Oti said, “The fleeing cook, later identified as Sunday Anani, 22 years of age, was arrested by homicide detectives attached to State Criminal Investigation And Intelligence Department (SCIID) Panti Street, Yaba, is right now undergoing interrogation.

“Recall that CP Lagos had earlier promised Lagosians that the suspect will be arrested to face the law; that the suspect can only run but not hide, now assures that at end of the investigation, the Command, in its usual manner, will give the public detail by detail account of how the suspect committed the crime.”

Rotary Club donates materials to polio survivors, IDPs in Plateau

L-R: Executive Secretary, Nigeria christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Uja Tor Uja and the Chairman, Local Committee for annual festival of Nine Lessons and Christmas Carols jointly organized by Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mrs. Pat Ozele to NCPC corporate headquarters during her visit in Abuja... on Friday.

APC chieftain charges Abe to accept party supremacy Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has charged Senator Magnus Abe to humbly take the advice of the National Leader of the party, Senator Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and honour the party’s supremacy.

Chief Eze quoted the National leader of APC, Senator Tinubu as stating that “Party is supreme. Party must be respected. Abuses will not do it and anger will not do it. It is party politics, somebody will win and somebody will lose, too bad”.

Throwing more light on the stand

of the party’s National Working Committee, NWC, Chief Eze also quoted the Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu as saying, “Therefore, the candidature of Arch. Tonye Cole along with his running mate, Hon. Victor Giadom remains inviolate. The list of our candidates for the governorship, National Assembly, and House of Assembly has been processed by the NWC according to the INEC guidelines.”

In a statement issued and circulated in Port Harcourt on Friday, Chief Eze advised Senator Abe to retrace his steps based on those facts.

He stated that Abe should embrace peace and tow the path of honour by

desisting from alleged ‘de-marketing’ of the APC, adding “the party’s rules must be respected.

“I advise my friend to tow the path of peace and honour and forgo the goal of de-marketing the APC,” he said.

The APC chieftain commended INEC and the APC NWC in their recent press statements in which they reinstated faith in the election of Ambassador Tonye Cole as the authentic gubernatorial candidate of the party in Rivers State.

“With this development, Abe should retrace his steps and work with the party to achieve victory both at the state and national levels if he truly still considers himself as a true APC member,” he advised.

The Rotary Club of Naraguta, Jos, District 9125, has donated 75 birth kits and eight wheel chairs to polio survivors in Plateau as part of its humanitarian services.

The Immediate Past President of the club, Ms Theresa Eyetan, made the disclosure in Jos on Friday at the investiture of Mr Yakubu Eneji as the new president.

Eyetan said the donations were made during her one year tenure as president of the club.

“We distributed the delivery kits comprising 10 mucus extractors, maternity pad, bed mat, bathing soaps and antiseptic, among others, in two Primary Health Centres (PHCs), ‘’ she said.

Eyetan said that 50 desks and chairs were distributed to two public primary schools, each with a sitting capacity of 75 pupils.

The outgoing president said that the club also organised a dental outreach for 300 pupils in public schools, where free dental kits and other dental care products were distributed.

The new president pledged to further embark on humanitarian services to augment government’s efforts and shore up progress in the society.

2 septuagenarians, other siblings in court over N6.5m building materials theft Four brothers including two septuagenarians were on Friday brought before an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos charged with stealing building materials worth N6.5 million at a construction site.

The accused — Theophilus Atunrase, 78; Bamidele Atunrase, 69; John Atunrase, 71; and Abraham Atunrase, 41, — are being tried for a fourcount charge of conspiracy, break in, stealing and malicious damage.

They all pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them.

But Police Prosecutor Chinalu Uwadione insisted that said the accused committed the offences sometime in May at No. 8, Ijagbemi St., Lagos.

He said the brothers had entered a property situated at Ijagbemi Street and damaged the fence.

Uwadione also alleged that the brothers stole 500 bags of cement and iron rods, all valued at N6.5 million property of the complainant, whose name was given as Obatola.

The offences, he said, contravened Sections 280, 307, 339 and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

Power comes from God, not via violence, murder – Gov Dickson Akam James, Yenagoa The Governor of Bayelsa State, Hon. Seriake Dickson, has taken a swipe on desperate politicians to desist from criminal and violent means of getting power, noting that power only comes from God and not through killings and violence.

Governor Dickson gave the assertion on Friday while speaking during the 7th Bayelsa State annual Thanksgiving Day celebration at the state ecumenical centre Yenagoa.

He also urged the Christian community to join force with the state and pray that God should shut them out, adding that for the past few years the state has been know for peace so no politician should breach the peace

of the state.

He further more disclosed that there are still few criminal elements in the state masquerading as political party, noting that the same way the people rejected them in 2015, they will be defected again.

Dickson, who attributed most of the achievements of his administration to God, added that the thanksgiving is not one of government’s rituals but a moment to praise God and re-dedicate the state and renew the covenant with God Almighty.

“There are reasons we come to praise him and renew our covenant with God. We are the only state that holds a public holiday to thank God. When the country was faced with the worst recession in recent times, we were still building roads, infrastructural developments and

other human development” In Bayelsa state we have the best public health facilities, we have built many schools, established more universities and many more and those are part of the reasons of thanking God. The officiating ministers who join the service include, Archbishop Margaret Idahosa, the archbishop of the church of God mission international, Bishop Yomi Isijola, presiding Bishop of Logos Ministries Into Church.

Others are Apostle David Zilly Aggrey, senior pastor and founder of royal house of grace, Archbishop Jacob Akpiri, Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Bayelsa chapter.

While the guest preacher was, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, senior Pastor house on the rock.

9 News

Short News There’s need to accord rights of gay people - Activist A human right activist, Shaki Williams, has faulted the denial of human rights of gay people in the country, saying that the arrest and bad treatment being meted to people who are gay should be stopped in the interest of Justice.

Williams, who stated this during a press briefing in Lagos on Friday, stated that gays are law abiding and of good character and should be entitled to their rights.

The activist also condemned the way bisexual is been treated, saying that it is regrettable that the right of gays and lesbians are been taken away.

According to him, the development should not be so because all Nigerians have equal rights.

He said, “From the research of few years ago, it shows that about 3 - 5 percent of Nigerian populace are gay. There was an arrest in January 2017 that invoved five persons from this gay group in an hotel in Ikeja area of Lagos State and they were handed over to the authority.

“The three people from the group were mentioned by the Vigilante leader of the area to the authority for their mmediate arrest and prosecution because they are also member of the gay group. “ These three people were able to escape arrest because of the heavy traffic jam at Lagos - Ibadan express way that delay them from meeting up with the group at Ikeja before the arrest took place.”

Group berates Atiku, says Dubai holiday wasteful Tom Okpe, Abuja A Group, Buhari Media Organization (BMO) has criticized Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s strategic meeting in Dubai, the United Arab Emirate (UAE) describing it as a ‘wasteful Dubai holiday’.

Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential candidate in the 2019 general election travelled to the UAE with his supporters for a strategic meeting on how they will be able to wrestle power from the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by President Muhammadu Buhari in the forthcoming election in the country.

The BMO however said this meeting is a “disgusting, disgraceful display of opulence that insults the Nigerian people”.

In a statement on Friday signed by its Chairman, Niyi Akinsiju and Secretary Cassidy Madueke in Abuja said: “This trip by Atiku and over a hundred people is not just a sign of his lavish lifestyle, but it depicts the elitist wasteful nature of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential candidate”.

The group also described the pretentious strategy meeting as a guise by the PDP presidential candidate to show off his ill-gotten wealth through grandiose holidaying, a meeting that could have been held in Nigeria.

NCC establishes industry code to regulate internet access

L-R: Treasurer, Nigerian Institute of Engineers, Lagos Chapter, Engr. Jubril Lawal; Ex officio, Engr. Akinlolu Satope; Chairperson, NICE, Lagos chapter, Engr. Lola Adetona; and vice chairman, Engr. Emeka Ibeh, at the Conference of Engineers in Lagos.

Man who jumped into Lagos lagoon on Friday identified as FRCN staff

The man who got drown after he reportedly jumped into the lagoon in Lagos on Friday has been identified as a staff of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN).

A staff of FRCN, who pleaded anonymity, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the deceased was a driver attached to an Assistant Director in charge of Information Communication Technology unit of the corporation.

The source said that the deceased was newly posted from the FRCN Training School located in Shogunle to the Broadcasting House in Ikoyi,

Lagos The source, however, described him as a gentleman.

Commander of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Tunji Disu, told NAN that his men got to the scene almost immediately and invited marine police and local divers who recovered the corpse from the lagoon.

“The deceased parked the vehicle he was driving on the Third Mainland Bridge and told other occupants of the vehicle that he wanted to urinate “The occupants were shocked as he dived into the lagoon,” said RSS Commander, Disu, Assistant

Commissioner of Police.

RRS had earlier tweeted on its tweeter handle @rrslagos767: “A man has jumped into the Lagoon from 3rd Mainland Bridge.

“RRS riders got to the scene almost immediately and radioed for assistance from the Marine Police, LASG rescue Boats & local divers who recovered the corpse.

“The remains have been taken to Ebute Ero division.’’

On Oct. 3, 2018, a middle-aged man drowned after reportedly jumping into the lagoon from the Third Mainland Bridge inwards Lagos Island.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) says it has concluded plans to establish internet industry code of practice to regulate internet access and services in the country.

Prof. Umar Danbatta, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC made this known at a Stakeholders’ Consultation Forum on the Establishment of Internet Industry Code of Practice on Friday in Abuja.

Danbatta, who was represented by Mrs Yetunde Akinloye, the Director Legal Regulatory Services (NCC) said that the code would clearly define the rights and obligations of internet access service providers.

He said that the code would also put measures in place to safeguard and protect minors, vulnerable audiences and consumers as a whole.

“This envisioned as a co-regulatory effort between the commission and industry stakeholders, hence the need for extensive public consultation and in the final document, ‘’ he said.

Danbatta said that the establishment of the code was conceived to ensure safety, security and to harness the benefits of the internet for good governance and better user experience.

Yellow fever: UNICEF advocates deliberate policy to save Nigerian lives

The United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) has advocated for deliberate policies to save the lives of Nigerians from Yellow fever.

The UNICEF Communications and Development Officer, Mrs Margaret Soyemi, made the call in an interview with newsmen on Friday in Abuja.

Soyemi fielded questions at the end of its 5-day Yellow fever sensitisation/preventive mass vaccination training in Abuja.

She emphasised that efforts at saving millions of Nigerian citizens from outbreak of Yellow fever must be deliberate.

“Yellow fever is a deadly disease, which ravishes tropical and Subtropical areas such as South America and Africa, including Nigeria.

“The fight against the disease must be deliberate, purposeful and holistic to save millions of people in Nigeria hence the synergy between UNICEF and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCD,’’ she said.

News 10

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

FG to deploy fiscal policies to protect industries, encourage investments - Finance Minister

The federal government has pledged to deploy fiscal policies that protect industries and encourage investments in critical sectors of the economy.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Zainab S. Ahmed in Abuja at the opening session of 4th Meeting of the ECOWAS Finance Ministers on the Consolidation of ECOWAS Customs Union held yesterday at the ECOWAS Commission headquarters, Abuja.

She said “Nigeria will continue to deploy fiscal policies to support or protect emerging industries, encourage investment in critical sectors, and promote local production.

This she added “is with a view to achieving the effective implementation of the country’s Agricultural Promotion Policy (APP) and the Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) within the transitional period of 5 years of implementation of the GET (2015-2019).”

She noted that this is without prejudice to the spirit of regional integration and free trade protocols as Nigeria has been in the forefront of supported trade policies.

According to her, “like every developing economy, Nigeria’s vision to industrialise is very strong. Accordingly, we believe ECOWAS Common External Tarrif (CET) should be designed to promote regional industrialisation in a manner that on the long term reduces dependence on imports. We will continue to work within ECOWAS to achieve these laudable objectives.”

In a statement by the SA, Media and Communications to the Minister of Finance, Paul Ella Abechi said Mrs. Ahmed stressed that “Nigeria believes fervently that ECOWAS

regional policies such as the CET, the Customs Union and other fiscal policies should aim seriously at achieving economic growth and industrialization for member states, while reducing import dependency.

“The economies of scale that result from successful integration should serve as catalysts for economic development of the region.

“Nigeria therefore believes West Africa, while desiring integration into the global economy, should diversify its economy through manufacturing, processing of primary products and other forms of economic modernization.

“Nigeria undoubtedly supports a regional common tariff and a customs union for ECOWAS as major steps toward the achievement of the objective for which the ECOWAS itself was established.”

She reiterated Nigeria’s unflinching commitment to the success of the ECOWAS project, particularly in the areas of trade liberalization and economic integration.

Nigeria’s current economic policies, in several aspects, seek to identify with, and actively participate in the effort to achieve regional economic development through cooperation.

In this regard, Nigeria effectively commenced the implementation of the ECOWAS CET in April 2015, with additional measures under the ECOWAS approved Supplementary Protection” she explained.

Some of the majors taken she said include; “an Import Adjustment Tax (IAT) List which involves additional taxes on 177 Tariff Lines of the CET 2015 2019; A National list consisting of items whose import duty rates have been reviewed downwards to encourage

rapid development in strategic sectors of the economy and an import Prohibition List (Trade) applicable only to certain goods originating from Third Countries.”

The minister also used the occasion for advocate for more controls on tobacco in the sub region to minimise the health hazards associated with tobacco.

“In particular, we hold the belief that the establishment of a Track and Trace System for Manufactured and imported Tobacco Products represents ECOWAS’ genuine desire to enthrone best practices in tobacco taxation and control the public health hazards of these products” she said.

On taxation she said “the draft regulations on an ECOWAS Tax Treaty Model and Mutual Assistance in Tax Collection can potentially ease tax treaties negotiations among the Member States, eliminate tax evasion/avoidance within the region, encourage tax audit and exchange of tax information as well as enhance regional integration.”

“As a matter of fact, these Regulations will also assist to deepen the integration of the region with the global strategies to improve public revenue through the elimination of tax malpractices” she noted.

“I wish to assure you of Nigeria’s commitment to a sustainable, functional regional economic integration project that will, in the long run, facilitate economic growth and social prosperity for the peoples of West Africa. I also assure of Nigeria’s readiness to support the outcomes of today’s meeting” she assured ECOWAS.

Short News INEC fixes Nov 17 for Toro federal constituency by-election Samuel Luka, Bauchi The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the conduct of Bye-election into the Toro Federal Constituency for Saturday November 17.

Head of Department, Voter Education and Publicity, INEC Bauchi, Alhaji Mohammed Salisu said the development followed a recent pronouncement by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara that vacancies exist in the lower legislative chamber.

According to him, Speaker Dogara had declared that Toro Federal Constituency seat became vacant following the election of the then member representing the constituency in the house, Yahaya Gumau as the Senator Bauchi South Senatorial District.

“Following his election to the Senate at the by-election for Bauchi South senatorial district which was conducted sometimes in August 2018, the position of the enabling statute states that by-elections to fill the declared vacant seat by the National Assembly be conducted within 30 days upon the declaration,” he said.

Minister advocates religious tolerance as Church celebrates centenary Tom Okpe, Abuja The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has stressed the need for peaceful co-existence between Christian and Muslim faithful in order to engender peace and unity in the country.

The Minister made the remarks in Oro, Kwara State, on Thursday at the centenary celebration of the Saint Andrew’s Catholic Church Oro, saying that the massive socio-economic development that has been witnessed in Oro over the years is largely due to the religious harmony in the town.

He said the lessons learnt from the 100 years of the existence of the Saint Andrew’s Catholic Church in his hometown of Oro are that of tolerance and peaceful co-existence between Christians and Muslims.

Alhaji Mohammed, who attended the centenary Mass in the church, recalled that the premises of the Church were the venue for three consecutive years, of his Annual Ramadan Lecture.

In a statement signed on Friday by the Special Adviser on Media to the Minister, Segun Adeyemi said: “Not only are we witnessing 100 years of Catholicism in Oro but actually we also witnessed 100 years of peaceful coexistence between Christianity and Islam and I think, to me, this is the most significant mark of this particular event.

Lalong declares state of emergency in tourism sector

Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau has declared a state of emergency in the tourism sector to enable the state to immediately develop its tourism potentials.

Lalong made the declaration on Friday in Jos at the opening of the first ever Plateau Tourism Conference.

The theme of the conference is, “Unlocking the Vast Potentials of Tourism as a Financial Option for Sustainable Socio-economic Development.”

“I declare a state of emergency on tourism. This will enable us to give the desired attention to the speedy development of the industry into Nigeria’s home of peace and tourism,” he said.

The governor said that the state government had seen the need to provide critical infrastructure in its urban governance and rural transformation agenda.

He said that this was in consideration of the immense potentials that Plateau possessed and given the advantage of its all-year-round clement weather.

L-R: Special Adviser to the Bayelsa State Governor on Religious Matters, Pastor Samuel John- Peters, Senior Pastor, House On The Rock, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Governor of Bayelsa State, Hon. Seriake Dickson and his wife, Rachael in a discussion during the 7th Bayelsa State Thanksgiving Celebration at the State Ecumenical Centre, Glory Drive, Igbogene, Yenagoa.

22-year -old man allegedly killed by suspected ritualist Nkiru Nwagbo, Awka A 22-year-old man, Peter Osakwe, has been allegedly killed by a suspected ritualist in his house.

Our Correspondent gathered that Osakwe’s breasts and private parts were reportedly removed from his body that was found hanging on the entrance of his room at 27B Enweonwu Street in Onitsha.

While confirming the incident,

the state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Haruna Mohammed, noted that one Suspect was arrested in connection with the Crime.

According to him, “A Good Samaritan in Onitsha reported at the Inland Town Division that the lifeless body of a tenant named Peter Osakwe, aged 22 years was found hanged at the main entrance to his room at No. 27B Enweonwu Street, Onitsha.

“Police detectives attached to the Inland Town Division visited

the scene, photographed the victim and rushed him to the General Hospital Onitsha where he was confirmed dead by a medical doctor and his corpse deposited at the hospital morgue for post-mortem examination.

“However, medical examination conducted on the deceased revealed marks of violence on the deceased’s lower arms and pubic regions, hence murder is suspected.”

Mohammed said the case was under investigation.

175, 995 PVCs unclaimed in Akwa Ibom — REC

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Akwa Ibom, said 175, 995 Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) had yet to be claimed in the state as at Nov. 1.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mr Mike Igini, made the disclosure while speaking to newsmen on the activities of the commission ahead of the 2019 general elections in Uyo on Friday.

He said that the state had received about 1.89 million permanent voter cards from its national headquarters since 2015 and has distributed 1.72 million.

The REC appealed to those who had yet to collect their PVCs to go to INEC office in the local government areas to claim them.

He urged political stakeholders, candidates in the forthcoming general elections and their supporters to conduct campaigns devoid of violence and hate speeches.

“We urge the media to appeal to politicians, stakeholders and candidates to work for free, fair, credible and violence-free elections.

“Campaign messages should be devoid of rhetoric of violence and hate speeches. Campaign messages should encapsulate message of hope and peace,” Igini said.

The REC reminded Akwa Ibom people, especially politicians that the display of voters’ register in all the 2,980 polling units would begin next week.

According to him, the exercise is intended to clean up the register before final presentation in January 2019.

Daily Times Nigeria

Saturday, November 3, 2018

Where is Durella?

Folarin Leonard With yet another single by D’banj titled “Be with you”, lovers of Nigerian music who have been following from time wouldn’t miss the familiarity in the voice when compared to Durella. Now that calls for the question, where is Durella?

Self-titled King of The Zanga, Oluwadamilare Okulaja, popularly known as Durella is a Nigerian recording artiste and song writer, performer and businessman. He kicked off as an artiste while he resided at Mushin, a quite popular and rugged part of Lagos at the time.

You may remember his notable hit singles like “Enu Ose”, “Shayo”, “Wizkolo Wiska”, “Club Rock” and “Gaga” featuring Wizkid. Those songs blew minds and with his features, it was almost impossible for DJs to spin without his tracks.

Durella is beyond question a part of the Nigerian music industry. He’s also featured with prominent stars like Dbanj, Femi Kuti, Duncan Mighty, Terry G, Olamide, and Dammy Krane, and has shared stages with legendary performers not exempting his performance live with Wyclef Jean in South Africa. Durella began receiving awards in 2008 from MTV Base.

Durella was originally signed to TC Records in 2006 after its executives witnessed his performance at an event. Under this record, he released his first debut album “King of The Zanga” which includes tracks like- In the Zanga, SHAYO, Gunner’s Anthem, Queen of My Zanga and Wizkolo Wiska and later on, he dropped his second album, Reconfigurated.

With “Life in The Zanga”, Durella emerged winner at a competition organised by Airtel (then, Zain)/ MTV where he won 50,000 dollars.

He collaborated with various stars when he was visibly in the music scene. With the likes of his sound-identical, D’banj in “Ibadi E” Featuring Olamide, Durella and Kay Switch, “Nkiruka” featuring Duncan Mighty, “Buddy Hanging featuring Olamide”, “My Life” featuring Terry G, “Gaga” Featuring Wizkid, Jahbless – “Joor Oh” Remix Featuring Ice Prince, Reminisce, Ruggedman & Eldee ,”Don’t Go Funny” Featuring Timaya, “2 Casket” by Quest Featuring Durella, HCode “Monster” (Remix) Featuring Olamide, Durella, Dammy Krane & Shobzy.

You may remember Durella as the dude who is always on Dark shades. D’banj is a man of shades as well. One major difference between D’banj and Durella is their mode of presentation. Durella, who now resides in Lekki, featured in songs of individuals with street credibility. Men of the street!

The likes of Olamide, HCode, Terry G and Wizkid who reps Surulere anytime, any day, to mention a few. Now how many street credible artists has D’banj had in his singles? D’banj is definitely a solo kind of entertainer.

While all that was happening, the Koko Master was doing his own thing. Every follower of Nigerian music will agree that Durella sounds very much D’banj. Although Durella doesn’t think it is right to think that as he stated some years ago that their elements and manner of delivery is very different.

But how true is that? We still hear D’banj say “I’m D’banj”, “Or Skibanj”, then the Koko Master thingy comes in. Of course, that’s the brand. Durella on the other hand also uses catch phrases like “Omo Yapayaski”, “Durella Mistyasky”. Virtually all performers have slangs and catch phrases but what makes this similar is majorly the tone and rhythm.

Since his last major hit, Durella hasn’t been on the limelight for several months. You may blame it on lavish spending as some of his fans accused him of or bad management from his former record label, Iconic Music or maybe he probably just ran out of songs which is almost impossible for a song writer. Durella was signed to Iconic Music who made some of his hits. He probably became irrelevant in the industry when rumours passed that he was D’banj’s back-up singer which seemed true but only a sound guru can separate the voices anyway.

Durella recently came back to the music scene with “Otipe” in the first quarter of 2017. “Otipe” is a love song that sees Durella longing after his lover. Although he may not have received the welcome back he deserved, it counts as an effort that shows he has plans to stay in the industry.

To Durella, if he is reading this, your fans await another hit single or any wave rocking come back at all as we remember he is also the first Nigerian artiste to own a shoe line: Durellasneakers, named after his popular slogan “2Gbaski”. How many stores or persons have them now?

Durella

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Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

Kwam 1, Onyeka Onwenu, Queen Salawa Abeni, Bright Chimezie, others headline ‘The Monarch Experience’ Some of Nigeria’s most celebrated music icons are about to set the stage on fire with their timeless songs and stellar live performances at a Live concert tagged, ‘The Monarch Experience’ scheduled to hold on Saturday, December 8 at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The night of rich Nigerian music variety is packaged by leading creative agency, Temple Management Company (TMC), the producers of the highly-successful “Sunny On Sunday - 2016 Concert” marking Juju Maestro, King Sunny Ade’s 70th birthday. It was the same concert that spurned the record-breaking auction sale of the Juju King’s Fender Telecaster Guitar.

To take the audience on a nostalgic journey are some of the finest to

Organisers unveil AFRIFF 2018 at star-studded ceremony

Onyeka-Onwenu

ever rock the stage presenting a cocktail of eclectic genres such as Fuji, Juju, Highlife and contemporary Afro Music. On the line-up for The Monarch Experience are Kwam 1, Onyeka Onwenu, Sir Shina Peters, Queen Salawa Abeni, Bright Chimezie and Gloria Ibru.

Expected to grace the high-class event are the Crème De La Crème of the society, including high net worth individuals (HNI), government officials, culture custodians, music lovers, style and fashion connoisseurs among others.

According to Mark Redguard, Head of Entertainment of Temple Management Company, The Monarch Experience offers more than just entertainment.

Mark explained: “With Sunny on Sunday, we delivered a live music concert experience of world class scale that can be taken anywhere in the world. We have put in more work because we have set a higher standard for ourselves from what we achieved previously. The end goal is to raise the bar with The Monarch Experience and indeed deliver a memorable event that everyone will be proud of.”

He adds: “It will provide the right ambience for socialising and HNI networking. We envision that it has been a busy year for everyone and The Monarch Experience presents the perfect atmosphere for people to reward themselves with an unforgettable experience.”

Organisers of the African International Film Festival (AFRIFF) officially unveiled its eighth edition with the theme, “The Many Faces of Woman” at a star-studded ceremony in Lagos.

The well-attended event held at the latest outlet of film House Cinema, Twin Waters, Lekki, Lagos. AFRIFF also had the honour of screening the recently released ‘The Hate U Give’, starring Amandla Stenberg as the first film to show in the new Cineplex.

AFRIFF’s growing relevance in the pantheon of African cinema attracted partners who include Access Bank, Tecno, the American and French Embassies, Canon, DSTV, Africa Magic, Punuka, Lagos Fringe Festival, C3 Africa and the Nigerian Film and Video Censorship Board.

Expectedly, the diversity of the Africa International Film Festival continues to witness a surge as it will be screening over 138 films from over 50 countries, including Nigeria, South Africa, Afghanistan, France and the United States of America.

The event drew A-list Nollywood actors including Omotola JaladeEkeinde, Ini Edo, Uche Jombo, and Kunle Afolayan among others. On the roll-call were thespians such as Mildred Okwo, Mahmood Ali-Balogun, Lilian Amah, Charles Novia and many more.

To underscore the theme of the year, Chioma Ude, AFRIFF Founder, noted, “The Many Faces of Woman”, is a visual exploration of the portrayal of women in cinema that raises discussions on a central question; ‘What is Woman?

Opening with the visually arresting epic Western tale “Sew the Winter to My Skin” a tale that follows the myth of

Chioma-Ude a South African bandit in pre-apartheid South Africa and closing with the highly anticipated “Nigerian Prince”, a Nigerian venture helmed by the capable Faraday Okoro, the Africa International Film Festival will take place from November 11, 2018 to November 17, 2018.

Mr. Jérôme Pasquier, the Ambassador of France to Nigeria, highlighted the immense contribution the French Embassy has given to the film festival, with hopes to continue with the very enriching partnership.

Similarly, Laurent Polonceaux, the Consul General, commented on his enthusiasm with working with the festival.

Also lending his voice, Amaechi Okobi, Access Bank’s Group Head, Corporate Communications & External Affairs Manager, Access Bank harped on the devotion of the foremost African financial institution to the arts.

Olamide discovered Picazzo on Mr. 2kay gives out scholarships to 300 students, my Instagram page, not Tunde pays WAEC registration fee for 200 in Rivers Ednut’s - Baddy Oosha Stories by Mutiat Alli Nigerian singer, Mr. 2kay on the 24th of October 2018 visited over 8 schools in Bakana Community, Rivers State where he not only graced the students with his presence but gave

mr 2kay and some of the beneficairies

out scholarships to 300 kids (which covers books, school uniform and school fee).

The “God Can Bless Anybody” crooner also paid WAEC registration fee for over 200 SS3 students as he introduced hints on his Charity Foundation which he will be unveiling soon.

His words: “These kids in rural areas do not have the financial opportunities as those in urban areas and it is up to us to help them not just to get education but get education in a conducive environment”.

He also decided to help in making these school environment conducive for its students in the little way he can.

The dust is yet to settle on the ongoing controversy between Olamide and Tunde Ednut over who truly discovered the latest addition to the Olamide led YBNL music family, budding rapper and rave of the moment, Picazzo, on social media, However, the real brain behind the whole controversy, CEO of Dubai-based audiovisual equipment company, Oosha Empire, filmmaker, actor and record label owner turned singer, Badmus Akeem. O, popularly known as ‘Baddy Oosha’, has finally cleared the air on the matter which has since gone viral on social media.

In a chat with our reporter, he explained how Olamide discovered the budding music talent on his Instagram page contrary to public belief that it was on Tunde Ednut’s page.

“Most of these street artistes are known and blown via my influence. I discovered many of them and make people listen to them and give them attention. Olamide actually posted this because he discovered Tunde Ednut is trying to claim the glory that it was via his post Olamide discover his new signee. But Olamide was angry because I always keep quiet, so he went ahead and posted this to let the world know Picazzo was discovered by him via my page”, he said.

He added that though he has been quiet behind the scenes, he is the brain behind so many big things happening on the Nigerian music scene.

“Let me say this, so far it has to do with street, I’m the brain behind so many things; but I’ve always kept mute and don’t grant interviews. But everything I’ve done so far is

Baddy Oosha based on my love for the street music itself.

Like Olamide said few days ago, he’s the Nas, Reminisce is the P Diddy while I’m the Larry Hoover. I’ve been the brain behind so many hits out there but decided to be mute and low key”, he said.

Speaking about who the best reigning Nigerian musician is, he named all street music artistes the best.

“As far as your song is street music, to me you are the best. As long as you sing street music you are the best”, he opined.

Baddyoosha is a business man, who owns a audio and visual equipment company in Dubai known as Oosha Empire Audio and Visual Equipment Company. He’s also an International promoter and a musician with over 10 singles to his credit. After his debut single ‘Esemi’ in 2014, he has gone to record hits like ‘Timbalowo, ‘Angeli, ‘Oga’, ‘Talon Shaye and many more

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

13 Society Gist

CAN is part of Nigerian problem - Prophet (Dr.) G. K Samuel Stories by Isaac Oguntoye Nigeria is the most populous African country that is nearly equally divided between Christian and Islam, though the exact ratio is uncertain. But among all the religions in Nigeria, Islam and Christianity record large numbers of adherents and the country’s politics is almost based on the two religious divides according to information. Meanwhile, thousands of men, women a n d

Prophet Samuel.....

children have been killed in Nigeria in what the country’s Christian community are condemning as “ethnic cleansing”.

This has no doubt attracted international condemnation from different societal groups all over the world. Some claimed that the sole purpose of these attacks is aimed at ethnic cleansing, land grabbing and forceful ejection of the Christian natives from their ancestral land and heritage while some blame this on the fact that, corruption has enfeebled the Christian Association of Nigeria CAN and made it ill-equipped to protect Christians.

In this regard, Prophet Dr. G.K Samuel, the general overseer of Christ Is Able Apostolic Mission, who is widely known as Omo Arugbo Orun, has condemned the association and accused them of been one of the major problems affecting the country.

He however advise the association to disassociate themselves from partisan politics and focus on moving the association to her promised land.

His words: “CAN for instance, is not functioning as a body. I as a prophet I don’t know the stand of CAN in all what is happening in the country. Whether CAN have their own political candidate or group because CAN’s major interest should be fighting for the welfare of the churches not putting mouth in politics and if there is anything happening in the government that is affecting the churches, it is the duty of CAN to address it but now CAN is zero.

The association is part of the people creating problem for the country. If you accuse Muslims of trying to Islamise the country through Islamic Banking, then Christians too should try and Christianise the country through free schools, agricultural development and other social amenities. With what is happening in the country, if people like Oyedepo, Pastor Kumuyi, Pastor Adeboye, T.B Joshua, Oyakilomen just to mention few can come together and say, let’s move poverty out of this country even if it is farming, let us donate acres of land for farming, Nigeria will experience what we call a dramatically turn around,” the dynamic spiritually filled pastor concluded.

Unveiling creative singer, I’SNOW I’SNOW is another creative young chap that the Nigerian music industry can be proud of.

The Afro hip hop singer has been working tedious behind the camera in other to perfect his craft. At the moment, I’SNOW is not just ready to break the jinx in the industry but ready unleash a new sense and dimensions of music into the industry. His new effort, ‘WAYO’ has been enjoying and topping musical chart since it was released. I’SNOW AMAH as the sonorous voice singer is usually known as PRINCE IFEANYI AMAH. He attended Lerato Primary School, Dopemu Agege, Lagos before proceeding to Santana Primary School, Awo Omama Imo State.

After that, he went to Federal Government College Port Harcourt, Rivers State and Eagles Institute of Technology, Ojo Lagos.

As a lover of music, his career started at a very tender age. He started as a rap artiste under a defunct group of three known as JANBOIZ in the early 2000. I’SNOW

Brand Endorsement: Baba Ijesa becomes ‘Booku Chicken’ ambassador Comedian and Top Nollywood star, Olanrewaju Omiyinka, better known as Baba Ijesa, has been unveiled as the brand ambassador of a new food brand, ‘Booku Chicken’.

The Osun State born comedian is now the face of Booku Chicken, a product of Agro-Park Foods and Spices Limited.

Baba Ijesa who is also a brand ambassador for Trophy beer and Pragmatic Homes signed the deal to represent the Chicken brand last week at the corporate head office of AgroPark Foods and Spices Limited at Omole Estate, Lagos.

After the signing, which was witnessed by top management staff of Agro Park Foods and Spices Limited, Dayo Badmus, Media and Publicity Manager to Baba Ijesa said the agreement is a marriage of two compatible brands. “Booku Chicken

is a brand that comes with 100percent natural growth. Baba Ijesa is well known for 100percent natural jokes so; this is a very interesting marriage between two brands that loves originality and nature.”

Booku Chicken is 100% naturally bred chicken with no antibiotics, synthetics or growth hormones. The Chickens are fed and treated using extracts from natural herbs, vegetables and crops.

On the choice of Baba Ijesa as a Brand ambassador for Booku, Head of Corporate Communications, AgroPark Foods and Spices Limited, Adetoro Olayomi said the Nollywood thespian was chosen because just like Booku Chicken, his brand appeals to everyone irrespective of income level or social class.

“Booku is a product accessible and affordable for everyone regardless of your class or level of income. Baba Ijesa’s

brand represents Booku in terms of how he appeals to the public, irrespective of their income level and social class. He is loved by all due to his comic nature which helps relief people of their daily stress; thus improving their health just as booku chicken would also improve their health”.

On how the company will meet up with the high demand of Nigerians, Adetoro says, Agro-Park Foods and Spices Limited currently has over 200,000 birds ready for production and well trusted with the best hygiene standards and pocket friendly prices.

According to him, the company’s slogan is tastier, healthier and affordable, “The Company has dedicated outlet where the Booku chicken is available and more outlets will still be opened nationwide”.

Dr Kriz David

Dr. Kriz David’s dreams for Nigerians Vision, empathy, patience and integrity are just a few of the top qualities you’ll find in a great leader. And Dr. Kriz David did not only possess these qualities but his dynamism in shaping the Nigerian dreams stands him out amidst his contemporaries. While others are busy presenting the general public with unrealistic manifesto, the young, vibrant and industrious businessman took it upon himself to present Nigerians with what he called ‘Smart Government’.

As a futurist and tax expert, he did not only identify Nigeria problems but proffer visible solution in his new book titled; ‘Smart Government’.

According to the presidential candidate of Liberation Movement Party, a government that engage systems thinking to craft innovative policies and technology to address the needs and challenges facing a nation can be called a smart government.

He also said: “I have chosen the path of honour to take deliberate action by shaping the Nigerian dream and getting Nigerians to ride progressively in the path of prosperity and Smart Government is the preferred future for Nigeria.”

He further said; “You may have wondered why Nigeria have remained trapped in a cycle of failure and why prosperity has become elusive. I have also wondered, like you, why my dear country, Nigeria, has remained

underdeveloped and often associated with sordid tales no one can be proud of. Tales that have left sour taste in the mouth, we are all trapped in an endless cycle of failure and backwardness.”

While presenting the book to the general public on Saturday, 27th of October, 2018 at Sheraton Hotel, he said Smart Government is the preferred future that has eluded Nigeria for the past fifty-eight years. And he has identify the five unimpeachable steps that Nigeria should take to become a great and prosperous nation saying “the five steps that will make Nigeria a great nation includes, article of Faith, rule of law, economic freedom, fair tax system and learning economy”.

It will interest you to know that, Dr. Kriz David is a futurist, tax expert, a financial expert, forensic experts and a development economist. He holds a doctorate degree in strategic leadership with specialty in strategic foresight, from Regent University, USA. He obtained a master’s degree in financial services from University of East London, UK and a bachelor’s degree in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University, UK. A fellow of the Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, A fellow of the institute of chartered accountants of Nigeria, a certified forensic accountant, an Associate of certified Fraud Examiners and a member of the Association of Professional Futurists.

BUSINESS TIMESg Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

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WIMBIZ: Match value with branding, Awosika tells entrepreneurs Ladesope Ladelokun

L-R: Representative of Lagos State Governor and Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; President, LCCI, Mr Babatunde Paul Ruwase; Immediate Past President, LCCI, Chief Nike Akande and National President of NACCIMA, Iyalode Alaba Lawson, during the opening ceremony of 2018 Lagos International Trade Fair in Lagos...on Friday.

Photo: Olawale Rotimi

Nigeria still consulting with stakeholders over free trade agreement - Osinbajo Dangote advocates improved regional integration as FG reiterates commitment to ECOWAS regional integration

Motolani Oseni, Lagos and Mathew Dadiya, Abuja Contrary to speculation that Nigeria is finally set to sign onto the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA) in December this year, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN has revealed that the country is still involved in consultation with stakeholders across various sectors of the economy, before a final decision is taken.

Prof. Osinbajo disclosed this yesterday at the opening session of the Africa Trade Forum 2018 at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos. The forum was co-organised bythe United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), the Rockefeller Foundation and the Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC).

Also at the same forum, President/CE of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, who was one of the panelists at a plenary session, called for effective regional integration among African countries, which should form the bedrock for continental trade and overall development of Africa.

Speaking on the Agreement, the Vice President said, “The AFCTA can have the most profound effect than any other agreement ever signed in Africa. It is time for stakeholders to do their own part to address some of the concerns and challenges. Nigeria is possibly the largest market in Africa and has the most to gain or lose from the implementation of the agreement.

“We have consulted widely with industries and 34 groups were sensitised with five communiques issued. Twelve private sector groups also submitted their positions on the ACFTA. There is need to build the capacity for engagement, the process in Africa must be submitted to a democratic scrutiny. Although most stakeholders support the agreement, there are concerns about impact especially on the local markets and the need to protect the agreement from abuse by third parties.

This is an opportunity for us to get this right and implement the agreement correctly”, he added.

In his comments, Aliko Dangote said, “Industrialisation brings in a lot of wealth and prosperity. Nigeria is not against the ACFTA but we are only saying let us do things right with a solid foundation. The

regional markets need to work to prevent foreign goods from invading our market.

The business mogul, who recalled restrictions placed by neighbouring Benin Republic on his cement products manufactured in Ibese, Ogun State (just 28 kiliometres away from the factory) said, “In Dangote, we believe so much in African inter-trade. My concern is that the regional markets are not working. If we have working regional markets and bodies, we will benefit from the ACFTA. We have 9m tonnes of cement and 3m tonnes of fertiliser to export. If the foundation is right, we and Nigeria will benefit but we have to go back to the basics.”

Dangote also called on all African countries “to go back to backward integration to create more jobs, employment for youths and economic prosperity. 90% of African countries rushed to sign the agreement without carrying the people and organised private sector along. There must be proper consultation. Ease of doing business is a very important part of the Agreement”.

In a related development, the Federal Government through the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed, assured

the Ministers of member countries of the Economic Community of West African State (ECOWAS) of its commitment to on supporting the regional common tariff and customs union towards trade liberalisation, industrialisation, and integration.

The Minister on Friday gave the assurance at the 4th ECOWAS Finance Ministers’ Meeting in Abuja.

Ahmed also noted that the move to establish the ECOWAS Customs Union remains a pertinent issue that should be vigorously pursued in order to facilitate free trade and industrialisation towards shared prosperity for people in the sub-region.

The Special Adviser to the minister on Media and Communications, Mr Paul Abechi, stated that the minister made it clear that Nigeria will continue to be on the vanguard of championing and fostering regional economic development and trade facilitation in the sub-region.

According to her, “Nigeria believes fervently that ECOWAS regional policies such as the CET, the Customs Union, and other fiscal policies should aim seriously at achieving economic growth and industrialization for member states while reducing import dependency.’.

Mathematics is like my biblical rod of Moses - Cowbellpedia finalist Godwin Anyebe A finalist in the on-going 2018 Cowbellpedia Secondary School Mathematics Television Quiz Show, Chiedozie Uzochukwu has disclosed that he turned Mathematics into his indispensable companion to master the otherwise challenging subject.

Chiedozie, a student of Nigerian Tulip International College for Boys, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, said he committed six hours daily into horning his skills in vital subject.

After emerging from the semi-final of the

competition, sponsored by Cowbellpedia Milk, the leading brand of Promasidor Nigeria Limited, Chiedozie explained that Mathematics has become part of his life and likened the relationship to that of the Biblical Moses and his rod.

“I just decided I must know it and know it very well. And so, I devoted all my thoughts and energy to it. I gave it enough time too. Out of my daily 24 hours, I used about six hours to sit and practice my Maths. Gradually the fear began to recede until it disappeared,” he told journalists outside the studio in Lagos last recently.

In the junior category second semi-final, Chiedozie found company in Gabriel Akogun

of Welkin International School, Ota, Ogun State, to sail through the stormy waters at the expense of Iyunade Ogundana, a student of Greater Tomorrow Model College, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, who were all semi-finalists.

Others who could not cross the ‘red sea’ included NgoziNworu of Bishop OtubeluJuniorate, Enugu, Enugu State; ToluwaniOlatunji of The International School University of Ibadan, Oyo State; and Beverly Ukoha from Topfaith International Secondary School, Uyo, AkwaIbom State.

Chiedozie, 14 who got a percent score in the qualifying examination, thanked his parents for

firing his interest in Mathematics.

Gabriel, son of a teacher, scored 97 percent in the qualifying examination and expressed significant confidence about his ability to win the ultimate prize.

In the captivating senior category semi-final encounter, Juliet Ekokoand EnochAdelekan, both of The Ambassadors College, Ota, Ogun State, advanced to the final, while four other contestants exited from the competition.

These were: Amara Aronu, Emmanuel Igban, and Oreofe Daniel, all from The Ambassadors College, Ota, Ogun State; andAyomiposiAdiji of Preston International School, Akure, Ondo State.

Chairman of FirstBank Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Ibukun Awosika, has expressed the need for entrepreneurs to scale up the value of services delivered to their customers to build an enduring brand.

Awosika opined that the biggest brand an entrepreneur can build is the value they deliver, noting that a big brand that fails to match value will fall with time.

The FirstBank Chief Executive Officer said this during plenary at the 17th annual Women in Management, Business and Public Sevice (WIMBIZ) conference during the week in Lagos at the Eko Hotel and Suites.

WIMBIZ is a non-profit organization that has, over the last 17 years, implemented programs that inspire, empower and advocate for greater representation of women in leadership positions in the public and private sectors.

The two-day conference with the theme, ‘Unstoppable You: Refresh and Reinvigorate’, was, according to the Chairperson, Executive Council,WIMBIZ, Mrs Olubunmi Aboderin-Talabi, was thoughtfully crafted with a deliberate goal in mind: to inspire and empower women to attain leadership positions in business, management and public service.

She, however, stated that, given the right circumstances, inducement and with the requisite proclivity, women can train themselves to be unstoppable in their chosen Endeavour. On the economic, social, political and empirical fronts, the WIMBIZ Chair says 2018 has been an eventful year.

“Economically, direct currency exchange between the naira and the Yuan became possible this year. The naira to dollar rate remained at post-devaluation levels, N360 to $1 on average and growth rates hovered around the 1 per cent mark. Socially, we were encouraged by the decisive manner with which a prominent university in the southwest handled a harassment case, delivering justice for the victim.’’ “ We were shocked by the kidnap of the Dapchi school children, relieved when they were rescued, saddened that some of them died in captivity, and hopeful that Leah Sharibu, and others like her will regain freedom”, she added.

Business Times 16

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 23, 2018

How Heritage Bank is unlocking Nigeria’s Agricultural potentials Nigeria is at the threshold of the much-needed agricultural revolution, as food production remains a major challenge all over the world, MOTOLANI OSENI, looks into challenges facing diversification of the Nigeria’s economy, need for effective agricultural financing, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) intermediation role, and contributions from agricultural friendly banks in bridging the funding gaps…Excerpt In fact, development of Agriculture continues to remain critical issue for Nigeria’s economic growth, poverty reduction and ensuring food security of the country, as over 70 per cent of the rural households depend on agriculture as their principal means of livelihood.

The recent volatility of food prices enduringly affected Nigerian food system. The imposing of import restrictions by government while prices of food were high and resulting distrust in the functioning of price of crude oil at the international markets forced countries that depend on agricultural imports to change their strategies to meet domestic demand.

In view of this development, many Nigeria financial institutions started investing in agriculture. Several of these large scale investments triggered high rates of agricultural growth in recent times.

In Nigeria, with access to finance still a major challenge, agriculture remains underdeveloped with majority of farmers in the rural areas still practising subsistence farming.

CBN intermediation roles As part of efforts to increase funding for the agricultural sector, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), in line with its developmental functions and in collaboration with the Federal Government and Nigerian banks established various agricultural schemes as a way of bridging the funding gap.

Such interventions include the Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme (CACS), Commercial Agriculture Development Programme (CADP), and the Interest Draw-back scheme, Agricultural Credit Support Scheme as well as the recently introduced Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP).

The broad objectives of most of the schemes are to fast track development of the agricultural sector by providing credit facilities to commercial agricultural enterprises at a single digit interest rate; enhance national food security by increasing food supply and effecting lower agricultural produce and product prices, thereby promoting low food inflation; generate employment and diversify revenue base.

Heritage Bank as an agricultural friendly lender In complimenting the efforts of the Central Bank, Heritage Bank Plc has made a huge success of the schemes by making funds available to both individuals and corporate organisations in their efforts to increase agricultural output.

The bank under the headship of Mr Ifie Sekibo, an urbane seasoned banker who is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer has distinguished itself in financing critical agricultural projects in the country and, in the process, putting smiles on the faces of many farmers.

Since the five eventful years the bank has opened its doors to its teeming customers, the showpiece of its operations is a wide gamut of completed, on-going and nascent people-oriented programmes- create, preserve and transfer wealth across generations in the country. This line of operation is steadily yielding great results as the nation continues to move its economic base towards the direction of the future, with robust emphasis on thoughts about diversification of the county’s economic base.

Within its period of operation, Heritage Bank is being positioned into a bigger and stronger financial institution that is placed to play a big role in the much-envisaged transformation of the nation’s financial sector in line with the country’s stature as one of Africa’s largest economy.

Agricultural intervention initiatives With the increasing recognition of agriculture as the ‘beautiful bride’ of Nigeria’s economy, Heritage Bank has continued to make relentless efforts in agricultural financing which is fast gaining new interests and more attention within the business circles. As agriculture continues to be business, financing provides tremendous opportunities for lenders and borrowers, either at small or large scale.

Heritage Bank has not only encouraged both government, corporate and individual (including young people to embrace optimal productivity and greatness in this sector), it has taken the front seat in the drive to support them in the attainment of noble agricultural virtues by funding various agricultural projects in several states in the country, especially in Oyo, Kaduna and Zamfara states.

This line of action has readily compelled young and vibrant minds into getting involved in providing affordable financial solutions that can help agribusiness investors in various aspects of agriculture.

Presently, the bank is practically involved in preparing a good future for the youth, which is imperative, whilst recognizing the need to expand the horizon of young people, broaden their options and increase their choices.

The institution realized that the youth are needed as solution providers, incubators of ideas, promoters of innovations and implementers of positive change through agriculture and entrepreneurship.

However, five years of the bank’s existence have promoted renewed belief and a sense of pride in the identity of Nigeria, as a people and a country.

Innate virtues of industriousness, illustriousness and entrepreneurship have been reawakened, as the youth and people have risen massively to embrace legitimate hard work in the agricultural sector as against indolence, dependence on government and servitude.

This huge, albeit laudable, project that is spread across 3,000 hectares of land in 28 of the 33 Local Government Areas of Oyo State, is in three stages: food crop cultivation, cash crop/horticulture and food processing. Heritage Bank is supporting agro investors involved in this initiative with funds and advisory services and indications are that the programme has already led to more than 30 per cent increase in food production in the state.

MD/CEO, Heritage Bank Plc, Mr Ifie Sekibo

Commitment to Agricultural value chain Commenting on the lender’s commitment to the Agricultural value chain, the Managing Director /Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Sekibo has been on the driving seat of the agricultural financing revolution going on at present in Heritage Bank. He has vowed that the bank would not relent in its efforts at boosting the agriculture base of the nation, affirming that Heritage Bank would continue to make farming profitable to stakeholders and attractive to the youth.

The bank, he said, would remain focused in supporting agribusiness through financing the purchase of modern technology, as it would bring about transformative development to the economy in general.

He, however, noted that the bank would support the drive for cash crop commodities that would boost Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings, which the President Mohammad Buhari’s administration has always been cautious given the dangers the continuous reliance on imported food items pose to its efforts to create jobs as well as develop and diversify the economy.

Collaboration with CBN to provide loan for agricultural projects In a bid to further support the real sector and unlock food potentials, Heritage Bank Plc in collaboration with CBN provided N2billion long term facility under the Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme (CACS) to Triton Aqua Africa Ltd (TAAL). TAAL known as Triton Farm accessed the CACS through Heritage Bank, which was used to set up aquaculture businesses; nursery/hatchery to produce fingerlings and brood stock in Ikeja and earthen ponds for catfish and Tilapia in Asejire, Iwo and Gambari towns in Oyo State.

Under the arrangement, TAAL will also help small-scale farms increase their fish production by making fingerlings available to them. In the short term, the loan is expected to help Triton double its current production capacity of 25,000 metric tonnes with a projection to scale it up to 100,000 metric tonnes in five years.

The bank also has thrown its weight behind Globus Resources Limited, a subsidiary of Triton Group, to flag off the second phase of afforestation programme in Oyo state.

Nigeria’s current demand capacity for fish is estimated at 2.7million metric tons and the country currently produces 800,000 metric tons. Triton is now producing 25,000 metric tons and with them on board, about 25,000 metric tons capacity will be added to our current production, the company’s projection is to reach 100,000 metric tons in 5years.

Heritage Bank partnership with State governments Heritage Bank is in partnership with the Oyo State government in a multi-billion-naira project to give agriculture a boost in the state. Under the initiative, the bank is supporting the Oyo State Agricultural Initiative, OYSAI, a programme designed to revive agriculture, boost agro-allied businesses and massive empowerment programme for both youth and women across the state through the creation of thousands of jobs in the sector.

Support of small holders’ farmers to boost rice/soyabeans production Heritage Bank has also supported thousands of small holder farms in Kaduna and Zamfara states to benefit from the bank’s financial support for rice and soya beans production under the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP).

Sekibo says the bank’s drive to support rice production is borne out of the conviction that agribusiness is profitable and act of patriotism to achieve food security and sufficiency in the country.

He hints that Heritage Bank is effectively tackling the bottlenecks since it has long identified the opportunities in agribusiness before the collapse of crude oil prices through its various programmes, which will contribute to the projection for year 2020 in the production of 7.7million metric tons of milled rice or 10.8million metric tons of paddy rice at milling recovery ratio of 62 percent.

On Heritage Bank’s involvement in ABP, the Bank provides on-lending funding to aggregated farmers to grow various produce that will serve as raw materials to the processors, thereby ensuring market linkages and access to market as well as reduce importation and conserve Nigeria’s external reserves.

In 2016, the sums of N54,892,728.00 and N248,413,350.00 were sourced from CBN and disbursed as loans to 185 rice farmers and 414 soya bean farmers respectively in Kaduna State.

In 2016, N37, 995,300.00 was disbursed to 259 rice farmers via 11 cooperatives in Zamfara State. The Bank executed MOU for partnership with NIRSAL in 2017 with the following transactions already consummated.

Poultry farming in Oyo State – N29million received from NIRSAL and disbursed to farmers Maize cultivation in Ogun State – N157million received from NIRSAL and disbursed to farmers Cassava cultivation in Kebbi State – Transaction size is about N500million approved by CBN. Heritage Bank Plc signed a N232 million pilot phase of out-growers agreement with Biase Plantations Limited (BPL), and its joint venture partner, PZ Wilmar Limited to produce best-in-class palm oil, using the ABP model. The first tranche of N113million has been received and disbursed accordingly. The pilot scheme covers 45 farmers, grouped into four co-operative societies with a land mass of 150 hectares, and the funds to be administered is from BPL. Bank as pilot partner for execution of N3 billion YIEDP Youths are also encouraged through the bank’s partnership with CBN under the Youth Innovative Entrepreneurship Development Programme (YIEDP) to start young and create wealth, adding that from available statistics, 80 percent of applicants under the youth empowerment programme choose agriculture as the preferred sector.

It is in recognition of the bank’s track record in this regard that apparently influenced its selection by the CBN as its pilot partner for the execution of the N3billion YIEDP. The programme is aimed at creating sustainable wealth and employment in the country with focus on dependable job creating sectors such as agricultural value chain (fish farming, poultry, snail farming), cottage industry, mining and solid minerals, creative industry (tourism, arts and crafts), and Information and ICT. Achievements/Awards For its enormous supports to this sector, Heritage Bank Plc, Nigeria’s Most Innovative Banking Service Provider in 2017 was bestowed with the inaugural Nigeria Sustainable Banking Award convened by the CBN “For Sustainable Transaction of The Year in Agriculture.”

Again, the Nigeria Agriculture Awards (NAA), at its annual event convened by AgroNigeria (The Voice of Nigeria’s Agriculture), to appreciate immense efforts of those who have contributed to the success of the agriculture sector in the country, announced Heritage Bank as the Agric. Bank of the Year. According to NAA, Heritage Bank was selected in recognition of its footprints in the Agric. space, especially the Triton Aquaculture Project.

No doubt about the fact that these feats will empower the people in addition to boosting Nigeria’s economic revival and leading the country’s foray into modern and sustained industrialization.

The many innovative supports by Heritage Bank across the country for growth of the productive sector in the agriculture, SME, entertainment and numerous spheres, point to Nigeria’s hitherto untapped rich human potentials.

Meanwhile, Heritage Bank is not only actualizing its vision of partnering with individuals, organisations and governments to create, preserve and transfer wealth across generations, but is also playing a crucial role in helping to achieve the government’s ambition of diversifying the economy.

POLITICS TIMES g Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

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Amosun to Oshiomhole: Don’t hide behind conscience, integrity, abide by APC rules, guidelines Stories by Patrick Okohue The Ogun State governor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun has distanced himself and his state from any attempt to make the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole to sell his conscience to be able to retain his position as national chairman.

Rather the governor said, all they are interested in seeing Oshiomhole do is to abide by the rules and guidelines of the party at all times.

Reacting to a statement credited to Oshiomhole and saying he was not ready to sell his conscience

just to retain his position, Amosun in a statement signed by the state commissioner for Information and Strategy, Otunba Adedayo Adeneye, said, “The attention of the Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibukunle Amosun has been drawn to the statements credited to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Adams Oshiomhole on the raging controversy on the last primaries in the country particularly Ogun State.

“Comrade Oshiomhole is credited as saying that his posture on the primaries was because he would not sell his conscience to hold on to the position of national chairman.

“We state without any fear of equivocation that no one, at least not on the side of Senator Amosun, has requested or expected Oshiomhole to sell his conscience. The least we expect of him is to abide by the rules and guidelines of the APC. “Oshiomhole knows, as we know, that in the instance of the last primaries in Ogun State, he has fallen short of the minimum standards of justice, equity and fairness. The resort to hiding under the false claims about “conscience and integrity” is cheap.

“Oshiomhole knows that there were no other gubernatorial primaries in Ogun State other than the one that produced Hon. Adekunle Akinlade as candidate. He knows that the primaries into national and legislative offices were won hundred per cent by those declared winner by the panel he sent to Ogun State to oversee the

exercise.

“He knows that the shenanigan of unknown court injunctions, unknown appeal panels and all sorts unleashed on the process by him and his cohorts are premeditated schemes executed to deny the members of the APC their true choice of candidates in the elections. Our consolation lies in the fact that in the fullness of time, what remains unknown to the public will become bare and everyone will see Oshiomhole and his co-travelers for who they are.

“In his conduct, Oshiomhole has exhibited disdain for the interest of the APC and that of the National Leader of the party, President Muhammadu Buhari. Senator Amosun remains committed to his convictions about President Buhari and nothing in the shenanigan of the primaries will change that.

“Finally, Oshiomhole’s claim that only three state governors are aggrieved about the conduct of the primaries flies in the face of the nationwide outcry that remains loud, trailing the exercise several weeks after. We remind him that in any case, justice is not dependent on the number of whom it has been denied. Injustice to one is injustice to all.

“The overwhelming majority of members of the APC in Ogun State remain unshaken in their rejection of the gangsterism that has been visited on them in the conduct of the primaries. They remain resolved that the attempt to hand over their state and their patrimony to a rapacious gang of expansionists in the South West will be resisted, not only by members of the APC, but by the entire people of Ogun State who are too enlightened to tolerate such abomination,” he said.

Bayelsa agog as ex-NNDC boss, Alaibe, former SSG, other APC members defect to PDP

Oshiomhole

INEC commences display of voters’ register, distribution of PVC in all polling units in Lagos The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that its Lagos State office will commence the display of names of registered voters in all the 8,465 Polling Units in the state between Tuesday 6th to Monday 12th November, 2018.

The electoral umpire said it will also use the exercise which will hold at the various centers between 9:00am and 3:30 pm to distribute the Permanent Voters’ Card (PVC) to all intending voters yet to collect theirs.

The aim of the exercise, according to a release signed by the Lagos State PRO of INEC, Mr Akinbiyi Femi is to allow all registered voters check for the correctness of their details and other information supplied to INEC

during registration.

He advised that registered voters who have complaints on supplied information are to lodge their complaints with INEC staff at the Registration Area designated Centres located within their area for appropriate attention.

“The Commission will also use the occasion to distribute Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) to those that registered in 2011, 2014 and those that registered during the last Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise from April, 2017 to March, 2018, at the Registration Area Centres (wards),” he said.

“We therefore enjoin all Lagosians that have registered between the above mentioned periods to make use of the opportunity to collect their cards.”

Bayelsa state governor, the Honourable Seriake Dickson has formally received over 3,000 decampees from the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by the former Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Timi Alaibe, former Secretary to the state government, Chief Gideon Ekeuwei and a two time Commissioner for Information, Chief Nathan Egba to the PDP fold.

This is just as he reaffirmed his call on the Federal Government not to undermine the peace and stability of the state and the Niger Delta as a whole using state apparatus.

Speaking at a grand reception in Yenagoa, Governor Dickson said within a short period of time, Bayelsa State had witnessed the posting and redeployment of 5 Commissioners of Police and 3 Directors of State Security, stressing that, the development portends a threat to the prevailing peace in the state.

He said “Just yesterday I was told that the 4th Commissioner of Police that they sent to Bayelsa state has been redeployed and they have brought the one they claim to be their party member to police the state so that they can use cult boys to kill and destabilise our state.

“But my message to President Muhammadu Buhari is that he should not allow the authority of any state to be undermined. He should not also allow the peace and stability of any state to be subverted for flimsy partisan considerations.”

Governor Dickson also noted that the decampees were returning to a reformed PDP where discipline and party supremacy are sacrosanct and therefore charged them to be loyal and work as a team for the success of the party.

In his remarks, the National Chairman of the PDP represented by the South-South Zonal Chairman, Elder Emmanuel Ogidi, urged the people to vote massively for the party’s presidential, state and national assembly candidates in the forthcoming elections.

Also speaking at the event, one of the decampees, Chief Timi Alaibe, described the APC as a party of empty promises that do not have anything to offer the people of the Niger Delta in terms of development.

The former NDDC boss admitted that he and other defectors made a costly mistake by leaving the PDP which

Dickson

has always promoted the interests of the Ijaw nation.

Former Secretary to the State Government, Elder Gideon Ekeuwei, Former Commissioner for Information, Nathan Egba-Ologo, former state PDP chairman, Chief Rufus Abadi also expressed remorse and pledged loyalty to the PDP. In his welcome address, the state chairman of the PDP, Mr. Cleopas Moses, described Governor Dickson as a political leader with a large heart that has worked hard to stabilise the party both at the state and national levels and urged other politicians to emulate him.

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Daily Times Nigeria

Saturday, November 3, 2018

Mixed Grill Michael Blackson, Pearl Thusi, Anita Erskine to host 5th AFRIMA Stories by Mutiat Alli The African Union Commission (AUC) in partnership with the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Ghana, have announced Michael Blackson, Pearl Thusi and Anita Erskine as the host and hostesses who will hold the live stage of the 5th AFRIMAGhana 2018 Main Awards ceremony scheduled for Saturday, November 24, 2018 at the Accra International Conference Centre, AICC, Ghana.

Renowned Ghanaian-born American actor and comedian, Michael Blackson, popularly referred to as ‘The African King of Comedy’ started his career in stand-up comedy and acting where he moved up the ladder despite challenges faced as a young black man in America.

The talented comic entertainer has featured in several on-screen performances, TV series, comedy shows, and tours. Some notable ones include; The Mo’Nique Show, Martin Lawrence’s 1st Amendment Stand-up, Meet the Blacks, One Night in Vegas, and Hip Hop Squares. Michael hosted the first ever BET Social Awards in Atlanta in February 2018.

South Africa’s fierce and talented TV personality, Pearl Thusi will also co-anchor the awards event. The actress, model, radio and television personality has earned accolades for her top-notch acting, television and radio hosting skills. She is a former host of ‘Lip Sync Battle Africa on MTV’, ‘Moments’ on EbonyLife TV, and currently the new host of the

third season of MTV Base’s ‘Behind the Story’. Her international acting career includes her role in Universal’s ‘The Scorpion King: The Book of Souls’ alongside Zach McGowan, and her recurring role in ABC’s Drama Series ‘Quantico’. Pearl has appeared on magazine covers like Elle, Cosmopolitan, True Love, Grazia, Glamour and Women’s Health in both South Africa and the United Arab Emirates.

Also bringing her admirable skills to the AFRIMA stage is Ghana’s media personality, Anita Erskine. A Radio/TV presenter, producer, writer and oral narrator applauded for her hosting skills. She has anchored several live events as well as radio and television programmes including popular shows on the DSTV platform such as “The Making of a Mogul”, “Cooking with Anita” and “Pamper Your Mum”.

Anita is also known for her vibrant role in the advancement of women empowerment and girl-child rights using her various TV and radio programmes. The award-winning multilingual media entrepreneur will bring her charm and feistiness to play at the 5th AFRIMA main awards.

The dynamic trio will add their unique hosting abilities and on stage chemistry to the spectacular offerings for the 5th edition of AFRIMA that is geared to be a glittery, star-studded, world-class event with exhilarating performances from A-list artistes, including some of the 5th AFRIMA nominees and past AFRIMA nominees and winners. Live broadcast of the main awards ceremony begins at 7.30 p.m., while the live red carpet where all the glam, glitz, and high fashion of

the 5th AFRIMA-GHANA 2018 will be on display opens at 4.30 p.m.

Sharing her excitement, Director, Brand Communications, AFRIMA; Matlou Tsotetsi said; “It has been an exciting journey for AFRIMA. AFRIMAGHANA 2018 gets more exciting as we are in Ghana for the first time. In the lead up to preparations, we have felt the Akwaaba warmth and welcome of the Ghana people, I am certain that the rest of the world will feel this even through our live broadcast. May the best of Africa win”.

Similarly, one of Ghana’s prominent entrepreneurs, Mr. Nathan Kwabena Adisi popularly known as Bola Ray, expressed high optimism about the coming awards. The CEO, Excellence in Broadcasting (EIB) Network Ghana, stated, “I’m highly elated that Ghana gets to host the prestigious 5th AFRIMA. The choice of comperes is clearly a super one and we look forward to an ecstatic and electrifying awards event. Africa is Gold!”

Other lined up events scheduled to precede the main awards ceremony include: AFRIMA Welcome Soiree on November 21; Africa Music Business Summit (AMBS) on November 22 at the Ballroom, Kempinski Hotel, Accra; AFRIMA Music Village also on November 22 from 5.00 p.m. till dawn at the Independence Square, Accra; a Guided Tour of the notable sites and landmarks in the Host City on November 23 followed by 5th AFRIMA Nominees Party from 10.00 p.m.

The 5th AFRIMA main awards ceremony and the red carpet will be broadcast live to 84 countries on 105 viewing media platforms across the Pearl Thusi globe.

Naija FM 102.7 celebrates 8th year anniversary Announces November 4 for “2018 comedy jam and award night”

Niniola

Plans are in full gear for the 7th Edition of the Naija FM Comedy Jam and Award Night for the year 2018.

The announcement was made by the Programs Director of the popular indigenous Radio station, Osamoje Isaac, during a week-long celebration to mark the “eighth anniversary” of Naija FM 102.7.

As part of Naija fm’s anniversary celebrations, the On Air Personalities had hit the streets on a CSR drive, controlling traffic in different parts of Lagos State. Osamoje Isaac had stated that “the essence of the week long traffic control drive was to enable its teeming listeners feel the pulse of the personalities they interact with on a daily basis on their favourite radio station!”

Branded T shirts, baseball hats, bags, umbrellas and other souvenirs were also distributed during the rave, which culminates with the annual Comedy Jam and Award Night billed for Sunday the 4th of November, 2018 at the Muson Centre, Onikan Lagos at 6pm.

Guests will be thrilled with scintillating comedy performances by usual suspects Akpororo, Gordons, Bow Joint, Kenny Blaq, Seyi Law, Malam Spencer, AY, Baba K, Princewill and a whole lot more.

Music will be provided by Timaya, Kcee, Falz, Mayourkun, Slimcase, Jo el, Niniola, Seyi Shey, Orezi, Koko Pee, Aunty Rayzor Pasuma and many more.

The categories as tradition for the Comedy Jam and Award

Night are for Online Comedian of the year include; Sitcom of the year; Comedian of the year; Most promising Comedian of the year; Comedy actor of the Year; Most Fashionable Comedian of the Year; Comedy Club of the year and Best Comedy Show of the Year.

According to organizers, one of the Highpoints of the night will be the presentation of the prestigious HALL OF FAME AWARD to be awarded to an icon in the industry.

The annual event is traditionally attended by a capacity crowd made up of the station’s listeners, entertainment and showbiz personalities, and Captains of Industry who take time out to enjoy performances by A-list artistes.

Politics Times 18

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

Ambode at Island Club, proffers solution to ending extreme poverty in Nigeria Stories by Patrick Okohue The Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode has said that if Nigeria must get out of the woods, it must begin now to take concrete steps towards empowering every group in the society and give ears to their views and aspirations, saying it is only in such situation that the country can truly end extreme poverty.

Governor Ambode, who said this while delivering a paper to commemorate the 75th Anniversary Business Lecture of the Island Club, said Nigeria must aggressively pursue strong social inclusion policies in order to build a virile nation where every member of the society, regardless of their status or creed is catered for.

Speaking on the topic ‘Nation

Building: Communities, Inclusion and Prosperity’, the governor said presently there were various indices that present a worrying picture, stressing that the country must address it by taking actions that would change the narrative and engender prosperity.

“A sustainable path towards ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity also involves creating an inclusive society, not only in terms of economic welfare, but also in terms of the voice and empowerment of all groups.

“We must begin to realise that every strata of the society counts, we must listen and accommodate all views, whether they are poor, whether they are Igbos, Hausas, whether they are Muslims or Christians.

An inclusive society must have the institutions, structures and processes

Group lauds Buhari’s visit to Kaduna, says its show of exemplary leadership The visit by President Muhammadu Buhari to Kaduna State in the midst of sectarian crisis that has claimed tens of lives has been described as a display of exemplary leadership and governance with a human face.

Reacting to the President’s visit, the Buhari Media Organisation (BMO) hailed President Buhari for what it described as an unprecedented move and for showing that governance should, and can, have a human face.

In a statement signed by its Chairman Niyi Akinsiju and Secretary Cassidy Madueke, the group stated that “this is the first time in the history of this Nation that a sitting President would visit a troubled spot right in the midst of a crisis.”

President Muhammadu Buhari had visited Kaduna where he met with political, traditional and religious leaders in an on-going effort to bring the life consuming mayhem there to an end. He also read the riot act and seriously warned the trouble makers in that state and elsewhere in the country that his government would no longer tolerate such blood-letting.

“This is exemplary leadership, a commendable display of governance with a human face.

This is how we know a leader that cares,” the group said.

BMO recalls that this is a grand departure from what happened in a not too distant past. “We recall that in a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government headed by Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as President, we were faced with a similar

situation like Kaduna. But, rather than a solution with a human touch, bombs and missiles were deployed in Odi. “PDP government descended on that poor village and completely wiped it out. This is the route that Buhari has decided not to take.

And Buhari is War General just like Olusegun Obasanjo, but the difference here is that while one General is a humanist, the other is nihilist. We believe that Nigerians are watching and taking due notice.”

Meanwhile, the group has also advised Senator Bukar Abba Ibrahim, former governor Yobe State and three-time senator to quietly retire to his village rather than cry over spilt milk.

It also dismissed the former governor’s attempt at disowning comments attributed to him as an afterthought.

BMO noted, in another statement, that rather than play to the gallery after losing his bid for an unprecedented fourth term in the Senate, the Senator should have quietly nursed his wounds.

“Here is a man who is perhaps one of the biggest beneficiaries of the tsunami that trailed President Muhammadu Buhari’s 2015 victory.

“Aside from being a Senator, his wife was appointed a minister from the House of Representatives and has also secured a ticket to return to the National Assembly in 2019.

“But he is clearly bitter that he has been denied a return to the Senate as if Yobe State is a personal estate,” it said.

Ambode

that empower local communities, professional associations, artisans, CDAs so they can hold government accountable.

“It also requires the participation of all groups in society, including traditionally marginalised groups such as ethnic minorities and indigenous populations in decision making processes,” he said.

Highlighting the Lagos example of inclusion and prosperity, Governor Ambode said his administration in the last three years, despite the population and migration challenges vis-a-vis pressure on physical and social infrastructure, has continued to carry out massive upgrade of its infrastructure, which according to him would have improved the lives of all residents and ultimately the economy.

“We believe that every Lagosian must have the opportunity to grow, develop their own skills and contribute to their families and communities in a meaningful way.

“If they are healthy, well educated and trained to enter the workforce and are able to make a decent wage, they are better equipped to meet their basic needs and be successful.

Their families will also do well and the whole society will benefit. The aggregate sum of family well-being is the meat for nation building,” he said.

The governor said that his administration has concentrated on creating an environment for investments to thrive, saying that deliberate steps were also taken to encourage the private sector to take the front seat and grow the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the state.

He listed development of Tourism, Hospitality, Arts, Sports and Entertainment sectors, development of an integrated and modern intermodal transportation system, Employment Trust Fund, CodeLagos and Ready-Set-Work as some of the strategies evolved over the last three years that has recorded huge impact in the state’s economy.

“Our Employment Trust Fund has disbursed N5.84billion to 7,880 Lagosians out of which 1,123 have fully repaid their loans. This is a revolving fund that targets inclusion and prosperity.

“Over 25,000 jobs were created through the loans and employability programmes and to ensure inclusion, 3,613 women recievedN2.29billion while N1.44billion was disbursed to individuals less than 35 years and at least N100million in each local government of the state,” Governor Ambode said.

“In terms of inclusion and prosperity, our vision to make Lagos safer and more prosperous is driven by the need to foster and build an inclusive society, a Lagos that works for all of us. This has been our primary focus in the last three and half years.

“This vision of making Lagos Africa’s model mega city and global economic and financial hub is reflected in everything that we have been doing, bringing our communities together to ensure the future prosperity of Lagos State is non negotiable. I am convinced that we are on the right trajectory and that’s the way to go if Lagos is going to show a very good example to the rest of the country,” he said.

Recommending the way forward, Governor Ambode said to ensure inclusion and evolve prosperous communities; social policy needs to move beyond conventional social service approaches towards development’s goals of equitable opportunity and social justice.

Expressing optimism that the Nigeria economy was showing positive indices of recovery and encouraging outlook for the future, the governor, however, said economists had posited that for Nigeria to attain its potential, the economy needs to move at a growth rate of six to seven per cent per year as the population growth was above three per cent.

“To meet our growth ambition,

we need jobs and we need to increase productivity too. Nigeria has the advantage of a large population, but the majority are under-skilled. It is imperative to equip workers with the skills needed to keep pace with an economy in transition like Nigeria,” he said.

“We need to close the economic and political gap between women and men in this country. Providing both girls and boys with education is going to be our first step. Quality education is the basis for job and income, a modern competitive economy needs the best heads and hands regardless of gender. This is just sound economics and simple common sense.

“Government needs to implement structural reforms to enhance efficiency, making valued long term investment in technology and science to support research and development.

In addition, government also needs to support the economy to provide jobs for their fast growing job population,” Governor Ambode said.

Earlier, Chairman of Island Club in his welcome address thanked Governor Ambode for his support to the Club since he assumed office, saying that he had not only followed the footsteps of his predecessors as Patron of the Club, but had on some occasions, moved a notch further than they did.

Also speaking, a former chairman of the Club, Chief Olumuyiwa Falomo lauded the governor for his developmental strides in the last three and half years, assuring him that history would be kind to him.

“Only God knows the future, just carry on regardless, the reward of being very conscientious with what you do will come sooner than later and my prayer for you is that God will guide you and the sky will be your limit,” Falomo said.

Highlight of the lecture was the launch of the anniversary brochure and the commissioning of the car park project initiated by the club.

ARTS & CULTURE TIMES g19

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

Moremi season: Ooni celebrates Edi/Moremi festival Unveils Moremi pageant final contestants

Stories: Chris Onuoha 2018 edition of the famous yoruba Edi festival popularly known as Edi/Moremi cultural festival in remembrance of the Yoruba heroine, Queen Moremi Ajasoro, was marked with fanfare in the palace of Oonirisa, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ooni of Ife. The annual ceremony held on Wednesday, October 31 is precisely the 3rd celebration since Oba Ogunwusi mounted the throne of his forefathers. Amidst pomp, the famous cultural festival also coincides with the prayer session to mark the beginning of a new Oduduwa cultural calendar season. This witnessed the usual traditional prayers and incantations to usher in the new year with goodness, rich harvest and prosperity for the people. Also, Edidi king, a symbolic spirit of badluck cladded with leaves sauntered fiercely into crowd straight to the shrine for prayers.

According to the Palace source, the significance of his appearance indicates that the ill luck of the year past has ended. The crowd prayed feverishly, casting out bad luck, poor harvest and ill fortunes that might have befallen them last year.

After the prayers and the Itewa royal dance by the palace chiefs, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ogunwusi led the crowd including the final selected Queen Moremi Ajasoro cultural pageant contestants to light the symbolic candle at the statue of Queen Moremi which is the most significant aspect of the festival.

The ceremony also saw the unveiling of the selected Moremi pageant finalists that will be in camp for the final contest slated for December 2 in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Speaking with beauty and culture experts who handled the audition earlier, His royal majesty, Oba Dr. Michael Odunayo Ajayi, the Elerimo of Erimo, Ijesha, Osun State noted that it was a wonderful experience seeing young brilliant and upwardly mobile ladies who are confident, courageous to understand the culture of the Yoruba. “As a royal father, my interest and focus is to ensure that our culture doesn’t die hence, encouraging these young girls to embrace it with all modesty and commitment,” Oba Ajayi said.

The kabiyesi also stressed need to transfer culture to the youths. “You can see that there is a specific age profile in this competition because we are talking about a young heroine; somebody that was brave, courageous and beautiful, bold enough and selfless. This is the values we need to teach our girls to be selfless to make a change in their own era,” Oba Ajayi added.

Kabiyesi however, bemoans lack of cultural values in the present day children as a result of infiltration of foreign culture.

He said; “My advice is for them not to forget where they are coming from. There is a saying in Yorubaland that only a bastard will use a left hand to point to his home. Yoruba culture is very rich, diverse and versatile that has remained indelible from creation. I will encourage the youths not to imbibe foreign lifestyle and jettison the culture that we are brought up with.”

In the same vein, Prince Adegboyega Ogunwusi, elder brother to Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi charged parents to strictly imbibe the traditional culture of the land into the youths, saying that today’s youths are fast trashing our rich culture in acceptance of alien orientation. He noted that he was disturbed by poor knowledge of basic

tradition and culture, noticeable in some of the contestants which he believes will change if adequate attention is paid by parents.

Prince Ogunwusi who was impressed by the confidence exhibited by the intending queens at the audition also advised them to

live up their billings while in camp because the essence of the competition is not only to crown a queen but to encourage young girls to know more about culture.

Both Ambassador Morounranti Ashabi, cultural ambassador to Ooni of Ife and

Oluwatoyin Bayegun, alias Woli Arole who are audition judges affirm that culture is truly lacking among youths. They however, were optimistic that with the introduction of the cultural pageant and camp training, reviving and instilling the Yoruba culture in the youths will be far fetched.

Meanwhile speaking with Princess Ronke Ademiluyi, Global Cultural Ambassador of Queen Moremi Ajasoro cultural initiative and representative of the Oduduwa Foundation, she noted that celebrating the heroine is a worthwhile thing to do as a mark of respect and remembrance of someone who did well for the Yoruba people. “For me, if Moremi was a Christian, she would have been called ‘Saint Moremi’ for what she did. To celebrate and appreciate the ultimate sacrifice she made, the Edi festival wouldn’t have been enough too, hence, the establishment of the Moremi cultural pageant and the musical drama to keep her legacy afloat,” Ademiluyi said.

Barrister Adewumi Adediran, Chief Operating Officer, Oduduwa Foundation also noted that the expectations from the girls is high looking at the previous efforts.”The girls will be going to camp and in the house various culture facilitators will put them through tasks to equip them with the knowledge of the Yoruba culture, after which the best among them will be selected for the crown. The rest are not losers anyway, as they will be cultural ambassadors of the Oduduwa race, showcasing the rich Yoruba culture wherever they go,” Adediran said.

Eze Ohanweh marks Iwaji festival amidst pomp The ancient city of Ihim in Umuihim community, Isiala Mbano local government, Imo State came agog last week with a great convergence of traditional and paramount rulers, notable personalities and government officials as His Royal Majesty, Eze, Oliver Ohanweh, the Obi Gburugburu of Igboland and Paramount ruler of Ihim Community held his 2018 ‘Iwa ji’ New yam festival at his palace.

The event witnessed by large turn out of cultural enthusiasts, some Igbo sons and daughters in Diaspora including neighbouring Igbo communities within the Eastern region was a kaleidescope of colourful display of Igbo cultural endowments: rich cultural dances of the Ihim people, masquerades and parades of some traditionalists.

The ceremony started with a customary rites at the Wisdom Palace of Eze Ohanweh where the invited traditional rulers and special guests paid homage to the Ihim 1 of Umuihim, Eze Oliver Ohanweh to identify with cultural gesture as tradition requires. After the kolanuts, palmwine and other traditional paraphernalia was observed, the entire community and guests trooped to the village square where the proper festival took place.

The special guest of honour, His Impeial Majesty, IGWE KELLY OKALANKWU OF IGBARIAM with an entourage of about 45 traditional rulers from Anambra and Enugu States where accorded the tradition recognition of special treatment specially prepared by the celebrating Eze Ohanweh.

Others on the roll call of invited guests include HRM, Eze Prof Amaobi Uwaleke Obilibi of Urattha Owerri with him 22 traditional rulers.

HRM, Eze DOUGLAS OKWARACHUKWU IV of Orlu. HRM, EZE JOHN NWOSU leading 24 other traditional rulers from Orlu. HRM, EZE Dr THOMAS OBIEFULE the Okairuru

of Umudoka leading 28 others. HRH, EZE AKARAKA ONUOHA, the Ohanyere of Mbaise; HRH, GodSavours MBA, Ihie of Umuishi; HRH, EZE ROMANUS OBIECHEFU, Omeudo of Umuelemai; HRM, Eze STEVEN ONWULIMBA of Abia State leading 14 traditional rulers.

Very important personalities that was also present include Chief Dr Paulin IGWE from Houston Texas; Engr Chief Celestine Iwuagwu from USA; members of National and State Assembly; State Commissioners; National and international industrialists; students for employment, civil servants and rural populace.

The amiable and cultural enthusiastic Eze Ohanweh alongside his palace chiefs performed the official and customary cutting of the roasted yam with red oil signifying the end of harvest. He prayed, with some traditional incantations thanking God for bumper harvest and new greater expectations for the new planting year. Thereafter, guests were

entertained with displays of some rich cultural performances of the people.

Eze Ohanweh, who has been in the forefront of creating cultural awareness and keeping the Igbo tradition alive said in his special speech that the essence of the festival is line with keeping tradition but most especially, attracting tourism in Isiala Mbano noted for its rich culture. He bemoaned that Igbo rich culture may go extinct if nothing is done to preserve its values through festivals. He however, noted that other nations in Nigeria has done much to raise the bar in cultural awareness attracting foreigners and tourists to their place which is what he vehemently proposed by marking the Ihim ‘Iwaji’ festival with a difference.

Eze Ohanweh, meanwhile, called on discerning Igbo people to give the administration of President Buhari another chance to complete his 2nd term so that Igbo President will be possible by 2023.

FOR THE RECORD Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

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President Buhari, WAEC and PDP’s toxic air Garba Shehu The West African Examinations Council, WAEC, Friday, said the controversy concerning President Muhammadu Buhari’s school certificate is embarrassing and felt a sense of duty to produce and deliver to him a confirmation and attestation of his results, in form of a duplicate certificate.

This is a god-sent, with WAEC being a non-political entity. This should put to rest the absurd allegations by the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, brought up again and again, that he did not attend a secondary school.

The unreasonable position of the PDP had been sustained all along in spite of testimony by classmates who read with him in school and graduated together, and that fact that a court of law had given a ruling on the matter.

In 2014-2015 when they raked up the issue, I remember that it took the courage of the then college Principal to issue a statement of results from available records. In doing so, he defied the ruling PDP government in the state which asked him not to.

At the time we got the results sheet, reports said that the government had determined to send arsonists to burn the school to ashes so that the existing records will be obliterated.

This was against the backdrop of the shocking claim by the Army Records office in Lokoja, that they didn’t keep any records of General Buhari as a military officer.

Curiously, the Army Records office had once come under Muhammadu Buhari, as Military Secretary who, during his tenure streamlined the records of the entire officer corps, and could not, by any stretch of imagination, have left his own records in a mess. General Alani Akinrinade (Rtd) reportedly dismissed this mischief as an insult to the military.

After doing his conscience’s duty by daringly releasing those results, the then government of Katsina State punished the Principal by stripping him of his seniority and posting.

As we said in a number of past statements, the matter of the President’s qualification to run for office is a non-issue, nonetheless feasted upon by the PDP which has stopped thinking and have nothing to offer to Nigerians.

Based on arguments that “education gives a human being the power to discriminate between right and wrong,” the 1999 Constitution stipulates a minimum educational qualification for citizens who intend to contest for elections at all levels, which requires that they must possess a secondary school education or its equivalent.

The provision above has itself come under serious re-examination

Buhari

by scholars who argue that the possession of a secondary school certification does not necessarily mean that a person is intelligent. It is equally argued that it is a mistake to assume that a person with a certificate has higher knowledge or intelligence than the one who doesn’t have.

In an article published by the Daily Trust a day or so ago, Professor Shehu Zuru quoted Wendy Sherman, the author of the book Not For The Faint Heart, that “courage and integrity are critical attributes that you cannot acquire from a classroom because they are the inert fabrics of human conscience that dictates the power of the negative and the power of the positive.”

As far as his educational career is concerned, President Buhari attended the Katsina Provincial Secondary School, before enrolling in the Nigerian Military Training College, NMTC Kaduna (1962), renamed Nigerian Defence Academy, in 1964.

As narrated by Major-General Sani Saleh (Rtd), “I worked at the Nigerian Defence Academy so I know the processes. You cannot get in with a forged certificate, it is impossible.

“At the time (Muhammadu Buhari enrolled), the army was still controlled by the British...Nigerian Army was a select and (an) elite organization, we had very few Army Officers at that time. I don’t think the whole Nigerian Army Officers were up to 50. You can imagine what it takes for you as a Nigerian to be one of those...and today, somebody will be accusing you that you don’t have a certificate.”

From NMTC, Muhammadu Buhari went to the Mons Officer Cadet School, Aldershot, United Kingdom (1962-63), the Defence Services Staff College, India (1973) and thereafter, United States Army War College, which upon completion, awarded its graduates a Master’s degree in strategic studies.

In the belief that the nation has the right to know the educational

details of their president, Candidate Muhammadu Buhari laid bare everything and tendered an affidavit in respect of the WAEC certificate.

The masquerades wielding the real power behind the PDP, some of whom played an active part in his overthrow as military Head of State in the mideighties are deliberate in keeping this issue alive. As a thoroughbred, toughened general, he won’t cry out that his home and office were vandalized by scoopers when they threw him out of power.

In meeting the eligibility for the contest in 2015, President Buhari presented the WAEC results and the other degree and non-degree related results. He went through the verification process in the party, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC and the court. He ran and won against the PDP. With these, the unnecessary controversy should have ended. It is equally hard to fathom how such a dead issue should get the type of attention given it by the media, considering the many matters of serious concern to the citizens - internal security that was given a short shrift for 16 years by the PDP; the diversification of the economy by focusing on key sectors (apart from oil) that can create jobs and generate revenue such as Agriculture, Solid Minerals and Manufacturing which the Buhari administration is keenly doing; the ongoing pursuit of more reforms and better governance; bolstered efforts towards poverty alleviation; ending corruption and insurgency and ploughing the savings therefrom to put in place needed infrastructure and so forth.

Do they know that Nigeria Airways, NITEL and other pensioners they left in the cold, unpaid when they sold public assets to cronies or to themselves are getting their dues under this dispensation? If these things had been done when the oil price was as high as US$140 per barrel, Nigeria would not be in the current predicament. We would not have suffered when we had no cash reserves but we had regular supply of power, a good rail system, good roads and good housing. These are the issues dear to the hearts of our people.

In its political fight for 2019, the PDP is not relying on the big issues of the day -security, corruption and jobs but on small, distractive matters that take little or no account of national interest. But what do you expect of a group that has stopped thinking, just blowing hot, toxic air, indulging in divisive politics and is raking up sectional issues so that the people will forget the real issues of corruption, infrastructure, security and economy for which they have no plans?

Garba Shehu is the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

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SPORTS TIMES Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

Al-Farouq Aminu: D’Tigers gunning for perfection ahead of FIBA Basketball World Cup

Portland Trail Blazers guard Al-Farouq Aminu has admitted that the D’Tigers are still chasing perfection despite qualifying for next year’s FIBA Basketball World Cup in China.

The Basketball World Cup tips off on August 31, with the competition draw to take place on March 16 in Shenzhen.

D’Tigers are on a winning streak of nine games so far in the 2019 FIBA African Qualifiers and Aminu adds the Alexander Nwora led side will not take their foot off the game ahead of the sixth and final window, in February 2019.

In February, Nigeria will face Cote d’Ivoire, Central African Republic (CAF) and Senegal.

“Those games are very important. It is important to keep being in the same dynamics,” Aminu told FIBA.com.

“It’s not because we already have our spot for China 2019 that we have to give up competing for the rest of the Qualifiers.”

“We’re going to keep working and try to reach our full potential in order to have a great run in China next year but to also keep building for the future of the national team,” he explained.

“Those games are very important. Why not trying to win the last three left? It’s important to stay in the same dynamic.”

Aminu, who, prior to his triumphant national team return last month, had last sported the Nigerian jersey in 2015, is looking forward to featuring at the China 2019 showpiece.

He also admits that the wealth of talent in the current squad might come in handy in China.

“We have plenty of guys in Europe, in colleges and some of them who are in the NBA are from a Nigerian background, so maybe one day some more of them will join the national team.”

“We can’t wait to compete again on the world stage and compete against the best

g22

teams in the world. And we are all looking forward to it. There is still plenty of time before the start of the competition but we have that in mind and we can’t wait for it to be next summer.”

“We have the potential to do very well in the present and future and we’re going to do everything to have the best team we can build.”

“I’m sure it’s going to be a unique tournament as China is a country that really loves basketball and we will feel the love from the fans during the entire competition.

“Our goal will be to have a great run and try to achieve the best one ever for an African team at a FIBA Basketball World Cup.” The 28-year-old the 6ft 9in (2.05m) forward, averaged 11.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.3 steals a game in Nigeria’s three wins during the September Qualifiers played on home soil in Lagos and was thrilled with the fans support.

Solomon Dalung: We will continue to prioritise athletes’ welfare

Solomon Dalung, the Minister of Youths and Sports, on Thursday said the government would continue to priortise the welfare of athletes to sustain sports development in the country.

Dalung said this at the unveiling of mascot and logo of the 2019 International Para-Powerlifting Championships in Lagos.

The championship is slated for January.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the World Para

Powerlifting awarded Nigeria the hosting right of the championship which would serve as qualification for the 2020 Paralympics Games.

The minister said that one of the major factors that affected sports in the country could be linked to the careless attitude toward athletes’ welfare.

“Since we came on board, we have prioritised the welfare of athletes and we ensure that the large chunk of every budgetary allocation goes to the welfare of the athletes.

“The athletes are the main actors in sports and should be treated as such, ” he said.

Dalung urged sports administrators to consider the welfare of athletes as the most important factor to drive sports development.

He added that the effort put up by athletes during training required a lot of energy, support and funding for optimum results.

Dalung urged athletes to remain steadfast and good ambassadors of the country when competing.

FC IfeanyiUbah begins recruitment of Ladan Bosso claims Kano Pillars, Akwa United interests Former FC Ifeanyiubah assistant coach as well as U23 and players for NPFL 2018/2019 season coach Ladan Bosso has said that U20 Flying Eagles coach.

The management of Nnewi-based FC Ifeanyi Ubah on Friday said it will on Monday begin a recruitment process for new players ahead of the Nigeria Professional Football League 2018/2019 season.

Iyke Nwokedi, the club’s Media Officer, in a statement said the club would seek to recruit the best players available so as to have a good campaign next season.

Nwokedi said: “The management of FC IfeanyiUbah will conduct a one-week screening exercise for new players, from

Monday to November 12 and the screening exercise will be free and fair.

“We also expect that the screening, which is for talented and young players aspiring to make a career in football, will be in conformity with all football ethos and standards.

“The players selected during the process will be integrated into our feeder or main teams to blend with the current crop of players in our squad.

“This will be in anticipation of a good run during the 2018/2019 NPFL season.”

Coach Usman Abdalla agrees new two-year contract with Enyimba Coach Usman Abdalla has agreed a two-year contract with Enyimba after he guided them to the semifinal of this year’s CAF Confederation Cup. A top source said: “Abdalla has agreed a new two-year deal with Enyimba following the expiration of his initial agreement with the team.

“The club will soon make an announcement in this respect.”

Abdalla took charge of ‘The People’s Elephant’ after Paul Aigbogun quit during the past season.

His appointment has now put to rest

speculations surrounding the top coaching post at the seven-time Nigeria champions.

The coach himself had said he would love to continue at Enyimba as this continuity will help the Aba club.

Kano Pillars and Akwa United are among the several NPFL clubs who wish to hire him for the new season.

Bosso, who is president of Nigeria Football Coaches Association, parted company with FC Ifeanyiubah at the end of the 2017/2018 season at the expiration of his one-season contract.

Checks revealed that Kano Pillars, Akwa United and Yobe Desert Stars have made contacts with the former Super Eagles

“I’ve received phone calls from Kano Pillars, but I don’t go to a club where there is a coach already on ground”, Bosso said.

“I don’t want to be seen as taking any fellow coach’s job. Only go where the job is already vacant.

“Akwa United have also made contact, so also Yobe Desert Stars.

“But truth is, in the coming week, I should be able to make a decision as to where next my coaching bus stop will be.

“It is important one allows God to decide my next move.”

Gianluigi Buffon: PSG not ready to win Champions League

Gianluigi Buffon believes Paris Saint-Germain are not ready to win the Champions League as he prepares to make his European debut with the club against Napoli and play his first game in Italy since leaving Juventus.

The 40-year-old World Cup winner was suspended for PSG’s opening three European games for his behaviour and comments towards the referee during Juventus’ quarter-final loss to Real Madrid last April.

“To achieve certain successes we need a path, a project, a

management and a team that have known each other for a long time,” Buffon said in an interview with Sky Sport Italia.

“PSG have been renewed in recent years and need time.”

Buffon said Lionel Messi’s Barcelona and Juventus, who bought Portuguese star, Cristiano Ronaldo, last summer, were the favourites.

“In the Champions League, there are two or three favourites — Barcelona, because they have the first or occasionally the second (best) player in the world.

“Then there is Juventus, who in recent years have consolidated at these levels and taken the other player who is considered the first and sometimes the second in the world.

“There are outsiders like the (Manchester) City… who have a coach and a team that make them one of the potential winners.”

Qatar-owned PSG are third in Group C with four points, behind Liverpool (six) and Napoli (five), and will be battling for a win to salvage their flagging European campaign.

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, November 3, 2018

23 Sports Times

Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha’s body arrives in Bangkok for funeral The body of late Leicester owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha has arrived in at the Buddhist Temple in Bangkok, where his funeral will begin on Saturday.

The 60-year-old died on Saturday, along with four others, when his helicopter crashed after taking off from the King Power Stadium.

It is understood his close family and friends, including son Aiyawatt and widow Aimon, are also in Bangkok.

Leicester striker Jamie Vardy told Sky Sports he and his team-mates will travel to Thailand for the funeral.

“It will be massively important,” Vardy said when asked if players will attend the funeral. “That’s how we are – we are a close-knit group. We are one big family and one of the main reasons for that is Vichai – for us to be there is massively important.”

In keeping with Buddhist tradition the funeral will last seven days, and in MRS MBAH CHINENYE

recognition of Khun Vichai’s status within the country, the ceremony has been granted “Royal sponsorship” with all the associated honours.

Leicester will travel by road to Cardiff for their Premier League match on Saturday, after deciding it would be insensitive to fly, given the circumstances of the death of their owner.

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Claude Puel says the outcome of the match is irrelevant, with the sole focus on honouring Khun Vichai.

Speaking ahead of the visit to Cardiff, Puel said: “The game is not important, the result is not important but our desire, our action, our power to give our best on the pitch, to honour our chairman – I think is the most important thing.”

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Usain Bolt’s Australian football dream collapses Sprint king Usain Bolt’s attempt to become a professional footballer with Australia’s Central Coast Mariners collapsed on Friday as his trial period was terminated after contract talks failed.

The eight-time Olympic champion had been trying out with the A-League side for an indefinite period since arriving in August, hoping to fulfil a childhood dream to become a soccer player.

The 32-year-old superstar’s quest garnered worldwide attention, which intensified when he scored two goals in a pre-season friendly.

But his abilities were questioned and the club reportedly offered him only a fraction of the Aus$3 million (US$2.1 million) his management were said to be seeking, with outside sponsors needed to make the deal viable.

“As previously stated, the club and (Bolt’s representative), Ricky Simms, have been in conversations with external partners to find a commercial solution that suits all parties,” the Mariners said in a statement.

“Despite several promising potential partners, both Bolt and the Central Coast Mariners have amicably concluded that they will not be able to settle on a suitable deal in a timely manner.”

The 100m world record holder,

who retired from athletics last year and has previously tried out with clubs in Germany, South Africa and Norway, thanked the Mariners for the opportunity.

“I would like to thank the Central Coast Mariners owners, management, staff, players and fans for making me feel so welcome during my time there,” said the Jamaican, who is reportedly in Melbourne and will head to Europe soon for a previously agreed commercial engagement.

“I wish the club success for the season ahead.”

Bolt recently turned down a trialfree contract from cashed-up Maltese champions Valletta to focus on trying to make the grade in Australia.

That offer prompted the Mariners to table their own deal, but they didn’t have the funds to make it work without outside help.

And coach Mike Mulvey made clear that Bolt, who favours playing up front, was unlikely to get much game time in the A-League even if he signed, with the team boosting an experienced front line.

It includes Aston Villa marksmen and Scottish international Ross McCormack, who is on a season-long loan deal, and Tommy Oar, who has played 28 times for the Socceroos.

Unai Emery desperate to change Arsenal’s history against Liverpool

Arsenal head coach Unai Emery admits playing against Liverpool on Saturday will be a tough game for his side but he is desperate for the Gunners to turn around their poor form against top-six clubs.

The Gunners won just one out of nine games against Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham last season but Emery is prepared to change that starting with the game against Liverpool.

“We’re excited for tomorrow but it’s a difficult game,” Emery said during his pre-match conference ahead of the game.

“We want to write a new history.

The new history is in the present and also, with our players, our quality and our capacity, I believe in my players and this project.”

“We are starting this project with a very positive way with what we are MRS OGBONNA-IGBOKE

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doing.”

“They have signed a lot of players.

They are a good, big example of how you can improve.

On the game, Emery said: “Each match is a very important match.

The most important is tomorrow. It’s a very big test because it’s against Liverpool.”

“They are a very good team, an intense team, and they require a lot of work for us to battle them but I believe in our team and our players.”

“We are also going to play our way.”

“We need to stop them doing their jobs in the 90 minutes.”

“They have individual players and also are a collective. They are developing moves with the goalkeeper beceause they build up through Alisson, the centre-backs and the midfield players.”

“They can progress up the pitch with a lot of quality starting with Alisson.”

“We need a big match in the individual duels against them and also tactically we need to be together and play with our identity and style that we need to impose on them.”

It’s difficult for 90 minutes but in moments we need to impose our ideas in a duel of 90 minutes.

QUOTABLE QUOTES

In the future, everyone will be famous for 15 minutes.

Andy Warhol

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