DTN-23-3-19

Osun Gov’ship election: Tribunal declares Adeleke winner, sacks Oyetola Nullifies supplementary poll

Minority judgment upholds Oyetola’s election

PDP, Atiku hail Adeleke’s triumph at tribunal

APC rejects outcome, heads to A’Court

Tribunal sitting in Abuja, on Friday, Andrew Orolua, Tunde declared Senator Ademola Adeleke, the Opalana & Tom Okpe, Abuja candidate of the Peoples Democratic In a split decision of two to one, the Osun State Governorship Election Petition

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Party (PDP), winner of the Governorship election conducted by the Independent Continued on page 3

SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 2019

VOL. 3

NO. 904

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Decry poor health, sanitation facilities, harassment, sexual abuse, others ‘We openly defecate in camp’

Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja Pregnant women and children across some Internally Displaced Persons Camps (IDPs) in the Federal Capital Territory have continued to lament their poor living condition.

Little children playing and attempting to bring normalcy to the environment were sighted by our correspondent who visited some of the camps on Friday as well as adults who were working in a bid to make ends meet.

Since the resurgence of the Boko Haram insurgency group in 2014 in the three north eastern states of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe, many citizens of the states have left their homes in search of places, to escape the killings in the areas.

Speaking with The Daily Times on Friday, most of the IDPs especially women and children lamented their inability to regain their pre-conflict way of living due to poor living condition.

According to Mrs. Hannattu Waziri, they are usually confronted with safety challenges such as harassment, frequent sexual abuse, children molestation, forced labour and poor sanitation

which she said exposed members of the camps to infectious diseases.

The mother of 2 girls expressed fear that her prolonged stay at the camp with her daughters may result to a bad effect on her children.

She said: ‘’ I am afraid for my two daughters.

This is not a proper place to raise a family. We are faced poor medical facilities which accommodate growth of infectious bacteria, fungi and virus in their bodies, poor feeding which exposes them to malnutrition, poor condition of infrastructure such as power, water, roads, lack of healthcare, security, education among other basic amenities. ‘’We defecate and take our bath in the open’’, she added.

Some of IDPs who expressed their unwillingness to return to their home states, due to lack of insecurity said: “Truly, we hear that in the capital of our states, there is little peace. ‘’However, my house has been destroyed; I have nowhere to stay even if I decide to go back my place. I am calling on the Federal Government to help me and my family’’, Hammanjoda Tenuh, an CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

Secondus accuses Buhari, INEC, military of grand design to destroy g 5 Rivers

I’m alive, not involved in accident – Gov el-Rufai g5

Ihedioha wins g 5 again as court strikes out suit challenging his certificate of return

EFCC arrests 11 suspected Internet fraudsters g 5

As a DJ, I have more control g11 over my creativity - DJ Cuppy

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Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

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Come to our aid, IDPs beg FG, states

Continued from page 1

Indigene of Borno State added.

On her part, Halima Abubakar said that whenever food, clothes and money are donated to their community, the females hardly get them.

“The male youths scramble over them and we always end up not getting anything,” she stated.

Halima appealed to donor agencies to always consider the plight of the women in the camps by ensuring that items for women are delivered directly to them.

Another IDP who simply identified herself as Hassana said that hoodlums have capitalised on their situation to rob them of items given to them and wondered why the federal as well as their state governments cannot find decent accommodations for them in better facilities.

“We want government to save us from this menace of starvation and deprivation which is killing us faster than even the insurgency’’, she pleaded.

A youth representative and deputy to the Gwoza IDPs’ Camp at Kuchin- Goro Village, Martins Yakubu, who spoke extensively on the plights of IDPs in the camp, said they are being challenged by rising threats of hoodlums and miscreants to their existence.

He said: “While we are grateful to many sympathisers and philanthropists, who are coming to our aid, we have been confronted with the challenges of miscreants, who

are taking advantage of our situation.

“There are gangsters around us that are not IDPs; their aim is to violently seize whatever donations that come to us, especially when such groups decide to distribute relief materials to us by themselves.

That has been a challenge to our survival in this camp as it is threatening our survival,” Yakubu lamented.

Narrating how the KuchinGoro camp was formed, Yakubu said some of them fled from Gwoza, Borno State to the place because they had relatives in Kuchin-Goro.

“Gradually, other people migrated to join us and that was how this camp was formed with government ensuring that all IDPs from Gwoza are in camp here,” he added.

He mentioned those who had donated to their cause to include Catholic and Christian missions, the Islamic groups and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

The IDPs lamented the lack of emergency services as one of them narrated their ordeals.

“Our condition in this camp is already pathetic but it is worsened with the poor environmental conditions. We sleep in batchers with only nearby bushes available for us to defecate.

“Since the Federal Government designated it as one of the 11 IDPs’ camp in FCT some months ago, no potable water source or emergency social amenities

have been provided. We continue to drink, bathe and cook from the available shallow ground water,” said Amina Aminu.

The IDPs passionately appealed to government and stakeholders to salvage the situations saying, “We are appealing passionately to government to relocate us from this place bedeviled with touts and miscreants as they constitute a bad influence on our growing children and to our wellbeing.

“We also want some basic amenities like potable water and medical care as our children’s health is threatened by mosquitoes, epidemics and other adverse conditions,” they said.

A 32-year-old Ladi Mathew said it is suffering that chased them from Gwoza as the insurgents burnt down their houses and even their produce for the year.

“That is the suffering that brought us here; they killed so many people but we hid under grasses and that was how we escaped and found ourselves in this camp,” she said.

Considering these tough challenges confronting displaced persons and vulnerability of women and children, there is a need for an accelerated deliberate effort by Federal and State governments, International Actors, Non-Governmental Organisations and the private sector to collaborate in recovering and rehabilitating these displaced women and children at the shortest delay.

3 News

PHOTO TIMES

L-R: Elder statesman and former Judge of the International Court of Justice, Prince Bola Ajibola and Ogun State Governor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun, during a visit to Ajibola as he marks his 85th birthday at his Abeokuta residence... on Friday.

L-R: Nigerian former footballer, Victor Ikpeba; Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa and President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick, during the Nigeria vs Seychelles AFCON Qualifier match at Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba , Delta State...on Friday.

... declares Adeleke winner, sacks Oyetola

Continued from page 1

National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State on September 22, 2018.

The tribunal nullified the election of Governor Gboyega Oyetola, who was returned by INEC after a supplementary election held on September 27, 2018. It held that Governor Oyetola did not score the lawful majority votes casted during the governorship election in Osun State.

Delivering the majority Judgment, Justice Peter Obiorah ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission to issue Certificate of Return of the election to Senator Ademola Adeleke who scored the lawful majority of votes casted at the election.

He also ordered immediate withdrawal of Certificate of Return issued to Governor Oyetola.

The tribunal set aside the rerun election conducted on September 27, 2018 for being unlawful.

Justice obiorah held that the poll conducted in the 7 units is unknown to law because INEC has no power to conduct it.

The tribunal agreed that PDP and Adeleke established beyond reasonable doubt that INEC did not comply substantially with the Electoral Act in 17 polling units.

The tribunal said the returning officer acted ultras vires his powers in cancelling the seven units.

Consequently, over 2,000 votes credited to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Governor Oyetola were deducted from the total votes credited to the party by INEC, while over 1,000 votes said to have been scored by the PDP and its candidate were also removed from their total votes.

The majority Judgment further held that the returning officer who cancelled the result in the affected units after the announcement had no power to have done so.

Earlier, while ruling on an objection filed against the petition by APC, Oyetola and INEC, the tribunal had dismissed the objection as misconceived. The Tribunal held it has jurisdiction to entertain the suit.

Justice Adegboye Ayinla Gbolagunte, the 3rd member of the tribunal, agreed with the lead judgment delivered by Justice Peter Obiorah.

The chairman of the tribunal, Justice Mohammed Ibrahim Sirajo, however, dissented in his judgment and held that the petitioners, PDP and Adeleke failed to prove how the noncompliance of non-recording in the columns of accredited votes and account of ballots in the result sheets substantially affected the final results.

Justice Sirajo further stated that even when nonsubstantial compliance affects the outcome of the election, the tribunal, by virtue of section 140(2) of the Electoral Act, does

not have the power to subtract the votes affected by the noncompliance from the scores of the candidates and announce a winner.

According to him, the tribunal only has the power to nullify the results of the Polling units affected by the noncompliance and order a supplementary poll.

He concluded that even if the noncompliance was substantial, it was not proved by the petitioners.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has hailed the verdict of the Osun State Governorship election tribunal, which upheld the victory of its candidate, Senator Ademola Adeleke, describing the judgement as a victory for democracy and the will of the people.

The judgment, according the party, is a clear indicator that those who set out to destroy our democracy can never triumph and that no matter how evil and injustice appear to thrive, the truth must always prevail at the end of the day.

PDP spokesperson, Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement on Friday, said Nigerians have accepted democracy as a way of life and a form of government that suits the multi-plurality of our nation.

He said: “The spontaneous jubilation that greeted this judgment is therefore a direct indication that it is

Continued on page 5

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike (r) and Chairman of the Nigerian Army Investigative committee on Electoral Violence, Major General Ayibakuro Gagariga during a meeting with the Governor at the Government House Port Harcourt ...on Friday.

L-R: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Diran Odeyemi; PDP gubernatorial candidate for Osun state, Sen. Ademola Adeleke and Osun PDP chairman, Mr. Soji Adagunodo, after the election tribunal declared Adeleke the winner of Osun State Governorship Election ...on Friday.

Photo: Diran Odeyemi.

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Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

Andrew Orolua, Abuja

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5 News

Secondus accuses Buhari, INEC, military ... declares Adeleke winner, sacks Oyetola of grand design to destroy Rivers Tunde Opalana, Abuja

The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus, has called out President Muhammadu Buhari, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu and the military chiefs for their central roles in a grand design to destroy Rivers State if they fail to have their way electorally.

Prince Secondus said that having failed in a nefarious plan to hijack power in the state using all anti -democratic means, Prof Yakubu and the military chiefs have now yielded - to the design of stretching the state electoral problems until there is total breakdown of law and order.

The National Chairman said in a statement from his media office that the wicked plan is to stretch the endurance limit of the people, break their capacity to defend democracy so that when they react, they will find reason to kill them and declare a state of emergency.

Prince Secondus said that Prof Yakubu has chosen to keep shifting the completion of collation of election results in the state as part of a bigger plot that will enable the APC faction go to court, create more confusion that would linger until swearing in for a constitutional logjam to frustrate PDP out for the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, who is a willing tool in the destruction of the state.

The National Chairman noted that this is part of a grand plan of the cabals to create division among brothers in

the guise of helping one of the parties when the real agenda is to have the opportunity to plunge and hijack the abundant hydrocarbon industry of the region.

“Nothing underscores this heinous act more than Prof Yakubu choosing to shift completion of collation results to April 2 that is over 20 days after the March 9, when the election was supposed to have been concluded.

“Rivers State which is the economic hub of the Niger Delta region and the nation’s headquarters of hydrocarbon industry has been held down since March 9 when the military invaded the state collation centre ostensibly to protect the interest of a faction of APC that had no candidate in the election.

The National Chairman explained that what is going on in Rivers is a clear show of might from a people that have no interest of the state at heart, it does not matter to them if the state is destroyed protecting the interest of one man whose candidate is not on the ballot.

“What they actually desire is to pull all Niger Deltans to the creeks and let the power monger cabals at the Villa overran the place and hijack the hydrocarbon industry of the region”.

According to Prince Secondus, some credible intelligence available to the party shows that the long stretch of the electoral process in the state is part of a larger arrangement by the Federal Government and their critical agencies that include the military using Prof Yakubu to punish the state for the APC’s self -inflicted problem that deprived them of having candidates in the

elections in the state.

“The shift is deliberate and intended to help APC regroup for further onslaught on the people, all in the agenda of hijacking power by hook or crook in Rivers State.

The National Chairman said that the agenda of all these is clear, to provoke the people, stretch their patience to react and plunge the state into chaos so that they would find reason to declare the state ungovernable and appoint an agent of the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, to oversee the state as they try to create constitutional power vacuum in the state.

Prince Secondus called on President Muhammadu Buhari to note that what is going on in Rivers State which has his imprints has a larger consequence to the democracy and national cohesion, stressing that a region of the country that produces the wealth of the nation deserves a better treatment than they are getting.

“The will of the people is sacrosanct and anybody trying to thwart it should be ready for the repercussions from God,” he added.

The PDP boss called on prominent Nigerians and international community to speak out in condemnation of the arrogance of power being displayed on the people for taking a free position guaranteed them by law.

Prince Secondus finally warned that what is happening in Rivers and other opposition strongholds across the country presently has far reaching consequences capable of engulfing the entire country and truncating democracy in the country.

I’m alive, not involved in accident – Gov el-Rufai Says Atiku can never win election in Kaduna

Mathew Dadiya, Abuja Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai has said that he was never involved in any accident as being circulated in the social media after he met with President Muhammadu Buhari.

Some days ago the social media was agog with the alleged news that the governor was involved in an accident on his way from Kano and his driver was reportedly dead.

But the governor, while reacting to the rumour during an interaction with State House correspondents on Friday at the Aso Villa, said: “I am alive, I am not in coma.”

The governor said: “I came to see Mr. President after my re-election as governor because immediately after the election, I took a break. I came back to report to him that I was not involved in an accident, I’m alive, I am not in coma and also to discuss other issues related to my state.”

“My advice to everyone in Nigeria is to avoid forwarding stories that have not been verified. Social media provides platform for disseminating information but it is also a platform for dissemination of lies and hatred.

“We should be very careful that we don’t use this platform to advance the cause of the enemies of this country. I was never involved in any accident, I was not near any accident, in fact at a time I was supposed to be involved in an accident, I was in an aircraft going to another country.

“But somebody sat and concocted this story and we are trying to trace who started it. Because, criminal proceedings can be initiated against the person. Sometimes it is very difficult to know who started it but we are on it.

“My advice is that we should rely on reliable news medium, not just any

platform or any blog. Unless we hear something from a very reliable news medium, we should be reluctant to begin sharing it as if it is true.”

Also reacting to the claims by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar’s claim that he won the February 23 presidential election in Kaduna State, el-Rufai said: “I thought it was a joke and when I checked I saw clearly that he said he won Kaduna. It must be in his dreams.

“Let me say this without any fear of contradiction, since President Buhari started contesting for the presidency since 2003, he has never lost Kaduna.

So, PDP has never won elections in Kaduna from 2003, even with a sitting governor in 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015.

“It has never happened. I don’t know what will happen that Atiku will win Kaduna in this elections this time. He lost Kaduna, he lost very badly, even though about 100,000 votes he claimed to have got were added because elections conducted without card reader in some parts of the state, that’s how he even got up to the 400,000 that he got.

“He has lost Kaduna, he will always lose Kaduna, he will lose Kaduna 10 more times because he has never won Kaduna in any presidential election.

On the claims by PDP that the proof was based on INEC server, the governor said: “I don’t about INEC server, it must be Atiku’s server.

“I don’t know about INEC server, we don’t know how they had access to it, they will tell us during the tribunal proceedings what is this server and how they got access to it and how they got their numbers.

“You do not go to court in an election petition by quoting INEC server or any other server.

“Anyone can create a server, I can go and buy it, it is a piece of equipment

and call it INEC server.

“But that does not mean that it amounts to anything, we are guided by the electoral act and the evidence act and other enabling legislation and he has to proof his case.

“But anyone can make claims, we live in the age of fake news and fake claims. Anyone can make claims but you have to proof it.”

Continued from Page 3

in consonance with the wishes and aspiration of Nigerians across the board.

“For those who have been desperate to destroy our democracy, this judgment has proven to them that their shenanigans will always come to no avail”.

The PDP commended the judiciary for standing upright in the defence of democracy and for ensuring that those involved in the rapacious desecration of our democratic norms will never succeed.

“This verdict, which reverberates across our nation, points to the fact that the truth will always prevail and that our party, the PDP, will recover all our stolen mandates in the 2019 general elections, particularly, the Presidential mandate, which Nigerians freely gave to our candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

“Furthermore, all our candidates who have already won their elections, but whose victories are being manipulated by anti-democratic forces, must take solace in the words of the Osun election petition panel, that once valid votes have been declared and a winner emerges by majority of votes, a rerun is illegal”, said Ologbondiyan.

The party congratulated Senator Adeleke, the good people of Osun State as well as all lovers of democracy across our country for the triumph of justice over impunity, abuse of electoral processes and unfettered political rascality.

Also, the Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 general election, Atiku Abubakar, applauded the judiciary as truly, the defender of Nigeria’s democracy.

Atiku Abubakar made the assertion while responding to the verdict of the election tribunal upholding the election of the PDP candidate in the 22 September, 2018 governorship election, Senator Ademola Adeleke.

The Waziri Adamawa noted that the restoration of the stolen mandate of Senator Adeleke shows that indeed the judiciary is the last refuge of the common man and that in truth, those who were aggrieved and resolved to maintain the peace, have been vindicated.

Atiku Abubakar congratulated Senator Adeleke, the PDP and men and women of goodwill in Osun State, who did not waver in their commitment to

retrieve the stolen mandate.

“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy has come for the people of Osun,” the former vice president stated.

The PDP presidential candidate commended the courage of the judiciary and its resilience even in the face of strenuous efforts by the APCled government to undermine and intimidate it.

According to the former Vice President, the decision of the judiciary on the Osun governorship election is phenomenal in view of the culture of inconclusive elections by INEC in this season.

“The judgment has rekindled hope and confidence that those whose mandate had been tampered with or denied can look forward to justice being done to them.”

Atiku Abubakar urged the judiciary to remain steadfast as the eyes of all Nigerians and indeed the whole world are on them to help ensure that democracy in Nigeria is put on a solid foundation.

However, the All Progressives Congress (APC) opponent, declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Adegboyega Oyetola, has headed for the Court of Appeal.

In a press statement signed by Wole Oyebanji, Secretary to Osun State Government, on Friday, said: “The Government of the State of Osun wishes to appreciate the teeming support of the majority of people in all things essential for mutual progress.

“As it is, the administration of His Excellency, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, Governor, State of Osun, wishes to assure the people that the judgment of the Election Tribunal has been put on Appeal.

“This is to further assure all the residents of the state of adequate security of lives and properties, as the Government of the state is still the only legitimate Government having the authority to govern the state”.

The statement further assured the people that Justice will prevail at last adding, “the law enforcement agencies have been instructed to maintain law and order across the state.

“We therefore urge all the residents of the state to go about their lawful duties without any hindrance”, the statement added.

Ihedioha wins again as court strikes out suit challenging his certificate of return Our Reporter Imo State Governor-elect, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, CON, on Friday, recorded another resounding victory as a Federal High Court sitting in Owerri struck out a suit seeking to restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from issuing certificate of return to him.

The court also ruled that post -election matters belonged to the election tribunals.

Uche Nwosu, the defeated candidate

of the Action Alliance (AA) in the March 9 governorship election and son-inlaw to the outgoing governor, Rochas Okorocha, had gone to court to get an order restraining the court from issuing a certificate of return to the former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who won the election with a wide margin of 83,040 votes.

Nwosu had argued that Ihedioha did not meet the required 25 per cent of the votes in 18 out of the 27 Local

Government Areas in Imo State.

Striking the matter out, Justice Tijjani Ringim held that post election matters are to be handled by the election tribunal.

Ringim said that “the quest for justice must be in line with the constitution.

Post-election matters belong to election tribunal “.

The INEC had on March 11 declared Ihedioha winner of the election. He had polled a total 273,404 votes to defeat Nwosu who came second with 190,364 votes.

EFCC arrests 11 suspected Internet fraudsters Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested 11 suspected internet fraudsters for offences bordering on conspiracy, possession of fraudulent documents and attempt to obtain money under false pretence.

A statement by the commission’s Ag. Head, Media & Publicity, Tony Orilade, stated that the suspects were arrested in the Lekki County Homes and Igbo-Efon areas of Lagos State, following intelligence report received by the Commission.

Items recovered from the suspects at the time of arrest include seven exotic cars, 16 laptop computers and 20 phones.

They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

The suspects are: Ganiyu Sherif Abiodun, Akinyele Sherif, Oluseye Soremekun, Kolawole Rasheed, Kolawole Kazeem and Ibrahim Anjorin.

Others are: Temitope Samson, Damilola Samson, Uduogwu Freeborn Eboagwu, Ojomu Gbenga and Okougbo Dervick.

News 6

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Electoral violence: Wike condemns role of Short News military in elections, hosts army c’ttee Bayelsa govt vows to bring killers of NYSC Amaka Ogbu,

Port-Harcourt Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers state has declared that the negative roles allegedly played by the army during the 2019 general elections was the worst in the history of the country.

The governor spoke on Friday when he granted audience to the Nigerian Army Committee on Electoral Violence during the 2019 elections at the Government House, Port Harcourt.

He said that “the army’s political interference in the state is the most unfortunate infraction in the nation’s democratic experience.”

Gov. Wike formally requested for the redeployment of the General Officer Commanding, GOC, 6 Division, Major General Jamil Sarhem, alleging that the commander deliberately subverted the

general elections in Rivers state.

He said: “Throughout my experience politically, I have never seen the Nigerian Army play the kind of role they played during the last general elections. The Nigerian Army purely made political interferences all through.

“We will show you the visuals of the roles played by the Nigerian Army.

If you go to the 6 Division, unless they have moved them out, you will see ballot boxes and electoral materials. The 6 Division served as the take off base for the electoral interference,” he alleged.

The governor requested that appropriate sanctions be meted out to the GOC of the 6 Division. because of his active involvement in the local politics of the state.

Wike regretted that the challenge came during the collation, when operatives of the Nigerian Army allegedly invaded collation centres to cart away Form EC

8C for the governorship election and Form EC 8b1 for the House of Assembly elections.

“Elections took place in Rivers state at the polling units. The only council area where elections did not hold was in Abua/Odua,” he added.

Chairman of the Nigerian Army Investigative Committee on Electoral Violence, Major General Ayibakuro Gagariga said that the committee was established by the Chief of Army Staff to investigate allegations of misconduct against the army.

He noted that the committee would look into cases of alleged interference by the army during the general elections in the state.

The highpoint of the meeting was the visual presentation of all the locations of alleged army invasion to the committee members while a pictorial overview was also presented to the committee.

members to book

The Bayelsa State government on Friday said it would work assiduously with security agencies to ensure that killers of the members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) were brought to book.

Recall that suspected cultists on Wednesday night attacked residence of some corps members in Yenagoa, killing two and leaving one critically injured.

The attack occurred on school road, Swali in Yenagoa Local government Area of the state.

Mr Suoyo Appah, Senior Special Assistant to Gov. Seriake Dickson on NYSC Matters, in a statement issued in Yenagoa, urged security agents to ensure that the killers of the corps members were fished out.

Appah, who condemned the act, assured Nigerians that the state government would stop at nothing to ensure that the perpetrators are punished.

He said that the NYSC would no longer post corps member to any community that failed to provide adequate security for corps members.

“We advise members of the scheme to be vigilante and report any suspicious movement of unknown people around them to the police,” Appah said.

Mrs Lotto Bolade, NYSC Coordinator in the state, had said that out of three corps members shot by the cult gang, two died, while the injured person was responding to treatment at a hospital in Yenagoa.

Senate president: Yobe north APC rallies support for Sen. Lawan

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Yobe North Senatorial district, wants Senate leader, Ahmad Lawan, as Senate President of the ninth assembly.

Alhaji Mella Ladan, Yobe North Zonal Vice Chairman of the party, stated this at a press briefing on Friday in Damaturu, He said the entire people of the zone, including supporters of the opposition, were united in support of Lawan’s aspiration for the senate president.

Ladan described Lawan as most qualified for the office, considering his experience and vibrancy in the National Assembly.

“You know Lawan is never a bench warmer; his meaningful contributions on the floor of the senate has always provided a direction to the assembly.

“His loyalty to the party leadership from ward, local government, zonal , state and national levels, is never in doubt; his contributions to the stability of the Federal Government after the exit of Bukola Saraki and others to PDP, are exemplary and unique.

“With Dr Ahmad Lawan as senate president , there will be robust executive and legislative working relationship for the benefit of Nigerians,” Ladan said.

According to him, in the last four years, APC wasted precious time on personality clash and unnecessary feuds, which delayed passage of budgets and bills meant to improve the lives of the people.

NBC renew GOTV operational licence for 3 years Tom Okpe, Abuja

L-R; President Muhammadu Buhari, Emirs of Borgu, HRH Mohammed Sani Haliru Dantoro Kitoro !V, Emir of Kaiama, HRH Alhaji Muazu Shehu Umar, Oba of Kishi HRM Oba Lawal Mashood Oyekola, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, Senator-Elect, Pharm Sadiq Umar Suleiman, Wazirin Borgu, Alhaji Sa’ad Abdulhameed, Galadiman Borgu, Alhaji Baba Khald a during a congratulatory visit for the re-election of the President for 2nd term at the State House in Abuja.

PHOTO; SUNDAY AGHAEZE.

WHO treats 2 million Nigerian children against parasitic worms Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja

About 2 million Nigerian children have received treatment against parasitic worms, the World Health Organization (WHO) has said.

According to the WHO in a newsletter published on its website, the exercise was conducted across 27 LGs in Borno; 18 LGs in Adamawa and three LGs in Bauchi states.

The world health body revealed that the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) contributed in bringing the geographic coverage of treatment to 100 per cent in Adamawa, Borno and Bauchi states.

Speaking on behalf of the WHO Representative to Nigeria, Dr. Rex Mpazanje, said that the WHO had

since the beginning of 2018 expanded its support to include, actual conducting of campaigns alongside implementing partner organizations.

“WHO’s work on schistosomiasis is part of an integrated approach to the control of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Although medically diverse, neglected tropical diseases share features that allow them to persist in conditions of poverty, where they cluster and frequently overlap.

“WHO provides Praziquantel drugs for mass drug administration.

As of the beginning of this year, 449 of the 583 endemic LGs had conducted at least one exercise, including 190 that carried out the exercise in 2018 alone.

“All children at risk are reached and provided a dose of Praziquantel during the campaigns. Capacities

of health workers are built for the campaign as well as continued routine treatment,” the WHO representative stated.

Meanwhile, Rahab Haruna, a 45-year-old mother from Adamawa state whose child had Schistosomiasis said that she was helpless when her son had blood in his urine for almost a year.

“My son had blood in his urine for almost a year and I didn’t know what to do.

I went to several pharmacies and explained the symptoms to no avail.

When we went to hospital, he was diagnosed with Schistosomiasis. We were also told the drugs to treat the disease were scarce and we were given alternatives that did not work.

“I can’t wait to take this drug home to give to my son and his friends,” she exclaimed.

Director General of the Nigeria Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mallam Moddibo Kawu has revealed that the Digital Terrestrial License for the operations of GOTV in the country has been renewed for another three years.

Kawu said the renewal was effected on Thursday in the presence of the National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno in his office at a meeting attended by all concerned parties.

He said: “Yesterday’s meeting resolved that GOTV would have its license renewed for a period of three years. But with certain provisos. The separation of content provider from signal distributor is non-negotiable! That means, GOTV, going forward, in the near future, will no longer combine the two functions.

“So, in the three-year period of licensing that we are issuing, they would be expected to begin discussions with any of the two licensed Signal Distributors, Integrated Television Services (ITS) and Pinnacle Communications Limited, on the preferred platform to carry their content.”

The NBC boss commended the national security adviser for the role he played in helping to resolve the impasse, saying “the resolution of the issue recognized the role of investors in the broadcasting and other sectors of the Nigerian economy.

“And in resolving the issue, we realize the importance of investor confidence in the Nigerian economy, as well as the efforts to take Nigeria to the next level, by President Muhammadu Buhari”.

Kawu emphasized that with the Thursday meeting, the Commission was able to break the logjam in respect of the renewal of the digital terrestrial license issued to Details Nigeria Limited for the operations of GOTV.

Police to charge sergeant who shot school girl for murder Chioma Joseph, Lagos The Lagos state Police Command has said the policeman who pulled the trigger killing the 18 -year -old Hadijat Shakiiru in Adamo area, Ikorodu, Lagos will soon be charged to court for murder.

According to the Lagos Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Elkana Bala, who stated this, the policeman identified as Sergeant Mudi Emmanuel is culpable of the misuse of firearm.

Bala in a statement issued on Friday said “Sergeant Emmanuel, who was together with four other members of the surveillance patrol team on operation at that community is found wanting for professional misconduct and currently undergoing orderly room trial at the command’s provost marshal unit.

“His actions fell short of the rules of engagement for the use of firearms and professional standards for police officers. He will be charged to court for murder.

The command is determined to continually uphold the rule of law and protect the fundamental rights of the people.”

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

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PDP boasts of victory in re–run polls in 5 states Tunde Opalana, Abuja

As voters in five states participate in supplementary elections today, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is optimistic that it will coast to victory despite collaborative forces of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and security agencies with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to subvert the will of the people.

The party alerted Nigerians of an alleged unsavory development being orchestrated

by INEC to assist the APC to manipulate the electoral process in Bauchi, Sokoto and Adamawa states, ahead of today’s elections.

The PDP pointed out that in Bauchi, INEC is yet to complete the collation of results to determine the margin of lead in the governorship election, yet it is proceeding to conduct a supplementary election.

Speaking through its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan at a press briefing on Friday, the party said the anomaly being created by INEC is directly geared to cause confusion and muddle-up the Bauchi electoral process and pave the way for allocation of

fictitious votes to the APC. He said the PDP has reports of how the INEC leadership connived with the APC to delay the collation of results from Tafawa Balewa Local government, then stampede the courts to halt the process in an attempt to ambush the supplementary election.

“This informs why INEC hurriedly and shamelessly jettisoned its statutory independence and implemented the unconstitutional ex parte order to halt the collation of results in Bauchi and Adamawa states, even before the order was enrolled and served on it.

“The PDP cautions INEC to note that it already has the figures of votes delivered at the polling units. We also have figure of voters with PVCs in the areas where INEC plans to conduct supplementary elections. Therefore, any attempt by INEC and the APC to pad the results to favor the APC will be firmly resisted.

“The PDP is in a comfortable lead in Bauchi and nothing can change this reality, irrespective of supplementary election in which we are also set to win.

“In Adamawa, we have also been informed of how the APC and INEC are conniving to

cause confusion and alter the figures of already collated results of the governorship election won by the PDP. “The situation has become so pathetic that the Adamawa resident electoral commissioner is yet to officially state the commission’s position on whether the supplementary election will hold or not.

“The PDP reminds INEC that it has the figures of the already collated results in Adamawa and warns that any attempt to tamper with such will be faced with dire consequences, Kola stated.

In Sokoto state, the PDP alerted Nigerians of the invasion of the state by heavily armed thugs imported by the APC from neighboring states of Kano and Zamfara to unleash violence, cause confusion and help the APC to rig the supplementary governorship election, under official protection of compromised security agencies.

“However, the PDP wants INEC, the APC, their thugs and the compromised security personnel to note that the people of Sokoto state are determined to assert themselves in this election and anybody attempting to subvert their will would be doing so at his or her own risk.

7 News

Short News NSCDC commissions ultra -modern medical centre Ukpono Ukpong, Abuja Minister of Interior, Abulrahman Dambazau has commissioned the new ultra-modern medical centre of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) at its national headquarters in Abuja.

According to the Permanent Secretary, Georgina Ekeoma Ehuriah, who represented the minister, the new medical centre will improve the welfare of corps personnel tremendously as it avails them access to good medical services.

She added that the corps though the youngest of all the security agencies, has made tremendous progress since its establishment.

The permanent secretary appreciated the corps exemplary performance in numerous national assignments and stated that the minister is particularly happy with the corps for making the ministry proud in the recent 2019 elections.

Responding, the NSCDC boss, Abdullahi Gana Muhammadu, expressed appreciation to the minister for his efforts in ensuring that the corps attains enviable heights.

CUPP hails tribunal’s judgement Osun guber election Tunde Opalana, Abuja Opposition coalition parties under the umbrella, the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has hailed the declaration of Sen. Ademola Adeleke as the winner of the Osun state governorship election by the Osun Governorship Election Petition Tribunal.

The CUPP described the judgement of the tribunal as a victory for democracy and an affirmation of the supremacy of the sanctity of the ballot.

In a statement by its Spokesperson, Imo Ikenga Ugochinyere, the CUPP said the tribunal has given hope to Nigerians with this courageous decision to sack the impostor governor who was foisted on the people of Osun state.

It said that “the rampaging electoral robbery of the All Progresives Congress is beginning to crumble in their face with the determination of the judiciary to stand firm, despite monetary inducements and threats.

“Today’s judgement has reinforced the hope of the opposition that there is still men and women on the bench who, even in the face of rampage to destroy the judiciary, can still stand firm and do the right thing.

Anguish as car kills student on ‘okada’ Prince Nwankwo. Owerri

President Muhammadu Buhari receiveing Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasiru el-Rufai, in his office at the State House Abuja...on Friday

TMG demands prosecution of INEC staff indicted for electoral offences Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja A coalition of over 400 civil society organizations under the aegis of Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) has called on security agencies to prosecute all staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) indicted for any wrongdoing in the last general elections.

The coalition also demanded that the indicted INEC staff should not be included in the supplementary elections scheduled for today.

Chairperson of TMG and Executive Director of Women Advocates Rights and Documentation Centre, Dr. Abiola Akiyode – Afolabi, who made the demands in a statement issued in Bauchi on Friday ahead of the supplementary polls, stressed the need to ensure that the mistakes inherent in the earlier conducted governorship elections in the

affected states are not repeated.

“INEC must ensure that the mistakes inherent in the earlier conducted governorship elections in the affected states are not repeated as we also call on all political parties to refrain from actions that will further overheat the polity or jeopardize the exercise.

“The only way to preclude electoral irregularities is for all stakeholders to synergize and together keep an eye of the entire process.

INEC personnel indicted of any wrongdoing in the last elections should not be included in the supplementary elections,” Akiyode- Afolabi emphasized.

She recalled that the public had continued to evaluate the March 9 governorship elections in Nigeria, which were declared inconclusive by INEC, following irregularities and significant incidents of violence in the affected states, which necessitated cancellations of some of the results.

The TMG stated that supplementary elections in the affected states have been scheduled by INEC in line with the decision of the commission as laid down in Sections 26 and 53 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) and the commission’s regulations and guidelines for the conduct of the elections.

Akiyode-Afolabi said “security agencies, particularly the police must be reminded that their ultimate responsibility and loyalty is to the people; therefore, they must conduct themselves in a manner that will not in any way compromise the sanctity of the elections.

“As a people, we must understand that nothing can be achieved in an atmosphere of violence and lawlessness; we must all work together to prevent any future violence.”

Daily Times recalls that INEC had scheduled the supplementary elections for Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Plateau, Kano and Sokoto states.

It was a black Thursday, for the family of Mr. Godwin of Umuokoro Umuokeh, Obowo Local Government Area of Imo state, as their daughter, 13 -year -old Miracle was killed in an accident involving a speeding car and a motorcycle popularly called ‘okada’ which was taking her to school.

An S.S.1 student of St. Maria Goretti Mission School, Miracle was knocked down from the motorcycle as she was going to write her second term examination. The fatal accident happened along the UmuahiaOwerri Road, before the Umuokeh River.

According to an eyewitness who pleased not to be mentioned while speaking to Daily Times on the matter, the owner of the vehicle had gone to retrieve his late mother’s corpse from the mortuary when he suddenly realized that he forgot something at home.

In his bid to meet his engagement at the mortuary, he was allegedly over-speeding, resulting in him losing control of the car and in the ensuing confusion hit the late Miracle, who had just climbed the commercial motorcycle.

When our reporter visited the home of the deceased girl, the shellshocked father was unable to speak to our man as he was said to still be in shock at losing his teenage daughter.

Observers task security agencies on neutrality during Kano re-rerun Yakubu Salisu, Kano A coalition of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) accredited observers has called on security agencies to remain neutral while discharging their duties during gubernatorial supplementary election in Kano state.

Spokesperson of the coalition of 13 civil society groups, Amb. Chinyere Manukwem hailed the electoral umpire for its preparedness to conduct credible and hitch-free supplementary election.

The coalition also charged politicians to caution their supporters on the need to maintain peace and order during and after the election.

“Having arrived the state, we have interacted with the electorate, critical stakeholders, security agencies and INEC to ascertain the level of preparedness for the election,” the spokesperson stated.

She said their observations indicated that “INEC is fully prepared for a free, fair and credible election as the electoral materials are being moved to all the affected areas.

“We call on security agencies to abide by the electoral laws of the land to remain neutral, and also protect the citizenry during and after the election.

News 8

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

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NDDC to partner traditional rulers in Niger Delta Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt

The acting Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Prof. Nelson Brambaifa, has pledged to work with traditional rulers in providing sustainable development for the Niger Delta region.

Prof. Brambaifa said this during a courtesy visit by members of the Izon Elders Council, Delta state, at the commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt.

He challenged the royal fathers to continue to support the development process, noting that they play a crucial role in ensuring peace as well as providing a platform for dialogue.

The NDDC chief executive remarked that efforts were being made to revive the Partners for Sustainable Development Forum to serve as a clearing house for its projects as the

forum was an important organ for bringing all the stakeholders under one umbrella to aid the process of harmonizing development projects as enunciated in the Niger Delta masterplan.

Prof.

Brambaifa underscored the role of the commission as an interventionist agency charged with the responsibility of fast tracking the development of Nigeria’s oil rich region.

He said: “Our goal is to uplift the living standard of our people, engage in infrastructural development and drive a robust capacity building.

These are the things we are doing to promote the stability of our region, and we urge you to be partners with us.”

The NDDC boss urged key stakeholders in the Niger Delta region not to relent in their efforts to address the challenges of restiveness to create the right environment for the NDDC

to complete all its projects and thus take the region to the next level.

In his address, the Chairman of Izon Council of Elders, Chief Bare Etolor, felicitated with the acting managing director and the other executive directors on their appointment and expressed eagerness to partner with the NDDC in bringing sustainable development to the Niger Delta region.

Chief Etolor said: “Our voice has been heard across the country on issues concerning peace, development, youth restiveness, interethnic/multi-national community relationship, resource control, and good governance.”

He appealed to the NDDC boss to ensure the completion of the commission’s projects, especially in all the Ijaw communities and equally, pleaded for the award of the contract for the phase 2 channelization of the Ogbe-Ijoh Bututu River creek.

Short News Court remands 75 -year -old man in prison for kidnapping

A Magistrate Court sitting in Minna on Friday ordered that a 75-year-old man, Lawali Tukur, who allegedly kidnapped a businessman be remanded in prison to allow the police complete their investigations.

The police had slammed a one - count charge of criminal conspiracy and kidnapping before the court.

Magistrate Hafsat Abdullahi thereafter, adjourned the matter until April 1 for further mention.

Earlier, the police prosecutor, Insp. Emmanuel Danladi, told the court that the accused was arrested by a team of policemen in Tafa Local Government Area of Niger state on March 2.

Danladi said the accused, conspired with two others now at large and kidnapped a businessman (name withheld) whose relatives paid a ransom of N700, 000 to the kidnappers before he was released.

He said the offence contravenes the provisions of Sections 3 (4) and 2 (1) of the Kidnapping and Cattle Rustling Law of Niger state 2016.

When the charges were read to him, he pleaded not guilty. The prosecutor thereafter, prayed the court for an adjournment to enable the police to complete their investigation on the matter.

Police arrest 172 suspects for electoral offences in Kaduna

At least 172 persons have been arrested over their alleged involvement in various forms of malpractices during the just concluded general elections in Kaduna state.

Confirming the arrest to newsmen via a document made available to journalists in Kaduna state on Friday, the state police command listed the alleged offences to include, snatching and destroying of electoral materials, alteration of elections results and impersonation.

According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Yakubu Sabo, other offences include, the possession of multiple permanent and temporary voters’ cards, 99, 466 pieces of tamper-evident envelopes for used ballot papers, criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbances, political thuggery, unlawful possession of dangerous weapons and theft of INEC materials among others.

The command indicated that exhibits recovered from the suspects include, 39 permanent and temporary voters’ cards, 99, 466 pieces of tamper-evident envelopes for used ballot papers, 100 pieces of INEC observer’s jackets and a pair of army trousers.

Sokoto re-run: Army extends show of force to 6 LGs

The army on Friday extended its “Show of Force Exercise” to six violence-prone local government areas in Sokoto state preparatory to the supplementary elections in the state today.

The affected local government areas are Raba, Kebbe, Gada, Goronyo, Sabon Birni and Isa. Addressing the motorcade before taking off from Sokoto, General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Hakeem Otiki, said the exercise was to arouse public attention to the presence of the military.

Otiki explained that the exercise was not meant to intimidate the public, but to express army readiness to curtail any form of public disturbance.

He said further that the exercise would also serve as warning to hoodlums and other disgruntled elements that might plan or intend to disrupt the upcoming supplementary elections.

The GOC added that a similar exercise was conducted for hours in Sokoto metropolis on Thursday and urged the people to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in ensuring peaceful coexistence in the country.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Bauchi State, Sen. Bala Mohammed (2nd left); Hon. Garba Akuyam who just resigned as Commissioner of Finance, Bauchi State (middle); Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara (2nd right) and others, during a visit to Dogara... on Friday.

We have concluded plans to conduct Mock UTME on April 1 – JAMB Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja The Joint Admission and Matriculation Board have said that it has concluded plans for the conduct of this year’s mock UTME examination scheduled to hold on April 1.

The examination body also said that candidates who are yet to receive notification for the mock examination may not have indicated interest at the point of registration.

Head, Media and Information of

the board, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, made the clarification on Friday, saying that printing of notification slips of the main UTME will begin on April 2, while the examination will start from April 11.

“We have concluded plans for the conduct of this mock UTME scheduled to hold on April 1.

“Some candidates have been saying they are yet to receive and print their notification slips for this mock examination. I think that has nothing to do with the board because all those

who indicated interest to participate have all been notified.

“Again, some of them might have registered late. However, the examination is optional and I do not think there is any cause to worry,’’ he said.

Daily Times recalls that out of the about 1.9 million candidates who registered for the 2019 UTME which is computer-based, a total of 157, 631 indicated interest to write the mock as at the close of UTME registration on February 21.

Nobel laureate, Malala advocates new funding for girl-child education Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja Nobel laureate, Malala Yousafzai on Friday urged Japan and its fellow group of 20 developed nations to pledge new funding for educating girls at June’s G-20 summit to be hosted by the Japanese.

Speaking alongside Japan’s Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, the celebrated Pakistani education activist spoke about the importance of investing in girls now for future economic growth and global stability.

“As the chair of this year’s G-20, I hope Prime Minister Abe in Japan will lead on girls’ education and encourage all leaders to commit to new funding to prepare girls for the future of work.

I hope he can use his G-20 presidency to help my sisters in Japan, G-20 countries and around the world to reach their full potential because the world works better when girls go to school,” she asserted.

Malala became a global symbol for girls’ education and human rights after a gunman boarded her school bus in October 2012 asking “Who is Malala?” and shot her.

After medical treatment in the UK, she continued her vocal advocacy and became the youngest-ever person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014.

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Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

MOSOP sues for peace in Ogoniland Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) has called on people of Ogoni, particularly the youth to thread the path of peace and unity, and avoid violence capable of destroying the area.

MOSOP President, Mr. Legborsi Pyagbara, who made this call on Friday during a courtesy call on him by youth of Tai Kingdom of Ogoni, asked the youth to ensure that whatever grievances they had were legitimately tendered peacefully and made the interest of Ogoni a priority.

The MOSOP boss said: “Our youth should always put the interest of the Ogoni community first in the pursuit of their rights. While I cannot claim to know the reasons for the recent outburst of grievances resulting

in the killing of ourselves, I am pleading with our brothers to stop the killings and not set Ogoni ablaze or constitute a cog in the wheel of progress of Ogoni.’’

Pyagbara decried the cult crisis that had enveloped the Ogoni communities of Zaakpon, Luawii, Kaani-Babbe, Bo-ue, Nyokuru, Lueku, Sogho in recent times and lamented the damaging effects to the image and character of the Ogoni people, particularly, the sacrifices that had been made to bring the name of Ogoni from the mud.

He charged the youth to shun violence, cultism and other acts of criminality and resist being used as agents of division and retrogression, and development of Ogoniland.

“The Ogoni culture of respect, honesty, orderliness, hospitality, peace and justice should be imbibed

and sustained by all sons and daughters of the land,’’ he pleaded.

The Ogoni leader chided the federal government for failing to provide Ogoni people with adequate security and leaving the area without protection for criminals and vandals to reign supreme, stressing that it appeared the Nigerian government was creating an atmosphere for the Ogoni to kill themselves.

He further explained that MOSOP would intensify her peace campaigns in Ogoni, following the renewed violence and state of insecurity in some parts of the area.

“As part of our peace initiative, in the coming days, MOSOP will engage with the traditional rulers, opinion leaders and various security agencies in the area with the aim of achieving sustainable peace in Ogoni communities,” Pyagbara disclosed.

9 News

Short News Policeman rapes woman at ATM gallery in Awka

The Anambra state Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a policeman who allegedly raped a woman at an ATM gallery at night in a bank in Awka, the state capital.

Confirming the arrest to newsmen in Awka on Friday, the state Police Commissioner, Rabiu Ladodo, said that the suspect has been arrested and under detention.

“Soon after the police received complaint of the alleged rape from the victim, operatives were dispatched and the suspect was quickly arrested and placed under detention,” Ladodo said.

He however, added that preliminary investigation was yet to establish any case of rape.

Plateau: Police will deploy 5 - 10 police officers to polling units - DIG Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Taiwo Lakanu has said between five to 10 police officers will be deployed to man a polling unit during the supplementary elections in Plateau state.

Lakanu said given the fact that election will not hold in the entire state, there will be more policemen on ground to provide security. He stated this on Friday in Jos, while on an election assessment tour to states under his command.

He said that “when you have more policemen on ground, people will come out and vote because they will feel save. The increase in personnel is not aimed at intimidating voters, but to make them have confidence about their safety.”

While assuring the electorate of peace and security during the polls, the DIG said no form of electoral misconduct or thuggery would be tolerated and charged the officers to be deployed for the re-run elections to be professional in their conduct, encouraging them to consolidate on their previous efforts during the supplementary polls.

“The general elections so far has been applauded by Nigerians and I urge you to double your efforts tomorrow so as to prevent those who will want to snatch ballot boxes, card readers and other sensitive materials,” Lakanu added.

Okowa inaugurates 17-man task force on human trafficking Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

Jubilation in Ede, the hometown of the Sen. Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke, who was declared the winner of Osun State Governorship Election tribunal ...on Friday.

Buhari assents to COREN Amendment Act 2019

President Muhammadu Buhari has assented to the Engineers Registration Amendment Act, 2019.

The Act gives constitutional backing to the Council for Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) absolute power to regulate the sector.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Senator Ita Enang disclosed this on Friday to State House correspondents in Abuja.

The Act is coming barely a week after a school building collapsed in Lagos state and two other buildings collapsed in Ibadan, Oyo state, sending over 100 lives to their early graves.

Enang explained that the amendment broadens the powers of COREN with far-reaching powers of prosecution of infractions, regulating industrial training of engineers, capacity building of local content in the engineering industry among others.

He noted that the new law grants COREN powers to prosecute any person or firm found to have contravened the provisions of the Act in a court of competent jurisdiction.

The Act will also oversee industrial training schemes for engineering practitioners and students while ensuring capacity building and monitoring local content development in the Nigerian engineering industry through mandatory attachment of Nigerians to expatriate engineers on major projects to understudy them from inception.

Other prospects of the new Act ensure that all foreign engineering firms establish their design offices in Nigeria, including granting compulsory attestation to all expatriate quota for engineering practitioners.

The Act equally empowers COREN to regulate turnkey projecst, that there are no qualified and competent Nigerians for the job in question at the time of

application and that granting of the expatriate quota shall be contingent on training of such number of persons as may be required for the execution of the job.

“By the assent to this amendment it ensures that, before being allowed to practice in Nigeria, such foreign engineering practitioners will be granted work permit, register with the council and obtain such licenses as may be required from time to time.

“The Act further admits into the council the following: Nigerian Association of Technologists in Engineering, Nigerian Society of Engineering Technicians and Nigerian Association of Engineering Craftsmen and one person each appointed to represent the Association for Consulting Engineering in Nigeria, Federation of Construction Industry in Nigeria, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and armed Forces in rotation, among other functions,” the SSA stated.

Delta state Governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa has inaugurated a 17-man task force to check human trafficking and irregular migration in the state.

The task force which has the Commissioner for Justice and AttorneyGeneral of the state, Peter Mrakpor as chairman was inaugurated on Friday in the presence of the Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition and Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Dame Julie OkahDonli in Asaba.

Gov. Okowa stated that the task force had become necessary bearing in mind the high incidents of trafficked persons from the state.

“We are very worried as a state that we occupy high position among the states affected by human trafficking and irregular migration; we are committed as a state to stem the tide that is why we are setting up this serious task force.

“We need to reach out to our people and discourage them from seeking greener pastures that do not exists; irregular migration and human trafficking are evils that have visited our state and it must be checked,” he said.

Boko Haram: Troops construct own water, bread factories

Troops of the 115 Task Force Battalion, Operation Lafiya Dole, in Askira-Uba, have constructed bread and sachet water factories to support soldiers fighting Boko Haram insurgents in Borno state.

Maj. Yusuf Salisu, 115 Task Force Commander, disclosed this during an operational visit by the acting General Officer Commanding (GOC), 7 Division of the army, Brig.-Gen. Bulama Biu, on Friday.

Salisu, who was represented by Maj. Godwin Ameh, said that the project was executed under the Battalion Commander Humanitarian Initiative. He said that the initiative came as part of the modality towards protecting its soldiers from consuming unwholesome and poisonous foods or water from Boko Haram and their sympathizers.

He explained that some of the bread sold daily in commercial places could contain cancer-causing chemicals, including Potassium Bromate and Potassium Iodate, which are banned substances in the country.

According to him, the whole idea is to provide healthy food to the soldiers, adding that “the initiative was also designed to provide humanitarian support and services to the less privileged in the hospitals, church, mosque and the entire host communities with a view to strengthen civic relationship.

News 10

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

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Short News Atiku’s legal challenge will end tasks former students electoral impunity – PDP stalwart Monarch to assist alma-mater Alphonsus Nweze, Awka

Former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Anambra state, Chief Victor Anigbata, has said the decision by the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar to drag President Muhammadu Buhari to court will stop electoral impunity in the country.

Chief Anigbata said if Atiku and PDP had failed to approach the court for redress, the next President after Buhari would commit worse acts of impunity.

He said that “if he has refused to go to court as some people canvassed, it means we have accepted the impunity. It is good to go to court to register our protests. If not, the person who will come after Buhari will do worse things”.

According to him, there was no presidential election in the country, stressing that INEC before the election told Nigerians that they

have 84 million registered voters, out of which 72 million collected their permanent voters’ cards, whereas less than 27 million voted during the presidential election, which was less than 35 per cent of the registered voters.

He insisted about 80 per cent of those who came out to vote, were prevented from voting, adding that “even the election conducted by Prof. Maurice Iwu during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, was not as bad as this because more innocent people were killed in this election for nothing.

“During Iwu’s time at INEC, the army was not used. We are retrogressing. Nobody will say Nigeria had an election as far as I am concerned. Nigeria needs a rethink. And I am looking forward to when the masses will say enough is enough in this country.”

Chief Anigbata lamented that the Nigerians were being “suppressed openly and daily with impunity and careless abandon because nothing will happen. I know man can do

wrong, but God is alive; one day he will show why he is God.” The PDP chieftain attributed the conspiracy of silence that trailed the massive rigging in the last election to people being afraid of being persecuted by the powers that be, while many others find it difficult to attack the fraudulent electoral system while at the same time go to the perpetrators for patronage.

Chief Anigbata, who was an uncompromising supporter of President Muhammad Buhari, especially his agricultural programme, said supporting Buhari does mean he would not condemn the bloodletting that has become an official policy of the present administration and the fact the last election was nothing but a fraud.

“My concern is not Buhari’s victory, but it is about the process. If Yakubu, who is a professor cannot conduct elections what will other lesser people do. This shows that Nigerians are shameless,” he added.

Tom Okpe, Abuja

A monarch in Nasarawa state, the Osu Ajiri, Alhaji Halilu Bala Usman, has tasked old students’ associations to complement government efforts at reviving decayed infrastructures in public secondary schools across the country Usman, a first class traditional ruler made the call when members of the Nasarawa state chapter of the Government Secondary School, Otukpo Old Boys Association (OGSSOBA) paid him a courtesy call at his residence in Nasarawa Local Government.

Usman said that government alone cannot tackle the infrastructural challenges facing the various unity schools across the country, hence the need for intervention from alumni associations.

He said that “in other climes, alumni associations play critical roles in the development of the educational sector. Such gestures should be encouraged in Nigeria, where privileged Nigerians make personal sacrifice of giving back to their alma mater.”

The 77-years -old traditional ruler, who is an old boy of the Government Secondary School, Otukpo, recalled with nostalgia, his experience when he was in the school, stressing the need for old students to pay more attention to their old schools.

Okowa condoles Delta speaker over uncle’s death Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

Delta state Governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa has condoled with the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Sheriff Oborevwori and the entire Oborevwori family of Osubi in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta state over the demise of their uncle and father Pa. Johnson Oborevwori.

Okowa in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu in Asaba, said Pa Johnson Oborevwori was a committed and passionate leader whose contributions to the development of his immediate community was commendable.

He commended the late Pa. Oborevwori’s commitment to the peace, stability and development of not only his community, but also the entire Urhobo nation, describing his death as a great loss not only to the family but the state in general, given his invaluable contributions to the cause of humanity.

According to the statement, the deceased was a dedicated businessman, a devout Christian whose support and contributions to his family in no small way impacted positively on speaker’s illustrious political career, culminating in his election as speaker of the 6th assembly.

“The late Pa. Johnson Oborevwori was a quintessential father, devout Christian who devoted his lifetime to the service of God and humanity. On behalf of the government and people of Delta state, I commiserate with Mr. Speaker, Sheriff Oborevwori over the painful loss of his beloved uncle, Pa. Johnson Oborevwori.

Police kill 4 suspected armed robbers in Delta Nosa Akenzua, Asaba R-L; President Muhammadu Buhari, SGF, Mr. Boss Mustapha, Chief of Staff, Mallam Abba Kyari, Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Minister of Interior, Lt Gen Abdulrahman Dambazzau Rtd, SSAP Mallam Garba Shehu, SSAP Domestic and Social Event Mallam Abba Sariki, Perm Sec State House, Alhaji Jalla Arabi during congratulatory visit by the people of the Borgu Kingdom led by the Emirs of Borgu, Kaiama, Ilesha, Gwanara Yashinkira and the Okuta Emirates in Niger and Kwara State for the re-election of the President for 2nd term at the State House in Abuja.

Sen. Abe seeks justice for slain lecturer, INEC ad hoc staff Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt

The Senator representing Rivers SouthEast Senatorial District, Sen. Magnus Abe, has demanded for justice over the killing of a polytechnic lecturer and an ad hoc staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), killed during the February 23, Presidential election in the state.

Dr. Ferry Gberegbe, a senior lecturer at the Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic, Bori and Ibisaki Amachree, an ad hoc INEC staff were both killed in separate incidents during the February 23 and March 9 elections during the violence that trailed the conduct of the polls in Rivers state.

Speaking during a condolence visit to the Gberegbe family, Sen. Abe said there was nothing that happened at the collation centre in Bori that necessitated the use of firearms.

He stated that video of the killing of the

late Dr. Gberegbe, as widely circulated in the media, shows that he was murdered in cold blood by a trigger-happy policeman.

“I demand that the murderer(s) must be brought to justice. There is no fancy way of putting it. He must be brought to book. One of the ways we can put an end to all these things is that perpetrators of crime must be punished,” he declared.

The Senator said that elections were not supposed to be life-threatening events, nor wars, but that people deliberately created a situation that lead to the loss of the lives of innocent Rivers men and women.

“I condemn in strong terms the orgy of violence that characterized elections in Rivers state. This must stop,” Senator Abe stated.

Similarly, while at the family home of the Amachree’s, the senator said it was sad that the efforts made by some leaders to arouse the conscience of the people on

the need for peace in the state before the elections fell on deaf ears.

He said that “we had hoped and prayed that 2019 will be different. We had believed that we could appeal to the conscience of men and get Rivers people to realize that the state belongs to all of us and that we could peacefully come out like other human beings across the world, vote and elect those that would run our affairs for four years.

“Unfortunately, your daughter, an innocent Nigerian who was going to serve her fatherland, to join others in making our democracy to work became a victim of the shameless madness that has characterized our state.

“Every effort some of us made to try to reach out to people to understand that this thing can be done peacefully, fell on deaf ears and as usual all across the country again, Rivers state became a theatre of war.”

The police at Isiokolo Police Division in Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta state in the early hours of Friday, killed four suspected armed robbers who have been terrorizing the town and its environs in the past few weeks.

It was gathered that the robbery suspects were killed by a crack team of policemen at the Isiokolo following a gun battle with the robbery suspects.

Sources said the police have been on the trail of the suspects said to have been responsible for the attack on the lodge of corps members, robbing them and inflicting injuries on the hapless corps members.

But, the acting Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Chucks Orisewezie while confirming the incident, said that the police were assisted by the vigilante group in Kokori Town after the robbery suspects had carried out a major operation in the area.

He said that the police following a tip off swooped on the suspects who were from Warri and in the ensuing confrontation, four gang members were killed on the spot while others were escaped.

Also, the police spokesman added that members of the local three vigilante group were wounded, just as the police recovered two locally made guns and 10 cartridges from the suspects.

Buhari inaugurates c’ttee on autonomy for state legislature, judiciary Mathew Dadiya, Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari has inaugurated the Presidential Implementation Committee on autonomy for the legislative and judicial arms of government at the state level in line with the fourth alteration on the 1999 Constitution.

Buhari, while inaugurating the committee on Friday at the council chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, charged members to be diligent in discharging their duties.

The President said that he believes autonomy of the state legislature and judiciary was a necessary pre-condition for Nigeria’s democracy to endure.

The 16-member committee is headed by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, while the presidential National Assembly liaison officer, Sen. Ita Enang, is to serve as secretary.

The implementation committee has three months from the day of inauguration to complete its assignment.

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

Read more on: www.dailytimes.ng

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As a DJ, I have more control over my creativity - DJ Cuppy Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola, better known as DJ Cuppy, is a phenomenal personality who has taken the disk jockey trade to another level. Cuppy, who is the second out of four children of billionaire Femi Otedola has managed to carve a niche for herself in the Nigerian music industry. At 25, Cuppy has carved a distinctive niche for herself in the industry and thriving to tow her own path with some degree of success. In this chat with MUTIAT ALLI, she talked more on so many issues. Enjoy…

You are moving from being just a DJ to producing music, how much of House Music are you going to explore?

I love House Music and that comes from living abroad and experiencing different sounds. Having spent my last year in London, everyone loves Nigerian music.

There has never been a time literally that Afro beats has had so much light on it. I remember when I first started Deejaying when I was 18, I used to be like scared to play Nigerian music abroad because they will book me for shows and want me to play their own music. Over the last five years, everything has changed, so people actually book me abroad and say they just want Nigerian music, and I feel like now I can fuse both.

How was it like always trying to play Nigerian music?

MTV Africa awards when I was a resident DJ, we were in South Africa and South Africans love Nigerian music but they still have their own House Music.

They have their Pop, and Rock, so I felt like I am here; I got to represent Naija.

Actually, I was given a list of music I could play and I started playing it but you know for me, I took a risk and everyone loved it. After that event, I had so many people say that you represented Nigeria so well and sometimes you have to break the rules.

What is the unique thing about being a DJ than an artiste?

The unique thing about being a DJ rather than an artiste is that you get a lot more of opportunities to express yourselves. We are not restricted to our own songs, so I feel like I get to have my cake and eat it too. I can play other people’s songs and I can play my own songs. I have more control over my creativity and you know, I have a lot more catalogue, artiste go and perform and they can only really perform their own songs.

Has the BBC documentary boosted your career?

I did a documentary for BBC; it was called Lagos in London. And it was a

long-term project where they followed me and other Nigerians and it was a big piece it was globally broadcasted. But that show definitely helped me and it was important for people to understand that despite being from Nigeria and despite living in U.K, we still have our heritage and we are proud of what we do.

Are you making money from Deejaying or are you still a starving artiste?

I am making money and I feel like it is very important to make money now. I’m I running on a profit? That I can’t answer because I make a personal choice of branding myself. So, I have higher costs than a lot of people because I put a lot of my money into my business with everything I do.

I have a reputation of doing things in a certain way. The reality is that I generate revenue but I have a lot of cost some may call the unnecessary cost. But I feel like it is really important that anything you do; you do well.

And that is why maybe I am not rising in my profit, but my brand is rising in value every single year, so it is all about creating a name that has value, I believe that can later run turns into profit for me.

Do you think you would be famous without the name of your father?

I don’t ever shy away from the fact that my father helps me and I am really proud of being associated with him.

He is a great guy, he is an entrepreneur and he has done a lot for me. He has supported me not only financially but also morally. As far as my Deejaying if I didn’t have my father, I will still have my school cert and still be as passionate.

But people would probably be a bit less curious but having said that, it is an advantage. Also there is a disadvantage too but the good once are far better.

For instance, I can do a really good DJ set but because someone may have a problem with my dad, they already decided that am Bad DJ.

Amada Ebeye

You once said people should not really look at your father but look at your talent, has people’s perception really changed?

I feel like it is changing. I being able to produce my own song, it helps me show that actually, I am a credible musician. The perception is changing anyway.

As an artiste’s now, what do think makes a good music?

Am not a singer but as a DJ I can explain better; there is something called frequency.

When you hear a song, there are certain sound that clashes together and it either clashes in harmony or it doesn’t. For instance songs like Yeba, the reason the song works so well is the fact that it has a very unique sound; the flute in the beginning of the song. Most times you look at the actual cords, notes and the way they harmonize

Gist 12

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 16, 2019

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Election victory: Ogboru, Uduaghan, Omo Agege should work with Okowa - I Go Dye

Niniola

6th Gidifest: Niniola, Patoranking, DJ Obi, Wande Coal, others announced as headliners …..As LAX, Zlatan headline the next generations stage Ahead of the 6th edition of the yearly music culture event; The Gidifest, organisers recently at a media parley revealed the names of top entertainment headliners for this year’s event billed to hold at the Landmark Beach Front, Victoria Island come April 20th, 2019. Organizers unveiled Wande Coal, DJ Obi and Sarz who will all be joining the already announced Patoranking, Niniola, Teni the entertainer, Moonchild Sanelly, DJ Neptune and more on the main stage.

Wande Coal is ready to dominate his debut at Gidi Fest this Easter. He offers a distinctive sound and a track record of releasing huge international hits. His collaborations include everyone from Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Patoranking - who also shares the stage at Gidi Culture Fest this year.

However, leading the train of the next generations stage this year is LAX, Zlatan alongside other promising

young artistes that includes Boogey, Mich Straaw, Organya, Famous Bobson, Andre Music, Oladapo, Mo Believe, Dami Oniru, DJ TMSKD, DJ Nana amongst others.

Speaking on the coming event, Gidi Fest and Eclipse Live Co-Founder Chin Okeke says: “We are excited by the sheer diversity of the acts we’re announcing this year, it’s going to be a hell of a show. This year will see a return to our roots of promoting the future of African music, whilst many returning acts who have grown in leaps and bounds since the last time they graced the Gidi Fest stage. Expect a beautifully curated experience with a big focus on the culture around the music.”

The Gidi Tribe reaches beyond the shores of Nigeria, from Africans to diaspora in Europe, Caribbean and American with African heritage.

Gidi Fest aims to promote Lagos as a

destination and expose the stories that captivate music fans and explorers from everywhere.

Speaking on the states involvement; The Lagos State Commissioner of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Steve Ayorinde noted that “ The Lagos State Government is happy to endorse and be associated with the Gidi Culture Festival for six consecutive years.

The festival has been consistent with aligning with the mandate of the state’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture to use the musical arts and the creative energy of our teeming youths to further promote the image of our state as a prime destination a destination and powerhouse of the creative economy.”

With an expected capacity of 10,000 fans and more experiential programming still to be revealed, the Gidi Tribe can expect something unforgettable this Easter weekend.

Popito Baron out with new single’ Laslas’ featuring Teni Entertainer Stories Mutiat Alli Talented music artist, songwriter and Producer, Ezerioha Ebuka better known as Popito by his teaming fans is not stopping at releasing hit singles back to back since he pitched his tent with the TNBT record label, a fast growing Nigerian record label with huge interest in musical talented.

After a successful wave with ‘Coming Thru’, Popito releases yet another banger with one of

Nigeria hottest female artiste, Teni Entertainer titled ‘ Las Las’ which is currently enjoying massive airplay.

The prolific music producer grew up in the western part of Nigeria and his known to have produced major hits songs for big names in the entertainment industry that includes Timaya, Skales, Davido, Orezi, Faze, Tunde Ednut, Solidstar, Cynthia Morgan, Terry Apala, Chuddy K, Morachi, Tonto Dike, Stormrex and Splash to mention amongst many others.

Popular stand-up comedian, Francis Agoda, a.k.a I Go Dye, may not be a politician but overtime he has proved himself an advocate of peace and good governance of some sort. Little wonder he wasted no time in congratulating the returning governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa, on his victory at the Governorship and House of Assembly elections which took place on Saturday, March 9, 2019, across the nation.

“I congratulate you because it’s an overwhelming victory and your personality as a humble man, reflected in Dr. Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa, not as the executive Governor of Delta state that won you a second chance to be re-elected”, he said while celebrating the governor’s reelection.

He appealed to the opposition, Great Ogboru, Emmanuel Uduaghan, Senator Omo Agege and the entire people of Delta State to embrace peace and work together for the development of the state.

“At this point, I kindly call on all Deltans, most especially the political class to embrace one another.

This should be a moment to build our state and bring about even development in all sectors, irrespective of party affiliations. We should nurture a common goal of unity and develop the state.

I appeal to Great Ogboru, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, Omo Agege and all political class in Delta State to work with Okowa to develop the state.”

While specially congratulating Senator Omo Agege, the humour merchant advised him to do all within his power to create more job opportunities for the youth in Delta State, if I Go Die

he eventually emerges Senate President.

“I also use this medium to congratulate Sen. Omo Agege, who shall be representing us for the second time, to work effortlessly to drive the course of opening all our sea ports to create jobs for our youths. If in his favor God grants him the honour of becoming the next Senate President, he should work in the path of nobility and accord a friendly disposition to the governor of Delta State. The level of development which is desired in Delta State honestly requires the collective responsibility and support of every one.

We cannot achieve the goal of development without cooperation of oneness and above partisan affiliations. Let’s forge on a new path of sacrifice and lasting peace, with just one goal as brothers and sisters. Once more congratulations to you all”, he said.

Fox’s most famous TV series to land on StarTimes online video platform Fox’s most famous TV series, like The Walking Dead and Empire, are to land on StarTimes online video streaming platform, StarTimes ON, in March.

A source from StarTimes released that almost all Fox famous TV series would successively be available on StarTimes ON from 22nd March. And according to the source, a Fox+ Series zone would particularly be created.

Besides The Walking Dead and Empire, 24, X-files, Outcast, Bones, American Dad, Modern Family, Ghosted, Chance, Star and Family Guy will be first served in March to users of StarTimes ON. More TV series, including Legion, Prison Break, Homeland, Atlanta, American Horror Story, Wayward Pines, Da Vinci’s Demons, Futurama, The Americans, Sleepy Hollow, Bob’s Burger, Scream Queens, Rosewood, Baskets, 24 Legacy, Son of Zorn and The Gifted will join StarTimes ON

later, in April, May and June.

“We are very happy to bring Fox+ Series to our users and I’m sure that fans of American television series will fully enjoy themselves with StarTimes ON,” said Ariel Wang, StarTimes ON Operation Director.

She said that StarTimes ON would continue to introduce excellent international and African local contents to the online video streaming platform with saying: “No doubt, people can expect more!”

As Africa’s leading digital TV operator, StarTimes provides Terrestrial TV (DTT) and Satellite TV (DTH) services to millions of customers in the market. Last year, StarTimes pioneered its online video streaming service with having forged a new brand, StarTimes ON, for the online business. Till now, StarTimes ON has accumulated over 12 million users in African market.

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Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

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Society Gist

Engr. Preye Aganaba commends Nigerians for voting Buhari Isaac Oguntoye All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Engr. Preye Aganaba of Bayelsa State, has commended Nigerians for voting President Muhammadu Buhari and All Progressives Congress candidates who contested for seats in the National Assembly.

Going further, he assured everyone especially the people of Bayelsa State for nonviolence in the state which has been the trend after every election in Bayelsa and states that the people would feel the impacts and more dividends of democracy.

Highlighting some of APCs achievements in the state, he listed creation of jobs, canalisation projects in Yenegoa, schools, roads, health centers amongst many others.

According to Engr. Preye Aganaba, APC stakeholders are for the people and will surely bring more projects into the state.

On his perception of the cabinet members of the president and his charge to the president on appointees, Engr. Preye noted that he is not happy with the people who got appointment previously, as active party members were not considered, and it seemed the opposition party were more in power.

However, he believes this would not reoccur, and is sure the president meant well by his actions, but members of the opposition party stemmed to bring about confusion. Still on it, he states that the mandate of choosing these appointees is left to the president, but change is sure.

Engr. Preye also gave his perception of the election as regards APCs performance as against the perception of electorate on this election being the worst in recent times.

According to him, APC has provided a level plan ground for people to vote in Nigeria. He recounts how he and other members of his party contested for some post in 2015 and were maltreated and arrested as a ploy by the opposition party. This happened during the period PDP was in power.

However, APC has eliminated this maltreatment especially in the region of Bayelsa. Violence was the order of the day when PDP was in power, and instances can be gotten from the number of deaths recorded in Rivers state during election in 2015 as history will always speak for itself.

Furthermore, he states that APC provided adequate security for the 2019 elections in Odii, and there were no issues. He continues that the post-election violence which was recorded in Odii was carried out by members of the opposition party, however, it was combated by the security forces on ground and with the help of the king.

Comparing election violence between now and then in the region, Engr. Preye noted that facts would show that this election was much more peaceful. “APC is working relentlessly to ensure peace and non-violence becomes the new order of the day. There was very minimal violence this year compared to previous electoral years,” he added..

Engr. Preye also spoke of his foundation ‘The Preye Aganaba Foundation’ which was founded in 2015. This foundation has assisted women, youths and widows in Odii. It has empowered these people by training them in fish farming, tailoring, making of confectionaries and then giving them money to establish after training. The aim now is to extend this statewide, and ensure that everyone benefits. The goal is to be beneficial to the entire masses and not just catchments of a specific political party. This a way of a saying thank you to Bayelsa people. This foundation has now powered the Grassroot Leadership Forum (GLF) which would run the #RefreshingChangeInitiative. The goal is to meet the needs of the people at the grassroot.

Also, Engr. Preye commended the efforts the president has made in the region.

He states that the president did not have lesser projects in the South South region and Bayelsa. He highlights the Surelight Protection Jobs in Odii & Yenegoa and also the Niger Delta Development Commission in Bayelsa state as commendable efforts of the president. According to him, stakeholders are to be held responsible to bring projects to the state as they know more about the state than the president, and the president will surely not say no or decline any suggestion or recommendations brought forward by stakeholders as far as it is legitimate. He further stated ‘the government has done remarkably well, and will continue to do more and bring in more projects to Bayelsa State’.

On the East-West roads, Engr. Preye enlightened that the government is in partnership with Sovereign Wealth Authority office to fund this project. He also stated that strategies and logistics for such projects actually do take time, but will be done with time. He assures that the EastWest road will be done in a year.

Talking about the APC in Bayelsa State, he said the party is all about team work and every member is empowering themselves to work together and not turn out to be warriors. He says stakeholders of the party have agreed to put structures in place to build the party, and that there should be no doubt about the party being united. He assures that although issues are bound to arise, they would be duly settled in-house.

Talking about insecurity on the East-West road such as kidnapping and robbery, he stated that it is the job of the governor of each state and not that of the president.

His words: “It is the job of each state governor to use available security forces to tackle these issues. The president only intervenes when state of emergency is declared.

“The APC is out for the growth of everyone, and the party’s light will surely not dim anytime soon”.

N-Power pledges support for artisans Saying that thousands of Nigerian artisans have abandoned their original trade or vocation is like stating the obvious.

Some of them blame this on low patronage as many would prefer to give the job to the big companies who will look for cheap labour among the artisans.

Prior to that, some ventured into commercial motorcycle operations.

Few resorted to illicit rent collection on every land transaction in neighbourhoods. Others joined the league of social deviants, picking pockets among crowds and forcing commercial drivers to part with some cash.

Meanwhile, N-Power a programme that was established with the aim of fostering economic growth and social development in Nigeria have step up their game not only to support but also to train and nurture artisans into getting their dream job.

This initiative that kicked started few days ago in various centres all over the country had top professionals in

attendance who motivate, trained and encourage artisans.

According to Builder Shoyebi Samson, the Managing Director, Honeytrade Academy, “We’re doing this training in partnership with N-power and office of the Vice President. The enssence of this is to ensure competence with artisanship like craftsman, craftswoman, craftsperson, skilled worker. We expect Nigerians who actualized these trades on a daily basis to achieve some level of competence. If we’re are saying that, we’re looking at our society as a developmental society, what level of competence do people who are going to actualized this developmental activities have? A lot of carpenter can rarely say what their field is all about.

They don’t even have any level of competence or certification to back it up. So, this training is an upskilling training that will afford them the opportunity to up their skills. Its an opportunity for them to learn new thing and give them strategies on how to market themselves in the industry.

These Upskiller are coming into the

market to set the pace for the Nigeria market in construction artisanship.”

Explaining further, he said “In this centre, we have over one hundred and fifty trainees and they’ve been thought how to market themselves and how to present themselve to client.”

Also speaking at the event was, Builder, Adelaja Adekanbi, the chairman, Nigeria Institute of Building Lagos State charpter who said the initiative is meant to set a standard and promote quality among artisan saying “Like we all know, the N-power is the baby of President Mohammad Buhari and it is in two faces. The first one is for those who have no power knowledge and the second is N-power upskilling which is for those who have one skill or the other but need to perfect their skill and seek for more support. So, today we are engaging those who have the skill but lack the standard.

We are here to reframe and update them on way to practice their trade without hindrance. The program have started three days ago and we have centre in different part of the country.”

Adekanbi concluded.

Garleya Esther wins 2019 African Young Orators competition Anxiety, hope and song of victory were the feelings of the day as the new winner emerged in the just concluded African Young Orators 2019 competition which took place at an event Hall around Oduduwa way G.R.A Ikeja, Lagos on 15th of March 2019.

It was indeed a tough decision for the judges as all participants delivered their five-minute prepared speech on the theme of “Nature is a common language” citing different example from all spheres of life.

The winner, Garleya Esther, a fifteen years old student from Princess Adeja International School College, Gboko Benue State was filled with tears of joy as she thank both the organizers and her parents for giving her the opportunity to be part of the competition saying “I’m really excited; in fact, I’m short of words because I never expected this. I want to thank the organizers for giving me this opportunity and the platform. And to my parents, I want to say daddy and mummy; I’m so grateful and thank you so much for providing everything for me to be here.”

When she was asked about her advice for other students, she said “For the student, I will say, you have a talent in you; you don’t need to hide it. Bring out yourself and show yourself to the world and it will take you places.”

On what people should expect from her

when she finally get to United Kingdom for the competition, she said “Keep looking forward to it, you would be dazzled.” The talented young chap said.

Also speaking at the event, the executive director Peat Philips Foundation and the prime mover of African Young Orators Competition, Mr Akin Olu-Philips who share his experience, joy and challenges during this year competition saying “I will rate this year edition as ‘very good’. I think we’ve done well and we could do better. Basically, our focus at Peat Philips Foundation is to improve communication and leadership skills in the young ones and that’s why we came up with all these educational programs to be able to impart on these kids.”

“We are indeed grateful that we could host the season 2 of this noble programme despite not having corporate sponsorship to assist with the needed funding to host an impressive competition, however, we would not fail to express our profound gratitude to corporate organization who contributed their products and services to the successful hosting of today’s event” Meanwhile, it will also interest you to know, that this year competition was also use to celebrate World Speech Day which he described as a day of expression where you get to express yourself freely on how things can be, and how things ought to be.

Meet young and pretty regent, Her Majesty, Taiwo Oyebola Agbona Young and pretty Regent, Her Majesty, Taiwo Oyebola Agbona, who has been ruling for over a year now in Ondo State has become a subject of discussion on social media recently.

As the first girl child, she is to stand in gap on the throne of her forefathers till the senior traditional Chiefs (Afobaje) choose the next King for the town.

Tradition entails her to temporarily take over the rulership of her kingdom. She has been on the throne for over a year so far.

A graduate of Achievers University, Owo Ondo State was crowned as a Regent (Adele Oba) in Aaye town in ifedore Local Government, Ondo State a year plus now She was born into the Royal family of HRM Oba J. B Agbona, Orimoro 11, the Alaaye of Aaye( who transformed from mortality to immortality to join his ancestors on the 4th of may, 2017).

She studied Medical Laboratory Science (Heamatology).

She is also on social media and bears Royal_bliss on Instagram.

As a Regent, Her Majesty is forbidden to Kneel to any human, she must not have

sexual intercourse, she must not eat in public, she must always be in male atire.

Her friend on social media reacts to that sexuality aspect and the reaction indeed is savage. “Even if she is on the throne for five years, no sexual intercourse? This seem to be a punishment to me, you guys should choose your king on time.”

We wish Her Majesty successful reign….

Ase!!!!

Taiwo Oyebola

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Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

Gist

BBNaija: DStv, GOtv subscribers can vote online for one more Housemate Stories by Mutiat Alli, Lagos MultiChoice Nigeria has announced the commencement of online voting for its BBNaija online auditions, which held from 25th to 27th February. Contestants were expected to record a two-minute video of them stating why they should be picked to become housemates in this year’s Big Brother Naija.

The online auditions were an unprecedented move by MultiChoice Nigeria and a way of giving voice to the audience, giving them the power to vote a Housemate into the House.

Ten contestants were selected from the online auditions and the voting portal.

Voting is open to only active DStv and GOtv subscribers and official voting rules apply. Subscribers may vote in 10 voting round(s) across the Voting Period.

Voting rounds are open from 9am to 11pm on March 21 and from midnight to 11pm from March 22nd to March 31st.

MultiChoice Nigeria CEO, John Ugbe believes that the online auditions democratise the BBNaija process. “The online auditions are a way of involving our subscribers in the decision-making process of who gets to go into the house. They are the reason the show remains popular, always rooting for their favourite Housemates. Also, just thinking about the people who turned up for the physical auditions, we thought to give them another opportunity. Big Brother

Temi

Temi Otedola in celebration mood John Ogbe

is a fun show and rejigging things a little bit shows that there is no predetermined script even though it continues to follow the international format,” he said.

Subscribers on the different bouquets are allowed to vote for one contestant in every voting round. On verification of the subscriber’s package, the contestant will be allocated points, which will contribute to the contestants final score.

The premium bouquet carries 100 points, 75 points for Compact+, 50 points for Compact, 25 and 10 points for Family and Access bouquets. For GOtv subscribers, GOtv Max carries 25 points, while GOtv Plus carries 10 points.

Voters are assured that all votes will be duly compiled and verified with a reputable audit firm to determine the final contestant for the show.

Africa’s Boomplay announces licensing deal with Warner Music Boomplay, the largest music streaming and download service in Africa, has signed a direct licensing agreement with Warner Music to bring the record company’s diverse global roster of music to the region.

The terms of the partnership allow Boomplay to distribute Warner Music’s extensive catalogue of more than one million songs to its community of listeners in ten countries; Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia.

The deal will provide Warner Music’s artists with direct access and exposure to Boomplay’s millions of users in the region, while bringing Boomplay one step closer to its goal of bringing all music from around the world to Africa.

Joe He, CEO of Boomplay, says: “Major deals with internationally recognized partners such as Warner Music continue to push us closer to our aim of building the largest and the most reliable online music distribution platform in Africa. We want every music lover in the region to be able to access any song or video, anytime and wherever they are. We are looking forward to a successful partnership and business continuation with WMG in what are truly exciting times for the African Music Industry.’

On the deal, Dele Kadiri, Boomplay ‘s General Manager in Nigeria says: ‘’I am totally excited about our licensing deal with Warner Music Group. This partnership brings about a huge increase to our catalogue thereby making a variety of music available to hundreds of millions of Nigerians.’’

Alfonso Perez Soto, EVP, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, Warner Music, adds: “We’re happy to partner with Boomplay to bring our amazing artists’ music to millions of listeners across Africa. The streaming service already has tremendous reach across the continent, yet they continue to expand exponentially. It’s an opportunity that can’t be missed for our artists to make a whole new legion of fans.”

Perez-Soto continued: “I’d like to thank Warner Music’s Charlie White, Marc Latilla and Reni Adadevoh for their unstinting support in helping pull this deal together and get it over the line.”

In the past year, Boomplay has been on the crest of a wave, announcing landmark deals with global major labels, acquiring millions of new users monthly and releasing an iOS version in December 2018.

With major labels coming on board, Boomplay is now in a strong position to further improve its service offerings and defend its leading position in Africa. Boomplay, which has more than 42 million users as of February 2019, boasts an expansive catalogue consisting of five million songs and thousands of videos from local and international acts.

Mz Kizz

As you’re reading this piece, Temi Otedola is in celebration mood.

Temi Otedola, one of the daughters of Nigerian billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, celebrates herself as she turns 23 today.

The high street fashion blogger, who was born on 20th March, 1996, turned 23 years old today and took

some time to show herself some love.

Taking to her instagram handle the pretty younger sister to the maverick DJ Cuppy in a personal message to self, joking said that she needs to start acting more like an adult.

Her message: “Happy Birthday to MEEEEE. I better start acting like the adult that I am”.

Hymnodia 2019: Stanza Leader hymnvicted as contest heats up David Onwukwe, the Hymnstitute (show’s house) Stanza Leader for Stanza 6 was the casualty of the voting public when he was hymnvicted (evicted) at the 7th stanza of the fast-growing show, Hymnodia.

The stanza, which was aired on all platforms on Sunday night, was themed “Songs from the Word” and exhibited renditions of self-composed hymns by the Hymntestants (contestants) inspired by scripture passages. David, who had written and composed his hymn titled Lord Arise inspired by Psalm 3.

However, in line with the rules of the contest, David’s hymnviction (eviction) was announced before the commencement of the stanza rendition. He received the least public votes after the week of probation. David who is hymntestant number 13 performed his hymn as a valedictory rendition to a standing ovation.

With David’s hymnviction, his role as Stanza leader was handed over to Jemine Edukugho, (hymntestant number 14) at the end of the Stanza. Jemine is the youngest of the 14 hymntestants who were admitted into Hymnodia 2019. There are nine hymntestants remaining in the race for the ASAPH, the trophy of Hymnodia.

Another key highlight of the performance show was the announcement by the Dean of a no probation verdict for the Stanza in the spirit of lent and to reward the Hymntestants for their hard work in writing and composing their original hymns.

Commenting on Stanza 7 performance, the judges commended all the Hymntestants for their performance which captured the essence of each relevant scripture including the spirit of the Lenten period and Christ’s suffering on the cross. This was disclosed

by Benneth Ogbeiwi, Dean of the Hymnstitute, after display of talents that led to wonderful hymns rendition that captured the solemn season of Lenten.

Hymnodia, which will culminate in April, will reward the winner with the Asaph (a specially designed award named after David’s chief musician), a brand-new car and N5 million.

The judges on Stanza 7 were legendary musician Onyeka Onwenu; Dupe IgeKachi (popularly known as Ige Sings), singer, songwriter and voice coach; and Sunday Olawuwo, music director of Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral, Ikeja, Lagos. As usual, they were joined by Benneth Ogbeiwi, Dean of the Hymnstitute.

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Digital currency platform unveils BrodaShaggi brand ambassador Ladesope Ladelokun Tradefada, a digital currency platform has unveiled popular comedian actor Samuel Perry as a brand ambassador with a brand new 2016 SUV Honda pilot model.

The entertainer, who is widely known as Brodashaggi for his Oya hit me comedy skit inked the deal with the cryptocurrency exchange the company in Lagos.

Speaking at the event, Perry said he was delighted that more privately owned companies have begun investing in creativity by empowering the practitioners.

Aside from being an ambassador for the number one digital currency platform in Africa, Perry said he was also an investor in cryptocurrency trade, adding that Tradefada is legitimate and promises a return on investment.

According to Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Tradefada Mr. Seun Dania the deal will see the actor as the face of the brand for the next five years with an option to renew the contract upon the expiration of the endorsement deal.

Dania said that Tradefada, which is registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission supports hard-working individuals who are creative, adding that trading with Tradefada comes with assurances such as asset, price, and quantity among others. “We buy and sell at the best the rate in Nigeria,” he said.

He said that Tradefada supports a lot of organizations such as blockchain user group in Nigeria which organizes other conferences that educate individuals on the value of digital currency exchange, banking and stock exchange. “Countries like China, Venezuela and Japan are already adopting cryptocurrency. We had eras when we traded in cowries and paper which we are now, but that is shifting now as we are involving into E-banking.

The next phase in the nearest future is the cryptocurrency space which is inevitable. Right now, the cryptocurrency is worldwide and it is a multi-billion dollar industry. You see banks like JP Morgan who have come up with their own currency. It is a credible institution. We strongly believe that cryptocurrency is the future and it is high time we tapped into it,” he said.

Dania who is also the executive producer of a movie titled Nimbe, which campaigns against the use of the drug, took journalists and guests on a painting exercise to express something that says no to drugs on canvass. The painting on canvass was part of Tradefada company’s way to the campaign against the use of drug among youths in Nigeria.

Air Peace Corporate Communications Manager, Mr Chris Iwarah (left) and Assistant Customer Relations Manager, Mrs. Patricia Ebilah (right) with the Director of Culture, Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture, Mrs. Saidat Olaitan Otulana (middle) displaying Air Peace’s ‘Best Local Airline of the Year’ award at Nigeria Travel Awards organised

by Jumia Travel in Lagos ...on Monday

TEF selects over 3,000 entrepreneurs for 2019 programmes Mathew Dadiya, Abuja The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) has selected not less than 3,050 applicants for the 2019 cohort of the flagship Entrepreneurship Programme. an African philanthropic foundation committed to empowering entrepreneurs, 3,050 applicants were selected out of the 216,000 submitted applications representing 58 per cent male, 42 per cent female.

The announcement was made at the TEF Selection - Meet the 2019 Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurs on Friday at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

According to the foundation, some of

the parameters used in selecting shortlisted applicants to include feasibility, market opportunity, scalability, leadership skill and viability of the idea.

The 2019 cohort selection tripled because of partnership from corporate organisations and government, the foundation stated.

Wife of the Nigerian President, Aisha Buhari and wives of states governors were part of the dignitaries who graced the occasion.

Africa Development Bank is sponsoring 1,000 entrepreneurs, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is sponsoring 180 entrepreneurs, the Republic of Benin will empower 5 citizens with $200,000, The government of Botswana is

sponsoring 20 entrepreneurs, Anambra in Nigeria is sponsoring 15 entrepreneurs from the state while US Consulate is sponsoring 20 entrepreneurs.

Every year, the foundation opens its application portal to African entrepreneurs, with businesses of less than three years old.

Through its $100 million Entrepreneurship Programme, the Foundation empowers 1,000 entrepreneurs annually, who receive $5,000 in nonrefundable seed capital, access to mentors, a 12-week training programme and opportunities to promote their businesses to a global audience.

All applicants received access to TEFConnect, Africa’s digital

entrepreneurial hub, which provides access to networks, training, further capital sources and business opportunities.

As a means of cascading its proven entrepreneurial tool kit to the huge numbers of applicants, the Foundation launched in 2018, TEFConnect, the digital networking platform for African entrepreneurs.

The platform, which has currently over 400,000 users, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs to network, receive training and forge business partnerships to scale their businesses beyond physical borders.

TEF had in the last four years, empowered 4,000 African entrepreneurs directly and an additional 470 entrepreneurs supported by the Foundation’s partners.

LSETF executive secretary exits LASG, takes up senior role in EKSG Temitope Adebayo The Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) announces the exit of its Executive Secretary, Mr Akintunde Oyebode, who leaves the Fund on March 31 2019, to take up a senior role with the Ekiti State Government.

Commenting, the Chairman of the LSETF, Mrs Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru said; “We thank Mr Akintunde Oyebode for his work as a pioneer Executive Secretary of the Fund. His leadership and commitment to job creation

contributed to the Fund’s success and impact.

Akintunde has demonstrated that young people have the capacity to succeed in leadership roles. We are glad that the Fund has positioned him for higher responsibilities.

We will miss his leadership and wish him the best in his future endeavours. Our strong leadership team and succession plan will ensure the Fund continues to operate seamlessly.”

In his remarks, Mr Akintunde Oyebode said, “I am grateful to Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for finding me worthy to serve

the people of Lagos State, especially in supporting job creation, and as a result, lifting our most vulnerable people out of poverty. I am also very grateful to the Lagos State House of Assembly, especially the House Committee on Wealth Creation and Employment, Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment and Ministry of Finance for their support. Finally, I would like to thank the Board of Trustees whose support and guidance shaped our work; and my brilliant colleagues, whose invaluable contribution delivered the impressive results

we achieved so far.”

LSETF’s MSME Loan Programme has disbursed over N6.5 billion to almost 10,000 beneficiaries; while over 3,500 unemployed Lagos residents have been provided with vocational training, with over 1,500 of the trainees placed in jobs; The Fund’s Lagos Innovates programme has supported over 80 start-ups.

In total, LSETF’s interventions have helped create almost 90,000 jobs in Lagos State since it started operations on March 1, 2016.

CBN lauds Ecobank’s sustainability, CSR initiatives Motolani Oseni The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has recognized and awarded Ecobank Nigeria on its laudable sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

The CBN at its 2018 annual awards for sustainability in Lagos, recognized Ecobank’s activities in four categories which include Sustainability Bank of the Year;; Sustainability Bank

of the Year -oil and gas; Sustainability Bank of the Year -power sector and the Women Empowerment category – the bank was first runners up in all four categories.

These recognitions are an acknowledgement not only of the bank’s efforts at supporting industrial sector development but also in the development of efficient sustainability programmes for the good of the citizenry.

The CBN Sustainability Awards – a part of the Nigerian Sustainable Banking Principle, NSBP, initiated in 2012, is an award that appreciates the

efforts of financial service providers who have been able to successfully integrate social and environmental considerations into their operations, spanning across their processes and strategies.

In his comment, Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Patrick Akinwuntan, said: “it is a deliberate policy of Ecobank Nigeria to embark on sustainable projects that impact people and the environment. Last year we focused on removing plastic waste and other non-biodegradable elements from our streets, and this recorded huge success.

“We engaged young people to gather and bring to us at least one million plastic and glass bottles from homes, offices and drainages; these we bought from them for proper disposal by the authorities. This was done over a week period tagged the ‘Ecobank sustainability week’ during which we also organized symposia for secondary schools students to create awareness on tackling plastic wastes. On the CSR front, in 2018 we constructed boreholes for schools across the country and also embarked on many other CSR activities.”

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NNPC invites tenders from crude traders, importers for 2019 Motolani Oseni The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has invited tenders from prospective traders in Nigeria’s crude and importers of petroleum products under its 2019-2020 fuel supply programme.

An invitation to tender published on the corporation’s website says the NNPC intends to engage only qualified and credible companies in its direct sale of crude oil and direct purchase of petroleum product (DSDP) to ensure sustained supply of petroleum products in the country.

The NNPC said the invitation to tenders was in line with its policy and procedures enshrined in its enabling Act (LFN Cap.320) and in compliance with the Public Procurement Act 2007.

Regardless, the NNPC has released fresh guidelines for prospective bidders under the 2019/2020 contract term scheduled to last for one year. Previous

contracts usually last for two years.

According to the NNPC’s invitation to tender published on its website, tenders must be from “interested and credible companies” with a minimum turnover of $500 million (or the Naira equivalent) and the net worth of $250 million (or the Naira equivalent) for the year 2017 or 2018 financial year.

The three categories of operators include established international crude oil end users who own a refinery with the capacity to process Nigerian crude oil grades.

Also, the company must have a Nigerian affiliate or in partnership with a subsidiary with experience in downstream oil and gas business, particularly petroleum products trading.

The guidelines stipulate that the affiliate companies must have a minimum turnover of $65 million (or the Naira equivalent), with a net worth of $32.5 million (or the Naira Equivalent).

Besides, the NNPC said those in the second category must be established

and globally recognised large volume petroleum product trading company with a Nigerian affiliate or subsidiary experienced in downstream oil and gas business, particularly petroleum products trading.

The NNPC said all affiliates or subsidiaries must be legal entities which directly or indirectly owns and controls at least 50 per cent of the issued shares or voting rights in the company.

The other category consists of indigenous companies engaged in Nigerian oil and gas downstream activities with expertise in trading in petroleum products, with a minimum turnover of $400 million (or the Naira equivalent) and net worth of $200 million (or the Naira Equivalent).

To qualify for shortlisting, the NNPC said interested bidders must submit evidence of registration, including certificate of incorporation by Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) (for Nigerian companies), or similar agencies (for foreign companies).

Other documentation include certified true copies of Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company indicating ownership structure of company, name(s) of directors, major shareholders and percentage shareholding.

Also, the company’s profile must show full details of its demonstrable capabilities; three years company tax clearance certificate (2016, 2017 and 2018 for Nigerian companies), or similar tax certification documents for foreign companies, or evidence of exemption from the respective authorities.

The companies are equally expected to present their current Pension Clearance Certificate as evidence of compliance with Pension Reform Act 2004; evidence of compliance with the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) Act 2010 and Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Amendment Act 2011 as well as registration on the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP’s) National Data Base of Federal Contractors, Consultants and Service Providers (NDCCSPs).

Power sector investment: NBET charges media on effects of negative reporting Mathew Dadiya, Abuja The Managing Director of Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading PLC, Marilyn Amobi, has charged journalists to ensure responsible and balanced reportage of the power sector in order to grow the industry.

Amobi said this in Abuja while receiving the executive of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council.

She noted that unbalanced reportage of the sector was capable of affecting the free flow of Direct Foreign Investment which

is critical energy development.

The managing director noted that inaccurate reportage of the sector will naturally slow the progress being made in the industry as ‘bad news are read by investors around the world who naturally become anxious of a hostile business climate, which unfortunately is what the Nigerian media does often.”

Amobi stressed the need for journalists to always portray issues and events in a neutral and unbiased manner, regardless of their personal opinion or personal beliefs.

Speaking on issuesof accountability and transparency in the NBET, the MD

disclosed that all financial transactions with Generating Companies (GenCos), Distribution Companies (DisCos) and international customers are made public through monthly publications in the media for scrutiny and transparency sake.

She expressed the confidence that the power sector reforms in the company will not be halted under any primordial threats.

The Daily Times recalls that upon allegations of abuses and N2 billion over-payment claims levelled against NBET, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) that has the role to maintain the integrity of the electricity

market and in accordance with its regulatory powers probed the alleged fraud and gave NBET a clean bill of health.

Speaking earlier, Chairman of Council, Comrade Emmanuel Ogbeche, said the visit became necessary given the strategic role NBET is playing in the development of the power sector and the need to create awareness on its activities for the benefit of the public.

He also noted that the visit was also to explore possible areas of collaboration for institutional capacity building that will be of mutual benefit for shared prosperity.

L–R: Former First Lady of Ekiti State and National Council Member, The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Erelu Angela Adebayo; Executive Director, Regulation, NSE, Tinuade Awe; Country Director, International Finance Corporation (IFC), Eme Essien; Deputy Country Representative, United Nation Women, Lansana Wonneh, during the Closing Gong Ceremony in commemoration of the International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration at the NSE in Lagos.

NLC tasks African leaders on challenges of climate change Joy Obakeye The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has asked governments in Africa and beyond to be alive to the challenge posed by Climate Change especially with regards to making provisions for climatic early warning systems and robust architecture of rescue initiatives cum resources to deal with disasters of this nature.

In a statement signed by Acting President, Comrade Najeem Yasin, the Congress regretted the cyclone that ravaged four African countries of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Madagascar, leaving several people dead The statement reads: “The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) expresses its deeply felt grief and commiseration with the workers and people of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Madagascar affected by the horrendous landfall of Cyclone Idai.

“It is really tragic that this climatic and environmental disaster has left in its wake death in hundreds, thousands of displaced persons and largescale destruction and disruptions of public infrastructure, social facilities, property and livelihood. In Beira, the second largest city in Mozambique, Cyclone Idai left its most devastating footprints as it is estimated that nearly 90% of the city has been destroyed.

“Similar waves of destruction impacted other cities and communities in different parts of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Madagascar where Cyclone Idai bared its monstrous fangs.

“We wish to commend the resilience of those in the affected communities. We salute the efforts of the governments of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Madagascar in scrambling rescue resources it could avail as a first line response to the victims. We also appreciate the intervention of multilateral institutions and aid organizations both local and international for coming to the rescue of the people of Southern Africa hit by this calamitous disaster.

“As devastating and painful as Cyclone Idai is, it affords all of us a moment of quiet reflection. Climate Change is real! We can only mitigate and adapt to its realities. The NLC calls on all governments in Africa and beyond to be alive to the challenge posed by Climate Change especially with regards to making provisions for climatic early warning systems and robust architecture of rescue initiatives cum resources to deal with disasters of this nature.

“We pray for the repose of the souls of those that died. We ask that God will grant fortitude to bereaved families, give strength to those whose loved ones are still missing or injured and imbue resilience in those experiencing great discomfort as occasioned by this natural disaster.”

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Nigeria 2019 elections: A chance to learn from a bad political situation Patrick Okohue The much awaited 2019 elections may have come and gone, but the ripples of the poll is something that will linger over many years for the wrong reasons, as the election threw up many negatives that many Nigerians had thought have been overcome in the nations’ democratic life.

For the first time in the history of Nigeria electoral system election in many states were declared inclusive, from House of Assembly seats, to House of Representatives, to Senate and even to governorship.

Today, Nigeria will be experiencing rerun elections in five states to determine winners of the governorship election conducted on March 9, as the first election was declared inconclusive in those states by the nation’s electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), who have therefore decided to hold a rerun election to complete the process.

Though many political stakeholders and concerned citizens have condemned the introduction of inclusive election into the Nigerian political system by the Prof Mahmood Yakubu led INEC, the electoral umpire has insisted it is doing it to safe guard the nation’s democracy.

As INEC again embark on another round of elections in Adamawa, Benue, Kano, Plateau and Sokoto states, with the status of Bauchi State still awaits legal

interpretation, because though INEC had on a second thought decided against a rerun, as it said it has enough results in the affected Tafawa Balewa Local Government to declare an authentic result, the All Progressives Congress (APC), disagree, insisting on the declared rerun, the question on many lips is was the rerun in any of the states necessary in the first place.

These questions have become relevant because inspite on INEC’s position on inclusive elections, clear winners emerged in the affected states, in Adamawa State, Mr. Umaru Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), leads with 367,471 votes, while the incumbent, Mr. Jibrilla Bindow of the All Progressives Congress (APC), trailed with 334,995 votes. While total cancelled votes was 40,988, the two parties have a margin of 32,476 votes between them.

In Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed of the PDP leads with 469,512 votes, while Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar, of the APC trailed with 465,453 votes. The total of 45,312 votes were cancelled, with a margin of just 4,059 votes between them.

Also in Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom of the PDP leads with 410,576 votes, and he is closely followed by Mr. Emmanuel Jime of APC with 329,022 votes. The total cancelled votes was 121,019, while 81,554 votes was the margin between them.

Also in Kano Alhaji Abba Yusuf of the PDP leads with

The electoral law that was ignored by this President was one issue that clearly shows that this thing is calculated for it to happen, electronic process of election had actually been passed into law, like the use of the card reader machine, but even that we saw a situation where a section of the country was asked to go on card reader while another section of the country were allowed to vote manually, whether the machine confirmed them or not, you can’t do that, we don’t have two laws, we have only one law that protects us, why was it done differently in various sections of the country?

Yakubu

1,014,474 votes, closely followed by the incumbent, Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje of the APC with 987,819 votes. The cancelled votes are 128,572, with a margin of 26,655 votes between them.

Meanwhile in Plateau State, Mr. Simon Lalong of the APC leads with 583,255 votes, closely followed by Senator Jerry Useni of the PDP with 538,326 votes, while cancelled votes were 49,377, with a margin of 44,929 votes.

In Sokoto State, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal of the PDP leads with 489,558 votes, while Alhaji Aliyu Ahmed of the APC followed closely with 486,145 votes. Here, a total of 75,403 votes were cancelled and they have a margin of 3,413 votes between them.

Speaking on the reasons for declaring elections inconclusive, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman Voter Education and Publicity, Mr. Festus Okoye, INEC, said the “The elections were declared inconclusive for a combination of reasons, mainly the discontinuation of use of the Smart Card Readers midway into the elections or the failure to deploy them, over-voting and widespread disruption in many polling units.”

He added that, “In compliance

with the Margin of Lead Principle derived from Sections 26 and 53 of the Electoral Act MM (as amended) and paragraph 41(e) and 43(b) of the INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the conduct of elections, the outcome of these elections could not be determined without conducting polls in the affected polling units.

Hence the Commission’s decision to conduct supplementary elections in line with this principle.”

Okoye however stressed that the commission has considered a report submitted by the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Bauchi State on the disruption of the collation at the Tafawa Balewa LGA collation centre, which led to the cancellation of results for the entire local government.

He said that the commission found that there are issues that need further investigation and has set up a team led by a National Commissioner to resolve them.

This development is very unacceptable to many political observers, who have wondered while INEC is quick to apply the law incuonclusive election only in states where a particular party seem to be having a strong showing, which ignoring similar irregularity in other states where another party seem to

be doing better.

They also raised questions about INEC’s sincerity when it is quick to declare some areas inclusive and will not apply the principle of zero vote where the law prescribes iy should be applied instead of calling for rerun.

Another worrisome development that some analysts have pointed out with regards to the rerun election is the pressure being heaped on President Muhammadu Buhari by All Progressive Congress (APC) governors in states earmarked for the rerun election, urging him to intervene in their favour.

The question some statkeholders have asked is if those governors know something about Buhari’s capacity to manipulate the electoral process, which the rest of Nigerians are not aware of which may have informed them stampeding him to use the magic wand.

The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is not taking all of these lying low, it has accused the INEC Chairman, Prof. Yakubu of allegedly playing the script of the ruling APC by declaring governorship elections in these states inconclusive.

It claimed that the commission carried out the action in states where it (the PDP) was in clear lead.

The party insisted that INEC had become overtly partisan, surrendering its independence to the APC and carried on as “a compromised umpire with obnoxious impunity, thereby sending signals of being heavily bribed by the APC to alter results for its candidates.”

The National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr Kola Ologbondiyan, who spoke at a press briefing in Abuja, insisted that the party was in possession of intelligence reports that INEC was being remotely controlled by the Presidency.

He said this was why the commission had refused to declare the full outcome of the governorship elections in some states.

Speaking on the elections, President of Arewa Consultative Forum, Comrade Shettima Yerima said he was not only disappointed by the conducted of the election, he was embarrassed by what he described as the show of shame by the conduct of the electoral umpire.

According to him, “It was sad and very unfortunate that in the 21st century, we are experiencing this kind of election, it is sad, some of us felt very pained because a lot of us have a lot at stake. A lot of us

Continued on page 18

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Nigeria 2019 elections: A chance to learn from a bad political situation Continued from page 17

Ahmad Lawan

Yobe north APC rallies support for Senator Lawan Patrick Okohue The All Progressives Congress (APC), Yobe North Senatorial district, wants Senate leader, Ahmad Lawan, as Senate President of the ninth assembly.

Alhaji Mella Ladan, Yobe North Zonal Vice Chairman of the party, stated this at a press briefing on Friday in Damaturu, He said the entire people of the zone, including supporters of the opposition, were united in support of Lawan’s aspiration for the senate presidency.

Ladan described Lawan as most qualified for the office, considering his experience and vibrancy in the National Assembly.

“You know Lawan is never a bench warmer; his meaningful contributions on the floor of the Senate has always provided a direction to the assembly.

“His loyalty to the party leadership from ward, local government, zonal, state and national levels is never in doubt; his contributions to the stability of the

Federal Government after the exit of Bukola Saraki and others to PDP, are exemplary and unique.

“With Dr Ahmad Lawan as senate president, there will be robust executive and legislative working relationship for the benefit of Nigerians,” Ladan said.

According to him, in the last four years, APC wasted precious time on personality clash and unnecessary feuds, which delayed passage of budgets and bills meant to improve the lives of the people.

He cautioned the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party and the presidency against repeating the mistake of 2015, saying: “you must be practically involved in the election of the NASS officers for a vibrant, harmonious and result oriented working relationship to improve the lives of Nigerians.”

Ladan said the senatorial district would storm Abuja to generate support for the senate leader because “he is the most qualified with the requisite experience and character to support the APC national government to succeed.”

feel so sad that we have made a lot of sacrifices for this democracy to come into being. Also remember that we have some of our colleagues who today are not alive to see what is happening, despite being part of the struggle from the days of the military that we have been together as young comrades.

“For over 20 years we were in the trenches clamouring for democracy, but this is not the type of democracy that we expected. We thought that by now we would have been improving, but the last 2019 election has actually shown that rather than going forward we are going backward, and have gone much steps behind now, because I do not see us solving this problem in the next 10, 20 years to come.

“What we have lost in this election, where the will of the people are not being respected, where people come out enmass to elect their leaders, but simply because of the interest of one or two persons, who felt they are not comfortable with those people who were elected, they undermine the collective will of the people and do it and get away with it.

“Where you see INEC suddenly becoming an APC arm of government, where security agencies who are supposed to be seen to be neutral and look at the country as their primary responsibility to protect, but rather turn back on the country and do the bidding of few individuals, this portend nothing but danger, where a ruling party does not believe that it should have opposition, rather what they want is to have a one party state, where anything goes, where impunity will become the order of the day, where they can do anything their own way without anybody checkmating their excesses, this is rather unhealthy.

“It is sad, what happened in the last election is not what we expected, with the kind of money approved for INEC, with the kind of both local and international support that they got, with the good will of Nigerians behind them to encourage them to give us free and fair election, which was the only thing Nigerians asked for, but it turned out to be something else.

“Why was it so impossible for the INEC and the APC to agree that they have been defeated in those states that they declared inconclusive, only in states won by the PDP that elections have been declared inconclusive, but where APC won even when there are more cancellations, going by figures and everything, going by the Electoral Act, they were declared as winners, but in the case of states won by PDP it has been declared inconclusive, this is unfair, Nigerians deserve more than this.

“Unfortunately today, the INEC cannot be said to have any credibility before Nigerians, my worries is not what happens today, but the consequences of what happens today is what we are going to reap in the next 20 years, because you cannot

come out and tell Nigerians to come out enmass and vote, because they will always think back on this.”

He also suggested ways the nation can get its electoral process right and erase any negative feeling that the 2019 election may have generated.

According to him, “The electoral law that was ignored by this President was one issue that clearly shows that this thing is calculated for it to happen, electronic process of election had actually been passed into law, like the use of the card reader machine, but even that we saw a situation where a section of the country was asked to go on card reader while another section of the country were allowed to vote manually, whether the machine confirmed them or not, you can’t do that, we don’t have two laws, we have only one law that protects us, why was it done differently in various sections of the country? That is where we failed again.

“Thirdly, until we look into ourselves and tell ourselves the honest truth, that security agencies must be seen to play roles as security and allowed to play a neutral role without pulling them into politics, that is when we will begin to see light at the end of the tunnel, but those are things that will not just happen overnight.

“Electoral reforms must be looked into with a view to making a lot of amendments, electronic voting must be encouraged, because without the introduction of the card reader President Goodluck Jonathan would not have been defeated, he passed it into law and it was the same thing that consumed him, “Our security agencies must be well organised, let them know their responsibilities, because Nigeria has come to stay and these politicians are people who may win today and tomorrow they may loss, but Nigeria remains as a country, 100, 1000 years to come people will still exist and you can only be remembered on the positive side of history when you do well, but if you don’t do well you will also be remembered on the negative side of history and the unfortunate thing is that you are not only going to suffer for it, even your children, once your name is mentioned, they will tag your children. These are some of the mistakes that some of these actors are making that they don’t even know that they are making,” he said.

Also speaking on his concerns sabout the 2019 elections, a former member of the House of Representatives and a member of the APC, Hon. Lanre Odubote, said the introduction of inconclusive elections by INEC has opened the floodgate for dubious politicians to cause crisis in areas they are not popular during elections, a nd believes it should be removed from the nation’s laws.

According to him, “from, the day INEC introduced inconclusive formula into our electoral system, I have been having some misgivings, because it gives politicians the opportunity to manipulate the

system to suit their purpose, this is the first time I will be hearing of inclusive elections in Nigeria and it is causing confusion.

“I believe that that aspect of the electoral act should be expunged, the law should be amended to ensure that anybody that wins in a plurality and with two third across the required states should be declared.”

Odubote added that “The problem is that when you know you are not popular somewhere you go and cause problem, they then cancel it and by the rescheduled time you have the opportunity of mobilising to the area for maximum effect, so as far I am concerned this issue of inconclusive election should be jettisoned from our electoral law.”

Also in the view of former Deputy chairman of the PDP in Lagos State, Mr. Qududs Folami, the 2019 elections was a sham.

He said,”The election was a sham, it was a big joke and we have never seen any election in this manner, it was done in a very shameless way, I don’t really know what they are up to and now the governors in those states set for rerun are asking the President to help them alter their figures, which means they have seen him do that on his own election and the President is saying publicly that he will not help anybody to rig.

“This means if he wants to he can do it and those asking him must have seen it done before, so they are asking that he should also help them.

“Look at Rochas OKorocha of Imo State, he is not mincing words, this is really unfortunate and I don’t know how we are going to live with it.

Folami said, “What has happened now is an eye opener and in future elections nobody will participate if all things are to be done manually, unless future election is going to be by electronic transmission of results which will make it difficult for people to rig, otherwise if they know it is going to be same of the same it may be difficult getting people out to vote, just like what happened during the governorship election.

“There has not been any election in this country that has been declared inconclusive before this regime, despite that it has always been part of the law, which means though it was there in the INEC statutes nobody thought it was right to apply it in the past, but they now looked at it and said what area can we go to creatively perfect the rigging and still stay within the electoral process, that is what we are faced with now.

“But, I want to tell you that everything that has happened that people are now taking serious notice of come to the root of the legitimacy of the government, from what will happen at the electoral tribunal will largely speak to the legitimacy of the government of the day and as time goes on it will become more and more difficult for them to be able to mobilise Nigerians for any action of government,” Folami said.

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

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Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

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Involve traditonal rulers in policy making, says Oba Elerinmo Stories: Chris Onuoha His Royal Majesty, Oba Michael Odunayo Ajayi, the Arowotawaya II, is the Oba Elerinmo of Erinmo Ijesha, Osun State. The first class Yoruba monarch with strong affinity to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, is one vocal traditional ruler whose concern for good governance speaks volume. He recently clamoured for a 4th tier government for traditional rulers in Nigeria, which he reiterated as a positive option for standard democracy in Nigeria. In this interview, he bare his mind among other things, on the just concluded elections.

2019 general election has come and gone, some schools of thought have diverse opinion concerning the outcome. As someone with vast knowledge of Nigeria history of politics and elections, how do you rate this last election?

First of all, I would say that Nigerian democracy is work in progress. That’s my summary and also election in Nigeria is a learning process. Democracy is something we copied from the developed world and naturally, we can’t perfect it so easily. If you recall, there was a report that election in US was even manipulated and not perfect, how much more a country like Nigeria. Be that as it may, with the scores of result we saw and how the entire process went nationwide, I would largely say that it is free, fair and credible.

You seem to have much confidence in this past election despite the unseemly challenges that characterized the whole process, with pockets of electoral malpractices and alleged disenfranchised reports from some quarters.

Are you then telling the aggrieved parties not to contest the outcome and to bury the hatchet?

Well, the options have always been open. If you feel cheated or that your people were not allowed to vote, or some sort of malpractice observed, the option of legal system is there. However sometimes, just like the former president, Goodluck did, you would want to overlook some certain things. In the real sense of it, when you look at the elections in the past, I would say that this election is better than 2015. But one cannot deny anyone the opportunity to seek redress, if there’s any, and however, being a traditional ruler, my understanding is that we seek for peace. There’s no election that can be 100 percent perfect anywhere in the world, but there are situations where you would look at it and say, ‘for the sake of keeping Nigeria one, to avoid any further problem, let it go. There’s always another time. However, that is not to say that anybody should be prevented from exercising his or her legal options when the need arises.

Looking at the outcome generally, regardless of the how it is been perceived, what does this portend to our democracy as a country?

In my own view, things that ordinarily and practically would not have happened did happen. I give you an instance without mentioning names. There are people that you would thought will never lose election in their states, they lost. You would wonder, how that could have happened, some governors, senators and even federal house members lost the election including in their own constituency woefully. It is amazing and that is why I say, there is an improvement in our electoral process.

Also during the presidential election, there was a voting manner that occurred. Some people were interested in a certain presidential candidate and then, when it came to the governorship candidate, the same electorates switched their votes to another candidate regardless of the party.

What does this portend; it shows that people are now more discerning, not voting along party line but more interested in the individuals that they believe in. Yes, I could say, certainly there would be violence in elections but this one was peaceful.

What about the issue of unarmed security agents?

It baffles me when people say that the army, police or security agents should not be armed. When I walked up to my polling unit in my area, I saw just one unarmed policeman in the booth. This appears to me like a big risk because Nigeria is not like America where you can walk out, press a button and vote. How could you have just one policeman, and in some cases you have a traffic warden in the booth as a security agent in a polling booth of about 1500 youths who can be potentially violent. I think Nigeria has not gotten to point of having an unarmed

police manning an election booth. You give the amount of force to curtail a particular problem. In some places like the Victoria Garden City, Lekki, or Banana Island, the case might be different because of caliber of persons there. But what about volatile area like what happened in Okota, Oshodi in Lagos and some others areas known to be potentially violent, you cannot expect an unarmed policeman to man such area.

But sir, I thought the idea of unarmed security agents was to induce confidence in the electorates to come out and vote without fear of harassment or intimidation from the agents?

There must be some security arrangements. It is terribly risky not to have them at least for now. In my own area, as a traditional ruler, I have to forestall some ugly incidents by walking down to the polling booths physically. I was compelled to remain in some polling units to observe and creative that peaceful sanity, but I could not be everywhere. There are particular areas that are trouble spots. If such places are guarded by unarmed policemen, you can imagine what will happen. It is easy to make such law but the reverse is always the case. Imagine when thugs compel electoral officers under duress to rewrite election results, what can an unarmed policeman do? We have to be realistic.

Talking about election education, INEC have on ground, experts who claim to have created much awareness on electoral issues. Do you think this awareness is really reaching the particular people, I mean the grassroots who are very much in need of such information?

The problem of Nigeria is interwoven. First of all, to be able to achieve a good electoral process, you have to have educated electorates. You have to deal with the issue of improving the literacy of the average Nigerian. It does not have anything to do with attending a formal school.

An average Nigerian should be able to read, write and understand simple statements and signs as to be able to make it easy to disseminate information. One of the easy ways is to start the system of adult literacy education, just like I have started in my community here. Somehow, it is beginning to have positive effect and that’s what government should do to have electorates that understand the system. Two, every election gives four years notice.

It is a total embarrassment for anyone to give an excuse of certain lateness or inconsistency in plans. As we are now, we know by 2023 there will be another election. So, whatever is not done right by now should be amended before then. I also want us to see our peculiar situation and build what is suitable for Nigeria. We don’t need to copy verbatim other people’s system. We must adopt what is peculiar to us. Even to become a king, there are some cultural electoral processes that must be followed. Being entitled to the throne does not guarantee you becoming a king. You must follow due process approved by the kingmakers. This is a form of democracy.

I also noticed that there was huge improvement by INEC to educate voters in the past, but this is a minute of the class of voters required. How do you explain the issue of having 92 parties when we can have just two or three parties to make it easy for people to identify party logos? I want to suggest that rather than wait till 2022 to educate people on electoral issues, it is better to start now since we already know what the problem is. I personally do not ascribe to having over 90 party logos when some of them cannot guarantee one single vote even from their family members. Some of them do not have office all over the country not to talk of having an office in their own local government. I think the best democracy we have had was when we have two political parties in the system; that is SDP and NRC under General Ibrahim Babaginda regime.

Two party systems should be very good for Nigeria, being that we have three major ethnic zones. If we have three parties, people will tend to go along ethnic line but when it is two, people will eventually mix up the ethnic groups.

That will also make it easy for people to make decision. In this past election, people may have voted in error because with over 90 logos it was difficult to pick out a particular party with all the similarity in acronyms. If an electorate cannot read and write, it will be easy to at least identify a party logo.

In your recent interview, you did clamour for 4th tier government comprising traditional rulers. Do you see that as an option to help educate the masses?

In this past election, every candidate that contested paid a courtesy visit to a traditional ruler to seek their fatherly blessings. They did it because they understand

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Oba Elerinmo

that traditional rulers are the closest to the people. 60 percent of the Nigerian population lives in the rural and sub-urban areas. This is where the traditional rulers hold sway. Two, all the traditional rulers stay longer than any elected person. Political office in the country is 8 years and the traditional rulers are for life. They are more abreast with community issues than the elected officers.

This is why I said that the traditional rulers need to form officially and constitutionally the 4th tier of government.

This is not to involve the traditional rulers in politics but rather, in policy making. If you really want to get quality advice, you get it from someone who is at home all time and closer to the masses, who understands their problem than a politician who may show up during election, make promises and disappear after the election. A traditional ruler cannot disappear. If he creates a problem, he sits with the problem. A traditional ruler gets support from God and his people. There is a difference between politics and policy. A traditional ruler should be put in a system of advisory role, recognized by the constitution and be given a responsibility to tackle. They are father to all. If state government can get security fund and yet insecurity surmounts, why not look inwards towards traditional rulers so that security challenges can be tackled from the grassroots level. In the case of Boko Haram insurgency, it was the local vigilantes that helped the military to curtail the challenge. Local intelligence is very important in this case, which the police do not have. The basic intelligence can only be quick and possible through the traditional rulers who know the people and the domain very well.

Buhari was declared the winner despite all the challenges confronting his mandate. How do you advise the president, having gotten the mandate for another term to correct what he has not done right in the past?

Right now, president Buhari has been declared the president-elect except if the competent court of law proves otherwise. It is not a problem for anyone to go to court to challenge the result. It was done in the past except for 2015 election. Now that he has won the election for the second term, it is an opportunity for him to write his name in the history of Nigeria politics forever. The President is a man of history based on the general perception that Buhari is an honest man. Two, being honest is not enough to drive the economy of the country to success. He has done a lot in the agriculture sector, but I want him to devolve the support to farmers even to the lowest level. Attention should be drawn to grassroot farmers. Comfortable loans should be given to the small scale farmers so that the lowest level, this can improve the lives and welfare of the local farmers.

Another area is political positions favouring a certain areas.

Being an honest man must mean that he understands the people and also should spread positions and appointments across the zones. I believe every tribe has honest people that can fill in any position. Also, his economic policies may have yielded result but while fighting corruption and getting the stolen funds back from the looters, these funds must be channeled to the areas that require productive attention. Manufacturers in the country must be encouraged with such funds to produce cheaper goods. There should be improvement in power generation and distribution. Once this is taking care of, these will ginger and propel other areas of the economy.

To bring back the memories of story telling beyond conventional practice, LOOSE media in partnership with African Artists’ Foundation (AAF) recently announced a five month grants initiative to support the launch of a platform for aspiring writers known as ‘Loose Conversations’.

The Loose Conversation initiative is designed to challenge one’s mindset; a storytelling- based strategy to give a voice to conversation society has been afraid to have, challenging the status quo and allowing for new standards of thinking.

Announcing this to the media, the Managing Director, Chief Executive Officer, LOOSE Media Limited, Valentine Ohu, said: ‘’The grant provides important funding to support aspiring writers, further important conversations and invest in online communities through writing.’’

He also stated that storytelling has been a cherished cultural heritage in Nigeria and before the advent of western civilization, one of the effective ways of entertainment back then was by telling a story. “Of course, there are concomitant teaching values associated with telling and retelling story. The ‘everyone has a story’ literary commission is a meaningful reflection of our unique relationships and experiences through the art of storytelling,’ says Ohu. Ohu noted from March, 2019, the organization will grant one lucky winner $1,000 for five exceptional stories and $1,000 to one writer every month until July 2019. He said the initiative is dedicated to empower writers from all backgrounds to express themselves in unorthodox ways. ‘’The first submission window for this grant will be from March 11th till March 18. To advance this grant, Loose Media will employ various offline and online promotional tools to support this work and enhance outreach,’’ he said.

Uzoamaka Umeh, Creative Director, Loose Media also said that moralities have been pit in place o ensure hitch free contest. She said that the competition cut across all categories of writer with no age limit, but stated that it is only compelling creative contribution that conforms to the set rules will be qualified for the grant.

Nguveren Ahua, Development Manager at AAF also reiterated that the collaboration is in consonant with the foundation’s initiatives in promoting art and culture in Africa. She mentioned that loose conversation is similar to ‘Talk your own’ programme anchored by the foundation.

Meanwhile Miss Umeh concludes that it is one off project that will engage and empower young aspiring writers to explore their potentials for posterity.

Daily Times Nigeria

Saturday, March 23, 2019

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Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 23, 2019

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SPORTS TIMES Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, March 16, 2019

AIBA president resigns 4 months after election

READ MORE ON: www.dailytimes.ng

President of amateur boxing’s governing body, the International Boxing Association (AIBA), Gafur Rahimov, announced his resignation on Friday.

Rahimov, while quitting, said “politically based discussions” were harming the organisation’s progress as the sport battles to remain part of the Olympic programme.

Rahimov was elected in November in spite of being on the U.S. Treasury Department’s sanctions list “for providing material support” to a criminal organisation, a claim the Uzbek strongly denies.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) expressed its concern over the choice of Rahimov at the time of his election due to him being on the sanctions list.

This went on to deepen the quarrel

with the organisation over its longrunning financial troubles.

Boxing has been contested at every summer Games since its introduction to the programme in 1904, except for the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm.

This was due to the sport being banned

by Swedish law at the time.

However, the IOC’s Executive Board said in November that planning for next year’s Olympic boxing tournament had been frozen and contact suspended between AIBA and the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee.

“While I had truly hoped and believed that sports and politics could be separated… the politically-based discussions have put into question the progress being made throughout the AIBA organisation,” Rahimov said in a statement on AIBA’s website.

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“Once again, as I have stated before on numerous occasions, I attest and confirm that the allegations against me were fabricated and based on politically-motivated lies. I trust that the truth will prevail.

“Nevertheless, I have always said that I would never put myself above the boxing sport, and as president, I have a duty to do everything in my power to serve our sport and our athletes.”

The 67-year-old Rahimov said he would be replaced by an interim president.

Last month, AIBA said its debt had been reduced from $18 million last year to $15.6 million this year.

“I am convinced that all the good initiatives that have been implemented this last year will serve as a foundation that will continue to strengthen our sport in the future,” added Rahimov.(Reuters/ NAN)

Football enthusiasts hail Super Eagles 3-1 victory over Seychelles Football enthusiasts in Enugu on Friday hailed Super Eagles of Nigeria for sealing the top spots in African Cup of Nations Qualifying (AFCON) Group E. Goals from Odion Ighalo, Henry Onyekuru and the substitute Simeon Moses was all the Eagles used to beat Seychelles at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Delta State.

Some of the enthusiasts who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) after the match said that Seychelles really meant to shock Nigeria in the match but said that the visitors were below in strength.

Chairman Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Enugu Chapter, Norbert Okolie, said that the Eagles did well inspire of the inclusion of new legs. ”This is not a match for them to be so serious about; Eagles have qualified already but they have to win for pride. ”It is nice to seal the top spots but we have to build two strong teams for the AFCON proper,” he said.

Also speaking, Ignatius Okpara, a sports analyst expressed delight over Super Eagles victory but noted that Nigeria did not have a reliable goalkeeper. ”Francis Uzoho has been committing errors and we need to give other goalkeepers chance to see how they will perform,” he said.

Also, the coordinator of Enugu State Grassroots Boxing Talent Hunt, Ikechukwu Okoronkwo, said that what mattered most was victory and qualification. ”Nigeria won the match and thereby qualified without mathematical calculation as they top the group,” he said.

He said that the best leg needed to be assembled in the friendly matches leading to the AFCON tournament and that the technical team should learn to keep teams together for long period. ”We have under 17, 20 and 23 squad which we should graduate together and expose them to the Super Eagles level,” Okoronkwo

said.

Another enthusiast, Austin Ezenwata who runs a football show room in Abakpa Nike, Enugu said that the Eagles needed a good goalkeeper. ‘‘The entire department did well but we were let down by the back line and the goalkeeper,” he said.

He was of the opinion that Ikechukwu Ezenwa should be trusted to mind the post for the eagles in matches so as to glue with the entire team.

He had proved his quality in big matches and there were other good goalkeepers in Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

NAN reports that Nigeria topped the group with 13 points from six matches while South Africa occupied the second position with nine points with a match to play.

Meanwhile, Libya was at the third position with seven points with a match to play as Seychelles occupied the last position with a point to show for after six matches. (NAN)

UEFA charges Neymar for “insulting’’ referee after PSG’s loss to Man United Paris St-Germain (PSG) forward Neymar has been charged for “insulting and/or molesting” the referee, European football governing body UEFA said on Friday.

UEFA said the charge was in the wake of his post-game rant after the French side were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League last 16 by Manchester United.

Neymar, who was sidelined by injury, was investigated for lashing out and labelling the video assistant referee (VAR) system a “disgrace”.

This was after Manchester United won a controversial penalty kick in the dying stages to advance on away goals.

“Disciplinary proceedings have been opened following the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg match between PSG and Manchester United FC (1-3), played on March 6 in France,” UEFA said in a statement.

“Player Neymar Junior —- insulting/ molesting acts against match official (statements made by the player following the above-mentioned match) – Art. 15 (1) (d) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations.”

If the Brazilian is found guilty, he could be suspended for three matches in the competition for insulting match

officials.

UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body will look into the case and a date for the hearing is yet to be confirmed.

PSG coach Thomas Tuchel had said after the game that he understood Neymar’s anger and defended his comments, saying they were made in the heat of the moment.(Reuters/NAN)

Gernot Rohr: To declare Nigeria as AFCON favourite is stupid

Gernot Rohr has dismissed Herve Renard’s claim that Nigeria are one of the favourite teams to lift the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations title.

In an interview with Caf, Renard had claimed hosts Egypt – with Africa Player of the Year Mohamed Salah and the home crowd – are leading favourite, with defending champion Cameroon, Senegal, Cote d’Ivoire and Nigeria also in the running for glory at the biennial event.

The Frenchman, a two-time winner with Zambia (2012) and Cote d’Ivoire (2015), currently coaches the highest ranked team on the continent, Morocco but stated that he would rather not boast of their chances.

Rohr, however, labelled him a ‘diplomat’ and would rather not be drawn into analysing his ‘young’ team’s prospects.

“I know my friend Herve Renard is a diplomat.

His team are favorite to win the tournament because they are number one in Africa so he’s the natural favorite, but he tries to put other countries ahead. This is a tactic already so I say, Morocco is number 1 in Africa and they are favorites,” Rohr told media.

“Egypt with one of the biggest players in the world are favourites as well. They are also playing at home. Senegal and Tunisia and second and third. We (Nigeria) are No.4 and we have a chance though, but please let them speak while we stay humble.

“To declare that we will win the Afcon is stupid. We have to work, we have young players.”

Nigeria have qualified for the 2019 Afcon already as, regardless of results in the final round of the qualifiers, they finished as Group E leaders.

On Friday, they play Seychelles in the ultimate match, with a friendly against Egypt next Tuesday capping off their March schedule.

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Advice is like snow the softer it falls, the longer it dwells upon, and the deeper it sinks into the mind.

Samuel Taylor Coleridge

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