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My administration’ll be remembered for fulfilling its promise - Buhari

Says APC’ll do more by taking Nigeria to the Next Level Mr. President has achieved a lot with meager incomes - Tinubu

Mathew Dadiya and Dosuur Iwambe, Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari has boasted that history will remember his

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administration as one that did what it promised and charted the path for a future of which “we can all be proud.”

The President said that he has

Continued on page 3

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2019

VOL. 3

NO. 872

N100

End of the road as S’Court dismisses APC’s appeal Bars it from fielding candidates in Rivers

PDP hails ruling, says it’s victory for democracy The apex court arrived at the decision while

Andrew Orolua and Tunde Opalana, delivering ruling on an interlocutory appeal filed Abuja

by Ibrahim Umah and 22 others against the All

The Supreme Court on Friday evoked its original jurisdiction and dismissed the Court of Appeal decision that stayed the execution of a high court order barring the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections in Rivers State.

By implication, it affirmed the ruling of Justice Chiwendu Nwogu of the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt that had declared as illegal, null and void the direct and indirect primaries conducted by factions of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State.

Progressives Congress (APC).

Umah and others had challenged the order of the Court of Appeal staying the execution of a high court order which barred the APC from conducting primary elections in Rivers State.

The APC had through its lawyer, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), begged the Supreme Court to clear legal impediments against the faction loyal to the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Ameachi and CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

Court jails g 5 Internet fraudster as EFCC arraigns NEMA pilot over N91m fraud

Suspension of strike: UNN students, NANS, others laud FG, ASUU g5

No road closure for Presidential rally – Lagos Govt g 10

7-storey g6 building collapse: Rivers Govt I lost many roles not giving in to to prosecute sexual advances – Sonia Nwankwo indicted officials g 11

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Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

End of the road as S’Court dismisses APC’s appeal Continued from page 1 allow its list of candidates that contained Tonye Cole’s name as the governorship flag bearer.

But, the request was rejected by the panel of the apex court led by Justice Mohammad Dattijo, which rather reaffirmed its previous ruling that validated the high court’s verdict that barred the APC from conducting its Rivers primaries.

The apex court which evoked its original jurisdiction also set aside the Court of Appeal decision and dismissed the appeal filed by the APC at the Court of Appeal on the ground that it has been withdrawn by the appellant.

The dismissed appeal had given the parties in the APC inter- party dispute a consensus agreement on the disputed state, local and wards congresses.

The implication of Friday’s ruling is that the decision of Justice Chiwendu Nwogu of the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt which declared as illegal, null and void the direct and indirect primaries conducted by factions of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers state during the pendency subsists.

Also, subsisting is the restrained order on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising any candidates of the APC for the 2019 general elections in Rivers State, even as the apex court ordered the commission to remove the names of all APC candidates from the ballot and other electoral materials.

Delivering the lead judgment on Friday, Justice Sidi Bage traced the history of the appeal and observed that the trial court had on May 11, 2018 issued an interim injunction restraining the APC from going ahead

with the indirect primaries but it violated the order on May 19, 20 and 21 when it proceeded and held the congresses.

Justice Bage declared it was wrong that the decision of the high court was challenged at the Court of Appeal which made an order staying the execution of the order of high court, affirming that the matter had earlier been ruled upon by the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal ought to abide by the decision of the Supreme Court.

A panel of the apex court led

by Justice Mohammad Dattijo, had refused the appeal and re-affirmed its previous ruling that validated the high court verdict that barred the APC from conducting its Rivers primaries.

Therefore, the Supreme Court evoked Section 22 of its Act which allows it to take over a matter and give final judgement to decide on the appeal.

He noted that the APC which filed the appeal at the Court of Appeal had withdrawn it and the court failed to make appropriate order as provided by virtue of Section 11, rule 5 of the appeal court rules.

The appeal against the high court ruling having been withdrawn by the APC is tantamount to outright dismissal.

Justice Bage said that since the Court of Appeal failed or evaded to make dismissal pronouncement for the said appeal, the apex court has no choice than to evoke Section 22 of the Supreme Court Act to assume jurisdiction over the case and decide on it.

“It is my considered opinion that this appeal must be given a decent burial. The appeal having been withdrawn at the lower court by the respondent is deemed distilled. This is what the lower court failed or evaded

to do.

“Therefore, by virtue of Section 22 of the Supreme Court Act 2004, the lower court having failed to exercise its powers provided under Order 11, rule 5, this court is bound to do so.

“Thus, I’ll allow the appeal and set aside the ruling of the lower court dated October 31, 2018. I hear by dismiss appeal no Ca/ Ph/198/2018, same having been validly withdrawn,” the justice declared.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has hailed the judgment of the Supreme Court, upholding the law in nullifying the legally defective primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, as victory for democracy and the rule of law.

The party commended the apex court for its courage in delivering the landmark judgment, which has saved the nation from a serious constitutional crisis that could have marred the 2019 general election and detract from the nation’s overall electoral system.

The party said the judgment of the Supreme Court serves as a huge lesson to politicians and political parties, to eschew impunity and always conduct their affairs in a manner that is in tandem with the provision of the law.

“The courage displayed by the Supreme Court in delivering the judgment at this critical time in our national life has also restored the confidence of Nigerians in the institution of the Judiciary and our democratic order”, said Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement on Friday.

The PDP, however, urged its teeming members across the country to continue to work hard in consolidating on the already established victory of the party in all elections, beginning with next Saturday’s Presidential election.

‘My administration’ll be remembered for fulfilling its promise’

Continued from page 1

returned the economy to sustainable growth, degraded the Boko Haram terrorists and boldly confronted “the monster called corruption.”

Buhari said this on Friday at the presentation of a book, ‘‘Nigeria on Firmer Ground, Towards Lasting Peace and Progress,” held at the State House Conference Hall, Abuja.

He reiterated that riding on the wave of the “Change Agenda” which the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration anchored on making positive impact in the three priority areas of security, economy and fighting corruption,

he was convinced that the government has made “real progress and we are poised to do more by taking Nigeria to the Next Level of development, prosperity, peace and stability.”

The President said that they were also poised to make life-changing progress in infrastructure, agriculture, social investments, and much more.

Buhari said: “Going round the country in the past weeks on our campaign stops, I believe that our message emphasising the need to stick to the winning team and not risk returning our country to irresponsible leadership, at any level of government, has resonated with the people”.

The President commended the Presidential Media Team, the Buhari Media Organisation and other stakeholders for helping Nigerians to understand more of what this administration has done by producing the book, and presenting it to the public.

“Coming just a week to the commencement of the 2019 general election, there is no doubt that today’s event is very significant as the electorate is being offered more insights into the achievements of the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration since we came to office in 2015.

“From the accounts of all

Continued on page 5

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PHOTO TIMES

President Muhammadu Buhari acknowledging cheers from supporters during All Progressives Congress Presidential campaign rally in Adamawa...on Friday.

L-R: National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus; PDP Presidential candidate and former Vice President, Atiku; Senate President and Director General of the PDP Campaign Organisation, Dr. Bukola Saraki and other party members during a campaign rally in Calabar, Cross River State...on Friday.

L-R: All Progressives Congress Governorship Candidate in Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Minister of Works, Power and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola; Onilase of Ilase Town, in Lagos, Oba. Abdulfatai Adisa; Managing Director/CEO, Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Mr. Usman Gur Mohammed; Deputy Governorship Candidate in Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello, during the official commissioning of TCN Sub-Stations, at Ilase Town, in Lagos.

L-R: Afenifere Chieftain, Dr. Amos Akingba; Yoruba Leader, Professor Banjo Akintoye; Akogun of Yoruba Land, Akogun Tola Adenoids and Chief Imam of Yoruba Land, Sheikh Abdulraheem, during the world press conference

by Yoruba Summit Group with theme: ‘the status and future of Yorubas in a restructured Nigerian Federation, in Lagos. Photo: Olawale Rotimi

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Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

Court jails Internet fraudster as EFCC arraigns NEMA pilot over N91m fraud Docks businessman over N3.5m fraud

Andrew Orolua, Abuja Justice A.O. Onovo of Enugu State High Court has sentenced one Obinna Udoji to one year in prison for obtaining the sum of $9,654 by fraudulent means from one Alina Ruso.

The convict, Udoji, a graduate of the Department of Building Technology, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State, was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on January 7, 2019 following a report.

He was arrested by operatives of the EFCC following intelligence report that he fraudulently obtained money from one Alina Ruso, which he claimed was to be invested in a company, Zenith Margin, which turned out to be false.

He was subsequently arraigned before Justice A.O. Onovo of an Enugu State High Court, for the offence of obtaining money by false pretence, to which he pleaded “guilty”.

The judge, however, asked the prosecution led by Innocent Mbachie, to present its witness, “in order for the court to hear the facts of the case”.

Thereafter, a prosecution witness was called, who narrated how an intelligence report was received by the EFCC, which led to the investigation and arrest of Udoji.

Tendered as evidence were the intelligence report, statements, bank statements, scanned emails from Udoji’s computer and emails from the EFCC to the victim to establish the case, including Udoji’s application for plea bargain.

Mbachie, further told the court that Udoji had returned the money to his victim, and urged the court to “convict him in accordance to Section 367 subsection 8, 9 and 10 of the Administration of criminal Justice Act”.

Defence counsel, T.U. Nweke, pleaded with the judge to “temper justice with mercy” as his client was a first-time offender and an orphan.

Justice Onovo, on February 7, 2019 sentenced him to one year in prison, noting that, “I took cognizance of his plea and his restituting of the total sum

to the victim”.

Also, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned one Mamman Ali Ibrahim before Justice A. I. Kutigi of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT High Court, sitting in Gwagwalada, on a two-count charge, bordering on criminal breach of trust.

Ibrahim, who served as a pilot incharge of Air Ambulance Aviation Unit and Helicopter Emergencies Service with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is alleged to have diverted over N91 million, meant for taking care of the fleets, including Airbus, Air ambulance and the Helicopter.

His journey to the dock on February 7, 2019, followed a petition to the office of the Vice President, which was forwarded to the office of the acting EFCC Chairman, for investigation.

Investigations revealed that Ibrahim commercialised both the ambulance and the helicopter. He, however, claimed that the directive to commercialise them came from the office of a former vice president and a former Accountant General of the Federation, AGF. Further investigations also revealed that the total sum of N285 million was realised from the commercialisation of the aircraft, while N63 million was paid to the AGF. It was also gathered that N11 million was paid to NEMA, while the balance was yet to be accounted for.

According to the petition, over N4 million was paid into the account of Aerocare West Africa Limited, a company belonging to the defendant, which he transferred to his family members.

One of the counts reads in part: “That you, Mamman Ali Ibrahim, whilst being employed in the public service and serving as a pilot in-charge of Air Ambulance Aviation Unit and Helicopter Emergencies Services with the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, between 2014 and 2015, at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, while being entrusted with dominion over money, to wit, the sum of N64,550,810 (Sixty Four Million, Five Hundred and

Fifty Thousand, Eight Hundred and Ten Naira) only, being part of the proceeds realised from the commercialisation of the aircraft belonging to NEMA”.

He pleaded “not guilty” to the charges.

In view of his plea, prosecuting counsel, Deborah Ademu-Eteh, asked the court for a trial date.

Defence counsel, Aduojo Abah, however, moved the motion for the bail of his client.

Ademu-Eteh opposed the application, urging the court to “consider the severity of the punishment and the character of the evidence before the court”.

After listening to all the arguments, Justice Kutigi granted him bail in the sum of N50 million with one surety in like sum.

The surety being a public servant not lower than level 14, must be a resident within the jurisdiction.

The case has been adjourned to April 10, 2019, for trial.

In a related development, the EFCC also arraigned a businessman, Okemuo Celestine and his company, Kemus Motors Nig. Ltd, on a one-count charge of stealing by conversion before Justice I.N. Ngwu of an Enugu State High Court.

Okemuo was said to have received the sum of N3.5 million from a Catholic Women’s Organisation with a promise to procure a coaster bus for them only for him to convert same to his personal use.

He pleaded “not guilty” to the charge.

His counsel, O.C. Eduzoribe, asked that the administrative bail granted to his client by the EFCC be continued.

Prosecuting counsel, B.N.ObasiEze, however opposed the application, arguing that “the administrative bail granted to a suspect expires as soon as he is brought to court for arraignment”.

“A new bail application must be moved,” Obasi-Eze argued.

Eduzoribe, thus moved the bail application of his client.

Justice Ngwu, granted him bail in the sum of N500,000 with two sureties in like sum, one of whom must be a Level 10 officer in the civil or public service living within the jurisdiction of the court.

The case has been adjourned to March 21, 2019 for trial.

5 News

‘My administration’ll be remembered for fulfilling its promise’ Continued from page 3 allow yourselves to be used by

the earlier speakers and what can be gleaned from the book, supported by verifiable facts and figures on projects and programmes implemented in almost every state of the Federation, it is clear that our administration has delivered substantially on our campaign promises.

“Their stock-in-trade is the avaricious plunder of our national assets and resources, and ordinary Nigerians are quite aware of their conduct in government.

“Our simple message to the Nigerian electorate is to give us four more years to build and consolidate on the foundations we have painstakingly laid so that we shall all reap the benefits of what we have planted in all sectors of our society.

“We have proved better managers of our national assets and the limited resources available to us than past administrations, and we are committed to entrenching higher levels of accountability and transparency in the years ahead,” he stated.

President Buhari therefore urged all Nigerians to exercise their civic duty in an atmosphere of peace and security as they choose their leaders and representatives in the next few weeks.

“Let us remember that elections will come and go, but we need a country in which to live. I am appealing to our youths: do not

desperate politicians to violate the sanctity of the ballot and endanger our country. I assure you that the security agencies will protect you as you go out to vote without fear of violence or molestation,” he added.

Earlier speaking, the National Leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, commended President Buhari for his astute leadership, saying that the President has achieved a lot in his time in office despite “our strained financial condition due to shrunken oil prices.”

According to Tinubu, through focused policies, the Buhari administration has set the foundation for enduring growth of a diversifying economy not unduly reliant on an increasingly unreliable foreign appetite for crude oil.

“Our party, the APC is a party of compassion and progressivism.

Despite the relatively meagre revenues of this government compared to prior governments, the Buhari administration set out to do what the other governments cared not to do. That is to give direct care to the nation’s poorest and most put upon citizens.

“Let our economy stand on its own feet and not be overly beholden to motorists in New York City, London or Paris. I believe such sovereign economics are, in the long term, the soundest economics,” the National Leader added.

Buhari

UNN students, NANS, others laud FG, ASUU over suspension of strike Moses Oyediran with agency report Students of University of Nigeria Nsukka town have applauded the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) for suspending the over three-month-old nationwide strike.

In an interview with our correspondent in Enugu on Friday, the students said the suspension of the strike was a welcome development as it would enable them to return to class.

The President of Students Union Government (SUG) in University of Nigeria Nsukka, Mr. Fortunatus Chimezie, commended ASUU and Federal Government for calling off the over three- month-old strike.

“The suspension of the over threemonth-old strike was a welcome development. I am happy that ASUU and Federal Government finally agreed to suspend the strike.

“This strike the union embarked on November last year paralysed academic activities in public universities in the country.

“With the suspension of the strike,

students will rush back to school having wasted much time at home,” he stated.

Chimezie urged government to do everything within its capacity to ‘nip in the bud’ any issues that will lead to strike in public universities In future”.

Miss Ukamaka Odimegwu of the department of Theatre Art, UNN, said she thanked God who touched the minds of ASUU leadership to suspend the nationwide strike on Thursday.

“I hope lecturers will start lecture on Monday in order to recover time wasted.

“I know many students will use the weekend to rush back to school, having being tired staying at home for the past three months”, she said.

It would be recalled that the National leadership of ASUU after its meeting with the Federal Government on Thursday in Abuja decided to suspend the nationwide strike.

Also, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has lauded the Federal Government and Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) for calling off the three-month-old industrial action in universities.

NANS’ National Public Relations Officer (PRO), Mr. Bestman Okereafor,

gave the commendation in a statement issued on Friday in Enugu.

“We wish to commend this positive gesture by the Federal Government and ASUU, even though we have engaged both parties during the cause of the three months old strike.

“We significantly used the third C of ALUTA via the Jan. 30, Niger Bridge protest organized by NANS Zone B with the full support of other zonal coordinators.

“Our commendation is however based on the facts that university students can now go back to school to continue their academic pursuit, even as the suspension of the long strike will give students the opportunity to exercise their franchise in the forthcoming election,’’ he said.

According to him, NANS is passionately appealing to the Federal Government to find a lasting solution to the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic (ASUP) strike soonest, to allow the polytechnic students to get back to school.

“NANS is finally calling on the government to find long lasting solution to the issues of incessant strike actions in

higher institutions as it has been doing more harm than good to students,’’ he said.

Also, parents and students in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have commended the Federal Government and Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) for the suspension of the threemonth strike.

Mrs. Achonwa Mary, a parent whose child is in the University of Abuja, said she was happy the three months old strike had been suspended.

Mary, who is a civil servant, however, appealed to the Federal Government to keep to their promise by meeting the demands of ASUU to avoid further strike action.

“Though I am happy that the strike has been suspended, I have to look for money to send to my son to enable him go back to school.

“Before the strike, I had settled him, including providing for his upkeep, during the strike I had to spend extra money on him; my appeal is for a permanent solution to end these strikes.’’

Mr. Sunday Chigozie, a businessman in Aco Estate, who has two wards in Nasarawa State University, Keffi, also

expressed happiness that the strike had been suspended.

Chigozie said that the suspension of the strike was a relief for both parents and students.

He said that he was particularly happy because many of the students who had been idle during the strike could return to school.

“During the strike I had to engage my two children in my shop, so they do not become idle and engage in social vices.

“I hope this country will not witness this kind of strike again because I believe this government will keep to its promise.‘’ Mrs. Grace Yussuf, a public servant, who also has two children in the university, said she was happy the strike had been suspended, adding that she wished it was called off and not suspended.

Yussuf appealed to the Federal Government to keep to its promise so that the strike would not resume.

“If the education system keeps being disrupted, it is telling on everyone, the parents, students and the whole nation.” ”I think government should prioritise its expenditure by giving priority to key sectors of the economy.

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

Secondus tells ICC to arrest el- Rufai, Short News demands inquiry Fulani youths promise Buhari 11m votes Tunde Opalana, Abuja National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus on Friday called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to arrest the Governor of Kaduna state, Mallam Nasir el- Rufai over his recent statement on the involvement of foreign observers in the coming elections.

The chairman also called on President Muhammadu Buhari to set up a panel of inquiry to probe el- Rufai’s statement which has been generating comments.

Secondus gave the charge at the Makurdi Township Stadium, venue of the PDP Presidential campaign rally.

The chairman said that “you are aware that the governor of Kaduna state has said that people will be killed and carried in body bags. And we must stand because they cannot kill us.

“The international community is aware.

And we call on the federal government headed by Buhari to set up an inquiry. If he refuses, then the International Criminal Court should arrest el-Rufai immediately for saying that the international community and PDP will be carried in

body bags.

“They are not ready for elections. They know that Atiku is winning.”

He told the teeming people of Benue state that an Atiku Abubakar led federal government will put an end to the strive, ethnic killings and farmer/ herder clashes in the state.

“With your mandate and the leadership of the PDP, there will be no killing anymore in Benue. When APC government came in 2015, they started with Benue, they got to Taraba, to Plateau state and now Zamfara.

“Yesterday, we went to Katsina, they were killing in eight local governments.

That is the President’s home state. The killing is so much in Nigeria.

“When you vote and you defend your vote, you have stopped the killings, poverty and too much hunger in the land.

“We will shift the headquarters of poverty to another country. Atiku Abubakar will create jobs for our teeming youth. He has done it before, he will do it again,” the PDP national chairman added.

Secondus also warned against militarization of election in Benue state, saying that “we were told that Akume was inviting the military. This is not a military regime, this is democracy. Anyone that will send soldiers to Ortom is against

democracy. And we will reject such rigged results either in Benue or at the national level, we will never accept any rigged results.”

The party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar also harped on the state of insecurity in the North Central region, while assuring the people of restoration of peace in the region.

He said that “problem number one in Benue, North Central state is security.

Everyone who knows me, know that I stand for the rule of law and I defend every law whether it is a federal law, state law or local government law, I defend it.

Because when you don’t defend the rule of law, you are inviting chaos and if there is insecurity we are not going to prosper, we are not going to progress.

“Every human endeavour requires security. You can only do what you can do, what you want to do if you have security.

I assure you that when you vote for PDP, when you vote for Ortom, you vote for Atiku, then, you can be sure we will work together and bring back security, in North Central and in the whole of Nigeria.”

Atiku promised that his government will protect and make Benue state more dependable as the food basket of the nation.

Tom Okpe, Abuja As the count - down to the February 16 presidential election draw closer, Fulani youth groups across the country on Friday, endorsed the second term bid of President Muhammadu Buhari.

The group under the aegis of Jonde -Jam Fulani Youth Association of Nigeria which made the declaration when they met with members of the Buba Marwaled Women and Youth Council in Abuja on Friday, promised to deliver at least 11 million votes to ensure victory for President Buhari.

The group’s National President, Alhaji Saidu Maikano said Buhari’s track record of integrity and zero tolerance for corruption informed the decision to endorse his second term bid to administer the country.

The group stated that there was no basis of comparison between the presidential candidate of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar and President Buhari, who lived up to their expectations in his days as military governor of old Borno state, federal commissioner of petroleum, head of state , and as head of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF).

He said: “Atiku is Fulani; Buhari is our Fulani brother too. It is in our culture that a father will select a child worthy of succeeding him before he dies to avoid chaos and succession battle.

EFCC, HALCIA sign MoU to strengthen fight against corruption Andrew Orolua, Abuja The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and its Niger Republic counterpart, the High Authority Against Corruption and Relating Crimes (HALCIA), on Thursday, in Niamey, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), strengthening the anti- graft fight in Nigeria and Niger Republic.

Speaking at the ceremony in Niamey, the Acting Chairman of EFCC, Ibrahim Magu, said the exigency of the time demand the strengthening of existing protocol between Nigeria and Niger Republic in the fight against corruption and terrorism financing.

He noted that the MoU will help eliminate any obstacle and impediment in the exchange of information and intelligence in the fight against corruption in both countries.

Particularly, as the MoU provides that, “parties will exchange information in accordance with this Memorandum of Understanding in conformity to the relevant laws of Niger and Nigeria relating to the protection of privacy and confidentiality.”

Magu said that “corrupt public officials loot Nigerian treasury and stash their illicit gains abroad, thereby denying Nigerians of viable resources that could develop the nation.”

Plateau: Court hands over Wase PDP Rep ticket to Anani

Elder Silas Eke, Chairman, BOT, Christian Mission School for the Deaf, Legal and Corporate Affairs Director, International Breweries, Otunba Michael Daramola, Corporate Affairs Manager, International Breweries, Ilesha Plant, Mrs. Folashade Omole and Pastor Johnson Olalekan, Principal, Christian Mission School for the Deaf, Ibadan, at the handing over of a solar-powered borehole, donated

by International Breweries, to the school in Ibadan.

7-storey building collapse: Rivers Govt to prosecute indicted officials Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt The Rivers State Governor, Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has declared that any official indicted over the collapsed 7-storey building at Woji road in New GRA, Port Harcourt, would be duly prosecuted.

Speaking during the presentation of Reports by the Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the 7-storey building collapse at Woji road in New GRA, Port Harcourt and the Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the Management and Affairs of Integrated Medical Industries Limited (Auto Syringe Factory) at the Government House Port Harcourt, on Friday, Governor Wike stated that his administration would implement the reports of the two commissions.

He announced the setting up of a seven man White Paper Committee to take immediate steps for the implementation of the recommendations of the two commissions of Inquiry.

He said: “Let me assure you that we wouldn’t have wasted our time and

resources setting up the commissions of inquiry. The reports will be duly implemented.

“Anybody indicted for the collapsed building will face the law. If you are connected to the deaths of people, we will prosecute you for murder,” he said.

The governor stated that any government official serving or retired who was indicted would face the full weight of the law.

Governor Wike noted that the Rivers State Government would take direct measures to re-structure and professionalise the State Ministry of Urban Development and Physical Planning.

On the Integrated Medical Industries Limited (Auto Syringe Factory), Governor Wike said that government could not be taken for granted.

Speaking too at the occasion, the chairman of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the 7-storey building collapse, Justice Adolphus Enebeli, while presenting his report, said the building approval process at the Ministry of Urban Development and Physical Planning was a

mangled mess of procedures.

He said that the gory details of the videos is enough to force out tears from the strongest of men.

Justice Enebeli said from research findings, the current commission of inquiry was the most incisive x-ray of the operation of the Ministry of Urban Development and Physical Planning, adding that past efforts were ad-hoc in nature.

He urged Governor Wike not to allow the report to be confined to the dustbin of inaction, in deference to those who died in the building collapse.

Also, the chairman of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the Management and Affairs of Integrated Medical Industries Limited (Auto Syringe Factory), Justice Constance Douyle Green, said the findings and recommendations of her commission were contained in a fourvolume report.

While hoping that the Rivers State Governor would implement the report, Justice Green said the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry were in line with its 10-point terms of reference.

A Federal High Court sitting in Jos on Friday declared Alhaji Hamisu Anani the duly elected candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the Wase Federal Constituency seat.

The court, while ruling in a case brought by Anani against the PDP and Alhaji Omar Rabo, his rival in the race, who was given the ticket, declared that Anani actually won the party’s primary elections conduced in October.

Anani, through his counsel, Badamasi Adam, had dragged the respondents before Justice Musa Haruna, on the allegations that he had been denied the ticket after polling the highest votes during the primary election.

He claimed that he scored 56 votes against Rabo’s 34 and expressed surprise that the PDP opted to give the ticket to the loser.

Justice Haruna, after examining the documents relating to the primary election, agreed with the appellant’s claim and faulted the decision of the party. He ruled that Rabo, who scored 34 votes against Anani’s 56, should not have been given the PDP flag.

“I find it strange that someone, who scored the lesser votes in an election, was declared winner, while the man with the highest was denied his prize. What I know about democracy is that the person with majority of the votes is the winner. What PDP did in this case was against the rule of the game.

I remain SDP presidential candidate – Duke

Former Governor of Cross River state, Donald Duke, says he still remains the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and would present himself for the February 16 poll.

Duke said this in a statement on Friday in Lagos, while reacting to the decision of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party to withdraw from the election and adopt President Muhammadu Buhari as its preferred candidate.

“Regardless and for the avoidance of doubt, I, Donald Duke, remain on the ballot and the candidate of the SDP as recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“This unfortunate saga is as a result of an aspirant who lost at the party primaries on October 6, 2018, fair and square, does not query the conduct of the primaries but rather resorts to bigotry, querying my suitability to contest for the presidency on grounds that I come from the wrong part of the country.

“The Federal Court of Appeal has put this matter to rest. The office of president does not belong to any party and therefore not for a party to zone,” he said.

Duke identified internal management of party affairs as the bane of the nation’s democracy, insisting that his decision to run for the presidency was to afford the electorate a credible alternative.

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

PDM adopts Atiku, charges INEC, security agents on fairness Tunde Opalana, Abuja

The Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM), the political family of late Shehu Musa Yar’Adua on Friday adopted the Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar as its candidate in the February 16 poll.

The PDM also cautioned politicians against inciting statements for while calling on the federal government to arrest and prosecute any political actor found wanting.

Priding itself as the oldest political organisation in contemporary Nigeria, the group cautioned both the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to abide by their constitutional roles and remain impartial in the coming elections.

Rising from a meeting held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Center, Abuja, the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) in a communique signed by all zonal leaders stated that the coming electoral contest is a test of the country’s democratic governance.

The communique reads: “After extensive consultations with members of our

group, we therefore make the following proclamations, that the tension that has been generated by the 2019 elections is getting to a disturbing proportion and we call on all actors in the electoral process to ensure that peace ensues before, during and after the elections.

“We call on the security operatives to be impartial and to focus on their main mandate of preserving and protecting the lives and property of every Nigeria and foreigners alike.

“That politicians should refrain from making insidious statements and anyone caught going against this should be duly prosecuted.

“That after a careful observation of the socio-economic situation in the country, we have come to the inevitable conclusion of endorsing the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar as our consensus candidate.

“That we demand the INEC complies strictly with the provisions of the relevant laws in its conduct of the upcoming series of elections.

“That election monitor groups and other watchdog agencies in the conduct of the election must conduct themselves above

board and ensure a hitch-free election on February 16 and on March 2, 2019.

“That voters should conduct themselves in an orderly manner by casting their votes and be willing to stand to protect their votes.

“We believe that the 2019 election is a landmark opportunity for Nigeria to take a decision for the growth of the nation’s economy and, consequently, the general prosperity of all Nigerians.

“To this end therefore, we will continue to mobilize support for the PDP candidate, Atiku Abubakar and we as well urge all Nigerians to look at the condition of the country today in relation to the economy, unemployment, foreign affairs and other sectors and vote overwhelmingly for Atiku to get Nigeria working again.”

The PDM was formed on August 2, 1987 under the leadership of late Gen. Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and was formed primarily to be the conscience and voice of the masses.

The communique was by Dubem Onyia (South East); Chief Bode Ajewole (South West); Chief Ejiofor Onyia (South South); Dr. Bala Ahmed Tafida (North Central); Alhaji Kabir Bawa (North East); Fatima Abba (North West) and Dapo Sarumi (Chairman).

7 News

Short News We’ll generate $30b, 1.5m jobs from `Made in Nigeria for Export’ – Buhari President Muhammadu Buhari says the implementation of the Federal Government’s Made in Nigeria for Exports (MINE) will generate 30 billion dollars and create 1.5 million jobs by 2025.

MINE is a presidential special priority intervention programme implemented by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, but under Buhari’s direct supervision.

The president stated this at the signing of agreement between Nigeria Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Investment Company and Strategic Investment Partners at the State House, Abuja on Friday.

According to him, MINE is using Special Economic Zones to achieve the objectives of boosting the share of manufacturing in Gross Domestic Product to 20 per cent.

“Under my direct supervision, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment is implementing Project MINE (Made in Nigeria for Exports) as a Presidential special priority intervention using Special Economic Zones to achieve the objectives of; boosting manufacturing’s share of GDP to 20%, generating $30bn in annual export earnings; and creating 1.5 million new jobs all by 2025.

PDP cautions INEC against alleged PVC hoarding Tunde Opalana, Abuja The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged Nigerians, who are yet to collect their Permanent Voters Cards (PVC) to take advantage of the extension granted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to get their cards ahead of next Saturday’s crucial Presidential election.

It also cautioned INEC field officers not to pitch themselves against Nigerians or take any action that could portray them as deliberately refusing to issue the PVCs to registered voters.

The party said the collection of the PVC is of utmost national importance to Nigerians in their quest to rescue the nation from President Muhammadu Buhari’s incompetent, divisive, vengeful and corrupt administration, which has wrecked national life and brought so much pain and anguish to Nigerians.

“The caution to INEC field officers is predicated on allegations in the public space that the All Progressives Congress (APC) has compromised some field officers to deliberately refuse to issue the PVCs, having realized that Nigerians are eager to get the cards to vote out President Buhari from office”, said the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Kola Ologbondiyan in a statement on Friday.

FG commits N31bn to 2nd Niger Bridge — Minister

Wife of Ondo State Governor and Founder of Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria, (BRECAN), Chief Mrs Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu, (right), during her arrival to the monthly meeting of breast cancer survivors “Team Survivors Nigeria” held at BRECAN centre, Ijapo Estate, Akure.

WHO assists five African nations to tackle Lassa fever outbreak Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja

In its bid to reduce the spread of Lassa fever disease, the World Health Organization (WHO) has scaled up its efforts to support about five African countries hit by the outbreak.

According to Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall, Regional Emergencies Director at WHO Regional Office for Africa, a total of 12 cases have been confirmed in Benin, Guinea, Liberia and Togo, including two deaths, with more suspected cases being investigated.

In a statement, Dr. Fall said that the WHO is assisting health authorities in these countries with contact tracing, providing medical and nonmedical supplies as well as technical and financial resources a needed for case management, risk communication and logistics.

“We are concerned by the high number of

cases so early in the Lassa fever season, which is expected to last another four more months.

“WHO is working with the health authorities in the five-affected countries to ensure health workers have the capacity to detect cases and we are monitoring the regional spread of the disease.

“WHO has set up a regional coordination mechanism for countries to report any suspected case of Lassa fever to expedite the flow of timely information and to assess the situation, recommend actions and help organize assistance.

“WHO has also reached out to the six other atrisk countries – Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ghana, Mali, Niger and Sierra Leone – and is supporting prevention and readiness activities as needed.

“WHO continues to advise all countries in the Lassa fever belt to enhance their preparedness and response capacities, especially for early case detection, laboratory confirmation, case management under recommended barrier

nursing, risk communication and community engagement,” Dr Fall said.

Daily Times recalls that the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) had January 22, 2019 declared an outbreak of Lassa fever in the country.

The 213 confirmed cases to date, including 42 deaths, mark a significant increase. Four health workers have been infected so far in this latest outbreak.

Meanwhile, the WHO is scaling up its efforts to support the Nigeria government, NCDC and the affected Nigerian states in responding to the outbreak.

An important focus is on early detection and confirmation of suspected cases, providing optimal supportive care and ensuring infection prevention and control measures in designated health care facilities in the affected states.

The federal government has committed N31 billon to the main works of the second Niger Bridge project, says Alhaji Mustapha Shehuri, the Minister of State for Power, Works and Housing.

Shehuri said this on Friday in Onitsha during an inspection of the ongoing federal government roads and bridge projects in Anambra state.

According to him, N206 billion is the contract sum of the main work on the second Niger Bridge which started in November 2018.

The minister said that the project was expected to be completed in 42 months and that the contractor had so far done 17 per cent of the work within four months.

He expressed satisfaction over the pace of work, adding that the project would be delivered on schedule, if the current speed was maintained. Shehuri pledged the commitment of the federal government to ensure prompt and adequate funding of the project.

S/West leads in drug abuse in Nigeria – Odeku

Leader of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Elimination of Drug Abuse (PACEDA), Oluwatoyin Odeku said that 22.4 per cent of drug abuse cases in Nigeria happen in the South-West.

Odeku disclosed this at a press conference in Akure, Ondo state on Friday.

She said the figure was in line with the official statistics released by the UN in its fact finding mission in the region to curb drug abuse in the country.

President Muhammadu Buhari had on Dec. 10, 2018 inaugurated the committee chaired by Maj.-Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd).

Odeku said that a similar programme is been carried out simultaneously in all the geopolitical zones of the country, adding that drug abuse had become a menace that must be curbed.

“This calls for urgent action. It cannot be a federal government fight alone; we must take it to the local government level and to our religious stakeholders. It is not something we can joke with, drug abuse is always leading to crime. We call on all stakeholders to cooperate with us to tackle it.

News 8

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

PDP kicks as FG shut down Abuja venue of Atiku campaign rally Tunde Opalana, Abuja

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has kicked against the decision by the federal government in denying the party use of the Old Parade Ground, Abuja, to hold a mega rally in support of its presidential candidate.

The party carpeted the Buhari Presidency and the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government for directing the shutting down of the venue for its Presidential campaign mega rally in Abuja.

The PDP described the directive as an act of desperation by the APC administration, but stated that nothing can stop it from organizing a rally in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement said that the PDP duly paid and secured permission to host its mega

rally at the Old Parade Ground, only for officials of the facility to inform the party Friday morning that they have been ordered to shut down the venue.

“Such resort to self-help further exposes the irredeemable insensitivity of the Buhari Presidency and the APC. “The overwhelming popularity of the peoples’ candidate, Atiku Abubakar, which points to an imminent crushing defeat that awaits President Muhammadu Buhari in the February 16 Presidential election has pushed the Buhari Presidency into a panic mode.

“President Buhari has always been disheartened and jittery over spontaneous mammoth crowd of Nigerians at Atiku Abubakar’s rallies across the country, leading to the desperation to frustrate our rallies, resort to smear campaigns, vandalizing of our campaign materials and denial of venues, in APC controlled states, as was the case in Kano state recently.

“President Buhari is frustrated because he has failed in governance and as such, has no message for Nigerians. President Buhari daily continues to lose followership, in millions to Atiku Abubakar for which his handlers have now resorted to renting people for his rallies, including Nigerien thugs.

“The Buhari Presidency and APC would soon realize that the more they fight Atiku Abubakar, the more Nigerians are spurred to queue behind him as the rallying point in their quest to return our nation to the path of national cohesion and economic prosperity,” Kola said.

The PDP therefore charged President Buhari not to allow his handlers to further pitch him against Nigerians with this contemptible shut down of the venue of the PDP Presidential campaign rally in Abuja, as such is a direct assault on the sensibilities and aspiration of Nigerians across board.

Short News Minister applauds Buhari over pensioners Welfare Tom Okpe, Abuja Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed has reiterated President Muhammadu Buhari’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians which spurred him to end the 14-year suffering of the pensioners and former workers of the defunct Nigeria Airways.

The minister made the remarks in Lagos on Friday while addressing the former workers of the Nigeria Airways, who staged a rally in support of the re-election of President Buhari.

“The administration’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians has led President Buhari to end the 14-year wait and suffering of the 5,996 former staffers of Nigeria Airways, who have started receiving payment of their pension arrears and other benefits from the federal government.

“It is noteworthy that since the liquidation of Nigeria Airways, successive administrations have failed to settle the ex -staffers, leading to untold suffering and loss of human dignity by the affected people”, he said.

Court remands businessman over alleged smuggling of N311.7m drugs Justice Oluremi Oguntoyibo of a Federal High Court in Lagos on Friday remanded a businessman, Luke Mbah, charged with the importation of banned drugs.

The defendant was arraigned on a four-count charge brought against him by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The charge borders on importation, possession, dealing and distribution of banned drugs.

The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

After his plea, the prosecutor, Umar Shamaki, prayed the court for a trial date, urging that the defendant should be remanded pending his trial.

Consequently, Oguntoyibo ordered that the defendant should be kept in the Ikoyi Prison and adjourned the case until April 5 for substantive trial.

According to the charge, the defendant, who lives at No. 9, Ehi Street, Ijesha, Lagos, committed the offences on Dec. 16, 2018.

He was arrested in January by a combined team of the Federal Task Force on Counterfeit and Fake Drug and Unwholesome Processed Food, Investigation and Enforcement Directorate of NAFDAC, police and Nigeria Customs Service.

I want to be governor to serve — Agbaje

EFCC Arrests 19 Suspected Internet Fraudster

Health workers tasks Buhari to restore peace in the sector Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja Health workers under the umbrella of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN) has appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to put in place modalities that will bring about lasting peace in the health sector.

AMLSN National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Casmir Ifeanyi, who made the appeal during a chat with newsmen in Abuja on Friday, lamented that the rivalry in the health sector has been an albatross over the years.

He said that until government at all levels and other healthcare agencies fully appreciate and harness the potentials of medical laboratory services, no meaningful progress can be made in the nation’s health system no matter how much money is invested.

“Misdiagnosis and mismanagement of patients’ conditions will continue to hunt the health sector, hence medical laboratory science remains the key to the cure in modern health care practice,” Casmir stated.

Describing as unfortunate the lingering rivalry amongst health workers which according to him has become an albatross over the years, Mr. Ifeanyi expressed concern saying, until a lasting solution is arrived at, the health sector will continue to deteriorate.

“Medical laboratory science is the engine of the medical sector. We are all professionals and should be treated as such. It is high time government puts a stop to the injustice against our members. Every profession that provide care has its given role and must be respected,” he added.

The AMLSN publicity secretary further called on President Buhari to throw away the Yayale Ahmed Presidential Committee

of Experts on Professional Relationships in the Public Health Sector (YAPCEPRPH), saying it is “biased, one-sided and out of line.

“We the under listed stakeholders in the health sector find it necessary to inform the federal government that we out-rightly reject the very biased and one-sided report of Yayale Ahmed in both public and professional interests.

“Our findings confirm our fears that as usual, the secretariat of the committee was infiltrated by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) through the instrument of its privileged members in high places in government.”

On how peace could be restored in the sector, Ifeanyi called on those concerned to obey the 10 court judgments delivered by various courts in the country in favour of the association, declaring that “if they are not implemented, there shall be no peace.”

Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos state, Jimi Agbaje, on Friday said he was seeking to be governor to deliver real service to the people of the state.

Agbaje made the statement while addressing party faithfuls and residents at a town hall meeting in Apapa area of Lagos.

He said the present political establishment in the state had not delivered real governance to the people in the last 20 years.

The candidate added that those who had ran the state for the past two decades were only “serving their selfish interests rather than serving the people.”

Agbaje promised to deliver a state where everything would work if elected, saying his governorship ambition was motivated by the need to give residents a better deal.

“There are two kinds of politicians: those who serve the people and we also, have those who only serve their own interests and those of their friends.

“We have had two civilian eras in the state, we had the Jakande administration and despite not spending up to four years, Jakande addressed education, he addressed water, health and others. That is an example of politicians serving the people.

Nigeria lost N39bn to trailer/tanker crashes in 2018 – FRSC

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on Friday said Nigeria lost N39 billion to trailer/tanker crashes in 2018.

Corps Marshal, Boboye Oyeyemi, disclosed this at a meeting with transport stakeholders in Abuja.

Oyeyemi, who said that the meeting was aimed at addressing sundry issues affecting the transport sector, especially as it related to articulated vehicles, described the loss as ”unpleasant story.

“This is not a pleasant story; it is a serious matter and loss to the economy; this gory tale is not the best for the country,” he said.

He decried that over 90 per cent of tankers and trailers were over 30 years old, saying that maintenance was a serious matter that needed to be addressed.

“It costs about N50 million to buy a new head for a tanker excluding the body, while registration and insurance would cost about N60 million to put a tanker or trailer on the highway,” he said.

He also said the number of crashes which involved trailers in 2017 was 522 as against 425 in 2018.

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

FG, Ogun outline economic benefits of Lagos - Ibadan rail line Charges residents to vote APC to ensure project completion

The federal and Ogun state governments have outlined the economic benefits of the newly completed Lagos – Ibadan standard rail project, while urging Nigerians to vote for the All Progressive Congress (APC) next Saturday for the consolidation of the project.

Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi, stated this Friday in Abeokuta during the official flag off of the three - month free passenger ride as part of activities to test running the project.

According to the minister, the Lagos - Ibadan rail line is a project that continues to Kano state and as such must be supported by the people to ensure that the project is realised.

“I am happy with the people living

along this corridor and they have been wonderful. This is the first time I can see a people that a federal project passed through their lands and they made no demands to disrupt the ongoing project.

“And with this experience, we made sure that the project is completed on time for the people’s benefit,” he stated.

Amaechi further enjoined the people to rally round the ruling party in the forthcoming general elections to ensure the survival of the rail project across the country.

“We are offering three – month free ride to passengers from Iju, Lagos to Abeokuta. In fact, I would suggest that anyone who will ride on this train should first of all show his permanent

voters card,” said the minister.

Also speaking, Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun state noted that his state will soon begin to enjoy the economic benefits of the rail line, adding that “my people will soon begin to feel the benefits of this project.

“This is because the project has opened up the stretch of the land.

Soon people will start building more houses and more infrastructures along the corridor. Soon business will spring up on both sides of the corridors to attract tourists and other economic activities.”

The governor however, enjoined his people to be law abiding as usual in order not to abuse the privileges they will now enjoy.

9 News

Short News Don’t criticize Ortom for non-performance – Tsav The North Central Zonal Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Maurice Tsav said Gov. Samuel Ortom should not be criticised for non -performance.

Tsav said Ortom should instead be commended for securing the lives of his people.

Tsav, who spoke on Friday in Makurdi, on the sidelines of the PDP Presidential rally, said guaranteeing the safety and lives and property of the governor’s people was a milestone.

“To stay alive is better than all the wealth; Ortom gave us life, he will give us security and will surely give us all that we need in his second term.

“People should not criticise Ortom for non-performance, he has done well in terms of security of lives and property and that is an achievement,’’ Tsav said.

He however, criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC) led federal government for leadership incompetence.

Also, former deputy chairman, Makurdi Local Government Area, Mr. Fada Alom, said the massive turnout of the Benue people was a clear indication of the people’s acceptance of Atiku.

Alom expressed optimism that the party would win all elective positions at the polls.

INEC assures level playing field for Enugu voters

The Independent National Electoral Commissioner (INEC) says it will provide level playing field for all the eligible voters during the general elections in Enugu state.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Enugu state, Dr. Emeka Ononamadu, gave the assurance during a town hall meeting with women groups and gender focused civil society organisations in Enugu on Friday.

The meeting was organised by INEC in collaboration with Health for the Society Justice and Peace Initiative (HSJPI).

Ononamadu, represented by the Administrative Secretary of INEC in the state, Enyinnaya Onyekwere, therefore, called on women to come out and vote massively.

He also assured of INEC transparency and readiness for the election to provide purposeful leadership.

The REC revealed that INEC had set plans for credible elections with unblemished records in the upcoming elections and assured that the exercise would not be hijacked by money bags.

FG to provide free internet access to users of national libraries

The DG of NAPTIP, Dame Julie Okah-Donli flanked by Le Mer Gerard and Cotelle Patrick.

Buhari presents Bindow as APC Adamawa guber candidate Dan Garba, Yola

President Muhammadu Buhari says his administration will continue to ensure that the lives and properties of the ordinary citizens are fully protected with promises of providing good social infrastructure if re-elected for a second term.

The President made the pronouncement during his nationwide campaign rally held at the Mahmud Ribadu Square, Yola.

Addressing the mammoth crowd at the rally, President Buhari stated that

fighting corruption and insurgency will continue to be the top most priority of his government, explaining that the federal government would continue to build more rail lines as well as constructing more roads and providing portable drinking water to the Nigerians.

He solicited for the support and cooperation of the people of Adamawa state to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates at all levels in order to for his administration to continue to provide democracy dividends to the electorate at the grassroots.

In their separate remarks, National

Chairman of APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomole, the Director General of the Buhari Campaign Organisation, Chibuike Amaechi, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha and retired General Buba Marwa said that President Buhari remains the only solution to Nigeria’s problems.

They declared that the APC’s change mantra would be beneficial to the masses.

Thereafter, Oshiomole presented Governor Umar Jibrilla as the APC governorship candidate and flagbearer in Adamawa state.

The Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, says the Federal Government will provide free internet access for library users in the country.

Adamu spoke on Friday in Abuja at the “7th Edition of the Weekend Ministerial Press Briefing.”

He said the National Library of Nigeria (NLN) had been fulfilling its mandate by expanding its branches across the country as well as rehabilitating the existing ones.

According to him, contracts for the renovation of the Lagos, Benue, Nasarawa, Imo, Adamawa and Plateau branches have been awarded, while others would come on stream in 2020. ”It must be noted that we are in a digital world. We are therefore in the process of providing free internet access for our library users, beginning with Lagos, Abuja and Enugu branches. ”New branches are to be established in Delta, Anambra, Ekiti, Kebbi, Kogi and Jigawa states. We have completed permanent branch buildings in Gombe and Katsina states.”

Aare Gani Adams bags Lead Magazine award Patrick Okohue Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Abiodun Ige Adams, has been named Lead Magazine “Man of the year.”

The investiture held at the Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry and Exhibition Centre (LCCI), Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, had in attendance, prominent personalities, including former Speaker of Lagos state, Jokotola Pelumi, former Commissioner for Transportation, Prof. Bamidele Badejo, Chairman, Lagos state chapter of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Dr. Quasim Akinreti and other prominent guests.

Adams, who doubled as the chairman of the event, spoke about the role of the media in restoring Nigerian’s hope, especially, during the long years of military rule.

He described the media as the mirror of the society, saying the media has been wonderful to him, especially in its reportage.

“Let me appreciate the publisher of the magazine, Abayomi Ajibola, who, I describe as a long runner. Despite the harsh economic situation, he remains determined.

News 10

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

Boko Haram: Adamawa senator declares Short News constituency safe for elections Army spokesman, Brig. Gen. Tom Garba, Yola

The Senator representing Adamawa North Senatorial District, Senator Binta Masi Garba says the recent attacks on some communities in the state by the Boko Haram sect were blown out of proportion by the media, asserting that the communities of Michika and Madagali are much safer to ensure the conduct of credible elections.

In an effort to distance the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) from the recent attacks on Shuwa and Kirchinga communities, the Senator bluntly refuted rumours that some APC candidates were fuelling the activities of Boko Haram in order for the elections to be conducted in safer environments.

“APC returned in our communities;

nobody, can say that my party can destroy the works of its hands built over the years. If not because of my party, a good number of people will never return to their homes.

“The rumour is unfounded and baseless. I’m assuring all my constituents that elections will be holding in all the units of the senatorial zone,” Binta said She added that remnants of the Boko Haram sect who are scanning for food, because of starvation in their hideouts in the dreaded Sambisa Forest which shares close proximity to Kirchinga community were behind the recent attacks.

According to the senator, the starving sect members attacked Shuwa community to loot and cart away foodstuff.

Senator Binta lamented that a social

media post from someone based in Michika caused serious confusion and panic in Michika Town, thereby influencing the media to give the situation undue reportage.

“Why are we now spreading evil reports against the government that is working hard to curb Boko Haram, kidnapping, killings of all sorts that are becoming the order of the day?

“The social media is not meant to spread evil reports,” she warned The APC senatorial candidate told journalists that elections is not a do or die affair and that her political ambition is not worth the death of anyone.

“I have every reason to thanks God. If I win it’s to His glory, if I don’t it’s to Him the glory is going to be as He can still have a good plan for me,’’ the senator maintained.

Usman retires

Andrew Orolua, Abuja The Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman has voluntarily retired from service after 35 years in service.

He commenced his terminal leave on February 8, thus marking the end of his three decades of military career in the Nigerian Army.

In a statement yesterday, Brigadier General Usman thanked media practitioners for the assistance rendered to the Department of Army Public Relations and the Nigerian Army during his tenure in office.

Usman was reappointed the director, Army Public Relations in November last year after successfully completing a training course at the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPPS), Kuru, Jos, Plateau State.

According to the outgoing army spokesman, a new director has not yet being appointed. Howver, he is handing over to Colonel A.A. Yusuf, the chief of staff, Directorate of Army Public Relations.

Sen. Umaru rejects court’s verdict, files appeal Saka Bolaji, Minna

R-L: All Progressives Congress Governorship Candidate in Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his wife Dr. Ibijoke; Director General, BOSICG Campaign group, Mr. Tayo Ayinde and Juju Queen, Princess Ayo Balogun, during a meeting with professionals, Artists and other groups, at BOSICG Office, in Ikeja GRA, Lagos.

No road closure for Presidential rally - Lagos Govt The Lagos State Government on Friday reversed its earlier decision to put in place traffic diversion and road closures during the scheduled visit of President Muhammadu Buhari for the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential rally in the state.

The state’s Commissioner for Transportation, Mr/ Ladi Lawanson, at a news conference in Alausa, said the earlier statement announcing diversion and road closures had been reviewed, and residents were now free to go about their businesses.

Lawanson, who is also a member of the transport sub-committee for the Presidential visit and the APC rally, said Lagosians should jettison an earlier announcement by the committee to the effect that there would be road closures.

He said: “Lagosians have been very apprehensive that there will be traffic gridlock and we got a lot of feedback that we intend to grind Lagos to a halt.

“People are apprehensive; they think we are going to shut down Lagos; they think movement will be restricted and they are bracing themselves for what they anticipate will be the hardship that would be visited on them by the president’s visit and our own activities.

“The purpose of this news conference is to clarify that and to state emphatically that there will be from zero to minimal adverse effect of the President’s visit tomorrow.

“I repeat, there will be between zero to the barest minimum amount of disruptions to the normal movement that Lagosians undertake on a Saturday.

“So, there will not be any road closures in Lagos tomorrow and Lagosians are free to go about their normal businesses tomorrow, Saturday,” Lawanson said.

He said adequate arrangement had been firmed up to ensure free flow of traffic, but that residents should expect tight security around the routes which the President is expected to pass through in the course of his visit, and the venue of the rally.

“We will just like to communicate that because we are expecting a high calibre personality no less a person than the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the normal security precautions that attend a visit of this nature should be expected.

“The President will visit Lagos on Saturday with the full retinue of security aides that protect him and his entourage, but there will not be any road closures and there will be zero to minimal disruptions of

normal activities,” the Commissioner said.

Lawanson said there will be huge presence of officials of the police, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), FRSC and other agencies to ensure free flow of traffic around the Surulere axis.

“Around the venue of the rally, which is the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, and the adjourning streets are traffic management agencies such as LASTMA, FRSC, Police and other agencies that will support them tomorrow.

“They will handle the traffic management around the venue tomorrow and so people can expect to see a huge presence of our traffic management officers fully on ground to ensure that there is free flow of traffic.

“We consider it important to clarify this so that we can communicate to Lagosians and give them the assurance that Lagos and especially Surulere will not be on lockdown,” the Commissioner said.

Also speaking, General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Wale Musa, said tow trucks would be deployed to promptly evacuate any broken down vehicle and adequate personnel provided to tackle any gridlock that may arise from the President’s visit and the activities around Surulere.

Senator David Umaru representing Niger East Senatorial District has rejected the judgement delivered by Justice Folashade Ogunbanjo declaring Alhaji Mohammed Sani Musa as the winner of the APC primaries.

In the judgement delivered on Thursday, the court declared Musa winner of the October 2, 2018 primaries having pulled a total vote of 39,192 votes as against Senator David Umaru’s 5,870 votes.

The judge argued that the leadership of the All Progressives Congress acted in total disregard of logic, the constitution as well as the party’s guidelines in supplanting Mohammed Musa with David Umaru, who scored a paltry vote of 5,870.

She added that the days of party impunity is over and shall never be tolerated anymore.

“The All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership acted in bad faith with total disregard for the Electoral Act, the constitution and the party guidelines. Any act that negates party guidelines, the Electoral Act and the constitution is an illegality and party impunity taken too far that cannot be tolerated,” the judge ruled.

However, at a news conference on Friday, Senator Umaru averred that the decision of the court was erroneous as it was against the weight of evidence presented before the court.

He declared that already he has appealed the decision of the trial court and had applied for a stay of execution against the said judgement.

According to him, the law is trite and there is a plethora of Supreme Court decisionS affirming the finality of the political parties regarding the nomination of candidates.

Marwa escapes lynching at APC rally in Yola Dan Garba,Yola Former Military Administrator of Lagos state and a stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa state, Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd) escaped been lynched during the campaign rally of the party held Thursday in Yola.

A former secretary of the party in the state, Saidu Naira revealed that Marwa escaped the beating of his life when he was whisked out of the venue of the event by security operatives attached to the President.

According to Naira, the former Nigerian ambassador to South Africa during the regime of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan attracted the wrath of Adamawa youths when he refused to recognize and endorse Gov. Umar Jibrilla Bindo when he mounted the campaign podium to speak.

He said that the former envoy forced the compere at the rally to break with protocol on the ground that he (Marwa) was representing the First Lady, Hajiya Aisha Buhari and should therefore be allowed to deliver the President’s wife message.

Marwa offence, the former APC scribe said was his failure to shout “Adamawa sai Bindo’’ all because of his staunch support for Halilu Modi, the younger brother to the First Lady who contested against the incumbent governor for the APC ticket.

“Marwa is one of the key men playing a major role to stop Gov. Bindo from becoming governor, pushing the state and the party into serious political crisis. On being given the opportunity to address the crowd, he should have used the chance to call for unity of purpose for the party to win all the forthcoming elections in the state,” Naira added.

Daily Times Nigeria

Saturday, February 9, 2019

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If a younger lover will make me happy, I will go for it – Sonia Nwankwo Sonia Nwankwo, better known as Sonifoxy, is a fast rising actress and singer whose melodic voice and creative knack for role interpretation has given her edge to excel on the fiercely competitive Nigerian entertainment industry. In this interview, with MUTIAT ALLI, the Anambra State-born movie starlet speaks on the challenges of a Nigerian actress, plans to hit Texas, USA for The African Film Festival, relationship and lots more. Enjoy…

Can you tell us more yourself?

My name is Nwankwo Sonia Adaobi, aka Sonifoxy. I’m a singer and actress. I’m from Abagana in Njikoka LGA in Anambra State.

How long have you been acting and singing?

I have been in the movie industry since 2011, after I registered as an AGN (Actors Guild of Nigeria) member.

Which is the most challenging movie you have done among the ones listed?

I have done so many challenging roles but one of them I can never forget in a hurry is on the set of Against my Blood, which is an Epic movie. There were times where we had to sleep in the Bush and I was heavily beaten by insects and I fell very sick for almost 2 weeks after leaving that movie set.

How did your journey into the movie industry begin? Did you have plans for it?

Entertainment has always been a thing for me right from when I was very much little. I used to be in a Debatic and Dramatic Society in school then called DDS. While I was in the University I used to travel to different states during ASUU strike to learn more about movies and participate too.

Aside acting, what else do you do?

Asides acting and singing, I also own a farm.

Who are those you admire in the entertainment industry?

I admire a lot of people especially the women. One of the people that inspired me growing up is Stephanie Okereke. I remember wanting to act like her. I also Admire Patience Ozokwor (Mama G), Ini Edo, Genevieve Nnaji too. There is so much I still learn from them.

Who’s your entertainer crush?

Hmmm well, I love a lot Nigeria Entertainers due to the fact that we are taking it by force, but I think when it comes to crushing, I would just go for David Adeleke popularly known as Davido (laughs).

Can you marry him, if he asks you to?

I think he is in a serious relationship which is very much visible.

But what if, you path crosses?

If it’s my destiny, why not? I will marry him all over.

So you can marry a younger lover? Does age matter to you in relationship?

Age is nothing but a number, if a younger lover will make me happier and contented, so be it.

What do you look out for in a man?

My ideal man would be very patient, loving, understanding and above all Godfearing.

How about his pocket and other physical features?

Those other things can be worked towards. They are not primary.

What’s next for you? Is there any new project you’re working on?

Musically yes, am working on a song that I will be performing at The African Film Festival in Dallas Texas, USA, where I have been invited to be part of the Workshop and also Perform Live.

How does your man cope with your busy schedules?

I don’t have a serious man yet, but before I do I’ll get to let him know my schedule and see if he can deal with it.

How supportive are your parents of your chosen career?

At first they weren’t supportive at all especially my dad. But when they saw the outcome of my jobs they are beginning to get in line. My mum is my biggest fan now, she even goes as far as watching my movies and downloading my songs even before I inform her.

Have you encountered sexual harassment in the industry, even at your early stage?

Everybody has, but I think the way you handle it is what matters. When I started, I remember losing a lot of roles all because I refused to play some dirty games, but am glad now that my talent is gradually subduing the sexual harassments.

Do you watch your movies to see your flaws?

Yes I do. I criticise myself a lot and try to be better.

How do you improve on them?

I try to be open to criticism in as much as I know it hurts, and I also watch my role models who have been there before me and learn from them.

What’s your unique selling point?

I really don’t even know my selling point, all I try to do is better myself every day.

How do you deal with male fans?

I love all my fans dearly because they have brought me this far and still going.

As for my male fans I love them too but sometimes some of them try to cross boundaries. However, I know how to handle them without being offensive. My male fans are the best ever.

Sonia Nwankwo

Gist 12

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

Tana Adelana, Yaw, Lilian Esoro star in upcoming movie ‘The Reunion’ Kemi Adetiba, Mo Abudu, Iretiola Doyle, other A-list celebrities attend Filmhouse Cinemas and Moët & Chandon’s ‘The Film Gala’ The inaugural edition of The Film Gala®, hosted by Osas IghodaroAjibade, 2010 Miss Black USA Pageant winner and acclaimed actress, and by Toni Tones, singer, songwriter and actress, at the Wings Tower, Victoria Island, and presented by Filmhouse Cinemas, in partnership with Moët & Chandon, was held recently.

Filmhouse Cinemas, the premiere movie/film platform in Nigeria and Moët & Chandon, the official champagne of the Golden Globes, collaborated to bring to the forefront of the Nigerian film industry bodies of work that are breaking the norm in contemporary Nigerian cinema and inspiring really creative pieces of art.

And as such, it was no surprise that the theme of the night was “Married To The Arts.”

Gracing the purple carpet of The Film Gala was the crème de la crème of the entertainment industry. The likes of Ngozi Nwosu, Chinedu Ikedieze, Shaffy Bello, Dakore Egbuson, Alex Ekubo, Kemi Adetiba, Iretiola Doyle, Oyeka Udoka, Waje,

Omawumi, Abimbola Craig and Timini Egbuson were among the celebrities in attendance. Many more A-list industry stars, music luminaries and the upper echelon of Lagos society made their way to the gala in the most elegant fashion.

The Film Gala was curated to celebrate and honor the works of our game changers and groundbreaking members of our ever-blooming film industry. The gala featured the best of Nollywood and various initiatives that left strong imprints in the industry, and society as a whole. Most importantly, it was an event that reflected the continuity of support, promotion of opportunity and growth that the community has given to Nigeria’s growing film industry. In that same vein, the Film Gala awarded Michael Akinkunle Akinrogunde, an AFP Alumnus and filmmaker with Accelerate TV, with a One Million Naira cash prize from VISA and Filmhouse Cinemas, a distribution deal on his first featurelength film, and with The Lady®, its

official statuette, for his short film, “Penance.” The young filmmaker was voted ‘best short film director’ and his film voted ‘best short film’ by the audience via live visual audience votes after his film and other incredibly outstanding shorts, carefully selected and nominated, were viewed.

Seyi Tinubu, CEO of Loatsad Promomedia, presented the award to Michael Akinrogunde, while the representatives of Filmhouse Cinemas, Lolu Desalu and of Moët & Chandon, Elizabeth Oputa, addressed the audience on this groundbreaking artistic partnership that will ultimately redefine award season in the industry and the film industry as a whole. Moët & Chandon has a long-standing affair with cinema and this innovative partnership with the foremost cinematic platform in the Nigerian industry, Filmhouse Cinemas, is sure to make luminous the magic in all the budding talent and art within the industry.

Nigerian pop legends. Dbanj and 2face Idibia duet on new love song, ‘Baecation’ Stories Mutiat Alli It’s the season of love and two of Nigeria’s finest pop legends, Dbanj and 2face Idibia have just cooked up an incredibly amazing jam titled, ‘Baecation’.

Produced by Cheezkychizzy and Shizzi, the song was shot and directed by Sesan in Accra, Ghana.

Baecation is the official debut single off an EP by Dbanj that’ll be released later in the year.

Top Nollywood stars that includes Jaiye Kuti, Femi Jacobs, Toyin Alausa, Yaw, Tana Adelana, Lilian Esoro, Jide Kosoko, Frederick Leonard, Mercy Aigbe, Mercy Johnson Okojie, Adedimeji Lateef has been spotted at the shooting scene from an upcoming movie titled ‘The Reunion’.

The Reunion’ tells the story of four ladies played by Mercy Johnson, Tana Adelana, Mercy Aigbe and Lilian Esoro, who had deep secrets.

The ladies met to plan their school’s alumni 50th party and a couple of their secrets started unveiling.

Produced and directed by Thomas Odia, the movie is scheduled for

cinema release in April 2019.

Speaking on the movie, Odia said, ‘Another aspect of film making we paid attention too, which will surely make this movie, THE REUNION, stand out, apart from having painstakingly selected seasoned actors that we believe will perfectly interpret their roles in the movie, is the aspect of the technicalities involved in telling a good story. That is, set design, lighting, cinematography, sound, costume, make-up and hair, camera accessories, properties and the production design as a whole.

It is high time crew members got recognised for exceptional creativity, dedication to the job and hardwork.’

Interview Times g Daily Times Nigeria

Saturday, February 9, 2019

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I miss my days as a Marine Navigator - Oba Mohammed Yusuf Oba Mohammed Musiliu Adio Yusuf, the Onisiwo of Tomaro and Abagbo, Lagos State, is one of the first class traditional rulers in the state who focused on the unity of his subjects and peaceful co-existence among communities since he ascended the throne in 2016. Cornered at his palace, he spoke with MUTIAT ALLI, about his experience at the palace, life as a marine navigator, projects and advice to youths towards the coming general elections. Enjoy…

You recently marked two years as the Onisiwo of Lagos; how has the journey been since your installment?

Well, we give glory to the almighty because we have been on the struggle for sometimes ago and we thank God that at the end of the day we emerge as the leader of the Onisiwo royal family that is Onisiwo of Tomaro, Abagbo, Takwa-Bay and its environs. Onisiwo is one of the idejos (landlord) of Lagos that have been reigning since 16th century with the then Oba of Lagos, it has it’s headquarter in Tomaro at the Onisiwo island, Amuwo-Odofin local government to be precise. In 2016, we emerge as the royal father of the town and ever since then we have been working.

In two years, what would you say has been some of your achievements?

One of the significant things we have been able to achieve within the last two years is that we have been a given new secondary school which is now under construction. Before this time, there was no electricity but now the government has extended its cable to Takwa-Bay one of our community which we are equally pushing for other communities to benefit from. Presently under the Onisiwo umbrella we have about 27 communities and each community have the Baale as the head who gives monthly report of each community. Although we are still pushing more from the government most especially on the issue of road network (Construction of bridge) as the Onisiwo community is an island bounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Badagry creek. Equally we have been able to erect solar power in some community, setting up of security community, development of a market centre to mention but few.

How did you emerge as the Onisiwo knowing well that there are other ruling houses?

For the Onisiwo royal family, we have about four ruling houses that include Ogabi Onisiwo, Omoyeni Onisiwo house, Orefunmi ruling house and Ofebuyi ruling house. The chieftaincy is deserted which means we have declaration to that effect and that implies the manner in which the title will be rotated, so the first Onisiwo was Orefunmi, then Omoyeni came on board and now it is the turn of Ogabi. Although there was a little rancor but at the end of the day God intervene and I emerged winner.

At the time you were picked, what was running through your mind, don’t you feel the responsibilities were going to be too much for you?

Everything is been designed by God because the custodians of tradition was never my own way of life; I am a practicing Muslim to the core and I have never for one day dream of becoming a traditional ruler; but when I was called upon, there was nothing I could but trust me I consulted the almighty for direction and so far I have not been finding it difficult to steer the affairs of the family because have been leading for years. For instance I am a Marine Navigator by profession and as one you are bound to lead so many people, like the last ship I commanded as a captain had about 25 crew members consisting of different nationality and I was able to manage them for a period of two years before coming to this place. Also there is no much challenge as the issue of crisis management has always been a part of me.

How did you feel leaving a job you are passionate about to come and serve the people?

Actually it is always like that because I did felt a little bit unhappy that am leaving my profession but like I told you when I was called upon, I left it for God to handle and see me through; so in essence I never spent time, money to attain this post; it came as surprise way when I was called because we were about six from my lineage but after the consultation of the oracle, I was picked.

What was the reaction of your wife when you told her about the development?

You should have even asked about the reaction of my mother because she is still alive; so when I told my mum about it, at first she felt reluctant because she understands what normally happen when you are been called up for such role but at the end of day she called me in and said if it is what God has designed then no problem. As for my wife, all we just did was to pray for God’s direction.

As a devoted Muslim; how do you balance your faith with traditional functions?

You should remember I was not born a king.

Agreed, I was born a prince like every one born to the royal family. I was born a Muslim and brought up to appreciate what Islam stands

for. If this is what you call devout Muslim, well, I have no issue with that. But in terms of practicing my religion as a traditional ruler, I can say it anywhere that the throne is not a hindrance. I am a Muslim and I am proud to be one. Also I am the Onisiwo and proud that I am here on the throne. God has been my guide on how I balance my functions as a Muslim and an Oba. So far, I am adapting with the new palace role. In a nutshell, traditional functions do not stop a traditional ruler to practice his faith. In all Yoruba towns, the traditional rulers belong to either Islam or Christianity. Yet they perform their traditional functions as expected of them with the support of their traditional chiefs.

There is this believe that children of settlers of riverine communities prefers been fisherman as against going to you; how much of such orientation have you been able to change?

Well that was back in the days because I was born and brought up in that community and this where I had my primary school and later went uptown for my secondary school and other degrees. This orientation we have been to pass across to the younger generation; now we have a secondary school and we have equally pitched for a technical school which will commence work in time. Although fishing and farming is our culture but then education

is key.

Since you attainment, what will you say you miss doing?

Honestly speaking, I miss travelling at my own convenient time because before this time, I may just decide that I want to leave the state and relax for a while but now is not too possible because if I have to, I need to write a formal letter to the traditional council and my people and chiefs need to be aware of it.

What is your take on the not too young to rule bill that was recently passed?

For me it is a laudable move even though some of this kind was applicable during Awolowo time but it was not as pronounced as this it is now where youths are now fully involved in politics. It is a levelled ground now and I think is good that Nigerian youths are beginning to show interest in the decision making of this country.

Advice toward the coming general election?

We can only hope that we have a peaceful election just as the election process of the country has improved over time now; also I will like to charge Nigerians of the need to go get their PVC as this is their own ticket of selecting whoever will govern the affairs of the country and state generally.

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Daily Times Nigeria

Saturday, January 9, 2019

Mixed Grill Top society lady, Abiola Kosegbe honoured Stories by Mutiat Alli The Nigeria Institution of Environmental Engineers (NIEE) Lagos State chapter has inaugurated its first female chairman, Engr. (Mrs.) Abiola Kosegbe, at an Investiture Ceremony in Lagos recently The event also looked at practical solutions to solve the issue of waste management and creation of green economy.

In her inaugural speech, Engr. (Mrs.) Abiola Kosegbe said that engineers play critical role in societal development and must be acknowledged if nation must do rightful things with its waste.

She explained that waste management particularly in developing countries, has become an issue of growing global concern as urban populations continue to increase and consumption patter change, stressing for measures to address health and environment implications associated

with garbage disposal among others.

“We all agree that a clean environment results in a safe and healthy environment. However, in achieving that healthy environment, there is a need to tap into the economy in order to benefit the teeming population of Lagos and Nigeria.

A sustainable integrated waste management system is such that exploits and optimizes each stage, generation to recovery to reuse, processing and to final disposal.” she said.

Engr. Kosegbe who is the 4th chapter Chairman of Nigerian Institution of Environmental Engineers, Lagos, noted that the goal of any society is to achieve “Zero Waste” through all the recovery processes possible, in order to harness the green economy.

She however promised that Nigerian Environmental Engineers would achieve a sustainable environment through it’s active contributions to the development of technologies, particularly under her leadership.

Idris Aregbe plans big In continuous effort to ensure peaceful, free and fair election as well as curb electoral malpractices in the forthcoming elections, the Office of the Youth Organising Secretary of the Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) has put together a oneday election-enlightenment programme tagged “Election Tips”.

The admission-free event which is slated to hold on Monday February 11th, 2019 at APC Secretariat, Acme road, Ogba, Lagos at 10 a.m. prompt according to the organisers is focused on “Mobilising and Educating Youths To Achieve Peaceful Election,” while also sensitising the youths to take a leap now and take the lead tomorrow, so as to promote youth empowerment and political participation.

Speaking on the event, the Youth Organising Secretary of the Lagos APC and Convener of frontline socio-political group ‘Our Lagos, Your Lagos’, Idris Aregbe, disclosed that the programme would feature party stalwarts, party faithful, youth ambassadors, A-list actors, actresses, artistes, comedians, youth influencers and other important personalities – all of whom would be on ground to impart positively on the youths ahead of the general elections.

“We are very close to elections right now, which is scheduled for February 16 and March 2, so we are trying to do a lot of reach outs telling the people that they need to be part of the process and how.”

Aregbe said.

“So we would be educating

them on elections principles and for them to shun violence and also on the need for our party to win the elections.

“So it specifically designed for the elections – how to vote, what and what to do, expectations as a young person on the Election Day and the principle of the elections, because we know that every election year, whether we like it or not, INEC comes up with additional structures. Like now we are going to be voting with index finger and so we would push out such message to our people.”

“It is an election year and we know that we need to do a lot to mobilise our people and educate them for a peaceful election and that is what my office has been doing to ensure that the youth are carried along and to bring them together for progress.” He added.

He therefore urged all and sundry to keep the belief of an effective electoral system alive by coming out en-masse to exercise their franchise in order to hold in high-hopes the dreams of a better Nigeria.

Why I’m upgrading Sitcom production in Nigeria – Kevin Mike After many years of immense contributions to the growth of the Nigerian motion picture industry as an actor and production manager, Kevin Mike is set to debut as a producer with a situational comedy (sitcom) series.

K-Mic, as Kevin is fondly called, explained that the concept of his sitcom is bothered on a subliminal satirical comment of the society on relationship, career, and other walks of life, focusing majorly on challenges faced by youths in their search for greener pasture; using such elements as spoof, exaggerated situation, burlesque and parody to pass critical messages of both moral and cultural significance.

“Using the techniques of subtle messages within intense but highly bizarre plots, sharp witty humours, profound dialogues and exaggerated symbols, we want to subliminally place our co- existence under a probing microscope through which we can assess ourselves as individual human beings as well as a collective society of people,” he noted.

Some of the issues the sitcom titled ‘Number 10’ promises to treat are: moral decadence, injustice, abject depravity, corruption, rape, domestic violence, insecurity, bribery, gender discrimination, power tussle, unemployment, poor sanitation/hygiene, poverty, oppression, parenting, indecent

dressing, peer pressure, language barrier, marginalization, indirect slavery, unequal distribution of wealth and leadership.

K-Mic, who has starred in productions like ‘Dirty Little Secret,’ ‘Ngige,’ ‘Loyal House Boys,’ ‘Going West,’ ‘Last Wedding,’ ‘Secret IV,’ ‘Poison IV,’ ‘I am Directed,’ ‘Campus Queen,’ ‘Unthinkable’ and ‘Bloody Will’ among others reiterated that ‘Number 10’ is designed to uplift the face of sitcom productions in Nigeria.

“There are a lot of quality sitcoms on air, but ‘Number 10’ is coming with some unique features. It will upgrade the production of sitcoms in the country,” K-Mic boasted.

Woman, children escape being mobbed in Lagos A serious pandemonium broke out recently in Lagos as a top society lady with three children escaped attack by irate mob that almost got them killed.

According to information gathered, Oluwaremilekun Okubote, who before the attack in July 2018 at her residence was said to have been experiencing some verbal abuse from her husband’s family, was rescued by passerby after she was alleged to be a witch and engaging in extra-marital affair by her husband’s family.

Sources at the scene of the incident reported that Mrs. Oluwaremilekun Okubote was attacked with the children but escaped by the whiskers.

It was also said that police lackadaisical attitude towards the case exposed the woman to all sorts of abuse and harassment.

For sometimes now, nothing has been heard about Oluwaremilekun Okubote and her three children.

However, some close family members are saying that she left the

country for overseas with the children in order to keep their lives safe, some other family members, friends and associates are still puzzled about their whereabouts.

But when her husband was contacted, Mr. Oyebanji Okubote confirmed the incessant threat to lives and defamation of character meted against his wife and kids by his family members, saying “My wife has suffered untold mistreatment from members of my family who have continuously threatened the sanctity of my union by labelling her, with unprintable names; from adulterous wife to being a witch.”

He said: “On 20th of July 2018, my house at 40 Gbaga road, Ikorodu, Lagos was attacked in what was believed to be a futile search for my wife and children and the commissioner for police was contacted for comment on the case and was unavailable to take questions.”

It is sad that in Nigeria women’s rights are largely trampled upon

because of many factors.

There is lack of faith in constituted authorities to look into cases of abuse.

The judicial structure allows the presence of people other than the victims, witnesses and lawyers in court proceedings, which makes victims shy away for confidentiality reasons. The requirements to prove violence against women form another hurdle.

Meanwhile, organisations within the country are on red alert to end the scourge of violence against women.

Women Arise for Change Initiative (WACI) encourages women to stand up against “misuse and abuse” by a male dominated society.

Founded by prominent Nigerian activist, Dr. Joe Odumakin, WACI works for women who are victims of discrimination and oppression, and advocates legal reforms to abrogate obnoxious and harmful practices targeted against women by religion, traditions and male prejudices.

BUSINESS TIMESg Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

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Emulate ANAP, Labour minister charges trade unions Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo The Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige has advised trade unions in the country to emulate the good conduct of the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAP) since the group was registered 3 years ago.

Hon Ngige who gave the commendation in his goodwill message yesterday at the first National Delegates of ANAP which held in Ota Ogun State said the pioneer executive of ANAP has done unionism proud.

According to Ngige, their zeal and unflinching efforts geared towards the registration of this union three years ago and their wisdom and vision in organizing this first delegates conference, coupled with the remarkable arrangements made for the occasion are worthy of emulation by other newly registered Trade unions.

The minister who was represented by Controller of Labour, Olawuni Anthony urged the new executive that are coming in, that the challenges ahead are enormous but surmountable with dedication and God’s guidance.

Ngige advised them to remain focused and trust in the cooperation of their members to make a positive difference.

Congratulating the National Working Committee (NWC) and members for their cooperation, Ngige said “It is, therefore, against this backdrop that this National Delegates Conference assumes great importance. It should be treated with the seriousness it deserves. All hands should be on deck to ensure its success. I have no doubt in my mind that the outcome will significantly move your union to the next level.”

In his goodwill message, President of United Labour Congress (ULC), Mr. Joe Ajaero thanked ANAP for their good showing.

Ajaero said “I want to thank ANAP because what I am seeing today is very pleasing. Last year, most unions celebrated decades of their anniversaries but not as big as what I am seeing today in ANAP”.

According to the ULC leader, Concession and privatization are giving the unions a headache. He, therefore, advised the union members to keep deaf ears to anybody telling them that privatization will create more jobs “There is no government in Nigeria that is not going to privatize. It depends on the level of organisers of the labour leaders. If not well reinforced, the government will continue to privatize. Privatization took place across political divides. It is a concept given to them by the Bretton Woods system of monetary management established the rules for commercial and financial relations among the United States, Canada, Western Europe countries, Australia, and Japan after the 1944 Bretton Woods Agreement”.

“Let us not be deceived by our political inclinations. As unionists, we should not be divided. Politicians are united, they are not quarrelling. I am happy to identify with ANAP”.

Applauding ANAP for collaborating with the Nigerian Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, (NAAPE) and other unions, Ajaero urged members to join hands together as that will make their job easier.

The high point of the event marked the election of members into the executive that would pilot the affairs of the association for the next 4-year period.

Awards were also given to deserving stakeholders, including the director-general of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Capt Fola Akinkuotu; Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Capt Abdulsalami Mohammed and Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet ).

Ekiti State lawmaker, Hon Princess Titilayo Owolabi Akerele and others were also honoured with the prestigious award.

L-R: Minister for Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi; Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Nobel Laurel, Professor Wole Soyinka and Chairman, Senate Committee on Transportation, Gbenga Ashafa, during the flag off of Lagos-Ibadan Railway in Ogun State...on Friday.

Photo: Olawale Rotimi

FIRS rakes N23bn revenue, goes after 40, 000 wealthy tax defaulters Motolani Oseni The Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Tunde Fowler said that the service realised the sum of N23 billion for its closer look at the books of over 45, 000 tax defaulters, each of which had over N 100 million as turnover in their accounts.

Fowler, who disclosed this in Abuja when the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar Adamu paid a courtesy visit to the Revenue House, added that the Service is going after another set of 40, 000 millionaire tax defaulters in 2019.

The tax collector boss explained that the service in collaboration with other stakeholders like the Nigeria Police Force will continue to go after wealthy tax defaulters this year.

According to him, FIRS had identified 45, 000 millionaire tax evaders last year, 2018

and recovered the sum of N23 billion through substitution of their bank accounts.

He, however, requested the Nigeria Police to help the Service bring the tax defaulters to pay their taxes.

Fowler thanked the Nigerian Police Force for its support and collaboration over the years which he said has helped FIRS to achieve its target and requested for more support to enable it to recover due to taxes from more 40, 000 rich tax evaders in 2019.

“Let me put on record that the Nigeria Police Force has been extremely helpful to FIRS. Without the Police, I doubt that the Service would have been able to achieve what we have achieved. 2018 was a successful year. The FIRS collected a total of N5.320 trillion of tax revenue. This is the highest revenue collection in the history of FIRS”, he said.

This is significant given that this collection was when oil prices oscillated between $50 and $70 per barrel. Oil price was at an average of $100 to

$120 per barrel between 2012 when FIRS collected N5.07 trillion. The oil component of the N5.320 trillion is N2.467 trillion (46.38 percent), while the non-oil element of the collection is N2.852 trillion (53.62 per cent) It would be recalled that Fowler, at the Management retreat at Eko hotels in Lagos, last month, he spoke of FIRS’s plan to identify and tax bank account holders with over 100 million as a turnover but with no evidence of tax payment.

According to him, “We looked at businesses, partnerships of any activity that has banking turnover between N100 million and N999 million.

We have done a review of this group of businesses.

We have about seven more banks that we are still waiting for the return from and to review their information. So far, we have 45,361 that have TIN and are making payments.

“We have 40,611 that have TIN, that made tax payment and, and we have 44,504 that have no TIN and no pay. So, when you look at it from a

glance, we have close to 75,000 in this group that is still not taxpayers and we have said the payment of tax is not only for the civil servants. it’s for all Nigerians. So, the millionaires and the billionaires will pay tax on behalf of what is due to the national coffers”, Fowler said.

The Police IG, Adamu said that the Police will continue to support the FIRS because the job of revenue generation is critical to the survival of the nation.

“We feel that the work you do is one of the most important for the survival of the country.

And you need to be supported from all angles so that you achieve what you want to achieve to the benefit of every Nigerian. We will continue to work with you to improve security so that people would do their businesses here, make profits and pay their taxes. We believe that with the new Management team of the Nigeria Police Force, which is adopting Community Policing, we would be able to improve security”, the IG said.

Zenith Bank, UBA, lead others in 723.79m traded shares on NSE Temitope Adebayo As trading activities on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) closed for the week on Friday, Zenith Bank ended as the most active stock, followed by United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), among many other shares traded, recording a total of 723.79 million shares valued at N12.21 billion in 5,752 deals.

This turnover represented a growth of 65.72

per cent when compared with 436.75 million worth N5.88 billion traded in 4, 047deals on Thursday.

The breakdown down of the traded stocks showed Zenith Bank leading with 147.03 million shares worth N3.67 billion, followed by United Bank for Africa with 142.37 million shares valued at N1.06 billion, while Guaranty Trust Bank traded 72.75 million shares worth N2.83 billion.

Transcorp sold 54.54 million shares valued at N72.03 million, while Unilever accounted for 50.15 million shares worth N1.86 billion.

However, the All-Share Index rose by 96.43 points or 0.31 per cent to close at 31,529.92 compared with 31,433.49 achieved on Thursday.

In the same vein, the market capitalisation which opened at N11.722 trillion inched N36 billion or 0.31 per cent to close at N11.758 trillion.

Seplat led the gainers’ table during the day, appreciating by N30.50 to close at N560.50 per share.

Nestle followed with a gain of N30 to close at N1,500, while Okomu Oil gained N3 to close

at N85 per share.

Flour Mills increased by N1 to close at N20, while PZ added 85k to close at N12.15 per share.

On the other hand, Dangote Cement Industries topped the losers’ chart, dropping by N4.50 to close at N185.70 per share.

Cement Company of Northern Nigeria trailed with a loss of 45k to close at N22, while Inter Link lost 36k to close at N3.24 per share.

Etranzact dropped by 32k to close at N2.93, while Ecobank Transnational Incorporated declined by 30k to close at N13.70 per share.

CBN lifts Forex market with $ 279.13m, CNY 46.92m in SMIS Mathew Dadiya, Abuja The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has again made interventions in the Retail Secondary Market Intervention Sales (SMIS) of the Foreign Exchange market totalling $279.13 million and CNY 46.92.

Figures of the sales consummated on Friday revealed that the sum of $279,128,518.66 was injected to meet requests of customers in the agricultural, airlines, petroleum products and raw materials and machinery sectors The Bank’s Director, Corporate Communications Department, Isaac Okorafor also confirmed that the sum of CNY46,924,114.04 was for payment of

Renminbi-denominated Letters of Credit for agriculture as well as raw materials Friday’s transaction was in addition to the $210 million injected into the Wholesale, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Invisibles segments of the market on Tuesday, February 5, 2019.

While expressing the satisfaction of the Bank’s management at the stability in the different segments of the foreign

exchange market, Okorafor attributed the level of stability to the Bank’s transparency in foreign exchange transactions.

With the exchange rates closing at N358/$1 on Friday, February 8, 2019, Mr. Okorafor, expressed confidence that the Naira will continue to enjoy stability, given the periodic interventions of the Bank in the inter-bank segment.

Business Times 16

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

Finally, Lagos-Abeokuta standard gauge rail begins operation Temitope Adebayo Finally, the most awaited Lagos-Abeokuta standard gauge rail on Friday commenced operations, as the Federal Government of Nigeria flagged-off the operation with three months fee rail ride from Iju Lagos state to Abeokuta Ogun state.

Delivering his keynote address after the train arrived Abeokuta from Iju in Lagos, the Honourable Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi urged the mammoth crowd to vote in President Muhammadu Buhari for a second term if they want the project to get to completion.

According to Rotimi Amaechi, “This is not a commissioning ceremony. We have just decided to flag-off the Iju to Abeokuta train ride, which will run for free for the next three months.

“We are grateful for the Ogun State government for this deserving reception. This is the third standard gauge in Nigeria. The first standard gauge is Itakpe-Warri rail. The second is the Kaduna-Abuja rail. ”For the tunnel, the one here is the second.

The first is at where the standard gauge crosses the narrow gauge. The third tunnel will be in Ibadan.”

Also speaking in Abeokuta, the Ogun State Governor, Sen. Inikunle Amosun who also took the train ride from Iju to Abeokuta lauded the project and thanked the President Mohammadu Buhari and the President of China for making the project a reality.

“This is what I call life-changing experience, which is about to happen to us here in Nigeria.

Congratulations to all of us Nigerians because what we are doing today is what will elevate the country among the community of developed Nations.

“There is no way there can be any social economic development without infrastructure being put in place. Imagine when the service is fully operational, 29 minutes from Lagos to Abeokuta is amazing. it hasn’t been like that since the creation of this country.

“Let me explain one or two benefits that this will bring to all of us in Nigeria; I have mentioned that globally the economic situation in Nigeria will improve. Again, look at many people the train brought from Lagos

to Abeokuta, for us to have an equal number of people, we need a minimum of 100 or 200 vehicles to put on the road.

“Aside from the huge numbers of vehicles, we will spend more time on the road. Again, when you have so many vehicles on the road, of course, safety concerns come in, an accident can happen. Look at our road itself, look at the pressure being put on our roads every day.

In all developed Nations, 80 per cent of their freight is conveyed by rail, and why they do that, of course, is to take pressure off their roads.

“Look at our roads, roads that are designed for 30 tonnages, people will be putting maybe 60 tonnage trucks on it, and clearly the roads will disappear. So what we are doing today, we are trying to help all of us as a people. We are going to help our economy, our indices, because it will now be easy for us to move our gooto anywhere. Either you are going to Kano or you are going to Onitsha, or you are going to Aba, the time it will take by rail will be shortened, the problem that it will take will be lessened.

“So clearly now we can move maybe a thousand container or even five thousand containers just by one train in one day. Look at

the employment it will create, and the indirect benefits to our young ones, our artisans and the transfer of technology to our people. Even though CCECC is the one driving this, but 95 per cent of the people working here are Nigerians.

Clearly, we are giving them experience, China is transferring that technology to us on how to do this and I am sure we are mastering it,” Governor Ibikunle Amosun stated.

Earlier In his speech, Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate, Prof. Sole Soyinka cautioned the Minister from politicising the administrations’ achievement.

In his words, “I will disagree with the Minister because this is not a political gathering.

“I am here because this place used to be my hunting ground. My house is not far from here.

I came to see what my hunting ground has been turned into.

“Looking at what this means to our traders and others, I don’t give a damn who puts the project here. It should not be a do or die affair, it should be a do and do affair. I want to congratulate everyone involved in this enterprise.”

FG boosts health sector, allocates land for Afreximbank’s ultra-modern Medical Centre Mathew Dadiya, Abuja The Federal Government of Nigeria has allocated a 5.12-hectare piece of land in Abuja to the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) for the development of a centre of excellence for medical services to serve Nigeria and the West African subregion.

The centre of excellence, the first by Afreximbank in Nigeria, will be completed

24 months after a groundbreaking exercise expected to take place in December.

Afreximbank Director of Global Communication and Marketing, Obi Emekekwue on Friday, stated that the project is being developed by Afreximbank in collaboration with Kings College Hospital (KCH), United Kingdom, which is serving as the strategic partner.

Afreximbank said that allocation of the land, which took place on 29 January, would allow for project development activities to

proceed in order to ensure the timely delivery of the project.

The centre will provide specialist healthcare to improve the quality of health care for Africans and will promote intraAfrican medical tourism. It will also create employment and facilitate the conservation of the foreign exchange that would otherwise be utilized to seek medical treatment outside Africa.

It will offer a full spectrum of medical services, including diagnostics, clinical

management, post care, and onsite ambulatory services, in treating oncology (cancers), haematology (blood diseases, including blood cancers, and sickle cell anaemia) and cardiology diseases.

It will also provide prompt, life-saving detection and management of chronic diseases to over 50,000 Africans annually.

The centre is expected to create about 500 direct jobs and to be the basis for the emergence of a comprehensive medical park with facilities to be managed by KCH.

National sales manager (3 wheeler), Deji Olaniyan; MD/chairman Simba Group, Chief Vinay Grover; Business Head simba Group, Manish Rohtagi and Deputy Business Head simba Group, Vivek Pendarhkar during the Simba Group press conference in Lagos...at the Weekend.

Photo: Olatunji Wale

Stanbic IBTC celebrates 30th anniversary, assures of quality service Stanbic IBTC, member of the Standard Bank Group which has been in operation for over 155 years, is celebrating 30 years of providing quality financial services to its clients.

The company has grown from its early days as a merchant bank to become the leading end-toend financial services provider in the country, with a balance sheet size close to N2 trillion and a market capitalisation valued at approximately N500 billion in December 2018.

In 30 years, Stanbic IBTC has built a culture of excellence in providing its clients with innovative financial products and services as well as contributing to the attainment of the developmental aspirations of the country.

Today, many of its subsidiaries are market leaders in their segments; these include Stanbic IBTC Bank PLC, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited, Stanbic IBTC Stockbrokers Limited, Stanbic IBTC Asset Management Limited, Stanbic IBTC Capital, and Stanbic IBTC Nominees.

“It gives me immense pride celebrating this milestone with the Stanbic IBTC family, our clients, who have believed in us and entrusted us with their financial needs all these years, our partners, shareholders, and Nigerians. We have come a long way since 1989 when the business was started in Lagos to having a strong presence in the 36 states and Abuja and becoming part of a multinational concern and one of the top seven most capitalised companies on the Nigerian Stock Exchange,” Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC, Mr Yinka Sanni, said.

“We are indeed very excited about our future prospects, the economic and environmental challenges notwithstanding, as we continue to work with our clients to provide relevant and top quality financial solutions aimed at enabling real growth for individuals and businesses”, Sanni added.

The financial services institution has experienced several transformations in its 30-year history. Investment Banking & Trust Company Limited (IBTC) was incorporated on 02 February 1989 as a merchant bank. Following the introduction of universal banking and a regulatory requirement for financial institutions to have an N25 billion minimum capital base, IBTC merged with Chartered Bank PLC and Regent Bank PLC in 2005 to become IBTC Chartered Bank PLC, which effectively transformed it into a universal bank.

Two years later in 2007, IBTC Chartered Bank PLC merged with Stanbic Bank Nigeria Limited, the Nigerian subsidiary of Standard Bank of South Africa, to become Stanbic IBTC Bank PLC. The reforms in the Nigerian financial system, which led to the review of the Universal Banking Policy of the CBN and the introduction of a holding company model, led to the adoption of a HoldCo structure by Stanbic IBTC in 2012 to retain its non-core banking businesses.

POLITICS TIMES g Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9 , 2019

17

Why Ajegunle needs me to represent them in House of Reps at this time Hon Kolawole Taiwo, popularly called HKT is a former Deputy Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly and currently the Chairman, Ibile Microfinance Bank. He is also the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Ajeromi Ifelodun federal constituency for the House of Representatives seat in the 2019 election. In this interview, Taiwo frowned at the wrong impression created about Ajegunle, saying on the contrary Ajegunle remains the best constituency to portray Nigeria’s rich culture and tourism potentials to the World; he also spoke on his ambition among other issues. PATRICK OKOHUE reports.

Toward the 2019 election, a lot has happened, especially the party primaries for the various political parties, President Muhammadu Buhari running unopposed in APC, Alhaji Akitu Abubakar emerging as PDP candidate and all of these things.

It seems to create so much uncertainly about what is coming in 2019. How do you look at this scenario?

I think the issue has to do with performance. The issue has to do with the way Nigerians look at political leaders and the performance of the APC government, especially the performance of the President, but so far so good in terms of infrastructure, the President has demonstrated very strongly the capacity to develop the Nigeria nation. In the area of infrastructure, you know the road network is becoming very visible, the railway is working and so many areas, this is important in so many areas and Nigerians will now compare and take a decision on what to do. But from my own point of view, one thing that will give the President pass mark is the area of security, Boko-Haram has been decimated, but even though we have some attacks here and there, but it is no longer taking urban territories.

So I would commend the President and ask him to do more on the issue of security, especially the issue of the herdsmen that are already dying down. There is need for government to build the network of relationship between Nigerian peoples and assure Nigeria of safety and togetherness, because the greatest achievement of any government is the unity of a nation. If we are united, if we live in peace, if we stay together, our strength will become a plus in terms of development. Nigeria is a great nation, so we need great leaders, for me I must give kudos to the President, especially in the area of returning the money so many of the states use in constructing federal roads, and also the Paris Club that he has paid to states. From the point of the Niger Delta, I think I must also commend the President on the Ogoni Cleanup. But I want to challenge him to make sure that the contract for the Ogoni Cleanup is done by the people of the area.

If the Niger Delta indigenes are involved in the Ogoni Cleanup, it would have reduced the tension and empowered the people, you know, to see to the development of the region But you realise that the Ogoni Cleanup is highly technical not just what anybody can do.

It is highly technical I agree with you. The job will not be done by spirits. Technical does not mean the call off. Technicality is a language. The experience is required. The issue is that if you engage the Niger Delta people, they have contracts. Niger Deltans are some of the greatest people on the face of the earth. They have contacts. They have business people across boards.

All you need to do is add partnership.

They must be able to, they can create partnership with foreign companies, with foreign contractors and bring them to come and do the job. Either you pay commission. But let me tell you, if you encourage one, two, three, four, five and ten people from the Niger Delta region, it will go round the Niger Delta region, it will go a long way in the minds of the people, and engaging the youths. It is not a spirit that will come to clean up the Ogoni area, it is human beings, and human beings in America in Nigeria is the same thing, you now have expatriates that can pair with our people and in any case, it would have been better, it is better to engage the people so that when this issue occur again, our people can come in to do the cleanup, because nobody can take care of your property than yourself.

Having said that, I want to commend the President on giving our people good positions in government, of course you know that the Niger Delta people didn’t vote for him massively in 2015, for the President to come on board to say Nigeria Delta, I want to do business with you, I want you to be part of my story, we have most of the choice ministries and I thank him for that and we would reciprocate when the time comes, but we need him to do more, we need him to empower our people more, create enabling environment for our people, also the issue of pipeline protection, I want to appeal to the President to consider the Niger Delta people to engage themselves manage, engage either from the point of the community, and also the NDDC, and ministry of Niger Delta and the Amnesty programme, you know the President is doing a lot, he is funding the key Niger Delta parastatals that sees to the development of the Niger Delta region.

In your state, Akwa Ibom, there is some power play since the defection of the former governor Godswill Akpabio to the APC, some people are defecting here and there, how do you look at politics of Akwa Ibow State towards 2019.

the government, whether our entire government or Akpabio or Udom Emmanuel. So for us we believe, I believe that we will not, I should not go out to talk about the state from the point of what is goig to happen in 2019.

Because, I believe very strongly that polities will solve itself. The issue would in the next few months work out itself and the people would be happy for it.

The politics of Akwa Ibom State is getting interesting, I am from Akwa Ibom State and a major stakeholder, so I would not like to comment on the personalities, because I know them, they are my leaders. But some of the things that I am trying to do is to pray and seek for God’s direction, but I can assure you that every issue that has to do with Akwa Ibom will be resolved in favour of the people of the state.

You know I have been part of the government of Akpabio and I am part

of the government of Udom Emmanuel, the fact that I’m from Akwa Ibom State means that I am part of what goes on in my state, so every Akwa Ibom is part of the government.

When you say part of the government, what do you mean?

You know I’m from Akwa Ibom State. For the fact that I’m from Akwa Ibom State means that I am part and parcel of what goes on in my state.

So every Akwa Ibom person is part of

During this campaign I have told them I am going to give them a youth centre and part of which would be an Ajegunle radio, because we want to be telling our story ourselves, let me tell you something, when they were talking about new Lagos and were premising it on culture and tourism, I said that they are saying Ajegunle is the new Lagos, because our diverse culture is enough to sell Lagos to the world. Our diversity is supposed to be our strength not the weakness

Like you said, you are a major stakeholder in Akwa Ibom and also in the Niger Delta region; you were planning a youth empowerment programme Youth Impact Assessment Conference. What stage is it at, are we still looking at that before the year runs out?

Off course yes. We shifted it twice because we wanted to engage and bring in the major stake holders too and by the popular demands. There is need for us to even extend it beyond the Niger Delta and to do one or two things across board. Today Nigeria needs people of like minds. I have looked at the whole issue, I have looked at my state, to my Niger Delta, I have done programmes, I am the president of the Southern Youth Development Forum, while you are looking at the Niger Delta, there is need also to look at the West, to look at the East, and extend the relationship to the North, so what we want to do in the next few months or weeks is to have a pan Nigerian youth conference where the issue of security will be discussed, the issue of empowerment will be discussed and the issue of living together will be discussed.

The conference is about to take place, we will start either in Abuja, Lagos or Akwa Ibom or Rivers and Owerri. We have done almost all the necessary things and we are just waiting for one or two things to take place. We believe that the support will come. Not the financial support. We need to talk now that Nigeria is going into election.

There is need for everybody to come on board. Nigeria is beyond APC and PDP and APGA and other parties.

You know Nigeria is bigger than the Niger Delta, bigger than the North, bigger than the South West. And bigger than the South East, the issue should be Nigeria now. If there is peace in Nigeria, there will be peace in the North, South, East and West. My emphasis today is how we can unite the northern youths, southern youths, middle belt youths, the Yoruba youths and all the youths of this country and let us see how our leaders and elders can come together to key into the issue of youth development.

Continued on page 18

Politics Times 18

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

Buhari group berates US institutes for alleged undue interference in Nigerian affair Patrick Okohue The Buhari Media Organisation (BMO)has expressed displeasure over recent comments by the National Democratic Institute (NDI) and the International Republican Institute (IRI) over the recent suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen.

The two United States of America based organisations had, in their statements, queried the decision of the Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari to suspend the Chief Justice.

They had also suggested that the

Federal Government ought to have consulted other political actors in the decision to suspend the CJN. BMO however believes this is undue interference in a strictly Nigerian affair.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Niyi Akinsiju and Secretary, Cassidy Madueke, the group said the two organisations are wrong on several counts.

“First, it is important to educate the NDI and IRI that Nigeria is a country governed by laws, and not subject to the dictates of some nongovernmental organisations from America.

“On the issue of the suspension of the CJN, the President followed the

laws of the land and the courts are available for any aggrieved person to seek redress.

“It should also be emphasised that the suspension has nothing to do with the upcoming elections, and therefore does not call for the involvement of political actors. Let it be known that once a government is in place it has a duty to discharge its responsibilities to the people, more so when the decision is not hinged on politics.”

BMO says it finds it “unbelievable that the two institutes will impute that a decision that was taken by a sovereign state in the course of normal governance is targeted at the forthcoming election. This is

unacceptable, reprehensible and must stop.

“For the umpteenth time, we want to let the NDI and IRI know that the decision of the President to

suspend the CJN was based on the Code of Conduct Tribunal order and not meant to ‘unfairly impact the electoral processes’ as claimed in the organisations’ report.

Why Ajegunle needs me to represent them in House of Reps...

Continued from 17 This is because I have discovered in the last few years as a young man and as a citizen of Nigeria that we have spent more time playing politics and we play polities and from the day one that the people are sworn into government, they play polities till the last day and as they enter, they plan to enter the next government. There is need to deemphasise politics and talk about governance. We should put emphasis on government Nigeria has no reason to be poor.

The young men in this country have no reason to be poor. There is so much poverty. It is not caused by this government, it has been there, it is like the direction is lost somewhere in the middle of the sea because there is so much emphasis on politics rather than governance and politics is seasonal. It comes and goes every four years. You know, what do you do after four year?

It’s not too late for the government to partner with the Southern Youths. It’s not too late for the government to do something and the President can say tomorrow, what are the banks are doing for the youths. Let the Bank of Industry the Bank of Agriculture, Nigerian banks wake up from their slumber. They are sleeping for too long, waiting for government funding and I challenge them to wake up. You know I’m also happy that the President through the Ministry of Finance ordered that all government funds should be sent to the Central Bank, let the banks begin to develop products, not waiting for state government accounts. I think the state governments should follow suit. Let the government account from the states, even the Local Government Areas be deposited in the Central Bank. That will allow the banks to engage people in businesses.

Today he banks only wait for the governors to return from FAAC so the money that comes in from FAAC across the state is enough for any bank to make commission to live with, so for me, I think that something must be done.

I came up with the idea of the Southern Polytechnic which if we are able to commission in the next few weeks would create a lot of idea for the people of the region and Nigeria, because we are coming up with different ideas. It’s never too late for us to do what is right, because right now

there is need for us to start talking about development and see how we can use it to make a difference in states.

The Supreme Court recently ruled in favour of some states in the SouthSouth, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa on the derivation issue, what’s your view about that ruling? Do you think it would help to make positive impact in the benefiting states.

It will, I want to thank the President for not interfering in the Supreme Court and I want to thank the Supreme Court judges for not looking the other way.

The President must be commended for not trying to interfere by sending the Minister of Justice to stop the proceedings, that is way we the Niger Delta people are very happy with the President and I also want to thank the governor of my state, Udom Emmanuel and the governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson and that of Rivers for pulling resources together to pursue this case. This three states produce the oil, they lay the golden egg that is feeding Nigeria, so it is good for the South to have more, because without oil the salary of the people will not be paid.

In actual sense it is the oil money that they use in feeding the Nigeria nation and that is why an average Akwa Ibom person must be rich, must be very powerful, must be well connected and that is why an average Akwa Ibom person, Niger Delta person must have what it takes to live well. Because God did not make mistake by giving us oil.

So we must begin to enjoy what God has given to us. And this President has given us the opportunity to enjoy that and I thank him for that. The governors on their part must save us from crisis by engaging the youths on massive development. The money that is coming should be added incentive.

The Rivers governor, Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa governors must have a central business district, because these states are just two close to each other.

The Akwa Ibom State government and the Rivers government can meet across the Ogoni area and pull up an international business development center with banks, police station, market, international market, you know and hotel where the white men, business people and expatriates that are living in Akwa Ibom can come there to enjoy the facilities, coupled with the fact that we will have a massive revenue area. The government must take advantage of that and develop

the people. There is nothing stopping these three governments to say we want to have a university, it has happened before, you know, we want to have one common business that can see to the development of the region and other states will come to join. The Niger Delta region must be developed, it’s a must do, that is why I talk about the NDDC. Is this line of thought part of the reason why you developed or why you are in the process of developing the Niger Delta Emergency security network?

Yes, because I spent three years doing a study of the Niger Delta region and Nigeria security and also with the fact that I am in charge of the security systems in Akwa Ibom State. I installed and inspected it over the years and in 2012, when the joint task force was set up in Akwa Ibom State, I donated equipment worth millions of naira and in 2016, I donated a state of the art Police Station to Akwa Ibom State Police command, what also motivated me was the letter written by the present Inspector General of Police to me after the donation, on the day of the commissioning he sent me a message.

So that letter is what challenged me.

The letter is more than Hundreds of millions to me, that the IGP sent me a letter of appreciation, thanking me for donating communication equipment to the police.

But before that I have done a study, if you are travelling from Akwa Ibom to Rivers, you will see that Nigeria police are doing so much, trying to protect the people, but what are the people doing when there is crisis. Who do they run to, you know I did a study in Akwa Ibom, in Rivers in Bayelsa and in all the Niger Delta states on why we have militancy and I discovered that we are not militants.

The Niger Delta people, we are businessmen, we are entrepreneurs, out of 100% if only 2% or ½ % is involved in crime, it doesn’t mean that Niger Delta people are all so bad. So God gave me the idea of the Niger Delta Integrated emergency that it is possible for an Akwa Ibom man to relate information with the Bayelsa man, and it’s possible for Akwa Ibom man to talk to Akwa Ibom, to pass information on crime, violence or issues of boundary dispute to the system and having passed that it is also possible for the information to be disseminated across to different network. This is my area of specialization, it is possible.

Buhari

Ezekwesili insists on coalition seven days to election Former presidential candidate of the Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN), Dr Oby Ezekwesili has said that she is optimistic about forming a coalition that can trump both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a week to the presidential elections.

This is even as some executive members of the ACPN have countered the claim of Ganiyu Galadima, the ACPN National Chairman and former running mate to Ezekwesili, that the party’s former presidential candidate, mismanaged campaign funds.

In a tweet on Friday, Ezekwesili said, “O that the minds of our citizens would know that this is all about the Battle for the Soul of Nigeria!”

“The Battle for the Soul of Nigeria is raging between the rotten Old Order of the Siamese Twins of Nigeria Politics and a New Order that shall surely come forth. It shall,” she added.

Ezekwesili quit the presidential race in January, stating that she took the decision in a bid to form a stronger stand against Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar.

Ezekwesili said she will build a viable coalition that will wrestle power from the APC/PDP binary.

“I have not hesitated to offer my willingness to step down my candidacy in order to facilitate the emergence of a strong and viable alternative behind which Nigerians can line up in our collective search for a new beginning,” Ezekwesili said in January.

However, some executive members of the ACPN have debunked the claim made by the Galadima faction, which had threatened to drag Ezekwesili to court if she failed to return all funds donated for the aborted presidential campaign, noting that it was Galadima and his ilk that mismanaged campaign funds and not Ezekwesili.

A statement signed by Chief Angus Uzoamaka, ACPN National Treasurer, Chief I.K. Okagbu, the Chairman, South East Zone; Dr. F.U.A. Nwanebu, Assistant Director General, South East Campaign, on Friday, affirmed that the party indeed appealed to Ezekwesili to take its presidential ticket.

They, however alleged that immediately after the convention held on October 7, 2018, Galadima, Paul Isamade, the National Secretary, Alhaji Maikasuwa Goroyo, and Alhaji Otumba Bosun took an oath of secrecy and “decided to frustrate, annihilate, exclude and avoid all other National Working Committee (NWC) members of the party in the most articulate and decisive meetings with the presidential candidate and her team.”

In the statement entitled: ‘This ACPN Factional Defection to APC is Malicious and Fraudulent’, the excos said: “We want the entire Nigerian populace to note as follows: That it took us (ACPN leadership) several weeks to approach and consistently plead and convince Dr. Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili to enter political race and to contest this presidency under our party; “That we, on several visits, reassured her that we will never fail to abide and act with due process, transparency, internal party democracy, integrity devoid of unpatriotism, monetary inducement and non-clannishness in all dealings for the benefit of a new Nigeria; “That on October 5th, precisely, in her corporate office, she (Dr. Oby), accepted our plea and convictions, but informed us (ACPN) that she is not a ‘moneybag’, but would rely on our (ACPN) structures, the Nigerian volunteer populace, donors, and our mutual contacts as a paradigm shift, to fund the campaign on the Nigerian political land space. She also told us that we must work with her to build a coalition to push out APC and PDP. “It was immediately after the convention of October 7th, 2018, the National Chairman, Alhaji Ganiyu Galadima, National Secretary Mr. Paul Alhasan Isamade, Alhaji Maikasuwa Goroyo, and Alhaji Otumba Bosun, sensing there would be huge inflow of funds to the coffers of ACPN, took oath of secrecy (as confessed by one of them – Alhaji Goroyo, in our presence), decided to frustrate, annihilate, exclude and avoid all other National Working Committee (NWC), members of the party in most articulate and decisive meetings with the presidential candidate and her team.

“All the monies paid into ACPN’s FCMB bank account by Oby Ezekwesili’s campaign donors, including those paid by candidates for various positions, have never been accounted for, and has been hijacked by Alhaji Ganiyu Galadima, Paul A. Isamade, and two others, by their arbitrary and unexplainable withdrawals and expenditure, without informing the National Treasurer (who is also a third signatory to the party account), the National Auditor, or the Financial Secretary.

“These four men resorted to arbitrarily issuing suspension letters to top national executive members, who they perceive would probe or question these nefarious activities and hidden agenda, to maliciously truncate the presidential campaign programme of Dr. Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili, including extortion of money from APC or other willing tools of corrupt alliance to undo Nigerians,” they allege.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, January 25, 2019 MRS. AMUNEKE IDONGESIT

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19

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ALO AGATHA

CONFIRMATION OF NAME. I, TAMUNOMIEBAKA CHARITY ZACCAH , WISH TO CONFIRM THAT ZACCAH CHARITY APPEARS ON MY ACCOUNT DETAILS WITH FIRST BANK OF NIGERIA PLC, BANK VERIFICATION NUMBER (BVN) BEARS ZACCAH CHARITY TAMUNOMIEBAKA, WHILE MY ACCOUNT DETAILS WITH UNION BANK PLC BEARS HALIM CHARITY ZACCAH, REFERS TO ONE AND SAME PERSON. I NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS, TAMUNOMIEBAKA CHARITY ZACCAH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

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DR (MRS) ANAKWENZE OBIANUJU

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MRS. OLADEHIN ABOSEDE

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CHESS IN THE SLUM INITIATIVE

THE PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ORGANIZATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION TO BE REGISTERED AS AN INCORPORATED TRUSTEE UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE;1 MR ANWULI DANIEL CHUKWUEBUKA 2 MR ONAKOYA OLASEGUN ABIODUN BABATUNDE 3 MR AHMED KABIRU OSIMEHKENA 4 MR ONAKOYA BABATUNDE DANIEL 5 MR OGBONNAYA OBINNA PATRICK THE OBJECTIVES OF THE INITIATIVE 1 TO EMPOWER, UPLIFT AND EDUCATE CHILDREN IN SLUM COMMUNITIES. 2 TO GET MORE KIDS TO PLAY CHESS AS A VALUABLE WAY OF ACHIEVING THE FOURTH GLOBAL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: QUALITY EDUCATION FOR ALL. 3 TO BRIDGE THE SEGREGATION BETWEEN SLUM AND URBAN COMMUNITIES 4 INSPIRE A POSITIVE POPULARITY BOOST IN THE RECEPTION OF THE NOBLE GAME OF CHESS NATIOWIDE. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION OF THE ABOVE ORGANISATION SHOULD BE FORWADED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION P.M.B 198,GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED;OLASEGUN ONAKOYA ESQ MESSRS SEGUN & SEGUN LEGAL PRACTITIONERS 08098008346

MRS CHIMEKA CHIZOBA

OZOH SUNDAY.

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CORRECTION OF NAME

SUARAU OYINDAMOLA

MRS PETER-NGWU ESOGIE

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THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT MY NAME CHIEDO KENNETH VICTOR, WAS WRONGLY WRITTEN DURING MY DIAMOND BANK REGISTRATION, BUT NOW WISH TO BE CORRECTED AND ADDRESSED AS CHIEDO KELECHI VICTOR. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

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Classified

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PRIVATE SECTOR DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION, EKITI STATE THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED, HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MR ABIODUN GBENGA - CHAIRMAN 2. MRS. ADETUASE TOYIN - VICE CHAIRMAN. 3. PRINCE ALADELOYE ADEDEJI - SECRETARY 4. MR. OYEWOLE AYOOLA - TREASURER. 5. MR. OLADEPO SHUAIB - P.R.O. 6. MR. OMOLEYE OLAJIDE JOHNSON - MEMBER. 7. MR. AKINOLA TALABI TOLULOPE - MEMBER. 8. MR. OLAJIDE IDOWU - MEMBER. AIM & OBJECTIVE: 1. TO PROTECT THE INTEREST OF MEMBERS.

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JOSEPH OLOTU

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LOVE OF GOD PRAYER AND SOUL WINNING MINISTRY WORLDWIDE THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED, HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR (MRS.) ENIOLABI DORCAS OMOWUMI - CHAIRPERSON 2. PASTOR ENIOLABI ALFRED SEGUN - SECRETARY. 3. PASTOR GBENGA OLAWALE PETER - FINANCIAL SECRETARY. 4. MRS. OJUEKAYE IBIDUN - TREASURER 5. PASTOR LUKE OJO - P.R.O AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

FOREIGN TIMES

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

Venezuela’s healthcare crisis: ‘They have no medicine or food’ A hospital in Venezuela has said 14 children have died this week following an outbreak of amoebiasis, a form of dysentery transmitted by contaminated food or water.

Dozens of other children infected by the disease cannot receive adequate treatment due to a lack of medical supplies, employees at the Luis Razetti hospital in the coastal city of Barcelona told Al Jazeera on Thursday.

“Three years ago, we stopped receiving gauze and alcohol. There are not enough syringes or serums to hydrate the children,” hospital worker Jose Planes said.

The staff at the hospital, located 300km east of Caracas, granted Al Jazeera access to the wards because they said they wanted the world to see that they are unequipped to save children’s lives.

“My daughter has diarrhoea, she almost had a heart attack. We have nothing. We arrived here and we have nothing,” Lady Chacon, mother of a sick child, told Al Jazeera.

“I want this government out now, it has destroyed us.”

Marleea Marino lost her two-monthold baby this week as a result of the outbreak, but his body remains in the

hospital because she has not been able to get the money needed to buy a coffin.

“There is nothing here, they have no medicine, they don’t have food,” she said. “And now my son is dead.”

Although hospital workers claim there is a shortage of supplies, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has denied there is a humanitarian crisis in the country.

But the president recently announced plans to reform the country’s healthcare system.

“Venezuela is going to produce all the medicine it needs for its healthcare system and social security,” Maduro said. “We can reach everyone, as it should be in socialism.”

On Thursday, Maduro refused to let humanitarian aid from the United States enter Venezuela via the Colombian border town of Cucuta, saying “we are not beggars” and claiming the aid was a ploy to humiliate the country.

Venezuela’s opposition leaders, including self-declared interim president Juan Guaido, have said humanitarian aid is urgently needed to save lives.

Opposition members converged in Cucuta to help plan and execute the delivery of the aid, in a calculated

move seen as a test of the Venezuelan military’s loyalty to Maduro.

Meanwhile, the flow of Venezuelans entering neighbouring Colombia via the main border crossing to buy basic supplies continued as normal on Thursday.

More than 50,000 people cross into Cucuta each day, with up to 5,000 staying in Colombia, according to Colombian migration officials.

Many cross the border to buy food

and medicine that are unavailable in Venezuela and then return, while others use it as their first port of call as they migrate elsewhere in Colombia or to countries such as Ecuador and Peru.

The United Nations has appealed for a cash injection of $738m this year to help Venezuela’s neighbours cope with the ongoing influx.

According to the UN, the appeal has only received $5m so far.

ICC orders conditional release of Ivory Coast’s Gbagbo Sierra Leone’s president declares rape a national emergency The brutal rape of a young girl by her uncle has become a rallying point in Sierra Leone for a campaign that has pushed President Julius Maada Bio to declare the prevalence of sexual violence a national emergency.

The five-year-old girl, whose identity has been kept secret for her own safety, has been paralysed from

the waist down since a 28-year-old male relative raped her a year ago, crushing her spine.

“She may never walk again, and I want vengeance for what has happened,” her grandmother told the Reuters news agency, sitting next to the girl in her wheelchair in a Freetown medical clinic.

“The man who did this ruined her life and deserves to spend his life in

Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio said those convicted of sexual offences against minors would face life in prison

SULEIMAN ABDULMALIK AFEGBUA FOUNDATION THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED, HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

TRUSTEES: 1. ABDULMUMINU IMORBE AFEGBUA, 2. YUSHUA IDRIS AFEGBUA 3. MOHAMMED IDRIS AFEGBUA, 4. IDRIS YAHAYA OZEMHEDE AFEGBUA AIM TO FOSTER UNITY AMONG MEMBERS ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR. ABDULKADIRI YUSUF AFEGBUA

prison.”

Following months of campaigning by activists, the president said those convicted of sexual offences against minors would face life sentences.

“Some of our families practise a culture of silence and indifference towards sexual violence, leaving victims even more traumatised,” Bio told a crowd at the State House on Thursday.

“We as a nation must stand up and address this scourge,” he said.

“With this declaration, I have also directed the following: that all government hospitals must provide free medical treatment and certificate to every victim of rape and sexual abuse,” he added.

According to police statistics, reported cases of sexual and genderbased violence nearly doubled last year to over 8,500, a third of which involved a minor.

Activists, including First Lady Fatima Bio, say the actual figures are much higher as most cases are never reported.

Gender-based violence is traditionally seen as a taboo topic in Sierra Leone. Only 12 years ago, its parliament passed the first gender equality laws in 46 years of independence, following efforts by women’s rights groups.

In December, the first lady led a demonstration in the capital to raise awareness on the issue, and has since launched her “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign on violence against girls across West Africa.

Dr Olabisi Claudius Cole, head of the Rainbo Initiative that provides free medical and psychosocial services for survivors of genderbased violence, called the president’s declaration a landmark in tackling sexual violence in Sierra Leone.

CAR peace deal calls for truth commission, joint patrols – AFP

A peace deal signed between the Central African Republic (CAR) and rebel groups this week provides for the creation of a truth and reconciliation commission within 90 days, according to the AFP news agency.

Citing a copy of the undisclosed accord, the AFP said the parties to the deal also committed to set up joint security patrols with soldiers and members of armed groups for a period of 24 months.

The deal is the eighth attempt in nearly six years to forge peace in the war-ravaged country - one of the poorest in the world - but it has not yet been signed by all the parties.

The accord was signed in the capital Bangui on Wednesday by some militia leaders and President Faustin-Archange Touadera.

The three stragglers may sign during the upcoming summit of the African Union, taking place in Addis Ababa on February 10-11, according to Ange Maxime Kazagui, a government

spokesman.

If so, the accord, named the Khartoum Agreement after the city where it was brokered, will be published afterwards, he said.

The conflict has left thousands dead and forced a quarter of the population of 4.5 million from their homes. The rural exodus, the UN warned last year, could drive the country into famine.

One of the biggest obstacles to peace has been demands by rebel leaders to be amnestied - a condition that Touadera, under pressure from western partners, has traditionally refused.

Several leaders face UN sanctions or have been accused by rights groups of abuses, and others face the notional risk of arrest in CAR itself.

Lack of clarity about the Khartoum Agreement on Thursday prompted a rights organisation, the Civil Society Working Group on the Central African Crisis (GTSC), to urge the government to publish the details.

g 20 Ghana arrests made in slaying of journalist Ahmed Hussein-Suale

Six people have been arrested and released on bail in connection with last month’s killing in Ghana of undercover journalist, Ahmed HusseinSuale, who exposed a high-ranking official at FIFA as corrupt, police announced on Friday.

David Eklu, director general of police public affairs, said the arrests on Thursday were “preliminary arrests based on reasonable suspicion”.

Police did not identify any of the suspects. Eklu said that despite the arrests, there was “no strong evidence for now”.

Another three people, including the now-banned FIFA official Kwesi Nyantakyi, were previously questioned as police sought information in the killing of journalist Hussein-Suale.

Hussein-Suale was shot dead by two gunmen on a motorbike while driving near his home in Accra on January 16, a killing that shocked a country considered one of the most stable democracies in West Africa.

Hussein-Suale was shot twice in the chest and once in the neck at close range while driving in the Madina suburb. He died immediately, according to police.

The killing, called an assassination by the media house Hussein-Suale worked for, immediately raised speculation that his work exposing high-level corruption and the threat of match-fixing in football might be the reason behind the shooting.

Hussein-Suale set up the undercover television sting that showed Nyantakyi, then a member of the FIFA council, accepting $65,000 in cash from reporters posing as unethical businessmen and promising to use his position as the head of Ghanaian football to secure favourable deals for them.

Nyantakyi was found guilty of bribery, corruption, and conflict of interest in a FIFA ethics investigation prompted by the documentary.

He was banned from football for life last year having already resigned from his roles as president of the Ghana football federation, as vice president of African football, and as a member of FIFA’s top panel.

Hussein-Suale worked for the Tiger Eye PI media house run by Anas Aremeyaw Anas, a renowned Ghanaian investigative journalist who has used undercover television documentaries to expose graft and organised crime in Ghana and across Africa.

The 2018 documentary that brought down Nyantakyi also exposed wider corruption and the threat of match-fixing in Ghanaian and African football.

The film showed dozens of referees from across Africa taking money from the undercover reporting team, allegedly in return for promises they would help fix games in the future.

The entire Ghana Football Association (FA), apparently rife with corruption, was shut down by Ghana’s president and the African football body banned or suspended nearly two dozen referees and officials as a result of the documentary.

One of the referees caught on tape by Hussein-Suale and his colleagues was due to officiate at last year’s World Cup in Russia. He was banned for life.

Nyantakyi was under scrutiny previously when a joint investigation by two British media houses in 2014 claimed he was willing to organise friendly games involving Ghana that could be fixed. On that occasion, Nyantakyi was cleared of wrongdoing by FIFA. The arrests in the Hussein-Suale killing came on the same day Nyantakyi made his first public comments on his case.

Speaking in a telephone interview with a Ghanaian television station on Thursday, Nyantakyi claimed he was set up by unnamed figures at the Ghana FA who wanted to get rid of him as president and paid the journalists to investigate him.

He also claimed Anas tried to blackmail him afterwards, asking him for $150,000 to not make the video public.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, February 9, 2019

Column 21

These Times with BONAVENTURE e-mail: bonamelah123@gmail.com mobile: 08036062975

As the coordinator of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential campaign project in the South West, former governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose is supposed to be a bridge builder. If truly Fayose wants his party, the PDP and its presidential candidate, former vice president Atiku Abubakar to win majority of the votes in the South West as is mandate, Fayose would act like a father to all PDP stakeholders in the geopolitical zone, especially prominent politicians and those that hold top level political offices, no matter what has passed under the bridge they built together.

It is on that backdrop therefore that the current efforts by Fayose to undermine the political aspirations of some of his political allies in the zone, especially his home state of Ekiti leaves a taste of ash in the mouth.

There is no doubt that Fayose is a political juggernaut that is respected by many for his stand against injustice and political intimidation, especially against opposition elements and social critics by the federal government while he was in office as governor but his decision to go to war against his political allies that fought alongside him in the trenches when the battle was fierce would rather diminish than add impetus to his social and political standing.

Among the allies that Fayose is fighting is his onetime deputy and current Minority Leader in the Senate, Senator Biodun Olujimi.

It would be recalled that Senator Olujimi and Fayose have come a long way together in their political journeys. She was a strong ally and supporter of Fayose, especially in the build-up to the 2014 governorship election when she stood behind him and contributed immensely to his victory at the polls. Give it also to Fayose, he, in appreciation, gave massive support to Olujimi, leading to her nomination as PDP candidate and subsequent election as

How Fayose’s fight with Sen. Olujimi may affect Atiku’s prospects

Fayose senator representing Ekiti South senatorial district in 2015.

The relationship between the two stalwarts however nosedived when in 2018, Olujimi indicated interest to succeed Fayose as governor since he was serving out his second term. This was against Fayose’s choice of supporting his deputy to take over from him. Fayose later had his way and made his deputy the candidate of the PDP who was however defeated by the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Dr. Kayode Fayemi.

Because Senator Olujimi

Sen Olujimi in expressing her legitimate right to aspire for higher political office was seen by Fayose as daring to challenge his choice of a successor, the former governor is reported to have sworn that he would not allow Olujimi to return to the senate and is said to be working assiduously to achieve that.

Fayose should have known or be made to understand that as the highest PDP political office holder from the South West at the federal level Olujimi is an asset to him, the PDP and Atiku’s presidential project.

It is true that the

relationship between Fayose and Senator Olujimi has suffered some cracks in recent time, the two politicians are supposed to know that they have a common enemy to confront and therefore the need to unite and confront the challenge, together. Fayose in particular should realise that his pre-occupation with the anti-Olujimi project is eating up much of the energy and goodwill and time he is supposed to invest in delivering Atiku in the South West.

It is however not too late for Fayose to look back into

the trying days in which he and the likes of Senator Olujimi endured harsh times in the trenches and the fact that they have worked together for many years.

The above should be added to the fact that Fayose and Olujimi have a huge assignment to deliver Atiku in the South West, a reason the two should bury their grudges and work like a team by him supporting her current aspirations to return to the senate, as they say, “You do not use your hands to pull down the house you built or contributed in building.”

SPORTS TIMES Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 2, 2019

Vollyball: Delta female team coach says will work hard to win 2019 league

The Coach of Delta female Volleyball club, Tina Azomani, on Friday said her team would work hard to replicate their performance at the National Sports Festival in the 2019 Nigeria Volleyball Premier League.

Azomani told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that they finished fifth in the 2018 league, adding that they would work hard to lift the trophy in this year’s league.

NAN reports that Delta won the female volleyball competition of the 2018 National Sports Festival.

“We have 11 players now; we will need to recruit more players that will strengthen the team for the league, we started training this month.

g22

“We will work hard to win the 2019 league, we want to lift up the trophy and that is our target, we all share the same dream as a team.

“We are determined to fight well in this year’s league and record our victory at the end of the competition,’’ she said.

The coach said they would also participate in the Mini National Sports Festival in August in Edo. “We are preparing for both the league and the mini national sports festival in Edo. “We will work hard to excel in the two events, this year is our year of celebration and with the help of God we will rejoice at the end of the two tournaments,’’ the coach said. (NAN)

AFCON: Odion Ighalo is key for Super Eagles success – Gernot Rohr Super Eagles Technical Adviser Gernot Rohr has revealed that Odion Ighalo is key for super eagles winning the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt irrespective of where he plays in Chinese Super League.

Speaking in a chat with newsmen, Rohr said the eagles forward has shown a great quality that he can be trusted in

a good day to lead the team to victory. ”Look playing in China has nothing to do with performance.

Ighalo practically qualified us for the Nation Cup despite playing in Chinese Super League. My prayer is for him to remain in top form for the AFCON. He is a key to us winning the AFCON in Egypt which is my target. He has

Alex Iwobi: I’m still growing and still learning Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi is keen on improving his output in the final third.

Goalscoring has not been the Nigeria international’s strongest trait. But, with direct contributions to 10 goals [three goals and seven assists] so far this season, the midfielder has already equalled his entire total from last season – as he also recorded three goals and created seven others in 38 appearances.

However, Iwobi who has been faced with several criticisms of late, especially after his underwhelming performance against Manchester City, has acknowledged the need to be more prolific.

“I’d like to say I’ve been involved in a few goals this season, even it’s not the assist or the goal, I’ve been getting a few pre-assists which go unnoticed. But at the end of the day as long as the team does well, that’s my main concern,” Iwobi told club website.

“I would say each day I’m still growing and still learning, but negatives, obviously they’re always going to criticise me for my goals and assists, which I need to add to my game if I want to be compared with the people I’m playing with.

“The main thing is just to remain calm.

We’ve even been doing some mental work to remain calm under pressure and calm when I’m on the pitch, and this is something I’ve been working on, not just in football but also off the pitch as well.

“Now I’ve done it I look back and it

courage and speed which is very important in any competition”.

Rohr said He also said the Changchun Yatai striker has been in a superlative form after the world cup in Russia both for his club and the senior national team.

Rohr confirmed that he has been in touch with the eagles forward on weekly bases.

wasn’t easy, especially with the things I had to go through, so I can always say it’s going to be hard, but the rewards are definitely worth it.

“All I know is that playing for Arsenal to me is always going to be an honour.

I’m always proud to represent this club and wear the badge.”

Iwobi will hope to win over his critics when Arsenal visit Huddersfield Town for their next Premier League game on Saturday.

CAFCC: Rangers intensify training for CS Sfaxien Rangers International FC of Enugu have opted to train twice daily for their upcoming Confederation Cup match against CS Sfaxien of Tunisia on February 13.

The fixture between the Flying Antelopes and their North African opponents in Tunisia is the second match of the ongoing Confederation of African Football (CAF) Confederation Cup Group B. Confirming the club’s preparedness to newsmen in Enugu on Friday, Rangers’ spokesman, Norbert Okolie, said that the club would train in the morning and evening hours.

“We know what it takes to survive the North African clubs and that is why we are preparing seriously for the match.

“CS Sfaxien is a big club and one time Confederation Cup champion, so, we are not going to take them for granted and do not forget that they subdued Etoile du Sahel 1-0 in their first match of the group.

“Sfaxien is a familiar foe in the continent and I remember we beat them in 2013 but they used protest to kick us out and went ahead to win the competition.

“Although it only changes that is permanent, but I believe that they have not changed much and even if they did, not better than us,” he said.

He said that the club had been doing well in the ongoing

Confederation Cup and would not falter as they want to maintain their unbeaten run in the competition.

Okolie also said that the club would do all in its capacity to record a good result in Tunis.

According to him, two Tunisian clubs in their group may likely pose a major threat owing to their continental experiences.

“I know that we have players that can withstand the North African weather and who are familiar with their style of play.

“North African clubs are not new to our players as many of them have engaged them while playing for us or in another club in the country.

On the tendency of playing at night in Tunis, Okolie noted that most of the player had played at night while in their previous clubs.

“We have players who joined us from Enyimba FC, Akwa United FC, foreigners, even those who have played abroad before coming home to join us and they have night match experiences.

Rangers top the group B with CS Sfaxien with three points but on superior goals difference, while Etoile du Sahel and Salitas FC of Burkina Faso remain third and fourth respectively without a point each.

Daily Times Nigeria Saturday, February 9, 2019

23 Sports Times

Nantes to retire the number 9 shirt in memory of late Emiliano Sala Nantes plan to retire the No.9 shirt in memory of their former forward Emiliano Sala.

The Argentine’s body was recovered from the English Channel and formally identified on Thursday night – almost three weeks after his plane crashed en route to Cardiff.

Nantes changed their official club website to only show a photo of Sala

with the words ‘Noue ne t’oublierons jamais, Emi!’ which translates as “We will never forget you, Emi!” And club president Waldemar Kita has revealed they plan to retire Sala’s old shirt number.

He said: “I don’t have the words. It’s a tragedy, I’m crushed. Emiliano left his mark. That’s why, like may fans, I wish to honour him by retiring the No.9.”

Manchester City face Chelsea test, Liverpool under pressure

French League to pay tribute to Sala with minute’s applause All Ligue 1 and 2 games will hold a minute’s applause before kickoff in memory of former Nantes player Emiliano Sala.

The body of the former Nantes striker has been retrieved from the wreckage of a crashed plane in the English Channel, the French League said on Friday.

Argentine Sala, 28, had been flying from Nantes in western France to Wales on Jan. 21 to make his debut for Premier League team Cardiff City when the singleengined Piper Malibu aircraft disappeared over the sea.

The wreckage was found on Sunday following a privately-funded

underwater search and a body recovered on Wednesday and taken to southern England.

“Tonight and during the whole weekend, we will all be united in paying a last tribute to Emiliano before the matches kick off,” LFP President Nathalie Boy de la Tour said in a statement.(Reuters/NAN)

Emre Can: Serie A teams tactically better than Premier League sides Juventus midfielder Emre Can believes Serie A teams are tactically better than Premier League sides.

The Germany international moved to the reigning Serie A champions from Liverpool last summer, following the expiration of his contract, and he feels the difference in quality lies in tactical approach.

“I think here in Italy the teams are better tactically, [but] I think the football in England is maybe quicker but here it is sometimes very difficult to score a goal,” Can told Sky in Italy.

“It was not always easy for me my first few months here in Italy because I had a few problems and then the surgery, now I feel better really because I play a few games.

“I need to get used to the football here in Italy. I feel in good shape and ready to go.”

The 25-year-old has also heaped praise on talisman Cristiano Ronaldo, and hailed the impact the Portugal

captain has had on both the team and himself personally.

“Every footballer wants to play with Cristiano, he’s a big, big player and off the pitch he’s a great guy. You can always talk to him, you can learn from him a lot and I think he gives a push to the team.”

Last season, Can faced Ronaldo in the Champions League final, in which Real Madrid beat Liverpool to win the trophy for a third successive season.

Can admits European glory is the biggest desire of most Juve fans, and expressed a personal wish to this season be on the winning team alongside Ronaldo in the final.

“Last year, I lost the final but this year I want to win it, with him together of course.

“I heard a lot of times this year when we played, they [fans] want to win the Champions League. I think the fans are really looking forward for it and really want to win it.

“Of course everybody say you will win the Serie A but it’s very difficult and the last seven years Juventus won it, this year the eighth time and it’s not always easy, we have to train every day hard.”

Injury rules Isaac Success out of Watford squad to face Everton Super Eagles forward Isaac Success has been ruled out alongside other Watford stars when they take on Everton in the Premier League tomorrow.

The Nigeria international will not be part of the Hornets 18-man matchday squad for the visit of the Toffees, according to manager Javi Gracia.

Success will miss out through fitness issues, having failed to recover from a hamstring injury which kept

him out of the squad against Brighton & Hove last weekend.

Watford will be without winger Roberto Pereyra (calf), striker Isaac Success (hamstring) and defender Sebastian Prodl (knee).

“He (Pereyra) is not ready yet.

Maybe next week but not for this game,” Gracia added.

“Sebastian Prodl is recovering as well along with Isaac Success. He’s not ready yet. Roberto, Isaac and Sebastian are out this weekend.”

Fire at Flamengo training center in Rio kills 10 – Firefighters A fire at the training centre of Rio de Janeiro soccer club Flamengo killed 10 people and injured at least three others on Friday, firefighters said.

The fire broke out at Ninho do Urubu, a state-of-the-art training centre that was expanded and opened only two months ago.

It was not known if any players were hurt in the blaze, although the club has accommodation for teenage players at the ground.

“The kids from the Flamengo youth team were sleeping there at the time,” firefighter Douglas Henaut told Globo News.

The fire followed days of heavy rains that hit the city and killed at least six people.

The alma mater of players such as Zico, Junior and Leonardo, Flamengo is one of the best-supported clubs in Brazil and is well-known around the world. (Reuters/NAN)

Manchester City face a stern test of their Premier League title credentials this weekend when the newly installed leaders host Chelsea.

City’s midweek win at Everton lifted them above Liverpool on goal difference and increased the pressure on Jurgen Klopp’s spluttering side.

After two successive damaging draws, Liverpool now have no margin for error when they take on Bournemouth at Anfield.

City ready for Chelsea ‘final’ Pep Guardiola has challenged Manchester City to prove they are capable of holding off Liverpool by beating Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

Having knocked Liverpool off the top despite trailing by seven points just weeks ago, City have edged in front, albeit having played a game extra.

But, with Liverpool playing 24 hours earlier, Guardiola knows City must keep their foot on the gas against fourth-placed Chelsea.

“Now comes a big test, a big goal. Chelsea are an exceptional team who have had seven days to prepare,” Guardiola said.

“It really is a final for us this weekend. If we are able to take these points, it is a huge step forward.”

While Chelsea had been in turmoil until last weekend’s rout of Huddersfield, Maurizio Sarri’s team did inflict City’s first league defeat since April with a 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge in December.

Robertson expects Liverpool to end slump When Liverpool took the lead just minutes into their clash against Leicester last week, the Kop broke into songs of praise for their former manager Rafael Benitez.

Jubilant that Benitez had masterminded Newcastle’s win over Manchester City the previous evening, Liverpool fans were anticipating another victory on the road to their first English title since 1990.

But out of nowhere, the joyous celebrations were muted by a sudden outbreak of nervous tension as Leicester hit back to earn a point — an anti-climactic result that was followed by another uninspired Liverpool display in Monday’s draw at West Ham. However, Reds defender Andrew Robertson says the frustrating period is just a “blip” that can be cured by a positive result against Bournemouth on Saturday.

“I wouldn’t say nerves are showing. People talk about pressure because we’ve not been in this position, but it’s February.

Everyone needs to relax and try and enjoy the run-in,” he said.

Solskjaer’s United eye top-four berth Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s remarkable start as Manchester United manager has lifted his team back into contention to qualify for next season’s Champions League.

United, who have won seven out of eight Premier League games since the Norwegian replaced the sacked Jose Mourinho in December, head to struggling Fulham on Saturday knowing a win would lift them into the top four, at least temporarily.

Chelsea are only two points ahead of fifth-placed United and face a difficult assignment at Manchester City the following day.

“It will be a big mistake if we think further than Fulham. That’s a massive game for us because Chelsea are playing (Manchester) City. Let’s go game by game, because if you lose one game you regret,” United midfielder Ander Herrera said.

Tottenham still title outsiders Although they sit only five points behind City and Liverpool, Tottenham midfielder Harry Winks admits it would be foolish to start dreaming of a first English league crown since 1961.

Winks knows Tottenham, winners of their past three league games, are still outsiders heading into their home fixture against Leicester on Sunday.

“It’s difficult. We lost to Wolves and people said that we were out of the title race and it’s time for us to get top four and then we won against Newcastle and people say we are back in it,” Winks said.

“At the end of the season we will be looking into that and see where the title is.”

Fixtures (1500 GMT unless stated) Saturday Fulham v Manchester United (1230), Crystal Palace v West Ham, Huddersfield v Arsenal, Liverpool v Bournemouth, Southampton v Cardiff, Watford v Everton, Brighton v Burnley (1730) Sunday Tottenham v Leicester (1330), Manchester City v Chelsea (1600) Monday Wolves v Newcastle (2000)

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2019

VOL. 3

NO. 872

N100

47 years on, Nigeria has done well on pension On February 9, 1972, Daily Times reported on its back cover page that the military administration of Gen. Yakubu Gowon was concluding arrangements to promulgate a Decree on pension for all members of the country’s armed forces.

The report stated that the Chief of Staff of the Nigerian Army Major Gen. Hassan Usman Katsina made the announcement in Port Harcourt while addressing Brigade Commanders of the 3rd Infantry Division. It said that the draft of the Decree had reached an advanced stage, adding that a special committee of top military experts had already approved the draft.

According to him, the Federal Ministry of Establishment in conjunction with the Federal Executive Council would soon make announcement on the matter after necessary spade work must have been done.

The story of Nigerian pensioners is a mix grill of the bad and now the good. In the past, those who retired after serving the nation suffered untold hardship in the hands of the establishment due firstly, to defective policies inherited from colonial administration; and secondly, administrative corruption perpetuated by permanent secretaries, directors and line officers in the ministries, departments and agencies of government who were diverting pensioners pay into their private coffers or paid pensioners money into bank accounts to yield interests while the owners die, in bitterness..

Although much can still be done to achieve optimal result and benefits to Nigerian pensioners, however, a lot has changed for in the system both for pensioners in public as well as those in the private sector due largely to reforms introduced in the system by various civilian administrations especially since 2004 and measures taken to block the conduits through which bureaucrats stole monies belonging to them.

As a testimony to the current good fortune of Nigerian pensioner, the nation’s retirees under the banner of Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Contributory Pension Scheme Sector (NUPCPS} on 10th December 2018, wrote a letter to President Muhammadu Buhari, commending him, in appreciation of his administration’s policies and actions on welfare of those that have served the country through the public service.

In the letter which was signed by the Chairman of the union, Comrade Sylva C. Nwaiwu, the pensioners said they were registering their “unanimous acknowledgement and commendation of the good performance” of the administration in the Contributory Pension Scheme sector in particular, and Nigerian Pension Industry in general. They also said that the consensus was reached during the union’s 3rd Post-inaugural Congress/Interactive Session with the National Pension Commission (PENCOM) held last

month in Maitama, Abuja.

“Your administration inherited huge pension liabilities as a result of the excesses and recklessness of the previous administration which mismanaged pension funds meant for the payment of retirement benefits. Nevertheless, your contribution in just few years in office is one of the best we have seen in the 14 years of the existence of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) in our nation.

“Yourinsight,determination, political will and commitment as demonstrated in the release of bailout funds to ameliorate the sufferings of Nigerian workers/pensioners is unequalled and highly appreciated by the union and other stakeholders,” the letter stated.

Although the above letter may have been spiced a little bit more with some political condiments especially when it described the president’s policies on pension as the best in the past 14 years, there is no doubt that Nigerian pensioner have been having good times under Buhari’s administration as was the case in the administrations before him.

Truth is that, the fortunes of Nigerian pensioners changed for the better since the year 2004 under the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo. Both late president Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and President Goodluck Jonathan improved so much on pension administration and implementation to the extent that, unlike some other sectors of the economy, pension funds yielded over N5trillion leftover at Jonathan’s exit in office in 2015.

From the beginning, pension in Nigeria was administered under colonial policies until 1962 when the National Provident Fund (NPE) was introduced followed by the 1974 establishment of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF). A major pension reform came into being in 1993 which accommodated all staff of both private and public sectors.

But the breakthrough for pensioners came in 2004 under the administration of President Obasanjo through the Pension Reform Act of 2004 which discarded significant parts of the previous schemes that permitted insignificant contribution by workers through compulsory deduction from worker’s salary. It was then described by some as non-contributory benefit scheme as it focused attention on compelling government

to budget certain amount to consolidated revenue from where pensioners were paid.

The Obasanjo Pension Act permitted compulsory 7.5% per month as take home at retirement. The contribution is made at source, monthly and to be managed by any of the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) with the pension asset held by Pension Assets Custodians (PACs) and is to be

regulated and supervised by National Pension Commission (PEN COM). It was structured in a manner to ensure immediate payment to the retiree at exit point. With that arrangement, most retirees in the public and private sectors are sure to access their pension or part of it as soon as they leave service.

According to report by the National Bureau of Statistics

(NBS) 8,136,202 workers were registered under the pension scheme in the second quarter of 2018 compared to 7,975,976 registered workers in quarter 1 of 2018 while the Pension Fund Asset under Management as at quarter 2 of 2018 stood at N8,232trillion as against N7,943trillion in quarter 1 of 2018.

It is gratifying and therefore commendable to note that the

sore sights of mostly aged men and women who have retired from public and private service roaming the streets of Abuja, Lagos and other state capitals begging for food and other basic needs due to neglect and especially none payment of the pensions has almost become a thing of the past because the nation’s pension administration has witnessed tremendous improvement.

Published by FOLIO COMMUNICATIONS Plc. Corporate Office: 9 Osun Crescent, Maitama, Abuja Email: info@dailytimes.ng; DTNcontent@gmail.com Managing Editor: BONAVENTURE MELAH, Tel: 08036062975. Ag. Editor: SAM NZEH, Tel: 08050220692, Email: samnzeh2015@gmail.com