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DAILY

TIMES

NIGERIA INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER. EST. 1926 WWW.DAILYTIMES.NG https://plus.google.com/+DailytimesNgr/posts

dailytimesng

40.17

44.27

10.21%

PRESCO

Olufemi Samuel & Chris Emetoh Abuja

ÏÏÏ Plan by the federal government to stop importation of vehicles into Nigeria through land boarders suffered a hitch, Wednesday, as Senate called on the Customs Service to immedi-

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NSE QUICK BITE 44.19

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ately suspend action on the policy.

In line with plans to conserve exchange and streamline importation of vehicles, the government had instituted a plan to stop the importation with effect from January this year.

Continued on page 12

THURSDAY, JANUARY 12, 2017 VOL. 3. NO. 276

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GAINERS AS AT January 11, 2017 OKOMUOIL

Senate seeks policy reversal on car importation

GUINNESS

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LOSERS AS AT January 11, 2017 74.90

-6.38%

JBERGER

38.58

36.66

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Malabu oil scam:

Italian investigators hunt for more Nigerians

Ï Senator Obiora, Hon. Bature, others implicated Ï Ex-Ministers Alison-Madueke, Mohammed Adoke, Bayo Ojo also indicted Ï Dan Etete allegedly collected $801.5m and $520m for sharing to govt officials

By our Reporter

ÏÏÏ Although former President Goodluck Jonathan made spirited effort on Tuesday to clear his name from the Malabu $1.3 billion oil deal for which he was alleged to have person-

ally benefited from a $520 million hush money, indications have emerged that Italian authorities are still digging deeper to unearth the level of involvement of other top Nigerian government officials and indiContinued on page 6

Ohaneze calls for restructuring of Nigeria 11 Buhari means well for N’Delta, says Ndoma Egba 10

FG sanctions DISCOs over metering 25 Chief John Nnia Nwodo, President-General, Ohaneze Ndigbo (right); Chief Charles Odunukwe, Vice President, Anambra (Left), and other newly elected officers of the pan-Igbo socio-cultural organisation taking their oath of office, yesterday

Saraki: FG to call for more witnesses Jan 17

12

Former Daily Times boss 6 appointed chairman, Governing Council of OAU

N400m Fraud: Metuh asks court to summon Dasuki as his witness 12

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Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12 , 2017

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PHOTO TIMES

Editorial Bailout for textile industry

R

ecently, the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr.Godwin Emefiele, disclosed that the apex bank was planning a fresh bailout for the textile industry in order to revive it as a major employer of labour. He revealed that the intervention fund would come in a single-digit interest rate and long-tenured loans to investors in the sector, particularly those in the cotton and garment segments. According to him, the CBN is desirous to revive the textile industry and place it on the path of sustainable growth. Mr. Emefiele lamented a situation whereby a sub-sector known in the past to have employed more than one million Nigerians is not only comatose but has been overrun by cheap imports from Asia and other developing countries of the world.

Like the CBN boss, we are also pained at this sad development and welcome in all totality any moves by the authorities to change the fortunes of the industry for good. Our agony is exacerbated by the fact that while those charged with protecting our the industry are looking the other way, smugglers are busy swamping the country with all manner of inferior textiles from all over the world. This situation is responsible for the closure of hundreds of textile mills in the country with attendant job losses and mass unemployment. Time was when cities such as Kaduna, Onitsha,Aba, Kano, Asaba,Funtua, Gusau, Lagos and a host of others were known mostly for their textile mills that employed hundreds of thousands of workers.

Today, those mills are not only abandoned, they stand as sad monuments to their once glorious past. In the golden era of Nigeria’s textile industry between 1985 and 1991, the sector recorded an annual growth of 67 per cent as at 1991 and employed 25 per cent workers in the nation’s manufacturing sec-

tor.

In that period there were about 190 textile companies, employing more than a million people and accounted for over 60 per cent of the textile industry capacity in West Africa. However, their fortunes took a turn for the worst in the early 1990’s. From the highpoint of 190 thriving textile companies, the number reduced to almost zero, with giants such as United Nigeria going under due to harsh operating environment. Following this the Federal Government set up the N100bn intervention fund for the sub-sector in 2009 to be disbursed by the Bank of Industry (BOI). Unfortunately, the fund is yet to revive the fortunes of the textile industry. According to the Coalition of Closed Unpaid Textiles Workers in Kaduna, an estimated 700, 000 of their colleagues are still jobless.

Investigations reveal that Nigeria imports more than N400bn worth of textiles into the country.

Sadly, most of these textiles and garments are imported without paying the required duties and taxes, thereby making the country to incur annual losses of N80billion. Investigations also revealed that some of those behind the smuggling of textile products are employees and operators of the textile firms that have closed shop. There is no gainsaying the fact that revival of the textile industry would revive cotton production and attendant jobs that go with it. For now, local demand of cotton has declined to 40,000 tons, while local production at present outstrips demand, forcing most farmers to export their produce to countries such as Bangladesh, Pakistan and Vietnam.

We therefore urge the Federal Government to adopt a protectionist policy for the textile sector so as to encourage the revival. It is fact that problems of the industry go beyond funding but more to do with the hostile operating environment that must be rectified for the sector to be turned around.

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President Muhammadu Buhari (right) in a handshake with Foreign Minister of China, Mr. Wang Yi; during a courtesy visit on Buhari at the State House, Abuja… on Wednesday.

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Goodluck Jonathan

Matthew Ashimolowo

Julius Nyerere

“Nobody’s political ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian”.

“If you must make a difference in life, then change your mind set”.

“Independence cannot be real if a nation depends upon gifts.”

4

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

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News 6

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Italian investigators hunt for more Nigerians Continued from page 1 viduals that also had their fingers soiled in the scandal.

Some members of the 7th National Assembly were alleged to have also been compromised in the Malabu oil scam, additional reports have shown.

According to the Italian government prosecutors, the then Senator Ikechukwu Obiora and Honourable Umar Bature implicated in the oil scam were the arrowheads in the legislators’ involvement.

Although, the former president has absolved himself of any complicity in the scandal, the Italian prosecutors insisted that former Petroleum Minister, Mrs. Deziani Alison Madueke, the immediate past Attorney General of the Federation and Minister for Justice, Mohammed Bello Adoke; erstwhile National Security Adviser (NSA), Maj, Gen Aliyu Gusau (rtd); Mr. Bayo Ojo, former Attor-

ney General and Minister of Justice, as well as former Petroleum Minister, Mr. Dan Etete, who is at the epicenter of the $1.3 billion Malabu oil scam, have questions to answer.

The indictment also named Mr. Zubelum Chukwuemeka Obi, a shareholder in Energy Venture Partners Ltd (EVP), as allegedly “assigned by the former Abachaera Petroleum Minister, Mr. Dan Etete, to find a buyer for OPL 245” for which the Italian oil giant, ENI, the offshore parent company of Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) Ltd, and the Royal Dutch Shell, showed interest.

The indictment shows that Mr. Etete, and his Malabu Company mid-wifed the scam that involved the sale of the oil bloc named OPL 245, which he was alleged to have illicitly acquired in 1998 whilst still serving as Petroleum Minister.

According to Italian prosecutors, Mr. Etete had engaged Mr. Zubelum Chukwuemeka Obi to

source for buyers of the oil bloc.

Afterwards, the Italian oil giant, ENI, the parent company of the Nigerian Agip Oil Company Ltd (NAOC) and Royal Dutch Shell, signed to acquire 100 per cent of the OPL 245 Oil block for a deal that totaled $1.3 billion.

However, Italian prosecutors are now alleging that much of the $1.3 billion meant for the outright purchase of the oil block was set aside for fraudulent payments to government officials as well as corporate executives working for ENI and Shell.

According to reports, Italian prosecutors are alleging that Mr. Obi agreed with Etete that the “socalled ‘excess price’ between the sum that ENI/NAE was undertaking to pay and the amount accepted

by Etete, would be withheld by Obi, with the expectation that the in-built premium would be distributed among Mr. Obi; his sponsors, Di Nardo and Bisignani, ENI and Shell executives and “Nigerian gov-

ernment officials, and, in particular the former Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke.”

Acting on the strength of this agreement, Italian prosecutorial documents showed, Mr. Obi maintained direct relations with former Attorney General Adoke, as well as with “persons connected to him” including Roland Ewubare, Oghogo Akpata as well as with Mrs. Alison-Madueke and former NSA, Gen. Aliyu Gusau.

Also accused by the Italian prosecutorsis a Russian erstwhile intelligence operative, Ednan Tofik Ogly Agaev, who agreed to a fee of six percent for his work as intermediary between Etete and Shell. Agaev is accused of meeting Gen. Aliyu Gusau “on a number of occasions and having obtained information from him on the expectations of President Jonathan and other members of his government.”

The Italian court prosecutors specifically accused Etete of re-

ceiving $801.5 million from the Nigerian government under the FGN Resolution Agreement, and having transferred to Abubakar Aliyu, directly or through companies attributable to him, funds of approximately $520 million, intended to be paid to President Jonathan, members of the government and other Nigerian government officials, the report said.

Italian prosecutorial documents alleged that the Malabu deal involved an agreement that Dan Etete would use much of the funds from the sale of the oil block “for his own benefit and that of a large number of other beneficiaries to purchase property, aeroplanes, armoured cars, etc.”

In a statement by his spokesperson, Ikechuku Eze, in Abuja, however, the former president denied sending Abubakar Aliyu or any other person or persons to receive bribe on his behalf as has been alleged by some publications (not the Daily Times).

Former Daily Times boss appointed chairman, OAU Governing Council Sodiq Adekunle, Osogbo

ÏÏÏ President Muhammadu Bu-

hari has approved the appointment of Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi as chairman of the newly constituted Governing Council of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.

The former council of the University was sacked mid last year over some crises in the university.

The crises erupted as a result of alleged procedural anomaly in the process of selecting a new vice chancellor for the university.

Education minister, Mallam Adamu Adamu, announced the appointments in a statement made available to our Correspondent on Wednesday.

He said the new governing council would serve for a term of four years, in the first instance, with effect from December 28, 2016.

Other members of the council are Prof. Felix U. Madubuike, Mr. Inowei Akono, Mr. Adekunle Sanni and Muhammad Bello Kaoje.

Yemi Ogunbiyi, a founding chairman of Tanus Communications, once served as managing director of Daily Times of Nigeria.

He received his secondary education from the Ibadan Boys High School and later went to the University of Ibadan, where he studied English Literature. He proceeded to New York University for his Masters degree.

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Military explains closure of Abuja Federal Secretariat road

Andrew Orolua, Abuja

ÏÏÏ The Defence Headquarters on Wednesday said that Abuja Federal Secretarial Road, through Eagle Square, would be temporary closed for traffic between January 11 and15 2017.

A statement signed by Brigadier General Rabe Abubakar, the Acting Director of Defence Information, advises the public, especially motorists plying the Feder-

al Secretarial Road through Eagle Square, to use alternative roads.

He said the closure was necessary to enable hitch-free military rehearsals and subsequent event of Armed Forces Remembrance Day Wreath Laying Ceremony at National Arcade.

During the period, alternative routes would be made available for motorists. In this case, diversions would be guided and supervised by security and relevant uniformed personnel to avoid

logjam and unnecessary obstruction, he added.

“While regretting the temporary disruption of normal traffic flow on the road, the DHQ wishes to state that the rehearsals would only take place in the morning hours of the affected days and are billed to last for a short period daily.”

“The presence of the Armed Forces and other security agencies are for that purpose. Therefore, public should not panic.”

The grand finale of the Armed Force Remembrance Day Celebration activities will take place on Sunday, January 15, 2017, where the President and Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, will lead other top government functionaries, including Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs and Inspector General of Police to lay wreaths at the National Arcade, Opposite Eagle Square, Abuja.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

7 News

was supposed to be used in developing the Niger Delta was used to prosecute the election of a former South-South governor, while N40 billion was also withdrawn from the NDDC coffers to prosecute the last re-run election in Rivers State.

“The Commission’s new Management and Governing Board have only just assumed duties and have neither awarded projects yet nor undertaken any transactions of such magnitude.

These facts are verifiable. It is, indeed, very important for stories, where such claims are made, to pass the litmus test of verity and fact. Otherwise, we avail

ourselves to the malicious mischief and manipulation of propagandists and peddlers of rumours and lies.”

The press statement said that while it recognised the right of individuals and groups to advance for regional development, it wished to restate that development occurs best in an atmosphere of peace and security.

It stated further: “We call on NDRC and other groups in the region to eschew violence as a means of engagement with Government and government agencies and, instead, pursue peace for the overall development of the Niger Delta region.”

Police arrests Sahara Reporters publisher in Lagos Ibe Uwaleke

ÏÏÏ In what appears like a dog eat dog

situation, radical online publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, was arrested in Lagos yesterday after a professional colleague reported him to the police.

Sowore, who is based in the U.S., has been a thorn in the flesh of people in power in Nigeria, and security agencies have always been on the lookout for him.

Daily Times learnt that Sowore was arrested by policemen from Area ‘F’ Command Headquarters, Ikeja, who claimed they were acting on a petition from another Nigerian journalist, Lekan Fatodu.

Fatodu, who is based in London, is the publisher of CheckOut Magazine.

According to the police, he had alleged in his petition that Sowore was threatening his life. He also allegedly accused him of blackmail. Fatodu later celebrated Sowore’s arrest on his Facebook page.

He stated: “BREAKING! I just got Sowore Omoyele of Saharareporters arrested for criminal defamation and blackmail and threat to my life and career. I’m sure you guys will remember how Sowore lied against me that I was used as a front to receive 1.7 billion naira of the National Security funds. My refusal to agree to Sowore’s criminal demands and cut from the fictitious money made him to viciously attack my personality on his website. And imagine this is someone I’ve known and I’ve been assisting for almost 20 years. We are still at the police station, and hopefully we will be going to the court tomorrow. More details later.”

Lagos police spokesperson, Dolapo Badmos confirmed that Sowore was in police custody.

She said: “He was arrested this evening over threat to life and blackmail. Investigation is still going on.”

Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt

ÏÏÏ

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has lampooned the allegation that it spent a total of N120 billion in supporting the All Progressive Congress, APC, in the elections in Edo and Rivers states in the last six months.

The Commission issued a press statement on Wednesday disclaiming the accusations against it by the Niger Delta Revolutionary Crusaders, NDRC, a militant group in the Niger Delta. The group had taken the NDDC and the Federal Government to task,

warning that it would resume fresh hostilities in the Niger Delta if the government failed to begin dialogue with the Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF. In the NDDC reaction, signed by its head of Corporate Affairs, Mr Chijioke Amu-Nnadi, the Commission stated that the claims of the militant group were “unsubstantiated and unverifiable.”

The statement said: “We wish to state categorically, and without reservations, that there is no iota of truth in the allegation by the group, The Niger Delta Revolutionary Crusaders, NDRC, “that N80 billion which

NUPENG suspends 3-day warning strike . To reconvene 24 January to monitor progress Joy Ekeke

ÏÏÏ The Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) on Wednesday suspended the 3-day nationwide warning strike Minister of Labour and Employment Chris Ngige disclosed this in Abuja after a lengthy closed door dialogue with the leadership of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas workers (NUPENG), and local and international oil companies.

However, Ngige said after all outstanding issues have been addressed the meeting will reconvene on the 24th of January with a view to monitoring progress of the agreements reached.

For his part, the president of NUPENG, Achese Igwe who spoke on behalf of the workers commended the attitude of the government in resolving the issues.

He added that all though most of the oil companies were present and have agreed to a clear time line but outstanding issues remain.

The meeting will reconvene on the 24th of January to gauge the level of adherence to the agreements reached at the meeting.

NUPENG threatened to disturb industrial harmony within the oil and gas sector with a 3-day warning strike, but the issues were resolved after a lenghthy meeting with the federal government.

L-R: Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello; Emir of Minna; Alhaji Umar Faruk Bahago; Emir of Lapai, Engr. Umar Bago Tafida and former Governor of Niger State, Alhaji Muazu Babangida Aliyu, jointly receiving the remains of former Governor, late Engr. Abdulkadir kure, at the Minna International airport…

Tuesday night.

Benjamin Omoike

ÏÏÏ

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, on Wednesday unveiled plans by his administration to integrate the six States in the South West region to the food security drive of the State Government especially in addressing the demand and supply deficit for the overall benefit of the people.

Governor Ambode, who spoke at Lagos House in Ikeja when he received the Ooni of Ife, HIM Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi on a courtesy visit, also vowed his commitment to the economic growth and promotion of the traditional value and culture of the Yoruba nation.

The Governor recalled that in the last one year, the State Government joined the Oodua Investment Group in addition to the acquisition of land in Ogun and Oyo States for agricultural purposes, saying that government would scale up the economic integration of the South West States as well as the cultural heritage of the region.

While commending the Ooni for his achievements in office so far, Governor

Food Security: Ambode to integrate South West states Ambode said the visit to Lagos was historic in the annals of his administration coming barely few weeks after the first year anniversay of the coronation of Ooni.

He said: “One year after, it has become very evident that everything and every step that Ooni has taken has been for the positive good of the Yoruba nation. The Ooni represents the cohesion that we are looking for in Yoruba land and for that reason, we will do everything to continue to ensure that this government supports the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.

“We are glad to note that within the last one year also, Lagos State has been able to join the Oodua Investment Group as part shareholders of that economic vehicle that we will use to power the economic integration of the Southwestern states. We want to assure your majesty that what you stand for is what this gov-

ernment also stand for.

“We believe that we cannot afford to waste away the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people and we are to start from a platform where it moves away from economic integration to socio, political and also cultural evolution of what we think the Yoruba people stand for and that is also what I stand for,” he said.

“I believe strongly that the test case of what we are trying to do about food security in Lagos State is just more or less like an elixir for what it should be across the western region and on that note, we want to say that we have already acquired land in Ogun and Oyo States but what is imperative for us to move forward now is that we would integrate all other Southwestern States into the food security mechanism of demand and supply for us to move forward,” he said.

The Governor said Lagos, as a cosmopolitan State and the economic

hub of the Yoruba people in terms of commerce, must be at the vanguard of promoting commerce in the region, assuring that his administration would vigorously pursue such to the benefit of the people.

He added: “Everything Ooni has said on food security is in cossonace with our believe and we believe that if we move forward, Nigeria will also move foward.

The future is brighter as we see it and we will not relent to ensure that our traditional value and culture are enhanced further than what it is presently.”

Besides, Governor Ambode thanked the monarch for promoting continuous communication among traditional rulers and government for the purpose of enhacing the future of the Yoruba people, while also ackonowledging his immense contribution to the development of tourism, trade and commerce in Lagos State.

News 8 Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt

ÏÏÏ

The governor of Rivers State, Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, yesterday told the Nigerian Police Special Joint Investigation Panel on the December 10, 2016, Rivers legislative rerun that the panel was established by the Inspector-General of Police with a predetermined goal, aimed at assisting the All Progressives Congress, APC, at the election tribunal.

Reiterating his earlier position, the governor told the panel that Rivers people would have nothing to do with it.

Speaking at the Government House, Port Harcourt, when the Nigerian Police Special Joint Investigation Panel on Rivers Rerun paid him a courtesy visit on Wednesday, Governor Wike regretted that the Nigerian Police was allegedly being used

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Wike shuns panel on Rivers rerun election to protect the interest of a particular politician in the state.

Governor Wike used the opportunity to announce that the state government had challenged the setting up of the panel in court, with the chairman of the panel, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. Damian Okoro, as one of the defendants, and reiterated his position that the people of the state would not participate in the activities of the panel.

He alleged that the panel was biased with an agenda targeted at the PDP and its members, while shielding policemen used by the APC to commit electoral fraud.

He said: “I must tell you with all honesty that my people and I will not

participate in the sitting of this panel.

We have challenged the setting up of this panel in court. Let there be a judicial pronouncement on this matter.

It will enrich our jurisprudence. This panel has not shown us that it will not be biased.

“All these activities are orchestrated so that APC will use the materials there from at the Tribunal. Even you as the chairman of the panel cannot say from your conscience that you are biased,” he said.

Governor Wike regretted that the Police High Command allegedly attempted to deny video evidence of the invasion of Rivers East Senatorial District Collation by Akin Fakorede and his SARS personnel.

The governor wondered why the Police have allegedly refused to make public how DSP Alkali was killed, simply “because the person indicted was a commissioner under the Minister of Transportation.”

He said: “The same Akin Fakorede who was caught on video after he invaded the Rivers East Senatorial is the one who is arranging witnesses for the panel set up by the InspectorGeneral of Police. Nobody is investigating the case of Rivers APC printing fake result sheets which the police is trying to sweep under the carpet.”

He wondered why the Inspector General of Police set up a panel, when he had allegedly made conclusions as enunciated in his letter to the Rivers

State Governor.

He said since the Inspector-General of Police knew those who perpetrated the crime during the rerun legislative elections, “why did he go ahead to set up a panel.

“We believe that the Panel has already taken a decision. We are convinced that the essence of the panel is to witch-hunt our people and we have evidence to show. We cannot because of one man’s interest, destroy the state. Already, you have dismissed policemen attached to me without even hearing from me. This is the same panel that claims it is investigating the conduct of all policemen during the rerun legislative elections,” he said.

Benjamin Omoike

Ohaneze Ndigbo election: Igbo leaders head to court over validity

ÏÏÏ The Lagos State Government has

Moses Oyediran, Enugu

Yaba to become ICT hub, Ladipo MKt to be upgraded, says Ambode

concluded plans to turn Yaba Industrial Estate, Sabo, into a Technology Hub this year aimed at boosting innovation and creativity among youths in the state.

Governor Akinwumi Ambode, who paid an unscheduled visit to some I.C.T Centres in the area on Wednesday, said government would create the enabling environment for the youths to showcase their talents, being the future leaders.

Ambode noted that Government would tap into the value chain to drive the state’s economy alongside tourism, entertainment and Sports to create excellence for the state.

The Governor also reiterated its commitment to assisting entrepreneurs and support their concepts through the Employment Trust Fund.

Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu (right) in a handshake with the State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairman, Chief Dan Orbih, at the on-going election petition tribunal over the September 28 governorship election sitting in Benin City, Edo … on Wednesday.

Notorious kidnapper to spend 11 years in jail Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

ÏÏÏ

Daniel Okafor, alias Odogwu Anam, the kingpin of a criminal gang allegedly responsible for the spate of kidnapping in Anambra and Delta State has been convicted and sentenced to 11 years imprisonment by an Asaba High Court for attempting to kidnap an Asaba-based industrialist, on January 16, 2013.

Okafor who claimed to be the Chairman of a non-existent National Task Force on Illegal Importation of Small Arms, Light Weapons and Monitoring of Oil Pipeline Vandalism, River Niger Operations was found guilty on the charge of conspiracy to commit a felony to wit; kidnapping, punishable under section 516 of the Criminal Code Law Cap C21 Volume I, Laws of Delta State, 2006.

He was also found guilty on the count of attempted kidnap and was sentenced to a total of 11 years imprisonment with

hard labour.

The Asaba Court sentenced the accused to 5 years imprisonment on the count of conspiracy to kidnap and 6 years imprisonment on the count of the attempted kidnap of the Asaba-based industrialist.

The Court, however, discharged and acquitted the accused on the charge of attempted murder.

It would be recalled that Odogwu Anam was arrested following the confessional statement of one of the assailants, Ifeanyi Iwuno who later escaped from Police Custody after his arrest for the attempted kidnap of Chief John Ucheche on or about the January 16, 2013 at Asaba within the Asaba Judicial Division.

Ifeanyi Iwuno now at large, during Police interrogation admitted being part of the armed gang that attempted to kidnap the Asaba-based industrialist, Chief John Ucheche, and fingered Daniel Okafor, popularly known as Odogwu Anam

as the one who sent them on the mission.

It was reported that after the failed attempt to kidnap the businessman, the victim petitioned the State Commissioner of Police through his lawyer wherein he stated that his assailants were also on a mission to kill him as they fired gun shots at him which penetrated his hand and destroyed two tyres of his Lexus Sport Utility Vehicle.

Counsel to the said victim stated in the petition as follows “On the 16th of January 2013, our client was brutally shot in the hand at close range in the front of his house situate along Cable Point Area of Asaba by some unknown gunmen.

The said gunmen who came in two vehicles also riddled the tyres of his Lexus SUV which our client reported at the “B” Division Police Station but the culprits have however not been arrested” Continuing, he further stated that “Recently, our client got phone calls from an unknown person through GSM No

07083823180 who identified himself as the one who shot him.

The mysterious caller told our client that they were paid to kidnap and assassinate him, but after the failed attempt on our client’s life he had a change of heart.

He however, demanded for the sum of N5million from our client so that he can reveal the identity of the mastermind of the gruesome attack and also forestall further attacks on our client.

When Chief Okafor was eventually arrested by the Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the Nigerian Police, Asaba following the confessional statement of Iwuno, the State Police Headquarters witnessed a mammoth crowd who came to have a glimpse of the man believed to be very notorious and have the powers to become invisible as he was alleged to be the mastermind of several high profile cases of kidnapping, armed robbery and murder within Anambra and Delta State.

ÏÏÏ The Enugu High Court presided over by Justice A. O. Onovo, has fixed March 1, 2017 to commence hearing on the validity of the Prof. Enwo Igariwey led executive of Ohaneze Ndigbo to have conducted the election which ushered in Dr. John Nnia Nwodo as the new President General of the pan-Igbo socio-cultural organization.

Justice A.O. Onovo of Enugu High Court fixed March 1, 2017 to commence hearing on the matter based on the suit with number E/655/16, between Chief S.U Nwodo and two others versus Chief Enwo Igariwey and three others, brought before the court by a faction of Ohaneze Ndigbo that operates under the aegis of ‘Igbo Leaders of Thought, led by Professor Ben Nwabueze.

In the suit, the plaintiffs, Igbo Leaders of Thought are arguing that the Prof. Igariwey led executive was not the actual body entrusted to conduct the election, based on agreement they reached at Owerri, the Imo State capital when the Imo State Governor, Chief Rochas Okorocha intervened in the leadership squabbles prevailing within Ohaneze Ndigbo leadership.

The ‘Igbo Leaders of Thought’ are claiming that based on the Owerri peace agreement, it is Chief Mbazuluike Amaechi and Chief Ralph Obioha led Ohaneze caretaker committee that are entrusted with the task of conducting the Ohaneze Ndigbo election.

The Daily Times observation within the premises of Enugu state High Court, revealed that the presiding Judge Justice Onovo decision to adjourn the suit to the first day of March, was sequel to the plea by the counsel to the defendants, Chief Enwo Igariwey and group, James Ikeyi [SAN] demanding that the 42 days of notice of service on his clients has not expired as against the request of the counsel to the plaintiffs, Chief Elechi Onyia [SAN] for the commencement of hearing on the suit.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Politics

Saraki

9

s

Ndume

Lawan

Marafa

Change of Senate Leader: Saraki, Marafa say no crisis in upper chamber Patrick Okohue As the nation still ponders over the reasons behind the removal of the former Senate Majority Leader, Sen. Ali Ndume by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Senate caucus and his replacement by Senator Ahmed Lawan, and the possible backlash that might follow, the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, has dismissed insinuations that there was social discontent in the Senate over the removal.

Saraki had on Tuesday announced that the All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus in the Senate in a letter to the Senate leadership had replaced Ndume (APC-Borno) with Senator Lawan (APCYobe).

The Senate President, who spoke to State House correspondents after a closed door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)said: “The institution is bigger than every senator.

“There is no crisis in the National Assembly, things like this do happen and as you said the institution is bigger than everybody and I am sure that he and everybody else will always work for the interest of the institution and for the interest of the country. Everything is calm, solid and fine.’’

Saraki also dismissed the assertion in some quarters that Ndume was sacrificed, saying “do I look like someone that does things like that?”

Also reacting to the development, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Petroleum(Downstream), Kabiru Marafa, said the removal of Ndume as Majority Leader was not based on his stand on Acting Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC), Mr Ibrahim Magu, as being insinuated in some quarters.

Marafa said on Wednesday in Abuja that it was the prerogative of the political party to appoint or reject any principal officer as contained in Senate’s Standing Rules.

He declined to give further reasons for Ndume’s removal, but said that 40 All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmakers appended their signature in favour of the action “based on different reasons’’.

…I have accepted my fate -Ndume

According to Mafara, who is spokesman, Unity Forum, a faction of APC senators in support of new Senate Leader, Ahmed Lawan, the important thing is that the lawmakers that appended their signatures wanted Ndume removed.

“The assertion that Ndume was removed because of Magu’s case is not true because he didn’t do for Magu as much as I did for Magu.

“I am not from the same place with Magu as Ndume is but I fought for him.

“I am doing the APC bidding in the Senate and as long as it is not against the Constitution, I am here to protect it.

“The President submitted Magu’s name and I worked for Magu and a lot of senators did,’’ he said.

However, Sen. Ndume has said that he has accepted his removal from the position, which he assumed on June 9, 2015.

Ndume spoke of his acceptance of his accepted his fate in a point of order raised at plenary on Wednesday, a day after he was dramatically replaced by Sen. Ahmed Lawan (APC-Yobe).

Ndume, who quoted Order 43, said that the Senate was an institution that must be protected by lawmakers. He thanked his colleagues for the confidence reposed in him, while he served them as Majority Leader.

According to him, the Senate is an institution that must be protected through obedience to Senate rules and the traditions.

Ndume said that as a senator, he was not better than any of his colleagues, adding that they are all

equal in the Senate.

He noted that he was not found wanting during his tenure as the Senate Leader of which he was grateful to God. “As far as I know, I have not done anything, and then just like that, the Senate caucus has the right to say they have lost confidence in me.

“To the best of my knowledge, I did not do anything. But as I said, since my colleagues, consciously, 40 of them signed. In fact, if the number of those that lost confidence in me is not up to this number, and I’m made to know, I will resign because I did not become a Senate Leader whose lawmakers have no confidence in.

“But as I said, since you have lost confidence in me, even if it is ten of you, then I have no moral ground to continue to lead this Senate, because that means there are some people that are not with me.”

Ndume, however, urged the APC caucus to give room to members who had erred for fair hearing.

“Distinguished colleagues, henceforth if any of our colleagues errs in one way or the order, he should be given the chance to say, look this is what you did. Therefore, we have lost confidence in you.

“I thank God that since there is nothing, I’m grateful for that.

“So I thank you for the opportunity given to me to have served as the Senate Leader and I wish Sen. Ahmed Lawan the best of service to this institution.”

In his remark, Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, who presided over plenary noted

To the best of my knowledge, I did not do anything. But as I said, since my colleagues, consciously, 40 of them signed. In fact, if the number of those that lost confidence in me is not up to this number, and I’m made to know, I will resign because I did not become a Senate Leader whose lawmakers have no confidence in

that the services Ndume had rendered to the National Assembly could not be wished away.

He urged him to continue to offer his services to the Senate and people of his constituency.

“We are conscious of your efforts in the NorthEast in the role you played in ensuring that the humanitarian crisis was being addressed.

“I congratulate you for the manner in which you accepted the true position of things and we assure that we will all continue to work harmoniously for the good of our country.”

But, reacting to Ndume’s acceptance of his removal, Marafa commended him for his sportsmanship.

However, he faulted him for claiming that due process was not followed in his removal.

According to Marafa, we as a Senate are guided by our rules; whatever we do are guided by our rules and those rules are offshoot of the Constitution.

“Section 60 of the Constitution gives us the right to regulate our own procedure anyhow we want to do it. The moment we say this is how we want to do it, we have a responsibility to do it that way.

“If you go back to Order 32, Section 6, you will see how principal officers can be removed.

“It says you can remove them by majority, it didn’t say you have to be consulted.

“This is unlike the executive officers like the President and governors. The Constitution says that you have to confront them with your allegations. You cannot just sit down and impeach a governor,’’ he said.

The lawmaker urged newsmen to always carry out their findings before reporting on any matter of public interest to avoid misleading the people.

He called on them to equally interpret rules correctly to avoid misinterpretation when same rules were applied in different situations.

He said, “If tomorrow something happens to someone, people won’t say we are applying the rules selectively or that when we were dealing with Ndume we violated the rules and followed the rules in another instance.

“We followed the due process.’’

Politics 10

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Buhari means well for Niger Delta, says Ndoma-Egba Tony Ailemen, Abuja Chairman of the Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission and former Senate Leader, Senator Ndoma- Egba, has called on all sons and daughters of that region to rally round President Muhammadu Buhari, saying that the President means well for the region.

Ndoma-Egba, who was leader of the 7th Senate, stated this in a message signed by the Special Assistant on Communications to the NDDC Chairman, Mrs. Clara Braide.

The NDDC chairman, who was speaking on the Niger Delta issues with newsmen shortly after returning from Ghana where he was a special guest of the Ghanian Parliament, encouraged stakeholders to continue to support the government of President Muhammadu Buhari in the various palliative measures and developmental initiatives in ensuring peace, security and development in the region.

He noted that the improved budgetary allocation to the NDDC and other related ministries and agencies, was a further proof of President Buhari’s good intentions towards the Niger Delta Region.

He therefore called on all Stakeholders to join hands with the Governing Board and Management of NDDC ‘to build the Niger Delta of our dreams...A truly peaceful, secure, de-

Ndoma-Egba

veloped and prosperous Region.’

Senate Ndoma-Egba was specially invited to Ghana by the Speaker of the Ghanian Parliament Prof Aaron Mike Ocquaye to a special sitting of the 7th Parliament of the 4th Republic of Ghana.

He also personally witnessed the inauguration of the President of the 4th Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and his Vice, Dr. Alhaji Mahumudu Bawumia, on Saturday, January 7, 2017.

Speaking with journalists on re-

turn, Ndoma-Egba congratulated the newly sworn-in Ghanian President, pointing out that Nigeria and Ghana share common historical antecedents.

He commended President Buhari for his pivotal role in ensuring peaceful co-existence and good bilateral relations between Nigeria and other African countries.

He expressed confidence that both leaders would continue to cooperate and act in their countries common interest in ensuring a united and prosperous African continent.

Speaker queries non-remittance of funds into state’s reserve account Speaker of the Cross River House of Assembly, Hon John Lebo has described the non deduction and remittance of the state’s share of funds into the reserved funds account in 2016 as a disservice to the state.

Lebo stated this on Wednesday in Calabar when the Commissioner for Finance, Mr Asuquo Ekpeyong appeared before the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation to defend the Ministry’s 2017 Budget proposals.

According to him, if deductions from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are minimal such money can be collated and paid into the state’s reserve account at the end of the year.

He stressed the need for the state to keep the production integrity of making funds available for the reserve account.

Lebo pointed out that there was no month in 2016 that the state paid salaries on zero allocation either to state or local government workers.

He said that the House was willing to pass a resolution to source money to fund the reserve account.

“Rather than having as little as N400 million remitted in a whole year from local government alone,

‘’ he said.

He said that reserve funds were necessary for the state government to fall back on in order to accomplish its laudable projects for the benefit of the people.

The Speaker further frowned at the attitude of some MDAs that engaged in collecting revenue when revenue collection was not part of their statutory responsibility.

He called on the ministry to coordinate all revenue generating MDAs to meet with members of the Assembly to find a way of strengthening and streamlining their operations for effective revenue collection.

Hon Eteng William, the Chairman, Finance and Appropriation Committee commended the Speaker on his concerns on revenue generation and the state’s reserve fund.

Williams said that the Assembly would not hesitate to withdraw the confirmation of any head of MDA that failed to appear before the Finance and Appropriation Committee to defend its budget proposals.

“Every MDA must submit relevant documents that will facilitate the budget process toward its passage into law,” he said. (NAN)

Ize-Iyamu tasks FG on Southern Kaduna killings Titus Akhigbe, Benin

Political leaders, clerics throng Kure’s final journey Saka Bolaji, Minna Political associates, members of the executive council that served during his eight year rule and sympathisers from across the country yesterday stormed the Minna GRA residence of the former Niger State governor, Abdukadir Kure to bid him farewell.

League of Imams led by the Chief Imam of Minna, Sheikh Ibrahim Abu Fari had earlier in the morning conducted a special prayer session on the remains of the former governor and for his family.

The cleric prayer session was a follow up to series of prayers which was kick started by the Etsu Lapai, Alh. Umar Bago Tafida, Estu Agaie, Alh. Yusuf Nuhu and Emir of Minna, Alh. Farouq Bahago after his body arrived Minna on Tuesday night.

Many dignitaries took turn to

offer prayers on the remains of the former governor before his body was driven to the Eid-praying ground for Janizar prayers.

The early callers include former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ibrahim Mantu, former governor of Sokoto, Alh. Attahiru Bafarawa, former Minister

late Kure

of Information, Professor Jerry Gana, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and former Minister of Defence, Alh. Yayale Ahmed and Daar Communication Chairman, Chief Raymond Dokepsi.

Others include Colonel Habibu Shuaibu, former military administrator of the state, Dr. Shem Nuhu Zagbayi, former deputy governor of the state, serving and former members of the national and state assembly and political leaders from different political parties.

The body was later brought out of the house at about 11:24am. It was an herculean task to ferry the body through a distance of less than 10 metres from the house to the ambulance, as it took more than 6 minutes, as people surge in to have a last touch of the body.

The shout of “Allahu kabar” rented the air as both men and women broke down in tears.

The presiding pastor, Trinity Sanctuary of the Redeemed Christian church of God, Benin-City, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has called on the Federal Government to, immediately, set up a judicial panel of enquiry to look into the remote and immediate cause or causes of the current crisis rocking the Northern part of Nigeria, especially southern Kaduna where Christians were reported to have been killed.

In his homily at the 2017 New Year thanksgiving service in Benin City, Pastor Ize Iyamu said the Federal Government should act in a proactive manner with a view to stopping the carnage in Kaduna State.

The clergy, who was also the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the just concluded elections in Edo State, said the judicial panel of enquiry should investigate, among other things, the remote cause, the source of ammunition, the support base, and other related issues, with a view to providing lasting solution and restoring peace in southern Kaduna and other troubled areas of

Iyamu

Nigeria.

Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu said a non- complacent attitude of any government in times like this will certainly paint a picture of complicity which Nigeria does not need now.

He however called on Christians to intensify prayers against the forces of darkness working against the peace and economic growth of Nigeria.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

11 Politics

Ohaneze calls for re-structuring of Nigeria The apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohaneze Ndigbo, has called for political and economic restructuring of the country to facilitate economic recovery and development.

The immediate past president of the group, Chief Gary EnwoIgariwey, who made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Enugu on Wednesday, said that in the early days of the country, all regions, as well as the country, had rapid development due to the nation’s

political and economic structure.

“Then, there was a great patriotism which moved production and development from the region to the centre, ensuring that each region specialised in what it can produce on comparative advantage.

“Most of the development in the North and that regions establishment was made possible through massive cultivation and export of groundnut.

“The South-West profited greatly from cocoa sales leading to economic and educational expansion

of that zone.

“In the South-East and SouthSouth, palm produce provided the tonic to keep Ndigbo’s economy and entrepreneurial-drive striving,’’ he said.

The Ohaneze chieftain said that the group, through various representatives, even took the need for restructuring to the 2014 National Conference in Abuja.

“The President-General, Secretary-General and some members of Ohaneze played prominent roles in the 2014 National Confer-

ence at Abuja, where we demanded for restructuring of Nigeria to reflect true federalism.

“We also demanded for fiscal federalism; devolution of powers, responsibilities and resources from the Federal Government to the federating unit and citizenship rights, among others,” EnwoIgariwey said.

He expressed confidence that with the entrepreneurial and fighting-spirit of an Igbo-man, the Ndigbo would do well under a restructured Nigeria.

Gary Enwo-Igariwey,

Group commends INEC for prosecuting 61 electoral offenders

Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (2nd left), former Minister of Communication; Mobola Johnson (middle); Commissioner for Establishment & Training, Dr. Akintola Benson (2nd right); Commissioner for Wealth Creation & Employment, Dr. Babatunde Durosanmi-Etti (right) and Special Adviser on Urban Development, Mrs. Yetunde Onabule (left) during the governor’s inspection visit to Oyadiran Industrial Estate at Industrial Avenue, Yaba, Lagos, yesterday

The Nasarawa Local Government Area of Kano State has proposed a budget of N5.9 billion for the 2017 fiscal year.

The council chairman, Laminu Sani disclosed this on Wednesday while addressing newsmen shortly after defending the proposed budget before the legislators.

Sani said the key areas of the budget included education, provision of potable drinking water and youth empowerment.

He said that if the goals were achieved, especially the provision of quality education and youth empowerment, it would contribute to the reduction of unemployment in the state.

Similarly, Rano Local Government Area of the state has also proposed N3.5 billion for the 2017 fiscal year.

Kano councils present 2017 budget to state Assembly The chairman of the local government, Alhaji Ubale Dan-kawu said this also when he appeared before the State Assembly to defend the proposed budget.

According to Dan-kawu, the council had given more attention to agriculture, women empowerment and education.

“The main reason we are giving more priority to agriculture is to comply with President Muhammadu Buhari’s efforts in diverting from dependence on petroleum to agriculture,” Dan-kawu said.

According to him, providing quality education was one of the measures to be

SSG lauds Bello for reviving Kogi transport coy The Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Mrs Folashade Ayoade, has commended Gov. Yahaya Bello for resuscitating the state-owned transport company.

Ayoade gave the commendation in Lokoja on Wednesday while inaugurating 10 new buses provided for `Confluence Express’ by the state government to boost the operations of the firm.

The Secretary said the buses were provided to assist the company in its effort to serve

the populace better.

She thanked the governor for keeping his promise to revitalise the transport company and other moribund establishments in the state.

Ayoade told the management of the company to work harder to transform the firm, to meet the expectations of the populace.

She said that government was working hard to make the state a showpiece in the federation. (NAN)

focused on to make a great impact on the youths in the state.

“When you empower women, it is just like you empower the society, therefore, there is the need we focus more on their empowerment too,” he said, adding that the council had taken concrete measures to improve its revenue base. (NAN)

A group, “Say No Campaign (SNC)” has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for successfully prosecuting 61 electoral offenders for various offences during the 2015 general elections.

The Programme Officer, SNC, Mrs Tracy Keshi, who gave the commendation in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja, said that electoral offences remained a major threat to credible, free and fair elections in a country like Nigeria, where elections tend to heighten political tension and trigger violence. `Say No Campaign’ is a platform of concerned Nigerians fighting against corruption, impunity and other governance challenges in Nigeria.

According to her, an active justice system for prosecution of electoral offenders remains critical to ensure a decrease in the level of electoral impunity and a reversal in the persistent trend of electoral offences.

Keshi said that prosecution of electoral offenders remained an electoral reform issues that required addressing, especially considering the burden on INEC to deliver on a wide mandate.

She commended the commission for taking active steps to prosecute offenders.

Keshi also said such efforts, in the long run, would not only deter electoral offenders, but also build confidence in the commission.

She stressed that the SNC was committed to electoral accountability and pledged continuous support to INEC as “it undertakes its work to guarantee credible, free and fair elections in the country.”

APC warns Ondo civil servants against last minute looting The All Progressives Congress (APC) has warned civil servants in Ondo State against looting the resources of the state.

Giving the warning in a statement in Akure on Wednesday, the APC Publicity Secretary in the state, Mr Abayomi Adesanya, advised that civil servants should not connive with outgoing political officers to divert resources of the state.

Adesanya said such last minute looting of public resources would have repercussions on them in future.

“We have been adequately briefed that some political office holders are seriously mounting pressure on permanent secretaries to coerce

them into signing and perfecting their looting documents viz-a-viz cheques, contract papers.

Some of them have refused to bow to these antics.

“The tenancy of Gov. Olusegun Mimiko in Alagbaka Government House is due to expire 43 days from now.

“Therefore, senior civil servants and directors, especially permanent secretaries, should be extremely careful in dealing with the prodigious acts of an expiring government.

“It is satanic, callous, criminal, contemptible and a deliberate act of sabotage for individuals to attempt to steal public funds as valedictory gifts for themselves,’’ he said.

News 12 Saraki: FG to call 4 more witnesses Jan 17 Andrew Orolua Abuja

ÏÏÏ The trial of the Senate Pres-

ident, Senator Bukola Saraki, over false assets declaration resumed yesterday at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), with the prosecution promising to call four more witnesses at the next adjourned date.

Lead prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN) had applied for one week adjournment on the ground that his other witnesses, who were supposed to come from Lagos were not around to testify yesterday.

Consequently, chairman, CCT, Danladi Umar, adjourned the matter till January 17 for continuation of trial and for the prosecution to introduce the second witness.

Recall that since the trial commenced early last year, the prosecution has succeeded in introducing only the prosecution witness 1 (PW 1), Mr. Michael Wetkas, as the defence took a long time to cross-examine the witness.

However, pressure from the prosecution forced the defence team to close its cross-examination shortly before the tribunal proceeded on Christmas holidays in December.

At the resumed hearing yesterday, Wetkas told the tribunal that the Lagos State Land Registry did not have the record of existence of properties at 15a and 15b, MacDonald Street, Ikoyi, allegedly belonging to the Senate President.

Wetkas added that the investigating team he led was told in writing by the Lagos Land Registry that the existence of the said properties was not in their record. The witness, who was re-examined by the lead prosecution counsel, Jacobs, based on his earlier evidence-in-chief admitted that EFCC based its assumption that Saraki owned the properties on the claim of a presidential committee on sales of the federal government owned properties.

Wetkas said that his investigating team was informed by the presidential committee that Saraki bought the properties through a company, Carlse Investment Property, when he was the executive governor of Kwara State.

Jacobs had re-cross examined the witness based on ambiguity and confusion on the identities of the properties linked to Saraki but the witness maintained that he did not go to the federal land registry to clarify issues on the disputed property ownership.

Daily Times Nigeria j ƑƏ Ɨ ƕè C Ƒ Əƕ ơƾè ƾƠơƣ

Senate seeks policy reversal on car importation Continued from page 1 The Senate during Wednesday plenary, rejected the idea through a motion titled, “The Ban on Importation of Vehicles through the Land Borders into the Country” and sponsored by Senator Barau Jibrin (Kano North) and four others.

Barau in his lead debate noted that the ban would lead to the loss of about 500,000 jobs by the people engaged in the business of vehicles importation and handling services in the border areas and around the country.

He noted also that the economy of the border villages and towns that depend on activities of vehicle importation shall be adversely affected to the detriment of all.

He said, “Since the announcement, through the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigerians have spoken out, and they still do, that it is not economically expedient to ban importation of vehicles through our land borders given the ramification of such a policy on the economy.

He said, “The decision was ostensibly premised on the allegation that importation of vehicles through the land borders no longer hold good prospect for revenue generation because of the large scale evasion of import duties.

“Rather than stop or suspend the importation of vehicles through our land borders as envisaged in the new policy, it would make better economic sense to allow for the importation of ve-

hicles through one entry border post in each geopolitical zone that has international land border in the country.

“This will allow for better monitoring and control by the Customs Service, as the land border posts shall become fewer to handle by the Nigerian Customs Service compared to the current situation.”

The Senators, in their contributions, all expressed support for the motion, canvassing for reversal of the governments’ policy in

the interim.

Senator Ali Ndume, in his contribution, said: “Let us not forget the fact that the constitution says the primary responsibility of government is for the security and welfare of the people. This policy will render so many small businesses useless. My constituents are disturbing me to ensure that this policy is reversed.

“Why can’t Nigeria look at its policy to ensure that our laws are reformed? The era where people stay in their offices and make pol-

icies that are detrimental to the welfare of the people is wrong. I call on this Senate to pass this motion with teeth. This resolution should be implemented when passed.”

Dino Melaye said: “We are in a precarious situation in this country. We are at a time when people live and not sure where the next meal will come from. This government needs to consider the welfare of the people. In enacting any policy, we must look at the social impacts.

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N400m Fraud: Metuh asks court to summon Dasuki as his witness Andrew Orolua, Abuja

ÏÏÏ The

embattled former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh, has asked Justice Okon Abang of the Abuja division of the Federal High Court to summon former National Security Adviser [NSA], Col. Sambo Dasuki, to appear before the court and testify as his witness in the N400m fraud charges against him.

Metuh is standing trial alongside his company, Destra Investment Limited, on a 7-count charge of fraud to the tune of N400m slammed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission [EFCC].

Dasuki himself is standing multiple trials at both the Federal High Court and the High Court

of the Federal Capital Territory [FCT] over charges bordering on the handling of the funds earmarked for the purchase of arms to prosecute the war against insurgency.

Although Metuh’s application seeking to summon Dasuki as his witness was filed on December 2, 2016, it has not been signed by Justice Abang.

The application, which was brought pursuant to section 241 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act [ACJA], 2015, titled “Witness Summons was addressed to Col. Sambo Dasuki c/o the Department of State Security Services [DSS], Abuja.

The document read “You are hereby summoned to appear before the Federal High Court, Abuja, No. 10 presided by Justice Okon Abang on December 5, 2016 to testify what you know in such

matter and tender relevant documents.”

When Metuh’s counsel, Emeka Etiaba [SAN] drew attention of the court on the issue of the subpoena and the fact that it has not been signed, Justice Okon simply told him to discuss the issue with the relevant authorities holding his proposed witness [Dasuki], including the prosecution counsel, Sylvanus Tahir.

Justice Abang said; “discuss the issue with the authorities holding him and I am sure they will cooperate with you. You should also involve the prosecution counsel.”

If at the end of the day, the subpoena is granted, Dasuki will be summoned to testify as the 7th defence witness.

Meanwhile, the trial of Metuh was further stalled yesterday following his absence in court on medical grounds.

When the case was called, his counsel, Etiaba [SAN] produced a medical report from the National Hospital, Abuja signed by Dr. Charles Ugwuanyi, a neurosurgical with the hospital.

The report disclosed that Metuh was on admission at the hospital over some complex health issues.

Although, the medical report did not indicate the period Metuh will be on admission, his counsel sought for a three weeks adjournment of the case.

Responding, the prosecution counsel said he had no objection for the application for an adjournment since there was a medical report before the court.

Tahir noted that it was not sufficient to merely say the 1st defendant was ill without a medical report, adding “but now, the right thing has been done by placing the medical report before the court.”

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

13

14 Opinion

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Unmasking the Ruse of Law: An outlook for Nigeria in 2017

T

Chidi Odinkalu

hree things defined Nigeria’s legal system in 2016. One, the economy went into negative growth, afflicting every sector with deficits of both expectations and of outcomes.

Second, a pattern began to emerge suggesting that the administration of President Buhari appears to work to a default setting of quick-fix martial solutions to many problems. Third, the anti-corruption campaign of the administration suffered some reversals and navigated unpredicted turns, producing on the whole uneven outcomes. These occurred amidst significant transitions and institutional uncertainty at the highest levels of the administration of justice in Nigeria, including the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force and the office of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

The result was a year in which there was arguably a lot of rule but not much law. The challenge for Nigeria’s legal system in 2017 will be restoring some modicum of functionality to and belief in the rule of law. 2017 could well be the year for unmasking the ruse of law.

2016 was not an easy year by any stretch for Nigeria’s legal system or for its operators and users. A steep economic downturn left adverse imprints on many areas of economic and professional life, including legal practice and the delivery of judicial services. It is difficult to underestimate the effect that this had on standards of legal and judicial services. In many states, courts were shut down for long periods over non-payment of the salaries of court personnel. In December 2016, it was reported that over 500 or nearly half of the judges of Superior Courts of Record in Nigeria were owed salaries. The irony of this happening in the middle of a muchtouted fight against corruption in the judiciary will not be lost on many.

This provides an interesting context to the issue of corruption in the judiciary generally. In 2016, President Buhari was quite voluble about his dissatisfaction with the judiciary. It appeared evident in the course of the year that the administration was not too happy with the outcome of several governorship election petitions.

Quite apart from these, the security services were equally seething from adverse judicial orders in several high profile cases, including those involving former National Security Adviser (NSA), Sambo Dasuki; selfproclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu; the leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigerian (IMN), Sheikh El-Zakzaky; and retired senior Air Force officer, Air Commodore Umar Mohammed. All these men were under prolonged detention. Following a lead telegraphed by the president in a much–publicised media encounter, the security services would proceed in 2016 to serially disregard judicial orders for their release or production.

The methods of the administration divided opinion. In October 2016, the State Security Service (SSS), a secre-

tive secret police established under a 30 year-old military decree that still precludes judicial supervision, carried out midnight raids on the residences of seven senior judges, following which it put out various claims alleging sundry acts of corruption against the affected judges.

Curiously, some of the judges affected by these raids had issued orders against the security services in the cases involving Dasuki, Kanu, and Umar Mohammed, which orders the security services chose to disobey. One of the judges would later allege that he and his household were physically assaulted during these raids, which were carried out without lawful authority. His case files were seized and had not been returned by the end of the year. Another equally alleged that the raid was reprisal for complaints that he had previously made against the professional standards of the current Attorney-General of the Federation when he was in private practice some years ago in Kano; and at least two others alleged that the measures were in retaliation for their refusal of approaches from senior regime actors designed to compromise their judicial roles. Two of the judges have since been arraigned, with trials scheduled to begin early in 2017.

In separate cases, by the end of the year, at least three Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) were also under trial on various charges of criminal misconduct, as was the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court. Several more were under investigation for suspiciously ostentatious payments that did not pass the smell test, made to senior judicial figures.

By the end of the year, the fight against corruption had ensnared its chief priests. The Senate nixed the nomination of a Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, himself the current incumbent in an acting capacity in the seat – after a report from the SSS alleging corrupt practices against him.

The arrest of the judges arguably had one positive upshot. They put the National Judicial Council (NJC),

which has responsibility for judicial discipline, under the spotlight, forcing it to take a more serious view of its remit.

There was one clear downside, however. Notwithstanding the undoubted successes of the administration in rolling back the Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East of Nigeria, the footprint of unlawful violence had ramified. The administration appeared to believe increasingly in the power of martial solutions beyond the reach of judicial oversight. During the course of the year, security agencies under the control of the federal government admitted to killing over 347 people and burying all of them in a mass grave in the Mando (Kaduna) following their December 2015 encounter with the IMN in Zaria, Kaduna State.

Allegations of mass killings by security agencies equally were made in operations in different parts of SouthEast and South-South Nigeria.

Elections had also become sights of deadly violence, with serious allegations of malfeasance dogging the role of the armed forces, police and security agencies generally in the Rivers State re-run elections on Human Rights Day in 2016. By the end of the year, the unsolved massacres in Southern Kaduna were dominating the news. One human rights group claimed that violence had accounted for over 9,000 unlawful killings, mostly by regime agents, during the 18 months of the administration.

2016 began with a new AttorneyGeneral of the Federation settling into office after taking the ministerial oath in November 2015. By the middle of the year, the country witnessed the appointment of a new Inspector-General of Police, whose elevation was paved by a mass cull of over thirty other police officers said to be senior to him in the service.

It was a mixed year for the Bar and for Senior Advocates. Many senior lawyers faced uncomfortable questions about their integrity with some arraigned on shameful allegations of corrupt criminality. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), elected a new

President, Abubakar Mahmoud, himself a Senior Advocate, on a promise of installing a #BraveNewBar. One of his predecessors, Rotimi Akeredolu, also a Senior Advocate, was elected the Governor of Ondo State, in a contest in which all the leading candidates were lawyers. The year ended with the passing of major figures in Nigeria’s legal profession including pioneering legal publisher and researcher, Deji Sasegbon; and former General Secretary of the NBA, Obi Okwusogu, both much admired Senior Advocates.

By the end of the year, the judiciary was in an inconclusive transition. Following the retirement of the Chief Justice of the Federation in November 2016, the president dithered in transmitting a request for his replacement to the Senate for confirmation.

In the end, he took the unprecedented step of appointing a Chief Justice in acting capacity, and a Presidency spokesperson is reported to have claimed that the appointment was on “probation”. This is tenable for a constitutionally limited duration of three months. Rumours of an effort to “pack” the Supreme Court and other Superior Courts gained strength during the year but failed to materialise.

The question of succession to the office of Chief Justice will be high on the agenda of Nigeria’s institutions in 2017.

All this suggests that 2017 will be a significant, if trying year for Nigeria’s legal, judicial and institutional systems. There will be major decisions to take, none more important in its implications than the fate of the office of the Chief Justice of the Federation. With the judiciary under pressure, this is an important transition and how the administration manages it will go a long way to telegraphing its inclinations.

The consequences could cascade into many areas, including determining the fate of the senior judges and lawyers under trial on various allegations of criminal mis-conduct linked to corruption and abuse of power.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

15 Opinion

Asking G.Os to step down is overkill

T

Tope Fasua

he Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) has a bad reputation among most Nigerians for being a power-hungry organisation. It has tried to put in place a onesize-fits-all corporate governance code which checked.

The challenge with religion in Nigeria is two-pronged. Each major religion has its own issues. The Christians proliferate and many smart Alecs have seen these as money making ventures. The Muslims suffer from a proliferation of sects – one of these became Boko Haram. Another is being brutally put down

by El-Rufai. Too many exist up north, undocumented. We recall Maitatsine. Reasonable Muslims are afraid of those sects. Boko Haram has killed more Muslims by far, than any other group has.

So the issues are not merely financial. Where does the FRC come in? Why not have holistic approaches to this issue? When a company registers at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) as a Limited Liability, because it intends to make profit, FIRS takes over. When a church or mosque or NGO registers at the

same CAC, who takes over? And FRC cannot fit the bill because the issue is not about money alone.

As a matter of fact, of late, many of the mushrooming churches don’t even bother going to CAC, or advertising their Board of Trustees for 21 days as required. All those who used to stay at bus stops performing magic and robbing people have turned into pastors. Some stay small, but make money. Our people have a quirk in their DNA that makes them believe some of these things. Poverty also does not help.

FRC can ‘force’ G.Os to step down, shebi that is when you know of the church’s corporate existence? They will only battle the large churches and Buhari will draw a lot of flak for that, and notably it will be called ‘Church persecution”.

The problem with Boko Haram is not money. Yes some people fund them and give them arms, and nothing has been said about those.

Boko Haram even attacks the poor and never the rich. They kill people at bus stops and mosques and such places. They are blind to the mansions of the rich who have been reveling in lavish ceremonies lately. So we know Boko Haram’s footprints, but we dont know the truth about them. If Boko Haram had been documented when they started, and we

knew who their trustees are, people like Ali Modu will not be denying that he never knew them at all.

What we need is a comprehensive approach to religion, which has of late gutted this country in more ways than one. Religion divides us down the middle – especially the Middle Eastern ones. For many adherents, anyone who doesn’t believe the way they do is hell-bound, and they are ready to dispatch you there immediately. It is a sad issue.

So the issue is not about forcing GOs to step down. That is overkill.

Even in the UK, as strict as they are, I don’t think they force the head of religious organisations to step down. Why demote a man in the organisation he started to become a shopfloor member?

Why must a Mike Okonkwo, or Oyedepo, if they are still strong and charismatic, suddenly be retired in the work of the Lord?

Those who know ‘spiritual’ things will call this an abomination. I don’t know much about such. The issue is clearly not about how long they stay as the head of the organisations they create. And churches or mosques do not trade with government money, so the limit to effecting changes in their headship should really not arise. NEVER MEDDLE THAT MUCH IN THEIR

Assessing the FG amnesty programme

O

Dele Aghakemeh

n Thursday, last week, leaders of the Niger Delta met at Kiagbodo, hometown of Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin K. Clark in Delta State to reflect on recent developments. Rising from the meeting, the leaders warned the presidency to show more concern towards the growing impatience, occasioned in Nigeria’s crude oil belt, by the delay in the proposed dialogue between government and regional stakeholders, aimed at bringing lasting peace to the troubled region. The delay by the Federal Government in firming up a peace deal with the stakeholders, the leaders said, could reverse the gains of the current ceasefire.

However, while the meeting was holding in Kiagbodo, the government made good its promise to pay the stipends promised to the Niger Delta militants under the amnesty programme. Though only the first batch of beneficiaries were paid their August and September stipends, plans are said to be underway to complete the payment for the second and third batches of militants under the programme. This is a commendable development.

The Amnesty Programme was conceptualised to embody a social agenda that will underpin the health, education, employment, sense of fulfilment and the general well-being

of all the people of the Niger Delta region, either directly or indirectly.

On the whole, the government was expected to recognise the inviolability of an existing social contract between it and the people’s rights, responsibilities and with promises to deliver the basic necessities as a pre-requisite for decent human existence.

In spite of the huge revenue from the exploration and exploitation of crude oil and gas which are found in abundance in the bowels of the Niger Delta region, it is quite appalling that the travails of existence in that region have assumed a gargantuan proportion. This is the paradox.

The dynamics and the increasing incidence of poverty and want in Nigeria, especially in the Niger Delta, have stratified and polarised the society into opposing camps of haves and have-nots; educated and uneducated; north and south etc. The resulting tensions and other social conflicts are eroding the fabric that has held the society together over the decades. Therefore, it is very important to state that the challenge is not only to institute reformative measures to jumpstart and boost the nation’s economic growth alone, but also, there is the need to empower the people of the Niger Delta.

It is in fulfilment of the government’s social contract with the people of the Niger Delta region

that a programme like the Amnesty Programme becomes one of the veritable means of redressing the retrogressive legacies of the past. It must be noted that the programme is not an end in itself or solely designed to financially empower the core leaders of the various militant groups dotting the creeks of the Niger Delta or their sorely aggrieved foot-soldiers.

In empowering the ex-militants through sponsored training and education in selected schools and technical centres at home and abroad, the Amnesty Programme has contributed, in no small measure, to strengthening the Niger Delta, through the training of the ex-militants in technical, vocational, liberal and entrepreneurial education to meet the region’s manpower needs.

A veritable testimonial in reference to the contribution of the PAP to the human capital development of the Niger Delta region is the recent graduation of 51 ex-militants from Novena University, Ogume, in Delta State, with seven (7) beneficiaries graduating in the second-class upper division.

As in all human endeavours, it has not been smooth-sailing in some crucial aspects of the programme.

There are reported cases where many ex-militants were not paid their stipends for months on end. It is gratifying to note that under the new leadership of the programme,

AFFAIRS! What we need is a CHARITY COMMISSION that will be on ground and do its work, DOCUMENTING these organisations, putting some sanity into their activities. It is not only about money or about the Christians alone.

Let us think about the ramifications of this problem. Think about churches that ‘pastors’ use as fronts for armed robbery, printing of fake currencies, the receipt of stolen goods, baby factories, and other crimes. Then think of churches where they drive nails in children’s heads, and chain them down for months because they are ‘witches’. Think of those ‘pastors’, like the one in Akwa Ibom, who claimed on camera to have killed more than 1,400 people who are witches. Think of the effect on productivity in the land as our young and strong people take to ‘preaching’ and making money, while no one actually produces anything tangible. Someone told me last week, that a large proportion of relief funds sent up North-East is being used to build mosques.

Nothing wrong with that, only that there are no hospitals, no schools, etc. The idea is to hasten people’s journey to heaven right? There is problem in the land.

safer and more accountable measures are being put in place.

As Nigeria enters the eighth year of the PAP, there are indications that it may be wound up this year, 2017.

But there are also signs and palpable presidential body-language that it may either be reviewed with more ex-militants being inducted into the scheme as a precautionary measure against the simmering unease degenerating into a full-scale war or confrontation.

It is also imperative that additional funding should be injected into the programme as a prime factor that will drive the key area of human capital development, which is multidimensional in scope.

The Amnesty Programme needs more funding at this point in time, more than ever before, as more emphasis and premium is being placed on creating a well-educated and trained cadre of ex-militants who are proficient in their various disciplines.

As a matter of policy, the limited employment opportunities open to the beneficiaries of the diverse human capital development schemes of the programme should be bridged through the provision of attractive starter-packs inclusive of soft loans (or given gratis) and technical advice on self-employment etc, which will, in turn, create employment windows within the region.

16

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Features

17

s

Nigeria will regroup when there’ll be no more money to share — Bakare

Gbubemi God’s Covenant Snr “Winning election in Nigeria is one thing; governing is another kettle of fish. As far as National Assembly is concerned, let me share my thoughts with you,” began fiery founder of the Latter Rain Assembly and convener of Save Nigeria Group, SNG, Pastor Tunde Bakare on Sunday, following his hourlong broadcast on the state-of-the-nation.

Current outlook “When there’s no more money to share-and we don’t have more than between now and April before these things will begin to be glaring, even to the blind, (they will return to the table and think again), because, if we can’t get loan from anywhere and there’s no way to sustain it (the system-jamboree), a Constitution that will not bend will break.

“It’s nothing, but enlightened self-interest for our nation to regroup now–and it can be done. We’ve documented it, and we’ve seen it: Look, we won’t talk about that which we have not seen, heard, or handled.

“You may ask: Will this government do it? I pray so-and I hope so. But that it will not be done? Forget it: it has to be done for us to make progress. To be honest with you, I put them on the same pedestrian pari pasu, the council of corruption and this huge drain pipe are hindering the growth and development of Nigeria.

“What goes into recurrent expenditure is not more than has been stolen by corruption; that’s why I said surgery is bet-

ter than tragedy; and we cannot continue to treat cancer with Panadol.”

Buhari’s administration Comparing Buhari’s administration with that of Moses and Joshua, Pastor Bakare painted graphic picture of the similarity between the two thus: “There are people who believe that Moses did not get to the Promised Land, that’s not accurate. He got there, divided the land for two-and-half tribes; but because he was representing the Law, he did not cross Jordan.

“But look at the tremendous work he had done; the generation that crossed would not have been able to cross if they had not been properly mentored and tutored by him. He inaugurated Joshua, therefore, Joshua is an extension of the ministry of Moses. As far as God is concerned, His plan and purposes are continua.

“I trust that God will give him life, provided he stays within the precinct of destiny and purpose for our nation.”

A man who had tried three times to get into power and had failed for whatever reason; on the fourth occasion, he got there. Believe me, I do not think he’s looking for money or fame now: this is the time to roll up our sleeves.”

Lee Kaun Yeu; if they just raise even an allegation of corruption he’ll just ask the officer to step down first and foremost. So, it cannot be business as usual if you’re going to get Nigeria out of the clutches of the cancer of corruption. God is the Author of life, nobody can determine how long anybody lives;

my prayer for him (Buhari) is that he stays in good health and fulfill purpose and leave the place better than he met it so that the next person that will come – because somebody else must come – will carry on and continue to go on until we get to a place called Great.

Personal relationship with PMB I learnt a great lesson from a man called Billy Graham. He said, “The things you discuss with men in authority are not meant for public consumption”; but you can be rest assured that, faithful are the wounds of a friend. If I believe this is the way to go and I stood by it and I’ve not changed my position over the years, somehow, one day, we’re going to remain friends; what I carry and what he carries must shake hands.

The council of corruption and this huge drain pipe are hindering the growth and development of Nigeria. What goes into recurrent expenditure is not more than has been stolen by corruption; that’s why I said surgery is better than tragedy.

We cannot continue to treat cancer with Panadol

But as far as his disposition is– whether he’s passionate or not-they are private things and I will not throw them outside, and as you know, the President has not appointed me as his spokesperson.

Southern Kaduna bloodbath When Bakare’s close relationship with the Kaduna State Governor, Mallam el-Rufai was also weighed against the backdrop of bloodbath in the southern area of the state, the cleric revealed he has made moves the public is not aware of.

“I did not only pay a visit to Kafanchan physically, I went there to meet with their elders and, in December, I also, by the grace of God, arranged a meeting between the elders of Kafanchan and the Governor in the governor’s office in Kaduna.

“I can assure you that peace will return to Southern Kaduna; the bloodletting will stop. And right now, they have posted two battalion of solders there to stay in the forest where these men that have been attacking them have been coming through.

“More so, there are some other things I know (I cannot tell you now) that makes me say, peace will return there, so let me just leave it there,” Bakare said.

The cleric also acknowledged that the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, may have their position, even so the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria may have theirs, and assured that “all things will work together for the good of our country, especially Kaduna State.”

Features 18

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Tale of traders that defy odds selling all-year round

Street trading

Ladesope Ladelokun

ÎÎÎ Bukola Adedeji,42,sells second hand

wears at the railway market area of Agege, Lagos. All-year round, she woke up early in the morning to eke out a living in that area. With one of her children strapped on her back, she defies all odds, including rain and sun, to do her business-trading.

However, Bukola never envisaged that her wedding day’s joy would be punctured by her husband’s death, four years into her marriage.

Blessed with two children,her attempts at another marriage after the demise of her husband had hit a brick wall. Hence, her resolve to carry her cross herself. For the Ijebu-born trader, everyday is a workday.

“I lost my husband some a few years ago. My late husband’s family members didn’t care about us.I only rely on God since then and the work I do to cater for my needs” She said, “My focus now, is to ensure that my children get the education they need. I do not pray for any of my children to do what I do now. I t’s my duty to do all I can to ensure they turn out well in life.

And if what it takes is working 7 days a week, I’m ready.’’

Also, Lanre Olatunde sells plantain chips around Berger Bus Stop in Lagos.

He aspires to be a chattered accountant and secure a plum job. But, for now, the street is his office.

Coming from a polygamous background with eleven siblings, he realized he would need more than casting all his burden upon his aged and retired parents.

Lanre said, ‘‘my mates have all secured

A market in Lagos

admission into higher institutions. I can’t depend on my parents to give me anything.

What they earn now, is barely enough to feed themselves. Nobody has kept money for me anywhere to sponsor me through the school. Even if I would still seek help from my church or family members, I still have to help myself.’’

For Afusat Iluyemi, who sells fish around Ipodo area of Ikeja, working seven days a week is what she does with ease, as she is self employed; and she also controls her time. Being a muslim, she believes working on Sunday is an advantage.

Her words, ’’I sell here everyday, but the the good thing is that I own my business.

I can decide the time to resume (trading) by myself and when to close. I don’t know how to depend on a man for my needs and those of my children. That’s why I come here everyday .In fact, Sunday is my favourite day of the week to sell here. I don’t waste much time in selling my wares, because I have less competitors.’’

‘‘There is no food for a lazy man’’ is a saying that is often used by Africans to bring to consciousness the benefits of hard work and the consequences of laziness. It is, therefore, not for nothing that stickers that bear this saying are emblazoned on bodies of buses, walls of shops and doors,etc.

”This is another good one.

There is so much suffering out there; and lifting people above the poverty line should be the focus of the FG.It is a good thing that they are talking about programmes to address poverty.We shall wait to know their outcome.‘’

But, ‘food’ in this instance, does not necessarily mean just what goes into the stomach that eventually gets emptied in a loo. For some, it means accommodation, school fees, fast cars, clothing and other necessities of life.Being conscious of the aforementioned saying is the tonic some Nigerians need to be fired up to do all manner of jobs to eke a living or meet their most pressing needs regardless of the risks to their lives or health.

On major highways,for instance,it is not uncommon to see men and women, who hustle through traffic jams to get their daily bread. Like market women in some Nigerian markets, hustling is a way of life, from January 1 to December 31 of the same year, which is 365 days a year!

Speaking with The Daiy Times, an economist and entrepreneur, Ayo Bankole,said that, Nigerians are very hardworking people that manage to survive despite the odds against them.

Bankole said,’’All over the world, Nigerians are known to be very hardworking people.Forget the stereotypes.We only need economic policies that would make Nigeria more livable for Nigerians.

There is so much hardship in the land.

And, to be fair, people hustle everywhere.

It’s heartwarming that the Federal Government says it plans to inject funds into infrastructure,and the social investment programme”.

He said,”This is another good one.There is so much suffering out there; and lifting people above the poverty line should be the focus of the FG.It is a good thing that they are talking about programmes to address poverty.We shall wait to know their outcome.‘’

19

Crime

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

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How suspect stole his ex-boss’ properties to enjoy Yuletide Joy Anyim & Oguntade Ismaila A 24 – year- old driver accused of stealing his boss’ properties, including a car, television sets and a pet dog, has confessed that he carried out the illegal act because he needed to enjoy Christmas and meet the critical needs of his siblings.

He said it was these needs that pushed him into stealing.

The suspect, Abass Ope, from Ogun State, was arrested at Ojuelegba area of Lagos by the Decoy Team of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the State Police Command, on December 26, which was the Boxing Day. He was picked up by the Police, while trying to sell off his ex-boss’s Toyota Avensis 2013 model, with the registration number, AGL 734 AR, for N2 million.

Arrested along with him, Police said, were three of his friends: Balogun Oluwaseun (23); Sanni Azeez (23) and Stephen Ewiele (22).

Abass, had, during Christmas the period, entered his boss’ Magodo home, while he and his family was on Christmas holiday in Delta State, with a conspirator, to move a 100 inches LCD TV, another 42 inches LCD TV, a dog, a suitcase, 2 DSTV decoders and a Toyota Avensis, from the home.

It was learnt that the suspect invaded the home of his former boss after learning that he had travelled to Delta State, and that the gatekeeper had also gone to a church. sources said that the suspect knew where his boss usually kept the keys to his rooms, and this made it easy for him to commit the crime.

It was further learnt that his ex–boss, on getting a report of missing vehicle and property, called the suspect on more than two occasions to intimate him of the development, but the suspect denied any knowledge of the incidence.

The source further added that the boss had to cut short his holiday in Delta with his

family to report the incident at Magodo Police Station.

The source added that he was shocked, when an official of the RRS, called him to notify him of the recovery of his vehicle because, he never reported the theft in RRS’ office in the first instance.

However, on interrogation, Abass said, “I took the car because, I had no money to take care of myself and my younger ones. They had no clothes, no shoes and this is Yuletide season. They looked up to me to take care of these expenses, but I had no money to do so.”

According to him,”It was about three months now that I left Mr. Ekinodo (Ifoghale) (his former boss).I had worked for him for four years before leaving him on August, 2016. I left

because he had a little challenge and things were pretty tough for him. I left so that he could sort himself out.”

He said, “He was a very nice boss to work with. He enrolled me into a University, but I couldn’t continue with the education when I left him. While he had this challenge, he owed me 8 months’ salary, this prompted me to take his property and the vehicle for sale.”

He added, “the auto dealer I had approached to buy it, wanted to pay N2 million for the car, but I insisted he pays N4 million, because I knew how much it was worth. He offered me N1million instantly saying that the balance would be ready in about few minutes time, but I decided to ignore the offer

hoping that the dealer would call me back for a re-negotiation.”

He said,“ Thereafter, I went back to Ojuelegba, few hours later, in company with three of my friends; that was when RRS operatives arrested us.”

But, Ekinodo Ifoghale said, “I am in shock. This is a guy I treated like a son. Apart from my wife, he was the closest person to me. This is a guy that did my shopping for me. Even, before I buy anything for myself, I usually bought for him first.”

According to him,“How can I owe him eight months’ salary arrears, when he never worked for me in those periods? Did he inform me that I owed him? He was never in my house in the periods he claimed.”

He said, I called him more than twice when I got the report of the break-in. He told me he knew nothing about it. If he had told me he needed money, I would have given him, because we were still very close despite the fact that he was no longer working for me.”

Confirming the incident, the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Superintendent of Police, SP Dolapo Badmos, advised members of the public to always do a background check on their domestic servants, so as not to expose themselves to criminals.

The suspects, it was however learnt, have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Yaba, Lagos, for further investigation.

Crime 20 Oguntade Ismaila In an avowed determination to rid Ajeromi council area of Lagos and its environs of criminals and restore peace in the area, no fewer than 17 underage suspected robbers and 18 bandits have been apprehended in the area by Police operatives.

The suspected criminals were said to have been arrested in different parts of Ajegunle by the detectives attached to the Ajeromi Division, through intelligence approach.

According to police sources, the kid robbers, were nabbed during separate robbery operations, carried out during the wee hours of last week.

The Daily Times gathered that the arrest of the suspects was as a result of series of reports lodged against them at the Ajeromi Police Station by their victims.

The victims were said to have complained against the nefarious acts of the notorious kid gang, accusing them of using mechanical scissors to cut their windows’ barbwire at midnight, before gaining access into their apartments.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Police arrest 17 kid robbers, others in Lagos

CP, Owoseni

It was learnt that the bandits, who were usually armed with guns and other dangerous weapons, in the course of their operations, had stolen household items and cash worth several millions of naira, before they were arrested.

Following the series of complaints, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Ajeromi Division, CSP. Robinson Eregare on assumption of office last month, was said to have summoned a meeting of the operatives and mandated the antirobbery team of the division to ensure that the gang was cracked down.

The intelligence and expertise of the operatives, said to be on surveillance of the areas, paid off, as the kid robbers were nabbed during separate operations they had embarked upon.

The source informed that all the suspects were immediately arraigned at the Ajegunle Magistrate court upon completion of investigation, adding that they were all reminded at Oregun Boys’ Correctional Home.

The other suspects, who were apprehended for various criminal activities, according to the

source, had also been charged to court.

The police source further disclosed that peace and calmness had returned to Ajegunle since assumption of office by Eregare due to his detest for any form of criminal activities.

“All criminal activities usually perpetrated by hoodlums, rival cult groups and unnecessary havoc inflicted on residents has now become things of the past”, the source added.

The arrest was however confirmed by the DPO during a meeting with community leaders, where he warned that the era of handling criminal matters with kid glove are over.

Eregare, a multiple award winner for crime bursting solicited for the support and cooperation of residents, saying security is the responsibility of all and should not be left for police alone.

Nigerian drug peddler, escapes from India cell, re-arrested

Femi Ganiyu and Joy Anyim, with Agency report

A Nigerian drug peddler, John Okoro, who fled from Police cutody in India has been re-arrested by the AntiNartotics Cell of Mumbai Police.

Okoro, 35, who had served a prison term and was a few hours from being deported, had made a daring escape from the Anti-Narcotics Cell’s custody, Indian newspapers have reported.

The News Agency on Nigeria, NAN, reports that, Okoro, 35, had sought permission to step out of the detention room on the first floor of the agency’s Azad Maidan office around 2 a m, saying, he wanted to use the toilet, and then jumped from the balcony. He crashed through the asbestos roof and fled on foot.

The constable guarding him also leaped from the balcony in a desperate attempt to nab him, but he ended up injured.

He is recovering at the Nag-

pada police hospital.

The Anti-Narcotics Cell’s Azad Maidan office is barely 15 feet from the local police station. The office shares a wall with the police’s station detection room. The Esplanade court is in the same compound. Okoro jumped down from circled floor.

Okoro, was convicted for trying to sell banned substances in 2014; and who recently completed his jail term.

Before his conviction, the 35-year-old Nigerian lived in Koparkhairane, Navi Mumbai. After his prison sentence ended, he was placed under the ANC’s custody on December 31, 2016; and he was due to be deported on Monday afternoon.

“Around 2 am, Okoro told the constable on guard that he wanted to visit the washroom. He was being taken there when he jumped from the balcony. He landed on the asbestos’ roof, which, immediately gave way,” a police officer said. “He ran in the

Okoro

directions of Mahapalika Marg.”

Fresh charges stemming

from his daring escape have been registered at the Azad Maidan police again.

Ex-Immigration, DSS officers, warn youths against corruption Oguntade Ismaila As Nigerians grapple with the change mantra of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a retired Deputy Comptroller-General of Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Dr. Brasca Ifeadi and a retired Director, Department of State Service (DSS), Mike Ejiofor have emphasized the need for Nigerians to place higher premium on integrity than corrupt enrichment in the service of the country.

Both of them spoke separately, when officials of Anioma Youths Network for Development (AYND); a nongovernment organization (NGO), recently paid them a courtesy visit and presented awards of excellence to them in their country homes in Delta State. The award, were to honour them for serving Nigeria well.

The former state officials, who were happy by the recognition and honour accorded them by the NGO, noted that most Nigerians have erroneously perceived public service as synonymous with primitive accumulation, thereby playing down on integrity.

While Ifeadi said that, in Nigeria, “excellence sometimes is not put in the right perspective,” Ejiofor, however said that, “People now worship and honour money, as against integrity.”

The former Deputy Comptroller General of Immigration, assured that with the recognition, he would remain committed to the service of Nigeria and humanity in general.

He encouraged AYND to remain committed to its mission of helping to address the social and economic challenges facing the Anioma nation, just as he pledged to make his services available whenever they were needed.

On his part, Ejiofor, who served in no less than five states, as State Director of DSS, commended Anioma Youths Network for Development for the initiative in trying to re-awaken the consciousness of Delta indigenes of Anioma extraction, to the developmental challenges of their area.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

TABERNACLE OF POWER INTERNATIONAL GOSPEL CENTRE

THE LOLO INITIATIVE FOR HIV POSITIVE WOMEN

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

The General Public is hereby notified that the above named Initiative has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Adigun Oluwafemi Abiola 2. Adigun Adebunmi Oluyemi 3. Olatunji Olugbenga Isaac 4. Samson Adewale Adesina 5. Adedokun Adeyemi Peter 6. Alabi David Babarinde 7. Olanite Olarenwaju Ade 8. Awoyemi Adewale Owodunni.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MARY EROMWON ERO - CHAIRPERSON 2. VICTORIA ERO -SECRETARY 3. CHUDE OSANEDUM JIDEONWO 4. EMAMODEVIEFE EDOSIO

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To empower women living with HIV. 2. To care for women living with HIav. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, P.M.B. 198, Garki, Abuja within TwentyEight (28) days from the date of this publication.

Signed: Trustees

Signed: Secretary

HAUK FOUNDATION

21

KASHAF ORGANIZATION FOR HUMANITARIAN RELIEF The general public is hereby inform that the above named organization has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Degree No. 1 of 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ALHAJI BARRISTER ORISADARE LAWAL JIBOLA ESQ 2. Ustaz ADENLE ABDULHAKEEM AKANNI 3. Alhaji WASIU ADESINA TAIWO 4. Sheikh DARE FAROUQ ATANDA 5. ALHAJI ADEOTAN TAJUDEEN ATANDA AIM AND OBJECTIVE: To give humanitarian Service ( an NGO) Any objection to the above registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed Secretary

The general public is hereby inform that the above named organization has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Degree No. 1 of 1990

PRECIOUS CORNERSTONE BIBLE CHURCH

NEW IMPACT MINISTRY

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE-NAMED ORGANISATION IS APPLYING FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT CAP C20, LFN 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. HAUWA SODEINDE - Chairperson, 2. LAWRENCE OLUWADARE - Secretary, 3. HALIRU MUSA MUHAMMED, 4. TIMOTHY MELAYE.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MRS. ESTHER MOJISOLA AKANBI - CHAIR PERSON 2. REV. ISAAC OJO ADEPOJU - MEMBER 3. PASTOR OLUYEMI AKINTUNDE - MEMBER 4. MR. KINGSLEY ADEBISI - MEMBER 5. MRS. OPEYEMI CHRISTIANA AYOOLA - MEMBER 6. MISS WONDERFUL TOLUWANIMI AKANBI - SECRETARY 7. PASTOR OLUWAGBEMIGA TIMOTHY OLUWASOGA - MEMBER

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To empower children, youth, women, community.

2. To eliminate violence 3. Creating opportunity.

Any objection to the above registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS WORLDWIDE AND TO ESTABLISH CHURCHES AND TRAIN DISCIPLES IN THE CHRISTIAN WAY. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION OF THE ABOVE-NAMED ORGANISATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO: THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, P.M.B. 198, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN TWENTY-EIGHT DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

Signed: Secretary

SIGNED: SEÁN AKINRELE ESQ. [SOLICITOR] 1B, AMUSA OLOYEDE STREET, OFF TOYIN STREET, IKEJA, LAGOS STATE.

GIANTS OF HOPE CHRISTIAN CENTER

EGBA COMPREHENSIVE HIGH SCHOOL OLD STUDENTS ASSOCIATION CLASS OF 1993

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES: 1. PASTOR OGUNTAYO ADEWUYI OLUSEGUN - GENERAL OVERSEER 2. DR. MRS. OGUNTAYO DAMILOTUN - GENERAL SECRETARY 3. PASTOR AJADI ABIOLA 4. PASTOR OBIKANYE SHOLA

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. GBEMISOLA SABURI ABIOLA 2. AKINLEYE ABIOLA OLANREWAJU 3. IDOWU OLATUNJI MUMIN 4. BELLO AKEEM ADEPOJU 5. OLATUNJI MICHAEL KAYODE 6. ABIODUN OLAYINKA IDOWU, 7. DADA SEKINAT OLAWUNMI AIMS & OBJECTIVE: 1. To Create Forum where old students can relate together.

2. To make meaningful contribution towards the development of our Alma mater ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To perfect the Saints.

2. To do the work of the Ministry.

3. To edify the body of Christ through the impartation of God releasing Power.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: PASTOR OGUNTAYO ADEWUYI OLUSEGUN - GENERAL OVERSEER OBUNE LILIAN

OUMAR-SHITTIEN AHMED NIANGSEK

I, formerly known and addressed as GEORGE LILIAN. Now wish to be known and addressed as OBUNE LILIAN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OUMAR SHITTIEN AHMED, now wish to be known and addressed as OUMAR-SHITTIEN AHMED NIANGSEK. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

MUSA NGOMA

CORRECTION OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MUSA MUHAMMED, now wish to be known and addressed as MUSA NGOMA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

My name was wrongly written as JEGEDE ASIDATU KEMI instead of JEGEDE AZEEDAH KEMI and that my correct date of birth is 14 January 1992. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

MRS. NDUBUISI ANUWE- UZOMA

AMUZIENWA JULIANA NWADIUTO

Formerly known and addressed as MISS MERCY NDUBUISI ANUWE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. NDUBUISI ANUWE- UZOMA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as UMEKWE JULIANA, now wish to be known and addressed as AMUZIENWA JULIANA NWADIUTO. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

PATRICK ETIM Formerly known and addressed as BASSEY ETIM, now wish to be known and addressed as PATRICK ETIM. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

AKINFOLARIN AMUDALAT TEMITOPE

Formerly known and addressed as AJAYI AMUDALAT TEMITOPE, now wish to be known and addressed as AKINFOLARIN AMUDALAT TEMITOPE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as IJIKWEONU ESTHER NWADIOGO, now wish to be known and addressed as EZENNOLIM ESTHER NWADIOGO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

SOUL EMA SOUL

Formerly known and addressed as EMMANUEL EFFIONG UKPONG, now wish to be known and addressed as SOUL EMA SOUL. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. 2. TO DO THE WORK OF THE MINISTRY. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: TRUSTEES.

MISSION CENTRE AMORJI NIKE

This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied for registration to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

TRUSTEES: I. MBA CHUKWU 2. BLESSING CHUKWU 3. PEACE CHUKWU AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: I. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST AND CARRY OUT OHER EVANGELIAL ACTIVIES. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28days of this publication.

SIGNED: SECRETARY.

SIGNED: TRUSTEES. EZENNOLIM ESTHER NWADIOGO

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR (DR) EZEKIEL EGBELEKE OJO - PRESIDENT 2. PASTOR (DR) RACHEAL OLAJUYI OJO - SECRETARY 3. ENGINEER VICTOR BABATUNDE OLUMUWIYA TREASURER

MRS. JOY OFUJE AJAYI

AKPAN EDIDIONG EMMANUEL

MRS. OFINNI COMFORT OLUWABUNMI

Formerly known and addressed as MISS JOY OFUJE SAIKI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. JOY OFUJE AJAYI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as EMMANUEL EDIDIONG BLESSING, now wish to be known and addressed as AKPAN EDIDIONG EMMANUEL. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MISS OLAJUBU COMFORT OLUWABUNMI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OFINNI COMFORT OLUWABUNMI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that FRANK DOSSOU and FRANK TOUILOHO DOSSOU is same person and that I wish to be known and addressed as FRANK DOSSOU. That all documents bearing the above names are mine and remain valid. General public take note.

UKHUAKHUA EBOSEREMEN LYDIA

CORRECTION OF NAME AND DATE OF BIRTH

Formerly known and addressed as EROHUBIE EBOSEREMEN LYDIA, now wish to be known and addressed as UKHUAKHUA EBOSEREMEN LYDIA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

AGBOOLA-THANNI ZAINAB OLUWATOSIN

MRS. ADEDIRAN YETUDE ADEOLA

Formerly known and addressed as MISS UMEONONOBI CHIJIOKE STELLA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OKOYE CHIJIOKE STELLA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as THANNI ZAINAB OLUWATOSIN, now wish to be known and addressed as AGBOOLA-THANNI ZAINAB OLUWATOSIN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MISS ADEBIYI YETUNDE ADEOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ADEDIRAN YETUDE ADEOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

EZEIMO JOSHUA KELVIN

ELIJAH ELIYA MOSES Formerly known and addressed as MUSA ILIYA, now wish to be known and addressed as ELIJAH ELIYA MOSES. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

MRS. OKOYE CHIJIOKE STELLA

Formerly known and addressed as EZEIMO JOSHUA, now wish to be known and addressed as EZEIMO JOSHUA KELVIN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

MRS. DAVID IZUEHIE Formerly known and addressed as MR.& MRS. DAVID EZEHANONU, now wish to be known and addressed as MR. & MRS. DAVID IZUEHIE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

My name was wrongly written as AFAM PIUS instead of AHAOMA A. ENWEREJI and that my correct date of birth is 20 March 1976. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

ADIJAT ADEPEJU SERIKI

Formerly known and addressed as KUBURAT ADEPEJU SERIKI, now wish to be known and addressed as ADIJAT ADEPEJU SERIKI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

MRS. ADENIJI OLUBUNMI OLUBUKOLA

Formerly known and addressed as OLUBUNMI AGIDA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ADENIJI OLUBUNMI OLUBUKOLA. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

22

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

CORRECTION OF NAME

OMOLARA ALABA IYABODE ADEKOYA

That in some of my documents, my name was wrongly written as DUDU OROH HARRIET instead of DUDU ORO HARRIET. That my correct name is DUDU ORO HARRIET. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as IYABODE OMOLARA ADEKANMBI, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. OMOLARA ALABA IYABODE ADEKOYA. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

NOFIU AINA ESTHER I, formerly known, called and addressed as OMOODUNSONU AINA ESTHER, now wish to be known, called and addressed as NOFIU AINA ESTHER. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

NWOSU HENRY SOMTOO.

OSAFELE NGOZI IFEYINWA.

I, formerly known, called and addressed as OKAFOR HARRY VICTOR, now wish to be known, called and Addressed as NWOSU HENRY SOMTOO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

FAJI ADINLEWA TITILOPE (NEE MOGAJI).

OYEBISI HANNAH DEBORAH JUNAID

NWANGA OKWUDILI THEOPHILUS

I, formerly known, called and addressed as ROTIMI OYEBISI DEBORAH, now wish to be known, called and Addressed as OYEBISI HANNAH DEBORAH JUNAID. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as OKWY THEOPHILUS, now wish to be known, called and addressed as NWANGA OKWUDILI THEOPHILUS. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note

OKI HAMMED JIDE

OTOHINOYI ONIMISI HAMZA

Formerly known and addressed as OKI AHMED OLAJIDE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OKI HAMMED JIDE. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note YEMISI SCOTT.

I, formerly known, called and addressed as NGOZI IFEYINWA OBIONWU, now wish to be known, called and Addressed as OSAFELE NGOZI IFEYINWA. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MOGAJI ADINLEWA TITILOPE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as FAJI ADINLEWA TITILOPE (NEE MOGAJI). All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MRS. YEMISI AIGBOKHAODE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MISS YEMISI SCOTT. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

RUKAYAT ABISOYE IDRIS Formerly known and addressed as MISS RUKAYAT ABISOYE THOMPSON now wish to be known and addressed as MRS RUKAYAT ABISOYE IDRIS. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Uzoma Chioma and Bobby Zomani now wish to be known and addressed as Anyalechi Princewill Uzoma. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

This is to confirm that GREG JEFFERY is the same person bearing OKELEKE HENRY NWANNE. That all former documents bearing both names are mine and remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

SAMUEL OMEIZA DANIEL

This is to notify the general public that the names Shuaib Peace Abdulrasaq and Shuaib Rasaq Olanewaju refer to one and the same person. Now wish to be known as Shuaib Peace. Abdulrasaq. All former documents remain valid. Ecobank and general public take note.

I, Formerly known and addressed as SAMUEL OMEIZA now wish to be known and addressed as SAMUEL OMEIZA DANIEL. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

NKEIRU VIOLLEY-ANN AGBALAKA

ANYALECHI PRINCEWILL UZOMA

PHILIP OLADAPO ESAN

I formerly known and addressed as MARCILLY OLADAPO PHILIP. Now wish to be known and addressed as PHILIP OLADAPO ESAN all former document remain valid general public should please take note

DURU CHINWENDU STEPHANIE.

MARYMAGDALENE CHINYENWA.

I, formerly known and addressed as NKEIRU VIOLET AGBALAKA, now wish to be known and addressed as NKEIRU VIOLLEY-ANN AGBALAKA. All former documents remain valid. WAEC, Federal Polytechnic Idah, and general public please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS NJOKU CHINWENDU STEPHANIE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. DURU CHINWENDU STEPHANIE. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS KAPI MEG CHINYENWA, HENCEFORTH WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS KAPI MARYMAGDALENE CHINYENWA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC, PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

EJUEYITSI TOYOSI KINGSLEY

KING NWAFOR JOSEPH UCHECHUKWU.

AJALA SHERIFF OLUWASHOLA.

I formerly known as Okoh Kingsley Azubuike wish to be known and addressed as Ejueyitsi Toyosi Kingsley. All former documents remain valid, General public please take note

I formerly known as Eze Joseph Ugochukwu wish to be known and addressed as King Nwafor Joseph Uchechukwu.

All former documents remain valid, General public please take note.

AGBAJE MOSUNMOLA.

MERRY KINGSLEY.

I known as Agbaje Mosunmola Aminat but the name on my International passport was Agbaje Mosunmola. I now wish to be known and addressed as Agbaje Mosunmola and my correct date of birth is 08/04/1951. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public to please note.

Formerly known and addressed as Mary Akwaha now wish to be known and addressed as Merry Kingsley. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please note

ABDUL-SAMAD TOBI AJIBADE.

AJE, JENNY AKINYELE. I formerly known and addressed as EKPE, JENNY AKPANIM now wish to be known and addressed as AJE, JENNY AKINYELE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as ABDUL-SAMAD ADEKUNLE AJIBADE now wish to be known and addressed as ABDUL-SAMAD TOBI AJIBADE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

ABIODUN AGBOLADE BANJO-BEE.

ADDITION OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as ABIODUN AGBOLADE BANJO now wish to add ‘’BEE’’ to my last name, henceforth I wish to be known and addressed as ABIODUN AGBOLADE BANJOBEE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note

CORRECTION OF NAME/DATE OF BIRTH. I, MICHAEL IKECHUKWU OKORO, wish to state that during the opening of my skye Bank account my name /date of birth was wrongly written as, IYKE MICHAEL OKORO/15th day of october, 1975 instead of MICHAEL IKECHUKWU OKORO/26th day march, 1975. my correct name/ date of birth is MICHAEL IKECHUKWU OKORO/26th day of march,1975. All document bearing the wrong name/date of birth remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known as AJALA SHERIFFDEEN ADESHOLA wish to be known and addressed as AJALA SHERIFF OLUWASHOLA. All former documents remain valid, General public please take note CONFIRMATION OF NAMES:

I, formerly known and addressed as ADEFISAN ADEBANKE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OTOHINOYI ONIMISI HAMZA. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

AYEYEMI SEKINAT JUMOKE

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OLAJUMOKE ADEKUNLE SEKINAT, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. AYEYEMI SEKINAT JUMOKE. All former documents remain valid.

General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

ABDULAZEEZ FAUZIYAH OLAYIDE

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

MABONG ANIEFIOK JOHNSON ESSIEN

IBIRONKE AKINYODE ADESHINA

IKHUEHI EBHOHINMHINMHEN AUGUSTINE DAVID

That on my bank documents, my names appears as GODSLIGHT CHIOMA, GODSLIGHT CHIOMA VERA, while on my other documents , it appears as GODSLIGHT VERA NKEM. All former documents bearing all the names mentioned above are mine and remain valid. That I was born on the 3rd day of November, 1987. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MADAM IBIRONKE AKINYODE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. IBIRONKE AKINYODE ADESHINA. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

I, formerly known, called and addressed as MRS. MABONG OKON UDOEYOP, now wish to be known, called and Addressed as MRS. MABONG ANIEFIOK JOHNSON ESSIEN. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

I, formerly known and addressed as EBHOEDO EBHOHINMHINMHEN DAVID, now wish to be known, called and addressed as IKHUEHI EBHOHINMHINMHEN AUGUSTINE DAVID. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

JOHN-OKPARA DEBORAH CHINENYE

OBINECHE FUNKE

I, formerly known, called and addressed as ONUOHA DEBORAH CHINENYE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as JOHN-OKPARA DEBORAH CHINENYE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I, formerly known, called and addressed as MISS ADELEYE FUNKE, now wish to be known, called and addressed MRS OBINECHE FUNKE. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

NDIJIEGO ARINZE CHRISTOPHER.

NDIJIEGO PATRICIA CHIDIEBERE

Formerly known and addressed as MAHMUD FAUZIYAH OLAYIDE now wish to be known and addressed as ABDULAZEEZ FAUZIYAH OLAYIDE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

Formerly known and addressed as MR UYANWA ARINZE CHRISTOPHER now wish to be known and addressed as MR NDIJIEGO ARINZE CHRISTOPHER. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MISS UCHE PATRICIA CHIDIEBERE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NDIJIEGO PATRICIA CHIDIEBERE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

EMMANUELLA OLUWAPELUMI ZAINAB RABIU NWOSU

FELIX SHALON I, formerly known and addressed as SHANINONI PEMU ORITSETIMEYIN, now wish to be known and addressed as FELIX SHALON. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

JIMOH BASHIRU. I, formerly known and addressed as BASH JIMOH AKANDE, now wish to be known and addressed as JIMOH BASHIRU. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

I Formerly known and addressed as Oluwapelumi Zainab Rabiu.

Now wish to be known and addressed as , Emmanuella Oluwapelumi Zainab Rabiu Nwosu..

All former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note.

JOSHUA NNETO I, formerly known and addressed as EHIRIM SABASTINE, now wish to be known and addressed as EVANGELIST JOSHUA NNETO. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ADEROPO MICHAEL BABATUNDE

I formerly known as OGUNADEYO SUNDAY MICHAEL wish to be known and addressed as ADEROPO MICHAEL BABATUNDE. All former documents remain valid, General public please take note.

YERIMA YANTA BELLO.

I, RASHIDAT ODENIYI AND RASHIDAT OGUNLEYE as same person. General public please note

I formerly known and addressed as AHMED YERIMA BELLO now wish to be known and addressed as YERIMA YANTA BELLO.My date of birth is 4/11/1991. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

JOHNSON CHIDINMA JOYCE.

BUKKY OKOJIE EBOSEREMEN

. I formerly known and addressed as EKEOCHA CHIDINMA JOYCE now wish to be known and addressed as JOHNSON CHIDINMA JOYCE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note

. I formerly known and addressed as BUKKY DOPEMU EBOSEREMEN now wish to be known and addressed as MRS BUKKY OKOJIE EBOSEREMEN. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note

GOLD EGO EMMANUEL. I formerly known and addressed as GOLD A. EMEKAYI , Now wish to be known and addressed as MRS . GOLD EGO EMMANUEL. All former documents remain valid. General public take note .

FRANCIS VICTOR

I, formerly known and addressed as, OTOBONG FRANCIS EKPO , Now wish to be known and addressed as FRANCIS VICTOR . All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note

ONWUDIWE OLUCHUKWU BLESSING

I, formerly known and addressed as ANTHONY OLUCHUKWU BLESSING, now wish to be known and addressed as ONWUDIWE OLUCHUKWU BLESSING.. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ACHINONU OLUEBUBE JOHNBOSCO

Formerly PETER MIRACLE EBUBE. Now ACHINONU OLUEBUBE JOHNBOSCO. Former documents remains valid.

General public please note.

NDUBUISI CHRISTOPHER GOD’SPOWER IKECHUKWU.

I formerly known and addressed as ONUKWU CHRISTOPHER now wish to be known and addressed as NDUBUISI CHRISTOPHER GOD’SPOWER IKECHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

MARY ANTHONY IKWUJE I formerly known and addressed as ANTHONY IKWUJE now wish to be known and addressed as MARY ANTHONY IKWUJE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

IWUEZE SHALOM.

I , Formerly known and addressed as, IWUEZE CHIDINMA SHALOM, now wish to be known, and addressed as IWUEZE SHALOM. All former documents remain valid. The General public should take note.

PRINCESS BUSOLA TASIE

I formerly known and addressed as BUSOLA ADEBISI EHUWA now wish to be known and addressed as PRINCESS BUSOLA TASIE All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note EHONJIE AGBONLAHOR WILLIAMS

Formerly EHONJIE AGBONLAHOR CLEMENT...Now EHONJIE AGBONLAHOR WILLIAMS. Former documents remains valid. General public please note.

ELIZABETH LIMAT OLUREMI ADEBAYO.

I formerly known and addressed as ELIZABETH LIMAT OLUREMI ODEWOLE now wish to be known and addressed as ELIZABETH LIMAT OLUREMI ADEBAYO. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

SIAKPERE ELOHOR

I formerly known and addressed as EVAN ELOHOR now wish to be known and addressed as SIAKPERE ELOHOR. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

GODSON CLINTON ALEX

I, formerly known and addressed as, CLINTON ALEX ADOLPHUS , now wish to be known and addressed as, GODSON CLINTON ALEX . All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

ELUKE VICTORIA ECHENA.

ONYEKWERE UGOCHUKWU CHRISTIAN BONAVENTURE

WISDOM ELECHI NCHELEM.

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. UCHECHUKWU VICTORIA ECHENA, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. ELUKE VICTORIA ECHENA. All former documents remain valid. The General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, ONYEKWERE UGOCHUKWU CHRISTIAN , now wish to be known and addressed as, MR. ONYEKWERE UGOCHUKWU CHRISTIAN BONAVENTURE . All former documents remain valid. The General public should take note

I, formerly known and addressed as, WISDOM ELECHI NLEMOGU , now wish to be known and addressed as, WISDOM ELECHI NCHELEM. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

OKORIE OLIVE

DASO OYINKANSOLA KEMI.

SULAIMAN JUSTINA ONYEMACHI.

OKORIE: I, formerly known as NWACHUKWU OZIOMA OLIVE, now wish to be known and addressed as OKORIE OLIVE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

UKEJE FAITH IFEYINWA.

DASO: I, formerly known as DASO OYINKANSOLA .F. FOLAKEMI, now wish to be known and addressed as DASO OYINKANSOLA KEMI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

OGBODO IZUCHUKWUFRIDAY

SULAIMAN: I, formerly known as OJINNAKA JUSTINA ONYEMACHI, now wish to be known and addressed as SULAIMAN JUSTINA ONYEMACHI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note OGBODO IZUCHUKWU RITA

CHUKWUEMEZIE CHIDUBEM HENRY

CORRECTION OF NAME.

PRINCEPAUL ABUMNKECHUKWU OLEKA

I, formerly known and addressed as,CHIMEZIE CHIDUBEM HENRY , now wish to be known and addressed as, CHUKWUEMEZIE CHIDUBEM HENRY . All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, ONWUEGBUCHI MIRIAN IHECHI, wish to correct my name which was wrongly as,ONWUEGBUCHI MARIAN IHECHI instead of ONWUEGBUCHI MIRIAN IHECHI. My correct name is ONWUEGBUCHI MIRIAN IHECHI . All former documents remain valid. The General public should take note.

This is to confirm that, I PRINCEPAUL ABUMNKECHUKWU OLEKA and ILO PAUL ALLOYSIUS , refers to one and same person.

I, Now wish to be known and addressed as PRINCEPAUL ABUMNKECHUKWU OLEKA. All former documents remain valid.

The General public should take note.

SEMIU MUSILIU AROWOLO.

MUSTAPHA ALIYU DAUDA. MUSTAPHA: I, formerly known as MUSTAPHA ALIYU ABDULBASIT, now wish to be known and addressed as MUSTAPHA ALIYU DAUDA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

ABOCHI QUEENDALINE CHIZOBA

ONYEGWU CHINYERE JULIET. I, formerly known and addressed as ONYEGWU CHINYERE, now wish to be known and addressed as ONYEGWU CHINYERE JULIET. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

AROWOLO: I, formerly known as AROWOLO SEMIU MUSILIMU, now wish to be known and addressed as SEMIU MUSILIU AROWOLO. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

I, formerly known and addressed as UKEJE AGATHA CHIMAOBI, now wish to be known and addressed as UKEJE FAITH IFEYINWA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as OGBODOFRIDAY, now wish to be known and addressed as OGBODO IZUCHUKWUFRIDAY. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ONOVO RITA UKAMAKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OGBODO IZUCHUKWU RITA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as ABOCHI QUEENDALINE CHIHAA, now wish to be known and addressed as ABOCHI QUEENDALINE CHIZOBA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

AMAECHI JUDITH NKEIRU

OKOYE NKOLI CORDELIA.

IGWE CHINONSO FRANKLIN.

ARUM KATE NJIDEKA I, formerly known and addressed as MISS NSUDE KATE NJIDEKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ARUM KATE NJIDEKA. All former documents remain valid. First Bank, P.P.S.M.B andGeneral public should please take note.

I formerly known as Amaechi Joy Nkeiru wish to be known and addressed as Amaechi Judith Nkeiru. All former documents remain valid, general public please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ONONYE NKOLI CORDELIA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OKOYE NKOLI CORDELIA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

OSMOND CHINEDU NNAJI

IFEANYI ANTHONY ANI.

I, formerly known and addressed as ANI CHINONSO FRANKLIN, now wish to be known and addressed as IGWE CHINONSO FRANKLIN. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

ISIWU JUDITH NGOZI.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AGBO JUDITH NGOZI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ISIWU JUDITH NGOZI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as FRIDAY UGWU,now wish to be known and addressed as OSMOND CHINEDU NNAJI. All former documents remain valid.

Banks and General public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as EZE ANTHONY ANI, now wish to be known and addressed as IFEANYI ANTHONY ANI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

OLISA STANLY NWAKAOZO.

OKAFOR EBERE JUSTINA.

DORIS AZUOMA UDENSI

I formerly known and addressed as MISS EGBUNEM EBERE JUSTINA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OKAFOR EBERE JUSTINA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note FATUSIN PAULINA-KIKELOMO.

I, formerly known and addressed as OLISA OBOEGBUNAM, now wish to be known and addressed as OLISA STANLY NWAKAOZO. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

KAZEEM RUTH BUKOLA

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

MBAKA CHINYERE FRANCISCA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS UKWEJI CHINYERE FRANCISCA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS MBAKA CHINYERE FRANCISCA. All former documents remain valid.General public should please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

OGBU GINIKA NANCY

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKAFOR GINIKA LOVETH, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OGBU GINIKA NANCY. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note OGUANYA CHRISTIANA EBERE

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS UDEH CHRISTIANA EBERE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OGUANYA CHRISTIANA EBERE. All former documents remain valid.General public should please take note.

EKWUIFE CHRISTIANA CHIZOBA I, formerly known and addressed as MISS NWEKE CHRISTIANA CHIZOBA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS EKWUIFE CHRISTIANA CHIZOBA. All former documents remain valid. Customary Court of Appeal Awka, Banks, Federal College of Education Gombe and General public should please take note.

CORRECTION OF NAME

This is to inform the general public that my name TAMMY DEEBARI KINGDOM was wrongly written when opening account but now wish to be corrected and addressed as DEEBARI KINGDOM TAMBARI. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as DORIS C. AZUOMA ANELE now wish to be known and addressed as DORIS AZUOMA UDENSI. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

This is to confirm and certify that MBAAEFO UGOCHUKWU MICHEAL and MBAEFO UGOCHUKWU MICHEALPROMISE refer to one and the same person now MBAEFO UGOCHUKWU MICHEALPROMISE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

EBIRIM NGOZI FRANCA.

MADU KENNETH UCHENNA. I formerly known and addressed as EMMANUEL LUKE MADU, now wish to be known and addressed as MADU KENNETH UCHENNA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note

I formerly known and addressed as OPEODU PRINCESS EKUNDAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEBAYO PRINCESS EKUNDAYO. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MARYAM BAGUDU, l wish to add KROMBAM to my former name, that I henceforth wish to be known and addressed as KROMBAM MARYAM BAGUDU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

OLAMOJU CHRISTIANA OMOLOLA

ADEBAYO OLAYINKA PROMISE ISAAC

I formerly known and addressed as AKINLOTAN CHRISTIANA ROPO BRIDGET, confirm that AKINLOTAN CHRISTIANA ROPO BRIDGET as well as OLAMOJU CHRISTIANA OMOLOLA is same person. now wish to be addressed as OLAMOJU CHRISTIANA OMOLOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OLAYINKA PROMISE ISAAC, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEBAYO OLAYINKA PROMISE ISAAC. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MS EMMANUEL PAULIINAKIKELOMO, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. FATUSIN PAULINA-KIKELOMO. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ONI TAIWO BUSOLA I formerly known and addressed as MOSHOOD TAIWO BUSOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as ONI TAIWO BUSOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note

I formerly known and addressed as SULAIMON RASAK JOHN, now wish to be known and addressed as SULAIMON JOHN RASAK. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

JIMOH BUKOLA FOLAKE I formerly known and addressed as OLALEYE BUKOLA FOLAKE, now wish to be known and addressed as JIMOH BUKOLA FOLAKE. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

MERCY ONYIA SIMEON DAINAH

BALOGUN OLANIKE OLAWUNMI

GWE GRACE JOY

Formerly known and addressed as CHUKWU MERCY DAINAH, now wish to be known and addressed as MERCY ONYIA SIMEON DAINAH. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OGUNBAJO OLANIKE OLAWUNMI, now wish to be known and addressed as BALOGUN OLANIKE OLAWUNMI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

ALAGBA MAGNUS GINIKANWA

NNEKA LUDMILLA JOMBO

SANNI SODIQ TEMITOPE

NNEKA: Formerly known and addressed as NNEKA LUDMILLA IHENACHO, now wish to be known and addressed as NNEKA LUDMILLA JOMBO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as SANNI SODIQ OLAMILEKAN, now wish to be known and addressed as SANNI SODIQ TEMITOPE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ALAGBA: Formerly known and addressed as ALAGBA DANIEL, now wish to be known and addressed as ALAGBA MAGNUS GINIKANWA. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHIMEZIE ONYENAMAYA CHRI.

I, formerly known and addressed as CHIMEZIE OBIAJU, now wish to be known and addressed as CHIMEZIE ONYENAMAYA CHRI. All former documents remain valid. Bank and General public should please take note.

OSSAIGA ONYEKA BROWN.

I, formerly known and addressed as ONYEKA ODUME OSSAIGA, now wish to be known and addressed as OSSAIGA ONYEKA BROWN. All former documents remain valid. BANKS and General public should please take note.

NWACHUKWU EMEKA SYMEON.

I, formerly known and addressed asNWACHUKWU EMEKA SOLOMON, now wish to be known and addressed asNWACHUKWU EMEKA SYMEON. All former documents remain valid.General public should please take note.

This is to confirm and certify that KELECHUKWU EMMANUEL MGBEAHURUIKE and MGBEAHURUIKE KELECHUKWU EMMANUEL refer to one and the same person nowMGBEAHURUIKE KELECHUKWU EMMANUEL. All former documents remain valid.

GTB and General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as OKE RUTH BUKOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as KAZEEM RUTH BUKOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

SULAIMON JOHN RASAK

23

I formerly known and addressed as EHIHIE NGOZI FRANCA, now wish to be known and addressed as EBIRIM NGOZI FRANCA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OWA GRACE, now wish to be known and addressed as IGWE GRACE JOY. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

SUNDAY ABIGAIL.

I formerly known and addressed as JAMES ABIGAIL, now wish to be known and addressed as SUNDAY ABIGAIL. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

OBISAMI BOSEDE OMOLARA

Formerly known and addressed as AJAYI BOSEDE OMOLARA, now wish to be known and addressed as OBISAMI BOSEDE OMOLARA. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

UKPIEBO JOHNSON AGBALA Formerly known and addressed as UKPIEBO JOHNSON, now wish to be known and addressed as UKPIEBO JOHNSON AGBALA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ADEBAYO PRINCESS EKUNDAYO.

DAUD BOLANLE RALIAT

KASALI: Formerly known and addressed as KASALI BOLANLE RALIAT, now wish to be known and addressed as DAUD BOLANLE RALIAT. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

UTEH CHRISTIANA KOKUMO Formerly known and addressed as PHILIP CHRISTIANA KOKUMO, now wish to be known and addressed as UTEH CHRISTIANA KOKUMO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ADDITIONAL OF NAME

UMARU ABDUL

UMARU: Formerly known and addressed as UMARU JOHN ABDUL, now wish to be known and addressed as UMARU ABDUL. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

HANSEN BLESSING GLORY

Formerly known and addressed as NATHAN GLORY ADA IBE, now wish to be known and addressed as HANSEN BLESSING GLORY. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

News 24

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Minister commends FAAN over improved MMIA Lagos arrival hall Ibe Uwaleke

ÎÎÎ

Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Mrs Zainab Ahmed has expressed satisfaction over the new state of the arrival hall of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, (MMIA), Lagos, recently renovated by the operator of Nigerian airports, Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). She gave the

operator kudus for a job well done.

Ahmed made the remark yesterday at the airport in Lagos during her one-day tour of the airport facilities.

According to the Honourable Minister, there has been an upgrade that shows an improvement in passengers’ experience, especially on the arrival hall of the MMIA. On the essence of the tour,

Mrs Ahmed said the reason why they were at the airport was to inspect the projects being executed by FAAN. “The reason why we are here is to inspect the projects under FAAN. The essence of this is to see how well government’s resources are utilized.

To also see and understand the challenges that the airport is facing so that when resources are to be allocated or dis-

bursed, we will do it with the understanding of how they are to be used”, the minister said.

Mrs Ahmed noted that her team will be writing a report and indicate what they have observed and also share the report with the authority for them to see what has been recorded as a result of the visit.

On the level of on-going projects at the airport, the Minister said: “We have seen a

Sorrow, tears as ‘cultists’ overrun Mowe

number of projects at different levels of completion. We have seen a lot of good work that has been done. There are some projects that are suffering as a result of number of different challenges. We have also seen the upgrade of the airport that shows an improvement in users experience, especially on the arrival of the MMIA”.

Ahmed further pointed out that, it is very evident that “we need to do a lot of work to upgrade the departure area of the airport. The luggage handling process is very problematic. It is largely manual and as a result of that, customers spend hours before getting their luggage. That needs to be addressed”.

Confirming that some of the

reports on the projects given to the ministry tallies with what is on ground, the minister, however, pointed out that progress has been made and a lot more still needs to be done.

The Minister was accompanied by officials of the Budget and National Planning Ministry and other stakeholders in the aviation industry including: Director General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Usman Murthar; Director of Finance & Accounts, Nike Aboderin; Director, Commercial & Business Development, Sadiku A. Rafindadi; Ag. Director, Maintenance & Engineering, Engr.

Salisu Daura; Chief of Staff to MD, FAAN, Zakari Mahmuda; General Manager, Budget & Planning; Abiodun Adegbesan; Ag. Airport Manager, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Victoria ShinAba; General Manager, DGM, Airfield Services, Jim Opotu and Public Affairs, FAAN, Mrs Henrietta Yakubu.

Ladesope Ladelokun

ÎÎÎPandemonium

broke out in Mowe, Obafemi Owode Local Government of Ogun State Tuesday when thugs suspected to be members of the Eye confraternity unleashed terror on residents of the town.

The thugs, numbering about 70, The Daily Times gathered, stabbed, raped, dispossessed innocent residents of their personal effects and destroyed valuable properties, creating an atmosphere of fear in the town.

Speaking with our correspondent on the incident, Chief Suleiman Adewunmi, the Otun Baale of Mowe land, who also doubles as the Youth leader of the town, said,’’ We just saw that some boys came from where we couldn’t tell exactly. They started looting shops, destroying cars, raping women and robbing people of their belongings. But, the investigations we conducted revealed that some youths here connived with some boys in Bariga, Lagos to invade this town. Some of them go by aliases such as Atinga, Wireless, etc.’’

Meanwhile, a victim of the attack, Mr Adukwuru Charles, narrates his experience, ’’I had traveled to Anambra State for Christmas and New Year celebrations. So, on my way home on Tuesday, some boys accosted me, they were over 20 in number and they all covered their faces. They beat me, collected my phone, walletwhich contained N7,000, my international passport and and other important documents-and on top of that, they stabbed me with broken bottles on my head. You can see for yourself,’’ he said.

NCS Tincan Island Ports generates over N256 billion in 2016 Joy Anyim

ÎÎÎ

Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki, at the Code of Conduct Tribunal in Abuja for his on-going trial on alleged false assets’ declaration… on Wednesday.

Kogi Governor applauds Dangote for promoting tourism Godwin Anyebe

ÎÎÎ

Kogi State governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has commended Dangote Industries Limited for promoting tourism potentials in Nigeria and especially in Kogi State by sponsoring the state’s 6th Ebira Carnival. Noting that tourism can make the nation less dependent on oil, as another avenue for foreign exchange earnings, the governor urged all other corporate bodies and rich individuals to emulate Dangote in the area of promoting culture and the tour-

ism potentials in the country.

Lauding the foremost Nigerian conglomerate for playing a vital role in wealth creation recently in Kogi State, Bello further reiterated that events such as Ebira Carnival has the capacity to drive economic growth and development through a multiplier effect on other sectors.

He said: “This administration intends to reposition Kogi State as the hub of tourism in Nigeria. We greatly appreciate the roles culture and tourism could play in achieving sustainable development and in

CORRECTION OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

My name was wrongly written as WALE AYOBAMI instead of JOHNSON ADEWALE AYOBAMI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

This is to certify that I BELLO GANIYU ADIGUN is one and same person as BELLO GANIYU. All documents bearing the above names remain the same.

General public take note.

ARUK OLAYINKA ABDULSALAM

OLUWABUKOLA ASHUBIOJO

I, formerly known and addressed as FARUK ABDULSALAM OLAYINKA. Now wish to be known and addressed as FARUK OLAYINKA ABDULSALAM. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as OLUWABUKOLA ROKOSU OLADAPO. Now wish to be known and addressed as OLUWABUKOLA ASHUBIOJO. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

promoting social and economic empowerment of citizens. The sub-sector has huge foreign and domestic investment potentials, with wide spaces for small and medium enterprises to thrive. We are grateful to the Dangote Group for its support to the tourism sector in the country and we are also using this opportunity to appeal to other corporate bodies and well-meaning Nigerians to emulate what Dangote is doing, so as for the sector to be vibrant enough to attract foreign exchange into the country”

CORRECTION OF NAME

My name was wrongly written as OJI AKUNWA UKO instead of OJI AKUMA UKO. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

BLESSING EZE I, formerly known and addressed as MARY BLESSING OGBONNA. Now wish to be known and addressed as BLESSING EZE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

The Tincan Island Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has revealed that it generated a total of N256,416,708,848.68 as revenue for the year 2016.

According to the controller of the command, comptroller Bashar Yusuf who made the revelation through a press statement issued yesterday, said the amount which is lower when compared to that of year 2015 (266,185,188,546.00) was said to be so due to reasons beyond the control of the command.

Comptroller Bashar in his statement said, “ the command is statutorily charged with the responsibilities of collecting/generating revenue from all dutiable imports, accounting for same as well as facilitation of legitimate trade. To this end, the command, during the year under review bagged the sobriquet of a ‘Benchmark Command’

EHIMHEN BETHELLY EVANS Formerly known and addressed as Olu Thomson, now wish to be known and addressed as Ehimhen Bethelly Evans. That my date of birth was wrongly written as 5th May 1972 instead of 24th April 1978. All documents remain valid. General public take note.

OBASEKE GIWA TEMITOPE Formerly known and addressed as Giwa Temitope Funke, now wish to be known and addressed as Obaseke Giwa Temitope. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

in view of the various remarkable achievements recorded despite the various challenges of global recession.

“The total figure for the revenue generated in the year represents a marginal difference when compared with the figure for 2015, with a shortfall of less than 10billion attributable to some factors beyond the control of the Command.”

Giving the highlights of some remarkable seizure in the year, Bashar stated that based on well profiled intelligence, the command had on the 15th February 2016 intercepted a large quantity of arms & ammunition and had on the 4th March and 7th April, the items were handed over to the Department of State Security Service.

He also stated that the command got an infrastructural face-lift as the office complex which was previously in a deplorable state was refurbished and a well equipped clinic to serve the health needs of both officers and other members of the public was also established in the year under review.

He spoke further on some of the remarkable successes of the command, “ we also had the oversight visit of the Senate committee on customs to the command, seizure of thirty-one containers of 50kg parboiled rice falsely declared as yeast, an other seizure of 27 X 20FT container of vegetable oil in 25kg kegs at EMOG terminals.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Group commends Oni’s order on Gani Adams to resign Kehinde Akinpelu, Ilorin

ÎÎÎA group of the Odua People’s

Congress (OPC) has commended the Oni of Ife, Oba Enita Ogunwusi II for ordering Otunba Gani Adams to resign as the National Coordinator of OPC in order to put an end to the lingering crisis rocking the congress.

The spokesman of the group, Comrade Maruf Olanrewaju gave the commendation at a press briefing organized by the group in Ilorin the Kwara State Capital on Wednesday.

Olanrewaju, who is also the Kwara state Coordinator of OPC, asserted that the monarch gave the order during a meeting with them in Ife on Monday.

The spokesman described the order as a welcome development, saying it was the only way to resolve the leadership crisis that had bedridden the Yoruba socio-cultural group.

He noted that the Oni’s position was for peace to reign in the congress as National Coordinatorship of OPC should be based on tenure.

“His Royal Majesty has let us know that it is only the royal fathers and other traditional title holders that die on the throne and with the title respectively.

“But for a position like that of a national coordinator, it is temporal and tenured”, he said.

Comrade Olarewaju, described the order as the best way to resolve the crisis in the OPC and reclaim the lost glory under Gani Adams.

He assured the monarch that the group would be available for the reconciliatory move by the royal father to re-unite all the warring groups that were aggrieved due to the dictatorial style of Gani Adams’ leadership.

Collaborating the spokesman’s briefing, Comrade Sina Akinpelu from Ibadan said they were overwhelmed by the decision of Oni over the crisis.

He noted that the order for Adams to step aside was in the interest of the members and would in no distance time reclaim the popularity of the congress.

Akinpelu stated that Adams was not the only national coordinator that the group had produced, saying Dr. Fredrick Fasheun served and bowed out.

Also speaking, Comrade Olayinka Olowo from Lagos said that what was morally right is for Adams to yield the order of the respected monarch for general interest to prevail.

Olowo said that the group supported the concept of rotating the position to forestall leadership in the future.

25 News

FG sanctions Discos over metering ÏÏSets Feb. as 28 deadline

Opeoluwani Akintayo

ÎÎÎ

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, said the Federal Government has approved the sanctioning of electricity distribution companies, DisCos who fail to meter customers within their networks.

The regulatory body revealed this in a statement on Wednesday.

According to the statement, all customers should have been metered before Feb. 28, 2017.

NERC said that Discos who do not

meet up with the deadline will begin on March 1.

The statement signed by its Acting Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Anthony Akah, said the decision to sanction was taken after the initial directives by NERC and the moratorium period given to DISCOs to meter consumers.

The Commission said the move was to protect electricity customers.

In June 2016 after consultation with the operators, NERC said it directed DISCOs to conclude metering of all customers before Nov. 30, 2016.

According to NERC, the commis-

sion at the expiration of that notice granted three months moratorium which will expire February 28, 2017 to enable the DISCOs effectively execute the metering deployment plan for customers.

It then urged electricity customers yet to be metered as at February 28, 2017, to report to the commission through any of its Forum Offices in all the states of the federation.

On customers who had paid money to the DisCos through the Credited Advance Payment for Metering Initiatives, CAPMI programme, NERC implored them to lay complaints and

seek redress through its available mechanism.

The Commission then advised customers not to physically attack any official of the DisCos on assignment to their respective communities.

“The Commission is by this notice advising electricity customers not to take laws into their hands by attacking staff of electricity distribution companies.

“They may wish to be guided not to resort to legal proceedings as the first option in seeking redress, but to explore the commission’s redress mechanism to save litigation cost and time”, the statement read.

Lagos to commence clean-up of Lekki, Ikoyi, V/I inner streets Benjamin Omoike

ÎÎÎ

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) acting chairman, Ibrahim Magu (right), distributing a package during a visit on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps in Abuja… recently.

Okorocha, Ekeremadu congratulate Nwodo, new Ohanaeze leadership Val Okara, Owerri and ChrisEmetoh, Abuja

ÎÎÎ

Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State has congratulated the former Minister of Information, Chief Nnia Nwodo as the new President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo saying that the delegates to the election and Ndigbo have made a wise choice by voting him to steer the ship of Igbo apex group.

Also the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has hailed the election of the former Minister of Information, Chief John Nnia Nwodo, as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

Reacting to the Tuesday election of the pan-Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ekweremadu described Nnia Nwodo as a cerebral intellectual with well established contacts across Nigeria and beyond, hence capable of helping Ndigbo to regain lost ground.

The governor also Congratulated DIG Hilary Opara (retd) and Barr.

Uche Okwukwu also on their elections

as the Deputy National President and Secretary-General respectively of the Igbo apex body.

Okorocha in a statement on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary Mr Sam Onwuemeodo charged Nwodo and his team to bring their wealth of experience to bear in piloting the affairs of the Pan-Igbo Organization and pursue those policies that would accelerate the development and growth of Igbo land.

According to him, with the outcome of the election, one could conveniently vouch that the future is bright for Ndigbo both at home and in diaspora and that Ndigbo would not have made better choices than the personalities that emerged in the election.

He assured Chief Nwodo and his team of the cooperation of the governors in the South-East, adding that the unity of Ndigbo should be strengthened more while ensuring that Ndigbo should get their due in a corporate Nigeria.

The governor also commended Igbo leaders including, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Senator Ken Nnamani,

Igwe Alfred Achebe of Onitsha, Chief Okwey Nwodo, Prof. ABC Nwosu and others, who made the election a hitchfree exercise.

Ekweremadu said: “I congratulate Chief Nnia Nwodo and his team on their emergence. I have confidence in their ability to further reposition the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation and relaunch Ndigbo to a higher reckoning in the country, while also working with other parts of the nation for the overall development of Nigeria.

“I expect them to work with the Igbo civil society, the diaspora community, town unions, governments, political elites, and other parts of the country to bring out the best of the famed Igbo resourcefulness, intellect, and collectivism for the social, economic, and political transformation of Igbo Land and Nigeria”.

Ekweremadu, who commended Ohanaeze for a rancour-free election, also tasked the new officers on an allinclusive administration that accommodates and utilises the capacities of those who contested against them.

The Special Committee on the clean-up of Ikoyi, Victoria Island and Lekki will commence the second phase of the clean-up exercise which will involve a total clean-up of the inner streets of the designated areas in a fortnight.

Speaking with newsmen after a meeting of the Special Committee held at the Alausa Secretariat on Tuesday, the Chairman and Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tunji Bello, said the committee will now focus on all the inner streets of Ikoyi, Victoria Island and Lekki.

According to him, “for all those who have been dislodged from the major streets but are finding their way back to the inner streets, this is a clear warning that the Task Force is coming after them. The earlier they realize that there is no place for street traders, illegal shanties or abandoned properties in the area, the better for them.”

“We are also going to embark on a mop up operation on all the areas that have already been cleared by the Task Force to ensure that in any instances where we have some of the dislodged traders or operators of shanties that have returned, they will not only be removed but prosecuted,” he added.

The Chairman also reiterated his warning to authorities of the Federal Marriage Registry in Ikoyi, whose patrons always constitute a nuisance in the area through indiscriminate parking on the road, to find a solution to it before the Task Force starts impounding the vehicles and prosecuting the owners.

The SSG said an improvement on the second stage of the clean- up exercise would be the presence of Mobile Courts to try all offenders on all days of the operation.

26

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Health

s

Stress can precipitate mental illness —Psychiatrist

Lara Adejoro

What type of specialised psychiatric services are you involved with in Nigeria?

I am very much aware that the Nigerian Government is unable to provide all the mental health care that is required for the population. Even in developed nations like the United Kingdom where you have a National Health Service, there is still a huge gap filled by private health providers and mental health charities in providing care and support services for some patients and families. I am working with professional colleagues (Psychiatrists, Psychologists, social workers etc) to have relevant mental health sub-specialisations within the community, especially in the private health care sector.

What are the early symptoms of mental illness?

It is very difficult to just mention one or two symptoms of mental illness, bearing in mind that there are lots lot of symptoms of mental illnesses and they manifest differently at the early stages. However, presentation at an early age group might be behavioural difficulties, challenging behaviour, struggling at school, unable to concentrate at school, laid back at school, a bit disorderly, getting into trouble at school, getting paranoid, feeling low in mood etc.

As they grow older, some behavioural difficulties may set in; some mood swing, some may start hearing voices, feeling more paranoid, irritability, some might show cognitive decline. Furthermore, early signs could be memory loss, difficulty remembering things, forgetting birthdays and things, reading and forgetting what they have read, dropping your car keys and forgetting where you dropped it, etc.

What are the major causes of mental illness?

Primarily, it could be biological, psychological or social.

The Biological is about genetic vulnerability. So, if someone is born into a family where both parents have depression, that

Dr. Vincent Udenze is a Consultant Psychiatrist with a sub-specialisation in addiction (substance misuse) psychiatry. He works as the Medical Director of Synapse Services, a Centre for Psychological Medicine providing specialised mental treatment in Abuja, Niger and Lagos States. He is also the president of an international charity called Reconnect Health Development Initiative. In this interview with LARA ADEJORO, he says there is always an evidence of a diagnosable mental illness. Excerpts.

Udenze

person is genetically more likely to have depression. It does not mean that they would definitely have depression, but it means that their genetics make them more vulnerable to developing that illness.

Psychologically, people who are very negative, who do not think that they are good enough, who are very judgmental of themselves, who have a very negative cognitive style, are more likely to develop a depressive illness compared to someone who is very positively motivated and driven. And, social factors are factors like housing, finances, job etc. So, if you lose your job, suffer a break up in your relationships, etc, all these social stressors could trigger a possible mental illness. A

lot of the etiological factors are spread across those three main domains.

What is your view about diabolically inflicted mental illness or man induced mental illness?

This is a very difficult and controversial topic. I will respond to this question by saying that there are people out there that believe that some mental illnesses are due to some spiritual factors, and there is some evidence-based on that belief system that it is true. Now, the questions are these: How do you differentiate between a mental illness due to bio-psycho-social factors as described earlier and the one that is possibly diabolical? Does diabolical etiology actually lead to a diagnosis of mental illness?

Does the diabolical factor trigger a proper mental illness?

My take on this will probably be that, whether it is diabolically induced or proper core mental illness, there is always an evidence of a diagnosable mental illness. If you believe in diabolically induced mental Illnesses, then treatment will usually involve prayers to address the spiritual treatment and then medical treatment by your clinicians to deal with the diagnosable mental illness, so you need prayers, Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapists.

While that is not diabolically induced, it is really about treatment by clinicians. What I always say to my patients is that the best form of treatment for those that believe in diabolical treatment is to take the patient to hospital to get treatment for the diagnosable mental illness while you ask family members to go to Church or mosques to say prayers to deal with the diabolical origin as God answers all prayers from any location.

How can every sane person avoid mental illness?

Sanity is an interesting concept. Sometimes we talk about a continuum. We all have our individual peculiarities. To focus on the question, you have to pay more attention to your thinking style, and be more positive. You have to prevent stress because it can precipitate mental illness especially in the vulnerable.

Manage yourself well, do exercise.

Do you believe in herbal or traditional solution to mental illness?

Yes. For as long as such centres will be the first place some of our clients will visit, then they are already a part of the treatment pathway. We just need to work collaboratively and give them basic knowledge of how to identify mental ill-

ness and the need for them to advice clients to go to mental health hospitals. I also believe that there will be some herbal preparations which will be beneficial in treating mental illnesses, but people who have such herbal preparations need to subject it to science so we can get the exact dose for it and understand how it works.

Can one get quality treatment in Nigeria without necessarily going abroad?

Yes. In Nigeria today, we got some fantastic teaching hospitals with fantastic clinicians.

You don’t have to go abroad for treatment. We also have a few good private centers which have got equipment if you think of the fact that in Nigeria, we have got machines like the Rapid Trancranial Magnetic Stimulation (RTMS), that is the machine used in treatment of mental illness and addiction that can cost as much as N40 million each existing in Centres in this country. We don’t have to go that far; you just need to know where to go to get help for your particular disorders.

What is your general advise to Nigerians on mental health awareness?

Mental illness is a no-respecter of persons, age, sex, social-economic status, religion, etc. Anyone is capable of developing mental illnesses. If you have a suspicion that all is not well with you mentally, or that all is not well with someone else around you, the first thing you need to do is to seek help, seek clarity, go see a clinician.

It doesn’t have to be a psychiatrist. It could be a family doctor; and that person is able to determine if it is something they can handle or they might refer you to the appropriate mental health clinician to help you have a better understanding of your experience.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

27 Health

Impose 150% special levy on tobacco products, ERA/FoEN Tells FG The Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) has urged the federal government to immediately impose a minimum of 150 percent special levies on all tobacco products as a means of raising revenue while also reducing the consumption and health impacts of tobacco use.

ERA/FoEN in reaction to the newly announced import duties on tobacco products, said the new policy falls short of recommendations by public health experts, but instead it centicises local consumption of the deadly product.

The group believes that on the surface, the new policy looks promising, but a deep analysis shows it offers subtle protection for local tobacco companies which already controls 90 per cent of the Nigerian market and will now produce more to addict our youths.

Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun had, in a circular to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) two weeks ago, announced a raise of import duty on tobacco from 20 per cent to 60 per cent. Other products that also had their duties reviewed upwards are imported rice, sugarcane, cassava products and salt, among others.

Oluwafemi

In reaction to the announcement, ERA/FoEN Deputy Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi said: “We commend the listing of tobacco among luxury goods deserving higher duties. We however feel that the measure falls short of what is needed to reduce consumption of tobacco products instead it further cushions the local environment for production and

consumption “We have consistently urged government to look the way of special levies, high excise and high duties on tobacco products, only a consolidated tax regime and the complete removal of all incentives and grants could end the indirect subsidy on smoking by the Nigerian government.”

Oluwafemi explained that

government decision to leave out locally-produced tobacco from the high taxes or levies regime is an indication of disconnect between the Ministries of Finance and Health and would be counter-productive as other tobacco companies would start considering building new factories in Nigeria to produce their lethal products to worsen the current health burden of the nation.

He added: “We are also worried that the new circular ranks tobacco with rice, salt, medicine and other daily needs. Tobacco is not food. Tobacco is not just a product but a lethal one that needs special attention.”

According to him, the nation stands to gain from imposing higher taxes and other levies on tobacco if done with public health in mind.

“We again re-echo our call for tobacco to be totally excluded from grants and other government incentives. We demand that the government, instead, go beyond the announced duties by imposing 150 per cent levies on locally-produced and imported tobacco products.

Anything short of this is cosmetic,” Oluwafemi insisted.

Mamador Cooking Oil advocates healthy heart Adesola Afolabi In the spirit of the New Year, Mamador Pure Cooking Oil has urged Nigerians to make and keep sound Heart Health resolu-

Oil

tions for the year.

The campaign, tagged ‘Pledge for Your Heart’ kicked off with activation at Ikeja City Mall, Lagos, this year which is in furtherance of the brand’s

Million Hearts Mission initiative which started in 2016 with a mission to actively encourage millions of consumers across Nigeria choose healthy lifestyles.

This campaign is in The Category Marketing. Manager, Chioma Mbanugo, explained that “the brand intends to strongly continue its advocacy for a nation with a healthy heart which is one of the brand’s key objectives.”

“It is an age-long tradition for people to make resolutions at the start of every year, but more often than not, people do not remember their heart while making such resolutions. The Mamador brand believes that the secret to a healthy living is closely linked to how healthy the heart is and as such our aim is to

encourage consumers to make adjustments that will favour their Heart Health even as they make resolutions about their general lifestyle and living.”

In the space of one week, Mamador held a total of 10 activations in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Ibadan - and the key message to everyone who participated was to make a pledge to take better care of their heart this year.

In the weeks to come, Mamador will continue to champion and advocate the cause for a healthy heart amongst Nigerians.

Mamador 100% Pure Cooking Oil is a range of premium cooking oil from PZ Wilmar Limited and it is also endorsed by the Nigerian Heart Foundation for all its heart health benefits.

FG flag off PHC revitalization programme Lara Adejoro President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday assured Nigerians of quality basic healthcare services irrespective of their location in the country.

The President gave the assurance while inaugurating a Model Primary Health Care Centre for Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria at Kuchigoro Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Abuja.

The President expressed the hope that the provision of quality health care service would reverse the poor health indices in the country, adding that his administration will fulfil all its promises made to the people.

“I am hopeful that our women will no more be dying needlessly during childbirth; our children will no more be dying needlessly as a result of vaccine preventable diseases or common ailment; access to health care will not be limited because of lack of money to pay.

“I want to assure Nigerians that Government will continue to ensure that great numbers of Nigerians have access to quality basic health care services.

Accordingly, the provision in the National Health Act, 2014 for the Basic Health Care Provision Fund is in the process of being implemented.

“I also assure my fellow countrymen and women that our administration will fulfil all the promises made to the people.

“The provision of quality health care service will reverse the poor health indices in the country,’’ he said. President Buhari maintained that the inauguration of the Health Centre signalled the commencement of revitalization of the first 109 Primary Health Care facilities across the 36 states of the federation and the FCT. According to him, the vision of his administration is to revitalise 10,000 Primary Health Care facilities in Nigeria using a phased approach, the President added.

28

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

29

Olowo

explains Plateau Utd switch

C

entre back, Emmanuel Olowo has said the quest for new challenges and titles informed his decision to pitch tent with the topflights, Plateau United.

The former Heartland strongman starred for the oriental side, Abia Warriors in the immediate past top-flight.

Olowo said he will bring his wealth of experience to bear on the Tin City landlords’ desire for laurels in the upcoming Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season.

“I’m now a full-fledged player of Plateau United as I have signed the dotted line for one season’s contract with the side.

“I’m satisfied with what was offered as I was immediately made to feel at home.

“I’m certain to bring my experience to bear as well as contribute my quota to ensure the side is a success in the coming season.

“I switched over to Plateau United to have a guaranteed future as well as

Page 30

face new challenges and contest for laurels.

“I have not featured for any side in the northern part of the country so the Plateau United offer comes as opportunity for me to have the experience playing up there in the north.

“My dream is to win trophy, first focus on the league shield then the Federation Cup, we are certain to win one or both at the end of the upcoming football season,” said Olowo to supersport.com.

Olowo

Thursday, JANUARY 12, 2017

Edem Edem Calabar

E

NPFL: Enyimba relocate to Calabar

Enyimba FC chairman, Chief Felix Anyansi-Agwu.

nyimba International Football Club has relocated to U. J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar, Cross River State, following the ongoing renovation works at Aba Township Stadium by the government of Abia State. Already, the Club had been in Calabar for three weeks practicing and playing friendly matches with reputable football clubs in the country.

Confirming the relocation to Calabar, the Chairman of the Club, Chief Felix Anyansi-Agwu told Extra Time in Calabar that the relocation will take the whole season pending when the renovation will be completed. “We are making Calabar our new home for practice as our stadium is undergoing renovation. The idea was to let you know that Enyimba is in Calabar and we solicit for the support of the fans,” he said.

Consequently, the club has met with various stakeholders in sports including referees association, supporters club and Sports Writers Association (SWAN).

The Chairman further revealed that the club had already recruited two players each from Rovers and Calabar City Club respectively.

Anyansi added that the presence of the club would encourage the Cross River State Government to do more about sporting activities including football.

Why the choice of Calabar? The chairman said: “Over the years, we have had good relationship with the people of Calabar. Calabar is a tourist destination; it is a familiar terrain and we are now Enyimba of Calabar.”

Relegated Heartland stun AbiaWarriors

I

kedinachi Nwakanma’s first-half goal earned relegated Heartland victory over NPFL side Abia Warriors in Owerri on Tuesday.

Nwakanma hit target in the 44th minute and that proved to be the difference

between the two teams at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.

Coach Abdullahi Biffo praised ‘The Naze Warriors’, lamenting that the League will miss the flavour of Heartland as the NPFL resumes this weekend.

“It’s unfortunate that this great team will not be in the NPFL this season, but I am sure that the hunger shown by these lads will help them return to the top league,” he said.

Heartland coach Emmanuel Deutcsh

said Abia Warriors were a good test for his new team.

“Biffo and his team gave us a tough test and we will be better for this,” he said.

NFF to inspect Enugu,Bauchi,Nnewi,Port Harcourt stadia ANDREW EKEJIUBA

A

ll the venues being proposed for home matches by Clubs representing Nigeria in African competitions this year will be inspected by officials of the Nigeria Football Federation.

This was the agreement reached at the end of a meeting of NFF officials and officials of the four Clubs (Rangers International, Rivers United, FC IfeanyiUbah and

Wikki Tourists) at the NFF Secretariat, Abuja on Wednesday.

Deliberations centred on match venues, stadium readiness, team preparation, team travel and accommodation, logistics, match officials travel and accommodation, communication with NFF and officials of the opposition team, safety, security and medical provisions.

NFF’s Director of Competitions, Mr. Bola Oyeyode briefed officials of the four Clubs on requirements

of the Confederation of African Football, and harped on the importance of being fully prepared in all the noted areas in order not to attract avoidable sanctions and unpleasant experience during their campaigns.

NPFL champions Rangers International will fly the country’s flag in the CAF Champions League alongside second –placed Rivers United, while Federation Cup winners FC IfeanyiUbah and League

third place –finishers Wikki Tourists will campaign in the CAF Confederation Cup. The Flying Antelopes propose to make use of the 25,000 –capacity Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium (The Cathedral) for their home matches, with Rivers United opting for the Yakubu Gowon Stadium (16,000 capacity) in Port Harcourt and Wikki Tourists decided on the 18,000 –capacity Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi.

Pinnick

Thursday, January 12, 2017

EXTRATIME

31

EURO…EURO… EURO…EURO… EURO…EURO… EURO…EURO… EURO…EURO…

Ronaldo misses Real,Sevilla clash Gagliardini completes Inter switch Inter have confirmed the signing of Atalanta midfielder Roberto Gagliardini on a loan deal until the end of next season which will become a transfer worth an estimated €25million.

Gagliardini has broken into Giampiero Ventura’s Italy squad this season, having only cemented himself in Atalanta’s squad this campaign.

The move to San Siro caps a stratospheric rise for the 22-yearold, who is yet to make his senior international bow, despite being called up for recent fixtures with Liechtenstein and Germany.

Gagliardini has only played 14 games in Serie A, but he has suitably impressed Inter as they continue to overhaul their squad under new Chinese ownership.

Joao Mario, Gabriel Barbosa and Antonio Candreva were all costly imports ahead of a campaign which has seen Frank de Boer come and go in the hot seat before Stefano Pioli has steadied the ship.

Real not thinking about treble —Zidane Zinedine Zidane is adamant Real Madrid are not thinking about winning the treble as there is still a long way to go this season. Madrid have been in sublime form this campaign and hold a four-point lead over second-placed Sevilla in the La Liga table, with a game in hand.

They are also on track in the Copa del Rey, having won the first leg of their round of 16 tie with Sevilla 3-0, while Napoli await in the Champions League round of 16. Nevertheless, Zidane is not getting carried away just yet.

Muller frustrated with Bayern role T

homas Muller has admitted he is not happy with his situation at Bayern Munich, but the attacker is adamant he will always put the team’s interests first.

The Germany international endured a difficult first half during the season, in which he scored just once in 13 Bundesliga outings.

Muller had to stay on the bench for the full 90 minutes in Bayern’s win over RB Leipzig before the mid-season break and he has acknowledged watching on from the sidelines was a frustrating experience.

“The last game against Leipzig was not ideal for me on a personal level because I did not play,” Muller told reporters.

“There was more space than in previous games and it was a game where I could have enjoyed myself.

“So I was obviously not watching on from the bench with a smile on my face.”

Muller Muller

Z

Ronaldo

inedine Zidane has opted to rest Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric for Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey encounter with Sevilla.

Ronaldo also missed the first leg of the round of 16 tie, with Madrid cruising to a 3-0 win at the Santiago Bernabeu without their star attacker.

He then returned to the starting XI for the 5-0 win over Granada at the weekend, but will be allowed to sit out today’s clash again.

Modric, meanwhile, has featured for the full 90 minutes in Madrid’s first two games of 2017, but Zidane does not need the Croatia international at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.

The capital side will also be without the services of James Rodriguez in this week’s return. The former Monaco star netted twice in the first leg, but is unavailable due to injury.

“James felt something in his calf again and we will not take any risks,” Zidane explained.

“I think it is only a small thing, but we are always careful. We still have a lot of games left to play. We will see how his situation evolves, but we will not risk him.”

Isco will also miss the trip to Sevilla due to a minor problem, while Pepe and Gareth Bale remain unavailable, too.

Sergio Ramos, Lucas Vazquez and Mateo Kovacic all return.

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China cash!

Oshoala

Oshoala set to dump Arsenal F

oreign reports have suggested two-time African women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala is set to dump Arsenal Ladies to join the China cash bandwagon.

Nine months ago, Oshoala joined Arsenal from another English club Liverpool.

China is now the new destination for the cream of world football as it offers tempting contracts to some of the high profile stars around – Carlos Tevez, Oscar, Mikel Obi etc Watford striker Odion Ighalo could also be the big star from the Premier League to opt for the big money the Chinese league now offers.

Oshoala shot to international prominence in 2014, when she fired Nigeria to the final of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Canada, before she inspired the Super Falcons to win the women’s AFCON in Namibia later that same year.

Nigeria’s Dauda joins Greek side Atromitos N

igeria’s Abiola Dauda is now a player of Atromitos of Greece, having left Vitesse Arnhem as a free agent.

While with the Dutch based outfit, the forward was on target nine times with four assists from 28 games - before he was loaned to Scottish side Heart of Midlothian.

“It was generally known that Abiola could already look out for some time for a new club, we are happy for him that he found the new challenge,” said Vitesse technical director, Mohammed Allach.

Dauda has been handed jersey no.

7 and is expected to make his debut for Georgios Korakakis’s men against Panionios on Sunday.

The Peristeri Stadium outfit are seventh on the Greek Super League log with 21 points from 14 games.

Dauda

Business Times Daily Times Nigeria

Buhari extols Sterling Bank’s health support initiative Page B3

Badejo-Okusanya set to take PR professionals to Page B6 clinic

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Delta registers 30,000 farmers

Page B7

Kachikwu unfolds FG’s oil sector plan

Opeoluwani Akintayo

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Ibe Kachikwu, yesterday unfolded the Federal Government’s plan for the oil sector in 2017, including passing the long-overdue Petroleum Industry Bill and overhauling of the refineries.

In a statement, the minister said oil and gas policies will be restructured for maximum productivity, which will improve revenue generation by looking into areas the government could make more money.

According to him, the government will complete all outstanding Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and bring in more foreign investors.

Kachikwu said as a follow-up to his trips to the United States and China last year, he will also embark on a roadshow to the Gulf.

“We are going to receive and complete all the MOUs that we began… the one in China…the one in India… we are going to do a roadshow to the UK…for Europe.

We are going to do a roadshow to the U.S. with President Donald Trump coming in,” he said.

On activities embarked upon in 2016, Kachikwu said that the government was able to eliminate fraud-impacted volume by reducing the volume of PMS the nation consumes daily from 50 million litres to 28 million litres.

He assured Nigerians that the nation’s oil industry will be run transparently, as against the

The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited, NLNG, has denied increasing prices of the product as recently reported.

Speaking with Business Times yesterday, the company’s General Manager, External Relations, Kudo Eresia-Eke, said Nigeria LNG’s domestic LPG price is based on an international price index plus 50% of the shipping cost of delivering the product to receiving facilities in Apapa-Lagos.

That price, according to NLNG, is invoiced in Naira at the prevailing official interbank exchange rates, contrary to assertions made in parts of the media.

The reality of this is that, although LPG is produced and consumed locally, the product like crude oil, is an internationally traded commodity with an international price benchmark, open to global demand and supply pressures.

NLNG however, said it softens the impact of price variations by continuing to subsidise the cost of transporting about 40% of the total domestic market share which it supplies from its production facility on Bonny Island.

Aside from the above, the company said recent delays to vessel discharges at the receiving facilities in Apapa, Lagos which are multi-use terminals with berthing priority accorded to vessels discharging other oil products (Petrol, DPK and Diesel), have also led to a temporary supply disruption over the last 2-3 weeks.

Opeoluwani Akintayo

opaque manner it was run in the past.

He also confirmed that oil blocks will also be allocated in 2017.

Kachikwu also said that the government will work within a liberalization framework to remove difficulties in the industry.

“We will focus on downstream issues. Although we have liber-

alised, there are still some challenges. The reality is that the marketers are still suffering,” he said.

On the Niger Delta, the minister promised to look into security concerns in the region, to bring peace.

“We are going to focus on the Niger Delta. It’s been too long a lingering issue. We are going to work with every aspect of the presidency to try and find solu-

tions to this. We are going to work to stabilise oil production… a lot of work is required.”

He said the government will develop agreement and opportunities on International Oil Companies (IOCs), and partners through engaging policies that will bring more investment, and strengthen investor relations.

On oil production, the minister said the government will begin

L – R: Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, receiving a report on Nigeria’s Maritime Reform from President of The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mrs Nike Akande during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Transportation in Abuja on Monday.

We didn’t increase price of cooking gas - NLNG

NNPC resumes production of diesel and kerosene

By Simon Ugwu The three refineries in Kaduna, Port Harcourt and

BUSINESS TIMES Editor Andrew Odioko Head Business Azubike Nnadozie Capital Market Editor Bonny Amadi

Warri have resumed production of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK), otherwise known as diesel and kerosene respectively.

The resumption of refining of AGO and DPK is expected to balance the disequilibrium in demand and supply of the white products being experienced in recent times in parts of the Country.

Speaking on the production level of the Warri refinery, the Managing Director of the Warri

Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC), Engr. Solomon Ladenegan, said the plant had been doing well since the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) was revved up on Saturday.

Ladenegan said the refinery resumed production last Saturday at about 10:22hrs, with the plant’s CDU functioning.

The refinery MD stated that the plant now refines 2 million litres of kerosene and 3 million litres of diesel daily.

“This morning, we have

pumped the products to PPMC and they have started loading.

They are going to load up to 1 million litres of DPK and AGO. The products are there in the tank and we are doing everything to get them to the market,” Engr.

Ladenegan disclosed.

On his part, the Managing Director of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC), Dr Bafred Enjugu, said Port Harcourt Refinery was producing 3 million litres of AGO daily, in addition to millions of DPK being churned

out by the refinery daily.

Enjugu enthused that his operators were thrilled having rehabilitated the old Port Harcourt Refinery where production of AGO was being carried out by themselves without foreign expertise deployment.

Meanwhile, the Kaduna Refinery has also roared into action, producing millions of litres of white products to ease the situation in supply and distribution of petroleum products nationwide.

Capital Market B2 UBA in closed period for securities trading.

UBA Plc on Wednesday announced the commencement of the closed period for trading in the bank’s shares.

The bank said, ““In compliance with the NSE rule book and the amendments to the Listing Rules, the closed period commenced January 11, 2017in respect of the Accounts and Financial Statements for the period ended December 31, 2017.”

A close period is a period, usually of two months, prior to the release of results during which directors and other insiders are not allowed to trade in a company’s shares. It is also usual for companies to refrain from making other price sensi-

tive announcements (e.g. trading statements) during the close period.

The Bank therefore stated, “No director, person discharging managerial responsibility, employees with sensitive information, advisers and consultants of the Bank and their connected persons may directly or indirectly deal in the securities (Shares and Bonds) of the Bank until 24 hours after the release of the Audited Accounts and Financial Statements of the Group for the period ended December 31, 2016 to the Nigerian Stock Exchange and by Extension, the general Public.”

Summary of activities on NSE ASI DEALS VOLUME VALUE CAP

26,385.80 3,410.00 197,449,864.00 1,048,646,831.19 9,078,728,779,260.72

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, Deceember 15, 2016

NSE declares Skye Bank, 14 other stocks ‘below listing standard’

Bonny Amadi

The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has placed a ‘belowlisting standard’ (BLS) tag on Skye Bank and 12 other stocks presumably to warn the public about investing in them.

The other stocks are Afromedia, John Holt, African Alliance Insurance, Great Nigeria Insurance, Resort Savings & Loans, Universal Insurance Company, Aso Savings & Loans, Ekocorp, Ikeja Hotel, Union Homes Savings & Loans, Smart Product Nigeria, BAA, Guinea Insurance, and Niger Insurance They have failed to file their periodic unaudited results of 2016, as well as audited results for 2015, and 2014 financial years, according to the NSE. NSE Chief Executive Officer, Mr Oscar Onyema, explained

that the BLS tag of the Exchange is its version of ‘buyers beware’ warning in respect of the affected stocks, especially as the exchange is bound to defend the market integrity, and protect all stakeholders, including investors.

The tag on affected companies is used by the bourse to warn the public about investing in them, as there could be uncertainties which could have delayed the release of their financials. Such doubts could only be cleared when the affected companies make public the long-awaited results. The bourse requires listed companies to release timely and accurate information about their Afromedia and John Holt were labelled BLS for missing regulatory filings of its audited result for the year ended September 30th, 2016. John Holt also earned the sanction from the NSE for failing to deliver its audited 2016

financial result within the three months regulatory requirement.

The two companies with a September 2016 year ending were expected to deliver their result before or on December 31st, 2016.

For failing, they have been sanctioned by the NSE for breaching post-listing rules and creating doubt in the minds of their shareholders and prospective investors.

Skye Bank was sanctioned by the NSE for failure to deliver its First quarter (Q1), second quarter (Q2) and third quarter (Q3) results respectively. The bank’s name appeared in three schedules of the NSE X-Compliance default list.

The bank’s result for 2015 financial year reflected that the bank recorded loss of N40 billion, irrespective of net income of N50.4 billion driven by net interest income of N50.9 billion and net income from fees and commission of N15 billion.

Cadbury names new MD Cadbury Nigeria Plc has announced changes to its board, naming Mr Muhammad Amir Shamsi as its new Managing Director.

The manufacturer in a regulatory filing with the Nigerian Stock Exchange noted that the appointment takes effect from 1st February 2017 following the resignation of the current Managing Director Mr Roy Naaman

taking effect on the 31st of January 2017.

Shamsi’s had from 2009 till date worked as a Director with Mondelez International, one of the world’s largest snacks companies, and prior to that worked with Dulux Paints, GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, Orient McCann Erikson and O. J foods, Licensee of Nabisco International

Flour Mills issues N100 billion commercial paper on FMDQ Flour Mill Nigeria Plc’s series 8, 9 and 10 commercial paper has been declared open for subscription.

The subscription which is due to close on Friday, January 13, 2017, seeks to raise up to N15 billion across tenors.

The programme is in three tenors. The first of 92 days has a Discount rate of 14.92 percent and an implied yield of 15.50 percent, the second of 120 days has a discount rate of 16.10 percent and an implied yield of 17

percent while the third of 183 days has a discount rate of 18.59 percent and an implied yield of 20.50 percent.

According to the company the payment date has been scheduled for 16 January 2017, and the proceeds of the deal will be used for working capital financing, while tax considerations are free and clear of withholding taxes.

The total programme size is N100 billion, with FBN Merchant Bank Limited as the arranger.

L – R Ade Bajomo, Executive Director, Market Operations and Technology, NSE; Mr. Victor FAMUYIBO, Human Resource Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Mr. Oscar N. Onyema, Chief Executive Officer, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE); Mr. Nicolaas A. VERVELDE, Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Breweries ; Mr. Uaboi G. AGBEBAKU, Company Secretary/ Legal Adviser, Nigerian Breweries ; and Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri, Executive Director, Capital Market Division, NSE; at the Closing Gong Ceremony in commemoration of the company’s 70th anniversary at the NSE recently.

Stock market rebounds by 0.15 percent Afolabi Adesola

Trading on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) recorded a rebound as the All-Share Index (ASI) inched up by 0.15 percent.

The ASI added 39.56 to close at 26.385.80 in contrast to a decline of 233.98 on Tuesday. Market capitalization also added N13.6 billion to close at N9.079 trillion in contrast to N80.5 billion lost a day before when it closed at N9.065 trillion, Investors transacted a total of 197.4 million units of shares, valued at N1.05 billion in 3,410 deals, compared to previous trading session’s 219 million units of shares, valued at N1.4 billion in 3,423 deals.

The day’s improved performance cut across the sub-sector

indices most of which closed higher by the end of the day’s trade. The Banking index recorded the highest growth of 0.73 percent, The Main Board added 0.34 percent, the NSE 30 grew 0.22 percent and the NSE Oil and Gas Index increased 0.37 percent. The NSE Consumer goods Index, however, fell 0.28 percent consequent on depreciation in Guinness and Honeywell Flour.

The price movement table showed 19 companies appreciated, while 16 had their equity prices shaved. OkomuOil led the gainers’’ table by 10.21 percent to close at N44.27, Presco followed with an increase of 10.20 percent to close at N44.19, Air Service grew 4.98 percent to close at N2.74, May and Baker appreciated 4.44

percent to close at 94 kobo, and Eterna gained 4.04 percent to close at N3.35.

Guinness led the decliners, losing 6.38 percent to close at N74.90, Julius Berger dropped 4.98 percent to close at N36.66, UAC-Prop depreciated 4.76 percent to close at N3, Fidson fell 4.72 percent to close at N1.21, while Livestock feeds depreciated 4.71 percent to close at 81 kobo.

Union Bank topped the activity chart for the day, with the sale of 34.1 million shares worth N170.6 million. Diamond Bank followed with 28 million shares worth N27.2 million, while Transcorp emerged the third most traded stock for the day with 22.6 million shares amounting to N20.4 million.

Money Market B3

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Naira drops further to 492/$1 at parallel market Stories by Motolani Oseni Following the prediction by some analysts that the naira may hit N500 to the US dollar at the parallel market, the local currency yesterday fell further to close at 492 per dollar against 491 it was traded on Tuesday.

The naira sold at 486 to a dollar but closed at 492, while Euro and Pound Sterling were sold in the morning at 511 and 590 but closed at 510 and 592, respectively, yesterday.

The local currency at the beginning of the week appreciated at the parallel market after about two weeks of losses, gaining 3 points to exchange at N490,

from N493 it posted last Friday, while the Pound Sterling and the Euro traded at N600 and N506, respectively.

At the Bureau De Change window, the Naira closed at N399, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) rate, while the Pound Sterling and the Euro traded at N599 and N510, respectively.

Trading on the floor of the inter-bank market saw the Naira stable at N305.00.

The Naira had exchanged around N490 in spite of speculations that it would hit the N500 to a dollar mark.

However, some analysts at Financial Derivatives Company in their outlook for the naira in

2017 believe that the local currency under the current market regulatory framework will remain under pressure, unstable until the market is allowed to operate freely and efficiently.

In a bid to reduce gap between the official interbank rate and black market rate, Bureau De Change (BDC) operators in the country on Tuesday set their first ever reference exchange rate for the local currency at 399 to a dollar.

Foreign exchange dealers believe this would reduce the wide gap between the official interbank and retail foreign exchange rates.

L – R: Dr. Benedict Oramah, President of Afreximbank, with Calixte Ganongo, Minister of Finance of Republic of Congo; and Raphael Malonga, Ambassador of the Republic of Congo to Egypt, in group photo following the signing of the facility agreement in Cairo yesterday.

FG to raise funds through diaspora bonds in March With the federal government continuing to source for funding both locally and in abroad, plans are in top gear to issue a debut diaspora bond by March to raise funds from Nigerians abroad, after completing $1 billion Eurobond sale this month.

The largest economy in Africa is in its first recession in 25 years and needs to find money to make up for shortfalls in its budget.

Low prices for crude and militant attacks in its crude-producing heartland, the Niger Delta, have slashed its oil revenues.

It first announced plans to sell Diaspora bonds in 2013 to raise between $100 million to $300 million, but the government at the time could not finish appointing book runners for the sale before an election that swept the opposition into office.

The government plans to borrow up to $10 billion, with about half of that coming from foreign sources as it seeks to boost overseas loans to plug funding gaps and lower costs.

So far, only the African Development Bank (AfDB) has publicly confirmed a budget support package of $1 billion. The government has held talks for months with the World Bank, China and other institutions to fund the budget gaps.

In December, the government appointed Citigroup, Standard Chartered Bank and Stanbic IBTC Bank to manage the $1 billion Eurobond sale, which it hopes to begin marketing this month.

Remittances are the secondlargest source of foreign exchange receipts in Nigeria, after oil revenues. Citizens living abroad send at least $10 billion home annually.

Nigeria is the world’s fifthbiggest destination for international remittances after China,

Adeosun

India, the Philippines and Mexico, with 5 million Nigerians living abroad sending money back to relatives, according to Western Union.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government is auditing the utilization of its bail-out funds to state governments amounting to about N510 billion last year.

Consequently, eight accounting firms have been appointed to review how state governors spent the money and their compliance with stipulations of the Fiscal Sustainability Plan (FSP), which was the basis for the funds.

The firms are KPMG, Ernst & Young, PricewaterhouseCoopers, PKF, Muhtari Dangana & Co, S. S. Afemikhe & Co, Ahmed Zakari & Co, and Ijewere & Co. Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, has said that the accounting firms would evaluate the states based on their implementation of the 22-point FSP. According to her, the ministry has been monitoring the utilization since last year but found it necessary at this stage to employ independent firms for the “monitoring and verification of the States against agreed milestones under the FSP.”

Buhari extols Sterling Bank’s health support initiative

Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has commended Sterling Bank for supporting the administration’s initiative to provide qualitative and affordable health services to Nigerians through a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Health.

Such partnership, according to the president, would serve as an enabler for the Health Ministry to achieve its goal of revamping the health sector and ensuring efficient management of health facilities across the country.

He gave the commendation in Abuja while inaugurating the Model Primary Health Care Centre for Universal Coverage in Nigeria, located at Kuchigoro, Abuja Municipal Council.

Buhari specifically commended the bank for its foresight, innovation and financing support for the project which is focused on ensuring sustainable health for vulnerable women, children and the elderly at little or no cost to beneficiaries.

The president also commended other partners who have demon-

strated a strong commitment to supporting government’s efforts to making health services more affordable and accessible with the possibility of delivery to the doorsteps of Nigerians.

Speaking further on the partnership, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Bank, Mr. Yemi Adeola, disclosed that the bank has already accepted the request of the Honorable Minister of Health to serve as a primary partner to the Ministry on all health-related developments adding that the Bank is already

working with some committees tasked with the responsibility of improving the sector.

In line with the bank’s value proposition to optimize healthcare centres through the deployment of technology, he stated that the Bank remains committed to supporting the Primary Healthcare Centre in Kuchigoro.

He also disclosed that the bank is supporting the 2016 edition of the Nigerian Service Delivery Innovation Challenge organised by the Federal Ministry of Health.

B4

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

B5

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

D aily M ark e t Ro u n d U p Ex t e r n a l Rese rv es a n d Exc h a n g e Ra t e C h a r t 1: H ist o ric a l Ex t e r n a l Rese rv e s a n d Exc h a n g e r a t e

To p 10 G ain ers Tick er O K O M U OIL PRESC O AIRSERVICE N A HC O DIA M O N D BN K C A D BURY C O NTINSURE ETERN A W APIC A FRIPRU D

To p 10 Tr a d es b y V olu m e Price (N) 44.27 44.19 2.74 2.78 0.99 9.49 1.10 3.35 0.54 3.29

Price Ch g % 10.2 % 10.2 % 9.6 % 7.3 % 5.3 % 5.1 % 4.8 % 4.7 % 3.8 % 3.1 %

Price (N) 1.63 0.75 111.40 1.21 74.90 1.60 36.66 4.70 5.00 1.24

Price Ch g % -13.8 % -12.8 % -9.1 % -9.0 % -6.4 % -5.3 % -5.0 % -4.3 % -4.2 % -3.9 %

Tick er UBN DIA M O N D BN K TRA NSC ORP FBN H FC M B UC AP O ANDO FIDELITYBK UB A ZENITHB A N K

Price Ch g % -4.2 % 5.3 % -2.2 % 0.3 % 0.0 % -1.8 % 1.3 % -1.1 % -4.3 % -1.9 %

To p 10 Tr a d es b y V alu e

To p 10 Losers Tick er CUTIX C A VERT O N 7UP FIDSO N G UIN NESS M A NSARD JBERGER UB A UBN H O N YFLO UR

V olu m e (m) 34.1 28.0 22.6 19.7 14.3 11.1 10.8 9.3 5.7 4.8

Tick er UBN FO NB ZENITHB A N K FBN H G U ARA N TY O ANDO PRESC O UC AP TOTAL

V alu e (m) 170.6 130.1 118.2 72.8 72.3 56.1 49.9 46.0 36.0 29.8

Price Ch g % -4.2 % 1.4 % 0.0 % -1.9 % 0.3 % -2.4 % 1.3 % 10.2 % -1.8 % 1.7 %

NSE A ll Sh ar e In d e x

29,000

500.0

Interbank

Parallel Market

450.0

NSE All Share Index

Naira Value (m)

12,000

28,000

10,000

27,000 8,000

400.0

26,000 350.0 300.0 250.0

6,000 25,000 4,000 24,000

200.0

2,000

23,000 150.0

09-Jan

06-Jan

03-Jan

31-Dec

28-Dec

25-Dec

22-Dec

19-Dec

16-Dec

13-Dec

10-Dec

`

07-Dec

04-Dec

01-Dec

28-Nov

25-Nov

22-Nov

19-Nov

16-Nov

13-Nov

10-Nov

07-Nov

22,000

M a cr o e c o n o m ic G ist So urce: CBN, A frin v est Rese arch

Term of t h e d a y D e m u t u aliz a tio n is w he n a m u t u al com p a ny o w n e d by its St ock eMmark e t Crash users/m b ers co nverts in t o a com p a ny o w n e d by sh are h old ers. In ef f ect, t h e users/m e m b ers exch a n g e t h eir rig ts omfark use f or shis ares A sthock e t crash a ra piin d atnhde odf teem n uut n aunaliz ticipeadtecom d dropp ainnyst ock prices.

t h e b ack o f struct ural co nstrain ts a n d m acro eco n o mic co n u n dru m t ha t rece n t tim e hig h w hile G DP gro w t h a n d FX ra t e recorde d t h eir m e diu m t erm lo ws in 2016. Lo o kin g A he a d, w h a t d o es 2017 h old f or t h e eco n o my a n d fin a ncial m ark e t?

A st ock m ark e t crash ca n b e t h e result o f m ajor ca t astro p hic eve n ts, eco n o mic

W a tch O u t f o r A f ri n v est 2017 Eco n o mic a n d Fi n a ncia l M a r k e t O u t l o o k

crisis or t h e colla pse o f a lo n g-t erm sp ecula tive b u b ble.

sch e d u l e d t o b e re l e ase d o n 24 t h Ja n u a ry, 2017.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Remita/Systemspecs appoints Okeme, ADVAN President, CMO Systemspecs, owners of R e - mita has appointed former Unilever Nigeria Brand Building Director/current President, Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN), David Arome Okeme as its new chief marketing officer. According to the company, “Okeme is joining us to lead the much desired transformation of our marketing function especially as we get into the retail space.

Until recently, the Marketing Director of Unilever Nigeria, Okeme has had an illustrious marketing career spanning countries and cultures. A multiple career-award winner, David has initiated many successful traditional and digital marketing initiatives and will be operating as our Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)”.

Remita/Systemspecs is one of Nigeria’s leading Indigenous payments company, and operator of the Treasury Single Account (TSA). It’s already processing over USD30 billion transactions.

The immediate task is to transform the organization from a B2B to B2C and C2C, as well as go international.

Okeme has had a distinguished career with Unilever. His working experience with Unilever covers the entire 4 lanes of marketing: Brand Building, Brand Development, Customer Development & and Customer Marketing. A career high point was his expatriation to Unilever Arabia, based in Dubai in 2008, where he looked after the Unilever Oral Care business in the Africa, Middle East and Turkey region.

B6 Brands & Marketing

Mass sack: BJAN calls for caution at NIMN Stories by Godwin Anyebe The Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria, BJAN, an umbrella body for journalists reporting brands and integrated marketing communications in Nigeria has expressed concern over the recent development at the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) where about its 32-workers had allegedly been disengaged by the Board of the institute shortly before the yuletide.

On December 23, 2016, the Institute had in a memo announced the disengagement of all the employees of the institute, giving till January 6, 2017 for those still interested in their jobs to re-apply.

The announcement, said to have affected about 32 staff of the institute, except the institute’s Registrar, was said to have caught many of them who were actually looking forward to some good tidings from the institute’s Board, concerning the backlog of their unpaid salaries, unawares.

A statement signed by the President of the association, Mr. Goddie Ofose in Lagos says while BJAN warmly congratulated the newly elected President of the institute, Mr. Tony Agenmonmen, and wishes him well in his new assignment, as the watchdog of the industry, the association found it worrisome that in less than two months after the new president was elected, the entire workforce

balkanization of the marketing institute once again. If the current leadership goes on with its planned retrenchment, BJAN fears that NIMN might divide into two, a development the association would not want to witness again.

The association recalls that while the institute was originally granted power through Act No. 25 of 2003 which was promulgated into law on 25 July 2003 by former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, accordingly, two professional bodies, the Nigerian Marketing Association (NIMARK) and the Chartered Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (CIMN) had existed as separate professional bodies.

Yahaya Adoza Bello, Executive Governor of Kogi State (middle); HRM, Ohinoyi of Ebiraland , Dr. Ado Ibrahim (second left); Suberu Onimisi Nusa, National Cordinator, Ebira Carnival; and Abubakar Ohere, SA Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs (second right) at the Dangote sponsored carnival in Kogi State, recently

Badejo-Okusanya set to take PR professionals to clinic

As the practice of Public Relations continues to evolve all over the world, practitioners who want to stand tall among their contemporaries have continued to brace up with the trend. American marketing strategists, Al and Laura Ries argue that public relations has become the most effective way to build a brand.

As a matter of fact, well-known brands like Nike, PlayStation and Harry Potter spend little on brand-name advertising. Checks

by Daily Times also reveal that business owners become known in their respective fields of concentration many times through public relations and the associated media generated.

Understanding this fact, Lagos NIPR; the flagship Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), has announced that

had been allegedly sacked.

While BJAN is not comfortable with the position, the association is urging the institute to maintain the status quo by calling everybody back and review the NIMN position in order to avoid the incident that happened in 2003 when the institute was divided into two.

“The association wishes to remind the president about the past struggle of the institute when the federal government had to step in to reconcile the two warring factions by setting up a law that act 25 of NIMN of 2003.”

Ofose said Nigerian brand journalists are not only members but very functional members of the institute.

“BJAN is concerned about the

Yomi Badejo-Okusanya is guest Lecturer at the January edition of its PR Clinic; a high-end training geared to equip and capacitate members of the Institute with high-level strategies, tactics and how they can do their jobs better, train their teammates, and lift their campaign results.

Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, President and Chairman of Council, Africa Public Relations Association, and Managing Director/ CEO, CMC Connect BursonMarsteller; one of the leading media, communications and public affairs group, will lecture on the theme: 10 Trends that will Impact Public Relations in Future and Cultivating a Professional Image, scheduled to hold on Thursday January 12, 2017 in Lagos.

The theme seeks to x-ray how the industry is undergoing major transformations. As practitioners

of an ever-evolving field, there’s need for public relations and social media professionals to constantly strive to stay on top of all current and even future trends in the industry. These trends illuminate which tactics most effectively help practitioners execute their strategies.

Okusanya

Tomato paste industry may die if current FX policy remains – Union The Union of Tomato Paste Manufacturers in Nigeria through its spokesman, Mr. Nnamdi Nnodebe, has hinted that the once vibrant industry might stop existing next year if the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not amend its policy on Foreign exchange to exclude triple concentrate tomato paste from the scope of the 41 items under the restricted list. Nnamdi Nnodebe the Managing Director of Sonia Foods Industries Limited, one of the stakeholders in the production of tomato paste variants said recently in Lagos.

“A good analogy would be, when someone is sick instead of providing an alternative treatment you take away the only treatment because you feel the drugs are not the best in the mar-

ket but you still fail to provide an alternative; what do you think will happen to the sick person?” he queried.

According to him, “While trying to heal the economy, the pillars that hold it together is being removed. Pillars such as the tomato industry are invaluable to growing a vibrant economy. The total investment in the packing manufacturing sector of tomato paste is about nineteen billion Naira. The economy cannot afford to lose such a huge industry that provides millions of direct and indirect jobs for Nigerians.

The fact is this industry that grew to be the 13th largest in the world and 2nd largest in Africa might die before the second quarter of next year if the ban on Forex is not lifted.”

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

B7 AgriBusiness

Oyo to inaugurate automated silo Oyo State Government has promised to inaugurate the first automated silo in Nigeria soon, as part of efforts to enhance the diversification of its economy through agriculture.

Gov. Abiola Ajimobi made the disclosure in Oyo during the inspection of the Oyo State Integrated Silo Complex located along Oyo-Awe road on Tuesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the silo is a project of the “Agric-Oyo” programme inaugurated by the state government to boost agri-

culture in the state.

The silo with waybridge, trailer park and other modern facilities, was sited close to Owode Grain Market, one of the largest grain markets in Nigeria.

Ajimobi said the project would be completed and inaugurated in six months, adding that he was impressed at the level and quality of work at the site despite the paucity of fund.

“The four fully automated silos have 2,500 metric tonnes capacity to make 10,000 metric tonnes, and is the first of its kind in Nigeria,” he said.

He said that the silo when in-

augurated would generate employment for 50,000, fortify the grain market, and save grains for many years.

Ajimobi added that the silo would also enhance efficient and effective grain management.

“We also intend to establish a Scanning Manufacturing factory for agriculture in Ogbomoso,’’ he said.

Dr Mufutau Raheem, the Projects Consultant told NAN that they have inspected all the silos nationwide as a learning curve for the Oyo Integrated Silo.

Ajimobi

Delta registers 30,000 farmers

Okowa The Delta State Government has registered over 30,000 farmers of cassava, oil palm, rice and fisheries for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP).

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mr Austin Chikezie, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Asaba.

He said that the aim was to boost fish, cassava, oil palm, and rice production under the ABP in the state.

The commissioner said that the state policy on agriculture was directed towards achieving agricultural growth and development.

He explained that the government would focus attention on providing food in excess for local consumption and industrial raw materials for agro-industries, employment and poverty alleviation.

He noted that the ABP would be used as a financial model for small-holder` farmers in oil palm, rice, cassava and fish.

He said that about 30,000 farmers have been registered across the selected enterprises of Cassava, Oil Palm, Rice and Fisheries, adding that high quality inputs and technical assistance would be provided for farmers.

According to Chikezie, the scheme is designed to increase production and supply of raw materials to food processors. ‘’And that through the scheme, qualified commodity out growers are assisted to identify an anchor firm (off taker or Processor) and supported with loan at nine per cent interest rate to increase their farm holdings in the state’’.

Pay up, Ganduje tells ABP loan beneficiaries Gov. Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State, has urged the over 5,000 beneficiaries of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) agricultural loan in the state to pay up.

The governor made the appeal at an interactive meeting with some of the farmers at

Ganduje

Kadawa, Garun-Mallam Local Government Area of the state.

He said that the loan was not free and all the beneficiaries must pay back to enable others benefit.

The governor reminded them that “an individual farmer or group may repay the loan in cash or with bags of rice.”

Ganduje said the ABP had achieved its objective in the state, as it had helped to boost rice production by 96 per cent in 2016 over the 2015 output.

According to him, wheat production also recorded 84 per cent increase during the period.

Earlier, a representative of the CBN, AbdulKadir Ahmad, said N960 million was allocated to Kano farmers and each benefitted with N367,000.

Chairman of the state ABP Recovery Team, Prof. Mahmud Daneji,

said that some of the 5, 540 farmers who benefited from the programme had started paying back.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, Yusuf Gawuna disclosed that the state government had assisted wheat farmers with N150 million to procure seeds in 2016, and some amounts were recovered from the beneficiaries.

Some of the farmers that spoke at the session expressed satisfaction with the programme, but suggested that the loan should not be released late as was done in 2016.

They also complained of difficulty in accessing fertilizer. al Government is targeting the production of one million metric tons of paddy rice under the programme.

The programme is also meant to create economic linkages between the over 600,000 smallholder farmers and reputable large-scale processors, to raise agricultural output and improve capacity utilization of integrated mills.

Expert calls for better post-harvest handling technologies A non-oil export consultant, Mr Godwin Okoh, has called for improvement on post-harvest handling technologies and seed quality to develop exportation of agricultural produce.

Okoh, the Managing Director, Tech Consult and Investment Ltd., made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Tuesday.

He said that the rejection of Nigeria’s agricultural produce in the international market was due to the presence of unwanted agents in the produce.

Referring to the ban on some agricultural items from Nigeria by the European Union in 2015, he said there had been tremendous improvements in quality of Nigerian produce since then.

Okoh said that cashew and sesame which had peel-ability and

Free Fatty Acid (FFA) content issues respectively were among the crops mostly challenged.

“The challenge we have been facing is in the area of post-harvest handling, which we need to improve on as well as the seedling quality.

“For instance, if you look at the cashew and sesame seeds, our customers complain about the peel-ability and the content of FFA in sesame seed.

“Now, most of our seedlings are very old and are not resistant to pests, so these are the areas we really need to improve, especially in providing hybrid seeds for tree crops.

“This will reduce investiture of those foreign agents that cause a lot of rejection in foreign markets.

“So, we need a technology that will help in post-harvest handling,’’ Okoh said.

He also said that after farmers had harvested their crops, they found it difficult to preserve in such a way that would retain the content of the produce before they were exported.

Okoh said that the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which was introduced in May 2000 and was later reviewed for the third time from 2015 to 2025 had also contributed.

Motoring B8

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Fire extinguishers, caution signs remain bookable - FRSC The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) has clarified that fire extinguishers, caution signs, and other traffic offences remain bookable.

The agency pointed out that its attention has been drawn to the insinuations by some members of the public consequent upon its recent directives on booking of certain traffic offences including Fire Extinguishers, Light Signs Violation and Caution sign.

Bisi Kazeem, Head, Media Relations and Strategy, FRSC, said in a statement that the suspension was temporarily done in the light of the observations by the operations department of the FRSC National Headquarters to the effect that these offences were secondary offences.

It further stated that such offences should not

take precedence over the primary offences especially during the Operations Zero when the operational focus was on ensuring the free flow of traffic and avoidance of anything that could undermine it.

“Consequently, it must be further stated that the directive was in no way meant to permanently stop the FRSC patrol teams from enforcing laws on non-possession of fire extinguishers, Light and Caution signs on motorists that violate them as provided for in the FRSC Booking Sheet”.

In the circular issued by the FRSC to further clarify the Corps’ stand on the directives, the Deputy Corps Marshal in charge of Operations, Ojeme Ewhrudjakpor, stated that the suspension of booking of fire extinguisher (FEV), Light Sign Violation (LSV)

and Caution Sign (VSC) was for one month of operation Zero (16 December 2016 to 16 January 2017 when the focus was on free flow of traffic.

“The suspension was, therefore, part of the activities and directives to Commands of the FRSC to ensure non-impediment to the free flow of traffic with the anticipated high vehicular movements,” the circular stated.

“For the avoidance of

2018 Kia Stinger makes world debut at NAIAS

Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo At an event typically dominated by introductions from American auto companies, Kia Motors America (KMA) stole the spotlight with the world debut of the all-new 2018 Kia Stinger at the North American International Auto Show. A fivepassenger fastback sports sedan poised to redefine a segment currently populated by European automakers, the Stinger promises to be the highest-performance production vehicle in the company’s history. Offered with multiple engines and drive train configurations and luxurious accommodations, the Stinger will go on sale in the U.S. late this year.

“Unlike any Kia that has come before it, the Stinger

really is a dream car for us, and here today in Detroit, that dream is now a reality after years of commitment and hard work from a passionate group of designers, engineers and executives around the world,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning, KMA. “From its GT concept car origins to the years of tuning and refining on the legendary Nurburgring circuit, no detail was too small to be obsessed over, and the result is simply stunning.”

Although every Kia design study has a purpose, the GT concept was something considered by many outside the company as little more than a dream for a brand known for producing mass-market transportation rooted in value.

But the GT ignited em-

bers of passion that sparked a fire within the organization and over the next five years that fire would grow beyond fantasy and morph into reality.

Turning a concept into a production car is no small task and Schreyer looked no further than Kia’s Frankfurt studio, the birthplace of the GT concept, to bring the Stinger to life. “A true gran turismo, a car for spirited long-distance driving, is not about outright power, hard-edged dynamics and brutal styling, all at the expense of luxury, comfort and grace,” notes Gregory Guillaume, chief designer, Kia Motors Europe.

“The Stinger has nothing to do with being the first to arrive at the destination – this car is all about the journey.

It’s about passion.”

doubt, these offences are secondary offences that would be booked alongside primary infractions,” it added.

Deputy Corps Marshal Ojeme further stated that the suspension of the booking of the offences will be lifted at the termination of the ongoing operation zero on 15 January 2017 as directed by the Corps Marshal who is the Grand Commander of the operation.

New Gulf gets attitude with R-line pack Volkswagen has revealed an R-Line package for its face-lifted Golf range in Germany, offering some of the racy styles that would associate with an R badge.

The revised Golf is due in South Africa in the second quarter and although the R-Line pack has yet to be confirmed for the market, the fact that a similar offering is available on the new Tiguan is a good sign that it is on the cards.

So what’s the deal with R-Line? Obviously, there’s no performance mods here, just a choice of two styling packages – one that spruces up the exterior only and

another that brings some sporty attitude inside as well. The pack is available on Comfortline and Highline models.

Exterior mods start with a choice of various 17- and 18-inch alloy wheel options (Sebring, Singapore or Marseille) and also include an R-Line front bumper with highgloss black intake screens, a honeycomb structure for the lower intake and R-Line badging on the grille.

Moving to the back the cars stand apart with an R-Line-specific diffuser, trapezoidal chrome trims and a rear spoiler with aero flaps.

Genesis showcases all-new 2018 G80 sport trim For the 2018 model year, Genesis adds an exciting Sports trim to its already popular G80 model, featuring a powerful new 3.3-liter turbocharged V6 engine plus unique sport performance upgrades.

The recently debuted 2018 Genesis G80 Sport will be on display at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show, along with 2017 Genesis G90 flagship sedan, which is currently a North American Car of the Year finalist.

The 2018 Genesis G80

is scheduled to arrive this Spring, and the 2017 Genesis G90 is available now at Genesis retailers The 2018 Genesis G80 3.3T Sport asserts its presence with a striking exterior and distinctive copper styling elements to visually differentiate it from the rest of the enhanced 2018 Genesis G80 model lineup. Unique 19-inch wheels, genuine carbon fibre interior trim, leather sports seats and steering wheel are just some of the exclusive

design and performance features that highlight the G80 Sport.

Underneath its attractive exterior, the Sport’s 3.3-liter direct-injected, twinturbocharged V6 engine boasts 365 horsepower, and is paired with a sport-tuned eight-speed automatic transmission. Supported by an upgraded suspension system, this robust new powertrain delivers superior driving dynamics, improved ride compliance and sports agility.

Lexus unveils its all-new LS 500 flagship sedan

Lexus is hoping to shoulder its way into the super luxury segment where BMW’s 7 Series and Merc’s S-Class currently rule the roost, with an allnew version of its flagship sedan, the LS 500.

This fifth generation of the giant Japanese limo is taking a unique approach, however, with a pure focus

on quality, comfort and driveability, rather than following self-driving trends.

And it might not be just a clever tactic. Lexus believes modern luxury sedan owners are demanding a more in touch experience from their cars, not only when sipping saki at the back but also steering

themselves between board meetings.

The 5.2 metre-long limo rolls on the same platform as the recently introduced LC 500 coupe but lengthened to a wheelbase of 3124mm for obvious reasons and equipped with a fancy air suspension that offers premium waftability and self-raises to allow easier entry and exit. The air ride also combines with a new chassis management system which ties together the car’s braking, steering, suspension and drivetrain, and adjusts everything according to drive mode selection.

The Edo Times

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Obaseki, Oshiomhole not quarrelling -Idahosa

ET 3

Communities laud Obaseki on ET 2 plans to develop Gelegele Seaport Governorship poll: Appeal Court throws out YDP’s case ÏÏÏ The Court of Appeal sitting

Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, in handshake with the PDP candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, in the September 28, 2016 governorship election in the state. Beaming with smiles at the foreground is the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Osarodion Ogie. Both parties were at the election petition tribunal sitting in Benin City...on Wednesday

Govt to introduce POS for revenue collection, set to employ 10,000 Stories by Titus Akhigbe Benin

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The Edo

T E A M

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has set up a modality for the employment of 10,000 persons in the first phase of his 200,000 job promise, in fulfillment of his electioneering campaigns, it emerged on Tuesday.

Besides, government says it would establish an electronic platform that will collect revenue by the means of Point of Service (POS) or revenue scratch cards for those who do not have ATM cards.

It was learnt that Governor Godwin Obaseki had directed Heads of Local Government administration in the state to

forward names of contractors initially contracted as revenue collectors to Government House to jumpstart the job scheme.

A government statement said the submission of the contractors’ names was in furtherance of government’s avowed commitment to streamline tax collection in the state The statement said government’s decision followed Gov. Obaseki’s meeting with stakeholders in Government House on Friday.

Speaking to newsmen after the meeting, Chairman of Edo State Internal Revenue Service, Chief Oseni Elamah, said the concerned contractors are those previously selected to col-

Special Project Editor Sam Nzeh

Correspondent Titus Akhigbe

lect revenue on behalf of the local governments.

Chief Elema disclosed that the concerned contractors were also required to supply the names of their staff, phone numbers and passport photographs respectively, adding that “this is with a view to capturing their details in our employment database”.

Continuing, he said, “in addition to this, the MDs of all those that were engaged as consultants or contractors have also been directed to supply the names of those people that were involved, the staff they used, their numbers and their photographs so that we can consider them for employment under the first 10,000 youths’ employment programme that the government is already working on.”

To complete this process, Elamah noted that a portal will be opened where their biometrics

will be captured and they will be given first offer under the new programme as a result of experience which they must have gained in their previous assignment of manually collecting revenue, which they were given, adding that “they will undergo training before eventual recruitment will be made”.

The chairman noted that “under this, we are also working towards eliminating cash as a means of revenue collection.

“We are going to establish an electronic platform that will collect revenue by the means of POS or revenue scratch cards for those who do not have ATM card.

“Under that law, the processes or procedure and time frame for whatever revenue and taxes that have been collected will be clearly stated and publicised,” he added.

in Benin on Wednesday dashed the hope of the Young Democratic Party (YDP) and its governorship candidate, Nurudeen Inwanfero, by upturning the judgment of the Edo State Election Petition Tribunal given on December 8, 2016.

Following the dismissal of their petition against the declaration of Mr. Godwin Obaseki, as winner of the September 28 gubernatorial election in the state, the petitioners had approached the appellate court, seeking to upturn the judgment.

Joined as respondents in the appeal are the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), All Progressives Congress (APC) and Mr. Goodwin Obaseki.

Barrister Santos Femi Owootori, Counsel to the 3rd Respondent, (Mr. Godwin Obaseki), however filed a counter motion against the appeal.

In the counter Motion on Notice, Owootori sought an order dismissing the appeal brought by the Appellants/Respondents through their notice of appeal dated December 16, 2016 and filed on 20/12/2016.

He hinged his application on the grounds that the appellants/ respondents filed their notice and grounds of appeal at the lower tribunal on December 20, 2016 without complying at the time of the filing, with paragraph 7(a) of the Election Tribunal and Court Practice Direction 2011 in respect of fulfilment of conditions of appeal.

He further argued that since the appellants/respondents filed their notice and grounds of appeal on December 20, 2016 at the lower tribunal, no records of proceedings/ appeal has been compiled and served/transmitted as at January 3, 2017, which is 14 days after the filing of the notice of appeal in violation of paragraph 9 of the election tribunal and court practice direction 2011.

After hearing argument from counsel to the 3rd respondent (Mr. Godwin Obaseki), the Presiding Judge, Hon. Justice J. O. Bada, dismissed the appeal of the YDP and its governorship candidate, against the decision of the election petition tribunal.

Other members of the threeman panel of judges who concurred with the lead judgment are Justices P. M. Ekpe and M. N. Oniyangi.

The Edo Times 2

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Gunmen attack children remand home in Benin, as teenagers escape ÏÏÏ About 43 teenagers have escaped

from the Edo State Children Remand Home along Welfare road in IkpobaOkha Local Government Area.

It was gathered that the detained teenagers escaped after gunmen stormed the center at about 2am and shot sporadically.

The gunmen were said to have broken down some windows and cut through iron protectors to pave way for the escape of the inmates.

Officer in charge of the remand center, Mr. Victor Lawani, confirmed the incident but said some of the inmates have returned.

Chief Security Officer of the center, who gave his name as Mr. Ojo, said the

gunmen spent over two hours to cut through the protectors after they overpowered him.

Oji said the gunmen stormed the center with sophisticated weapons.

Some of the inmates that were found said they ran into the bush until 5am and returned back to their hostel.

Edo State Deputy Governor, Hon. Philip Shaibu, who visited the scene to ascertain the level of damage, expressed disappointment at the unkempt nature of the center.

Shaibu said it was unreasonable to keep children in such place.

He ordered immediate inquiry into the remote and immediate causes of the invasion.

Communities laud Obaseki on plans to develop Gelegele Seaport

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Communities around Gelegele Seaport in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State, have commended Governor Godwin Obaseki for the planned development of Gelegele Seaport.

The communities under the aegis of Ekaladeran Peoples Forum (EPF), spoke through their spokesman, Mr. Austine Amiuwu, while addressing newsmen in Benin on Monday.

They said the move would economically benefit both the state and the communities around the proposed seaport.

It will be recalled that Obaseki had set up a seven-man technical committee to work out modalities for the development of the Gelegele Seaport.

Amiuwu said if the project was pursued to its logical conclusion, the Ekaladeran people would remain forever grateful to the governor.

He said the people have for

over four decades, made concerted efforts to the governments at both the state and federal levels to develop the seaport.

He said the setting up of a technical committee by the present government of Edo, was the first ever major step taken by any government towards the development of the seaport.

The spokesman said the setting up of a technical committee was received by the Gelegele communities with wild jubilation.

“Our joy is that our people, the communities and the state in general, will be transformed with this laudable project.

“Economically and socially, we stand to benefit a lot if this project is completed.

“As communities, we have been neglected by the non-development of the Gelegele Seaport, and by not giving us a local government of our own,” he said.

EDSG restates commitment to human capital development Stories by Titus Akhigbe Benin

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The Edo State Government has disclosed that its focus is to massively invest in the education sector aimed at improving the quality of human resources to drive the process of industrialisation and agriculture.

Besides, government said it would extend its direct grants scheme to more tertiary institutions as part of its effort to increase the quality of education in the state.

Governor Godwin Obaseki dropped this hint when a coalition of student unions and youth groups from the state paid a courtesy visit to the Government House in Benin on Tuesday.

Represented by Mr. Taiwo Akerele, the governor said the state had so far donated almost $300,000 to six tertiary institutions in the state for capacity building and manpower development.

The Governor noted that one of the major focus of this government is to increase the quality of education through knowledge and skills acquisition.

“We have so many unemployed youths across Nigeria, not because

they are not educated but because of the gap between acquiring knowledge and acquiring skills,” he said.

Gov. Obaseki also assured the people of the state’s readiness to invest in human capital development for effective quality human resources that would guarantee speedy development of the society.

He therefore said that “the Edo Government is willing to bridge this gap and increase the quality of Education in the state.

“We are investing in the Tayo University of Education to make it a reference point for teacher training in the country.

“We will also be investing in technical education, the Benin Technical College will serve as a platform to bridge the gap between manpower and industrialization’’, he added.

The governor said government would continue to encourage the youths to take advantage of the opportunity being provided by the present administration to empower them, assuring them that his electioneering promises of creating 200,000 jobs for the youths of the state was realisable.

He therefore called on youths to acquire knowledge and build posi-

tive network so that they could contribute to national development.

He also assured that his administration would look into the issue of bursary and scholarship for students in the state.

Akerele added that those who had been disengaged from collecting taxes or revenue would be considered as government was already working alternative means to engage them meaningfully.

Meanwhile, Dr. Kennedy Madugu, lecturer in the Department of Accounting and Accountancy, University of Benin (UNIBEN), who spoke as the mouthpiece of the youth delegation, said the essence of the visit was to congratulate the Governor on his victory at the polls.

He said that they were also to remind the governor of the electoral promises he made to the youth.

He said: “The governor has begun work; we want to see tangible efforts being made and we are seeing that.

“We are happy that the era where thugs are used to function as youths in the government is over and we want this government to carry Edo youths along in this administration”.

Govt commends firms over quality road construction

ÏÏÏ The quality of

ongoing road work in Edo State has been commended by the state government.

Besides, government says the contractors handling the projects were delivering on record time.

Chief of Staff to Governor Godwin Obaseki, Mr. Taiwo Akerele, gave the commendation when he inspected Edo State Employment and Expenditure for Result (SEEFOR) road projects under construction within the Benin metropolis.

Akerele said the construction of the roads was critical because some of the link major roads within the Benin metropolis.

He said: “I am impressed that within a period of six months and now, we have been able to construct several roads with side-drains across the three senatorial districts.

“This means that the objective

of the intervention is already yielding result and have impacted on the benefiting communities”.

He explained that the intervention was key to the development of the state, adding that the level of work done so far despite a small budgetary provision was encouraging.

“You can see for yourself the level of work done at Cooke Road; the road has been completed with side drains. The wild gully on the other side of the road has been constructed.

“The 1.23-kilometre Reuben Agho Road is 95 per cent completed.

The 160 meters Okhoro/ Aghahowa Street is 50 per cent completed with side-drains and concrete pavement.

“Aigalegbe Street, Isihor from New Lagos Road is also 90 per cent completed,” he added.

L-R: Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu; APC Chairman Iin the state, Barrister Anselm Ojezua; the SSG, Barrister Osarodion Ogie and Chairman of Association of Community Newspapers Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN), Deacon Ralph Okhiria, when the Deputy Governor received executive members of ACNPN in Government House on behalf of the state governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, ...recently.

Revenue collection: Police vow to crackdown on violators of ban ÏÏÏ Edo State Commissioner of

Police, Mr. Haliru Gwandu, has vowed to enforce the implementation of the ban on collection of revenue by private individuals as pronounced by the State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

Besides, Edo State Government said it has released emergency phone lines to the public, so as to report any violator to the ban on the collection of revenue for immediate arrest, a statement by the

Chief Press Secretary (Interim), Mr. John Mayaki said on Tuesdaay.

The police special lines, according to Mayaki, are: 08115808360; 08115808361; 08115808441; and 08115808442.

However, Mr. Gwandu said that the command had put in place 20 squads that would ensure compliance to the pronouncement of the governor.

His words: “I will shell out 20

squads who will go round and ensure there is diligence and compliance of the ban.

“You have heard the pronouncement and I am sure the people are happy. I can also assure you that the police will not rest on its oars.

“Very soon, I will hold a meeting with my DPOs. I implore the people of Edo state to do the right thing and ensure that there is sanity. I will enforce the order to the letter’’.

Interview Hon. Charles Idahosa, former Special Adviser on Political Affairs to exgovernor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, in this interview with TITUS AKHIGBE, speaks on a number of issues affecting polity, including the alleged face-off between Governor Godwin Obaseki and Oshiomhole. Excerpts: Towards the end of last year, your party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) was hit by infighting among some of the key officials. As we speak now some of them are incarcerated on account of the issue. As an elder of the party, can you proffer solutions to end the crisis?

I don’t think there is any problem in the party. There is no problem in the party at all. It is very easy to work together to secure victory in an election. But after the victory, managing the success is usually a big problem. What people are calling problem is not really a problem.

It is just a little disagreement among leaders in some local government areas. This thing happened when the governor wanted to meet with some leaders of some wards in Edo South to say thank you after the election.

There was a meeting before then where he said one leader should represent each ward. That created problems, so he had to increase it to three leaders each in the next meeting. It started with Edo South with seven local government areas and 77 wards being represented by three leaders each. That was a bit problematic considering the crowd that was involved. Some people felt that they ought to be at that meeting which is very usual with political parties. “Why should A be there and B should not be there?’ I think that is what led to the misunderstanding. But I can assure that that aspect would be settled soon. The other aspect has security implications which the security operatives are tackling. There were certain things that were said in the course of the argument and some people were not comfortable with such pronouncements. Thus, they now involved the security people. I was not at that meeting but I was told the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the governor who was trying to help control the crowd was assaulted as well. I cannot comment on that second aspect which is now in court.

As per the party leadership aspect, I have spoken with the party leader in the state, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, former governor of the state. I have also spoken with the incumbent governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki. Machineries are been put

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

3 The Edo Times

Obaseki, Oshiomhole not quarrelling -Idahosa in place. In fact, the former governor assured that the matter would be resolved via the leaders’ caucus.

A lot of people are insinuating that what has been playing out is a kind of a face-off between the former governor and the present governor?

That is what people are expecting because it has become a regular thing for a governor to handover to a new governor and they start having issues of contestation. Like I just explained, I spoke with the former governor and thereafter I spoke with the incumbent. There is no problem between them. It is just what people expect. Don’t forget the role the former governor played in the election of the incumbent. They have worked together for eight years. They understand each other well and there is no problem that they cannot resolve between themselves without involving outsiders. As far as I am concerned, there is no problem between them. I was the Political Adviser to the former governor and I was close enough to him. I was also schoolmate of the incumbent governor. It was not difficult for the former governor to seek my support for the gubernatorial ambition of the incumbent ahead of the primaries. Godwin Obaseki is not that kind of person. If they expect that he’ll have an open spat with his predecessor, they’ll wait forever.

He is a complete gentleman. I have heard a lot of people complain that since he won the election, he has not given them audience. But I tell them that he has just assumed office, so they should let him focus on how he will take the state to the next level.

As I speak with you, he is outside the country talking with some investors on how to improve the economic fortune of the state. He is not going to sit down for hours having meetings with party leaders. He has to actualise his campaign promises to the people. There is a complete difference between him and his predecessor. Comrade Adams Oshiomhole is a labour unionist. He is comfortable been in the midst of artisans and the likes. Obaseki comes from a different background. He is a technocrat. He knows he was elected as governor based on his promises.

On that score, he must deliver on his mandate. We should give him time to do his job. We cannot judge him yet. Comrade Oshiomhole has done his bit and has left the stage. People are making all sorts of insinuations.

I am suggesting that we should look into all outstanding matters that would foster peace. For instance, the

Idahosa

There is no problem between them. It is just what people expect.

Don’t forget the role the former governor played in the election of the incumbent.

They have worked together for eight years. They understand each other well and there is no problem that they cannot resolve between themselves without involving outsiders issue of the deposition of the Onojie of Uromi. I think we should have a second look at it because the Esan people form a very important segment of the society. The deposed traditional ruler is from an area that we quite respect. I took up the issue with Comrade Oshiomhole. He told me he was no longer in a position to do anything about it. I told him that we need to sit down and proffer solutions to the issue. We have brothers and sisters who are members of the All Progressives Congress from the area. We should consider their feelings about the matter. There is no cause for alarm. We are talking.

Whatever is happening right now by the grace of God everyone would

be taken care of. Government is like a big aircraft taking-off. When it is taking-off, it is turbulent but later it will stabilise. We’ll stabilise and everything will be okay.

People are raising eyebrows that Governor Godwin Obaseki has been in office for close to a month now but he has not constituted his cabinet?

I don’t think that the period that he has been in office without having a cabinet is any major problem.

It should not give cause for alarm.

When he came in, he said that he should be given six weeks to form a cabinet. He has promised that party leaders would contribute to the formation of his cabinet. He also said that he wants to concentrate on the civil service first before knowing the shape his cabinet will take. All party leaders in each local government area will have to team up to nominate their choice of cabinet members. Presently, there is a lot of divisions in some of the local government areas. We need to sort out whatever the problem is and speak with a single voice. Some politicians are still smarting from what transpired before the APC governorship primary.

As a political technocrat, what caliber of people will you tell the governor to select as his cabinet members?

I am not a technocrat. As a journalist, I do not think I am qualified to be called a technocrat. I worked with the NTA for some time. Thereafter, I moved into politics. I will advise him to select the right people with the right educational background and experience to form his cabinet.

He should also confirm the record of such appointees so that they can key into his laudable programmes.

As the chairman of the state Eco-

nomic and Strategy Team in the last administration, he is no novice in such issues.

Recently, Governor Obaseki stopped the collection of revenue by some category of people in the state and this caused some reactions that it could lead to an upsurge in criminality in the state.

What’s your take?

I don’t know what you mean by an upsurge in criminality. The governor was quite clear in his pronouncement. He said that the collection of revenue would be the work of staff of the federal, state and local governments. What he is doing is to ensure that people pay their taxes and the like without rancour or bitterness. He has also said that some of those who are going to be laid off from collecting revenue may be absorbed in other sectors. And how would you expect those who are not accountable to be collecting revenue on behalf of the government? If anyone goes contrary to the good intentions of the government, the law is there to deal with such person.

What is your take on the governor’s plan to bring Gelegele Port to life?

It is a good plan and long overdue.

Gelegele is the state’s outlet to the sea. Many people normally feel that the state is landlocked. But with this noble project that the governor has promised to commence, we will become a state with a huge economic potential. I have no doubt that it will serve as the hub of activities in the South East and South in no distant time.

There are ongoing debate by the National Assembly to amend the constitution in the area of local government autonomy. Being a former council chairman, what is your take on this?

I was council chairman over 20 years ago. That was during the military era. Majority of the local government councils in the country are not functioning properly as it were.

Autonomy will help to address some of these problems. But talking seriously, how many of them are viable?

How many of them can generate enough funds from Internally Generated Revenue to keep afloat? Just recently, it was revealed that Uhumwode and Orhiomwon operate under zero allocation. Meanwhile, they cry that they are been short-changed by the state governments. If they operate zero allocation, how much will the state government take from them?

The Edo Times 4 John Mayaki

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A critical scrutiny of Edo State’s 2017 budget reveals huge transformation potentials inherent in it for the state and her people. First is the productivity stimulation and second is the institutional reforms and their conceptual basis.

The conceptual basis for productivity stimulation in the 2017 budget is situated within the context that the growth and prosperity of any economy is a function of its productivity. That is, the capacity to produce must outweigh the capacity to consume if such an economy is to grow.

It is against this background that Governor Godwin Obaseki stressed that agriculture would be the main focus of his economic agenda. It is also due to the heavy dependence of agricultural productivity on solid infrastructural base and network that N22.2bn and N22.3bn were allocated to economic stimulation and infrastructure respectively. Together they total N44.5bn, which represents 30% of the total budget.

Thus, nearly a third portion of the entire budget has been earmarked to boost productivity. That goes a long way in reassuring people of a genuine commitment to upswing the consumption and productivity ratio in favour of the latter.

Also worthy of note is the novel introduction of N7.5bn for investment promotion in the budget as well as the allocation of N14.72bn for what is classified as other economic growth enhancers, which represents a 144% increase from the previous year’s figures. Edo is therefore set to produce far more than it consumes and the implication of this is that the State’s GDP per capita will, in due course, climb further up from its current fourth position nationally.

Another economically lucrative spot the budget casts light upon is the tourism sector.

Governor Obaseki is of the belief that the most potent inhibitor and fastest killer of the tourism industry in any society is insecurity.

An unsafe society or community, however immense and inestimable its tourist potentials are, can never attract tourists except those with terrorist intents. Hence, his plan to rejig the tourism sector by prioritising security.

The proposal for provision of an organised community policing structure in the budget is a clear indication of a holistic and integrated approach to tourism development and permanently tackling general security challenges in a manner unlike the usual contingency approach.

Apart from its invaluable role in sustaining the hugely endowed tourism industry of Edo State,

Opinion

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, January 12, 2017

Obaseki’s 2017 Budget and Edo’s economic revolution Governor Obaseki’s organised community policing initiative will be of use even in the non-tourism sectors. The farms to be cultivated, the mines and quarries to be opened up, and other such areas identified in the economic stimulation plan will obviously need a more effective and efficient security apparatus at the micro level.

The interesting feature of community policing is that the men who will be deployed to a community will mostly be the natives.

Their deep understanding of the terrains will boost effectiveness - let those who know themselves police themselves. Recruitment into the community police apparatus should in my opinion, form part of the envisaged 200,000 jobs by the government.

It is worth mentioning at this juncture that the idea of operating a state-government owned policing system invites apprehension that it could be abused by incumbent governors for electoral advantage. But is it not a trivial worry when pitched against the sheer number of people dying every day and the stifling fear of investing in tourism that has attended the overcentralised policing system?

There are democratic institutions, like the courts and the legislature, saddled with the duty of checking and punishing abuse of power. But there are no known democratic institutions that can bring dead persons back to life nor are there any ones constitutionally empowered to coerce people to invest in an insecure and chaotic environment.

The solution to the possible abuse of community police by the governors is to strengthen our democratic institutions well enough to be able to, without fear or favour, either punish or reverse the gains of such abuses as quickly as possible. This takes us to the Institutional Reforms for which Governor Obaseki has made allocations in the budget.

It is a generally agreed that democracy is the best form of government. However, without that salient ingredient, the rule of law, democracy loses its essence and allure.

However, laws themselves do not actually rule in the literal sense as they are not persons, but documented statements prescribing how the society is to be governed by human custodians, who could possibly misapply those laws for selfish intents.

These humans form the institu-

Obaseki

In a nutshell, Edo State budget for 2017 is avantgarde in modern Nigerian budgeting systems. I say this on the basis of the ratio of the recurrent to capital projects expenditure, which is tied firmly at 50:50. This automatically translates to more activities in the infrastructural development sector of the state by 2017 tions which, given their role in the society, must always be characterized by a high level of scruples that affords them the boldness and courage to dispense justice with the fear of God alone.

As such, Governor Obaseki’s dedication of N6.6bn to institutional reforms will no doubt facilitate the enforcement of the rule of law, and in the final analysis also serve to install some checks and balances on the proposed community police system.

In the breakdown of this allocation, the sum of N1.58bn earmarked for law and justice represents over 560% increase compared with last year’s figure.

There is no greater evidence than this for a strong determination to

reform the custodian institutions of democracy thus putting to bed any fear of abuse of the community police. It is time Edo led Nigerians in thinking outside the box and, with this, Governor Godwin Obaseki has taken the lead!

What about the promise to build new towns and its conceptual basis? When an economy is successfully stimulated and it consequently begins to grow, population pull and overcrowding is usually the ultimate result especially in the metropolitan areas.

The inclusion of a proposal to build new towns in the budget is a bold, visionary and proactive step towards combating anticipated congestion challenges the state capital is likely to face – being one of the top six potential mega cities in the country.

Social welfare is not left out.

There is no doubt that encompassing as this budget proposal is, there must be persons who will not be directly impacted courtesy of the peculiarities of their lives and their levels in the society.

These include the weak, the physically-challenged, the old and senile, who, by virtue of their condition, cannot meaningfully participate in the productivity this budget is expected to promote within the state.

The indigent school children, the financially-challenged primary and secondary school students who are too young to fend for themselves also fall into this disadvantaged category.

Therefore, the provision of N17.3bn to a comprehensive social welfare package encompassing sports, education, youth empowerment, health care and protection of the vulnerable demonstrates thoroughness in considering all

sides to the economic proposal.

The spread of capital projects as reflected in the budget breakdown indicates a crackdown on marginalisation in terms of development in every community. This translates to ample opportunities for the teeming number of youths in the state.

Little wonder that the governor has been very emphatic in creating 200,000 jobs on assumption of office through the private sector participation and engagement.

The general fear in achieving all of these based on the economic recession the country is experiencing has obviously been put into consideration as the expected receipts from oil, which funds the federation account from which the state will draw part of her revenue, has been benchmarked at the least value in the history of budgeting in recent times.

If the price of crude oil goes higher than expected, then the excess that will come plus the accruing 13% derivation will be a boon to the state.

Meanwhile the nature of the first set of appointments by the governor has clearly put more emphasis on professionals with the right attitude and pedigree for delivering results. The governor, having been a private sector person understands the need to set targets and meet those targets with the right tools and persons.

I implore our people, both at home and abroad, to offer the government the needed co-operation towards a successful budget implementation as this is a budget that has taken into cognizance, the needs of the people, especially in creating the enabling environment for a thriving private sector that will lead to jobs, more jobs, and even more jobs.

In a nutshell, Edo State budget for 2017 is avant-garde in modern Nigerian budgeting systems. I say this on the basis of the ratio of the recurrent to capital projects expenditure, which is tied firmly at 50:50. This automatically translates to more activities in the infrastructural development sector of the state by 2017.

In a sentence, I will rather describe the Edo 2017 budget as the budget of all-round-possibility.

John Mayaki is Chief Press Secretary (Interim) to Edo State Governor

Life&

TIMES Thursday, January 12, 2017

Reality TV shows as platforms for talent development L2

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L2

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Reality TV shows as platforms for talent development With several reality shows cropping up, one begins to wonder which is credible amidst others. One fact, nonetheless, remains that some of the products of popular reality TV shows grab the opportunity to stardom from such

others, after their victories in reality TV shows, have continued to shine brilliantly in the entertainment industry. Here, we exray the reality shows as platforms for talent development.

Nigeria has had its fair dose of reality TV shows over the years. The entertainment industry boasts of amazing thespians who are products of reality TV shows with strong entertainment values. The Voice Nigeria, promoted by Africa Magic is one of such platforms that brought to limelight great artistes whose heroic exploits might have been unsung if not for such stages. The show, which attracted huge followership and global appeal, gave the contestants a window of opportunity to showcase their musical talents. As soon as winner by the voting audience, she was catapulted to fame and instantly assumed a celebrity status.

Also, brands have been instrumental to successes recorded in the entertainment industry so far. These innovative concepts might have remained ideas if brands did not provide the necessary leverage. Youth talent development has continued to grow in leaps and bounds. The platforms have also served as a launch pad for talented youths to showcase their talent and chart new career paths.

For example, Big Brother Africa (BBA), West African Idol, and MTN Project Fame, among others, have produced respectively. Today, these entertainers are among the highly rated artistes currently holding sway in the industry. Gideon continued to rise.

BBN, a spinoff of Big Brother Africa, created an easy

entry point for the housemates to make easy inroads into Nollywood. Beside its entertainment value, BBN also provided an opportunity for the ex-housemates to pursue their ambitions. After a 10 year hiatus, the popular reality TV show is making a comeback, and is now branded Big Brother Naija, sponsored by after its launch, throngs of youths took to the BBN portal to register for the reinvented BBN which promises to create fun and exciting moments.

MultiChoice Nigeria, speaking on the return of the show, said this is another remarkable way of delighting customers product offerings. “The addition of BBN to our content is a demonstration of our commitment to consistently meet the needs of our customers through innovative, qualitative and varied

He added that the show has been repackaged to meet the current socio-economic realities, following the success of the past seasons of Big Brother Africa. “BBA was popular for its entertainment value and ability to showcase ordinary Africans from different walks of life in extra-ordinary ways. We decided to re-invent the reality show by bringing back the Nigerian audience.”

The BBN auditions took place simultaneously in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja. Thousands of youths besieged the audition venues to have a chance of being selected to compete for the star prize worth N25 million and a KIA Sorento car. Twelve housemates will slug it out by showcasing their best selves, while also avoiding possible eviction by voters. The show will be broadcast live on Plus come 22 January, 2017. Millions of viewers across Nigeria, including Africa will, for eleven weeks, stay glued to Before their gracious entry into the house, a few of the contenders shared their experiences after making it through anxiety and passion. The auditions were marked by displays of unique fashion, weird hairstyles, exceptional beauty and allure from the youths who were all eager to make it into the house.

Life&

T E A M

Lagos, Akoka, who was auditioned in Lagos, said: “This is one of the best auditions I have attended in recent times.

The screening process is both transparent and fair as we were called in groups and interviewed in the presence of other contenders. I am excited that I am able to make it to the

Entertainment Correspondent Mutiat Alli

Society Correspondent Abimbola Obatayo

I saw a lot of talented Nigerians who some of us were able to beat to the second round. The crowd kept building as everybody wants to make it to the house that can only take 12 people and I believe I am one of them.”

Lagos audition, “The return of the TV reality show is a unique opportunity for me to showcase my talent and make myself more relevant to my country.

“I was extremely excited when I got wind of the BBN a university in Johannesburg, it was an opportunity to tell the rest of the world that Nigerians are immensely talented.

My kid sister played a very key role in my decision to enter into the competition. I am doing this for her and I know I am destined to enter that house. From what I have seen today and my interactions with a few of the contenders, I believe Reality TV shows continue to be a conduit for creating by volume, according to a report published in The Voices Magazine of The British Council, in addition to other entertainment genres. The shows did not only identify talent, but also position the youth for greater opportunities. The likes Ukeje, Ivie Okujaye, after their victories in reality TV shows, have continued to shine brilliantly in the entertainment industry. The fame that accrued from their exposure has also brought substantial endorsement deals from various brands. brand ambassadors of Gulder and MultiChoice, respectively.

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Mutiat All

Tiwa Savage spotted with Congolese act, Awilo

I have no beef with Chinedu Ikedieze -Osita Iheme They became popular after they appeared in

relationship. revealed that supposed

and

ever

since,

Gist L3

best of music in 2017 as she

the the media. “There is no

to them as one of the most consistent actors.

But for so long, the duo

me. We are still best of

Longomba , giving an indication that something big is coming up

good terms.

Osita Iheme seem not to be in good terms as they appear not to be in connection again.

Osita Iheme has,

that there is no rancor

the limelight at the same time noting that they both maintain a good

to, and any report of

imagination”, he stated.

Both actors have had playing their movie roles.

They are famed for their funny and mischievous characters, attributes that have endeared them into the hearts of fans.

style of music, one is sure their

music lovers.

Odunlade Adekola, Ayo Mogaji other stars in ‘A Million Baby’

Osita and Chinedu

Tayo Oluoti.

We don’t own Ibaka/movies handle, management cries out fraudulent act. name, thereby defrauding people via deceitful means channel coined its name from the popular streaming

notice to the general public dissociating themselves from the said fraudulent portal; the message is the general public especially our esteemed and

For instance, the channel uploads a movie and

see these movies, and deceiving their subscribers.

broadcasting and uploading movies in violation

Review L4

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Soremekun Gbemisola

Di’ja Sowemo: Singer preaches love, unity amongst individuals

The music that was released on the 22nd of September last year has gotten 195,639

Sowemo, Sowemo Sometimes i feel like am the only one That feels the way am feeling sowemo Anything whe pain you, dey pain me

Chorus:

Oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh oh oh Oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh

Mutiat Alli

On set

Mercy Aigbe, Temitope Solaja others in Producer: Temitope Solaja Co-ordinated by: Mercy Aigbe-Gentry Directed by: Afeez Owo Packaged by: Cooperate Pictures Scriptwriter: Azeezat Shorunmu Cast:

Sunday,

Mercy Sunkanmi

Aigbe-Gentry, Omobolanle,

Lateef Taiwo