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THE

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The world will forget Nigeria if balkanised – Jonathan

Jibrin, Dogara’s ally trade words over $25,000 bribery claim

President Goodluck Jonathan on Wednesday said he was against the disintegration of Nigeria, adding that the world will forget Nigeria if balkanised.

ÏÏÏThe sacked Chairman of

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YEARS OF JOURNALISM

Henry Omunu & Emmanuel Iriogbe, Abuja

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90

the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, Rep. Abdulmumin Jibrin and an ally of Speaker Yakubu Dogara, Rep. Za-

Continued on page 6

Continued on page 6

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016 VOL. 2. NO. 166

N150

Gowon: Nothing wrong with restructuring Nigeria Ï d ƕ è óƈƐ ƑƋƗ ƄƆ Ɨ Ɔ ƈ Ɔ Mƈ ƆƏƈ ƅ ƐƆƔƐô Ï jƏƑƆ ƇƆƗƆƏ Ƌƈ ƌ Ɛ Ƅ Ɨ ƈƗƆ Ï ó9 ƄƆƅ ƌƆ 6Ɔ Ɨ Ƈ dƐ ƐƆ Ƅƕ ƅƅƈƗƆ Ɛô Ï L ƍ Ƈ Mƈ ƆƏƈ Ɠ ƑƋƗ ƒƆ Ƌ ƊƆƗ ƇƑ ƕ ƈƇ & ƐƆƏ ƏƆ ƈ Ɠ ƋƋ ƓƆƗ Ɛ ƆƅƆƗƆ ÏÏÏFormer

Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, on Wedneday, said there is nothing wrong with restructuring the country provided

it is done within the context of one Nigeria.

He stated this when the Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on

Foreign Affairs, Sen. Shehu Sani, paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.

Reacting to calls by some Nigerians to restructure the country, Go-

won said there was nothing wrong with restructuring. He recalled that Nigeria was restructured under his leadership as the head of state with

the creation of states in 1967.

He said: “We can restructure Continued on page 6

Boko g6 6 Ə ƌ gets new leader

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IGP orders probe of N5.5b Police Housing scam g7

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Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4 , 2016

RC 103022

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

Page Three Æ s

3

PHOTO TIMES

Editorial Alarming exam fraud and cultism

R

ecently, the Lagos State University (LASU) expelled 69 students for engaging in examination malpractice, gross misconduct and cultism. Breakdown indicates that the bulk of those expelled are from the university numerous External System and many are final year students (500 level). Only last March, 20 students of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, and Rivers State were expelled for examination malpractices and cultism.

Definitely, we are alarmed but not surprised at the rising examination malpractices and cultism in our tertiary institutions. Sadly, such incidences are now symptomatic of the general malaise afflicting academic learning in the country’s universities, polytechnics and colleges of education. No semester passes without news of students expelled from one higher institution or another for engaging in unwholesome activities that are antithetical to academic pursuit. Unfortunately, many students are embracing examination malpractice as a prelude to academic excellence, even as the society no longer frowns at such crime, as most parents and guardians are in the forefront of encouraging their children and wards.

In many institutions, students implore various disingenuous methods of passing examination, like bringing mobile phones and other communication gadgets to the examination halls to enable them cheat.

Arguably, examination malpractice would not have attained its present endemic state but for the fact that the major stakeholders in the education sector are at the forefront in aiding and abetting the crime. For example, some lecturers are known to be involved in examination malpractice because of the financial gratification accruing

from such illegal transactions. Most times, they ask the students to pay certain amount of money for them to pass examination.

Even when some of the lecturers are uncomfortable with the development, they often find it difficult to sanction the erring students for fear of confrontation with the violent ones. Incidentally, it is known that most of the students involved in examination malpractices are engaged in cultism.

For cultism, the lure for students these days is the hopelessness and joblessness in the nation, and more importantly, the need to be relevant since looting and extra judicial killing have become a way of gaining recognition and of making money. It is fact that some students who fail to meet academic standards as set by the institution are lured to join in order to pass.

Furthermore, it is meant to intimidate students and lecturers.

Students belonging to cults are known to assault lecturers for not awarding them good examination grades, even as they engage in raping girls or women in the campus. Closely related to this is the fact that some of them risk health because of harmful drugs such as marijuana, cocaine among others they take. It is time the government and other stakeholders take drastic actions to curb the rising cultism and examination malfeasance among students of higher learning.

For example, the government and non-governmental agencies, including the media should step up campaigns against cultism and its destructive tendencies, even as the evil nature of the twin evils of examination malpractice and cultism should be highlighted through sensitisation, seminars, workshops, symposium and public lectures.

Lastly, we call for the prohibition and use of electronic devices including cellular phones in examination halls.

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Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd) (left), with Sen. Shehu Sani, during a courtesy visit to Gowon in Abuja… on Wednesday.

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“The road to success is always under construction. You don’t have to be great to start but you have to start to be great.”

“No one is rich enough to buy yesterday but if you hustle hard tomorrow could be yours”.

“Educating our young girls is the foundation for Nigeria’s growth and development”.

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5 News

Militants, vandals’ll be flushed out of Lagos, Ambode vows Benjamin Omoike

ÏÏÏ

Lagos State governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, has vowed to rid the state of the presence of militants and vandals.

He made the pledge on Wednesday, when he received the Acting Inspector General of Police, Idris Kpotun Ibrahim, who paid a courtesy visit to the Lagos House in Ikeja. He said the state government would deploy its entire arsenal to ensure that militants and vandals threatening the peace and harmony of the state were flushed out of their hideouts once and for all.

He said the recent military onslaught in the areas where such criminal elements have been hibernating was yielding positive result, assuring that all efforts would be made to sustain the success recorded so far.

It would be recalled that in the last one week, a joint onslaught by the Nigeria Army, the Police and other security agencies was carried out in some communities within the boundary of Lagos and Ogun states against militants and oil thieves who had been causing civil disturbances in recent times.

“I want to also use this me-

dium to commend the Nigeria Police and other security agencies on our fight against the militants and vandals that we have embarked on in this Operation Awatse in the last one week.

I want to commend all the security agencies for a job well done, I also want to thank President Muhammadu Buhari for approving that operation by what we have seen, I also commend the Chief of Defence Staff for also approving the joint effort. We are already seeing the results. I have just been briefed this morning about the impact of what has been done.

“Again, we need to sustain and ensure that these people do not go back to the creeks. On our part as a government, whatever it is that it takes to take the militants and vandals off Lagos we are going to do it, if it means shutting down some locations where they seem to be hibernating in terms of any commercial trade, we would do it and make sure that we guarantee the lives of our people and whatever it takes in terms of financial support for the security agencies to sustain the success we’ve had in the last few days, we would do it,” Governor Ambode said.

Man commits suicide in Ibadan

Oyebade, CP, Oyo State

ÏÏÏ

A landlord in Ayegbami Zone 7 of Idi Ose, along Akanran Road, Ibadan, in the Ona Ara Local Government Area of Oyo State, Popoola Adepoju, on Tuesday evening, hanged himself in his room.

It was learnt that the 48-yearold father of three (a boy and two girls), and former staff of the defunct National Electric Power Authority (NEPA), sent his children out of his house, marked No. 17 on Tuesday evening before committing suicide.

The wife, who was also not at home at the time of the incident, was said to have come back later in the evening to discover that her husband had taken his life by hanging himself with a

rope tied to the ceiling fan in his room.

The distraught wife, who was taken aback by her late husband’s action, told the investigation police officers that visited the house on Wednesday that her husband was disengaged from the NEPA establishment at Abeokuta two years ago, but had not been paid his entitlements.

According to her, to sustain himself he was engaging in small scale cement sale.

The deceased left a three-sheet suicide note which initially caused a controversy between some members of the family and the police, as they refused to release it to the police and the two police officers then left in annoyance.

It was gathered that upon persuasion, the note was, however, eventually released to the General Chairman of the Idi Ose community, Chief Taiwo Alimi.

Alimi later led the community members and the deceased’s relatives to the Akanran Police Division where the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Aliko Dankoli (CSP), gave the directive that they should go and bury the corpse as requested.

Fayose’s aide, Agbele, arraigned, remanded in Kuje Prisons Andrew Orolua Abuja

ÏÏÏ

The Federal High Court, sitting in Abuja, on Wednesday, ordered Abiodun Agbele, an associate of Ekiti State governor, Ayo Fayose, to be remanded in Kuje prisons pending the determination of his bail application.

The remand order followed the formal arraignment of Agbele before Justice Nnamdi Dimgba on 11 count charges by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Agbele has been in EFCC custody since June 27, 2016.

He was arraigned along with Slvan Mcnamara Ltd, De Privateer Ltd and Spotless Investment Ltd on charges bordering on money laundering to the tune of N4.6 billion allegedly transferred from

the Office of the National Security Adviser account with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN),

by Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd).

Justice Dimgba made the remand order after taking argument from counsels on the bail application moved by counsel to the defendant, Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN), who urged the court to grant bail to Agbele on self-recognition.

Ozekhome, while urging the court to admit his client on bail, argued that the prosecution have not laid any shred of evidence to support their allegations that the defendant was a flight risk, adding that the onus is on the prosecution to show that if granted bail he will abscond his trial.

He told the court that the applicant was arrested by the EFCC right in his house and his interna-

tional passport taken away from him and kept with the EFCC, and was even used as a condition for his administrative bail.

Objecting to the application, counsel to the EFCC, Jonson Ojogbane, urged the court to refuse the bail application on the ground that if granted bail, the defendant will jump bail. He said the applicant is a flight risk and has perfected plans to flee from the country before he was arrested.

According to him, the applicant in conjunction with a former Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro, said to be at large, colluded to move and aid the escape of Olalekan Ogunseye, a principal suspect in the case out of the country and if released on bail, he will flee from the jurisdiction of the court.

Sue me if you can, Oshiomhole dares Ize-Iyamu Titus Akhigbe Benin

ÏÏÏGovernor

Adams Oshiomhole has said that he will waive his immunity if the gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu wishes to contest in court that he was not involved in an acid attack on a fellow student at the University of Benin in 1984.

Speaking at a rally of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Uromi, Wednesday, Oshiomhole also took a swipe at the former National Chairman of the Peoples

Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Tony Anenih whom he accused of marginalising his own people of Esan land by refusing to attract development to them as Minister of Works.

According to Oshiomhole, IzeIyamu could not attend the Nigerian Law School and was not called to the Bar as a result of the incident at the University of Benin.

The Governor said: “I bear full responsibility in my personal capacity and I waive my immunity, I set my immunity aside and declare as follows before God that the other guy, Mr. Ize-Iyamu, has a

very interesting lifestyle.

He went to the University of Benin to read Law, two years later he was rusticated, for two years, they drove him from school, because of acid attack on another student.

Today, that student has been deformed for life, his manhood has been destroyed, and today he can’t raise a family. That is his credential and that is why he could not go to the Law school, that is why, although he read law, he is not a Barrister.

“Because of the crisis of identity, he picked up a Bible and said he is a pastor that is he born again.

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

Boko Haram gets new leader ÏÏÏThe dreaded Boko Haram ter-

National Organising Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sen. Osita Izunaso (2nd right) in handshake with the Chairman, Screening Committee for the 2016 Ondo State governorship election primaries and Oyo State Governor, Sen. Abiola Ajimobi after inauguration in Abuja… on Wednesday. With them are APC National Auditor, Chief George Moghalu (left) and APC National Vice-Chairman (Southwest), Chief Pius Akinyelure.

Gowon: Nothing wrong with restructuring Nigeria Continued from page 1 within one Nigeria context. I did it in 1967; we created states to stop eastern Nigeria from seceding. We had to do something to ensure the fear of their seceding did not exist; a serious issue of a part of the country wanting to breakaway when we already lost a part to Cameroon.

“If we had allowed the eastern region to go away, the map of Nigeria would have looked funny; it would have been tilted one way. So, we decided overnight to break the fear through the creation of states.

If we had to save the country that was the only way to do it. We also ensured that no state was too big or too small to threaten the unity of the country’’.

The former head of state added that the call for true federalism by some Nigerians was also not a bad

idea, as long as it was done within the context of the nation’s unity.

“What is true federalism? As long as it means respect for oneness of our country, it is alright, but if it means to breakaway, it is not my way of thinking’’, he said.

Speaking further, Gowon said he became Head of State 31 years ago by accident of history without nursing the ambition.

He said: “What happened was the accident of history. When you have lost your leadership and there was crisis and you don’t know what to do and it happened that those within your constituency chose you, what would you do?

“I was lucky enough within the military at that time and all the officers knew me by reputation. “I had no intention to become head of state but it is the opportunity, if opportunity presents itself and people

ask you to do it, then do it. What I have achieved is (because of) God. I had never thought of becoming head of state but there was a coup and all my senior colleagues were killed and I was the only one that survived.

“My plan was to rise in my profession and hopefully become a head in my profession but that did not happen. I didn’t know what happened but I had the duty and responsibility to ensure the coup in Lagos did not succeed’’.

The former head of state advised younger Nigerians to prepare themselves academically and morally to take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves.

Recall that former Vice President, Atku Abubakar, in June, called for a restructuring of the Nigerian federation to cater for the aspirations of its component units. According

to him, such restructuring is the only answer to the cry of marginalization by different groups in the country as well as the agitation for a Biafra Republic.

He said: “Agitations by many right thinking Nigerians call for a restructuring and renewal of our federation to make it less centralized, less suffocating and less dictatorial in the affairs of our country’s constituent units and localities.

As some of you may know, I have for a long time advocated the need to restructure our federation. Our current structure and the practices have been a major impediment to the economic and political development of our country. “In short, it has not served Nigeria well, and at the risk of reproach it has not served my part of the country, the Continued on page 12

Jonathan: The world will forget Nigeria if balkanised Continued from page 1 Jonathan said this while addressing State House correspondents shortly after a brief meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He said he had always stood for a united Nigeria not because of its oil wealth, but because of the greatness of its human resource and the uniqueness of its diversity.

He said: “Those of you that have followed my talks when I was here, my emphasis is that we need a United Nigeria and I always emphasise that Nigeria is great not just about the oil.

“So many countries produce more oil than Nigeria and nobody

notices them. We are great because of our size, the human resources we have, the diversity we have. If we fragmentise the country into small components, we will be forgotten by the World.

On the situation in the Niger Delta region, Jonathan said he was not the only one suing for peace in the region and in other parts of the country as all the traditional rulers, elders and opinion leaders of the Ijaw ethnic nationality are with him.

“You see, it is not just about me, but all the traditional rulers, elders and opinion leaders of the Ijaw ethnic nationality.

“We have been in touch to see that peace reigns in the country because

those of you, who were here when I was here, followed my thoughts.

“And without peace, you can never reap development anywhere in

Jonathan

the world.

“So, we are all working collectively to see that these issues are resolved,’’ he said.

On the fight against corruption by the Buhari administration, Jonathan declined to comment, saying that most of the cases of alleged corruption were in court.

“There are too many cases that are in court and it will not be fair for me to comment.

“I have always said that at the appropriate time, when most of these things have been resolved, we will (talk),’’ he said.

Jonathan, who is leading the AU election monitoring team to ZamContinued on page 12

rorists now has a new leader to replace Abubakar Shekau. He is Abu Musab al-Barnawi. Al-Barnawi’s appointment was made known by the Islamic State, otherwise known as ISIS. Al-barnawi was previously spokesman for Boko Haram group.

Mr. al-Barnawi is featured in the latest issue of an ISIS magazine, the BBC claimed.

The magazine makes no reference to Mr. Shekau. Shekau was last seen in a Boko Haram propaganda video in March 2015, one of many footages released in his years of leading a brutal campaign against the Nigerian state. In one of the videos, Shekau pledged allegiance to ISIS, which was originally based in Syria and Iraq.

ISIS has several offshoots now in other countries including Libya.

Mr. Shekau took over as Boko Haram leader after the group’s founder, Muhammad Yusuf, died in police custody in July 2009. Boko Haram became more deadly and radicalized under his leadership.

Jibrin, Dogara’s ally trade words over $25,000 bribery claim Continued from page 1 kari Mohammed are enbroiled in a fresh controversy over the alleged sharing of $25, 000 each to induce lawmakers support a confidence vote on the speaker following the budget scandal rocking the House.

Following speculations that committee chairmen and other members of the House are collecting signatures with a view to galvanising support for Dogara, Rep. Jibrin had on Wednesday, alleged that members were being induced to back the confidence vote with $25,000 each.

Jibrin made the bribery allegation on his twitter handle in reaction to media reports suggesting that signatures were being collected from lawmakers to pass a vote of confidence on Speaker Dogara in order to stave off any possible impeachment move when the House reconvenes on September 13.

He said: “Fellow Nigerians, in a desperate attempt, Speaker Dogara and the three others have opened a register for a vote of confidence Continued on page 12

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

7 News

Abia govt awards N14b roads, electricity contracts

IGP orders probe into N5.5b Police Housing scam

Sunday Nwakanma

ÎÎÎThe

Umuahia

ÎÎÎFollowing

an emergency State Executive Council meeting, held on Wednesday, Abia State government has awarded road, Child and Maternal Healthcare Centre, at Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba, and street lightings contracts to the tune of N14, 785, 205, 512.

86 Briefing newsmen in Umuahia after the meeting, the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Bonnie Iwuoha highlighted the roads to cut across the three senatorial zones of the state, stating that they include group of seven roads, three electrification contracts and one child and maternal health care centre to 11 contractors.

Joy Anyim Inspector General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris, on Wednesday, vowed to deal with officers indicted in the N5.5billion unfulfilled police housing scheme.

He gave the assurance while responding to a question posed by a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) during his interactive session with personnel at his maiden visit to Lagos.

According to the CSP, some officers in 2006 paid N510, 000 each amounting to N5.5b for housing slot at various Police Estate in the country.

The Daily Times also gathered that the subscribers travelled severally to the force headquarters in Abuja to complete the said requirements to acquire the house.

It was, however, an effort in futility as even 10 years af-

ter, the subscribers were yet to either get their accommodations nor their money refunded.

Idris, who expressed displeasure over the development assured that investigations will be conducted and everyone found culpable disciplined and prosecuted.

“We are going to run a transparent government.

Nobody is going to be shortchanged. As a transparent institution we have responsibility over you. Do not keep quiet when you are being shortchanged. Complain.

“The money belong to you. It is your right. So, you should not keep quiet. You needed the house than most of us because you are the one doing the work. You are the one on the street, working under rain and shine.

“So, you are the face of police, not us because most

Mr. Idris, times we are in our offices.

You are the police, that is the reality. It is our duty to give you what belongs to you.

“I can assure you that this will be investigated. We will look into it and deal with everyone indicted. They will also be prosecuted.

“A policeman should own a house. We are going to provide affordable houses that you can pay up the mortgage

within six years” Idris said.

On the issue of stagnated promotion, the IGP advised officers who have been on a rank for 10 years to write officially for immediate elevation to their rightful positions.

“If you have been on a rank for 10 years without promotion and have met all the requirements, please, apply immediately for your promotion. It is your right and it means the system has shortchanged you” he added.

On the menace of militants, the IGP said plans were underway to ensure visibility policing on the waterways from Lagos to Calabar.

He disclosed that the Lagos State governor has promised to provide gunboats and logistics for the equipment of the marine police.

“We want to adopt visibility policing. It is not just

in Lagos but also down to Calabar. I spoke with the governor and he talked about providing gunboats. We discovered that there are not enough policemen on the waterways. We are going to enhance the Marine Police and we will deploy more officers on the waterways to serve as deterrence” IGP stated.

The IGP further disclosed that he has mandated all police commands and divisions to establish Eminent Persons’ Forum (EPF) to meet once in three months and share ideas on how to improve security in their areas.

Said he: “Policing is everyone’s business that is why we are soliciting support and cooperation of the people. The ratio of police to the people in Nigeria is quite low and so, we expect all Nigerians to act as policemen where there’s no police.

EFCC arrests FAAN official for diverting N70m

Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo

ÎÎÎThe

Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) has waded in and arrested a level 6 officer of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Christy Olabode for allegedly diverting and stealing N70 million belonging to the agency.

This is just as FAAN said that it has suspended Olabode, the staff of the agency involved in alleged diversion of funds from the agency for private use along with those indicted.

Olabode, who work in the Accounts Department of FAAN was alleged to have diverted the money between 2013 and 2016.

It was also alleged the suspect used names to regularly carry out the diversion, which has stunned majority of the agency staff when the news broke.

Sources close to the agency informed that Olabode was uncovered by the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Department in July and that when it was unraveled, she was queried but refused to answer the query.

The source added that Olabode refused to answer the query because she has the backing of some powerful persons from above.

Ogun State Governor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun (middle); his Deputy, Chief (Mrs.) Yetunde Onanuga (right); National Project Coordinator for Rural Access & Mobility Project (RAMP), Engr.

Ularamu Ubandoma (2nd left); Project Accountant, RAMP, Mallam Bello Argungu (2nd right) and Infrastructure Engineer, RAMP, Engr. Taiye Tehinse during a courtesy visit of RAMP leadership to Amosun in Abeokuta... on Wednesday.

Group opposes Buhari’s ‘selective’ anti-corruption crusade Val Okara Owerri

ÎÎÎA group, Youths Moun-

tain of Hope has said they are ready to support President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration anticorruption crusade as long as it stops being biased and selective.

In a communiqué issued at the end of two days meeting orgainsed for selected youths from the five SouthEastern states of Abia,

Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi and Abia in Owerri, the youths lamented what it called “the high level of public sector corruption in all tiers of government”, saying the development had resulted to the current high rate of unemployment and insecurity across the country.

The communiqué jointly signed by Mr. Azubuike Anamelechi and Mr. Malachy Asor, chairman and secretary respectively, stat-

ed that the Buhari administration should do everything to remove corruption from the Nigerian society without being selective, saying “this is the only way the war against corruption would attract the support of Nigerian youths.”

The youths expressed serious concern over the high level of youth unemployment in Nigeria, noting that more than 300, 000 Nigeria youths graduate from various tertiary insti-

tutions across the country yearly without any serious plans by government. ”In spite of the continuous graduation of these number of youths yearly, there is no serious effort by federal, state and local governments to engage these energetic youths to contribute to their quota in the socio-economic sector”, the communiqué reads in part.

The group, however, blamed social vices, rising

sectional agitation and insecurity across the nation on problem of youth unemployment. ``After thorough review of the ongoing insurgency by the “Boko-Haram” and other forms of insecurity which has impacted negatively on the socioeconomic, political, and religious life of Nigerians, we concluded that unemployment is central to these problems’’, the group stated.

8

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

Politics

ABIOLA AJIMOBI

Æs

All Nigerians are corrupt — Ajimobi Tom Okpe, Abuja

Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi has noted corruption as something that is attitudinal, indiscipline and inability to restrain oneself from taking what does not belong to him, which he

said every Nigeria one way or the other, is involved in.

Ajimobi spoke to journalists at the National Secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Abuja where he was addressing question on the last visit of the governors’ forum to President Muhammadu Buhari at Presidential Villa.

According to him: “We are looking at corruption in a global concept as against just taking money and if you look at it generally, you will see that virtually

Nigeria is very corrupt, virtually everybody, one way or the other is corrupt either attitudinally, financially or socially and this we believe should be looked into.

“You see, we believe corruption is more than just taking money, I think it is attitudinal. It is, anytime you do anything you are not supposed to do is corruption. And sometime you can even enlarge it to mean basically indiscipline, inability to control yourself, to discipline yourself against the selfish tendencies of wanting to

take what does not belong to you.

“Even for not doing your job is corruption, for taking salaries monthly and not coming to work and coming to work and being idle is corruption.

Ajimobi who said the current economic crunch in Nigeria was a global issue, noted: “I think all over the world, there have been what you call technical recession”.

This situation he said affected government’s ability to meet CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Why Nigeria should reduce National Assembly members, Ministers— Don In the wake of dwindling resources leading to unpaid salaries and workers’ lay off, an economist, Prof. Joseph Odama, has advised the Federal Government to cut excess expenditure, as part of measures to reflate the economy.

Odama, a lecturer at the Department of Economics, University of Abuja, who gave the advice in Abuja, said that the first thing the government needed to do in addressing the present economic recession was to reduce excess spending in governance.

His words: “The government needs to look at where it can make savings and save some money to fund development projects.

“For example, the government needs to curb excess spending in the National Assembly and in the

WOLE SOYINKA

“The greatest threat to freedom is the absence of criticism.”

executive arm of government because there is so much wastage.

“What we are carrying in terms of administration of running the country is too high and that is where our problem is. We don’t need 449 members in the National Assembly, we don’t need 36 ministers, we don’t need bicameral legislature, even with the best of intention”.

According to him, the constitution itself needs to be restructured to enhance good governance. He also advised the government to address corruption and the issue of delay in budget implementation, as part of the measures to aid economic recovery.

Odama said that there was no way government could get the money needed for improved infrastructure without enforcing

BEN OKRI

“Politics is the art of the possible; creativity is the art of the impossible.”

discipline in spending. His words: “The issue of delay in budget implementation is also contributing to the economic problem. How much of the budget has been implemented. The important thing is to cut excess spending’’.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) had predicted that the Nigeria’s economy would probably contract by 1.8 per cent in 2016. According to the IMF, the Nigerian economy will now grow at a much slower pace than that of South Africa which is expected to grow at 0.1 per cent in 2016.

The IMF also reported that the economy would contract for the first time in more than two decades, as it adjusted to foreigncurrency shortages, lower power generation and weaker investors’ confidence.

BINYAVANGA WAINAINA

There is no country in the world with the diversity, confidence and talent and black pride like Nigeria.

BUHARI

“What we are carrying in terms of administration of running the country is too high and that is where our problem is.’’

OBAFEMI AWOLOWO

“Life itself is, from the cradle to the grave, a series of unbroken risks. Those who know me intimately will testify that I have never, at any time, shrunk from taking my full share of the risks of life.

LAMIDO OF ADAMAWA

If Nigeria breaks, some people in the country would have no where to run to, but for me and my people in Adamawa Kingdom, we will pack our luggage and join our kith and kin in Cameroun.’’

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

9 Politics

Ondo 2016: APC names Screening, Appeal Committees

Oyegun

The National Organising Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Osita Izunaso on Wednesday at the Party’s National Secretariat in Abuja inaugurated a high-powered sevenmember Screening Committee and three-member Screening

Appeal Committee for the 2016 Ondo State governorship election primaries.

The seven-member Screening Committee is chaired by Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi.

Other members are: Mr. Joe Igbokwe, Hon. Fatsuma Talba, Chief Felix Nwachukwu, Mr.

Aminu Jacob Momoh, Alhaji Mustapha Abubakar and Alhaji Umar Duhu (Secretary).

The three-member Screening Appeal Committee is chaired by former Speaker of House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Agunwa Anaekwe. Other members are: Hon. Sadiq Abdullahi and Dr. Bashiru Ajibola (Secretary).

Izunaso charged the Screening Committee to carry out comprehensive due diligence of all documents submitted to the party by aspirants saying all candidates must meet eligibility requirements provided by the 1999 Constitution (as amended), 2010 Electoral Act (as amended), the Party’s constitution and the Party’s 2014 guidelines for the nomination of candidates for public office.

His words: “The assignment of this committee is a very serious one. You are expected to look at the qualifications of the aspirants that have bought forms to contest for the Ondo State governorship on the platform of

our party. Their qualification must be looked at in line with the 1999 Constitution and in line with our Party’s guidelines as well. You must also make sure aspirants have paid the N5million for the nomination form and N500,000 for the expression of interest form. There must be evidence of this payment.

You must also look at the aspirant’s contribution to the Party at ward, state and even at the national level. You must also look at their knowledge of the Party’s manifesto”.

The APC National Organising Secretary stated that the screening exercise is mandatory for all aspirants and aspirants are not to be screened by proxy.

“It is the screening committee’s responsibility to verify all documents submitted by aspirants. As much as possible, you have to see originals of documents submitted to the committee. The reason being that if we present a candidate that is not qualified, even when we win the

Agagu left over N30 Billion in Ondo treasury — Oke A governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chief Olusola Oke was at the party secretariat in Abuja to collect his nomination and declaration of interest forms for the state Gubernatorial race. He spoke to correspondents at the secretariat on how he will move the state forward. TOM OKPE was there.

Excerpts: Why do you want to lead Ondo State at this particular time?

Undoubtedly our party is very lucky in Ondo State. We have many aspirants, at the last count, I think 18 had already collected nomination forms and I am aware that others are coming. It shows that the people that desire change in Ondo State are very many and the voices are loud. What I parade

above others is my experience and my capacity. 24 years ago, I was a member of the National Assembly, I have been a party administrator at the highest level in Nigeria ruling party at that and I have occupied many of every position where I can be described as a grounded man. I’ve acquired experience that has spanned over 30 years in politics and I am very familiar with Ondo State. One thing I also have in addition is that, I have not left the state and I can tell you I am running my 63rd year in life.

The state has no reason to be where it is today, we have the longest coast line, the richest forestry in Nigeria, the richest mineral resources; our bitumen is just second to the largest in the world, we are oil producing, we have all mineral resources. And of course the human resources are very

much in abundance. Ondo State therefore has no reason to be poor.

Unfortunately, in the past seven years, we’ve been misruled; we’ve been misguided by leadership without vision, without direction and without mission. The consequence of this is that out people have lost great value of dignity, of integrity and of pride. Years back when you told people that you are from Ondo State, they would accord you credibility, because they knew that in Ondo State, we are never liars, we are honest people, we are proud of who we are. We have lost all of these to poverty orchestrated by a visionless governor in Ondo State. My mission, is to arrest such misdeed and to turnaround our economy.

There are many projects, which have been abandoned in Ondo State if brought to life would CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Oke

election, we might still lose it.

INEC is not going to screen candidates for us. That is why this assignment is very important”, Izunaso said.

Speaking at the inauguration, Chairman of the Screening Committee, Ajimobi expressed confidence that the APC will win the Ondo State governorship election pledging that all aspirants will be treated fairly and justly during the screening exercise.

His words: “We are expected to be fair, just and ensure that those that we choose would definitely become the next governor of Ondo State. I believe once we are fair, once we look for quality, there is no doubt that we will win in Ondo State. As some of us are known as jinx breakers, anything we touch wins, this will not be an exception. Whoever we choose, I can guarantee, we will win.”

The Chairman of the Appeal Committee, Anaekwe also said: CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Politics 10 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

turnaround our economy. I have in mind the Olukola projects, which has been abandoned, I have in mind the cassava processing factory in Ikare, which has been abandoned, the agricultural processing farm In Ikare which is supposed to be a building material producing company with the capacity of more than 1200 workers abandoned, the Owena multipurpose bank, which was to provide water for people in six local governments at the central senatorial district has been abandoned, the Ondo modern Stadium was also abandoned. Of course the tourism projects in Idanre all abandoned.

My mission is to really revive and complete these projects so that our economy can be buoyant.

I believe the problems are lack of good leadership. The roadmaps initiated by the previous administrations beginning from Chief Ajasin, to Adefarati and of course to the Sage, Dr. Olusegun Agagu have all been abandoned. I intend to revive all this roadmap, to ensure that education, which used to be our pride is revived.

In 2009 when Dr. Olusegun Agagu was leaving the saddle of power, he left in the coffers of Ondo State N38 billion, unprecedented anywhere in Nigeria; today we are left with N108billion indebtedness. It takes the man of vision, the man that has the grace of God, the man that has the fear of God to be able to pilot the affairs of our people. The people of Ondo State are like people bitten by snake, if they see common rope they would want to escape.

Today, the people are frustrated; they are looking forward to no other party than APC. APC is the only hope in Ondo State, because they cannot trust the leadership of a party that has held them hostage for eight years running. I believe that God that heard the voice of the Israelite in the wilderness have heard the voices of the people of Ondo State, He wants to use me as David of our time to go and kill that Goliath.

You contested in 2012 and you did not win what makes you think if you couldn’t win

APC unveils committees for Ondo primaries

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

Mimiko’s misrule: Ondo shall regain its value again — Oke

MIMIKO in 2012, you will win this time around?

I didn’t win in 2012, I came second, the man who came first whether we like him or we hate him by February next year, he is going, but if we go by the records of last election, I am number one that is the fact. Secondly, contesting and not winning election is not something noble in Nigeria; there are many people in the past who have contested once or twice, if we don’t have any good example our President is good example; I didn’t intend to do it four times before I win I pray I win this time around. The people have come to appreciate what they lost in 2012 and they are angling to have it in 2016 How would you react to the issue of power rotation that

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

“The assignment we have is one that can make or mar the Party as far as the Ondo State governorship election is concerned.

I also want to assure the party leadership that we are going to do our very best to ensure that whoever is qualified to contest the election is allowed to contest the election so that at the end, the people of Ondo State will have that right to choose

power should come to the Northern senatorial District?

The clamoring for power in Ondo State is not monolithically in one section, the South want to produce the next Governor, the central want to produce next governor, the north want to produce the next governor. For everything there is a season, the season we have now, because of the peculiarity of Ondo State at this moment, we want the best man to be our governor. So wherever that governor is coming from, whether from the Rivers, whether from the mountains, whether from anywhere, that is what the people of Ondo State want, I did not have any particular agenda whether Ilaje agenda, Riverine agenda, I have Ondo State agenda. The truth of the matter is who should

be the governor of Ondo State should be the best aspirant and we have many good aspirants in APC I happened to be the best one.

You said the APC is the party to beat in the state, what if you are not picked as the party’ s candidate, you would be willing and ready to back the person that emerges?

I am a seasoned politician I am working very hard to be chosen by the delegates and I believe I would be chosen. But let me also tell you, I am a Christian, the bible says, once God has spoken, twice I heard that power belongs to the Almighty, whoever he chooses, he gives. At the end of the day, the delegates take a decision and it is not me I would work for APC. Are you not worried about the trend of inconclusive elec-

tions and what is your faith in INEC that they would be able to conduct the Ondo election and conclude it?

I am aware of the provisions of the Electoral Act that say where election has been conducted and there remains units where voting did not take place and the number of register voters in those units are such that would affect the outcome of the election if they have voted, that election should be inconclusive. And that is what is guiding INEC in their decisions. I believe that we haven’t had such experience in Ondo State Governorship election and I am not expecting that we will have it. But if it happens, the law would prevail.

Like it has been done elsewhere, whatever inconclusiveness characterises, it would be concluded at a given date by INEC and we would be there to be part of it and I am believing that, if we do it 10 times the people of Ondo State are very discernable, they are enlightened people, they are educated, they know what they want, they prefer the APC now, they prefer me on the platform of APC, whether we do it conclusively or inconclusive ten times they would stick to their preference, I am not praying for any inconclusive election. It can be very frustrating, it can be very challenging, but that is the law at the moment until it is amended, I believe that we have to play it according to the guideline.

If the party wants you to make a consensus and ask you to choose among the aspirants, who would you choose?

I belong to a party that believes in internal democracy, APC has no record of such, they didn’t ask that question in Kogi, they didn’t ask it in Bayelsa, they didn’t ask in Edo, I believe they are not going to ask that question in Ondo.

But if they ask me that question now whether it is 10 times, it is me.

who their flag-bearer will be.”

According to the time-table and schedule of activities for the conduct of the Ondo State 2016 APC Governorship Primary Election released by the APC, sale of forms commenced at the Party’s National Secretariat from Tuesday 19th July to Friday 5th August, 2016. Governorship nomination forms will be sold at N5 million while intending aspirants are expect-

ed to pay N500, 000 to pick expression of interest form. The forms are free for female aspirants.

Last day for submission of completed forms is Monday 8th August, 2016 at the APC National Secretariat. Screening of aspirants will be conducted in Abuja from Tuesday 9, 2016.

Election Appeal will hold from Monday 29th August to Thursday 1st September, 2016 9th .

Oyegun

‘‘Today, the people are frustrated; they are looking forward to no other party than APC. APC is the only hope in Ondo State, because they cannot trust the leadership of a party that has held them hostage for eight years running.’’

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

All Nigerians Corrupt — Ajimobi CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

her obligations like payment of salaries, contractual agreements, projects executions among other issues, added: “Oyo State has an average of about N5.2billion monthly wage bill and I think our total income from Federal government Allocation is about N2.2billion and there is no way we could meet our monthly wage bill”.

He said despite the harsh economic situation, the Federal Government, Oyo State government and indeed the government of APC has agreed not to retrench any worker, but would restructure to redirect the staff strength to be more effective.

His words: “in other clime, you should adjust your income and adjust your labor force, if you can’t pay everybody, then you should reduce them or you should reduce salaries, but because we are a government that believe in generating and creating employment, we refused to do the most appropriate thing to do, so we now decided, instead of retrenching, we restructured”.

Ajimobi

11 Politics

Edo 2016: Royal fathers back Oshiomhole’s choice as INEC de-registers 3000

Obaseki

Traditional rulers in Uhunmwode Local Government Area of Ondo State have joined their counterparts in others parts of the state to throw their support behind the candidature of Mr. Godwin Obaseki, governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the September 10 election in the state, saying: “Oshiomhole’s choice is our choice”.

This is coming as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has deregistered 3,000 voters in the state because of multiple registrations.

Speaking in his Palace while playing host to Governor Oshiomhole and Obaseki, the Enogie of Ehor, Dr. David Igiehon who sat with other traditional rulers in the local government area declared their readiness to support the APC candidate and his running mate, Hon Philip Shaibu.

His words: “The Enigie in Uhunmwode say, your choice

Speaking earlier, Governor Oshiomhole told the royal fathers: “I have come to escort my brother, your son to present himself before your royal highnesses, and to state clearly his intention which is to seek your blessings, your prayers and your votes in the forthcoming governorship election.”

He continued, “I also want to introduce his running mate, Hon. Philip Shaibu who has been in the House of Assembly for eight years, working with my comrade, your daughter, Hon. Elizabeth Ativie, now Deputy Speaker”.

Also speaking, Obaseki said if voted in as governor, he would develop the economy of the area, ensure agricultural revolution, create jobs and build on the existing foundation laid by Governor Oshiomhole.

The Enogie of Evbuobanosa in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of the State, HRH (Prof)

is our choice. Being a good governor that has been developing this Edo State, we regard you as a political redeemer. We see you as somebody who came to reconstruct this Edo State, and that is why I always call you Napoleon Bonaparte, who is very powerful. He said, ‘he came, he saw and he conquered’.

“So, the Enigie say, your choice is our choice, and we are ready to support you to do everything to see that you succeed.

And you have never failed and you can never fail. The ancestors of Uhunmwode, the ancestors of Ehor, the ancestors of Edo, they say they are with you. Nobody can turn them against you.

So, the Enigie have commanded them to make sure you win this election.”

They offered prayers for the success of the APC candidate and presented white native chalk, which symbolizes victory, to Mr. Obaseki and Hon. Shaibu.

Greg Akenzua offered prayers and blessings for the success of Mr. Obaseki and Hon. Shaibu, during a visit to his palace.

Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has deregistered 3,000 voters in Edo State because of multiple registrations.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Sam Olumekun, who disclosed this in Benin City said the measure would serve as a deterrent to persons who engaged in unlawful multiple voting.

The REC also disclosed that a total of 474,000 Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) representing 31 percent of registered persons were yet to be collected in the state.

He attributed inconclusive elections to non-adherence to rules and election guidelines and called on all stakeholders to support the INEC in their quest for peaceful elections.

Excitement in PDP as Adedoja joins Chairmanship race Excitement is building in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a new aspirant today announces his entry into the national chairmanship race.

He is Professor Taoheed Adedoja, a former minister during the historic late President Umaru Yar’Adua era and later former President Goodluck Jonathan.

An intellectual and grassroots politician, Adedoja will formally make the announcement in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, his home state and capital of the old Western Region. He could be de-

scribed as a bridge between the conservatives and the progressives as before joining the PDP, he was a member of the defunct Action Congress (ACN) and indeed its gubernatorial candidate in the 2007 election in the state.

ACN was one of the parties that make up the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Adedoja who grew up in Kano where he still has a lot of friends was a former Provost of the Federal College of Education, Special, Oyo, which he transformed into an institution of excellence.

When politics beckoned, he lat-

er became Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education (SUBEB) before becoming the state commissioner for education.

It was from here that he alighted on national political limelight when he was nominated minister by late President Yar’Adua. After Yar ‘Adua’s death, his predecessor, former President Jonathan and placed him in charge of the sensitive sports Ministry where he again distinguished himself without blemish or controversy.

Indeed, of all those jostling for the national chairmanship position which has been zoned to the

south, he is about the only aspirant without any controversy or scandal of whatever kind that could jeopardise the interest of the party.

Only last May, Adedoja, a widower remarried after many years and took as wife, the pretty daughter of economic guru, former minister and former national chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur.

He told Daily Times last night that he had to delay his announcement until he had concluded his consultations with key stakeholders of the party.

Adedoja

News 12

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

PDP crisis: Ignore Makarfi’s proposed convention, Sheriff urges INEC

Gowon: Nothing wrong with restructuring Nigeria

Lateef Ibrahim Abuja

Continued from page 6

ÏÏÏSequel

to an Abuja Federal High Court ruling which, last week, recognised him as the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ali Modu Sheriff has written to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) asking the commission to ignore a letter by the Senator Ahmed Makarfiled PDP Caretaker Committee informing it of its proposed August 17, 2016 national convention.

Senator Sheriff, in the letter dated August 2, 2016 and addressed to the INEC Chairman, claimed that the Makarfi-led national caretaker committee is illegal and as such has no powers, under the PDP constitution, to convene the planned party’s national convention.

The letter was jointly signed by Sheriff and the party’s immediate past National Secretary, Professor Wale Oladipo and submitted to INEC headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.

The former Governor of Borno State pointed out in the letter that the only body that can call for and ratify activities culminating to a National Convention of PDP is the National Executive Committee (NEC) as enshrined in Article 31 (2)(a) of the Constitution of the PDP. Sheriff maintained that he still heads the NEC of the PDP. It would be recalled that the Prof. Mahmud Yakubu-led INEC had, a forth night ago, accorded recognition to the Senator Makarfi-led national caretaker committee of the PDP. The commission had stated in

its bulletin then that it would recognise the national caretaker committee’s activities such as “the conduct of primaries of political officers; and the submission of the plaintiff ’s list of the candidate for any election to be conducted by the commission”.

Sheriff however declared in his Wednesday’s letter to INEC that PDP is not planning any national convention, saying that any person or group of persons planning for an event is doing so as an illegal body and in direct contempt of valid court orders.

He said in the letter: “For the avoidance of doubt, the only body that can call for and ratify activities culminating to a national convention of our great party, the PDP is our party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) headed by Senator Ali Modu Sheriff as National

Chairman.

“The Senator Ali Modu Sheriffled PDP is not planning any national convention, as he has not been so authorised by the National Executive Committee of the PDP. “This letter is to kindly put you on notice to ignore any such notifications by the illegal Makarfi-led caretaker committee”, he stated.

The PDP national caretaker committee had, on July 20, written to INEC notifying it of its proposed ward congresses to nominate three ad-hoc delegates on Wednesday, August 10 and local government congresses to nominate national delegates on Friday, August 12 for a repeat national convention.

The committee also notified the commission of its planned repeat national convention slated for Wednesday, August 17, 2016.

North, well. The call for restructuring is even more relevant today in light of the governance and economic challenges facing us. And the rising tide of agitations, some militant and violent, require a reset in our relationships as a united nation.

“Some may say that we are saddled with more urgent challenges, including rebuilding our battered economy, creating jobs, fighting corruption and securing our people from terrorism and other forms of serious crimes. “I believe, however, that addressing the flaws in our federation will help us address some of those very economic and security challenges facing this country.

Groups such as Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere and Ohanaeze, the apex socio-political association of the Igbo, also backed the call for restructuring.

They called on the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government to adopt true federalism.

This, they said, would provide solutions to the country’s problems.

Jonathan: The world will forget Nigeria if balkanised Continued from page 6

Chairman, All African Ambassadors and Egypt Ambassador to Togo, Amb. Sheriff Mohammed (right) presenting West African Leadership Icon Award to Director General, Bureau of Public Procurement, Engr. Ahmed Abdu, in Togo… recently.

Jibrin, Dogara’s ally trade words over $25,000 bribery claim Continued from page 6 signature. The register is opened at his Asokoro guest house located at Wilberforce Juta Crescent. Hon members are giving $25,000 to sign.

“This disgraceful act is coordinated by Hon. Zakari Mohammed, Hon Jagaba Adams Jagaba and DCOS (Deputy Chief of Staff) to Mr. Speaker, Hon. C.I.D Maduabum. It is a shame that Mr. Speaker has not responded to any of the allegations raised against him but has resorted to look for fraudulent

cover”.

Jibrin maintained that his priority is for Speaker Dogara, Lasun, Doguwa and Ogor to listen to Nigerians, reconvene the House immediately and step aside, adding that “investigation by antigraft agencies is already on and I pledge to support the investigation and prosecution of these corrupt public officers”.

Reacting to the bribery allegation by Jibrin, Rep. Zakari, who is the chairman, House Committee on Basic Education, who was ac-

cused by Jibrin of coordinating the sharing of the alleged $25, 000, described the claim as another tales by moonlight.

He said while replying Jibrin that “my attention has been drawn to yet another tweet by the former chairman appropriations committee, Hon Abdulmumin Jibrin, saying that I and others were distributing $25,000 to each member of the House, to generate signatures for Speaker Dogara’s vote of confidence”.

“I want to state that the accu-

sation is not only untrue but it is another tale by moonlight to hoodwink Nigerians to malign my image.

“Fellow country men, please disregard this cheap blackmail aimed at playing to the gallery. I challenge Mr. Jibrin to name at least 10 members or less who benefited from the bribe.

“My advice to Mr. Jibrin is that he should stop the mudslinging of my person and concentrate on licking his self-inflicted wounds”, Zakari added.

bia, said he was at the Presidential Villa to brief Buhari on the activities of the team.

He said: “I came to brief Mr. President on some of my engagements in the immediate past and of course, the future.

“Of course you are aware that I would be leading the AU election monitoring team to Zambia; normally you (need to) properly brief the President.

“So, I came to brief the President on some of my external engagements; it is a tradition.’’

The former president further said that he is a regular caller to the Villa, having served as the country’s President at a point in time.

“One key thing is that having been the head of a government – a former president – you become a statesman.

“That is the privilege you have, but every privilege has its own corresponding responsibilities.

“And when you become a statesman, normally you brief the sitting president on most of your international engagements that have to do with public speaking and some other international assignments.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4 , 2016

13

Opinion 14

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

Nigerian judiciary: Beware of the wind of change

T Arthu Nwankwo

he judiciary in any democracy represents one of the three realms of the government. As a matter of fact, the judiciary is the stabilizer in any democracy basically because if there is any misunderstanding between the executive and legislature, it is always the judiciary that resolves it. It is in this sense that the judiciary plays its role as an impartial arbiter in the affairs of the State. The judiciary’s impartial adjudication in such matters has led to the pedestrian cliché that the judiciary is the last hope of the common man.

Thus, when this impassioned disposition of the judiciary appears threatened; well-meaning people in society like me raise alarm to warn the people of impending danger. Presently, the Nigerian judiciary is under some sort of siege from within and without. The recent compulsive meeting of top members of the Nigerian judiciary with the Muhammadu Buhari administration in Abuja is not only suggestive and disturbing but also ladden with ominous foreboding of the incarnation of democratic dictatorship in Nigeria. The earlier we realize the danger this compulsory meeting by the government with the judiciary portends for the rule of law and respect for human rights in Nigeria the better for us.

I consider myself eminently qualified to issue this warning for obvious reasons. I have been a victim of judicial somersaults occasioned by executive-judiciary collusion to throw justice to the winds. At another level, I have also being a beneficiary of judicial integrity in Nigeria, at a time the judiciary resolved to maintain its independence and respect the sanctity of its hallowed chambers. From experience, I have come to know that anytime an unpopular government in power begins to summon judges and magistrates to meetings in Nigeria; then you can be certain that the fate of certain individuals is hanging on the balance.

In my public career as a journalist, writer and publisher, I have seen people who were sent to jail in Nigeria just because the government in power instructed some members of the judiciary to

send such individuals to jail- the merit of the case notwithstanding. If you think I am making this up, it all means you have not been following issues in Nigeria. The late afrobeat king, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti was sent to jail under such circumstance and the judge confessed afterwards that his hands were “tied”. It was also under similar circumstances that Nduka Irabor and Tunde Thompson, journalists with the Guardian Newspapers, were sent to prison on July 4, 1984 by a military tribunal under Decree No 4 of 1984, promulgated by the military regime of Muhammadu Buhari. There is no gainsaying the fact that Buhari’s military junta promulgated so many repressive decrees in Nigeria. One of such repressive enactments was Decree No 4 of 1984 (Protection against False Accusation) under which Thompson and Nduka Iraboh, were tried and convicted.

The decree was made by the Gen. Muhammadu Buhari administration, which at the time did not hide its disdain for the press. At the inception of his administration, Buhari made no pretentions of his hatred for the press and he backed up the threat with the promulgation of that obnoxious decree.

This was also the scenario in 1982 when I was unjustly imprisoned on ridiculous charges of sedition. In August 1982, I published a book, “How Jim Nwobodo Rules Anambra State”.

I was thereafter arraigned before a court on charges of seditious publication. It was alleged that my publication intended to bring hatred and contempt or excite disaffection against the governor of old Anambra state. The trial judge agreed with the prosecutor and sentenced me to 12 months imprisonment with an additional fine of N50, 000.00. Ignoring the facts of the case, the trial judge had to carry out an order of government to ensure that I was sent to jail.

The judge also made this startling statement: “The conviction and punishment of the accused, I hope, will help to stem the tempo of vulgar abuse and irresponsibility of both the politicians and media practitioners”. For me, it was the very depiction of standing justice on its head just to satisfy entrenched political interests. I appealed that decision. The

Appellate Court judges refused to compromise the integrity of the judiciary and on July 27, 1983, I was discharged and acquitted by the Federal Court of Appeal. According to the Appeal Court, ‘Sections 50 and 51 of the Criminal Code were anachronistic in the light of constitutional changes and the national sovereignty’. The judgment of the Appeal Court, which effectively led to expunging of sedition law from Nigeria’s statute books, showed that the sedition law was inconsistent with constitutional guarantees in Nigeria. That landmark case has gone down in Nigeria’s legal history as “locus classicus”.

Conversely, I have equally benefited from the judiciary’s commitment to the respect of rule of law and fundamental human rights, when an Enugu Federal High Court ordered my release from detention in one of Sani Abacha’s Gulags in 1998. I have also gone on exile on two occasions on account of my belief, devotion and commitment for a better Nigeria.

So I do not have any doubt that a government has the capacity to arm-twist the judiciary to do its bidding, especially in a situation where the judiciary is dependent purely on government allocation to function. In Nigeria, the judiciary is not on first line charge.

It is the executive that approves funding for this important arm of government. It is in this context that I am worried about Buhari’s recent meeting and charges to the judiciary.

In that meeting, Muhammadu Buhari literally blackmailed the judiciary as the major cog in the wheel of his government’s war against corruption. With hardened countenance, Buhari charged the judges to “help him fight corruption” because according to him, the SAN’s involved in the defence of persons charged with corruption were abusing the court process by taking several adjournments. According to Muhammadu Buhari, his government has even put in motion machinery for the establishment of mobile courts for the trial of suspected corrupt persons. Buhari’s mobile court, if you must know, amounts to the reintroduction of his special military tribunals of 1984.

For the Buhari apologists, this disturbing development of blackmailing the judiciary to uni-

laterally jail persons accused of corruption could be interpreted to be “in the best interest of the country”, and further commitment of the government “to fight corruption”. However, as far as I am concerned, this is the beginning of the resurrection of evil and doom in Nigeria. As I have noted above, at the time Buhari came to power through a military coup, his method for fighting corruption was to create special military tribunals that were primed to find those standing before them guilty, no matter the situation.

I am confident that Nigeria’s judiciary would not succumb to such cheap blackmail even today.

The judiciary, I must admit, has, in recent times, demonstrated immense commitment to assert its independence. In most of its recent judicial pronouncements and decisions, the judiciary has held its head high. Regrettably, while some members of the judiciary in both the Bench and Bar are committed to giving the judiciary a new relevance and importance, there are still many who bring disrepute to the judiciary. I am worried with some conflicting and contradictory judgments on the same matter in recent times by the judiciary; but I am also happy that the NJC has begun to wield the big stick.

In essence, the Nigerian judiciary must resist any attempt to be stampeded into hasty and illegal decisions. In trying persons charged with corruption, the judiciary must follow due process.

There is no gainsaying the fact that the current war against corruption is not just selective, but it does appear that the fate of many of those charged with corrupt offences has been decided, and the Nigerian judiciary is simply expected to put its seal of approval. The judiciary must resist the temptation to be part of this impunity. We all have a duty to protect and guide our liberty and freedom. The law accepts the fact that a suspect is innocent of any crime until proven otherwise.

This latest scheme by Buhari on the judiciary only goes to confirm my earlier conclusion that Buhari is inept and does not know what to do in office.

For him to conceive of mobile courts as mean of trying suspects charged with corrupt offences is the height of cranial disorder. We cannot allow this absurdity.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

15 Opinion

Buhari: When supporters are singing discordant tunes The All Progressives Congress (APC) is not yet ripe to lead a central government (Former governor of Niger State, Babangida Aliyu)

Temple Ubochi

D

uring the campaign leading to the 2015 presidential election, the world was deluded into believing that Buhari was Mr. Integrity. Even the international community bought that crap, and supported Buhari’s candidacy. Today, the world is seeing that President Buhari is not what he was portrayed to be. The point is that the APC propaganda made people to over-estimate Buhari and his ability to lead.

Due to intelligence failure, the western governments were made to believe that Buhari would be a better performer than Goodluck Jonathan would. The west deployed everything to defeat Jonathan at the poll. Today, the west is regretting that decision, and heads have started rolling for that blunder.

President Obama might have succeeded at home, but, when it comes to Africa, he is a failure, and one of his greatest mistakes was his total support for the election of Buhari. What happened was that the American

Ambassador to Nigeria, for reasons best known to him, failed to do his home work well, as he deceived Obama, who relied on him for Nigeria’s matters.

The same blunder was also committed by the German Ambassador to Nigeria, who also deceived Chancellor Angela Merkel into supporting Buhari. Merkel was so excited with the election of Buhari, that she invited him to the G-7 meeting in Germany from June 7-8, 2015. There, Buhari was assured of support to surmount Nigeria’s numerous problems. However, Buhari has been unable to proffer solutions to Nigeria’s problems. In fact, he still has no economic policies, and the ministers are behaving as if they are non-existent.

More than a year after, Buhari has not exhibited any requisite skill and leadership quality to rule a complex entity like Nigeria.

President Obama, Chancellor Angela Merkel and other western leaders are now disgusted with Buhari. President Obama had to cancel his planned visit to Nigeria last July.

Worse is that America and Germany had to replace their respective ambassadors to Nigeria. Barack Obama had on, July 12, appointed Stuart Symington as the new Ambassador to Nigeria.

In Nigeria, those who supported Buhari’s candidacy are now singing new songs. Every one is disappointed, including his northern ethnic bastion.

General Yakubu Gowon, who feigned neutrality during the election, has now, on called on Buhari to salvage the economy, and to rescue it from imminent collapse. That Gowon, who was one of those who kept Nigeria in this ugly situation, asked Buhari to ensure that the country’s economy regain its strength to alleviate the suffering of the masses speaks volume. The Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, has been telling us what they have been doing to get the economy strong again. She said all would be well by September.

Let us wait until then.

On his own, Adamu Ciroma, a diehard northern bigot and staunch Buhari supporter, who promised to make Nigeria ungovernable for President Jonathan, had, on July 25, said that The Peoples Democratic Party did not lose the 2015 presidential election, even as he said the All Progressives Congress (APC) did not win (whatever that means).

Northerners are disappointed that Buhari is not the “material” they were looking for. The disappointment is overwhelming. How

did we get into this? The National President of Arewa Consultative Forum, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, has written off the Buhari-led administration as an ill wind that blows no one any good. He said Nigerians are sick and tired of excuses that it has become increasing clear that Buhari has no solution to fix the nation’s ailing economy.

What the government does is to churn out lies, deceiving Nigerians the more, instead of alleviating the suffering and hardship in the land.

Many people have been asking where Lai Mohammed has been.

Then, all of a sudden, in Spain, he continued his lying. It was reported that the Minister of Information and Culture, said that the Buhari administration is on the right track and there is no alternative. What was Lai Mohammed talking? Of course, there is alternative, and that is doing something to get Nigeria out of the economic mess. For now, Buhari is doing nothing. Asleep on the wheel cannot be the only option this president has.

Junaid Mohammed, another northern apologist, berated Buhari and Lai Mohammed, for deceiving Nigerians. He accused them of paying lip service to the economy by telling Nigerians they have a policy.

Re: That attack on APC National Working Committee

A Daniel Onjeh

n APC Chieftain and the party’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary Timi Frank stunned political observers recently, when he called the party’s National Chairman Chief John Odigie-Oyegun and other members of APC National Working Committee (NWC), incompetent, and demanded for their resignation.

While Timi’s call may appear patriotic or principled on the surface, there are salient and fundamental questions that must be asked to reveal his true intention and the real purpose for such a call. His immediate reason for the sack of the party chairman is his inability to resolve the current impasse in the leadership of the House of Representatives over the padding of the 2016 budget. He said the crisis is not only an embarrassment to the party but also to President Buhari. How can a crisis bordering on criminal collusion to alter the national budget be a party affair? Is President Buhari’s anticorruption war selective? The answer is an emphatic no! So, why should the Timi expect the party leadership to intervene in a case in which the EFCC is also an interested party?

Does he want the party chairman to

go against the party’s manifesto of fighting the impunity of corruption or the president to abuse his oath of office by interfering in such a case when he has sworn to rule without fear or favour?

The unfortunate outburst against the APC National chairman should be seen for what it is: corruption fighting back! Timi Frank’s mention of the crises in the House of Representatives is an afterthought, judgingly by his brazen partisanship in the case involving Saraki and the party leadership on one hand and between the embattled Senate President and the Code of Conduct Tribunal on the other.

In his press conference, Timi Frank said it was not a personal attack against the leadership of the party, but the party’s silence on the matter is not good for democracy and the government of the day.

How muddled can someone’s thought be? It is a general consensus among party insiders and keen political observers that Timi’s grouse with Chief Oyegun dated back to the party’s refusal to promote or confirm him as National Publicity Secretary when the erstwhile occupant of the office, Alhaji Lai Mohammad, ascended the ministerial ladder. Timi Frank’s vituperation against the John Odigie-Oyegun led National

Working Committee (NWC) is clearly a case of sour grapes and it has proven the party leadership’s wisdom in not entrusting such a sensitive position to such a biased character. The post of National Publicity Secretary of any serious political party is given to a politician of requisite experience in the management of information, who must be knowledgeable on sundry issues, rational in his persuasions, logical in his thinking and reasoning, be tactful, mature, have common sense and must be lucid and have a sense of clarity. These qualities and virtues are obviously lacking in Timi Frank.

The embittered Frank is clearly acting the script of two sets of politicians within the ruling party-those maneuvering for the party’s ticket in 2019, and the party hierarchs facing trial for corruption or criminal misconduct.

The crisis in the Senate is both moral and legal. The emergence of Saraki and the current Senate leadership was a result of subterfuge, anti-party activities and gross indiscipline and misconduct. A panel set-up by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) found a prima facie case of criminal conduct (altering or forging of the senate’s own rules) against some principal officers, and promptly recommended their trial.

There cannot be a political solution to what are clearly a legal issue and a case of criminality. Any interference by either the party or the president in both cases will amount to great hypocrisy and injustice. The war on corruption does not discriminate between APC and PDP, between Senator and Representative or between legislator and the electorate.

That there is avoidable crisis in the party is not in dispute. All well-meaning members of the party should intensify efforts to reconcile aggrieved members and unite the party rather than cause further dissension or deepening the crack. Timi Frank’s call for Chief Oyegun’s resignation is therefore uncalled for, is in bad taste, morally indefensible, illogical, and irrational, and has the appearance and characteristics of a hatchet job.

Should the party Congress think it is appropriate to relieve Chief John Odigie-Oyegun of his Post as Party Chairman, it should do so with absolute decorum, honour and respect. For leading an opposition party to victory for the first time in our nation’s chequered history, Chief Oyegun deserves kudos, respect and all the cooperation he needs to rebuild the party.

Nigerians should ignore Timi Frank’s call for the resignation of Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.

16

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4 , 2016

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

Features Æ s

17 Features

Military expedition to counter militants is a waste of time - Stakeholders

MILITANCY God’s Covenant Snr The restful commercially driven population of Lagos state had never been this troubled. For the second week running, residents of Bafon, Mowe and other estates dotted along the riverine areas of Lagos state have joined other communities on the run from their homes, properties and businesses, the result of sustained criminal attacks by militants that suddenly invaded the hitherto peaceful dream mega city of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.

It would be recalled that people of Igando, a community in the Lagos West Senatorial district, residents are still smarting from the effects of the siege laid by the militants who had stormed the community a fortnight ago, maiming, abducting and stealing properties worth millions of Naira.

Also, the embattled people of Ikorodu area of Lagos East Senatorial district have been under siege for months from suspected militants, a siege recently compounded by cult activities which serial killings on daily basis has made a nightmare

Baru

a daily occurrence. These have led to displacement of families and residents, and economic activities grinding to a halt.

Badagry, also in Lagos West, witnessed the kidnap of the Oba. On Thursday July 28, a combined team of police and army personnel engaged Ijaw militants in a firefight.

State Policing A retired principal in Igando, Mr. Gbenga Fashakin, who has fled his home and squaring with friends in Ikotun questioned the wisdom of Mr. President in retaining the current Minister of Interior. “We must question the judgment of the President,” he told The Daily Times on Monday, pointing out that it is the minister’s task to ensure law and order, using the various law enforcement agencies.

It is sad that the level of insecurity is escalating daily, and the electorate who voted for a tensely needed change can discern no plans by the federal government to end this ugly development.

Founder of a Montessori group of schools in the Badagry area where the Navy has been slugging it out with militants for weeks now said it is important for the APC government to begin to take

Buhari implementation of state policing, an integral part of its campaign promises seriously.

“The Nigerian Army has announced it would commence a training exercise code named ‘Exercise Crocodile Smile’, to be anchored by its Special Forces, in readiness to combat the militants in the restive oil rich region.

“But what will become of our livelihoods which have been crippled since the emergence of the militants?

“Families are apprehensive, fearing the worse each day and so would not let their wards out of their site. Many have relocated from their environment and as we can see, the end is not yet in sight. We have become like the Northeast victims of Boko Haram. This is not the change we voted for,” she said.

It may be recalled that the activities of Niger Delta Avengers, a militant group in the region has crippled most of oil production and threatened more crude oil cuts. All efforts by the current government, in an attempt to encourage the warring group to dialogue has been abortive.

Stakeholders are alarmed that government appear unfocused on the way to a lasting peace.

“We restate that a military expedition is a waste of time in

the Niger Delta. Warfare against the population in the Niger Delta may unleash a lasting and drawn out insurgency,” a stakeholder told our correspondent in a telephone conversation.

“Information on redeployment of personnel from the North East to this operation, if true, could also spell a resurgence of Boko Haram who has been regrouping in Diffa, Niger Republic, waiting for just such an opportunity.

“We again call on the Nigerian state to look for workable and practical solutions towards enthroning a settlement that would address the deep divisions in the region. Such solutions start with enhancing the economic independence of the peoples of the region.”

There was some disquiet among economists and analysts when the Group MD of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Maikanti Baru, revealed that President Buhari has asked the NNPC to go into the northern part of the country area to improve and further explore the magnitude and prospect of oil finds.

The NNPC currently has exploration activities going on in the frontier basin in Chad and also in some areas close to the Kolmani River, located in Bauchi State, where Shell had made some indicative discovery of hydrocarbons. In response to the directive of the President, Baru said NNPC is taking steps to get into those regions and step up crude oil exploration activities.

Clergyman and public affairs analyst, Barr Johnson Adinkwe sees this as a wrong step.

“We hold that this is not only a waste of time and resources, it signals that the government is

not entirely serious in the much touted reduction of reliance on oil for government revenues.

“Nigeria should realise that other oil producing nations are making serious efforts to pivot away from oil, a clear indicator that they recognize that the age of oil is in terminal decline. Nigeria will do well to prepare for that inevitability,” he said.

The NHSA’s flood warnings are now a yearly ritual which should give cause for pause. On the one hand, there are parts of Africa, including some parts of Nigeria that are experiencing a record setting drought due to the effects of La Nina.

Coupled with poor irrigation and farming methods and a recent upsurge in the activities of certain pests, this has had an adverse effect on the 2016 farming season in these places, which account for a significant portion of Nigerian produce. This drought has also been blamed, in some quarters, for the pastoral conflict in many parts of Nigeria.

On the other hand, these repeated calls by the NHSA (and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency) highlight a failure on the part of successive Nigerian governments to build up flood defenses, improve irrigation practices and integrate the latest technologies, including water capture methods which can hold excess water that can be channeled to farms when needed. A plan is clearly needed to address Nigeria’s perennial water issue.

At least ten people were killed, and many others injured when once again, Logo Local Government Area in Benue State was attacked by assailants CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

Features 18

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

I robbed to raise money for graduation -suspect Oguntade Ismaila A vulcaniser arrested along with three other suspected robbers by the operatives of the Rapid Response Squad of the Lagos State Police Command, has disclosed that he ventured into robbery to raise money for his graduation ceremony.

Oluwatimileyin Okunnade, 21, from Ogbomosho, Osun State was arrested over the weekend around 8:00 pm in traffic by the police after snatching an Infinix Hot Note mobile phone from a lady driving a white Sienna space bus.

According to him, “I went to Ojodu–Berger Bus Stop early in the morning to look for work. I was there till evening, yet there was no work. I decided to trek home.

“When I got to Otedola Bridge, there was traffic and I realised that I had not eaten anything since morning.

“The thought of going to bed

without food was scary to me, so I saw a lady holding an Infinnix Hot Note and I snatched it from her.

“She was so scared, she drove off but I was surprised later when RRS men chased and apprehended me few minutes later.”

Insisting that he was not a robber but a vulcanizer, Okunnade said “what I was looking for was money to do my freedom ceremony.

“I have spent eight years with my boss, and he has told me openly to go and source for money for my graduation. That was why I was looking for daily job to engage myself.

“I ran away from Ogbomoso to Lagos to find a better life for myself.

“I realised that bus conducting and joining bad gangs won’t yield me anything to give my family a befitting life, so I enrolled myself as an apprentice vulcaniser, and I was doing well until my boss

The robbery suspects

sent me away because of my freedom money.”

The suspect said he had earlier got a daily paid job beside his boss with a fellow vulcaniser, “but my boss got worriedd that I was going to steal his customers, so he told them to send me away”, he added.

The arrest of Okunnade brought to four the number of suspects apprehended on weekend robbery offence on Otedola Bridge area.

The operatives had, around

mid-day arrested a three-man gang comprising Bola Adenuga, 39; Kehinde Oladipupo, 32 and Afiz Sulaiman, 27, for forcefully stealing an hydraulic jack and vehicle parts from a lorry driver for failing to give them money.

Adenuga, the leader of the gang disclosed to investigators that they helped the truck driver by assisting him to repair his broken down vehicle, but when his truck started working, he declined to give them money, so they took his hydraulic jack and

lorry bumper.

“We told him that when he has money, he can come and collect it. We have told him where he can find us. We are bricklayers”.

Speaking on the robbery, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dolapo Badmos stated that “if you think you can come to Lagos to perpetuate crime and get away with it, you better wake up.

“The Command is alive to its responsibilities. No criminal would go scot free in Lagos. We will track and get you”.

Bank, NGO train 60,000 girls on literacy and leadership Iniobong Iwok

The NGO and beneficiaries of the programme in a group photo

The popular phrase ‘Train a girl and you will have train a nation’, vividly describe the concious effort of a Non Governmental Organisation (NGO),Youth Empowerment foundation (YEF), at promoting girls Child education, building their leadership skills, financial literacy and health awareness.

The initiative which the foundation carried out by

mentoring and empowering teenage girls in public secondary schools across Lagos state is divided into four modules, with each module focusing on teaching the girls on areas like financial literacy, budgeting, health education, environment and HIV/AIDS. The programmes also teach the teenage girls their right and roles as children in the society.

The foundation achieved this with the collaborative effort of

Standard Chartered bank inline with the bank’s objective of empowering local communities and promoting all round development of the girl child.

Speaking on the essence of the programmes and its impact, Global Head, Public Affairs and Sustainability, Standard Chartered Bank Shastry Vasuki, stated that the programme is a way of giving back to the local CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

Military expedition to counter militants is a waste of time-Stakeholders CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

suspected to be Fulani herdsmen.Suspected killer herdsmen struck in Logo Local Government area of Benue sate killing at least ten persons and leaving several injured. The attacks on Logo have become a recurring feature despite a peace meeting held last week between

stakeholders of the affected Tiv speaking communities and herders.

The Nigerian state has failed in its obligation to protect these people and it is a further indictment on the interior minister, the National Security Adviser and the presidency itself. We will continue to shine a spotlight on these attacks and

charge the federal government to come to the aid of vulnerable communities in Nigeria. We urge these communities to exercise caution and remain vigilant.

A command post of the Multinational Joint Task Force located at Damboré, a border town between Cameroon and Nigeria, occupied by Cameroonian soldiers, was attacked, Thursday night by members of Boko

Haram. This follows last Sunday’s attack on an MNJTF command post in Kamouna, Cameroon. The Boko Haram members wounded a soldier and made away with some arms and ammunition.

Boko Haram is broken but it is certainly not finished. The governments of Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Nigeria must continue the efforts to ensure that the weakened Islamist threat is

finally finished. Their fragile political, social and economic structures are riding in part on this. A final victory may have positive implications on Nigeria’s economy in the short term, particularly in the agricultural sector, despite the gradual return of normalcy because of prevailing economic headwinds.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

19 Features

I was promised N500,000 to traffic cocaine -Fashion designer Joy Anyim A 46-year-old fashion designer identified as Rita Godfrey, based in Spain has been arrested for drugs related offences. The suspect who was nabbed recently has confessed to Anti-narcotic operatives how she got herself involved with illicit drug trafficking.

According to the NDLEA, Rita reportedly collected 1.525kgs of cocaine while at the airport in Dubai on her way from Spain. The wraps of cocaine were packed inside duty-free polythene bag. She was intercepted during inward screening of passengers on an Emirate flight from Dubai. Rita said that she was promised half a million naira to smuggle the drugs from Dubai.

“I am a trainee fashion designer living in Spain. I have financial problems and was introduced into drug trafficking by a friend.

They told me that somebody will give me the drug while on transit in Dubai.

“While at the airport, a man approached me and said that you are Rita. He introduced himself that he is from my friend and gave me the drug in a duty-free bag. I was surprised when the drug was discovered here because it was not hidden at all. I never checked it. I just kept it in my bag the way it was given to me.

“I was so disappointed in myself” Rita lamented.

Rita hails from Benin City, Edo State. The Chairman/ Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Col. Muhammad Mustapha Abdallah (retd.) While reacting to the arrest, said sixty three suspects were arrested at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos between January and June 2016.

The NDLEA boss added that the suspect was arrested with 484.11kgs of drugs as suspected drug barons also abandoned 336.090kgs of the seized drugs.

“The Agency is maximising the benefits of Airport Communication Programme (AIRCOP) by coordinating joint international operations. We will continue to build capacity in risk analysis, drug detection methodology and tracing of illicit drug proceeds.

“This is aimed at identifying and dismantling criminal networks.

The Agency reacted swiftly to new tactics of drug trafficking by intercepting 22.530kgs of drugs originating from Dubai, United

Bank, NGO train 60,000 girls on literacy and leadership CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

Rita

22.530kgs While at the airport, a man approached me and said that you are Rita. He introduced himself that he is from my friend and gave me the drug in a duty-free bag. I was surprised when the drug was discovered here because it was not hidden at all. I never checked it. I just kept it in my bag the way it was given to me. I was so disappointed in myself

Arab Emirates. As an intelligencedriven Agency, we realised the sudden use of Dubai as a transit point for cocaine originating from South America and successfully arrested 13 suspects with 22.530kgs of cocaine coming from Dubai”. He said.

According to the airport commander, Mr. Ahmadu Garba, those arrested include 46 males and 17 females while the breakdown of drugs are as follows; Cocaine, 35kgs, Heroin 8.460kg, Methamphetamine 54.4kg, Ephedrine 6.120kg, Cannabis 5.470kg and Psychotropic substances 374.630kg.

Twenty (20) suspects were nabbed attempting to export drugs while twenty-five (25) were caught importing drugs into the country.

Eighteen suspects were apprehended during follow-up operations. Ten (10) suspected traffickers were caught importing 7.695kgs of cocaine from Brazil while thirteen (13) other suspects were arrested with 22.530kgs of cocaine from Dubai.

The three abandoned seizures include 25kgs of methamphetamine going to South Africa, 311kgs of tramadol originating from India and 0.090 grammes of cocaine from Brazil.

Monthly breakdown is as follows; January 6.300kgs and 12 suspects, February 54.760kgs and 10 suspects, March 39.485kgs and 13 suspects, April 28.035kgs and 13 suspects, May 353.945kgs and 13 suspects while June is 1.585kgs and 2 suspects.

community by the bank, noting that the bank partners local NGO’s in some countries around the world toward achieving this goal.

According to him, “We have Community engagement plans to make sure we help improve the local community of the countries we operate, to sustain the economic growth and help invest in the local community.

“We work with local NGO’s and we focus on teenage girls to give them opportunity, to give them education, financial literacy, letting them know what it takes to work in the office, and be in business, so that when they go out they can be self reliant.”

On the impact of the programme, Joke Adun of Standard Chartered Bank revealed that about 60,000 girls have benefited from the programmes since its inception, noting that the programme exists in three states in Lagos, Oyo and Abuja.

Executive Secretary, Youth Empowerment Foundation Iwalola Akin-Jimoh disclosed that the programme has transformed the lives of several teenage girls, and added that the NGO train teenage girls in public schools who, in return, train their peers in the larger society.

“The girl champion initiative is a unique programme, whether you are tall or slim, it is a total and robust knowledge that equip the girl-child in all round knowledge on all aspects of life.

According to Jimoh, “our focus is only in public schools because we believe it is the public school that we can get the bulk of the girls. This is because if you get public education right, other things would be right in the country.

One of the girll Champion, Olawusi Omobolanle Debora, a student of Onike Girls Secondary School, stated that the programme has improved her self esteem, financial literacy and mental strength.

“The programme has help me to be a more courageous person, it has improve my self confidence, leadership skills, budgeting and financial literacy.”

She stressed that she has been able to mentor about 25 of her peers in different schools in Lagos state.

20

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4 , 2016

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

LOSS OF DOCUMENT This is to inform the general public that a Certificate of Occupancy No. 62/62/2003U dated 30th day of October, 2003 for a plot of land situated between Afariogun Street and Seriki-Aro Avenue, Ikeja belonging to Mrs. Adebisi Atoke Olukanmi of No. 16 Olufunmilayo Street, Ikeja, Lagos State is missing.

All efforts to recover the said document have been abortive. If found, please contact the Lagos State Land Registry Office, Alausa, Ikeja.

DAHUNSI NICHOLAS TOLULOPE

ADETOLA SHITTU ENIOLA AISHA

21 Public Notice

MAKUN CEMENT FACTORY LAND OWNERS YOUTH ASSOCIATION SAGAMU This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied for registration under part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.

TRUSTEES ARE 1 OKUESO OLAJIDE - CHAIRMAN 2 ADESHINA ABIODUN SAMUEL - SECRETARY 3 AWOSANYA SESAN OMOLAJA 4 SHOBOWALE ABIODUN JELILI 5 OTASANYA SAKIRU 6 MUSA OLUYEMI ADEWUMI 7 SAEBU KAYODE ROTIMI 8 ANIMASAUN TAIWO TINURE 9 JAMU ALABI OLODODO 10 OWOSINA KUNLE

MRS AKIHOMI FIDELIA ONOSHIOHAGBE

AIMS To ensure cordial relationship between cement factory company land owners of sagamu .

Any Objection to this regisstration should be forwarded to the registrar General,, corporate Affairs Commission, 420, Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi ironsi Sstreet, Maitama Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

Signed Chairman

MRS OLUWATOSIN OLUWASEYI ADESINA

HAASTRUP OLUWASEGUN ADEMUYIWA EBENEZER

I, Formerly known as DAHUNSI TOLULOPE BIOLA now wish to be known as DAHUNSI NICHOLAS TOLULOPE. Former documents remain valid.

General public note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, SHITTU ENIOLA AISHA, now wish to be known and addressed as, ADETOLA SHITTU ENIOLA AISHA. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I formerly known as MISS OLUWATOSIN OLUWASEYI AYODELE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OLUWATOSIN OLUWASEYI ADESINA. All former documents remain valid. General Public, please take note

I, formerly known and addressed as, HAASTRUP EBENEZER OLUWASEGUN, now wish to be known and addressed as, HAASTRUP OLUWASEGUN ADEMUYIWA EBENEZER. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

SAIDAT ADETOYIN KAKA

ADIJAT TITILAYO KAKA

ALIMAT IYABO KAKA

OLUBUNMI OLABISI IJEMBA

I, formerly known and addressed as, SEIDAT ADETOYIN KAKA, now wish to be known and addressed as, SAIDAT ADETOYIN KAKA. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

TAMUNONEGIYE-OFORI JAMES I, formerly known and addressed as, IDRIS OLALI, now wish to be known and addressed as, TAMUNONEGIYE-OFORI JAMES. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

AWOLOLA EWOMAZINO LOVETH

CORRECTION OF NAME That my name has for long been misspelt as MRS. IYABO OLUBUNKOLA BAKARE. It should have been spelt as MRS. IYABO OLUBUNKOLA BAKRE. Former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, SADIA IYABO NAJIMU, now wish to be known and addressed as, ALIMAT IYABO KAKA. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, OLUBUNMI OLABISI EKUNDAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as, OLUBUNMI OLABISI IJEMBA . All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

SPACE FOR SALE

MRS. EBERECHI TINA AMAH

DE-ACME HEIGHTS SCHOOL, OJODU, OGUN STATE Formerly known as HOLY GHOST HIGH SCHOOL, OJODU, OGUN STATE, now wish to be known as DE-ACME HEIGHTS SCHOOL, OJODU, OGUN STATE, all documents remain valid, the general public should take note.

HAMED IDRIS AJIBADE I formerly known and addressed as HAMED IDRIS. now wish to be known and addressed as HAMED IDRIS AJIBADE. all former document remain valid. General public should take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to bring to the notice that I am the one bearing OKOLIE PAULINE CHIDINMA and ONWOCHEI PAULINE CHIDINMA. Former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

WILLIAM ESTHER TOLULOPE I formerly known and addressed as OGUNLASE ESTHER TOLULOPE now wish to be henceforth reffered to as WILLIAM ESTHER TOLULOPE . All erstwhile documents still remain valid. General public please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. EBERECHI TINA UCHENDU, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. EBERECHI TINA AMAH. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

CHIDI BLESSING

NWAKAEGO NWOKOCHA

OKECHUKWU ELENDU

I, formerly known and addressed as, JOHN BLESSING, ELEAZU BLESSING NGOZI .A., now wish to be known and addressed as, CHIDI BLESSING. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, NWAKAEGO NWOKOCHA, AND NWAANNE JULIA, refer to one and same person but, now wish to be known and addressed as, NWAKAEGO NWOKOCHA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, OKECHI ELENDU, now wish to be known and addressed as, OKECHUKWU ELENDU. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MRS. BAKRE OLAYEMI VICTORIA, now wish to be known and addressed as MISS ADEKOYA OLAYEMI VICTORIA. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned please take note.

MICHEAL ADEWALE OLUMADE

EMMANUEL CLETUS MONDAY

MOGAJI OLUWATOYIN FEYISETAN

EDEBOR NKEMJIKA PRIYE

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as, EDEBOR PRIYE N., now wish to be known and addressed as, EDEBOR NKEMJIKA PRIYE. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

I, ANTHONIA NICHOLAS, AND COMFORT NICHOLAS, refer to and same person but, now wish to be known and addressed as, COMFORT NICHOLAS. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note

HUNYE SUNDAY SEWANU

FATIMOH KIKI OHIKERE

OKON THOMAS

I, formerly known and addressed as, KIKISUHU SUNDAY OLUSEGUN, now wish to be known and addressed as, HUNYE SUNDAY SEWANU. All former documents remains valid. General public should take note.

I, FATIMOH KIKI OHIKERE wish to confirm that my true and correct names are FATIMOH KIKI OHIKERE and wished to be addressed as such.

All former documents remain valid.

The Bureau of Lands, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State and the general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, THOMAS ANIETE UFOT, now wish to be known and addressed as, OKON THOMAS. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

MORUFFDEEN AYOMIDE RASAKI

ADEPEJU TEMITOPE DINYO

I formerly known and addressed as ETADAVWE EWOMAZINO LOVETH, now want to be known and address as AWOLOLA EWOMAZINO LOVETH. All former documents remain valid, general public should take note.

ALABI ADEYINKA SOLOMON

OCHE INUSA ABU

I, formerly known and addressed as, ADETUNJI SOLOMON OYENIYI, now wish to be known and addressed as, ALABI ADEYINKA SOLOMON . All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, OCHE MOSES ABU, now wish to be known and addressed as, OCHE INUSA ABU All former documents remains valid. General public should take note.

IFEOMA PARDY

GODWIN FAVOURH HOSSANA

I, formerly known and addressed as, IFEOMA UDEOZOR, now wish to be known and addressed as, IFEOMA PARDY. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, GODWIN BEAUTY ABIGEAL, now wish to be known and addressed as, GODWIN FAVOURH HOSSANA. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

IGBODIPE ADEJOKE ESTHER

I, Formerly known as AKINYEMI PETER MORUFU now wish to be known as AKINYEMI AFOLABI ANIFOWOSHE. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, IGBODIPE ADEJOKE OMOLOLA E. , now wish to be known and addressed as, IGBODIPE ADEJOKE ESTHER. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

ATOYEBI ADEJUMO. VICTORIA ADEBIMPE

OGUNDEPO MAYOWA VICTORIA

I, Formerly known as ATOYEBI VICTORIA ADEBIMPE now wish to be known as ATOYEBI ADEJUMO VICTORIA ADEBIMPE. Former documents remain valid.

General public note.

I formerly known as Miss Fidelia Onoshiohagbe Egwaoge now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Akihomi Fidelia Onoshiohagbe. All former documents remain valid. Nursing and midwifery council, Zenith bank Plc, National Identity card, First bank, Access bank, National hospital Abuja and the general public to please note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, ADIJAT TITILAYO HAMMED , now wish to be known and addressed as, ADIJAT TITILAYO KAKA. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, ADELAJA ADESEGUN ODUMADE, now wish to be known and addressed as, MICHEAL ADEWALE OLUMADE. All former documents remains valid. General public should take note.

AKINYEMI AFOLABI ANIFOWOSHE

UKANA TITILAYO ABISETU I Formerly known and addressed as OMOWA ABISETU OLOYE Now wish to be known, called and addressed as UKANA TITILAYO ABISETU. All former documents remain valid. The general public and Banks should please take note.

I formerly known as SHOSANYA MAYOWA VICTORIA, now wish to be known and addressed as OGUNDEPO MAYOWA VICTORIA. All former documents remain valid. General Public, please take note

I, formerly known and addressed as, CLETUS EMMANUEL STABIC, now wish to be known and addressed as, EMMANUEL CLETUS MONDAY. All former documents remains valid.

General public should take note.

SPACE FOR SALE OLUDARE EMIOLA SUNDAY SMITH I, formerly known and addressed as DARE MOLAR SMITH, now wish to be known and addressed as OLUDARE EMIOLA SUNDAY SMITH, all documents remain valid, the general public should take notice.

MRS AKINKUNMI KUDIRAT OLUWAFUNKE

I formerly known as MISS KASALI KUDIRAT OLUWAFUNKE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS AKINKUNMI KUDIRAT OLUWAFUNKE. All former documents remain valid. General Public, please take note KHADIJAT MOTUNRAYO WILSON IFORMERLY KNOW AND ADDRESSED AS KHADIJAT MOTUNRAYO WILSON THAT OWONIFARI WILSON IS MY SURNAME AND KHADIJAT IS MY FIRST NAME MOTUNRAYO IS MY MIDDLE NAME NOW I WISH TO BE KNOWN CALLED AND ADRESSED AS KHADIJAT MOTUNRAYO WILSON ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

I, Formerly known as ISIOLAOTAN OLUWATOYIN FEYISETAN now wish to be known as MOGAJI OLUWATOYIN FEYISETAN. All former documents remain valid general public take note.

MISS ADEKOYA OLAYEMI VICTORIA

UDUGBU EBELOSELE JUSTINA

I, formerly known as MORUFU RASAKI AJADI now wish to be known as MORUFFDEEN AYOMIDE RASAKI. All former documents remain valid.

Members of the public to please note.

I, formerly known and addressed as ADEPEJU TEMITOPE OGUNNUBI, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEPEJU TEMITOPE DINYO, all documents remain valid, the general public should take notice.

I, formerly known and addressed as, ONAIWU EBELOSELE JUSTINA, now wish to be known and addressed as, UDUGBU EBELOSELE JUSTINA. All former documents remains valid. General public should take note.

OLADEJO KUBURAT OMOLAYO

MRS ADESANYA ADENIKE

AJIBOLA ABAYOMI ADEMOLA

I, formerly known and addressed as, ADEGBENRO KUBURAT ADIJAT, now wish to be known and addressed as, OLADEJO KUBURAT OMOLAYO. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS ADENIRAN ADENIKE YETUNDE, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS ADESANYA ADENIKE. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, AJIBOLA ABAYOMI SUNDAY, now wish to be known and addressed as, AJIBOLA ABAYOMI ADEMOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

MRS. ELEANYA DAISY CHINYERE

DAVID GBEMISOLA EBUNOLUWA

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. EZEIKPE DAISY CHINYERE, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. ELEANYA DAISY CHINYERE. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, GBEMISOLA EBUNOLUWA OLATUNJI, now wish to be known and addressed as, DAVID GBEMISOLA EBUNOLUWA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

SPACE FOR SALE

Public Notice 22 DIVINE HOPE RISING MINISTRY

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

NATIONAL COALITION FOR PEACE AND MOBILIZATION

LIFE FULFILMENT MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL

This is to notify the general public that the above named Ministry has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act. 1990 as amended in 2004

The general public is hereby notified that the above named, has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Ministry has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OGWE JOY IJEOMA 2. OGWE SIMEON NNAMEZIE 3. NNANYELU HOPE IFEOMA 4. AFOCHA CHINENE JENNIFER

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Dr. Ahmad Saleh - Chairman 2. Tahiti Abubakar Galadimawa 3. Emmanuel Sunday Kappo

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PST DANIEL EHINOMEN EGBODION 2. PST (MRS) FAITH TAIWOTEIN DANIEL 3. BRO. BENJAMIN JACOB OPEYEMI 4. PST EZEKIEL OSAS OKHUELEIGBE

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To raise Christians who will diligently seek to make disciples of all nations 2. To actualise God’s promises through Faith in our Lord Jesus Christ 3. To uphold and Imbibe the teachings of the word of God. Any objection to the registration above should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi-Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Barr. Mrs. Ihuoma ANURIOHA

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To partner with government as a forerunner in conventing anti corruption crusades in secondary schools across the nation and for other charitable purposes Any objection to this registration must reach the Registrar-General of Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

CAPITAL PROGRESSIVE CLUB OF NIGERIA CAC/ IT/NO: 21782 The general public is hereby notified that the above named Club has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Change of Trustees under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE OLD TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MR. SUNDAY PRINCE KALU - RETAINED 2. MR GABRIEL ILOEGBUNAM - RETAINED 3. MR. AFAMEFULA ATUORAH - REMOVED 4. MR. ANAYO UBAKA - REMOVED 5. MR. CHRISTIAN UDEH - RETAINED 6. MR. CHIJIOKE ATUORAH - RETAINED 7. MR. AUGUSTIN NWABUEZE - REMOVED

OLIGIE FORUM OF PROFESSIONALS The general public is hereby notified that the above named Association has applied to the Corporate affairs commission Abuja for registration under the part C of the companies and allied matters act 1990.

The Trustees Are : 1. John Anthony Aluye - chairman.

2. Ekwugum Festus - secretary.

3. Eboigbe Victor Nwenearizi Garemu - member.

4. Bienosa. C. Godfrey - member.

Aims And Objectives 1.to promote the heath and we’ll being of oligie residents.

2. To take part in policy making, to attract development for entire oligie people.

THE NEWLY APPOINTED TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MR MONDAY NNAMANI 2. MR. EJIKE PETER 3. NDUBISI OGBODO THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES REMAIN THE SAME Any objection to this application must reach the Registrar-General of Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Any objections to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar general corporate Affairs commission plot 420 tigris crescent off aguiyi ironsi street maitama Abuja within 28days from the date of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

Signed: Secretary

MOUNTAIN OF WORD EVANGELICAL OUTREACH INTERNATIONAL This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied for registration to Corporate Affairs Commission under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act N0. 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1 ODUOLA LATIFAT OMOLARA -PRESIDENT 2 BALOGUN OLANIYI ROTIMI -SEC 3 IDOWU MOSES

REALPRICE BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED RC: 1189453 The general public is hereby notified that the above named Company is seeking for voluntary winding up under the Companies And Allied Matters Act, Part A, 2004 by a resolution shown below.

The Registrar General Corporate Affairs COMMISSION plot 420, Tigris Crescent MAITAMA. Abuja.

Please find attached copies of the resolution for my appointment for your records.

AL- HUDA AL- MUKHTARIYAH INTERNATIONAL PRAYER MISSION This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied for registration to Corporate Affairs Commission under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act N0. 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Sheikh Bukhari Ahmad Ayinla.(Chairman) 2. Bukhari Issa Iyanda.(Treasurer) 3. Ishola Waheed Arisekola.

4. Bukhari kafayat Oluwatomisin.

5. Ajayi Badrah Abiola.

6. Ajayi Sakeenah Abiodun(secretary).

Aim and Objective-: To propagate the Islamic principles.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

TRUSTEES: 1. ALH IBRAHIM S DAHIRU 2. AISHA IBRAHIM 3. SURA’ATU IBRAHIM 4. ABDULLAHI IBRAHIM 5. LIBABATU YAU IBRAHIM. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To assist the less privileged in the society.

2. To provide succor to the society.

3. To provide social amenities to schools, orphanage homes, mosques and communities

Daniel Ohabuike (Liquidator)

signed: Secretary

FRESHOASIS BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED RC: 1192676 The general public is hereby notified that the above named Company is seeking for voluntary winding up under the Companies And Allied Matters Act, Part A. 2004 by a resolution shown below.

At the General Meeting of the above named Company held at its Registered Office on the 21st day of July, 2016; the following Resolutions were proposed, considered and duly passed:

-----------------GBOLAHAN YUSUF (Director)

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 twenty-eight (28) days from the date of this publication.

Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

At the General Meeting of the above named Company held at its Registered Office on the 21st day of July, 2016; the following Resolutions were proposed, considered and duly passed: 1. “That REALPRICE BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED be voluntary wound-up with immediate effect.

2. That BARR. ENYINANYA DANIEL OHABUIKE. be and is duly appointed as Liquidator in respect of the Voluntary Winding Up of REALPRICE BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED.

---------------------OLUSESAN ADEEKO (Director)

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To promote brotherly love and the social interests of members.

2. To promote inter-ethnic and inter-racial understanding amongst people.

3. To promote and sustain educative and social programs for the advancement of family values.

4. To maintain friendly relations with similar associations and clubs through the promotion of inter-club educative programs and social interaction.

5. To seek and accept, whenever possible and desirable, reciprocal membership from other associations and clubs having similar aims and objectives.

Thanks Yours faithfully,

THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 2004 COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES FRESHOASIS BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED RC: 1192676 SPECIAL RESOLUTION FOR WINDING UP AND APPOINTMENT OF LIQUIDATOR

Dated 21st July, 2016

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Oluwagbenga Adeniyi Chairman 2. Olawale Badmus 3. Kola Alabi 4. Quadri Abubakar 5. Olubunmi Atobatele 6. Adewale Adebimpe Secretary

NANASURA CHARITY ORGANIZATION

THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 2004 COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES REALPRICE BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED RC: 1189453 SPECIAL RESOLUTION FOR WINDING UP AND APPOINTMENT OF LIQUIDATOR

Any objection to this effect should be forwarded to the Registrar-General. Corporate Affairs Commission, 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street, P.M.B. 198, Matiama, Abuja within 28th days from the date of publication.

SUPPORTIVE BROTHERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA. This is to inform the general public that the above named Association has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission 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 Organization is seeking for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Part C., 2004.

Kindly accept this letter as proper notice of my appointment as liquidator in the voluntary winding up of Realprice Bureau De Change Limited.

Signed Secretary

SIGNED: IGNATIUS O. AGBAPULU, ESQ. SOLICITOR

PUBLIC NOTICE 21st July, 2016

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF LIQUIDATOR IN RESPECT OF VOLUNTARY WINDING UP OF REALPRICE BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Any objection to this registration must reach the Registrar-General of Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: SECRETARY.

Dear Sir,

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: PREACHING THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ all over the World

1. “That FRESHOASIS BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED be voluntary wound-up with immediate effect.

2. That BARR. ENYINANYA DANIEL OHABUIKE. be and is duly appointed as Liquidator in respect of the Voluntary Winding Up of FRESHOASIS BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED. Any objection to this effect should be forwarded to the Registrar-General. Corporate Affairs Commission, 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street, P.M.B. 198, Matiama, Abuja within 28th days from the date of publication.

Dated 21st July, 2016 -------------------------OLISA OLADUNNI MOFOLUKE (Director)

------------------------BOWADE ROTIMI WILLIAMS (Director)

PUBLIC NOTICE

21st July, 2016 The Registrar General Corporate Affairs COMMISSION plot 420, Tigris Crescent, MAITAMA. Abuja.

Dear Sir,

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF LIQUIDATOR IN RESPECT OF VOLUNTARY WINDING UP OF FRESHOASIS BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED Kindly accept this letter as proper notice of my appointment as liquidator in the voluntary winding up of Freshoasis Bureau De Change Limited.

Please find attached copies of the resolution for my appointment for your records.

Thanks Yours faithfully, Daniel Ohabuike (Liquidator)

CHRIST COVENANT GOSPEL CHURCH

THEOPHANES MINISTRY INT’L The general public is hereby notified that the above named Ministry has Applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for Registration Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, 1990.

This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied for registration to Corporate Affairs Commission under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act N0. 1 of 1990.

THE 1.

2.

3.

4.

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Lateef Paul Okanlawon, (Founder) 2. Lateef Favour Idowu, 3. Dada Olukayode Abioye, 4. Aderounmu Adetokunbo Olubusola, 5. Akeredolu Funso Alaba.

TRUSTEES ARE: ENGR. THEOPHILUS ANTHONY ALUM MR. JUDE ALUM PASTOR MRS CHUKWUJIOBI IFEYINWA UGOCHUKWU EZE

-

Founder

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. To preach the gospel 2. To spread the gospel

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in all Nations

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed: ENGR. THEOPHILUS ANTHONY ALUM Founder

Signed: Secretary

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

23 News

The Ideas House team during the 2016 Mid-Year retreat at Whispering Palms resort in Badagry, Lagos recently.

Police assure of unbiased policing in Rivers Gbarabe Saturday Kpokan Port Harcourt

ÏÏÏAmidst

tension in Rivers State, the Nigeria Police has said that it was going to be very professional and unbiased in carrying out its duties irrespective of party affiliations or highly placed an offender might be.

Briefing newsmen in Port Harcourt, on Wednesday, the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Mr Francis Mobolaji Odesanya (CP) while observing armed robbery and political tension as the two major crises threatening the state’s peace and tranquility, pledge officers’ readiness to bring them to

barest minimum.

He used the occasion to call on the political class to play according to the rules of the game because the police would always isolate itself from politics. “I shall isolate myself from politics because it is a distraction from police duty….”, he said.

Similarly, he warned all criminal-minded elements to immediately have a change of attitude or vacate the state since its “operation zero tolerance” to crimes would not be in their favour. Odesanya promised to invest in building a database for all arrested suspects and exhibits collected at crime scene to facilitate identity

of criminals, adding that the era of unknown suspects would be drastically reduced since efforts would be geared towards networking all police stations in line with the vision of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to exchange intelligence.

He explained that the police under his watch had strengthened all its units in readiness to take up the task of ensuring that hoodlums find no place in the state.

Odesanya said that his administration was going to ensure that there were regular security meeting across all neighbourhood – including divisional headquarters to discuss issues that would bring

about a viable recommendation so as to sustain accountability and renew trust.

He also used the occasion to solicit for maximum co-operation from the members of the public, especially in the area of information gathering, since security issue was everybody’s business, promising confidential treatment to all information by the police.

Commending the vision of the IG of Police gearing towards effective policing and safe society that would bring about economic growth, Odesanya said that his office was open for constructive criticism that would help the current security challenges.

Inter-faith Mediation Centre Anglican Communion tasks launches peace advocacy Buhari on equity, devt Tom Garba Yola

ÏÏÏFor

peaceful co-existence among the adherence of the two dominant religions in the country, the Inter-Faith Medium Centre.

(IMC), Kaduna State, has launched a peace advocacy forum.

The forum, it was gathered, would go round the entire northern region to propagate the message of peace and a need to co-exist as a people.

The centre has organised a regional inter-faith and inter-cultural understanding between Muslims and Christian on the 28-31th July 2016, which took place in Damaturu, Yobe State, with the aim of restoring peace and confidence between member of various religion and cultural groups.

Its regional Secretary-General, Abdullahi Damare, said that the

body had an action plan to go from cities, towns and villages in the whole region for purpose of mediation.

According to him some of the action plan was to have a peace advocacy in primary and secondary schools, and tertiary institutions, forming Peace Clubs in all the secondary schools, preaching peace through sports, towns halls meetings, retreats, workshops and seminars that had to do with peacebuilding among various cultures, religion and beliefs.

“The Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC) is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation envisioning an inclusive society free from violent ethno-religious conflicts.

We aim to prevent violence and promote trust and relationship building by fostering dialogue among people of different faiths and communities in Nigeria and beyond.

Remi Oladoye Ibadan

ÏÏÏPresident

Muhammadu Buhari has been urged to be fair, honest and realistic in dealing with critical national issues.

The appeal was part of the resolution of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Ogbomoso Diocese at the end of the third session of the third synod held at Emmanuel Anglican Church Ogbomoso.

The synod in a communiqué signed by Rev’d Dr. Titus B. Olayinka, observed that there is lack of true commitment to the nation as a result of lack of patriotism and fear of God, and that the unresolved issues, such as corruption, insecurity, and political instability, should be addressed as a matter of urgency.

They synod appealed to the president to also diversify the economy from being mono economy and be committed to other sectors particularly agriculture by making facilities available for indigenous farmer in revamping the economy, which is presently in shambles and curbing the present high unemployment among youths.

While expressing dissatisfaction with the continuous delay of completion of Ogbomoso-Oyo express road, it urged Federal Government to expedite actions on it for its lives.

In its message to the state, the synod congratulated Senator Abiola Ajimobi on his electoral victory and appealed to him to look into the issues of non-payment of salaries of workers and pensions and gratuity of the retirees in the state.

FG to partner Ogun in construction of 500km rural roads ÏÏÏPlans

are underway by the Federal Government, in conjunction with Ogun State Government, to construct 500 kilometers of rural roads worth $60 million in the state.

This much was disclosed, on Wednesday, when the leadership of the Rural Access and Mobility Project, RAMP visited Governor Ibikunle Amosun at his Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta office.

Leader of the team and National project coordinator, Engr.

Ubandoma Uharamu, disclosed that the road project would be structured in a manner that it will open up rural roads and increase access to education.

He said in order to make this happen, a technical team from Rural Access and Mobility Project (RAMP) is already in Abeokuta to discuss with officials of the state government on how this could be facilitated within the shortest possible time.

He told the governor that the project is worth $60m (US dollars), adding that RAMP is in it’s third stage.

Uharamu revealed that Kaduna and Cross River states benefitted in the first phase while Adamawa, Enugu, Osun, Niger and Imo states are presently benefiting from the second phase.

Buhari

News 24 Sodiq Adekunle Osogbo

ÏÏÏ Governor of

Osun State, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has enjoined intending pilgrims to intercede for the country and Osun state in particular for rapid economic recovery and political peace.

He said this while addressing the intending pilgrims, during the farewell ceremony for the 2016 intending pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.

The governor who described the present economic situation as challenging, called on the intending pilgrims to take greater advantage of this year Hajj pilgrimage to pray God for total liberation and breakthrough of

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

Intercede for Osun to pay salaries, Aregbesola enjoins pilgrims Nigeria’s economy.

He said the time has come for all to rise to the occasion of rescuing the nation from her present socio-economic, political and religious unrest, saying no efforts must be spared by all the intending pilgrims to seek the face of Allah for absolute deliverance.

Identifying some of the challenges facing the country, Governor Aregbesola expressed hope that the issue

of inability of some states to pay workers’ salaries shall be a thing of the past, if the intending pilgrims can devote time to pray God for swift economic improvement of the country.

He said: “What Nigeria needs at the moment is fervent prayer especially as the nation is being faced with myriads of shortcomings.

“No effort must be spared at achieving this feat. We must

all strive to ensuring peaceful co-existence and corporate continuity of Nigeria as a constitutionally constituted entity.

“On this note, the intending pilgrims must use the advantage of this year’s Hajj pilgrimage to pray for total liberation and breakthrough as the country is ravaged with socio-economic, political and religious anomalies.”

The Southwest Commissioner,

Police place N10m ransom on killers of Plateau chief

Shi’ites protest in Kaduna, demand el-Zakzaky’s release ÏÏÏ Members of

Chijioke Kingsley Jos

ÏÏÏ

The Plateau State Police Commissioner, Mr. Adekunle Oladunjoye has placed a ransom of N10 million on whoever gives information that will lead to the arrest of the killer of Saf Ron Kulere, the Plateau first class chief who was murdered recently.

CP Oladunjoye stated this on Wednesday during the visit of the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police Zone 4, Agboola Oshodi-Glover, who was in Jos on a familiarisation tour.

Answering question from Journalists, the AIG reaffirmed that ransom was part of policing, using incentives to get relevant information from members of the public.

His words: “Right from time, ransom has been part of policing, but because of lack of funds, it has not been fully used as a means of getting information that will help the Police in carrying out investigation. The security votes is what was supposed to be used for incentives such as ransom.”

The AIG is also quoted saying that the capture of Osama bin Laden was made possible through the use of ransom, urging relevant security agencies to sustain the use of ransom in fighting crime.

However, addressing officers and men of the Plateau State Command, he urged them to shun all corrupt practices and strive to win the confidence of the public.

National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Alhaji Fua’ad Adeyemi, commended the government of Osun, led by Governor Rauf Aregbesola for being consistent and focused towards the welfare of the masses especially the annual intending pilgrims.

Alhaji Adeyemi described Osun as the overall well-behaved and performed state in Nigeria over the years in the history of Hajj pilgrimage in Nigeria.

L-R: Acting Managing Director, Ports and Cargo Handling Services Limited, Alhaji Mohammed Bulangu; Group Managing Director, SIFAX Group, John Jenkins; Executive Director, Human Resources and Administration, SIFAX Group, Dr. Fola Rogers-Saliu and General Manager, SIFAX OffDock, Mr. Oliver Omajuwa at the SIFAX Group mid-year press parley in Lagos… on Wednesday.

Photo: QUADRI OLOWOLAGBA.

Imo NLC urges workers to shun Okorocha’s 3-day work directive

Val Okara Owerri

ÏÏÏ The Imo State Chairman of

Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Austin Chilakpu, on Wednesday, directed public and civil servants to ignore the three

Gov. Okorocha

days per week working policy of the state government.

Governor Rochas Okorocha had directed state government workers to be coming to work with effect from Aug.1, 2016 from Monday to Wednesday, while Thursdays and Fridays should be used for agriculture and other economic activities.

Chilakpu described the governor’s directive as aberration. ``Nigeria is a signatory to International Labour Convention which endorsed 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week and Nigeria constitution equally recognise this matter. ``I do not understand how Imo state will function in total negation of these known statue and yet it is a state in a country

called Nigeria’’, he queried.

Chilakpu said all the affiliate labour union executives met and took a stand on the matter and resolved not to abide by the three working days per week directive

by Gov. Okorocha. ``In our meeting of Aug. 2, 2016, we resolved that Imo state workers should not abide by the directive to work from Monday to Wednesday per week, workers should continue to report for duties from Monday to Friday’’, he said.

The state NLC told workers not to be perturbed by the report attributed to Okorocha that salaries of workers would be reduced, adding, ``the current salary scale earn by Imo workers is a template drawn from the N18, 000 minimum wage.

the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, otherwise known as Shiites, on Wednesday, in Kaduna, defied police order to protest the continued detention of their leader, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, and other members.

It was learnt that children, between the ages of 10 and above with some adults, marched through Muhammadu Buhari Way in the Kaduna metropolis.

They displayed posters of Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky and chanted continuously, “free our leader;” “please free ElZakzaky,” “we want justice:” “He needs to go for medical treatment.”

One of the protesters, Fauziya Saidu, who claimed they had trekked all the way from Zaria, about 80 kilometer from Kaduna since Tuesday, said they were heading towards Abuja and vowed to remain in the Federal Capital territory until their leader was released.

She said most of the protesters were orphans and widows and that El-Zakzaky had been the one catering for their well-being over the years.

She said they were unperturbed by the presence of security operatives.

Leader of the protesters, Abdullahi Mohammed, called on the Federal Government to unconditionally release the leader of the sect for proper medical attention.

Meanwhile, Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Aliyu Usman, said the Shiites were not issued permit order for any protest.

He said, “We did not know they are protesting.”

“They did not take permission from us,” he added.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

Ekiti Speaker risks contempt charge for refusal to swear in lawmaker ƕ 1ƄƆ d ƗƆƈ ƗƆè Ado Ekiti

ÏÏÏ

Following the refusal of the Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Kola Oluwawole to swear in Ekiti State House of Assembly member-elect for Ado Constituency 1, Toyin Obayemi, the member-elect has gone back to the court of law to press a contempt charge against the Speaker for disobeying a court order.

An Ado Ekiti Federal High Court, in a judgment delivered on July 4, by Justice Taiwo Taiwo, sacked Musa Arogundade, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker representing the constituency, and consequently ordered that Obayemi, a PDP member who participated in the primary of the party be sworn in immediately having been found to be the lawful candidate for the April 11 House of Assembly election.

Obayemi’s lawyer, Olayinka Sokoya, said Oluwawole was running a risk of being committed to prison for holding the court of law in contempt for declining to admit his client as an Assembly member.

The law-maker-elect, who came to the Assembly complex on Tuesday to present himself for swearing-in having been given the Certificate of Return by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was blocked from entering the hallowed chamber.

Oluwawole told the Assembly security personnel to order Obayemi to leave the premises after which the two main gates of the

complex were shut.

Speaking with reporters on the development on Wednesday, Sokoya alleged that he and his client (Obayemi) had been receiving threats through anonymous phone calls to drop their clamour for the legislator-elect to be sworn in, saying that they had nothing against anybody but the law must be obeyed.

“I also want to place it on record that my life and that of my client are being threatened. Some people are issuing threats to us through anonymous phone calls.

We are calling on security agencies to come to our aid and save our lives.”

Sokoya argued that barely a month after being sacked from the state parliament by the court, Arogundade was still performing legislative functions – including sitting in the hallowed chambers, pointing out that the court’s verdict which nullified Arogundade’s election was a declaratory order, which cannot be stayed and must be complied with, adding that if he (Arogundade) had filed an appeal, the order must be carried out.

According to him, “The action of the House of Assembly and the Speaker is a flagrant disobedience to the valid order of a court of competent jurisdiction and if

a court gives a declaratory order, you must comply with the order even if you are not satisfied with it.

“The Speaker will explain to the court and show cause why he should not be committed to prison for contempt of court and willful disobedience of an order of the court. We are not in a state of nature; we are being governed by the rule of law.

“What happened at the House on Tuesday was a show of shame and nobody can be above the law.

We are not folding our arms and we have proceeded to the court to file contempt proceedings against the Speaker.

L-R: Vice President, Brands and Advertising, Airtel Nigeria, Enitan Denloye; winner, maiden edition, Voice Nigeria, Arese Emokpae and Director, M-Net West Africa, Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu during the presentation of SUV to Emokpae in Lagos… on Tuesday.

Photo: BOLAJI OLASUNKANMI.

25 News 1 Ɛ z ƏƊƆƏ ë Kano Assembly Clerk, others loses pay ƕ ƊƑƄƑ d Ƌƈ Ƒè Kano

ÏÏÏ

Civil servants in Kano State were thrown into confusion and disappointment as many were omitted from the state’s pay role at a time the cost of living in the country has gone high.

This unfortunate incidence, which has left hundreds of workers unpaid for the month of July, has affected workers from various Ministries in the state.

The Daily Times gathered that top government officials such as the State’s House of Assembly Clark, who is equivalent to a Perm Sec in the state (Lawan Badamasi Gwezawa), was also affected.

It would be recalled that the state government had directed all workers in the state be screened and have an up to date profile through the Bio Metric exercise which was aimed at fishing out ghost workers from the state’s pay role, as well as put an end to the activities of some corrupt government officials, who defraud the state government by collecting more than one person’s salary.

The Chairman, Joint Public Negotiation Council, Comrade Hashim A. Saleh, has called on affected persons to remain calm and report the matter to their various ministries for guidance on what to do next as the state’s Head of Service had assured them of their maximum cooperation and that the Council was ready to assist and stand by genuine workers who were affected by mistakes during the bio metric capturing exercise.

Five killed in renewed Kwara communal clash AFRIMA 3.0. scores high entries mainly Nupes from Tsaragi, who It was alleged that the Share as submission closes were resident at Obadare village, people acceded to the request

EƆ ƈ ƗƆ Ɗƈ ƍƆƋƑ Ilorin

ÏÏÏ

About five persons were confirmed killed on Tuesday in the latest outbreak of violence between Share and Tsaragi communities in Ifelodun local Government Area of Kwara State.

Five people have also been arrested over the incident, according to spokesman for the Police Command in the state, Mr. Ajayi Okasanmi.

The incident came while the state government was still working on the implementation of a White Paper on an earlier violent conflict between the two communities, during which lives were also lost and possessions destroyed.

Sources close to the two communities claimed that the victims of the Tuesday incident were

which belongs to Share. The victims were identified as Aliyu Issah, Muhmini, Alhaji Saba, Madu Issa and Kadiri.

It was gathered that prior to the attack, the Nupe had written an appeal letter to the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Gambari, asking for his intervention. They had claimed in the letter that they ran away from their settlement to their ancestral homeland in the wake of the earlier attack, during the first clash.

The letter, which was signed

by Issa Aliyu and Jiya Aliyu on behalf of Nupe Community of Obadare, also pledged the readiness of the Nupe people to abide by the conditions of their Share hosts and asked to be allowed to return and harvest their crops which had been abandoned while they fled.

which prompted the Nupes to return to Obadare but that they were attacked soon after by people suspected to be from Share.

However, a source in Share community, who is also an indigene of the area, said that the Tuesday attack was between Fulani and Tsaragi people and not between Share and Tsaragi com-

Gov. Ahmed

ÏÏÏ With massive response

from African music professionals that polled close to 3,000 entries, the International Committee of the All African Music Awards, AFRIMA, has closed the submission of entries for the 2016 edition of the continental awards tagged AFRIMA 3.0.

The annual entries submission process, which is open to African music artistes, music professionals and other stakeholders living in the continent and in the Diaspora, commenced on May 30 and closed on July 30. A total number of 2,714 entries were received.

With a nod of satisfaction from the International

Committee of AFRIMA and AFRIMA Regional and Country Directors on the large influx of entries recorded this year, the next phase of the build-up activities for the 2016 edition of AFRIMA will commence in a few weeks with the adjudication process and nominees selection.

The President and Executive Producer, AFRIMA, Mike Dada declared that AFRIMA 3.0 took off on a high note with the unveiling of the awards calendar of activities during a joint cultural conference with the African Union Commission, AUC, held in Banjul, Gambia between 24th and 25th May.

26

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

Health Æ s

Polio: Complacency will be a disaster for us — NNPPC Chair Chairman, Nigeria National PolioPlus Committee, Dr.Tunji Funsho in this interview with LARA ADEJORO on the success story on polio in Nigeria and strategies put in place to ensure the country is certified polio free by 2017.

It’s been two years of historic achievement that Nigeria’s last reported any polio case, what is your take on this?

I feel elated and happy and in a way, I feel vindicated because few years ago, people never thought Nigeria could do it but in collaboration with our partners, particularly the governments of Nigeria, World Health Organisation (WHO), Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Bill Gates Foundation have ensured that we put strategies together to ensure that we get to this. I’m consciously optimistic that we will be certified polio free by 2017.

Recently, senior government officials from 17 countries, including Nigeria were at Nepal to share their successes in increasing government budget allocations for national immunization programmes. What would you say we can do to finance our

immunisation programmes in this country?

Inevitably, the health of our people are the responsibility of the government. The government, even if they have to source for funds outside, it’s up to the government to find in innovative ways either through Public Private Partnership (PPP) or through investments to ensure that the basic minimum that every Nigerians need to live a healthy life, which involves taking care of our children through immunisation is taken care of by government. I think gradually we should start moving away from the situation where we depend to a very large extent on our partners. I’m glad this government has started to look at strengthening healthcare, to ensure that in the short term, most of our immunisation needs are met and strengthening the healthcare system so that the basic health needs like treating malaria, other infectious diseases, giving immunisation go children are not things that people will have to go very far inorder to be able to access.

With the success so far, would you say the challenges in the fight against polio like religion, superstitious beliefs, etc have been overcome?

I think by and large, we’ve

DR. FUNSO been able to overcome the majority of the concerns people have about immunisation but in our own case, polio in particular with the help of the media and through dialogue with vari-

‘‘Nigerians need to live a healthy life, which involves taking care of our children through immunisation.’’

ous groups which cuts across religious institutions and traditional institutions, we have reduced that aspect of lack of understanding about polio immunisation.

What would you say about the budgetary allocation for immunisation, especially for polio in Nigeria?

I wish we could have more

Continued on page 27

Only 4% Nigerians are registered for NHIS — HCPAN Lara Adejoro

wwwww

The President of the Healthcare Providers’ Association of Nigeria (HCPAN), Dr Umar Oluwole Sanda has said that only about 4 per cent of the population in Nigeria have so far registered for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) since it was launched in 2005 by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

He made this known last Thursday in Lagos at the association’s national mid-year capacity building meeting themed ‘Health Insurance in Nigeria: The Journey so far and the way forward’.

Dr Sanda said, even the percentage of the population registered

are mostly Federal Civil Servants and so far, only Delta State has effectively started the State Health Insurance Programme.

The president said, when the scheme was launched, it was promised that it would be reviewed after two years to cover most Nigerians, “now about 11 years, we know the scheme has made progress but there are more problems than existing solutions.”

According to him, there are problems of low registration due to poor awareness of the benefits of the scheme. The Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) have their grievances against NHIS and vice versa.

“The providers are complaining

of non-payment, delayed payment and under payment by HMOs. There are intra-providers professionals complaints. The NHIS are complaining about the providers of not operating the scheme according to guidelines “All these complaints are creating confusion in the scheme and this must not be allowed to continue. The scheme must be made to work and succeed to improve the health indices of Nigeria.”

While commending the federal government for embarking on 10000 primary health care centre projects nationwide, Dr Sanda adivised that the scheme revolve round the existing privately owned facilities in the spirit of Public Pri-

vate Partnership (PPP) concept.

He however called for the increase pace in the implementation of the scheme in Nigeria as it is the only solution to poor quality of health facilities and services in Nigeria.

“There should be concerted efforts by the NHIS, HMOs and HCPAN to make healthcare available, accessible and affordable to all Nigerians.”

According to him, the way forward to maximising NHIS is mobile health insurance scheme.

“It’s just like buying data, you can register to be on the scheme to be on the scheme and it can help the masses even the petty trader as

Continued on page 27

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday,August 4, 2016

27 Health

‘I’m optimistic we’ll be polio free by 2017’ Continued from page 26 but give credit to the government in ensuring that as much as immunisation is concerned, they’ve provided as much as possible within its resources coming in to meet the requirement to have a matching funds from Bill Gates Foundation and with the World Bank, making funds available. The government is playing its own role, so I think there is a genuine effort on the side of the government to meet its target but of course, the amount of funds required is in the short term but in the long term, once we start to build infrastructure to ensure that primary healthcare is available, it become much easier to achieve universal health coverage, particularly for our children and mothers.

What are plans to ensure that Nigeria is certified polio free by 2017?

We must keep on doing what we’re doing, to try to reach all the children in Nigeria with the polio vaccine and we’re succeeding, the number of people who are being missed have reduced drastically by 80 per cent. We still have issues with some of the areas that have been liberated form insurgency in the North-East but also, around the country, even the southern part of the country, there are still hard to reach areas because of water or because of the issues of insecurity in the South-South and also, lack of resources to get to those areas, even in Lagos state, in parts of Epe Local Government Area, there are some health facilities that can’t be reached except by boat. The local government has to provide the boat, life jackets for staff and security because of issues of high risk of those waters and those are challenges, we are aware and have mapped out strategies to overcome like advocacy to the local and state government and also supporting them by providing life-jackets and paying for boats in some instances. So, we are, across the country, trying to look at where the gaps are and bringing up strategies that will help overcome those challenges.

Having spoken with some of the health officials who vaccinate against polio, they

‘States must participate in NHIS’

complain of poor welfare, what are you doing to ensure that their welfare is well taken care of ?

There is the issue of funding, some of them are mostly ad-hoc staff, usually employed to do house to house immunization.

Luckily, the emphasis is shifting away from house to house immunization to routine immunisation so that mothers can actually go at their apportion time based on the advice from the health centers so the children can get immunised. For instance, this year, we are not going to have any house-to-house immunization across the country, except in eleven states, so our emphasis will be to encourage mothers and care-givers to ensure that when a child is due, the child is taken for immunisation particularly for polio. As far as payment is concerned in recent times, most staff are paid, sometimes banks go to sites to pay staff because we know that sometimes there is diversion of funds meant to pay staff but again, sometimes, it’s because the government doesn’t make the fund available for that purpose. Luckily, I can tell you that UNICEF, WHO are looking for ways to get funds directly to the people using banks or using electronic devices. We are working towards making sure that the majority of people who work are paid.

What do you think would be the obstacles for Nigeria not being declare a polio- free country by 2017?

Our major challenge now is complacency. When people start to think that we don’t have polio anymore and they stop doing what we were doing to get us here; making awareness to let people know that people is still here. Complacency is going to be a disaster for us. Again, complacency in government thinking we are done with polio, let’s use our resources to tackle other health issues, or complacency on the part of our partners who say they’ve done enough in Nigeria.

Complacency is our major challenge that we must confront. As long as we are able to confront that, intensify our efforts on surveillance and encourage routine immunization, we will get to the end of polio in Nigeria.

Continued from page 26 long as the mobile phone has an harsh key, you can key into health insurance scheme,” Sanda said.

Also speaking, the acting Executive Secretary of NHIS, Mr Femi

A woman breastfeeding her child

Nigeria has no breast milk Bank, says NGO Lara Adejoro

A non-governmental organization, Afribaby Initiative has said that Nigeria with a population of 180 million people and frightening maternal and infant mortality rates of 100 deaths per 4000 births in 2003 and 800 deaths per 100000 live births in 2000 respectively, has no breast milk bank.

This was disclosed on Monday in commemoration of the 2016 World Breastfeeding Week from August 1-8, which held at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja with the theme: ‘Breastfeeding: A key to sustainable development.’

It is however in line with this, that the NGO plans building the Nigeria’s first Breast Milk Bank in partnership with humanitarian organisations, healthcare institutions, medical professionals as well as individuals.

President/Founder of the NGO, Dr Oscar Odiboh says, “the bank will collect, screen, process and dispense by prescription human milk donated by nursing mothers who are not biologically related to the recipient infant.

“Breast milk donors must be

healthy new mothers; because of the risk of passing infections and viruses to babies through breast milk, donors must be screened to be sure that she is free from infectious diseases.”

He said, the milk bank will be beneficial to victims of maternal mortality, physically challenged babies, abandoned babies aged 0-6 months, rescued babies.

Commending the NGO in its efforts to reducing maternal and infant mortality, the Chief Medical Director of LASUTH, Prof.

Wale Oke pledged his support to partner with the NGO. According to him, breast milk is produced by human being and it is the best for our children. “When a woman breast feed, there is the establishment of bonding and the milk is proteinous and gives immune to the baby against infectious diseases.”

On the theme, the don said, “Children are the leaders of tomorrow and they need to be healthy. We can’t have a sustainable development if the children are not healthy.”

According to the World Health Organistion (WHO), Breastfeeding is an unequalled way of providing ideal food for the healthy

growth and development of infants; it is also an integral part of the reproductive process with important implications for the health of mothers. Review of evidence has shown that, on a population basis, exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months is the optimal way of feeding infants. Thereafter infants should receive complementary foods with continued breastfeeding up to 2 years of age or beyond.

Breast milk banking is based on the joint statement by the WHO and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) that is where it is not possible for the biological mother to beast feed, the first alternative, if available, should be the use of breast milk from other sources.

Also speaking, wife of the Lagos state governor, Mrs Bolanle Ambode represented by Dr Ibironke Shodeinde said breastfeeding is the moral obligation of the mothers to babies to strengthen the bond and boost first six months.

“All mothers should embrace exclusive breastfeeding for the good health of their infants. A healthy citizenry is a factor to the development.”

Akingbade represented by Prince Nasiru Ikharo said, “the way forward is that all states participate and ensure that there is maximum participation so that those who are vulnerable can benefit from the scheme.”

According to him, “Universal Health Care can be achieved in Nigeria with this strategy, by allowing state governments to fund their own state insurance scheme.”

Chairman of the occasion, Olorogun Dr. Isaac Akpoveta said, the

healthcare providers must take part of this scheme because that is where the future lies.

He appealed to the government to ensure that the scheme is genuine “and it should be Public Private Partnership (PPP).

News 28

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

Clinton leads Trump on handling public policy ÏÏÏAmerican

voters are viewing Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton more favorably in the aftermath of last week’s national party convention, several surveys show, even as they continue to question her honesty and trustworthiness.

The latest CNN/ORC poll showed the former U.S. secretary of state with an edge over Republican challenger Donald Trump, a real estate tycoon making his first run for elected office, on who would

Clinton

ANC faces stiff

contest in South

Africa polls

ÏÏÏ South African Presi-

dent Jacob Zuma cast his vote in his hometown of Nkandla in Wednesday’s municipal elections seen as a critical test of his leadership and his party’s popularity.

The ANC has dominated in the main cities since white-minority rule ended 22 years ago.

But the party could lose control of the capital and other key cities for the first time since the end of apartheid.

Jacob Zuma has survived a series of scandals including an impeachment vote for spending some $16 million of state funds to renovate his Nkandla home.

Nobel peace prize winner Archbishop Desmond Tutu also cast his ballots in the key elections.

“It still is a dream to know that one can vote in South Africa, as a black person. It’s fantastic and I hope everybody will want to use their vote in the right way”, he said after casting his vote.

Opinion polls show the ANC may lose control of three key cities – Pretoria, Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth.

The biggest threat to the ANC comes from the main opposition Democratic Alliance, which has been courting ANC supporters promising to help create jobs and improve social services.

The Economic Freedom Fighters led by firebrand Julius Malema, is another challenger attracting the young and unemployed with a promise to redistribute wealth among poor blacks.

better handle several public policy issues, including the economy, immigration, health care and fighting Islamic State terrorists. Clinton gained ground on all four issues over Trump from the last poll conducted by the cable news channel.

CNN said Clinton has pulled even with Trump on who would be best at handling terrorism and holds a marked edge over him on setting U.S. foreign policy.

A CBS News poll shows Clinton, the country’s top diplomat

from 2009 to 2013, with a significant edge over Trump, a onetime television reality show host, on the question of which candidate is better prepared to be president. The survey showed voters believe Clinton, by a 60 percent to 37 percent margin, is prepared, while only 35 percent say Trump is prepared and 61 percent said that he is not.

The CBS poll said 57 percent believe Clinton has the right temperament and personality to

be president, but only 31 percent agreed that Trump does.

Clinton’s campaign continues to be weakened by perceptions that she is less than honest and trustworthy, although surveys have shown that Trump also fares poorly on the same question. The CBS poll said 34 percent of voters it surveyed viewed Clinton as honest, while 60 percent did not.

Trump had a 36 percent favorable rating on honesty, 59 percent negative.

N’Korean missile threatens Japan’s security

ÏÏÏSouth

Korean military officials say North Korea has fired a ballistic missile into the ocean off its eastern coast, the latest in a series of missile tests.

The U.S. military said it detected two simultaneous missile launches, one was successful and the other exploded immediately after launch.

Officials say the missile, believed to be a medium-range Rodong missile, was fired just before 8 a.m. Wednesday from Unyul in the country’s western Hwanghae province and flew about 1,000 kilometers before landing in or close to Japanese waters.

A statement from the Joint Chiefs of Staff said the missile launch signaled the North’s “ambition to attack neighboring countries.”

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called the

missile launch a “grave threat” to Japan’s security and expressed strong objections to the North’s continued ballistic missile aspirations.

The United States immediately responded to the test Wednesday, warning the North Koreans that it is ready to defend itself and its allies from any provocation.

“We are aware of reports that the DPRK fired ballistic missiles,” said State Department spokeswoman Anna Richey-Allen. “We remain prepared to work with our allies and partners around the world to respond to further DPRK provocations, as well as to defend ourselves and our allies from any attack or provocation.”

This latest missile launch is the fourth carried out in about two weeks. All are in defiance of a U.N. resolution prohib-

South Korean military in action iting Pyongyang from developing ballistic missiles.

On July 19, North Korea fired three missiles into the sea in what state media called a simulation of

a pre-emptive atomic attack on South Korea.

North Korea is seeking to develop a warhead small enough to be placed on a long-rang missile

that can reach the continental United States. But South Korean defense officials say Pyongyang does not yet have such a miniaturized warhead.

Police tear gas anti-Mugabe protesters ÏÏÏ

Zimbabwean police dispersed protesters with batons and water cannons during an anti-government

demonstration on Wednesday in the capital Harare.

The protesters were largely unemployed graduates

A riot scene in Harare

who were decrying the economic policy of the Robert Mugabe led government.

Their procession joined that of another group rejecting plans by government to introduce bond notes into the economy.

The notes are to address the acute dollar shortage the country is facing. Bond notes are currency notes that are supposed to have the same value as the dollar.

The police dispersed the

demonstrators who gathered outside the Finance Ministry according to Agence France Presse (AFP). . Zimbabwe’s economic crisis which started in the early 2000s has worsened this year and the government has run short of cash to pay civil servants. Several groups of people have denounced the economic chaos engulfing the country.

“What we say is simple:

we need jobs,” Munjere Douglas, an unemployed graduate told AFP. “All these people should be at work, but there are no jobs,” he added.

The demonstrators had earlier presented a petition to the Ministry of Finance to denounce this economic measure which threatens a return of hyperinflation that destroyed the economy in 2008-2009, while pushing Zimbabwe to abandon its national currency.

Banyana Banyana go down in Rio opener

B

anyana Banyana, South Africa’s senior women’s team, suffered a 1-0 loss to Sweden in their opening Group E match at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro on Wednesday evening.

At the first official event of the Summer Games in Brazil, Banyana Banyana put up a brave showing against a far

more experienced Swedish team but were ultimately outclassed. Yet it was no disgrace for the South Africans, who lost 4-1 to the same opposition in London four years ago.

After some fine early play from Banyana, Sweden took control of the game and nearly claimed the lead five minutes in when Sofia Jakobsson latched onto a

loose ball in the penalty area only to see her shot cannon off the underside of the crossbar.

The Europeans continued to dominate in the early stages of the second half, but once again South Africa grew in confidence and nearly forced a goal against the run of play with just under 20 minutes to play when Mamello Makhabane low, in-

swinging cross almost beat goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl at her near post.

With Banyana looking capable of holding the Swedes, a lapse of concentration from goalkeeper Roxanne Barker cost them dear, as Nilla Fischer was able to force the ball home from close range to finally break the deadlock in the 75th minute.

Page 29

Thursday, AUGUST 4, 2016

Triumphant DSS FC present Dana Cup to NFF

Players and officials of the victorious Dynamic Sports Solutions FC of Kaduna in group photograph with NFF officials

ANDREW EKEJIUBA

T

he victorious Dynamic Sports Solutions FC of Kaduna, which last week won the Dana Cup for U-19 players in Hjorring, Denmark has returned to the country.

On Tuesday, players and officials of the club were at the NFF Secretariat, Abuja to present the giant trophy, as well as the trophy for the top scorer won by the team at the tournament, to the NFF leadership.

Chairman of the club, Mr. Sunday Adeleye, revealed that the Kaduna–based club defeated Janbers FC of the USA 2-0 in the final match, and scored 34 goals in nine matches on its way to winning the tournament, which took place between July 25 and 30, 2016.

Receiving the team at the Glass House, NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi applauded the players and officials for not only doing Nigeria proud on the field, but also off the field.

“The NFF keeps preaching that teams representing the country should always endeavor to do the nation proud on the field and off it. Off the field, football players and teams must always comport themselves appropriately and shun acts that are capable of tarnishing the country’s image.

“Your performance on the field was also gratifying, scoring 34 goals in nine matches and winning this giant trophy and the top scorer’s trophy.

I commend you on behalf of the NFF leadership and the Nigeria football family and urge you to keep up this great-spirit as you grow in the game.”

Also on hand to receive the team were Deputy General Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Ikpeme, Technical Director, Mr. Bitrus Bewarang, Director of Finance, Mr. Atabo David and Director of Competitions, Mr. Bola Oyeyode.

NPFL matches moved NFF seminar on FIFA

for La Liga tour S

everal Nigeria league matches have been shifted because of the forthcoming playing tour of Spain by the NPFL All-Stars.

According to LMC chief operating officer Salihu Abubakar the postponements have been caused by the absence of the team coaches and key players to Spain.

The NPFL All-Stars and officials will leave for Lagos on Sunday and then depart for Spain the next day.

The NPFL Match day 30 earlier scheduled for Sunday, August 7, 2016, will now be played as follow: Rangers vs MFM; Warri Wolves vs Enyimba; Wikki Tourists vs Lobi Stars.

NPFL Match day 31st earlier scheduled for 13th Rangers coach Imama and 14th of August will now hold on Wednesday Amapakabo off to Spain.

17th of August, 2016.

leadership programme holds today

Kesandu Egburonu

T

he Nigeria Football Federation will today in Abuja hold a one –day seminar on the FIFA Female Leadership Development Programme (FLDP).

The FLDP is part of FIFA’s portfolio of women’s football development programmes for the period 2015-2018.

Launched in 2015 to ensure that there are female role models and women at decision –making levels in football, the FLDP aims to identify, support and develop strong female leaders in sport, while advocating for women to access

senior decision –making positions globally.

NFF 2nd Vice President/LMC chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, will be chairman of the occasion at which motivational talk will be given to women football players and other women stakeholders of the Nigeria game.

FIFA’s Head of Professional Football, Mr. James Johnson will deliver a paper on ‘The Concept of FIFA Female Leadership Development Programme,’ while NFF’s Head of Women Football, Ruth David will speak on ‘Reasons for the FIFA Female Leadership Development Programme’.

30

Thursday, August 4, 2016

EXTRATIME

TRANSFERS…TRANSFERS…TRANSFERS… TRANSFERS…TRANSFERS…TRANSFERS…

Costa happy at Chelsea, says Conte

Real’s Rodriguez ‘in talks with PSG’ — Zidane

Rodriguez

R

eal Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has confirmed that forward Jese Rodriguez is in talks over a potential move to Paris SaintGermain.

The 23-year-old has one season remaining on his contract with the Champions League winners but

the desire for more playing time appears to be the motivation for a possible transfer to Ligue 1.

“It’s not a done deal but negotiations are going well,” Zidane told reporters before their pre-season friendly against Bayern Munich in New Jersey on Wednesday.

“Once we return to Madrid, we will know more about this issue.”

Jese scored six goals and assisted six more in 39 appearances for Real in the 2015/16 campaign but only started 12 of those games.

The return of Spanish forward Alvaro Morata after two seasons

Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte insists striker Diego Costa is “very happy” to stay at the club despite being linked with a move.

The 27-year-old was reportedly set to return to former club Atletico Madrid, where he starred before his Premier League move.

However, Conte believes the striker will stay.

Costa

with Italian champions Juventus will further limit Jese’s playing time in an already star-studded attack that includes Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema.

Zidane believes a move to PSG would be the best option for the player.

Man City set to sign Jesus M

Jesus

anchester City will announce the signing of Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus within the next 24 hours, according to reliable sources.

The 19-year-old reportedly turned down the chance to join compatriot Neymar at Barcelona in order to link up with Pep Guardiola at City.

Jesus attracted interest from across Europe after scoring 19 goals in 30 games this season for Palmeiras.

Sources revealed that Jesus will finish the season with the Brazilian club before joining City.

The forward, who primarily plays on the wing, is set to represent

his country at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro later this month.

Jesus will become Guardiola’s fourth highprofile signing of the summer, following the arrival of Leroy Sane, Ilkay Gundogan and Nolito.

City are also close to signing another South American, Colombian striker

Draxler wants

Marlos Moreno, from Atlético Nacional.

Moreno’s agent Eladio Tamayo claims a deal has already been finalised for the 19-year-old. “I will travel with Marlos on Saturday to sign a contract with Manchester City,” he said.

“He will then go on loan to Deportivo La Coruna for a year.”

olfsburg say Julian Draxler will not be allowed to leave this summer, despite his desire to quit the club.

The 22-year-old Germany international has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal but Wolfsburg had claimed the winger is happy to remain at the Volkswagen Arena for another season.

Draxler hit back at those suggestions and claimed the club have known about his desire to leave

for three weeks, adding that he was given assurances he would be allowed to leave the Bundesliga side if one of Europe’s “top clubs” came in with an offer for him this summer.

However, Wolfsburg have categorically ruled out selling the player, releasing a statement denying the existence of “any written or verbal agreement made at any time regarding a transfer of Julian Draxler within the current transfer period up

to August 31, 2016.”

The statement continued: “This is confirmed by a release clause stipulated with Julian Draxler and his management which only comes into force in the summer of 2017.

“Wolfsburg will not transfer Julian Draxler during the current transfer period. Wolfsburg have explained to Julian Draxler once again in a talk that his express to leave the club cannot be accommodated.”

Swansea contract

Nathan Dyer has signalled his intention to finish his career with Swansea after returning to the club to sign a new fouryear deal. Winger Dyer was loaned to Leicester City last season and made 12 Premier League appearances - all as a substitute - in their remarkable title win.

His move there came after he had fallen out of favour under old boss Garry Monk following the arrivals of Andre Ayew and Jefferson Montero. The 28-year-old is now back after committing to the club until June 2020.

Diame

undergoes

Newcastle medical

Wolfsburg exit

W

Dyer signs new

Draxler

Hull’s Mohamed Diame is undergoing the second part of his medical at Newcastle after failing to agree a new deal with the Tigers. Diame is poised to drop down a division to the Championship after Newcastle agreed to meet the £4.5m release clause in the Senegalese midfielder’s contract. Hull had hoped to keep hold of Diame, who scored the winning goal in last season’s Championship play-off final against Sheffield Wednesday.

However, he looks set to follow former boss Steve Bruce out of the KCOM Stadium.

Thursday, August 4, 2016

EXTRATIME

31

INTERVIEW The proprietor of Rojenny Games Village, Oba, Anambra State, Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka has taken a swipe at ex-Commissioner for Sports, Tony Nnacheta, for ‘destroying sports development’ in the state and doing a shoddy job during the laying of tartan tracks at the Games Village.

In this exclusive interview with Extra Time Sports Editor, ANDREW EKEJIUBA, the astute and widely travelled sports technocrat also speaks on Team Nigeria’s chances of winning medals at the upcoming Rio Olympic Games. Excerpts:

H

a t e h c Nna yed sports destro a r b m a n A in a k u w n o e — Ez

aving seen the situation of things at Rojenny Games Village, and from the depth of your heart are you really satisfied with what has happened to the pace of work here?

I must commend Governor Willie Obiano who made an effort to see that the tartan track was laid at the Rojenny Stadium, but I am not comfortable and happy with the immediate past Commissioner for Sports, Tony Nnacheta, who handled the project and messed up the job.

His inactiveness as a person made it impossible for him to do a good job in the laying of the tartan tracks.

Aside that, Anambra State made no inch of progress in the area of sports development when Tony Nnacheta was the Commissioner for Sports before he was appointed as the new Commissioner for Information. The governor meant well for Anambra in sports and has all it takes to transform every aspect of sports in Anambra State, but the person in charge then does not have the knowledge of how to make things happen which was very unfortunate.

When the renovation project of Rojenny Games Village commenced, you told us that you had a very big vision to revitalise sports in Anambra State because you want to use this games village to develop talents from the grassroots.

However, by your statement today, that vision seems disrupted; have you been able to make this known to the governor?

Yes I did. Before the government came to assist in the renovation of sporting facilities here, I have been the one financing the whole thing.

The slogan then was that ‘before 2 or 3 years, Olympic champions shall be produced from this place’ in almost all areas of sports like swimming, tennis, table tennis, basketball, track and field events etc. The system is there and someone is in charge of the system, but that person was not proactive enough to make things happen. It is very unfortunate that Tony Nnacheta sat against the progress of sports development for two years in Anambra and did nothing to salvage it. He has no knowledge of how sports should be administered.

I labeled him ‘Mr. Killer’ because when you bring positive proposals he kills them all. A lot of people brought proposals to move sports forward in Anambra which he ignored. He destroyed school sports and today sports is dead in the state.

Can you be specific on why you felt Nnacheta really destroyed sports development in Anambra, aside his inability to do a good job in the laying of tartan tracks at the Rojenny Games Village?

Like I said earlier, the era of Nnacheta as the Commissioner for Sports in the state was nothing to write home about because he killed sports development in Anambra.

As the Commissioner of Sports, it’s his duty to see to the development of sports by making sure that sporting competitions are going on, and facilities maintained, but he did not do that. He messed up the laying of tartan tracks at Rojenny Games Village and even the tartan tracks at Ikpeazu Stadium and others such that the aforementioned stadia became ‘ghost towns’ with no good sporting facilities for athletes to train with.

In the area of school sports development, how did the ex-Sports Commissioner perform?

He destroyed school sports too and left the officials complaining bitterly. He blocked them from performing their duties and seeking for ways to partner with individuals or even corporate bodies to come to salvage the situation. Check his record and you will see that for the past two years he was in the saddle, Anambra never came tops in any major sporting event in the country. There was no major football club from the state competing in the Nigeria Professional Football League, nothing positive happened throughout his tenure as sports commissioner!

The Olympic Games Ezeonwuka is commencing in the next few hours, do

you foresee Team Nigeria coming home with medals?

Every country that have their athletes scale through the qualifiers for the various sporting events have prepared them well for the Olympic Games except Nigeria. Our administrators believe that God will miraculously do everything for the country even with our fire-brigade approach to preparations.

Most countries are going to the Olympics with a team that started preparations for the past four years; they started camping their athletes immediately after the London 2012 Olympics.

However, until those in government in Nigeria start thinking positively about developing sports genuinely, then nothing will work. Those at the helm of sports administration only know how to go out there to syphon or embezzle money meant for sport development without making effort to salvage the situation. They also know how to bewitch and block the chances of upcoming athletes hitting stardom.

Until sports administrators learn to make sacrifice because of our future generation of athletes, the better for us. But if they continue in this their corrupt ways of doing things wrongly, then the country will know no progress in sports.

I can assure you that Nigerian athletes have the potentials to win over fifty Olympic medals but they cannot manage themselves, somebody have to manage them to produce results.

Those who are saddled with the responsibility of guiding these athletes to stardom are fraudulent and if not for their selfish interest Team Nigeria should have been ready a year before the Rio Olympics with effective planning.

However, I can tell you now that Team Nigeria is not ready and we should not expect any medal from them.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports are relying on old athletes to win medals for the country in Rio, without developing new ones. I don’t think Nigeria will come back with any form of medal because they did not prepare well for it. You have to endure pain so as to gain, but here in

“It is very unfortunate that Tony Nnacheta sat against the progress of sports development for two years in Anambra and did nothing to salvage it. He has no knowledge of how sports should be administered. I labeled him ‘Mr. Killer’ because when you bring positive proposals he kills them all.

A lot of people brought proposals to move sports forward in Anambra which he ignored. He destroyed school sports and today sports is dead in the state.”

“The Ministry of Youth and Sports are relying on old athletes to win medals for the country in Rio, without developing new ones. I don’t think Nigeria will come back with any form of medal because they did not prepare well for it… tell me about any Games Village in the country where our athletes are being nurtured or trained for future competitions. Nowhere as we speak. Rojenny Games Village could have served the purpose, but there is nobody here training for the aforementioned purpose.”

Nigeria it is reverse that is the case.

For example, tell me about any Games Village in the country where our athletes are being nurtured or trained for future competitions.

Nowhere as we speak. Rojenny Games Village could have served the purpose, but there is nobody here training for the aforementioned purpose.

I was about saying we have a place like this and we still take our athletes to obscure places as training camps, what advice do you have for our sports administrators in this regard?

Sometimes our sports administrators don’t believe or use facilities that abound locally for the training of athletes, and what they only see is how to create opportunity to defraud the country. Don’t be surprised that when they say they are taking the Team Nigeria athletes somewhere abroad for training camp, what actually that is in their mind is how to defraud the country. I doubt if there is any better games village in Nigeria than the Rojenny Games Village in preparing a team for a major competition like the Olympics.

Here, we have all the field events facilities, including other sports facilities for basketball, swimming, volleyball, handball, tennis and other field events. This place should have been a very good place to camp our athletes before the Olympics.

Lastly, in table tennis we have the likes of Segun Toriola going for the Rio Olympics the seventh time; having appeared six times in the past with nothing to show for it, does it mean there are no other table tennis players that are better than him and even Funke Oshonaike in the female category?

I want to state that Nigeria’s wheel of progress in a sport like table tennis is under threat with this kind of scenario because it simply means that we are not developing athletes in the ping-pong game.

Do you know that some of these top athletes can also be corrupt and can buy their way just to feature in international competitions? At the end it is the junior and upcoming athletes that suffer the most. However I wish them luck at the Rio Games.

Published by FOLIO COMMUNICATIONS LTD, Lateef Jakande Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja. email: info@dailytimes.ng Tel: 018447948.

AG. DAILY EDITOR: SAM NZEH

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

VOL. 2. NO.166

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S

enate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has urged the Nigerian delegation to the 2016 Rio Olympics to make the country proud by winning many medals in the various events during the Games.

Saraki who stated this when he received the executive and members of the Football Club Owners Association of Nigeria in The National Assembly, also advised Team Nigeria and their officials going for the Olympics to eschew any conduct capable of denting the image o f the country.

The Senate President who earlier received Segun Toriola is expected to shine, as a letter appointing he makes his seventh appearance at the summer Olympics in Rio, Brazil. him as a Patron of the Football Club Owners Association of Nigeria from the leader of the delegation, also stated that it was time for sports lovers in the country, especially the private sector, to contribute towards sustaining the growth of sports in the country.

Saraki, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sanni Onogu, in Abuja said: “I want to wish Team Nigeria going for the Rio Olympics all the best. It is something they have prepared and worked hard for in the last four years.

“They are representing Nigeria, so they should do their best to keep the flag flying and come back with a lot of gold, silver and bronze medals. Most importantly, they should ensure that the image of the country is sustained. Let them give their best and be great ambassadors of this country. I wish them all the best,” he said.

The Senate President said all hands must be on deck to move the nation’s Premier League football competition to the next level.

Earlier, Chairman of the Football Club Nigeria U-17 team, Golden Eaglets, ahead of Saturday’s Owners Association of Nigeria, Barr.

Africa U-17 qualifier against Niger Republic at the Isaac Danladi said the courtesy visit was National Stadium, Abuja. aimed at advancing the course of football Sani, sourced from Jos-based G-Smart Academy, development in the country “through total has been one of the mainstays of the new-look consolidation on the positives already Golden Eaglets. 2013 FIFA - World Cup-winning achieved, while also opening new pages in coach Garba revealed that the choice of Sani the system.” as well as his assistants, was based on He commended the Senate merit and sound behavioural conduct.

President for his vision for the youths of this country, a development which spurred him to establish the Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Football Club, “through which many p l a y e r s have risen, and are rising to stardom.”

He said the Club Owners have decided to identify with the Senate President and appointed him as Golden Eaglets their Patron, in view of coach, Manu Garba. the “landmark successes achieved so far by the 8th National Assembly.”

Rio 2016:

Saraki urges Team Nigeria to go for gold A

staggering 26 members of the Golden Eaglets squad preparing for Saturday’s U-17 African Nations Cup (AFCON) qualifier against Niger failed the mandatory MRI screening conducted last week, team officials have said.

The MRI screening, conducted at the instance of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), was carried out on 60 players in the Eaglets’ camp.

A top team official told africanFootball.com that several members of the Eaglets starting XI had been excluded from the team with only two players surviving.

“It is a disaster. Virtually the starting XI the coaches had been working on had been disqualified. It is a serious problem,” another official added.

Despite being stripped bare of their best players, Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets battered Piloter Football Academy of Kaduna 4-0 in a final warm-up game before this weekend’s U17 AFCON qualifier against Niger.

Eaglets controlled the test game from start to finish inside the mainbowl of the Abuja National Stadium Wednesday evening.

Meanwhile, Coach Manu Garba has named burly midfielder Abduljabar Sani as captain of the new set of

P 29

SHOCKER!

26Eaglets failMRI screening

Business Times Daily Times Nigeria

Labour urges FG to rescind tenure Page B2 policy CBN warns against patronizing unregistered money transfer operators

Mathew Dadiya Abuja

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has advised Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora to beware of the unwholesome activities of some unlicensed International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) in the country.

CBN, in a statement by the Director of Communication Mr Ifeanyi Okorafor, said the warning has become necessary due to the activities of some unregistered IMTOs, whose modes of operation are detrimental to the Nigerian economy.

According to the apex bank, all financial service providers in Nigeria, just as in other jurisdictions, are required to be duly licensed in order to protect both customers and the financial system as well as to ensure the credibility of financial transactions.

“For the avoidance of doubt, all licensed International Money Transfer Operators, in line with the CBN Circular on the sale of foreign currency proceeds of July 22, 2016, are required to remit foreign currency to their respective agent banks in Nigeria for disbursement in Naira to the beneficiaries while the foreign currency proceeds are to be sold to Bureaux De Change operators, for onward retail to end users,” the statement added.

The CBN therefore, warned that it would not condone any attempt aimed at undermining the country’s foreign exchange regime, advising members of the public to beware of the activities of such unregistered IMTOs for the greater economic good of Nigeria.

Railway workers warn management against sale of Page B3 scraps, outsourcing

Thursday, August 4, 2016

Savings account can now receive N2m cheque deposits Page B4

Nigeria leads OPEC’s list of low oil producing countries for July … Loses 70% oil production to un-confronted sources Opeoluwani Akintayo A newly released survey has shown Nigeria leading the Organisation for Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC’s list of countries with the lowest oil production output for the month of July.

OPEC’s crude oil output was affected in July by militant attacks in Nigeria and political disputes in Libya, oil companies shipping and tracking data have shown.

According to data from the 13 established members of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, excluding new en-

DANGOTE

trant, Gabon, output fell by 80,000 barrels a day last month.

Nigeria led the list with a 70,000-barrel-a-day monthly drop to 1.52 million. Output from Libya and Saudi Arabia, fell by 20,000 and 40,000 barrels a day respectively.

Gabon joined OPEC on July 1,

becoming the smallest member with average output of 210,000 barrels a day. OPEC’s expansion to 14 nations, increased total production in July to 33.24 million barrels a day from 33.11 million the prior month. Gabon which was part of OPEC since 1975, terCONTINUED ON PAGE B2

L-R: Group Chief Financial Officer, Dangote Cement, Brian Egan; Director, Dangote Cement, Ernest Ebi; Executive Director, Market Operations & Technology, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Ade Bajomo; GMD/CEO, Dangote Cement, Onne van der Weijde during Dangote Cement Facts Behind the Figures, closing of Gong at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) in Lagos on Wednesday.

Incoherence among stakeholders bane of aviation development Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo Stakeholders and professionals in the Nigerian aviation industry have said that incoherent voices among players in the sector have been the bane of development in the sector in the past 50 years.

This is as the Federal Government has made it categorically clear that it would not invest in the Maintenance, Repair and

Overhaul, MRO, facilities for airlines in the industry.

Speaking at a Breakfast Meeting organised by the Aviation Round Table, ART, with the topics: ‘First Class Maintenance Facility (MRO) for Nigeria –How Viable and Dollar Scarcity: Challenge for Airlines,’ in Lagos, participants advised professionals in the sector to speak with one voice.

The President, ART, Mr. Gben-

ga Olowo, in his welcome address, observed that the nation’s aviation had not moved forward in the past 50 years because of dissenting voices, lamenting that it was getting worse in recent time.

He insisted that several of the discordant tunes were in the selfish interest of whosoever that was propagating them and urged all the stakeholders to work together for the progress

of the sector.

He said, “Our industry has not moved forward in the past 50 years. And as at today, it’s even moving backward. Things are not getting better. Discordant tunes are one of the major reasons we are stagnant and now retrogressing. Unfortunately for us, most of the divergent views are for selfish reasons.

“There are several issues to discuss in Nigeria aviation in-

dustry today. Our industry is sick and government never go in-line with the thinking of the industry because our voices are never one.”

Also speaking at the occasion, the Regional Manager, British Airways, BA, Mr. Kola Olayinka revealed that until recently, foreign airlines’ funds trapped in Nigeria had risen to almost $750 million due to the foreign exchange scarcity.

Business News B2

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

Brief

Nigeria leads OPEC’s list of low oil producing countries

Labour urges FG to rescind tenure policy

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

minated its membership 20 years later.

Nigeria has suffered losses this year as militant attacks targeted oil pipelines, causing May’s production to be the lowest in more than 27 years.

While output recovered in June, it fell again in July following the disruption of supplies to the Qua Iboe terminal, which shipped an average of 342,000 barrels a day last year.

In a related development, Nigeria is said to have lost 70% of oil its production to sources yet-to- be confronted by industry operators.

This disclosure was made by Chief Executive Officer of Seplat Petroleum Development Compant Plc, Mr. Austin Avuru, at the Society of Petroleum Engineers, SPE annual international conference and exhibition in Lagos.

According to Avuru, the journey to transform Nigeria’s petroleum industry which kicked off in the last six years is said to have been disrupted by forces yet to be confronted, resulting in the loss of 70 percent of its oil production from terrain, onshore and shallow water.

In addition, Avuru said some indigenous oil companies are struggling with zero oil production as well as zero revenue.

Some of the forces responsible for the disruption of the petroleum industry transformation journey, according the Seplat boss, is the emergence of new militants groups in the Niger Delta.

“The crisis in Niger Delta has taken a toll that worry most of, because when we do not produce, our companies are destroyed, jobs are lost, the economy is destroyed.

This whole transformation which I am talking about has been rudely interrupted,” he said.

“Unfortunately, I didn’t know of any real solution is arising which we are looking at. But still we are hopeful that by 2020, somehow that journey would get us to where we are going. This means, our production of natural gas and crude oil would fire this economy,” Avuru said.

Joy Ekeke

FEC

G `ë LƆ Ɔ ƎƄƍ ƅ d ƉƆƕ LƆ Ƅƍ Ɖ #ƄƐƄƉ ƋƊƄ Ǝè #ƍê E Ɠ ƕƄ 0 ƓƄƊƆì LƆ Ɔ ƎƄƍ ƅ &ƕƏƃ ƎƆ è L Ɖ Ɗ ƕ ƊƏ ƕ ƊƏ ƕ Ǝ Ƅ LƆ Ɔ ƎƄƍ ƅ 9 ƅ ƍƊ ƎƆ ƕ ƏƉƎƏƍƄè Ɖ ƇƆ G Ɔ L ƊƊƄƕè Ǝ Ǝ Ƅ 0ƄƕƄƍ Ɖ &ƒƄƃƏƎƆƐƄ Ə ƃƆƉ LƄƄƎƆ Ǝ Ǝ Ƅ ^ƍƄ ƆƕƄ ƎƆ Ɖ yƆƉƉ ƂƏƇ zƄƕ Ƅ ƕ Ɠê

Airtel offers new customers 6 times value on every recharge

Ï n ƐƄƆƉ dƊ ƍƎ ƄƃƎ Ƽêƞ Tony Nwakaegho Leading telecommunications services provider, Airtel Nigeria, has announced the introduction of SmartConnect 2.0, a new offer which offers prepaid customers six times the value of every recharge.

According to Airtel, SmartConnect 2.0 is specifically designed to give more value and enrich the lives of telecoms consumers, also empowering them to do much more as well as succeed in their personal and professional endeavours.

The new offering is specially created for new prepaid customers joining the Airtel network.

Nigerians who desire to enjoy the benefits of the newly introduced package will need to buy a new Airtel SIM card, register it and recharge to enjoy six times the value of every recharge.

For instance, when a new customer recharges N100, he/she gets N600 total airtime value instantly, while a recharge of N1000 gives N6000 instant total airtime value.

For a N100 recharge, customers get N100 in their main account, an additional bonusN250 for calls to all networks and N250 or 50 MB data while the N1000 recharge gives customers N1, 000 in the main account N2500 for calls to all networks and N2500 or 500 MB data.

Customers are expected to recharge their lines by dialling *126*pin#. The airtime value in the customer’s main airtime has no validity expiry; while bonuses have seven day validity. Customers can continuously roll over their bonuses if they recharge their lines within the seven day validity of their existing bonus.

Commenting on SmartCon-

nect 2.0, Chief Commercial Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Ahmed Mokhles, said the product reaffirms Airtel’s commitment to offer a unique telecommunication experience and amazing opportunities to new customers on the network.

He noted customers can enjoy extensive hours of calls and browsing on the new package.

Mokhles further explained that, as the name implies, Smart Connect 2.0 gives smart connectivity and choice to customers on the network to keep everyone connected to their families, friends and loved ones.

“As Nigeria’s leading network in innovation, Airtel is committed to exploring new opportunities that will enrich the lives of telecoms consumers and empower them to do so much more in their professional and personal lives,” Mokhles said.

The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, ASCSN, has faulted the Federal Government’s reported refusal to restore the single four-year tenure for Permanent Secretary and two-term of four years (eight years) tenure for Directors in the Federal Civil Service.

In a statement in Lagos, ASCSN President, Bobboi Bala Kaigama, and the Secretary-General, Alade Bashir Lawal, described as unfortunate and insensitive the alleged Government’s decision not to withdraw the provocative circular.

“We are shocked that despite public outcry against the abolition of tenure policy in the Federal Civil Service, the Government has vowed never to reverse its decision on the issue. ”This is very unfortunate and portrays the government as being insensitive to the plight of thousands of civil servants and other stakeholders who have continued to urge it to rescind its decision on the matter in the interest of the Public Service,” the union regretted.

ASCSN warned that if the decision to abolish the tenure system was designed to import all manner of persons from other services including the private sector into the federal civil service to dislodge senior civil servants who had served the nation meritoriously for two to three decades, the Government would have organised labour to contend with because the labour would deploy all the tactics in their arsenal to resist the execution of the plot.

Ngige

Jordana USA products certified as owners of ‘Jordana’ trademarks in Nigeria Č dƋƄ ƕ MƼƾƞƊ ƊƋƉƆ è Ƃƍ ƕ Ƌƍ Ɗ ƎƆ in Nigeria

The federal ministry of industries, trade and investments has through its commercial laws and ethics department, confirmed Jordana USA Products Ni-

geria Limited, a subsidiary of Eugenco Intercontinental Cosmetics Group as the only company recognized by law to use, market or trade with the name ‘JORDANA’ as its registered Trademark anywhere in Nigeria.

This exclusive right of ownership came with the issuance of

Trademarks Certificate No.004247 in respect of the ‘Jordana’ range of cosmetics and other allied products, and was duly collected by the chief executive officer of Jordana USA Products Limited, Chief Eugene Akubue who thanked the ministry and promised to uphold his company’s philosophy of being

law abiding with decent practices for which the coveted document was given.

While displaying the trade mark certificate before journalists in his office recently, Akubue also noted, “We live in a country where people want to reap where they did not sow. Consider the huge monetary

and other forms of challenges we encountered trying to introduce and establish a completely new and unknown product in the Nigerian market since 2003. From registration to promotions which include media, door-to-door sales with sampling, then you hold seminars; attend exhibitions and so on and on.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

B3 Business News ICAN solicits public-private partnership with government Folashade Martins and Maurice Ejiofor

AIRTEL

L-R: Nigerian actor, Mong Kalu; Head, Mass Market Segment, Airtel Nigeria, Oladipo Jolaosho; Veteran Actress, Ayo Mogaji; Head, Public Relations, Airtel Nigeria, Adefemi Adeniran; and Veteran Actor Kunle Bamtefa at the launch of Airtel Smart Connect 2.0 on Wednesday in Lagos.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), has advocated for public private partnership with the government, stating that collaboration of Public Private Partnership (PPP) is a major tool for economic growth and development in Nigeria during its 6th annual public lecture which took place at Lagos recently.

Chairperson of ICAN, Public Sector Chapter, Mrs. Ayoola Oyeyemi, stated that the essence of the lecture was due to limited resources in the public sector. “It is very important at this point in time for our collaboration because the demand for infrastructure is huge. It’s important for the private sector

to know that they are highly needed in the developmental process of the Nigerian economy.” she concluded.

Ayoola further stressed that private sector should not see the public sector participants as being corrupt, but rather, see them as partners in progress and there should be mutual understanding and respect between the private and public sectors.

Also spealing, Special Adviser, Office of Overseas Affairs & Investment (Lagos Global), Professor Ademola Abass said that government do things just to put a smile on the faces of the people.

Some of the participants expressed their opinion, describing the lecture as very informative and highly educative.

Railway workers warn management against sale of scraps, outsourcing The workers of Nigerian Railway Corporation, under the aegis of their two in-house unions (Nigeria Union of Railway Workers NUR and Senior Staff Association SSA) have warned the management of the Corporation to suspend any further sale of iron scraps in the railway industry and outsourcing of the recreational facilities built mainly for the workers.

The warning was contained in a statement signed by Comrade Segun Esan (Secretary General, NUR) and Comrade Romanus Emezie (Secretary SSA, NRC Branch) and made available to our reporters.

The workers threatened to embark on industrial action if the manage-

ment of the Corporation should make good its plan as advertised in the media to entertain bidding from any quarter on the sales of iron scraps and outsourcing of the recreational facilities.

“We will not allow any further plundering of the assets of the Corporation in the name of iron scraps disposal and outsourcing of the workers’ recreational club, staff canteens, railway institutes and club 1919 which has not brought anything meaningful to the Corporation. The last administration of Engr. Adeseyi Sijuwade did same, selling thousands of tons of ferrous and non-ferrous iron scraps and nobody knows where the proceeds ended up. We don’t know the

modalities for the scraps disposal and everything looks shrouded up and known only to some cabal in the system. He attempted to outsource the recreational facilities and we saw this as irresponsible and we stopped it. We will do it again”, Saidu Garba said The President SSA, Comrade Muhammed Yunusa said the scraps disposal has robbed the Corporation of its valuable assets in the past owing to poor supervision and implementation.

“It is important that caution is applied to this scraps disposal thing. We have asked the management of the Corporation to explain to us where it got authorization to sell those scraps already gone. We

demand to know how the scraps disposal has fared in the last one year because we are surprised that some contractors are still coming to lift more scraps which, according to them, is to complete the allotted tons of scraps. To us, this is very preposterous and we want to know more. ‘’More importantly, we have expressed our position to the management that outsourcing the recreational facilities meant for the use and patronage of the workers is not the best way to improve the revenue profile of the Corporation.

Revenue of the Corporation will improve if the federal government provides the Corporation with more locomotives, wagons and

coaching facilities which the Corporation will utilize to step up its additive carriageability of goods and passengers which will rake in more revenue. This is why we are advising the management not to do any bidding as it has earlier advertised. We are prepared to resist that until reason prevails’’, Yunusa added.

It will be recalled that attempts have been made in the past to outsource the recreational facilities of the corporation while scraps disposals in the Corporation has been controversial and dating back to 2001 when some senior officers of the Corporation were indicted and dismissed from the service of the Corporation.

Shippers Council seeks support for Multiple taxation, others bane of telcos – NCC port automation survival of the industry. challenges to the sector.

Tony Nwakaegho Okay Osuji The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has called on various stakeholders to support the automation system to enhance efficiency of the nation’s seaports.

The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Council, Mr. Hassan Bello made the call when the agency paid a courtesy visit to the Lagos Chamber of Commerce& Industry (LCCI) on Tuesday.

He said automation, would bring more revenues to the Federal Government, reduce human contact as well as address unwholesome practices at the coun-

try’s ports.

Describing Nigerian ports as competitive, he said this necessitates an effective automation, adding that investors will be willing to transact their business at friendly ports.

He maintained that the Council was made the economic port regulator by the Federal Government to set standards as well as streamline operational efficiency at the ports.

Earlier, President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and industry, Dr. (Mrs.) Akande expressed delight that Bello and his team paid a visit to the organisation.

Prof. Umar Danbatta, executive vice chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has bemoaned that multiple taxation and regulation, constraints in securing approval for right of way (RoW) and others were taking great tolls on the quality of telecoms services (QoS) across the country.

Prof. Umar Danbatta made this assertion when he visited Governor Ibikunle Amosun at Oke Mosan Governor’s Office in Abeokuta, stressing that cases of multiple taxation constitute threat to the operations and

The NCC boss appealed to Gov. Amosun to prevail on his colleague in Nigerian Governors’ Forum to lessen the crippling burden of multiple taxation on the telcos, which he said, the operators see as grossly excessive and at times inappropriate.

“There have been recurring cases of multiple taxation which threaten the operators and by extension telecommunications services.

“There have also been issues of Right of Way approvals to telecoms companies. Various tiers of government including local councils and state government agencies have created enormous

“The operators are in a dilemma. And because of this, expansion of the networks is heavily stifled,” he said.

Danbatta explained that unless these challenges were tackled with pragmatic approach, subscribers in the country will continue to witness erratic services.

He urged Governor Amosun to plead with his colleagues in the NGF, to find a lasting solution to these challenges.

Responding, Governor Amosun promised to talk with other governors in the NGF on the need to harmonise taxes payable by telecom operators.

Money Market B4

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

CBN approves Western Union, MoneyGram, Ria for international fund transfer Stories by Motolani Oseni

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday stopped hundreds of global remittance companies from operating in the country.

The affected firms will no longer receive nor disburse the estimated $21 billion per annum collections from Nigerians in the Diaspora to local recipients.

However, Western Union, MoneyGram and Ria were endorsed by the CBN to continue their operations in the country.

WorldRemit, one of the international money transfer operators affected by the policy, said it sends more than 40,000 money transfers to Nigeria every month and receives more than $20 billion in remittances annu-

ally from migrants around the world.

Investigations showed that many of the affected firms were not licenced to operate in the country and may have breached some of the operating guidelines. An industry source alleged that the affected firms were withholding dollar inflows meant to deepen foreign currency liquidity in the country, and were paying local beneficiaries with naira instead of dollars.

“The operators need to do their business with integrity and international best practices.

A situation whereby they withhold the dollar supplies and pay Nigerians in local currency can no longer be accepted,” the source, who is conversant with the operation of international

money transfers said.

“The operators opened local accounts where they disburse naira instead of dollar to beneficiaries. This has to stop,” the source said.

Meanwhile, the CBN has advised Nigerians at home and abroad to beware of the activities of some unlicensed International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) in Nigeria.

The advice is conveyed through a press statement signed by CBN’s Acting Director of Communication, Mr Isaac Okorafor in Abuja recently.

He stated that the warning became necessary because of the activities of some unregistered IMTOs, whose modes of operation are detrimental to the Nigerian economy.

Ecobank Nigeria unveils “Move on Up” consumer campaign

NBBC

Chairman, Brokerfield Real Estate Services LTD, Mr. Akin Olawore; Managing Director, Unilever Nigeria PLC and Guest Speaker, Mr. Yaw Nsarkoh; President, Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce, Prince Dapo Adelegan and DirectorGeneral, Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce, Mrs Joyce Akpata during the July breakfast meeting of the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce... recently.

Ecobank Nigeria has launched “Move on Up”, a new fully-integrated consumer advertising campaign. Move on Up is centered on the bank’s drive to ensure that consumers have world-class accessible and convenient digital banking solutions across the country.

Ecobank Nigeria is a subsidiary of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), which is currently present in 36 African countries. Ecobank Nigeria currently operates a consolidated online, real time branch network in over 450 locations across the country.

Ecobank Nigeria’s Managing Director, Charles Kie said, “We are delighted to be launching this campaign in Nigeria. Ecobank Nigeria has grown consistently over the years to become a well-recognised corporate

brand in the Nigerian banking industry. Our mission is to ensure that our customers have access to world-class, convenient, accessible and reliable banking solutions in Nigeria. This new campaign demonstrates how we are fulfilling that mission.”

Ecobank Nigeria’s Deputy Managing Director, Tony Okpanachi said, “The new campaign also showcases our widest ever range of banking solutions and the many ways Ecobank helps consumers every day.”

Move on Up rests on three pillars. The first is digital convenience. Customers want the convenience of banking, from being able to pay with an Ecobank card to making financial transactions on their mobile phones, over the internet, at automated teller machines and at different points of sale.

Savings account can now receive N2m cheque deposits The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has directed commercial banks and other financial institution operating in the country to allow customers operating savings accounts to lodge in cheques transactions of not more than N2 million in value into their accounts, per customer in a day.

In a circular issued by the Director, Banking and Payment System Department, CBN, ‘Dipo Fatokun, disclosed that the decision to allow cheques in savings

accounts was in furtherance of its efforts at strengthening the Nigerian payments system.

Bank customer operating savings account customers but with Bank Verification Number (BVN) will now be allowed to deposit cheques up to the tune of N2 million per day.

The apex bank removed fixed interest rate on credit cards and discontinued the actual address verification in account opening, for customers with BVN. CBN also asked banks to begin

to embed BVN biometric data in payment cards issued henceforth, to facilitate off-line BVN verification and biometric-based customer authentication on such payment devices as Automated Teller Machines (ATM), Point of Sale (PoS), kiosks, among others.

It says approval of BVN watchlisting modalities and release by the CBN of necessary Credit Risk Management System (CRMS) data, to facilitate its use for enriching the BVN watch-list.

Looking at the gains of apex

bank new policy on cheque deposit into Savings account, industry stake holders have said that it will encourage retail investors, because before now, commercial banks in Nigeria do not allow any cheque pass through savings account.

They said that dividend warrants can now be easily deposited into savings account, stressing that retail investors who have shares in companies get their returns through a dividend warrant, often the dividend warrants

comes with little value which will have to pass through a current account, with this new policy by CBN, this instrument can now be deposited into a savings account.

Also, small business owners can now do cheque transactions, because with this new policy, small business owners will no longer be scared to consummate transactions in cheque, before now they usually do not accept cheques especially when it is above the cash threshold of N150,000 which must pass through a current account.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

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Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

9.75% Seplat, 7up lead losers chart as Equities declines 0.52% Seplat Petroleum Plc led Wednesday’s 24 declining stocks on account of a 9.75 percent reduction in the value of its shares to close at N255.36 per share,

Afolabi Adesola Seplat Petroleum Plc led Wednesday’s 24 declining stocks on account of a 9.75 percent reduction in the value of its shares to close at N255.36 per share, while 7up and Honeywell Flour Plc followed with a

loss of 5 percent each to close at N126.35 and N1.52 per share respectively.

Consequently, equities transactions on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) continued on a negative note as the NSE AllShare Index (ASI) dropped 0.52 percent to close at 27,687.80 basis

How we’ll meet N11bn PBT target in 2016 – Forte Oil Despite the challenging operating business environment, especially in the oil and gas industry, Forte Oil has expressed confidence to meet its N11 billion target Profit Before Tax by the end of 2016 financial year.

During the indigenous oil company’s Facts Behind the Figures at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) at the beginning of the week, the Group Chief Executive Officer, Forte Oil Plc, Mr Akin Akinfemiwa, remained optimistic that that the company is well positioned to meet and exceed the 2016 targets of N11 billion naira, having presently achieved six billion naira in the first half.

Giving the H1:2016 operational highlights, Akinfemiwa explained that Forte Oil maintained it’s 14 per cent market share among the major marketers in the White Products segment of the downstream sector, attributed to the company’s on-

going strategic retail network expansion and growth of commercial and lubricants customer base.

Specifically, the noted that revenue from lubricants increased by 63 per cent N5.2 billion in H1:2016 against N3.2 billion recorded in H1:2015, while that of LPG increased by 84 per cent at N234 million.

On the income statement, forte Oil GCEO explained that as a result of ongoing strategic retail acquisitions across the country, increase in pump price of PMS and increased commercial customer base for both fuel and lubricants, the company’s revenue grew by 38 per cent from N61.1 billion in H1:2015 to N84.4 billion in H1:2016.

Profit before Tax increased by 31 per cent to N4.3 billion compared to N2.5 billion in H1.2015, while gross margin grew by 48 per cent at N12.3 billion in H1:2016.

Summary of activities on NSE ASI DEALS VOLUME VALUE CAP

27,687.80 3,681.00 301,150,701.00 2,341,073,500.29 9,509,358,901,447.93

points, compared to a decline of 0.04 percent recorded previously to close at 27,831.95 basis points.

Investors on the local bourse thus recorded a loss of N49 billion as market capitalisation closed at N9.509 trillion against a loss of N3.8 billion on Tuesday when market capitalisation closed at N9.558 trillion.

On a brighter note, MRS Oil Nigeria Plc led the day’s 17 ad-

vancers to close at N42.73 per share following a gain of 10.19 percent or N3.95, similarly Livestock Feeds and Transcorp trailed the gaining path on account of an 8.99 and 5.88 percent gain to close at 97 kobo and N1.26 per share respectively.

The three most traded stocks of the day were FIDSON which accounted for 51.5 million shares valued at N113.2 million, FIDEL-

ITY which traded 45.6 million shares worth N49.1 million; and GUARANTY that exchanged 39 million shares valued at N935.9 million.

At the end of the day’s trading investors had exchanged a total of 301.2 million valued at N2.3 billion in 3,681 deals compared to 275.7 million shares valued at N3.15 billion exchanged in 4,126 deals, Tuesday.

Regional diversification paying off, says Dangote Cement Chief Executive Officer of Africa’s largest cement producer, Dangote Cement, Onne Van der Weijde, has said the company’s diversification into other African regions is finally yielding results.

According to Onne these regions have contributed 26 percent of the Cement giants revenue in the first six months of 2016, compared to 14 percent contributed in the prior period.

Onne Van der Weijde who presented the company’s Facts Behind the Figures on Wednesday noted that Dangote Cement increased its top line by 20.6 percent to N292.2 billion from N242.2 billion. Where Nigeria grew by 4.2 percent to N216.6 billion, West & Central Africa grew its revenue significantly by 192 percent from N17.1 billion to N49.9 billion for the first half of 2016.

South & East Africa grew its top line by 50.9 percent to N26.1 billion from N17.3 billion recorded for the corresponding period of 2015.

Africa’s largest cement producer, Dangote Cement had earlier reported a decline of 15 percent in its profit for the

Dangote

half-year period of 2016. The company reported a profit after tax of N103.4 billion compared to N121.8 billion declared in H1 2015, even as profit before tax fell 3 percent to N124.9 billion from N128.7 billion, on account of increasing operating cost spurred by hike in fuel cost, pipeline disruptions, FX instability amongst others.

The company’s CEO however noted that “Our investment in coal is enabling us to reduce our dependence on both oil and gas as fuel sources, thus protecting our production from disruption

and improving margins. The devaluation of the Naira will obviously have an impact on costs and our priority will be to protect margins.”

Commenting on the year’s outlook, the cement company said “We are confident of delivering good growth this year despite the challenging economic conditions facing Nigeria and the rest of Africa. We have achieved strong sales growth in Nigeria and are readying more coal-burning facilities that will improve our fuel security, reduce our dependence on LPFO and even gas and help to restore our margins. As we have previously made clear, our focus will be to protect margins through cost controls and adjustment of prices.

We have new capacity coming on stream in Congo and Sierra Leone and expect Tanzania to increase its market share in the coming months. Foreign exchange constraints in Nigeria have made us reconsider the pace of our expansion and we now believe that a five-year building programme will enable a more optimal balance of funding and investment.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

B7 Brands & Marketing

Briefs

Tensions and thrills as 2016 Cowbellpedia gets to semi-final It was a mixed feeling in the first preliminary round of the 2016 Cowbellpedia Secondary Schools Mathematics TV Quiz show aired on major TV stations last weekend.

Favour Okeke of Loyola Jesuit College, Abuja, FCT and Emmanuel Igban of Ambassadors College, Ota, Ogun State triumphed over their counterparts to proceed to the semi-final stage of the junior category.

AyomideAjayi of Bibo-Oluwa Academy Ilesa, Osun State; UgozuchuwuOffor of University of Nigeria Secondary School, Enugu Campus, Enugu; Divine Uzagu of Federal Government College, Okposi, and Praise Isinkaye of Federal Government Academy, Suleja, Niger State did not make it to the semi-final after both rounds of the preliminary stage.

Igban and Okeke jumped for joy and embraced their teachers as they expressed confidence in their ability to get to the final and

win the ultimate prize.Isinkaye, the only female student in the group was emotional about her exit, but promised to do better next time.

In the senior category, AdegokeAromolaran of Bibo-Oluwa Academy Ilesa, Osun State and Kenneth Nwagu of Graceland International School, Port Harcourt, Rivers State crossed to the semi-final stage of the competition. Aromolaran had a perfect score in the Stage 1 qualifying exam, while Nwagu scored 93 per cent.

The duo however tied on 110points in the second round to knock out Redemption Adebayo of Model Secondary School, Alagbaka, Akure, Ondo State; AyomideAjewole of Bibo-Oluwa Academy, Ilesa, Osun Sate; TheophilusNkwuda of Twelve Apostle College, Sharon, Ebonyi State; and Fortune EmmannuelKing of Word of Faith Schools, Benin City, Edo State.

AAAN

AAAN, APCON partners in progress – Oluwasona Stories by Godwin Anyebe

British Airways has commenced an instant rewards scheme for customers in Nigeria, with all travellers who are nonmembers of the airline’s Executive Club loyalty programme receiving frequent flier miles upon check-in.

Speaking on the mechanics of the new initiative which began last week at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, the Regional Commercial Manager, West Africa, at BA, Mr Kola Olayinka, observed that customer details would now be automatically registered for BA Avios, whether or not the customer is a member of the Executive Club.

“It would be superfluous to say

British Airways offers instant rewards during check-in at this point that Nigeria is experiencing challenging economic times. As an active corporate citizen that cherishes its customers, we will keep doing all we can to help” Olayinka commented.

With the new rewards program, customers will earn miles instantly for every trip. Needless to say, they will earn more miles as they fly, so they can keep a bank of their Avios miles for their children to use as they go to and from school or save them up for a flight to a holiday destination.” he added.

L – R: AAAN President, Mr. Kayode Oluwasona with the Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo during AAAN courtesy visit to the Vice President at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) has said that there is a huge existence of inter-dependence between the association and the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON). Firstly, the law that regulates the activities of advertising practice in Nigeria is under the umbrella of APCON, and there is no way you can become a practitioner or a member of AAAN without passing through the scrutiny of APCON. AAAN president, Kayode Oluwason, who disclosed this to Daily Times recently in Lagos, pointed out that, “on the council of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria are members

of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN).

Therefore, the inter-dependence is huge, because some of the members of our association are resource persons at APCON.” Explaining the fate of members who were delisted from the membership of the association, the president said, “like I will continue to say, the decision that follow that singular act happened to be in line with the constitution of the association and also in the best interest of the association. Those members that were delisted were actually called to order severally that they should wake up to their responsibility as members of the association but all to no avail. However, after they have been delisted, there has been series of petition not in a

CIMA and AICPA to form new association The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), are joining forces to create a new association that would represent the breadth of the accounting profession.

The new association aims to become the most influential professional accounting body in the world, and will represent 600,000 current and next-generation professionals. It has been designed to complement rather than replace both constituent organisations – so while it will bring extra weight and influence to CIMA, CIMA’s ex-

isting structure and Royal Charter will remain, and CIMA will retain its management accounting focus.

CIMA and the AICPA members will retain membership of their existing member organisation but will gain additional membership of the new Association.

The decision to create the association was taken after both organisations’ member bodies voted to endorse the move in ballots which concluded on June 16. 89.7 per cent of CIMA members voting endorsed the resolution, with 86.5 per cent of AICPA members who cast ballots voting in favour. Work to

create the Association will begin straight away, and it will launch in 2017.

CIMA’s President Andrew Miskin said: “We live in a time of rapid change and increasing competition. Responding to this, I am delighted that CIMA and the AICPA members have endorsed the proposal to create a new association so that we can stay ahead of market changes and developments.” “We will build on the history and strengths of both CIMA and the AICPA, which will enable us to accelerate our strategy, and to expand the opportunities for

CGMAs around the world.”

The formation of the Association represents a deepening of the joint venture that CIMA and the AICPA have operated since 2011, which has expanded management accounting within the USA, and created a new global designation, Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA).

CIMA’s outgoing President Myriam Madden said: “This has been a year of focus. Throughout this process we have maintained an open dialogue with our members to better understand their professional needs and the world-class services

negative way, but a plea for some of them to be enlisted again. To this end, the board of the association is currently looking at that, and hopefully, they will be considered.”

On the effectiveness and efficiency of the association, Oluwasona remain optimistic that the association has been effective and efficient in their activities.

His words; “I want to say, judging from what we have done in the years under review, the association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) is above average in terms of ranking. Above average can means , he continue, sixty percent, to some people, we may not be aiming at (A) yet, but we should be on the average of (B) or (C) which is to say we are well above average.

required to deliver greater recognition and employability.

“I look forward to seeing how the evolution of our joint venture will help our members and businesses around the world to succeed in the coming years.”

The proposal is designed to ensure that not only do members keep the status and recognition of CIMA’s qualifications and designations, but also benefit from the additional relevance, resources and global reach that comes from integrating the activities of two of the world’s most influential accountancy bodies.

Motoring B8

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, August 4, 2016

Brief

Coscharis introduces all-new Jaguar F-pace The All-New Jaguar FPACE is now available in Nigeria. Jaguars first-ever SUV was unveiled by Coscharis Motors at a stunning launch that took place at the Eko Hotel and Suites on the platform of Tech+ on Thursday 21st July, 2016 in Lagos.

Many VIPs, special guests and media personalities were in attendance to see the arrival of the latest Jaguar model, including a line-up of other Jaguar products.

The F-PACE is a performance SUV that has been designed and engineered to offer the agility, responsiveness and refinement that all Jaguars are renowned for, together with unrivalled dynamics and everyday versatility.

Developed using Jaguars Lightweight Aluminium Architecture, the All-New F-PACE combines purity of line, surface and proportion with F-TYPEinspired features such as the powerful rear haunches, fender vents and distinctive tail light graphics.

The bold front grille and the muscular bonnet hint at the performance potential of its supercharged V6 petrol engines. Elements such as slender full-LED headlights, forged 22-inch wheels and short front overhang carry the design vision of the C-X17 concept through to production.

The All-New F-PACE seats five occupants in absolute comfort.

The interior is a perfect blend of premium materials and finishes, exquisite detailing, luxuries such as heated, electrically reclining rear seats, and cutting-edge technologies including the InControl Touch Pro infotainment system and 12.3-inch HD virtual instrument cluster.

VOLVO

Volvo Cars, which makes no secret of its ambition to compete head-on with leading global high-end brands Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar

Volvo sales booming Volkswagen introduces Crafter Van courtesy of XC90 Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo Volvo Cars says it’s on track to sell a record number of cars this year thanks to the success of its new highend SUV The Swedish carmaker, currently owned by China’s Geely, said in its second-quarter earnings statement that strong sales were accompanied by improving margins despite investments tied to launching its new top-of-the-line models.

Sales rose by 11 percent compared to the April through June period last year, while operating

profits tripled to 5.6 billion kronor (R9.28bn). Volvo sold 256 563 vehicles in the first half of the year.

“This robust first half year of financial and operational performance combined with a positive product pipeline allows me to state confidently that we expect to report another record year in 2016 in terms of sales...” said chief executive Hakan Samuelsson in a statement.

The company, which Geely bought from Ford in 2011, for the first time surpassed the 500 000 vehicles mark last year.

Volvo Cars, which makes no

secret of its ambition to compete head-on with leading global high-end brands Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar, said sales of its redesigned luxury XC90 SUV surpassed expectations at nearly 44 000 in the first half of this year.

The model was its top in the US market, where sales jumped 25 percent. Sales in Europe, Volvo Cars’s top region, rose by 10.3 percent, slightly higher than the 9.4 percent registered in the market overall.

The SUV has won awards all over the world, including South Africa’s Car of the Year title.

Volkswagen’s all-new Crafter van, revealed in Europe is entering a difficult market. Not only are EU emissions regulations becoming ever more stringent, but their real-world application is being tightened up in the wake of Dieselgate.

So, Volkswagen Commercial is making a selling point of the fact that the new crafter’s EA 288 ‘Nutz’ two-litre TDI turbodiesel has been developed specifically for this model; it’s available in four levels of tune, delivering 75kW, 90kW and 102 kW respectively, plus a twin-turbo version rated for 130kW.

Hyundai Tucson receives J.D. Power 2016 Appeal Award Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo

J.D. Power designated the 2016 Hyundai Tucson as its most appealing small SUV in the 2016 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) StudySM. In its 21st year, the APEAL study examines owners’ emotional attachment and level of excitement across 77 attributes, ranging from the power they feel when they step on the gas to the sense of comfort and luxury they feel when climbing into the driver’s seat. Vehicles and their brands are measured on a 1,000-point scale.

Tucson outscored all other small SUVs and performed particularly well in the categories of vehicle fuel economy, seats, HVAC, storage, exterior, visibility, driving, interior and audio/ comm./entertainment/navigation.

“We are thrilled with the recognition of Tucson in this year’s J.D. Power APEAL study,” said Scott Margason, director, product planning, Hyundai Motor America. “The new Tucson looks great, has two fuel efficient engines and a roomy interior that satisfies a wide range of SUV buyers. The team did a great job launching the all-new Tucson this year.”

Life&

Times Thursday, August 4, 2016

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Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday August 4, 2016

The biggest award will be winning the hearts of my fans-Temmi

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T E A M

Medical Anatomy student of Ladoke Akintola University, Temmie Ovwasa better known as YBNL Princess is one of the fast rising music acts to watch out for in the Nigerian entertainment industry where the young are gradually taking over. Temmie is a Nigerian recording artiste, Songwriter and poet who so much believes in the flows of her music and soul. Signed on Olamide’s imprint, YBNL Record, Temmie is the first female artiste on the label, thus earning her the title ‘YBNL Princess’. She is often referred to as hybrid as she pitch her identity from both Osun State and Delta State where her father hails from. In this chat with MUTIAT ALLI, Temmie, who described herself as bit of a rebel and conformist, led us into her world of music, her mum being her greatest inspiration and how Olamide made her musical dream come through.

Enjoy…

Entertainment Correspondent Mutiat Alli

Ovwasa You recently dropped your debut song visual, “Jabole”. What was the idea of the video?

Basically, it was just something I thought about since it’s a love song. We were just trying to show the whole process of been in a relationship. If you notice, the couple were together for some time, they were happy.

Then at a point, they started having issues and they came back together. The whole love thing was to fully express what the song is actually about which is I don’t want my love interest to leave me.

Society Correspondent Abimbola Obatayo

Was that a personal experience or you were just doing that for the love of music?

For the love of music!

Did music find you or the other way round?

Music is me and it requires no process of finding because it’s just there. It’s like being born as girl.

How did it all start for you?

I started singing in the choir when I was eight. I continued from the choir and learnt how to play the guitar and that was it.

What was your parents’ reaction when you wanted to go into music?

My parents believe that there are phases and things in life that shouldn’t disturb each other and I’m currently studying Medical Anatomy. So it’s basically not the only thing I’m doing in the phase of my life which I’ve embraced. My parents are totally in support of both as long as one does not disturb the other.

Was the concept of the video 100% yours or part of the Director?

You’re studying a beautiful course and at the same time bringing music into it. So what’s your preference?

The concept of the video is actually gotten from the song. So basically, it was just a blend of my idea and that of the director but I give most of the credit to the director.

I won’t say I have a preference. As I said, these are two things that shouldn’t disturb each other because you have your education and what you want to do at the end of everything which might not necessary be what you’ve studied in school. It

Continued on L3

Photography Quadri Olowolagba

Graphics Daniel Ekiye

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday August 4, 2016

L3

‘The only competition I have now is just me’ Continued from L2 just how to balance it that is the most important and so for me, I so much cherish both. I am currently in 400 level and that implies that I have just a year in school.

Your meeting with Olamide, how did that happen?

I used to do cover of songs and videos on my Instagram account. So I posted a video one morning just like the usual way I’ve been doing that and immediately I did that, few minutes after, Olamide (Baddosneh) liked my video and then he went on to do same on other videos that I have previously posted. Not quite long again, Pheelz who is one of the producers of YBNL equally liked the video and followed me on Instagram and I was amazed and that just went. As luck will befall on me, Olamide sent me a direct message on Instagram and we started talking; the rest is history and testimony now.

When you saw those likes from Olamide, what came to your mind?

I was excited; I was jumping around the house. I even showed my mum and everybody. I felt it was going to end there but I thank God, he made it possible.

Were you not scared that there might be competition been the only female on the YBNL nation family?

I like to say that there will only be a competition when you’re not yourself. So as long as you are yourself, the only competition I have now is just me. There is this family bond that exist amongst all of us in the YBNL team and I feel honoured to be their baby sister protected by over five talented acts.

A lot of people say you sound like Simi, has anybody approached and told you same?

I believe that most of the times, the human mind has a way to attach a definition to something when it shouldn’t necessary be defined. It’s normal for people to be like you sound like this person. I’m starting, and I’m carving a niche for myself. The sky is large enough for every bird to fly without hurting each other, so I am just me and doing my thing passionately.

If you are to do any collaboration with any top female act presently, who will that be and why?

That will be my mother because she sings and she’s top in my heart. Ok, if I’m looking at the industry, I’m the kind of person that intends to go with the flow of my soul.

So I could be like I’m going to do this with one person now and tomorrow morning I can be like let’s change it. So for now, I just want to focus on the Temmie brand.

So two to three years from now, what are your plans for songs in the industry?

I basically just want to go with the flow of my soul. Not that I don’t have plans, I do have plans but I let God take charge of everything. So I do not try to let my own plans cloud my eyes and whatever that has stuff in me is going to happen.

Aside from the guitar, what other instrument do you play?

I play a little bit of the keyboard and the talking drum.

A lot of RNB artistes in Nigeria today h a v e diverse bits in their kind of music; i n future, do we get to see Te m m i e do a Fuji

comes to music?

I look up to my mum though she’s not in the industry, but in the industry, I’m trying to carve a niche for myself and I haven’t gotten there yet. So basically, I’ve not seen that part of that person I can say I draw inspiration from but if I’m going to leave the music aspect aside and look at how people are and judge from the content and character, I’m going to look up to Olamide.

Why Olamide, is it because you’re on his platform?

Basically, I could be sentimental and say yes but then there are other reasons. The thing is seeing someone from afar and you can’t get near them and you have the image of them in your mind and when you get closer to them and they start to be what you thought they would be, it kind of leaves a place in your heart for them.

collaboration?

I don’t necessary classify my genre as RNB. Sometimes it is necessary to give a classification just to have a particular genre where you fall into. I see myself more influenced by different things and different genres of music, so I won’t necessary say I’m an RNB , and I won’t necessary say I’m Fuji. I won’t necessary say I’m conservative, I won’t necessary say I’m from the streets. But I will say I’m me and whatever goes in my soul I will follow. In the nearest future, if my soul flows with any top Fuji artiste, I will gladly slide into their songs.

Generally who is your source of inspiration when it

I was raised by a much disciplined woman and the first thing she told me when I was growing up was

“never bite the finger that fed you”

In just one word, describe Olamide?

Symbol of hope.

The music industry while you were still trying to find your place and now that you’re in the industry. What are the differences you’ve noticed?

I actually like to say that when I wasn’t really in the industry, I was practicing to be there, so it’s just like basically I’ve been there for some time in my head. Now I’m just in that zone physically and so I’m not really seeing any difference because I kind of prepared myself and now I’m not seeing anything that seems strange to me.

How do you intend to guide your record label deal with YBNL as a lot of artistes usually feud with their labels on the long run?

I was raised by a much disciplined woman and the first thing she told me when I was growing up was “never bite the finger that fed you”.

Even as new act in the industry, what will be the most priceless gift you so desire as an artiste?

The biggest award will be winning the heart of my fans.

Music Gist L4 Mutiat Alli

Winning has always been every contestant’s wish -A’rese Emokpae 28-year-old A’rese Emokpae, winner of the first edition of the Voice Nigeria musical competition, has disclosed that winning the coveted star prize of a musical deal worth millions of naira with international recording company, Universal music, a brand new SUV jeep valued at 7M courtesy M-Net and a four days trip for two to Abu Dhabi courtesy Etihad Airways, was the dream of every other contestants in the competition but her winning power was made possible after Nigerians voted her as the ultimate.

A’rese who have appeared in various theatre acts and musicals stage performances that includes the popular ‘Wakaa the Musical,’ noted that she is fully ready for the industry and as such excited that she will be exploring her talent across the country.

However, during the last Sunday performance, A’rese took to the stage and elicited screams as she literally kicked off her shoes performing ‘Freedom’. Following A’rese’s performance was the nerve wracking unveiling of the top four finalists. Making the cut from Team 2baba was Brenda, while A’rese made it through from TeamWaje. Chike made it from TeamPatoranking and Cornel made it through for TeamTimi as the nail biting evening progressed.

Cornel returned to the stage as he raised the roof with Lionel Ritchie’s All Night Long. Chike followed and got the ladies swooning with Kiss Daniel’s Mama and A’rese took to the stage afterwards with an emotional performance of Hallelujah whilst the bubbly Brenda rocked the stage with Wizkid’s Ojuelegba.

It is pertinent to note that all the eight finalist will also enjoy a recording deal with Universal music.

A’rese

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday August 4, 2016

D’Banj, Gbenga Adeyinka, others for OSMD’s youth empowerment summit

Abisoye Fagade, Principal Consultant, Sodium Brand Solutions Ltd; D’banj Steve Babaeko, CEO, X3M Ideas and Tee- A

As part of giving back to the society, CEO of Sodium Brand /founder of OSMD Network, Abisoye Fagade, has disclosed that the maiden edition of his organisation’s youth empowerment summit will impact values into the youth who are part of the growing strength of the nation.

On the motive behind the summit, Fagade said: “We believe Nigerian youths to be critical to the growth and development of any given community and state at large. At OSMD network, we are of the opinion that the empowerment of these individuals will bring about gratification and an eventual change and development in the future.”

Top entertainers and scholars that

includes D’banj, Gbenga Adeyinka, Tee-A, Tosin Ajibade and chris Ihidero have joined the long list of creative minds set to speak at OSMD network’s inaugural youth empowerment summit billed to hold August 11, 2016 at the conference hall, Mauve 21, Ring road, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The bi-annual event, which promises to be fulfilling, will reward over 20 promising Nigerian youths with career building mentorship in their aspiring fields of focus.

Other speakers expected at the event includes heavyweight integrated marketing communications expert, Tunji Olugbodi, CEO and business mogul, Ubong King, Ali baba, Steve Babaeko, Ayeni Adekunle, Funke Bucknor-Obruthe, Fashie Fizzie, Akin Oyebode amongst others.

AFRIMA 3.0. Scores high entries as submission closes With massive response from African music professionals that polled close to 3,000 entries, the International Committee of the All African Music Awards, AFRIMA, has closed the submission of entries for the 2016 edition of the continental awards tagged AFRIMA 3.0. The annual entries submission process which is open to African music artistes, music professionals and other stakeholders living on the continent and in the Diaspora, commenced on May 30 and closed on July 30. A total number of 2,714 entries were received.

With a nod of satisfaction from the International Committee of AFRIMA and AFRIMA Regional and Country Directors on the large influx of entries recorded this year, the next phase of the build-up activities for the 2016 edition of AFRIMA will commence in a few weeks with the adjudication process and

DJ Kaywise set to drop ‘Caro’ As part of his 24th birthday celebration, popular Nigerian Disc Jockey, Okiki Kehinde, fondly called DJ Kaywise, will be releasing yet another club banger titled ‘ Caro’ with two of Nigeria’s best singer, Falz and Tekno.

DJ Kaywise has taken the line of music just like his predecessors that includes DJ Jimmy Jatt, DJ Exclusive, DJ Neptune who are equally doing well both as a DJ and musician.

On why he would be releasing another singer on his birthday, DJ Kaywise disclosed that “there is no other better day than this moment when I was born, a date when close friends, colleagues always gather to rejoice with me”.

As part of the celebration, Kaywise further divulged that there will be a house party to be attended by friends alongside top celebrity as he would be performing his jam for the first time.

nominees selection.

Also expressing satisfaction at the impressive entries submitted for 2016, the President and Executive Producer, AFRIMA, Mike Dada declared that AFRIMA 3.0 took off on a high note with the unveiling of the awards calendar of activities during a joint cultural conference with the

African Union Commission, AUC, held in Banjul, Gambia between 24th and 25th May. Mike Dada said, “The passion to celebrate Africa’s cultural uniqueness through her talents will continue to build until it peaks during the grand awards ceremony in November. I am happy about the high votes recorded this year which is an

improvement on the number of entries submitted in 2015.

Meanwhile, the 13-person International Jury of AFRIMA which represents the five regions of Africa, the Diaspora and the AUC are expected to enter into seven-day seclusion for the crucial responsibility of screening, categorizing, assessing and selecting nominees from the body of works submitted for award consideration. Concluding the adjudication process will be the World Media Announcement of the 2016 AFRIMA Nominees List in all 34 categories.

In partnership with the African Union Commission, AUC, the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, is a music and cultural initiative developed to celebrate, reward and showcase the rich musical heritage of Africa, stimulate conversations among Africans and between Africa.

The main awards ceremony holds on 4th to 6th November, 2016.

Cassper Nyovest co-directs spanking new video for ‘428 to LA’

DJ Kaywise

South Africa’s rap King, Cassper Nyovest has finally released the long anticipated video for his hit song 428 To LA. The super hit track which features Los Angeles’s finest, Casey Veggies and was produced

by Anatii, blew up the airwaves in 2015, topping music charts for months.

The video was directed by Cassper Nyovest and Cidefx films and has been released exclusively to MTV Base on the 29th of July, 2016. However, it was released on YouTube on Monday, August 1, 2016. The video is a depiction of Cassper’s journey to stardom. The movie-like video shows the rapper on a trip to Los Angeles from New

York.

The song which is rendered in a combination of Swahili and English is the perfect definition of lyrical perfection. The song embodies various themes but mostly centres on the rapper’s journey to fame and his enviable achievements. The traditional elements of rap such as lyrical rhyming and flow is not elusive in this song which is one reason the song enjoyed massive airplay in 2015.

Ultimately, rap culture and its consciousness appears to have gained more grounds in Africa especially with the advent of fusing indigenous languages in Rap as

Cassper Nyovest opposed to just English. This trend has undoubtedly propelled African rappers to world view.

This style is also the message of 428 to LA as Cassper relates the success of his style of Rap.

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday August 4, 2016

L5 Movie Gist

Mutiat Alli

#SaveMayowa: More celebrities support Toyin Aimakhu Following the recent backlash rendered on light-skinned actress, Toyin Aimakhu, over the #SaveMayowa Campaign, more celebrities have thrown their weight behind her.

Recall that controversy erupted last week over the campaign with many Nigerians taking to social media to accuse the Toyin Aimakhu of playing a major role in the uncertainty about the true intention of the funds raised.

However some celebrities have come to her defence with several videos that

have surfaced on the internet, noting that Mayowa Ahmed’s family have not been fair to the actress who made most of them aware of the campaign.

Nollywood stars that include Iyabo Ojo, Ronke-Oshodi Oke, Mercy Aigbe-Gentry, Seyi Law, Opeyemi Ayoola, and Femi Branch have all weighed in their support to their colleague whose identity has been disinterested in the public domain.

For Iyabo Ojo, she warned Nigerians to stop blaming Toyin whom she described as a lady with a heart of Gold and will do all on

her part to put smile on others faces, noting however that it’s perhaps unfortunate that the campaign turned out to like it is.

Actor Femi Branch noted that with incidents like this is the more reason why celebrities are always scared to be involved in things like this. He said: “I am amazed, people were praising Toyin when she started the advocacy but all of a sudden, she is a devil all the name that she is trying to protect her name”.

Juliet Ibrahim, Helen Paul to

host Shakara and the Gang

Helen Paul

Juliet Ibrahim

Ghanaian star actress, Juliet Ibrahim, alongside Comedienne Helen Paul, have been announced as the host of yet another comedy show by Kenneth Agberia (MC Shakara) tagged ‘Shakara and the Gang’ billed to hold on Sunday, August 14, 2016 at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.

In a chat with the event planner, Lanre Makun, he disclosed that the event is expected to be thrilling and entertaining as guests coming will definitely have value for their money just as they did during AY live, Akpororo VS Akpororo to mention but few.

As part of the excitement, MC Shakara has employed the services of his colleagues who are also part of the line-up artistes who will be performing that includes Klint De Drunk, Gordon, AY, Elenu, Akpororo, Seyi law, Ushbebe, funny bone, Emeka Smith while top musicians with the likes of Patronking MI, Kcee, Korede Bello, Harrysong to mention but few have equally confirmed attendance.

Cancelled Kano film village: Emeka Ike tags it hypocrisy Claimant to the post of the president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Emeka Ike has tagged the sudden cancellation of the film village project in Kano as hypocrisy move by antagonist of progress.

Ike noted that it is regrettable that the project was prevented by clerics in the state on the basis of immorality. The actor

Emeka Ike

mentioned that the people of Kano State have failed to see the advantage of having an establishment like the cancelled project.

Airing his view, Emeka said: “I think it is ignorance on the part of anybody who kicks against the establishment of a film village in the North. These people forget that if the film village is established in Kano, it could help propagate Islam. Through movie making, drama, musicals, they could actually preach to the world the doctrine of Islam. Already, there is a movie industry in the north – Kannywood – and they are doing well; they produce movies already and you cannot kick them out. Establishing a film village for them would help boost their economy. It is to their advantage. But the ignorant people are those against the establishment of the film village.”

“The government should also remember that a lot of youths can be employed.

Religion will not put food on your table; you cannot take religion as a vocation except you are an Islamic cleric. I feel it is weird that anyone would kick against development because Kano would be more developed if the film village is established. However, if the north does not want a film village, they should come to the south and establish it.

We would gladly receive it and appreciate such development.”

Omoni Oboli, Bovi,

others star in new movie, ‘It’s her day’

Toyin Aimakhu

Femi Jacobs

delves into music Just like his other colleagues who has pitched tent in music, talented Nollywood actor and The Meeting star, Femi Jacobs, has equally toed that line as he recently released a new single titled ‘ Orun si’ alongside a promotional image.

Femi, who started out as gospel act, disclosed exclusively to Life &Times, adding that both his acting and music career are what he holds as dear to his heart as both have equal space. “With music, I relax and express the inspirational side of me. I grew up as a choir boy and I don’t think that part of me could ever change,” he said.

‘Orun si’ meaning ‘Heaven opens’ is a song that expresses the heart of a person on an open road, someone who feels some special divine ‘permission’ to live their dreams and be great.

This signifies a new expression for Femi Jacobs who feels he wants to now record songs to help people speak positively over their own lives and win the war between their ears.

For the first time, comedian cum actor, Bovi is excited about his first self-produced movie titled, ‘It’s her day’ which is already getting positive comments since its official thriller was released.

The star-studded movie parades a stellar cast with the likes of Bovi, Ini Dima-Okojie, Shaffy Bello, Toni ‘Tones’ Adefuye, Amanda Ebeye, Thelma Ezeamaka and Enajite Dede, Omoni Oboli.

It is important to note that the yet to be released movie is equally written by Bovi Ugboma, edited

by Akin Alabi and directed by Aniedi Anwah.

The Kountry Kulture production movies x-rays the life of a lady who wants a fairytale wedding.

He promises to give it to her! And then the bills start rolling in. Two families with two different orientations come together to forge an unlikely headway!

Femi Jacobs

Mixed Grill L6

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday August 4, 2016

Mutiat Alli

D’banj exits Globacom, pitches tent with MTN Despite his crawling career, Dapo Oyebanjo, better known as D’banj, has finally confirmed his exit from Mike Adenuga-led Globacom Telecommunication Company to pitch a new tent and deal with MTN Nigeria.

As part of giving an authentic response to his new deal with MTN, D’banj announced his new venture with MTN on his Instagram page.

The ‘Oliver Twist’ singer has entered a venture (via his record label DKM) with MTN to create a platform

D’Banj

….unveils first project

for creative people called Cream Platform.

“A partnership with MTN and DKM to launch a platform of visible hope for the creative industry where Creative contents will be found, housed, financed, nurtured, published, marketed, distributed and Sold with track-able Monitoring by Content owners without leaving their comfort zones. Supported by Bank of Industry” announced D’banj on his

Instagram page. The Cream Platform kicked off yesterday and D’banj claims that over 32,000 entries were registered on it.

It would be recalled that last month, the Koko master made several headlines having been reported to have wedded secretly but as we speak, the ‘Emergency’ crooner has kept mute on his marriage tale as he is focused on his new project which is a platform to give back to the society.

Kemi Adetiba, Osage Alonge, Linda Ikeji, 7 others make the #YNaijaPowerList2016 in Media

Ycee

Ycee, Jesse Jagz, others for 2016 Hennessy artistry cyphers The Hennessy Cypher kicks off for another year running and it features some of the biggest Hip Hop stars in the music scene. Just like in its previous year, the Hennessy Cypher returns as a part of the Hennessy Artistry celebration of Hip Hop. Majors of the Nigerian Hip Hop industry like Vector, Jesse Jagz, Show Dem Camp, Ill Bliss, Loose Kanyon along with revered underground rappers had come together to deliver some of the hottest bars and lyrics.

Usually in groups, these Hip Hop heavyweights display their ability to recite words rapidly and rhythmically over an instrumental backing to form a perfect blend of Hip Hop music.

This year some of the biggest names in Hip Hop have converged again to deliver the best of lyricism and wordplay. This year, the Cypher will be released weekly starting from today, August 4, on all major online platforms and on Trace TV. You can also join the conversation on social media with the hashtags #HennessyCypher and #HennessyArtistry201.

Osage Alonge

YNaija.com, the internet newspaper for young Nigerians on Wednesday released the definitive list of the most influential people in media under 40.

The 2016 #YNaijaPowerList is an honour roll of the most powerful young Nigerians who have excelled in the media industry. From the Guardian Newspapers Executive Director, Toke Ibru, to Pulse. ng’s Editor-in-Chief, Osagie Alonge, to the indisputable queen of blogging in Africa, Linda Ikeji – the list pulls together those who hold the levers in Nigeria’s media space.

The #YNaijaPowerList which launched on Monday,

1 August, 2016 with the release of its Entertainment and Technology shortlist will run through the week with Advocacy, Culture, Fashion & Style, Social Media, Politics and more on the roll call.

The #YNaijaPowerList is an annual showcase of those who have gone beyond their own careers and their own empires to influence trends, leading on success, and driving people to action. From savvy publishers to the ‘Bruce Lee of visuals’ these are the most powerful in Nigeria’s media space.

They include Tosin Ajibade, Seyi Tailor, Perez Tigidam, Uzodinma Iweala, and Kingsley Ezeani to mention Kemi Adetiba but few.

Beat FM, Classic FM and Naija FM join Apple Music as a featured curator Nigeria’s foremost radio broadcast platform, Megalectrics Ltd. (Owners of Beat FM, Classic FM & Naija FM), on Wednesday, announced it is joining Apple Music as a featured curator, embedding the strongest and best of African music culture uniformly on Apple Radio.

Megalectrics will introduce a curated collection of Nigerian and African music to Apple Music, designed to help Nigerians home and abroad explore a wide range of music genres.

Speaking about the partnership, Managing Director, Megalectrics Limited, Chris Ubosi

said: “We’re very excited to be joining Apple Music as a featured curator, reinforcing our bouquet of stations as the leading music tastemakers in Africa and beyond. It also means that users worldwide can discover the vibrant African music genres that are increasingly being consumed by Africans”.

The newly launched curator page will host a playlist reflecting of Nigeria’s diverse music genres and will be geared towards celebrating great Nigerian and African music legends from past and present generations. It will also host

exclusive premieres of New Nigerian and African songs.

Megalectrics has plans to enhance the offering further by introducing timeless Playlists on each of the stations. On Beat FM, the playlists are The Beatdown, Bubblin Under, UK Pick of The Week, Lagos Loves This, Ibadan Loves This, while Classic FM has Chico’s Overdrive, Connoisseurs Sessions, Rap and Hip Hop Classics, Slow Down Zone, Nineties Middies and Naija FM’s Playlists includes Nigerian Top 20, Nigerian Sister with Voices, Nigerian Love Songs, Street Party, Unforgettable

Fathia Balogun, Ruggedman others for white cane day

Ruggedman

Top entertainers that includes light skinned actress, Fathia Balogun, rapper, Ruggedman, and Iwe Kiko crooner, Ranti, have been listed amongst the entertainers who will grace the 11th edition of the Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind White Cane Day tagged ‘ Fitness walk for sight’ billed to hold Saturday, August 13, 2016 at the National Stadium, Lagos.

According to the chairman of the occasion, Asiwaju Fola Osibo, he emphasised that the essence of the White Cane Day is to create awareness concerning partially impaired individuals

in the society, thus the White cane is a universal symbol of recognising the visually challenged person.

As part of the event, there will equally be a free eye screening exercise to be carried out on interested members of the public shortly after the work exercise.

In a telephone chat with Fathia Balogun, she expressed joy and willingness in participating at this year’s edition of the White Cane Day, noting that visually impaired citizens should be respected, accepted and embraced irrespective of their challenges in the society.

Fathia

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday August 4, 2016

L7 Movie Review

The Barbershop: When violence becomes the order of the day and only a barbershop makes a move to stop it Does it seem like no one is doing anything about teenage gang and violence? Well, these people are…

This movie is about how a barbershop makes an effort to reduce crime rate in its community. The shop owner, Calvin, a barber, had a son who is age mates with Rashad’s son.

A lifelong friend and a co-barber. The two boys become wayward and almost got fully influenced by Yummy (TYGA), a notorious gang leader. Calvin and Rashad find out about this and it causes rivalry and separation. Calvin also complains to Rashad’s about his son being a bad influence to his own son.

Angrily conversing with Rashad outside the shop, both fathers

orally defend their sons and exchanged words. Unknown to Calvin, His son is the bad influence to Rashad’s son.

Due to the daily shooting on the blocks, the government intend to demolish all the stores by the road of the affected community. This motive will affect the shop owners and they wouldn’t let this happen. Coming together and stopping crime is the only option.

Calvin on his end makes secret moves to buy a shop at a safe location without informing Rashad and his co-workers.

This secret is revealed by Rashad who found out while eavesdropping. This leads to distrust and brief conflict. Calvin later explains the reason for his intentions and apologises.

There is also drama and tantrum as Draya (Nicki Minaj) tries to entice and seduce Terry’s husband, Rashad. Coincidentally, Terry finds Rashad and Draya in the store alone in the back. This situation puts Rashad in a tight corner as there was no activity in the back room with Draya but Terry doesn’t believe him. All efforts to gain Terry’s trust back fails until Draya personally pays a visit to Terry to explain what happened and admits trying to woo Rashad. Draya later made a sincere apology as intended.

With the daily shootings and killings happening on the block, a worker at the barber shop, Anthony Clark was murdered. This incident causes the barbers shop to call for a meeting and organise a cease fire.

Involving the entire community and having a peace talk with the two leaders of the notorious gangs in the block, they began the cease fire by offering free hair-cuts as long as the cease fire lasted for 42hours.

The movement doesn’t only save the blocks from demolition of its stores, but saves lives as only one causality was recorded over the weekend.

The movie ends with resolution, peace and satisfaction as the movement of the cease fire trends on social media and to the ears of President Obama who pays them a visit to commend their effort.

The movie sends out a sound message on violence and killings by gang members and unity on the positive side. This movie however, gives an insight of how things used to be before change surfaced. Featuring popular acts and award winners such as Ice Cube, Regina Hall, Anthony Anderson, TYGA, Anthony Davis, EVE and Nicki Minaj, the 1hr 50minutes production is based on comedy, love, conflict, violence and drama. With the excellent photography and star characters, the rating at 75% sounds fair.

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday August 4, 2016

Showing on

Showing on

Movies Comedy Channel 104

Movies ACTION Channel 110

22:28

13:00

Thu, 4 August16 SL

Thu, 4 August | PG 13V

Oscar winner Kevin Spacey and Danny star in this film about three salesmen who dissect life as they wait for a man who could make or break their sales targets. Danny DeVito, Kevin Spacey.(1999)John Swanbeck

Jackie Chan turns on the charm in this action film. A chauffeur is thrust into the world of international espionage when he puts on a suit that gives him extraordinary powers.

Jackie Chan, Jennifer Love Hewitt. (2002) Kevin Donovan.

101 M-Net

23:35 Behind The Scenes: Unbroken 00:00 Chicago Med 00:50 Behind The Scenes: 1st Project 01:20 Shakesspeare School Year 02:28 Behind The Scenes: Walking On Sunshine 02:40 Behind The Scenes: Annie 03:15 Made In Hollywood

04:00 MasterChef Australia 05:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 05:59 The Middle 06:29 Sarah Graham's Food Safari 07:30 Chicago Med 08:30 From Rough 10:04 Behind The Scenes: The Theory Of...

10:30 The Goldbergs 11:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 12:00 MasterChef Australia 13:00 Carte Blanche 14:00 Shades Of Blue 15:00 Modern Family 15:30 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 17:00 Kevin From Work 17:30 MasterChef Australia 18:33 My Story

118 Telemundo

23:40 The Face Of Destiny 00:30 Elena's Ghost 01:20 Broken Angel 02:10 Broken Angel 03:00 The Face Of Destiny 03:50 Fearless Heart 05:20 Elena's Ghost 06:10 Husband For Hire 07:00 The Face Of Destiny 07:50 Fearless Heart 08:40 For Love And Justice 09:30 Cruel Love 10:20 Husband For Hire 11:10 The Face Of Destiny 12:00 Fearless Heart 12:50 For Love And Justice 13:40 Cruel Love 14:30 Husband For Hire 15:20 The Face Of Destiny 16:10 Fearless Heart 17:00 Broken Angel 17:50 Broken Angel 18:40 Husband For Hire 19:30 The Face Of Destiny 20:20 Fearless Heart 21:10 Broken Angel 22:00 Broken Angel 22:50 Husband For Hire

120 BBC Brit Entertainment

23:14 The Graham Norton Show

11:10 Would I Lie To You?

00:04 An Idiot Abroad

11:40 QI

00:54 The Cube

12:15 The Cube

01:41 Police Interceptors

13:05 Top Gear

02:29 John Bishop's Australia

14:55 Police Interceptors

03:24 Undercover Boss USA

15:45 Undercover Boss USA

04:10 Pointless

15:55 Would I Lie To You?

05:00 The Cube

16:20 QI

05:50 Would I Lie To You?

17:00 Pointless

06:25 QI5

18:00 Top Gear

07:00 Police Interceptors

19:00 Dragons' Den

07:45 Top Gear

20:00 QI

08:40 Pointless

20:30 Youngers

09:35 Undercover Boss USA

21:10 Top Gear

10:20 Ducks Quacks Don't Echo

22:05 Top Gear: Special: Best Of British

155 AfricaMagic World

152 AfricaMagic Epic

23:37 Behind The Scenes: Secret Room 00:00 Music On Africa Magic

23:00 Most Shocking 23:50 World's Wildest Police Videos 00:40 World's Wildest Police Videos 01:30 Freakshow 01:55 Extreme Reality Clips 02:20 Sexy Car Wash 03:15 Sexy Car Wash 03:45 Video Zonkers 04:10 South Beach Tow 04:35 South Beach Tow 05:00 World's Wildest Police Videos 05:45 World's Wildest Police Videos 06:35 Top 20 Countdown: Most Shocking 07:25 Video Zonkers

07:50 South Beach Tow 08:15 South Beach Tow

09:00 Good Morning Africa

08:40 Most Shocking

10:00 Lies That Bind

09:35 World's Wildest Police Videos

10:30 Lies That Bind

10:30 World's Wildest Police Videos

11:00 Lies That Bind

11:30 Baywatch

11:30 Lies That Bind

12:30 Top 20 Countdown: Most Shocking

13:00 Music On Africa Magic 14:00 Music On Africa Magic 15:05 Music On Africa Magic

01:00 Good Morning Africa

16:00 Star Gist

00:10 Mystic Mirror

11:10 Maiden Of Destruction

02:05 53 Extra

16:35 Deal Or No Deal Sa

01:26 Mirror And Beauty

12:39 Sacred Skull

02:45 Star Gist

17:25 53 Extra

02:25 Africa Rising: Behind The Scenes

14:20 Twins Of The Rainforest

03:15 Star Gist

18:00 Jara

14:48 Behind The Scenes: The Place

03:45 Jara

18:30 Tinsel

15:00 Enemy Must Obey

04:25 Jara

19:00 Lies That Bind

17:02 Enemy Must Obey

05:00 Goodmorning Africa

19:30 Lies That Bind

06:01 Only Hope

19:10 The Mastermind

06:00 Deal Or No Deal SA

20:00 Jacob's Cross

07:50 Mother's Tears

20:55 Behind The Scenes:Next Dean

07:00 53 Extra

20:55 Jacob's Cross

09:31 Painful Secret

21:05 Royal Desire

07:30 Star Gist

21:55 Jacob's Cross

05:35 Behind The Scenes: Secret Room

128 SONY MAX

08:00 Jara

12:00 Deal Or No Deal SA

03:40 Impostor

L8 TV guide

13:30 South Beach Tow

14:00 World's Wildest Police Videos 15:00 World's Wildest Police Videos 16:00 Most Shocking 17:00 Top 20 Countdown: Most Shocking 18:00 South Beach Tow 18:30 South Beach Tow 19:00 Baywatch 20:00 Extreme Reality Clips 20:30 Rude Tube 21:00 Rude Tube 21:30 Freakshow 22:00 Sexy Car Wash